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Canóvanas, PR — Despite the rain, a group of believers gathered at the Canóvanas Sugar Mill, the site of the second “Health in Every Step” event, an initiative sponsored by the Health Department of the East Adventist Association. The day brought together participants committed to holistic well-being, who walked together reaffirming their commitment to physical, emotional, and spiritual health. During the walk, Brenda Liz Couvertier delighted the attendees with a moving poem inspired by the Río Grande de Loíza, providing a moment of reflection and connection with creation. The purpose of this initiative is to promote exercise as one of the eight health remedies promoted by our church, highlighting the importance of movement as an essential habit for a fulfilling life. The organizers thanked God for his love and companionship during the activity and announced that new walks will be announced soon as part of this community effort.

Camp Yuquibo, Puerto Rico — During the weekend of March 27-29, the Medical Cadet Corps of the East Adventist Association held its spiritual retreat at Camp Yuquibo, under the theme “Healed to Heal.” The retreat included the participation of Pastor Rodolfo Cosme, who offered spiritual guidance, and Pastor Eric A. Ríos, director of ADRA Puerto Rico East and professional counselor, who led various workshops focused on training and personal development for the participants. As a central part of the retreat, the medical cadets renewed their commitment to serve Christ by celebrating a solemn Holy Communion, reaffirming their identity and mission within the church. On Saturday night, the participants joined the JA Olympics, held at the Río Grande athletic track under the direction of Pastor Bernardino Arocho, Youth Director of the Adventist Association, highlighting the spirit of unity that characterizes the church. This retreat represented a significant opportunity for spiritual growth, holistic development, and strengthening the medical cadets' commitment to Christian service.

Last Saturday, March 28, young people and the Pathfinder Club gathered at the Río Grande athletic track to celebrate the first JA Olympics, an event that combined faith, fellowship, and healthy competition. The day began in the afternoon with an atmosphere of praise and worship, followed by an inspiring message presented by the chaplain of the Metropolitan Academy, Pastor César Acevedo, who encouraged those present to strengthen their spiritual walk. As part of the program, activities from the “Christian Race” were held, leading young people and adults to reflect deeply on their relationship with God and the purpose of their lives. As night fell, after sunset, in accordance with the biblical mandate of Exodus 20:8-11, one of the most significant moments took place: the formation of the Olympic rings on the track, made up of Pathfinders and young people, symbolizing the brotherhood, solidarity, and love that unite youth. Several churches were present, including: La Gloria, Metrópolis, Sabana Llana, Litheda, Villa Carolina, Caparra, Río Piedras, Magnolia, Piñas, Luquillo, El Verde, Fortuna, San Isidro, Humacao I, Patillas, Celada, and Buena Vista Cayey, demonstrating the reach and commitment of the different regions. The evening was marked by athletic competitions in which the participants gave their best and proudly represented their regions. After a day full of enthusiasm and effort, the metropolitan area emerged victorious. We extend our congratulations to each Youth and Pathfinder director for their leadership and dedication, and especially to every young person who actively participated in this experience. We also acknowledge the work of Pastor Bernardino Arocho, Daphne Domínguez, Professor Nelson Rivera, and the entire team who made this event possible. More than a competition, these JA Olympics became a space for spiritual growth, unity, and a reaffirmation of the commitment of a generation running purposefully toward an eternal goal.

The Personal Ministries Department, led by Pastor Eric Ríos and Pastor Tony Sandoval, launched the Evangelism and Preaching Certification Program, an academic program accredited by Antillean University. The inaugural session brought together 108 in-person participants and 10 virtual attendees. Several guest pastors also attended, including Luis Soto, César Hernández, Henry Tremor, and Carlos Martínez, Director of the Communications Department. The presentations were given by Pastor Tony Sandoval and Dr. Hernández, President of Antillean University. Pastor Sandoval emphasized the importance of Christian preaching based on sound homiletics and a proper interpretation of biblical texts. Dr. Hernández underscored the church's mission and the key role of communication in reaching out to the community through service and Christian commitment. The certification program includes 12 modules, of which participants must complete at least 9 to receive the certificate. The program began today, Saturday, January 17, and will continue until April 4. Graduation will be held on Saturday, April 11, at 3:30 p.m. This certification offers not only academic training but also an opportunity for spiritual growth and missionary commitment. Participants are prepared to proclaim the message of hope with clarity and relevance. In this way, the church reaffirms its mission to form disciples who live and communicate the gospel with purpose, impacting their communities and responding to current spiritual needs.

