For such times as these! - A good news story from Windhill!

For such times as these!
(Esther 14:14)

On June 1st James Stannet (from e:merge, a Christian Youth organisation) began his youth work for Christchurch LEP in Windhill.

He says, "Well! June has been a really busy but very productive month. On Wednesday, in the park, numbers are climbing week by week, now averaging 25. Good partnerships have been made with local organisations. this has been a blessing: enabling us to deliver varied sport activities and build good relationships.'

'The Hope Revolution, youth event, based at Christchurch LEP was a massive hit. A BIG Thank you is expressed to the Church for the support, encouragement and prayers. 200 people attended the Fun Day. Despite the rainy weather, 100 young people took part in local projects: two house clear-ups, school garden project (Windhill Primary) and running the Fun Day. 10 Christian Organisations working together resulting in several families requesting Christian children's activities.'

'The strength of relationships with young people on the skate park has been tested through the recent horrific stabbings in Windhill, including that of a young boy in the skate park. 'Living in Windhill,' James says, 'I was immediately aware of the incident and able to reassure the youngsters and advise them to go home. Following the event it was very chaotic with phone calls from the council and other organisations. All very supportive! I felt that on the next Wednesday evening we needed to claim this area back for Christ. I made contact with Sarah and other Christian organisation: Zephaniah Trust, Kidz Klub Bradford and local church members with a view to go to the skate park to meet with the young people and most importantly to pray over them and the park for safety and protection.

That Wednesday was the first time the park had opened since the event. We played football and listened to the feelings and re-actions. Some youngsters wrote prayers for the families affected, themselves and their own families. We prayed around the skate park and the surrounding area. This was Christianity in action! for such a time as this: Christian organisations have been at the forefront of these initiatives of prayer, support, encouragement & organisation. When I appeared on 'Look North' I specifically mentioned Christian organisations being involved.'

'A week later, there was a big reassurance event at the Windhill skate park.

'For such a time as this' this was the opportunity: as Christians, to take the lead with many prayers and support, from Christchurch Windhill, Emerge and other Christian agencies. This was a huge success 250+ people attended mixed with parents & children. We held a skating display, football & sports sessions, and creative play for younger children. This was supported by Local Councillors, Bradford Council, Bradford Youth Service, The Play Team and Emerge. What an event!!! This saw Christian and secular organisations working together productively and for one cause ' the positivity and safety of the community at the park'.

On July 18th Rev Mark Watson was licensed as the new minister in charge of Christchurch LEP. The chair of District, Roger Walton, preached on the theme of partnerships as he welcomed Mark, an Anglican priest, into the Bradford North Circuit Ministry Team, where he is authorised as a Methodist Minister.

'For such a time as this' - we thank god for the ecumenical partnerships being deepened as we minister together in our communities.

Rev Sarah Jemison