Diocesan News
Mount Merrion win national volunteers award
We’re celebrating with the volunteers from Mount Merrrion Church, Belfast who have won the Marsh Church and Community Heroes Award 2020. The first prize of £1,000 was presented at the National Churches Trust’s Local Treasures event, held on Friday 11 December 2020.
Along with seven other churches across the UK, the volunteers at Mount Merrion church have been recognised for their help, kindness and support to local people and communities through this difficult year. Supported by the Marsh Christian Trust, the Awards are a celebration of their selfless contributions.
Revd Adrian Green, rector of Mount Merrion, received the award from Luke March of the National Churches Trust.
Adrian said: “This is a wonderful surprise. On behalf of everyone at Mount Merrion, we are delighted to receive the award. We take a holistic approach in what we do, obtaining projects that will help body, mind and soul and will improve the well–being of young and old in our community”
Claire Walker, Chief Executive of the National Churches Trust, said: “Many congratulations to everyone at Mount Merrion parish church, on winning this award this year. 2020 has been an unprecedented year with many new challenges for us all. We saw an extraordinary response in voluntary efforts to help people through the initial Covid–19 lockdown and subsequent uncertainties. Church communities were frequently at the forefront of vital local initiatives to help people in need.
“Church buildings generate at least £12.4 billion every year through volunteers, food banks, mental health support and much more. We think that is remarkable. These awards recognise the huge amount of good work that volunteers undertake every year in churches across the UK.”
For further information please contact:
Diocesan Communications Officer, Down & Dromore
07840 006899
Mrs Annette McGrath
dco@downdromorediocese.org