2025’s Third Wave Conference took place earlier this month, and we’re checking in with a few past attendees to see how God has used the experience to shape their lives. Today, we’re hearing from Dr. Gaurav Mhaske, who attended Third Wave in Bangkok, Thailand, in 2012.
Why did you attend Third Wave?
I attended with the desire to grow as a leader within my local NYI group and to contribute more effectively to my church. Encouraged by my pastor, I recognized this event as a significant opportunity to deepen my leadership skills and serve my church more intentionally, connect with young leaders globally, exchanging ideas, experiences, and building relationships and seek God’s direction for my personal calling and how I could contribute to the larger mission of the Church of the Nazarene.
What was it like joining together with believers from around the world?
When we came together, we started experiencing that we have one God. We have different languages and different cultures, but we serve only one God.
What were some of the highlights from your experience?
Worship Sessions: These sessions were profoundly moving, creating an atmosphere of unity in the Holy Spirit. They served as a reminder of the global body of Christ and our shared mission.
Workshops: The session on “Servant Leadership” was especially impactful, equipping me with practical tools for leading with humility, grace, and purpose.
Cultural Exchange Night: This event highlighted the beauty of the global Nazarene family, deepening my appreciation for cross-cultural ministry and helping me understand the diverse ways God is working worldwide.
These experiences collectively empowered me to think globally while serving locally, and they set the stage for continued leadership development and involvement in the church.
What impact did Third Wave have on your life?
The Third Wave Nazarene Youth Conference has had a long-lasting and transformative impact on both my personal and spiritual life. Third Wave gave me a clear vision of what it means to live missionally and to be a Christlike disciple in my everyday life. It strengthened my commitment to ministry and taught me the importance of collaboration and mentorship. I now approach challenges with more confidence, knowing that I am part of a global family working together for God’s kingdom. The relationships I built at Third Wave continue to inspire and encourage me. In essence, Third Wave equipped me not just for ministry but for a lifetime of purposeful living in service to Christ.
After returning home, Gaurav pursued a career as a doctor of physiotherapy, specializing in neurological rehabilitation.
Among other roles in his church, Gaurav is also a member of the Church of the Nazarene’s National Board Core Team serving as Vice Chair, where he contributes to the decision-making and strategic planning processes that guide the church’s growth and outreach efforts. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity from Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary.
-article by Sarah Norris, Eurasia Communications Team
picture of India delegates from Third Wave Thailand
