Frensham - St Mary's Church

11/09/2026

Come to a wonderfully eclectic musical evening tomorrow at St Mary’s Church in Frensham. Extraordinary voices with an equally brilliant pianist! Not to be missed! All welcome! 🤗

15/08/2026

15/08/2026

Welcome to our new church life - information about the Benefice of Frensham and Dockenfield.

Church Life

News from your Frensham & Dockenfield Churches

August 2026

Welcome to our resurrected (pun intended!) Church Life, which is a special edition. I, together with Churchwardens Jon Savage and Rosemary Faun, hope you find this an interesting communication directly for you, who are one of the many wondrous volunteers and supporters that help so generously in all manner of ways to support both the churches and their functioning in the Benefice of Frensham.

The first thing for us to say is a huge thank you for the giving of your precious time; for the active effort you put in, which cumulatively ensures both the church buildings and their grounds are kept very well and enable all to visit for either religious, historical or genealogical reasons; for your continued commitment if you help with the services as verger, welcomer, sides-persons, sacristan, communion assistant, organist, choir, refreshments, bell ringing, flower arranging, gardeners and fabric team for your loyalty, consideration and devotion to the people of the parish if you help with both the workings and coherence of both parish and the churches. Thank you so much.

Church Life is different from the Parish Magazine and Dockenfield Newsletter in that it simply seeks to give useful information about various aspects of running the churches and hopefully will show you the loving ethos that we work from and also scope of what we can achieve for not only the villagers but for all who come enquiring – many of whom simply come to see Mother Ludlam’s Cauldron which is a great opener for conversation! (in another issue we will give more information on the cauldron, which by the way is loaned out to Farnham Museum until November 2026 for their folklore exhibition).

In this issue we will cover:
more about the ethos of the church, where it comes from and the church logo;
how and who to contact for Christenings/Baptisms, confirmations, weddings and funerals as well as information about the confirmations being held at St Mary’s Church on 4th October 2026;
dates for your diary together with information about church events;
the current financial situation of the church as it stands
what we are doing to improve the financial situation.
The Benefice of Frensham: Church Ethos
Jon, Rosemary and I specifically want you to know that as we value you, we value everyone, because our aim is to be a totally accessible and inclusive church. We, and the Parochial Church Council (PCC), are committed:
to meeting you where you are at;
to creating an environment where God’s Love (whatever that may mean to you) gets through
to walking with you through life in God’s Love.
Therefore, as we don’t know where you may stand with this, Jon, Rosemary and I, the PCC and indeed the whole church community warmly welcome you to get in contact with us and share your thoughts, because no matter what stage you are in life, or whatever you are doing or thinking, we would love to share conversations and support you. This is because we are interested in and open to learning about people’s lives and journeys, and so welcome people of all faiths and none, together with those of all creeds, cultures, genders and colours. Gene Roddenbury (the famous originator of Star Trek) in 1963 wrote,
“If Man survives long, he will have learned to take delight in the essential differences between men and their cultures. He will earn that differences and ideas and attitudes are a delight – part of life’s exciting variety…not something to fear…”

We take delight in meeting and journeying with everyone!

Our church logo is symbolic of our church ethos:

The Cross: The sign of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ which is the symbol of Christianity and brings hope to all.

The Colours of the Cross: Based on the colours of Spiral Dynamics (which is an evolutionary system of growth based on understanding human nature through value systems), what is conveyed within the cross is the rich tapestry of life, and so we acknowledge the fact that everyone is not only different but also in their own stage of life development. We see difference not as something to fear, but something to embrace and rejoice in. Our value is that God loves everyone and so our aim is to meet people where they are and love them. We will welcome and include everyone, no matter what their colour, creed, gender orientation and culture; whether they have faith or no belief system, both within and without our church walls. Our aim is to learn from each other and so all dynamically develop through being together.
The Arrows: onwards and upwards! The Christian life is never static: it is about journeying on a pilgrimage of life which, through various experiences of ‘deaths and resurrections’ enables learning and development towards a mature, integrated state of being with the Trinitarian God.

