Growing generosity at a Church Fete

Wheldrake church was really pleased to hold their annual fete this last Saturday 15th of May, after restrictions prevented last year’s events. Their church fete is a great way to engage with their local community, build relationships, as well as proudly raising funds to support the running costs of the church. Some of the income gained is also donated to six charities around the world to further spread the love and peace upheld in their Christian community.

As to be expected, things were done a little different his year to maintain a safe, friendly environment for everyone to browse, with a fewer stalls for social distancing. Renowned favourites returned for yet another successful year ranging from books, music and classic movies to toys, bric-a-brac, cakes, guessing games, and the ever-popular plant stall. Whatever your taste, there was something for everyone.

Organiser of the fete, Barbra Cater, commented,

"While we unfortunately couldn’t keep our tombola or children’s games, it didn’t stop people from turning up - with us finally being able to feel our sense of community safely again even if it was socially distanced and wearing masks.

"We owe our success greatly to the benevolence of the people in our village, who not only have donated a vast array of bits and pieces for our stalls, but came along and contributed generously on the big day. With such a large amount of charitable donations, it took a whole two days to set everything up in its place within our bubble system. After lots of heaving boxes, table preparations and a copious amount of sanitiser, we were ready to welcome everyone back to St Helen’s. Members of our church worked wonderfully together in putting this grand event together with nothing but smiles."

Alternative to their traditional set up, the church had stalls unattended with honesty boxes in place to limit contact when paying, solely relying on the good will of others. Delicious cakes and treats were already bagged and wrapped for take away, keeping them fresh, tasty and COVID secure.

Barbra continued,

"With the odds against us and nothing but rain forecasted, we kept our hopes up and continued in high spirits, which paid off well; through the grace of God the day was well attended, with us even earning a visit from a few Sisters from Thicket Priory.

"Astonishingly, in just two hours we managed to raise over £1,300 thanks to everyone who visited us. We are so grateful for the generosity expressed by our people who came along, as well as having the opportunity to share our church once again and reach out to our local community.

"On behalf of the church, we want to express our immense gratitude for those who helped support us at our church fete and warmly encourage you to stop for a slice with us next year."