In the heart of Pakefield, a unique and inspiring initiative has taken root, bringing together animals, community, and faith in a beautiful expression of compassion and service. Pakefield Pastures, a Community Interest Company (CIC), is a shining example of how a simple idea can grow into a powerful force for good. Led by Katey Mills, the Children, Youth and Families Minister at All Saints’ and St Margaret’s Church, this endeavor has evolved from a humble beginning to a thriving mobile care unit that offers outreach support and therapeutic experiences to those in need. As the project continues to grow and flourish, the team at Pakefield Pastures would be grateful for prayers to support their ongoing advancement and the wonderful work they do.
The journey of Pakefield Pastures began with a single donkey, acquired so that the church could have a permanent fixture for its living nativity and Palm Sunday services. Over time, the flock has expanded to include an array of animals, including alpacas, chickens, pigs, sheep, and even a quail. These lovable creatures have become an integral part of the church’s missional work, regularly visiting schools, care homes, and other settings to provide comfort and joy to those living with mental or physical health conditions. The animals have a profound impact on the people they meet, offering a sense of calm and connection that is hard to find in our busy and often chaotic world. As Katey Mills reflects, “It’s incredibly God-led. Every step of the way, I’ve expected to have doors closed, and they’ve been wide open.” This sense of divine guidance and provision has been a constant theme throughout the project’s development, with the team experiencing unexpected blessings and surprises along the way.
One of the key factors in the success of Pakefield Pastures is the dedication and generosity of its volunteers and supporters. The time and resources donated to the project are essential to its operations, and the team is deeply grateful for the contributions that enable them to care for the animals and share their love with the wider community. Revd Sharon Lord, Rector at All Saints’ & St Margaret’s, is a passionate advocate for the project, believing that the inclusion of animals in the church’s mission has been a huge positive. “Animals attract people, it’s as simple as that,” she says. “We’ve noticed that people who may not have engaged with church in the past are drawn to our services and events because of the animals. It’s a wonderful way to build bridges and connect with our community in a meaningful way.” The impact of Pakefield Pastures extends far beyond the church itself, reaching into the hearts and lives of those who encounter the animals and the team who care for them.
As the project continues to grow and evolve, the team at Pakefield Pastures is excited to explore new ways to share their message of hope and compassion. Whether through visits to schools and care homes, or through social media and online platforms, the aim is to spread joy and comfort to as many people as possible. The story of Pakefield Pastures is a powerful reminder of the difference that can be made when people come together with a shared vision and a willingness to serve. As Katey Mills and Revd Sharon Lord share their passion and enthusiasm for the project, it is clear that this is a labor of love that is making a real and lasting impact on the community. For those who would like to learn more about Pakefield Pastures, there are a number of resources available, including the Diocese of Norwich website, as well as the Pakefield Pastures and Pakefield Sheep Facebook pages.
The power of prayer has been a constant theme throughout the development of Pakefield Pastures, and the team is grateful for the support and encouragement they have received from the wider community. As they look to the future, they would be grateful for continued prayers and support, that they might continue to share their message of hope and compassion with those who need it most. In a world that can often seem dark and divided, the story of Pakefield Pastures is a shining example of the difference that can be made when people come together in love and service. As we reflect on the incredible work of this team, we are reminded of the importance of compassion, kindness, and generosity, and the profound impact that these values can have on the lives of those around us.
In conclusion, the story of Pakefield Pastures is a heartwarming and inspiring tale of how a simple idea can grow into a powerful force for good. Through the dedication and generosity of its volunteers and supporters, this project has brought joy and comfort to countless people, and has helped to build bridges between the church and the wider community. As we look to the future, we are excited to see the continued growth and development of Pakefield Pastures, and the impact that it will have on the lives of those it touches. Whether through prayer, volunteer work, or simply by spreading the word about this incredible project, we can all play a part in supporting the team at Pakefield Pastures as they continue to share their message of hope and compassion with the world.
