A "very inclusive" church has been given a major cash boost to help it mark a major milestone. St George’s Church in Kemp Town, Brighton , was awarded the £250,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund for its 200th birthday. Most of the money will be spent on major refurbishment works to the Grade II listed building.
Construction will start this month and is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Some of the grant will go towards funding a jam-packed schedule of celebratory events including workshops, film showings, concerts, an open day and a service of thanksgiving, accompanied by free food and drink. Hilda Ruth Beaumont, who has been a member of the congregation for three and a half years, says that as a transgender woman she has always felt welcome and included at St George’s.
She feels that the historical understanding of the church as a “sanctuary from harm” still stands today. Hilda says she has always felt included as a transgender woman (Image: Supplied) She said: “It’s a very inclusive church regarding gender identity and sexuality – there has never been an issue for me as a trans woman. “Humans have five key needs: spiritual, physical, intellectual, emotional and social.
If a person is going to be happy, feel that they have a place in their local community and believe their life is worthwhile then they need those needs met. “The resources of St George’s – the garden, café, community centre and performance space – provide sanctua.