Christian youth across the United States participate in a variety of events, from lock-ins to concerts to retreats. Some Christian youth events aim to help kids build their own faith and get closer to each other and God, while others help kids share their faith with friends in a non-threatening and fun setting. In Texas, Christian youth events happen all over the state and are sponsored by churches, youth groups and other Christian organizations.
Compass Wilderness Weekend Retreat
With headquarters in Bedford, Texas, the Compass Wilderness Group sponsors wilderness summer and weekend trips for church youth groups in Texas, Oklahoma and Colorado. Youth groups can attend one- or two-day retreats that include rock climbing, rappelling and hiking, according to the Compass Wilderness website. (See reference 1) Participants connect with one another and with God through nightly campfire talks and group-building activities. The retreats are led by a certified staff person with experience in outdoor activities and sharing the Christian faith with youth.
Christian Youth Weekend Six Flags Over Texas
Every year, Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington sponsors a Christian Youth Weekend for church and youth groups. As the Six Flags website states, the weekend consists of concerts by well-known Christian artists and Six Flags amusement park fun. (See reference 2) Past artists have included Kutless, Jeremy Camp, Relient K and Needtobreathe. Groups over 10 can receive discounts on admission to the park, and many of the local hotels offer weekend packages and discounts.
Rock the Desert Christian Music Festival
Started in 2000 in the parking lot of a Midland church as a free concert, Rock the Desert has evolved into a three-day Christian music festival. Christian youth from around Texas can enjoy a full weekend of Christian acts like Skillet, Casting Crowns, Disciple and Switchfoot, along with speakers and a talent contest, states the Rock the Desert website. (See reference 3) Rock the Desert takes place at the Rock the Desert encampment, located between Midland and Odessa.
Youth Encounter Quake Zone
The Youth Encounter Quake Zone in Dallas, Texas, brings together youth from grades six through twelve for a weekend of Christian music, speakers and service events. As the Youth Encounter website states, the Quake Zone event in Dallas takes place at the Crowne Plaza hotel and features three days of Bible studies, group-building activities, speakers, music, parties and an outreach project. (See reference 4) The Quake Zone event is open to church youth groups and other Christian youth organizations and is sponsored by Youth Encounter, a non-profit organization offering youth ministry resources to churches all over the United States.
Tags: Rock Desert, Quake Zone, Youth Encounter, church youth, church youth groups, Compass Wilderness, youth groups