Darlington and Teesdale Circuit has a longstanding commitment to working with young people, including employing youth workers who reach out in schools, colleges, and community spaces. Recently, we felt prompted by the Holy Spirit to re-seed youth work in the Circuit and develop a sustainable community for a new generation of Jesus-seekers.
We need to reach emerging generations with the good news and Jesus’ promise of ‘life to the full.’ Despite challenges, recent research shows young people remain open to spirituality and exploring faith, with 21.8% identifying as having a Christian faith. We aim to develop this locally in Darlington and Teesdale, focusing on organic and culturally responsive ecclesiologies.
The work will be developed in Darlington, a town of 110,000 people with growing ethnic diversity and 20,000 children and young people. Many face urban adversity, educational under-attainment, and mental, physical, and social well-being challenges. Our mission planning will consider these factors.
The proposal is supported by a team passionate about this vision:
- The Revd David Hinchliffe (Superintendent)
- The Revd Yemi Jaiyesimi (Supernumerary Presbyter)
- Dr. Stephen Sutcliffe (Circuit Treasurer)
- Mrs. Valerie Tooth (Circuit Steward)
- Ms. Emma Walden (Community Hub Manager at The Well)
- Dr. Graham Bright (Community Pastor at The Well)
We have listened to young people who left our churches, those who remain, and those who feel isolated, hopeless, or distressed. Our hope is that a Youth Work Pioneer will engage young people in different contexts, networking with schools, organizations, church leaders, and young people to refine ways ahead. The Pioneer will support young people, develop projects, and cultivate explorations of faith through relationship, dialogue, food, community, and activity.
Our approach to growing faith will be intentional yet organic, flexible, and collaborative. We envision this happening in various spaces, including existing premises, cafes, schools, parks, small groups, events, and online. The focus will be on developing a community of dialogue and friendship where young people can grow together in life and faith.
First 100 days: The Pioneer will develop an understanding of the context, meeting and building networks with schools, VSOs, church leaders, council workers, police, Darlington Youth Partnership, and young people attached to the Circuit. They will reflect on their discoveries for the next stages of mission planning.
1-3 years: The Pioneer will continue connecting, meeting, gathering, and building community, encouraging spiritual engagement, gifting, and expression. They will create opportunities for deepening faith development and marker moments like communion, baptism, and retreats.
5 years: Community members will take increasing ownership, actively shaping worship, teaching, learning, and discipleship. They will reflect on their experiences and contribute to developing the church for younger generations.