Raising Church Funds with a Vicar’s Tea Party

If there’s one thing we Brits do brilliantly, it’s putting the kettle on. And when the church roof needs patching, the Sunday school needs new crayons, or the flower rota could do with a little boost, what better excuse for a proper knees-up in the form of a vicar’s tea party?

What’s It All About?

Picture the scene: the vicar in their best clerical collar, cheerfully pouring tea into mismatched cups while balancing a plate of Victoria sponge. 

Parishioners swap gossip about the weather, children hover hopefully near the cake stand, and someone’s Aunt Mabel insists her scones are “better than Mary Berry’s”. It’s simple, it’s sociable, and it’s guaranteed to raise both smiles and funds.

Why It Works a Treat

Cake + Tea = Happiness. No complex fundraising maths needed.

A Little Bit of Friendly Rivalry. Who will win the “biggest slice of cake” challenge or the “fastest teapot pourer” prize?

Community Spirit. There’s nothing quite like a whole parish armed with teapots and sponge tins.

Affordably Splendid. No tuxedos or gala tickets required – just a few coins in the donations bowl and an appetite for cake.

Making It Extra Fun

Theme It Silly: A “Mad Hatter’s Tea Party” or “Royal Garden Tea” can liven things up.

The Vicar’s Apron Challenge: Get the vicar to don a frilly apron and serve tea with a flourish – it always goes down a storm.

Add a Raffle: Because who doesn’t secretly hope to win a jar of homemade chutney or a knitted tea cosy?

Musical Interlude: A sing-along hymn or a ukulele solo from the church warden can’t hurt.

The Secret Ingredient

It’s not really about the sandwiches, or even the cakes (though those are rather nice). It’s about gathering together, laughing over spilled teapots, and feeling that warm glow of community. And if, in the process, you raise enough for new hymn books or a fresh lick of paint for the vestry, all the better!

So dust off the cake stand, iron the vicar’s apron, and pop the kettle on – a vicar’s tea party is the most delicious way to fundraise, and you might just discover that jam really does bring people together.

How to Have Respectful Picnics in Churchyards

Churchyards, with their peaceful greenery and centuries-old gravestones, can seem like inviting places for a quiet rest or even a picnic on a warm day. 

But it’s vital to remember that these spaces are sacred and hold deep meaning for many. 

If you're considering a churchyard as a picnic spot, here’s how to do so with care, respect, and thoughtfulness.

Why Choose a Churchyard?

Churchyards often offer calm, beautiful spots with shade, wildlife, and a connection to the past. Some are part of open heritage sites or nature conservation areas, and in many rural communities, they are the green heart of the village. They’re not just places of worship and remembrance but also of reflection and local history.

Check Permission First

Not all churchyards allow picnicking. Before getting out your food, take the time to:

Look for signs that may indicate whether food is permitted.

Contact the church office or vicar if unsure.

Check if the site is part of a historic trust or managed estate like the Church of England’s ChurchCare, which may have guidelines.

How to Picnic Respectfully

If you’re confident that quiet picnicking is allowed, follow these etiquette tips:

1. Stay Clear of Graves

Never sit or set up a picnic directly on or right beside a grave. Even older headstones deserve respect, and someone may still visit to pay their respects.

2. Keep It Quiet

Opt for gentle conversation, no music, and keep children from running over graves. This isn’t the spot for loud games or boisterous chatter.

3. Use Reusable or Eco-Friendly Packaging

Respect for the space includes respect for nature. Bring reusable containers, avoid single-use plastics, and carry your rubbish home.

4. Choose a Discreet Spot

A shady spot under a tree, away from the main pathways and not in view of mourners, is ideal. Blend in, don’t dominate.

5. Clean Up Thoroughly

Leave no trace. Pick up every crumb, wipe away any spills, and ensure the site looks untouched when you leave.

6. Dress Appropriately

No need to be formal, but modest, tidy attire is more in keeping with the surroundings than beachwear or bare feet.

Be Aware of Services and Visitors

Churches are active places. Funerals, weddings, and regular services may happen without notice. If you arrive and see an event taking place, quietly and respectfully move on. People may be grieving or in deep thought — even if your picnic seems discreet, it may feel inappropriate to those visiting loved ones.

Supporting the Church

If you do use the space and appreciate it, consider giving back:

Pop a small donation in the church collection box.

Join a conservation or volunteer group for the site.

Share the experience with others in a way that promotes respect and heritage, not just a trendy picnic spot.

Final Thoughts

Picnicking in a churchyard can be a beautiful way to connect with nature and history. But it must be done with reverence and mindfulness. These are places of peace, remembrance, and faith. By showing respect, you ensure they remain welcoming and undamaged for future generations.

