THE Church Times Train-A-Priest (TAP) Fund, now more than 60 years old, had benefited regularly throughout its life from legacies left by generous and thoughtful readers. Anyone who wishes to support the ongoing work of the Church may recognise it as a means to give much-needed help to those who offer themselves for the priesthood, often sacrificing time and salaries to train for parish work.

A large legacy a few years ago means that TAP grants are available to any English ordinands who experience financial difficulties. (These are disbursed by the Ministry Division.) Thus we have been able to turn our attention to ordinands in Africa, many of whom lack the basic support for themselves and their families that is available in wealthier countries.

Thanks to two legacies this year, we have already overtaken last year’s total (£25,762.96): halfway through Lent, the TAP Fund this week stands at £29,080.12 — though this is still low compared with some past years. Please consider including a sum or a percentage of your estate to the TAP Fund in your will.

But, of course, we welcome donations now. As regular readers will know, every penny donated goes directly to those in training in the poorest African countries.

Donations can be made quickly and securely online at: churchtimes.co.uk/train-a-priest-fund