Student Ministry DNow

Belong: 2026

Belong is a weekend on March 13-14 created for students to step away from the noise, be truly known and welcomed, and be reminded of something deeply true: you belong to God—and you belong to one another.

At a camp many of our students already love, we’ll share meals, laughter, worship, service, and honest conversations centered on Jesus. This weekend is about strengthening faith through real relationships—growing in confidence, connection, and joy as we learn what it means to walk with God together.

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March 13-14, 2026
Friday - Saturday
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New Life Camp
9927 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh, NC 27614

What is Belong?

Belong isn’t just another retreat—it’s an intentional time for students to grow spiritually and relationally while enjoying life together. We believe students are shaped not just by what they hear about God, but by how they experience God with others—through teaching, worship, service, shared moments, and fun that strengthens real relationships.

Our hope is that students leave this weekend more confident in who they are in Christ and more connected to friends who encourage them to walk in His love.

Ready to join us at Belong?

Belong is a meaningful weekend designed to help students grow in their faith, build lasting friendships, and experience community in a safe, Christ-centered environment. Space is limited, so we encourage families to register early.

Register today and save your spot ➝

Registration Pricing

Student Cost: $50/student

Student + Siblings: $25 per sibling

Family Maximum: $145

Frequently Asked Questions

Belong is a full weekend of shared life designed to help students grow in faith and connection. Students can expect:

  • Sound, engaging teaching centered on Jesus
  • Worship that is participatory and reflective of our church’s values
  • Meaningful service opportunities completed together
  • Shared meals and time for conversation and connection
  • Fun activities that build memories and friendships, including a Silent Disco, The BIG HOOPLA relay race, and free time to enjoy New Life Camp’s facilities

Every part of the weekend is designed to balance spiritual growth, meaningful relationships, and joyful fun.

Belong is hosted at New Life Camp, a local camp many of our students already know and love.

Students will not stay overnight at the camp facility.

Families are welcome to organize sleepovers for students on Friday night if they choose. Details and reminders will be shared closer to the event.

Belong takes place Friday–Saturday.
Specific drop-off and pick-up times will be communicated to families prior to the event.

Dietary restrictions are a field in the registration process. We will seek to accommodate dairy and gluten intolerances.

Belong is open to students in grades 6–12.

A packing list will be sent out before the weekend, but students should plan to bring:

  • A Bible, a pen, notebook
  • A refillable water bottle
  • Any personal items they may need during the day

Students should wear comfortable, appropriate clothing suitable for a variety of activities, including worship, service projects, games, and time outdoors at camp. Closed-toe shoes are recommended.

If you have questions or need more information, please contact our student ministry team. We’re happy to help!

Contacts: Billy Edwards (bedwards@bayleaf.org), Maura Nettles (mnettles@bayleaf.org), and Cade Nettles (cnettles@bayleaf.org)

If you have students who will be on medication prescribed by a doctor or who need to bring over the counter medicines while they are at DNow, please place their medication in a Ziploc bag with their name and instructions for administering the medication. Please bring their medication to the check-in table when they are dropped off for DNow.

  • If you need to get in touch with your female student, please call Maura Nettles.
  • If you need to get in touch with your male student, please call Cade Nettles.

Their phone numbers will be provided at check-in.

Questions? Contact our team.

We are happy to answer any DNow-related questions you have.

Billy Edwards

Co-Director of Student Ministry

Cade Nettles

Co-Director of Student Ministry

Maura Nettles

Director of Student Girls Ministry

Jeff Salisbury

Associate Pastor of Family Ministry and Mobilization

Kelly Burtick

Administrative Assistant to Discipleship Ministries
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