St Matthew’s Church, Grenville Street, Edgeley, brought the whole community together over the weekend of 23 September, as it celebrated its tenth Community Open Day.
Starting from humble beginnings, the event has grown beyond all expectations and this year featured over 40 groups and activities.
Pam Robinson, Community Development Manager at St Matthew's says: “This event is a wonderful way of bringing church, local people and community groups together to showcase the best that this area has to offer. It gives people the chance to see what’s going on locally and gives groups that chance to network with each other. It’s a great way of building stronger relationships and a stronger community. Best of all, it’s free!”
The Open Day featured free face painting, crafts and a puppet show, and included information stalls from groups such as Age UK Stockport, local councillors, The Red Box Project, Stockport Writers, The Friends of Alexandra Park, Vista Drones, and local GMP cadets, to name but a few.
See photos of the day on the diocesan Facebook page.
Speaking at the Open Day, Councillor Sheila Bailey of Stockport Council said: “As local Councillors, we have been very pleased to be part of the Community Open Day at St Matthew's Church and particularly so for the 10th anniversary of this event. The day had support from groups across Stockport and the sharing of such a wide expanse of information benefits the whole community. Well done to all involved".
The Revd Julie Johnson of St Matthew’s Church said: “What a fantastic day. It’s wonderful to see so many people coming into the church and finding help and support. What’s made it even more special is that St Matthew’s is celebrating its 160th birthday this year and it’s encouraging to hear that it’s still at the heart of the community.”
For more information about St Matthew’s Church, go to their page on A Church Near You.