Youth Camp in Tarapoto: A Journey of Faith, Decisions, and Transformation
From February 17 to 21, my wife and I had the incredible opportunity to participate in a youth camp organized by Mount Calvary Baptist Church of Cacatachi, Tarapoto. It was a week filled with powerful messages, heartfelt worship, and deep connections with young people who are seeking to grow in their faith.
The Journey: A Test of Endurance and Dedication
Getting to the camp was an adventure in itself. We traveled nearly 48 hours by road to reach Tarapoto, covering long distances through winding mountain roads, rainforests, and various small towns along the way. Despite the exhaustion, the anticipation of what God would do in the hearts of these young people kept us encouraged. After the camp, we faced another 48-hour return trip, making the entire journey one of perseverance, faith, and reliance on God’s strength.
A Camp Focused on Decisions
With around 60 teenagers in attendance, the camp provided a special time for them to step away from distractions and focus on their relationship with God. As the main speaker, I had the privilege of sharing messages centered on the theme of “Decisions”—helping the teens understand the importance of making godly choices in their lives, whether regarding salvation, spiritual growth, friendships, or their future.
Each night, as I preached, I could see how the Lord was working in their hearts. Many young people responded to the messages, coming forward in prayer, seeking guidance, and making commitments to follow Christ more closely. It was a humbling experience to witness their sincerity and desire for change.
Ministering to the Young Ladies
While I was preaching in the main sessions, my wife played a crucial role in ministering to the young ladies during the morning sessions. She led special lessons designed to encourage and equip them as they face the unique challenges of being young women in today’s world. Many of them opened up about their personal struggles, fears, and hopes, and it was a blessing to see them encouraged and strengthened through biblical truth.
Moments of Impact and Transformation
Beyond the preaching and teaching, one of the most rewarding aspects of the camp was simply spending time with the teens—listening to their stories, sharing meals, and getting to know them personally. These young people are facing many challenges, from family struggles to peer pressure and personal doubts, yet their hunger for God’s Word was evident.
Some of them made life-changing decisions, and we pray that they will remain steadfast in their faith as they return home.
A Personal Impact
This camp was not only impactful for the young people—it deeply affected me as well. Spending time with these teens helped me understand their struggles, their needs, and the spiritual battles they face daily. It reminded me of how crucial it is to invest in the next generation, to equip them with the truth of God’s Word, and to encourage them to stand firm in their faith.
Though the journey was long and exhausting, every mile was worth it. Seeing young lives transformed by the power of God’s Word is something that will stay with me for a long time.
Pray for These Young People
I invite you to pray for the teenagers who attended this camp—that they would continue to seek God, stay firm in their decisions, and not be discouraged when challenges arise. Also, pray for the work of Mount Calvary Baptist Church of Cacatachi, as they continue to minister to these young people and disciple them in the faith.
We are grateful to have been part of this incredible experience, and we trust that the seeds planted during these days will continue to bear fruit for the glory of God!
Would you like to add any specific testimonies from the teens, or do you feel this captures the essence of your experience?