It’s not just men who need sheds!
Pioneer Evangelist Michelle Lloyd at Crosshands Centre of Mission finds a new way of meeting others by joining in with what's on in the community
One of our elderly friends from Impact 242 found the Men’s Shed which suited his gift and love of creating things from recycled wood. He then shared that the shed was having an open day so I went along with an elderly woman from our Impact church.
We met some lovely women there and together we were told that a women's group could be held every Tuesday morning. So the Women's Shed was born, initially with five of us. They sent a couple of men along who are retired college tutors to help teach us and instruct us on what tools/machines to use.
Going there I have been able to get to know those who attend and also share my calling and story of faith. Jesus first loved us and so I am doing the same to the people I have met and hold them all in my prayers. You never know when God is going to give you a new friend and when there is a connection between you because you have laughed together, similar experiences or you have reached out with love when the other needed some care.
In my church Army training one of my tutors said can you imagine what the kingdom of God would look like in the areas you go, live, work, socialise? Wow!, I thought, and then it came on like a lightbulb - I carry the kingdom of God in me wherever I go. (Luke 17:20-21) I have been called to “Go and tell others that they can be a friend, child of God too.” I challenge you as a reader, to turn up the volume within yourself and share with those you meet.
One of the Grans there even came to help volunteer her time to paint our Narnia scene which we put on for the community before Christmas. She loves what we do and now even brings her granddaughter to our Ser Bach tots group. Another Mum from the shed came to our Narnia event with her children and others have donated stuff for our pre-loved shop in the centre.
We are now a group of eight women, creating, sharing, learning new skills, and caring for each other through our WhatsApp group and regular meetings. Want to join us? We are in Drefach, Tuesday 9.30-12 if you would like to. Contact Michelle.lloyd@churcharmy.org 07421308263