St George's Church Shirley

My name is Andrea Cordery and I have been a member of St George The Martyr CofE in Shirley, Croydon for over 10 years. St George’s is a fantastic place to worship. I love the welcome and inclusivity of the members to all who enters its house; all are truly welcome!

As a member of St George’s and a person of African and West Indian descent, it occurred to me and other that we could share the richness of our cultural heritage to the wider community by encourage the celebration of Black History Month at St George’s.

I had discussed this with our Vicar Barry Hengist who was happy to allow me to develop my ideas. Over the past 2 years I have successfully organised a reflective afternoon with a small exhibition, poetry and prayer to mark the month. Last year I arranged a visit to the Windrush Exhibition at the British Museum.

This year I have taken a leap of faith! After speaking with fellow African and West Indian descendants from the church, I was tasked with organising an event in celebration of Black History Month 2019. We want to bring the celebration of African and West Indian culture in a language we can all understand, this being Music and Art!

With the blessing of St Georges PCC members, the support from Croydon Council’s Cllr Sue Bennett, Cllr Gareth Streeter, and Cllr Richard Chatterjee we are now able to host this event right here at St George’s in little old North Shirley!

Do come a join us for a fun filled evening!!

I look forward to seeing you then

Your Host for the evening

Andrea Cordery