Approximately 85 young people aged from 14-24 recently attended the annual Midwest CY Spring Retreat, hosted by Christ Covenant RP Church. The retreat took place at Chihowa Retreat Center outside of Perry, Kansas, with people travelling from many states including Colorado, Kansas, Iowa, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Wyoming, and Oklahoma.
Pastor Brian Wright of the Sterling, Kansas RPC, spoke on the topic “Seeing Past Today: Broader Perspectives from the Book of Amos.” Pastor Wright encouraged us to see past today’s politics, praise, pleasures, and pain. In three lectures and one sermon, Pastor Wright addressed how we might live in this world, while also having a kingdom perspective.
People began arriving Friday night, and enjoyed an informal time of fellowship, as well as a camp fire. Saturday morning marked the official start of the retreat, as members divided into groups and spent some time praying. Each group was given a prayer guide, which included topics to pray about, such as churches and pastors in the Midwest Presbytery, the leadership of the CY, and the work of RP Global Missions. RP Global Missions was kind enough to provide us with several prayer points, as well as a powerpoint to display these prayer points.
Following the morning lectures the CY completed a service project for the retreat centre – we picked up sticks, painted a bunk room, transported wood, and more. The managers of the camp were very impressed with the hard work and enthusiasm displayed by each of the young people. We hope that this attitude was a testimony to the gracious God we serve. Saturday night began with an indoor campfire, accompanied by officer speeches and some psalm singing.
We are incredibly thankful for this time of learning, fellowship, and worship, even if it was only for a short time. It has been incredible to see the CY grow, both in numbers, and as individual members. It was evident throughout the weekend that God’s hand was at work, and we are looking forward to gathering together again in July!
Sarah Todd, Midwest CY Recreation Director
