Youth Cafe...

The 13th December 2008 was the day of the official opening of the new Life and Soul Café. It’s finally here after being just a dream for the last few years. Since Animate was formed the team have been working either in schools or parishes, with many events being held in the parish hall of St Mary’s church next to Lowe House. This often involves taking a lot of resources and technical equipment and a lot of time to set up, utilising whatever space was available. The team are now able to welcome young people to a purpose built space that is complete with sound and lighting systems, projector and electronic screen, laptop and internet points, newly brought furniture and a kitchen furnished with all you could need.

The official opening was a service led by Archbishop Patrick Kelly along with Bishop Vincent Malone. Archbishop Kelly commented on the youth initiative begun four years a go.  “The starting of this (Animate) was a conviction that peer group ministry is a very effective way of accompanying young people as disciples. The secret of this is young people willing to, not just entertain, but to show other young people how they already know the Lord and the Lord knows them.”

Archbishop Patrick unveiled a specially designed and unique cross. On the cross are the images of young people. In a very real way expressing that, all the work of Animate is brought to the cross. On the cross are the struggles, the times of joy and hope that happen in working with young people.

Animate Youth Ministries resides at the heart of St Mary’s, Parish in St Helens. Carol Burrows one of the parishioners at the opening spoke movingly.
“It’s the best thing that’s happened to our young people in the parish for a long time. Nice to see young people as a priority and having a great environment to be in.”

The Life and Soul café will take time to develop. It is hoped that it will not only be a resource for young people in the diocese but for the wider community too. That in the evening young people will have a place of safety and a place of welcome. A few of the Animate event regulars including Sarah Burrows, Sarah Wilson and Danny Atherton had this to say: “We love you Animate, we do!” (well more like sing!) and Danny went on to say “It’s a fantastic transformation, which holds exciting opportunities for all us young people.” In the words of past Animate volunteer Helen Currie “It’s fitaliscious!”

It was very pleasing to welcome many people who have supported the initiative through offering skills, finances, prayer and time. Without all these people Animate Youth Ministries would not be able to do what it does and develop such an amazing space.

Before

After