Sheffield Cathedral
Sheffield Cathedral's Big Picnic for Hope
Supporting The Cathedral Archer Project in their work with homeless people during Covid-19
Story
On 8 May 1945, the nation joined together to celebrate victory in Europe. Seventy five years on we are fighting to overcome Covid-19 which is challenging everyone in different ways.
The 75th anniversary of VE Day would have been celebrated with street parties and picnics in communities and neighbourhoods across the land. Covid-19 means these gatherings are no longer possible.
On 8 May 2020, Sheffield Cathedral is joining Cathedrals across the country for the Big Picnic for Hope, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of VE Day and remember heroes past and present. Instead of street parties, we are asking households to stay at home, to picnic indoors or in their garden and to join friends and families virtually.
As well as being fun, the Big Picnic for Hope is a unique way to remember heroes who have kept us safe in the past and also acknowledge the incredible effort and sacrifice our key workers are making every day to protect us. It also highlights how many people are struggling to put food on the table for themselves and their families. These are frightening times for many people in our community, particularly the vulnerable, the homeless, the isolated.
Sheffield Cathedral has been a place where people can gather and receive help and support for nearly 1,000 years. Our doors maybe physically closed but the work of the Cathedral goes on in the community, supporting the sick, the elderly, anyone who is lonely, the bereaved, anyone who reaches out.
We are here for everyone who needs us. We're here to lean on, to listen, to talk to.
Our partnership with the Cathedral Archer Project has never been more important. The Project was set up more than 30 years ago by the Cathedrals congregation, serving breakfast for the local homeless community. The Archer Project's services now include food, laundry, health checks, advice and support. During the Covid-19 crisis, the Project has been providing meals to people who are vulnerably housed each day.
''We have all been inspired by the huge outpouring of neighbourliness, practical support and care for one another and been moved by the dedication of the NHS staff and so many other key workers in the community. At the heart of the Big Picnic for Hope is a reflection that many people are particularly vulnerable at this time, so we invite you to support through this event the vital and continuing work of the Cathedral Archer Project.''
Reverend Canon Keith Farrow, Vice Dean and Canon Missioner
Enjoy your picnic. Remember heroes past and present. Please donate if you can. Thank you.
