Church opens doors on renovation work
AN open day is due to be held at a Rochdale church that is undergoing extensive renovation works.
Smallbridge Methodist Church was bought by Branches Christian Fellowship in August last year and the organisation has embarked on a refurbishment project aimed at not only keeping the building viable as a church but also making it suitable for holding events for the wider community.
The open day will take place on Saturday, May 20, between 1pm and 3pm and all are welcome to attend and find out what has been done so far and what is planned for the future, as well as make suggestions for what the building can be used for.
The event will also showcase what already happens in the building, such as stay and play sessions, circuit training, coffee mornings, Kids Klub and much more.
There will be competitions and games to play, a bouncy castle, face painting, crafts, coffee and cake, popcorn and tomato soup.
Entertainment will be provided in the form of live music and there will be the chance to have a professional photograph taken for £5, which includes entry into a competition to win a private sitting with the photographer.
In the evening the church will play host to Barry Woodward, author of ‘Once an Addict,’ who came to the church as a drug addict and dealer and left as the director of a trust.
After being dependant on heroin for 15 years and spending a number of terms in prison, Barry had what he describes as a ‘religious experience,’ which led to him becoming an evangelist.
Since then he has worked with a number of Christian organisations and has ben awarded a diploma in Biblical studies and evangelic ministry from Sheffield University.
He speaks at events all over the country and has taken part in discussions for the BBC, Channel 4 and Sky TV.
For more information visit branchesfellowship. org or e-mail tellme@ branchesfellowship.org.