Bishop launches Olympics volunteering programme

The Bishop of London has officially launched the Olympics volunteer programme for the Diocese of London.

'the2012' is calling upon young Christians across the capital to become a volunteer for the church in the Olympics year and beyond.

The programme will bring together more than 2,000 volunteers aged between 13 and 35 from parishes and church communities across the Diocese of London.

The volunteers will have the opportunity to attend training events held over the coming months before gathering in St Paul’s Cathedral in April next year for a commissioning service with the Bishop.

They will spring into action during the Olympics to offer support and services to those living in the capital or visitors who have come for the Games.

This will include anything from handing out free cups of water to people at venues or transport hubs, to running sports-themed holiday clubs for young children.

Volunteers will also be on hand to support the community festivals and activities being put on in churches close to Olympics sites, many of which will be providing food, drink, advice and hospitality to visitors.

Volunteers already enrolled in the programme include 26-year-old Lidija Mavra from Tower Hamlets, who is the founder and leader of a network of volunteers who give out warm clothing and food and build relationships with homeless people living on London’s streets.

David Talbot is 24 and has recently set up a community basketball club in his local park, where young people from all walks of life gather for exercise and friendship.

Speaking at the launch at St Paul's Cathedral on Sunday, the Bishop of London Dr Richard Chartres said: “I am constantly impressed with the remarkable energy many young people already devote to the task of volunteering in their community.

"the2012 programme will inspire and equip the next generation of young people in London so that with renewed confidence they will be able to take full advantage of the service opportunities of next summer and beyond.

"I am greatly looking forward to a tremendous gathering in St Paul’s Cathedral for the commissioning service in April next year.”