Our heritage festival was a huge success and a massive thank you goes to everyone who helped! There were teams cleaning, preparing and decorating the buildings and grounds, people baking and making, organising vendors, attractions, advertising etc. There were people manning stalls and volunteering to help on the day, clearing up, counting money, and so on. The whole event was a real coming together of church and wider community and was funded entirely by a grant from heritage lottery fund. Whilst it was NOT designed as a fundraiser over £1300 was donated towards the building project.

On the day we enjoyed: Archery, Birds of prey, Mini market crafts and a children’s play area. We were refreshed and nourished by a hog roast, tea, coffee and homemade cakes and biscuits, and a bar, as well as popcorn and candy floss

There was also a’ hook a duck’ game and a coconut shy, as well as bell ringing try outs and an Essex Churches Art exhibition. The architect had some great talks talks discussions about the plans while giving tours of the church, and a resident artist and chance to join in some community art. The chancel also had some prayer stations in it, providing a quiet space for all.

Hundreds of people enjoyed the event which was opened by Cllr John Spence who pledged his support to us as a church, a community and a project. As well as lots of fun we were able to listen to people’s views on the plans, meet many who joined the village through lockdown as well as people who have been here all their lives, extend a welcome, build relationships and share the love of God.

..... and we had record post-covid numbers at our Harvest Festival the next day, including new couples and families who want to join the church.

A huge thanks to the children who made the marvellous junk model cross without any adult instruction.

The church building is now open during the day. The artwork created on the day and by the Primary school children is up, so do come and see it, but also come and share your response to the plans. Importantly, the church remains a place for all to take some time to be still, to draw close to God, in our amazing building at the heart of this wonderful community.