October 24-26, 2025

Athens, GA

As we examine our own hearts we can look to the Bible to see different ways others’ hearts were changed. Saul, for example, was a fierce persecutor of early Christians. He was blinded on the road to Damascus by a divine light and heard the voice of Jesus. After three days of blindness and prayer, Saul's sight was restored, and he was baptized, becoming Paul, a passionate follower of Christ. His transformation from enemy to evangelist made his story compelling, demonstrating the power of redemption and the possibility of change.

As followers of Jesus, our hearts have been changed. The transformation that we experience is a launching point to share this radical gift of abundant life with others. Paul’s transformed life is a model for us as leaders. He boldly proclaimed the Gospel and called up other leaders to do the same.

Take action on the trust you have placed in Jesus. You are being given opportunities to serve and share. What are you going to do with your next step?

FAQs

Who can attend Cultivate?

Cultivate is designed for high school students (9-12th grade) who are currently leading in your student ministry or who you see have leadership potential. The content of Cultivate is focused on developing spiritual and practical leadership skills in these students through intentional small group discussion, breakouts, panels, main stage talks and worship.

How many adults do I need to bring?

You need to bring enough adults to provide transportation for all of your students attending the event. Our SWAT Leaders do not drive students, so each church is responsible for transporting students from the host site to host homes.

What are the lodging accommodations?

Your students will be placed in host homes in the Athens area with a trained SWAT Leader and students of the same gender from other churches. All of our host homes and leaders are background checked and are personal or church connections of SWAT staff or SWAT leaders. Youth Pastors and other church chaperones are placed in host homes in the Athens area with the adults from other churches.

What is included in the cost?

Each student and adult will receive a t-shirt and journal, as well as meals from Friday dinner through Sunday breakfast.