Just under twelve years ago, a Parish Council meeting, at St Paul’s, took a slightly different turn. It was the Pope’s wish that the year should be dedicated to prayer for the EVANGELISATION of the world.
The group discussed how, when and why this should be high on the agenda for the parish. Various ideas were put forward until one person asked, “Are we going to pray for this or are we going to do something or are we going to do both?”
“What could we do?”
This question, asked by another member, was answered in a way that would have consequences which could never have been envisaged.
A shop, in a small complex near the Church of St Paul’s, had been vacant for a long time. It was owned by the Council and they really wanted tenants. The idea was formed. If the council would rent it to them, St. Paul’s could become the tenants, have a place where the underprivileged, the homeless, the poor and the lonely could get a drink, have a chat, purchase clothes which would have been donated and get help with their problems.
It took a couple of years to get started but, ten years since its opening, this special place has flourished and is planning expansion. Tea, coffee, a biscuit and a chat has become the norm for so many. Food, donated by various companies and shops is freely available for those who need it, as are toiletries and household goods. The income from the sale of clothes, books, household goods, jewellery and ornaments has enabled the Centre to expand and grow.
People with any problems can get advice and assistance with filling in forms, understanding the complexities of the legal system or finding out whom to approach with health problems and family matters. And all this is from volunteers who give their time, their expertise and their knowledge.
The volunteers have, over the years, formed friendships which include not only the workers themselves but all who visit the Centre. Their welcome is all inclusive and genuine. The Centre is a place where anyone can find support, understanding and unquestioning acceptance.
Recently, much to the delight of their supporters, the Centre was awarded
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
This is equivalent to receiving the MBE.
Congratulations to Angela Fox, the former Parish Priest, Fr. Bernard O’Brien, R.I.P. and all the volunteers who work at or donate to the centre.
Just under twelve years ago, a Parish Council meeting, at St Paul’s, took a slightly different turn. It was the Pope’s wish that the year should be dedicated to prayer for the EVANGELISATION of the world.
The group discussed how, when and why this should be high on the agenda for the parish. Various ideas were put forward until one person asked, “Are we going to pray for this or are we going to do something or are we going to do both?”
“What could we do?”
This question, asked by another member, was answered in a way that would have consequences which could never have been envisaged.
A shop, in a small complex near the Church of St Paul’s, had been vacant for a long time. It was owned by the Council and they really wanted tenants. The idea was formed. If the council would rent it to them, St. Paul’s could become the tenants, have a place where the underprivileged, the homeless, the poor and the lonely could get a drink, have a chat, purchase clothes which would have been donated and get help with their problems.
It took a couple of years to get started but, ten years since its opening, this special place has flourished and is planning expansion. Tea, coffee, a biscuit and a chat has become the norm for so many. Food, donated by various companies and shops is freely available for those who need it, as are toiletries and household goods. The income from the sale of clothes, books, household goods, jewellery and ornaments has enabled the Centre to expand and grow.
People with any problems can get advice and assistance with filling in forms, understanding the complexities of the legal system or finding out whom to approach with health problems and family matters. And all this is from volunteers who give their time, their expertise and their knowledge.
The volunteers have, over the years, formed friendships which include not only the workers themselves but all who visit the Centre. Their welcome is all inclusive and genuine. The Centre is a place where anyone can find support, understanding and unquestioning acceptance.
Recently, much to the delight of their supporters, the Centre was awarded
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
This is equivalent to receiving the MBE.
Congratulations to Angela Fox, the former Parish Priest, Fr. Bernard O’Brien, R.I.P. and all the volunteers who work at or donate to the centre.
Ad Multos Annos Celia Bermingham
