In May, the Canadian Chinese School of Theology Vancouver (CCST Vancouver) hosted a transformative one-day spiritual retreat titled “RESET” for local youth leaders. Led by facilitator Rev. Dr. Joyce Chan, alongside mentors Rev. Dr. Aaron Tang, Jessie Zhao, and Sarah Qi, the event gathered a dedicated group of 15 youth leaders for a day dedicated to spiritual renewal and rest.
Built around the core pillars of Receive, Exhale, See, Encounter, and Trust, the retreat provided a sacred space for leaders to slow down and return to the gentle presence of Jesus. The day kicked off with community icebreakers and worship, followed by an intentional focus on “Breath Prayer” to guide participants in releasing their burdens and realigning their hearts with God. Throughout the morning and afternoon, leaders engaged in deep personal reflection, using journal prompts to layout their current stresses and anxieties, and writing honest personal letters to Jesus.
A major highlight of the afternoon was a Contemplative Photography exercise, where participants captured images around them that reflected their soul’s current state, processing where they experienced God’s presence and invitation. The retreat concluded with vulnerable small and large group sharing sessions, fostering a culture of mutual listening, support, and prayer. Participants walked away deeply reminded that their worth is not tied to their productivity, feeling refreshed and ready to step forward into their callings with newfound hope and divine strength.