One of the most important ways to have the best Feast of Tabernacles ever is to spend time with friends—and make new ones.

A typical Sabbath for me begins in the comfort of my own home, in Michigan. On a Sabbath evening, I might catch a news program with my family and have some restful sleep in my own bed, waking up the next morning when I desire (within reason).

Having friends and, most importantly, keeping them, is a learned skill—the benefits of which reap tremendous rewards.

How does God view your post-secondary education? What are some guidelines and principles that you should keep in mind as you make decisions that will affect the rest of your life?

It begins as early as childhood and is affecting you right now! Has your attitude been tested lately?

How do you know if God is calling you? Can you trust your feelings in this matter? What does God’s Word—the Holy Bible—say? You need to know.

As AYC 2008 approaches, are you eager with anticipation and excitement? Or are you filled with uncertainty and apprehension? Do you fully understand what you have a chance to be a part of—or are you unsure about whether to attend? AYC is an opportunity you do not want to miss!

After many months of anticipation and preparation, Ambassador Youth Camp 2008 is now behind us. All attendees and staff heard in advance how “life-changing” this two-week experience would be. However, only in retrospect can the full impact of two weeks in the deep woods of Western Pennsylvania—with God’s people!—be realized.

After many months of anticipation and preparation, Ambassador Youth Camp 2009 is now more than 30 days behind us. All attendees heard in advance how “life-changing” this third year of camp would be. No doubt it surpassed all expectations—yet again! The experience and impact of two weeks in the deep woods of Raccoon Creek State Park—with others striving to live God’s way of life—can be described only as phenomenal!

Teenage fashion can reveal much about the wearer: his interests, attitude and what clique he is a part of. What does your appearance say about you?

Have you been refining your tastes in music, art, food and literature? Here are a few tips to becoming more sophisticated!

Do you know what to look for and will you be found watching at Christ’s Return?

Do you set goals in your life? Why do you need to? What goals should you set? How do you achieve your goals? And what should be your ultimate goal?

Today, consumer debt is out of control. The average credit card debt per household with at least one card is $8,940—and climbing! Why are so many people in debt? How can you avoid this snare?

Have you ever had one of those friends that you can just look at and you know what she is going to say? You don’t even have to speak a word? I have a friend like that who I only get to see once a year at AYC.

Mr. Armstrong often stressed that the proper form of education should teach one “how to live, not just how to make a living.”

One memory that sticks out most from my childhood was when my grandaunt used to travel to my town in Ghana to sell shea butter. Whenever she arrived, she came to my house, and as a child I would run to meet her with a big hug before she entered. She usually brought interesting news from other family members, along with some shea butter for us. Seeing my dear grandaunt was quite exciting.

How do you know if God is calling you? Can you trust your feelings in this matter? What does God's Word—the Holy Bible—say? You need to know.

God’s Fifth Commandment calls for children to honor their parents. Are you exhibiting true honor toward your parents?

Did you know that watching world events is a matter of life and death? Learn why this is true, and how you can hone your ability as a newshound.

Are you getting the most out of your experience in God’s Church? Do you want to “be approved both of God and men”? It is simpler than you might think!

Feeling uncultured, untraveled, unlearned? Feeling the need to begin a new hobby? The cure is just down the street!

Before leaving my home country of Jamaica, while checking in at the airport, I told my dad and brother, “Bye!” My sister and my mom came on the plane with me. After getting on the plane to New York, we sat patiently waiting for it to take-off.

They were once slaves in a foreign land. God raised up a deliverer, Moses, whom He used to free the Israelites from bondage and lead them out of Egypt. Despite many trials and setbacks, God delivered Israel into the Promised Land.

The book of Esther tells an exciting story of how one woman changed history. It is a study of courage-of how one woman's selfless act saved a people-of how one woman did what was best for others regardless of what may have happened to her.

He is listed in Hebrews 11 as one of the faithful. He led Israel in sweeping military victories, with the nation later crying for him to be their king. What was it about Gideon that allowed him to be used by God?

You have probably met and known many different people in your life. Most of them may simply be acquaintances, while others you might consider friends. Of these, there may be only a few that you would consider close friends.

The story of Joseph is one of great pain, suffering and tribulation. Yet, it is also one of joy and tremendous accomplishment. However, it was the test of his character during times of crisis that would define Joseph as a person.

Do you know how much your example affects those around you—good or bad? King Manasseh of Judah had to realize, by harsh experience, the deep influence of his bad example. Will you learn his lesson?

