When youth leaders remember they're not alone

How Limitless Oxygen is helping kids and youth workers rediscover their calling and reconnect with community

There's a particular challenge that comes with youth and children's ministry in smaller churches. You're passionate, you're committed, you believe deeply in what you're doing, but you can be the only person carrying that vision in your context. It's not that you're isolated, it's that you're pioneering, often without a peer group nearby who truly understands the journey. That's the story we kept hearing from leaders who gathered for Limitless Oxygen this year, and it's exactly why this training day matters so much.

Across eight locations, teams from churches large and small came together for something they didn't realise they were missing: connection. Not just tips and techniques (though there was plenty of practical input), but the simple, profound gift of being in a room with people who get it. People who share the same calling, face the same challenges, and believe in the same kingdom work happening through messy games, tough conversations, and small moments of breakthrough.

One leader from a small church captured it perfectly: "This event helped me to not feel so alone as a youth leader. I'm from a small church and often feel disconnected but it was so encouraging to meet and hear from other youth leaders with the same passions and calling as me. I've received practical tips which I can implement in my ministry. I feel energised and better equipped for my calling."

That word kept coming up: energised. Leaders left ready to try new things, even if it's "a little messy." The combination of spiritual depth and practical wisdom made a real difference. As one attendee put it, it was "a great day of spiritual and practical input. I left feeling energised and ready to serve our children more effectively." Another reflected on how "the content of the seminars and talks were incredible and relevant, they encouraged me and changed my perspective on countless topics and concepts."

They walked away with fresh perspective, renewed vision, and the reminder that what they're doing genuinely matters. As one leader put it, the day was "inspiring and reminded us of the importance of what we're doing."

Because here's the truth we want every kids and youth worker to hear: you are changing lives. You are shaping the future. The work you're pouring into young people week after week, term after term, is kingdom work that echoes into eternity.

Limitless Oxygen exists to resource that calling. To gather teams at the start of the academic year, offer fresh input, create space for encouragement, and help leaders remember they're part of something much bigger than their own context. When leaders feel supported, connected and equipped, young people thrive. And that's worth celebrating.

This article was first featured in the Your Elim newsletter. You can read the Your Elim newsletter here, and sign up to the newsletter here.