Deputy Director of Education, Rebecca Swansbury has written a book, Spiritual Agents which is for anyone who works with children and young people in a school worship or church setting.
Drawing on scripture and research, Rebecca offers a compelling rationale for why we should include their voices regularly in collective or church worship.
Rebecca says: “Teaching young people how to think and wonder will create deeper, more personal meanings for each of them.”
Church of England schools are vibrant, diverse communities. To honour this diversity, the culture of collective worship must be inclusive, fostering a shared sense of spirituality and belonging.
The book includes testimonies from pupils and leaders of various faiths, and those of no faith, to illustrate how a shared language of prayer and spirituality can unite the school community in worship. These insights provide school staff and clergy with a vision of what is possible within their unique settings.
In Spiritual Agents different models illustrate how pupil leadership in worship can be approached, offering guidance to adults responsible for nurturing these young leaders. The aim is to equip adults with strategies to effectively train, empower, and support pupils, helping them to flourish and grow confidently in their role as a worship leader.
Bishop Rose with 'Spiritual Agents' book
Talking about the book, Bishop Rose said: "I urge you to consider and reflect on all that Rebecca has outlined in her book to ensure the voice of our young people is truly heard across our Diocese schools and churches.
"What a blessing their contribution will be to our worship."