This course has involved two terms of weekly sessions in Worcester with the Diocesan Children’s and Youth Officer for our specialist group, and five Saturdays with all the ALM trainees together looking at Mission, the Bible, Tradition and Prayer as resources for ministry and working together in ministry. We had some enthralling speakers including Dr Helen-Ann Hartley from Ripon College, Cuddesdon and Brother Nicholas Allen from the Franciscan monastery at Glasshampton as well as input from within the diocese.
Our group comprised 13 in all, but three attended on Saturdays for multiple sessions because of child care or other commitments. We have covered practical aspects such as risk assessment and good practice, structures within the Church of England, and organising big events or residentials. We have explored learning styles, our team role descriptions according to Belbin’s analysis, and stages of faith. But most of all we have prayed together, played games together and shared our practice: there has been a lot of laughter, and a lot of oooh’s as we’ve heard of real-life experiences that made us consider boundaries, church organisation and exciting ways to share God’s love.
So what have I gained from the experience?
A new set of colleagues, and a remembrance that we are part of a diocese which offers lots of resources in books, CD’s, DVD’s , activity schemes and personnel to advise and assist: we are not on our own! Opportunities to ponder my own theology of children’s ministry, and to hear brilliant speakers extend my experience of prayer and mission.
Was it worth doing?
Definitely!
And what comes next? Whatever God leads me to, working in our children’s team and in the wider Worship team to “enable all to receive and hear the Good News of Jesus Christ” .
Sheila Freeman
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