Starting a youth group is a daunting task. One of the most important parts is having a space to meet.
For a while, it was trial and error, meeting in whatever space was free in the church. Our youth group grew, but our gatherings didn’t have that cosy, welcoming feeling I was so keen to create.
After talking with church leaders, we were kindly given the use of our old choir vestry, a small room that has been mostly unused of late. Immediately, we set to work. A small group of us went shopping to IKEA one Sunday after church with the aim of kitting out our new space. Several hours and much flatpack construction later, our new space was up and running! A colourful rug, bean bags, pillows, blankets and fairy lights transformed a cold room into a warm and inviting youth room.
The effect was tangible! Our first youth group in our new space was so much fun! Everyone had such a good time and the vibe was completely different. The comfortable space has definitely had a calming influence on our young people and the energy in our group has shifted entirely! Everyone is so focused and respectful of the space, even coming up with a list of rules for usage of the Youth Room themselves!
It really is a wonder the power a shopping trip can have!