More than 150 people participated in a youth-organized race in Cândido Sales, in southwestern Bahia, Brazil, on March 22, 2026. Featuring 5- and 10-kilometer (about 3 to 6 mile) routes and awards in male and female categories, the event marked the conclusion of a weekend of activities led by Adventist youth.

The program was part of Global Youth Day, an international movement of the Seventh-day Adventist Church that encourages young people to leave the church to serve the community through acts of care, outreach, and evangelism.

Within this context, the race was one of several weekend activities, combining physical activity, community engagement, and mission.

Organizers said the event exceeded expectations and attracted participants from diverse backgrounds. In addition to residents of Cândido Sales and nearby cities, the race included participants from other religious denominations and visitors from neighboring states.

“We had a very diverse group of people, interacting and enjoying the moment together. The race brought an important message: true victory is not in arriving first, but in remaining steadfast until the end: a principle that also applies to spiritual life,” highlighted Lucas Brumatti, leader for the central district of Cândido Sales.

The final runner crossed the finish line around 9:30 a.m. in an atmosphere that included music, moments of praise, and prayer. According to organizers, many participants expressed interest in future editions of the event.

“The reception was very positive. Many are already asking about the next edition,” stated Jersika Lima dos Santos, coordinator of the Central Adventist Church in the municipality.

The race also included a missionary component. Participants who were not members of the church received a copy of the book The Great Controversy by Adventist pioneer Ellen White, along with event materials such as a T-shirt and small gifts.

For Dernivan Santos, leader of the Lagoinha district, the proposal went beyond sports.

“The initiative shows that the church cares not only about spirituality, but also about physical well-being. This generates identification and brings the community closer together,” he said.

Weekend of outreach activities

The program began on Friday with small group meetings held in homes, bringing together friends, neighbors, and family members for discipleship activities. In Cândido Sales, the evening also included a youth gathering with the participation of a missionary lawyer serving in Africa.

On Saturday, young people led the church’s worship services. In the afternoon, they participated in community outreach, visiting families, individuals no longer attending church, and elderly residents with limited mobility. The day concluded with a sunset gathering in a public square and recreational activities.

Faith in action

According to Mário Borges, youth director for the Southwest Bahia Mission, the weekend highlighted the role of young people in mission.

"It was a joy to see our young people taking on responsibilities and living what they believe in. Faith needs to be visible in the way we serve," he stated.

Similar activities were held in several municipalities across southwestern Bahia. In different cities, young people organized outreach initiatives, prayer walks, and community events aimed at connecting with local communities.

The original article was published on the South American Division Portuguese news site.