Removing the Walls: Taking Church into the Community

A simple idea — stepping outside — is helping a church build relationships, create conversations, and share Jesus in everyday moments.

We spoke to Rob Warburton from The Salvation Army Portsmouth Citadel about how a sense of God’s prompting led them to take church beyond the building and into their local community. What started as a small step has become a regular rhythm of connection, prayer, and sharing the Gospel — with encouraging results.

You’ve spoken about sensing God calling you to “remove the church walls.” What did that mean in practice?

“It was probably about four years ago, after praying about our ministry and local community, that I sensed God saying we needed to be more visible — a church without walls.

Obviously we couldn’t physically remove the building, so we simply moved outside. We set up a table offering free refreshments — tea, coffee, cold drinks — with things like chocolates, biscuits, hot cross buns or mince pies depending on the time of year.

There’s always the opportunity for prayer, and we often give a small gift or some Christian material.”

Over time, that’s included:

Roses with scripture at Valentine’s
Candles or plants for Mother’s Day
Ice creams in the summer
Christmas baubles with Bible verses
And this Easter, copies of Luke or John’s Gospel

“We’ve also shared Alpha, The Chosen, trypraying booklets and Hope magazines — all through a really simple act of moving the church outside.”

How have people responded?

“People have been incredibly positive. Some want to make a donation — which isn’t what it’s about — others share their struggles, ask for prayer, or tell us how blessed they’ve been.

Often people ask why we’re doing it, which gives us the opportunity to share.”

Are there any moments that have particularly encouraged you?

“I absolutely love this ministry, so every time we do it is an encouragement.

One moment that stands out was a really hot day one August — we gave away around 250 cold drinks and ice lollies, had some great conversations, prayed with people, and hopefully demonstrated God’s love in a simple way.”

They now head out around six times a year, and relationships are starting to form.

“We’re beginning to connect with people who live and work nearby — people who regularly walk past our building.”

What will you be sharing this Easter?

“A copy of Luke or John's Gospel — and praying that it leads to some great conversations.”

Why have resources like the Gospels and Alive Newspaper been so effective?

“They’re quality publications, and we want to give people something that really points them to Jesus.

It’s not just a beautiful book — it’s God’s living word, with the power to change lives.”

What would you say to churches wanting to try something similar?

“Go for it and see what God does — it’s so simple.

Even if you don’t have the budget for gifts or resources, just be present. It’s an amazing way to engage with your local community — people who might otherwise just walk by.

I’d also encourage churches to work together.”

Take It Outside This Easter

Inspired to give it a go?

Our Eyewitness Gospels and Alive Magazine are ideal for simple, everyday outreach — helping people encounter Jesus in a way that’s accessible and engaging.

👉 Order your resources from the Hope Together Shop
👉 Start with something simple — a table, a conversation, a moment of prayer