Time4Brum Youth Conversations
Birmingham is the youngest major city in Europe with under-25s accounting for nearly 40% of our population. We have over 400 schools, four universities, a ‘super diverse’ population and all the excitement, innovation and energy associated with youth.
It is a city of challenge. The rate of mental health issues, knife crime, addiction, and hopelessness impacts many. The church has struggled to engage and retain young people. We have seen a sharp decline in those identifying as Christians in the recent census.
It is a city of opportunity. We are seeing a growing number of young people across the city with a deepening passion for Jesus. We are seeing new initiatives and events. We are building a deeper unity.
Are we at a tipping point? Without change the Christian presence in our city will wither. But Birmingham has a special opportunity – more than any other in Europe – to build a vibrant cross generational church, with a passionate commitment to our young people.
Can we build a city wide movement – where young Christians are served, encouraged, inspired, and supported? It is Time4Brum – the youngest city, to shape a new Christian identity that changes our church and transforms the city.
Next steps
· To gather youth leaders and those with a heart for the generations together to address the question – how do we best help you to flourish? This will be supportive, not controlling, where we listen generously.
· Please can you nominate people you would like to attend an initial city meeting on 18th September at 8.00pm – on zoom. This could be your youth leader, yourself, children’s workers, or others with a passion to see God move through our young people. Please send us details so we can issue a formal invitation to, or you/they can book in at www.time4brum.uk/events
· Let us start a campaign that sees a breakthrough in our city. Addressing how we all prioritise our young generation, pray for them, support and encourage – and listen to them – their voices will shape our future.