There can be many different models for school groups.

One example, which has been going for 13 years, run by a church in Napier, is called Food4Thought.

 

It’s beginnings

Invited by a school to engage more intentionally with their youth – to give them positive thoughts about faith and hope as support in the light of the various challenges many were struggling with – posters were put up around the school, and Food4Thought began,

 

What they do

Supported by ladies in their church, there is baking and similar food weekly, along with about 6 litres of cold Milo. Given a snack and drink, 15 to 30 young people participate each week.

They currently meet during the second lunch break on Friday’s in a room with audio and projection provided by the school.

For the programme, usually a short video clip is shown and discussed. Simple.

Videos have included short clips from the “Explore God” series, Curiosity Collective, a Christian Music Video, White Chair I Am Second, Creation vs Evolution, Theodicy and more. The goal is of course to get them thinking and then discussing their thoughts about faith and hope together. How do faith, hope and life intersect?

 

Promotion and relationship

Prior to the programme – during the first lunch break on Fridays –  they walk around the campus and hand out water bottles, catch up with the students, inviting them to Food4Thought – bur more-so just getting to know them. It’s about relationships.

 

Flow through to youth groups

This has been hard to measure, in that it is more relational and personal. Those interest will take initiative to visit a church youth group – and usually with friends who invite them. The group itself has catalysed conversations and thoughts – and hence its name ‘Food4Thought’. It has not sought to control the outcomes – while certainly many have benefitted.

 

A challenge

There were some who had a distain for the faith of our cultural heritage and values. They wanted no mention of it and desired to see the group removed. Those involved engaged proactively in defence of the group with the school board. The principal and board have since decided the group should stay, in recognition of the efforts generously given to relationship, conversation and support to youth. This is needed!

Different programme – same principles.

  • We unite
  • …to pray about what we might do
  • …and then do it
  • …perseveringly.

When Christians unite and pray, God positions them to be a blessing, bringing and sharing hope with others.

We love, serve and share. God works.