Looking Back: Youth Worker Gathering 2023
2 June 2023 · Onelife Team
In May 2023 we held our first-ever Youth Worker Gathering at St Paul’s Hammersmith. More than 60 youth workers chose to join us for a day full of connection, worship, teaching, and ministry—with Jesus right at the very centre of it all.
In our main teaching sessions—led by Liz Bewley and Pete Wynter—we opened the Bible and explored together what God wants to speak into our leadership. The toolkit sessions were where we got really practical with hands on teaching, and creating space to work out ‘how does this land on the ground in my everyday youth ministry?’
We loved having our friends Pippa Baker, Josh Green, and Zeke Rink join us for a leadership Q+A panel. It was so encouraging to hear stories of how God is working through their lives to create environments where young people all over the UK encounter his presence. We loved hearing their insight and own experiences of how God is moving at this moment in the church and how his presence can shape our week-to-week ministries.
There were lots of moments to connect with each other too—whether over a breakfast together to start the day, lunch in the sunshine, or over cups of coffee and donuts during the breaks. There was also a real sense of fellowship seeing youth workers bless one another through prayer and words of encouragement throughout times of ministry. It was beautiful seeing friendships, both new and old, come together and connect.
We’re already excited for our next Youth Worker Gathering in 2024. Here’s what some of the youth workers who joined us had to say!
‘The atmosphere was one of honour and utter dependence on the Holy Spirit being present.’ — Keli Nelson, St Barnabas
‘It was such a privilege to be in a room filled with like-minded believers who all have the same heart and passion for young people to know Jesus intimately.’ — Samantha Foster, Bell Farm Church
‘The wealth of knowledge, tools and wisdom imparted will cultivate character-first, fired-up young people – even in the face of life’s toughest challenges and circumstances. I’m feeling rejuvenated and committed to seeing God work in the lives of my young people’ — Youth Worker
‘I have been to many youth leader conferences and this one wasn't trying to sell me anything, but it was bringing me simply into the presence of God. Also, the hospitality was overwhelming, all the break time food and lunch was amazing and then to be toasted to with a glass of Prosecco just broke me – in a good way!’ — Youth Worker
‘I came to the event feeling weary and with little joy for my job. But I feel totally refreshed and encouraged to finish this term well. Thank you!’ — Youth Worker
