St John’s has stood at the crossroads in the village since 1852. A loyal congregation has for years worshipped there. Countless couples have married there, baptised their children there, funerals for loved ones have been held there, and celebrations for national and village life have brought us all together, and will do so again, when this is all over. In addition, the church community works closely with the primary school next door.
It is customary to hold a fundraising appeal for parish funds on or near the patronal festival of the church at Kidmore End. For 2020, we celebrate the birth of John the Baptist on Sunday 21st June.
In normal times, the church would be open to welcome visitors on Gift Day with coffee and a chat, music and flowers. This year, of course, that is not possible. But Gift Day is important to raise funds for the church (which, in our parish, includes the church of Christ the King in Sonning Common), so we can keep going as a Christian community in our villages.
Did you know that it costs well over £1000 a week to run the buildings and pay the clergy? If we were to cover all our costs completely, it would actually cost £1700 a week. We don’t have those funds, but with your help, we can try and reach these goals. Every year we fall short, so long-term projects we would like to do with any surplus just don’t get done – despite the sterling work of a stalwart band of volunteers.
The Church Council will use any money we receive from this appeal in full towards retaining and enriching the lives of our communities. Church closures this year have dealt an especial blow to income. Please will you consider this appeal and give what you can?
If you are a UK taxpayer the church can apply for Gift Aid to increase your donation by 25%, with no impact on yourself other than completing a Gift Aid form, which you can download below.
Click here to download your Gift Aid donation form.
If you would like more information about the church in this place, please see our website or contact the clergy.
To join the Parish Electoral Roll, to propose a grant, or to leave a legacy to the church, or to become a regular giver, please e mail rks.benefice@gmail.com.