13 members of The Feast, a new worshipping community built around a shared meal in Seacroft, Leeds have been confirmed by the Rt Revd Arun Arora, Bishop of Kirkstall.
Candidates from nearby St James’ Church and from Elmet Trinity Benefice were also confirmed in St Paul’s Church in Whinmoor in the East Leeds Deanery, at the service earlier in October.
The Feast meets every Tuesday in Seacroft Parish and includes a meal shared together. It reaches some of the poorest families in the community and has been supported by a grant from the diocesan initiative Barnabas: Encouraging Confidence.
One candidate, following years of addiction, said: “The church is my safe place now where I can help volunteer at our cafe and through the week. I like to keep busy and praying with the vicar has helped me get through the darkest times.”
The Revd Canon Anne Russell, Team Rector of the Parish of Seacroft explained the launch of the new worshipping group: ‘We’ve found that there’s a great hunger for the good news of Jesus in our poorest communities. At the same time our communities face the daily challenge of putting food on the table.
“The Feast centres around a shared hot meal with stories and activities through which we believe Jesus becomes alive and relevant to all who come.
“It’s certainly never straightforward or easy and we are grateful for the church and secular partners who are willing to support our community,” said Revd Anne.