Building an Inclusive Christian Community in Loftus, Darlington District, Cleveland and Danby Circuit
Hope Church East Cleveland is a beacon of inclusivity and evangelism, welcoming all and guiding them towards God while advocating for justice and inclusivity for marginalized communities.
Key Achievements:
- Youth Engagement: 80 active youth club members (5-17 years old), with another 100 involved in informal activities like holiday programs and family events. 12 young leaders enrolled, one transitioning to adult leadership.
- Community Support: Community Grocery serving 50 families at lower cost, offering free meals, signposting to local services, and work experience for students with learning disabilities.
- Spiritual Growth: Regular worship events like Christmas, Easter, and Jubilee services drawing 67 attendees, monthly cafe praises, and dedicated prayer spaces.
- Mission Focus: Regular mission events including Christmas parties, Easter egg hunts, and large-scale events like Preston Wood Baptist Choir performances, alongside focused mission fortnights for children and youth.
Why Hope Church Exists:
- Meeting a Local Need: Loftus lacks a Methodist Church. Recent regeneration projects brought new families seeking an inclusive, justice-oriented church like Methodism.
- Reaching Disengaged Families: Many families felt unwelcomed by traditional churches and yearned for a faith community that resonated with their values.
- Addressing Marginalization: Providing crucial support for families and individuals on the economic margins, offering dignified and empowering assistance.
Impact Stories:
- R (15): Rediscovering faith through engaging youth activities.
- J (29): Receiving crucial emotional and practical support at the Community Grocery during a personal crisis.
Development and Future:
- From Project to Church: Hope Church started as a circuit project encompassing several areas but grew organically in Loftus, leading to a dedicated youth group, toddler sessions, and a community grocery.
- Relocation and Growth: Moving to the Old Co-op building in 2022 opened new doors, expanding services, partnerships, and explicitly developing faith aspects, leading to a surge in engagement and a desire for formal church status.
- Looking Ahead: The initial church community meeting marks a significant step towards establishing Hope Church as a distinct place of worship and fellowship, continuing to serve the Loftus community with an inclusive and mission-driven approach.