More than 1,050 young Adventists gathered in the Yahuarcocha area of ​​Ibarra to participate in the Maranatha Youth Convention of northern Ecuador. Under the theme "My Place in This World," the event focused on spiritual formation and mission, organizers said, encouraging young people to place God at the center of their lives.

Baptisms and commitment

The convention opened with a message from Adventist pastor Antonio Manzanares, who challenged attendees to trust God and live with purpose.

"When a generation decides to place itself in God's hands, nothing can stop what He wants to do," was one of the phrases that resonated throughout the day.

Organizers reported that 16 young people were baptized during the gathering.

Testimony shared

Among those baptized was Camila, whose attendance at the event followed a request she sent to Edmundo Ortega, Youth Ministries director for the Adventist Church in Ecuador, through TikTok. According to organizers, she said she wanted to attend but lacked the resources, and internal arrangements helped make participation possible. Camila later chose baptism during the convention.

“At the best stage of my life, I decided to give my life to Christ because I understood that without Him I am nothing. It doesn't matter if your friends drift away, remember that we have someone who gave His life for us. Nothing was by chance, everything had a purpose. God's timing is perfect,” she said.

Training and leadership development

Organizers said Saturday programming included training sessions on topics such as self-esteem, sex education, Christian identity, personal testimonies, and applying biblical principles in daily life. Participants also attended the investiture of more than 50 new youth leaders, which organizers described as a commitment to service and leadership.

The Adventist Volunteer Service in Ecuador also encouraged participants to engage in missionary initiatives and training opportunities that help young people use their skills in service, organizers said.

Community service

In coordination with ADRA Ecuador, convention participants distributed 35 food baskets to families in vulnerable situations. Organizers said youth also offered encouragement and messages of hope during the outreach.

Fellowship and spiritual reflection

The convention included group activities designed to strengthen friendships and unity among districts, along with a “white night” program focused on reflection, prayer, and commitment to Christian values. Participants also visited local landmarks in Ibarra and took part in outreach activities, including prayer for community members.

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