Tip for bloggers or visitors: If you’re taking photos, avoid including gravestones unless you’ve blurred names or are photographing general scenery. Always prioritise dignity.

Celebrating Pentecost with Feasting at Home and in Church

Pentecost, celebrated 50 days after Easter Sunday, marks the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and is often referred to as the “birthday of the Church.” 

For many Christians in the UK and around the world, it’s a joyful occasion symbolising unity, renewal, and divine inspiration. Traditionally observed with church services and processions, Pentecost can also be meaningfully celebrated with food and fellowship—whether at home or in the community.

A Feast of the Spirit: What Does Pentecost Symbolise?

Before diving into menus and table settings, it’s worth pausing to reflect on the meaning of Pentecost. The name itself comes from the Greek word Pentēkostē, meaning "fiftieth." It commemorates the moment when the Holy Spirit empowered the apostles to speak in many languages, allowing them to share the Gospel with people from all nations. Because of this, Pentecost is associated with themes of inclusion, communication, and spiritual awakening.

Red is the liturgical colour for Pentecost, representing the flames of the Holy Spirit. This vibrant hue can also inspire decorations, foods, and drinks for your celebration.

Hosting a Pentecost Feast at Home

Bringing Pentecost into your household is a beautiful way to engage your family in the spirit of the season. Here are some ideas for a home-based celebration:

1. Decor Inspired by the Holy Spirit

Use red table linens, napkins, or candles.

Add dove and flame motifs as symbolic decorations.

Incorporate flowers like red geraniums or roses to brighten the table.

2. Spirit-Filled Menu Ideas

Choose dishes that represent unity, diversity, and harvest. Pentecost is historically linked with Shavuot, a Jewish harvest festival, so seasonal produce is especially appropriate.

Starter:

Roasted red pepper soup (symbolising the tongues of fire)

Main:

Mediterranean platter with flatbreads, hummus, grilled vegetables, olives, and lamb

Vegetarian paella or ratatouille—dishes with international flair and communal spirit

Dessert:

Strawberries and cream or a red velvet cake

Meringues with raspberry coulis—symbolising the Spirit’s lightness and power

Drinks:

Sparkling elderflower cordial

Sangria or pomegranate juice for a rich red touch

Encourage everyone at the table to share a story of spiritual renewal or something that has inspired them recently, echoing the storytelling spirit of the apostles.

Feasting and Fellowship in Church

Many churches host special Pentecost services featuring music, readings in multiple languages, and community meals. Here are ways churches can include feasting:

1. Post-Service Fellowship Lunch

Invite parishioners to bring a dish from their cultural background. A Pentecost potluck celebrates the international nature of the Church and encourages cultural sharing.

Suggestions for Church Gatherings:

Label dishes with the country of origin

Offer a “Pentecost punch” in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions

Include a bake sale or cake stall with red-themed baked goods

2. Outdoor Picnics or Garden Parties

If weather permits, hold the feast outdoors with red bunting, picnic blankets, and perhaps a dove release or symbolic activity involving fire (like lighting candles in a safe environment).

3. Pentecost Prayer Stations and Food

Set up different “stations” with themed snacks and reflective prompts:

Wind Station: Windmill biscuits and fans, with prayers about being guided by the Spirit

Fire Station: Spicy food samplers and reflections on boldness

Language Station: International snacks and a multilingual prayer wall

A Feast for the Soul and the Senses

Whether at home or in your local parish, celebrating Pentecost with food adds a sensory layer to the spiritual meaning of the day. It’s a chance to reflect, reconnect, and rejoice in the unity the Holy Spirit brings.

 Pentecost Activity Ideas for All Ages

1. Flame Craft: Tongues of Fire Headbands

Materials: Red, orange, and yellow construction paper, scissors, glue or stapler, headbands (or paper strips)

How to: Cut flame shapes from the paper and glue them to the headbands. These represent the tongues of fire that rested on the apostles.

Use at: Sunday school, home celebrations, or to wear during the church service.

2. Wind Mobile or Pinwheel Craft

Materials: Card, paper straws or sticks, string, hole punch, markers

How to: Make a mobile with flame, dove, and globe symbols to represent the Spirit. Alternatively, create pinwheels to represent the rushing wind of the Spirit.

Reflection prompt: “Where have I felt the Spirit guiding me?”

3. Languages of the World Game

Idea: Print simple greetings (“hello,” “peace be with you,” “thank you”) in various languages and hide them around the house or church hall.

Challenge: Have participants match the language with the country. Discuss how Pentecost shows that God's message is for everyone, everywhere.