The ‘frayed edges’ on the left and base of the cross: these represent the open entrances into the journey of living in God’s love - no matter where or how one starts - whether that be through general inquiry or a spontaneous visit or through life’s gateways of baptism, marriage or funeral; or starting from rock bottom through depression, anxiety, illness, suffering, or breakdown. By coming into the dynamic, loving movement of God’s love everyone is safe and can grow gently and gradually, knowing that we have Diocesan Safeguarding, Health and Safety, and Risk Assessment standards, procedures and policies in place which are stringently adhered to and appraised/updated annually. All those who care for children and vulnerable adults are DBS checked and attend mandatory safeguarding training.

The generous and plump heart wrapped round the cross: One can almost see it beating – just as Jesus’ heart beat with love for us, so the heart of God which Jesus represented here on earth, always works to bless (which means ‘to raise up’), to heal and reconcile through the energy of the Holy Spirit and the power of God’s Love. “God is love and those who live in God live in love and God lives in them.” (1 John 4:16)
By the power of the Holy Spirit, we know God’s love which draws us all together to face and live through the joys and difficulties of life. The Holy Spirit is the comforter, the Advocate, the counsellor, the Helper and ‘Paracletos’ (which in Greek literally means ‘by one’s side or wraps around to comfort and help). When one is filled with the energy of the Holy Spirit (whose presence was first celebrated 50 days after Jesus resurrected and we celebrate at Pentecost) the fruits of the Spirit is shown throughout God’s people: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Paul’s letter to the Galatians 5:22 – 25).
God’s heart then beats through our love and care for each other.

Walking together: Travelling together one step at a time, with consideration for those who struggle to ‘walk’; but nevertheless, moving forward and purposefully working towards the goal of God’s peace and justice locally, nationally and internationally. The ‘smiley’ Walking Together reinforces the dynamic movement in the logo, but also makes the whole logo look like a curved anchor, suggesting that whilst we are anchored in our Trinitarian faith, there is nevertheless movement indicating that we are not stuck in our theology, doctrine, church practices, etc., but are always looking to learn more and more as we walk along. We don’t and we cannot know everything – that is part of the mystery of trying to be Christian.

Psalm 139:6
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is so high that I cannot attain it.
Psalm 139:17 – 18
How weighty to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!
I try to count them—they are more than the sand; I come to the end—I am still with you.

Spiritual gateways of life: Christenings/baptisms, confirmation, marriages and funerals. For all of these, do look on-line at these topics on our church website www.frenshamchurches.org.uk and you can get in contact with Rev Jane or Jenny Parsons, my administrator, to ask any questions or enquire re: dates or fees: [email protected] or [email protected]

Confirmations on Sunday 4th October at 6pm at St Mary’s Church
Bishop Paul Davies (acting Bishop of Guildford) is coming to conduct our 2026 Confirmation service, which will also include baptisms. The preparation for this will start the first week of September and we will have weekly sessions to cover any questions that may be raised about God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, as well as Church, the Bible and how to approach reading it, Holy Communion, faith journeys, the Saints, etc., whatever people want to learn really! If this might interest you, do contact Rev Jane for a preliminary chat. The service itself will be one of utter joy and togetherness and we invite people to bring their families and friends for this great celebration, which we hope will be the beginning of a more lovingly supported, spiritually connected and prayerful, positive life.
Dates for your Diary
Church Events to end of next month
Tuesday 18th August - Soup, Roll and Organ Recital - Midday - St Marys
Wednesday 26th August - 'Bric-a-Brac' and Raffle at Village Lunch - Midday - Frensham RBL
Friday 28th August - Hearing Clinic - 10am to Midday - Good Shepherd
Thursdays - Walking together with God - 7pm at Vicarage
Saturday 5th September - Beat the Bounds - 8:30am - Frensham Pond Hotel public car park
Monday 7th September - Tea@3 - 3pm at St Marys
Saturday 12th September - Sisters in Song - 6pm - St Marys
Tuesday 15th September - Soup, Roll and Organ Recital - Midday - St Marys
Sunday 20th September - Family Cafe Church - 5pm - Good Shepherd
Friday 25th September - Hearing Clinic - 10am to Midday - Good Shepherd
Wednesdays in September - Walking together with God - 7pm - Vicarage
Thursdays in September - Forum - 7:30pm - St Marys
Fridays in September - Coffee Stop - 10am to midday - Good Shepherd

