The Boys’ Brigade (BB) is more than just a weekly activity; it’s a vital ministry of the church, dedicated to shaping young men and advancing Christ’s Kingdom. For new officers and companies, understanding these opportunities is key to becoming a dynamic and visible part of your church family. This article highlights how the BB can serve your church, with a focus on active participation, community outreach, and lasting impact.
“The Boys’ Brigade transformed my life. It gave me a sense of purpose and discipline that I couldn’t find anywhere else. Now, as an officer, I get to pass that on to the next generation, helping them discover their own potential and faith.” – Mr. Folorunsho Odusanya, Company Captain, 25th Lagos South Company
1. Participating in Key Church Services
Your company’s involvement doesn’t have to be limited to the enrollment service. We can and should be a part of the church’s regular worship life.
- Church Parades: The BB provides a visible sign of the church’s commitment to youth ministry. Regularly attending a church service in full uniform helps integrate our members into the wider congregation. It also shows the church family the boys you are mentoring.
- Harvest Festivals: The BB can play a prominent role in celebrating the harvest. This can include a fanfare band display before the service. It might also be during the service. They can salute church leaders. Finally, they can lead the parade after the service.
- Easter Day Rally: Mark the significance of the resurrection by having your company’s band play before the service. This not only adds to the celebratory atmosphere but also serves as a powerful announcement of the risen Christ.
- Burial Services: When a patron, dignitary, or their family members pass away, the BB can honor their memory. They do this by playing the “Last Post” salute. This is a respectful and meaningful way to participate. However, remember that BB members should not serve as pallbearers. They should only do so if the deceased was a member of the Brigade.
- Founders’ Day: Our history is important. We celebrate Founders’ Day, typically on the last Sunday of October. We can do this with a remembrance service. This honors our founder, Sir William Alexander Smith.
2. The Power of Boys’ Day Thanksgiving
Every year, The Boys’ Brigade celebrates Boys’ Day Thanksgiving, usually on the Sunday after May 16th. This is an excellent opportunity to showcase your company’s work and spiritual growth.
- Special Program: Host a unique program for the boys on this day, with activities that celebrate their achievements and commitment.
- Thanksgiving Service: The company can lead the church service. They can also participate in it. Boys may read scripture. They may lead prayers or provide music.
- Post-Service Parade and Awards: After the service, a parade is a great way to showcase the boys’ discipline and skills. Conclude the event by awarding boys who have demonstrated excellence over the past year. This encourages hard work and shows the church the positive impact of the BB.
3. Being a Force for Evangelism and Outreach
The core purpose of The Boys’ Brigade is to advance Christ’s Kingdom. This means our activities should extend beyond the church walls and into the community.
- Church and Children Evangelism: The BB band can provide music for church rallies and evangelism events. Our presence adds a sense of order and engagement to these activities.
- School Outreach: Your company can be a powerful tool for evangelism in schools. Visit neighboring schools to encourage boys to join the BB. You can also work with the school administration to start a new company.
- Community Service: Engage in outreaches to out-of-school or homeless children in your area. These activities not only help those in need but also demonstrate the love of Christ in a tangible way.
The Boys’ Brigade: A Deeper Impact on the Church
Beyond these specific events, The Boys’ Brigade serves as a vital engine for the church in three profound ways:
- Developing the Next Generation of Leaders: The BB’s structured program teaches boys responsibility, teamwork, and service. This system of progression through ranks is a powerful tool for mentoring and training future church leaders. Boys who grow up in the company are often the ones who return as young adults to become officers, Sunday school teachers, and volunteers, ensuring a continuous supply of trained and spiritually grounded leaders for the church.
- A Bridge for Community Outreach: For many boys and their families, the BB company is their primary, and often only, link to the church. By offering a fun, adventurous, and safe environment, the BB attracts boys who might not be interested in traditional church programs. This opens a door for them to engage with Christian values and provides a trusted connection for their families to the wider Christian community.
- Nurturing a Masculine and Relevant Faith: The BB’s holistic approach to development addresses the concern of young men leaving the church. It offers a masculine and relevant faith. This approach aims to keep young men engaged. The BB addresses the issue of young men leaving the church. It focuses on Spiritual, Physical, Educational, and Social growth. It presents a robust and engaging expression of faith, connecting Christian values with discipline and a sense of adventure. By keeping young men engaged through their teenage years, the BB helps them develop a lasting faith. This faith is active, practical, and a foundation for their lives.
Join Our Mission!
By actively engaging in these activities, new companies and officers can ensure the Boys’ Brigade is not just an organization that meets in the church but an essential and vibrant part of the church’s mission and ministry.
Are you ready to make a difference? We invite you to learn more about our work and find out how you can get involved. Visit the Lagos South Battalion Council website for more information on our curriculum, upcoming events and how to start a company in your church.
Lagos South Battalion Council, The Boys Brigade Nigeria 