Irish Church leaders back Streetreach

The four Church Leaders in Ireland have formally commended the StreetReach project for a job well done. The statement, issued earlier this month, recognises the project’s work with young people and the local community. Endorsed by The Archbishop of Armagh, the Primate of All Ireland, the Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland and the President of the Methodist Church in Ireland , the commendation states: “We, the four Church Leaders, are delighted to commend the StreetReach project. It offers young people an excellent opportunity to connect with the needs of the local community and build new relationships that extend their understanding of ‘faith into practice’.”

Speaking about the commendation Church Army’s Neville Willerton, StreetReach Project Co-ordinator, says, “We’re really appreciative of the main four Church Leaders giving us this commendation. This illustrates something of the heart for mission in Ireland showing that that we can unite together on a project like this. It’s exciting that mission can bring us together and I think it also illustrates something of the commitment, determination and the passion of young people who do StreetReach.”

StreetReach, is an initiative of Church Army and Summer Madness, and works in partnership with local churches and community projects, especially in under-resourced areas of Belfast . The project encourages young people to be an influence in the local community through a practical demonstration of God’s love. Volunteers are encouraged to participate in various activities such as cleaning streets and gardens, as well as creative murals, street parties and community barbecues.

“We’re looking to get 600-800 people to get involved with our event this summer taking place from 5th to 10th July,” states Neville. “Already, there are 10 mini StreetReaches happening just this year alone and these have come about because young people have tasted mission in Belfast through StreetReach and have wanted to replicate it in their own town or city where they live.”

For more information on StreetReach, please visit www.streetreach.net or phone Neville Willerton on 028 90673379