My 3Gen experience

3Gen was a truly enriching experience. I have a passion for young people to feel seen and supported in carving out their identity within spaces, and being part of the 3Gen experience did not disappoint.

There was a rich tapestry of experiences to explore! I wandered through, taking part in spaces dedicated to meditation, sports, and creative expression—a highlight being experimenting with sound, creating rhythms with layers and textures. Worship was woven throughout the event, with an opportunity to have communion and feel grounded in the Lord’s presence.

During a JPIT session, I was blessed to have been in the presence of powerful, passionate young people uplifting their voices to engage in conversation on the Methodist Church’s history with slavery. It was honest, raw, and rooted in a shared desire for transformation and justice.

I was part of the Refresh team, which means I had the duty of keeping the young people hydrated. Parched teens were surprisingly a pleasure to serve, and I valued every encounter and spontaneous conversation. Naturally, my community organiser hat went on. I found myself in conversation with youth, asking them what themes they’d like to explore at a district level—responses being spiritual growth, climate change, and Christian identity in an earthly concerned world.

I was deeply grateful for the opportunities to network and meet new people from my district and beyond. It felt like sowing seeds for future collaboration. Some initiatives echoed practices of FRCO, i.e., transforming conversation, which involves groups listening deeply to one another, fostering relationships, and cultivating a space to feel empowered to act.

Indoor camping is as glamorous as it sounds, yet every day there was a sense of purpose and commitment—but most importantly, energy and joy. I was proud to represent a team dedicated to continuing to facilitate spaces for children and youth to encounter God together. A heartfelt thank you and utmost gratitude to the Methodist Church for placing great efforts to enable young people to just be—safely and freely—while exploring interests and discovering new ones. I am grateful I got to share it with everyone who contributed as a whole. One church, one love for Christ—when empowering youth, the Church’s future will be alright!

Renee Nembhard Andrade, District Faith Rooted Community Organiser