At 2:00 p.m. on Friday, May 15, young people excitedly loaded vans to head to Seaside, Oregon, for a youth retreat. After everyone unpacked at the boys’ and girls’ houses, everyone met up downtown for delicious pizza. Then, the gathering moved to the beach for a bonfire, where Erik Calhoun welcomed everyone and introduced the weekend’s theme: “Let revival start in me!” He spoke about how it can be easy to believe that God will bless others, but harder to believe for oneself. However, revival starts with individuals when they allow God to work in their lives and believe He will do great things for them. Brother Erik invited the young people to share real changes they want to make in their lives to grow closer to the Lord, and also what they want to receive from the Lord. Many shared about seeking boldness to witness at school and work, keeping Christ at the center of their lives, needing to receive their deeper experiences, and more. After singing songs together, everyone went to the meeting house for a time of prayer to end the night.

On Saturday morning, everyone returned to the meeting house for breakfast. After enjoying some food and fellowship, there was time for singing and personal testimonies. Brother Erik read from Joel 2:12-13, highlighting the importance of turning to God, not just as an outward show but truly with one’s whole heart. After a discussion time, there was another opportunity to pray. 

The kitchen staff served Italian sub sandwiches for lunch, and then there was free time when young people could walk on the beach, go shopping, and hang out with friends. 

The group met back at the house in the evening for a tasty meal of pineapple pulled pork over rice and a side of coleslaw. The evening  activity included an opportunity to ask Brother Erik anonymous questions. This led to a discussion about how to have unity within our youth group, the need for sanctification, making wise choices about media, what Heaven will be like, and events happening today in Israel. After addressing these questions, everyone knelt to pray, with many tarrying and receiving a special touch from the Lord.

Sunday morning began with another delicious meal at the meeting house. After a time of singing, Brother Erik spoke to the group about returning home refocused spiritually and stressed the importance of allowing God to direct all aspects of life. He encouraged everyone to remember all the blessings the Lord has given, and closed with a final opportunity to pray and thank the Lord for everything He has done. 

Everyone returned home feeling thankful for a safe and fun weekend, and for the opportunity to get spiritually refocused.