Mountains, Freedom, and Transformation: A Powerful Retreat in Mineral del Chico
- Matt & Ruthie Staley
- Jul 1
- 4 min read
June 25-28, 2026 | Mineral del Chico, Hidalgo

What happens when twelve hungry believers gather in the mountains to seek Jesus together?
Lives are changed.

From June 25-28, twelve brothers and sisters from several different states across Mexico gathered in the breathtaking mountains of Mineral del Chico, Hidalgo, for a time of fellowship, worship, prayer, and deep study of God's Word. About half of the group had been walking with us for some time, while the other half were joining us for the very first time. Most were young adults eager to grow in Christ and understand what it truly means to follow Him.
We arrived on June 25 to prepare the large mountain home that would soon be filled with laughter, worship, conversations, and prayer. The rest of the group arrived the following day after making their way up the winding mountain roads.

And what a place God provided!


Nestled high in the mountains, Mineral del Chico has quickly become one of our favorite places in all of Mexico. Located about an hour north of Pachuca, this beautiful mountain town offers incredible scenery, cool mountain air, towering forests, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for drawing near to God. If you love mountain vacations, Mineral del Chico is truly a hidden treasure.
Throughout the retreat, we dove deeply into several foundational topics:
The Kingdom of God
Identity in Christ
Tearing Down Strongholds
Body, Soul, and Spirit

One of our greatest concerns today is seeing many people believe that they can continue living in sin after being born again, while others slowly drift back into the world. Because of this, we spent much time connecting these teachings together and discussing how believers are called to live after coming to Christ.
We emphasized repeatedly that Jesus alone saves us. Our works cannot save us. Yet Scripture also teaches that our lives should reflect genuine transformation, obedience, and love for Christ.
Salvation is not merely about an initial decision. How we continue to walk with Jesus matters.
We discussed Jesus' own warnings concerning those who have seen the truth, witnessed the power of the Gospel, yet choose to continue in rebellion. Jesus warned that greater revelation brings greater accountability. God loves us deeply—but He also calls us to love Him, obey Him, and walk in holy reverence before Him.
The beautiful truth is this: when we continue abiding in Christ and obeying Him, we experience freedom—not only in eternity, but right now while living on this earth. This freedom from sin, bondage, fear, and strongholds is part of the salvation that Jesus came to bring.
One especially meaningful moment during the retreat involved a married couple who desired to dedicate their marriage fully to the Lord and receive His blessing upon their union.

Surrounded by fellow believers in the peaceful mountain setting, they publicly made their vows before God, committing themselves to love, honor, and faithfully serve one another as husband and wife according to God's design. Together, we prayed over them and asked the Lord to strengthen their marriage, protect their home, and use their family for His Kingdom.
It was a beautiful reminder that marriage is not merely a covenant between a husband and wife, but a sacred covenant before God Himself. Seeing this couple seek God's blessing and place Christ at the center of their marriage was an encouragement to everyone present.
Beyond the teachings, there was abundant worship, heartfelt prayer, honest conversations, and sweet fellowship. The presence of God was evident throughout our time together.

Again and again, participants shared how much they had learned and how deeply they were challenged to continue following Jesus faithfully and not fall away.
What a beautiful place to learn.
What a beautiful place to worship.
What a beautiful place to pray.
And what a beautiful Savior we serve.

Please continue praying for these young believers as they return home to live out what they have learned and to shine brightly for Christ in their families, churches, and communities.
"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind..." — Romans 12:2 (KJV)





Comments