Last month, young adults ages 17–26 gathered in beautiful Northern Idaho at Boulder Creek Ranch for the annual Missionary Kids (MKs) event called Rendezvous Plus. 

Many MKs wrestle with questions such as, “Where is my home?” or “How do I define my identity when I’ve lived in multiple cultures?” The challenges they face include transitioning to different countries, experiencing feelings of isolation and even bullying in new school environments, and learning new languages. And MKs who are high school graduates experience new challenges like building résumés, starting new jobs, returning to a passport country they’ve never considered home, and navigating higher education. 

Rendezvous Plus acknowledges the challenging realities MKs face and offers a safe space where participants are encouraged and supported with love and dedication. Devotionals, small-group sessions, and one-on-one conversations offer participants refreshing experiences. Leaders listen with empathy, affirm participants’ stories, and point them toward hope in Christ.

At the event, MKs have the opportunity to discover and develop their God-given gifts and talents. They come to realize that they are not alone on their journey and that God has a unique purpose for each one of them. Amid a complex season of transition, Rendezvous Plus is a light of hope and a place of loving care for every heart seeking its place in the world.

A key part of this year’s event focused on addressing the pains and griefs many MKs have experienced, providing them with tools and resources to face these realities in a healthy manner. Guided by God’s hand, the MKs experienced emotional restoration, made new friends, and some deepened existing connections. They also tackled small-group challenges designed to push their limits and discover new strengths.

In addition, the attendees had the opportunity to experience the outside world—they hiked through breathtaking scenery, rode in canoes (where not everyone stayed dry), and enjoyed fun activities. These moments of pure joy and fellowship will remain etched in their hearts.

Behind this ministry are leaders, professionals, pastors, missionaries, and churches who work with immense love, dedication, and constant prayer to serve in this unique and vital area of MK care. 

“I’ve been coming to Rendezvous Plus since I was eighteen, and it has profoundly shaped my life,” said Rouve, an attendee. “Through many major transitions, moving between countries, stepping into adulthood, shifting roles, and navigating the unknown, what I’ve learned here has given me both direction and courage. So much of my growth and success can be traced back to the lessons and moments shared in this space. More than anything, it’s the community I’ve found, a family where I never have to explain myself, where I’m reminded I’m not alone, where I can be vulnerable and safe, and where I’m continually drawn closer to God. Even years later, I know I can reach out and find the same support, love, and understanding that first changed my life. I am deeply grateful for how the Church of the Nazarene has poured into its MKs through this event and equally thankful for the donors who continue to make it possible.”

Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor and other Rendezvous advocates and supporters—the financial hurdles of attending Rendezvous many MKs have faced in the past were cleared. Nearly half of the participants attended Rendezvous for the first time.

To discover more about the Nazarene MK ministry, Rendezvous, and how you can get involved, click here.