Floating church on the Lee

Published: Wednesday, 21 October 2020

A NEW project of a floating church is now moored in East London.

The project, that was spearheaded by the Diocese of London for the St Columba East London community, and constructed by Turks Shipyard, is moored on the Lee Navigation alongside the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Roger Fox reports, who told of this when it was first mooted in the past.

FloatingChurchLondonRange of activities

The scheme aims to become a beacon for local communities and a space to, not just pray, but also meet, gather and plan a range of activities.  As well as serving as a space for a church, the boat has been designed to  accommodate parent and toddler groups, pilates classes and art classes, interfaith celebrations, lunch and supper clubs, live music, employment training, support workshops and counselling, a spokesman relates.

Though stated at 8.5 metre wide, this is obviously not so, with Roger remarking more like 4.5 to be able to negotiate the locks on the navigation.  As can be seen, part of its roof lifts to give inside height, that is operated by hydraulics.

Hold up to 60 people

Named Genesis, after the first book of the Bible its main hall will hold up to 60 people (depending on the configuration and circumstances) with its plywood walls, green linoleum floor and round skylight, with a galley and toilets located on the opposite end of the boat.

It will remain at its present moorings for a few years then move to another mooring in a different area.