Young adults from across Washington Conference gathered at Sunset Lake Camp on Oct. 18–20, 2024 for the annual Young Adult Retreat. It didn’t take long to see that God was doing something remarkable.
On Friday evening, more than 60 young adults gathered in Timber Lodge for a time of worship, testimonies and praise. As the sounds of singing filled the space, the Spirit of God began to move. Many attendees accepted the invitation to share testimonies of God working in their lives. Person after person stood up and praised God for victories over sin, freedom from anxiety and depression, and God's guidance through the everyday struggles of life.
After introducing a baptismal candidate for the following day, an appeal was made for others to take the same step. One by one, people began to come forward. There was praise and many tears as Christ’s presence filled the gathering. In the end, five people decided to be baptized the next day. The meeting ended, but no one wanted to leave. Many stayed to fellowship and sing until well past midnight.
The entire weekend was intentionally designed to give young adults time and space to relax, connect and enjoy the beauty of God’s creation. “When I asked young adults what they wanted from the retreat, they all said, ‘Please don’t overschedule the weekend. We just want to rest,’” said Kyle Barrow, Auburn City Church young adult pastor and one of the event organizers.
Church groups from across the region provided meals for the event, including homemade curry, burgers and pasta. The support shown by these cooks helped build a strong sense of community that grew throughout the weekend.
The highlight of the weekend was the Sabbath afternoon baptisms. Under a clear blue sky, the five candidates were lowered into the chilly waters of Sunset Lake. Family and friends who came for the event cheered each new life in Christ.
“This is why we come here on retreat each year,” said David Yeagley, Washington Conference young adult director. “Sunset Lake is a place where God works in powerful, transformative ways.”
As the weekend ended, a large group of participants gathered at the challenge course to ride the giant swing. One after another was harnessed up and connected to the swing. “Can I trust you?” each would ask, and the group would shout back, “You can trust us!”
Then, the participant was hoisted aloft by the group. After the laughter and screams of delight, everyone gathered for one last photo. Someone stood at the front with a phone in hand. “Everyone look this way and say, ‘Family!’” Smiles, laughter and hugs followed because that’s what they had become.
Join us next year on Sept. 26–28, 2025 for the next Young Adult Retreat at Sunset Lake.
Carlos Santana, guest speaker, challenges young adults to see God working in their lives.
Five people respond to Friday's baptism appeal.
Smiles, laughter and hugs create a family environment.
God moves in the hearts of many as they respond to give their lives to Jesus.
