What people say about the work of Christian Nightlife Initiatives and connected projects:
"There is much to be celebrated with the work done by Christians in the night time economy. I greatly admire the creativity and commitment shown by Street Angels, Street Pastors and others; and I am delighted to hear of acts of service taking place throughout the week and at weekends too. I wholeheartedly support and endorse the work they are seeking to do. There is still much to do in our increasingly complex society and I pray for greater collaboration between the different groups engaged in this aspect of the Church's mission. Keep up the good work!" Dr Joe Aldred, Secretary, Minority Ethnic Christian Affairs, Churches Together in England
“The night time economy is thriving across the UK. For some people it can become a very dangerous environment to be in, especially those who are vulnerable or under the influence of alcohol. Schemes such as Street Angels offer safe space and reassurance to those who need it most. We are inspired by the hundreds of people who are prepared to stay up into the early hours to do this valuable work, serving their local communities.” Deacon Eunice Attwood, Vice President of the Methodist Conference 2010
“Christian faith calls us out of our comforts and into the places where we are needed to serve. I fully endorse these initiatives that put us where our communities need us to be the presence of the Jesus we read about in the Gospels.” The Rt Revd Nick Baines, Bishop of Bradford
"This is exactly the kind of revolutionary social cause that should be in every city. I commend the work of Street Angels to transform their community. The problems of the world do not go away when the sun goes down, and neither do these amazing volunteers." Pastor Matthew Barnett, founder of the Los Angeles Dream Center
"I think you [Street Angels] do a fantastic job... We [the police] are very grateful for the work done by the Street Angels." Sir Norman Bettison, Chief Constable West Yorkshire Police and Vice President Association of Chief Police Officers, on BBC Radio Leeds phone-in
"Thousands of Christian's volunteer every weekend to care for people who are enjoying a night out in our towns and cities. I believe this is exactly where Jesus would be and so wholeheartedly commend the work of CNI." Matt Bird, Chief Executive of Make It* Happen & Chair of The Cinnamon Network
"I have been out with Street Angels in Guildford and Camberley and have experienced at first hand the great work that is being done in bringing help, reassurance, care and genuine human concern and compassion on to the streets of our towns. It is a very simple, direct and practical witness of service following Christ's own example." The Right Reverend Ian Brackley, Bishop of Dorking
"This is an excellent example of how people from different organisations and backgrounds can work together for the greater good of the community. I recognise that such projects provide valuable services which are not easily accessible from emergency services." James Brockenshire MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Crime Prevention.
"I have just met some of the Street Angels working in the region, they do a tremendous job." former Prime Minister Gordon Brown on a BBC interview for The Politics Show
"Its incredible to see the work that Christian night time initiatives which include Street Angels do in towns and cities across the UK each weekend. This is certainly the Big Society in action. As I travel, I’m constantly told by councilors, council officers, the police, social services etc, about the impact this kind of service, offered by volunteers and churches, makes in helping to shape healthy and stronger communities. I wish you well in all you do." The Revd Steve Chalke MBE, Founder of Oasis and Faithworks
"I warmly commend Christian Nightlife Initiatives and the valuable work with those at risk on our streets at night as well as a friendly presence which is reassuring to all. Along with Street Pastors the Street Angels provide a safety net for those who are vulnerable and in need on our streets, especially in urban areas, bringing together Christians from different denominations and backgrounds in common service. I look forward to further developments of their work, especially as they start to prepare for the Olympics in 2012 and their involvement as Games Pastors." The Rt Revd Christopher Chessun, Bishop for Urban Life and Faith and Bishop of Southwark
"All over the country the church is to be found on a Friday or Saturday night on the street, being and speaking the good news. As an Evangelical Alliance we want to cheer these teams on, and tell stories of what God is so obviously blessing." Steve Clifford, CEO Evangelical Alliance
