Dave Newton went to the Hand in Hand conference for the first time and came away convinced that this conference is key to encouraging and equipping churches and parents to reach the next generation for Christ.
As the skies drizzled on a chilly Friday afternoon in February, the excitement surrounding the 2025 National Children’s and Family Ministry Conference, Hand in Hand, was anything but damp. Over 600 attendees arrived at the Bethel Convention Centre in Birmingham, where the warm, vibrant welcome was evident from the moment they stepped onto the red carpet. This year, the event found a new home, bringing with it a fresh energy and a renewed sense of purpose in children and families ministry.
The Hand in Hand Conference has long been a key event for those in the field of children and families work, but this year listening to those attending, something felt different. With a strong focus on resourcing, equipping, and investing in the mission to reach children and families, the conference attracted a diverse array of organisations exhibiting. As delegates entered the venue, they were met with a rich tapestry of resources aimed at supporting the tireless volunteers, parents and professionals who make children’s ministry a reality week after week. For many, the conference offered a welcome opportunity to see their work—and their contributions—celebrated.
“I’ve been to many conferences over the years, including some in America, but I’ve never left a conference so excited about children’s ministry as I am now after attending Hand in Hand.”
One attendee, particularly moved by the variety of resources available, noted how rare it is to find such a rich offering. “It’s a privilege to see so many organisations and resources all in one place, and this is just the beginning,” they said, eagerly anticipating the teaching sessions yet to come. The conference, had a theme that perfectly captured the spirit of the gathering: “Commission.” This challenged attendees (including parents, volunteer leaders, paid workers and church leaders) to consider their collective responsibility to reach the next generation—a challenge that was met with palpable enthusiasm.
The seminar program was packed, featuring over forty speakers who shared research-based insights and practical advice on a wide range of topics. From outdoor ministry and supporting dying children and their families to raising up children as leaders and engaging kids in schools, there was something for everyone. One participant shared that they left the conference with notebooks full of valuable insights and practical strategies, eager to implement them in their own ministry. Seminars were presented in various formats, including panel discussions, rapid-fire 15-minute slots, and deep dives into crucial topics. There was something for every learning style, making it an event that truly catered to the diverse needs of those present.
But Hand in Hand was more than just an event where parents and ministry leaders were inspired and equipped—it was an event where the next generation was actively involved. Young people were seen serving as stewards, photographers, and members of the worship team, modelling what it means to invest in the leaders of tomorrow. Their energy and dedication to the work of the conference was a powerful reminder that the ministry to children is not just about the parents and other adults who serve, but about raising up the children and young people themselves to be leaders in the kingdom of God.
At the heart of the conference was a core team of experienced children’s practitioners who are committed to partnering together for the advancement of children’s ministry. Coordinated by Olly and Helen Goldenberg, the team reflected the unity and collaboration that are central to the mission of Hand in Hand. “God is stirring up something new in this nation in ministry to the next generation,” shared Olly, reflecting on the event. “It has been such a privilege to join with others in the children and family ministry community to drive forward this kingdom agenda.”
This sense of unity was echoed by many attendees. One participant shared, “I’ve been to many conferences over the years, including some in America, but I’ve never left a conference so excited about children’s ministry as I am now after attending Hand in Hand.” This excitement was evident throughout the four main sessions, which featured powerful worship led by Helen Yousaf and Bible-based teaching that challenged everyone to play their part in the Great Commission.
The generosity of the organisations attending the conference was also on full display, with one lucky delegate winning a massive hamper of children’s resources—a thoughtful gesture that left her not only thrilled by the prize but also wondering how she was going to get everything home on the train!
Another feature of the conference this year was the provision of free places for senior church leaders, allowing them to experience firsthand the impact of investing in children’s ministry. One senior leader who attended shared, “This year, I brought two people from my church. Next year, we’re bringing the entire children’s ministry team.” Judging by the energy and passion at Hand in Hand, it’s clear that many others will follow suit in future years.
It was clear that Hand in Hand was not just a place to gather new resources or connect with like-minded people. It’s a call to action—a call for each attendee to recognise their role in reaching the next generation with the good news of Jesus Christ. The challenge to “Commission” is one that cannot be ignored. As the conference organisers shared, “We are living in a time when the need for ministry to children and families is greater than ever, and we must rise to meet that need together.”
Looking to the future, the conference’s team is already planning for next year, with Hand in Hand 2026 set to take place on February 6-8 at the Bethel Convention Centre. With a theme of “Kingdom Builders,” the organisers are hoping to double the number of attendees, a goal that seems entirely within reach given the enthusiasm surrounding this year’s event. If this year is anything to go by, Hand in Hand will continue to be a pivotal gathering for those passionate about investing in the lives of children and families.
In a year when many are weary from the challenges of parenting and working with children, Hand in Hand provided a much-needed reminder: the work we do with children is vital, and the future of the church depends on it. So, if you’re looking for a place to invest your time and energy next February, there’s no better place to be than Hand in Hand 2026.
