Emma Cain

Project Leader and Volunteer Coordinator

Hi, my name is Emma Cain and I am the newly appointed Team Leader for the Communities of Hope, here in Hartlepool.

My husband and I came to Hartlepool, following God’s lead, what feels like a whole lifetime ago; though, when I counted, it turned out to be 19 years ago.   I suppose we were only young then, and childless, which probably explains it.   We loved it here and settled down; our three children were all born in Hartlepool – our youngest one on the very last day the maternity ward was still open in Hartlepool Hospital.

Three years ago, I heard God tell me that the time for patience was over and that it was now time to start doing His work. Since then, life has been one long rollercoaster, which has seen me being recommended for training towards ordination as an incumbent as well as being appointed to this post.

I would like my ministry to be about bringing love and hope to my brothers and sisters and am really excited about the work that lies ahead of us all, as we come together to be the living presence of Christ in Hartlepool, bringing hope and healing to this town and its people: our community.

I can’t wait to get going and hope to meet you soon, if we have not already done so.

Jessica Monopoli

Children and Families Worker

Hi there! My name is Jess, I’m 34 and have lived in Hartlepool since I was 5.  I’ve been married to Tuv for 2 years and I have two beautifully disruptive children, William (7) and Eva (5).  I’ve been worshipping at St. Aidan’s for 2 1/2 years now and feel so lucky to be able to combine my passion for edible bible crafts with my day job which is going to be as the Children and Families workers within Communities of Hope.  I’m really looking forward to meeting and getting to know everyone as we work together to figure out God’s will for our central group and our amazing town. More than anything, I’m desperate to see Hartlepool awash with hope and I believe that this project will be the catalyst for that. When I’m not chasing around after my children I love to cook (I’m vegan. Yes, another one!), read and work at our allotment, oh and I also have a tendency to eat cake mix before it’s cooked. Can’t wait to see what the future holds!

Jo Leslie

Community Worker/Evangelist

Hi,  I'm Jo and have moved from Leicester, where I have been working amongst the homeless community and women involved in street prostitution. I am now the  Evangelist and Community worker with the Communities of Hope. I have worked and ministered to those on the margins for over 10 years. I am passionate about social justice and giving a voice to the voiceless. I am excited to join in God's mission here in Hartlepool and see Isaiah 61 lived out amongst those who feel forgotten and unloved.