HELEN was busy with her studies at theological college when an ankle injury made walking and attending college difficult. Her doctor recommended a course of immediate private physiotherapy. But there was nothing in her carefully managed budget to meet this cost.
Helen applied to the Train-a-Priest (TAP) Special Hardship Fund, and was awarded an emergency grant of £250. This paid for her physio, making her fit again to continue her studies.
Amanda’s ordination training required a good deal of car travel. Owing to family reasons, she had been making more journeys than usual, and the car urgently needed an MOT. A grant of £128 from the TAP Special Hardship Fund was enough to keep her on the road, and, crucially, on the path to ordination.
There are many similar stories of people receiving help from the TAP Fund. Often, the size of grants is not large — but they make a real difference.
We hope that our readers will be inspired to give generously.
How to give
GIVING online is easiest for many donors, and for us. Simply visit www.hymnsam.co.uk/train-a-priest.aspx. This is a secure page with clear instructions.
We also accept cheques, postal orders, cash, and charity cheques, which should be sent to: TAP Fund, Church Times, 13a Hellesdon Park Road, Norwich NR6 5DR.
Spread the word
PLEASE encourage other people to give to TAP — a colour leaflet can be downloaded from the Church Times website. We also encourage churches to hold a special collection, or fund-raising effort. Please let us know about your support, and your stories.