4. Prayer Candle Station

Setup: Provide tea lights (real or LED), red tablecloths, and simple prayer cards.

Instructions: Light a candle and pray for someone who needs peace or guidance. A beautiful visual reminder of the Spirit’s light.

5. Holy Spirit Fruit Tree

Theme: Galatians 5:22–23 – the fruit of the Spirit

Materials: A tree poster or real branches in a vase, paper fruit shapes

Activity: Write fruits of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, etc.) on each fruit and hang them up as people name ways they’ve seen those fruits in action.

6. Storytelling Circle

Inspiration: Just like the apostles told stories in many tongues, create a circle where everyone shares a short story or moment of grace in their life.

Adaptation for kids: Read a Pentecost-themed picture book and ask questions like, “What would you do if you could speak every language?”

7. Bake and Share: Pentecost Biscuits

Recipe idea: Basic sugar biscuits or gingerbread in shapes like doves, flames, or globes. Let children decorate with red, yellow, and orange icing.

Community idea: Pack biscuits in small bags with a prayer card and deliver them to neighbours or congregation members unable to attend church.

8. Spirit Balloons

Materials: Red, orange, and yellow balloons, marker pens

Activity: Write one way you can share kindness or joy this week on a balloon. Display them around the house or hall.

May your Pentecost be filled with flavour, fellowship, and the fire of the Spirit.

Creating a Feast for Ascension Day: Ideas for Home and Church Gatherings

Ascension Day, celebrated 40 days after Easter Sunday, commemorates the moment Jesus ascended into heaven. 

Though it may not be as widely marked as Easter or Christmas, it offers a beautiful opportunity to gather with others in faith, reflection, and fellowship. 

Whether you’re planning a simple supper at home or a more communal celebration with your church, a feast can turn this holy day into something truly memorable.

Here’s how to plan a meaningful Ascension Day meal, complete with ideas for food, décor, and prayers.

1. Start with the Spirit of the Day

Ascension Day is a celebration of hope, commissioning, and anticipation. It’s a time to reflect on Jesus’ final words and prepare for Pentecost. Keep this in mind when planning your gathering: the tone should be joyful, uplifting, and spiritually nourishing.

Consider beginning your meal with a short reading (Acts 1:6–11 is the classic choice) and a prayer of thanksgiving. If you’re with children or a mixed-age group, you might include a short story or craft to make the occasion more interactive.

2. Seasonal and Symbolic Food Ideas

Ascension Day doesn’t have traditional foods in the way Easter might, but you can create your own feast using symbolic and seasonal inspiration:

At Home:

Light, uplifting dishes: Think fresh salads, lemony chicken, herbed fish, and asparagus—foods that feel like spring and evoke a sense of "rising" or "ascension".

'Heavenly' desserts: Angel food cake, cloud meringues, or pavlovas topped with spring berries.

Freshly baked bread: A nod to the breaking of bread and sharing in fellowship.

For a Church or Community Gathering:

Bring-and-share lunch or supper: Invite attendees to bring a dish that reflects the season. Provide a list of ideas to help guide choices.

Ascension-themed dishes: Name dishes playfully—“Heavenly Hummus”, “Cloud Nine Cupcakes”, or “Spiritual Spring Salad”.

Vegetarian focus: Consider making the meal more inclusive with plant-based dishes that everyone can enjoy.

3. Setting the Scene

Whether you're hosting in your kitchen or a church hall, the atmosphere matters:

Décor: Use white and gold, traditional Ascension Day colours symbolising purity and glory. Add fresh flowers—lilies, daisies, or even wildflowers from a local walk.

Candles and light: Incorporate gentle lighting to signify Christ as the light of the world.

Sky elements: Paper doves, clouds, or stars make simple yet meaningful decorations, especially in church halls or family settings.

4. Incorporate Reflection and Worship

If you're planning a church-based event, consider including a short liturgy or hymn-sing before the meal. For a home celebration, invite guests to write down prayers or reflections and place them in a "prayer jar" to be shared or offered later.

You could also include:

A short group discussion about what “ascension” means in everyday life.

A simple blessing to end the meal and look ahead to Pentecost.

5. Make It Intergenerational

Ascension Day can be a brilliant teaching moment for children and a source of encouragement for older generations. Create opportunities for storytelling, sharing personal reflections, or even singing together. Encourage young guests to help with serving food, reading Scripture, or decorating.

Conclusion:

Creating a feast for Ascension Day doesn’t have to be elaborate. Whether it’s a light meal at home or a joyful church gathering, the goal is to honour the significance of the day while deepening your community’s connection to one another and to God. With a little planning, your celebration can lift hearts as much as it fills plates.

