A fascinating report has recently been published by the Bible Society. It is long (and attached with this article) but these are the key findings:1. 12% of adults stated they attended a Christian Church at least monthly in 2024. This compares with 8% in 2018.2. The 18-24 year old age group has seen the greatest increase, going from 4% in 2018 to 16% in 2024.3. 63% of 18–34-year-old churchgoers say they feel close to people in their local area, compared to 25% of non-churchgoers their age. "With much of the population, in particular young people, struggling with mental health, loneliness and a loss of meaning in life, Church appears to be offering an answer. We found that churchgoers are more likely than non-churchgoers to report higher life satisfaction and a greater feeling of connection to their community than non-churchgoers. They are also less likely to report frequently feeling anxious or depressed – particularly young women."
Patches of meadow saxifrage are springing up over much of the rear of our churchyard. These small white flowers are now sadly uncommon in England, with their strongholds being mainly the undisturbed and unimproved land of old cemeteries.Also known as Fair Maids of France, they flower from April through May, holding their dainty white heads about six inches above the leaves and dance in the breeze.If you visit the churchyard, you will find a notice with further information on these beautiful residents of Charlton.#EcoChurch #wildflowers #ChurchesCountOnNature
We had a glorious procession to the Church, complete with Zebedee the Donkey. Waving palms and tambourines, a band of villagers walked from the South end of Lower Road to All Saints', in Spring sunshine, singing Hosannah as we walked.Maggie Metcalfe led a short and informal service of hymns and readings, ably accompanied by Arthur on the organ. Parishioners from 2 to 90 enjoyed the child-friendly service, and we were pleased to welcome newcomers to the Church.#SingHosannah! #ChalkeValleyChurch #CharltonAllSaints
Local artist Geraldine Rutter has donated use of her beautiful pen and ink drawing of the West face of All Saints' Church. With generous sponsorship from another parishioner, we have turned this into a postcard which is for sale to help raise funds for the restoration of our Church.A real bargain at 50p each!If you like this card, you might like to collect the full set of all four cards, by visiting St Peter's in Britford, St Mary's in Odstock and St Andrew's in Nunton.
