You’re in the right place.
Waterside Bethel is a small, non-denominational Christian fellowship based at The Henry Cook Centre in Gosport. We’re not your average church — and we don’t pretend to be. Many of us have lived through real struggles: trauma, mental health challenges, learning difficulties, addiction, or simply feeling like outsiders. But here, you are accepted, just as you are.
We’re a diverse group of around 20 people (give or take) — some lifelong believers, others still figuring it all out. What unites us is Jesus and God’s definition of Love through the Holy Spirit. That love meets us where we are, comforts us in our confusion, and helps us take each day one step at a time — alone and together.
If you’ve ever felt too different, too broken, or too unsure for traditional churches, we want you to know: you belong here.
Waterside Bethel traces its origins back to 2001, when it began as Waterside Community Church, formed by a small group of local Christians who wanted to create a welcoming space outside of rigid religious structures. The heart of their vision was simple — to build a church that felt like family, grounded in love, faith and honest fellowship.
In 2017, that vision deepened when the leadership reconnected with the historic legacy of Henry Cook — a missionary who once served seafarers, orphans, and the poor in Gosport and beyond. Cook’s approach was radical for its time: deeply practical, profoundly spiritual, and always rooted in love for the marginalised. Inspired by his story, the church sought to revive this mission in a modern way.
By 2021, the community embraced the name Waterside Bethel — “Bethel” meaning House of God — and aligned its identity with both the church’s heart and the broader outreach of The Henry Cook Centre.
Today, Waterside Bethel (and its current expression, the Waterside Support Group) meets every two weeks on Sundays, gathering for open, informal sessions of prayer, worship, Bible exploration, and heartfelt conversation.
We’re not formal. We don’t have fancy robes or sermons on a timer. Our meetings are honest, heartfelt, and sometimes a bit messy — but always rooted in faith, hope, and love. (as symbolised in the Henry Cook Centre Logo)
We welcome:
We often interrupt each other, sometimes go off track — and that’s okay. We believe God works through real people, not polished presentations. Our shared focus is Jesus — and living out His love in a way that brings healing, honesty, and community.
At Waterside Bethel, we don’t believe church is about ticking boxes. It’s about transformation, relationship, and service.
We aim to:
Our mission reflects the very heartbeat of The Henry Cook Centre: to help the poor and needy of Gosport, while advancing and embodying the Gospel in everyday life.
The Waterside Support Group (formerly Waterside Bethel members) continue to meet every two weeks on Sundays, whilst awaiting an appointment of a new Pastor
Dates and times are confirmed by our volunteer serving team.
Subject to change without notice.
Opening Times:
1st & 15th February: 2pm – 4pm
1st, 15th & 29th March: 2pm – 4pm
12th & 26th April: 2pm – 4pm
10th & 24th May: 2pm – 4pm
You’re welcome to come along, whether it’s your first time in church or just your first time in a while. There’s no pressure to speak, pray aloud, or do anything you’re uncomfortable with. Just come as you are.
Our fellowship extends beyond Sunday meetings. We’re here during the week in other ways too — offering listening ears, practical support, and a community that cares.
We believe that church isn’t something you attend, it’s something you live. Through our connection with The Henry Cook Centre, we remain committed to being a presence of love and light in Gosport — reaching out to the lonely, the hurting, and the overlooked.
