Ed Keyes, Arizona Conference ministerial secretary, shared his life’s stories and experiences, illustrating how each day is like walking out onto a war zone. "However, Christ is our source of strength each day, and He offers victory on the battlefield," said Keyes, "And we can experience that victory in all that we do."

The seventh annual men’s spiritual retreat took place among the towering pines and quiet country atmosphere of Camp Yavapines in Prescott, Ariz., which added to the reflective spirit for each of the men — a time to ponder what is most important in life.

"Because we do not rest, we lose our way," said one attendee. "We miss the compass points that would show us where to go. We bypass the spiritual nourishment that sustains us, and we miss the quiet time that would give us wisdom. I’m thankful for this time at the men’s retreat to get my head and heart straight again."

Worship and praise in song, prayer sessions and a communion service were each key elements of the retreat. Drew McSherry, youth director at the Foothills Community Church, led the music throughout the weekend, and the Master's Quartet presented a concert Saturday evening. Pastor Stuart Harrison, also of the Foothills Community Church, presented the Sabbath school lesson.

"We want to make this retreat available to all Adventist men in Arizona," said retreat director Dennis Rizzo. "We want to continue to grow as Christians and meet the needs of the men in our congregations."

For information on the 2006 retreat, contact Rizzo, 602-370-1181, or Paul Pitts, 928-208-9743.