AEYF-ER Juniors' Conference Recap

This year’s Juniors’ Conference, held at the Ararat Church in Salem, New Hampshire, brought together nearly 50 middle and high school students from 8 churches across the Eastern Region for a powerful weekend centered on the theme “Rewrite: Living God’s Story.” Grounded in Isaiah’s vision, the conference focused on how God transforms lives when we learn to see, receive, and respond to His call.

Nico Hanessian, from UACC, delivered the main messages throughout the weekend, guiding students through three key movements: seeing God clearly, receiving His cleansing and forgiveness, and responding with obedience.

Our sessions started with Hebrews 1 - the “Hall of Faith”; where we find a long list of witnesses to the good things that God has done. Their stories reveal the true hero -Jesus, who gives strength and wisdom to those who put their faith in Him. The central theme was drawn from the calling of Isaiah, who encountered God in all His glory in a profound vision that became a turning point in his life. Through this biblical example, students were challenged to reflect on the many ways that God still calls His people today. As we respond to His invitation and say “Here am I. Send me”; we subject ourselves to the transformative work of the real hero, the ONE who has the power to change our lives and rewrite our stories to reflect Him.

Worship and singing, led by Moses and Sona Kazanjian, remained a highlight of the weekend. Small group discussions further helped students process the messages and connect them to their personal experiences, making the theme even more tangible and meaningful.

Saturday afternoon was full of fun and fellowship with roller skating and rollerblading at a local rink. Students also enjoyed plenty of free time playing ping pong in the church basement and games outside on the lawn. Many new friendships and memories were made while strengthening existing ones.

Whenever a conference is hosted by one of our AEUNA Eastern Region churches, it strengthens community and deepens connection in powerful ways. One church member reflected on how meaningful it was to now be the one welcoming and hosting youth, after once being on the receiving end of similar hospitality.

As the weekend came to a close, the impact of the conference was evident. Students left not only with memories, but with a challenge—to live as people whose lives are continually being rewritten by God. Isaiah’s story served as a reminder that when God calls, He also equips, and when He rewrites our stories, He does so with purpose and love.