After seven years, the Caribbean Youth Camp and Congress (CARYCAC) returned with a week that united delegates, strengthened faith, and left lasting impact on the next generation.
From July 25 to August 2, 2025, more than one hundred participants and facilitators gathered at the St. Lucia Sports Academy on the Windward Islands District. The week was marked by restoration, fellowship, and the presence of God.
Delegations making history
Delegates came from eleven Caribbean nations—Belize, Dominica, Suriname, Martinique, Guyana, Antigua, Barbados, Grenada, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, and St. Lucia—along with representation from the USA Region. For the first time, Belize, Suriname, and Dominica joined the event, showing the growing reach of CARYCAC across the region.
One theme, many voices: “Restored”
The theme “Restored” guided the program, with each day focused on a spiritual discipline. Messages were shared under the dynamic “Legends and Legacies”, with seasoned ministers speaking alongside younger voices, demonstrating that in God’s Kingdom collaboration, not competition, is the goal.
Speakers included Rev. Victor Price and Min. Leanda Henry from St. Lucia, Rev. Eustace McDonald (Guyana), Rev. Mark Lawrence and Rev. Calvin Walsh (Jamaica), Rev. John Yarde Sr. and Rev. Nicole Hoyte (Barbados), Min. Fabienne Pierre Louis and DS Rev. David Montredon (French Antilles), as well as Rev. Victor George and Rev. Keryl Boyce (Trinidad). Their Bible Hour and Chapel sessions were filled with passion, wisdom, and Spirit-led guidance.
Equipping through workshops
Beyond preaching, participants joined workshops on practical and relevant topics:
- Rev. Barbara and Anthony Manswell: Purity and Marriage
- Ayana Chester: Bible Quizzing
- Rev. Victor Price: Social and Emotional Management
- Rev. Nicole Hoyte: Financial Management
- Rev. Paul Bunsee: The Call (Caribbean Nazarene College)
- Rev. Janary Suyat: Missions and NYI Ministry
- Rev. Erika & David Campos: NCM and Missions Mobilization
These sessions ensured that spiritual formation was strengthened with life skills and ministry awareness.
Honoring pioneers in youth ministry
One of the most memorable moments was Gala Night, where the Timothy Award recognized five NYI servants who have invested in youth since the 1970s. One of them also received the Caribbean Field Gem Award for contributions to education and social enterprise.
The evening, led by Global NYI Director Rev. David Gonzales, followed an excursion day.
Celebration through sports, talent, and culture
The camp blended worship with celebration and competitions:
- Bible Quizzing: Six mixed teams competed on the Gospel of Luke in English and French. George House emerged as winners.
- Sports Day: Henry House stood out in the March Pass, while Quimby House claimed the overall victory.
- Talent Fest: Henry House presented an original song titled CARYCAC, but Quimby House secured the championship.
- Culture Night: A showcase of regional diversity and unity in Christ.
A generation responding to God’s call
Beyond activities, what stood out most was the work of God in young lives. From the opening service to the final altar call, many responded with a clear “yes” to God’s will and purpose.
A particularly impactful evening was the evangelism outreach, where participants, in four teams, went into the streets of St. Lucia to share testimonies, creative expressions, and evangelism bracelets after a sensitization session by Rev. Christopher Weekes. For some, it was their first experience in public evangelism.
Restored and sent
CARYCAC 2025 was more than just a camp—it was a movement of restoration and sending. Caribbean youth left inspired, equipped, and committed to carrying the gospel into their communities and beyond.
After seven years, CARYCAC returned with renewed strength, and its legacy will continue to echo across the Caribbean.
Source: Danielle Miller, Caribbean Area NYI Coordinator
