DURING this past week, the Church Times Train-A-Priest (TAP) Fund has grown by almost 50 per cent to £14,441.09.

This is hugely encouraging, because, as readers will know by now, the need for financial assistance for those who wish to train for the priesthood in Africa is great. Our thanks to all who have given. We are happy to reassure them and would-be donors that every penny gathered will go to candidates for training, thanks to our partnership with CAPA, the Council of Anglican Provinces of Africa. Nothing is retained to cover administrative expenses, here or in Africa.

As Passiontide approaches, please consider giving sacrificially for this good cause and these good people. We also encourage readers to consider leaving a legacy to the Church Times Train-A-Priest Fund, either for ordinands in Africa or the UK. We have been running this appeal each year since 1952, raising £4.7 million to date, and all future legacies will be honoured.

How to donate to the TAP Fund

Here is a form to use if you wish to send a cheque or charity voucher. But we would encourage you to donate online, quickly and securely. This is our preferred method: www.churchtimes.co.uk/train-a-priest-fund

We will accept donations in any shape and size, however. Please make cheques payable to “The TAP Fund” and send to: TAP Fund, Church Times, Hymns Ancient & Modern, 13a Hellesdon Road, Norwich NR6 5DR.

If you are a UK payer of income or capital gains tax, the Church Times, through the Hymns Ancient & Modern charity, can recover 25p for every £1 that you give through Gift Aid. If you are eligible, please indicate this when making an online donation, or complete the form and send it with your cheque.