Across the Diocese of Bristol, churches and communities came together in inspiring and creative ways to support Christian Aid Week 2025. From sponsored walks and cycle rides to concerts, quizzes, and cake sales, the generosity and energy shown by so many has been truly heartening.
St John the Baptist, Colerne
This year, St John the Baptist in Colerne embraced the challenge with a series of events that brought people of all ages together. These included four long group walks along the Athelstan Pilgrim Way as part of the “70K in May” challenge, a sponsored children’s bike ride covering an impressive 80 miles in total, and a vibrant Community Concert featuring four choirs (including an all-action children’s choir), instrumentalists, and a poetry reading.
Adding a fun and meaningful twist for younger participants, children were given Smartie tubes to enjoy — and then encouraged to return them filled with coins at the Christian Aid service collection. This simple but powerful activity helped them connect their fun and challenge to practical support for others in need.
Local organiser Karen Brzezicki shared:
“We are so thankful for all who helped this year, from one cyclist (Fenella) who was just 3 years old (that week!) up to Rodney in his 80s; it was an appeal supported by our whole Church family as well as friends within the community. We raised over £2,000, exceeding our target, but it was way more than a financial success. It helped us to connect to our global neighbours, bringing the families who live in the hills in Guatemala into our lives and reminding us that everyone deserves a good life.”
Holy Trinity, Westbury-on-Trym
At Holy Trinity, the week began with a successful cake stall at the Community Fair, raising over £450 - £200 more than the previous year! The church also welcomed Dr Frances Clemson to speak at the Christian Aid service. Organiser Ken Pattison took on a personal challenge, cycling 140 miles over the week as part of the “Seven Days, So Many Ways” campaign.
Ken said:
“I managed it, but I know about it! So far, we’ve raised over £3,200 - more than our total last year - and that’s before Gift Aid!”
St Mary’s, Bitton
Creativity was on full display at St Mary’s Bitton, where the community hosted a delightful Mini Mouse Festival. Knitted mice representing various TV shows brought smiles and donations alike, thanks to the efforts of organiser Nicola Bennetts.
St Edyth’s, Sea Mills
St Edyth’s made a joyful contribution with a Sponsored Songs of Praise event, lifting spirits and raising funds.
Cotham Parish Church and St Paul’s, Bristol
Cotham and St Paul’s churches held a joyful and imaginative evening in support of Christian Aid’s work in Guatemala. The event featured a delicious two-course dinner followed by an open mic session, where guests shared poetry, prose, music, and song in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
In the lead-up to the evening, members of both congregations offered their time and talents for a fundraising auction. Bids were placed on a wide variety of generous offerings, from home-baked cakes and flower posies to DIY help, a Sri Lankan meal for four, and even a stay at a house in beautiful Wales.
The event drew a crowd of 70 people and raised an incredible £3,600. A wonderful example of community, creativity, and compassion in action.
St Mary’s, Purton (with the Methodist Church and wider village)
St Mary’s Purton, in collaboration with the local Methodist Church and the whole village, hosted a packed programme of events:
- A “fiendish” 50-question acrostic quiz
- A lively Beetle Drive
- Two Big Brekkies enjoyed by many
- Numerous cake sales across venues
- An “80” object sale—‘Christian Aid Bona Fide Bargains’—celebrating 80 years of Christian Aid
- A jigsaw swap and a popular plant sale
Local organiser Libbie Sheppard praised the community’s enthusiasm and creativity in making the week such a success.
To everyone who walked, cycled, baked, sang, served, sold, or supported in any way – you’re amazing! Your efforts have made a real difference, not just in raising funds, but in building community and standing in solidarity with our global neighbours.
Please continue to share your positive stories with us—we’d love to hear them!