1073: St James, Piccadilly, London

Read this report | Other comments

26 October 2014

I was hoping that I wouldn't share Ambrosia's experience while at St James Piccadilly in London, but unfortunately I did.

Coming from a background that would have made that particular church a natural home for me, I found the fellowship and experience of Sunday worship very lonely and distant.

I too was offered no welcome, However, before the service started, the whole congregation was asked to introduce themselves to the people sitting around them. I thought this was a positive start, but sadly it turned out to be of no substance afterwards.

Also included was the unique twister-blessing and the (disorganised) gathering around the altar for the eucharist. Luckily I was spared the fourteen notices and had to settle for just four.

On the other hand, I found the preacher, the Revd Lindsay Meader, rather good.

After the service I hung around for a while and even attempted to start some conversations, but found myself alone amongst a gathering of unfriendly strangers. Eventually I, too, left.

The experience left me pretty disappointed given the church's progressive reputation. I don't think I'll be returning next week.

Dr Tony Ciao