Christian Aid is inviting churches to stand up for mums this Christian Aid Week (May 12-18th) against the scandal of life ending when it should be beginning. Be inspired by how two of our church communities responded last year by planning 'Big Brekkie' fundraising events.
Working together - Ainsdale churches
"Last year on Saturday 12 May, 42 members from 4 churches in Ainsdale took part in a 10km sponsored walk for Christian Aid Week
The day began with a hearty Big Brekkie and a short prayer at the Village Church before setting off on the walk. The weather stayed warm and dry as everyone enjoyed the beautiful pine forests, dunes and beach that surround this part of the North West. Emma Forshaw, who was 8 at the time said “I had a really fun day with my friends, walking and playing in the dunes and am pleased we raised a lot of money for Christian Aid ". Those that. stayed behind kept busy selling Big Brekkies and homemade cakes to everyone.
The day was a great success raising £2167 towards the work of Christian Aid. Everyone enjoyed it so much that after many requests for a repeat this year which will take place on Saturday 11 May. For more information, contact Eirlys eirlysjessop@gmail.com. "
A city response – St Brides and St Dunstans, Liverpool
"The well tried strategy for fund raising by a door to door collection is more difficult in the city – business premises, apartments in multi occupancy houses, congregation members not living in the parish and so on. A different approach was tried last year based on the ‘Big Brekkie’.
At St Brides a continental breakfast was served for up to an hour before the main 10am service, with small tables arranged café style in the worship space. The attendance was good, 40 or so people with a number of unexpected visitors turning up too. Conversation was lively as the church community gathered. The morning Eucharist service, including administration of the sacrament, was held with people still at their breakfast tables.
The address included showing the Christian Aid video and the intercessions were based on the CA resources. Folk made a donation to the work of CA with £400 raised. At St Dunstans, the service had an explicit CA theme using the resources provided and folk stayed after for refreshments and chat.
These particular events did not actively promote awareness raising and witness outside of the church, but funds were raised, prayers were offered, information was shared and the community was brought together for a specific and worthwhile purpose. I think we will do something similar this coming year."
Pam and Phil Bishop