2025 Students Winter Retreat Recap
From February 28 to March 2, our student ministry sent over 90 students and leaders to our annual Winter Retreat. These retreats are more than just a break from routine; they are an opportunity to get away from distractions and encounter Jesus in a new and powerful way. And wow, did we see Him move!
One story that stood out was Luke’s. (Name changed for the privacy of this student.) Heading into the retreat, Luke opened up about wrestling with his faith, relationship with his father, and sense of purpose. During one of the chapel sessions, our camp speaker shared the Gospel, and something clicked. Luke made a bold decision – he was done running. He asked for forgiveness, surrendered it all to Jesus, and committed to pursuing Him with all he had.
Afterward, Luke had the opportunity to sit down with his small group leader, who had walked alongside him for the past few months. They prayed together and talked about what this practically looked like going forward.
And Luke’s story is just one of many.
On the way home, each student had an opportunity to fill out a Next Step card. Each number below represents a life, a story, a student in our ministry who encountered God in a tangible way this weekend. Our staff and volunteers are committed to walking alongside each one.
- First-Time Decisions for Christ: 6
- Practiced Repentance: 32
- Interested in Baptism: 8
- Interested in Serving: 14
- Desiring to Grow in Their Faith: 47
These numbers are easy to skim over, but behind each of them is an individual who is growing and walking alongside an adult who loves and cares for them. God is moving in the lives of our students, and I am beyond grateful that we all get the opportunity to play a role. Thank you to everyone who prayed and served to make this weekend possible!