"As Vice Chair for the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Alcohol Misuse I am keen to act on the concerns of alcohol and drug misuse which beset society at large. These two issues should not be focused on simply one area, but must be seen a national priority. If we are to address these concerns, there must be a strategic approach, bringing together many partners who wish to support improving this area. Christian Nightlife Initiatives is an organisation who respond nationally by offering strong delivery of support in just over 100 towns and cities. I welcome their work which seeks to bring alliveration of those most vulnerable in our night time economy. I am grateful to the thousands of volunteers who also assist this work, it is great to see the Big Society in action, and I wish you all the best for the future." Tracey Crouch MP, Vice Chair for the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Alcohol Misuse
"I love it when I see God's Church waking up to the needs of the local community and getting stuck in. It was a privilege to meet with the Trustees and Church Leaders in Halifax where Street Angels was born. Christian Night-time Initiatives in the local town or city centre fit in with what Hope is all about: working together in both words and actions, touching people's lives and making a practical difference." Roy Crowne, Executive Director of HOPE Together
"Whenever we are in conversation with local authorities or similar groups its interesting to point these good people to statistics - like the reduced street crime, lower re-offending rates, etc - that 'prove' the efficacy of Biblical Christianity. Its not just a hobby for those who can't play golf - authentic Christianity works!" Nigel Gordon, European Director Luis Palau Association
"I included a story about Street Angels in my book "Redeeming Our Communities - 21st Century miracles of social transformation" because it is a great initiative and one which provides a way for churches and the police to work together for the good of the community. Crime rates are falling as people of goodwill lend their support to the police in the important work they do across this nation." Debra Green, Director City Links Redeeming Our Communities
"I am delighted to welcome an exciting partnership between Churches Together in Britian and Ireland and Christian Nightlife Initiatives. I believe Christian Nightlife Initiatives and Street Angels provides excellent support to projects in the four nations and I would want to encourage them in their efforts to be a presence in the many localities in which they are placed. With the number of projects rapidly growing, there is a need for Christian engagement in our night time economy. I offer my good wishes and prayers for all you are doing and look forward to all that lies ahead through your work." The Revd Bob Fyffe , General Secretary of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland
"I am pleased to support Street Angels, part of the Christian Nightlife Initiatives Network. Street Angels is a sign of the fruit that comes from close ecumenical collaboration between Christians as they seek to serve their brothers and sisters in our towns and cities through prayer, support and sharing of other resources. With my prayers and blessings for this important work." The Most Revd Bernard Longley, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Birmingham
"Experiencing something of the work and ministry of Street Angels myself over recent months, I am delighted to endorse the national strategy Street Angels has to provide a visible, strong and strategic presence within communities around the UK in the name of Christ." Commissioner John Matear, Territorial Commander of The Salvation Army, United Kingdom with the Republic of Ireland
"The work of faith based groups such as the Christian Nightlife Initiatives Network can be so important in the strengthening of our communities. Your mobilisation of local volunteers ensures people remain alert to crime and vigilant against it. That is so valuable to people up and down this country. I wish you every success as you continue your important efforts in the future. " The Rt Hon Ed Miliband MP, Leader of the Labour Party
"The work of CNI is very impressive, making a huge difference for good on our city and town streets at night. I am delighted that many Baptists are involved already and want to encourage even more to volunteer as Street Angels and in other initiatives. This is a great way to show God’s care and to bring Kingdom transformation to a community." The Revd Kathryn Morgan, Mission Adviser, The Baptist Union of Great Britian
"I would like to say how impressed I am with the support and help initiatives like: Street Angels, Town Pastors, NightLight and Street Pastors, provide to young people and those who are out at night in our towns and cities. Having three young daughters myself I appreciate how valuable it is having people out on the streets that are looking out for others because they care about their safety and wellbeing.
