Between playing games and reciting information, the message was clear to the youths at Oasis de Bendicion.

"Abstinence is the best way to go," said Jorge Garcia, 15.

Sponsored by Communities in Schools, the abstinence workshop was led by a group called Teens Relating Information by Education.

"It's so important for youths to hear the message from other youths," said Mary Crawford, the director for Communities In Schools. "When the kids can identify with someone their own age, they are going to listen."

The group members, who are ages 16-18, used games such as Bedroom Boom and The Greatest Gift to discuss consequences of premarital sex, such as sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy.

The workshop ended Hola Abstinence week at the church. Abstinence from alcohol, drugs, gang violence and sex was emphasized, said the Rev. Angel Maestre, the senior pastor.

"It's about taking care of their own body. I want them to think about their actions and how it affects their body," he said. "They really paid attention and asked questions, so that tells me that they will think about everything they do and what impact it will have on them."

Although they have heard similar information before, several of the youths said they took something away from the workshop.

"It's good to know about how one decision can affect your life, like your family, your job, everything," Jorge said.

Abigail Ramirez, 13, agreed.

"Since teens are America's future, we all need to be healthy, and this teaches us that. It shows us that there are consequences for every action and decision," she said.

Reach Nikasha Dicks at (706) 823-3336 or nikasha.dicks@augustachronicle.com.