Methodist Youth Conference 2006 to Focus on Bread of Life

Hundreds of young people will be making their way to Norfolk next week for the Methodist Youth Conference 2006 where they will partake in debate, worship, entertainment, friendship and food: both nutritional and spiritual.

From 17-19 November, the Conference will be at Chapel Field Road Methodist Church in Norwich.

The annual Youth Conference from 17 to 19 November will give young members of the church a chance to raise their ideas and concerns, share in worship and fellowship and support each other in their Christian lives.

For many of the 13 to 25-year-olds who will join in the event, it is a chance to catch up with old friends, make new ones and discuss passionately issues that affect them and the wider church.

Speaking on the theme of this year's Conference, outgoing Youth President Kevin Jones said; "This year, we're reminding people that 'You are what you eat'. It's more than a comment on our dietary habits - it's about thinking more seriously about how we are spiritually 'fed'. Jesus said; "I am the bread of life" (John 6:35) and we hope that this year's Conference will be an opportunity for young people to be filled with God's spirit and be inspired to go out and make a difference in the world."

Among the topics of discussion at next week's Conference are plans for a month of prayer for interfaith relations to be held in February next year and issues such as the future of the Youth Conference.

The young delegates will join Saturday night with the President and Vice-President of the Methodist Conference for a formal banquet. During the weekend, representatives can also attend a variety of workshops including creative worship, 'The Mysteries of the Rosary', and a discussion on the Anglican-Methodist Covenant led by Revd Graham James, the Bishop of Norwich.

BBC Voices will be bringing the latest in green screen technology to the Conference to capture representatives' thoughts about the big issues of the day. The Norfolk Council for Voluntary Youth Services will use these to inspire debate among young people about their needs and concerns and to benefit the community. BBC Voices will also be asking "What makes you happy?" for next year's Comic Relief.

The Conference will end with the induction of the new Methodist Youth President for 2006-7, Rob Redpath. Rob said; "We live in exciting times! The Methodist Church in Great Britain is starting to change, and for the better. My priority for the year will be exploring the concept of discipleship and the challenges that we face as disciples in the 21st Century. Youth Conference gives the young people of the Church a chance to have their say on what really matters. We're passionate about God, Society and the Church and this is one way that we can make a difference."