The NYI of the East Timor District held its first youth camp from 31 October to 3 November 2022. More than 80 youths participated in the 3-day event themed “Dare to be Different,” which was taken from Romans 12:2.

Those who attended felt blessed to worship, learn through workshops and seminars, and have fellowship through various fun activities and games. The district youth council intentionally chose to hold the camp at the same time as East Timor’s celebration of “Venado Day.”

On this day, East Timorese returned to their hometowns to pray for blessings from the spirits of their ancestors and give offerings at shrines called “spirit houses.” The youth council wanted to use this opportunity to reach out to the young people and challenge them to “dare to be different.”

Some community members were unhappy and tried to stop the event, but the youth leaders remained committed until the event was finished.

With the success of the youth camp, the district hopes to continue doing this at the same time every year and make it a National Youth Day across the Church of the Nazarene in East Timor. The members also plan to be intentional in building better relationships with young people and their communities.

The organizers were thankful for the overwhelming support of the local church pastors and district leaders. They were grateful for the creativity and initiative of some local churches that went out of their way to raise funds, doing car washing and selling food. The school where the camp meeting was held also gave an affordable deal supporting the NYI ministry.

--Church of the Nazarene Asia-Pacific