CHILDREN’S & YOUTH WORK

“To serve the present age. . .” 

St. Martin’s Methodist Church has long had a great tradition of work with children and young people.  As late as the end of the 1990s it could still boast one of the largest Sunday schools in the Island.   

The Sunday School Anniversary remained a highlight of the year each October.  An ancient tiered stage was erected and filled with young people. In latter years the numbers reduced a bit but there was still much  enthusiasm.  For some twenty years under the musical direction on organist Alan Mollet, several generations of young people presented musicals, from Joseph to Jonah.  Since the remodelling of the chapel, a rather different presentation stage has been available with more opportunity for movement and exploration of acting skills!

Changing social patterns however have had a marked effect since the dawn of the new millennium.  The work goes on, in many ways more creatively than ever, but against an ever more difficult background of competing activities and irregular attendance.  Nevertheless, a small group of dedicated leaders continue to respond to these changing patterns and provide a well-planned and challenging programme for the young people in Jesus And Me or J.A.M. for short! 

And so they continue to serve the present age

A highlight of the year is the annual outing in July, travelling around Island lanes in the backs of lorries, amid much singing and streamer waving, topped off with beach games and a sandwiches and ice-cream tea.

The church also hosts Girls’ and Boys’ Brigade Companies.  These too are much reduced since their heyday in the fifties and sixties.  Nevertheless, an active programme is maintained for these small but enthusiastic groups.

There is also an active, sport orientated Friday Club for 11 to 16 year olds.

Safeguarding

St. Martin takes the Safeguarding of Children and Vulnerable Adults very seriously and seeks to follow the Methodist Church’s Policy in these matters.  All workers with children and young people in particular have been CRB checked.  We take the safety of all very seriously

Minister:  The Revd. Billy Slatter