Church Services to end of next month
Sunday 16th August
BCP Holy Communion - 8am - Good Shepherd
Choral Matins - 10:30am - St Marys
Sunday 23rd August
BCP Holy Communion - 8am - Good Shepherd
Common Worship Communion - 10:30am - St Marys
Sunday 30th August
BCP Holy Communion - 8am - Good Shepherd
Question Time Communion - 10:30am - St Marys

Sunday 6th September (Celebration of our Patronal festival of St Mary the Virgin)
BCP Holy Communion - 8am – St Marys
Worship and Fellowship – 10:30am Good Shepherd
BCP Choral Evensong – 6pm – St Marys
Sunday 13th September
BCP Holy Communion - 8am - Good Shepherd
Common Worship Communion - 10:30am - St Marys
Sunday 20th September
BCP Holy Communion - 8am - Good Shepherd
Choral Matins - 10:30am - St Marys
Sunday 27th September
BCP Holy Communion - 8am - Good Shepherd
Common Worship Communion - 10:30am - St Marys
Our need for financial support
Below, we are sharing with you our financial situation for the Parish, including both Churches. You will see that there is a deficit of £13,000 which needs addressing. Our challenge is that if we do not negate this deficit, Rev Jane's ability to remain as Vicar of our Parish is very likely to be withdrawn by the Diocese.

These figures are actuals for Jan-Jul and budget for Aug-Dec 2026.

Fund Raising Events
We pray that our deficit can be resolved by everyone supporting the events we have planned for the rest of this year and listed below.


Bric-a-Brac stall & Raffle at Village Lunch on 26th August

The Village Lunch at the Royal British Legion (Frensham) occurs on the 4th Wednesday of every month from Midday to 2pm. Each month, a Charity has the opportunity to run the ‘Bric-a-Brac’ stall and Raffle in aid of their funds.

Frensham Churches are fortunate to have the July and August ‘slots’ and are therefore seeking items for the ‘Bric-a-Brac’ stall and prizes for the Raffle.

If you are able to donate Bric-a-Brac and/or Raffle prizes, we would be very grateful. Feel free to call the Vicarage on 01252 792137 or Jon on 07393 399 578 and we will arrange collection. Thank you.
'Beat the Bounds' 5th September

Join us for our biennial “Beating the Bounds” walk and help raise £13,000 to retain our priest for our two churches. Whether you walk the whole route or just part of it, everyone is warmly welcome to take part in this enjoyable community event celebrating our parish boundaries, history and countryside. Bring family, friends, dogs and wear sturdy walking shoes.
We are inviting participants to seek sponsorship helping us to raise much needed funds to maintain the running of our Churches (to keep our Vicar for the Parish of Frensham!)
Date Saturday 5th September 2026
Starting Point: 8:30 am at Frensham Pond Hotel public carpark
1st stop: 10am at Squires Garden Centre, Frensham (About 3miles from Frensham Ponds Hotel)
2nd stop: 1pm for lunch (no picnics) at Bluebell Public House, Dockenfield (About 5miles from Squires)
Finishing Point: 4pm at Frensham Ponds Hotel (About 3miles from the Bluebell)
To donate, please visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/beatthebounds26 and click on 'Give Now'.
To join the walk, please visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/beatthebounds26, click on 'Start Fundraising' and follow the instructions. You will be given a unique website link that you simply copy into an email and send to your friends, family and colleagues. They then visit your website and donate. You will be able to view how much you have been sponsored for, day by day as you approach the 5th September!
Sisters in Song - 12th September

Online Auction

We are planning to set up an Online Auction in the Autumn, where supporters can bid on unique items, experiences or promises and we would be very grateful for any donation that you are able to give to help raise much needed funds for our Church.

Example of unique items
Vintage Bottles of Wine or Spirits
Pottery
Jewellery
Signed Sport Memorabilia (with certificate of authenticity)
Perfume
Example of experiences
Entrance tickets to local attraction
Afternoon tea for two at a local restaurant
Golf Lesson
Example of promises
I will visit your home and give a one hour Pilates lesson
I will wash the outside of your car
I will visit your home and give you a two hour lesson in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint
If you are able to kindly donate, please email Karen Nockels with the full details of your donation by 1st September 2026 to [email protected]

