The closing message began with a reflection on the creation story, explaining that the rest God experienced on the seventh day extended beyond physical repose. It symbolized perfect harmony with God, with one another, and with all creation; which is a state tragically disrupted by humanity’s fall into sin. It was highlighted that the access to this divine rest is restored only through the redeeming work of Jesus Christ on the Cross.

Participants were then challenged to confront a pressing spiritual danger: seeking security in worldly achievements or treating God as a means to fulfill personal ambitions. The message emphasized that true rest is not derived from material comfort or external stability but arises from a heart fully satisfied in God. They were urged to examine the foundations of their trust and release attachments that hinder deeper intimacy with the Lord, highlighting that walking with God must go beyond concepts and rituals into a personal, daily relationship.

During the retreat, in addition to attending Bible lectures, the participants engaged in a series of fellowship activities designed to strengthen community and spiritual growth, including beachside games, prayer sessions, and small group sharing, fostering both personal reflection and mutual encouragement among attendees.

By the conclusion of the three-day retreat, the participants left with a renewed understanding of rest in God, equipped to integrate the lessons into their spiritual disciplines and daily walk, and inspired to pursue a deeper, enduring relationship with Him.

Over a series of Bible lectures on the first day, the participants were reminded of Isaiah’s prophecies of the Messiah, who would reign on David’s throne and bring glory to Jerusalem. Yet, when Jesus came, He was rejected and forced to walk the path of suffering foretold in Isaiah 53. He bore the grief of His people, and through His perfect obedience, even unto death, became the way of salvation for the world.

It was highlighted that Jesus did not die out of weakness, but out of love. His prayer at Gethsemane revealed the weight of sin and rejection He bore. The Cross was not defeat but triumph: though mankind rejected the Son, Christ turned hatred into victory, opening the way of salvation for all nations. The parable of the vineyard in Matthew 21 illustrated this truth, while His last words on the Cross, studied in John 19:28-30, confirmed Him as the true Messiah who fulfilled Scripture.

The retreat also included interactive games and quizzes to help participants review the lessons, as well as fellowship activities that strengthened bonds within the congregation.

On Easter Sunday, the retreat concluded with a sermon on Luke 24:13-35, reflecting on ‘The Road to Emmaus’. The message reminded the congregation that just as the disciples’ hearts burned when the risen Christ opened the Scriptures to them, believers today are called to live with renewed passion and faith in the risen Lord.

The retreat closed with affirmation of the central message of Easter, that Christ is risen; and through His resurrection, believers are called to proclaim His truth, walk in His victory, and shine His light to the world.

Driven by the message of the Prince of Peace, the members shared the love and hope of Christ with those affected by civil war, encouraging them to embrace peace in their hearts.

The outreach effort included sharing the Gospel, leading time of prayer, and providing comfort to the refugees, many of whom have experienced great suffering in recent months. The members emphasized the true meaning of Christmas which is God’s gift of peace and reconciliation through His Son, Jesus Christ.

This initiative reflects the church’s mission to bring healing and hope to those in need, demonstrating the light of Christ even in the midst of challenging circumstances. The refugees expressed gratitude for the care and support, finding encouragement in the message of peace that surpasses understanding.

Myitkyina Gratia Church continues to pray for lasting peace not only in Kachin State and also the whole country of Myanmar to stand committed to serving those impacted by the ongoing conflict with the love of Christ.

The Bible lectures delivered during the retreat greatly resonated with the participants, inspiring a deep reflection of their relationship with God and making the retreat a truly remarkable occasion marked by God’s abundant grace.

In addition to Bible lectures, the participants also shared a great time of fellowship over games and visiting the nearby beach, as they had the opportunity to learn from each other’s testimony about their spiritual journey upon knowing Christ as their Lord and Savior.

The retreat’s meaningful and transformative experience was made possible through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended, as they look ahead to the next gathering.

Through the five lectures that were delivered throughout the day, the attendants were greatly encouraged by the Word as they were challenged to participate in the urgent works of sharing the Gospel with their fellow friends and family members. Beyond their own personal salvation that was already received by faith from the Lord, they came to understand the deep meaning of the Kingdom of God and the urgency to lead one more soul to know Jesus Christ.

In addition to the lectures, the attendants also participated actively in small group sharing and various activities that further deepened their understanding of the Word.

May God continue to bless every retreat attendant, that as they were ignited by the dream for the Kingdom of God, they will be moved to actively share the Gospel with many who are thirsty for the Truth of salvation.

During one of the lectures, Pastor Nahum introduced a method of studying the Bible centering on various scriptures cited from the Bible. The members were urged to better understand the original text of the Bible through examining useful Bible resources such as commentaries, before connecting it with their own life and meditate on what the Bible verses teach them.

Subsequently, Missionary Helen led everyone during a workshop where they were challenged to practice the method of studying the Bible individually.

Reflecting on the seminar, a member shared, “I am very grateful to God for joining this Bible Reading Seminar. There were many battles at the beginning, but this seminar provided me many answers. I hope that I can always be close to God’s Word and rely on the Word to overcome all the circumstances that I face.”

Another member also shared that the seminar was full of grace, that she hopes that she would read the Bible more frequently going forward while treasuring the Bible very preciously in her path of faith.

May the Word be the center of the lives of every Bangkok Church member, that through immersing themselves daily in the Word, they will be overflowing with abundant wisdom from above to overcome every challenge before their lives.

Through this 40-day Bible study program of the church, several cell group leaders were able to exercise their creative teaching skills, as their cell members find excitement in listening to the Bible lectures. Centering on the core message of salvation where the righteous shall live by faith, the Bible study series was overflowing with the active work of Holy Spirit throughout, as the attendants grappled with important aspects of their Christian faith.

Reflecting on the program, the church minister shared, “Through this program, it enabled us to help members to find joy in learning the Bible. It was wonderful to witness how the cell members also took hold of the opportunity to invite their friends to make Jesus known to them.”

Going forward, Manila Immanuel Church plans to hold such intensive study of various books of the Bible, with the aim to deepen the understanding of its members toward the precious Gospel of Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of God.

And also, the night was full of praise and worship led by different song leads. Other activities such as Drama Presentation and Performance Presentation were also initiated through guests and church members.

Through this event, Jubilee is aiming to evangelize more souls and lambs that need the word of God and are also passionate about entering the world of music. Jubilee Philippines is asking for prayers to establish this kind of goal not only from this event but even to other activities.

Sister Poy presided and Pastor Stephen delivered sermon for the Sunday Service. He shared the message from Philippians 3:12-16 and urged forget past, looked forward to the future and aimed for Jesus and encouraged members to grow in faith in the new year.

The Service was continued by the Baptism Service for Brother Yuma. Pastor Stephen shared the meaning of the Baptism, and Yuma replied “Yes” for questions before receiving Baptism. Everyone congratulated Yuma.

After that Pastor Stephen conducted a Communion Service, everyone deeply meditated for the meaning of the receiving cup and bread.