Young flock to religion

While traditional Sunday services have experienced a slight downturn in numbers - from 2,200 in 2001 to 2,100 in 2002 - around 2,600 11 to 25-year-olds have been flocking to events organised by the Worcester Diocese.

And the average weekly attendance for young people and children increased from 3,000 to 3,500 in 2002.

It is thought that Christian youth parties like the "God Rocks" event held at Hallow, Grimley and Holt, have helped the church reach the new generation.

And church leaders have high hopes that the numbers attending this year's Fireproof Event at Top Barn Farm in Holt, will double. Youngsters attending the weekend music event camp at the farm and attend workshops and games.

"People speak of children and young people as being the church of tomorrow, but they are the church of today and it is vital that we listen to their voice," said Revd David Morphy, the Director of Education for the Worcester Diocese.

"Our diocese has made its ministry among young people a priority and has its own youth council which brings together young people from across the diocese.

"It is good to know that the excellent outreach by many of our parishes and the good work carried out by out by our youth officer, Captain Steve Martin, is demonstrated in these encouraging figures."

Capt Martin is part of a 600-strong team working with young people in the diocese.

He regularly visits parishes to offer advice on how to encourage youngsters to be actively involved in church life, and has helped organise the "God Rocks" events which incorporate music, fun and games into religion.

Mr Martin highlighted how the church of today is more committed to young people, listening to and meeting their needs.

"There are incredible signs of growth and enthusiasm," he said.

Figures released by the Church of England also show an average monthly increase in the church attendance of youngsters. Figures for 2002 show an average increase of one per cent over 2001 to 421,000.