Young Anglicans from across the Ecclesiastical Province of Ontario will gather this August in Port Colborne for leadership development, spiritual formation, and community-building under the theme Cultivating Good Soil.
The Anglican Foundation of Canada has awarded a $7,500 grant in support of the upcoming Provincial Youth Council Gathering 2026, helping young Anglicans from across the province gather this August for leadership development, spiritual formation, and community-building.
Hosted by the Provincial Youth Council, the gathering will take place August 27–30, 2026, at Jericho House under the theme Cultivating Good Soil (Luke 8:4–15). Young Anglicans aged 15–23 from across the seven dioceses of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ontario will come together for worship, discussion, leadership development, and relationship-building.
“This council is already proving to be a meaningful and effective forum for young people to share their voices, shape ministry, and exercise leadership within the Church,” said Archbishop Anne Germond, Metropolitan of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ontario. “The proposed youth gathering in August is a natural and important extension of this momentum. In a geographically large and diverse region such as Ontario, opportunities for young people to gather, connect, and grow together in faith are invaluable.”
The gathering marks the first major initiative of the newly established Provincial Youth Council, which was formed following Provincial Synod 2024 as part of a broader commitment to strengthen youth ministry and leadership development across the Province.
Programming will include worship, keynote presentations, facilitated discussions, and opportunities for peer learning and reflection. Organizers say the event is intended not only to foster spiritual growth and discernment, but also to equip young people to return to their local communities with greater confidence, stronger relationships, and practical tools for ministry and leadership.
Funding from AFC will help offset travel, accommodation, meals, and program costs, with a particular emphasis on ensuring equitable participation for youth from northern and remote dioceses.
Archbishop Germond said the gathering reflects a growing recognition across the Province that young people must be supported not simply as participants in the Church, but as leaders within it.
“It is a sign of hope and renewal, and we are inspired by the energy, insight, and faith these young leaders bring to our communities,” she said. “This retreat will help to build a sense of shared identity and mutual support that will strengthen the Church for years to come.”
Register Now: Ontario Youth Gathering Registration (Aug 27-30)
https://www.dioceseofalgoma.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Youth-Council-Event-Poster.pdf