Explicitly about Jesus: Norwich charity showcase

Norwich Youth for Christ held its annual showcase on March 27 at its new remises on Cowgate in Norwich. Helen Baldry reports.

The Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Rev Graham Usher commissioned the new director of Norwich Youth for Christ Gwil Davey. Gwil took up his role three months ago, taking over from Nick Blanch who had led the charity for the previous 11 years. Gwil spoke about the unique opportunity the team has to speak about Jesus to young people in schools. He said, “It is is a blessing and a privilege that could change within a couple of years. Our city is more and more closed off from the gospel.”

Norwich Youth for Christ currently works in seven schools delivering assemblies, lessons and lunch clubs, yet freedom to share the Christian faith is fragile. Gwil gave an example of a young person told off for quoting a bible verse in an RE lesson. The charity has been told by a high school that they can establish a Christian Union, but they can’t promote Christianity.

Gwil was unapologetic about the mission of Norwich Youth for Christ. He said “We are explicitly about Jesus. We need to be out on the streets speaking the good news.” There is a desire to set up more ways to reach young people to see their lives transformed by Jesus and to help them grow in their faith.

The evening featured worship music from the band made up of young people who attend The Jam, a weekly youth club held on Wednesdays. The band have started writing their own music, which they intend to play at the charity’s bi-monthly Encounter nights. Encounter regularly attracts 40 – 60 young people from youth clubs across Norwich who meet together to play games, eat, worship and listen to a faith talk.

These are just two of the projects presented at the evening’s showcase, which was attended by trustees and supporters of Norwich Youth for Christ. Leaders Tom, Gary, Fliss, Gary and Dan spoke about the projects they are involved in, all of which fulfil the charity’s aims of sharing God’s love with young people.

Another of the projects is Boost, an alternative education provision for teenagers who do not fit into the mainstream mould. The project is full, with four students a day, all of whom come from a background of low aspiration and trauma. The education provision itself is non-evangelistic, but is a place where team members can really listen to the students and demonstrate God’s love through the support they offer.

Gap year worker Dan spoke about his experience with the charity. Diagnosed with foetal alcohol syndrome as a baby, he had some learning difficulties and was was adopted by a Christian family. Dan struggled with mainstream school due to his challenges as a young child, so can connect well with the Boost students, and those he meets at youth clubs who face challenges. Dan has been working in technical production in addition to supporting the work in schools.
 

How to get involved

Pray – click here to sign up for the newsletter https://norwichyfc.co.uk/mailing-list/
Watch the 'Living on a Prayer' podcast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CEU6WKhzfLc
Host a gap year worker? email office@norwichyfc.co.uk to find out more
Donate: https://www.stewardship.org.uk/partners/norwichyouthforchrist

Pictured: Bishop Graham, chair of trustees Margaret Smith and Gwil Davey