Pastors of the Puerto Rican Union Reconnect with Mission at Spiritual Retreat in Yuquibo

Luquillo, Puerto Rico | February 17–19 — With a clear call to theological and missional refocusing, all the pastors representing the Puerto Rican Union of Seventh-day Adventists gathered from February 17-19 at Camp Yuquibo, nestled in the El Yunque mountains, for an experience of training, spiritual renewal, and ministerial vision.

Under the theme “Refocusing: Theology and Mission,” the retreat aimed to strengthen pastoral identity, deepen understanding of God’s Word, and align ministry efforts with the mission the church carries out in Puerto Rico. The secluded natural setting of Yuquibo provided a fitting backdrop for reflection, prayer, and the movement of the Holy Spirit.

Holistic Spirituality: Soul, Mind, and Body

One of the most significant elements of the retreat was the spiritual discipline practiced each morning. Starting at 5:00 a.m., the pastors rose to intentionally seek God's presence through prayer and meditation on the Word. Then, they participated in outdoor physical activity and exercise, affirming a holistic vision of ministry that cares for both spiritual life and physical well-being.

Training with a Biblical and Missional Focus

The seminars were led by a distinguished team of speakers: Dr. Roger Ruiz, vice president of the Inter-American Adventist Theological Seminary (SETAI); Jonathan Contero and Abigail Esquirolea, a married couple and missionaries in Switzerland, along with their two children; Pastor José López; Pastor Daniel Recuenco, evangelist for the Puerto Rican Union; and Pastor Luis Guadalupe, youth director for the Puerto Rican Union. and Pastor Josney Rodríguez, ministerial secretary of the Inter-American Division.

The activities began on Tuesday, February 17, with a profound biblical exposition by Pastor Josney Rodríguez, setting the spiritual tone for the event. Throughout the days, the seminars were described by participants as spiritual, challenging, and highly enriching, inviting each pastor to present themselves as a vessel willing to receive the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Gratitude and Renewed Commitment.

The administration of the East Adventist Association, along with its ministerial secretary, Pastor Edgardo Ortiz, expressed its gratitude to the Puerto Rican Union for this excellent continuing education program, which strengthens ministers called by God to preach the gospel and guide people toward the Kingdom of Heaven.

Likewise, the Puerto Rican Union of Seventh-day Adventists, led by Pastor Luis Rivera Maldonado, along with its ministerial secretary, Pastor Jaime Blanco, expresses its gratitude to each local field for its support and collaboration in making this significant activity possible, sending each pastor to experience a time of quiet reflection, spiritual renewal, and communion with God in the foothills of El Yunque.

The retreat in Yuquibo reaffirmed the pastoral commitment to a Christ-centered mission, reminding everyone that when the church refocuses on biblical theology and mission, God works powerfully to transform lives.