A Big Christingle Thank You

The Celebration of Thanksgiving was hosted by the CEO of the Children's society Mark Russell and Bishop Nicholas.

Bishop Nicholas told the supporters who had gathered in the Medieval Hall in Salisbury for a service and afternoon tea:

“This Diocese is a big supporter of The Children’s Society. We care about and for our children. The tea was to thank supporters but it also energised us to strengthen our prayers and support as we move into the season of Advent hope when many churches and schools will be raising money for the Society by holding Christingle services."

Among those present at the afternoon were children from Wimborne St Giles First School. They told those gathered that through carol singing, a cake sale, a fun run, and saving their pocket money they had raised nearly £500 for the Children's Society. The children also said how much they had enjoyed last year's special Christingle Service in the Cathedral that celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Society's formation.

Mark Russell, who became CEO of the Children's Society this summer said he been a donor for over 15 years and that he wanted to work for the Society because "I believe passionately for what they do."

He told the volunteers and supporters:

"I believe every child in this country deserves to be safe, loved, and the best they can be. No child should be forgotten or left behind. Every child should thrive, not just survive."

He said:

"We work with the most vulnerable and we can't do it without you."

He also issued an apology about the closure of the Weymouth based Waves, a counselling service run by the Children's Society:

"I’m sorry Waves closed and I know the pain this has caused. My team are working tirelessly to try to bring another project back in this part of the world."

As part of the thank you celebration, the supporters also got to help Gill Ford, Relationship Manager for the Children's Society, celebrate her 60th birthday. She also received a blessing from Bishop Nicholas.

Thanking them for their support, Gill told the volunteers:

"This Diocese raised £387,928 over the past 5 years and in Warminster alone they raised £1000 in house box collections - thank you!"