Year of Mission in Belfast

This past year I’ve just finished my gap/mission year in Belfast and it has been an incredible blessing. I had the opportunity to share the Gospel with university students and be part of a truly special community. Spiritually, it was a transformative time—I heard the Lord speak in new ways and grew deeply in my relationship with Him.

One of the most powerful moments came during UCO’s Life in the Spirit seminar in February and March. On the fifth night, we held a prayer evening focused on Baptism in the Holy Spirit. That night, around 20 students and I were baptized in the Spirit. It was a profound experience that marked a turning point in my faith journey.

At the beginning of the year, I approached mission as a series of tasks—running events, setting up spaces, having conversations with students. But I quickly learned that people matter far more than productivity. Evangelism isn’t about ticking boxes; it’s about meeting people where they are, loving them well, and reflecting Christ in how we treat them. I’ve come to see that how we live and love often speaks louder than any words.

That night, around 20 students and I were baptized in the Spirit. It was a profound experience that marked a turning point in my faith journey.

Another major lesson this year was about trust and surrender. There were many moments when I had to lean on the Lord and let go of my own plans. Through that, I’ve come to believe more deeply that He knows me better than I know myself—and that He is always with me.

In March, I took a week to pray and reflect on the year. I was still considering returning home to continue my degree, but I also felt a strong pull to stay and continue the mission. The fruit of this year was undeniable, and I sensed the Lord inviting me to keep going and keep learning.

So I’ve decided to stay for a second year. I’ll continue leading Monday night football for male students, running weekly Bible studies, meeting one-on-one with students to support their faith journeys, and pastorally leading a small group. I’ll also help build a new UCO presence at Ulster University by connecting with staff, chaplains, and attending university events.

The community in Belfast has been another huge gift. It’s diverse—with young adults, many of which came from UCO and older folks, Catholics and Protestants, all united in faith. In a city with a complex history, this kind of ecumenical unity is powerful. I was welcomed into countless Lord’s Day dinners and YPO (Young Professionals Outreach) events, which helped me build lasting friendships.

One of my favorite experiences was the Men’s Summer Household program. For four weeks, we lived together in the Servants of the Word house, sharing morning prayer, meals, and service projects. It was a time of deep community, growth, and pastoral support.

If you’re considering a mission year or service project, don’t worry about being fully prepared. I certainly wasn’t. What matters most is being willing to show up, care, and learn. You’ll face challenges, but those are the moments where you grow the most. You’ll learn more about yourself, others, and God than you ever imagined—and you’ll have a lot of fun along the way. If it’s something you feel called to do, go for it. You’ll make an impact—but it will probably impact you even more. - Johnny Conant

Evangelism isn’t about ticking boxes; it’s about meeting people where they are, loving them well, and reflecting Christ in how we treat them.