Portscatho United Church, The Lugger, Portscatho TR2 5HN
Grid reference: SW 87637 35216
Website: portscathounitedchurch.uk
Webmaster: Joanne Appleton, Secetary 

The Chapel was founded by William Billing, born in 1793 in Gorran Haven. He arrived in Portscatho as a young man but already a master seiner, a position of considerable importance in the pilchard industry – the major occupation in the village at the time.

In 1825 he married Elizabeth Odgers of Portscatho whose family leased land in the Capefield. He built the independent Chapel here in 1822 at his own expense. His ministry was confirmed in 1825, where he continued until his death aged 59.  He is buried under the pulpit, marked by a plaque.

In 1864 plans were made to enlarge the building and to provide a Sunday School. This was achieved through public subscription and the Grand Reopening in the summer of 1867 was reported in the Royal Cornwall Gazette of the 4^th of July.
In 1891, during the Great Blizzard, the Chapel lost not only its secretary Thomas Peters who died at sea when his schooner ‘Rose’ sank off Land’s End with all hands, but also the chapel’s records which he had taken with him for safe keeping.
The glorious stained glass windows in the church are dedicated to the memory of Rev E. Sidney Bardgett who died in 1959.  There are also a number of plaques and memorials to former minsters and members inside and on the exterior of the Chapel.
When the Congregationalists and Presbyterians united in 1972, the Chapel became part of the United Reformed Church.

Becoming the ‘United Church’
In 1987, Gerrans Methodists could no longer maintain their large Chapel. The Methodist congregation joined this church, now renamed ‘The United Church’.
Soon after this, a survey confirmed significant structural problems. The interior was completely refurbished: the sanctuary was turned 90 degrees enabling the stained glass windows to be a focus for worship and a small pipe organ donated by another Methodist Chapel.  

The Retreat at Portscatho
As the chapel family reflected on the beauty of the Chapel’s setting, a vision began to emerge. How would it be, if this church could become a church for those who do not live in the village as well as for those who do?  And so the vision for The Retreat at Portscatho began to grow. 

Each day The Retreat opens its doors to welcome visitors and to share hospitality, There is a hot drink available, a comfortable welcome, and prayer and reflections resources to sit awhile in the peaceful presence of God. Through The Retreat, we extend a ministry of hospitality to all who come.