Some 60 youth from the Puerto Rico West District attended the Perfected Holiness Retreat from Jan. 11-13. The theme verse was 2 Corinthians 7:1. The purpose of the event, held at the Elias Burgos Camp in the town of Utuado, was “to be perfected to serve and to live a different life,” said Lorena Gonzalez, district NYI secretary.
Steven Torres, district NYI president, directed the event along with his team of workers. District Superintendent Rev. Ramon Sierra also accompanied the leaders.
The participants participated in worship services, workshops, games, devotional times with the District Worship Team, and fellowship time. They also enjoyed the talents of the youth from Aguidilla and Palmas Altas.
Rev. Scott Armstrong and Freya Galindo, both of whom serve in the Genesis Initiative and Global Missions, preached during the event. They focused on the themes: Sexual Purity, A Loving Relationship With God, Service, Holiness and Missions.
“We cannot overlook the food prepared by the blessed hands of Moises Cordero (who also designed the retreat logo) and Maritza Rodriguez with her ‘tembleque’ (a traditional coconut dessert from Puerto Rico),” said Lorena Gonzalez.
She added they were witnesses to the power of God that touched and transformed hearts. They heard testimonies of answered prayers and youth genuinely inspired to follow and serve the Lord.
“God really fulfilled and surpassed our expectations. We left transformed and focused on continuing our walk with Jesus. I would personally like to express my gratitude to the Lord for my beloved Church of the Nazarene. He always inspires his leaders to invest and attend to the needs of youth, giving them a place to develop and grow. I would like to send a hug and affection to everyone who prayed and worked on behalf of NYI. We are very proud of you,” said Lorena Gonzalez in closing.
Source: Lorena Gonzalez, NYI secretary, Puerto Rico West District
Photos: Natja Nieves
