From 5th–8th March, I had the privilege of attending the Unify Conference in Budapest, hosted by the small but incredible team from YMCA Hungary. I was joined by Kathy, our Finance Manager, Naomi, our Chair, and colleagues from across Ireland Ash, Chaplain from Newcastle, Avencia from Cork, and Alex, our Chaplaincy Coordinator.

For me, Unify is a special part of the YMCA family – a Christian mission network across Europe that comes together to pray, worship, and strengthen the Christian mission of the YMCA. Every two years, we meet in person for a conference (the last one was in Prague in 2024) and each summer young people gather for Unify youth camps across Europe. We had 5 young people attend from Belfast last summer.

What struck me most in Budapest was the chance to pray, worship, and learn alongside YMCA colleagues and young people from more than 30 nations. Despite our different cultures, languages, and contexts, there was a real sense of unity – a shared faith in Jesus and a deep commitment to keeping Christian mission at the heart of the YMCA.

One of the most powerful moments for me was listening to young people talk about what faith means to them in contested spaces – in countries where governments try to tightly restrict religious expression. Their courage, authenticity, and determination to live out their faith was both humbling and inspiring. It reminded me why it’s so important to give young people space to explore faith, ask questions, and grow.

The Unify movement is part of a growing global network of Christian mission networks, and it’s exciting to see new networks emerging each year. It’s a reminder that while each YMCA is local, we are also part of something much bigger.

At Belfast YMCA, we welcome everyone unconditionally, whether they have faith or not – that will never change. At the same time, I am committed to continuing to invest in opportunities for young people who want to explore faith, stay true to the YMCA’s Christian mission, and experience the freedom to be authentic in their journey.

Chris Cupples
CEO – Belfast YMCA