The Church of England wants to develop and support 30,000 leaders of mission with children, young people and families (CYPF) by 2030; some of these new leaders will be paid roles within the church. FUTURE YOUTH IS a new stream of the MES's year out programme, specifically designed for any 18-30 year olds who would love to explore if CYPF ministry is for them.
Our first year launches in September 2023 with placements across the UK. All placements will provide CYPF opportunities across a range of ages and contexts. MES is partnering with Aurora for the centrally run training that will form part of everyone’s year.
If you would like the opportunity to a calling to serving young people whilst being trained and getting great experience, then we would love to hear from you. Spaces are quite limited for our first year. Please email [email protected] for more information.
Over the years people have already discerned a call to children’s and youth work through their MES year as the two stories below illustrate. It is hoped that this new MES CYPF stream will enable more people to do the same.
“I was attracted to the MES because as someone who is wanting to move into a youth worker job in the future this course offered the best way of preparing me for that.
“Through MES I have the opportunity to give a year serving in church setting and see exactly what it would look like working for a church as well as enabling me to grow in confidence and various gifts that will help prepare for a future job within a youth ministry. I am excited to be involved in church life, serve alongside other interns, learn and grow and have the opportunity to devote an entire year to God.”
Dave
Current participant in Leeds diocese, starting as a church youth worker in September
“My MES year has been so great for exploring my calling into youth ministry. I've loved being part of a church where I've worked alongside an established team, been mentored and released to try out new ventures like running Bible studies and youth socials. I've been stretched to get out of my comfort zone in the wider church ministries as well.
“I would definitely recommend MES.”
Emily
Past participant in Bath and Wells diocese, now a church youth worker
