The Nave of the Church was crowded with people. Stalls were overflowing with gifts and games, with books and the delicious smell of burgers and sausages was wafting in from outside, mingling with masses of cakes and the aroma of fresh coffee - the trademark smell of St Thomas the Apostle.

 

On such a cold yet bright November Saturday, the parish gathered for their Christmas Fayre - keeping Christmas out of Advent by holding it before: securing the services of Father Christmas before he got too busy. The parish rallied round and there were plenty of volunteers to help set up and then most importantly pack up so that by the following morning we would be ready for worship the following day.

 

It was a good decision to hold the Fayre in Church as it enabled many who had not seen the Church to come in, sometimes for the first time. The Church is in an easily identifiable location and enabled us to cater well whilst still keeping the sanctuary as a place of prayer and candles, something to admire whilst the incarnational work carried on in the Nave.

 

The event raised more than £900, more than ever before; so thank you to all of you who contributed.