Celebrating one year of Community Lunch
A year ago, we discerned a fresh call to be more visibly present in the heart of our community. Holy Trinity is nestled among tower blocks which are home to many single-occupancy households - so we recognised an opportunity to offer companionship and welcome to those who might otherwise feel isolated or just wish to connect with others in their community.
From this prayerful reflection, the idea for a weekly Community Lunch was born. Each Saturday, from 12 noon to 2pm, a faithful team of volunteers prepares a simple meal - sandwiches or warming soup in winter - followed by a yummy pudding and, most importantly, good company. The lunch is offered freely, and guests are invited to linger, chat, and enjoy the shared time together.
Rather than hosting the lunch in the upstairs function room, we choose to gather in the church foyer, allowing guests to take in the beauty of our light-filled Romanesque interior. Many are drawn to the sound of our organist practising for Sunday worship, and some venture further into the sanctuary to explore or sit quietly. The open doors have welcomed a rich variety of visitors: passers-by, neighbours responding to posters in their block, tourists from elsewhere in the country who found us online, and even a French sailor who had just arrived in Gosport having capsized and been rescued from The Channel - thankfully, one of our regulars was able to connect him with a French-speaking neighbour who could assist.
On Saturday 25th October, we marked one year of the Community Lunch with a joyful celebration. We were honoured to welcome the Mayor of Gosport, Councillor Kirsten Bradley, her consort Jonathan, and ward councillors Lesley Meenaghan and June Cully. A special cake and homemade scones, courtesy of one of our volunteers, were shared with delight, and it was a privilege to show our civic guests the quiet work of hospitality that unfolds each week.
As we look ahead, we remain open to where God may lead. We hope this is just the beginning of a deeper, two-way conversation with our neighbours - one that draws on their gifts, stories, and hopes. We continue to listen, trusting that God is at work in the connections we make and the welcome we extend.
