RECOGNISE is a week to celebrate all those ministering with children and young people in our churches.
RECOGNISE offers a fantastic opportunity to celebrate, thank, and acknowledge everyone involved in Children’s and Youth Ministry - both staff and volunteers. RECOGNISE week will run from 6 - 12 July 2026
Churches can sign up to pre‑order a FREE pack. Each pack includes a cake topper, a prayer card, a set of thank‑you cards, and access to digital resources once they are released. Packs are limited, so sign up now!
Who makes a difference to children, young people, and families in your church?
Across the diocese each week a huge number of people are engaged in children and youth ministry in a wide range of different contexts. Sunday 12 July is a day for churches nationwide to celebrate and thank those involved in this vital ministry. Perhaps you could host a celebration event at your church, or share a special thank-you video on social media.
We warmly encourage you to recognise the people whose ministry makes such a difference in our local communities. This might include children’s group leaders, crèche volunteers, baby and toddler group leaders, youth leaders and volunteers, or family workers.
Peter Leech, Director of Mission and Ministry, writes:
"I wonder who has been influential on your faith journey.
For me, there were two people who were most influential. The first was Mrs Grainger (my Sunday School teacher when I was in Primary school- I would never have dared call her by her first name!) who used to tell stories from the Bible in the most engaging way that made me want to read the Bible more for myself. The other person was Mark who was our youth group leader. He spent time patiently listening to us as we engaged in discussion, trying to make sense of the world around us and our faith. He never forced his own faith on to us, but encouraged us to question and explore for ourselves and accompanied us on that journey. He cared about those in the youth group. I also found out when I was ordained that both these people regularly prayed for me.
Adults are so influential in the lives of children and young people, including in their faith development."