Youth Ministry Winter Retreat: Building Faith in Community

Our annual Youth Winter Retreat concluded last weekend with tremendous blessing and spiritual growth among our young people. Held at Camp Widjiitiwin in Muskoka, Ontario, the retreat brought together 45 teenagers and young adults for three days of worship, Bible study, and fellowship.

Theme: "Unshakeable Faith"

This year's theme, "Unshakeable Faith," was based on Hebrews 12:25-29, focusing on building a faith that cannot be moved by the challenges and pressures of modern life. Through daily Bible studies, worship sessions, and practical workshops, participants explored what it means to have faith that endures.

Daily Schedule and Activities

Each day began with personal quiet time, followed by corporate worship and Bible study. The morning sessions were led by our Youth Pastor David Park, who challenged the young people to examine their relationship with God and consider how they can live out their faith in their daily lives.

Afternoon activities included:

• Small group discussions on faith and doubt
• Outdoor team-building exercises
• Creative workshops (music, art, drama)
• Sports and recreational activities
• Personal testimony sharing

Powerful Testimonies

One of the highlights of the retreat was the testimony sharing time on Saturday evening. Several young people shared how God has been working in their lives, including stories of overcoming peer pressure, finding purpose in their studies, and developing a personal relationship with Jesus.

Sarah, a high school senior, shared: "This retreat helped me realize that my faith doesn't have to be perfect to be real. God loves me even when I have doubts, and He's always there to strengthen my faith when I turn to Him."

Spiritual Decisions

We praise God that several young people made significant spiritual decisions during the retreat:

• Three participants accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior
• Five young people committed to daily Bible reading and prayer
• Two participants expressed interest in future ministry involvement
• Several decided to be baptized in the coming months

Community Building

Beyond the spiritual aspects, the retreat provided excellent opportunities for community building. Many new friendships were formed, and existing relationships were strengthened. The young people learned to support and encourage one another in their faith journey.

Evening campfire sessions were particularly meaningful, with participants sharing their struggles, dreams, and prayers with one another. These times of vulnerability and mutual support created lasting bonds within our youth community.

Leadership Development

Several older participants took on leadership roles during the retreat, helping with logistics, leading small groups, and mentoring younger attendees. This provided valuable experience in Christian leadership and service.

Looking Forward

The impact of the retreat continues as participants return to their daily lives. We've already seen increased attendance at our weekly youth meetings, and many are asking about opportunities to serve in various church ministries.

Plans are already underway for next year's retreat, and we're excited to see how God will continue to work in the lives of our young people. We're grateful for all the prayers and support that made this retreat possible.

Please continue to pray for our youth as they seek to live out their faith in their schools, families, and communities. Pray that the seeds planted during this retreat will continue to grow and bear fruit in their lives.