Big Weekend 2025 Reflections

This year’s Big Weekend lived up to its name—it was bigger and more impactful than ever! With nearly 1,000 students from churches across OKC, we saw God move in powerful ways. But the best part? We believe His work is just beginning. These students are stepping forward, ready to make a difference in the communities where God has placed them.

The theme this year was having a REWIRED heart. Through the Book of Romans, we were challenged and encouraged to allow the Holy Spirit to transform us so we can shine as lights in the world. Beyond the worship and teaching, we had an incredible time bonding—whether it was ice skating (and taking a few bruises home as souvenirs), staying up way too late in host homes (huge thanks to the Gilchrist, Wilcox, and Hildenbrand families!), or serving together in ministry. The weekend wasn’t just about having fun; it was about growing deeper in our faith and in community.

But don’t just take my word for it—here’s what some of our leaders and students had to say:

Leader Quotes

“One super encouraging thing was seeing the group worship! It was amazing to watch younger generations wholeheartedly pour out their hearts to God.”

“I had a student share about something that had become an idol in his life, but he was turning it over to God and depending on Him instead. It was incredible to see this student be vulnerable and also to witness Jesus being honored in his life.”

“The way they praised God during worship and the love they showed each other—tears flowing—brought me to tears myself. What a blessing it is to serve alongside these students.”

“The outreach time at No Boundaries was so encouraging to me. The students were eager to help make snack and hygiene bags, but they really seemed to light up when they had the opportunity to write encouragement notes to those experiencing homelessness in our city. They even prayed over the notes they wrote. I am so thankful that many of our students have experienced the transformative hope found in Jesus and are excited to share His love with others so they, too, can find hope and healing.”

“My favorite part was watching these students worship and love each other. No matter how difficult things might be or how exhausted they were from the lack of sleep the night before, you couldn’t help but be excited and hopeful for the future as you watched these students praise God and care for one another.”

Student Quotes

“Going on this trip, I was reminded that God is always present in my life and in the lives of others. He has given me the courage to step outside of my comfort zone and get to know people. I’ve been so encouraged by the joy and love I’ve seen in others in our youth group.”

“During Big Weekend, I saw many things, but what stood out to me was seeing all of the 6th graders have a huge passion for Christ. Even though they are very energetic, they are still so loving to others and are already trying their best to live like Christ.”

“During Big Weekend, I felt like God was telling me to love others no matter how bad of a day I’m having. We are all going through something, and it’s not fair for someone else to have a bad day just because I’m having a bad day.”

“Big Weekend was amazing! I felt so much closer to God. Worshipping Him is definitely my favorite part, and I grew closer to my fellow churchmates. I’m learning that repentance is a daily part of a believer’s life. I repent not out of obligation but because God deserves my obedience. Each morning, it’s a pursuit—a choice to stand before an audience of One, fully surrendered to Him.”

“I really liked the worship because, when we sang, I felt deeply connected to God. It was incredible to hear everyone around me singing out and worshiping God with all their hearts.”

“As Christians, it can be easy to think that we’re the only ones walking with Christ—whether in schools, jobs, or anywhere else. But Big Weekend showed me something so encouraging: we are not alone. There are hundreds of other leaders and teenagers who have walked this same walk or are currently walking it. We are all following the one true God.”

Church, thank you for being such a big part of what God is doing in the lives of our students. Your prayers and support don’t just impact them—they ripple out into a world in need of the Gospel. Because of you, the next generation is growing in faith, stepping out in boldness, and bringing hope to those around them.

Matt Menhennett