February in Brazil is marked by the Carnival festivities—a 5-day long festival stemmed in a tradition of indulgence before lent. It is a time when Brazil attracts many tourists, and also a time when social inhibitions are suspended and the fulfillment of all forms of indulgences are encouraged.
To provide a refuge from the noise, sights, and influence of the season, our churches in Brazil often plan camp meetings and conferences out of the cities. There, church members take their families for spiritual renewal and invite their non-member relatives and friends as well for time spent in alternate activities. Below is news of one such camp meeting:
São José do Rio Preto, BRAZIL—The youth retreat occurred over 5 days from February 24-28, 2017. It was organized by the two regions in the interior of São Paulo—Presidente Prudente and São José do Rio Preto.
The event was held on a rural property in São José do Rio Preto, and had the participation of the São Paulo Field's Youth Department Director, Brother Gabriel Gonzales as the main speaker.
Approximately 150 people were present, mostly youth from several cities, states and even from out of the country! Present were young people representing the state of Goiás, and the cities of São Paulo, Santos, Araraquara, Marília, Londrina, Lins, and youth from Colombia.
The camp meeting's theme was "What do you do for me?" The speaker, Brother Gabriel, spoke about the importance of loving Jesus, and how He did everything for each of us, and how we could reciprocate the love He showed on the cross by giving ourselves to Him with all our heart, making Him our best friend through Faith.
The event was differentiated, with moments of recreation in nature, well prepared meals, team-building activities, and special themed nights, such as the Black & White dinner where we received special guidance on how we should love the person God has made us, to love the people around us, and to accept the mission of Christ in our lives.
The retreat ended on the morning of February 28th and all returned home with hearts happy to know more of Jesus at such a special retreat.
