‘Grace in a Cup’: Student Outreach stirs up Conversations and Kindness

A simple act of kindness is making a difference at a college in North Devon.

Recently launched by its local church, a new outreach for students and staff at Petroc College in Barnstaple offers free hot chocolates to brighten the start of the day.

The new college outreach has been set up by St Paul’s Church Sticklepath and takes place every Thursday morning from 8:30am.

Rev’d Marilyn Sanders, the Vicar at St Paul’s Church Sticklepath in Barnstaple, said, “at St Paul’s, we are in the privileged position of being opposite Petroc College and we have thousands of students walking past our church doors every day.”

“Upon starting as Vicar at St Paul’s Church, 6 months ago, the Lord laid it upon my heart to show the love and grace of Jesus by giving them something for free, with no strings attached.”

From this, the college outreach was born.

Every Thursday, a team of volunteers from St Paul’s Church gather outside in the churchyard to greet students, staff and local residents from the surrounding area, offering free hot chocolates- complete with marshmallows- as they begin their day.

“We are showing the grace of God in a cup of hot chocolate.”

“We are not offering leaflets or anything else at this point, just a smile and a hot chocolate.”

Those who have met the team for a free drink have been curious about the initiative, often asking, ‘why are you doing this?’ or ‘what’s the occasion?’

Marilyn said, “In answer to their question of ‘why are you doing this?’, we have had the opportunity to tell them that Christ loves them and as a church, so do we.”

“Gradually, we are building up relationships with these young people and teachers.”

Alongside serving hot chocolates, the team have also had conversations with the students about their studies and their future plans. Some have even asked for prayer ahead of their exams.

Marilyn said, “I hope it gives the message that as a church, right on their doorstep, we are mindful of them, as students and teachers.

“We are a church in their community and we want them to know that we are there for them, and ultimately, there is a Saviour who adores them and knows them completely.”

Looking ahead, the outreach team plans to expand their initiative with free bacon rolls. Marilyn added, “The love and grace of God wrapped up in foil, in the shape of a bacon roll! Coming soon…”

The team prays that the outreach will continue to grow, build connections and show students and staff at Petroc that they are valued, and the church is here for them.