Evesham Methodist Church recognised as a Church of Sanctuary

Evesham Methodist Church has been recognised as a Church of Sanctuary. It is the first church in Worcestershire to receive this national award.

The certificate was presented by the Revd Dr Inderjit Bhogal, former President of the Methodist Conference, and the inspiration for the Sanctuary initiative which began in Sheffield over twenty years ago.

The Church of Sanctuary award was presented to Evesham’s new minister, the Revd Patricia Mukorombindo, and South Worcestershire superintendent the Revd Liz Harris at a special ceremony held on 11 January.

The Birmingham Methodist District chair, the Revd Novette Headley, Evesham's Deputy Mayor Councillor Bill Kimberley and former President of the Methodist Church Revd Dr Inderjit Bhogal all attended.

The Revd Headley was the preacher and the service also formally welcomed the Revd Mukorombindo as the new Minister of Evesham and Ombersley Road and Bromyard Road Methodist churches in Worcester.

There are now dozens of cities, churches, schools, universities and even libraries of Sanctuary around the country, www.cityofsanctuary.org Revd Bhogal explained the Sanctuary Movement, 'We should be offering hospitality not hostility' he said, and encouraged Evesham to consider becoming a Town of Sanctuary. He also urged all Worcestershire churches, and all Methodist churches, to follow Evesham Methodists’ example.

The Revd Patricia said, ‘We hope Evesham Methodist becoming a Church of Sanctuary will encourage other Worcestershire churches to seek the award, and spread its themes of security and hospitality for all in need across our county’.