Preparing for the 2022 Commonwealth Games

Preparations for the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham – and beyond – have been going on for several years already. Alongside those working on accommodation, transport, venues and security, a group of Christian leaders has been meeting for the last 18 months to collaborate concerning Christian input into the international gathering. The group, which is co-chaired by Bishops Mike Royal (Cinnamon Network) and David Urquhart (Birmingham Diocese), represents Churches, networks and areas of expertise from around the midlands and further afield. Another focus of the planning meeting was chaplaincy.

Athletes Village chaplaincy, Games Chaplaincy and Mission Sports Chaplaincy are all being planned, with opportunities for involvement by midlands Christians in all except the Athletes Village. Joe Lowther, CEO of ‘Kick’ (a Christian ministry that transforms young people through sport and life-skills) spoke about the group’s aim to expand its work into the midlands. Read about the work of Kick HERE.

Warren Evans, CEO of Sports Chaplaincy UK, is also supporting Christian chaplaincy in Birmingham in the run-up to the Games. Read more about Sports Chaplaincy UK HERE.

Planning and preparation continues. More information to follow in due course.