Across the UK and South Africa, we’re helping ex-offenders and those at risk of offending turn their lives around by offering training and discipleship through our enterprise programme. In London, Neal Street Espresso, our speciality coffee shop, is busier than ever, but has always been about more than just being a place where customers can get great coffee.
Darren was the first team member to join us as Neal Street Espresso. There he found a place where he could get the training, work experience, life skills and Christian discipleship he was looking for after spending many years in and out of prison. Now, two years on, Darren has graduated from the programme and is currently a shift supervisor at the coffee shop.
A few years ago, Darren was staying in a hostel and there he met Jon. As they got to know each other, Darren invited Jon along to King’s Cross Church (KXC) with him. Jon loved the services and learning more about Jesus but was recalled to prison. Whilst there, he got to know the outreach team from KXC and heard more about the love and forgiveness Jesus offers him. He was so impacted by the gospel that he decided to leave his old life behind, accept Jesus, and he even got baptised. After his release, Jon heard about Neal Street Espresso and applied to join the team.
Looking at his life now, Jon can hardly believe it. ‘If you’d told me a year ago that I’d not only be a barista, but have found somewhere where I can get the support I’d been looking for, I wouldn’t have believed you! Not only have I had the opportunity to train with some of the best baristas in London, but I’m growing in my faith too. I’ve got people here who will pray for me and give me the support I need whilst also helping to disciple me.
‘This place has given me the opportunity that nowhere else would and is a second chance for me. I feel like I’m part of a family and am so thankful to God for that.’
If you’re in London, come and visit Neal Street Espresso for your caffeine fix. Find out more at nealstreetespresso.com
And find out more about our enterprise work at message.org.uk/enterprise
