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Friends of St. Giles

The Friends of St. Giles The Abbot

Registered Charity No. 1059427

        For several hundred years St. Giles has stood proud on the edge of the village of Farnborough, overlooking the rolling fields and woodlands of Kent. It has withstood some violent storms in its time and has suffered structurally on occasions. Twice the tower has been severely damaged and once the roof was totally destroyed.

        From early times, St. Giles has been a place of comfort to a great many people, both regular worshippers and occasional visitors. The very young have been accepted into the Christian faith at the font by the Western doorway. Many a bride has been joined in the sight of God to her betrothed facing the beautiful stained glass windows above the altar, and many have found comfort when having to say farewell to a loved one in bereavement.

        It is a church with a long and happy history, a warm and welcoming building which makes a return visit a must for many who have entered its doors. Many people of note have had connections with St. Giles, such as Dr Thomas Young who, amongst other things, interpreted the Hieroglyphics on the Rosetta Stone in Egypt. The Aveburys, Lubbocks, Pitts and Foxes are the names of a few of the many families who regularly worshipped in St Giles.

        Perhaps you have fond memories of time spent here, at a Baptism or Wedding, or joining in one of our many regular services. If so, you may well wish to return and recall the happy event. St Giles is proud of its many visitors, and wishes to extend a hand of friendship to all. You can help us keep in touch with you from time to time by becoming a "FRIEND OF ST. GILES THE ABBOT".

        The Friends exist to raise the funds necessary for maintaining the beauty of St. Giles the Abbot Church and its Churchyard for future generations to enjoy. For just five pounds a year you will be included on our mailing list and be advised of, and invited to, any function held, as well as special services that may interest you.

        We are a registered charity, which enables you, if you so wish, to Gift Aid your subscription, thus enabling us to claim back tax that has been paid by you.

        If you would like to become a "FRIEND OF ST. GILES THE ABBOT" (and we hope you will) you will need a simple Membership Application Form. Thank you for reading this, and we look forward to welcoming you in St Giles in the near future.

        For a Membership Application Form, please e-mail our Membership Secretary - Yvonne Burr ydburr@hotmail.com.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BECOME A FRIEND OF ST. GILES THE ABBOT CHURCH IN FARNBOROUGH?  It means joining a noble band of people who, for many generations past, have been interested and concerned with the preservation and maintenance of the oldest and most revered building and land in our village.

When the Church roof was destroyed along with some of the walls, by tempest on 12th December 1639 and because of the dedication of the villagers, mainly farm workers, of that time, in less than 2 years, it was restored. The cost in cash was £500 which four centuries ago was a huge amount, especially for such a small community of 539.  This complex structure has required constant care and attention over the past 400 years due to weather, bombing, vandals, and general wear and tear.  In 1949 the tower was severely damaged by fire caused by vandals and most recently the outside of the tower was re-pointed and the Lych-gate restored.  Once again the local folk came to the rescue and the necessary funds were raised.

The “Friends” were formed as a charity to raise money to ensure there is a reserve of cash available in case of disaster striking again.  For an annual subscription of just £5 you can join this dedicated band that cares passionately about this wonderful building and churchyard.  For this you will receive a six-monthly Newsletter and an invitation to all our functions. 

Join the “Friends” now, your Church needs you!

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