On Saturday the 5th April, Hope for Belper took over the Ritz Cinema for the afternoon. Over the previous few weeks the Head Teachers of the five Primary Schools in the town assisted us by distributing 100 free tickets to pupils and their families, for a matinee showing of ‘Evan Almighty’.
These tickets were a gift from the Christians in the town and were part of the celebration of Easter.
On the day the auditorium was alive with happy chatter and smiles as folks turned up to enjoy the screening. Free drinks and cakes were provided by members of the Hope team and as they say ‘a good time was had by all’.
Our thanks go to Amanda the Ritz’s owner for arranging things with the distributors and being so accommodating to the team on the day. Also thanks to the Head Teachers for helping us distribute the tickets.
May 7, 2008
Midnight came, the fireworks went off and the market place began to fill up!
Some people emerged from the pubs for a breath of fresh air and a leg stretch, whilst others headed for chips or a kebab; some were in high spirits others were heading home. Common to all though, was the look of happy surprise as we offered them a hot chocolate and a Happy New Year.
Sixteen intrepid (some might say crazy!) folks, brought a smile to the faces of revellers in the Market as jugs of hot chocolate were brought out from the Sally Army building and served from a table set up by the pedestrian crossing.
As you can see from the picture many folks accepted the free gift and joined with us in the sense of fun that this ‘Cup of Kindness’ generated. Thanks to the publicans who joined in by providing the biscuits – you know who you are!
All in all it was felt that this event had set a great tone for Hope 08 and that our presence on the Market Place had been a really positive influence.
Thanks to everyone who prayed for the success of this endeavour.
Gareth Greenwood
January 3, 2008
