As a society, I think we understate the value that churches and faith groups bring to our communities – they can have such a profound impact as local hubs and in promoting social cohesion within the areas they serve.
So it was a delight to catch up with Revd Mark Humm at Godstone Baptist Church, where we discussed how we can create friendships in the village, reach out to those who feel lonely and work to reduce poor mental health among young people. I’m going to be adding the church to my Friendship Project to connect them with other groups doing similar work in the towns and villages across East Surrey.
The church runs monthly film screenings to bring the community together, Sing For Joy sessions for people struggling with memory issues and two-course lunches on a Friday for older residents in the area – which sound delicious. Do check their website at www.godstonebc.org if you might be interested.
