Amidst the Covid lockdown, Bath's youth leaders regularly came together online, offering each other mutual support and collaborating to aid the city's young residents. Beyond navigating challenges, this period became a time for envisioning and planning their aspirations.
As restrictions eased and in-person gatherings resumed, a summer celebration marked the tangible realisation of their dreams. The vision forged during these challenging times for Bath's youth has blossomed. More than
A2 nights are monthly gatherings at St Matthew’s Church, drawing participants from all corners of Bath. In its short existence, over 300 young people have signed up, with 60 to 80 attending each month. Libby Piggott, Youth Leader at St Matthew’s Church in Bath, emphasises the uniqueness of the experience, tailored specifically for this age group. “They say this is the most curious generation and open generation so far, and actually it's probably because there is no baggage of religion or church or church buildings, in some ways it's really sad because they don't know it, but it's also amazing because they’re just so open. They're like, ‘yeah, sure. I'll come along. What is it?’
“We're not trying to be another church youth group. We don't want to take away from their local church. What we do have is something that is bringing unity in the city, it is bringing something wider. With this generation, there isn't a ‘Oh you go to that church, so you stay there’. They are all integrated with school and clubs. We are just putting on something that everybody can come to and then, we hope the following week they go to their local youth.”
A2 does not seek to replace local church youth groups but aims to foster unity and broader connections in the city. The initiative provides an inclusive space for everyone, hoping participants return to their local youth groups afterwards. The formation of A2 has enabled the group to offer a city-wide Alpha Course and run courses for the 16-19 age group, allowing exploration of faith in greater depth.
As youth leaders, their support for one another continues, along with the ongoing sharing of their vision for Bath's young people. Last year, 50 leaders from diverse youth leadership roles gathered for a special banquet, providing an opportunity to listen, exchange ideas, and build on shared experiences during one of the most challenging times. They continue to meet every month for leaders’ breakfasts which is an opportunity to come together to pray for and support one another.
If you’d like to follow A2 on Instagram to see what we they’re up to, or to send them a message you can find them at @a2_youthtogether