Young People’s Ministry Ignites Spirit and Leadership Across Generations
At this year’s Annual Conference on May 15, Young People’s Ministry took center stage in a vibrant celebration of faith, leadership, and innovation. From joyful “egg cha cha” moments to bold new initiatives, the Baltimore-Washington Conference affirmed its deep commitment to children, youth, and young adults.
The gathering highlighted two major developments in Children’s Ministry: the return of the Early Childhood Education Conference on August 7, and a $1.25 million Lilly Endowment grant launching The Constellation Project. This initiative will help churches fully integrate children ages 3–12 into weekly worship through training, resources, and intergenerational engagement.
Members were encouraged to save the date of June 27, 2026, for an Intergenerational Worship Forum.
Youth Ministry lifted up the success of the March IGNITE Conference, with plans already underway for next year. Upcoming events include a June planning party and fall campfires at each retreat site, offering fun, worship, and connection for young people across the region.
Young adult leaders shared powerful insights from a recent listening session, calling the Church to be more inclusive, honest, and engaged. Many expressed the need for mentors and safe, affirming communities. Leaders urged congregations to “show up and listen,” and to invest in mentorship that nurtures belonging and spiritual growth.
The next IGNITE event will be held March 20-22, 2026.
Campus Ministry reported exciting momentum, with seven ministries now active across four districts. More than 400 students have been engaged this year through worship, service, interfaith dialogue, and leadership development—evidence of a growing movement of discipleship and justice on college campuses.
Retreat and Camping Ministries reported that they are approaching numbers that they haven’t seen in 20 years. During their presentation, they emphasized the impact of year-round retreats, not just summer camp. From youth groups to schools and community organizations, retreat centers are becoming hubs of spiritual renewal and connection—welcoming groups of all sizes with activities that build faith, confidence, and community.
Members also celebrated the ministry of Cheryl Cook, who has led Young People's Ministry for the past 12 years. She will be succeeded by Natiya Bennett, who will serve as the Baltimore-Washington and Peninsula-Delaware Area Young People’s Organizer. She comes to this position as an associate pastor at Towson UMC and the campus ministry coordinator at Towson University, where she grew the ministry from 1 to 30 students.
Together, these stories painted a powerful picture: young people are not just the future—they are leading now. And the Church is rising to meet them with support, space, and spirit-filled opportunities to thrive.