Calling him “just” and “righteous,” the Bible states that Lot was “vexed” by the vile and corrupt conduct of ancient Sodom. But why did he choose to stay there for so long?

Despite all of his natural talents, gifts, skills and training, Joab’s life came to a brutal and sudden end—why?

The “blogosphere” enables people to share daily journals, photographs and audio—instantly. But should teenagers and others in the Church “express themselves” to the world through blogs?

Friendships are a fundamental aspect of life. Do you have edifying and uplifting friendships? You can have great friends. Here's how!

As I arrived at camp, my heart was racing. This year being my first year, I was excited beyond belief. Many of the things I would be doing would be totally new to me, such as whitewater rafting, volleyball and canoeing.

Many react to new situations with nervousness and apprehension. Here’s how you can conquer your fears!

Yes, roses are red. And yes, violets are blue. But what does any of this have to do with you?

Everyone likes to eat—but can you prepare the food you enjoy? Cooking is more fun and much easier than you think!

Of billions of people on earth, God has revealed His way of life to a select few. He expects them to act upon what they learn. Will you?

The world does not know the true way to date and court. But you can know! And this will mean that you will reap great benefits in the long run.

I have always wanted to travel to America. As AYC drew near, I was not sure if I would be able to attend. Since I was busy finishing college and did not have sufficient time to work in the summer, I was concerned. Without working, I could not afford the trip to America.

If you truly want to be different from everyone else, a good place to start is with the clothes you wear!

Many do not think drugs are something that concerns them. Others believe they are prepared for any situation. You may not be ready for what you could encounter.

On Monday morning before the Linsly low ropes course, some campers expressed their feelings on the upcoming activity.

Flirtation seems to be second nature for many young people. But is it just harmless fun?

Imagine the Sabbath for a young person: waking up early to put on dress clothes, jumping in the car and arriving at a meeting place to have services. Every week, a new sermon is played. The messages heard, though they are applicable to all, naturally are geared toward baptized members of God’s Church. Young people at services, not yet having God’s Spirit, hear this message with different ears. At this point in their life, they may find it difficult to grasp what is being covered or to truly understand these messages. This introduces a big reason why Ambassador Youth Camp is so beneficial: it provides campers with special Bible lectures, specifically directed toward them!

Have you ever asked yourself, “Where does all my money go?” Here are some helpful tips to save money while you enjoy shopping.

Imagine this scenario: You walk shyly into a crowded room filled with people of varying ages and nationalities. All around you the sounds of laughter and glee drift through the air. You stand alone, wondering what to do next—suddenly you see a familiar face among all the unfamiliar ones. You rush over, bearing excited hugs and acting as if the long time you have been separated was hardly anything at all. You break out of the shell that had been holding you back, recalling memories of past events.

Eating right is more enjoyable than you might think. Learn how!

Millions of teens trudge through the week looking forward to a weekend full of parties and “fun.” As teens learning God’s Way, you likely understand that their “fun” is to be avoided. But in what kind of fun can you participate?

With winter comes a vast array of sports—most of which involve snow!

AYC 2008 is just around the corner. Will you be physically prepared for it?

The family gathers around the dinner table, everyone smiling. Before the food is served, bright, exciting news springs from their lips. Then come stories of fun, stories of mistakes, and stories of good times. If you listen, you will hear a familiar sound: laughter and mirth, the sound of rejoicing!

As ambassadors to our peers, it is of the utmost importance that we learn to work as a team. We have to learn to communicate and work effectively, united with our peers in the Church, while still setting a good example.

Depending on your family background or the part of the world you are from, the combinations of music you may have been exposed to are probably endless. Because of this, the music people enjoy, either by listening to or actively playing, varies.

Are you part of your family’s “second generation”—or even “third generation”—to attend God’s Church? How has this affected your view of true Christianity?

Have you ever hiked a new trail that seemed to go on without end? Did nervousness cause you to give up—even though the end was only a short distance away? Keeping your mind focused on the goal will ensure success every time!

There is a “condition” that affects millions each year. As a teen, you must especially beware, as you are most susceptible to it. What is it, and how do you prevent it?

Do you arrive at school eager and ready to learn—or tired and absent-minded?

Are you easily caught up in today’s fast-paced lifestyle? Do you make enough time to think in this modern age?

Achieving your goals in life is not always easy. In fact, there will be times when you fail. But what will you do when this happens?

Are you oblivious to the world around you? Or do you have a keen eye for the lessons life can teach you?

Telling someone you were wrong is one of the hardest things to do. What is the best way to say, “I’m sorry”?

