14 July 2026
At the end of January, Seventeen children’s and youth ministry workers and volunteers gathered at the Catalyst Course residential in Swanwick, Derbyshire.
The weekend offered a valuable chance to learn from respected voices in children and youth ministry, meet peers from across the country, and enjoy inspiring teaching, worship, and time for rest.
Participant Alison described it as:
“a weekend full of prayer and worship… a unique time to be with like-minded people, all on a similar journey.”
The residential also gave space for people to share their stories and faith journeys. Cisse said:
“The meaningful connections and deep conversations really stayed with me… I’ve already started putting the practical tools into action."
As part of the course, students complete a presentation on youth and families ministry in their own context. This cohort gave their presentations in April and celebrated graduation at Ridley Hall on 16 May.
Catalyst, run through Ridley Hall in Cambridge, is a six-month training course for anyone involved in children’s or youth ministry, whether paid or voluntary. It offers space to grow, reflect, share ideas and gain practical skills with support from an experienced team.
The course is fully funded by the Church of England as part of the 30K project to raise up 30,000 new children and youth leaders by 2030.
Emma Anderton, diocesan facilitator for the Catalyst course, said:
“It’s an absolute joy to work with the Catalyst students and facilitate shared learning. The final presentations show some of the incredible ministry with children and young people happening across our diocese.”
If you or someone you know would like to join the next Catalyst cohort beginning in September 2026, we’d love to hear from you. Email Emma: eanderton@chelmsford.anglican.org for details.
For more details about Catalyst, please click the link below.
This article is taken from the latest edition of WePray.
