The Milo Adventist Academy prayer conference is one of the most anticipated events of the school year. About 60 students from around the conference responded to the invitation to visit the Milo campus for this year's conference. Some came earnestly seeking a spiritual experience that would change their lives. Whatever their reasons for coming, however, people left the prayer conference with a different view of God. "An old school friend of mine came only to see her old friends, but she left with a fire for God burning in her heart," said Katie Currier, Milo sophomore.
This year’s student week of prayer set the tone for the prayer conference. Students had enjoyed shorter school days, fellowship with friends, and a spiritual uplift throughout the week. "I loved the nightly meetings and getting together for the song services," stated Natasha Knobloch, a sophomore. "It revitalized a spiritual atmosphere."
Each day of the week of prayer had a different theme such as praise songs, Bible studies, prayer journaling and daily devotions. Each daily topic tied in with the theme for the prayer conference, "Connecting with God." Wednesday’s topic was service, and classes were cancelled for the day so students could participate in Neighbor Day. Despite heavy rains and a power outage, spirits of Milo students were not dampened. Cheerfully, they went out into the community to do some hands-on service for God by helping their neighbors.
The prayer conference had a terrific impact on many people. Sophomore Ellen Andrieux said, "The prayer conference encouraged me to start doing more daily devotions."
Sarah Sexton agreed. "Now I make time for more quiet time with God," she said.
"I really wanted kids to spend time with God and to see Him in a different way," said Carl Wilkens, Milo Academy Church pastor. And he was pleased with the outcome. God’s hand worked in the prayer conference and formed it to what He wanted it to become. Hearts were changed as a result. God’s goals were accomplished, and in the end, that is all that really matters.
Brittany Leidig writes her love letter from God.
Eli Ditmore and Kristin Jones chop and stack wood on Neighbor Day.
Danny Celaya stocks food shelves at the Canyonville Community Center.
