YOUTH ACTIVITIES

In 2003 two youth groups were started, in the form of a casual and friendly atmosphere where young people would feel at ease. The aim being to take the youth off the streets and to offer them an exciting, life changing alternative.

One group for the very young children, where they play games, watch a good quality movie suitable for their age and other fun activities.

Another group for the senior youth allows them to play games, soccer, volley ball, etc. in a very relaxed enviroment, which is well controlled under adult supervision. There are usually 30 -40 youth from the community and growing. The young people have formed a strong bond of friendship among themselves. In 2004 the meetings will change slightly in that they will start with praise and worship and end with a short message from the word of God. A youth camp is being planned for the winter holidays.

The youth within the church are encouraged to use their gifts and talents in order to take up leadership positions in the church. Many of them are already taking an active roll such as teaching in children's church, managing the sound system and participating in the worship team. A youth home cell has also been formed and is well and enthusiastically attended.

MUSIC SCHOOL: In mid 2003 a music school was started with approximately 6 students, there are now 20 students attending. The aim is to teach them to develope their talents and then to use them to take an active roll in the functioning of the church. The students have been so successful that a youth band was formed which sometimes lead the worship on a Sunday evening when youth from other churches are also invited.Praise and worship is then led in a way that appeals to the younger generation. Some of the band members are used in the worship team on a fairly regular basis. During a Family Fun Weekend, the Friday evening was aimed at the youth and all the students of the music school participated, GCC youth band as well as bands from other areas whose members also attend the music school.

In January 2004 two members of the youth team were selected to go to the Planet Shakers Conference in Australia and returned to share the experience they gained there to enhance the Praise and Worship in the church and to raise the spiritual level of the church.