Despite the generosity of our parishioners and that of the many visitors who come to St Mary’s from far and wide to enjoy her beauty, for many years now, our expenses have outweighed our income. This means that we have to draw on our reserves almost on a monthly basis. If these reserves are not replenished, the future of our church will be very uncertain.
The daily cost of running St Mary’s is £377 per day. These costs comprise energy, insurance, repair to, and maintenance of the building, mowing of the churchyard, the salary of a youth worker, cost of services, our Parish Share to the Diocese, etc.
Income comes mainly from donations by parishioners and visitors, pastoral fees, such as weddings and funerals and Gift Aid refunds from HMRC. But, as mentioned, this is not enough to cover our expenses.
For these reasons we ask you to please consider giving generously to help us to continue and develop our mission, worship and service to the community, and to keep St Mary’s doors open, now and in the future, for anyone who crosses her threshold for their personal reasons. No contribution is too small and every gift will be gratefully received and wisely spent.
For all financial gifts offered to our church,
for blessings offered to be a blessing to others,
for sacrifices made to further mission and
enable us to be Christ in the world
We give you thanks, O God.
Updated 30th August 2024