When we dropped four teenagers off at an Armed Forces Easter Camp we had no idea that on their return they would establish a tradition of youth bible study groups. Our Mettle Groups are now an inspiration to churches across the country.
The young people who have come through these groups are the heart and soul of our youth work. They are the people we rely on to help with services like the Christmas Eve Crib Service and they get the first chance to buy Soul Survivor tickets. We now have a Fusion group for the Mettlers who have left school. This is what James had to say about the groups:
“Being part of a Mettle Group wasn’t just great fun and a chance to hang out with friends, it helped me learn a lot about who Jesus is, why he is relevant to my everyday life, and how the bible can help with the kinds of issues that teenagers face.” James Heatley, Worcester College, Oxford
If you or a young person you know wants to try out one of the groups, or if there is a group of friends who would like to start a new group together, please speak to me. These groups have always thrived on the amazing volunteers who have helped make sure the groups have great food, a listening ear, and a great Christian role model. If you are an adult who could spare a couple of hours a week at tea-time you would be an answer to prayer. If you are one of these precious people, please spare time to have a chat with me about volunteering. I’m available by text, email, or on social media as @jooughton, or please just catch me at church.
Jo Oughton, Parish Development