“In the West Midlands Synod, we are excited to be putting our Growing Younger Project into action. As part of the project, we have appointed four people who are bringing an extra burst of energy, enthusiasm and expertise to help churches develop and re-energise their work with children, young people and families.
The project has been designed to be flexible and responsive to the needs of local churches. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, churches can apply for support from the Growing Younger team for a new or existing project, with the number of hours and length of involvement agreed together. Some projects may need just a few weeks of focused input, while others may benefit from support over a longer period.
The team will work in pairs, enabling them to support several churches and projects at the same time. This means that the expertise and experience of the team can be shared across the Synod, while keeping the focus firmly on the needs and hopes of each individual church.
We are already seeing the exciting possibilities this approach creates. The team can help churches to explore new ideas, build confidence among volunteers, develop activities and programmes, strengthen links with schools and the wider community, and think creatively about how children and young people can become a valued and active part of church life.
Sometimes a church needs someone to come alongside them, ask some helpful questions, bring fresh ideas and energy, or simply help them take the next step. The Growing Younger Project is providing that opportunity.
We don’t yet know exactly where the project will take us, but that is part of the excitement. We are looking forward to seeing what happens as we join in God’s mission, as churches try new things, build on what they are already doing and discover fresh ways of connecting with children, young people and families.
Our hope is that this will not simply result in more activities for younger people, but in churches that are genuinely growing younger – places where children and young people are welcomed, listened to, valued and able to play a full part in the life of the church.”
Helen Laird, CYDO