Last weekend, we held our second annual Young Adult Retreat. We started it last year as a way to connect with this generation of maturing Christians in the region, hoping to identify potential future pastors. We’re thrilled with how God is developing it into a broader discipleship event.
Last year, we taught the group what the Bible has to say about making good decisions. This year, we focused on pursuing holiness. Christians have always struggled to pursue holiness in this fallen world, but today’s young adults face new cultural and technological challenges, and they need our support.
Upon arrival, participants received Jerry Bridges’ “The Pursuit of Holiness” and a journal to guide them through the weekend. The schedule centered on three lessons, each followed by small-group discussions to help students process the material into practical response. Between lessons, the group enjoyed games, meals and a hike with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Though the teaching content was challenging, there was a lot of laughter throughout the weekend. During the Saturday evening Q&A session, teachers answered thoughtful questions about dating, friendship, media, the church and more. The retreat concluded with a worship service on Sunday morning.
We were also blessed to have BICS Director of Admissions Ben Boehm with us. He encouraged the high schoolers to consider a year of discipleship and biblical studies before heading to college. And the book ministry 10 of those sent a “Book Store in a Box,” giving students access to carefully chosen, Christ-honoring resources. Several purchased great titles to take home and read.
We’re currently planning two follow-up events. In January, we’ll take a group of older participants to Louisville, KY, to attend CrossCon26 where they’ll learn from world class teachers like John Piper and Carl Trueman, as well as network with hundreds of serious Christians their age. Conferences like this can trigger a quantum leap in a young person’s walk with Christ. Later, in the spring, we’ll host a one-day young adult event in Charlotte, NC.
Please pray with us that these efforts will strengthen this generation to assume leadership roles in our local churches, and that God will call some of them into pastoral ministry.
3 Responses
We praise God for the vision He has given you and our regional leadership for our teens and young adults. The solid biblical teaching is helping our young minds grow into the likeness of the mind of Christ!
Matt, it was nice to meet you at Camp Accovac this past October. It was very encouraging to read about how God is using you in Ministry.
Such a blessing to hear of the retreat happening a second year! Preparing our young people to service the Lord and knowing that some will be called into the ministry is the most important thing we can do. Thank you to all who are making this happen. Praise be to God for His guidance and love! Can’t wait to see how God uses our youth !