Parish of Finchampstead and California

It was a huge pleasure to be part of the events marking this year’s St James’ Day over the weekend, and our first here as a family. It was a resounding success, especially so considering the challenging circumstances and the changeable weather. From the musical performances and the sing-along on Friday, to the fete on Saturday, there was plenty to savour.

Big congratulations to the team who made it all happen, both individually and collectively. Particular mention ought to be made of the social team, the choir and musicians, and the flower team. We also mustn’t forget the stall contributors and holders, as well as all the various logistical helpers. We can’t underestimate the work you’ve all put in over the months of planning and organising, and through the weekend. A huge thank you and congratulations to you all.

I must say that I was particularly impressed by the management of the weather; keeping the rain at bay, bringing out the sun at the right moments, and for just the right length of time. Very impressive indeed noting that the Rector was not as success-ful as you with the plans for an outdoor service on Sunday!

I would also like to thank everyone who participated and gave generously across the weekend. You know that without you the event would not be what it was and has been over the years. The teams were able to raise a good amount of money over the weekend. Thank you all very much.

With every blessing,
Leonard

9.30am Family service at St James’ Church Centre:
Running only on 8th August, then every week from 5th September.

There is no need to book your place for these services.

Coffee and breakfast items available.

We plan to say a belated farewell to Canon Julie and David in person at a tea party at St. James’ on the afternoon on Sunday 5 September.

Everyone is most welcome.

Further details will follow.

A fun interactive all age service. Meets at Hazebrouk Meadow off Biggs Lane (next to the Bat house)

No booking required. Bring a picnic to share afterwards if the weather is good https://www.steligius.church/1/Home

The current arrangements for church services will continue in the short term whilst we take time to carefully consider the new guidelines and how they might best be applied in our churches and buildings.

In person services (except Family Services) should still be booked by using the Eventbrite link https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/office-33226759523

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

We are very blessed to be in a position to be able to live stream services form St Eligius fortnightly in the future. However, we really do need a team to help with this if it is to be sustainable.

Could you please pray and see if you feel you would like to join a small team to help with this vital ministry.

While some technical ability is an advantage the main training will cover all that you need to know. If you would like to join the team or require further information, then contact Tonia. tonia@steligius.church

Because of the continuing Covid restrictions, our AGM, planned for Thursday 8 July will now take place in September.

We still plan to celebrate our founder Mary Sumner’s birthday with a picnic at 1pm on Thursday 12 August, at St James’ Church Centre, using the centre’s tables and chairs but bring everything else for your picnic. It will be so nice to get together, albeit in a different format as it has been so long since we last met.

Your MU committee

On behalf of the PCC may I very sincerely thank everyone who has made a one- off donation and/or increased their regular committed giving to church.

There was an excellent response in one off donations. We expect the total amount given will cover our losses in 2020 of £43,000 and contribute significantly to our estimate of ongoing losses during 2021.

There has also been a good response by increased regular giving, assisting our planning for this year and the future.

If you still wish to contribute, please do so by our Patronal weekend when our appeal will close.

Best wishes Robert Alder. Planned Giving Coordinator. robert@alder.ndo.co.uk

We are pleased to be able to open St James’ church for private individual prayer between 10am and 12 Noon on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday of each week.

Pandemic safety precautions continue to apply. Please follow the instructions in church.

A gentle reminder, thanks, and an offer to assist.

Firstly, thank you so much to all who have already made gifts in response to our special request at the beginning of March about the very great financial impact of the pandemic on our church and its future plans.

To those who have not yet replied and you have been thinking about this and intending to respond, by increasing you existing regular gift, starting to give, and/or making a specific donation but have not yet done so, please do find the time to reply over the next few days.
There will be a stock take of progress and an update for everyone next week. It would be a very great help to those working to secure our finances to hear from you. Please do help if you can, in whatever way is possible at this really difficult time for the whole parish.

If you would like the paperwork done on your behalf please do contact me by email or phone. Every good wish. Robert Alder. Giving and gift aid advisor and administrator. robert@alder.ndo.co.uk 01189 734904.

Bank instruction forms are available on request. For convenience, our bank details are:
CAF Bank Sort Code 40-52-40,
Account number 00013727
PCC of Finchampstead and California.