Annual Report 2022/23

Charity Number 1144209

www.kenelmyouthtrust.org.uk

Annual Report 22/23

Kenelm Youth Trust Providing life changing opportunities for young people, helping each person to reflect upon their life of faith, and how they respond to the call of Jesus Christ in their lives.

2022 2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2

A Word from our CEO

4 Alton Castle 8

BCYS

16 Soli 21 School Chaplaincy 25 And finally...

www.kenelmyouthtrust.org.uk

Over 1900 people signed up to our mailing list receiving a newsletter each month!

Over 11,000 young people served by Alton and Soli Over 1000 leaders accompanied their students on residentials

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BCYS worked with over 5200 young people

25 Lay Chaplains serving over 30,000 young people in schools

over 75 school visits made

42 parishes with youth provision with 128 leaders serving!

Mental Health Workshops for over 1100 pupils in school delivered Over 200 hours of training delivered 12 young

Over 300 young people listened to during our synod facilitation workshops

52 parish leaders received youth ministry training through the Bethsaida course

adults serving as volunteers in Alton and Soli

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A Word from our CEO

It is my privilege and joy to serve as the senior officer for Kenelm Youth Trust. This report gives just a snippet of the day-to-day youth ministry that is undertaken across the Archdiocese, all aiming at drawing young people closer to the person of Jesus Christ.

The main objectives of The Trust for the year 2022-2023 were: Start to re-establish Parish Youth Ministry at local level- rebuilding confidence Develop Digital ministry for and with young people and leaders Re-establish the calendar of local and diocesan Youth Events which had diminished during the COVID pandemic Extend our reach with disadvantaged young people Re-establish and grow the diary of bookings and programme at the two residential centres, working closely with schools to give support and confidence to return to regular residential trips post COVID. Plan for World Youth Day Lisbon with Young Adult Ministry preparation and Formation for this Pilgrimage to Lisbon July/August 2023

Review the priorities from the Alton Quinquennial Property Reports Plan for the repair and restoration of the Guildhall Roof and Dormer Windowslaunch a major fundraising Project.

Continue with SYNODAL conversations with young people and young adults working towards the SYNOD now in 2024 Continue to develop Catholic Well-being and Mental Health programmes and resources.

Review Adventurous Activities and renew equipment as required.

Review and renew as necessary the Bookings System for the residential Centres Review the Health and Safety aspects of the site and plan for improvements and upgrades as required. Support establishing a plan for ensuring Alton as a historic site, and Soli meets best practice.

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The Faith Formation, Skills development of Young Adult & Adult Volunteers.

Extended the Summer Programme to reach more young people.

A review of the three-year business plan and budgets in consultation with expert advice with a lens on Climate issues and commitment to work towards net zero carbon emissions by 2030.

Consider income streams to support the Charitable Activities

Outlook The Trust plans to return to pre-pandemic levels of charitable activity income by 2024. As we have planned major capital works in 2023, we have budgeted a manageable deficit in 2023 as we are also still recovering the levels of our charitable activity and income since COVID reduced our activities. We are aware of the volatile energy crisis, and the enormous rises in our own and family’s energy costs and emerging cost of living crisis. These continue to have a major impact on our residential projects and usual revenue streams, and as the outlook is unknown, we were agile as we anticipated a fluid and changeable outlook into 2023.

Annual financial report, accounts ,information can be found here https://registerof-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-search/-/charitydetails/5020431/charity-overview and www.kenelmyouthtrust.org.uk

Appreciation and acknowledgements Appreciation is given to all the Parishes, schools, families, and young people who have participated or were involved in groups, trips, activities, and events, enabling the Trust to achieve its aims and goals.

The Parish volunteer youth leaders give tirelessly of their energy, enthusiasm, time, and creativity to serve young people. Our heartfelt thanks for all their service to young people.

The Trust believe our staff and mission teams are our most precious resource and is committed to their CPD, Formation and ongoing development.

‘Our staff provide life changing opportunities for thousands of young people .’

Sincere gratitude is given to our dedicated staff and volunteers, individuals across the Archdiocese, foundations, and partners particularly the Archdiocesan trustees, that through their time, energy, and financial support, have ensured KYT have had another successful year in challenging times.

Sandra Satchell CEO - Kenelm youth Trust

ALTON CASTLE SERVING SINCE 1995...

