The Friends of St Matthew's

The ‘Friends’ was launched in 2002 with an organ concert at Cranbury Park, the home of, Mrs P Chamberlayne-Macdonald, who is Patron and a staunch supporter of St Matthew’s. It was formed not only for the regular churchgoer, but for people who have a special link with St Matthew’s and are not able to attend regularly, especially if they have moved away, thus being able to contribute to this wonderful Victorian Keble Church and enabling it to flourish.

Our objective is to raise money for projects within the Church, which will assist the Parochial Church Council. We are not permitted to give financial support to essential maintenance, but there are many other requirements that do benefit the Church.

In the past we have provided:

• large print hymn books,
• Chairs for the Church Room,
• assisted with the loop system (which has helped the hard of hearing to enjoy the services at St Matthew’s).

• Made the pews more comfortable with cushions (not to allow the congregation to slumber!)

• We have assisted with the new lighting in the Church.
• Helped to fund the restoration of the Grade 1 listed Lewis organ.
• Produced calendars of the village.