MCI Conference 2026 Through the eyes of the Youth Reps
Our Youth Reps! Back row L-R Esther, Genesis (MCB Youth President), Simon, Alex. Front Row L-R Grace, Hannah, Rachel
Our Youth Representatives for Conference 2026 reflect on their experiences.
Rachel Gault – North Eastern district
‘I felt it was important to be at Conference to learn more about how our churches operate, to make new connections with other young adults, and to learn about different topics that affect my work as a Children and Families Worker.
I was particularly interested in the gender equality report. As a young woman working with all ages, it was encouraging to hear that we as a Church have been making changes so that men and women employed by the Methodist Church are equal and feel welcomed, especially with my mum going into full Ordination this year at Conference.
I enjoyed making new friends with people my age at Conference and having fun with them! I also enjoyed watching my mum go into full ordination; it was a lovely service.
I had a great experience at Conference and learned so much about the Church. I learned new information on what my role as a children’s worker looks like outside the Church such as in assemblies. It was a fantastic opportunity and I met lots of new people!’
Simon Doherty – North Western district
‘It was important for me to be at Conference as it gave me a chance to voice my opinion on different aspects of the Church.
A topic that interested me was about growing Irish Methodism as I find it interesting all the different growth strategies that other churches are using and helping to see what we can use coming from a small church in a rural area.
I enjoyed meeting all the youth reps and spending time with them. I also enjoyed the worship, Bible studies and meeting new people.’
Alex Gracie – North Western district
‘I’d been to Conference before as an observer, but going as a youth rep felt like the right thing to do. I was particularly interested in the Gender equality and Education talks as I have done work in schools before and I want to make sure kids are learning about God in the classroom.
I enjoyed being part of the Worship band at Conference, playing with the rest of the band just helped me feel relaxed and normal.’
I learned that primary schools still have strong Christian roots and preachers on the board of governors are still working to inspire the children.
Peculiar Obianuju – Southern district
‘I enjoyed this year’s Conference even more than the previous year because I was able to socialise more and was more open to meeting new people. The atmosphere was incredibly warm and welcoming, and everyone felt included and involved.
The Conference was especially important to me because it helped renew my relationship with God. Being surrounded by people who take their faith seriously was exactly what I needed at that time. It was encouraging to worship, learn, and connect with others who share the same desire to grow spiritually.
One of the biggest lessons I was reminded of is that God calls His children to be living letters wherever we are, reflecting His love and character in our daily lives. I left the conference feeling refreshed, encouraged, and inspired to continue living out my faith with purpose.’
Hannah Chambers – North Eastern district
‘I found Conference to be really interesting and really enjoyed getting to see how decisions were made within the Methodist Church in Ireland. I also enjoyed spending time with the other youth reps and getting to know each other.
I was very interested in the Gender Equality report over Conference. As a young girl in the Methodist Church it was important for me to see how the Church is moving towards a more inclusive outlook and addressing issues it is facing currently on this topic.
I really enjoyed getting to be a part of Conference through devotions and worship, I enjoyed these moments as it reminded me of the reason I was there, returning my focus to God.
Over Conference I learnt the importance of discussion and debate but also the importance of worship during formal discussions to remind everyone present that even amidst all the reports and debates, God is at the centre of all we do!’
Esther Mpoy – North Western district
‘Being at Conference allows me to understand the inner workings of the Church. Every year I leave feeling more in tune with the leaders of the Church as well as more confident in their teachings.
This year I found the board of education most interesting because there’s a lot of talk surrounding education and religion. It’s intriguing to see how churches are adapting to those changes whilst still maintaining their values.
I enjoy the atmosphere. I love how worship and teachings are still priorities, especially in an environment that’s very business oriented.
At Conference I’m constantly learning that even though you may not agree with someone’s point; coming together to serve Christ is the most important. Mutual understanding is the goal opposed to arguing.’
We are very grateful to the Youth Representatives for their time and their voices.
