Getting Back on My Feet – An Update from Tim

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Hi everyone,

I wanted to take a moment to share a bit of a personal update.

Back in April, life came to a sudden halt. Early one morning, I was meant to be flying to Prague to present a paper at a youth work research conference — instead, I woke up on the floor, my face covered in blood, and ended up in A&E. The doctors said I’d had a major stress event, along with a concussion and a resulting minor traumatic brain injury.

The months that followed were tough. For a long while, I couldn’t drive, walk far, read, or write. Most of the time I was just… asleep. It’s been the darkest season I’ve ever walked through — full of exhaustion, pain, and a lot of uncertainty.

But it’s also been a time of deep gratitude. My wife has been incredible, walking with me every step. My family have stayed close. The medical team have been brilliant. And our trustees at Llandudno Youth for Christ have shown such understanding and care, giving me the time I needed to recover. The team have been amazing, keeping Redefine going strong in my absence. I’m also hugely grateful to those of you who prayed, and to those who gave so that we could bring a second staff member on board — that generosity made a real difference when we needed it most.

Most of all, I’ve been so aware of the nearness of God. Even in the silence and weakness, His presence has been real and constant — sometimes gentle, sometimes overwhelming, but always there.

The good news is that I’m now back at work on a phased return, currently 12 hours a week. Mornings are good — I feel almost like myself again, but as the day goes on, I still tire quickly. Projects will slowly start returning to normal over the next months, starting with Redefine.

Since starting with Llandudno Youth for Christ back in 2011, I’ve seen God do amazing things through countless clubs, schools work, projects, events, and conversations with young people across North Wales. This year has reminded me in a very personal way that this is God’s work, not mine. He’s carried it, and me, the whole way through.

Thank you so much for your prayers, kindness, and support. They’ve meant more than you could possibly know.

With love and gratitude,
Tim

Another assembly week – in a NEW school!

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Last week, we had the privilege of spending five full days at Ysgol Aberconwy, delivering assemblies to every year group. It was an incredible opportunity, and we’re so thankful for how it went!

The response from pupils was genuinely encouraging – they were engaged, respectful, and full of curiosity. We also managed to connect with a number of staff members, and we’re having some great follow-up conversations with a some heads of year, RE, and PSE about ways we might work together going forward. Everyone we’ve spoken to has been really positive, which is so encouraging as we look to build long-term, meaningful partnerships in the school.

Our assembly theme was Easter, and as always, we aimed to be clear about the Gospel while remaining respectful of the school environment. There were some brilliant and memorable moments – from a rubber duckling and a very posh M&S Easter egg, to Tim’s now-infamous ‘Bill and Ben in the Box’ skit, which had the pupils (and staff!) smiling.

A huge thank you to everyone who supported and prayed for us during the week – we felt it. Please do keep praying, especially that the right relationships would form and grow from the conversations we’ve started.

Can you help?

We’re launching new projects in a new school, which is incredibly exciting – but it also means our budget is stretched, and we’re in real need of more volunteers. If you think you could help in any way – whether practically, prayerfully, or financially – please get in touch.

You can also give online by clicking here.

Your support really does make a difference. Thank you!

Listen to the hats! A week of Assemblies

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This past week, we had the privilege of delivering assemblies to the entire secondary school—one year group at a time—over five days. It was an incredible opportunity to connect with students, challenge their thinking, and share a message of deep listening and love.

To kick things off, I brought in my favourite hat. Just one. But then I also brought a huge pile of other hats—ones gifted to me by well-meaning people who assumed that because I had a favourite hat, I must love all hats! This set the stage for our theme: the difference between hearing and listening.

Hearing is easy—’oh, you like hats? Great, have another!’ Listening, however, is about paying attention to the details—understanding that I don’t just love any hat, but a specific one. We explored this idea through active listening exercises, helping students think about what it means to be truly heard, accepted, and loved. And as a Christian, I shared how I believe that’s exactly what God does—He listens, knows us fully, and loves us completely.