We can also collect any items from your house.
Other events in 2026

Why is that?
Question
When announcing a Hymn, why does the Vicar sometimes say
"Hymn 345 and we will sing verses 1, 3 and 5 only"? or
"Hymn 345 and we will omit the verses marked with an asterisk"?
Answer
it is usually because:
Some verses are very long, and singing every verse would make the service run too long.
Certain verses don't fit the theme of the day. A hymn might have verses about Christmas, judgement, even fire and brimstone and mission, or the Trinity that are less relevant to the particular service.
Theology or language has changed. Some older hymns and indeed some modern ones, have expressions that a church no longer wishes to emphasise, so particular verses may be omitted.
Musical reasons. The clergy and organist may want the hymn to fit a procession, collect, or other part of the liturgy that has a fixed length.
The hymn book itself suggests omissions. Many hymnals print asterisks beside verses that editors consider optional, repetitive, or suitable only for particular occasions.
As for why it is often verses 2 and 4, that's partly because hymn writers frequently place the key opening and closing ideas in verses 1 and the final verse. The middle verses may expand on details, making them the natural ones to skip when shortening the hymn.
So when you hear "we are ignoring the verses with an asterisk," the asterisk is usually a signal from the hymn book editors that those verses are optional rather than essential to the hymn's main message.
How to donate to our Churches
Most parish churches do not receive government funding for their day to day ministry. They rely on voluntary giving from worshippers and supporters. Parish giving helps pay for the costs of ministry, the church building, utilities, insurance, community outreach, and the parish's contribution to the wider diocese

There are several ways of achieving this; we will explain two of them each month. Meanwhile, you can always visit https://www.frenshamchurches.org.uk/caring-and-giving where you will find the following methods described:

This month we look at methods 1 and 2.

1. A regular standing order via Parish Giving
This month we look at methods 1 and 2.

1. A regular standing order via Parish Giving

The Parish Giving Scheme is the Church of England's preferred system for regular giving. It allows members to support their church through a Direct Debit, while the Scheme handles the administration and Gift Aid.

How it works
A donor signs up to give monthly, quarterly, or annually.
PGS collects the donation and claims any eligible Gift Aid from HMRC.
The money is then sent to the donor's chosen parish. The gift is restricted to that church and is not used elsewhere.
Donors can choose to have their gift increased annually in line with inflation, although this is entirely voluntary.
Why churches use it
Provides a predictable stream of income.
Reduces paperwork for treasurers.
Ensures Gift Aid* is claimed efficiently.
Helps churches plan their ministry and mission with greater confidence
If you wish to participate in this scheme, please send an email to [email protected] and Karen will be pleased to answer any questions and send you the necessary form to complete.

By the way, during a service when the sides-person comes to you for a collection, you simply ignore them or just wave your hand. They will realise you have already donated and not think any less of you!

*Gift Aid
If you are a taxpayer and are given the option to elect for the UK Government’s Gift Aid scheme, then please do so as that adds an extra 25p for every £1 donated, increasing our funds at no extra cost to you. Thank you.
2. One-off donation via 'Give a Little'

To make a donation to help support the churches, please click on the QR code (or scan it with your mobile phone) to take you to our funding page (see below) where you can choose to donate any amount from £1.
​You will be offered the opportunity to 'Gift aid' your donation and a receipt will be emailed to you. This is a safe and secure way of giving.
​Thank you.

Thought for the month
I looked at my friend … and I could see how impossible joy felt to her. In fact, not long ago, I would not have believed in joy either. It’s strange to say it like that—but I believe in joy. We can’t mistake it for anything less than what it is: one of the most powerful ways we experience the deepest and most healing forms of gratitude, delight, and hope. It is a kind of transcendence; joy is a glimmer of love and forgiveness and wholeness that lifts us out of reality for a moment and gives us back to ourselves, anew….

In the many chambers of our beating hearts are reservoirs for joy.

“You will hear the music,” I said to my friend. “I swear you will hear the music.”
Courtesy of cancer survivor Kate Bowler
And finally...
Please let us have your feedback; good or bad. If you have something that you would like us to cover or perhaps to contribute to Church Life, then please email [email protected].

For more information about our Parish, please visit www.frenshamchurches.org.uk.
Copyright © 2026 Frensham Churches, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you are a supporter of Frensham Churches.

Our mailing address is:
Frensham Churches
The Vicarage
Frensham
Farnham, Surrey GU10 3DT

We’re a community committed to loving and serving Jesus Christ. We support those in spiritual need, work for the homeless, sing God’s praises with choir and organ, deliver pastoral assistance, run community coffee stops, and deliver monthly Exploring Christianity talks about notable Christians w...