New Programmes at the Castle

In 2022/23 we had the privilege of ministering to more than 4000 young people and their accompanying staff at Alton Castle, predominantly on a mixture of residential and day retreats. The experience of each of these young people has been enabled by the hard work of an incredible Mission Team and Operations Team.

Over the last year, we have focused our efforts on updating our provision of retreat programmes to make them more tangible and more attractive to young people and their faith journeys in the 21st Century.

To date we have created three new residential programmes which all explore unique themes though a blend of outdoor activities, prayers and meditations: 1) Follow, Key Stage 2 Programme, explores what it means to 'abandon our nets' and follow Jesus in the 21st Century. This programme is brand new for 2023/24.

Through a unique blend of outdoor adventurous activities and inspiring retreat experiences, Alton Castle promotes personal, social and spiritual development for Key Stages 2 & 3. Our enthusiastic team enable young people to encounter Christ through creation, challenging activities and community.

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2) Rooted, our Key Stage 3 programme, follows the life cycle of a tree as we explore our identity in Christ and how we can root ourselves in God to fully become who we were made to be.

3) We know Jesus died for us and rose from the dead but what else took place and why did it all happen? Our Lenten Retreat, Come Close, Listen to the Story, invites us to look more closely at the Easter story to equip us to celebrate both Easter and our faith fully, and to share God’s message as the Easter people.

Our Lenten retreat, in particular, was a great success with schools and the Mission Team alike: it had a noticeable impact on how staff, the misison team and young people engaged with the season of Lent, ready to celebrate Easter in its entirity.

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The polaroid-style graphic aims to evoke a sense of nostalgia allowing children to reflect on their memories of their time on retreat fondly, as so many of our children and young people do.

The castle Logo is now featured in many of our retreat resources as well as on all of our castle tuck shop merchandise. .

“Our children get so much out of their time here and we love to watch them grow in their faith!“ Year 5 Teacher

In addition to creating new residential programmes, we have sought to refresh our First Holy Communion and Confirmation day retreats. And, as we begin the new year of ministry, we are continuing to look for new ideas and methods of engaging young people in their faith.

Rebranding Project...

This year, a significant focus at the Castle has been the comprehensive rebranding effort, encompassing not only our retreats but also the overall image of the castle itself. This has led to the creation of a castle logo which features a graphic of the castle itself on the backdrop of a sunset. This was inspired with incorporating the iconic building of the castle and the famous Alton sunsets.

“Best retreat of my life!

Everyone was friendly and fun!” Year 6 Student

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Environmental Commitments Our tuck shop offerings include an array of items, from cuddly teddy

offering confectionery in our tuck shop that is entirely plastic-free.

bears and practical lanyards to ecoconscious water bottles and trendy drawstring bags. Wristbands, stickers, notebooks, bucket hats, pencils, and frisbees round out the collection.

These delightful items are not only available for purchase on-site but will soon be conveniently accessible through our website, ensuring that the castle experience extends beyond the visit itself. In keeping with our commitment to environmental responsibility, we take pride in

Furthermore, our merchandise, where plastic is utilised, is crafted from recycled materials. This ecoconscious approach aligns with our mission to reduce our impact on the climate and underscores the importance of living out our calling to embrace simplicity and sustainability, a message we aim to impart to the children and young people who visit our castle.

Team Profile - Meet Ben

Being a part of the KYT Mission Team has been such an incredible part of my life and has led to me being here for another year. I have absolutely loved every part of the past year, the activities, the times of prayer, making friends for life and being able to accompany different young people over retreats throughout everything!

Through the entire year, I have been able to grow so much in myself. Being able to lead different times of prayer and large group sessions has helped me grow in confidence so much. In gaining different qualifications such as the British Cycling Level 1 instructor award, as well as an Archery GB qualification, I have developed an even greater love for Outdoor Education. As a result of this, I have recently started an apprenticeship in OE which I can do alongside my work at both the Castle and Soli.

I came on retreat to the Castle so many times as a young person and absolutely loved watching the team and all of the work they did. I knew I had to do the same when I was able to. Throughout the year, I have been so lucky to minister to young people through both the Castle, Soli, and even different outreach days, working with young people all the way from year 3 to sixth form. In every single thing we did, the aim was to bring the young people into an encounter with Christ himself.

I would recommend doing a year (or two!) at Kenelm as it truly is the best thing to do.

