When our church leader mentioned that we would start an Urban Saints Youth Group, I knew I wanted to be involved straight away. In the months prior God had put a real calling on my heart to see change happen within our community, especially for youth.
The training Urban Saints provided us with really equipped us to become the best youth leaders we could be. Our aim as a Group is to create a safe, fun space, a place where the kids could belong and feel treasured. We currently have six amazing kids each week. We always wanted a smaller group so that the kids could get the individual attention and support they need.
"It’s amazing to create a space where the kids can relax and enjoy themselves, but also to know that they trust you to help and support them with any problems they have."
At the start of our group we really wanted the kids to know more about who we are and why we were there. So, each week one of the Leaders would share their story of how they came to know Jesus. This was a great way for us to be open with the kids. To show them all the different walks of life we each have had, and how God loves and uses us all every day.
We have been running for almost 6 months now and the group has brought so much joy already to the kids, and also to the Leaders involved. It’s amazing to create a space where the kids can relax and enjoy themselves, but also to know that they trust you to help and support them with any problems they have. It’s also amazing to witness them all help one another through difficulties, creating real bonds of friendship.
We recently asked them to write down any questions they had about God or life in general, and the questions we got back were incredible. Some I have to admit I don’t even know the answers to. So, each week we take one of their questions and discuss it as a group. What’s clear when we do this is that they have a real interest in learning more about God and what an impact he can have on our lives.
We couldn’t have asked God for a better group. Each Leader brings something unique to the table, and as a team, we work together effortlessly. Where one of our weaknesses lay is where another’s strength is. The kids are open and keen to learn about God making it a breeze to disciple them.
We would love prayers for continued strength and curiosity for our group. And for each of the kids to know how precious and loved they are.
