By Brian Blackwell, Baptist Message staff writer
ALEXANDRIA, La. (LBM) – Louisiana Baptist youth and adult leaders are gearing up for the 37th annual Youth Evangelism Celebration, a statewide assembly focused on preparing the next generation to share Christ with the world.
Scheduled Nov. 24-25 in the Rapides Parish Coliseum, Alexandria, the largest annual gathering of Louisiana Baptists will feature messages by Zane Black, evangelist and tour pastor for Winter Jam 2024; in-depth discussions led by Clint Davis, a counselor from Shreveport; high-energy music by Crescent City Worship, a worship band with New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary; entertainment by Jaron Myers, a comedian and podcaster; times of fellowship; and a concert by Rend Collective to close out YEC on Monday evening. Brandon Allen, student pastor with Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, Columbus, Mississippi, and student ministry podcast producer, will serve as the host/emcee.
Additionally, the Louisiana Baptist Collegiate Ministry will offer a lounge for youth ministers attending YEC.
Last year’s event drew more than 5,100 youth and resulted in 157 students stepping forward during the opening session to accept Christ, grow deeper in their faith or pursue a call to ministry. The threat of severe weather impacted the remaining times of decision. Instead of approaching the stage during an altar call and going to a tent outside to talk further with counselors, students told their adult leaders, who will follow up with them on an individual basis.
“YEC is an opportunity for students to come and celebrate, learn and grow in their faith,” Louisiana Baptist Youth Strategist Lee Myers told the Baptist Message. “I’ve always told people that the evangelism celebration honors what God has done, what God is doing, and what God will do in our lives.
“I want as many churches as possible to come and be involved,” he continued. “It’s an annual event that helps define who we are, especially as Louisiana Baptists and in the area of student ministry.”
The event kicks off at 7 p.m., Sunday and is scheduled to end by 10 p.m., Monday. For more information, visit yeclouisiana.org.
