Worship and fun at WinterBreak `97

Winkler, Man.

Comments like "the best ever" and "a wonderful weekend" were heard often at the end of WinterBreak, Winkler Bible Institute's annual youth retreat Feb. 7-9. It was evident from the beginning that the Spirit of God would move in a mighty way.

God worked powerfully through worship. Jon Buller, a young recording artist and worship leader from Winnipeg, together with the WBI Praise Band, created a dynamic worship team. Their ministry was used by God to prepare the hearts of young people to respond to His call on their lives with worship, tears and joy. The Praise and Worship Event Saturday night in Winkler MB Church brought about 300 young people together to listen, praise and share.

Keith Blank's uncompromising talks challenged young people to see themselves, each other and the world "Through God's Eyes". He seemed to feel right at home at WBI and his heart for young people was evident. He radiated an intense personal desire to love and serve the Lord more than anything else. Blank presently serves as director of discipleship including the Y.E.S. (Youth in Evangelism and Service) program for Eastern Mennonite Missions.

Sunday morning's session ended with dozens of young people nailing their own personal messages to Jesus on a large wooden cross and then verbally sharing with the whole group what they wanted God to do in their lives. It was a holy moment--one which many will never forget.

Besides the spiritual impact of the weekend, there was a lot of fun. A range of activities from skiing to outdoor hottubs to an indoor zip-line and bungee jump to an outdoor giant banana split seemed to keep everyone happily occupied but also allowed for lots of friendly interaction and just hanging out.

WBI release

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