Despite Resort Fire, Mongolia's Fourth FSY Conference Strengthens Youth Through Faith and Friendship

Just one month before Mongolia's fourth For the Strength of Youth (FSY) conference was scheduled to begin, disaster struck. A devastating fire swept through Dugan Khad Resort, north of Ulaanbaatar, destroying more than 60 guest rooms as well as the kitchen and dining hall. With the conference fast approaching, postponing the event seemed like a real possibility. Instead, resort owners worked tirelessly to create temporary accommodations and dining facilities so the conference could continue as planned. Their determination made it possible for more than 350 youth from across Mongolia to gather June 29–July 3 for a week of learning, friendship, and spiritual growth.    

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Throughout the five-day conference, youth participated in a balanced schedule of spiritual, social, physical, intellectual, and service experiences. Through devotionals, classes, discussions, service, and activities, they strengthened their testimonies, learned gospel principles, developed leadership skills, and gained confidence to continue living the gospel after returning home.

For many participants, one of the greatest blessings of FSY was the opportunity to connect with other youth who share their beliefs. Many youth in Mongolia belong to small branches where there are only a few young men and young women. FSY gave them the chance to build friendships with others who share their standards and faith, reminding them they are not alone. The youth had been eagerly anticipating the event for months. When asked why he wanted to come to FSY, 14 year-old Enkhjayar of the Khan Uul Ward said, "My seminary teacher told me it would be like paradise on earth. I couldn't wait to meet new friends and experience this."

Leading the conference was Brother Adiyabold and Sister Tuul, who were called as the lead couple one year ago. Soon after receiving this calling, they began organizing committees and recruiting volunteers to prepare every aspect of the conference. Brother Adiyabold said, "We couldn't have done this job without the help of our wonderful committee members, coordinators, and counselors.  Because all of the extra things were taken care of, we could focus on the spiritual part of FSY." 

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The dedicated team of young single adult coordinators who were responsible for leading the daily activities of the conference also assisted in the success of the youth conference. They conducted devotionals, organized activities, and helped create an atmosphere where every youth felt welcomed, engaged, and uplifted throughout the week. In speaking about his role as an FSY Coordinator Munkh-Orgil said, "This experience has been much better than I expected and has taught me so much about being a leader. Working so closely with the youth has taught me how important it is to love and include everyone."

Each morning began with personal scripture study followed by small-group study and a devotional led by Brother Adiyabold and Sister Tuul. These daily spiritual experiences invited the youth to deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ and prepared them for each day's learning and activities.  These daily meetings especially strengthened newly baptized member Tushig.  "My favorite thing was hearing the lessons from our lead couple every morning.  It was a great way to start my day.  The schedule here makes me feel like I am on a mission.  I can't wait to serve a mission!"  

Throughout the week, special guests, including Elder Kim of the Asia North Area Presidency and Elder Odgerel, an Area Seventy, instructed the youth on topics including self-reliance, education, serving in Church callings, and missionary work. Their messages encouraged participants to see how the gospel can guide every aspect of their lives.

Upon arriving at the resort, youth were assigned to groups named after prophets, ranging from Moses to President Dallin H. Oaks. Throughout the week they studied the life and teachings of their assigned prophet, then designed a flag representing what they had learned. Each group later presented its flag to the conference, teaching the others about the prophet's faith and example of discipleship.

Each group was guided by dedicated FSY counselors who did far more than lead discussions and activities. They worked tirelessly to ensure every youth felt included, made friends, participated in activities, and felt a sense of belonging. Through their kindness and encouragement, many youth found the confidence to step outside their comfort zones and become an important part of their group. Counselor Buyan-Ulzi reflected, "I was so excited when I was asked to be a counselor.  When I found out I would be over 14 year-olds I was nervous but they have been very good.  They are fun, very spiritual and respect everyone.  Being a leader is hard because there is so much responsibility to care for each youth, but it has been a wonderful experience for me."

Friendships continued to grow as youth participated in team-building games and recreational activities designed to teach gospel principles while having fun. Being assigned to groups with youth they had never met encouraged participants from every corner of Mongolia to build lasting friendships that will continue long after FSY ended.

One of the week's highlights was the talent show. Youth enthusiastically shared musical performances, dances, and other talents while cheering one another on. The evening celebrated the unique gifts of each participant and created an atmosphere of love, confidence, and unity.

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Despite the challenges created by the fire, the resort staff found remarkable ways to care for every participant. A large white tent replaced the destroyed dining hall, allowing everyone to gather for meals together. Working from a temporary kitchen, staff prepared delicious meals throughout the week before carrying them to the tent where volunteers plated and served each person. Their tireless efforts ensured every attendee felt welcomed and well cared for.

As the conference came to a close, many youth left with much more than happy memories. They returned home with stronger testimonies of Jesus Christ, greater confidence in their identities as disciples, and new friendships that will continue to strengthen them as they serve in their home wards and branches throughout Mongolia.  When asked what he gained from the week at FSY, 16 year-old Tsegtsuun of the Sansar Ward said, "I have been missing my Sundays lately and I after feeling the spirit here at FSY I don't plan on continuing that when I return home".    

Reflecting on the success of the conference, Brother Adiyabold expressed gratitude for the many volunteers, counselors, coordinators, Church leaders, resort staff, and committee members whose faith and dedicated service made the conference possible despite unexpected challenges.  "Each person did their part to make this week a success. Everything went so smoothly. The kids are happy, the counselors are happy, and we are happy!"

Although many will remember this year's FSY because of the fire that nearly prevented it from happening, those who attended are more likely to remember something else—the friendships they formed, the testimonies they strengthened, and the spiritual experiences that helped them draw closer to Jesus Christ. They returned home with renewed faith, lasting friendships, and the confidence to continue living the gospel in their homes, wards, branches, and communities throughout Mongolia.