Pastor Rand Holm gave an inspiring motivational message proclaiming salvation in Jesus Christ, Friday, Dec. 29, and Jeb Egbert, Summer Educational Program director, followed with more of the same Saturday and Sunday.

The purpose of the weekend was to share the gospel of Christ, equip young and old alike for ministry, and build networks for prayer and encouragement.

The Holy Spirit was evident in praise and worship. Praise band members were Hector Amaya, Joe and Katrina Weber, Tom Kuipers, and Ashleigh Wheat. Aaron Burnsides set up the sound system and provided music for a Saturday night dance.

"The Holy Spirit has worked wonders through praise and worship in our congregations, SEP and many Discovery weekends all over the country," said Jason Haas, who coordinated the weekend with his wife, Teresa. "The same was true at our Arizona Discovery Weekend. We praised God and he responded by sending his Holy Spirit and touching the lives of the participants."

The young people cheered each other on in the challenge course, and others participated in basketball, volleyball and hiking. Ben Russel was activities coordinator, and his wife, Alison, was the camp nurse.

Saturday night was music, drama and testimonial night. Jesus and the gospel were celebrated in every skit and song. Jeremy Gay ended this session with a bold testimony about keeping our eyes focused on God and not letting the problems that humans have caused to get in the way. The answer is Jesus, and he has won the victory for us. This victory is absolute and secure. The evening ended with a dance in which Aaron Burnsides was host.

The weekend concluded Sunday with a final round of praise and worship. This session had more than one encore as participants did not want to stop singing praises to God.

Dr. Egbert concluded with a message about the saving blood of Jesus Christ. The teens were encouraged to take this home and shine the light of Jesus in their families, peer groups, congregations and communities.

Steve Kramer shared a testimony about confessing sin to God and to a trusted brother or sister in Christ. Mr. Kramer shared the freedom he experienced when he did this. He also pointed out the need for a change in life after sins are confessed.