All about DNA

DNA and DNA+ are schemes run by the Pioneer Network of churches for Christians of any age. Both schemes cover 11 months from October to August, and both are very different.

DNA is the first year and can be completed full or part-time. It involves volunteering for a church, taking part in a 2 week trip abroad, helping with under 11s at Spring Harvest, and manning a Summer event.

Bethany did DNA in 2008/2009 and said it was the most mind-blowing experience of her life.

"It basically showed me that Christianity is about so much more than going to church on Sunday mornings. It taught me that as Christians we can all have a personal relationship with God - now, that's not wishy-washy emotional stuff. It's real. It means the same God who created the universe is actually interested in our lives. It took me all year to grasp that, because it's not an easy concept. When people hear it they expect it to be instant, like a huge blinding light moment, but it's not; it involves doubting God's existence, struggling with sin and distractions, stepping out and doing crazy things, being afraid and facing disappointment... but through all that if you can believe God is right beside you even when you can't see Him, it'll be the best feeling in the world. And that's what DNA did for me."

"This year (2010) I'm hoping to do DNA+, which is much more part-time - it means attending a 5 day block each term, plus a project with my church. I've chosen to do the Prophecy stream, because I believe that God wants to use me to speak into other peoples' situations. It sounds big and grand but it can be scary, especially if I've never met the person before."

If you want more details about DNA, you can visit their website at www.dna-uk.org