District Youth Takeover Day

Over 30 young people and leaders from around the Sheffield Methodist District gathered at Hesley Woods activity centre in Sheffield on Saturday for an action-packed day of worship, fun activities and to learn about how a Methodist District is run.

During the day our youth attended workshops about communications, safeguarding and wellbeing, mission – creating new churches, storytelling, seeking God, what it's like to be a Minister and also about being Chair of the District.

In the afternoon groups took part in team building activities such as raft building, axe throwing, peddle karting and orienteering.

Victoria Loveday, District Children and Youth Co-ordinator organised the event and said: "We wanted to organise an event to bring all our young people together. Even though our District span's three counties it's important for everyone to feel connected and that they are part of the Sheffield District. Coming to Hesley Wood's has allowed our young people to make friends with others they'd not usually have the opportunity of meeting."

As part of the communications workshop a press team were created who were in charge of the District's social media channels, they conducted interviews with people about the day and have written this article with the support of District Communications Officer, Sam.

Rev Ben Scriven's who led the opening worship and the workshops about Seeking God and Jobs said: "Seeking God was about specific ways we are all called to specific jobs, like being a Minister and making space for God to speak to us. We are all called to different jobs, to church, to follow Jesus and to love our neighbour. I've loved being at Hesley Woods to be outdoors and with all the young people."

The young people have had a great time today, Corbin said: "I thought it was fun and I learnt a lot. I learnt about worship and my favourite workshop was story telling. I've made lots of new friends and it was a well-run event"

Emily said: "I enjoyed meeting new people, considering religion and seeing all the other young people. I'd like to come again in the future and would recommend it."

Victoria Loveday added: "I'd like to say a massive thank you to everyone who came along to our Youth Takeover day and to everyone who helped make it possible. We'll be organising another event in the future so watch out for more information."

Check out our social media channels for the posts the young people created.