Derry parishes launch new Thursday club for the benefit of local community

The Christ Church, Culmore, Muff and St Peter’s (CCCMSP) Group of Parishes have launched a Thursday Club at their parish centre, The Acorn Centre, in the grounds of St Peter’s Church on the Culmore Road.

The Club is open to all in the community and offers a range of activities including music, games and quizzes, books and newspapers. Those who turn up won’t go hungry: coffee, tea and scones are available from 11.30am, and lunch is served at 12.30pm – all for just £3.00.

The Rector of the Parish Group, Ven Robert Miller, Archdeacon of Derry, says it’s an opportunity for people from any background to come together and enjoy some Christian fellowship.

“We’ve had the Acorn Centre refurbished quite extensively recently,” Archdeacon Miller said, “and we’re keen to see it used as fully as possible by the whole community. The Acorn Centre’s already established itself as a significant local hub, with a variety of groups – church-based and others – using it for their activities.

“We, at CCCMSP, are eager to reach out further – in mission and friendship – to the community,” Archdeacon Miller said. “We think our Thursday club offers outstanding value for those who choose to come along. They’ll get to have some fun, make new friends, enjoy good food and fellowship. Where else would you get that nowadays for £3.00?” he joked.

More than £100,000 has been spent over the last couple of years bringing the Acorn Centre up to the necessary health and safety standards.  Among the improvements are a new kitchen, toilets, heating and insulation, and new flooring has been laid throughout. The building has also been painted inside and out.

“We welcome everyone to our Thursday Club,” the Archdeacon said, “the more the merrier. In fact I’d encourage everyone to spread the word as widely as possible – among family, friends, neighbours and clients – so please get the news out.”