The event was a joint initiative by the Dioceses of Bristol and Bath & Wells, aimed at those who work with children and young people in parishes.

The day included a key note address from Jim Davis of the Children's Society, workshops on everything from godly play, Messy Church, creative crafts to all-age worship, reconnecting with confirmation and exploring the Bible, as well as ample opportunity to discover new resources in 'The Marketplace'.

Many commented on how great the day was and the big question that was being asked was; 'Will there be something similar next year?'. Dan Jones, the youth and Children's adviser for the diocese, simply responds; 'Watch this space!'

"The Next Generation Conference really was amazing because it inspired me with new ideas, motivated me with other ways of looking at issues and gave me the realisation that there are lots of us who want, feel called and love working with children and people and helping them on their journey with getting to know our Lord.

"We have already met with our Rector about moving some on the ideas we came away with such as the fantastic ideas for all age Worship and we are also planning on setting up regular prayer stations in our church too. Also, myself and others in our Mothers Union are talking about setting up an 'Open the Book' team and starting discussions with our local primary schools.

"The worship both at the beginning  and end of the day  was incredibly moving and gave me a real nudge, to 'be still, quiet and listen and know that I am Lord'. My life is so full, so busy, and it was nice to be reminded to be still and Listen because God wants to talk with me, Let him in!
It was like that message was for me and me alone! Sorry if that is too personal, but the day for me, really was amazing, I truly felt the spirit was with us all, throughout the day, God is Good! and thank you for organising it!"

Mandy Newport
Volunteer Youth Leader
Holy Trinity, Kingswood

"Six youth and children's work leaders from our parish responded to publicity about the Next Generation Conference. They organised themselves to venture into another Diocese (Bath and Wells) for the day, not knowing who they would meet - and they had a great time! It seems that all six found something stimulating in each of the three workshop sessions they attended. One is already trying to book a Godly Play practitioner for our parish Easter Trail day in March and another has been helped to decide which resources we should use for our on-going children's work.

"The opening worship was well received too with graphics which really brought home the rich significance of  Psalm 46's recommendation 'Be still and know that I am God'. From our conversations this left a very positive impression on others - as did the dedication of 250 people turning up in one place to develop their role as leaders and helpers in children and youth work. Well done, Diocesan Officers!"

Revd Mark Pilgrim
Vicar of St Peter, Henleaze

"I really enjoyed the Next Generation Conference. The workshops were really useful for getting ideas and inspiration for what to do in youth group sessions, but I think the best thing was the chance to meet up with 200 other people who are working with children and youth around the area. I arrived knowing no-one and within a few minutes of walking in the door was talking to people and swapping ideas and thoughts on youth work. I would definitely recommend it to others, it was a brilliant day."

Anna Hedley
Volunteer Youth Leader
St John's Haydon Wick

You can see more of what people said about the conference on the Bath & Wells Diocese website.

One of the day's highlights was worship, including a reflection on Psalm 46 "Be still and know that I am God" which you can find here.