Network of churches celebrates anniversary in Gorleston

The National Estate Churches Network (NECN) was formed in 2004 to support those living in social housing estates through Christian ministry.

Since then, the network has worked with churches in or near deprived areas and has also conducted research, held conferences, and advocated for improved living conditions for society's poorest.

St Mary Magdalene Church in Gorleston hosted a birthday party at its Mags Youth Club to mark the milestone.

The celebration included a birthday cake and activities for local children and young people, including a giant inflatable human whack-a-mole.

National Estate Churches Network marks 20 years of support (Image: David Hayden) Sara Barron, executive director of the NECN, praised the church's efforts to engage young people.

She said: “What a wonderful way to celebrate our last birthday party of year.

"The highlight for me was the opportunity to hear the prayers of the young people in Gorleston.

"We made bunting for the party with our 'what's good in your life' prayer one side and 'what would you like to be different' prayer on the other.

“Young people shared freely, writing and drawing what came to mind.

"What a privilege to hear the longings of their heart."

READ MORE: Reedham Belles WI celebrates 50th anniversary

The Rev Matthew Price, vicar at St Mary Magdalene, acknowledged the importance of the NECN's support and encouragement for churches in deprived areas.

He said: “NECN provides invaluable support and encouragement to churches like us who are seeking to serve communities in some of the most deprived neighbourhoods of our area.

“We were delighted to celebrate this significant milestone in the life and development of NECN and the young people at our youth club were particularly grateful for the cake and extra fun in the form of human whack-a-mole."

St Mary Magdalene is situated in one of the most deprived parishes in Norfolk.