What is CEYC?

CEYC stands for Church of England Youth Council and is the official body that seeks to represent a youth voice to the wider church.

To do this we meet as a Council twice a year; once in November for a residential and once in April for a day meeting. At these meetings we discuss and debate topics relevant to the church and to young people – anything from the environment to women bishops to the well-being of young adults today.

Structurally, we aim to have two representatives, aged 16-25, from all 43 diocese within the Church of England.

Within CEYC there are three elected representatives who represent a youth voice at General Synod. Although we don't have voting rights, we are able to speak in any debate and have been received warmly when done so. At Synod, members of CEYC have contributed to all manner of debates, including ethical investment, women bishops and the environment.

All members of CEYC are divided into Regional Groups, corresponding to the regions into which Diocesan Youth Officers are divided. There are funds available for regional events or meetings and CEYC is looking forward to developing these areas.

We also have strong ecumenical links with members of groups such as FURY, the Methodist Youth Executive, the Quakers and members of the Evangelical Church in Germany all becoming welcome visitors to CEYC meetings.

Some of our members have also had various international opportunities, flying to places such as New York and Germany to attend meetings such as those of the Ecumenical Youth Council of Europe, General Convention of the Episcopal Church, and as part of the Anglican Observer group to the UN.