The annual GAiN Europe conference brought together more than 250 communication, media, and IT leaders from 37 countries in Pravets, Bulgaria, from November 12 to 16, 2025.

Organizers also highlighted the growing participation of young professionals within church communication and media, reporting that 65 attendees were under the age of 35, including department directors, associate directors, and social media managers.

During the event, young participants met informally on several occasions for worship and fellowship. Daniel Daoud, Hope Channel manager for the Swedish Union of Churches Conference, said these gatherings provided a supportive environment for connecting with peers facing similar responsibilities.

He said it was “a nice place to meet people who think like you and understand you”, adding that being at similar stages of life made it easier to relate to one another and exchange advice. He also noted the value of having “a group of friends to relax and have fun with after a long day of intense meetings”.

Organizers said evening activities helped strengthen relationships beyond the conference sessions. Participants joined in games and informal conversations, and the game Catch Canaan became a popular feature of the gatherings.

On Sabbath (Saturday) morning, young attendees held a bible study based on the book of Joshua. Priscyla Luz, a contracted research assistant at Hope Channel International, said the gathering reflected unity despite cultural and language differences.

She described the youth group as “a place where I can feel connected with people from around the world”, noting that although participants came from different countries, cultures and languages, they were united by the shared purpose of “sharing Jesus with the world”.

Returning participants said the youth-focused fellowship added value to the wider GAiN Europe experience.

Reneta Pirindzhieva, a media technician for Hope Channel Bulgaria, attending for the third time, said the group created a welcoming space for honest conversation about church communication and ways to reach younger generations.

Marti Szydłowska, a social media specialist for Hope Media Poland, said the daily moments of conversation, prayer, and encouragement helped participants recharge and strengthen their commitment to ongoing service.

The original article was published on the Trans-European Division news site.