15/08/2026

Welcome to our church newsletter that we will be sharing each month! Do contact with any queries or questions or suggestions. Love and blessings from Rev Jane, Jon and Rosemary. 🙏🙏🙏

Church Life

News from your Frensham & Dockenfield Churches

August 2026
Dear Jane

Welcome to our resurrected (pun intended!) Church Life, which is a special edition. I, together with Churchwardens Jon Savage and Rosemary Faun, hope you find this an interesting communication directly for you, who are one of the many wondrous volunteers and supporters that help so generously in all manner of ways to support both the churches and their functioning in the Benefice of Frensham.

The first thing for us to say is a huge thank you for the giving of your precious time; for the active effort you put in, which cumulatively ensures both the church buildings and their grounds are kept very well and enable all to visit for either religious, historical or genealogical reasons; for your continued commitment if you help with the services as verger, welcomer, sides-persons, sacristan, communion assistant, organist, choir, refreshments, bell ringing, flower arranging, gardeners and fabric team for your loyalty, consideration and devotion to the people of the parish if you help with both the workings and coherence of both parish and the churches. Thank you so much.

Church Life is different from the Parish Magazine and Dockenfield Newsletter in that it simply seeks to give useful information about various aspects of running the churches and hopefully will show you the loving ethos that we work from and also scope of what we can achieve for not only the villagers but for all who come enquiring – many of whom simply come to see Mother Ludlam’s Cauldron which is a great opener for conversation! (in another issue we will give more information on the cauldron, which by the way is loaned out to Farnham Museum until November 2026 for their folklore exhibition).

In this issue we will cover:
more about the ethos of the church, where it comes from and the church logo;
how and who to contact for Christenings/Baptisms, confirmations, weddings and funerals as well as information about the confirmations being held at St Mary’s Church on 4th October 2026;
dates for your diary together with information about church events;
the current financial situation of the church as it stands
what we are doing to improve the financial situation.
The Benefice of Frensham: Church Ethos
Jon, Rosemary and I specifically want you to know that as we value you, we value everyone, because our aim is to be a totally accessible and inclusive church. We, and the Parochial Church Council (PCC), are committed:
to meeting you where you are at;
to creating an environment where God’s Love (whatever that may mean to you) gets through
to walking with you through life in God’s Love.
Therefore, as we don’t know where you may stand with this, Jon, Rosemary and I, the PCC and indeed the whole church community warmly welcome you to get in contact with us and share your thoughts, because no matter what stage you are in life, or whatever you are doing or thinking, we would love to share conversations and support you. This is because we are interested in and open to learning about people’s lives and journeys, and so welcome people of all faiths and none, together with those of all creeds, cultures, genders and colours. Gene Roddenbury (the famous originator of Star Trek) in 1963 wrote,
“If Man survives long, he will have learned to take delight in the essential differences between men and their cultures. He will earn that differences and ideas and attitudes are a delight – part of life’s exciting variety…not something to fear…”

We take delight in meeting and journeying with everyone!

Our church logo is symbolic of our church ethos:

The Cross: The sign of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ which is the symbol of Christianity and brings hope to all.

The Colours of the Cross: Based on the colours of Spiral Dynamics (which is an evolutionary system of growth based on understanding human nature through value systems), what is conveyed within the cross is the rich tapestry of life, and so we acknowledge the fact that everyone is not only different but also in their own stage of life development. We see difference not as something to fear, but something to embrace and rejoice in. Our value is that God loves everyone and so our aim is to meet people where they are and love them. We will welcome and include everyone, no matter what their colour, creed, gender orientation and culture; whether they have faith or no belief system, both within and without our church walls. Our aim is to learn from each other and so all dynamically develop through being together.
The Arrows: onwards and upwards! The Christian life is never static: it is about journeying on a pilgrimage of life which, through various experiences of ‘deaths and resurrections’ enables learning and development towards a mature, integrated state of being with the Trinitarian God.

