Northern Ontario Youth Anchored in Jesus
Group picture of Northern Ontario Youth & ACF Retreat attendees.
From September 26-28, 2025, the Michipicoten Community Centre in Wawa, Ontario, transformed into a haven of faith and fellowship as 45 young people from across Northern Ontario gathered for the Youth and ACF Retreat. Representing churches like Iron Bridge, Cornerstone in Sault Ste. Marie, Lookout, Thunder Bay, Sudbury, Kapuskasing, North Shore, and North Bay, attendees dove into a weekend themed “Anchored: Rooted in Jesus.” This retreat wasn’t just an event... it was a spiritual recharge, blending inspiration, growth, and fun in God’s stunning creation.
Pastor Kelvin praying during his sermon.
Weekend speaker Pastor Kelvin Kublall, a teacher at Crawford Adventist Academy, delivered powerful messages drawing from the disciples’ call to “fish for men.” He challenged everyone to mend their nets, trust in Jesus, pick up their cross, and follow Him boldly. “We’re called to a great purpose,” Pastor Kelvin emphasized, “to share Jesus’ love so others can experience the kingdom of God.” Attendees left fired up, ready to live out this calling on their campuses and in their communities.
Workshops kept the momentum going, covering topics like communications, regional leadership training, mission trip prep, and apologetics led by Pastor Ben Feagan, lead pastor of Cornerstone Church in Sault Ste. Marie. These sessions equipped young leaders with practical tools to strengthen their ministries and defend their faith with confidence.
Retreat attendees are being led through praise & worship by the praise team.
Nature called too! The group explored Wawa’s iconic giant Canadian Goose statue and the breathtaking Scenic High Falls, marvelling at God’s handiwork while building bonds. Back at the centre, fellowship flourished over delicious meals prepared by Iron Bridge Church youth leaders. Late-night games, impromptu chats, and heartfelt group worship created unbreakable connections, fostering growth in faith and friendship.
Newly elected leadership team.
A major highlight? The election of a new regional leadership team! Congratulations to Spencer (President), Fabricio (Vice President), Anona (VP Admin), Amy and Deborah (VPs Comms), and Thembi & Matt (VPs Social). This fresh crew is set to steer Northern Ontario’s youth ministries with passion and purpose.
As one attendee shared, “This retreat anchored me deeper in Jesus and now I’m excited to fish for souls back home!” The weekend reminded everyone that being rooted in Christ equips us to weather any storm.