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West London Methodist Mission facts for kids

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The West London Methodist Mission started in 1887. It was led by Hugh Price Hughes, an important leader in the Methodist Church. The Mission has a long history of helping people and doing good deeds. In its early days, it was closely linked to its founder, Price Hughes, who strongly supported the temperance movement. This movement encouraged people to avoid alcohol.

The Mission has been key in teaching about Methodism. It also provided a place for famous Methodists like Lord Soper to work. When it first began, the Mission supported suffragettes and suffragists. These were people who worked hard to get women the right to vote. The Mission gave them encouragement and active help.

According to Charity Choice, a group that lists UK charities, the West London Mission has helped London's most in-need people for over 100 years. Today, it focuses on helping people who are homeless. It also provides support and advice to those who need it. The Mission runs special centers and homes. This important work relies on donations from people.

Hugh Price Hughes' friend, Mark Guy Pearse, was involved with art and books in London's West End. The Mission's main base became Kingsway Hall in Holborn. Here, the West London Mission entered a new phase when Donald Soper (later Lord Soper) became its leader.

After Lord Soper retired, the Mission moved to its current home at Hinde Street Methodist Church in Marylebone. From here, it runs many special programs to help people. It also has a chaplaincy, which is like a spiritual support service, for the University of Westminster. The West London Mission has two churches: Hinde Street and King’s Cross. The King's Cross church has a special ministry for people who speak Chinese.

What the Mission Aims to Do

Past Goals of the Mission

Hugh Price Hughes wanted to help people living in poverty in London's West End. He also wanted to challenge the wealthy. These were both important parts of the Christian message he shared. From the very beginning, the Mission has combined Christian faith, community spirit, outreach, and social care.

Current Aims of the Mission

The West London Mission has several goals today. Simply put, it works with people in West London who face social or economic challenges. It currently focuses on helping people who are homeless, young, or dealing with difficult situations.

History of Helping Others

The Mission started many helpful projects, including:

  • The creation of The Sisters of the People by Katherine Hughes, wife of Hugh Price Hughes. This group was an early version of the Wesley Deaconess Order, which helps people in need.
  • Crèches, which are daycares, for girls who were working.
  • One of Britain’s first hospices, which are places that provide care for people who are very ill.
  • The West London Mission Housing Association, which helps with housing.
  • Daycare centers.
  • Special homes that provide high levels of care.
  • Helping people who do not have a home.
  • Helping those who are struggling with alcohol or drug problems.

The history of the Mission was written by Philip Bagwell in his book Outcast London.

Important Leaders

  • Hugh Price Hughes (1847–1902), led the Mission from 1887 to 1902.
  • Rev Dr Donald Soper (1903–1998), later known as Lord Soper, led the Mission from 1936 to 1978.

See also

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