The ‘frayed edges’ on the left and base of the cross: these represent the open entrances into the journey of living in God’s love - no matter where or how one starts - whether that be through general inquiry or a spontaneous visit or through life’s gateways of baptism, marriage or funeral; or starting from rock bottom through depression, anxiety, illness, suffering, or breakdown. By coming into the dynamic, loving movement of God’s love everyone is safe and can grow gently and gradually, knowing that we have Diocesan Safeguarding, Health and Safety, and Risk Assessment standards, procedures and policies in place which are stringently adhered to and appraised/updated annually. All those who care for children and vulnerable adults are DBS checked and attend mandatory safeguarding training.

The generous and plump heart wrapped round the cross: One can almost see it beating – just as Jesus’ heart beat with love for us, so the heart of God which Jesus represented here on earth, always works to bless (which means ‘to raise up’), to heal and reconcile through the energy of the Holy Spirit and the power of God’s Love. “God is love and those who live in God live in love and God lives in them.” (1 John 4:16)
By the power of the Holy Spirit, we know God’s love which draws us all together to face and live through the joys and difficulties of life. The Holy Spirit is the comforter, the Advocate, the counsellor, the Helper and ‘Paracletos’ (which in Greek literally means ‘by one’s side or wraps around to comfort and help). When one is filled with the energy of the Holy Spirit (whose presence was first celebrated 50 days after Jesus resurrected and we celebrate at Pentecost) the fruits of the Spirit is shown throughout God’s people: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Paul’s letter to the Galatians 5:22 – 25).
God’s heart then beats through our love and care for each other.

Walking together: Travelling together one step at a time, with consideration for those who struggle to ‘walk’; but nevertheless, moving forward and purposefully working towards the goal of God’s peace and justice locally, nationally and internationally. The ‘smiley’ Walking Together reinforces the dynamic movement in the logo, but also makes the whole logo look like a curved anchor, suggesting that whilst we are anchored in our Trinitarian faith, there is nevertheless movement indicating that we are not stuck in our theology, doctrine, church practices, etc., but are always looking to learn more and more as we walk along. We don’t and we cannot know everything – that is part of the mystery of trying to be Christian.

Psalm 139:6
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is so high that I cannot attain it.
Psalm 139:17 – 18
How weighty to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!
I try to count them—they are more than the sand; I come to the end—I am still with you.

Spiritual gateways of life: Christenings/baptisms, confirmation, marriages and funerals. For all of these, do look on-line at these topics on our church website www.frenshamchurches.org.uk and you can get in contact with Rev Jane or Jenny Parsons, my administrator, to ask any questions or enquire re: dates or fees: [email protected] or [email protected]

Confirmations on Sunday 4th October at 6pm at St Mary’s Church
Bishop Paul Davies (acting Bishop of Guildford) is coming to conduct our 2026 Confirmation service, which will also include baptisms. The preparation for this will start the first week of September and we will have weekly sessions to cover any questions that may be raised about God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, as well as Church, the Bible and how to approach reading it, Holy Communion, faith journeys, the Saints, etc., whatever people want to learn really! If this might interest you, do contact Rev Jane for a preliminary chat. The service itself will be one of utter joy and togetherness and we invite people to bring their families and friends for this great celebration, which we hope will be the beginning of a more lovingly supported, spiritually connected and prayerful, positive life.
Dates for your Diary
Church Events to end of next month
Tuesday 18th August - Soup, Roll and Organ Recital - Midday - St Marys
Wednesday 26th August - 'Bric-a-Brac' and Raffle at Village Lunch - Midday - Frensham RBL
Friday 28th August - Hearing Clinic - 10am to Midday - Good Shepherd
Thursdays - Walking together with God - 7pm at Vicarage
Saturday 5th September - Beat the Bounds - 8:30am - Frensham Pond Hotel public car park
Monday 7th September - Tea@3 - 3pm at St Marys
Saturday 12th September - Sisters in Song - 6pm - St Marys
Tuesday 15th September - Soup, Roll and Organ Recital - Midday - St Marys
Sunday 20th September - Family Cafe Church - 5pm - Good Shepherd
Friday 25th September - Hearing Clinic - 10am to Midday - Good Shepherd
Wednesdays in September - Walking together with God - 7pm - Vicarage
Thursdays in September - Forum - 7:30pm - St Marys
Fridays in September - Coffee Stop - 10am to midday - Good Shepherd

