Running a church like St Luke’s is an expensive business – it costs around £2,500 a week to keep things going, and that’s without special projects such as repair work to the building, running our winter night shelter for homeless people, and the charities we support. Raising money can be a tiresome business, so here at St Luke’s, we try to combine it with having some fun, trying out new experiences, and getting to know each other better.

That’s where the Grand Scheme comes in. Throughout February and March, lots of members of the church will be putting on events – at home, at the church, and out and about – with the aim of raising a ‘grand’ for St Luke’s. Events in the past have ranged from film shows to roast dinners; bird watching walks to crochet lessons; and beer ‘n’ hymns to silent meditation sessions. And here’s the twist – when tickets go on sale, no one knows who is running each event, so it’s a great opportunity to get to know new people. (Of course, if you’re feeling shy, you can always book to go with a friend.)

If you come up with an event you think others might enjoy, chat to Susie or Bernadette about it as soon as possible (or email them at stlukespcc@hotmail.com). Once the details are confirmed, you can get organising, while Susie and Bernadette start selling tickets for your event. (If you need to use the church building, check availability with Lucy on saintlukesbookings@gmail.com – there’s no booking fee for Grand Scheme events).

If you’re not running an event yourself – and even if you are – keep an eye on the events list and start buying tickets. Why not invite non-church friends along, too? Events are appearing in the weekly church email and are flagged up at services. You can buy your tickets after Sunday morning worship.

So get ready to have some fun, make new friends – and raise a grand for St Luke’s!