It’s so popular that people arrive an hour before it starts, car-share to beat the rush for parking, and send attendance figures through the roof. What is it? Soul Café. St Paul’s in Chester Green, Derby, is the scene of unprecedented activity on the first Sunday evening of each month. The pews are moved back, a stage set, café tables cloaked in gingham, and a steady stream of those in the know pick their places for an evening of music, film, poems, coffee, cake and conversation.
 | | Harbour Lights entertain at Soul Cafe |
You’d think you were walking into a folk club, or a pub, such is the buzz as you enter. But, as Reverend Michael Mitton would tell you, they’re not licensed - except to kill those old clichés about Church being boring. Sue James, curate at St Paul’s, came up with the idea, along with Phil Baggaley and the musicians of Harbour Lights who regularly play there. People travel from miles away, tipped off by friends; other ministers come for a spot of espionage – to see what’s attracting such attention. You’d be welcome too, though you’d best arrive early for their 8 till 10 session. Soul café is just one way people are shaping their own experiences of Church - adding the inventive to the traditional with stylish success. | 