Being able to work in the outdoors, gain national qualifications, lead young people in prayer, and developing your own personal prayer life is the greatest mix for a year.

BCYS SERVING FOR OVER 25 YEARS

Flame 2023

Flame 2023 at Wembley Arena was an incredibly powerful day! We already can't wait for the next one! With over 8,000 young people from across the diocese joining together with thousands of young people from across the country, it was a day of joy and real hope for the future of the Catholic Church in England. Our young people had the opportunity to listen to speakers from across the world, hear live music and encounter the work of charities who make a real difference to the concerns of our young people. One young person said that Flame gave them “hope for the future” and helped them to realise that they are “not alone” as a young person with an active faith.

Fearless Retreat

Fearless is our ever-popular parish group residential retreat held at Alton Castle, that aims to help participants (school years 5-9) deepen their faith, build strong relationships with others, and develop a sense of purpose in life. During the retreat participants engage in various outdoor activities as well as prayer, worship, group discussions and reflection. The retreat is designed to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore their faith and grow in their relationship with God, as well as having fun and meeting other young people just like them! Our aim is to make sure our young people leave the retreat feeling refreshed, renewed, and empowered to live out their faith fearlessly in their daily lives.

BCYS provides a highly experienced, qualified and ambitious team ready to support your parish as you engage and serve young people. Let us do the hard work! We are here to inspire, recruit, train and resource your volunteer parish youth ministers. It is going to be a rewarding journey - Lets get started!

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Volunteer Training and Recruitment

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BCYS has been working across the newly reformed 11 Deaneries of the Archdiocese of Birmingham which incorporates approx. 208 parish clusters. During 2022 as all Covid restrictions lifted, BCYS recommenced the work of recruiting, training and encouraging volunteers to reconnect with young people and re-open parish youth groups and face to face ministry.

“It was a great experience, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I liked how it was taught with break out rooms, online learning and activities.”

Sarah, Coventry We are delighted that 32 parish youth groups are now meeting regularly again. Plus, we have 9 new parish youth groups, who have been training through the Summer term and are due to open in the Autumn.

During the year, BCYS has run 68 training sessions for parish volunteers.

We have prepared and facilitated face to face and online training.

Our online training has bought parish leaders together from across the Archdiocese, North to South. This has resulted in a wealth of sharing of parish culture, experience, good practice, faith and ideas for resources for ministry with young people .

Our face to face training is invaluable in building relationships and delving deeper into the challenges , joys, theory and practicalities of creating a sense of belonging and developing faith amongst young people.

BCYS has trained volunteers in: Parish Youth Ministry, Mental Health First Aid, JPII and Faith in Action Award schemes. Peer Mentoring, Alpha Leadership, Digital Youth Ministry, Sharing Faith and this year we have developed the brand new certificated course; VITAL - A training course in leadership by young people. A step towards creating authentic roles in parish communities for young people, an outcome from the Synod Report.

“I feel privileged to have been part of this course which has now empowered and equipped me better to support people with mental health needs.”

Lucy, Lourdes Leader

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Leaders’ Retreat Day

Our January retreat day for parish youth leaders was filled to capacity as we gathered at the Sisters of Mercy Convent in Handsworth. We were lead by Canon Michael Dolman as he shared on our theme, ‘Mary arose and went with haste’. (LK 1:39) Parish youth leaders shared a home cooked meal together and afternoon tea. We prayed through a beautiful morning prayer modelled so as to be replicated in youth groups. The celebration of Mass and Adoration were great moments of encounter. We had two inspirational talks and plenty of material for in-depth discussion and sharing throughout the day. Our leaders, giving so much of themselves to others throughout the year, really valued the chance to be together in person and to receive so deeply and to feel renewed.

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“Our faith journey together as a whole parish team has been enriched and enhanced” Marie, Banbury Youth Team

Born For This

Our Lenten production of 'Born for This' on was on Saturday 1st April 2023 with the help of over 60 young people from parish youth groups and chaplaincy teams across the diocese. It was a big task to, over the course of a single day, run rehearsals and practice for a production in the evening. We welcomed friends and family to watch as we reenact the transformational story of ‘the Passion’ through CJM's music. It was an incredible day of laughter and talent and it was a truly wonderful (and at times a little stressful) opportunity to witness, and to be a part of, both for youth leaders and young people. Young people were welcome to act, sing, be a part of the band, or speak. This one day event has grown from Proud 2 Profess, a popular event we hold every year. Our aim overall, is to help bridge the gap between parish and school, and to create a community and sense of 'big' Church for our young people.

