Like any business, a church needs an income, and it uses it to pay its running costs. Ours (that is, Christ Church on Long Furlong and Christ Church Northcourt Road combined) comes almost exclusively from the generosity of its members.

We don't take up a collection at services these days, although the opportunity for occasional giving is always available if needed. The best way to give is through a regular sum paid directly through your bank. If you are a UK taxpayer you can then sign a Gift Aid form, which allows the church to reclaim tax on all the money you give thereafter. So, for every £10 you give, we can claim back at least another £2 from the Inland Revenue.

Last year around 60% of our income came through this kind of regular giving, and we were able to reclaim a further 20% from the Taxman. Just like any ordinary family dependent on their regular income, regular giving helps us meet today's needs and plan for the future.

Nearly half of our income goes to the Diocese in what's called the 'parish share'. This is where a substantial amount of the Church of England's income is found, and the majority of it is used to pay for its clergy. Another 15% of our income went to support our mission work, and 9% on our youth worker.

For a full copy of our annual report, and details of how you can give most efficiently, please write to The Treasurer at Christ Church.