Spring Harvest Launches Youth Preaching Prize for 11-18 Year Olds
Spring Harvest has launched a speaking competition to find the next generation of preachers and speakers. The 'Youth Preaching Prize 2026' is open to 11-18 year olds, with the winner getting to speak at the Spring Harvest celebration in Minehead. The deadline for entries is 20 March 2026.
Analysis
This is a genuinely creative initiative that addresses a real need in the UK church. Finding and nurturing young communicators of the Christian faith is essential for the long-term health of the church, and giving a young person the platform of a Spring Harvest celebration is a powerful incentive.
The age range of 11-18 is ambitious and inclusive. It means the competition is open to secondary school students who may be just beginning to find their voice, as well as older teenagers who may already be leading in their youth groups.
For churches and youth leaders, this is worth promoting. The process of preparing a talk — thinking through a passage, structuring an argument, practising delivery — is formative regardless of whether a young person wins. It builds confidence, biblical literacy, and communication skills.
The deadline of 20 March 2026 gives churches time to identify and encourage potential entrants. Youth leaders should be actively looking for young people in their congregations who show promise as communicators and encouraging them to apply.