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Vital Training

We've been on a mission to revamp, rebrand and update our Vital training programme over the Summer. Vital is an absolute game-changer for young adults aged 14 and up, who want to sharpen their leadership skills. This four-session programme is not only a fantastic tool to help older youth blossom into inspiring leaders but is also a fantastic way to bridge the gap between schools and parishes, whilst also nurturing future youth group and ministry leaders. Our recent trial run at Cardinal Wiseman Secondary School in Coventry has been a real success, with a flourishing parish youth group starting and participants rising to the challenge of becoming junior leaders, all thanks to our programme and the hardworking of their chaplains, Tom and Beth. Tom said “The course was perfect for our young people, it has equipped them with skills for life and we are already seeing the fruits in our community”

It’s a Knockout

This was the biggest ever BCYS camping event held in 100 acres of woodland at Rough Close Scout Campsite! We were joined by sixteen parish youth group teams, incorporating over 180 young people and leaders gathered for relationship building, laughter, games, challenges and a beautiful outdoor Mass and BBQ. Parish groups came from across Deaneries in the Diocese. Please see our video for this good news story which can be found on our website.

“This event is pure fun, happiness and joy!”

Kitty, aged 13

“Its such an adventure , I love the competition, and ’Hunted ‘was so fun in the woods, you have to really have a strategy to make it to extraction” Michael age 14

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Lourdes Pilgrimage This pilgrimage was such an incredible week! Over 200 young people were part of the 750 strong Diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes. They volunteered during their half-term to support our assisted pilgrims all week. Working, serving and cleaning in the accuiel as well as taking them for coffee and accompanying them for walks.. It was a pilgrimage full of joy, faith, and service and all our young people were a credit to their schools and parishes.

BCYS ran a fun packed under 16’s programme and built community for our younger pilgrims.

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The Lourdes pilgrimage programme was a journey of faith lived in the community of the Diocesan church. It was a great act of witness. Young people loved seeing and speaking with so many clergy and were in awe of the beauty of the evening candlelight processions. BCYS also ran an Open Mic Night bringing groups together at the ‘Riveria Sol. There was also an inspirational youth vigil with an address from Bishop Stephen, reconciliation and music from the KYT outreach team.

“Being in the procession crew was the biggest honour on the pilgrimage, to be so close to Mary and to stand on the steps and look down at all the thousands of candles and people from all over the world in procession of faith” Ben, KYT Team Member

World Youth Day 2023

This Summer, the Kenelm Youth Trust led a life-changing pilgrimage to World Youth Day in Lisbon for a group of 82 pilgrims including young people, young adults, youth leaders and clergy, all accompanied by Archbishop Bernard.

The first week was spent in the Diocese of Porto as part of the Days in the Diocese experience. Our group was hosted by two parishes just outside of Porto and we were warmly welcomed by host communities, who shared with us the Portuguese culture and gave us a flavour of how faith is lived out in their everyday lives. From cultural festivals to social outreach visits to schools and local social housing projects, our pilgrims were looked after with great care and kindness and given the opportunity to return some of this kindness through service in the local community.

Alongside pilgrims from many nations, we forged friendships and a bond with our host parishes which were an expression of what it means to love our neighbour and extend hospitality to our Christian brothers and sisters across the world.

As we travelled from Porto to Lisbon for the main WYD week, we visited Fatima, the site of six Marian apparitions to 3 shepherd children in 1917. We offered prayers for those intentions for which we had been asked to pray. A particular highlight of the pilgrimage for many was the international Mass celebrated within the sanctuary, where we had the opportunity to take in the beauty of our surroundings together with thousands of pilgrims on their way to Lisbon. During our week in Lisbon, we had the opportunity to experience faith through many different ways and different people. From visiting churches with relics of the Saints to participating in the youth festival with Christian bands from across the world, we explored new and exciting ways to encounter Jesus.

We also had the great privilege of animating a site of catechesis for English speaking pilgrims. At St Nicholas Church, in the centre of Lisbon, we welcomed pilgrims from the USA, Canada, Singapore, Australia and many other countries. We also received catechesis from Bishops from across the world, testimony from other young pilgrims, opportunities for praise and worship, adoration and reconciliation. Our pilgrims were MCs, musicians, welcomers and brought the catechesis site to life with a flavour of the Archdiocese of Birmingham.

