Bishop's Adviser for Youth Ministry Appointed
22 March 2007

The role includes supporting and developing full-time paid youth workers and the hundreds of volunteers across the Diocese, overseeing re-united – a bi-monthly gathering of young people, co-ordinating the work of the Bishop’s Youth Council and running the Bishop’s Certificate in Youth Ministry.

Helen has worked as Assistant Adviser for Youth Ministry in the Diocese of Birmingham for the last two years while serving as a youth worker in the parish of Christ Church, Selly Park. She recently set up the Laughing Sole comedy club – a pub-based club with a cleaner and less offensive ethos. Find out more at www.thelaughingsole.org.uk

She will begin working full time as Bishop’s Adviser from April 1st.  As part of her new role Helen will become part of the National Diocesan Youth Officer network which meet regularly and encourages best practice and continuity among the 43 dioceses of the Church of England.

Helen said: “I am honoured to have this wonderful opportunity. I am passionate about the role of young people in the church and I am very keen to enable all young people to experience diverse and creative ways of worshipping, broadening their horizons and reflecting the vibrancy of this exciting and international city and region.

Bishop David said; “Helen is extremely well qualified for this post. She has served in a number of different parishes and settings and has experience of working for the Diocese.

“She is already well respected and much liked by youthworkers, colleagues in the Diocesan office and by the young people themselves. I know she will build on the good practice we have in this region to help churches nurture young people who are salt and light in their schools, colleges, homes and workplaces.”

Before coming to the Birmingham Helen worked in Yorkshire at Scargill House retreat and conference centre where she led the youth activities. She has degrees in Theology and Youth Ministry. In her spare time she enjoys outdoor pursuits, comedy clubs and walking her dog, Donkey.

For more information please call Jessica Foster, Bishop’s Director of Communication on 0121 426 0438

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