Over the final weekend of June, a team of CHARGE Youth (5) and leaders (3) from St Bart’s travelled to Lightning Ridge to support and grow our partnership with the Langmead family (Bush Church Aid) and to help enable their mission to reach the local community with the hope of Jesus. This visit provided an incredible opportunity for our youth to grow as young disciples of Jesus on mission, serving others and sharing God’s love in practical and prayerful ways.

Saturday Night Gospel Gathering

A key highlight was joining in hosting a local Gospel gathering on Saturday night, which welcomed all ages from the community, with a focus on engaging local youth and the Indigenous community. In God’s kindness, around 70 people attended, many of whom had never been to a church event before. Our youth helped with transport, BBQ cooking, games, providing music, and there was a clear Gospel message shared, along with a testimony from one of our youth. Although we were preparing for mostly teenagers to attend, many who came were primary-aged children, which opened up wonderful opportunities for conversations, games, and sharing the love of Jesus.

Sunday Worship Together

On Sunday morning, the team joined in worship with the Lightning Ridge Community Church. Our youth were involved in leading music, prayers, and sharing another youth testimony. The service was shaped to be particularly family friendly and with great thanks to God there were some children and youth who came because they were invited the evening before at the Gospel Gathering. Overall, the service was an encouraging reminder of how God is at work in and through the people of Lightning Ridge.

Other Highlights from the Weekend

Beyond the main gatherings, there were many moments of connection and growth throughout the weekend. Through the generosity of one of the congregation members from Lightning Ridge, our team spent time exploring the region, learning about the local community and the challenges faced by those living in remote areas. The youth enjoyed early morning devotionals together, encouraging one another to reflect on what it means to live out their faith wherever they are. There were daily relaxing debrief sessions at night in the Artesian bore baths, a stargazing session, plenty of meals shared together, and enjoyable bus games that deepened friendships within the team.

Thank You

We are so thankful for:

• The Langmeads’ faithful ministry in Lightning Ridge.
• The work of BCA across the nation
• The CHARGE Youth who stepped out of their comfort zones to serve.
• The leaders who prayed, drove, cooked, and shepherded the team.
• The church family at St Bart’s who prayed and supported this mission visit.

Please continue to pray for the seeds planted over the weekend, that those who heard the Gospel for the first time would continue to seek Jesus, and for ongoing fruit in our partnership with the Langmeads and the Lightning Ridge community.