Young Leaders gathered from around the country, here is what some of them had to say about the YLC's in 2009..
Anna, Youth Minister, The Kings Church Amersham
Thanks also for the great conference this year, our young people definitely benefited a great deal from it and I have been inspired to start a group for our young leaders after Easter where we can meet and be equipped to lead and step out, challenged to do new things etc.
Tim, Loughborough
Going to the Young Leaders' Conference was luck I guess. I nearly pulled out beforehand - how could I, with all my problems and living a double life for God be of any use or benefit in a place filled with amazing leaders for the future? However, I am so happy I did. In the few days of being there, I found my Father in heaven pouring out His love upon me, and inspiring me in the conversations I had with people. How amazing it was to really have God longing for me to enter a real relationship with Him after my struggles of late.
Since that conference, life has seemed turned around completely. I am now going to church, getting involved in Christians in Sport, and have started being accountable with a mate, with a weekly breakfast to read and discuss the bible also. It is fantastic! I now realise what it means to be a son of the King, of what Jesus' sacrifice really meant, of how amazing it is to have Him as my daily focus. I am free to pursue Him without fear or doubt, for He is the most important thing in my life. Yes, there will be struggles and difficulties along the way, but in Jesus I can overcome them, and I can turn to friends for help. It is not weakness, but strength, to admit when we are in need. It is an amazing feeling, an unrivalled joy at knowing this.
I am nearly 22, and have not fully understood real relationship with God until now - I will endeavour to make up for this lost time at every opportunity.
Shalomme, Peckham
‘At the YLC, the speakers were amazing, the welcome team was excellent and we really so at home that our youth did not feel like leaving that day. We are looking forward to coming next year.’
Lydia, Youth Pastor, Stockport
‘YLC 2009 has left a lasting imprint on the youth of St Chads. At the conference it was so exciting to see them engaging with God, leadership and mission in fresh ways. However what has really caught my heart is the action i’ve seen in the weeks since the conference. Each young person I’ve spoken to has been both personally and practically challenged- they are walking out their faith in fresh, new ways, and naturally reflecting the gospel.’
Rob, aged 15
‘I found YLC really inspiring this year, and I learnt loads- I’m still working through it all. It made me realise that leadership takes loads of different forms, and that I am a leader.