The Ashanti Central Ghana Conference of the Mid-Ghana Union Conference, based in Kumasi, successfully organized a three-day Young Men and Women Retreat from July 12 to July 14, 2025. The event was held at the Santasi Christian Village, a suburb within the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly of the Ashanti Region.

Themed “Maintaining Your Integrity as Adventist Young People,” the retreat aimed at inspiring and equipping Adventist youth to uphold Christian values and personal integrity in every aspect of life. The well-structured program combined spiritual nourishment with practical life lessons. Participants were engaged in Bible studies, marriage enrichment talks, health discussions, financial literacy training, skills development workshops, and various interactive sessions designed to address the holistic needs of young men and women.

Among the key topics treated during the retreat were “Introduction to the Four Arms of Integrity,” which provided a foundational understanding of integrity from a biblical perspective; “Sitting at the Feet of the Master,” which focused on deepening one’s personal relationship with Christ; and “Misuse of Drugs,” a session that exposed the dangers of substance abuse. Other sessions included “Leadership Development and Mentorship,” “Budgeting and Expense Management,” and discussions on “Christian Dressing and Modesty,” all aimed at empowering participants to live responsibly as young Adventist Christians in today’s world.

Seasoned facilitators drawn from diverse professional backgrounds enriched the sessions with practical insights and biblical counsel. These included Elder Kingsford Owusu Ansah, a renowned financial expert; Mrs. Mary Owusu, the Coordinator of Shepherdess International within the Ashanti Central Ghana Conference; Pastor Alexander Opoku, the Conference Treasurer; Pastor Edmund Adjei Boadu, a pharmacist with the Ghana Adventist Health Services; Pastor Jonathan Owusu, President of the Ashanti Central Ghana Conference; and Pastor George Essel, the Conference Executive Secretary.

A special highlight of the retreat was the Sabbath Divine Service, which featured Her Ladyship Justice Dorinda Smith Arthur, a distinguished High Court Judge, as the Guest Speaker. Speaking on the theme “I Will Go — A Virtuous Person,” she passionately urged the young men and women to commit their lives to Jesus, study the Bible diligently, and embrace a lifestyle of integrity and virtue. Her message resonated deeply with the audience, reminding them of their heavenly calling and the need to prepare for eternity.

Speaking to Hope Adventist News, Mrs. Victoria Kokonu, the Women’s and Children’s Ministries Director for the Ashanti Central Ghana Conference, explained the vision behind the retreat and expressed joy over the enthusiastic participation of young people from across the conference. She highlighted how the event was carefully planned to address spiritual, social, and personal growth among the youth.

Pastor David Adu Kyei, the Conference Director for Personal Ministries and AMM/PARL, also shared his reflections in an interview. He stressed the critical role such retreats play in nurturing future leaders and fostering a generation of young people grounded in faith and integrity.

Some participants, including Mrs. Alice Opoku and Mr. Emmanuel Kodua, shared their personal testimonies with Hope Adventist News. They spoke about how the retreat had impacted their lives, equipping them with practical knowledge, spiritual encouragement, and a renewed commitment to live purpose-driven Christian lives.

The three-day retreat concluded on a high note, leaving participants spiritually refreshed, inspired to maintain their integrity, and determined to live out their faith boldly as young Adventists.