Did you know? St Mary’s in Ash Vale is a relatively small church, but with a very big heart for our communtiy. We do not receive central funding but instead we are funded by church members, other generous donors, and some of our projects rely on grants and fundraising too.
This means that every year, we rely on local people – whether you come here on a Sunday or not – to help keep us to keep the church and our projects open for the community. Every cuppa, every hour of heating, every bulk delivery for the foodbank, every party bag, every leaflet, our water and electric, our staff – it all needs funding either by donations in kind or through generous financial contributions, so we can pay the bills. The joy in all this, is when we see the whole community coming together, to support this work for the community, in the community.
2025 was amazing! We delivered 1560 food parcels last year, feeding 4600 people. We served 30-40 people every week at community cafe and chapel cafe, welcomed 40+ people to the toddler groups each week, and saw many more friends old and new for church services, sundayschool, study groups, special church services… We also welcomed the whole community for Pancake day, picnic and play, Summer Fair, the light party and Christingle. We even managed to replace the ageing boiler, thanks to all of those who gave so generously. So we are already excited to see what happens in 2026!
2026 looks like a challenge financially though. We do very seriously need to ask you to please: review your financial support in 2026, consider carefully what you feel moved and able to give, and if possible make a commitment to donate regularly because this really helps us to budget and enables us to plan ahead. Your giving can keep our doors open and the community groups thriving.
We also need to say this – If you can manage to chip in, we do need help, but if you can’t this time, we of course understand too. Please do not worry if you can’t donate. Our groups and projects are for everyone, whether you can contribute or not. The beauty of church community life is that quite often these initiatives join up people with the time but no funds, and people with the funds and no time, those who can serve, and those who need help… and somehow it all comes together beautifully. Join in with what’s happening this year in whatever way works for you, and watch God at work!
Give a little donations link: https://givealittle.co/c/2BhuU1JZBDk3OoiZQKBAqk
Thank you for your support.
