Guardians of Ancora holiday club: “It helped us remember that God loves everyone”

The benefice of St George’s Tuffley and St Margaret’s Whaddon once again welcomed children, young people and families to their annual summer holiday club, which this year was based on Scripture Union’s Guardians of Ancora programme.

36 primary school-aged children attended the week-long club, where they were immersed in the fictional city of Ancora. They played the role of guardians working to restore light by discovering the love and light of Jesus.

Through interactive storytelling, the children explored Bible passages including the parable of the lost sheep, the calming of the storm, and the Good Samaritan. They also explored faith through prayer, treasure hunts, quizzes, games, team challenges, craft activities, singing and dancing.

The week concluded with a celebration event for families. The children shared their experiences of the week, and everyone enjoyed free pizza and ice cream for lunch.

One child said: “It was great fun, and it helped us remember that God loves everyone.”

Another child said: “I made new friends and loved all the activities – especially seeing the boats floating, like when Jesus stopped the waves.”

The holiday club was led and supported by 20 adult volunteers, and six teenage young leaders from St George’s youth group. They joined the team briefings every day, took part in prayers, helped run activities and encouraged the children each day.

One young leader said, “Thank you for asking me to be a young leader, I have loved being part of the club.” Another spoke about their favourite song of the week, City on a Hill, which reminded them that everyone can gain confidence to make a difference in this world and shine out the light of Jesus.

St George’s youth group started in 2023, initially offering a space for a few Year 7 students. Within a few weeks, it grew to a group of around 20 meeting every Monday evening. It now includes a wider age range of Year 6’s to Year 9’s, with the majority still being the initial age group who have just finished Year 8.

“The church is where we feel safe and welcome. As we get older, I hope there will continue to be a group for us and more ways we can be involved,” a young person from St George’s youth club said.

The Revd Rachel Beck, Vicar of the benefice, said: “Watching these young people develop in confidence and maturity, in their faith and discipleship, has been such a joy and delight.  They are a full part of our faith community, as we journey together in the love and hope we find in Jesus – learning from one another.

“We have been blessed to have enough people giving generously of their time and energy to support these young people, and we are praying that continues to be the case, for the harvest is plentiful.”

On Sunday 31 August, many of the children and young people who were involved in the Holiday Club took part in a ‘Back to School’ service at St George’s – a time of encouragement and prayer for the new school year.  Once again, some of the young people were involved, leading prayer stations, reading, and encouraging the adults to join in with the actions during the songs.