So Converge has come and passed again for the 4th year. I have had the absolute privilege and blessing to attend the last 3 years, unfortunately missing the first.
It has been so awesome and inspiring to see it grow over the years. The organisers and volunteers that put in the effort to create a space for all youth to come together and worship God are crazy and amazing. The work they do is so inspiring that it’s hard to leave Converge without a sense of purpose and a hungry heart for God and his plan for your life.
This year was no exception. With Tacyana calling those to accept baptism and the call and purpose that God has placed on their lives and hearts. As well as Simon’s appeal for people to accept God’s call to lead youth, plant churches, work in full-time ministry or whatever path they felt they had not yet accepted.
It’s pretty hard to see and feel the power and grace of God moving through the crowd and not feel like you can go out into your local community and truly make a difference.
Thinking back on the weekend, it is quite difficult to focus on one aspect that was the most memorable or surprising. I would say that Tacyana’s honesty and storytelling coupled with Simon’s realistic and God-led steps to becoming a person of influence within your church and community make this year one of the best years so far. I also believe the actual attendants and their willingness to serve a God no matter where that takes them is up there with my top memories of Converge
But for those that couldn’t attend I would implore you to aim to be there for 2020. To get away from the world and slow down, especially at the beginning of the year, I truly don’t think there is anything as beneficial for your personal walk with God. Being able to surround yourself with like-minded individuals that have had similar or different experiences within the church and along their walk with God. To share your testimony and as well listen to theirs, it’s hard to compete with that on any level.
You are guaranteed to leave Converge feeling worn out emotionally and physically, but you will be filled with a burning passion for Christ that will energise you and able you to recover and step into the year excited and optimistic about where you will be led.
I cannot wait for Converge 2020. I cannot wait to meet a whole bunch of new people as well as reconnect with those I have met in previous years. To hear about what they have achieved, but also to hear about what they have learned throughout the year.
I constantly miss the camaraderie and openness that is present at Converge, but with every passing year, it seems I could almost walk into any SDA Church and see at least 1 familiar face. I aim to be there until they say I’m too old, God willing of course.
So finally I will wish everyone good luck in the coming year, and if you read this and attend Converge in 2020 come find me and just talk to me about anything. I can’t wait to hear about your walk with Christ and learn about what you have experienced so far.
God Bless.
AUTHOR: Connor Phipps, 22, attends and currently lead the Young Adults at Kellyville SDA Church NSW.