On Sunday 7th July, the UK will unite to celebrate Thank You Day – a chance to honour the unsung heroes who’ve made a difference in our lives.

On 14 June, Ashtead was full of joy as the village came together for a truly special day. Churches Together marked its 25th anniversary with a warm and welcoming Tea Tent at the Village Day—complete with refreshments, music, Bibles, and brilliant conversations. Later, over 140 people filled St George’s for an evening Barn Dance, with laughter, lively music, and plenty of delicious food. It was a joyful reminder of the power of community—and of God’s love shared in simple, beautiful ways.

30 June is World Social Media Day, a global celebration of the power of social media and its transformational impact on communication, connectivity and information sharing that brings together individuals, communities and businesses around the world.

The Great Big Green Week, the UK’s largest celebration of action to tackle climate change, will take place this year from 7 to 15 June. 

This year’s theme is ‘Let’s swap together for good,’ which encourages us all to unite in making swaps to lessen the impact of climate change, strengthen our communities, and build a future we can be proud to pass on to the next generation.

Did you know that just a few hours of volunteering can change lives – not only for those in need but for the volunteers themselves?

From 2 - 8 June, the UK celebrates Volunteers' Week 2025—a dedicated time to recognise and appreciate the incredible contributions of volunteers across communities.

Mental Health Awareness Week UK is a time for us all to focus on the importance of mental well-being and to break the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Taking place this year from Monday 12 – Sunday 18 May, and created by the charity Mental Health UK, the event celebrates the power of community to help us all navigate life’s challenges. Reminding us that we are not alone in our daily struggles.

Whilst having a spring clean we came across these detailed prints/sketches of the East windows at both St Giles’ and St George’s churches.

The country celebrates St George's Day on 23 April, with England flags and bunting flying high in a display of patriotism, but who was the dragon-slaying martyr that the nation adopted as its patron saint?

Last month we held a safeguarding workshop at St George’s church, facilitated by Tom Darwent and Jackie Broadfoot from the Guildford Diocesan safeguarding team. The two hour long event was attended by a wide selection of church family members including the Ashtead Parish leadership and staff team, and a number of our volunteers.

Earth Hour

On 30 March we are expecting a visit from the director of YAWOSUP – Edward Wata - Our Mission Partner since 2010. YAWOSUP is committed to building a self-reliant community in Kenya, where widows and orphans are empowered. Edward will be with us for just 1 week but there will be plenty of opportunities for you to meet him.

Patrick is best remembered for his resilience, compassion, and missionary zeal. Legends, like his banishment of snakes, amplify his legacy. His death on March 17th is celebrated worldwide as St. Patrick’s Day, a tribute to his enduring impact on Ireland and beyond.

2025 marks five years since the pandemic began and we continue to honour and remember those affected. Sunday 9 March, 2025 is the Day of Reflection across the UK for the COVID-19 pandemic. It is an opportunity to come together to remember those who lost their lives since the pandemic began and to honour the tireless work and acts of kindness shown during this unprecedented time.

St David, the patron saint of Wales, lived a life that epitomised humility, devotion, and service. Born in the 6th century, David was known for his austere lifestyle and unwavering commitment to spiritual growth. He embraced a life of abstinence, consuming only water and bread.