The young adult and you: what to expect from a youth at conference.

Within 15 minutes of registering, I found myself in two stereo typical youth and young adult situations. First I was asked by a fellow, older, delegate why his cell phone was not working. It was an easy fix a simple holding down of the power button returned the phone to life. Before I could find a place to get a bite to eat I was asked to blog about my time here at GC. These experiences quickly reminded me that I’m a “young-un” a demographic both coveted and misunderstood by some of the older members of our denomination. We don’t all “tweet” or blog or wear sandals to church. We do not all have liberal “lets change everything” ideas. The young peoples of the church are just as diverse as our older brothers and sisters in the faith. We have new ideas but are also eager to listen. We have opinions but are listening for others.

I pray that not only will the youth and young adults be heard but that all peoples who call themselves United Methodist and more importantly followers of Christ will come together and listen to God’s plan for all of his children.

On a side note there is nothing wrong with asking a youth for help with your technology, this would actually be a great way to make new connections.


Like what you're reading? Support the ministry of UM News! Your support ensures the latest denominational news, dynamic stories and informative articles will continue to connect our global community. Make a tax-deductible donation at ResourceUMC.org/GiveUMCom.

Sign up for our newsletter!

Subscribe Now
Social Concerns
The Rev. Keri Cress. Photo courtesy of the Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference.

Love of neighbor drives advocacy in political spaces

The Rev. Keri Cress doesn’t consider herself a political person, but she says her faith moves her to act.
Social Concerns
Cliff White. Photo courtesy of the author.

Another United Methodist way to look at high court’s voting decision

Commentary writer pushes back on United Methodist statement calling for political action over recent ruling on the Voting Rights Act.
Worship
Retired Bishop Peggy A. Johnson. Photo courtesy of the author.

Helping people ‘hear the Gospel’ in new ways

May is National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, a good time for United Methodist churches to examine ways to improve hearing accessibility.

United Methodist Communications is an agency of The United Methodist Church

©2026 United Methodist Communications. All Rights Reserved