Pilots is a Christian organisation for all children and young people. It is part of the United Reformed Church and sponsored by the Congregational Federation. Pilots companies exist in a variety of denominations and can be opened in any denomination or in situations of ecumenical co-operation.
Pilots has been in existence since 1936. There have been many changes over the years which have kept the organisation relevant to those involved, but its core belief in the value of each Pilot and the respect for individual nurture and growth has remained fundamental to the development of the organisation throughout its history.
Pilots
mission statement...
Pilots believes that
children and young
people matter.
Therefore, Pilots
gives local churches
the chance to share
the love of God in
the ongoing life of
Jesus Christ by
inviting children
and young people on
an exciting journey.
The Marlpool Pilots company enjoyed a great day out with other URC Pilot groups and congregations at West Midlands Safari Park. More then 50 people went from Marlpool by coach and car on a beautiful sunny and warm day.
Pilots is divided into four age bands:
Deckhands (aged 5 - 6)
Adventurers (aged 7 - 10)
Voyagers (aged 11 - 14)
Navigators (aged 15 - 17)
'Pilots' company
he
story of the
missionary John
Williams, his
work and his
legacy
In the early 1800s a young Englishman felt called to serve as a missionary in the South Pacific. At the age of 20 John Williams took his wife in the footsteps of the legendary Captain Cook, and sailed from London. They landed on the island of Tahiti in the Society Islands in November 1817, and made their home on the island of Raiatea. John longed to take the Gospel to new places and their plan was to take the good news of the Christian faith to as many people as they could. On some islands the people were hostile, the ‘white skinned’ man was still a mystery and someone to be feared, but on other islands they walked freely, learning each other’s language, customs and traditions. They exchanged skills, shared knowledge and despite the language difficulties and culture differences they together came to an understanding of the Christian faith.
To the local church, Pilots:
- is a mission resource
- enables self-discovery in a fun, secure environment
- helps young people to grow in the Christian faith
- gives an opportunity to respond to God
- is rooted in the world-wide church
It is widely recognised that Pilots can enhance the work carried out in church on Sundays.
As society continues to change, Pilots is at the forefront of respecting modern family and modern church needs.
Pilots Companies use the Compass as the basis of their programme. the Compass contains material for each of the 4 Pilots age ranges as well as a games section and a treasure chest section with projects suitable for all ages. There is also general information including child protection guidelines, a suggested meeting format and pointers to other useful resources.
(This information is taken from the URC website, Pilot's page)