Your services are exactly the sort of thing that I would like to see encouraged across other areas and situations, and I would like to thank you and your team for all the work they are doing. Many thanks for your valuable support for young people. I do believe that all faith groups have a significant role to play in developing safer neighbourhoods." Baroness Helen Newlove, Community Safer Champion
"I am a great admirer of your work and wish you every success for the future. The Department for Communities and Local Government recognises the importance of your work, given the problems of crime and anti-social behaviour that blight our town centres at night. It is clear that projects such as these, led by faith communities, are playing a crucial part in bringing about the safer, more integrated communities that we want to see." The Right Honorable Eric Pickles MP, the Secretary of State
"As a Bishop in the Church, I believe in a core value of service to the community and I see this demonstrated week by week by volunteers across the country who give up their time to serve the needs of the night time economy, through Street Angels and other similar initiatives. I have been active in my own Diocese to promote, encourage and pray for the groups which go out. Indeed I have really valued the nights I have spent out with our volunteers in Wakefield, Huddersfield and Halifax. The respect that Christian Nightlife Initiative has gained already is a visible sign of God at work. I hope and pray for the growth of this grass roots movement. Please be assured of my continued thoughts and prayers. Thanks again for all that is being done in Christ's name." The Right Reverend Tony Robinson, Bishop of Pontefract
"The work of groups like Street Angels and Street Pastors is making a big difference. I am a huge supporter of this type of initiative. Now we need to get responsible selling and supply of alcohol…" The Right Reverend Lee Rayfield, Bishop of Swindon
"It is important that we celebrate the work done by the community to create safer town and cities, especially in our night time economy. These are the days when I believe those of faith have new opportunities to do this. Having met with Adam, I am encouraged by the work that has done faithfully and continues weekly to do. This is a fantastic initiative which I pray will grow and develop. Never lose heart and keep going!" Gavin Shuker MP for Luton South and Vice President of Christians in Parliament
"I welcome these night-time initiatives such as Street Angels. You are working hard to help the communities in which you live by making the streets safer and I am extremely grateful to you all for that. I pray that these initiatives continue to result in reduced crime and the fear of crime. Keep up the good work!" The Most Revd. and Right Hon. Dr John Sentamu, Archbishop of York
“I warmly welcome the work of Christian Nightlife Initiatives. Our town- and city-centres face big night time challenges. In a grass roots movement which is helping to build a new community spirit, a growing number of church-based groups are grappling with these challenges. Encouraging stories are emerging from their work out and about in the small hours, and I wish Christian Nightlife Initiatives every success in its important work.” Stephen Timms MP for East Ham, Shadow Minister for Employment and Labour's Vice Chair for Faith Groups
"The commitment and dedication of all those involved in this initiative is a shining example of how hard-working volunteers can transform communities and make our streets safer. Keep up the good work!” Steve Webb Liberal-Democrat MP for Thornbury & Yate
"The increase in night time anti-social behaviour in town and city centres is deeply concerning for our communities. I applaud the hundreds of local groups of volunteers across the country who now work, week in week out, with local police to help make our town and city centres safe places for everyone." Lord Wei, Former Adviser on the Big Society
"There is much to be celebrated with the work done by Christians in the night time economy. I greatly admire the creativity and commitment shown by Street Angels, Street Pastors and others; and I am delighted to hear of acts of service taking place throughout the week and at weekends too. I wholeheartedly support and endorse the work they are seeking to do. There is still much to do in our increasingly complex society and I pray for greater collaboration between the different groups engaged in this aspect of the Church's mission. Keep up the good work!" Dr Joe Aldred, Secretary, Minority Ethnic Christian Affairs, Churches Together in England
“The night time economy is thriving across the UK. For some people it can become a very dangerous environment to be in, especially those who are vulnerable or under the influence of alcohol. Schemes such as Street Angels offer safe space and reassurance to those who need it most. We are inspired by the hundreds of people who are prepared to stay up into the early hours to do this valuable work, serving their local communities.” Deacon Eunice Attwood, Vice President of the Methodist Conference 2010
“Christian faith calls us out of our comforts and into the places where we are needed to serve. I fully endorse these initiatives that put us where our communities need us to be the presence of the Jesus we read about in the Gospels.” The Rt Revd Nick Baines, Bishop of Bradford
"This is exactly the kind of revolutionary social cause that should be in every city. I commend the work of Street Angels to transform their community. The problems of the world do not go away when the sun goes down, and neither do these amazing volunteers." Pastor Matthew Barnett, founder of the Los Angeles Dream Center
"I think you [Street Angels] do a fantastic job... We [the police] are very grateful for the work done by the Street Angels." Sir Norman Bettison, Chief Constable West Yorkshire Police and Vice President Association of Chief Police Officers, on BBC Radio Leeds phone-in
"Thousands of Christian's volunteer every weekend to care for people who are enjoying a night out in our towns and cities. I believe this is exactly where Jesus would be and so wholeheartedly commend the work of CNI." Matt Bird, Chief Executive of Make It* Happen & Chair of The Cinnamon Network
"I have been out with Street Angels in Guildford and Camberley and have experienced at first hand the great work that is being done in bringing help, reassurance, care and genuine human concern and compassion on to the streets of our towns. It is a very simple, direct and practical witness of service following Christ's own example." The Right Reverend Ian Brackley, Bishop of Dorking
"This is an excellent example of how people from different organisations and backgrounds can work together for the greater good of the community. I recognise that such projects provide valuable services which are not easily accessible from emergency services." James Brockenshire MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Crime Prevention.
