2026 National Children’s Camp Report
Melisa Fagundez, National Children’s Leader
The National Children’s Camp took place on February 14 and 15 in El Monte, Montevideo. This event was organized to provide children with an opportunity for spiritual formation, personal growth, and Christian fellowship in a safe and uplifting environment.
A total of 41 children, ages 5 to 12, participated. The staff consisted of 26 adults, including teachers, leaders, pastors, cooks, and volunteers, who took on the responsibility and commitment of conducting every session and activity of the camp. National Bishop Marco Benavides was also present.
The camp’s theme was “Be of Good Courage,” based on the biblical text of Joshua 1:9 (NKJV): “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Based on this teaching, the children were taught that true courage comes from trust in God. It was emphasized that being courageous does not mean being fearless, but rather acting in faith, knowing that God is with us and always sustains us.
For the Bible lessons, the children were divided into four age groups, each led by three teachers. In addition to teaching the lessons, these teachers were responsible for caring for and supervising the children throughout the two-day camp.
The Bible lessons focused on the lives and examples of figures such as David, Esther, and Daniel, highlighting the courage they demonstrated through obedience, faith, and trust in God amid difficult circumstances. Through these stories, the children learned that courage does not depend on age or human strength, but on a close relationship with God.
Through various activities, group exercises, and moments of reflection, the children learned these lessons:
- Courage comes from God, who dwells in their hearts.
- They can show courage by obeying God, even when others choose not to.
- They are courageous when they control their emotions and act with love and respect.
- God equips them from an early age to grow, serve, and fulfill His purpose.
The theme “Be of Good Courage” helped the children understand that they are not alone, that God strengthens them every day, and that they can live with confidence, knowing that He always keeps them safe.
Noteworthy was the special participation of international guest Nelson Torres, from Puerto Rico, who attended the camp and shared a meaningful moment during the service for the children, offering a lesson of great spiritual value. We were also joined by National Bishop Benavides, who was present at the camp and helped with the overall organization of the event.
Local teachers who participated included Ximena Falco (Piedras Blancas), Gabriela Perez, Mónica Ramos (Las Piedras), Solange Suárez, Maria Rey (Vista Linda), Patricia Docanto (La Paz), and Luzmila Ibañez (Paso de la Arena). Other teachers were Melanie Fagundez, Priscila Giles (Piedras Blancas), Jimena Ibañez, Jazmin Pose (Paso de la Arena), Luz Alvarez (Vista Linda).
Pastors Leandro Cardozo, Olga Miraballes, Jonathan Cantero assisted, along with Diego Motta (National Youth Leader) and Pamela Moreira (National Media Leader). Jorge Suárez and Juan Hernandez served as cooks, and Tatiana Cardozo and Marco Cruz Costa served as musicians.
The 2026 National Children’s Camp was an enriching experience that not only strengthened the children’s faith, but also reaffirmed our commitment to raising brave, faith-filled generations who are steadfast in their trust in God and equipped to make a positive difference in their communities and the world.
Youth Reunion
Church of God of Prophecy, Uruguay
Melanie Suarez and Pamela Moreira / Communications
On March 12, 2026, a national youth gathering was held in Lomas de San Isidro, Canelones, with 60 young people in attendance.
The day began with opening remarks by the 2026 camp influencer. This was followed by a workshop led by Juan and Solange, youth leaders from COGOP Vista Linda, who spoke on the topic “How do I know that God is calling me to serve?” During this session, they emphasized that God calls ordinary people and that the call often begins in our hearts as we grow in our relationship with Him and use our gifts and talents to bless others.
This was followed by a rewarding time of reunion among the young people, fostering integration, fellowship, and unity. During this time, the youth enjoyed various recreational activities, including swimming and soccer, in a joyful, friendly atmosphere.
Later, a second workshop was led by Abigail, the youth leader at COGOP Las Piedras, working with the youth, and by Ximena, the national teens leader, working with the teens. The workshop addressed the topic “Who am I?” with a focus on identity. During this time, we reflected on the importance of recognizing that our true identity is not determined by external opinions nor fleeting emotions, but by what God declares about us: beloved children with a calling and a purpose.
The day concluded with a special service in which the youth national leader, Diego Motta, shared the Word, challenging those present with a direct question: Are you willing to answer God’s call?
Undoubtedly, it was a significant time in which God spoke into the lives of those present, ministered to their hearts, and reaffirmed His call on this generation. The experience left the youth inspired, motivated, and ready to pursue God’s purpose with renewed confidence for the future.
“Revolution” Youth Camp
Church of God of Prophecy, Uruguay
Melanie Suarez and Pamela Moreira / Communications
“Revolution” Youth Camp was comprised of three days of holistic training and spiritual growth.
On January 16–18, 2026, the “Revolution” Youth Camp took place at the El Monte Complex in Montevideo with 84 teenagers and young adults participating. The event consisted of three intensive days of training, fellowship, and spiritual guidance, conducted in an atmosphere of order, unity, and commitment, which fostered the personal and community growth of all participants.
During the camp, a variety of training workshops were held, led by professionals and leaders with extensive experience in their respective fields.
Dr. Jorge Patpatian, a sexologist, addressed the topic “Sexual Pressure, Sexting, Pornography, and Social Media,” offering a preventive and educational approach, along with practical tools for addressing current issues affecting teenagers and young adults.
International Youth Director Kirk Rising led the workshops “Discipleship that Transforms” and “God’s Will: Good, Pleasing, and Perfect,” aimed at strengthening values, personal commitment, and social responsibility. Likewise, National Education Leader Jorge Falco led the workshop “Ambassadors of Christ in This World,” promoting a consistent, lived-out faith across the various areas of daily life.
Pastor Marcela Bastías led the workshop “Running the Good Race,” which focused on perseverance, purpose, and consistency in personal and spiritual growth. In turn, psychologist Yeni Kerikian offered a professional perspective through the workshops “The Role of Emotions in Decision-Making” and “The Role of Adolescents in Non-Traditional Families,” creating spaces for reflection, support, and practical guidance for daily life.
In addition to the training sessions, general services were held featuring sermons and moments of spiritual reflection, led by Joel Domínguez (local youth leader), Pastor Leandro Cardozo, National Women’s Leader Fabiana Altez, Bishop Dan Miller (pastor), and Bishop Kirk Rising (International Youth Director). These gatherings fostered processes of self-reflection, reconciliation, and meaningful decision-making.
A key aspect of the camp was the unity and teamwork among the leadership, which was reflected in their organized, committed, and harmonious service. The support provided by the national youth leaders, Diego and Ximena, was noteworthy, along with that of the local leaders, who worked closely in every area.
Abigail, the leader from Las Piedras, was in charge of the overall dynamic of the games; Pamela, the leader from Paso de la Arena, was responsible for the special activities and social media management; Juan and Sol, leaders from Vista Linda, ensured the proper organization and adherence to the schedules for each activity; Melisa, the national children’s leader, was in charge of the camp’s overall decoration; and Melanie led the social media and content generation areas. This collaborative effort demonstrated a clear unity of vision and purpose, which resulted in an atmosphere of service, excellence, and overall care for the participants.
The “Revolution” Youth Camp left a lasting, positive impact, deepening relationships and reaffirming values that inspire authentic, responsible faith in daily life. This experience confirmed that personal transformation is a holistic process that begins on the inside of each individual and extends outward when there is unity, commitment, leadership guided by solid principles. Participants were equipped to lead and serve with confidence as they carry these lessons forward and continue shaping their world.