Ministering effectively to young adults, aged 18–30, is a vital yet often overlooked aspect of Church life. This age group is navigating significant life transitions - university, early careers, relationships, and questions of identity and purpose. As church leaders and parents, we have a unique opportunity to support and guide them during this formative period.
The Diocese of Oxford's YouShape initiative offers a compelling model for engaging young adults in a year-long journey of faith and self-discovery.
Understanding young adults' needs
Young adults are seeking:
- Authentic community: Spaces where they can build genuine relationships and feel a sense of belonging.
- Purposeful engagement: Opportunities to explore their faith, ask questions, and discern their calling.
- Active participation: Roles that allow them to contribute meaningfully to the church community.
Introducing YouShape
YouShape is designed to meet these needs through a structured yet flexible program:
- Monthly gatherings: Groups meet once a month to share meals, engage in discussions, and support each other's spiritual growth.
- Pilgrimage: An immersive experience focusing on teaching, worship, and community building.
- Commissioning Service: A ceremony to acknowledge and celebrate participants' journeys.
Each cohort is facilitated by a convenor who supports the group throughout the year.
Who will the young adults be with?
Each hub is made up of six to 12 young adults aged 18-30 from the local area.
All hubs are peer-led, convened by young adults themselves who have received training and support from the diocese.
Hubs are hosted in trusted local churches across Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, and Oxfordshire.
No one is expected to come alone: we help connect new members through digital intros and friendly onboarding.
Is it safe?
Yes. Safety and wellbeing are a top priority:
- All activities follow the Diocese of Oxford’s safeguarding policies.
- Convenors are safely recruited, DBS-checked, and receive safeguarding training.
- Each YouShape hub is supported by a local parish with designated safeguarding structures.
- Communication is via secure platforms like WhatsApp or email - set up with consent and boundaries in mind.
- Overnight stays (eg retreats or pilgrimage) are fully supervised, gender-sensitive in accommodation, and risk-assessed.
A Safeguarding Lead for each parish is available and named in advance of activities.
What role do I play?
If you're interested in supporting young adults through YouShape, consider the following:
- Explore the programme: Visit the YouShape website for more information.
- Connect with convenors: Reach out to local YouShape leaders to learn how your church can get involved.
- Promote participation: Encourage young adults in your community to consider joining a cohort.
By investing in the spiritual development of young adults, we not only support their personal growth but also enrich the broader church community.