This last two years of pandemic and lockdowns had a serious impact on the ability to progress the project. Fewer bookings for youth groups to come due to the uncertainty of Covid restrictions, grant-making trusts focusing predominately on Covid initiatives left the charity in a precarious financial position. The decision was made to protect the charity from future insolvency. Staff have been made redundant and the lease is being returned. Groups who have already booked onto the site in April and May will continue.
Founders, James and Jamie, on behalf of all at With Community, said:
“We are so grateful for the prayerful and practical support we have received to date. During our time on site we’ve invited hundreds of young people and Christians working with young people into the space that the Sisters called home, and in that space, they’ve met with Jesus, met with him in ways that your typical spaces for young people don’t allow. They have gone back to contexts around the country inspired and refreshed and in many cases rebooking again.
“Our community on site has, for almost a year, served young people and Christians working with them in a variety of ways and contexts. That community has prayed specifically for young people three times a day. And we believe nothing is wasted in the Kingdom of God, what a gift this has been. Guests have joined in the rhythm of life and prayer on site, valued being with us, as well as the beauty and quality of presence in this place, where God has been worshipped and served for a long time.”
The Rt Revd Graham Usher, Bishop of Norwich, said:
“I am very sorry that the decision has been made to end the With community’s work and to wind up the charity. Its vision was an exciting one, with immense potential, and there has been much learning and blessing during its short life. My prayers are with all involved in this ministry, as well as praying that in time God will germinate the precious seeds that have been planted, especially enabling new ways of encouraging young people and supporting youth leaders as together we live and share the good news of God in Jesus.”
If you have any questions, or would like to talk to the team, you can contact them on: hello@bewith.community