Our youth worker Ellen Dann started maternity leave in July 2015. During the last few years she has made a huge contribution to the life of Christ Church, while her own life too has gone through dramatic changes. We give thanks for Ellen and all that God has done through her in Christ Church, and look forward to what is still to come.
Since joining Christ Church in 2010 Ellen has touched the lives of dozens of young people, encouraging them to grow in faith and apply it to their everyday lives. Week by week she has led the Revive and Reloaded youth groups, as well as special events such as the visits to Soul Survivor, youth weekends away, fundraising events and the Youth Encounter trip to Kenya and Tanzania.
Her work with young people has impacted on the wider church too. We’ve learned more about global issues in a practical way through Brown Rice Day, the 24-hour Stop the Traffik event and Slum Survivor.
Ellen’s work goes far beyond her official rôle as youth worker: she has led Sunday services, Café Church sessions, a home group, holiday clubs and craft events, and helped to start and lead Messy Church through its first year.
Although we will miss Ellen greatly our youth work will of course continue. Matt Churchouse will be leading on a part time basis, supported by a team of voluntary helpers.
Ellen leads a discussion with one of the youth groups in Christ Church
It’s 6.30 am and we’re more than half way through the 24-hour Stop the Traffik event
Commissioning the Youth Encounter team before they set off for East Africa
With the Youth Encounter team on a coach in Kenya
Wearing a hard hat for grass sledging at a Revive residential
Wrapped up warm on a chilly evening at Slum Survivor
A quieter moment at Messy Church
Ellen was presented with a thank-you cake for all her work with Messy Church
Leading at Messy Church
Leading at Café Church
A message of thanks from Ellen…
Colin and Ellen on the 2013 Youth Encounter trip
“I can’t believe that it has been five and half years since I first moved to Birmingham and became the youth worker at Christ Church. I knew I had come to a very special church right from the beginning. I received such a warm welcome and so much support. I would like to say a huge thank you to each of you! Thank you for the way you have supported me as a person and the young people.”
“Colin and I were so overwhelmed by the amazing wedding reception that you gave us in 2013 and now we arrive at another momentous life change! Thank you for the gifts that you have given us for our new baby! We so appreciate your generosity and love. Thank you for your prayers.”
Ellen, Colin and Baby
When Ellen and Colin got married they held a special celebration for all of us in Christ Church
Find out more about youth activities on our youth page.