Community News
“Be steadfast and do little things.”
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.
A Call to Spread Love & Compassion
Random Act of Kindness Day is a beautiful reminder of the power of small, thoughtful gestures. Celebrated on February 17th, this day encourages us to step out of our routines and make a positive impact on the lives of others. Whether it's a smile, a helping hand, or a kind word, every act of kindness counts.
Building Strong Foundations for a Successful Marriage
National Marriage Week is a great time for investing in marriage and the central part it plays in building strong communities. Churches have long recognised the need to invest in marriages, both of couples in congregations and those in the wider communities. It is a privilege to marry a couple in our parish. There is much to prepare for the wedding day, but helping couples prepare for the marriage itself is something we are delighted to offer.
Valentine’s Day - a Celebration of Sacrificial Love
Valentine's Day has long been celebrated with roses, chocolates, and romantic dinners, but beneath the surface of these outward expressions lies a deeper, more profound essence: sacrificial love. This type of love, selfless and unwavering, echoes the ancient origins of Valentine's Day, which are rooted in acts of great sacrifice.
UICC Campaign for People-Centred Cancer Care
The Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) has launched a new global campaign, "United by Unique," aimed at fundamentally shifting cancer care towards a people-centred approach. The campaign, which will run from 2025 to 2027, emphasises the importance of recognising and addressing the unique needs, perspectives, and stories of individuals affected by cancer.
Dancing to a ‘Tea’
Last Saturday afternoon saw a great flurry of activity at St George’s Christian Centre. People swapped their trainers for sparkly heels and soft leather pumps and danced the afternoon away in support of Christian Aid at our very popular Tea Dance.
Service That Leaves a Lasting Smile
If you have visited St George’s Café, then you have not only enjoyed delicious food freshly prepared on the premises, but also impeccable service from one of our dedicated volunteer servers. Service with a smile that you are unlikely to forget in a hurry!
Blessings from Besom
When we meet as volunteers for Besom, we always pray and remind ourselves that we carry the presence of God with us. During the year we deliver good quality donated furniture and household essentials to nearly 200 families referred to us. At Christmas we deliver donated Christmas Hampers of food and gifts to more than 70 of those we have helped during the year.
All Things Nice
Some impressive creations from our Gingerbread decorating afternoon held on Sunday 8 December, as families gathered at The Dell to get creative.
Festive Fun for Kingfishers Group
The Kingfishers Group gathered at St George’s on 30 November for some festive fun with flowers. Together the team supported a number of disabled adults in preparing some beautiful Christmas Table decorations. Thank you to Dee Peck and her team for organising this fun social event.
And the Winner is…
Last Friday night 10 teams assembled in the Dell Centre for a chance to win the coveted SGSG Quiz Trophy. The room was filled with laughter and brain challenging questions ranging from the missing dwarf from Snow White to the year Chaucer was born.
Time for a Stir
Stir-up Sunday is a centuries-old annual tradition where home-cooks spend the last Sunday before Advent ‘stirring up’ their Christmas pudding. That means it’s not on the same date each year and falls somewhere at the end of November before Advent begins.
16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence
25 November marks White Ribbon Day, a globally recognised symbol to end men’s violence against women and girls. It is also the start of 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, a campaign launched by the United Nations to end violence against women and girls.
Welcoming our New Facilities Manager
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Jeremy Pearson as our new Facilities Manager. Jeremy brings a wealth of experience from banking and civil service roles. He is currently an Assistant Verger for St Giles’ and is looking forward to being involved more deeply across the parish. His skills and knowledge will be invaluable as we continue to enhance both our facilities and welcome to the community.
OH Come… To sing at Ashtead Village Night on 3rd December
Calling All Singers! There will be an opportunity to raise the roofs in Ashtead Village, whilst raising some money for Christian Aid -not to mention raising the profile of our church - at Ashtead Village night on Tuesday 3rd December. There will be an Ashtead Churches Together group gathering outside M&S at 5pm to sing for just an hour. All welcome!
World Kindness Day - 13 November
Being kind to others matters to God. Every kind act, even the smallest one, has the power to create a ripple effect. That’s why The World Kindness Movement are encouraging us all to be kind to others, whether that be at home, work, school, or just out in public.
Organ & Scholarship Scheme Announcement
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Joshua Galipeau (Downsend School), Jocelyn and Zoë Bates (Rosebery School) to our new organ and choral scholarship scheme. Jocelyn holds an organ scholarship; Zoë is a choral scholar and Joshua is combining the two awards - both singing with the choir and playing the organ.
Supporting the Bereaved
Bereavement is something that all of us will experience at some point in our lives as sadly, losing loved ones is a very painful part of living. As a church, we aim to reach out and support people in their bereavement. This can be something that happens quite discreetly, whether by organising a funeral or interment of ashes via the Parish Office, or a member of our pastoral team spending time just ‘listening’ to someone, or visiting them at home.
WhatsApp’ening in Ashtead Parish
Keep up to date on everything you need to or would like to know about your church. From the next Alpha Course dates to worship events, the latest special on the St George’s Coffee Menu to road closures that could affect your journey to church this morning!
