From April 4 to 6, 2025, the Adventist Youth Congress took place in the beautiful setting of Casuccia Visani (Poppi, AR). About a hundred people, including participants and staff, gathered from all over Italy and beyond: young people from Switzerland were also present to live an intense experience of spirituality, sharing, and growth.
This year's theme, “Rewind: Going Back to Start Again”, invited everyone to rediscover the origins of our faith. The aim was not to remain anchored to the past but to find inspiration and strength to live in the present with passion and build the future of the Church. The spiritual meditations were led by Pastor Alex Duran, who, with sensitivity and depth, accompanied the participants on a personal and collective journey towards the roots of their faith.
A journey of reflection and communion
On Sabbath morning, dividing into groups that they called “families”, the young people discussed some questions related to the theme, such as the value of sacrifice, gratitude towards those who came before us, and the reason why each one chose to be part of the Adventist project. It was a precious moment to listen to each other, open up, and recognize how our faith is also the fruit of a long history of testimony and dedication.
Training and inspiration in the workshops
Between Sabbath afternoon and Sunday morning, several workshops were held on current and stimulating topics: “Biblical Economy” with Pastor Davide Malaguarnera, “The Gifts of the Spirit” with theologian Hellen Diaz, the “Adventist Messenger” workshop led by Giuseppe Cupertino, and a workshop on missions with testimonies from young missionaries. Each meeting offered concrete tools to live one’s faith in a complex world that is often in contrast with the values of the Gospel.
The Congress as a Symbol of Unity
Many participants found, in the Congress, both an opportunity for spiritual growth and also an occasion to strengthen bonds and feel part of a united community.
A Saturday Night to Remember
One of the most emotional moments was the rite of the Holy Supper, on Saturday night, followed by an appeal by Pastor José Luis Nuñez. Many young people stood up to express their desire to be baptized, while others chose to reconfirm their commitment to God, in an atmosphere of deep and touching communion.
Looking ahead with enthusiasm
The Youth Congress 2025 ended, leaving in the hearts of the participants the certainty of not being alone, and the strong desire to continue walking together, as a family of faith. The wish shared by many is to meet more often, in similar events, to grow together and support each other on the spiritual path.
The past inspires us, the present unites us, the future awaits us.
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