Autumn Update FAQs

As a Minster, we currently have a demographic ‘gap’ in our congregation, with very few people aged between 16 and 30. Whilst it’s true that there aren’t as many people of this age living in our parish as in some other places, this age-group is still drastically under-represented in our church.

We believe that our evening service at Brighton Road provides an ideal opportunity to reach this group with the gospel. In the wider UK, we see a real hunger in this generation; for connection, for authenticity, and ultimately, for Jesus. We also believe that a service that is contemporary in style and deliberately charismatic in theology can be both highly attractive to this age group; and simultaneously a great place to worship for those of any age who want to pursue the gifts of the Spirit, and are passionate about encountering God together.

There will be many similarities with the previous 6pm service. However, there will also be some key differences:

• The service will be planned and led by Chris, Ben and Lesley, working together with the congregational leadership team
• There will be a renewed focus on welcome and hospitality – we are hoping to be able to use the Yew Tree Café as a post-service venue for social time each week
• The service will look different, with careful use of lighting, and a layout designed to make it easy for people to move around, if desired, during worship, and for prayer ministry
• We will be intentional about making space for encounter with God, and for the pursuit of the gifts of the Spirit
• The service format will be designed to allow for depth of engagement with God, whilst also avoiding intimidating those who might be new to faith, or to our church
• Young people in school years 12 & 13 will stay in for the whole service (those from years 7-11 will still go out after the opening worship to Roots)

Yes! That’s why we need everyone to pray, pray, pray – that God will use this new service in an amazing way.

You are so welcome at The Six, regardless of your age! This is not a ‘youth service’ or a ‘young adults service’; it’s a service for everyone, where we dream of seeing young people learning from the wisdom of the older generations, and older people inspired by the passion and energy of the young. Children younger than year 7 are very welcome; although it’s worth knowing that there will be no specific provision for them within the service.

Pray; come along; tell people about the service; and serve on a team. Any or all of these things will make a genuine difference. We look forward to seeing you at The Six!