A New Award for Teamwork – The First Baxter Award Presented
Earlier this year, we shared the inspiring story of three young women from King Edward VI School in Lichfield who followed God’s calling to establish a Youth Alpha group in their school. Their faith, determination and leadership have touched the lives of many young people, creating a welcoming space where students can ask questions, explore faith and discover the love of Christ.
When it came to recognising their achievements, we faced a happy dilemma. The Lundie Award celebrates the outstanding contribution of an individual young person. However, this remarkable initiative was not the work of one person alone.
It was made possible through the shared vision, commitment and partnership of Eva, Bethany and Amelie, each bringing their own gifts and talents to the project. Their story reminds us that God’s work is often accomplished when people join together, encouraging and supporting one another to turn a vision into reality.
For this reason, the West Midlands Synod has introduced a brand-new honour: the Baxter Award. Named in recognition of the importance of collaboration in Christian service, the Baxter Award celebrates teams of children and young people whose collective efforts have made a difference in their church, school or community.
We are delighted that Eva, Bethany and Amelie are the first-ever recipients of the Baxter Award. After sensing God calling them to begin a Bible study group at school, they launched a Youth Alpha course with support from Wade Street Church and Life Church. Their first course attracted 16 students, and following an ambitious relaunch involving school assemblies, posters, presentations and social media, weekly attendance grew to around 20 students, with one session welcoming 29 young people. Students have found a safe place to ask questions about faith, fifteen Bibles have been distributed, and lives have been changed through honest conversations and growing relationships with Jesus. The enthusiasm of teachers and the transformation seen in several students have been an encouragement to everyone involved.
Their courage, faith and willingness to serve demonstrates what can happen when young people trust God and work together. Congratulations to Eva, Bethany and Amelie, the first recipients of the West Midlands Synod Baxter Award. May their example encourage many more young people to use their gifts, work together and boldly share the good news of Jesus Christ.