Lent appeal addresses communities' 'growing need'

The Bishop of Guildford has said his diocese's 2025 Lent appeal, launched on Wednesday, the first day of the season, will address the "growing needs" of communities in Surrey.

The Right Reverend Andrew Watson said he is hoping to top the £24,000 raised by the appeal Bishop of Guildford's Community Fund in 2024.

The money will be distributed to community groups which work with deprived and vulnerable people.

Lent lasts for the 40 days leading to Easter Day, not including Sundays, with Christians traditionally giving up luxuries and donating the money saved to good causes.

Bishop Watson said: "By donating, you are extending Christ's love to some of the most disadvantaged in our diocese, helping to build stronger, more resilient communities.

"Even a small gift can make a big difference, offering dignity, hope, and a brighter future."

The money raised in 2024 was distributed to 16 groups across Surrey.

That included St Paul's Dorking Community Hub, which runs a weekly welcome café and community meal to connect people who are socially isolated, and St John's Church Stoke, who provide meals to deprived families during the school holidays.

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