As the Earth Rotates: A Summer of Faith and Service
By Joelis Colmenarez
As the earth turns and another 365 days pass, we bid farewell to summer and the Youth Rush program, welcoming the crisp air of fall and the season of Thanksgiving. My heart overflows with gratitude to God as I look back on the countless answered prayers, miracles, and the incredible summer we experienced in the Nevada-Utah Conference.
This year, we had the privilege of working with 15 dedicated young people who committed eight weeks of their afternoons and evenings—from Sunday to Thursday—to share God’s Word through literature ministry. Traveling across the conference territory created unforgettable memories as we journeyed from Reno through Carson City, Lake Tahoe, Silver Springs, Fernley, Fallon, and Winnemucca. These youth, ages 15 to 25, not only led and served but also connected deeply with church members and the community. Having 15 young people engaged in ministry for two full months is truly an answer to many prayers.
Testimonies of Transformation
One participant, Naomi Castillo, shared her inspiring story:
“I came to Youth Rush because I wanted to serve God. Before joining, I doubted my ability to accomplish this task—I didn’t think I had the strength or the right qualifications. I also feared I wouldn’t fit in because of my antisocial tendencies. Youth Rush taught me how good God is. I learned that my strength comes from Him, and that He doesn’t call the qualified—He qualifies the called. Through trials, my faith has grown immensely. I’ve discovered the power of prayer and formed not just friendships but a heavenly family. God has shown me that in my weakness, His strength is perfected. Today, I want to serve Him for the rest of my life because of His great love and the experiences I’ve had in Youth Rush.”
Her words remind us that hardship and real-life challenges forge character and reveal God’s power.
Another leader, Jericho Bondoc, reflected on his growth:
“Since joining Youth Rush, I’ve become more confident and sociable—not just with fellow students but with those we meet at the doors. I’m bolder in engaging with others, and this program has given me the experience to share my faith confidently.”
Impact Beyond the Team
The program’s influence extended beyond the participants. One neighbor shared her appreciation after meeting a Youth Rush student:
“Denise, the student who knocked at my door, is a sweetheart.”
In a world where technology often replaces human interaction, a face-to-face conversation and a prayer can be priceless.
Another powerful moment came when Adam Gordon met a woman who identified as an atheist. Initially uninterested, she opened up after a thoughtful conversation about her belief in a punishing God. Adam shared the truth about a loving, forgiving Savior. They prayed together, and she joyfully afford six books—devotionals, prophecy, and children’s literature—for herself and her family. Truly, a divine appointment.
A Call to Action
“With such an army of workers as our youth, rightly trained, how soon the message of a crucified, risen, and soon-coming Savior might be carried to the whole world!” — Messages to Young People, p. 7.3
As we close this chapter, we thank God for the opportunity to serve, for the youth ablaze with passion for the gospel, and for the resources that make programs like Youth Rush possible.
