Cords East End is an exciting monthly Christian youth event with a difference: it’s run by a team of Newham Christian youth! The team, brought together from past Cords events, organises and plans meetings; publicises them to friends and church youth groups; sets up on the day; manages an ever-growing list of contacts; hosts the event; and devotes tons of time and energy. So what is it about Cords that has inspired these young people to be so active? ‘The powerful and exciting vision we share in our faith – That God’s love is for everyone, whatever age or background, and anyone who accepts it has the duty and joy of celebrating and sharing that hope with others.’ Wow, right? The last year was set aside to run the Cords Academy which was a series of seminars addressing the different aspects of running events and to build up a renewed sense of vision and motivation.Cords’ regular meetings returned in November last year, with an encouraging response from borough youth. With Jacqui Johns having bravely taken on the pastoral role overseeing the events, We at Cords are bubbling with excitement for what God’s got in store for this new era. Every second Sunday of the month (except for the months in which The Whole takes place), Cords provides upbeat worship lead by Seyi Oni and his talented band; games and competitions;performances, inspirational talks addressing youth issues; opportunity for prayer; and a relaxed and friendly atmosphere…oh and there is always plenty of junk food to chat over afterwards! For me - having joined the Cords team three years ago - and now enjoying overseeing its organisation - Cords has been about making and meeting great friends, learning useful practical skills and, most importantly, growing in my faith in a place where I feel comfortable and happy. Especially for young people who feel that they are in the minority in their churches; it is so uplifting to spend time with Christians who share similar interests and relate to your issues to support each other spiritually, but also just as importantly to have a laugh. Writtten by Lizi Mann