10/07/2025
On the 4th of July 2025, clergy children were invited to spend a day with the Bishop at St. Paul’s Anglican Church under the Aliwal North Archdeaconry. The event centered on the theme “Finding your own faith and Identity”. It created a safe space for clergy children to speak on their personal faith journeys, reflect and connect on growing up in a clergy households. This day began with a warm Eucharist Service, which united everyone as they received the blood and the body of Jesus Christ. The Bishop welcomed all and shared an important message, which was a good foundation to the theme of the day. The key scripture readings for the day were from:
● Genesis 24 v 1 - 24
● Titus 1 v 4 - 7
● 1 Timothy 3 v 4
These scriptures and the message that was shared highlighted the importance of knowing who the clergy children are and owning who they are. They were encouraged to be good authentic examples to the world and not to compromise their identity. Just as the scripture from the Gospel of Matthew says: “we are the salt of the earth and the light of the world, a city on a hill that cannot be hidden”. The Bishop further emphasised that the saltiness of the salt and the brightness of the light is only sustained if it is connected to the source - that being God - the creator of heaven and earth and all that is in it.
After the Eucharist Service, there was a breakfast and moved on to session two of the day. This session began with icebreakers and vibrant activities, which helped everyone engage and be comfortable in the space.
During this session, reflection questions were asked, such as:
● How do you feel now that your parent is a Clergy?
● Do pastors' kids need to be believers?
● How do you define yourself apart from your parent’s role in the Church?
These questions sparked engagement and interactions that made them feel heard and
spiritually renewed. The event was concluded by prayer and then an amazing lunch was served.
Overall, the event left many feeling encouraged and empowered to walk their own path of faith while embracing their unique identity.
Clergy children are deeply grateful to the Bishop, the Aliwal North Archdeaconry, and the Priests that were in present. Looking forward to more opportunities like these to grow together in faith.