The other main events included a welcome ceremony, Stations of the Cross with Pope Francis and a concert with Matt Maher. These built up to the overnight prayer vigil with Pope Francis at Parque Tejo where over 1.5 million people gathered with the Holy Father to celebrate being young pilgrims on a journey of faith who were being sent out into the world to share the good news with others. This World Youth Day experience was the fruit of over 12 months of preparation meetings, a preparation retreat and a great deal of fundraising, hard work and dedication from so many and the journey does not end there. This is the springboard for WYD pilgrims to take this encounter and let it become a moment of transformation in their lives and the lives of those with whom they share this experience.

“World Youth Day was an experience I could never have imagined. We spent months and months fundraising in our parish with crazy quiz nights and even a sleep out in our church's bell tower. In the back of my mind, I knew what the aim was, but WYD always felt like a distant dream. Before I knew it, we were at Heathrow airport and Vicki was handing out KYT shirts for us to wear. The first week was spent with incredibly welcoming host families, who spoiled us with the best of Portuguese food each day. The second week was incredibly busy. My favourite part of it was speaking to so many Catholics from around the world. We were all excited to talk to each other and learn about the experience of Catholics in other countries. The atmosphere at each event was unparalleled. My WYD experience was fantastic. We had incredible leaders in the KYT team, I have lots of new friends, and I saw Jesus and the Catholic Church in a new way. I'll definitely be in Seoul in 2027 and I can't wait!” Gaudia, 17, Birmingham

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Summer Camp 2023

We were joined by the talented Maggie Craig all the way from Los Angeles and she skilfully led our talks each day. John Withers and a team of musicians animated our daily Masses as well as Summer Camp 2023 was the biggest other times of prayer and worship. We camp we have ever hosted and it was filled had lots of priests join us during the week with the usual mix of high quality and Bishop David Evans joined us to teaching, powerful times of prayer and celebrate Mass on the Feast of the crazy, fun activities!

Assumption.

All this was combined with trips to the With over 175 people on site, we explored Zoo and Alton Towers, outdoor BBQs and the theme of ‘Real Presence’. We had a candy floss stands and lots of outdoor deep dive into the importance of the activites - it truly is the Best Camp Ever!

Eucharist and what it means to believe that Jesus is present with us.

“I feel like I was away from God for a Young people aged 12-18 gathered from all over the country and from 9 dioceses! We also had an incredible group of 40 young adults that help serve at camp as well as 14 parish leaders who accompanied their young people.

while, because of some of the challenges in my life. I feel reconnected now. I learnt about adoration and private prayer time. I leave summer camp more faith filled and confident.” Summer Camper

SOLI RUNNING FOR OVER 70 YEARS...

Sixth Form Programs

Due to recent changes in A-Level examinations, we have witnessed a postCOVID resurgence in our Sixth Form residential retreats. It is a delight to share the retreat experience with these Sixth Form groups as we can delve deeper into our retreat themes. This year, we have designed a new residential retreat programme specifically for Sixth Form students called "Scandalous". This programme was developed in response to the conversations we had with young people during the Synod last year.

Throughout the retreat young people explore the scandalous and boundless love that God has for us, the need to possess audacious courage to progress and accept His love.

The retreat also encourages our young people to acknowledge that God's mercy is infinite and empowers them to apply all these truths to their own lives upon returning home.

The inclusion of more Sixth Form students has also had a positive impact on Mission Team recruitment. We are now able to reach a broader audience and actively encourage involvement with the Trust and our Youth Services, thus fostering inspiration among the next generation of youth leaders, who are crucial for successful peer ministry.

"It is a privilege to engage in meaningful conversations with sixth formers and witness their curiosity about the Good News we share with them."

John, Mission Team Member

Soli supports schools and parishes in offering life changing retreat and outreach opportunities for young people up to 25. The Soli experience is tailor-made to support the mental, emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing of young people through the deepening of relationships with each other and moments of encounter with Jesus led by a dynamic peer ministry team and experienced qualified staff.

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Strong Towers Program Update After the success of the developments of the ‘Anchored’ Programme last year, we wanted to ensure that the ‘Strong Towers’ Programme was also of the same high standard. Post-COVID, it has become increasingly evident that the interests of young people have evolved and therefore, to engage effectively with them, we realised the need to adjust some aspects of our ministry.

