Hope & Soul

After a nice nap and then a light supper (tea) with Luke, Lorna and I dropped Rebecca (14) off for GB (Girls' Brigade) in Newcastle and set off for Dromore. We were joining the PW (Presbyterian Woman) for a social/mission meeting at the Olive Branch/Hope & Soul in Dromore. Castlewellan women joined the women from Leitrim so there was a good group of about 20. We arrived at 8 pm just as the tea and desserts were being served. The Olive Branch Cafe is a charming little room upstairs with not only a tea and desserts menu but also coffees and lunch sandwiches and soups.Hope & Soul is the downstairs shabby chic shop with upcycled bits of furniture, hand crafted jewelry, hand made candles, baby clothes, crafts and good quality "pre owned" clothing.  Gail Redmond shared her story and the inception of this ministry. They are reaching out to many needs in the community.

Marlene facing us...pastor's wife at Castlewellan Presbyterian

Our desserts were fantastic! There was a Pavlova (meringue and cream and fruit!), a rich brownie with whipped cream and a generous slice of Mint Cheesecake! The teacups were vintage! There must have been at least six beautiful teapots, all different but so lovely!

 Olive Branch Cafe participates in "suspended coffee", a tradition that began in Naples, Italy, and is spreading 'round the world. It is a simple concept. When people buy a cup of coffee or a lunch, they may also order a "suspended coffee" or "suspended lunch". That is a "pay ahead" and gives the coffee shop payment for someone in need. Olive Branch staff and volunteers discern those who may be in need and also have a system where recipients can request "suspended coffee" with grace.

Walls decorated with wallpaper samples! : ) 

Gail shared many stories of those they assist. Many of their clients become their volunteers and a few even become paid staff. She told of the relationships built among the clients and volunteers.

Hope & Soul also participates in Dare 2 Care, food and hygiene pantry. This came from a vision from a plastic bag...amazing how God speaks his work into hearts and hands of the Beloved.

It was a wonderful evening! I was blessed to see this ministry and the compassion of the woman who shared that she had had problems with self-esteem. She has found her niche and is such an encouragement to her community. We should all do so well.

Jo Moxen was with us!