Young Adults Supper

A supper party for young adults was held at Bishop’s Lodge last Friday evening, enabling younger members of our congregations to gather for a shared meal as part of our commitment to growing younger and more diverse. Enjoying fellowship together, they had the opportunity to discuss their experiences, feelings and reflections about being a younger person attending church.

Bishop Richard led the evening alongside the Revd Josias de Souza from St Francis Church, Luton. The aim of the event was to invite young adults from across the Bedfordshire Archdeaconry to gather together from various church communities across the Archdeaconry. Bishop Richard also led a group discussion, inviting those present to suggest ways in which the Diocese and their own churches can better support them as younger adults.

Some feedback from two young adults present:

It really was such a lovely experience and so insightful to hear everyone’s thoughts in the group discussion. It would be great to stay connected. Claudia Wilkinson

It was a really nice evening and a good opportunity to talk to other young people in the church and to feel united together by faith. Chiara Maffei

The event was very well-received by all those in attendance and there is very much the desire to continue this conversation going forward and to run similar events in the future.

It was a delight to welcome such a vibrant and engaging group of younger adults from across the Bedfordshire Archdeaconry to this event, as part of our commitment to growing younger and more diverse. It was a pleasure to host such a wonderful group and we look forward to the increased engagement between the younger adults in the Bedfordshire Archdeaconry and wider Diocese of St Albans, which is a sign of great hope. Bishop Richard

I’m delighted this event took place. It’s encouraging to see the ongoing commitment to young adults in our diocese as we continue prioritising growth that is both younger and more diverse. Revd Dr Daniel Drew

Opportunities for young adults coming up include:

Sinai Collective – a worship evening with young adults from across the Diocese. The next gathering is scheduled for Wednesday 11 December at The Oval Harpenden (Chapel). For more information, please email Revd Daniel Drew.

Alban Way – a year-long programme, focused on equipping and forming disciples and young leaders through practice-based teaching sessions. For more details and to register your interest for the next course, beginning in February 2025, please visit the website.