FOR ME, Open Table has been like the good soil in a parable of the sower - I’ve not just found community, I’ve found somewhere I have been able to grow both in my faith and as a person.

‘It’s hard to express our deep gratitude for Open Table’s sustained welcome and hospitality, and your acceptance of all of us, with all the diversity we bring to the table.’

‘The phrase ‘Come as you are’ resonates loudly in our monthly worship. I needed to hear it and experience it for myself.’

‘As soon as the service ended, I was surrounded by happy, welcoming faces, and warm hearts, wonderful people who shared so many similar experiences.’

‘There were parts of the LGBTQIA+ community that I didn't realize that were there. Like, I didn't realize that I was asexual until I started talking to all the members in Open Table and I thought: “That sounds like me!” So I discovered another part of my identity; and that gave me more self-confidence.’

‘…we are so glad to have been able to celebrate our love and commitment with our church community and, in some small way, provide a witness to the love of God.’

‘It was like a refreshing spiritual awakening to a life that I never knew could exist. Through Christian spiritual counselling, and in the safety of Open Table, I came to see the scriptures in a new, true light.’

‘I was brought up as a Jehovah’s Witness since the day I was born. I found the religion tough and strict. Some of the rules I was not happy about. One rule was we were never allowed to like the same sex. This is my experience of coming out as bisexual.’

‘I get enough hate and judgement in the rest of my life. At Open Table I get unquestionable, God-given, love. It is that simple.’