17 September 2025
In June, twenty-two young people from six different churches across the Chelmsford Deanery spent a weekend of fellowship, activity and fun at the Fellowship Afloat lightship ‘Trinity’ in Tollesbury, run by the Fellowship Afloat Charitable Trust.
The weekend was organised by Steve Readings, who is a children’s leader at St Andrew’s Church in the Melbourne area of Chelmsford and a volunteer with the Fellowship Afloat Charitable Trust.
Steve says:
“The theme of the weekend was “It’s up to you – or is it?” and the young people heard testimonies from the staff at the charity as well as hearing from the Rt Revd Adam Atkinson, the Bishop of Bradwell, about his faith journey. They were challenged to think about how they might also grow in faith. “Despite the group having ages from ten to seventeen years, there was a great sense of togetherness on the ship, and the young people all enjoyed team games, a night walk, dodgeball, high ropes and a beautiful afternoon of sailing. Prayer and worship were also shared. They also enjoyed superb home cooked meals prepared by the onboard galley team. “
The weekend was supported by other youth leaders and part funded by the Deanery via Diocesan Mission Opportunity Fund grant.
“Feedback from the young people and their parents was that they all enjoyed it and would like to take part again next year.
“Several parents commented that it was a good way of helping children know that they are not alone as young Christians, and of achieving networking between different Church groups in the Deanery.” Bishop Adam added: “It was a great pleasure to spend time with such a range of young people from churches in Chelmsford Deanery. Great credit to the leaders from the various churches for collaborating in this way. It’s a vision of what can be possible when we work together in unity – and the young people were the beneficiaries! Glory to God and here’s to the next one.”
This article has been taken from the latest edition of WePray, our quarterly prayer diary which brings together our Cycle of Prayer and stories from across our Diocese.
