Texico Youth Rally: Transformative Impact
CORRALES, N.M. – Have you ever been on a road trip and missed the exit, only to realize it until it was far behind you? The Texico youth department hosted a youth rally last fall at Sandia View Academy focusing on “His Will.” In life, we often believe we’re heading in one direction, only for God to redirect our path without us even realizing it.
During the weekend youth event, Manny Gomez, who leads the Revive Seventh-day Adventist Church in Miami, Fla., was the esteemed guest speaker. Known for his dynamic messages and community involvement, Gomez captivated the audience by sharing his compelling story of personal growth, of escaping communism in Cuba, navigating immigrant challenges and highlighting the importance of trusting God’s will wherever He leads. His words deeply resonated, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to follow God’s Will.
Gomez’s engaging stories filled with real-life examples served as a catalyst for self-reflection. He emphasized the power of trusting God and encouraged everyone to harness their passions for Heaven. His presence not only inspired but reminded attendees of the limitless possibilities awaiting those who take steps toward serving Jesus.
The youth rally went beyond mere inspiration, it translated motivation into action through a meaningful community service initiative. Recognizing the pressing needs of the changing season and the less fortunate, attendees engaged in a collective effort and assembled care packages filled with essential cold-weather items. The bags, carefully curated with hoodies, beanies, gloves, toiletries and other winter essentials, aimed to provide warmth and comfort to those facing the harsh realities of the approaching cold season. The bags were also distributed to a local high school where they were given to homeless high school students.
This act of service not only strengthened the bonds among the attendees but also instilled a sense of empathy and compassion. It served as a tangible expression of their commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others. Those participating also wrote small notes of encouragement that were placed in the bags. Each handwritten note shared a prayer, a favorite verse or just a note reminding the recipient that they are loved and that, most of all, Jesus loves them!
This transformative event also resulted in four Sandia View Academy students deciding to be baptized. Seeds of compassion and courage planted during the rally continue to grow, fostering a culture of active citizenship and heavenly focus. The youth rally prompted ongoing initiatives, like a new weekly lunchtime Bible study and student-led synergy at Sandia View Academy.
The Texico Youth Rally stands as a testament to the power of collective action and the possibility of positive change when driven by inspiration and purpose. As the rally’s echoes continue to linger in the hearts and minds of the participants, the community of Sandia View Academy emerged stronger, more compassionate and with a renewed commitment to making a meaningful difference in the world.
By Eric Chavez
Youth, Young Adults and Club Ministries Director
