A church has received £30,000 to create a new pastor role focused on supporting young adults on their faith journey.

St Peter’s in Loudwater has been awarded the grant from the Diocese of Oxford’s Development Fund to employ a Worship and Young Adults Pastor, who will help establish and lead a new weekly congregation for those aged 16 to 25.

Reverend Dave Bull, Bishop of Buckingham, said: "All over the diocese we are seeing young adults showing increasing interest in God.

"The transition from education into adult life can be a challenging and formative time.

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"As they step into the workforce and shape the world with fresh vision and courage, the church needs to offer support by nurturing young adults and helping them access the resources that we are offered when we follow Jesus.

"St Peter’s is doing just that by creating spaces where young adults may grow, reflect deeply, and explore the richness of their spiritual lives, which will enable them to bring the compassion, wisdom and grace that our society so desperately needs."

The pastor will focus on engagement, discipleship, and leadership development, using music and worship as key ways to connect with young people.

The funding is part of a wider round of grants awarded in December 2025, totalling £299,047 for churches across the Diocese of Oxford.

Reverend Danny Rodgers, Vicar of St Peter’s, said: "As many churches all over the country are experiencing, we are so thankful that the Lord is doing a new thing in this season, particularly among youth and young adults who seem more open than ever to exploring Christianity and connect with the church.

"We are excited to be launching a new congregation aimed primarily at engaging with 20s and 30s.

"Alongside this new worshiping community we will be investing in developing younger leaders, forming a choir, and starting new home groups to encourage discipleship and the deepening of relationships.

"We are responding to what we see God doing in our church and we are excited to see what God has in store for us as we seek to play our part in God’s mission and introduce young people to Jesus and help them grow in the Christian faith."

He also spoke about the broader trend across the area.

Adding: "We have found that across the local area, churches are witnessing increasing curiosity about Christianity, with many young adults exploring faith for the first time or returning after time away.

"At the same time, many young people report difficulty finding church environments where they feel represented, welcomed, and empowered to lead.

"We are responding to this need by creating opportunities for belonging, discipleship, and leadership development."