WORSHIPPERS in a Gosport church have marked a year of offering hospitality via a weekly lunch.

Twelve months ago, Holy Trinity Church discerned a fresh call to be more visibly present in the heart of its community. Nestled among five tower blocks, home to many single-occupancy households, the church 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 12noon 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, they chose to gather in the church foyer, allowing guests to take in the beauty of its light-filled Romanesque interior. Many are drawn to the sound of the 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 the church online, and even a French sailor who had just arrived in Gosport having capsized and been rescued from the Channel – thankfully, one of their regulars was able to connect him with a French-speaking neighbour who could assist.