Asylum seekers
On Easter morning 2022, four asylum seekers from Iran joined our worship. What followed was a response to ‘I was a stranger and you welcomed me’ (Mt 25.35). The congregation in conjunction with Care4Calais started to provide conversational English classes, educational opportunities for young people at schools, simple hospitality, and baptism and confirmation classes for those that sought to learn more of the Christian faith. In so many ways, relationships between the asylum seekers and the All Saints congregation flourished and a sense of vibrancy was felt within the community.
The relationship with the asylum seekers, largely from Iran, who had fled their home country often because they feared for their lives, has led to 60 people being baptised and confirmed as Christians. Many of these people have now been given the right to stay and have started to move away to find homes and work. In some cases, we are hearing of excellent achievements of academic work and of progression in their profession. Some people have sought to stay in Maidenhead and have become an integral part of the church congregation.’
Maidenhead Street Angels
The Maidenhead Street Angels strapline is “Love the person in front of you”. Their aim is to continue to share God’s love with those they meet. They were set up in 2011 as a team of volunteers from Maidenhead churches to have a presence in the town centre on a weekend night. Street Angels provide a listening ear to those in any sort of need including the homeless or the lonely. They are famous for their lollies which are often used to start a conversation. Fr Jeremy is an active Angel (and Chaplain), and others within the church are active Angels.
ALLsorts
ALLsorts is a group for adults with learning disabilities, their friends, and carers.
Typically, we start with prayers, songs and acting out the story of God’s Big Party, Mathew 22, and then enjoy cake & games. It is a safe and fun environment where we come together to worship God. Allsorts meet on the last Thursday of the month at St Mary’s church. They are supported by the clergy and helpers from All Saints Church, High Street Methodist Church, St Edmund Campion, Church of the Good Shepherd and St Joseph’s.
Care Homes
Communion is shared with residents at a number of local care homes. This is led by Fr Jeremy with support from members of the congregation.
We offer regular services to our care homes, Normanhurst, Larchfield and Clara Court. At Normanhurst and Clara Court we offer a monthly communion service.
The communion services take place on Wednesday mornings.
The services are tailored to the specific needs of the residents, using familiar hymns and readings which can trigger memories.
All the services we offer are well attended and seem to be much appreciated by not only the residents but also the care home staff.