September 11th 2025
Schools ministry was the focus of the day, with inspirational input from Tony Bower, Executive Officer of York Schools and Youth Trust (YoYo). We were supported by a panel of school leaders and schools ministry experts, who shared their experience in building relationships with schools, supporting students and staff, and delivering worship and workshops that serve the school and share the good news of Jesus with children and young people.
Through interactive workshops, a live lesson demonstration – and a little bit of cricket! – Tony Bower explored the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of schools ministry, considering essential ministry questions before delivering a compelling and inspirational poetry workshop to a year 6 class, based on the story of Jesus walking on water.
These monthly gatherings will be at the heart of the Ignite Project, as we build community, deepen our professional practice and grow in faith together. As more Ignite Leaders are appointed, the Forge Community will grow, creating a network of skilled and supported leaders across the Diocese of Blackburn, sharing their successes and challenges together as we work towards more than doubling the number of children and young people in our worshipping communities.
For more information about the Ignite Project, and to find out how your parish could benefit, click here.
Pictures taken by Heather Lee for Blackburn Diocese
