MERGE YOUTH
Aug 12, 2021
youth:
Citywide’s Merge Youth Kick Goals
A Great Space for Teens
Matthew Henderson leads MERGE Youth, Citywide’s youth program. He also serves as an Elder, and on the Teaching Team
The MERGE youth program at Citywide Baptist church has been a lot of fun during 2021.
At MERGE, we provide a space for teenagers where they can let down their hair and blow off some steam. At the same time, we create space for conversations and group discussions. These are spiritually uplifting, spiritually educational, and spiritually healthy for everyone who participates.
This year we’ve spent a lot of time getting to know each other better, as I am new to the role of leading this group. We’ve also learnt a lot about heroes from the Old Testament, which is an area of biblical learning often overlooked.
Merge is blessed to have several very talented young leaders as part of the team. It’s exciting to give these committed and gifted young adults the permission and opportunity to test out their leadership skills.
A Different Spin
Earlier this year we had a fantastic night with a ‘Glow in the Dark theme.’
It’s amazing how many games and activities have a different spin when your only lighting consists of a few florescent head and wrist bands! This year we also celebrated Christmas in July, with a big Christmas-themed night of activities and fun. Finally, just last week, the 2021 MERGE Olympics took place. We had another great night filled with fun and friendship.
For me, the best part of our MERGE youth group is the genuine friendships that have developed. As well, we enjoy deep and important conversations about the Bible, Jesus, and the issues faced by young people. They are trying to navigate a complex and confusing world, and need help!
So far, 2021 has been great. And we’re looking forward to having even more great times together as the year progresses.
About Matt
Matt Henderson is married, and father to three boys (21, 13 & 8). His two younger sons are both on the Autism Spectrum. Currently, he’s completing a Bachelor of Ministry at Alphacrucis College in Hobart. He enjoys working with young people and sharing Jesus with them, loves to play games, watch movies, and he’s an amateur film maker.