Inclusive and creative in Margate
17 February 2026
Union Methodist / URC Church Margate is an Inclusive Church that has flourished alongside the renaissance of the seaside town that is its home.
Nostalgia for Margate’s long‑faded heydays of the past has given way to a renewed sense of possibility. Street cafés, artist communities and a vibrant creative scene now shape the town’s identity. When the Turner Contemporary Gallery opened in 2011, it didn’t simply rejuvenate Margate; it helped transform its direction and personality. That same spirit of renewal has shaped Union Church, helping it become a place where the local LGBTQ+ community can worship.
A few years ago, Union Church was facing declining membership and rising costs.
Several older members shared painful stories of their children or grandchildren being rejected by other churches because of their sexuality.
“It was clear that we wanted all those young people, and anyone else from the LGBTQ+ communities, to know that there is at least one Christian venue in Margate where they will always be welcome, whoever they are,” says Chris Butler, Senior Steward Elder.
Joining the Inclusive Church network became a turning point. The decision was unanimous at the church meeting and affirmed a foundational belief: that everyone is loved and welcomed exactly as they are.
Chris continues, “Seeing a diverse and relaxed range of cheerful people when you come in means not feeling like you’re the odd one out. Chatting after church to new people, having a range of speakers, and seeing different people leading readings, music or prayers at the front really makes a difference.”
The church has even had some unexpected visitors. “We had Madonna pop in a few weeks ago, along with her friend Tracey Emin. It feels surreal knowing a music legend sat at the front of the church, the same spot where the nativity scene had been just weeks before.”
For Union Church, being an inclusive church brings vibrancy. “Our church is more dynamic, more interesting, with a wider range of faith expressions, a wider age range, and more ideas to share and explore. Being actively and purposefully inclusive has had a radically positive impact on our church life,” says Morag Butler a church member who also runs a music venue in Margate..
Creativity has long been at the heart of the church’s engagement with the community. “The walls are adorned with tapestries and cross‑stitch pieces made by people in the congregation,” Morag explains. “Recently we’ve taken part in Margate‑wide art trails, hosting local artists and welcoming anyone to step through the doors and explore the church as a home for art and creativity alongside faith.”
Word of mouth travels fast. At Margate Pride, Union Church stood proudly with its queer congregants, showing the wider community that at least one church in the area is unambiguously for them and with them.
“At the heart of it, God is love,” says Chris. “Any expression of love and inclusion is an expression of God. Jesus reached out to people from all walks of life, all ages, all backgrounds. So must we.”