many churches are asking how we can help students to live well, stay healthy and lead sustainably in such a fast paced and often over-worked culture.
As statistics soar, mental heath and wellbeing are becoming increasingly discussed topics.
Biblical exhortations to ‘remember the Sabbath’, to come to the God who ‘leads us by still waters’ and to ‘be still and know that I am God’ can all too easily be pushed aside amidst work and social pressures.
Birmingham Vineyard are determined to help their students pace themselves healthily, learn how to rest with God and know how to retreat individually and in community. They’ve just held the first of their 'Soulcare' days with their student leaders.
20 students took part in the day of rest, refreshing and time with God. It looked like this:
- A talk from their student leader
- 2 hours to spend with God - some journalled in a cafe, others went for a prayer walk, others used the prayer spaces set up in the venue
- A prayer journey through the different rooms of the venue together
- Further talks in the evening
- Finishing with pizza together
Kirsty's Story
Kirsty, student work intern at Birmingham Vineyard, said it was seeing students really engage with God that made the day for her. The creation of so much space just to be with God really worked and was so welcomed by the students who fed back how amazing it was to be given space away from the stress of work.
How are your student leaders with rest and retreat?
Might a day of community retreat help equip them to rest well and draw close to God?
How do you teach your students about rest?
If you'd like to know more check the website and resources below:
