A look back – and forward – at our most memorable events
Over more than a decade, our community has come together for education, fundraising, culture, and companionship. Here are some of the moments we’re most proud of.
2014–2015
Women’s role in World War One
Made possible by a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, this project brought history to life through the hands of local children. Young participants wrote letters and poems, created posters and paintings, and took part in workshops that culminated in performances and shows at the church. The dedicated website – still actively used by schools today – can be found at the following address:
Visit the workshop website: thefriendsworkshop.org.uk
2014 – ongoing
The Creative Quarter Carol Service
Every December, the Friends host the Creative Quarter Carol Service – and every year the audience grows a little larger. We welcome visitors with mulled wine and mince pies, and this festive gathering has become a cherished fixture in the local calendar.
2016
A champagne art and antique auction
This glamorous one-off event drew visitors from far and wide and proved to be one of our most successful fundraisers ever – generating a remarkable profit of over £14,000. An evening that showed just what our community can achieve when it comes together with ambition and flair.
2023
New heating for the church
After a dedicated fundraising effort, the Friends raised £46,980 through grants and donations to fund the installation of under-pew heating and heating chandeliers throughout the church. A practical and lasting gift to everyone who worships, visits, or takes refuge here throughout the year.
2023 – ongoing
Ukrainian Saturdays
Every Saturday, the church opens its doors to the Ukrainian community as a warm and welcoming gathering space. It’s a hugely popular event – full of coffee, singing, conversation, and good company. Everyone is welcome, so do come and join us.
2025 – ongoing
Reverend David Railton M.C. Exhibition
We are proud to announce that our exhibition honouring Reverend David Railton M.C. has now found a permanent home inside the church. The iconic image of the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior has been beautifully recreated, with the kind permission of Westminster Abbey – a moving tribute that visitors can now experience whenever they visit.
And much more besides…
These highlights sit alongside the many other events we’ve hosted over the years – Sips and Saints wine tastings, quizzes, exhibitions, and afternoon teas among them. Every event, large or small, is a testament to the generosity and spirit of this community.
Support our work – donate today
Everything we do – from heating the church to welcoming the Ukrainian community, from educational projects to festive carol services – is only possible because of the generosity of people like you.
Whether you can give a little or a lot, your donation makes a real difference. Donations go directly towards preserving the church, funding community events, and keeping this special place open and alive for everyone.
To make a donation or find out more about how you can support the Friends of St Mary’s & St Eanswythe’s, please get in touch with us or visit us in church. Every contribution is warmly received and deeply appreciated.
Friends of St Mary’s & St Eanswythe’s • Folkestone