Once again it is necessary to ask all who worship with us to consider the financial situation of the Cathedral. As can be seen from the weekly pew sheets, our ‘offerings’ are far below the amount needed.

As has often been stated, the ‘church’ is the people and not the building. However, if we wish to continue to worship as we are used, the buildings have to be maintained and staff have to be paid. As will be seen from the accounts to be presented at the Annual General Meeting, staff costs (salaries and expenses) for 2005 amount to over BD3500 per month i.e. more than BD800 per week. Our weekly offertory collections average less than half that amount, the difference being made up by fund raising events and the income from rental of the premises to other congregations.

As from the 1st February this latter income has suffered a major blow with the termination of the rental contract by one of the larger congregations. This has resulted in a drop of income of more than BD450 per month.

Unlike many churches in other parts of the world, St. Christopher’s is completely self–supporting, we have no financial assistance from elsewhere.

The stark truth therefore is as stated above, if we wish to continue to worship as we are used we have to increase our giving. You may possibly have some ideas of your own for fund raising for the church. If so, please let us know.

Rod Taylor