At present, for various reasons, both of our churches are experiencing a decline in financial giving. This is partly due to a decline in attendance and new people coming to faith. It is imperative and our priority that we follow Jesus’ command (The Great Commission –Matthew 28: 18-20) and reach out to those in our communities and invite them to know the love of Jesus and how His love is transforming and peace giving. We can do this through social events and by offering new worship activities. We need money to do these things.
Both churches have lost significant regular givers, and we thank God for their life of faith. The day- to-day running costs of our churches have increased. Just as in our homes, our fuel bills, water costs have risen. As public buildings we are bound by Health and Safety Regulations for PAT tests, lightening conductor tests, fire extinguisher tests and so much more to keep our buildings safe. We rely heavily on fundraising to support our running costs.
We are grateful for all financial gifts and understand we each give what we can. May I take this opportunity to ask if it is possible for any of us to make a one-off donation to your church on Sunday? Please pop your gift into an envelope and place it on the offertory plate.
If you are a regular giver, by Standing Order, may I ask how long it is since you reviewed your giving? Can I ask you to consider joining the Parish Giving Scheme? This scheme is similar to Standing Orders, but it gives a monthly Gift Aid return to our churches, saving much time for our Treasurers, who are volunteers with their time. You can find out much more information by clicking the link below. Please do have a read.
And finally, are you one of the 6 out of 10 people who has not made a Will, or did you make it several years ago and your circumstances have changed? For nearly 500 years the Church of England has encouraged people to make a Will. Without a Will, your loved ones could face a lot of trouble, work and expense after your death. Without a Will, a court could decide how to distribute your goods and who should look after your children or dependents.
When writing your Will, you also have the opportunity to include a gift in your will to your local church. This type of gift can be given for a specific item, such as a stained glass window, internal decorations, new pew Bibles, or more generally to specify that your gift is used for outreach and mission (and NOT to pay bills!). For more information, please contact Simon Parker (St Anne’s) or Carol Jackson (St John’s) or visit the Church of England Legacy website Church Legacy | The Church of England
Please get in touch with me either on Sundays or via email if you would like to discuss further [email protected]