Celebratory education service to champion the region’s children, youth and families workforce
As the summer draws to a close, the Diocese of Norwich is gearing up to host a very special celebration service, one that will honor and recognize the incredible work being done by individuals and groups across Norfolk and Waveney. This service, scheduled to take place on Thursday, September 4th, will serve as a wonderful opportunity to come together and acknowledge the remarkable dedication and commitment of all those who work tirelessly with children, young people, families, and schools. The occasion will also mark the start of the new academic year, a time of fresh beginnings and exciting possibilities. For those who have been pouring their hearts and souls into supporting the region’s young people, this celebration will be a chance to pause, reflect, and be recognized for their outstanding efforts.
The Celebration and Commissioning Service will be held at Open Academy, beginning at 5:30 pm. It promises to be an uplifting and inspiring event, one that will shine a spotlight on the often-unsung heroes who make a real difference in the lives of children and young people. The Bishop of Thetford, the Rt Revd Ian Bishop, will lead the service, bringing his own unique warmth and enthusiasm to the proceedings. Having spoken at last year’s service in Norwich Cathedral, Bishop Ian is no stranger to celebrating the achievements of those who work with young people, and his presence is sure to add an extra layer of significance to the occasion. As the diocese comes together to give thanks and offer recognition, it will be a truly special moment, one that will leave a lasting impression on all who attend.
The event is designed to be an inclusive and welcoming celebration, open to anyone who would like to join in and show their appreciation for the vital work being done across the region. Whether you’re a teacher, a governor, a trustee, a chaplain, a volunteer, a youth worker, or a member of the clergy, you are warmly invited to attend. The service will provide a chance to connect with others who share your passion for supporting children and young people, and to be part of a wider community that values and recognizes the importance of this work. For those who have been working tirelessly behind the scenes, often without seeking recognition or reward, this will be a wonderful opportunity to feel seen, heard, and appreciated. The diocese is eager to express its gratitude to all those who have been making a positive impact on the lives of young people, and to commission them for the year ahead.
As the new academic year gets underway, the Diocese of Norwich is keen to acknowledge the critical role that schools and their staff play in shaping the lives of children and young people. From teachers and teaching assistants to administrators and support staff, the work of schools is often at the heart of community life, providing a safe, nurturing environment where young people can grow, learn, and thrive. The celebration service will be a chance to recognize the dedication and expertise of school staff, as well as the many volunteers, governors, and trustees who give their time and energy to support the region’s schools. By coming together to give thanks and offer recognition, the diocese hopes to encourage and inspire those who work with children and young people, reminding them of the value and importance of their role.
The service will also provide an opportunity to look to the future, to think about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, and to consider how the diocese can continue to support and empower those who work with children and young people. As the Bishop of Thetford leads the celebration, he will be calling upon those present to recommit themselves to their work, to seek out new ways of supporting and nurturing the young people in their care, and to trust in the power of their own faith and values to guide and inspire them. For those who are already deeply invested in this work, the service will be a chance to recharge and refocus, to find new energy and enthusiasm for the year ahead. And for those who are just starting out, it will be a wonderful introduction to the diocese and its community, a chance to feel welcome and supported as they begin their own journey of working with children and young people.
If you would like to attend the Celebration and Commissioning Service, you can find more information and register your attendance by following the link provided. The diocese is eager to welcome as many people as possible to this special event, and to share in the joy and celebration of the occasion. As the summer gives way to autumn, and the new academic year gets underway, this service will be a powerful reminder of the importance of community, compassion, and faith in the lives of children and young people. It will be a chance to come together, to give thanks, and to look to the future with hope and optimism, trusting that the work of the diocese and its partners will continue to make a real difference in the lives of those they serve.
