Last night, many people gathered together at Duke’s Secondary School in Ashington for an evening of celebration as Beyond Youth marked their first anniversary.
More than half of those in attendance were children and young people.
Over the past year, the Beyond Youth team have been supporting the parishes in South East Northumberland to develop and grow their youth and children’s work. They have spent time in schools, parks, beaches and churches, offering opportunities for children and young people to grow, explore faith and have fun.
The evening was full of all the usual trappings of a Beyond Youth event – food, fun, laughter and space to reflect. Bishop Helen-Ann was even invited to participate in a balloon fencing match and despite losing, she felt warmly welcomed by the young people.
A time of reflection gave +Helen-Ann, Beyond Youth staff and volunteers plus young people the opportunity to look back over the last year and share their hopes for the next.
Dave Johnson, Youth and Children’s Coordinator for Beyond Youth said: “The young people who shared were incredibly brave and spoke so confidently in front of an audience. It’s been so precious to see them grow.
“We’re so excited for what comes next and are so grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside these fantastic children and young people.”
If you would like to find out more about what Beyond Youth are up to, follow them on social media or contact the team.
Watch the video below to hear the young people's reflections on the first year of Beyond Youth.