One notable change is the extension of the ‘Strong Towers’ Programme to enable it to be run as a four-day retreat.

This additional day focuses on how participants can become strong towers for the world and addresses the pressing issue of the climate crisis. Our aim is to educate the young people about their role as stewards of creation and how they can support both the planet and its inhabitants, empowering them to become advocates for those most affected by climate change. We have also incorporated a role-play game inspired by the Open Doors Secret Church Resource.

This immerses young people in the experience of practicing their faith in a country where Christianity is illegal. This experience leads into the fourth and final day, where children are encouraged to reflect on how they can actively engage with their schools and communities, ensuring they themselves are not ‘secret Christians’.

Another significant change is the new input session which takes place on the second day of the retreat, and focusses on the theme "Who is God?". The goal of this session is to deepen young people's understanding of God, emphasising His boundless love for them. The overarching theme remains centred on God as the ultimate strong tower, a dependable and unwavering support. Whilst our new input keeps the same theme as the one, we previously delivered, which concentrated on defining God's identity, it acknowledges that young people today often possess knowledge about God from the internet, social media, or their religious education classes. We recognise, however, that often this knowledge is learned and, therefore, in their heads. The approach of our new input therefore, is to transfer this knowledge to their hearts and emphasise the profound impact it can have on their lives.

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Strong Towers Program Update The new input, therefore, shifts its focus to God's love for them, delving into His nature and how belief in Him can be a transformative force. Key elements of this session include a small group icebreaker, encouraging participants to consider the attributes of people by first reflecting on themselves. This is followed by a video that not only explores the concept of "Imago Dei" but also unpacks what it really means to be made in the image of God. After a discussion around the video, a team member shares their personal testimony, providing a tangible example of how God serves as a strong tower and how a relationship with Him can bring about profound change. This testimony is a pivotal moment in the retreat, offering young people a firsthand account of the power of faith.

It is also a significant moment for the team, as testimony forms a fundamental part of the peer ministry at Soli.

Building on the success of the new input, we also rewrote the night prayer for the second evening of the retreat. This was to explicitly give the young people an opportunity to say ‘yes’ to God in their lives.

This prayer takes place after our evening entertainment, when enthusiasm is high, and small groups have formed a strong sense of community. We wanted to harness this within the night prayer and the atmosphere created is especially open to sharing as the young people have bonded over the days activities and small group competition. The prayer incorporates elements of the earlier input discussions and introduces the idea of saying "yes" to God, drawing inspiration from the story of Charles Blondin. A unique aspect of this prayer is the physical response at the end, where the young people are given the opportunity to take a custom-made sticker for their booklets.

This details practical ways they can continue to develop their faith after leaving Soli and therefore continue to encourage and support them after their time on retreat.

The adaptations to the program have been overwhelmingly successful, and we have received very positive feedback from both school staff and pupils.

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Outreach & Mission

In addition to our residential programmes, we also offer customised outreach and mission packages tailored to meet the specific needs of your school community.

Our outreach days comprise various activities, including large group sessions, workshops, testimonies, liturgy, worship, and music ministry, all led by the Kenelm Mission Team. Throughout this academic year, we have engaged with 2,486 young people during our outreach initiatives.

These outreach programs not only provide a

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gateway to our other Trust activities but also serve as a fantastic way to minister to more young people, especially those who may not have the means to go on a retreat.

By working with a wider range of young individuals, our team gains a better understanding of the diverse youth from across the diocese, enabling us to further tailor our ministry to their specific needs.

Some of the popular themes for our outreach programs this year have included community, belonging and teamwork, climate action and our 'Headstrong' workshops focusing on mental health and resilience.

We are currently developing a new programme for the upcoming academic year which will emphasise the importance of Catholic Social Teaching.

