To be honest I'm really not a big event guy. Yes I love to have fun and celebrate. But normally my idea of enjoyment does not involve a couple of thousand people in Saskatchewan of all places! But Youth Quake at Briercrest College is an exception. Why? Let me count thy ways.1. The Journey
I've always loved travelling with the young people of ACC. The memories we create are second to none. Whether its a trip down the street, Denver, a ski hill, Mexico or Briercrest; there is never a dull moment! The conversations, times of worship, laughter, shenanigans, prayer, and meals together make the journey really special.
2. The Spirit
When you arrive at YQ the excitement in the air is intense and the staff and students truly are wonderful. There is a spirit at Briercrest that shouts out that this is about more than just a great time. I always anticipate God doing some big things in the lives of the youth and us as leaders. And I can honestly say that God does move and work in many areas of our lives.
3. Youth Worker Training & Support
I absolutely love how the planners of YQ strive to take care of the needs of youth leaders through their workshops, sessions, and meals. We all could use a little more encouragement and we never leave without being touched or challenged in the ministry God has called us to. The resources available are also a treat as well as the opportunity to interact with experts in the field.
4. Friends
Having spent many years in camping and youth ministry you get to know a lot of people. The neat thing about YQ is that you bump into and connect with many of these friends over the weekend. You just never know who you will see and have a chance to catch up with. The really cool thing is seeing people who used to be in my youth group now as youth leaders! Yeah it makes me feel old but it also reminds me of how God calls people, even the ones you might least expect to.
5. The Memories
Although leaving YQ is sad and the journey home after a weekend with little sleep is long, the memories continue to build! And for me memories is what makes life so enjoyable and what youth ministry should be about. These are times to recall areas of significant growth and change in our lives. These are opportunities to remember the faithfulness of God in our lives. These are gifts as we have a sense of being and belonging within the wider body of Christ.
So there you have it, my top 5 for YQ! My only question is are you willing to join us for our next great Youth Quake adventure? This event is for youth in grades 9-12 only. Stay tuned as I will post information on how you can register with our group by the end of this week. You can also discover more about Youth Quake by visiting www.briercrest.ca/yq/2009 In the mean time clear your calendar for the weekend of February 19-22 and get ready to "Play Your Part."
