Scripture Union has always valued innovation and, during Lockdown when opportunities for mission were limited, we doubled our efforts in praying for and piloting fresh ways of reaching out. Sam was part of a team that created a walking trail using QR codes to share an amazing message of hope.

"It was back at the start of lockdown when we could only leave the house once a day I wondered: how could I give fresh ideas to families and share something of faith as they went on their daily walk? I was inspired by friends and colleagues who had tried different ideas from leaving colouring sheets, bible stories, posters on their walls and gate posts for passers by to take. But what about something different? What about a series of videos with ideas to get families talking and playing games while they walked together? And so after a few small-scale trials, In Search of Hope was born!"

"In Search of Hope is a walking trail using a series of QR codes to enable families to join in the adventure of searching for what, or who, is hidden behind the secret online door. Each QR code leads to a different video with a game idea, or talking point, and the all important clues that will help families use the correct password to open the door. Behind the door lays the voice of Hope who assures us He can be found and clung on to when all else is lost. An essential message for this time I think.

To date each code has had over 300 scans!

I had a great time writing, scripting, filming and creating the flow for this resource. I definitely tapped into a creative side I didn’t know that I had! Thankfully, there was a team behind the scenes to bring all of it together and package it so beautifully to make this idea a reality. To date each code has had over 300 scans, so that could be anywhere between 300-1200 people engaging with the trail - remember each scan likely represents a family with young children."