ALM Children’s Ministry Course

Working with children in your church? Have you thought about:

Children's Authorised Lay Ministry Training

Starts Wednesday 19 January 2022 7 - 9pm on Zoom

• Find out more from Debbie Hill Development Officer for Children & Their Families
• 07837 699016 or debbie.hill@elydiocese.org

Children's Authorised Lay Ministry course

This training is open to all volunteers or employed children's workers who work across Ely Diocese in the Church of England. It offers a comprehensive coverage of children and families' ministry which will enable you to confidently support Children and Families in your parish.

Here's what this year's trainees have said:

"It is brilliant to have the time and space to learn, grow and reflect upon your ministry to children. You will learn so much from some outstanding practitioners with experience in many different areas. You will delve into the theory behind nurturing children's spirituality but you will also be given a treasure trove of practical tips to dip into! The supportive network of other trainees also provides the perfect environment for you to grow and develop your own practice. In essence, the Children and Families' ALM course is simply marvellous!"

"I thought I understood children, and this would be a formality. But I have had so much fun, gained new knowledge and new friends and have loved every minute of the process. I would highly recommend this to anyone who is already working with children and young people, if only to cement the knowledge you have. I am going to miss our Wednesday nights, what will I do?"

Those who complete the Children's Authorised Lay Ministry Course are authorised by the Bishop to serve in their parish or benefice for a period of four years initially, after which they can renew their authorisation if they wish to continue serving in this way. If you think you might be interested in becoming a Children's ALM, please talk to your vicar in the first instance or, in the case of interregnum, contact me directly and I can put you in touch with your Rural Dean.

Course outline

• Children's Spirituality
• Talking 'bout my generation - the difference between past and present
• Understanding how we learn and how that shapes what we provide for children
• Faith Development
• Made in God's Image-creating good relationships through communication
• Connecting Children to God and Creative Prayer
• Creative Storytelling
• Growing Faith with Under Ss
• Child Advocacy
• Successful Planning and Reflective Practice
• Welcome and Hospitality for families & Evangelism
• All Age Worship
• Working with your local school-an overview
• What a Wonderful World! Church Outside
• Building a Team

Course Dates & Times

All evening sessions will be on Zoom 7 - 9pm during term time, starting on Wednesday 19 January except we hope to be able to offer one whole day session in person (TBC) on Saturday 5 March 2022, venue to be confirmed. All trainees must complete 13/15 sessions to be authorised, as well as either a Growing as a Disciple or Foundations for Ministry course.

The course will be hosted and delivered primarily by the Development Officer for Children & Families with support from experienced practitioners. If you'd like more information or to join this course, contact Debbie Hill debbie.hill@elydiocese.org or 07837 699016 during working hours.