The United Benefice of Knights Enham and Smannell with Enham Alamein

Children and Young People

Children of all ages are an important part of the Church family, and are always welcome. Like many churches, we have few children and young people, but we welcome them, and seek to cater for their needs.

Church Services.

Children are welcome at all the Church Services. The first Sunday of the month is an Informal Service, and seeks to be ‘child-friendly’. This is a good service for those who are less familiar with Church and Church services.

We do not at present have a ‘Sunday School’, but supervised activities are often offered for very young children during the service, and we try to involve children in other ways during the service.

‘Youth’ Group.

At present, we have a young people’s group that meets fortnightly on a Thursday evening at 6pm at The Rectory, 1 Ryon Close, for children aged 9-11. It is a very informal gathering in the comfort of a home. Refreshments are provided, and discussions are led as we undertake themed activities. The group is led by Victoria and Andrew Ashdown. If you are interested, please contact Victoria Ashdown: Tel: (01264) 357032.

Now and Again Club

This is a themed day of activities, music and story for younger children. It is held quarterly on a Saturday afternoon (12 Noon – 3pm). Anything between 20 and 50 children take part. The remaining dates for the Now and Again Club this year are: 23 June, 22 September and 1 December. For further information, contact Win Nulty: (01264) 353253.

Uniformed Organisations

Most of the local uniformed organisations hold their regular meetings in the Church Centre. Church members are also involved in the leadership of these organisations. Uniformed groups are always welcome to share in the life and worship in the Church, and are occasionally invited to lead the Informal Service. We also invite uniformed organisations to hold special services in either of the Church buildings. They are particularly involved in the annual Remembrance Service.

Schools

There are six schools in the Parish. The Priest-in-Charge, Revd Andrew Ashdown, takes assemblies regularly in all six schools. This is an important point of contact with local children. Schools or classes are often welcomed to both the Parish Church and the Church Centre, to learn about Church buildings and the Christian faith as part of their Religious Education Curriculum. Schools are also very welcome to hold festival or special services in either of the Church buildings. The priest is also very willing and able to help with RE lessons within the school curriculum if invited.

Baptism and Confirmation

Parishioners are warmly welcome to come forward for Baptism and Confirmation. This can be offered for both children and adults. Baptisms take place on certain Sundays of the year both at St. Michael’s and at the Church Centre. If you are interested in Baptism or Confirmation, please speak to Revd Andrew Ashdown: (01264) 357032.

CHILD PROTECTION POLICY

The Parish of Knights Enham adheres strictly to a Child Protection Policy according to National Guidelines. Anyone in the Church who is involved with young people is required to undergo a CRB police check.