Marie from City Rise St Mark's Battersea
We recently had the privilege of visiting City Rise St Mark's, an Acts 435 partner church serving people in Battersea and the surrounding community.
When we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by volunteers preparing for the church's weekly women's drop-in. The women who attend come from a wide range of backgrounds. Some are part of the church family, others were introduced through the Foodbank, and some have been referred after experiencing domestic abuse. Whatever their circumstances, St Mark's City Rise has become a place where women can find support, friendship and hope.
Marie, who leads the group, is passionate about encouraging every woman who walks through the doors.
As we chatted, she explained that although Battersea is often associated with wealth and high-profile residents, many local people are still facing significant hardship.
"You can find wealthy, affluent families living next door to those struggling to afford even the basics in life. We want to get people out from behind those closed doors."
Alongside its Sunday services, the church runs a Foodbank, youth mentoring programmes, the women's drop-in and a range of other community projects. St Mark's City Rise is committed not only to helping people grow in their relationship with Jesus, but also to bringing practical transformation to the community around them.
During our visit, we also met Priscilla, who regularly attends the drop-in.
Priscilla is a single mum raising a young son with additional needs. She shared how the church had helped her obtain a washing machine through Acts 435.
Priscilla and her son were forced to move into a new property that was completely unfurnished, after her previous landlord's negligence had left her flat uninhabitable. With the little money she had, she bought some household essentials but couldn't afford a washing machine. This left her having to make regular trips to the local laundrette while juggling work, caring for her son and studying.
"When Marie told me the church could help and provide a new washing machine, I was so grateful."
Through Acts 435, St Mark's City Rise was able to raise the funds needed to provide one.
Marie explained how some members of the congregation, regularly visit the Acts 435 website to give towards requests from people both within their own community and across the UK.
"The congregation love getting involved with Acts 435. Sometimes requests are met within 24 hours."
That's one of the most powerful aspects of Acts 435. It's not simply about meeting practical needs; it's about reminding people that they are seen, valued and cared for through small acts of generosity and kindness.
As Marie put it:
"Acts 435 is another building block in what we're doing here as a church to show love."
If you're part of a local church and would like to support people facing financial hardship in your community, we'd love to hear from you.
Find out more about becoming an Acts 435 partner church: www.acts435.org.uk/partner
🎥 Watch the City Rise St Mark's Battersea video here: