Local Christian youth groups and teenagers have been invited to fellowship with one another at a local event called The Merge. There, the church groups will combine for games, worship, and teaching. Their theme for this year is “Chasing” and is tailored to the desires that teenagers have (whether it be relationships or satisfaction) and how to pursue them with integrity.

Though certain youth groups have been invited specifically, that’s no deterrent to anyone else who wants to participate who may not be part of a church. The Merge is designed to give everyone a chance to act together as a community. All are welcome.

The event will run from Monday, July 24 to Thursday, July 27 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the River Community Church, 1351 E. G Street. Pre-registration can be completed at www.themergeoakdale.com. For more information, contact Pastor Ryan Poling at (209) 847-6930.

At The Merge, teen members of the community, despite what church they belong to, are encouraged to merge together into one church for four nights. Bands from all the churches will combine to play together, and everyone will get an opportunity to participate in hallmarked games from each church like Kajabe and dodgeball. At the end of each night, there will be an auction with prizes like a 50” flatscreen TV, a GoPro camera, a car stereo with installation, gift cards, and much more. Teens can earn “fake money” for the raffle by attending, bringing friends, learning verses, winning games and more.

Also, guest speaker MMA fighter Michael McDonald will be attending one of the nights.