Inspire magazine honoured individual Christians, churches and Christian projects making a difference in their communities at the 2009 Inspire Awards this week.

The winners and runners-up in three categories – Inspiring Individual, Inspiring Church and Inspiring Project – were announced at a special lunchtime reception in Parliament on Friday.

Over the last year Inspire has invited readers to nominate individuals who are inspiring role models along with churches and projects making a positive impact on their communities.

The nine shortlisted candidates – three in each category – were whittled down from nearly 150 nominations by judges drawn from the Inspire editorial team, its publisher CPO and partners CMS, Church Army and Stewardship.

Shortlisted candidates, guests and MPs were welcomed to the Awards by Christians in Parliament chairman Andrew Selous MP, who said:

“I always say that my constituency is a far better place because of the churches – because of what they do, and who they are. Their social outreach is hugely beneficial.”

Said Inspire Editor, Russ Bravo: “In today’s tough economic climate where many communities are hurting, it’s really encouraging to hear time and again of Christians based in local churches who getting alongside those in need, mentoring teenagers and families, bringing help and hope and just making life better for so many.

“The Awards help us point this out, profile some of the great work going on, and encourage others to do the same.”

The winners of the 2009 Inspire Awards are as follows:

Inspiring Individual: Ian Warelow, Respect@Eternal Benefits, Hull, who received a trophy and a prize of £250.

Inspiring Church: D-Caf, Godmanchester Baptist Church, which received a trophy and £500 of CPO resources.

Inspiring Project: Superkidz, Ferrier Estate, Greenwich, London, which received a trophy and £500 of CPO resources.

The three runners-up: Louise Ryrie Smith, School of Dance and Drama, Crawley (Individual); Wesley Playhouse, Howden Clough Methodist Church, West Yorkshire (Church) and The Watering Hole, Leicester (Project) each received a trophy.

The awards were presented by CPO CEO Paul Slide and representatives from Inspire’s partner organisations.