In an incredible show of generosity, The Haven, a recent church set to launch in Darlington next month, has received 92 donated Bibles after a web based appeal.
Seeking support to cover the associated fee of Bibles for the brand new congregation, Rev Jess Monopoli, curate at St Mary’s Cockerton, launched the appeal and was astounded by the response.
“At the moment, we’ve got 92 Bibles, with a complete of 103 promised. Two big donations got here from a person and a church who have no idea us in any respect, one from Birmingham and one other from near Oxford,” she shared.
“They felt moved by the Holy Spirit to act and we’re so grateful to them and to others who’ve kindly donated.”
Commissioned by St Mary’s Cockerton, The Haven will probably be situated in West Park, a growing neighbourhood within the northwest of the parish.
This location will allow the church to increase its reach to surrounding areas, including Faverdale and High Grange.
Rev Monopoli highlighted the importance of this initiative, “We’re very enthusiastic about The Haven. The community at West Park have expressed a eager for community space for a major period of time, we hope to have the opportunity to supply this. One of our key values is inclusivity and The Haven will probably be a house for anybody who wants to hitch us.”
Currently, St Mary’s welcomes around 40 parishioners on Sundays. Feeling called to supply something “different and exciting” to the local parish of over 20,000 residents, she said, “I felt God was saying that something was going to occur here.”
She and the leadership team envision a church that blends the wealthy traditions of Anglo-Catholic worship with a contemporary, interactive approach.
The Haven will integrate traditional liturgy with contemporary, sensory-based elements to boost engagement. Children can have the choice to make use of playdough to maintain their hands busy, while a dedicated sensory space will provide a peaceful retreat for those searching for quiet reflection.
To establish a presence ahead of its official opening, The Haven has been actively involved in community outreach since last summer. The team has been connecting with residents through social media, street engagement, creative initiatives, and straightforward acts of kindness like handing out chocolate stars during Epiphany.
The Haven’s inaugural gathering will happen at West Park Academy on Sunday 9 March at 3:30pm, with weekly services continuing thereafter.
Rev Jess expressed deep appreciation to West Park Academy, together with other community organisations, for his or her support in making the project possible. She can be especially thankful to the Rev Damon Bage, vicar at St Mary’s, for his guidance and encouragement.
