Jinja City, Uganda— A youth retreat took place at Campsite Buwenda on May 10-17, under the theme “The real Deal on Faith, Love & Life.” The retreat brought together forty-five young adults from across the East and Southern African regions, representing Uganda, South Africa, Burundi, Rwanda, and Kenya. The international composition of the group enriched cross-cultural interaction and strengthened bonds of unity within the Reform Movement family.
The retreat was significantly enriched by the participation of guest speakers from South Africa and Kenya. Each speaker brought a wealth of experience to their respective sessions.
The eight-day retreat featured a carefully structured and comprehensive programme designed to address a wide range of topics pertinent to the spiritual, relational, and practical lives of young people today. Participants slept in tents throughout the week and observed a deliberate limitation on personal phone usage, fostering an environment of focused engagement, communal living, and spiritual concentration.
The thematic content of the retreat’s instructional sessions included:
- Human anatomy and identity — grounding participants in the Biblical truth that they are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14)
- Courtship, marriage, and family life — equipping youth with a sound Biblical framework for healthy and godly relationships
- Social media and digital technology — navigating the opportunities and spiritual challenges of the digital age
- The role of music and dance in the Christian life — fostering a discerning and Christ-centred approach to culture and worship
Each day, small group discussions were convened around a variety of contemporary and relevant topics. These sessions encouraged open, honest, and guided dialogue among peers, allowing participants to process key themes in a safe and spiritually supervised environment. The discussions were warmly embraced and proved to be one of the most impactful elements of the programme. In keeping with the holistic objectives of the retreat, a range of recreational activities were
incorporated to promote healthy fellowship, teambuilding, and physical well-being. These included:
- Nile River Cruising and Tubing near the Source of the Nile
- A Survival Challenge
- Hiking
- Volleyball
These activities fostered camaraderie, cooperation, and wholesome recreation in a natural setting, and were enthusiastically participated in by the attendees.
The weekend of the retreat was marked by several spiritually significant events. On Friday, a baptismal service was conducted by the Mission President and the local church Elder, during which three souls publicly surrendered their lives to Christ and were baptized. This was a joyous occasion of great spiritual significance for the entire company.
On Sabbath afternoon, the youth participated in a musical concert that ministered powerfully to the hearts of all present. As the Sabbath drew to a close, participants gathered around a camp fire for an evening of heartfelt testimony-sharing. Several young people bore witness to the personal cost and conviction that led them to embrace the Reform Movement, resulting in approximately ten participants committing to be baptized at the upcoming youth retreat scheduled for December 2026, to be held at the same location.
We render all praise and glory to our Almighty God for His faithful protection, gracious provision, and abiding guidance throughout the eight days of the retreat. His hand was evident in every aspect of the programme, and we are deeply humbled by His goodness.
We extend our sincere and heartfelt gratitude to all facilitators, retreat personnel, logistical coordinators, and supporting brethren whose faithful and dedicated service made this retreat possible. The selfless commitment of every member of the retreat team is greatly appreciated. May God richly reward each one.
