This past Saturday, we had the great pleasure of welcoming Reverend Dr Mark Powley, the Archbishop’s Mission Enabler for the North, to our coffee shop at St John’s Tin Tabernacle.

Revd Powley, who works closely with the Archbishop of York, is visiting churches across the North of England to learn how local congregations are finding creative ways to support their ministry and serve their communities. We were honoured that he made time to see what we’ve been doing here in Adlington.

The focus of his visit was the coffee shop, a volunteer-run initiative that not only raises funds to help maintain our historic building but also provides a warm, welcoming space for the local community. From homemade cakes to heartfelt conversations, the coffee shop has become a hub of connection, hospitality, and quiet ministry.

Revd Powley chatted with volunteers and customers alike, hearing firsthand how something as simple as coffee and cake can help sustain a church—not just financially, but relationally and spiritually too. He was particularly interested in how our model might inspire other churches looking to diversify their offerings and remain at the heart of their communities.

His visit was an encouragement and a reminder that small, local efforts can ripple outwards. What we’re doing here matters—not just to us, but to the wider Church.

As ever, thank you to everyone who helps make the coffee shop possible: our volunteers, bakers, customers, and supporters. You are helping keep St John’s open, active, and thriving.