Ministry for children, families and young people will be expanded at Cowley St John Church in Oxford thanks to a Development Fund grant.
The grant, for £90,000, will fund the appointment of a children and families worker, alongside a youth worker – a significant step for the parish.
The Revd Martha Weatherill explains the impact they hope the new roles will have. She said: “The impact we hope to see is the strengthening of our engagement with young people and families, ensuring that they feel fully included in the life of the church and are supported in their faith journey. These roles will help build relationships, create new opportunities for discipleship, and provide safe, welcoming spaces for children and young people to grow.
“We have chosen to focus on this area because we recognise the need to invest in the next generation, offering them a church experience that is relevant, engaging, and nurturing.”
The new roles have also been created in response to feedback from families and the wider community who are looking for more structured support, activities, and spiritual engagement for their children.
The church currently offers family-friendly services, some children’s church during services, school connections, and some seasonal activities, but there is much potential for growth. With these new roles, the church hopes to provide a more consistent and dynamic programme for children and young people.
Some of the specific projects they are considering include:
• A monthly Messy/Childrens Church to provide an interactive, creative, and informal worship space for families.
• A youth club where young people can build friendships, explore faith, and have a safe social space.
• A weekly toddler group to support young families.
• A regular Café Church for families
• Forest Church to offer an outdoor, nature-based approach to faith exploration.
• Regular discipleship groups for different age groups, supporting spiritual growth in ways that are accessible and engaging such as Catholic Alpha.
As well as Tier Two grants like this, the Development Fund made three Tier One grants (up to £2,500) in the last round. Projects supported include resources for an intergenerational service, supporting a WILD service (Wonder, Imagine, Love and Discover) and enhancing facilities for a toddler group and children in church.
Find out how to apply for a Development Fund grant.