In the north of England, on the property of the Cramlington Nazarene Church, sits a little grey shed bubbling with the sounds and smells of tea and community. Neighbors pop by to enjoy a warm mug on a chilly day. Students stop in for biscuits and juice while walking home from school, lingering in the cozy atmosphere of The Jubilee Shed.

“We have always looked for ways into our community,” said one of Cramlington’s pastors, Rob Fitzjohn, recalling the origins of The Jubilee Shed. 

In 2018, the church congregation prayed over their building and its property, asking God what to do next. The Lord brought the idea of a little coffee shed to the hearts and minds of multiple people.

But first, God asked them to garden.

“He supplied all we needed,” Fitzjohn said. 

It started with a hedge around the property to keep little ones safe. Next, someone donated funds for chairs and picnic benches. Finally, the congregation added raised garden beds for produce to share. The grounds were welcoming, and seeds had been planted to create a home for what was to come.

In November 2022, a donor provided the material for a small shed. Someone else donated coffee machines and everything needed to launch the neighborhood cafe. Others volunteered to staff the cafe, brewing pots of coffee and tea for anyone willing to stop in. Fitzjohn says the church has “created a space for the community to be and relax.”
The Jubilee Shed is open as often as volunteers are available. 

“We serve free teas, coffees, biscuits, friendship, and a listening ear,” Fitzjohn said. “And, if need be, a hug.”

The project has also provided opportunities to partner with other programs in the area. The Jubilee Shed and Gardens helped Cramlington win best overall community at a regional competition this year, which has led to local organizations calling upon the church to help speak into the Cramlington community.

“The shed helps us engage with our community,” Fitzjohn said. “It’s a space for them to ask us questions. It provides a warm space for family members to watch their children play football (soccer) matches. 

They have started a kids’ craft group and serve coffee and tea on the school run (pick up/drop off line). 

“Some folks also just get a coffee or tea and sit in the gardens or picnic areas for some quiet alone time,” Fitzjohn said.

God has continued to provide for this tiny cafe with a big vision. Neighbors who frequent The Jubilee Shed have donated materials like outdoor heating and canopies to keep the space warm and dry through inclement weather and winter.

“We know God has a plan for all this ministry,” Fitzjohn said. “We have witnessed how he has supplied our needs to create the gardens and shed. We have seen how he has started friendships and conversations within and with our community. 

“We pray we will always listen for his guidance and direction as these ministries are used for his glory and Kingdom.”