God promises you many blessings. Are you willing to do what is necessary to receive them?

Your words have an effect on the hearer-good or bad. They can either raise the listener up or tear him down. Here are some tools and guidelines for improving your speech.

Each season, it becomes more difficult to find decent, respectable clothing. What is causing this trend and is there anything you can do to combat it? How does the Bible say we should dress? The answers will surprise you!

Instant messaging (IM) can have good and bad uses. With the right parameters it can be a tool to develop friendships among God’s people from every corner of the earth.

Do you follow through on your commitments?

Do you know how to plan and carry out an effective group date? Here’s how!

As the saying goes, “Sometimes you win and sometimes you lose.” But are you aware that you can often learn a lot more from losing?

You will face situations in life that call for you to “stand up and take charge.” Are you preparing yourself for this?

When at a church dance, it may seem as though everyone except you knows what they are doing. Take heart! Learning to dance is not as difficult as it may seem.

At age 17, Danny was a fine young man who had grown up learning God’s Way. Rarely was he ever seen without a grin on his face and a twinkle in his eye. An industrious youth always ready to give a helping hand, Danny was in many ways a shining example of a terrific teenager with a golden attitude.

At the southern nose of Africa, with the Indian Ocean on the east and the Atlantic Ocean to the west, lies the Republic of South Africa. It has a population of 45 million people and is about five times larger than Great Britain. South Africa has a coastline of more than 1,850 miles.

Home to the Great Barrier Reef, the Great Dividing Range, the Great Australian Bight and, best of all, Vegemite. Australia truly is a beautiful country!

The Philippines is a land of myriad wonders. Its picturesque geography, rich history and vibrant culture all attest to the country’s magnificent uniqueness.

In a world of disappearing standards, a true lady or gentleman is hard to find. You can be an exception!

What if you woke up one morning and found almost everything that fell under the category of “technology” had disappeared?

With a little effort, research and sweat, anyone can have an elegant, uplifting—and delicious—garden!

We are all millionaires in time. How are you spending your millions?

I’m so antsy I can’t sleep. Excitement courses through my mind as I lay in bed with anticipation for the clock to strike 3:00 a.m. I’m up! And am on my way to my first summer camp! I’ve heard so much about it and all the friendships you make and people you meet. Just a teenager, I am so very happy to be going somewhere without my family—an experience all my own!

Video games, the Internet, and television keep you connected anytime, anywhere. Are you balanced?

With a little advance planning, you can ensure you have enough funds to enjoy the warm weather.

Is your identity defined by your character—or the emotions you routinely display?

Hundreds of musical genres exist. Do you know the good from the bad?

What comes to your mind when you think of camp food? Maybe you think of scrambled eggs. Perhaps those scrambled eggs resemble a half goat-eaten rubber glove normally used in dishwashing. When it comes to camp food, no matter what you think of, or where you are, good nutritious food is important.

The first Friday of camp started out like a hot Mississippi day. The sky was as blue as the ocean. But it was not an ordinary day—it was the day of the Amazing Race! By the day’s end, we would all have found a girl’s soapy foot, run to the far reaches of the campsite and had water balloons explode in our faces.

When you leave your teenage years, what does it mean in regard to the Church?

In leading a Christian life, we as individuals have responsibilities. These responsibilities come with pressures that can be positive or negative. At home you are surrounded by the world and your human nature may begin to negatively impact your life. These pressures, of course, can be very great. But at AYC 2008, these pressures seemed to fly away instantly. Being with others in God’s Church offers a positive pressure that helps build strong character.

You may hear your friends in the world talk about all the "fun" they had getting drunk. And that, besides a bit of a hangover, it was harmless. But what are the facts about teens and alcohol?

To broaden your horizons, lay a solid foundation for greater understanding—read!

Throughout every sporting event scheduled at camp, we applied God’s standards to maintain the proper attitude. Common, worldly “win at all costs” attitudes were not tolerated.

It’s the middle of May and you are in your last year of high school. Your English teacher is explaining how to write your Senior Thesis. Dozens of topics come to mind, desperate to manifest themselves on paper. You pay no thought to the grueling work you will be putting into these ten pages because you are more excited about having the opportunity to write about anything your heart desires.

Queen Elizabeth II is the first child of King George VI and his wife, Elizabeth. She was born to them on April 21, 1926 at 17 Bruton Street in Mayfair, London, when they were the duke and duchess of York. They called her Elizabeth Alexandra Mary.

