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.