Men of Faith Retreat – Three Generations
Men from all parts of the United States and Mexico gathered to enjoy the great outdoors in the Arizona White Mountains during the Corazón Ministries Men of Faith 2024 retreat. It was our 23rd year. There was fishing (along with fishing contests), fantastic food that was made there on the banks of Hawley Lake, and fellowship as the men conversed for hours. Most importantly, the teaching team delivered the Gospel and devotional messages about the truth in Scripture. The retreat was designed to share what it takes to become a man of faith–one who obeys and understands what God can do in a man’s life and subsequently in the lives of those he influences. Over one hundred and ten men journeyed to discover the blessing the Lord had for them.
Three men revealed the powerful generational impact the retreat can have for the glory of God. Three generations of “Rubens” made the trip. The elder Ruben has returned for many years. He is part of the crew that arrives a day early to set up the tents and the kitchen, ensuring the grounds are ready for the men who come a day later. His son, also Ruben, came to help set up this year. He attended at his father’s invitation and made the trip several times. Finally, the youngest, Ruben, attended his first retreat and enjoyed time with his dad and his grandfather. The Lord has touched each of their lives–they got to hear God’s Word and saw a witness in others who came and rejoiced that lives were being saved. This generational influence shows God’s faithfulness and draw toward Him.
Every year, the men who attend the retreat talk about their transformative experiences. One man was moved to share how everyone was different at the retreat. They are all friendly, and it feels as though they all care about him. It’s simply another testament to how God works among the lives of the doctors, attorneys, craftsmen, laborers, and those searching for the God who loves them. All are welcome at the mountaintop lake retreat. All know that God is waiting for the every year to rejuvenate their faith or bring them to saving grace for the very first time.
As we return from the retreat and resume our daily routines, I carry the hope that the men who attended or those who heard about the trip can be inspired by the faith, obedience, and truth that can be found everywhere God is. We praise God for the generations that attend and are blessed. Please join me in prayer, lifting up every man so that he might be a testimony to other generations of men he encounters for God’s glory.
Mike Alameda
Missionary and Executive Director, Corazón Ministries
