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Church Service Held in East Sussex Pub
1 Mar
Summary
- Holy Communion services are now held in a village pub.
- A village pub is temporarily hosting church services.
- The unusual service is part of a community partnership.
A church congregation in Chailey, East Sussex, has commenced holding its services within a local village pub, The Five Bells. This unique arrangement began recently as maintenance work is undertaken at the nearby St Peter's Church. Reverend Paul Mundy, a former publican, officiated the first service, which included traditional readings, hymns, and Holy Communion, followed by a blessing for the pub.
Over 50 people attended the service, including the church choir and organist, with parishioners invited to enjoy a full English breakfast afterward. This partnership between the church and the pub, owned by Tom Stovold, aims to foster a stronger community spirit. Similar events, like a Harvest Festival and a Christmas carols evening, have previously been held at the pub.
Father Martin Morgan, who will also conduct a service at the pub, highlighted that the church-pub collaboration was accelerated by the urgent need to install a new floor at St Peter's. The pub owner emphasized the importance of inclusivity and welcoming everyone, stating, 'We're not a community pub, but we're all about community.'
