PRIORISING ENGAGING THE NEXT GEN IN FAITH SERIES

Young people heard the call to seek a vibrant, living relationship with Jesus at the State Youth Games (SYG) in June, as 535 made faith commitments – including young people from 13 Baptist church groups.

Once again Baptist youth groups from around the state gathered their team bibs, their bats and their basketballs to engage in the friendly sporting battle and banter of the Games.

The BUV Support Hub has had a special focus on prioritising engaging the next generation this year, and it is encouraging to see how highly anticipated SYG has been in Baptist youth groups for many years, with hundreds joining in the fun. Groups of young people camp at Warragul over the King’s Birthday weekend and compete in a raft of events such as AFL, netball, soccer, tennis … and unusual ones like human foosball, thunder hockey, Uno and e-games.

On the Saturday night, SYG runs a high-energy rally with music and a guest speaker – this year’s theme was Awaken, challenging young people to seek a vibrant, living relationship with Jesus, based on Ephesians 5:14 and 1 Thessalonians 5:6.

“The speaker at the rally was talking about how we put our faith on autopilot a lot, but instead we need to live out our faith,” said one young person from a Baptist church, who reaffirmed her commitment to Christ at the event. “It was a good reminder that God’s always with you. The rally was one of my favourite parts of the Games because everyone is together and it has such a community feel. It was also great meeting other Christian teenagers.”

SYG is run annually by Churches of Christ. It is an easy event for young people to invite friends to since many enjoy joining in the sports, camaraderie and community spirit, while also hearing an encouraging faith message.