The Parish of Flitwick

Church of England

Diocese of St Albans

Youth Group

About 4 years ago it became apparent that we had a group of young people who were beginning to ‘grow out’ of Sunday School, but who still needed some church teaching that was suitable for them.  Some of them had been confirmed and had joined the choir, some of them were perhaps beginning to drift away a little.  So the Sunday School leaders felt it would be worth trying to establish a group for these young folk.  We therefore planned to meet once a month, and plan a programme that consisted of some teaching or 'holy' material as well as some ‘fun’ activities.

So these young people have had a very varied diet.  Originally meeting once a month, we now meet twice a month, on a Sunday evening for an hour.  The group has been very well attended, and there are generally at least 12 young people who come; but numbers have been up to 20 - it does vary!

In the main staffed by the Sunday school leaders, we have also welcomed “visiting speakers” who have given their time and talents to provide interesting activities.  For example, there have been craft sessions (some lovely Christmas decorations), bell ringing and candle-making.  Then there have been trips out - to the cinema, for pizza, and to local Churches Together services, as well as a joint service with Westoning Youth Group.  But we always remember that we are a church group and start our session with a prayer.  The young people have also participated in a 'taught' Eucharist, as well as learning more about the Church and the Bible.  We have had quizzes and treasure hunts and charades is always a great favourite - the inclusion of Bible Stories is an added extra and not always easy!

Some of the older young people have now outgrown the Youth Group, but younger ones have joined and so we keep going!  Last week there was a request to do it every week - but that does require a lot of staffing!  We always welcome offers of help to run specific sessions if anyone would like to do so.

The young people themselves continue to be actively involved with Church - several of them are in the Choir and the Music Group and a number of them have been confirmed or admitted to Holy Communion.  They make a valuable contribution to our Church life and it's a great privilege to work with them and share their ideas and views.

New members are always welcome. See the magazine and pew notices for details of future dates!

Rachel Jones

This page last updated 10/05/2008