The National Youth Convention (NYC) is a unique opportunity, held
every four year years for Mennonite Brethren high school students to
gather together from a wide variety of churches. This event, the
largest gathering of MB’s in the US, is a creative mix of music,
worship, speakers, workshops, and ministry opportunities.
National youth gatherings are a staple of the larger US Conference
vision. At similar events over the years youth have been called to make
first time commitments to Jesus, heard a call to full-time ministry,
and resulted in countless changed lives.
Anaheim '07
At the previous
event, Anaheim ’07, the planning team made a strategic shift of
location from a camp in the Rockies to a hotel in the city. The
decision to move to Anaheim arose out of a clear set of values – one of
which is to emphasize missions and service opportunities. These
opportunities are more readily available in a metropolitan venue and
they support and connect with the heart of who we are as a denomination.
One
of the other key values of the youth conference is the ability and
opportunity to gather together as young people from within the MB
denomination. Gathering together to celebrate our Oneness, as well as
our diversity, was a significant part of the ’07 event.
Youth Taskforce
The US Conference
youth taskforce is organized with support of from our three MB
educational institutions: Tabor College, Fresno Pacific University, and
Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary. Looking ahead, the taskforce has
already been busy planning for ’11. We are seeking to build on the
momentum of Anaheim and return to another city location with ministry
opportunities for the students.
Ministry Quest
An ongoing program for youth is Ministry Quest, sponsored by MB Biblical Seminary. See the MBBS section for information about this ministry and leadership opportunity.