The assemblies were filled with energy and laughter. One of the biggest highlights was pouring an entire dustbin full of hats onto a table—only for them to spill onto the floor in a glorious cascade. The students loved it, and the room filled with laughter and engagement. It’s always great when a room of teenagers are so caught up that you can hear a pin drop! Teachers later shared their appreciation, and we received plenty of thank-yous for the sessions.

A particularly encouraging moment came when the assistant head shared a story from a past assembly. During an Estyn inspection, one of our assemblies was described by an inspector as “one of the best assemblies they had ever seen.” It was a humbling and joyful reminder of the impact we can have through these moments.

We’re incredibly grateful for the relationship we have with the school and the chance to be part of their journey. It’s a privilege to share meaningful messages with young people in a way that’s fun, thought-provoking, and full of life. Here’s to many more opportunities to listen well, love well, and maybe even spill a few more hats along the way!

Justice, Fairness, and a 19-Foot Tom: A Conversation at Recess

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This week at our afterschool club, Recess, we had one of those big, deep conversations that make youth work so exciting. The topic we were focused on for the session was ‘Justice and fairness.’ We explored huge questions, debated different perspectives, and even ran a mock court to see how people’s views played out in practice. It was fun, engaging, and we could hear them still talking about it when they left!

What became clear very quickly was just how differently we all think about justice. Some leaned towards a version of absolute fairness—everyone gets exactly the same. Others argued for situational justice—different circumstances require different responses. The discussion was passionate, thought-provoking, and, at times, hilariously unpredictable.

As we wrapped up, I reflected with them on the problem of suffering and its relationship to belief in God. One of the classic objections to God’s existence is the presence of injustice in the world. I pointed out that a challenge with this argument is that if even we, in this room, struggle to agree on what justice even is in the first place, then how could we decide God and justice are incompatible? A couple of young people engaged with this idea, asking really thoughtful questions about why they personally reject the idea of God due to suffering and unfairness in the world.

I carefully suggested that sometimes we decide what kind of God we want before deciding whether or not He exists. I gave a silly example: Imagine you’ve been told about a guy named Tom. But you decide before meeting him that Tom is 19 feet tall, has three eyes, and pink hair. Well, because no one like that exists—that mean’s Tom himself can’t possibly exist, so you couldn’t ever possibly meet a Tom. In the same way, rejecting God because He doesn’t match our personal preferences might not be the best approach.

It was amazing to see the students pause and really take this in. You could almost see their grip on unbelief loosening just a little, their minds opening to fresh possibilities.

We love helping young people take small, meaningful steps in their thinking—never pushing, never forcing, just creating space for discovery. Because we believe that’s the most respectful and lasting way for them to encounter God for themselves.

 

Photo by Ivan Aleksic on Unsplash

Farewell and Thank You, Karen!

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It’s with a mix of sadness and deep gratitude that we say goodbye to our Staff Worker, Karen, as she moves away from the area. Karen has been an instrumental part of our team, and her impact on our work cannot be overstated.

From the very beginning, Karen poured her heart into building relationships with young people, creating a welcoming and supportive space where they could grow, learn, and have fun. Whether helping to run our regular projects and events, or simply being a trusted presence, she has played a vital role in shaping our community.

Karen’s leadership and dedication were particularly evident in our Summer Programs. Her hard work and vision made Camp-Not-Camp and The Lock In incredible experiences. She was also a familiar face at Reverb Café, always ready to lend a hand and bring encouragement to those around her.

One of Karen’s lasting contributions has been the creation of our ‘Prayer and Pancakes’ evenings—combining spiritual nourishment with delicious home made food  in a way that truly embodied the heart of our work. Behind the scenes, she kept things running smoothly, taking on much of our admin work, including registers, ensuring that every detail was taken care of with diligence and care.

During her time with us, Karen also continued to grow in her own learning, completing training in safeguarding, additional needs, and youth work—further equipping herself to serve young people in meaningful ways.

Karen, you will be truly missed. Thank you for all you have done to make this organisation what it is today. We wish you all the best in your next chapter, knowing that wherever you go, you will continue to make a difference.

With gratitude,

Tim & the Llandudno Youth for Christ team

Important Safeguarding Update

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We are deeply saddened to inform you that one of our volunteers, Revd. Sam Erlandson, has recently appeared before Mold Magistrates Court on charges related to indecent images of children. He has pleaded guilty and is scheduled to appear before Llandudno Magistrates Court on Monday, December 30th.

