Desert Challenge Unites

4/26/2012 By Scott Rosene in Category From Our Missionaries

One might not think that an Arabic speaking Middle Eastern country would even have enough believers to conduct a youth ministry, but Peter Rizzuto is finding that isn't quite the situation. After over seven years of full time youth work, Pete has taken his love of students to the Middle East to develop the next generation of leaders. Pete's passion is to see a generation of students pursue passionate faith in order to lead and impact their generation.

Most recently, this involved an event called Desert Challenge, where over 250 students, many from other faith backgrounds, gathered together for training, encouragement and collaboration. Peter was just one of the people invited to minister to the students and their youth leaders (all volunteers). Peter led four breakout sessions for youth leaders on topics such as “Avoiding Burnout”, “Following up with New Believers”, and “Maintaining a Rhythm for Youth Ministry.”

Despite all the recent unrest in the country, everyone was able to gather together in one place, sharing their struggles, gaining knowledge to grow personally, and looking for ways to work together. The cost of Desert Challenge was covered by donations from all the churches in the country where Peter ministers. Each student attended for free.

The event even recruited the US Navy to come help! What a testimony of working together in unity. Students especially appreciated the opportunity to be out with friends and not be fearful of protests or curfew.

Do you have a passion for the Middle East? Wondering how God might use you to minister to young people in the region?

Take the next step by clicking here.