Scripture Union, trusts and churches across Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire took hundreds of children on a ‘lifepath’ last week to show them the role that former Bucks resident, John Newton, played in the abolition of the slave trade.
Nearly 500 Year 5 pupils from Milton Keynes, Bedford and Northamptonshire attended Lifepath Olney. The event was organised by Scripture Union in conjunction with the churches of Olney, the Bedford Schools Trust and Milton Keynes’ Bridgebuilder Trust.
Lifepath Olney helped children to explore John Newton’s Christian faith though games, workshops, music, drama, art and even pancake and lace making! Each day concluded with a celebration presentation, where the children let off balloons to signify the freedom of former slaves.
The event saw 40 volunteers give up their time to act as group leaders, run workshops and act as stewards as activities stretched around Olney including the Baptist church, The Cowper and Newton Museum and the Parish church.
Lucy Colgrove, of Olney Baptist Church, thought the day was a huge success: ‘It was really exciting to see how our history could be used to further the children’s knowledge and understanding of God,’ said Lucy. ‘Being part of the church community coming together for the event has been an encouragement too.’
Scripture Union’s Volunteer Events Manager, Simon Barker, was thrilled with how the day went: ‘Everyone had a lot of fun,’ said Simon. ‘It was an great opportunity for the churches of Olney and the town as a whole to come together to host an event that highlights how John Newton’s faith changed him and impacted the wider society.’
Notes to Newsdesk:
1) For more information, please contact Scripture Union’s Communications Manager Adam Petrie on 01908 856030 or email adamp@scriptureunion.org.uk
2) A number of hi-res images are available on request.
3) Lifepath is a Scripture Union project that started in 2003. Events have taken place throughout England including Durham Cathedral, Jervaulx Abbey and Wimborne Minster.
4) Scripture Union is an international mission organisation working with churches and individuals in more than 140 countries through schools work, holidays and missions, published materials and community projects.