SCM Conference 2026 - God’s Story: Southampton
Southampton City Mission’s God’s Story Conference brought together around 130 people from churches across the city for a vibrant and encouraging day of worship, teaching, and connection at Highfield Church.
Our guest speaker, Sam Ward from The Message Trust, gave his first talk reflecting on the “quiet revival” and what it looks like in our communities right now. He shared many inspiring examples of how God is at work in people’s lives, encouraging us to have renewed confidence in the Gospel, to make ourselves visible, being ready to welcome newcomers and to prioritise their discipleship.
Afterwards, with much to reflect on, everyone joined one of twelve discussion groups. Together, groups explored questions such as, “What excites you most about these stories of God quietly moving in our land?” and shared their own experiences of seeing God at work.
During the coffee break guests visited the exhibition area, where local Christian charities showcased their work across Southampton and the Oasis Christian Bookshop stall.
For the second talk Theo Amer, Senior Leader of New Community Church in Southampton, shared encouraging stories of God moving locally and was joined by guests from different churches who spoke about what they have seen happening in their own communities.
As a response to this second talk, attendees could either join a second discussion group or take part in a prayer walk. Around 30 people chose the prayer walk, led by Southampton House of Prayer. Splitting into smaller groups, they prayed in different areas—some along Highfield Lane for peace and justice among residents, and others near the university, lifting up students in prayer. Those who remained in discussion groups were challenged to reflect on their own spheres of influence and consider where they could grow in sharing the Gospel more effectively.
At lunchtime, many enjoyed their sandwiches outside in the sunshine, making the most of the beautiful weather.
In the afternoon we had another short time of worship, before Sam Ward returned to give us the third talk. He shared personal and often humorous stories of what incarnational living looks like in his community in Manchester. While engaging and relatable, his message also challenged us to step out of our comfort zones, reminding us that experiencing God’s glory often involves stepping into the “gory” and messiness of real life. He concluded by introducing The Message Trust’s resources for “Mission Mapping” in local communities.
Duncan brought the day to a close with a summary, followed by a powerful communal prayer of commissioning. Together, we were encouraged to meet God where He is already at work across our city.
The SCM God’s Story Conference was a rich and full day, filled with inspiration and challenge, helping each of us consider our place in God’s unfolding story of hope. We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us—it was wonderful to see so many eager to be part of what God is doing. We also extend heartfelt thanks to all who made the day possible: our hosts at Highfield Church and their dedicated team, our speakers, discussion group facilitators, worship team, and the photographers and videographers.
We look forward to seeing you all again next year.
Kid's Stream - Majestic Messengers
SCM Conference Kid’s Stream 2026 was a vibrant day of building confident faith for primary-aged children from across the city. This year, we launched Majestic Messengers Inc., following a team of quirky postal workers on a mission to deliver the King’s most important message. Through high-energy drama, games, crafts, and interactive prayer spaces, children discovered that God doesn’t just choose the “perfect” or the “grown-ups”—He chooses all of us.
Whether engaging in energetic treasure hunt challenges or mapping prayers on a blow-up globe, the day was filled with opportunities for meaningful connection, relevant and accessible Biblical teaching as well as creative worship. The children left not just with their goody bags and handmade scrolls carrying God’s messages, but with the confidence that they are chosen, loved, and ready to share God’s story with the world.
Highlights included:
Creative Prayer: Watching “sins” vanish at the Fizzy Forgiveness station.
Deep Connection: Building a web of names to show we are one family in God.
Messenger Training: Making scrolls to help us share the good news with others.
Parent Tabitha: “The girls really had a great time at the conference too and understood more about telling others about Jesus.”
Kids team volunteer Eunice: “It was wonderful to see children engaged for several hours doing bible-based activities and gradually building up a take away message-‘majestic messengers’ . I hope the youth stream will run at the next conference.”
