Ardkeen project draws in local community
Meet Up Tuesdays is a new outreach project at Christ Church Ardkeen that is already attracting people of all ages from the local community.
The drop–in began in late February and is initially to run for 3 months, but it’s going from strength to strength with 19 folks coming along last week to enjoy crafts, chat, and light refreshments.
Diocesan Lay Reader, Melanie Houston, is helping to lead the church, and is very encouraged by the response.
“We’re seeing all age groups drop into the hall on Tuesdays– women and men – including a gentleman who is learning to knit as he has wanted to for years! It’s especially encouraging that around half of those attending don’t belong to Ardkeen. We’ve also found that the project is strengthening bonds among those who do come to church.”
What is Meet Up Tuesdays?
Each Tuesday from 10.30–12.30 the church hall is open and local people welcomed to drop in for conversation, refreshments, and the opportunity to begin crafting projects, all free of charge. It’s an opportunity to make new friends and explore new interests.
There are several crafters among the six volunteers who can teach the basics to get people started, and if crafting isn’t your thing, you are more than welcome to drop in for a cuppa and a chat. There’s also a book nook where books can be browsed or borrowed or donated and a play corner with toys and art materials for young children.
Melanie continues:
“At the heart of this project is our desire to show the love of the Lord Jesus in action, so that those who do not already know Him may be drawn to Him, and those who have drifted away from the Lord may come to walk more closely with Him.
“Meet Up Tuesdays is all about planting seed. We are starting with a small allotment, but our hope is, that with God’s help, there will be growth and development. The workers are few, but we will plant and water, knowing that it is God who gives the increase.”