There Is No Shame in Using a Foodbank — And Here’s How You Can Pay It Forward Too

Times are tough for a lot of people right now. With the cost of living crisis, rising bills, and unexpected expenses around every corner, more and more people are turning to foodbanks for support. And let’s be absolutely clear about this: there is no shame in using a foodbank.

You're Not Alone — And You're Not Failing

The idea that asking for help is something to be embarrassed about is outdated and harmful. 

Everyone needs support sometimes. Using a foodbank doesn’t mean you’ve failed — it means you’re doing what you need to do to take care of yourself or your family.

You wouldn’t think twice about using the NHS when you’re unwell. So why feel any different about using a foodbank when you need a bit of extra help putting meals on the table? These resources exist because no one should have to go hungry, ever.

Foodbanks Are for Everyone in Need — Including You

The reality is, many people who use foodbanks are working — sometimes full-time — but still struggling to make ends meet. It’s not about laziness or poor choices. It’s about a system that often doesn’t leave enough breathing room.

If you’ve had to choose between heating your home and feeding yourself, or if your wages aren’t stretching as far as they used to, you’re not alone. Foodbanks are there to fill that gap — no judgement, just support.

Dignity, Not Charity

Modern foodbanks are built around dignity. They aim to offer not just food, but kindness, a listening ear, and often signposting to additional help. It’s not just about giving out tins and pasta — it’s about lifting people up.

If you’re feeling anxious about going to a foodbank, remember this: the people running them care deeply. They understand. They’re there because they want to help, not to judge.

Paying It Forward — Even While You're Still Struggling

You might be thinking, “I hate taking without being able to give back.” That’s a completely human feeling — but let’s reframe it. There are ways to pay it forward, even if you’re still working through your own challenges:

Share your story, if you feel comfortable – speaking openly (even anonymously) helps remove the stigma and shows others they’re not alone.

Offer your time – when you’re in a better place, consider volunteering. Foodbanks always need hands and hearts.

Donate later – if you can't give now, maybe in the future you’ll be in a position to pop a couple of items in a donation bin or support a fundraiser.

Support others emotionally – a kind word online or in your community to someone who’s struggling can make a world of difference.

A Community That Lifts Each Other Up

Foodbanks aren’t about charity. They’re about community. They’re about not letting anyone fall through the cracks. And one day, if and when you're in a position to give back, you’ll do it with understanding and compassion — because you’ve been there, and you know.

So if times are tight, take the help. That’s what it’s there for. You don’t need to explain, apologise or feel bad. There’s no shame — just people helping people. And that’s something truly powerful.

How can you find out about foodbanks that can help you or who you could help in the future? Here's a list:-

United Kingdom

1. The Trussell Trust

The largest foodbank network in the UK, operating over 1,300 centres. They provide emergency food parcels and support services.

Find a Trussell Trust foodbank near you​

foodaidnetwork.org.uk

2. Independent Food Aid Network (IFAN)

A network of over 550 independent foodbanks across the UK, offering a range of food aid services.

aidnetwork.org.uk

3. The Salvation Army

Operates foodbanks and provides food parcels through many of its churches and community centres.

https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/foodbanks

4. FareShare

Distributes surplus food to charities and community groups, including foodbanks and community kitchens.

Learn more about FareShare's food support​

https://fareshare.org.uk/getting-food/food-service-for-individuals/

5. Local Council Services

Many local councils provide information on foodbanks and food support services in their areas.

Ireland (Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland)

1. FoodCloud (Community FoodLink)

Connects businesses with surplus food to charities and community groups, including foodbanks.

Explore FoodCloud's Community FoodLink​

https://food.cloud/community-foodlink

2. Crosscare

Based in Dublin, Crosscare operates foodbanks and distributes food to various charities across Ireland.

Learn more about Crosscare​

https://www.centreforglobaleducation.com/food-bank-ireland

3. Simon Communities of Ireland

Provides support to individuals experiencing homelessness, including food services.

🔗 Find services through Simon Communities​

https://www.simon.ie/our-network-of-communities/

4. Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVP)

Offers a range of support services, including food assistance, across Ireland.

Access SVP's services​

https://www.svp.ie/

How to Write a Recipe Book to Raise Funds for a Local Church or Charity Project

Raising funds for a local church or charity project can be both rewarding and fun, especially when it involves bringing people together around something everyone loves – food! 

Creating a recipe book featuring collated recipes from your community is a fantastic way to raise money while celebrating the unique dishes that make your area special.

