Since 1275, there have been Vicars of the Parish of Theydon Garnon, and it is a privilege to be able to write to you as in that capacity today. For nearly 750 years our grade 1 listed parish church of All Saints, Theydon Garnon, Epping , has been offering a place of spiritual encounter where the teachings of Jesus have been heard and Christian worship offered.

Generations have come to the church to mark significant life events, such as Christenings following the birth of a child, weddings and funerals. Week by week people gather, bringing joys, sorrows, and questions along the journey of life and at significant moments, such as Christmas, the church is often full as people gather to celebrate with one another.

The congregation here at Theydon Garnon now faces a significant challenge.The church roof has been in place for about a 100 years and is showing wear and tear, with tiles damaged and slipping, allowing some ingress of water. The estimated current cost of re-tiling the main roof to protect the building for future generations is £153,000.The Parochial Church Council currently has £23,000 saved towards this sum.

The money needed is well beyond anything the PCC (Parochial Church Council) is able to fund from its current income. Unfortunately the Church of England does not fund repairs to church buildings, it being the responsibility of the local congregation through the PCC.

We have launched our "Raise the roof" appeal to raise funds for this important work. A small fundraising group has been formed and it is their plan to apply for grant funding but we are also asking for help from everyone who lives in the parish or has a connection with our historic church.

Would you consider helping conserve your special listed church building for generations to come?

Anything you feel able to contribute would be greatly appreciated.