We are delighted to announce that the Wesley Methodist Church has been awarded ‘Church of Sanctuary’ status.

A celebration in April was held to celebrate the work the Wesley has done, particularly in welcoming those who were forced to leave Ukraine, due to the Russian invasion, who have settled locally. Members of our group joined the Wesley for the award giving which was also attended by Inderjit Bhogal, co-founder of the ‘City of Sanctuary’ charity, and Pastor Akoi Bazzie who spoke of his own experiences having to flee from Liberia in childhood.

A leading theme of those who spoke was the need for compassion – a key feature in the Wesley’s application.

Congratulations to all at the Wesley for your award and our sincere thanks for the work you do, particularly in welcoming those who have had to seek sanctuary, helping to make Chester a more compassionate and welcoming city.