Sam Hole is the associate vicar at St Lukeâs and Christ Church.
New to the in October 2019, he has already taken on a pivotal community role. Now, staying connected and helping each other feels more important than ever. He says: âSt Lukeâs was built in 1824 as a modern replacement for the medieval parish church that is now known as Chelsea Old Church.
Christ Church was built in 1839. Year round, we offer lots of services. To list a few: many baptisms, weddings, funerals and memorial services in both churches. CafĂŠ Portico operates at St Lukeâs, offering tasty and affordable snacks and meals, and is a peaceful haven for many locals and hospital visitors. With Sunday worship now suspended nationally, we are working hard to help people continue in prayer and worship at this difficult time. We are keeping the church open as much as possible, with opening times and resources for prayer on our website, and providing videos of services. We hope to keep our church halls open as far as possible, aware that the homeless shelter and the many 12-step groups who use our space need it more than ever. We have also been hugely grateful for the response of our congregation in supporting one another and other friends and neighbours.
People have offered huge amounts of mutual support to one another, whether in the form of phone calls, shopping for essentials or supportive messages. We have close connections with the wonderful local homelessness charity, Glass Door. They have responded admirably to the challenges of the virus, seeking to maintain volunteer numbers and to continue to provide for those in need. Do support them in this difficult time if you are able. Contact the parish office and we will be delighted to speak with you.â
Sydney Street, chelseaparish.org
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