Three children’s, young people and families’ volunteers from Church of England Birmingham were celebrated this week at a special event at Lambeth Palace, the Archbishop of Canterbury’s official London residence.
Rachel Kinning (photo right) from Moseley Parish, Frances Sherwood from St Andrew’s Chelmsley Wood and Susan Haynes from Christ Church Selly Park were nominated by their churches as part of a national week of recognition.
The Church of England's RECOGNISE campaign celebrates those who have made an outstanding contribution to the lives and faith journeys of children and young people.
Church of England Birmingham received several exceptional nominations from churches, who wanted to thank and recognise their volunteers.
Rachel, Frances and Susan were selected from these nominations and invited to join with others from around the country at the Lambeth Palace reception, where they enjoyed a celebratory cream tea, hosted by Archbishop Sarah.
Marking the campaign, Bishop Michael highlighted the outstanding contribution that hundreds of youth and children’s volunteers make in churches around the city and region.
He said: "The work of nurturing faith in children and young people is one of the most important ministries within the life of the Church.
“It requires patience, consistency, compassion and hope. Much of it happens quietly and without recognition, yet its fruits can last for generations.”
Celebrating kindness and dedication to children and young people
Rachel Kinning from Moseley Parish was nominated as “a real example of kindness, positivity and what it means to be a team player.”
Commenting on the recognition, Rachel said: “Every day is different with my role. I can be covered in glitter one minute, offering support during difficult times in the next and then straight into facilitating a youth group session with nothing more than skittles and a prayer.
“It means a lot to me to know that what I do is valued by the community that I love.”
Frances Sherwood has faithfully served St Andrew’s Chelmsley Wood’s Youth Café for many years. She was nominated for “showing extraordinary love and dedication” to the young people in the community, and her “incredible ability to connect with young people” through talking, encouragement and listening.
Frances said, “I am truly humbled. Whether as a youth worker, school governor, or foster carer, it has always been about listening to young people and helping them feel loved and valued.”
For Susan Haynes from Christ Church Selly Park, “It has been a joy and privilege to walk alongside these young people, and something I’ve been delighted to do.”
Susan was nominated for taking on the role of mentor in the youth team, with the sessions laying firm foundations of faith, with compassion and kindness.
Susan said, “No one in this type of role does it for recognition, but it has been lovely to receive appreciation in this way.”
Thanks from the Bishop of Birmingham
Bishop Michael has written to all those nominated, thanking them for the time, energy, prayer, encouragement and care they’ve invested into the lives of children and young people in their church communities.
He said, “Through your commitment, many have experienced the love of Christ, found a sense of belonging, and been encouraged to grow in faith.
“Thank you for being one of those faithful servants who continue to show up and walk alongside children and young people as they discover God's love for themselves.”
Find out more
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If your church would like to celebrate the work of your volunteers, you can find Volunteer Sunday resources on the Toolshed website.
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If you are thinking through your church’s provision for children, young people and families, contact our Growing Younger team – Emma Sargeant and Rachel Retallick-Cheal – for advice or a friendly chat.