GODENCOUNTERS 2025: UPSIDE DOWN
GODencounters Conference convened February 7-8 at the Arlington Seventh-day Adventist Church [Texas, USA]. "Upside Down: What If I’m Wrong" was this year’s intriguing theme, featuring award winning author/speaker, Dr. Heather Thompson Day, with musical guest, the Southwestern Adventist University Singers.
"What an amazing experience to be able to spend 24-hours in God’s Word and grow closer to my GODencounters community in fellowship! --Adrian Tufino, 21, Construction Management, The University of Texas at Arlington
"Before we even stepped into the GODencounters venue, we could feel the presence of God, and that lingered the entire weekend. I had told my college-aged daughter that I wanted her to go with us Friday night, and afterward we would decide as a family if we would go back the next day. We had barely left the church that evening when she and her boyfriend were almost begging us to bring them back." --Lori Futcher, Associate Communication Director, Southwestern Union of Seventh-day Adventists
"GODencounters has shaped my perspective on how I go throughout my day-to-day life. It has opened up my mind to new creative ideas and it gave me a better understanding of what it’s like to have Jesus be my Good Shepherd." —Ethan Francis, Freshman, Burton Adventist Academy
“Attending the GODencounters conference was a meaningful experience where I was challenged by Dr. Heather Thompson-Day to question whether I have placed Jesus into a box of my own expectations, rather than embracing His true character and the holy design of the Upside-Down kingdom. I have a lot left to learn, but I’ve gained so much more understanding of His never-ending love for each of us. I also cherished the fellowship and the friendships that were created and strengthened during the conference, making this a truly unique experience! —Deborah Estrada, Psychology Major, UTA
"I saw the “thread of Grace” the whole GODencounters weekend as I gathered in a community of believers unlearning falsehoods and relearning (GOD’s) truths. I experienced 'God at work,' crafting an endless falling in love with my Creator." --Deirdre Rivera-Martin, BSN, RN
My GODencounters 2025 experience was a cross between a deep-dive, 24 hours of intimacy with Christ and walking away with a curious mindset as to whether I view my understanding of the Upside-Down Kingdom through the lens of the Word of God or my own convenient interpretation. What If I’m Wrong? Dr. Heather Thompson Day said it best, “Questions lead to relationships!” The Bible is God’s Inspired Word. I don’t question that. But when I read it, am I asking the Holy Spirit to reveal to me the intent behind the writer? Taking that posture during my devotional reading will lead to a deeper relationship with God!” —Steve Chaquette, Senior HR Advisor
“My experience from God encounters 2025 with guest speaker Dr. Heather Thompson Day was Church is not the place you go it is who you become. We are the church. Let Christ arise in me daily as I die daily”.— Sherry Chaquette, Home Health Aide
“I met people I will never forget at GODencounters. Scripture says where two or three are gathered, there GOD is also. And I experienced Him through our worship. The church is stronger when it gathers together.” —Dr. Heather Thompson Day, CEO, It Is Day Ministries
“GODencounters was an experience I’ll never forget. Every day, I looked forward to the powerful worship, where I could truly feel God’s presence, and the inspiring messages from Dr. Heather Thompson Day. Her words were a blessing and each time I learned something new and left with a deeper understanding of God’s love and the Bible.” —Isa DeMoraes, Senior, Burton Adventist Academy
“GODencounters weekend challenged our faith and reminded us that the God of yesterday is still physically and spiritually present today. The dynamic messages by Dr. Heather Thompson Day drew our minds to the Upside Down Kingdom of God where we are valued regardless of our circumstances. We were also encouraged to live boldly by loving God, loving each other and by being His image bearers.” —Vennor Hackshaw, Business Leader
“My life is changed forever. I’m okay if they call me a ‘little Christ.’” —Eli Dechavez, 4th Grade Student, Burton Adventist Academy
“GODencounters provided me a chance to witness my son encounter God for himself. Throughout the weekend, from the music to the words, God was on the move. With his Bible open, I saw my 10-year-old son locked in; That’s something I will never forget.” —James Dechavez, FNP
“I can honestly say that I encountered God at GODencounters. From helping hands with my small business to getting so many words of encouragement to keep reaching my goals and dreams. It was my first time being part of this amazing event and I pray that it’s not my last time. YG you made me feel so loved and reconnected with GOD.” —Susy Chaidez, Sweet Susy’s Snack Bar
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