"Growing in Christ" was the theme of the sixth annual men’s spiritual retreat, an independent ministry of the Arizona Conference. Held annually the last weekend of September at Camp Yavapines, the retreat attracted 40 men.

Arizona President Duane McKey, keynote speaker, stressed the importance of being men who were available to the Lord for service. "What is really important to the Lord is our availability and not so much our abilities," he stressed. "God will provide what is needed."

McKey emphasized the importance of being men of prayer—men through whom the Holy Spirit can work.

Alternate speaker Stuart Harrison, pastor of the Foothills Community church, led the men in an agape feast in celebration of the Lord’s supper.

A praise band led by Pastor Gary Venden of Glendale and Pastor Jay Warren of Paradise Valley provided music for each of the meetings, and the singing was spirit-filled and lively. The Master’s Four Quartet gave a Saturday night concert.

"A mighty blessing from the Lord was received by all who attended," reported Paul Pitts, co-coordinator for the retreat. "It was a special blending of spiritual renewal, encouragement and fellowship. Our time together included prayer, study, praise, worship, sharing and great singing. Plus, there was plenty of good food."

Dennis Rizzo and Pitts, coordinators for the retreat, encourage men who would like to enjoy good Christian fellowship amidst the natural beauty of Camp Yavapines to plan to attend next year’s retreat Sept. 23-25, 2005.