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St John's On Tap - Chatham church services held at the Tap 'n' Tin nightclub

08:30, 19 February 2018

updated: 08:32, 19 February 2018

St John the Divine Church in Chatham is holding their Sunday service at a slightly less traditional venue - the nightclub next door.

The Tap 'n' Tin nightclub, at 24 Railway Street, will host a the 'St John's on Tap' service every Sunday at 10:30am.

St John's have been meeting at the club since January 7 while the current church undergoes construction work, where it will be transformed into a full church and community hub.

The Tap 'n' Tin nightclub is hosting the St John's On Tap services every Sunday.
The Tap 'n' Tin nightclub is hosting the St John's On Tap services every Sunday.

A spokesman from the nightclub said: "The Tap ‘n’ Tin has always seen itself as more than a nightclub - over the years we have hosted many activities and events, so when we were approached by St. John’s we were happy to help."

A team are working to reopen the church, but it is not expected to be open soon.

The Church's vicar, Rev. Carol Morgan, said: "We wanted to start meeting as a church as soon as possible, and the Tap 'n' Tin have been really welcoming."

St John's describe themselves as an small, informal and inclusive church, and they are hoping that continuing in the service in this setting will make it more approachable and accessible to those who aren't interested in a traditional church service.

Stephen Ramshaw has moved to Medway specifically to become the church's lead evangelist, and a licensing service was held on Tuesday night for him at the Tap 'n' Tin.

Services have been held there since January 7.
Services have been held there since January 7.

Stephen, who was based in Newcastle but now lives in St Mary's Island, said: "This is a brilliant place to be; a welcoming place to be.

"Medway has a lot of character, which I like - I've only been here four weeks, but I already really like Chatham High Street."

Chatham Central Cllr Vince Maple was at the Tap 'n' Tin to welcome Stephen on Tuesday, and commented: "It's great to see the community have an opportunity to engage with the local church in a new way.

"I'm sure they'll be a great turnout there on Sunday morning!"

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