Dovercourt Central Church's heart is in making this community a better place to live and work and visit, and show this in what we do as much as what we say.
THE LOUNGE - A peaceful shared space where it is ok to not be ok
For the last couple of years we have joined together with the Salvation Army and Church of England in Harwich to create a place where everyone is welcome, whomever they are, where they can be who they are, no judgement or expectations. An open session takes place each Thursday from 10am to 2pm and Tuesday 7 to 8.30pm at The Esplanade Hall on Kings Quay Street. Why not come along and see what it is all about.
The Lounge is linked to a national charity, Renew Wellbeing, set up to create safe spaces for people who may be struggling with isolation, poor mental health, or who just need somewhere to go where it is safe to simply be themselves, whatever that may be like. We began this just before Christmas 2021 in partnership with other local churches in Harwich and have been growing ever since. We did not want to do a large advertising campaign as this would be counter to the ethos of it being a peaceful space, but we are available to whoever may need that space in the midst of a busy life. There are various activities on offer during the day, from a craft table and games to a puzzle and quiet corner to read and another to pray or reflect. There is an outdoor area too where during cold months you will find a firepit and a gazebo in the summer. Hot and cold refreshments are available whenever you fancy a cuppa. Essex County Council have backed us through the Levelling Up stream of funding, to the tune of £100,000 over 3 years, which makes a huge difference to us.
THE LOUNGE AT CLIFF PARK JUBILEE CELEBRATIONS
HEART
Each Friday we are privileged to partner the Salvation Army at Heart. This is a drop in where the local community can access professional advice from various agencies, excess bakery from Lidl and emergency food parcels. Otherwise you can simply use it as a place to meet, chat, pray, have a cuppa and feel warm and welcomed.
If you have any thoughts or ideas about what may make this town a better place to live and work then Mark is always happy to hear from you. We are hear to serve the local community in action and word so feel free to call 07446817625 or email [email protected] and we'll see what we can do together. Many blessings, Mark