An experience that confronts, confirms, and sends.
The Guatemala North District, in Petén, was the setting for a significant moment in missionary mobilization from March 30 to April 1, with the implementation of EXPLORE—an experience designed to guide young people toward discerning God’s call to missions.
Organized by the Missionary Mobilization ministry of the North Area of the Mesoamerica Region, the event brought together 19 participants from five districts, all with a shared purpose: to seek God’s voice and respond to His call.
A calling worth the effort
For many, getting to EXPLORE required sacrifice and determination. Some participants traveled more than 12 hours from Guatemala City, while others journeyed over 5 hours from the Verapaces. Every effort reflected their desire to hear God’s voice and surrender their lives to His mission.
More than learning, an encounter with God
Through workshops, dynamic activities, and intentional times of seeking, participants experienced moments of guidance, confrontation, and confirmation. It was not just about learning about missions, but about having a personal encounter with God that marked their lives.
El superintendente distrital, el reverendo Martín Chen, destacó la importancia de esta experiencia, afirmando que todo joven debería vivir un EXPLORE, ya que es un espacio donde Dios habla profundamente a cada vida.
District superintendent, Rev. Martín Chen, emphasized the importance of this experience, stating that every young person should go through EXPLORE, as it is a space where God speaks deeply into each life.
A team committed to the mission
The event was made possible by a team of committed leaders, including Ivilin Chi Escobar, Judith, Elier, and the local team including Ingrid Jocholá, Nazarene Missions International coordinator for the Area; Jhoselyn Barrios, Missionary Mobilization coordinator for the North Area; as well as Jeremías, Alisson, and Donald,(NEED LAST NAMES) part of the area team.
A closing of consecration
The closing was marked by a deeply spiritual moment as participants took part in Holy Communion. In an atmosphere of surrender, both participants and team members responded to God’s call with a sincere prayer: “Lord, may my whole life be consecrated to You. Here I am—use me.”
One of the participants shared: “It was an unforgettable experience, where I felt God’s embrace in my life. During those days, I felt Him telling me that my life is for His mission; God keeps reminding me that He goes before me, so I will continue striving and preparing myself to fulfill His mission.” — Zoé Urizar, Central Guatemala District.
“EXPLORE was more than an event; it was a space where God spoke, transformed, and awakened a generation willing to respond,” said Jhoselyn Barrios.
The Church continues to equip and send those who are willing to say “yes” to God’s call.
Source:
Jhoselyn Barrios
Mission Mobilization Coordinator, North Area
