12th February 2019

P is for Parent – Children’s Ministry Conference 2019

Over the weekend of 2 and 3 March 2019, the fifth annual Children’s Ministry conference will be held at the Barton Grange Hotel, near Preston PR3 5EE.

The theme this time of this popular event will be exploring how churches can equip parents to raise children who are connected to God. This recognises that whilst we work really hard through our contact with children in our parishes, we only meet with these young people for around 50-100 hours per year, whereas parents will spend on average 2000-3000 hours per year with their children so of course we want to support them in creating a home environment where faith can flourish.

We have three very exciting keynote speakers lined up to inspire and encourage us; Rachel Turner (Parenting for Faith and author of ‘It takes a church to raise a parent’), The Rt Revd Dr Jill Duff (Bishop of Lancaster and advocate of the importance of family ministry), and Dr Sam Johnson (Deputy Director of Education, speaking on relating with ‘Generation Z’). In addition to the keynotes, there will also be a fantastic choice of workshops on offer, plus a Christian bookstall and other resources.

Quotes

‘I am really excited about being part of the Children’s Ministry Conference, and to spending time sharing experiences and looking forward together to how we can use our knowledge, skills and resources to make Jesus known to a whole new generation of children.  Please pray for us all as we prepare for this exciting time together.’  Dr Sam Johnson – Keynote Speaker for 2019

‘Great to have input from high quality speakers. Enabled me to think beyond the day to day work of children's ministry and look at some bigger picture ideas. I will be coming again!!!’ Rachel Harris – Children’s and Family Worker at Buckshaw Village church and 2018 delegate

This conference is open to anyone who is involved in children’s work in parishes and often fills up quickly so you are encouraged to book on early to avoid disappointment. There is the choice of attending just of the day on Saturday, which includes lunch and all refreshments, or delegates can choose to stay overnight and enjoy the conference dinner and evening programme. On the Sunday morning, delegates worship together before departing at lunchtime.

For further information, please visit the Board of Education website: 
http://www.bdeducation.org.uk/  or contact Sarah Earnshaw (Interim Children’s Work Adviser) on children@blackburn.anglican.org or 01254 503405.