Evangelism & Youth Work, Cornwall - Rich Brown

A Different Approach: Building Relationships on the School Farm

We’re taking a different path. Our farm serves as a bridge between faith & the everyday lives of young people, particularly those facing challenges in deprived areas. Here, we sow seeds of a different kind. It’s not about conversion quotas or Sunday attendance. It’s about relationships.

Through hands-on farming, animal care, and environmental projects, we cultivate an atmosphere of trust, respect, and shared experience. We show young people what kindness and goodness look like, not through sermons, but through actions. 

We’re not just teaching them about sustainable farming; we’re showing them that someone cares, that they have a place to belong, and that they have inherent value.

The Heart of Youth Work

This is the essence of youth work. It’s about meeting young people where they are, not expecting them to conform to an outdated model. It’s about building genuine relationships, fostering connection, and creating a safe space for them to explore faith on their own terms.

Youth workers aren’t salespeople for the church. We are guides, mentors, and friends. We plant seeds of hope, water them with love, and trust that God will bring the growth in His time.

We need to create spaces where young people feel valued, heard, and understood.

It’s time to stop measuring success by attendance figures and start measuring it by the lives transformed.

The farm serves as a unique and dynamic space where young people can learn, grow, and connect with the natural world.

Personal Development: Through hands-on experiences, teamwork, and problem-solving, young people develop essential life skills such as communication, collaboration, and resilience. The farm also fosters a sense of responsibility, self-confidence, and connection to the broader community.

Therapeutic Benefits: For students facing challenges or struggling with their mental health, the farm offers a tranquil and nurturing environment. Engaging with nature, caring for animals, and participating in meaningful activities can have therapeutic effects, reducing stress, anxiety, and promoting emotional well-being.