Boys Don’t Sing? Yes, They Do—When Worship Feels Right and They Do It Together
People often say, “Boys don’t sing.” But that’s not true—especially when worship is designed to connect with them and when it’s experienced together. While singing is just one part of our spiritual life, it can be a powerful expression of faith. At BB Queensland’s Leadership program (for young men aged 15+), we’ve seen boys freely and joyfully engage in moments of praise and reflection. Leadership is truly a community of young men seeking God.
To illustrate this, here’s what some of the participants have shared:
“It’s some of the most meaningful worship I’ve ever experienced. At Leadership, it feels like we’re singing to God, not just for ourselves. I can’t sing well, and lots of the boys around me can’t either—but that doesn’t matter. When we all sing together, it’s something special. It feels real and from God.” [1]
“The worship and the friendships—it’s just amazing. I’ve never experienced anything like it.” [2]
Faith-Filled Moments at Leadership
One of the standout features of the Leadership program is how it creates space for spiritual connection. Two key ingredients make this possible: it’s designed to suit boys, and it’s done in community. As one young man explained:
“The devotions and worship have always stood out since Stage 1. They’re really different from what I experience at church, and they help me feel closer to God.” [3]
Many participants say these moments feel different from other camps or church services. For example:
“I’ve been to other camps where the worship is like party, party, party. Leadership is different.” [4]
A staff member also observed:
“It’s powerful to see a group of boys singing together in a meaningful way—something you don’t always expect from young men.” [5]
Doing It Together
Spiritual connection at Leadership happens in many ways:
- Getting up early for Bible teaching
- Sitting quietly in nature with God
- Asking deep faith questions
- Serving others like Jesus did
- Leading with confidence and conviction
Even after big events—like returning from a wilderness challenge—boys often want to gather and celebrate together, expressing gratitude and joy. These moments show that faith is something they choose and enjoy.
In addition to these shared experiences, reflection also shows up in quiet moments—when boys pray, support one another, or simply sit in God’s presence. Whether it’s a solo walk in the bush or a heartfelt conversation with a chaplain, these moments matter deeply.
Ultimately, the two keys—boy-friendly and doing it together (which is also a Leadership slogan)—make these experiences unique. This isn’t a criticism of other youth camps or church services. Instead, it’s a gift and a challenge: something BB can offer to youth and young adult ministry, both in local churches and around the world.
[1] Smith. Growing Young Leaders, p. 1.
[2] Smith. Growing Young Leaders, p 191.
[3] Smith. Growing Young Leaders, p 42.
[4] Smith. Growing Young Leaders, p 191.
[5] Smith. Growing Young Leaders, p 38.
A fantastic reflection, Don! So great to have the example of Leadership illustrating what being a ‘Movement of Worshippers’ looks like in practice, within our existing BB life, in Queensland.