Community meetings have been organised in a last-ditch attempt to save Penryn Methodist Church from closure.

Two community events will be held at the church this coming week to drum up support for the church which is a focal point in the town. The meetings on Wednesday (20th) and Thursday (21st) have been called as the building could close and be sold off.

Rev Andrew Mumford, superintendent minister for Falmouth and Gwennap Methodist Circuit said Penryn Methodist is facing challenges similar to many other churches with an aging congregation of small numbers, and the building becoming increasingly difficult to sustain. There are issues to do with the fabric of the building that needs rectifying.

"At present, the congregation is unable to raise sufficient to cover outgoings. Without greater support from the community, remaining in the current building is not a viable option," Mumford told Nub News.

An open meeting for anyone within the community has been arranged. It will be repeated so that as many people as possible have the opportunity to attend. The two occasions are Wednesday 20th April at 7pm and Thursday 21st at 2pm, both in the church.

Rev Mumford added:

"Penryn Methodist Church occupies a position right in the heart of the town. It has been a focal point for civic events as well as worship for over a century. Many residents of Penryn were baptised or married there, and people still choose to have their funeral services there as the place they regard as their spiritual home.

"At present, no decision has been made about the future of the church. However, there is a possibility of another group leasing the old school rooms behind the main church. For this to happen, the longer-term future of the congregation needs to be secure.

"The people of Penryn are invited to share their views on this. In essence, do they want the church to continue in its present location and format? If so, what are they prepared to do to ensure its continuance? If not, what do they want?"

A poster outside of the church on Lower Market Street reads:

"Anyone who could attend a fortnightly service to build up our congregation, help with repairs, give a donation, help with fundraising, or would be interested in hiring our church space. Please attend to give any ideas and make your feelings known, this is our last chance."