Chester churches unite to transform communities

Christians from eighteen churches are set to work together this summer to engage in community projects across Cheshire West and Chester in the north west of England.

Engage 2010 is a project 12 years in the making and building on the success of a one-day event in Hoole, Chester in 1997. This one day developed into a weeklong Hoolefest in 2004 and then Chesterfest in 2007.

Each year it has grown to include more people and to have an even greater impact on local communities. Twnety churches have partnered with local businesses and agencies to deliver a week-long youth and community programme.

Young people have grown in confidence as they have understood their value and significance as well as building character, self-esteem and teamwork. Residents are served by their positive social contribution and build a positive perception of all ages.

A key part of engagement is community projects involving active citizenship for young people (aged 11-18) and adults to:

Improve urban areas, green spaces, allotments, housing and nature parks

Run community cohesion activities

Support work in old peoples' homes

Improve community areas and resources

Eighteen church congregations from across Cheshire West and Chester are working together with the support of partner organisations including Link Up, The Light Project and Chester Christian Schools Work to organise the programme.

Approx 120 adults and young people will be involved in 16 Community Projects focused in four locations - Kingsway, Lache, Ellesmere Port and Tarporley.

The aims of Engage 2010 are to:

Create a kinder, more caring and more cohesive community

Have a positive impact on young people

Reduce crime and fear

Improve the environment

Demonstrate the positive social contribution that Christian faith communities can make for the benefit of all.

Local church leader and chair of Link Up, the Rev Andy Glover said: "The main purpose of Engage 2010 is to bring the church in Chester and the local communities of the city together, to give young people the opportunity to serve in the community and to provide quality activities for young people! We want people to see that God is good and Christianity can be a 'life transforming reality'."

For more details go to: www.linkup.uk.net