Upon learning of these serious charges, Llandudno Youth for Christ immediately followed the procedures outlined in our Safeguarding Policy. Revd. Erlandson has been removed from his volunteer role, and all necessary reports have been made to the relevant authorities.

We want to reassure you that the charges, as we understand, are not related to any of the young people involved in Llandudno Youth for Christ projects. However, we recognise the impact that this news may have on the community, and we are offering pastoral support to all of our young people, staff, and their families during this difficult time.

We ask for your prayers for everyone affected by this situation. We trust that God, in His grace, can bring healing and justice, and we continue to pray for His will to be done.

If you have any concerns, or if you would like to report any information related to this case, North Wales Police have requested that you contact them quoting reference number Q179109.

Thank you for your understanding and support

The Llandudno Youth for Christ Trustees

Nerd Night Triumph & Visiting 11 Churches in 3 Months!

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Nerd Night Triumph: A Galactic Gathering of Geeks

At our recent Nerd Night event, Halloween took a back seat to an intergalactic celebration of all things geeky. Packed to the brim with arcade machines, comics, board games, and extra rooms screening Lord of The Rings and classic Star Wars movies, the event was a spectacle that transcended the ordinary. Attendees from across all our groups, donned in an array of imaginative costumes, mingled together, transforming the venue into a lively melting pot of nerdy camaraderie. Nerd Night was more than just an alternative to Halloween; it was a testament to the power of fun, inclusivity, and celebrating our shared love for all things fantastical while steering clear of the dark side.

 

Engaging with the Local Tapestry of Faith:

A Journey Through 11 Churches in Three Months

Embarking on a spiritual adventure, we have traversed the sacred halls, coffeeshop gatherings, and community centres of eleven different churches this term. Each visit unfolded as a warm embrace.

At each stop, we shared insights from the Bible and shared the unique work that defines our mission. The warmth of fellowship and the resonance of shared values echoed through every congregation. As we wrap up this term’s church visits, the invitation extends to all. If you would us to visit your church in the next round, please don’t hesitate to let us know.

Nurturing Hearts, Minds, and Creativity: A Spotlight on our three pillars projects

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Llandudno Youth for Christ proudly presents our three main regular projects, each catering to the diverse needs and interests of the youth, fostering growth, connection, and creative expression.

  1. Redefine: Fortnightly Fun with Faith

Redefine is not just an event; it’s a community—a thriving space where young Christians and inquisitive seekers come together to redefine what it means to be a young believer. Every fortnight, the air is charged with excitement as laughter, games, and camaraderie fill the room. However, amid the joy, Redefine is a sacred space for reading the Bible, prayer, and heartfelt conversations about the challenges and triumphs of navigating faith in a dynamic world.

The success of Redefine speaks volumes about the hunger for authentic connection and exploration of faith among young people. With capacity reached, the call for more leaders is not just a need—it’s an invitation to be part of a transformative journey, shaping the spiritual landscape of the next generation. Could you be part of this team?

  1. Recess: Weekly Reflections in School

In the hustle and bustle of school life, Recess emerges as a beacon of fun and introspection. This weekly meeting goes beyond the traditional boundaries of faith, reaching out to young minds without a church background. It’s an opportunity for them to ponder life’s profound questions—about the universe, God, and everything in between.

As Recess has also reached capacity, the need for more leaders is palpable. This project is not just about expanding numbers; it’s a chance to guide young minds through the labyrinth of life’s big questions, providing a safe space for exploration and understanding. Could you be one of these leaders?

  1. Show Up and Write: Crafting Creativity in a Digital Realm

Enter the virtual realm of Show Up and Write, an online community that transcends geographical boundaries. Run by three published authors, this project is a haven for young writers, where encouragement flows as freely as ink on paper. The community is a space for sharing, honing craft, and navigating the unique challenges that young writers face. In a world driven by digital connection, this project stands as a shining example of the potential for community to flourish online.

