Youth “consumed by God” at Bethany weekend

Can you fix a malfunctioning cat with a screwdriver? Can you be consumed by the updraft from a large ceiling fan? If you were known as “Consumed by God,” what would that look like?

Questions like this were put to the 291 teens and their leaders who converged on the Bethany College campus for Youth Advance, Feb. 6–8.

Prior to Youth Advance kick-off, president Rick Schellenberg reminded the College students to keep an eye out for God’s actions amid the energy and fun. “Watch out,” he said, “because the Holy Spirit is going to show up.”

And show up He did, as Bethany’s campus was electrified by the excitement of a capacity crowd and a prepared student body.

The weekend was filled with thought-provoking discussions, hilarious drama, intense worship, and fun. Illusionist Lou Leventhal lent his unique talents to understanding the difference between reality and illusion. Bethany instructor Randy Klassen led a standing-room-only presentation of “Consumed in Middle Earth,” illustrating how evil and good consumed Tolkien’s characters.

For “polar bears” in the bunch, outdoor hot tubs churned in the steaming winter air, while indoors, the DJ kept everyone informed, and Threadline’s Saturday night intensity drove it home.

Of particular interest was the 24-7 Prayer Room, hosted by Dan King, Canadian Team Leader for 24-7, an international movement across Christian denominations dedicated to keeping up a non-stop flow of prayer to turn the tide within youth culture. Youth carry a deep passion for Jesus Christ, said King, who is also pastor of Lakeview Church, Saskatoon. Yet surveys suggest only four out of 100 will be connected to church by the time they’ve finished college. “I’m convinced the missing link is intimacy with Jesus Christ,” he said.

In the worship and teaching time, speakers Kevin Snyder and Sharon Peters offered an upfront view of what it means to listen and respond to God’s voice. Peters challenged the audience to consider what it is that consumes them. “He’s calling you to give up all of your stuff,” she said.

Youth Advance, which invites students Grades 10–12 for a weekend on campus, is a highlight of the College year. “The kids had a fabulous time,” said Charlene, a parent who drove a carload of kids up for the weekend. “I think you have made a difference in the lives of some of our youth.”

It wouldn’t be the first time. “Ten years ago at Youth Advance I met God,” said Denita Redekop, now women’s head basketball coach at Bethany. “I came parched for truth, and I left absolutely enthralled with the love and grace of God. It’s as simple as that.”

—Connie L. Jones