For youth in God’s Church, Christmas can be a time of tension with teachers, classmates and friends who keep this holiday. Some have buckled under this pressure—but you can successfully fight it!

Not all forms of exercise are created equal. Here is one you can truly benefit from—and enjoy!

One of the most anticipated and talked about experiences at AYC occurred on the final Thursday of camp: the whitewater rafting trip down the Youghiogheny River at Pennsylvania’s Ohiopyle State Park.

What does it mean to be sarcastic? Is this an attitude that young people in God’s Church should exhibit? What does the Bible say?

Every Sabbath you meet with brethren in God’s Church. This is an excellent opportunity to serve—but what can you do?

In 1914, a British explorer named Ernest Shackleton led an unsuccessful attempt to cross Antarctica, where his 27-man crew became stranded for 20 months.

To most people, the idea of studying their Bible seems mundane. Yet it contains much practical wisdom waiting to be discovered.

You have a very powerful tool of persuasion. This tool can make others feel liked, and can disarm others in times of conflict. Continue reading to learn how to better use this tool—your SMILE!

There is seemingly no better time than the energizing season of spring. Do you appreciate all of its wonderful aspects?

One thing can guarantee you get the most from each day: personal contact with God.

Where will you be five or ten years from now? What will you have accomplished? The answers depend on you—and whether you have the burning desire to SUCCEED!

William Shakespeare once wrote, “Better three hours too soon than a minute too late.” While this may be a stretch, the principle is correct. It is always better to be early rather than late.

You glance around you and see multiple faces staring at you with looks of interest. Your heart races—your stomach seems to be dancing inside of you. You take a deep breath, prepare yourself, and begin…

Pictures are a great way to capture memorable events, breathtaking scenic views, and friends and family—especially at God’s Feast!

At spring training for a Major League Baseball organization in Winter Haven, Florida, a young pitcher receives instruction from his pitching coach.

Being new to the job market can be incredibly tough-especially when employers and managers have plenty of eager teens and young adults, just like you, to choose from the hiring pool.

There are many opportunities to consider when choosing a college. Determine to make the most of this new experience!

Written with forethought, a well–tailored letter or email often proves to be an excellent way to demonstrate a godly example.

Overwhelming, never-ceasing, pressure-building, health-defeating! Stress—how do you handle it?

Is attention from others ever important enough to throw caution to the wind?

Do you work hard? Many lack the simple habit of hard work, and many teens do not understand the enormous benefits of a strong work ethic. You can—and should—know!

Frank diligently studies the board, considering the possibilities. Sue smiles confidently, certain she has won the game. But wait! In a daring flash of brilliance, Frank finds the combination Sue never expected. He sacrifices three pieces, traps Sue, and forces the checkmate!

There is much concern today about our diminishing natural resources. But there is one resource that is not valued enough, and which most do not even consider.

Enjoying the outdoors is a great way to experience a taste of the majesty of God.

Shouts of encouragement echoed throughout the forest. Young campers’ faces portrayed their enjoyment as they worked their way through both mental and physical obstacles.

Most people do not recognize the importance of exercise. This is evidenced in a host of ways. Are you getting enough of the right kind of exercise?

Mankind’s ability to interact through seemingly countless modes of communication is accelerating at an unprecedented rate. As a result, the world is becoming smaller.

Thousands of years ago mankind designed and built the most spectacular works of architecture and sculpture ever seen on Earth!

Thousands of years ago mankind designed and built the most spectacular works of architecture and sculpture ever seen on Earth!

Thousands of years ago, mankind designed and built the most spectacular works of architecture and sculpture ever seen!

Music enthusiasts still praise classical symphonies hundreds of years after their composition. You should experience this time-honored art form, too. Here’s why!

Some feel cheated out of it, everyone wants it and some have even killed for it. What is it? Respect. Is it wrong to respect yourself? What does God’s Word say?

Do you want to be successful in life? King Solomon has much advice for you.

Should you be tolerant? If so, what should you tolerate?

The story of Joshua and Caleb is an example of what true leadership is all about.

How do you deal with being treated unfairly? Do you view things God’s way or your way? Knowing how to handle unfairness and injustice will lead to much happiness.

Most of us have been around friends who don’t believe the same things we do. And we have all experienced criticism about the way we live. And what about the feelings related to those situations? Many times these bring stress, and sometimes feelings of loneliness.

Millions are captivated by engrossing plotlines and action in their favorite video games. Are there hidden dangers in this “virtual reality”?

Why is society so wrapped up in video games? What do studies and research show? What is behind the video game addiction? What is God’s perspective?

