BPYTH Winter Retreat Recap
Choosing to Be Outsiders for Christ
This past weekend, our students headed north for the BPYTH Winter Retreat at Word of Life—and what God did among us was something truly special. If you’d like to get a glimpse of what the weekend was like, be sure to check out the recap video above!
From the start, the weekend was full of energy and joy. Students jumped right into the fun with snow tubing and snowmobiling, laughed their way through the Polar Plunge, and even took part in a Polar Express–style musical train ride around camp. There were plenty of moments that felt lighthearted and unforgettable—but beneath all of it, God was doing deep and lasting work in the hearts of our students.
Each day centered around powerful rally sessions filled with fun games, meaningful worship, and strong biblical teaching. One of the most impactful moments came during an acoustic worship night, where distractions faded, voices softened, and students leaned into a quieter, more reflective time with the Lord.
The theme of the weekend was “Outsiders.” Throughout the retreat, students were challenged to wrestle with what it means to follow Jesus in a world that constantly pressures them to fit in—to stay “inside” what culture says is normal, acceptable, or successful. They were reminded that Jesus calls His followers to live differently—to be outsiders for Christ, set apart not by isolation, but by faith, obedience, and love.
God moved powerfully through the teaching of Scott Foreman, Vice President of Growth and Impact at Word of Life Bible Institute, who challenged students with the truth of the gospel and the call to real discipleship. During one of the sessions, students were invited to respond to the Good News of Jesus—and seven BP students responded. It was a holy moment and a reminder of why we invest so much into these retreats.
Another significant moment came during Dedication Night, when students were called to take their faith seriously—not just as a feeling or a camp high, but as a daily commitment. They were challenged to pursue lives marked by prayer, time in God’s Word, and choices that honor Jesus. In response, over 30 BP students stepped forward, committing to live differently—to follow Christ with intention and courage.
What stood out most wasn’t just what happened during scheduled sessions. Worship broke out spontaneously throughout the weekend—during meals, in common spaces, and in conversations between friends. God was clearly at work, not just on the stage, but in the everyday moments.
We’re incredibly thankful for our students, our leaders, and for a church that continues to invest in the next generation. Please continue praying that what God began this weekend would continue to grow—that our students would have the courage to live as outsiders for Christ, even when it’s hard.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Romans 12:2
God is moving—and we’re grateful to be part of what He’s doing.
Nelson Guimaraes
Student Ministry Director
