Dear All,
This communication is by way of introducing myself as Children and Youth Ministry Adviser for the Bishop of Beverley. I was appointed earlier this year and I have been carrying out the role for three months now. It has been both interesting and enlightening to meet with some of you at the recent clergy gatherings in Sheffield, York and Liverpool. Thank you for being so welcoming and open about your thoughts. Having spoken with many of you I am very much encouraged to continue and pursue this vocational role.
Thank you to those of you who offered relevant connections, agreed to share resources and suggested ideas for future development. Thank you also for the invitations that have already begun to come in for me to visit your parishes and schools – my contracted hours will increase shortly, after which I will be able to accept.
After listening to many of you I am hoping to be able to do the following:
• Celebrate, encourage and share amazing work with children and young people that is already happening in our parishes
• Continue to visit See of Beverley parishes and gain an understanding of the specific contexts
• Research existing resources and materials
• Have direct email or online contact with clergy/lay people requesting information or support
• Develop a visible online presence
• Offer support with work in schools
• Provide an accessible set of resources that can be used or easily adapted
• Sign post useful webinars or upcoming events
This list is not exhaustive, and I am open to further suggestions.
Whilst developing in my role I have found the book “Re-thinking Children’s Work in Churches: A Practical Guide” useful. I found the questions aimed at promoting reflection and discussion at the end of each chapter particularly thought provoking.