Dear Friends

As we approach Holy Week, there seems to be so much going on both for us as individuals and the huge economic upheaval across the world which affects us all. The impending changes at St Mary's brings with it uncertainties for all of us which is another thing to manage.

In my final few days with you, I am relaunching this Easter Appeal as our Emergency Appeal, and am asking for your help both in promoting it, and in supporting St Mary's.

Our heating engineers have diagnosed the issues with the Church heating system and are able to fix the problems. A full diagnostic survey has been undertaken and the PCC have agreed to go ahead with the repairs which will ensure the system will be active and efficient for a period of at least 10 years. The PCC commissioned the work to be undertaken between July and August this year.

The challenge is that the cost is £30,000 plus VAT. In addition, we have expenses associated with some storm damage to the roof and the resulting damage to the church following the recent burglary and theft. Whilst our insurance will cover most of this damage, there is an excess of £1,000 on each claim.

The church has £10,800 on deposit towards heating costs which will be used as the deposit to commence the works. To ensure we have the balance, our Emergency appeal is targeting £30,000 so that we have the ability to pay the costs as they become due.

Our various Church users and others have offered to help in various ways by putting on events/ concerts etc., and your help in any way towards this is truly appreciated. Any ideas are welcome! Without our heating, it will be difficult to maintain our lets and people will stay away in the colder months.

Gifts may be made here, or by direct transfer to our bank (with 'emergency appeal' as the reference) - St Marys Church Kemp Town 20-12-75 50672734 or by cash/cheque to The Treasurer, St Mary's Church, 61 St James's Street, Brighton, BN2 1PR.

With much gratitude, love, and prayers,

Fr Andrew Woodward