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On his pilgrimage visit to St John's Failsworth on September 17th, 2008, the Bishop of Manchester saw for himself the efforts that the local community are making to ensure their children have the surest of starts to their early lives.
Incumbent, the Revd Adrian Matthews is a member of the local Surestart committee and St John's is used as a satellite for the main group, which also offers support to the parent and toddler group that meets at St John's.
After praying with nearly forty church members in church, the bishop's first visit was to the Surestart centre, where he met manager Kim Boughey. "We're very involved in community support for the family, and in encouraging and developing parenting skills." said Revd Adrian Matthews, "the bishop was really impressed with what he saw, both the facilities, but especially the people: our visit overran because the bishop was so engaged with everyone there."
From there the bishop was taken to visit young mum of two, Joanne Howarth, who shared with the bishop her moving story of overcoming hardship through faith.
Next stop was Briarfield Nursing Home where the bishop met Ethel Long, St John's oldest church member at 102.
Returning to St John's for a church and community reception, the bishop met local MP David Heyes, leaders of other local churchers as well as representatives of Surestart.
A service of celebration followed the reception. "The service was fantastic" said Adrian Matthews, "The bishop preached really well and the anointing was very moving.
"My focus as priest is mission and evangelism and the service encouraged the parish in the
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