Communication was the priority at our first event organised specifically for the Friends of St Gabriel’s, a Spring Coffee Morning with cake stall and raffle. It took place on Saturday 6th April and offered a chance for me to meet those Friends able to come, and to put faces to names of those who have received written communications monthly from St Gabriel’s in the form of magazines and cards posted through their letterboxes. Until then, I had not met some of our Friends face to face, and they had not enjoyed the opportunity to meet each other. It was a chance to talk informally about what everyone hoped to gain from being a Friend and what they were able to offer to St Gabriel’s, as well as to thank them for their support.

The response was overwhelmingly positive with Friends appreciating the regular news from St Gabriel’s and the invitations to events which may be of interest. A happy atmosphere prevailed as everyone enjoyed refreshments, biscuits and cake while chatting. Many thanks to all those who baked, donated raffle prizes, helped set up or clear away – or all of the above! The sale of cakes, Friends pens and raffle tickets raised £239. As no expenses were taken, all of this will enable the Friends of St Gabriel’s to support more Church development and maintenance. We were also pleased to welcome a new member, bringing our total to 63 Friends.

Advance notice In the light of such a successful event, please note in your diaries that we intend holding Saturday Friends’ Coffee Mornings each season, the next ones being on 14th September and, in 2025, 18th January. It would be lovely to see you there, enjoying the morning and possibly offering to help too. All are welcome!

Along with the April magazine and an invitation to the Coffee Morning, Friends received an Easter card and, for local members, a small chocolate treat, as a personal thank you from me for their on-going membership. Friends were invited to Mothering Sunday and Easter services and events, Lent Lunches and the first quiz organized by our new social committee. Friends of St Gabriel’s are warmly invited to all events at St Gabriel’s – they are publicised in our magazines, on our Noticeboards and on our website. It would be lovely to see more Friends, especially at our social events.

Many thanks to all of you for your on-going interest and support.

Anne Pickering.