Eurocash for Ballymena Churches - seminar in town

And now MEP Diane Dodds is to host a seminar in the Ballymena DUP Offices next Friday (March 8) at 1.00pm to highlight the possibilities and also detail some of the work currently underway in the European Parliament on freedom of religion.

The MEP explained: “Churches and faith-based organisations continue to play an enormously positive role within Northern Ireland. However, in a society that has become increasingly secular in outlook, many of these groups are of the belief that nothing is available for them. Others believe that their faith prevents them from applying from certain sources of support, most notably Lottery Funding.

“My new publication highlights that such thinking is flawed. It presents potential applicants with various EU funds amongst over 30 sources of funding. These streams offer assistance with projects for buildings, refurbishments, equipment, core costs, youth work and Christian education, whilst prioritising the most vulnerable groups in our society.

“These funds from the EU also recognises the international dimension of the work carried by churches and faith-based organisations in Northern Ireland that advances the Christian faith through mission, health and welfare, education, training and relief.

“I will also be updating attendees on the role the European Parliament can play in defending freedom of religious expression, addressing the persecution of Christians across the world and also the need to be a strong voice for the unborn child in the European institutions. I would invite anyone interested to come along to this event to find out more.”

North Antrim MP Ian Paisley added: “I am delighted that Diane is coming to Ballymena to share and inform with local church groups the various methods of funding available to them. I hope as many people as possible will come and learn from our MEP just what is available and perhaps gain that extra funding needed for their church or faith-based organisation.”

Further information on the event is available at www.dianedodds.co.uk or by calling the DUP European Office on 028 92667733.