Keeping In Touch Project with CIYD
scroll to the bottom of the page for instructions on how to plant your seed paper!
Susie Keegan (former DYO) from Dublin and Glendalough Diocese says, “Young people have been through a lot over the past year so we must take the opportunity to reach out to them and seek to support them. The resource allows young people to connect with nature as they plant their postcard to grow wildflowers and a reminder of hope for them and their communities. We have worked really hard to ensure the packs are comprised of sustainable elements and are ethically produced.”
Christina Baillie from Connor Diocese says, “As restrictions ease, we have the opportunity to reconnect with young people. We believe this resource will support local leaders to rebuild those connections and remind young people that we are here for them. By reflecting the 5 Marks of Mission this provides a helpful starting point for young people and leaders in their conversations”.
Leaders Information
Thank you for requesting Keeping In Touch packs to distribute to young people in your Parish. We are truly thankful that you continue to support them during this difficult time.
We have included further information here to help you use the Keeping In Touch packs and give us feedback on how effective the project is.
Steps for Leaders:
1. Request Keeping In Touch packs from your Diocesan Representative. If you are unsure who this is, you can contact Simon or Steve at CIYD. Work out how many packs you will need for the number of young people in your Parish.
2. Arrange with your Diocesan representative how you can receive the packs. This could be via post or a physical drop off if restrictions allow.
3. Personalise the postcards for each young person. Attach the HOPE Token. Feel free to add other elements to the pack.
4. Post or deliver your packs to each young person.
5. Follow up to encourage each young person to pledge their Euro.
6. Finally complete the survey to give your feedback and help us to evaluate the project.
Information for Young People
We are so glad you have received a CIYD Keeping In Touch Pack. You are valued.
We are thinking and praying for you.
Within our Anglican Church, there is an encouragement to consider our actions within the 5 Marks of Mission. Your Keeping In Touch pack connects with these 5 things.
Tell.
On the front of the postcard, you can read a Bible Verse. It’s from Psalm 71:5. We encourage you to think about these words and what they might mean for you. These words are part of the life-giving news held within the Bible. It is part of the Church’s purpose to talk about this important message.
Teach.
Now turn over your postcard and on the back, there is a message from your local Parish. There is a church community that cares for you. They have chosen for you to receive this and long to teach you more about what it means to explore faith.
Tend.
Christians are encouraged to respond and tend to the needs of the world. We’ve included the opportunity for you to do this. There are so many needs in our local community which we can support. We’ve chosen three charities who do good work. In a moment, you can choose who you would like to support.
Treasure.
Our world is a beautiful gift from God. Part of following God means enjoying the world and his creation. So, your postcard is actually made of seed paper. This means you can plant it and wildflowers will appear.
Transform.
We have provided a Euro for each person who receives a pack. You can pledge this Euro to one of the charities below. Read about each charity and then choose which one you would like to support.
How to plant your seed paper!
The raw materials for the paper come from the Daphne bush which is grown in Nepal. The plant is stripped down during harvesting, but the plant regenerates from the root which is brilliant as no plants are harmed! Additionally purchasing this paper helps the rural craftspeople in Nepal. The seeds embedded in the paper are all non-invasive species that are also commonly found in many countries including Ireland. Included is a mix of Snapdragon, Petunia, Beardtongue, Daisy, Thyme, Poppy, Foxglove, Catchfly, Maiden Pinks and Chamomile.
The paper requires 4 hours of sunlight per day in order to germinate properly so we recommend planting in Spring and Summer.
The paper has no expiry date so wait until the proper time to plant.
The soil needs to be kept moist.
It is important not to allow the soil to dry out during germination.
The paper can be planted in the ground or in a pot.
Wet the paper and place it in the ground or in a pot and top with soil.
Do not place paper more than 1/8" below the soil - you only need enough soil to cover.
Pat the soil down firmly and keep moist.
It usually takes 3-6 weeks for the shoots to appear.
If they are properly nurtured wildflowers will bloom!