From 6-10 August, more than 350 young people and youth leaders from over 40 countries gathered in Madrid, Spain, for the Eurasia Region Nazarene Youth Conference (NYC). This was the first NYC in Eurasia in over a decade, and it was a powerful time of connection, worship, unity and seeking God together for this generation.

While the event was significant for Nazarene Youth International, a deep sadness accompanied the atmosphere. Participants from South Asia were visibly missing, due to an inability to obtain visas. Attendees remembered their absence throughout the conference.

NYC’s ‘At the Table’ theme invited participants to explore themes like invitation, preparation, and transformation throughout the week, learning more about what it means to accept Jesus’ invitation, take their place at the table, and invite others to join.

Each day included times of worship, teaching, prayer, workshops, and panel conversations. Young people from different countries, cultures, and languages worshipped together, creating moments that reflected the beautiful diversity of the Eurasia Region. There were also prayer stations available to give participants the opportunity to slow down, sit with God, and respond personally to what He was revealing to them.

Speakers from across the region and the global church shared sermons throughout the week, including: David Gonzalez, Global NDI Director; Tori MacKinnon, Scotland; Nabil Habibi, Lebanon; Cezi Glendenning, Croatia; Carl McCann, England and Luke Carrig, Ireland. Through Scripture, personal stories, and practical challenges, each speaker encouraged young people to consider how Jesus is calling them to live, serve, and make space for others at His table.

One highlight was Sugey Salmeron’s ordination. A missionary originally from Mexico, Sugey has served the region for two years. Jurisdictional General Superintendent Fili Chambo led the powerful moment, acknowledging that the young people were standing on behalf of the church worldwide as the church welcomed her as an ordained elder in the Church of the Nazarene.

One of the favourite places to connect was the Snack Shack. Between sessions and activities, it became a lively meeting point where conversations continued and young people spent time together sharing stories, playing games, and enjoying snacks!

The Eurasia ‘World’ Market celebrated the many cultures represented across the region. Each field prepared a display with goods, souvenirs, and other items from the countries it represents. This gave participants an opportunity to discover more about one another’s cultures and buy trinkets from places they may never visit, but know they have family. The market raised more than 959€ , with the funds going to support the work of NCM.

The conference ended with a ‘Heaven Party,’ a joyful time of celebration to close the week. After days of learning about invitation, participation, preparation, and transformation, young people sat around long tables and celebrated what God had done. It was a reminder that there is room at His table and that His invitation is meant to be carried beyond the conference and shared with others.

“What we experienced at NYC was heaven on earth! Young people from over 40 countries, all with their own backgrounds and stories and diversity – but when the Holy Spirit unites us, there are no walls and barriers. I can’t wait to see how the youth from Eurasia return home and take the table with them – inviting everyone to be a part of God’s people” -Amy Warner, Regional NYI Coordinator

“Meeting and connecting with young people from different countries and backgrounds was an amazing experience. But what touched me most was knowing that I am invited to Jesus’ table just as I am. I do not need to earn this invitation through what I can do; I simply need to accept His love and grace. And just as Jesus welcomed me, I am called to invite others to His table, loving and accepting them as He accepted me.” -Hiba Haddad, participant from Jordan.

Although NYC has ended, what God began in Madrid continues. Young people returned to their home countries, churches, and communities carrying new friendships, renewed faith, and a deeper understanding of their place at the table of Jesus. They were not only invited to come and receive, but also challenged to go and invite others.

Join us in prayer for every young person and youth leader who attended NYC. Pray that what the Lord taught them during those days will continue to take root in their lives, and that they will carry it forward with courage and faith. Pray that they will return to their communities ready to serve, lead, and share the hope of Jesus. May they continue extending His invitation so that many more people across Eurasia may discover that there is a place for them at the table of Jesus.

To view the full album of photos from NYC, please click here.