• Ep.9 - The greatest missional tool we have is the Bible: Dave Newton
    May 3 2026

    Dave Newton - National Director of Scripture Union England and Wales - discusses the value and role of the Bible in the work of mission. Conversation turns to the old Scripture Union exam, the value of Scripture memorisation, and how impossible it is to read the Bible without getting excited for God's mission to rescue his people.

    Contact:

    Sparks@scriptureunion.org.uk

    FB: ScriptureUnionEnglandAndWales

    Insta: ScriptureUnionEW

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    52 mins
  • Ep.8 - You have a captive audience: Collective Worship in primary school
    Apr 19 2026

    With a particular focus on Collective Worship and Assemblies, this episode explores opportunities in primary schools, how to join the dots, and reminisces on some of the songs we used to sing (and maybe still do.)

    sparks@scriptureunion.org.uk

    SU Story Explorers | Scripture Union

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    51 mins
  • Ep.7 - Bank Holiday Special
    Apr 5 2026

    An unusual edition of the Mission Sparks Podcast as Matt, Beckie, and Pete discuss post-Easter mission opportunities then play a series of head-to-head games (all of which could be used with children and young people.)

    Contact:

    sparks@scriptureunion.org.uk

    FB: ScriptureUnionEnglandandWales

    Insta: ScriptureUnionEW

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    48 mins
  • Ep.6 - I've got loads of stories of failure: Mission on the margins
    Mar 23 2026

    Join us as we explore community engagement, mission strategies, and faith in deprived areas with Nic Findlay from Scripture Union. Discover practical insights on living incarnationally, building relationships, and sharing the gospel effectively in varying contexts.

    Contact:

    Nicf@scriptureunion.org.uk

    sparks@scriptureunion.org.uk

    FB: ScriptureUnionEnglandWales

    Insta: ScriptureUnionEW

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    54 mins
  • Ep.5 - The look in his eye has changed: Mission through sport
    Mar 9 2026

    This episode explores the power of sport as a tool for mission and faith sharing among children and young people. Guests from the SU sports team share inspiring stories, practical resources, and insights on how to use games and activities to connect, explore, respond, and grow in faith.

    Contact:

    sparks@scriptureunion.org.uk

    marko@scriptureunion.org.uk

    Insta: Scriptureunionew

    FB: Scripture Union England and Wales

    Resources mentioned:

    Half time

    Holy Ground

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    56 mins
  • Ep.4 - Stop calling it boring: Insights into Gen Alpha
    Feb 23 2026

    In this episode of the Mission Sparks podcast, the team discusses Generation Alpha, exploring their unique characteristics, the impact of technology on their lives, and how to engage them in spiritual conversations. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding their experiences and emotional literacy, as well as practical ways to connect with them in church settings. The hosts emphasize the need for authenticity and exploration in faith, encouraging listeners to adapt their approaches to better resonate with this generation.

    Get in touch:

    Sparks@scriptureunion.org.uk

    Insta: Scriptureunionew

    FB: Scripture Union England and Wales

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    42 mins
  • Ep.3 - A spiral staircase: Why residentials make a difference
    Feb 9 2026

    Matt, Beckie, and Paul discuss the impact of residentials on the faith journey of children and young people, including the value of side-by-side activities, concentrated time together, relationship building, and a change of environment. The conversation includes ideas for those who cannot host a long residential and explains the support that Scripture Union can offer churches to run residentials, mission days, and similar events for themselves. Contact:

    Sparks@scriptureunion.org.uk

    Insta: Scriptureunionew

    FB: Scripture Union England and Wales www.su.org.uk/holidays

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    50 mins
  • Ep.2 - Jumping for Jesus: How research helps inform mission
    Jan 26 2026

    Summary:

    In this episode of the Mission Sparks podcast, hosts Matt and Beckie, along with guest Sarah Davison, explore the importance of research in mission work, particularly in engaging with the next generation. They discuss how research provides a foundation for understanding the needs and contexts of children and young people, the value of evaluating mission effectiveness, and the balance between digital and face-to-face interactions. The conversation highlights the need for churches to adapt their strategies based on research findings and the voices of young people, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and fostering open conversations about faith.

    Research:

    Talking Jesus

    Z-A: Growing Spirituality

    Scripture Union Research

    Get in touch:

    Sparks@scriptureunion.org.uk

    SarahD@scriptureunion.org.uk

    Insta: Scriptureunionew

    FB: Scripture Union England and Wales

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    48 mins