The Lowell David Camp facilities hosted 160 participants from 12 districts for “Kenosis Panama 2026,” a camp organized by the Central Field Nazarene Youth International, from April 30 to May 3, according to a June 18 report. The event brought together delegations from Costa Rica, Cuba, Nicaragua, Panama, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic, with special guests attending from Mexico, Belize, and Barbados.
During the multi-day gathering, young people participated in worship services, teaching sessions, training workshops, prayer times, and fellowship activities. Organizers said these experiences aimed to strengthen both the identity and unity of Nazarene youth across the region.
The camp’s theme was inspired by Philippians 2:7—“made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant”—with “Kenosis” referring to self-emptying or humility. This focus encouraged participants to reflect on serving others and allowing God to shape their character.
Plenary sessions featured contributions from global director David González; regional coordinator Benjamín Soria; Caribbean Field coordinator Danielle Miller; strategy coordinator Carlos de la Cruz; and Central Field coordinator Joel Bermúdez. Attendees also joined hands-on workshops on missions led by members of Nazarene Mission Teams. Presidents and councils of Nazarene Youth International took part in mentoring and planning meetings with regional leaders.
Participants described moments of spiritual impact during the camp. Ramón Bautista from the Dominican Republic said, “I was confronted with the idea [I was] serving half-heartedly. I learned that one must completely detach oneself from what’s holding us back, and commit fully to Christ.” Daylin Tejo of Cuba shared that her call to ministry was affirmed at Kenosis Panama 2026: “a time of feeling God’s care and love.”
A highlight included presenting the Timothy Award to Gabriela Bustos for over ten years’ service as district president and field coordinator for Nazarene Youth International in Central Field. Organizers said Bustos continues supporting new generations through her pastoral work.
As Kenosis Panama 2026 concluded, leaders emphasized returning home with renewed vision for service and discipleship based on Christ’s example.
