Challenge is the EFCA’s biennial national gathering for students entering 7th grade through completion of 12th grade. We are committed to helping you plant and water the gospel among the next generation. We want students to experience the joy of knowing Jesus and helping others do the same. Challenge blends aspects of a conference, a mission trip and camp to create a catalytic environment that moves beyond the mountaintop moment to building missional momentum within your group. As one youth leader explained: “The afternoon experiences help us as a group to learn together either through training, outreach or recreation. Learning side-by-side and experientially at the same time is a greenhouse atmosphere for healthy disciple-making relationship growth.”
This Years theme is "EVEN HERE" In the Book of Psalms, one truth resounds again and again: God’s nearness. In every place, every circumstance and every unfiltered emotion, the psalmist returns to the same reality: God is with us.
“Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.” (Ps 139:7-10) From desperation to delight, from doubt to devotion, the Psalms show us a loving God who meets His people in every moment. At Challenge 2026 (July 13-17), we’ll step into this ancient collection of prayers and songs to encounter the same unchanging truth: the loving presence of God transforms every place we stand. And as students return home, they'll carry with them the deep assurance that, no matter where they are or what they face, God is even here.
Date: July 13-17 Where: At Convention Center in Kansas City, MO (Group will stay in a hotel near convention center) Who: 6th-12th Grade (Just Completed) Price: Early Bird Discount (before April 12th) $550, After April 12th price increases to $600
Watch the videos below to hear more about the theme and mission of Challenge!
