When planning for the youth camps, the expectation was to see somewhere between 50 and 100 young people attend. Instead, over 200 showed up.
The first day, the team realized they didn’t have enough room. They adjusted the next day, and then again the day after that. Eventually, the decision was simple: the doors were open.
The youth who came were not just looking for a place to be. Many were looking for stability and hope. Some were seeking Jesus—something solid to hold onto in a world where they feel unheard or dismissed.
One of the realities the team has seen is that trauma doesn’t simply end with one generation. Many parents who survived the genocide carry deep trauma themselves. When today’s youth struggle and ask for help, they may be told, “This is nothing compared to what I went through.” The result is that young people often have nowhere to go with their pain, questions, or need for guidance.
These camps became a place where youth were engaged in worship, teaching, discussion, prayer, and encouragement—and where they could be listened to and supported.
How you can help
Your support helps fund youth camps and equips local young adults to become leaders for the Gospel in their own churches and communities.