"I have just met some of the Street Angels working in the region, they do a tremendous job." former Prime Minister Gordon Brown on a BBC interview for The Politics Show
"Its incredible to see the work that Christian night time initiatives which include Street Angels do in towns and cities across the UK each weekend. This is certainly the Big Society in action. As I travel, I’m constantly told by councilors, council officers, the police, social services etc, about the impact this kind of service, offered by volunteers and churches, makes in helping to shape healthy and stronger communities. I wish you well in all you do." The Revd Steve Chalke MBE, Founder of Oasis and Faithworks
"I warmly commend Christian Nightlife Initiatives and the valuable work with those at risk on our streets at night as well as a friendly presence which is reassuring to all. Along with Street Pastors the Street Angels provide a safety net for those who are vulnerable and in need on our streets, especially in urban areas, bringing together Christians from different denominations and backgrounds in common service. I look forward to further developments of their work, especially as they start to prepare for the Olympics in 2012 and their involvement as Games Pastors." The Rt Revd Christopher Chessun, Bishop for Urban Life and Faith and Bishop of Southwark
"All over the country the church is to be found on a Friday or Saturday night on the street, being and speaking the good news. As an Evangelical Alliance we want to cheer these teams on, and tell stories of what God is so obviously blessing." Steve Clifford, CEO Evangelical Alliance
"As Vice Chair for the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Alcohol Misuse I am keen to act on the concerns of alcohol and drug misuse which beset society at large. These two issues should not be focused on simply one area, but must be seen a national priority. If we are to address these concerns, there must be a strategic approach, bringing together many partners who wish to support improving this area. Christian Nightlife Initiatives is an organisation who respond nationally by offering strong delivery of support in just over 100 towns and cities. I welcome their work which seeks to bring alliveration of those most vulnerable in our night time economy. I am grateful to the thousands of volunteers who also assist this work, it is great to see the Big Society in action, and I wish you all the best for the future." Tracey Crouch MP, Vice Chair for the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Alcohol Misuse
"I love it when I see God's Church waking up to the needs of the local community and getting stuck in. It was a privilege to meet with the Trustees and Church Leaders in Halifax where Street Angels was born. Christian Night-time Initiatives in the local town or city centre fit in with what Hope is all about: working together in both words and actions, touching people's lives and making a practical difference." Roy Crowne, Executive Director of HOPE Together
"Whenever we are in conversation with local authorities or similar groups its interesting to point these good people to statistics - like the reduced street crime, lower re-offending rates, etc - that 'prove' the efficacy of Biblical Christianity. Its not just a hobby for those who can't play golf - authentic Christianity works!" Nigel Gordon, European Director Luis Palau Association
"I included a story about Street Angels in my book "Redeeming Our Communities - 21st Century miracles of social transformation" because it is a great initiative and one which provides a way for churches and the police to work together for the good of the community. Crime rates are falling as people of goodwill lend their support to the police in the important work they do across this nation." Debra Green, Director City Links Redeeming Our Communities
"I am delighted to welcome an exciting partnership between Churches Together in Britian and Ireland and Christian Nightlife Initiatives. I believe Christian Nightlife Initiatives and Street Angels provides excellent support to projects in the four nations and I would want to encourage them in their efforts to be a presence in the many localities in which they are placed. With the number of projects rapidly growing, there is a need for Christian engagement in our night time economy. I offer my good wishes and prayers for all you are doing and look forward to all that lies ahead through your work." The Revd Bob Fyffe , General Secretary of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland
"I am pleased to support Street Angels, part of the Christian Nightlife Initiatives Network. Street Angels is a sign of the fruit that comes from close ecumenical collaboration between Christians as they seek to serve their brothers and sisters in our towns and cities through prayer, support and sharing of other resources. With my prayers and blessings for this important work." The Most Revd Bernard Longley, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Birmingham
"Experiencing something of the work and ministry of Street Angels myself over recent months, I am delighted to endorse the national strategy Street Angels has to provide a visible, strong and strategic presence within communities around the UK in the name of Christ." Commissioner John Matear, Territorial Commander of The Salvation Army, United Kingdom with the Republic of Ireland
"The work of faith based groups such as the Christian Nightlife Initiatives Network can be so important in the strengthening of our communities. Your mobilisation of local volunteers ensures people remain alert to crime and vigilant against it. That is so valuable to people up and down this country. I wish you every success as you continue your important efforts in the future. " The Rt Hon Ed Miliband MP, Leader of the Labour Party
"The work of CNI is very impressive, making a huge difference for good on our city and town streets at night. I am delighted that many Baptists are involved already and want to encourage even more to volunteer as Street Angels and in other initiatives. This is a great way to show God’s care and to bring Kingdom transformation to a community." The Revd Kathryn Morgan, Mission Adviser, The Baptist Union of Great Britian
"I would like to say how impressed I am with the support and help initiatives like: Street Angels, Town Pastors, NightLight and Street Pastors, provide to young people and those who are out at night in our towns and cities. Having three young daughters myself I appreciate how valuable it is having people out on the streets that are looking out for others because they care about their safety and wellbeing.