"Working with young people offers us a valuable opportunity to practice 'loving one another,' as Jesus asks us to, particularly when we interact with such a diverse group." Gabriela, Mission Team Member

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Mission Team

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new retreat programmes were made possible by the creativity, openmindedness and adaptability of the entire team. Next year a few team Last year, ten 2022/23 Mission Team members are continuing their ministry volunteers worked alongside our with the Kenelm Youth Trust, while others are headed off to further study programme staff and apprentices to minister to young people at Alton Castle and we wish them the best of luck! A and Soli. Collectively, they worked with big thank you to Amelia, Ben, Ben, Bri, Gabi, John, Magdalena, Phila, Ruth and more than 10,000 young people from Sabrina, and our two apprentices Millie across the Archdiocese of Birmingham and Phoebe! and beyond, delivering a mixture of day “I grew in so many different ways! and residential retreats as well as I got the chance to develop skills in youth outreach days in schools. Their hard ministry work, to deepen my relationship work, energy, enthusiasm and faith was with God, to learn how to share faith with an incredible witness to all the young others. I am extremely grateful of having people and staff they encountered and had the opportunity to become part of all of the progress made across both this big KYT family.” centres. For example, Magdalena KYT Mission Team Member

SCHOOL CHAPLAINCY

PROVISION ESTABLISHED IN 2012

Release Certificate

At the end of each module, set texts were assigned and assignment deadlines were given. Each participant had to ensure that they went back to their community and worked out how to implement their learning It was a real blessing this year to be able to in their own context. offer our Archdiocesan Certificate in Lay “The training was such a high standard Chaplaincy. Those that took part committed and I was able to use so much of it in my to a year of study, reading and reflection on everyday ministry in school!“ their practice. The course was made up of

different modules that covered topics such as Youth Culture, Pupil Leadership, Catholic Social Teaching, Accompaniment and Pastoral Care and Effective Evaluation Techniques.

We were so blessed to have some incredible speakers contribute to the course; David Wells, Alice Hall, Bishop David Oakley, Tom Baptist and many more all helped to ensure that the teaching was robust and relevant.

We were honoured to have Archbishop Bernard present the Lay Chaplains with their certificates at the Chaplaincy Commissioning Mass at St Chad’s Cathedral. This is always such a blessed occasion where Chaplaincy Staff and Student Chaplaincy Teams come together to pray and be “Sent Out” for their year of service to their communities. We are privileged to have so many committed, faithful and passionate Lay Chaplains sharing their gifts with our schools.

From the moment a school decides to appoint, the Chaplaincy Project supports with advertising, shortlisting, interviewing and induction. We aim to support and train all Lay Chaplains in secondary schools, with bespoke training and tailored ongoing formation. In this way, we ensure quality-control and a diocesan wide approach within your own school context.

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Chaplaincy Teams It’s been such a gift over the past year to visit schools to meet with their Student Chaplaincy Teams! Some of these teams are just starting out, getting to know each other and exploring how they can serve their community. Others have been thriving for many years and the impact on their schools is tangible!

This year, in response to the new CSI framework, we designed a resource and hosted 3 days at Alton for Student Chaplaincy Teams at any point in their formation.

The resource empowers students to create and lead worship in their schools and allows them to do this completely independently.

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The training days were an opportunity for schools to come together and explore what leadership is and how we can ensure that our leadership models that of Jesus.

We had time of prayer, team building, discussion and the opportunity to work out our own individual leadership types.

We then took a close look at the new resource and trained up over 200 young people in Pupil Led Worship.

The resource is available to buy on our website!

“The students loved meeting like minded young people from other schools and went back to school with so much more confidence and inspiration!” Lay Chaplain, Stoke

Pilgrimage to Rome

In October of 2022, a group of Lay Chaplains and Youth Minsters travelled on Pilgrimage to Rome accompanied by our Pilgrimage Priest Chaplain, Fr. Marco.

Some were first timers, whilst others were excited to return to the eternal city!

Staying in accommodation just a stones throw from the Vatican meant that after arriving late in the evening we were able to take the short walk to see St. Peter’s lit up and looking as beautiful as ever. It was the perfect way to begin our pilgrimage as Fr. Marco led us in a moment of prayer, as we tried to comprehend the mind blowing significance of where we stood.

Our first morning was so blessed as we were able to celebrate Mass in the Crypt of St. Peter’s. We then had a beautiful morning exploring the city and walking in the footsteps of so many saints that had gone before us.

We were able to visit with our American friends at the North American College Seminary and promptly visited the rooftop for one of the best views in Rome! (pictured below).

The following morning we packed ourselves into St. Peter’s Square for an audience with Pope Francis - not much can top his drive around in the Pope Mobile delighting everyone, especially the first time visitors in our group!

In the afternoon, we were so lucky to have a tour of the Vatican Museums with our friend Sr. Emauela, now the Head of Education for the Museums. We followed this with Mass at the Venerable English College and were so pleased that some of our priests and seminarians could join us for dinner!

