A new calendar year and the journey continues for our eight MES students serving communities around the Diocese of Leicester. We’ve been getting to know them - their hopes for the year, and what they’re doing within their placements and training...
MARINA
"Hi, I’m Marina, I’m 26 years old and from Brazil.
Before coming to Leicester on the MES I was working as an administrator and across social media, while serving on the worship team at my local church.
I’m currently on placement with Holy Trinity Leicester on the worship team and I am very excited to love the church through service, grow as a disciple, understand more about British culture and continue living the promises of God."
NAOMI
"Hi, I’m Naomi, I’m 19 years old and from Oxford.
Last year I was doing my A levels. I moved to Leicester in September to do the New Wine Discipleship year.
I’m serving at Holy Trinity Leicester with children, youth, students, and compassion ministries. I’m looking forward to seeing all that God has in store for me."
VYVYENNE
"Hi I’m Vyvyenne, I’m 18 years old, and I’m from Kingswinford in Dudley.
Before September I was at college doing a Btec in costume and makeup design and an A-Level in English literature.
This year I am serving at Holy Trinity Leicester doing Youth and Kids work and I am excited to dedicate a year to God and see what he does in my life!"
BARBARA
"I am Barbara, I’m 29 years old and from Ghana, West Africa. I was a freight forwarder and a teacher back home.
This year I am serving at the Holy Apostle Church in Leicester and my placement is with the kids. I am looking forward to learning more to share when I go back to my homeland."
THOMAS
"Greetings, I’m Thomas, 21 years of age and I live in Earl Shilton, Leicestershire. Before applying for the ministry experience scheme, I was a student at Leicester College Abbey Park campus studying in the supported learning department due to my learning disabilities.
I am now serving and taking my placement in the parishes of Broughton Astley with Croft and Stoney Stanton churches. My hopes for the coming placement year are to experience more deeply what ministry life is all about and to understand more fully what God is calling me to and where he is at work most in my life. It comes with prayer and deepest devotion that I will let God direct me and protect me upon this journey."
WILL
"Hi, I’m Will, I’m 22 living in Leicester and based down at St Paul’s Church in Oadby. Before this, I was a volunteer at children and youth groups. This year I’m serving St Paul’s by continuing to help with their groups, but also go around the Benefice and help with their various groups. I am looking forward to deepening my knowledge in aiding young people, and continuing in what I love doing."
SAM
"Hello there! I'm Sam, a 24-year-old hailing from the vibrant and diverse land of India. Before September, I was immersed in the world of academia, pursuing my passion for energy engineering at De Montfort University in Leicester. But this year has brought about a remarkable change in my life.
I'm currently engaged in a fulfilling journey of ministry experience at St. Andrew's Jarrom Street, where I have the privilege of working under the guidance and leadership of the inspiring Fr. Johannes Arens. It’s an incredible opportunity to not only serve but also to learn and grow in my faith.
As I walk this path, I’m eagerly looking forward to deepening my relationship with Jesus and delving into the profound world of Bible studies. The year ahead is brimming with anticipation, and I can’t wait to see where this spiritual adventure will lead me. There’s nothing quite like the excitement of exploring one’s faith and serving a higher purpose, and I’m honoured to be on this remarkable journey."
JOSH
"I'm Josh, and I am from Enfield, North London. Before the MES, I studied Business Entrepreneurship and Innovation at De Montfort University. This year, I am the lead youth worker at Imprint Church, as well serving the children and youth ministry at Holy Trinity, Leicester. I am looking forward to meeting people from different backgrounds and making new friendships."
The Church of England Ministry Experience Scheme (MES) is a programme for young adults (18-30s) from all backgrounds, that offers space and time to test God’s calling on their lives. Following the time frame of the school year, it gives young people the chance to experience practical ministry, enrich theological understanding and further personal development, all with ongoing support from peers and supervisors.
Earlier this year the Church of England Ministry Experience Scheme celebrated its 10th birthday. Since it was founded in 2013, more than 700 young adults have taken part in the year-long placement programme.
The scheme gives young adults experience of ministry and is playing a key role in the Church’s drive to be younger and more diverse.
The Ministry Experience Scheme runs from early September to mid-July. Click here for more information. https://www.churchofengland.org/life-events/vocations/ministry-experience-scheme