5 Apr 2026, 20:39IM Communications
Youth Lead Worship and Outreach Across Ireland
Global Youth Day was celebrated across the Irish Mission, with young people taking the lead in both worship services and outreach. In many churches, youth were actively involved in leading services, through music, preaching, and various parts of the program, demonstrating their passion and commitment to ministry.
In Cork, the celebration extended into the community in a particularly meaningful way. The day was enriched by a powerful sermon from Pastor Jefferson Melki, Youth Sponsor in the Irish Mission, who opened Global Youth Week with a call to move from performance-based religion to a genuine relationship with Christ. Reflecting on Philippians 3, he challenged both youth and adults to let go of “confidence in the flesh”, relying on heritage, activity, or outward appearances, and instead seek a personal, transforming experience with Jesus.
He addressed the realities of identity struggles, loneliness, and the pressure to appear strong, encouraging openness, authenticity, and spiritual growth. Following this spiritual emphasis, the youth took the message beyond the church, gathering on Grand Parade to share God’s love in practical ways. They distributed literature and small gifts, offered prayers and “Free Hugs,” and even held a public outdoor moment of worship, engaging passersby with warmth and purpose.
The Youth from Longford Church celebrated it by going out and sharing the message of the cross. They distributed popcorn with the message: “It’s free—He paid it all,” also referring to Christ’s passion. With this approach, many responded by saying “amen,” many were willing to accept some books that were donating, and we had some meaningful conversations about Jesus. "The popcorn was just a fun way to attract people; once they were more open to listen, we could share with them and also hear their stories", explained Pastor Tiago Rossendy, pastor of the Longford congregation.
In Belfast, Global Youth Day was marked by vibrant youth leadership throughout the day. Young people led the worship service, including praise time and the sermon, creating an atmosphere of heartfelt praise and spiritual reflection. The theme Communion in Action was lived out as they spent time mentoring Pathfinders and Adventurers after the service, strengthening bonds of faith and fellowship. Looking ahead, the youth are continuing this spirit of service by organising a volunteering initiative with Storehouse, a charity dedicated to supporting local families facing hardship. Belfast Church cherishes its longstanding partnership with Storehouse, and they happy to see the youth building on this tradition, demonstrating compassion and commitment to making a positive impact in their community.
Across the island of Ireland, Global Youth Day became a powerful expression of faith in action: young people not only led in worship, but also reached out to their communities with joy, creativity, and purpose.
Global Youth Day was celebrated across the Irish Mission, with young people taking the lead in both worship services and outreach. In many churches, youth were actively involved in leading services, through music, preaching, and various parts of the program, demonstrating their passion and commitment to ministry.
In Cork, the celebration extended into the community in a particularly meaningful way. The day was enriched by a powerful sermon from Pastor Jefferson Melki, Youth Sponsor in the Irish Mission, who opened Global Youth Week with a call to move from performance-based religion to a genuine relationship with Christ. Reflecting on Philippians 3, he challenged both youth and adults to let go of “confidence in the flesh”, relying on heritage, activity, or outward appearances, and instead seek a personal, transforming experience with Jesus.
He addressed the realities of identity struggles, loneliness, and the pressure to appear strong, encouraging openness, authenticity, and spiritual growth. Following this spiritual emphasis, the youth took the message beyond the church, gathering on Grand Parade to share God’s love in practical ways. They distributed literature and small gifts, offered prayers and “Free Hugs,” and even held a public outdoor moment of worship, engaging passersby with warmth and purpose.
The Youth from Longford Church celebrated it by going out and sharing the message of the cross. They distributed popcorn with the message: “It’s free—He paid it all,” also referring to Christ’s passion. With this approach, many responded by saying “amen,” many were willing to accept some books that were donating, and we had some meaningful conversations about Jesus. "The popcorn was just a fun way to attract people; once they were more open to listen, we could share with them and also hear their stories", explained Pastor Tiago Rossendy, pastor of the Longford congregation.
In Belfast, Global Youth Day was marked by vibrant youth leadership throughout the day. Young people led the worship service, including praise time and the sermon, creating an atmosphere of heartfelt praise and spiritual reflection. The theme Communion in Action was lived out as they spent time mentoring Pathfinders and Adventurers after the service, strengthening bonds of faith and fellowship. Looking ahead, the youth are continuing this spirit of service by organising a volunteering initiative with Storehouse, a charity dedicated to supporting local families facing hardship. Belfast Church cherishes its longstanding partnership with Storehouse, and they happy to see the youth building on this tradition, demonstrating compassion and commitment to making a positive impact in their community.
Across the island of Ireland, Global Youth Day became a powerful expression of faith in action: young people not only led in worship, but also reached out to their communities with joy, creativity, and purpose.
