Membership

Supporter Members (usually just known as Members) indicate their backing for the Othona Community Mission Statement:

“Othona is an open and inclusive Community rooted in the Christian faith, drawing on a wealth of other inspirations. We welcome people of all ages, abilities, backgrounds and beliefs to our Centres on the quiet coasts of Essex and Dorset. Sharing in the daily rhythm of work, worship, study and play, we seek personal renewal and glimpses of the sacred. In community we explore the relationship between faith and life, encouraging one another in caring for the world and its people.”

Members can be involved in Othona activities at many levels, from serving on the board of trustees, to attending one or both of the centres, to supporting us at a distance by thought, prayer and donation. They receive regular bulletins about the community and can take part in occasional ‘members events’. (To take part in the vast majority of Othona events, no membership is necessary.)

If you would like to be a be a member or would like more information please email us.

The Nails

Bradwell and Burton Bradstock have their own centre logos but the symbol of the Othona Community, the founding Charity itself, is a cross of nails and it is an important part of our heritage. They originated from the Nails Movement in the second world war and the original cross of nails from Coventry Cathedral. Our founder Norman Motley gave them to groups of service men and women who were being sent on duty all over the world. To Norman the Nails represented the hope that if they returned from the war they would work together for a better and more peaceful world. It was from this spirit that the Othona Community developed.

Anyone who feels they have a deep commitment to Othona and would like a tangible symbol of the Community to reflect that commitment is welcome to apply for the Nails. They are not a prerequisite for membership or part of membership.

Their possession is an indication of the holder’s commitment to follow the way of Jesus Christ, and readiness to accept responsibility and service within the Community. They are not a test of orthodoxy but a mark of service and willingness to live for others in a world too often living for itself.

If you would like to receive your own Nails please email us email us.

The Annual Meeting

You are very welcome to attend our Annual Meeting held in September each year – whether you are a member or not.

NEXT ANNUAL MEETING:
Sat 19th Sept 2026
10.30am to 12noon

Details will be supplied closer to the date.