Transform: A fresh way to equip the next generation

The countdown to Transform 2016, a brand new discipleship initiative for young adults on 1st – 2nd April is well underway, but the closing date for registration is fast approaching.

For many young people across the Presbyterian Church in Ireland (PCI), transitioning into adulthood – getting that first job or becoming a full–time student, graduating, getting married, buying a home, the list goes on – can sometimes be challenging on so many different levels, and this is the same for the Church as well.

Rick Hill, PCI’s Discipleship Development Officer, remembers that it was a time that seemed to flash by in an instant, yet the whirlwind contained some of the most life shaping of events.

“It is a critical stage when twenty somethings wonder whether to stick around in church or make a break for it, and all too often this age group is missing in many of our congregations. 

“We need to rediscover and share with the young adult generation what a disciple of Jesus might look like at university today. We should be helping a young Christ–follower think what it means to be on mission in their workplace, for example. We need to connect, equip and inspire a generation of young adults and this is what we hope Transform will do,” Rick said.
In recognising the huge discipleship opportunities that lie within these transitional times, the Council for Congregational Life and Witness has reimagined The Word’ Bible Conference into Transform. The event is a fresh approach to discipling a fresh generation of young adults across this island that will take place over 36–hours in Belfast’s Cathedral and Titanic Quarters. Watch Rick, and some of the contributors, talk about Transform 2016, in this video.

The overnight gathering on 1st to 2nd April is for all young adults across the denomination. With main sessions in The Mac, Transform will be packed full of trigger talks, seminars, Bible teaching, worship, discussion, activities and space to connect. It is designed to better connect them to Christ and the Church, equip them as disciples and inspire them to carry that into their every day lives.

“We have a whole host of great contributors, such as Michael Wylie and Peter Lynas who will be part of Transform 2016, as well as a late night gig by local musician Jamie Neish. We are really excited by what is beginning to emerge. We have some amazing young adults in our Church who we need to nurture, equip and support as they continue on their spiritual journey at a time when life begins to change radically,” Rick said.

Booking closes on Monday, 29th February. For more information and to register see Transform 2016 here. You can also email [email protected] or call: +44 (0)28 9032 2284.