Last Thursday, January 28, the Adventist Educational Corporation joyfully and solemnly celebrated the Preachers' Contest, a formative and spiritual event where children and youth proclaimed the Word of God with conviction, creativity, and faith, according to their grade level. The contest was divided into categories: kindergarten, first through third grade, fourth through sixth grade, seventh through ninth grade, and tenth through twelfth grade, allowing each participant to express the biblical message clearly and appropriately for their age. The kindergarten children spoke on the theme "I Too Can Have Faith Like Noah: Noah Obeyed When Building the Ark," based on Genesis 6–9, with a presentation time of 3 to 5 minutes, highlighting obedience and trust in God even in the midst of uncertainty. Students in grades one through three presented on the topic “A Girl Saved a Life: The Servant Who Saved Naaman,” based on 2 Kings 5:1–14, with a 3- to 5-minute presentation, highlighting how God can use even the smallest among us to accomplish great purposes. In the fourth through sixth grade category, participants spoke on “God Hears My Prayer: Daniel in the Lions’ Den,” based on Daniel 6, with a 5- to 7-minute presentation, emphasizing the power of prayer and faithfulness to God. Seventh through ninth grade students developed the topic “The Grateful Leper,” based on Luke 17:11–19, with 8- to 10-minute presentations, inviting reflection on gratitude and the recognition of divine blessings. Finally, students in grades 10 through 12 presented on “Trial by Fire: When Faith Is Challenged. The Faith of the Hebrew Youth,” based on Daniel 3, with an 8- to 10-minute presentation highlighting the steadfastness of faith in the face of pressure and trials. It was truly inspiring to see children and young people willing to preach the Word of God and share a message of hope and salvation during this crucial time in history. Each of our Adventist academies continues to be a safe haven where students find peace, Christian values, and hope, while holistically preparing to become men and women committed to God, ready to serve the church and society with excellence. This type of activity reaffirms the mission of Adventist education: to develop leaders with faith, character, and eternal purpose.

On the afternoon of Saturday, February 21, the Children’s Ministry Department of the East Adventist Association, under the leadership of Sister Rosa Delgado, along with her colleague Lixamary Pedraza, held a meaningful activity for children under the theme “Fearless Artists.” The day included the participation of approximately 70 children from various churches within the association, who enjoyed an experience designed to foster their gifts and strengthen their relationship with Jesus in a creative and practical way. During the activity, several workshops were held, including: Fearless Preacher, led by Pastors Henry Tremor and Alejandro George; Fearless Musician, led by Ivelisse Torres, Lorna Rivera, and Yomary Rivera; and Fearless Art, coordinated by María Martínez. and Intrepid Storyteller, led by Dr. Emmanuel Rivera and his wife, Emi García. Each workshop was carefully designed to teach children that their talents can be used as tools to serve God and share His message. The event took place at the Eliezer Meléndez Convention Center and was a special and meaningful afternoon for every child who attended. Sister Rosa Delgado expressed her deep satisfaction with the achievements, highlighting that these types of initiatives bring children closer to Jesus through simple yet profoundly meaningful activities. Finally, parents are encouraged to continue supporting their children in all initiatives that strengthen their faith and draw them closer to Christ. Attached are some photographs from the event at the Eliezer Meléndez Convention Center, capturing special moments from this experience.

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.

Río Grande, Puerto Rico — March 15. In an atmosphere of fellowship, healthy competition, and spiritual strengthening, Adventist youth from across the island gathered at the Río Grande Adventist Academy to participate in a dynamic volleyball tournament that brought together eight teams representing various churches. The participating teams came from the churches of Villa Carolina, Río Grande, Metrópolis, Bayamón, Luquillo, Cayey, Campo Rico, and Hillside, and they faced off on the court with enthusiasm, respect, and sportsmanship. Beyond the competition, the event sought to foster Christian values, unity, and healthy lifestyles among the youth. The day was marked by the energy and enthusiasm of the participants, who enjoyed a safe space where recreation and faith went hand in hand. Each match reflected not only athletic skill but also fellowship and mutual respect, principles that are part of the holistic development promoted by the youth ministry. The activity was organized and led by Pastor Bernardino Arocho, Youth Director; Professor César Rivera; and Pastor Carlos Martínez, Director of Health, Temperance, and Communications. They emphasized the importance of creating spaces where young people can share, develop talents, and strengthen their relationship with God while enjoying recreational activities. “Initiatives like this are essential for our youth. They not only promote physical health but also strengthen friendship, spiritual identity, and a sense of community,” the organizers stated. These types of gatherings continue to reaffirm the youth ministry's commitment to offering positive alternatives to young people, demonstrating that it is possible to have wholesome fun while living an active and relevant faith for the new generations.

Loíza, Puerto Rico — Pastor José Navedo's district, along with Pastor Carlos Martinez, carried out a significant community outreach in the municipality of Loíza, actively involving local churches in a broad day of service and solidarity. The initiatives took place in the communities of Valle Hill, San Isidro, Parcelas Vieques, Melilla, and Parcelas Suárez, as well as at the Municipal Police, State Police, Fire Department, and emergency response agencies. As part of the effort, volunteers conducted community surveys, offered a drive-through prayer service, distributed food, and provided direct support to families in need. Twenty-eight lunches were served at the Hogar Fortaleza al Caído (Fortress for the Fallen Home), an additional 28 lunches were served in the impacted communities, and 25 lunches were served at various government agencies. Additionally, three residential yards were cleaned, two houses were painted inside and out, and seven baskets of essential goods were distributed, along with seven complete grocery orders for low-income families. A needs assessment was conducted in the Parcelas Vieques community, identifying priority areas for support. The drive-through prayer service impacted approximately 1,000 people, becoming a space for listening, comfort, and hope. Participants emphasized that this experience not only transformed lives in the community but also strengthened the faith of those who served, reaffirming the Christian commitment to share the gospel through concrete acts of love and service to others. This community impact in Loíza reaffirms the church's role as an active agent of social and spiritual transformation, leaving a positive and lasting mark on every community reached.

