Next Steps

Over the last few weeks, I have had the joy of meeting with *Sarah, a student who is new to faith. After praying in her room one evening that God would help her, she felt a weight lifted off her and became a Christian in that moment. Sarah then told us, she prayed this prayer because we talk about pray at Step and at Haven Hope, and so she thought it was worth giving it a try!

This is just one story of many that we are hearing across the UK (and within the schools/churches in St Albans and Harpenden!) of young people choosing to follow Jesus. There is research that has recently come out from the Bible Society, which they have called ‘The quiet revival’: ‘These are striking findings that completely reverse the widely held assumption that the Church in England and Wales is in terminal decline… There are now over 2 million more people attending church than there were six years ago’ - Dr Rhiannon McAleer.

The report comments on why this might be the case and suggests that: ‘With much of the population struggling with mental health, loneliness and a loss of meaning in life, in particular young people, church appears to be offering an answer. We found that churchgoers are more likely than non-churchgoers to report higher life satisfaction and a greater feeling of connection to their community than non-churchgoers. They are also less likely to report frequently feeling anxious or depressed – particularly young women.’

This mirrors what Sarah has shared with us, saying that she now feels more peaceful at heart. Over the last few weeks, Sarah and I have explored what this new commitment to Jesus means. We have looked at the Bible (and got her one of her own!), prayer, church, worship and as we continue to meet over the new few weeks will discuss doubts, perseverance and telling others!

My favourite moment so far of these sessions was when I asked Sarah if there was anything in particular she wanted prayer for. Her response was: ‘No, I’m good. God keeps answering all my prayers at the moment.’

I am excited to be able to see how Sarah continues to grow in her faith, but also to see this quiet revival continuing across the schools in Harpenden and St. Albans as we see more stories like Sarah.

*name changed.