Church Services to end of next month
Sunday 16th August
BCP Holy Communion - 8am - Good Shepherd
Choral Matins - 10:30am - St Marys
Sunday 23rd August
BCP Holy Communion - 8am - Good Shepherd
Common Worship Communion - 10:30am - St Marys
Sunday 30th August
BCP Holy Communion - 8am - Good Shepherd
Question Time Communion - 10:30am - St Marys

Sunday 6th September (Celebration of our Patronal festival of St Mary the Virgin)
BCP Holy Communion - 8am – St Marys
Worship and Fellowship – 10:30am Good Shepherd
BCP Choral Evensong – 6pm – St Marys
Sunday 13th September
BCP Holy Communion - 8am - Good Shepherd
Common Worship Communion - 10:30am - St Marys
Sunday 20th September
BCP Holy Communion - 8am - Good Shepherd
Choral Matins - 10:30am - St Marys
Sunday 27th September
BCP Holy Communion - 8am - Good Shepherd
Common Worship Communion - 10:30am - St Marys
Our need for financial support
Below, we are sharing with you our financial situation for the Parish, including both Churches. You will see that there is a deficit of £13,000 which needs addressing. Our challenge is that if we do not negate this deficit, Rev Jane's ability to remain as Vicar of our Parish is very likely to be withdrawn by the Diocese.

These figures are actuals for Jan-Jul and budget for Aug-Dec 2026.

Fund Raising Events
We pray that our deficit can be resolved by everyone supporting the events we have planned for the rest of this year and listed below.


Bric-a-Brac stall & Raffle at Village Lunch on 26th August

The Village Lunch at the Royal British Legion (Frensham) occurs on the 4th Wednesday of every month from Midday to 2pm. Each month, a Charity has the opportunity to run the ‘Bric-a-Brac’ stall and Raffle in aid of their funds.

Frensham Churches are fortunate to have the July and August ‘slots’ and are therefore seeking items for the ‘Bric-a-Brac’ stall and prizes for the Raffle.

If you are able to donate Bric-a-Brac and/or Raffle prizes, we would be very grateful. Feel free to call the Vicarage on 01252 792137 or Jon on 07393 399 578 and we will arrange collection. Thank you.
'Beat the Bounds' 5th September

Join us for our biennial “Beating the Bounds” walk and help raise £13,000 to retain our priest for our two churches. Whether you walk the whole route or just part of it, everyone is warmly welcome to take part in this enjoyable community event celebrating our parish boundaries, history and countryside. Bring family, friends, dogs and wear sturdy walking shoes.
We are inviting participants to seek sponsorship helping us to raise much needed funds to maintain the running of our Churches (to keep our Vicar for the Parish of Frensham!)
Date Saturday 5th September 2026
Starting Point: 8:30 am at Frensham Pond Hotel public carpark
1st stop: 10am at Squires Garden Centre, Frensham (About 3miles from Frensham Ponds Hotel)
2nd stop: 1pm for lunch (no picnics) at Bluebell Public House, Dockenfield (About 5miles from Squires)
Finishing Point: 4pm at Frensham Ponds Hotel (About 3miles from the Bluebell)
To donate, please visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/beatthebounds26 and click on 'Give Now'.
To join the walk, please visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/beatthebounds26, click on 'Start Fundraising' and follow the instructions. You will be given a unique website link that you simply copy into an email and send to your friends, family and colleagues. They then visit your website and donate. You will be able to view how much you have been sponsored for, day by day as you approach the 5th September!
Sisters in Song - 12th September

Online Auction

We are planning to set up an Online Auction in the Autumn, where supporters can bid on unique items, experiences or promises and we would be very grateful for any donation that you are able to give to help raise much needed funds for our Church.

Example of unique items
Vintage Bottles of Wine or Spirits
Pottery
Jewellery
Signed Sport Memorabilia (with certificate of authenticity)
Perfume
Example of experiences
Entrance tickets to local attraction
Afternoon tea for two at a local restaurant
Golf Lesson
Example of promises
I will visit your home and give a one hour Pilates lesson
I will wash the outside of your car
I will visit your home and give you a two hour lesson in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint
If you are able to kindly donate, please email Karen Nockels with the full details of your donation by 1st September 2026 to [email protected]

