Over the 6 to 12 July, parishes, young people and members of the Diocesan Children and young People Team were among those who took part in RECOGNISE week.
This now annual, National Church initiative, offers a chance togive thanks for all those involved in ministry with children, young people, and their families (CYPF) in the Church.
Through a series of films and messages shared online, this vital ministry in the life of the Diocese was celebrated. Cheryl Trice, Lead Adviser for Children, Young People and Families Ministry in the Diocese said:
"We are seeing and experiencing growth across this Diocese in our children and young people's ministry, from encounter to discovering Jesus, and a commitment to following him with public declarations of baptisms and confirmations.
"These encounters and public declarations are a result of the commitment and dedication of many people across our Diocese.
"Children and young people's mission and ministry takes place week after week and weekend after weekend and for this we want to say 'thank you' and recognise what a blessing you are not only to your local communities but the life of the wider Diocese."
The Rev Dave Johnston, Vicar at Christ Church, Chislehurst was among those in a parish who wanted to share his thanks for those involved in such ministry in his church,
“I am incredibly grateful to be part of a church that highly values children and young people’s ministry. My particular gratitude goes to Family Minister Catherine and Youth Minister Pete.
"Through their passion for the Gospel, creativity and dedication (along with their wonderful volunteers) we are privileged to welcome and disciple dozens of girls and boys week by week.”
Victoria, Churchwarden at All Saints with Christ Church Snodland also shared her gratitude for the Children and Young People Team and the Messy Church volunteers at her church:
“We are so grateful for all they do in delivering our regular CYP sessions. Their dedication, care, commitment and passion help create welcoming spaces where children and young people can grow in faith, build friendships, and know they are valued.”
Powerful testimony was also heard from Beth, Nicholas and Levi, Youth Leaders at St Francis Church, Stood who shared the joy of what it is to be part of a church's Children and Youth team.
“Seeing young people grow in faith, build friendships and discover God's love is one of the greatest privileges of serving.” said Beth.
With a commitment in the diocesan Called Together vision to grow younger and more diverse, Bishop Jonathan Gibbs, the Bishop of Rochester closed the week with a message of encouragement saying,
"I just want to say a huge thank you to everybody who is involved in ministry among our children and young people across the Diocese of Rochester, whether paid workers or volunteers.
"We are so grateful for what you do, for the time and commitment you put in, and above all, the love and care you show for the children and young people who are so precious to us all and above all, to our Lord Jesus.
Thank you so much for what you're doing. We pray for God's blessing upon you, and it may bear fruit in the lives of those children and young people for many, many years to come."
Need support with your church's children, young people or families ministry? Visit:www.rochester.anglican.org/for-parishes/children-young-people-and-families/