Archbishop of Canterbury to visit Andover to meet youngsters

The Archbishop's visit to the Diocese of Winchester runs from Friday, October 25 to Sunday, October, 27. 

The Most Reverend Justin Welby will share stories of his faith and listen to the inspirational tales from fellow Christians.

One of the highlights will include Archbishop Justin visiting the ‘Life Bus’ in Andover on the Saturday evening (October 26), located at the Skate Park on Smannell Road. This mobile ministry is run by St Mary’s Church Andover and supports young people in the area using the motto ‘somewhere to go, something to do, someone to talk to.’

The former London double decker bus is equipped with games, music console, a nail bar, art, colouring and computer games.  It visits Andover College, Harrow Way School and Winton School, helping pupils who are young carers, those who are dealing with stress and anxiety, and those who struggle academically.

In addition, the Archbishop will be presiding at a special Eucharist Service at Winchester Cathedral at 8.30am, gathering with Christians from around region to give thanks for God’s faithfulness, before moving on to see other projects around the diocese in Winchester, Southampton, Bournemouth, Romsey and Basingstoke.

Ahead of his visit, Archbishop Justin said: “I’m really looking forward to visiting the Diocese of Winchester at the end of October. From ports to prisons, cafés and care centres, God is at work, revealing His love and drawing people to faith in Christ. It will be a privilege to join the Diocese as they partner with God to reach people with the good news.”

Bishop Philip Mounstephen, Bishop of Winchester, said: “Sharing the good news of what God has done for us in Jesus Christ is one of our greatest privileges - and one in which I know Archbishop Justin rejoices. I very much look forward to joining him on this weekend and seeing what God might do amongst us as the Archbishop shares his own story of faith.”