Emily Wootton talks to sPanz about her new role supporting parishes within the Auckland Presbytery.
What does your role involve?
I support youth, child, and family ministry in the Auckland Presbytery. We follow the national framework for this position, so I provide networking, resourcing, training, and advocacy as well as involve myself in events happening around the presbytery.
Why did you choose this ministry?
I’ve worked in YCF ministry for many years. I enjoy being a part of introducing young people and children to the potential they have through a relationship with Jesus. Through my involvement in the national Presbyterian Youth Ministry focus group, I became more and more passionate about seeing the need for a more strategic approach in order for us to be more effective at what we do. Simple things like communication and sharing of ideas can relieve a lot of burdens and loneliness that YCF workers/leaders may feel as they serve alone in their little patches.
What have you been involved with in your region?
Now that the structure for my position is fairly well set up, I’m working on getting around and meeting everyone. It has been fantastic seeing the diverse and creative ways that different churches fulfill their mission. We’re getting excited about running our second year of “Going Somewhere” this term – this is the course for developing young leaders. Another focus this term is getting ready for General Assembly. Auckland Presbytery is very busy making sure we host a successful Assembly at St Kents.
What have you learned about God through this work?
The importance of a childlike faith. Not childish – it’s important for our faith to mature and grow. But working at retaining some of the simplicity of a child’s faith – wonder, amazement, passion, awareness. Not allowing life’s busyness, the complications of society and the adult world to crowd out a phenomenal relationship with God.
What is the most exciting thing about being involved in it?
When a young person or child realises just how much God loves them. Especially if they haven’t had much awareness of this in the past. Th e hunger and thrill with which they receive this news is exciting. Seeing them follow through and develop a relationship of meaning that changes their lives is even more exciting.
What have been the biggest challenges?
Life’s random events have been the biggest challenges. We’ve walked alongside people facing some enormous pressures and unthinkable events. These have tested faith, friendships, and abilities.
Who has inspired you?
My mum. Although we used to find her consistent friendship evangelism embarrassing at places like the supermarket and library, God used her openness many times throughout her life to connect with many people in a moment of need.
What are your future plans?
I just started this role in February, so plan to be here for the foreseeable future.
Can you recommend any books or CDs?
Dangerous Wonder – an adventure in Childlike faith by Mike Yaconelli. I love any CD by NZ band Eight.