The Singles Ministries Retreat gathered 55 guests at Nosoca Pines Ranch, April 3-5, 2026, for a weekend of worship, fellowship, recreation, and spiritual encouragement. This year’s retreat was moved to April, giving attendees warmer weather than in previous years.
Many participants attended the retreat for the first time. Guests ranged in age from 19 to 85 and included English- and Spanish-speaking attendees from a variety of backgrounds.
The weekend began with a welcome dinner and a message by Ilcias Vargas, pastor, on the sufficiency of Christ.
Vargas focused his sermons on Jesus, believers’ dependence on Him, and the ways God can use His people to be a blessing in ministry. Drawing from the life of Paul and personal experiences, Vargas encouraged attendees to trust Christ more fully and serve others with purpose.
On Sabbath, attendees participated in small-group Sabbath School lesson study, sang hymns together, and continued to hear messages from Vargas. In the afternoon, participants enjoyed canoeing, hayrides, pontoon rides, and other outdoor activities. Many also spent time enjoying the natural beauty of Nosoca.
Sabbath evening included a gala dinner served by the camp staff, with candlelight and background music by Jaime Jorge. The day concluded with a Vespers service filled with singing and Bible study. As rain moved through the area, participants gathered indoors for table games and fellowship.
The retreat concluded Sunday with encouragement, goodbyes, and gratitude for new friendships formed throughout the weekend. A few attendees ended the retreat with horseback riding, adding one final outdoor memory to the experience.
Nosoca’s staff helped make the weekend a meaningful experience, and Vargas’ messages left participants inspired and uplifted. Organizers hope the ministry will continue to grow beyond an annual retreat by creating more opportunities for single adults to connect, support one another, and serve as God leads.
Plans include future Singles Ministries Sabbath programs, church invitations, and Sunday socials. The next retreat is scheduled for April 2-4, 2027, with special guest speaker Jeffery Brown, Ph.D. For more information or to host a Singles Ministries event, contact the Carolina Conference or email single.ministries@carolinasda.org.
Carolina | July 2026
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