Early in February, an amazing group of Anglican youth leaders from across the motu gathered at Ngatiawa River Monastery to spend some time upskilling in youth ministry! They have embarked on the first block of a two year season of exploring youth development, theology and being Anglican. Our first cohort consisted of 11 youth leaders from five Diocese.

The Priory is about developing youth leaders and ministers in both theological study and youth development, while enveloping them in the breadth of the Anglican tradition. As an added bonus they get to connect with others with a similar heart and passion for the young people of our country from across the nation! Our intent is that our communities are resourced with leaders who are called, trained, faithful and passionate.

The Priory is being run in partnership with St Johns Theological College and some students are earning credits towards the NZ Diploma in Christian Studies while others are auditing the courses. Some students are also engaging in study like Praxis and theological study alongside the Priory. All our leaders are currently serving in a variety of Anglican contexts, in both paid and volunteer capacities, within churches and church community projects in schools and other community environments.

Please pray for our cohort as they juggle the many strands of their lives, and faithful care for the young people God sends across their paths. Their next block is in July with regular regional clusters in between.

Please especially pray for those who are areas that have been affected by floods and cyclone Gabrielle in recent weeks. Their skills and mahi will be called upon even more over the next weeks and months, making the delicate balance between life, work and study even more challenging than usual.

(there are two students missing from the photo)