SOMETIMES it’s the simple things. Matthew, an ordinand, cycled to classes at his theological college — until an accident one day left him with substantial damage to his bicycle. A contribution of £100 from the Church Times Train-A-Priest (TAP) Fund was enough to get him back on the road.
Church Times readers know the sacrifices that ordinands make to find time to study for the ministry. But when finances are tight, a small bill can trigger anxiety and confusion. This is what the TAP Fund was created to solve. Every year, your donations — without a penny taken away for administration — help to solve numerous crises in the lives of those training for ministry.
Lent is drawing to a close, but the TAP appeal will continue until Pentecost. Another £4000 came in last week, largely in small donations — a magnificent effort, but there is still some way to go before we match last year’s total.
A TAP donation is an ideal way to say thank you to the men and women who dedicate their lives to the Church’s ministry.
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. If you would like an acknowledgement, please enclose an SAE.
UK taxpayers can boost their gift by making a Gift Aid declaration. Please do this on our online donations page.
Spread the word
PLEASE encourage other people to give to TAP, too. A leaflet can be downloaded from the Church Times website; and we encourage churches to hold a collection or fund-raising effort. And don’t forget TAP in your will. . .