On Saturday, March 7, the East Adventist Association Women’s Congress began under the theme “Connected to the Heart of God,” bringing together more than 750 women in a spiritual atmosphere. The gathering united women from various churches for a day of worship, testimony, and renewal of their commitment to God and their mission. The program began with a devotional led by Yoselinne Marrero, Trust Director. Marrero shared her personal testimony of how God healed her of cancer. She reminded the congregation that even in difficult trials, faith in God is a source of hope. Afterward, President Rodolfo Cosme prayed, dedicating the event to God, and asked each woman to deepen her connection with Him. The worship continued with performances by the Solideo group and the Made To Worship praise team, whose songs guided the congregation toward an atmosphere of reverence and gratitude. They lifted the hearts of those present to the throne of grace and prepared the spirit of each attendee to receive God's message. During the opening, the administrators of the East Adventist Association—Pastor Rodolfo Cosme, president; Pastor Fernando Dávila, secretary; and Maybeth Pacheco, treasurer—offered a welcome and encouragement. They emphasized the importance of women in the mission of the church and in the proclamation of the gospel. The central moment of the program was led by Professor Adriana Castillo, who traveled from Montemorelos University in Monterrey, Mexico, to share profoundly spiritual messages that led the attendees to reflect on their personal relationship with God and their call to live an authentic faith. Rosa Delgado, director of the Women's Ministries Department, described the event as “a powerful experience in which the presence of God became real among us.” Many of the attendees agreed that the gathering was deeply spiritual and transformative, and highlighted the impact it had on their lives. At this congress, hundreds of women renewed their commitment to God and reaffirmed their desire to live connected to the heart of the Lord to continue His mission in homes, churches, and communities.

On Saturday, April 4, the Preaching and Evangelism Certification program concluded. This initiative of the Seventh-day Adventist Church aims to proclaim the gospel and prepare men and women for the return of Christ. Pastor Eric Ríos led the program along with Pastor Tony Sandoval, and Antillean University provided academic accreditation. The program ran from January to April 2026, with 12 consecutive sessions at 7:00 a.m., demonstrating the participants' commitment. Each session offered spiritual training and practical ministry experience, providing tools for preaching and strengthening their calling to service. More than 200 lay people participated in the training, reflecting a growing interest in evangelistic work. Of these, more than 120 completed the certification and advanced in their preparation as disciples committed to sharing the message of salvation in their communities. During the closing ceremony, Pastor Eric Ríos made a direct appeal to the graduates, encouraging them to commit to the mission and proposing as a goal that each one evangelize and lead at least three people to baptism. This challenge highlights the importance of missionary action and reflects the biblical model of multiplying discipleship that distinguishes the work of the church. The certification was made possible through the collaborative work of the Eastern Puerto Rican Association, coordinated by Pastor Tony Sandoval, with the support of the Personal Ministries Department and the academic backing of Antillean University. This collaboration demonstrates the church's commitment to the ongoing training of its members to fulfill its global mission. This event represents more than a graduation; it is a missionary sending forth. The graduates receive not only academic recognition but also the responsibility to be agents of hope in a world that needs to hear the message of redemption. With conviction, preparation, and a clear purpose, this new generation is ready to impact lives, strengthen faith communities, and advance in fulfilling the Great Commission.

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Last Saturday, March 14, the Youth Department of the East Adventist Association held the special gathering “The Sunset Isn’t the End,” an initiative designed to strengthen the faith, unity, and spiritual commitment of young people. The event, led by Youth Director Pastor Bernardino Arocho, took place at the historic Morro in Old San Juan, where more than 300 young people gathered in an atmosphere of worship, fellowship, and spiritual reflection. During the gathering, participants shared meaningful moments through praise songs, testimonies, prayer, and spiritual activities, creating a space where young people could express their faith and encourage one another to live a life committed to God. One of the most special moments of the day was welcoming the start of a new week together, reaffirming this generation of young people's desire to live with purpose and prepare their hearts for the soon return of Jesus. One of the young women present described the experience with emotion: “It was a very peaceful moment. Seeing ourselves holding hands as one people of God was beautiful. Our church is alive,” said Julissa González. This type of initiative seeks to remind young people that their faith doesn't end with sunset on Saturday, but continues to shine throughout the week in every decision, in every relationship, and in every place they find themselves. The Youth Department of the East Adventist Association reaffirms its commitment to continue developing spaces where young people can strengthen their spiritual identity, grow in leadership, and become agents of hope in their communities. The call for this generation is clear: to continue shining for Jesus wherever they are. Photos courtesy of: Julissa González