Earlier this year, the Retreat Café at St
Francis’s Church in Dudley was shortlisted
for the Mayor of Dudley’s ‘Pride of Dudley’
award. They were one of three finalists from
over a hundred nominations for the award
which is chosen by the local community.
The Café opened six years ago when
St Francis was asked to take over responsibility for the building attached to the
church which was originally built for community use. It is run voluntarily by the two
churchwardens, Lorraine Robbins and John Barrett, who serve between 40 and 60
people each day between 9am and 3.30pm.
John said: “We can’t believe how successful it’s become! We welcome everyone and
anyone and they can get a full cooked meal for less than £3. The all-day breakfast is
particularly popular. We were shocked and thrilled to be nominated for the Mayor’s
award. Both Lorraine and I run the café because we enjoy it and it helps the church, so
to be recognised in this way is an added bonus!”
All the food provided at the café is cooked to order and the café also caters for
functions, including a meal club once a month where there serve around 35 people at
a special rate. The café also offers work experience to four young people with learning
difficulties who work regular shifts each day.
“Most people find us through word of mouth,” continued John. “The feedback we
receive is that people feel welcomed and unpressurised and we get lots of return
custom. It’s become a real hub for the local community.”
Please pray for all who are involved in The Retreat Café and for all those who find
refreshment there.
Evesham Deanery – Rural Dean: Richard Thorniley; Lay Chair: Liz Booth
The Church of South India (United): Archibishop Thomas Kanjirappally Oomme
Diocese of Kilmore, Elphin and Ardagh (Ireland): Bishop Samuel Ferran
Diocese of Aarhus (Denmark): Bishop Henrik Wigh-Poulsen
