THE JESUS ARMY has announced plans to open a church centre to be known as the Sheffield Jesus Centre in the refurbished and redeveloped premises.

The centre for worship, friendship and help for all will join other Jesus Centres in Coventry, Northampton and London run by the Jesus Army Charitable Trust. These centres are open to all regardless of their faith or lack of it. "One of our key messages is that everyone is valued," says local Jesus Army leader, Chris Smith. Services to be offered include support groups and skills classes as well as a small community café and a drop-in service for those in vulnerable accommodation or other particular need.

The former Hanover Centre will also provide residential accommodation for members of the Jesus Army and host regular Sunday worship, which will be open to all.

The Hanover Centre on Filey Street is adjacent to the inner ring road. It was built as a memorial to the Great War and used by the Methodist Church until recently.

"We are delighted to be able to return this historic building to community use," says Chris Smith.

Work is expected to start in 2009, with the centre opening fully towards the end of 2010.

Take a look inside

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