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Adding his voice to those of other faith leaders, Cardinal Vincent is encouraging Catholics to take part in volunteering activities on Coronation Bank Holiday Monday, 8th May 2023.

The Big Help Out is one of the official projects of the forthcoming Coronation weekend and is an initiative that aims to promote, champion and showcase volunteering. Building on the volunteer phenomenon seen during the pandemic, it looks to inspire a new generation of volunteers by making it easy for everyone to recognise opportunities and get involved.

'There is so much to look forward to over the Coronation weekend,' said the Cardinal. 'On Saturday, the Coronation itself. On Sunday, celebrations in our communities. Then, on Monday, a chance to give something back through the Big Help Out. Volunteering is so important and I encourage everyone to take part.'

Holding up the ultimate example of selfless service, the Cardinal added: 'Jesus himself came to the world, not to be served but to serve. If we all lend a hand – at a local project, with a national charity – the effect will be wonderful. Together, we can make a real change for the better.'

Faith communities are an important source of volunteering and charitable work in the UK. The Big Help Out initiative is a positive sign of inter-faith collaboration and will enable our faith communities to come together to pay tribute to His Majesty and highlight the central role that volunteering plays in our national story.

To find out more about the Big Help Out initiative, visit the official website thebighelpout.org.uk
To find out more about volunteering in our diocese, visit Caritas Volunteer Service

Photo: Volunteers at Food for All Hub at English Martyrs, Wembley (Mazur/CBCEW.org.uk)