Carpenter’s Arms is 1!

Back in March 2022, Tim Jones was visiting with Rev. Martin Poole of St. Luke’s Prestonville to discuss the cross-church initiative Christian Action Brighton. In the course of the conversation, Tim asked whether there might be any practical ways that Emmanuel could be of service to other churches in the city, and Martin mentioned an immediate need to fill a space on the weekly rotation of church drop-in lunches which St. Luke’s rather wittily called the ‘Carpenter’s Arms’. “By the time I found out that that was just a ‘St. Luke’s thing’ and the other churches didn’t call it that, it was too late and I’d already had our logo made up!” joked Tim.

Fast forward a year and the ‘Carpenter's Arms @ Emmanuel’ is one year old!

We have had a great time providing a lunch on the second Sunday of each month to around 50 homeless and vulnerably housed guests. There’s always a relaxed yet festive atmosphere, and we provide newspapers, unhurried conversation and good food for a few hours. Tim said “This is church at its best; living out the Jesus life together and looking to share the blessings that they’ve enjoyed from God.”

It’s really special to be able to join with other churches in the city centre to ensure that these lunches happen every Sunday throughout the year. More information on the rota and other venues can be found at www.christianactionbrighton.org.uk/carpenters-arms

We want to say thank you to all who have been part of the stunning revolving team at Carpenter’s Arms, and have brought a consistently warm welcome to our guests each month. You are all stars and it's been a blast.

If you would like to get involved, register interest via our online signup