St. Mary's came alive to the sounds of string instruments on Saturday 14th September to a nearly sold out event, skilfully and energetically delivered by four exceptional and world-class musicians. "Astonishing", "the best music I have ever heard played at St. Mary's" " I was transfixed" were some of the comments overheard at the end of the concert. The quartet performed three pieces by Haydn, Mozart and Schubert - all favourite examples. The Haydn was all sunshine, the Mozart more introspective and the Schubert (Death and the Maiden) dramatic. The Carducci performed all three with their trademark joy and subtlety. They held the audience in dramatic suspense until the very end and once released the audience gave rapturous applause, some with standing ovation. We are truly grateful to the Carducci Quartet for playing in aid of St. Marys. To date we estimate that this concert alone has contributed over £4000 to the church and this is likely to be added to through some generous donation and contribution from refreshments and programme sales. This concert would not have been possible without the time, direction and skill of the small organising committee and the army of volunteers on the night. Thank you to all involved and we are seeking able volunteers to help plan the next one for anyone with a passion for event organisation.
From Heather GortonMy last newsletter. Thank you for all your support over the years.I am not leaving Fairford so you will still see me around! I have worked with Michelle (who does Fridays in the office) for many years. It has been a real pleasure to work with her. She is also leaving when they have my replacement and I wish her many happy years in retirement. Thank you to all who have contributed to the Newsletter over the past year. I rely on articles for the bumper issue so do please keep sending them in. My special thanks to Alison Hobson who keeps us up to date with past articles on the History Society which are always so interesting to Ann Nicholls for her weekly prayers and to Ingrid Morris who sends in her photos of the church and the area.
We are delighted to announce that St Mary’s has recently achieved a Silver Award in the A Rocha Eco Church Scheme. This follows on from our Bronze Award in May 2022.The award could not have been achieved without the involvement and encouragement of many people, and we are extremely grateful for everyone’s input, particularly in the churchyard.We shall be having a little break from the scheme now, but will continue with Eco Church activities, as action to prevent Climate Change and biodiversity loss is too important to be put on hold. Janet Edwards
Heating in Church Those who have visited our church since Christmas have most probably noticed that the indoor temperature is now much lower than we were accustomed to. Over the last three years we have enjoyed a very reasonable gas rate, but because gas is so much more expensive now, we cannot afford to keep the heating on every day. The PCC have therefore decided to turn the heating down to a minimum to save money. The church will now be heated for services and routine church activities, but at other times we suggest that you wrap up warm.
