As a church family, we support Rick Hill, who is working as a Schools Worker in post-primary schools, with Scripture Union. Here’s what Rick has to say about what he is involved in...
“I love my job. And I guess I feel fortunate because perhaps not everyone can say that. Working with Scripture union NI as a schools worker in post-primary schools, my role combines 2 things that I’m really passionate about: the bible and young people.
I have opportunities most days to go into schools and connect with groups of teenagers who meet together under the banner of Scripture Union, or other names. Often it will have been in classrooms over lunchtime with junior pupils, or lecture theatres after school with senior pupils, while at other times it’s been across the meal table at a residential on the north coast as part of a weekend away. Some groups are overflowing with pupils, others are smaller in number.
But in each of the schools I visit, my purpose is unashamedly simple: help each pupil to discover God through the pages of the Bible. I try to facilitate this in lots of different ways: stories, multimedia, interaction, response activities, things to take away, space to read, think or write, discussion, drama and music.
It’s been great to return to many of these schools and lead several sessions, helping to strengthen relationships with both pupils and staff alike. When this link is stronger, in many ways, the work feels stronger and so following up on SU groups and returning to schools is an important part of the work.
And it’s been lots of fun along the way! At times I’ve got a real sense that it’s been a really significant session and that young people have met God there and then. At other times I know pupils have been challenged to pick up God’s word for themselves more. Sometimes I’ve walked away unsure of how things have gone, while at other times it’s put a smile on my face to see God’s children come face to face with the living pages of Scripture within a session.
It sounds ridiculous but after 3 years in this job I feel like I’m only really getting my teeth stuck into this role. Relationships are being built on. Sessions are getting improved on. Skills have been developed. New school opportunities are opening up. Follow up visits seem to get a better response than initial visits.
Through this role, it’s my prayer that young people from all over the country will encounter God in a very real way.
I’m really loving it and I suppose I just want to say thanks. Thanks for praying. Thanks for encouraging. Thanks for believing in this.”
If you want to get in touch with Rick directly, or to find out more about the work of Scripture Union in Northern Ireland:
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