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Friends of St. Mary's Church Update May 2024

The Friends group works in partnership with the Churches Conservation Trust (CCT) which owns and maintains the church.

The Mountain Ash (Rowan) tree planted last year in the churchyard to remember the late Queen Elizabeth is doing well.  Permissions had been granted by the PCC. The villagers had also approved it, as it was supplied by the Amenities Group in the village.

During 2023, we held several services in the church, organised by the Parish of the Bromley’s.

At the end of May we held a Social Afternoon with Music.  Songs, poetry and music were performed to around 30 people along with refreshments on a lovely sunny day.  Chat was in abundance as everyone sat inside or out in the churchyard.

On the 12th August the Friends of Little Bromley Church held our AGM before a Cream Tea.   A summary of events was given, the church finances and the re-election of the committee were the main topics covered.  We also mentioned the need for a volunteer committee to raise money for the bells restoration.  This was followed by a Cream Tea for around 40 people, where along with the lovely music, the Pimms and scones were very popular.

My Theatre performed ‘Robin Hood’ in the churchyard on the 27th August.  This event was well attended and enjoyed by all.

The Memory Tree went up from the 1st December, for the whole of December.  A lot of new tags were filled in for loved ones and placed on the tree.  On Saturday the 23rd December we decided to have our Carol service in the afternoon.  At 2.30pm we welcomed around 140 people, including about 15 children to the service.  Full to bursting point we provided refreshments for all.

During 2023, a new volunteer committee was formed to help raise money for the restoration of the bells framework.  A lot of the money raised from events held over the year has gone towards the bells fund.  Click here to see some photographs of the bells before restoration.

Since 2024 we have had a couple of services in the church, including our Easter Vigil, which was attended by around 23 people.

On Wednesday the 12th June, ‘My Theatre’ will be performing another play at the church.  This one will be Jane Austen’s ‘Persuasion’.

We are hoping that 2024 will see more events and services for everyone to enjoy as well as helping to raise more money towards the bells.

The Memorial garden, is under discussion by the PCC, who own the churchyard.  They have been dealing with the Diocese of Chelmsford, especially the Diocesan Advisory Committee. Unfortunately, the last few meetings scheduled have had to be postponed and the next one isn’t until next week.  We will try to let you know of any updates once we know.  

Carol Cordwell, Secretary of the Friends.