A NEW community centre is now open, thanks to an ice cream eating bishop.
On Saturday, September 22, the Bishop of Reading, the Rt Revd Andrew Proud was joined by hundreds of others for a short outdoor service of dedication.
And, as the old adage says, the show had to go on, despite the pouring rain: Bishop Andrew was cutting the ribbon which would open the new buildings and allow everyone to get inside.
Umbrellas ready, residents, parishioners, councillors, the Earley town mayor and visiting friends all gathered to take part in the dedication.
Bishop Andrew spoke fondly of the ideas behind the new centre, explaining that its genesis came out of a generous donation left by church member Pat Drummer in her will. The church wanted to use the money wisely and, after talking to the community, felt that the new centre was the best way forward.
It comprises a large hall suitable and three smaller ones, a cafe area and office space and it is all linked to the church buildings.
“This is turning the church inside out,” Bishop Andrew said. “I was talking with the architect and he was explaining the vision: with this space God is saying [to the community] ‘I love you and care for you’.”
Groups that use the new St Nicolas centre were on hand to meet with residents and recruit new members.
They included the 1st Earley Scouts, the church’s Mothers’ Union, Board Games Cafe and men’s curry club. There was also displays from, among others, a Tai Chi group, a model making club and a pre-school.
Vicar of St Nicolas, the Revd Neil Warwick, said: “On Saturday, September 22, the St Nicolas Church and Centre was full of people from all over Earley and beyond – having fun, having a good look around, mingling and chatting.
“That’s exactly what we wanted this transformed building to be about – a go-to place for our community.”
“All Christians are called to love their neighbour – this new building is a great way for us to do that”
“To build this new Centre we planned, raised money, worked hard, took risks and prayed and we’ve now got a place that will bless our community for decades to come.”
“As a Church one of our motto’s is to be open to community – this transformed building means we can do that in new and exciting ways.”
“From prayer to parties to puppy training to Pilates … this transformed building will be a great place for all people to come and enjoy themselves.”
