Paddington’s Pilgrimage – Introduction

The Wessex Synod Youth Executive wanted to do something as part of next year’s assembly theme for children and youth work which is Pilgrimage; as well as helping to launch the Walking the Way journey.

They wanted to visit every church in the Synod over the coming year to encourage them in their work with children and young people, to challenge them in their work and to raise the profile of the work of the Wessex Synod Youth Executive.

It was not possible to send the 4 members of the Synod Youth Executive around the Synod and so they have decided to send someone on their behalf. What better person than Paddington – the travelling Bear who comes with the message for someone to look after him and offer him a home.

Paddington’s journey began in November at the Synod meeting and he will be passed around every church in synod, completing his journey in March 2019. He comes to you for a week before moving on. Paddington comes with 2 questions to ask the church, to help explore how we welcome and disciple others. He comes with everything needed in his box, route plans, postage (if needed), explanation booklets, ideas for sessions and a journal full of ideas from churches already visited.

We hope Paddington will be a blessing to your church and we look forward to hearing about his adventures. Thank you for taking part.