More than 800 Adventist youth take to the streets of Puerto Rico with a message of hope during Global Youth Day

On March 21, young people from across the island joined in the celebration of Global Youth Day, a worldwide initiative that invites Adventist youth to live their faith actively, practically, and visibly in their communities.

Under this theme, more than 800 young people took to the streets throughout the East Adventist Association, proclaiming the importance of surrendering their lives to Jesus, with the conviction that His coming is near. The day represented not only a massive mobilization but also a vibrant expression of faith, service, and hope. The entire Association was abuzz with activity as it hosted this powerful missionary movement.

Throughout the day, hundreds of young people in Puerto Rico participated in a program that combined spiritual programming in their churches—such as the traditional Youth Sabbath—with numerous community service initiatives. Through acts of compassion, evangelism, and accompaniment, they brought a Jesus-centered message to those who needed it most.

In the East Adventist Association, the movement was especially remarkable. The Communications Department received hundreds of photos and videos via WhatsApp demonstrating the commitment of a generation eager to serve. The images captured moments of prayer, service, and witnessing in diverse settings, from churches to vulnerable communities.

Among the highlighted initiatives was a baptism at First English Church, accompanied by visits from young people to new friends in the faith. In Cidra Pueblo, the work of the youth was recognized, while in San Lorenzo Pueblo, essential items were distributed to homeless individuals. Similarly, La Gloria Church carried out acts of compassion for its own members.

In Riverview, young people and Pathfinders worked together to impact their community. In Las Vegas de Cayey, one group remained in intercessory prayer while others went out to sing and minister in the community. In Patillas, several initiatives included the delivery of items to nursing homes, a mobile prayer service in Guardarraya, and visits to senior centers.

Creativity was also evident in Humacao, where young people from various churches gathered at the beach to share hope through recreational activities, including distributing coconut and passion fruit ice cream. Similarly, in Fajardo, the churches of Ceiba, Monte Brisas, and Ceiba Norte carried out activities under the theme “Communion in Action” in the Villa Clarita community. Pastor Bernaldino Arocho, youth director of the Association, was also present at these initiatives, accompanying and supporting the youth's work in the field.

In Caguas, La Esperanza Church organized visits to the “Arruguitas Doradas” nursing home. Later, the churches of San Lorenzo, Caguas I, and San Antonio (Caguas) joined together for a missionary day at El Morro, which included activities, the distribution of literature, and a moving farewell on Saturday.

The youth of Trujillo Alto and Las Piedras also made their presence felt by visiting nursing homes, bringing joy, music, and companionship. In Pueblo Nuevo, the focus was on a children's home, while in Las Virtudes, Adventurers and Pathfinders distributed invitations for Holy Week and for the magazine Priorities.

Meanwhile, the Mucarabones missionary team impacted communities and police stations by distributing more than 70 food packages. Likewise, in Río Piedras, the day included Sabbath School, worship, a mission outing, a Sabbath farewell, and fellowship activities.

Amidst this mobilization, Pastor Carlos Martínez, communications director, also witnessed the impact of this day firsthand. After participating in a powerful Youth Sabbath held at the Buena Vista church in Cayey, he later joined the church in Hato Rey, where approximately 75 young people from various congregations in the Río Piedras and Hato Rey districts mobilized to impact two public housing complexes. There, through the distribution of Christian literature and hot meals, they delivered a tangible message of love, hope, and service.

Later, a group of young people went to the Metropolitan Academy's baseball field, where they participated in a sunset event organized by the Río Piedras church. The program was led by young people from the PCM (FADU – Adventist Federation of University Students), highlighting youth leadership both in worship and in the spiritual closing of the day.

Among the shared experiences, the testimony of the youth director from Maranatha Cayey stood out. After leading the distribution of food to families in need, she affirmed that they continue serving with the purpose of honoring and glorifying God.

Global Youth Day reaffirms that Adventist youth not only proclaim a message, but also live it. Through selfless service, these young people continue to fulfill the mission of bringing hope, restoration, and the love of Christ to every corner of Puerto Rico.