Back at Conference 2020, I wrote an article about being the young person stuck behind the organ. It was a bit ‘tongue in cheek’ – but an article aimed at challenging where the presence of young people was at the most important Connexional event on our church calendar.

I’m happy to report that Conference 2022 was filled with young energy and vibrancy – from participation in weekend services in dance and music, facilitating plenary sessions and discerning what might be next for the church intergenerationally, to bringing to Conference decisions that would have implications on the present and future of our Haahi and how it sees young people as a priority in the life of the church. Conference 2022 was a challenging, rewarding and ultimately shaping experience for young and old in attendance.

I want to acknowledge President Peter and Vice-President TeRito in particular, who attended our Tauiwi Youth Conference earlier this year and actively participated, listened and responded to many of the issues that were raised. Meeting young people where they are is the crucial starting point.

In looking back and moving forward, Conference was able to pass some important decisions which we believe can help us to not only keep and grow the rangatahi who call this church home, but deepen their sense of belonging and identity in our Methodist whānau. There now lies before the church a huge amount of work to be done, but work that we believe is now fully possible and within our reach to complete. Conference 2022, as difficult as it was at times, has given young people the ability to dream within the life of the church. This is a powerful thing that we are excited to see come into reality. Thanks be to God for each person, young and old, who continues to journey with young Methodists in our Haahi.

Final words from our leaders:

“Informative” – Lasi Moli, VTOA

“The discussions that were happening were a challenge to follow, but motivated to push through as witnessing history being made was sensational and inspiring. Ka mau te wehi 👏🏽” – Pua Siulangapo, VTOA/CSI

“Very interesting how views start as very different and then we end up at the same place. A place of peace and understanding.” – Sina Pupulu, Sinoti Samoa

“It was heavy yet instructive to reflect on the church's history, and present and future aspirations. I’m glad to have witnessed improvements that were long overdue, especially in youth ministry! Mālō Sisu 🙌🏾” – ‘Amelia Takataka, Waikato Waiariki

“Attended my first Conference in 2010 in Palmerston North, and to see the youth ministry still growing in 2022 in Kerikeri tells us the Methodist Conference recognises the importance of youth voices in our churches. Dynamics for youth ministry continue to evolve, but youth ministry principles still remain the same; young people are the church of today. Challenge is walking together and collaborating with our elders and those before us, and recognising that our impact is made when we recognise and embrace the history of our church. Conference 2022 we are seeing fruits of labour started years before, and coming to fruition today! Keep the faith, Fakafetai ki he Eiki!” – Henry Hoglund, VTOA

“A conference full of hearty debate! Also moments of celebration:

- Hui Poari being reinstated

- the evangelical network no longer needed for the purpose it was created for

- financial growth for our Children and Youth ministry, just to name a few!

Met some amazing young people who are proof that the church is in good hands.” – Siu Williams-Lemi, CSI

“Loved learning the inside of our Church and just being able to witness such an amazing breakthrough for our young ones.” – Make Puamau, Wasewase

“Conference was drawn out, yet full of celebration and history making decisions about who we are as Te Hahi Weteriana o Aotearoa and what we value.” – Rachel Hickling, CSI

“Really good to listen to the voices of our youth during Conference, an opportunity to practice leadership, practice courage and show faith centre stage in the heart of the church; Conference.

To see young people who grew up in the Methodist church, baptised in our Methodist beliefs graduate, share their views on faith, and to see ex-vice president Edwin T proud youth member in his time and to see our very own TeRito P take centre stage in leading Conference, is a true reflection of the journey of youth ministry in the Methodist church.

What’s the spirits saying to the church? Don’t be afraid. Be real and let the children live.” – Osaiasi Kupu, VTOA