The Presbyterian Church in Canada

Coordinator: Jess Foy

jfoy [at] presbyterian.ca

1-800-619-7301 ext. 255

Audacious Hope: A New Joint Gathering for Youth and Young Adults

In 2024, The Presbyterian Church in Canada (PCC) and The United Church of Canada (UCC) came together for the first time to host a groundbreaking joint event for youth, young adults, and their leaders under the inspiring theme Audacious Hope. This partnership was born from the rich traditions of PCC’s Canada Youth and UCC’s Rendez-Vous events, uniting two vibrant communities in a shared vision for the future.

Rooted in the realities of a post-pandemic church and a deep desire for ecumenical relationships, this collaboration reflects a commitment to connection, renewal, and bold faith. The event offered an engaging mix of worship, small groups, recreation, keynote speakers, and delicious meals, creating space for meaningful conversation and authentic community. Participants experienced moments of joy, reflection, and spiritual growth, celebrating what it means to live with audacious hope in today’s world.

Together, these churches opened a new chapter—one where Christian youth, young adults, and their leaders from across Canada gather not only to learn and grow but to dream boldly for the future of the church.

SOME DEFINITIONS:

DISCIPLESHIP GROUPS

A special time set aside for youth, young adults, and youth leaders to make connections with others in their Stream from across the country. The groups provide a safe space for participants to express who they are, what they are experiencing in their life and faith, and to be comfortable asking questions, voicing their fears, naming their doubts, and telling the stories of how they are (em)bracing for impact.

A unique curriculum is written specially for both the Youth and Young Adult Streams. Morning sessions will include a variety of games, arts, discussion, learning, and more. Afternoon sessions will offer time for reflection and storytelling. The Youth Leader Stream features a morning speaker training leaders in Peer Ministry (hyperlink); a way to help their young people pastorally care for one another. Afternoon sessions will offer time to share their lived experiences and offer practical support to one another.

YOUTH STREAM RESIDENCE GROUPS

These are geographically-based housing groups that check in with their residence floor Youth Leader each night to confirm everyone has returned safely. Youth are welcome to gather in their floor lounge to share reflections on their day, relax in the lounge to play games, go to bed, or simply spend time together. It’s also a chance to meet new people from your area and build connections to take home. Quiet hours begin at midnight every night.

RECREATION

Recreation bookends each day of the event. It includes everything from big games and community building activities to dance parties and crafts to board games and beyond! Energizers are a much-loved daily tradition, blending popular music and simple movements that everyone can enjoy; whether they sway in the crowd watching, follow the adapted moves, or giving it one's all. - there is something for everyone.