Opening the church door: a day of discovery in Sharnbrook 

For a child, a visit to the local church can be an opportunity to explore, ask questions and discover a place that is part of their community.

In Sharnbrook, Rural Missions worked alongside the local minister during a day connecting school and church. Two classes visited the church in the morning, using our Visiting Church booklets to support their time there.

The booklets were well received. Resources developed for churches were being used face to face, alongside adults helping children engage with the visit.

In the afternoon, our worker and the minister went into school to share the Easter story through story and craft sessions with two classes. The day brought together practical resources, local relationships and hands-on support.

This is one way Rural Missions can help a church develop its connection with a school. A booklet offers something tangible to use, while a worker alongside the local team contributes time and support in putting it into practice.

The wider relationship in Sharnbrook has also included listening to young people. A later Ice Pop Stop and information-gathering session saw 32 forms completed and many conversations take place. Discussions about a possible youth space continued afterwards.

Those conversations reflect the importance of understanding a community before deciding what to offer. Taking time to listen can help shape a response rooted in what local young people need.

From a church visit to a conversation about young people’s needs, this work takes time and local partnership.

It’s only with your support that we can keep offering resources and practical help alongside them. Your generosity helps churches build connections with their communities and create opportunities to share the hope of Jesus.

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