The Friends of Christ Church Charity Christmas Market ReturnsThe Friends of Christ Church are once again organising the Charity Christmas Market on Saturday 22nd November at Christ Church, Old Town.This very popular outreach event is being opened by the Mayor and Father Christmas in the church at 11am and will finish at 2.30pm.Lots of charities are participating.Refreshments including mulled wine and hot food will be available to purchase.There will be face painting, the church choir will sing carols in the community centre at 1.30pm and in the church at 2pm.The bell tower will be open for tours – book when you get there. Find our more on our Facebook Event page HERE
Christ Church Celebrates Becoming a Fairtrade Place of WorshipWe are delighted to announce that Christ Church has been officially recognised as a Fairtrade Place of Worship! This award reflects our commitment as a congregation to make ethical choices in what we buy and use, showing care for global neighbours and standing for justice in the systems behind the products we consume every day.As part of this commitment, we will be using Fairtrade products wherever possible, beginning with tea, coffee, sugar, and hot chocolate at our after-service refreshments. Over time, we hope to extend this to more of the products used across church life, so that together we can truly “Act Justly” in all we do.Fairtrade Fortnight 2025: Do it FairFairtrade Fortnight runs from Monday 22nd September until 5th October, and this year the campaign is all about “Do it Fair”. Over these fourteen days, people across the UK are celebrating the difference we can make when we choose Fairtrade and calling for a fairer system for farmers and workers worldwide.At Christ Church, we are joining this movement by introducing Fairtrade tea, coffee, sugar, and hot chocolate to our post-service refreshments this Sunday. We invite everyone to support this initiative, enjoy a Fairtrade cuppa, and help spread the word. If you would like to donate Fairtrade products to help us in this effort, that would be warmly welcomed.This is an exciting step for our church family as we live out our faith through practical actions, care for creation, and support for ethical trade. Let’s take this journey together and make a difference, one cup at a time.
Growing in GenerosityDear Friends,Nicola and I are so grateful for all you are and all you give towards the life and ministry of Christ Church with St Mary’s. Over 27 years, we have seen God’s love transform lives, and we continue to give thanks for those whose legacy inspires us today.This year our PCC has been encouraged by real spiritual fruit as we seek to live out our vision of being Christ’s presence in our community. Our verse for the year reminds us: “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God” (Romans 8:14). Together we are saints in the making, following Jesus into new adventures.As part of our annual stewardship campaign, we invite everyone to read the Growing in Generosity booklet. Please take time to prayerfully review your financial giving—whether increasing a pledge or starting for the first time through the Parish Giving Scheme. Your support enables us to grow the Christian faith locally and to contribute to the wider work of our Deanery and Diocese.The booklet is available HEREWith our love and prayers,Simon and Nicola
Ride + Stride 2025 – Records Broken and Memories HonouredOn Saturday 13th September, members of Christ Church once again joined the annual Wiltshire Ride + Stride, raising funds both for our own church and for the Wiltshire Historic Churches Trust. This year was full of amazing achievements, heartfelt tributes, and inspiring community spirit.Record-breaking effortsWe are delighted to share that Jacob Smith (age 12) and his dad, Chris, broke their own record this year – visiting an astonishing 50 churches (up from 46 last year) and cycling an impressive 67 miles in one day!Meanwhile, Carol walked an incredible 23 miles – almost a marathon distance – while visiting 26 churches. Despite suffering with painful feet by the end, she was determined to complete her challenge this year as a tribute to Arline Stovell, who faithfully championed Ride + Stride at Christ Church for many years before her recent passing.Steve also set a personal milestone, completing his longest ever solo ride. Starting in Wroughton, he cycled through Avebury, Marlborough, Chilton Foliat, Aldbourne, Chiseldon and back to Christ Church, covering 65 miles and visiting 23 churches across the Marlborough Deanery.A community effortThe day was made possible not only by the riders and walkers, but also by the wonderful volunteers who welcomed participants at Christ Church throughout the day. A very special thanks goes to Jennifer Miles, who has taken on the mantle of Event Organiser from Arline Stovell. We are deeply grateful for Jennifer’s dedication and for the way she continues this important tradition with such care.Still time to supportTogether, our team has shown remarkable commitment – and there’s still time to support their efforts. Donations can be made through our JustGiving page:👉 Christ Church Community Centre Ride & Stride Team 2025Every pound raised helps to preserve Wiltshire’s historic churches for generations to come, while also supporting the mission and ministry of Christ Church.Looking aheadRide + Stride is always a highlight in our church calendar – a chance to challenge ourselves, build community, and celebrate our county’s wonderful church heritage. We give thanks for all who took part this year, and we look forward with anticipation to Ride + Stride 2026!
