We may be in an economic downturn but things are looking up for parishes in the south of Norfolk.  After several years of prayer and planning, a new Christian Resource Centre is being created to support work with children, young people and families.

Tricia Elson, Youth and Children’s Administrator for the Diocese of Norwich, who has worked on the project since the beginning, says "We’re all excited about getting the new centre open for business. It’ll be a great encouragement, and hopefully an inspiration, to all church and school based workers in south and south-east Norfolk."

The vision of two ‘satellite’ centres, based on the Resource Centre at Horstead, started back in 2001 but it wasn’t till 2006 that the many factors involved came together. The decision was made to try first for a western ‘satellite’ but, whilst there were several possible sites, none ‘ticked all the boxes’.

God works in wonderful ways, however, and a chance call flagged up the availability of a room in St George’s Chapel, Loddon. The Chapel was about to be refurbished to create a community centre; the room was big enough, easily accessible, with parking and good facilities; the local churches were excited and supportive of the project. Proposals were drawn up, and, in September 2008, the Diocesan Board of Finance granted the funding.

The opening will be as soon as possible this summer! Then it’s over to you. It’s a Centre to inspire, enjoy and use, with ideas galore; for teaching, worship, fun and games, holiday clubs, children’s workshops, youth groups, discussion, drama... and more. It’s easy to get to - less than two minutes off the A146.

Come and see for yourself!