2023-10-03 09:26:32 +0100
To: Father Victor and the PCRG and Finance Committee of Holy Innocents Catholic Church, Orpington
Save Cafe Joseph!
Cafe Joseph is more than a just a cafe, and its impact reaches far beyond the church congregation. We are devastated at the news that it might be closing.
We ask Holy Innocents Catholic Church to reconsider its plans to close Cafe Joseph later this month. We understand that there are financial considerations, but the value of this place is about more than money. The Church should be proud of how Cafe Joseph has become a shining example of how, inspired by faith, Christians can reach out and make a real difference in people’s lives.
Why is this important?
Cafe Joseph has become the heart of the local community.
For parents of children at the school next door, Cafe Joseph is a place to meet and support each other.
For the adults with disabilities living in the home around the corner, Cafe Joseph is one of the few places where they can go out and feel welcome and accepted.
For people who are struggling with challenges in their life including mental health struggles, unemployment and bereavement, Cafe Joseph is somewhere they can find love and support.
For the church members who come in after mass, Cafe Joseph a chance to socialise and meet new people. We have shared our stories and craft projects, and enjoyed discussions about our faith.
Cafe Joseph offered a warm space and a hot meal for people struggling with the cost of living crisis through the winter.
The staff have provided training and work experience for young people, enabling them to pursue careers in hospitality industry.
The Kidzone mornings have provided fun and games for children during the holidays, allowing them to play safely with their friends and enjoy a warm meal.
At Cafe Joseph, we have shared the good times and the bad, and wonderful coffee and cakes. The customers and staff have become our family, and it is a vital part of the community and our lives.
Cafe Joseph really is “No Ordinary Church Cafe”!
