Archbishop Tutu honours work of UK's largest women only hostel

12 June 2008

This week Church Army's first overseas President, Archbishop Desmond Tutu took time to see for himself the work being done at the Marylebone Project ( Marylebone Home)- the UK's largest women only hostel.

Dr Tutu had specifically asked to see what he described as "fantastic and important work" as part of his first official visit as Church Army President. He was thrilled to meet project staff and residents and honour the work that they do and dedicated a special chapel for residents and staff. In his talk to residents and staff Archbishop Tutu stressed how they were valued as VSPs-very special people and how their work brings a smile to the face of God.

Chief Executive Mark Russell comments "We were delighted to welcome Archbishop Tutu on his first visit as our President. Church Army is about reaching out to those who have been marginalised or feel voiceless and no one has performed that role better than Desmond Tutu. He is a real inspiration to us as we work to transform lives by helping people to encounter the living God of love and forgiveness."

Carol London-Baptiste, director of the Marylebone Project says "He took time out to see what we do, sang along with the choir and greeted all those who approached him". This is a day the women at the hostel will remember for a long time. He was inspirational".

A cheque for 25,000 was presented to Archbishop Tutu for the Marylebone Project on behalf of Land Aid (www.landaid.org). This donation will enable the building of four new bedrooms at the existing premises for the benefit of women experiencing a housing crisis. Rob Bould who presented the cheque said: "It was a real honour and a privilege to meet one the world's best known humanitarians and to represent the property industry in making this donation. The Marylebone Project is an excellent cause, and this injection of funds will make a real difference to the lives of homeless women."

Desmond Tutu is Archbishop Emeritus of Cape Town, South Africa and President of Church Army. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984 and was Chair of South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

To listen to what Archbishop Tutu's said to staff and residents click here

To a view a selection of images from Archbishop Tutu's visit click here