Over the first weekend of May 2025 (May 1–4), what began as a small church-sponsored retreat for immigrant young adults at the Jugendbildungszentrum Blossin—near Berlin—has sparked something far greater: a growing movement now spreading across Germany.
Under the theme “Rooted in Christ,” the four-day Young Adults Congress (YAC) brought together more than 50 in-person attendees—mostly students and young professionals from immigrant backgrounds—with many more joining online via livestream and social media. Designed to unite young adults around their God-given purpose, strengthen their faith, and equip them to be salt and light in their universities, workplaces, and communities, the event struck a powerful chord and is already paving the way for future gatherings.
From Retreat to Movement
Originally launched as a weekend retreat by Newlife SDA Church in Berlin back in 2022, YAC has steadily gained momentum. After transitioning into a full congress in 2023, in Friedensau, this year’s edition focused on young adults who have recently relocated to Germany—students, researchers, and professionals learning to live out their faith in unfamiliar cultural settings.
By directly addressing issues of identity, faith, and cultural integration, YAC 2025 created a safe and meaningful space for participants to grow—together rather than in isolation. As one attendee from Jamaica shared:
“I don’t know if anyone else left YAC, this year, feeling as unburdened as I do. I’m so grateful for this event—and even more for the people who made it possible. I’m literally crying on the train, praying and thanking God for His grace and unconditional love.”
Another participant added:
“I feel like a weight has been lifted. I can’t wait to get home and tell my family about this experience. God willing, they’ll join us next year.”
Equipping a Generation to Shine
Anchored in Colossians 2:6-7, the “Rooted in Christ” theme shaped every aspect of the congress. Plenary sessions by Pastor Vladimir Krumov (church planter in Bulgaria) and Joakim Hjortland (President of Amazing Facts Centre of Evangelism, Norway) tackled deep spiritual issues—helping young adults confront fear, shame, and spiritual emptiness with courage and hope.
Workshops led by Alexandra Mora (Youth Specialist, Inter-European Division), Laura Pilch (Regional Coordinator for Adventist Youth in Berlin), and Pastor Chigemezi Wogu (Newlife SDA Church, Berlin) challenged participants to live out their faith boldly—in classrooms, laboratories, and local neighborhoods. The call echoed General Conference President Ted N.C. Wilson’s message: that youth in Germany should view their homeland as their first mission field.
What’s Next: Digital Reach and a Growing Network
YAC 2025’s impact extended far beyond the venue. A post-congress highlight reel on YouTube has garnered hundreds of views, with many praising its “clear gospel focus.” Social media buzz continues to amplify its message.
Looking ahead, organizers hope the experience will spark grassroots groups in cities across Germany—and beyond. Plans are underway to formalize YAC as the European Young Adults Network: a decentralized fellowship of local groups committed to quarterly meetups, mentorship programs, and city-wide outreach initiatives.
YAC 2026 is already on the horizon, with plans for a hybrid format featuring regional hubs to reduce travel barriers—especially for international students.
What started as a small local retreat is rapidly evolving into a dynamic movement, empowering immigrant young adults across Europe to live out their faith and calling as salt and light in every sphere of society.
