More than 100 young people, youth leaders and volunteers from across the Diocese of Oxford gathered for the biggest ever Amplify Adventure weekend, a celebration of faith, friendship and the gifts of young people.
The weekend, held from Friday 10 to Sunday 12 July at Adventure Plus in Clanfield, brought together young people from churches across the diocese for a packed programme of worship, activities, games, prayer and conversation.
James Wood, Discipleship Enabler (Children, Young People, and Families), said: “Amplify Adventure was full of joy, faith and a fair amount of chaos in the best possible way. Around 100 people gathered for our biggest weekend yet, but what stood out most was how much of it was led by young people themselves. They led worship, activities, games and supported one another throughout the weekend.
“We explored Jesus’ words, ‘I am the vine; you are the branches,’ and what it means to remain rooted in God’s love. It was wonderful to see young people making new friends, growing in confidence and discovering that their voices and gifts matter.”
Alongside opportunities to reflect and worship, there was plenty of adventure, with young people enjoying giant zorbs, inflatable giant football darts, Nine Square, outdoor games and a huge water fight.
The weekend also welcomed the Bishop of Reading, the Rt Revd Mary Gregory, who joined on Sunday morning. Bishop Mary led Holy Communion and spent time meeting and chatting with young people before joining in the fun. She launched a surprise water attack after the service.
The weekend offered space for young people not only to have fun but also to grow in confidence, make new friendships and explore their faith together through small groups, prayer and discussion.
Naysa, 13 years, said: “Amplify is a great way to bond with friends and strengthen your relationship with God too. It includes fun activities like Zorbing and Water games, as well as 2-3 main sessions of worship and teaching.”
Annabelle, 14 years, said: “Amplify has really strengthened my faith with God. The people and the amplify community are amazing. There are also many fun activities to participate in between sessions.”
The success of the weekend was made possible by the support of youth leaders and volunteers from churches across the diocese, who worked together to create a welcoming environment where young people from different communities could meet, mix and build friendships.
A Young Leader said: “We could have stayed for longer, it’s so much fun. The small group times were a highlight for me, and the England match!”
A dedicated catering team also played a vital role, keeping everyone fed throughout the weekend and helping create a sense of hospitality and care.
The weekend was a powerful reminder of the importance of giving young people space not only to receive, but to lead, contribute and shape the future of the Church.
Amplify Plus, a new opportunity for young people in years 12 and 13 who want to grow in faith, leadership and discipleship. Amplify Plus is a series of three key gatherings across the year designed to help young people deepen their faith, grow as leaders and gain hands-on experience in ministry.
The dates are 3 October, 20 March and at Amplify Adventure next July (dates TBC). More details to come.
