Sir Terry Waite joins The Big Lunch at Emmaus Mossley

Sir Terry Waite was the special guest of honour at this year’s Big Lunch event hosted by homelessness charity Emmaus Mossley.

On Thursday 18 June, Emmaus residents, volunteers, trustees, staff and supporters united for The Big Lunch, sharing food, friendship and fun. Started by the Eden Project in 2009, The Big Lunch takes place in neighbourhoods across the country as part of the Month of Community.

Sir Terry Waite, President of Emmaus UK, chatted to attendees and delivered a speech celebrating Emmaus Mossley’s thriving community. Sir Terry paid tribute to Emmaus companions – residents supported by the charity – and to outgoing Emmaus Mossley Chief Executive Officer, Alison Hill, who retires this month.

Sir Terry commented: “To the people I meet who want to do something to affect positive change in the world, I say do what has been done here in Mossley. Act within your own area and do what you can, positively and creatively, where you have influence.

“That has happened here at Emmaus Mossley. To all the people who have been a part of this Emmaus community and supported it over many years, I say thank you very much. You’ve made a big difference and probably a greater difference than you realise.”

Emmaus Mossley is a charity that empowers people to overcome homelessness for good. As part of a planned transition process, Ant Hopkinson started as Emmaus Mossley’s new CEO in April and has worked alongside Alison to ensure continuity and a smooth handover.

Darren, a companion at Emmaus Mossley, said: “This Big Lunch was a special one that our community, customers and supporters really enjoyed. After a lot of work to prepare and set up for the event, it was good to welcome guests, speak to Sir Terry once again, and show Ali our appreciation.”

The Big Lunch event took place at the Café within Emmaus Mossley’s Secondhand Superstore. Much of the food and cakes on the shared table was prepared by Emmaus companions, volunteers and staff. Guests also brought dishes to share, in keeping with the ethos and spirit of The Big Lunch.

Alison Hill, outgoing Emmaus Mossley CEO, said: “I’m very proud to have been a part of Emmaus Mossley. Helping to develop this charity and build positive links with a wide variety of organisations has strengthened what we do and the impact we have on people’s lives.”

“When I joined Emmaus Mossley in 2012, we may have filled two or three tables at this sort of event. Today, it’s fantastic to see lots of people visiting Emmaus and enjoying the welcoming atmosphere that this team has helped to create.

“I would like to thank everyone who has been part of, supported and contributed to the continued development and success of Emmaus Mossley.”

To find out more about Emmaus Mossley, visit https://emmaus.org.uk/mossley/