Last weekend, St Albans Cathedral welcomed representatives from many of the charities it supports to a special Evensong celebrating our shared commitment to service, compassion, and community.

In addition to the charities supported through our annual Fireworks Spectacular and Christmas Appeal, the Cathedral works with more than 35 charities locally, nationally, and globally. The service provided an opportunity to pray for their work, celebrate our partnerships, and thank all those involved for the difference they make in the lives of others.

Coming shortly after National Volunteers' Week, the occasion was also a chance to recognise the thousands of volunteers whose dedication makes so much of this work possible. Like the Cathedral itself, many of these charities rely heavily on volunteers who give their time, energy, and expertise in service of others.

Chaired by Chris Lyal, the Mission Giving Committee is a sub-committee of the Cathedral's Mission and Ministry Committee, with its recommendations approved annually by Chapter. The committee works throughout the year to ensure that the charities supported by the Cathedral reflect our mission priorities: following Christ in Alban's footsteps through welcome and compassion, worship and witness, courage and justice, and leadership and service.

Chris Lyal said:

"This year the Cathedral gave more than £42,000 to over 30 different charities through our Mission Giving programme — around 10% of our congregational giving. We see this as a vital part of our mission and were delighted to welcome representatives of these charities to Evensong. Sharing refreshments after the service gave us the opportunity to learn more about the inspiring and necessary work they are undertaking."

The Very Revd Jo Kelly-Moore, Dean of St Albans, added:

"It was wonderful to welcome the representatives of the charities we support to Evensong last Saturday, and inspiring to hear again their stories of service in our communities.  This wide variety of work demonstrates also the importance of our collaborative working. This kind of partnership working, including our community’s financial generosity to enable them, is unique among Cathedrals and much to be celebrated.  I am very grateful to the Mission Giving Committee for this careful and committed work on our behalf."

Following the service, charity representatives, Cathedral volunteers, and members of the congregation gathered for refreshments and conversation, sharing stories of service and strengthening relationships that continue throughout the year.

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Supporting charities and community organisations is a key part of how St Albans Cathedral seeks to follow Christ in Alban's footsteps. Through our Mission Giving programme, we support organisations working locally, nationally, and globally to bring hope, justice, and compassion to those in need.

👉 Find out more about the Cathedral's mission and community partnerships:

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