DNOW 2025:  GRAVITATE!

"Are you moving toward God or drifting away from Him? We can easily gravitate toward the things of this world or we can dig deep and strive to gravitate toward Jesus and center our hearts, desires and lives on Him.  During this weekend, we are going to look at our own nature, be reminded of God's grace and focus on the importance of moving toward God and following Jesus daily!"

For WHO?  

All students in 6th-12th grade!  Students may invite friends and all deadlines and details apply to all!

WHAT is DNOW?

DNOW stands for DISCIPLE NOW.  

It is an in-house retreat for youth with:

- small group Bible studies - who meet and stay in host homes divided by gender/age.

- large group worship gatherings at Gayton Baptist with a guest praise band, special prayer times and biblical messages

- meals and community- building fun activities and games at both the church and host homes

- a "Kindness Scavenger Hunt"

WHEN is DNOW?

Friday, January 24-Sunday, January 26

Everything kicks off at 6:00pm on that Friday with check-in and dinner!

And everything ends on Sunday, when the students return to church by 8:45am to prepare to lead us all in worship for our annual YOUTH SUNDAY at 10:00am followed by a fellowship!

WHERE is DNOW?

Most of DNOW takes place on the campus of Gayton Baptist Church, 13501 North Gayton Rd in Richmond (short pump area).

The host homes are close to the church. (All the hosts and adult volunteers are Gayton Baptist members and have had background checks.) Students will go to the host homes in the evenings for small group Bible study and staying overnight, and during a break for dinner on that Saturday.   Also on Saturday afternoon, students will participate in a "Kindness Scavenger Hunt" doing acts of kindness in the community surrounding our church.

WHY DNOW?

Because is an awesome youth event that strikes a balance of deep discipleship and fun community-building - that the students truly love!  It is an opportunity for students to grow closer to Christ and to one another in a safe, fun and warm environment - not far from home.

HOW to sign-up?

- Fill out the registration form provided.

- Fill out the medical release form and code of conduct agreement.  Every student - new and old - needs to bring this for this in-house retreat.

- Cost: $80 that can be paid at registration. This cost covers programming, supplies, meals, Bible study book/journal and t-shirt - for 2 night retreat.

- Invite other students!  This event is a great entry point for new students to feel welcome and get plugged in!  This event helps older students prepare for the big life changes they are facing in the next 1-2 years, and it helps younger students become engaged with our youth group and ignites their young faith and leadership!  It is a great event for all! 

- Deadline to sign up - January 1, 2025! (Happy New Year!)