Northern Thailand: It was an exciting week for the youth of Northern Thailand district as they held their annual Nazarene Youth International (NYI) Summer Camp at the Maetang Nazarene Center!

From April 18th- 22nd, 195 young Nazarene campers joined the event.

The camp was off to a challenging start; it was supposed to be held at a different location, but due to unexpected rain, they had to find another venue to host the participants. Thankfully, Maetang Nazarene Center was available for use. The Maetang Tribal Children’s Home kids are home for summer break, so their dorms were able to accommodate the campers. The group also used the buildings of SEANBC and the Pastors Training Center to house everyone.

With the theme, “Jesus is My Friend,” the camp was filled with various activities such as classes, games, church services and stage presentations! Rev. Sam Yangmi had the privilege of delivering the opening message. Throughout the day, there were times of Bible Study, games, and various pastors took turns giving inspiring, and challenging messages.

The camp overflowed with beautiful music. Before the sun was up, the children and teens started their day with worship. At the end of the day, they once again gathered to sing together and listen, as various churches presented special music. The Lahu people are amazing singers, and people from the neighborhood were drawn into the campus to listen and enjoy the evening.

At the end of the week, the group gathered at a local dam and more than 10 teens demonstrated their commitment to Christ by being baptized. This baptism was the highlight of the week and it made an impact on everyone who watched.

Thanks to everyone who prayed for the success of the camp; this event has been truly instrumental in molding our future Nazarene leaders. Northern Thailand district is also grateful to the NYI leaders of the Asia-Pacific Region and Southeast Asia Field for partnering with the district in this activity.

-Story and Photos Submitted by: Sam Yangmi/ Steve Barber