I have reached the stage in life where I know I need to take better care of my body if I want it to go the distance. As I get older, I am learning that looking after what we have today helps secure a healthier future tomorrow.

It struck me recently that the same is true of our beloved church building.

St Mary’s has stood at the heart of our community for generations. It has been a place of worship, celebration, comfort, and support for countless people over the years. But now it needs our help. We need to carry out essential roof repairs to ensure that this beautiful building can continue to serve future generations as it has served us.

The repairs will cost around £150,000. Unlike many people assume, there is no funding from the government or the wider Church waiting to cover these costs. The responsibility rests with us as a local church community.

So, I have decided to take on a challenge of my own.

In September, I will be running a 10K race to raise money for the roof repairs. The challenge is a significant one for me because I haven’t run for many years! I am starting with Couch to 5K and then progressing to 5K–10K training, building up gradually over the coming months.

As I work to strengthen my own fitness and endurance, I hope together we can help strengthen the future of our church building too.

If you are able, I would be incredibly grateful if you would sponsor me. Every donation, whatever the amount, will help us move closer to securing the future of St Mary’s and ensuring that it remains a place of faith, hope, and community for many years to come.

Thank you for your support, encouragement, and prayers.

Bee x

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