Three people from the Diocese of Durham have been honoured during RECOGNISE Week (6–12 July), a national celebration of those who serve children, young people and families in churches across the country.
Launched in 2025 by the nationally funded 30K Project, RECOGNISE forms part of the Church of England's wider vision to raise up 30,000 new children and youth ministers, both voluntary and employed, by 2030. The week celebrates those who have made a significant difference in the lives of children, young people and families through their ministry.
This year, Nicola Rogers, Megan Rawling and Geoff Moore from the Diocese of Durham were nominated in recognition of their commitment and service and invited to a special afternoon tea celebration at Bishopthorpe Palace. Hosted by the Archbishop of York, The Most Revd Stephen Cottrell, the event was a way of thanking those whose ministry is making a lasting impact.
The Archbishop of York said: "Thank you for the care, encouragement and faith you share so generously. Your ministry helps children and young people to know they are loved by God, and it is a blessing to our churches and communities."
Nicola Rogers serves as Secondary School Chaplain at Whitburn Church of England Academy, alongside her role as an RE teacher. Having established the school's chaplaincy over the past two years with Church of England funding, she supports staff and students of all faiths and backgrounds, while leading a thriving student chaplaincy team.
Reflecting on the recognition, Nicola said: "It was a real honour to be invited to Bishopthorpe. I feel privileged to journey alongside our staff and students, and it was encouraging to know the Church shares our passion for children and young people."
Megan Rawling, Community Music Director, has been using music to create opportunities for people of all ages to build community and explore faith together.
Her work includes the Sing and Shout Children's Choir at St Cuthbert’s Darlington, which partners with local primary schools through singing, games and simple opportunities to reflect on faith, alongside the recently launched Soul Samba project, bringing adults together through samba drumming, community performances and optional spaces for prayer and reflection.
Megan also led worship at the Diocese's Year 6 Leavers' Services for the second consecutive year, helping nearly 2,000 children celebrate their transition to secondary school across five services at Durham Cathedral. She is now developing further work to support young people as they move from primary to secondary education.
Also nominated was Geoff Moore, a dedicated youth work volunteer at St Brandon's Church, Brancepeth, whose faithful service over many years has helped support and encourage generations of young people.
The Diocese of Durham congratulates Nicola, Megan and Geoff on their well-deserved recognition and joins in thanking the many volunteers and paid staff across the diocese who invest their time, gifts and faith in serving children, young people and families every week. Their commitment continues to make a lasting difference in churches, schools and communities across the region.