The highlight of our final day had to be the Scavi Tour and being able to visit the bones of St. Peter himself.

What an incredibly blessed and special time!

www.kenelmyouthtrust.org.uk

24

A Catholic Approach to Mental Health We are so incredibly proud of the work that we have committed to in developing resources and training to help with the growing need in the area of Mental Health and Wellbeing. With over 60 schools now using our Quo Vadis programmes and with the newest secondary programme just launched, we are confident that these resources can positively impact on the wellbeing of our young people.

"I feel more confident in facing the world and looking forward after my Mum died. I was just sad but now I feel hopeful. We talked about what Heaven might be like and that's been good.” Primary School Pupil We know that resources are just one part of what needs to be a much wider approach and so we have been delighted to train up hundreds of teachers, youth leaders, lay chaplains and young adults in the Mental Health First Aid Course from Mental Health England as well as empowering them to use the Quo Vadis resources effectively.

Quo

Vadis

“It was an eye opener to the best way to identify mental health issues in children/ youths and the right way to address them without being judgemental and trying to educate or change them but to sign-post them to the professionals who are better qualified for that purpose. Thank you so much for this valuable course that has improved my confidence and my lifestyle!”

Primary School Teacher feedback for the Mental Health First Course

This year has also seen an increase in the number of school-based workshops for young people - helping them identify simple techniques to use in times of crisis and need. These workshops have formed a part of Mission Weeks in Secondary Schools as well as residential retreats at Soli.

We are looking forward to offering even more diverse training this year, with a half day and one day course being added to our suite, as well as delivering even more staff INSET’s empowering staff to support their students effectively in this area.

o dis QuVa

Where are you g oin g ?

www.kenelmyouthtrust.org.uk

25

A word from our Spiritual Director

During our summer camp in August, the theme was ‘Real Presence’. We had an evening of exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. During this time the monstrance was carried to each person. Remembering the Gospel passage of the haemorrhaging woman who touched the garment of Christ, the young people were invited to touch the humeral veil and offer their intentions to the Lord.

As I brought the Blessed Sacrament to each person I was struck by the depth of faith that was so obviously written in the eyes and faces of the young people.

It is a genuine privilege to be Spiritual Director of KYT, witnessing the Holy Spirit at work within our staff and volunteers, and in the lives of the thousands of young people whom we encounter through all four areas of KYT. The creativity of our programme leaders has enabled several new retreat programmes to be created and delivered in Soli and the Castle.

The continued development of training and support that BCYS offers to parishes and parish youth group leaders.

The unique, and vital work that is carried out in mental health first aid training and the Quo Vadis faith based mental health and well being programmes that are available for both secondary and primary schools.

The invaluable role of Lay Chaplains within our schools, who help to grow Catholic Life, who are supported with training and retreats themselves.

The role and participation of young people within the Church is an important conversation. It is a focus within the Diocesan plan and will undoubtedly be one of the focuses in the discussions of the Synod, whose meeting is being opened by Pope Francis as this is written.

Please continue to pray for the work of KYT, that we continue to faithfully follow the will of God in all our work. Please promote the work of KYT and what is on offer across the Trust, and where possible, please continue to support us financially so that we have the resources needed to continue the mission of KYT. Thank you for your prayerful support, Fr Chris

Name:

The Kenelm Youth Trust Limited

Registered Company Number:

7682500 (England and Wales)

Registered Charity Number:

1144209

Registered Office:

Alton Castle Castle Hill Road Alton Staffordshire ST10 4TT

Trustees and Directors The directors of the charitable company are its Trustees for the purpose of charity law and collectively referred to as the Trustees.

Trustees serving during the period were as follows: Miss H Bardy Mrs C Clement Mr A Kiely Ms C Keane Rt Rev S Wright Mrs J Tibbits Mr P Lucas Mrs J McGuirk Mr E Howard Mrs C Pears

Until July 2023 Until 28th October 2022

Leadership Team Sandra Satchell CEO Fr Chris Yule Spiritual Director Maria Bracken Parish Youth Ministry Co-ordinator Beccy Roseman Lay Chaplaincy Co-ordinator Vicki Hamilton- Retreat Centres Director

@thekenelmyouthtrust

@kenelmyouthtrust

@thekenlmyt

@kenelmyouthtrust

Registered Charity 1144209

www.kenelmyouthtrust.org.uk