Baking Bread and Being Church

Today I experienced something so remarkable and moving that I am struggling to articulate my emotions; that is rare for me! 

I took the train into Liverpool and visited a place called Somewhere Else, the Methodist Church in Liverpool's City Centre. Somewhere Else, affectionately known as "The Bread Church," is a response to the belief that there is a life-giving message in the gospel story. They gather as a faith community around the making and sharing of bread. Since 1999, Somewhere Else has sought to meet people where they are, offering quiet space and attention to what is important in their lives. They strive to provide more inclusive and safer space and have found a way that can connect with people's experience, enabling them to face challenges and to continue life's journey refreshed. This is not your ordinary church, but moreover a fresh expression of church right in the heart of Liverpool. Together the community bakes bread, prays and shares a meal. It is so simple, yet so meaningful! You are encouraged to bake two loaves; one for yourself and one to share with someone as you feel led.  

I arrived at 10:30 and was joined by about 25 individuals, of all physical and mental abilities, in a completely inclusive environment. Everyone was welcomed and everyone was happy to be there today. The morning began with weighing out flour and taking our individual places around the huge farmhouse table. The ingredients for the dough were all there waiting for us and a handful of volunteers were eager to guide us. My helper, Cindy, was fabulous! She led me through every step and encouraged me along the way. For a few moments I felt like I was a part of The Great British Bakeoff!  I was surrounded by laughter and joy, and an overall sense of belonging by every single person present. We were all there together, kneading dough and creating bread, but it was so much more than that. There was a massive sense of accomplishment amongst everyone present, watching the flour and simple ingredients turn into a delightful, fragrant loaf of bread!

The Cloud Room, adorned with affirmations from the community

After preparing the bread for the oven, we were invited into the Cloud Room with Rev. Ian for a time of reflection and prayer, along with a short scripture reading to lead us. As we began to open our hearts and listen to each others' honest prayers, the tears rolled down my face. One young girl present was worried about me because she saw me crying and didn't understand they were happy tears, so I quickly thanked her for caring and we shared a genuine hug. 
We left the cloud room and broke bread together and enjoyed conversations around the huge table. Conversations that would never have taken place anywhere but there. We were all brought together for such a time as this. 

Cindy and me with my freshly baked granary loaves

Somewhere Else is a "come as you are" place and there was no other place that could've filled me with so much joy today. I can't wait to return with Howard, Liv and Sarah one day, so they can experience God's love today, just as I have experienced. If you are curious or inclined, please visit their website and check out their times. I promise an experience you will never, ever forget.