In conclusion, Llandudno Youth for Christ’s three major projects, Redefine, Recess, and Show Up and Write, are not just initiatives—they are pillars of inspiration, growth, and creativity. As these projects continue to flourish, the call for more leaders echoes not only as a practical necessity but as an invitation to invest in the shaping of young lives, providing a foundation for faith, reflection, and creative expression that will resonate far beyond the borders of Llandudno.

Unveiling Unity: Our Annual Celebration and AGM

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In our small coastal town nestled between the sea and rolling hills, something extraordinary unfolded this term. We held our annual celebration and AGM, transforming a gathering into a testament of unity, inspiration, and the transformative power of faith and youth engagement.

The venue was not just packed; it was bursting at the seams, with chairs crammed in every available space, and a vibrancy that could only be described as electric. Representatives from over a dozen churches, each carrying the spirit of community, filled the room with anticipation and excitement.

A Tapestry of Voices: Youth Speak Out

One of the highlights of the evening was the candid and heart-warming interviews with four young people. As they shared their stories, it became evident that the impact of our projects extended far beyond what we knew. Their eyes sparkled with enthusiasm as they spoke of their favourite memories, emphasizing the sense of belonging and purpose these groups provide. It was a beautiful reminder that fostering a community where young minds can thrive is not just a goal; it’s a reality being lived out.

Parental Perspectives: A Window into Impact

Perhaps the most touching moments came during the interviews with two parents. Their words resonated with authenticity and gratitude as they spoke about the positive transformations they witnessed in their children. It was a testament to the power of love, support, and community in shaping the lives of the younger generation. As they shared, the room echoed with nods of understanding and appreciative smiles.

Reports that Resonate: Director, Chair, and Treasurer Updates

The AGM was not just a celebration; it was an opportunity for transparency and accountability. Reports from the director, chair, and treasurer provided insight into the organization’s growth, financial stability, and future plans. The atmosphere was one of shared responsibility and collective investment in a vision that goes beyond individual contributions.

Prayer and Praise: Binding Hearts Together

As the evening drew to a close, the room transformed into a sacred space for prayer and worship. Hearts were lifted, and a chorus of voices filled the room in gratitude and praise. It was a powerful reminder that, at the core of all endeavours, lies the recognition of God’s purposes and Jesus as a source of strength which unites hearts.

In conclusion, Llandudno Youth for Christ’s annual celebration and AGM wasn’t just a meeting; it was a celebration of shared dreams, collective achievements, and the undeniable power of God’s presence in unity. As the night unfolded, it became clear that this coastal project wasn’t just a location on the map; it’s a community bound together by a common mission and a shared hope in Jesus.

Enlightening Assemblies at Ysgol John Bright: A Term of Connection and Open-mindedness

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In the dynamic world of John Bright School, this term’s assemblies took students on a journey of introspection and open-minded exploration. We now give a week of assemblies every half-term, which comes with amazing opportunities!

September: Plugged into Healthy Relationships

As the academic year kicked off in September, the first assembly set the tone with a theme centred around the importance of being “plugged into” healthy relationships, including the possibility of a connection with a God. To drive the point home, a memorable object lesson unfolded, featuring the unconventional combination of heavy metal music and an electric ukulele. Laughter filled the room as the unexpected pairing illustrated the importance of harmonious connections in our lives, whether with friends, family, or perhaps even with a higher power.

November: Embracing New Ideas and Different Beliefs

Amidst the intensity of Estyn inspections in November, the second assembly took a thought-provoking turn. A real church lectern took centre stage, adorned with a 350-year-old Bible… and a bright white wig and beard. The focus shifted to the significance of being open to new ideas and different beliefs. The historical elements added weight to the message, emphasising the importance of respecting diverse perspectives. It was a timely reminder that our intellectual and spiritual growth flourishes when we open our minds to the richness of the world around us.

We aim for the assemblies we do at Ysgol John Bright to not just be routine gatherings but transformative experiences, that encouraged students to reflect on their connections with others, and to embrace the diversity of thought and belief. These sessions exemplified the school’s commitment to nurturing not only academic excellence but also the holistic development of open-minded, compassionate individuals. We hope that this leads to deeper relationships and more opportunities to share the gospel.