Oakes
Church of the Nazarene
What is Encounter Youth?
Why do we exist?
Encounter youth exists because we want the youth of Oakes to encounter the transformative experience of knowing Jesus. Statistics say that 70% of young adults stop attending church after high school. Our desire is to provide youth with a fun and safe space to encounter who Jesus is. We believe that knowing Jesus helps teens develop a strong moral compass, discover their true identity, and find a sense of belonging and purpose.
Encountering Jesus in a real and personal way empowers teens to navigate life's complexities with faith and resilience.
Why "Encounter"?
"Encounter" is about having a deep, personal, and transformative meeting with Jesus. Jeremiah 29:13 says, "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." This verse emphasizes that when we genuinely search for God with our whole hearts, we will truly encounter Him.
The teenage years are a time of searching and questioning, trying to understand who they are and where they belong. Jeremiah 29:13 reassures teens that if they sincerely seek Jesus, they will find Him and experience His presence in their lives. This encounter can provide them with a sense of purpose, identity, and direction, helping them navigate the complexities and challenges of their youth. It's an invitation to a meaningful relationship with Jesus that can profoundly impact their lives.
When do we meet?
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Junior High 6:00-7:15 pm
Senior High 6:45-8:00 pm
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