In this blog post, we’ll explore how to write a recipe book that not only reflects the spirit of your community but also serves as a successful fundraising tool. Follow these steps, and you'll have a professional, heartwarming, and profitable cookbook ready to sell in no time.

1. Define Your Goal and Audience

Before you begin gathering recipes, it’s important to clearly define your goal and target audience. Are you aiming to raise funds for a specific church renovation project, a youth programme, or a local charity? Understanding the purpose behind your recipe book will help you stay focused and communicate its value to potential buyers.

Consider your audience too. Will the book be for families, seasoned cooks, or beginners? Defining your audience will guide the types of recipes you include and how the book is designed.

2. Collect Recipes from Your Community

The heart of your recipe book will be the recipes you collect from the community. Organise a call-out, asking church members, neighbours, and supporters of the charity to contribute their favourite family recipes. Be clear on the type of recipes you’re after – you might want a mix of starters, mains, desserts, and even beverages. Encourage contributors to include a short note about the significance of their dish or any personal tips they have for preparing it.

A few ways to collect recipes:

Email submissions: Create a template for people to fill out and email back.

Paper submissions: Leave printed forms at the church or charity, allowing people to handwrite their recipes.

Online form: Use Google Forms or a similar tool to make it easy for people to submit recipes digitally.

3. Test the Recipes

To ensure every recipe is accurate and easy to follow, consider organising a few test kitchens where volunteers try out the submitted dishes. This helps you verify quantities, cooking times, and instructions. Plus, it’s a great way to get people together for a tasting event!

4. Organise and Categorise Recipes

Once you've gathered your recipes, it’s time to organise them into sections. Typical categories include:

Starters

Soups & Salads

Main Courses

Desserts

Bakes & Treats

Beverages

You might also choose to have special sections, such as holiday recipes, vegetarian dishes, or quick meals. Consistency is key here – ensure all recipes follow the same structure (e.g., ingredient list first, followed by method).

5. Write a Foreword and Acknowledge Contributors

A personal touch can make your recipe book more engaging. Write a foreword explaining the purpose of the book, the church or charity it will benefit, and how the funds will be used. Include a heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed recipes and supported the project.

If space permits, you can also dedicate a page to listing all the contributors, which gives people a sense of involvement and pride.

6. Design the Book

The design of your recipe book is crucial in making it visually appealing and easy to use. If you have graphic design skills, you can create a layout using tools like Canva or Adobe InDesign. If not, consider asking a volunteer or hiring a local designer who may offer their services at a reduced rate for a charitable cause.

Key design elements include:

Clear formatting: Make sure each recipe is easy to read, with a consistent layout.

Photos: Include photographs of the finished dishes, if possible. If you can’t photograph every dish, a few high-quality images throughout the book will still have a big impact.

Cover design: The cover should reflect the community and the purpose of the book. Consider including the church or charity’s logo, or an image that resonates with the people involved.

7. Choose a Title

The title of your recipe book should be simple, catchy, and relevant to the project. Some ideas include:

Feasts of the Community

Church Family Favourites

A Taste of Home: Recipes from Our Neighbourhood

Bakes for a Cause: Supporting [Charity Name]

Make sure the title clearly indicates that the book is for charity – this adds to the incentive for people to buy it.

8. Decide on Printing or Digital Format

You can choose between printing hard copies of your book or distributing it digitally. Printed books tend to have more perceived value, but they come with upfront costs. Research local printers who may offer a discount for charitable projects, or use online self-publishing platforms like Blurb or Lulu.

For digital versions, consider offering a downloadable PDF on your church or charity’s website, or sell it through platforms like Etsy.

9. Price and Promote Your Recipe Book

Decide on a price that covers your production costs while leaving a good margin for fundraising. Don’t forget to highlight that all profits will go towards the church or charity.

Promote your book across social media platforms, in church bulletins, and via email newsletters. Host launch events at the church or community centre, where people can buy the book and sample some of the recipes. Encourage the community to spread the word – the more people who know about the book, the better your fundraising efforts will be.

10. Plan for Distribution

Whether you’re printing physical copies or distributing a digital version, plan how your buyers will get their hands on the book. If you’re printing copies, decide whether they will be available at the church, through local shops, or posted to buyers. For digital versions, make the purchase process as smooth as possible by providing clear instructions for downloading.

Final Thoughts

Creating a recipe book is a fantastic way to raise funds for your local church or charity project. It not only helps financially, but also strengthens the community by showcasing beloved family recipes. With careful planning, collaboration, and a good dash of creativity, you can produce a book that will serve both as a fundraising tool and a cherished keepsake for years to come.

So gather your recipes, rally your community, and start cooking up some success!