Your services are exactly the sort of thing that I would like to see encouraged across other areas and situations, and I would like to thank you and your team for all the work they are doing. Many thanks for your valuable support for young people. I do believe that all faith groups have a significant role to play in developing safer neighbourhoods." Baroness Helen Newlove, Community Safer Champion
"I am a great admirer of your work and wish you every success for the future. The Department for Communities and Local Government recognises the importance of your work, given the problems of crime and anti-social behaviour that blight our town centres at night. It is clear that projects such as these, led by faith communities, are playing a crucial part in bringing about the safer, more integrated communities that we want to see." The Right Honorable Eric Pickles MP, the Secretary of State
"As a Bishop in the Church, I believe in a core value of service to the community and I see this demonstrated week by week by volunteers across the country who give up their time to serve the needs of the night time economy, through Street Angels and other similar initiatives. I have been active in my own Diocese to promote, encourage and pray for the groups which go out. Indeed I have really valued the nights I have spent out with our volunteers in Wakefield, Huddersfield and Halifax. The respect that Christian Nightlife Initiative has gained already is a visible sign of God at work. I hope and pray for the growth of this grass roots movement. Please be assured of my continued thoughts and prayers. Thanks again for all that is being done in Christ's name." The Right Reverend Tony Robinson, Bishop of Pontefract
"The work of groups like Street Angels and Street Pastors is making a big difference. I am a huge supporter of this type of initiative. Now we need to get responsible selling and supply of alcohol…" The Right Reverend Lee Rayfield, Bishop of Swindon
"It is important that we celebrate the work done by the community to create safer town and cities, especially in our night time economy. These are the days when I believe those of faith have new opportunities to do this. Having met with Adam, I am encouraged by the work that has done faithfully and continues weekly to do. This is a fantastic initiative which I pray will grow and develop. Never lose heart and keep going!" Gavin Shuker MP for Luton South and Vice President of Christians in Parliament
"I welcome these night-time initiatives such as Street Angels. You are working hard to help the communities in which you live by making the streets safer and I am extremely grateful to you all for that. I pray that these initiatives continue to result in reduced crime and the fear of crime. Keep up the good work!" The Most Revd. and Right Hon. Dr John Sentamu, Archbishop of York
“I warmly welcome the work of Christian Nightlife Initiatives. Our town- and city-centres face big night time challenges. In a grass roots movement which is helping to build a new community spirit, a growing number of church-based groups are grappling with these challenges. Encouraging stories are emerging from their work out and about in the small hours, and I wish Christian Nightlife Initiatives every success in its important work.” Stephen Timms MP for East Ham, Shadow Minister for Employment and Labour's Vice Chair for Faith Groups
"The commitment and dedication of all those involved in this initiative is a shining example of how hard-working volunteers can transform communities and make our streets safer. Keep up the good work!” Steve Webb Liberal-Democrat MP for Thornbury & Yate
"The increase in night time anti-social behaviour in town and city centres is deeply concerning for our communities. I applaud the hundreds of local groups of volunteers across the country who now work, week in week out, with local police to help make our town and city centres safe places for everyone." Lord Wei, Former Adviser on the Big Society
