At this year's AGM, some new Trustees were appointed to the Board and we asked them to share a little bit about their story and their involvement in Urban Saints. We'll begin with our current New Year House Party Main Leader - Will James...
"Some of my greatest memories have been seeing young people in fellowship with God and each other.. I often stand back and witness a little glimpse of what heaven will be like."
"My involvement with Urban Saints started when my wife Grace invited me to help lead at an Urban Saints Camp. I attended the New Year House Party (NYHP) in 2014/2015 at the Westbrook Centre, and Grace and I have been leading NYHP since 2017. We live in Nottingham and have volunteer-led the youth ministry for our church over the last three years, whilst I worked for Arup as a Building Designer.
I have always enjoyed working with Urban Saints. I am often encouraged and admire many volunteers and staff, who seek ways to share God's steadfast love with young people. I think the organisation's strength lies within its robust array and network of dedicated volunteers. I am continually in awe of the other Camps Leaders and Group Leaders I meet, who are welcoming young people into church basements, cafes and awkward side rooms so that they might know how wide, how deep and how great the love of God is for that individual.
Personally, I love spending time with young people. I think they have a hopeful heart, are creative and bring energy and charisma to the body of the church. Some of my greatest memories have been seeing young people in fellowship with God and each other. Often at New Year, we head to the beach to watch the fireworks. In those brief moments, I stand back and witness a little glimpse of what heaven will be like. Young people, Leaders and the Holy Spirit; singing and humming gentle praise whilst standing side by side in community and with the Spirit."
You can read more about Will and his experience of leading the New Year House Party here.
Bookings are open for the House Party this year - so if you have young people aged 13-18, who are looking for a different way to celebrate the festive period and welcome in 2022, why not check out the NYHP? You'd be very welcome to come as a leader and bring a group with you to enjoy the party together down at our wonderful residential centre on the Isle of Wight!
