In the heart of Cornwall, Roche Methodist Church in the South West Peninsula Methodist District has become a shining example of how faith communities can make a real difference in people's lives. The church's monthly lunch club, held on Fridays, has been attracting between 14 and 18 people, mostly in their 70s and 80s.

What's particularly heartening is that the majority of attendees are not regular churchgoers, demonstrating the programme's ability to reach beyond the church's usual congregation.

Guests enjoy a hot main meal, dessert, tea, and biscuits. But as Jill, one of the organisers, points out, "It's not about the food; it's about the companionship." This sentiment echoes throughout the initiative, highlighting its true value in combating loneliness and isolation, particularly among older residents.

The success of the Warm Welcome Space is a testament to the dedication of volunteers like Jill and Sue, who manage everything from cooking to promotion. They have employed various methods to spread the word, including the village magazine and posters, and they have even leveraged Sue's position at the local charity shop to encourage participation.

But the Warm Welcome Space is more than just a lunch club. It is evolving into a hub of community activity. The church also hosts a craft club, plans to show episodes of The Chosen (a series about the life of Jesus), and is organising special events like a Macmillan Coffee Morning and a Christmas dinner.

This initiative is part of a larger movement across Cornwall, with over 50 Warm Welcome Spaces in the county, many supported by district grants. It's a response to various challenges facing communities, from the cost-of-living crisis to social isolation exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Roche Methodist Church team is constantly looking for ways to improve and expand their offering. They're keen to find volunteers who can engage with attendees on a more personal level, potentially offering prayer or simply a listening ear.

While the initiative is rooted in Christian faith, there is no pressure on attendees to engage in religious activities. Instead, it is about creating a space where faith can be lived out through practical love and support for neighbours.

As winter approaches, the importance of such initiatives becomes even more apparent. The Warm Welcome Space at Roche Methodist Church displays hope and community spirit, proving that sometimes, the simplest acts of kindness – a warm meal, a friendly chat, a place to belong – can make the most profound difference in people's lives.

Warm Spaces in Cornwall

The Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Methodist District offer over 50 'warm spaces' in its churches and chapels. Many of them are based in small rural villages and are places where the whole community comes together. Click on the film above to see the love that Warm Welcome Spaces bring to their local communities.

Find more here