Christian Outreach in Schools

A brief glance at today's newspapers with stories about youth crime, drug use and under age drinking leaves us with little to celebrate. But there is another side to the coin, at least in Harpenden.

Youth workers from several local churches have built up excellent relationships with the three secondary schools in the town - Roundwood, Sir John Lawes and St George's. They have received excellent support from STEP (St Albans and Harpenden Education Project).

Roundwood opened its doors to local Christian workers who have taught lessons in Years 10 and 12. Also, a drop-in group for Years 7 and 8 has been very popular.

It took a bit longer to make inroads at Sir John Lawes but workers from STEP have recently taught a number of lessons and hope to do more in the next academic year.

St George's held a very successful missions week, initiated by a group of young Christians in the sixth form. Lunchtime activities included street dance, leading a music band, and rapping. All RE lessons for the period were given over to a STEP team and everyone in the school heard the Gospel from John 10:10 (the abundant life).

All three schools now have Christian Unions. The CU at Roundwood grew from an attendance of two to 40 in a year.
Two separate CU groups at Sir John Lawes came together and now work very effectively.
St George's CU, known as 'More to Life', meets weekly with up to 40 attending. They also have a separate group for 6th formers, providing more in depth study.
It is encouraging that the CUs from the three schools now come together each term for a time of worship, prayer and planning.

Rev John Fellows from High Street Methodist Church continues his work with Harpenden's junior schools. He makes use of a Scripture Union book 'It's Your Move' which helps children with the transition to secondary education.

STEP are holding their 10th anniversary celebration on 6th October. Everyone is welcome to come along to City Church, St Albans at 7.45pm. Click for more details.

The STEP website

(Article taken from High Street News Aug/Sept 07)