9 September 2026
Three children’s and youth ministers from across the Diocese of Chelmsford were among those honoured at a special celebration at Lambeth Palace in July, recognising their contribution to ministry with children, young people and families.
The event, which was part of RECOGNISE 2026, was hosted by Archbishop Sarah Mullally, the Archbishop of Canterbury, and gathered together children and youth ministers from across the southern province of the Church of England to thank them for their ministry.
Representing the Diocese of Chelmsford were Sarah Twitchett from St Margaret’s, Barking, Claire Arculus from the Dedham and Ardleigh Parishes and Emily Townshend from Epping.
Reflecting on the event, Sarah Twickett said:
“It was a privilege to attend the Recognise event. We spent the afternoon in worship and prayer, heard inspiring talks from Ele Mumford, Ben Lindsay and Archbishop Sarah, and enjoyed afternoon tea together. I felt honoured to have been nominated to attend this event. It was a special day that made me feel valued and encouraged in my role as a Youth and Children’s Worker.”
Claire Arculus commented:
“It was a wonderful surprise to receive an invitation to attend an afternoon tea at Lambeth Palace in recognition of the work myself and others have done in children and young people’s ministry. What a privilege! Archbishop Sarah thanked us, prayed for us and spoke of the difference we are all making.
“I walked away at the end of the afternoon feeling so uplifted and privileged to be in a position of serving Jesus in this way. The importance of youth ministry is vital in the growth of our churches - allowing a safe space, time to understand and learn and giving the youth a voice”
Emily Townshend added:
“It was an honour and a privilege to be invited to Lambeth Palace as part of Recognise Week. It was a brilliant day that was incredibly uplifting and a joy to be a part of. It’s also such a privilege to be part of the lives of children, youth and families in our churches and to be involved in nurturing the young church of today.”
Recognise is part of the Church of England’s 30k Project, which aims to raise up to 30,000 new children and youth leaders by 2030.
This article is taken from the latest edition of WePray.
