Chaplain's Report at the Annual Meeting

Carlisle Diocesan Youth Centre

A report by the Chaplain for the Annual Meeting 2010

A brief insight into the various groups who use the Centre

Diocese

Groups led by the Diocesan Youth Officer, or organised by him have used the Centre for training – the most recent being youth leader training from the North West Dioceses.  The Bishops have led weekends for young people on a number of occasions, inspiring many young people to get involved in wider Diocesan and Parish events.  Sometimes the focus has been on the arts, other times on outdoor activities, but all undergirded with prayer, study and relaxation.

Churches

The Centre is available for all different kinds of parish groups, including churches from other denominations.  Groups range from Sunday School groups and Youth groups through to Choir retreats and Men’s or Ladies fellowships.  Parishes use the Centre as part of their Confirmation preparation or with their Bible Study groups.  The fellowship of staying together in the Centre strengthens relationships, deepens faith and encourages growth and maturity.

Schools

Each school that visits the Centre uses it in many different ways to support the curriculum as well as to encourage wider skills that are not readily taught in the classroom.  There may be various aspects of study, whether it be the environment and geography, or the development of practical skills learned on the mountains or lakes.  In addition there is much to learn from living in a small community, albeit for a short time, sharing meals together, helping each other in practical tasks, working on projects and enjoying fun together.

Uniformed Organisations

Scouts and Guides use the Centre to supplement their regular activities.  Badgework, crafts or outdoor activities form part of the weekend.  From the youngest Beavers to the oldest Explorers all benefit from the opportunities that St. John’s in the Vale location provides.  More challenging activities are undertaken by the older groups scaling the highest of the mountains or Dragnet - a 24 hour challenge across Cumbria.  Training for leaders can be achieved away from the normal business of life.

Colleges

It has long been part of Further Education to help students develop life skills outside the academic world.  Staying at the Centre brings new challenges to many, things that they have never experienced before.  Team building skills and challenge events lead to further qualifications through the Duke of Edinburgh scheme or Princes Trust.

Others

The Centre’s location makes it an ideal base for a wide range of activities.  The quality of the building and the value for money it provides make it attractive to many people.  Family parties, weekend walking groups and wedding receptions have all been held at the Centre.  Our priority is to see the development of Young People through the aims of our Trust Deed.  But whoever stays, their time spent in St. John’s in the Vale is memorable, enjoyable and often life changing.

Bryan Rothwell
17th April 2010