Amazing volunteers who give Warm Welcomes at St John’s, Thorpe Edge, Bradford have been praised for supporting their local community.
St John’s runs a cafe from Tuesday to Friday 9am till 1.30pm that offers a warm space where anyone can come and get a breakfast or lunch at a minimal cost, plus a free warm drink.
“It’s a place where people can come and meet and make new friends. We have also been asked to pray with and for people in the café,” said Revd Steve Nuttall.
“We also run day centres for the elderly where they can meet with others, have fun playing games and be entertained as well as having a two course home cooked lunch.”
Revd Steve said how St John’s also offers “Fare Share Food” on a Thursday where people can access 10 items of food for Just £3, and can choose to stay and enjoy lunch.
“These things are only possible due to the amazing volunteers who help week in and week out,” Revd Steve said. 
Julie Hussain is one of many helpers and said: “Being a volunteer at St John’s is a blessing for me. People that come in are in real need and being able to listen to their stories makes me feel part of a team that really make a difference.”
Volunteer Dawn added: “We have so many instances of God at work, from prayers across a table, people enquiring about church and services, to bringing in gifts for our events and quite a few joined us over Christmas to hear the Christmas message, some come to Messy Church now too.
“It is a real gem in the community where people are growing from being volunteers to disciples and leaders.”
Revd Steve said everything they do is rooted in faith: “St Paul says let your Gentleness be evident to all and that is what we try and achieve at St John’s. We pray that we will be known for our gentleness, kindness and caring to those who come to us for help.”