The aims of a Thanksgiving and Pastoral Link Project are to deal clearly with the vexed issue of money and giving. It fits into the life to which all church members are called, and lets everyone be involved in the developing work of the local church.
After a time of discussion, all members of the churches were invited to attend a Thanksgiving Service at which they could make a commitment in terms of their giving for God's work through the church for the year. Thanksgiving Sunday is now an annual festival in the Parish, when all are able to make, or renew, their commitment.
During the year, visitors maintain their contact with their households by delivering a regular pastoral link letter. This keeps people in touch, provides an opportunity for experience and insight to be shared, and helps to encourage a sense of community.
Many issues were raised during the parish exploration and discussion phase of the project and this has given a long-term agenda for the Parochial Church Council's continued discussions.
*ASA is a registered charity, and exists to promote the ideals of Christian stewardship.
