Overview
Launchpad is a scheme created by Youthscape with the aim of supporting churches to grow their youth ministry where there is currently little to no provision. The Youth Catalyst Project have signed up with Youthscape to offer Launchpad within the Diocese of Guildford and currently run one cohort a year, facilitated by Oli (Hub Leader at Christ's College, Guildford) and Andy (Hub Leader at The Priory, Dorking), who have both undertaken training to deliver 1:1 support and run sessions.
The sessions take place over 6 consecutive Thursdays (approx. 12:15-14:45), and teas/coffees and a hot lunch are provided. We are currently planning to host the next cohort at Millmead Baptist Church. The facilitators speak on a different topic each week, from how to engage with young people in your congregation, schools, and community, to how to recruit a volunteer base to start something new. Clergy are encouraged to discuss their thoughts and ideas over lunch and implement the things they have learnt into a strategy for launching new youth ministry within their parish contexts. 1:1 parish visits are also offered by the facilitators to tailor support to individual needs and concerns.
You can find out more about how Launchpad runs nationally and read/watch testimonials here.
How does it work?
Around 18-20 clergy are invited to a Bishop's Briefing, which takes place usually at the bishop's house in the evening over dinner and/or refreshments, where you can learn more about Launchpad from an introductory talk from the facilitators and a staff member from Youthscape. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and see whether your church will benefit from joining the scheme. Accepting the invitation does not sign you up automatically to do the 6 sessions, so if you are unsure whether to come, it is a great chance to find out more before committing.
After the Briefing, we can accept up to 10 clergy to join the 6 lunchtime sessions, and will notify you if you have a place. It is important that clergy make all 6 sessions to benefit from the programme; as such, we unfortunately cannot sign you up if you are unable to make one of the dates. If accepted, the facilitators will also be in touch to arrange a parish visit and informal chat.
Once the 6 Thursdays are complete, there is a celebration event (usually a couple of months after the last session) in which clergy invite members of their PCC, congregation, and any young people to join them for an evening of sharing about what new initiatives have been launched in their churches, reflect on their journey over the course, and pray for the future of their youth ministry. We will be joined by a member of staff from Youthscape again, and provide food and refreshments.
Express an interest
While churches are invited to join Launchpad, we would love to hear from you if you are interested in participating in the programme. This won't guarantee we are able to offer you a place, but please don't hesitate to get in touch with our Project Officer, Sophie, at sophie.blake@cofeguildford.org.uk and let us know! Please include in your email your church and what you would like to get out of the Launchpad scheme.