Churches together

                                                                                     RENEW BLOXHAM

BEING PRESENT, BEING PRAYERFUL, BEING IN PARTNERSHIP

As we reflect on the last two years, we all realise that our lives have been changed in one way or another. There have been many stressful, worrying situations to be faced and overcome. We have been isolated from family and friends and for some grieving the loss of loved ones alone has been hardly bearable. Before the Pandemic even began an increasing number of people in our communities were experiencing loneliness, anxiety and a loss of self-esteem and confidence. Lives move at a faster pace these days thanks to modern technology and constant media input. Some of us can feel quite overwhelmed by today’s world.

Renew Wellbeing is a national charity which supports churches right across the British Isles to set up and run a space where people can come and feel welcomed, a space where it is OK not to be OK.

A group from St Mary’s Bloxham and Bloxham Baptist Church opened just such a venue during 2021 after much prayer and planning.

Understanding that everyone is in a different place mentally and emotionally when their lives are troubled or lonely, we have created different spaces in a light, warm and friendly venue There is a quiet area for prayer or just to enjoy some peace, an area to sit and read or enjoy a tea or coffee alone or with others. A selection of board games, crafts and jigsaws are available. People can bring their own choice of hobby, and maybe even teach others if they wish to, or just enjoy being among friends

Renew Bloxham is open from 2 pm until 4 pm on Tuesdays at Bloxham Baptist Chapel in Hawke Lane, and the kettle is always on!

You are very welcome to come and see if we have created an atmosphere that might help you, with no pressure to attend regularly. We don’t try to solve people’s problems but can suggest places to go for help if needed.

Taking the first step back into daily Life can be hard and Renew Bloxham hope to make that step a little easier. Two of our members commented: “I like that you say that it is ok not to be ok” and “It is the company that counts.”

It really is ok not to be ok and that can be a starting place for happier times to come. Welcome to RENEW BLOXHAM.