Over the last few years we have been building extensive Children’s work. This has involved:
lunch time groups in the schools
a fortnightly worship event for children
a cell group for those interested in exploring their faith more deeply
This work is being extended into our work with youngsters at secondary school, with a regular youth worship event on Sunday evenings already running and an after school group starting in January 08
The next natural extension for us, is to look to develop work with those aged 20 – 45. Whilst the church has a growing number of people in this age group, it is an area of weakness. However, we do have contacts with a number of people. These would include:
parents of children involved in our children’s work
parents who bring their children for baptism or blessing
couples who have been married in the church recently, or are planning to get married in the next year
We have organised a number of Family Events at different times of the year, and have run a “Drug proofing your kids” Course for adults, through Care for the Family. In December 2007 we ran a 2 hour “Messy Church” event – an opportunity for families to take part in craft activities, share in lunch and to worship together. We are keen to build upon these – but recognise the need to provide something more.
The Vision
As with our children’s and youth work, we recognise the need to provide:
Activities and events of a social nature – allowing people to share in activities around the church in a non threatening environment
Opportunities for those who want to explore the Christian faith and its significance for their lives in an appropriate setting
Groups or events for those who have made a Christian commitment, and want to deepen their faith
Some of what is required we already have in place, but we are keen to develop our programme to provide for adults at all stages of the Christian journey.
The vision to develop this is shared by the minister and elders of the congregation – with a sense of excitement and anticipation as we have seen this begin to take shape.
Worship
It would be our hope that our Sunday morning worship is accessible for those in the 20 – 45 age group. However, we would be open to developing another worship event if it was thought this was necessary – or to incorporate changes into our regular Sunday worship.
Adult Outreach Worker appointment
In March 2008, Jo Love joined the church team part-time as an Adult Outreach Worker. With extensive experience of church work, stretching back over 15 years, Jo will take responsibility for the development of work with those in the 20 – 45 age group. She has already begun to make contacts with those in this age group in and around the church, and will be looking to build on those in the coming months.
A number of volunteers from the church community are already involved in aspects of the work, and their continued involvement is key.
Loanhead Parish Church , The Manse, 120 The Loan, Loanhead , Midlothian, EH20 9AJ Loanhead Parish Church (Church of Scotland) Registered Charity No SC014420
0131 448 2459 