We can also collect any items from your house.
Other events in 2026

Why is that?
Question
When announcing a Hymn, why does the Vicar sometimes say
"Hymn 345 and we will sing verses 1, 3 and 5 only"? or
"Hymn 345 and we will omit the verses marked with an asterisk"?
Answer
it is usually because:
Some verses are very long, and singing every verse would make the service run too long.
Certain verses don't fit the theme of the day. A hymn might have verses about Christmas, judgement, even fire and brimstone and mission, or the Trinity that are less relevant to the particular service.
Theology or language has changed. Some older hymns and indeed some modern ones, have expressions that a church no longer wishes to emphasise, so particular verses may be omitted.
Musical reasons. The clergy and organist may want the hymn to fit a procession, collect, or other part of the liturgy that has a fixed length.
The hymn book itself suggests omissions. Many hymnals print asterisks beside verses that editors consider optional, repetitive, or suitable only for particular occasions.
As for why it is often verses 2 and 4, that's partly because hymn writers frequently place the key opening and closing ideas in verses 1 and the final verse. The middle verses may expand on details, making them the natural ones to skip when shortening the hymn.
So when you hear "we are ignoring the verses with an asterisk," the asterisk is usually a signal from the hymn book editors that those verses are optional rather than essential to the hymn's main message.
How to donate to our Churches
Most parish churches do not receive government funding for their day to day ministry. They rely on voluntary giving from worshippers and supporters. Parish giving helps pay for the costs of ministry, the church building, utilities, insurance, community outreach, and the parish's contribution to the wider diocese

There are several ways of achieving this; we will explain two of them each month. Meanwhile, you can always visit https://www.frenshamchurches.org.uk/caring-and-giving where you will find the following methods described:

This month we look at methods 1 and 2.

1. A regular standing order via Parish Giving
This month we look at methods 1 and 2.

1. A regular standing order via Parish Giving

The Parish Giving Scheme is the Church of England's preferred system for regular giving. It allows members to support their church through a Direct Debit, while the Scheme handles the administration and Gift Aid.

How it works
A donor signs up to give monthly, quarterly, or annually.
PGS collects the donation and claims any eligible Gift Aid from HMRC.
The money is then sent to the donor's chosen parish. The gift is restricted to that church and is not used elsewhere.
Donors can choose to have their gift increased annually in line with inflation, although this is entirely voluntary.
Why churches use it
Provides a predictable stream of income.
Reduces paperwork for treasurers.
Ensures Gift Aid* is claimed efficiently.
Helps churches plan their ministry and mission with greater confidence
If you wish to participate in this scheme, please send an email to [email protected] and Karen will be pleased to answer any questions and send you the necessary form to complete.

By the way, during a service when the sides-person comes to you for a collection, you simply ignore them or just wave your hand. They will realise you have already donated and not think any less of you!

*Gift Aid
If you are a taxpayer and are given the option to elect for the UK Government’s Gift Aid scheme, then please do so as that adds an extra 25p for every £1 donated, increasing our funds at no extra cost to you. Thank you.
2. One-off donation via 'Give a Little'

To make a donation to help support the churches, please click on the QR code (or scan it with your mobile phone) to take you to our funding page (see below) where you can choose to donate any amount from £1.
​You will be offered the opportunity to 'Gift aid' your donation and a receipt will be emailed to you. This is a safe and secure way of giving.
​Thank you.

Thought for the month
I looked at my friend … and I could see how impossible joy felt to her. In fact, not long ago, I would not have believed in joy either. It’s strange to say it like that—but I believe in joy. We can’t mistake it for anything less than what it is: one of the most powerful ways we experience the deepest and most healing forms of gratitude, delight, and hope. It is a kind of transcendence; joy is a glimmer of love and forgiveness and wholeness that lifts us out of reality for a moment and gives us back to ourselves, anew….

In the many chambers of our beating hearts are reservoirs for joy.

“You will hear the music,” I said to my friend. “I swear you will hear the music.”
Courtesy of cancer survivor Kate Bowler
And finally...
Please let us have your feedback; good or bad. If you have something that you would like us to cover or perhaps to contribute to Church Life, then please email [email protected].

For more information about our Parish, please visit www.frenshamchurches.org.uk.
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Frensham Churches
The Vicarage
Frensham
Farnham, Surrey GU10 3DT
United Kingdom

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We’re a community committed to loving and serving Jesus Christ. We support those in spiritual need, work for the homeless, sing God’s praises with choir and organ, deliver pastoral assistance, run community coffee stops, and deliver monthly Exploring Christianity talks about notable Christians w...