By Garry Sanossian
A network young adults retreat held this month brought together 60 young adults from 16 different churches across our network and beyond for a weekend of renewal, connection and spiritual growth.
Held at The Tops Conference Centre from 17 to 19 January 2025, the retreat called “El Roi: The God Who Sees Me” created an intentional space for attendees to unpack life’s challenges, rediscover their identity in Christ, and form lasting connections with one another.
Led by Peter and Brianna Sargent of Connect Church Engadine, the retreat was designed to equip young adults for their God-given purpose. Rooted in the truth that they are fully known and seen by El Roi (the God who sees us) the sessions guided attendees on a journey of reflection and hope. From looking back on their past to embracing their future in Christ, the themes included: “The God Who Sees Who I Was,” “Who I Am,” “Who I Will Be,” and “The God Who Sees How I’ll Get There.”
“At its heart, the retreat was a journey: from the God who sees our past, to the God who knows who we are now, and then into the hope of the God who has a plan for who we will become,” Peter said.
“We wanted this retreat to be more than an event, it was a chance for young adults to rediscover who they are in Christ, to hear Him say, ‘I see you, I know you, and I have a purpose for you.’”
For Jai Phillips, 22, the retreat became a transformative moment of reassurance and belonging. Reflecting on his experience, he shared “The retreat reminded me that God sees me exactly as I am in every moment. It was a powerful reminder that I’m never alone, because I have God and an amazing community around me to lean on.”
“I realised I don’t have to rely on myself to get everything done. The retreat helped me see that God knows me fully, and I don’t have to carry the weight of life alone.”
The retreat featured practical workshops led by panel speakers with expertise in different fields, adding depth and real-world application to the experience. “We wanted to equip young adults practically too. Through workshops on finances, mental health, relationships, and ministry, we aimed to show them that God’s love speaks into every aspect of their lives,” Peter said.
The retreat laid a powerful foundation for young adults to step into their God-given purpose, reassured that they are deeply seen, fully known and loved by God. This pilot program united a community of believers who are committed to walking alongside one another in faith, fostering connection, hope and a renewed sense of their identity in Christ.
Peter and Brianna are looking forward to hosting a young adult worship night scheduled for 14 June 2025. This upcoming event will offer extended worship and provide a space to encourage young adults in their personal faith journey. “Our heart is to create more opportunities for young adults to connect with God and one another,” Peter said. More details about the event, including location and schedule, will be announced soon.
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