Building Faith Together: Memorable Boys’ and Girls’ Retreats Empower the Next Generation
D
uring the weekends of April 21-23 and April 29-30, 2023, our Senior Youth Department conducted remarkable spiritual retreats for both boys and girls, which proved highly impactful. These events were characterized by warm fellowship, in-depth Bible study sessions, uplifting worship, and life-changing baptisms, leaving an indelible mark on the participants. The girls' retreat, themed "Dear Beloved," was graced by speaker Erica Jones, the Assistant Director of Women’s Ministries for the North American Division. The retreat focused on understanding and embracing God's love, experiencing healing, and cultivating confidence in God. Under the expert guidance of coordinator Kendra Miranda, the weekend was skillfully organized, providing young women with a much-needed opportunity to delve deeper into their spiritual journey. On the other hand, the boys' retreat, titled "Waking the Warrior," presented various exciting activities, including rattlesnake handling, jousting, and a
32 Pacific Union Recorder
Central California Conference
reenactment of the legendary "300" battle. The young adult staff led heartfelt worship sessions, ensuring that this retreat would remain an unforgettable experience for all who attended. Three core objectives drive these events: 1. To draw teens closer to Jesus and help them discover abundant life in Him. 2. To foster young adult discipleship through their leadership and support roles in these events. 3. To continually evolve and innovate in our approach to ministry. Youth and young adult ministry have become more vital in today's world. By creating the right environment and offering transformative experiences, we can enable our young people to thrive and grow in their faith. As we reflect on the impact of these retreats, we are filled with hope and anticipation for the continued spiritual development of the next generation. ____________________ By Anil Kanda