What characteristics should a young woman strive to develop? The Bible has the answers!

You stare into the eyes of your opponent on the other side of the net. You watch as the ball sails onto your team’s side of the court, just above where you are poised to return it. You smile with satisfaction as you successfully transfer it to another teammate, who knocks the ball over the net, scoring another point for your team!

Society is filled with those who are unthankful. Have you come to expect certain things? Do you take for granted what you have been given?

Real men are rare today. Few people understand what true manhood is. Here’s how you can develop masculinity God’s way!

What comes to mind when you hear the words “high quality”? On the other hand, what comes to mind when you hear “low quality”? What kind of quality do you reflect?

Do you appreciate the precious knowledge that has set you apart from the teens of this world—or are the Church and the Bible only for your parents?

Anticipation had been building and the day finally arrived. If you were to ask many of the campers what they were looking forward to most throughout the eventful two weeks of camp, they would enthusiastically answer, “Whitewater rafting!” Less than a handful of the campers had ever even been whitewater rafting, and excitement, mixed with a little bit of nervousness, filled everyone’s mind.

As fashions become ever more bizarre and provocative—especially those popular among teens—we must strive to be different. Here are some principles that will help you stand out from the crowd.

He is quoted throughout The Restored Church of God’s extensive library of literature. He is sometimes spoken of in sermons and among brethren fellowshipping on the Sabbath. The Church even publishes a biography recounting his amazing life and ministry. But who was this 20th-century servant of God?

In a world of declining morals, values and principles, you—as an AMBASSADOR to your peers—must be a shining example of a different way of life! How can this be done? What does it mean to be an ambassador?

Do you ever ask yourself this? Do you know why you are in The Restored Church of God? Do you understand why you were born?

After attending even one Feast of Tabernacles, it is easy to understand why everyone cannot wait for the next one. The same is true of summer camp. There is simply no other occasion comparable to time spent there!

When confronted with adversity or difficulty, are you inclined to see problems or solutions?

Useful in many facets of life, most never learn how to take proper notes. Your success as a student at Sabbath services—and in school—depends on it!

You live in an unhappy age. In fact, it is the unhappiest age the world has ever seen. This is because happiness is a by-product of obedience to God (Prov. 29:18), and this time before the close of the age is the most disobedient in history. Misery—extreme unhappiness—has been the result.

Are you fearful? Nervous? Unsure of whether you can successfully complete tasks or achieve your goals? You can have strong confidence! Here’s how.

You are sitting in a chair, staring at a blank wall. Now envision a painting hanging on that wall, a picturesque view of a sun going down over snow-capped mountains, reflecting off a clear blue lake.

God’s Plan for you is far greater than you could ever imagine!

Nearly all young people today live solely for the moment. They are generally only able to see what lies immediately ahead, with almost no recognition that their life can—and should—be lived with purpose! Yes, most teenagers are concerned with little more than the next moment of pleasure or fun activity.

As the weather starts to warm up, pupils begin to think about plans for their upcoming summer break.

How great is your love toward your family and friends? Does it inspire you to serve their needs?

It was Friday evening. I completed my last exam and went home to get everything ready for camp. I was so excited to attend AYC in America. I would meet heaps of people and was hoping to make some new friends. I was so looking forward to it. There was only one little problem: It wouldn’t be in my mother language—Dutch.

I study art at school, and it is one of my favorite subjects, but recently I was planning on making some sculptures of humans. I was wondering whether it is wrong to make a sculpture of a human, even if it isn't a specific human. Would it be going against God's commandment not to make carved images?

I have recently been reading The Truth About HEALING. After reading it, I have wondered, should I cancel any future “medical attention” that has been planned for me? I ask this because I am supposed to have dental work done in the near future and was wondering whether I should rather cancel it and pray that God would heal the problem.

This year I am in tenth grade and we are supposed to start making our subject choices for our senior years. I was going to choose drama as one of my electives but recently our class learned that drama originated from religious rituals. So now I am not sure whether it would be a suitable choice.

I am supposed to be visiting my aunt and uncle for a few days. However, I have recently discovered that my uncle is indirectly involved with a semi-religious group known as the Masons. Due to my uncle’s association with this group, by visiting and staying with him, would God consider me “unequally yoked together with unbelievers” (II Cor. 6:14)? Would He consider it a sin for me to visit them?

Recently at school, we have had elections for next year's School Captains. The elections involved several students applying for a position and the whole grade voting. Would it be acceptable to vote in this case or even apply for a position?