People in Whittlesey are being invited to the town’s Salvation Army church next month when it is transformed into an art studio to provide worship with a difference.
The town branch of the church was temporarily closed.
Now Major Lorraine Chaundy took over as leader, it is reopening on 1 December and Lorraine said she is looking forward to welcoming local people to a church with a difference.
She said: “I wanted to offer something that was more appropriate for all ages from what had happened before.
“I felt the church needed a bit of an upgrade, so I met people in the community including headteachers and healthcare professionals to make sure I was aiming at the right need.
“During my research, I discovered Whittlesey was way above the national average for self-harm hospitalisations, so I wanted to make sure I did provide something for all ages and had provision for mental health issues.
“I wanted something that would help those who were struggling with their thinking.”
A former graphic designer, Lorraine felt she needed a change too and jumped at the chance to open the next expression of church in Whittlesey.
She said she has already had interest from locals.
She said: “The Studio will be an open drop in for people to come in and will also be offering specific activities to closed groups on occasions. You don’t need to be Christian to come along and all people will be accepted as they are.
“I’m really excited – this feels right and interesting to people and I have had a great reaction locally.
“For example, the headteacher of the local primary school thinks wellbeing is just as important as maths and English.
“God is our creator God and he created us to be in his image and likeness, so the Studio offers all an opportunity to create and see the benefits to our wellbeing.
“The activity of doing something different and creating, takes your mind off life’s anxieties. Plus, when you have finished, you have something you have proudly achieved.”
The Studio will still be open for worship on Sundays.
On 1 December, The Studio is holding three open day sessions from 10am-12pm, 2pm-4pm or 6pm-8pm. All are welcome to attend.
Activities in December include making Christmas cards and tags and Christmas tableware and arts.
For more information, search The Studio at Whittlesey Salvation Army on Facebook and Whittlesey Salvation Army on Instagram.
