Remember the Youth Rally?
Last weekend, my family made a quick trip back to the town in Southeast Missouri in which I was raised. We were there because both Leah and I had graciously been asked to teach classes at “Inspiration,” a weekend youth rally that has been going on now for around 40 years…
…and still has well over 300 attend each year.
Let me say at the outset that this article is not intended in any way to speak against the “big” rallies and youth events that have popped up around the country, where sometimes thousands gather. Those events like CYC and Exposure Youth Camp are amazing, and I am grateful for them. I am happy that our daughter attended CYC for the first time this year and I hope both of my kids go next year. So, this is not to speak ill of those events in the least.
But, with that said, do you remember the youth rally? I mean, those Saturday (or Friday-Saturday) events held in a church building? Did you know that there is still a place for those in the life of a congregation’s youth program?
And I want to challenge you to consider attending one or two each year.
Those congregations put a tremendous amount of work into having these events. As one who has been in charge of a youth rally a number of times, I can tell you from experience that the amount of prayer, planning, and work that goes into those short events is tremendous.
Beyond that, however, think of the value of going to those buildings and learning lessons that are geared specifically for teens and young people. Speakers and teachers are brought in who can emphasize aspects of the Christian faith in a way that connects with young people in a powerful way.
Beyond that, think of the hosting congregation. They do all of this for you free of charge. Most provide at least one meal. Some provide housing if it is needed. Speakers and teachers are paid. Facilities are utilized. And all it costs you is the time to come. They take a major “hit” in their budget by holding these events, but they do so because they are expressing love for and interest in the next generation.
And, to be honest, as one who attended a number of these youth rallies growing up, the trips and the time with the other young people was one of the major highlights. Even if was just an hour’s drive away, that time was always fun. If it was further, though, there was a sense of adventure about it all that made it even better.
They are all over the country, though they are fewer in number than they used to be. Still, they are worth attending. “Inspiration” in Dexter, Missouri in March. “Sonshine” in Evansville, Indiana later in the year. And many, many more.
Go to CYC. Attend Exposure. Head to RUSH weekend at Freed-Hardeman. Grow from those huge events.
But don’t forget those local churches that still have free youth rallies from which your young people will benefit greatly.
Let’s remember the youth rally.
(In the comments, leave some information about a local congregational youth rally near you, so others in your area can find out about it.)
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AUTHOR: Adam Faughn
Photo credit: Kaio Publications Facebook page (used with permission)
