Growing and Equipping Parish Youth Ministry

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This January the Diocesan Youth Service is launching a new initiative to support parishes to develop local youth ministry provision in response to our recent review. As we sought to answer the question - What do we want for the young people of the diocese of Nottingham? -  the need to support youth ministry at a grassroots level became evident from listening to stakeholders.  

In direct response to this we are launching two complementary initiatives:
1. The Bethsaida Training course to equip volunteers to begin local youth ministry initiatives
2. A regular Network Meeting to support, encourage and share good practice amongst volunteers

The Bethsaida course is the training programme designed to enable volunteers to gain the tools and knowledge to begin parish youth ministry in their community. Bethsaida is a tried and tested resource developed in a neighbouring diocese where it  has successfully supported volunteers and led to the opening of over 60 parish youth groups. As we launch this exciting initiative in the diocese of Nottingham we are praying for the same fruitfulness in our parishes.

The course  consists of a series of workshops combined with practical experience of youth work in your parish or deanery.  Sessions include;
- Called to a definite service                                          
- Creating an engaging youth programme
- Sharing our faith
- Group work and leadership
- Creating a safe environment

We are launching the training in person at the Briars on the 31st of January (13;00 - 16;00), which is also the feast of Don Bosco patron Saint of young people. There will then be 4 online sessions to complete the 5 week training course. Subsequent sessions will take place online on Tuesday 3rd February, Tuesday 10th February, Tuesday  24th February and the course will complete on Tuesday 3rd March.

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​Each of the sessions lasts for two hours via zoom during this 5 week training course in youth ministry where participants will be led by experienced professionals to grow in knowledge and skills that they can take back to their parish. Participants of this training course will need to complete the usual Diocesan protocol for volunteers working with young people including a DBS before beginning their work with young people.

To find out more please register your interest via the sign up link www.ndcys.com/youth-ministry-training-bethsaida/

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