The youth camps gathered about 250 youth from across Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay. Photo: LWF/E. Albrecht
“A time of spiritual renewal, friendship, and encounter with God”
(LWI) – During this year’s summer vacation, the Evangelical Church of the River Plate (IERP) organized several youth camps, gathering about 250 youth from across Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay. Each camp had its own characteristics and theme, creating spaces of inclusion and spiritual growth. The camps’ program combined moments of devotion, prayer, workshops, recreation, and dialogue in an atmosphere of fellowship and spiritual growth.
A highlight of these gatherings was the baptism of a young man, Enzo Yacobousci. He had participated in the summer camp of the Misiones District. in Argentina was one of the most significant moments in these gatherings. It reaffirmed the Lutheran identity of all 90 camp participants and strengthened their sense of being part of a larger community.
After recovering from a serious accident a few years ago, Enzo joined the congregation, where I felt accepted by everyone and comfortable, surrounded by friends. So, I decided to get baptized.” He is now an active member of the church youth. His witness inspired other young people and encouraged them to consider the importance of sacraments in their faith journey.
“God is Love” was the summer camp theme for the IERP’s Western District, held in Felicia, Argentina. “It was a wonderful gathering that allowed us to grow in faith and understand more deeply what love means,” said Deacon Rubén Mohr, emphasizing the importance of having these spaces where God’s presence can be felt. Twenty young people met for a weekend of devotionals, games, and reflections on God’s love.
A highlight of these gatherings was the baptism of a young man, Enzo Yacobousci. Photo: LWF/E. Albrecht
The camp reaffirmed the Lutheran identity of all 90 participants. Photo: LWF/E. Albrecht
Each day was marked by morning devotionals led by different congregations in the district, ending with nighttime reflections around the campfire. Photo: LWF/E. Albrecht
Meanwhile, the Paraguay District gathered 109 people under the theme “For everything there is a season” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Through workshops on spirituality, anxiety, creativity, and recycling, participants reflected on time management in daily life. Each day was marked by morning devotionals led by different congregations in the district, ending with nighttime reflections around the campfire. “These days helped us appreciate every moment and understand that God calls us to live with purpose,” shared Kathelen Patricia Strege Weiss, a participant from the Santa Rosa del Monday Congregation, with great enthusiasm. “We leave with the commitment to continue transforming our communities with faith and hope.”
In Entre Ríos, Argentina, 50 young people explored the theme “The strongest bond is one built with God.” Reflecting on her experiences during the time together, Agustina Eichmann said, “This camp reminded us that our relationship with God transforms and unites us. We leave strengthened in faith and with the desire to share this love in our communities.”
In Uruguay, 17 young people gathered for the District Summer Camp, held under the theme “Strong roots, healthy life.” The program included a workshop on healthy eating led by staff from Centro Emmanuel and sessions on mental health and sexuality facilitated by the Hora de Obrar Foundation. Participants also enjoyed beach time, soccer matches, a costume party, devotionals, and joint reflections. “When we support each other, we build bonds stronger than any difficulty,” participants said, affirming the importance of faith in communion and the overall well-being of young people.
These youth camps strengthen young people's spirituality and reinforce Lutheran identity and the sense of community within the IERP. Prayer, fellowship, and reflection shape participants' faith journeys and create spaces for transformative experiences. Summer in the IERP is much more than a season; it is a time of spiritual renewal, friendship, and encounter with God.
