Havant Pastoral Centre

'A lovely friendly place'

'Somewhere to come and chat'

'It's nice to come here after visiting the doctor'

These are just some of the comments made by customers of Havant Pastoral Centre in Havant Methodist Church, which recently celebrated thirty years of service to the community.

The Pastoral Centre first opened its doors on 10th April, 1984, to coincide with the opening of Havant Health Centre, adjacent to the Church. The then-minister, Rev Barrie Snook, thought it would be a good idea to serve refreshments to patients and staff alike, and so, with the enthusiastic agreement of the Health Centre, the Pastoral Centre came into being. Under the umbrella of Churches Together in Havant, Bedhampton and Leigh Park, local churches provided volunteers to serve refreshments, and the Pastoral Centre became a haven where people could find a listening ear or simply meet friends and relax in a welcoming and undemanding atmosphere.

 

The 30th anniversary of Havant Pastoral Centre was attended by over sixty people, including the then Mayor, Paul Buckley and his wife, Rev Barrie Snook and his wife, Grace, and the present minister, the Rev Bill Stillwell. Centre Manager, Ruth Eastwick, said 'Sometimes people come to us after bad news from the doctor. They want someone to talk to. Sometimes, they come in before they get the results of tests. Again, they don't just want a cup of coffee. They want to talk to someone, so we definitely fill a need'.

The Pastoral Centre is open between 9.30am and 12pm from Mon to Friday, excluding Bank Holidays. Donations to charity are made out of any profits from refreshments and items sold.

The ethos of Havant Pastoral Centre is epitomised in its logo - 'In the community, for the community', as it continues to offer hospitality and friendship to all who enter its doors.

Helpers are always welcome, and, if you can spare one morning on a regular basis, please contact the Centre Manager on 023 9247 3633.

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