Same Image, Different Package

A small group meets alternate Wednesdays at Central Hall, 2pm - 3.30pm. It is open to anybody who prefers a day time group and especially appropriate for those who, due to mobility issues, may find meeting in a normal house environment difficult. This group aims to feast on the experiences of God as Father, Saviour/Brother, Supporter/Holy Spirit. The group is a place where people can contribute purposefully to Church life. For those living with difficulty, difference or disability it can be hard to find a place where your skills can materialise comfortably. The group has looked for a way to contribute into the community of the church. Card making was an ideal opportunity and these are given to the general office, the Bereavement team, Counselling Service and latterly are being sent to those on mission, thereby enabling group members to exercise their holy right to contribute.

Another edge to the group is to outreach into the community, specifically those who live in a similar world to theirs. So far, this has meant inviting skilful guests from the wider community who may share their experiences, skills etc with them and hopefully catch a glimpse of God in the group members. We currently have around 12 members including 2 people from another Southampton church who recognise the “treasure” the group offer and want to see if this model can be explored in their churches and situations. Some of the group members are aware of their wider potential and are exploring with others the possibility of being involved in a community cafe project which they recognise this is something they can support and gain from as they get more involved.

Two or three times a year we like to go out for a meal, a picnic or a visit, perhaps to a garden, to test the access facilities and to check how aware we are of our responsibilities when we are in a public place en-mass. Several members are now beginning to feel confident enough to express their needs in a public environment, ie getting their own access code to the Central Hall and asking for signs to show where the loop is installed, and asking the office to remember to print large print copies on white paper, not coloured!