Friends of St Mary's
The Friends of St Mary's
A big thank you to everyone who has and continues to support the Friends in all our fundraising efforts.
2024 was another busy year for the Friends and, as always, a delight to run events which attract people outside normal worship and raise some money into the bargain. One of the highlights of 2024 was an Autumn Concert, featuring a new work by the composer Ben Ponniah, performed by the Woodbridge Choral Society and the St Mary’s Church Choir under the charismatic direction of James Davy. The event raised well over £1,000.
Other events included a ‘Words and Music’ cameo (thanks to Sue Smith Lyte and Sir Nick Young); a royally connected guest speaker, Sir Stephen Lamport, (thanks again to Sir Nick) and the ever popular Joyspring (thanks to Romy and Darrell).
Alongside these events, we also supported the Church Summer & Christmas Fairs, and provided mulled wine & mince pies during the town Christmas Carols on Market Square.
In addition to funds raised at events, the Friends also received a very generous donation of £4,000 from the late Bertie Fried.
At the AGM in March, Friends Treasurer Michael noted £14,000 of unspent restricted Friends funds in the church account and this has been earmarked for current Quinquennial refurbishment items, including tower restoration and a much-needed new lightning conductor.
NEXT EVENTS
AGM - Wednesday 19th March at 6pm
Sunday 4th May at 3pm - A piano recital by Jill Crossland.
Please come along and bring your friends!
Some of our events
Just a taste of some of our past events, which include Joyspring Jazz, Tango Innominando, a talk from Nick Young, and a celebration for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, 'Celebrate 70'. Some photos, too, of the beautiful building that is St Mary's Church.
To become a Friend
Please pick up one of the cards at the back of church, or get in touch via the Parish Office by completing the form below.