OLD Trafford-based World Mission Society Church of God members were ‘overjoyed’ to be bestowed with an award from the Queen for their positive contribution to the community.

On Monday July 4, 10 representative members of the World Mission Society Church of God were invited to the historical Gorton Monastery in Manchester to receive the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

The prestigious award is seen as the equivalent of an MBE for volunteer initiatives. It was presented to General Pastor Joo-Cheol Kim and Senior Church Leader Michael King by the Lord-Lieutenant of Greater Manchester Warren Smith and the Vice Lord-Lieutenant Edith Conn.

General Pastor Joo-Cheol Kim said: “I give thanks to God for allowing us the honourable Queen’s Award and to Her Majesty the Queen, all the mayors from different cities and our neighbours in the UK for encouraging the World Mission Society Church of God at all times.

“Our church believes in Heavenly Mother and wishes all people of the world to live a happy life by putting the love of Mother in their hearts through voluntary works.”

The Queen's representative, The Lord Lieutenant of the county, presented the group with a certificate, signed by The Queen, and a commemorative crystal. Award recipients are also entitled to use The Queen's Award emblem on their website, stationery and other printed material.

Senior Church Leader Michael King said: “Members of the World Mission Society Church of God are overjoyed to have their efforts recognised through the highest award possible from Her Majesty the Queen. We aim to spread Mother's love and community spirit through many voluntary initiatives. With this award, we look forward to reaching out our helping hands even more in the future.”

The group are recognised throughout Greater Manchester for their voluntary work, vivid yellow t-shirts, engaging costumes and bright smiles. Their work comprises of several projects. The group have been issued with certificates of appreciation from Stretford and Urmston MP Kate Green and all 10 borough councils of Greater Manchester.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Warren Smith, said: “Each group makes an exceptional contribution to their community and helps to greatly improve the lives of local people. For so many to give up their time for others is tremendous and this award is extremely well deserved.”