GC45 WF37: YCOM01 National Youth Council (NYC) for Summer 2025

One group did not discuss this proposal. More than half supported the proposal. There were strong affirmations of the importance of youth in the life and the governance of the church including cultivating their leadership to shape the future directions of the church. Some groups spoke to ensure the Indigenous youth participation and diversity of the representation in a potential National Youth Council. 

More than half who supported the proposal had concerns. Two of the main concerns were related to funding and honorarium.  

• Given the financial realities of the church, there were significant questions about how the proposed full-time staff position of the General Council Office would be funded. There were questions about how this proposal fit with the strategic direction and Toward 2035 and the growth initiative. 
• The payment of honoraria for the proposed National Youth Council members was considered problematic, and some wondered if it was legal. 

There was another question regarding the equity representation and the representation from the Regional Councils. A few noted that not every Regional Council has a youth staff or committee. This may privilege some Regional Councils who have stronger youth structures. 

Regarding the establishment of the proposed National Youth Council, some had questions about the work of the Council, wondering if it would only focus on youth-related matters which would appear to limit their contributions concerning all matters in the church. Some expressed a concern this proposal would separate Youth from the General Council. 

A few groups wondered if having a set number of youth commissioners would be possible. And if it were, they were unsure if it would require a remit. 

Therefore, the Way Forward Team proposes:  

That, in response to YCOM01 National Youth Council (NYC) the 45th General Council, 2025:  

Direct the General Secretary to form a task group to consider this proposal along with the discussion notes to address the concerns around funding, governance, and strategic direction and bring a recommendation to the next meeting of the 45th General Council in 2026.