What's Next? - Caleb Byrne

Hi, I’m Caleb. I was a NEXT Intern at Everyday Church over the last year. NEXT has provided me with so many opportunities, from serving abroad to leading at Everyday Youth, to having some brilliant teaching and building close community with new friends.

I would highly recommend NEXT to anyone. It gives so many incredible experiences and really helps shape you and strengthen your faith.

What have you learnt this year?

I have had both amazing teaching and individual instruction on a range of topics. These came from the brilliant training days where we learnt about a range of theological topics. These were both helpful in the progression of my faith and the practicalities of day-to-day living.

The teaching also came in the form of help from our church and Staff Team. They have given me wonderful opportunities to lead and serve in all kinds of settings, ranging from youth work to worship. They have also helped mentor me, coaching me through challenges in faith and everyday life.

Overall, I have come out of this year more confident than I was when I started and more secure in my faith. I feel ready to tackle whatever life throws at me.

What was a highlight from the year?

My highlight this year was the mission trip to the Netherlands in May. It was so much fun to be with others doing NEXT internships and I’ve made numbers of friends in the churches out there.

In the latter half of the trip we helped serve at a camp and ran the kids work there. At the end of the camp, we gave the kids an opportunity to give their lives to Jesus. 18 of the 30 kids did which was amazing!

So what's next for you Caleb (no pun intended)?

Next for me is uni. Starting in September I’m going to Southampton University to study psychology. I am really happy to be going there to study because I have made several friends and mutual connections this year with people in Southampton.

I can’t wait to get stuck into a church down there and start serving however I can. It will be sad to leave Everyday Church and working for a church for now, but this year has helped me feel more ready for Uni; both spiritually and generally.

If you're interested in doing a NEXT internship at Everyday Church get in touch. NEXT is about giving a year to God to understand what he has next for you. If you are 18-25, embark on the adventure and see what God has in store for you.