Mexican youth camp

This update is from Samuel Mercado who directs GCI’s youth camp in Mexico and serves as director of youth ministry for GCI Mexico.

Our 2013 Mexican national youth camp began with a 17 hour trip to Mexico City for those traveling from afar. From there a rented bus took the group to Ticumán where we reached a place called El Monte, which means “small mountain.”

The bus couldn’t make it up the mountain, so late at night we stretched our legs and carried our food and equipment uphill. We arrived with the help of a few flashlights and the moonlight.

Our camp, which included about 50 people, was held from November 15 through 18 in a location away from the bustle of city life. Activities included sports, games and swimming. We also had rock climbing and rappelling, which gave us a chance to exercise our faith!

Joy-filled worship during camp was provided by Natanael Cruz who is the pastor of our church in Mexico City. He was joined by musicians from his congregation.

Messages in worship services and classes were given by our special guest, Anthony Mullins, director of Generation Ministries in the US. He talked about the power of listening to the story of others, telling our own story, then presenting Jesus’ story. He also taught us to study someone and tell them directly the qualities we see in them. We practiced doing this in small groups, gaining deeper communion together.

Anthony (at center in picture at left) also talked about how our lives reflect what we believe and who we are. Our actions must demonstrate the work of God in us. Anthony showed that God’s most repeated command is, “Do not be afraid.” He discussed overcoming our fears in order to do the work of God. Natanael Cruz gave a message about keeping our bodies pure as the temple of the Holy Spirit. We also studied GenMin camp curriculum, “Kairos, It’s Time,” telling us that it’s time to Belong, Believe, Become, Behave and Begin.

Overall, the camp was characterized by great fellowship among the young people—sharing laughs, games, discussions, plans and projects for the future. Our camp is becoming a pathway for identifying and developing new leaders. We are initiating a national denominational effort to train and equip these young emerging leaders in theology, ministry and spiritual formation. We covet your prayers for God to guide us in helping these leaders develop according to God’s will for them.