Challenge 2026
Challenge is the EFCA’s biennial national gathering for students entering 7th grade through completion of 12th grade.
What is Challenge?
Since 1988, the Evangelical Free Church of America (EFCA) has challenged students to live on mission for Jesus through student conferences. Grounded in the EFCA Statement of Faith, Challenge brings trusted EFCA speakers to teach gospel-centered disciplemaking to the next generation.
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 a camp to create a catalytic environment that moves beyond the mountaintop moment to building missional momentum within your group.
Theme
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, 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.
Registration
Registration for Challenge 2026 opens on January 15, 2026.