St Michael’s Church in Stoke Gifford shows that it is extending connections both internationally and within its locality, with a youth trip to Uganda just completed, and an amenities extension project known as Heart of the Community well underway.
The church’s trip to Uganda was a successful venture that included a group of ten young people between the ages of 15 and 18. The aim of the trip was faith-sharing – celebrating values and beliefs common to the Church of Uganda and St Michael’s. The young travellers were supervised by three older members, including the church’s Pioneer Minister, Jimmy Rocks.
Jimmy said the most inspiring aspects of the trip were the “generosity and enthusiasm” of the church in Uganda, which was expressed through their hospitality, music and dance presentations. The group of young people who went out to Uganda were able to strengthen international links between the Bristol and Ankole diocese by sharing personal stories of why a relationship with God is important to them.
St Michael’s Church is central to the community in Stoke Gifford, both geographically and socially. It is positioned near Bristol Parkway Station and holds many key events at its warm and welcoming Old School Rooms building. The green just outside the Old School Rooms will be host to around 800 carol singers on 8th Dec, and will include choirs from the church, from St Michael’s School as well as any local residents who want to join in.
Apart from its services, courses and events, the Heart of the Community fundraising initiative is another priority for the church right now. The project is for unused land near the Old School Rooms to be made into rooms that the community can use for additional activities and worship. The project has so far raised £2 million, with a target of raising £5.5 million.
To find out more about St Michael’s Church, its projects and what it offers in terms of youth activities, preschool provisions and local events, visit www.stmichaelsbristol.org.
Photo: Jimmy Rocks with the archbishop in Uganda.
Related link: Faith and Religion in Stoke Gifford (The Journal)
Photo: The St Michael’s group in Uganda.
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