Even if you are not religious, the benefice churches are a core part of the community. They organise many events and activities, such as parish council meetings, children's events, food bank collections, charity fundraisers, fairs, and dinners. There is always something for everyone to get involved in.
But the Bible calls the faithful to help others in need:
"If anyone has material possessions and ignores his brother in need, how can he love God?"
So many Christians work to help their communities become better places to live. They see this as putting their Christian faith into action.
Food banks are just one way in which the Church helps in the local community.
Poverty, homelessness, loneliness, hunger and lack of access to good public services.
Mental and physical health issues, financial troubles, poor spiritual growth, disillusionment.
Cost of living, overstretched social services, isolation and destitution.
Rural churches have problems with declining and elderly congregations, expensive maintenance and little opportunity for diversification away from solely religious spaces, outdated communication, and rural depopulation.
We have been lucky to have dedicated volunteers and generous donations to complete this essential work, however many churches are still in a difficult position. It is everyone's duty, whether religious or not, to help preserve our heritage.
Please visit the following websites to see what's going on around the benefice. We have everything from café mornings to badminton and craft clubs!
This website contains lots of interesting information about the local area's history and community life. Monthly articles are published.