Mission Partners are churches that are developing an intentional, missional partnership with CYO. As such, Mission Partners have a similar vision, heart and desire for children and young people to grow in hope, life and faith.
Mission Partners are integral to the vision and strategy of CYO.
The Vision
Every school supported in the spiritual development and pastoral care of students by a regular, consistent, intentional Christian presence.
We can’t do this on our own, and we shouldn’t do this on our own. It is the local church that is the hope of the nation. Therefore, CYO acts as a catalyst to equip, resource and support Mission Partners in school chaplaincy. In turn, Mission Partners create further opportunities at church or in community spaces to connect with children and young people.
With this partnership approach three things happen:
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- Churches and individuals are upskilled and more engaged with the local community.
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- Provision for children and youth increases across Colchester, during and after school.
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- Many more opportunities are created for children and young people to explore the Christian faith.
What do you get?
Mission Partners will receive training on working within a school context, the role of a chaplain, and how to mentor students. Mission Partners will also gain access to the wider network of partners and chaplains across the city for encouragement, prayer, learning, and idea generation.
CYO also provide a designated member of staff for on-going support and coaching to help facilitate critical thinking, evaluation, and build strategy. This is not just for the chaplaincy role in schools. CYO hopes that Mission Partners will also create other youth and children’s provision outside of the school context – and we’ll help you find what will work for your church.
