FAITH IN THE COMMUNITY: We visited Spain, Brazil and China - but stayed at home!
By the Rev Clive Gardner, priest-in-charge, St Cuthbert’s with St Aidan’s, Copnor
IT’S that time of year when many of us are able to enjoy to a well-deserved summer holiday – a chance to unwind and escape to the sun (although this year it might be more accurate to say escape from the sun!).
But what if age, illness or disability, money - or simply not having someone to travel with – means that a summer holiday is just not an option for you?
Now into its second year, our ‘Holiday at Home’ initiative here at St Cuthbert’s Church, Copnor, offers those who find it difficult to travel an opportunity to experience the culture, food and activities of three different countries across three fun-packed days – all without leaving the church.
This year we have focussed on Spain, Brazil and China. Each day our ‘travellers’ have learned some basic language phrases and indulged in activities including Flamenco dancing, fan making, chair-based Tai Chi, Brazilian drumming, and even staged their very own Rio carnival parade.
They were rewarded for their efforts with dishes and treats including Spanish-style chicken, a Brazilian fish dish and, of course a Chinese takeaway…
So why do something like this? Partly because of the fun – we don’t need an excuse to dress up, and our amazing volunteers will tell you that this sort of event is what makes volunteering so special.
Partly, too, because we have benefited from the kindness and generosity of community-spirited organisations like Hays Travel and Fish Portsmouth, who have supported us with donations that make all the difference to us.
But mostly it’s because those who attended had such a good time, with overwhelmingly positive feedback about their travel experiences.
This is another important way in which we can connect with our local community, particularly for those who might feel a bit socially isolated at times.
We want people to feel they have a place to belong, or pop into, when they feel the need, regardless of background or faith – we are a community centre here, as well as a church.
We have long felt that whether people find us through initiatives like this, or our other community-focused activities like our weekday morning café, our Thursday lunch club, or our Stay and Play group for parents, carers and toddlers, there is a place for them here that supports mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing.
And if, in time, they want to explore more about what being part of our church can offer, then that’s a bonus that can maybe lead to an even more exciting journey.
ST CUTHBERT’S CHURCH, Lichfield Rd, Portsmouth PO3 6DE