The first spiritual retreat, held on March 28 and 29 at the Sacred Ground of Water in Brazil, was conducted as a youth retreat with the participation of 15 young members. Including staff members, a total of 29 participants took part in the two vibrant and activity-filled days. Wearing matching T-shirts bearing the “Movimento Messias (Messiah Movement)” logo, the participants gathered in a circle atop a hill, joining hands as they reaffirmed the mission of the Sacred Ground of Water and the purpose of the retreat. They then harvested green beans, okra, and other vegetables from the garden, and planted 90 lettuce seedlings, 25 cabbage seedlings, and 16 papaya seedlings. The group also shared a deeply moving experience of praising God through song, beginning with “Volte a Mim (Come Back to Me),” an original song featuring Masaaki-sama’s first lyrics written in Portuguese, followed by original songs such as “Tomorrow” and “For I Now Know Your Love,” both with lyrics written in Japanese by Masaaki-sama and whose Portuguese versions were created under his supervision. As they reflected deeply on each word, they offered their heartfelt praise to God. Meals were prepared following the Christian veganism taught by Masaaki-sama. During the retreat, everyone worked together to prepare a vegan barbecue and enjoyed the delicious flavors of freshly grilled vegetables. The relaxation period was described by many participants as a truly special experience. Each person walked freely around the sacred ground, focusing on their breath and entrusting to God whatever arose in their hearts, each finding healing in their own way. On the first day of the retreat, participants read aloud the Sacred Word of Masaaki-sama. During the two-day retreat, which centered on the practice of prayer, food, music, and Masaaki-sama Farming, participants also shared testimonies of their personal experience of the healing power of the Sacred Ground of Water. One woman who had been suffering from a severe skin allergy with intense itching reported that her symptoms disappeared as soon as the retreat began. Another young participant who had been struggling with severe knee pain shared his joy after he heard a “pop” during activities in the hill area and felt the pain instantly disappear. The retreat became a time in which all participants shared in the healing of both body and spirit, leaving everyone with a deep sense of fulfillment. Beginning with the next retreat, participation will be open to anyone who wishes to join. Photos (all taken during the spiritual retreat on March 28 and 29)Photo 1 (above): Harvesting green beans grown at the Sacred Ground of Water.Photo 2 (above): Smiles abound as participants connect with the gifts of nature.Photo 3 (above): Praising God through song.Photo 4 (above): A deepening sense of unity among participants.Photo 5 (above): Preparing a meal using ingredients harvested at the Sacred Ground of Water.Photo 6 (above): Enjoying a vegan barbecue.Photo 7 (above): Smiles welling up from the heart through the healing of the Sacred Ground of Water.