The Centenary Project has been making a huge impact in churches across the Diocese over the last eight years through the resourcing of children’s and youth ministry. On Saturday 13 May, people from across the project gathered in Rotherham Minster to celebrate all that’s been achieved.
The Centenary Project (CP) was set up in 2015 with a vision to see a step change in ministry with children and young people in the Diocese of Sheffield. Since then, the project has employed 40 workers in 65 churches and more than 9,000 children and young people have attended groups run by Centenary Project Workers (CPWs). There’s a lot to celebrate!
220 people filled Rotherham Minster for the Celebration Service on Saturday including families who have been impacted by the project and the volunteers and people in churches who support Centenary Project Workers (CPWs). Bishop Pete preached and praised the work of the Project and the “gloriously fruitful return” on the initial investment by the Bishop’s Council in setting up the Centenary Project. He encouraged the CPWs to “be courageous, bold and confident” in their work with children and young people. The prayers were led by children and young people who’ve been part of CP groups.
Children’s and Young People’s Advisor, Mike North, spoke of the Church of England’s vision to see the number of active young disciples in our churches double by 2030 and the important role that the CP has in supporting churches to continue to “engage, nurture and disciple” children, young people and families.
This summer marks the culmination of the funding from the Church of England’s Strategic Development Fund, which has seen an investment of £1.8 million over the last five years. This funding has enabled significant growth and the Celebration Service was, in part, a thanksgiving for that investment and what it has achieved in the Diocese of Sheffield.
Centenary Project Manager, Sarah Beardsmore, said:
“The CP Celebration Service was a chance to pause at this point in the life of the project and give thanks for all that has been achieved. It was wonderful to welcome so many people from the parishes that the Centenary Project supports and to thank them and celebrate with them. The Centenary Project will continue to be a vital part of the life of our Diocese and is an important part of how the Diocese is responding to the Church of England’s priorities”.
The service concluded with Bishop Pete re-commissioning all of the Centenary Project Workers and as they continue the work of the project.
More information about the Centenary Project can be found on the Diocesan website or follow @centenaryproject on Facebook.