Restore & Renew - January 2026 Update

Key updates:

We’ve appointed a contractor (MGS) to do the work on the Parish Hall and work should commence on 9th February.
Including grant funding, gifts from the congregation, fundraising activities, the first part of the sale money from St John’s and pledges - our total income to Restore & Renew is now just over £1m. “Not to us, Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness” (Psalm 115.1)
The buildings group have worked hard to identify some cost savings, but sadly these have been offset by the need to install new electrical cables into the Hall.
We’re continuing to look at plans to restore and renew the Church Office too.

Praise God:

Since our last update, we’ve had some great fundraising activities: the Shirley Junior School smarties scavenger hunt raised about £260; someone’s after-church Cacti sale (as part of the £10 challenge) raised almost £180; the Guides Christmas Craft fair raised over £630; and the Murder Mystery evening in January raised around £860!
Just as importantly, lots of fun has been had, and lots more people in the community know a bit more about what we’re trying to do with the Parish Hall and why!

Pray for:

Us as a church to keep our focus on mission through this time.
The contractors (MGS) to enjoy working for us.
Grant funders as they consider our bids for grants, and for someone new to join our bid-writing team.
Clear guidance for the Buildings Team and Church Council as they think about plans for the church office - how much should we do there? timings?
The fundraising team as they explore the possibility of selling advertising on the safety fencing around the Hall whilst the building work takes place.
The City Council to look favourably on our proposal for a path across Colebrook Green.
God to provide all we need for the coming months!

Upcoming fundraising events

(contact Carol & Barbara on fundraising@stjamesbythepark.org with ideas or to help)

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