Magdalen Road Church has always sought to be a church that welcomes and serves the whole community. As part of this, the Sunflower groups were set up in 2005 to provide support for families through the Comfort Trust, a semi-independent initiative of the church (registered charity (1116495).

The Comfort Trust took its name from Mr. B Comfort, a leading figure at the Magdalen Road Mission Hall during the 1870s, who built a workmen’s hall on the site of what later became a chapel and appointed the first full-time pastor, Mr. Trotman. Since the charitable Trust was being established to care for the local community, and to provide a source of nurture and companionship for local families, the name felt like a perfect fit! 

Church members Ruth Currie, Hazel Anderson, Phoebe Gibson-Watt, Chris Taylor and Catherine Shand form the current Trustee Board, and there’s a committed team of volunteers helping run the groups led by Helen Sweasey, Community Worker for Comfort Trust.

The Sunflower groups aim to provide a welcoming space for parents/carers and children. We enable families to build friendships and support networks, offer the children a stimulating and fun time, and share Jesus’ love as we care for and serve the families who come along. All are welcome, from any faith or none. 

The Sunflower groups run weekly during term time and include Sunflowers Stay and Play, Daisy Babies, and First Saturday.
 

The group is for all babies (newborn to pre-mobile) and their parent/carer. Unfortunately, we can’t cater for older siblings/children.

There will be refreshments and cake and a time for conversations and building friendships.

There will be time to discuss a relevant parenting topic together, including times when the leaders will share how their faith has helped them parent.

Story and songs to close the session.

Cost £2 per family per session (concessions available), but if you are struggling financially for any reason then we would be happy to welcome you for free.