Young people from across Reading took part in the first youth deanery day this summer, thanks to a Development Fund grant.
Activities enjoyed by 135 youngsters included workshops, seminars, a drop-in space, dodgeball tournament, BBQ food, an ice cream van and an evening worship session as well as a series of guest speakers alongside the local youth workers.
The event brought together people from 23 churches to support young people and their growth in faith. A £2,000 grant from the diocese’s Development Fund helped towards the costs.
The original idea for the pilot event came out of a deanery plan and the event strengthened relationships among youth leaders across churches, reinforcing a shared vision for youth ministry in Reading.
Dan Bright, a youth pastor at Greyfriars church, said: “The event was put together by a group of 
youth leaders, borne out of our prayer, and desire to see God’s Kingdom come in Reading. This group is excited about what is possible through events like this that unite our young people and encourage them into bolder expressions of faith.
“There is already talk among the organising youth leaders, as well as our young people, of ‘next time’ – so hopefully we’ll be able to do this again with all of the things we’ve learned.”
Young people discussed a range of topics like faith under pressure, identity, calling, and navigating big questions. The evening worship session was also an opportunity for those young people to commit to taking the next steps in their faith journey.
Find out how the Development Fund could support your church mission.