About 30 youth and staff gathered at Camp Rockfish for the 75th Annual Conference Session for Youth (ACS) on February 27 through March 1, 2026. This was the first ACS since 2021, when ACS Legislative Affairs transitioned to a part of the summer conference youth event, Breakaway. 

On Friday night, the Design team opened the weekend with small-group meetings and powerful worship that set the tone for the weekend. Rev. Dr. Gloria Winston, our Pastor in Residence for the weekend, offered a profound message around the first day’s theme, “Do No Harm.” She encouraged us to consider how God calls us to care for others and how we can faithfully show up for our siblings in Christ when they need support.

Saturday began with morning watch and Legislative Affairs. Our Conference Youth Legislative Affairs Person, Ashleigh Moseley, with support from the Resolutions Committee, led us in Legislative Affairs, both through mock resolutions to explain the process and through official business.

On Saturday afternoon, the youth engaged in more Legislative Affairs, led by Conference Youth President Matthew Wong. Throughout Saturday, the youth presented, debated, and voted on 14 resolutions. Resolution topics included mental health resource access to youth, financial literacy, safety in school, stock ownership, and more. Youth advocacy for social issues they care deeply about reinforces their commitment to caring for God’s creation and to bettering the world in which we live.

Saturday evening, we continued with worship centered around the theme “Do Good.” Rev. Dr. Winston encouraged us to think about how we can lead by example and do good things every day. After worship, we gathered in small groups and later came together as a whole group for fellowship around a bonfire.

Sunday morning opened with morning watch and worship. Rev. Dr. Winston closed our weekend by reminding us that no matter what we go through, keep God at the center and “Stay in love with God.” We closed worship by sharing in communion, reminding us of God’s grace and unity found at Christ’s table.

Throughout the weekend, the Holy Spirit was moving through the advocacy, worship, laughter, and camaraderie of NC Conference Youth at ACS 2026. We left Camp Rockfish renewed and excited for what God has planned next for our Conference Youth.

Article and photos by Freya Dahlgren.