A delegate leaves 'his mask' at the cross alongside the masks left by other delegates.

"God sees us. He knows us. And He loves us," said Major Ivan K. Rock, territorial youth & candidates secretary, as he addressed as many as 450 teenagers during the Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware (PENDEL) youth councils. They stripped away their masks before one another —leaving these hindrances at the cross—to come before God without shame or embarrassment, knowing that His arms were outstretched.

The theme, "Invisible," helped PENDEL youth literally and figuratively open their eyes. In his keynote message, Rock shared stories of real teens struggling to see God's truth. Illusionist David Horsager, who talked about the difference between appearance and reality, how we can avoid being deceived, and embracing the truth, echoed Rock's thought-provoking ideas.

On Saturday, delegates had their choice of sessions. Topics centered on the theme "Invisible" and included prayer, the invisible world, the Internet, marriage, and the proper use of our abilities.

Teens used their free time to rehearse for the Territorial Arts Ministry (TAM) Conservatory audition, play sports, and as just "hang out."

That night, youth from across the division gave glory to God as they worshiped through music, dance, mime, testimony, and prayer. The choreodrama, "Never Alone," written by Laura Hench, led to an outpouring of the Spirit and the crowd's heartfelt response.

The holiness meeting highlights every youth councils—and this was no exception. The divisional worship team and youth band led the teens into the presence of God and a heightened anticipation of the work He would do.

Commissioner Lawrence R. Moretz, territorial commander, challenged hearers to stand up, be visible, and "dare to be a Daniel."

People seeking the empowerment of the Spirit to live holy lives and to be set apart from the trappings of this world lined the altars.

" We give thanks to Majors Thomas and Laura Lyle as well as the entire youth and candidates department staff, including 'youth councils producer' Joshua Duenke [for these meetings]," said Rock, "as well as divisional leaders Lt. Colonels William R. and Marcella Carlson, divisional officers and staff, and corps and local officers for their support and ongoing ministry to youth."

—submitted by the Territorial Youth Department