Faith for the Next Generation
The NAPF & HOPE Youth Gathering is an annual event bringing together young people across our association. Held in conjunction with the NACCC Annual Meeting and Conference, the NAPF & HOPE gathering offers a welcoming environment where young people can deepen their faith, learn from one another, and experience the wider Congregational Christian community.
NAPF
National Association of Pilgrim Fellowship
NAPF is our high school-age youth association. It offers the opportunity to meet and connect with Christian peers from across the country in a fun, engaging, faith-filled environment.
Through worship, music, small-group discussions, and acts of service, NAPF participants in the Youth Gathering explore their faith while building meaningful relationships. Adult counselors lead small groups, and youth may have opportunities to lead worship and prepare morning or evening devotionals. Service projects are a highlight of the gathering, providing opportunities for participants to put their faith into action.
Alongside these meaningful experiences, there’s plenty of time for fun, laughter, and making friendships that can last a lifetime.
HOPE
Heritage of Pilgrim Endeavor
HOPE serves young adults who have graduated from high school through age 26. HOPE participants in the Youth Gathering enjoy worship, speakers, small-group discussions, and mission work to encourage spiritual growth and fellowship. Its programming emphasizes deep conversations about faith.
Peer-led small groups create space for participants to share their experiences, ask questions, and learn from one another.
HOPE also offers leadership opportunities through prayer teams, small-group leadership, and involvement with the NACCC’s Youth Task Team. Together, these experiences create an environment where young adults can grow in faith, develop their leadership skills, and build lasting friendships.
Planning for NAPF & HOPE
NAPF and HOPE gather annually at the same time as the NACCC Annual Meeting and Conference, typically within driving distance of the AMC location, allowing young people to participate in their own programs while remaining connected to the wider NACCC community.
Information about the upcoming gatherings, including dates, location, registration, and programming, will be shared on the event page as details become available. Contact us for more information about participation and how to get involved.
Financial Assistance
Scholarships to be used toward registration are often made available through the NACCC’s Growth Ministry Council. Eligible applicants include any youth affiliated with a church that maintains membership in the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches wishing to attend the NAPF & HOPE Youth Gathering, who have financial need, and have shown outstanding development in Christian character, participation in local youth programming, and community service.
Many youth around the country spend time raising funds to offset the cost of attending NAPF and HOPE, but not all youth can afford to attend. You can make a contribution to the Youth Assistance Fund through the NACCC and have the satisfaction of helping to bring our youth closer to Christ through this exciting gathering of Congregational Christian youth.
