Friends of Great Bealings church

Introduction

FOGBC was launched in 2011. There is a constitution, but the organisation is more a group of people determined to ensure that the beautiful church, set amongst meadows between the two major residential areas, Boot Street and Lower Street, should remain a centre for community activities. With just one service a month there is clearly chronic under-use of what is the only public building in the village.

In order to make better use of the facilities - now enhanced to modern standards by mains water, basic kitchen facilities and a toilet - the Friends organise a programme of events to bring people of all religions and of none into the church to enjoy what the building and the churchyard have to offer. In recent years the church has staged talks, concerts, (indoors and outdoors), festivals, exhibitions, and an Open Evening with Suffolk Wildlife Trust. Off-site, members have organised cricket matches, progressive suppers, Plant Sales, Garden Parties, various national celebrations, Christmas Dickens performances, Open Gardens etc.

Future events

The 2020 programme has been severely disrupted by Corona Virus lockdown. Plans had included: A German Evening, including music, literature, art and German fare, the Annual Plant Sale, Open Gardens. Normal service will be resumed, as and when possible.

Joyspring at the Queen's 90th Birthday Party - June 2016 at The Lodge

Concert by the Gippeswyk Singers

Sunday 3rd December
Supporting instrumental group. This concert will be co-promoted by Little Bealings Church and Gill Peck
Tickets available @£10, to include refreshments, from the beginning of November from Norman Porter or 01473 735565

Past events

Previous events include an annual Plant Sale, a village cricket contest, talks and wildlife events.

The annual plant sale

Merchandise

An illustrated History of Great Bealings Church is available at the cost of £5.

Various cards are also stocked, including a card featuring a picture of the church painted by local artist Thomas Churchyard.

Please address any queries, inquiries, suggestions, offers etc to Norman Porter (FOGBC and Churchwarden at St Mary's, Great Bealings), tel: 01473 735565.