Faithful discipleship in a hostile world
BOOKINGS NOW OPEN
5–8 January 2026, Yarnfield Park
There’s no better way to launch into a new year of ministry than gathering with hundreds of like-minded, gospel-hearted servants at the Growing Young Disciples Conference 2026.
Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or stepping into children’s, youth, or families ministry for the first time, this is your home from home—a place of deep fellowship, rich teaching, and shared purpose. Across the week you’ll be sharpened and refreshed through faithful Bible teaching, stirred by powerful plenaries, and equipped through an outstanding range of seminars and ministry streams.
This year, our theme is drawn from the soul-strengthening pages of 1 Peter. In a world that feels increasingly foreign to biblical faith, we are called not to retreat in fear, but to live as joyful exiles—anchored in hope, marked by holiness, and built together as God’s people on mission. Through our expositions in 1 Peter 1–2, we’ll trace how a living hope in Christ steadies us through trials, how holiness in a hostile age sets us apart for God’s glory, and how our identity as God’s chosen people fuels a life of proclamation and courage. For those nurturing the next generation, these truths are essential: young hearts need to know where true hope is found, how to walk in obedience when the world shouts otherwise, and how to stand together as a counter-cultural community, shining the light of Christ. This is not escapism—it’s preparation for faithfulness. Come and be equipped to disciple exiles who sing with joy in the dark.
Streams
Anchored in Hope: Discipling the Next Generation to Stand Firm in Christ
How do we disciple children and young people to live with unshakable hope in Christ’s kingdom in a world that constantly pulls them toward temporary comforts, self-reliance, and fear? This stream will equip children’s and youth ministers to cultivate a kingdom-first mindset, prepare young people to persevere through suffering, and help them live faithfully while longing for Christ’s return. This stream is designed for those who want to raise a generation of resilient, gospel-driven young disciples who live in the present with their eyes set on eternity.
Holiness in an Unholy World: Discipling the Next Generation to be Set Apart
In a world that celebrates self-expression, moral autonomy, and instant gratification, how do we disciple children and young people to pursue holiness? This stream will equip children’s and youth ministers to teach biblical holiness in a way that is compelling, grace-filled, and transformative. We will explore how to root young people’s identity in Christ, help them resist cultural pressures, and train them to live as distinct disciples in an unholy world. Through biblical foundations, cultural engagement, and practical application, this stream will provide the tools needed to disciple young believers to be in the world but not of it—living lives of joyful obedience that glorify God.
Whole Church Discipleship: Equipping Every Generation to Grow Together in Christ
What if every member of the church—children, youth, and adults—studied the same Bible passage each week? Whole Church Discipleship is a model that strengthens family discipleship, fosters intergenerational unity, and equips parents to continue faith conversations at home. This stream will explore the theological foundations for this approach, practical strategies for structuring an aligned curriculum, and steps for transitioning a church effectively. This stream will help you gain the tools to create a culture where discipleship is a shared responsibility, ensuring children and young people remain deeply connected to the life of the church into adulthood. Whether your church is considering this model or looking to refine it, this stream will provide a roadmap for long-term gospel impact.
Building Relationships That Lead to Discipleship: Foundations for New Children’s and Youth Ministers
For those starting out in children’s and youth ministry, the key to effective discipleship isn’t just great teaching—it’s building relationships of trust and gospel influence. This foundational stream will equip ministry leaders with biblical principles and practical strategies for forming meaningful, disciple-making relationships with children and young people. We will explore how to create a relational culture in ministry, engage young hearts with the gospel, and navigate common challenges in building trust and connection. Whether you’re just stepping into ministry or seeking to strengthen your relational approach, this stream will provide essential tools to help you invest in young lives for long-term spiritual growth.
Learning to Lead in Children’s and Youth Ministry: Character, Competency, and Care for Lasting Impact
Effective leadership is essential for the flourishing of children’s, youth, and family ministries and the right care of God’s people. This stream is for those serving in these ministries who want to develop the character and competency to lead wisely and well. Leadership is not just about managing teams or running programmes; it is about shepherding God’s people with integrity, wisdom, and Christlike humility. This stream will explore what it means to lead with conviction and clarity, to build and care for volunteer teams, to organise ministry effectively without burnout, and to cultivate longevity in leadership. Whether you are leading a small group of volunteers or overseeing a large ministry, this will help you grow in the skills and spiritual resilience needed to disciple others, develop leaders, and sustain a thriving ministry for the long term.
FAQS
What time does the conference start?
- Registration: From 2:30pm
- First session: 4:30pm
What should I bring?
- The usual essentials! Don’t forget your Bible, pen, and notebook.
- If you’d like to play football, bring your football gear as there’s usually a game or two.
- Fancy a walk? There are lovely countryside walks near Yarnfield Park, so pack your wellies if you’d like to get some fresh air.
- There will be a bookshop, a Costa Coffee (if you want more than the free stuff), and a bar, so bring a means of payment. Yarnfield Park is a cash free venue.
What can I leave behind?
- Leave your worries at home!
- No need to bring towels or bedding—these will be provided.
Are all sessions compulsory?
No, we want you to be refreshed in ways that suit you best. This might mean an afternoon nap instead of attending a seminar or an early night instead of staying up for late-night conversations. However, we strongly encourage you to attend the morning and evening sessions and choose the afternoon activities that will be most beneficial for your ministry.
When does the conference end?
The conference concludes with lunch on Thursday, and attendees usually leave around 1:30pm.
Where is Yarnfield Park and how do I get there?
Yarnfield Park Training & Conference Centre is in Stone, Staffordshire.
By Road
- Junction 14, M6: 10 minutes from Yarnfield Park
- Junction 15, M6: 15 minutes from Yarnfield Park
NB. If approaching Yarnfield Park from the south on leaving the M6 J14 your Satellite Navigation system may direct you up the A5013/ Eccleshall Road. However the quickest way is to take the A34 north towards Stone and enter Yarnfield Lane at the Wayfarer pub on the left.
There is ample parking for those travelling by car.
By Air
- Birmingham Airport: 1hr by car or train, 49 miles
- Manchester Airport: 1hr 10 minutes by car or train, 47 miles
- East Midlands Airport: 1hr 10 minutes by car or train, 48 miles
By Rail
- London to Stafford: 1hr 15 minutes, trains run every half hour
- Birmingham to Stafford: 30 minutes, trains every half hour
- Manchester to Stoke: 35 minutes, trains every half hour
- Leeds to Stoke: 1hr 45minutes, trains every half hour
- Cardiff to Stafford: 2hrs 40 minutes, trains every half hour
- Edinburgh to Stoke: 3hrs 40 minutes, trains circa every hour
For specific train and ticket information please visit: www.nationalrail.co.uk
By Taxi
Please find relevant taxi company information in the local area below. There are a number of taxi companies available offering a variety of services to suit your requirements. Please contact the companies directly for the most up to date information.
A taxi rank is in use at Stafford Train Station however, you will need to prebook a taxi for Stone Station.
There is a guest drop off point close to reception for guests with mobility challenges. Please see Yarnfield’s Accessibility statement for more info.
How much does a ticket cost and what does it include?
Your ticket will entitle you to:
- 3 nights of accommodation at Yarnfield Park from 5th-8th January 2026
- All meals throughout the course of the conference (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea & Coffee)
- Access to all conference talks, seminars and activities.
Ticket prices for 2026 are as follows:
- Single Occupancy (Event delegate requiring a room by themselves) – £400
- Twin Occupancy (A reduced single ticket price for those willing to share a twin bedded room with one other person) – £350
- Double Occupancy (Married couples sharing a room with a double bed) – £750
