Edit: Xercise November 2024 is cancelled due to insufficient numbers.
Xercise is a new SASRA event, where Christian young people considering a military career can discover what it’s like to serve in the forces as followers of Jesus.
After a successful event last year, we are pleased to announce that Xercise 2024 will be happening 22 – 24 November.
XERCISE 2023
Six young people went on Xercise in April 2023 and completed team building challenges, assault courses, high ropes activities and even went on an early morning run with a former soldier.
I think the activities allowed everyone to get to know each other better.
Over the weekend, SASRA Scripture Readers, an Army Reserve Unit Commander, a former RAF aviator and military wife gave an insight into life in the forces. They spoke of the encouragements and challenges of serving as a Christian and highlighted the importance of spending time with God, fellowship with other believers and church family.
There was lots of time for the young people to ask questions over the residential, and they were able to learn more about the support offered by SASRA and the Armed Forces’ Christian Union (AFCU) to Christians serving in the military.
Xercise was educational, encouraging and gave me lots to think about. It was great to meet people who I can be in contact with in the future.
The activities were very helpful! There was great fellowship and chances to chat and reflect. I was able to introduce myself to military groups and learn about particular challenges of being a Christian in the Armed Forces.
Xercise was concluded with a visit to the National Memorial Arboretum, where SASRA Regional Manager Andrew McMahon held a field service before the young people wandered around the site to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have served before.
The National Memorial Arboretum was also very interesting and started good discussions. The weekend provided a great introduction and guidance into joining the military as a Christian. It was very encouraging to meet people with experience of this and to be told about the support that is available.
PRAY WITH US
- Praise God for the young people who attended our first Xercise event and that they came away with a deeper understanding of being a Christian in the forces. Pray they would look to God for wisdom and guidance as they make decisions for the future.
- Pray for us as we reflect on last year's event and put things in place for this year.
