New development worker for Yarmouth churches

Matthew Hodder has been appointed Development Worker for Together Norfolk, with the aim of helping churches in the Great Yarmouth area to tackle poverty in their community.

Matthew has lived in Martham for more than half his life, and has been a committed Christian since 1982. He is currently an Authorised Worship Assistant at St Mary’s church in Martham. He worked in Adult Social Services for over 20 years before taking a post as a Community Outreach Worker for another charity. 

He says, “I was settled in that role and wasn’t looking for another job until God presented me with the opportunity to apply for the role of Development worker for Together Norfolk. After much prayer God convinced me that the Development Worker role was well suited to my skills. I applied, was interviewed, and appointed to the position.”
 
Together Norfolk, previously known as Imagine Norfolk Together, is a joint venture between the Church Urban Fund and the Diocese of Norwich. The goal of Together Norfolk is to enable Churches to enrich and empower local communities.
 
Matthew explained, “My role is to help individual churches in the borough of Great Yarmouth to have a greater and more sustainable impact in tackling poverty in their community. I hope, with God’s grace, to rise to that challenge and to be a Barnabas to local churches.” Matthew pointed out that Barnabas was a Levite known as the 'Son of Encouragement', whose generosity, mentorship, and faith strengthened the early Christian community.
 
In his spare time, Matthew enjoys cycling, repairing bicycles, gardening, playing drums in a jazz band, drawing, and riding his motorcycle. Look out for him with his bike around Great Yarmouth or at local events!
 
Visit: imaginenorfolktogether.org.uk

Photo courtesy of Matthew Hodder.

Do you have a news story or forthcoming event relating to Christians or a church in East Norfolk?  

If so, e-mail tony.rothe@networknorwich.co.uk with details and, if possible a suitable picture.