Advertisement Messenger PublicationsMessenger Publications Would you like to advertise on ICN? Click to learn more.

Leighton Buzzard: Community partnership helps transform lives


Sacred Heart Catholic parish in Leighton Buzzard has decided to get 'Hands On' holding a special Colombian evening to cement their link with the Magdalena Medio community.

The parish - which has been involved with supporting the charity CAFOD in its work in Sebeya, a community in Northern Ethiopia, for many years - wanted to get involved with another of CAFOD's project when the programme in Sebeya came to an end.

The new project, 'Hands On', helps the Leighton Buzzard community link with Colombian families who have experienced over half a century of armed conflict and funds peace education workshops for young Colombians.

Over 50 parishioners came together for the launch of the 'Hands On' project - which included a talk from CAFOD's Communications Officer for Latin America, Jess Michelmore, and a meal of traditional Colombian food.

CAFOD Parish volunteer, Robert Gerrard, said: "The Justice and Peace group agreed that we would launch the 'Hands On' project in the parish. We wanted the whole parish to learn about the project and food always seems to be a winner to attract people!"

"We invited Jess Michelmore from CAFOD to deliver a talk not only at the evening launch but also to say a few words at our Saturday evening Mass. Most important of all, we were able to begin to understand the importance of education in peacebuilding as the antidote to violence."

For the meal, the Justice and Peace group created a range of authentic Colombian dishes including picadillo de carne y chorizo (meat and sausage hash), patacones (fried plantains), aji picante (a Colombian hot sauce), salsa and black bean patties. For dessert, there was natalia (a sweet custard) and banana bread, which was served alongside Latin American wine, coffee and chocolate.

Robert continued: "Our youth group had decorated the hall in the colours of the Colombian flag, making paper chains, flags, paper flowers and even tropical macaws! It really did look festive. One of our parishioners brought Colombian music to help create the atmosphere.

"The food was a great success - and at the end of the evening, there was none left! However, the best accolade came from a Colombian parishioner who said that the food tasted really authentic!"

CAFOD has been working in Colombia for over 50 years, and the 'Hands On' project will run peacebuilding workshops in 34 schools, teaching young people how to avoid a life of violence, and aims to reach over 5,000 people in three years.

Robert concluded: "As a result of the evening we raised £515 for the project which was a really encouraging start. We hope and pray that this will be the beginning of an effort in the parish that will contribute to long and lasting peace in Colombia."

Find out more at: www.cafod.org.uk/Fundraise/Hands-On


Adverts

The Archbishop Romero Trust

We offer publicity space for Catholic groups/organisations. See our advertising page if you would like more information.

We Need Your Support

ICN aims to provide speedy and accurate news coverage of all subjects of interest to Catholics and the wider Christian community. As our audience increases - so do our costs. We need your help to continue this work.

You can support our journalism by advertising with us or donating to ICN.

Mobile Menu Toggle Icon