Monsoon trips are always rejuvenating! The youth of Pune could experience this on their trip to the Pavana Dam – back water, near Lonavala. It was a one day trip for the youth to enjoy and reconnect with nature. The cheerful attitude of the youth and nature’s beauty was a good combination for an ideal tirp. The youth enjoyed the waterfalls to their fullest!
Their journey then took them to their next halt, Mar Chrysotom retreat center, near Lonavala. They enjoyed a nice lunch and a seminar with District Apostle Helper David Devaraj and Apostle Pravin Gajbhiv. The youth were taught how they can connect with the church and its members using websites, apps and social media that they are most familiar with. After some fun activities and outdoor games, the youth returned to the New Apostolic Church in Kalewadi.
Food for the Soul
On Saturday evening, Apostle David conducted a Divine Service at Kalewadi, where more than 200 members had gathered. The sermon was based on Psalms 139:24, “And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting”. Apostle David elaborated on how we must not hold onto our own wishes and desires but instead, we need to give God time and accept His will.
Retirements and Ordinations
During the Divine Service, five priests were retired from their ministry: Ravindra, Sugandh, Girish Pawar, Prakash Misal, Jayant Raje. They all had served the Lord for more than 20 years, and Apostle David encouraged the retirees to remain faithful as their support is important for the other priests and all the members. Afterwards, two deacons were ordained as priests: Girish Prakash Misal and Raju Kaki.
The Divine Service was followed by a fellowship dinner for the whole congregation.
At the end of the two exciting days, the Pune youth had many memories of fun as well as food for thought to take home with them.