Zach Whitted
Engaging the Next generation through Worship, Athletics, and Gospel Centered Empowerment
About Me
I grew up in a small town in NC, working construction, playing sports, and going to church most of my life. I had many encounters with God and His Spirit throughout this time, but I never let the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and his salvation power touch my heart until my freshmen year of college at East Carolina University. From that moment on, I have been led on a journey with Christ to impact as many people in my spheres of influence as possible. This has led me to working at the Mr Beast YouTube channel briefly, Building Hope Community Life Center as a Middle/High School boys director for a few years, and as a youth leader at GCF church for a number of years. These opportunities have helped give me unique insight into the state of heart and mind of the next generation; one that is flooded with rapid technological advancement, constant pressure from social media, and numerous “influencers” vying for their attention. With depression, anxiety, a lack of identity, and hopelessness on the rise within this generation, what can they turn to for peace, comfort, and true revelation? The greatest “influencer” to ever live, Jesus Christ.
Worship
In the age of filters, modifications and editing, there is a yearning for authenticity in the hearts of many. In our youth in particular, I have seen a growing desire for true worship and encounters with Gods presence. Worship is one of the most vulnerable environments in which our hearts and minds are centered and captivated by God. As a worship leader at GCF and a writer for Saved by Grace music, I am in a unique position to lead this next generation into the presence of God through training, teaching, and empowering them as worship leaders. I am coordinating with GCF church to raise up a youth worship team that will engage and lead their peers into worship encounters, host youth worship nights, and expand the influence of young minds in creating Christian music.
Athletics
As a former athlete, I have experienced firsthand how easily our identity can become wrapped up in our ability to perform and win. I have been given access to student athletes through Faith Christian Athletes (FCA) to directly speak into their lives, and lead them to an identity that is eternal in Christ Jesus. I intend to train and empower athletes on the field as well through various forms of coaching on some local teams. The opportunity has also arisen for me to come on as a Chaplain for a local High School Football team and walk alongside young athletes directly as they traverse life on and off the field.
Empowerment
This generation is hungry for something true. As our youth come to a true understanding of their identity and calling in Christ, the need for discipleship is rising. My goal is to focus on helping young men develop a deeper understanding of scripture, their role in the church and community, and exploring the spiritual gifts that God has placed inside each and every one of them. Through small groups and meetings we will engage and mold them into the men and leaders we desperately need at this pivotal moment in society; Meek, Wise, Bold, Faithful. (Men With Brighter Futures)
