By Cameron Houston and City Reporter
THE congregation at a new Anglican church in the Docklands will be able to enjoy a pint of ale with their daily bread.
The precinct's first church will be based on the second floor of the James Squire Brewhouse and minister Guy Mason is encouraging parishioners to have a tipple while they pray. "If people want to have a beer while we look at the Bible, I'm cool with that.
"What's important is that people have a place to explore and encounter God in a caring, open and friendly setting," he said.
Mr Mason conceded the 10.30am service every Sunday could be too early for many churchgoers to contemplate a beer. He said tea and coffee would be available for those who prefer not to mix their faith with alcohol.
The 28-year-old minister said there was no traditional churches or public auditoriums in the Docklands to accommodate its 3348 residents, who had expressed a growing interest in spirituality. "It's definitely raised a few eyebrows, but I think James Squire is a great venue for a church and it's important to be connected with the local culture."
With its massive apartment towers, the Docklands has regularly been maligned as a soulless residential precinct, but Mr Mason said there was a growing sense of community.
James Squire Brewhouse manager Grant Rigby said the second floor of the Docklands Drive building had been offered to the church free of charge.
Mr Rigby said the hotel was keen to encourage community activities and contribute to the growing vibrancy of the area.