Faith

Church members, professional and amateur musicians, Stourbridge College floristry students, local businesses and many other volunteers are working together to make St Mary’s 2008 Spring Festival extra special.

For three days, amid eye-catching flower arrangements, there will be performances in the 12th century church.

St Mary's, Kingswinford

On the Friday, the first day of the festival, musicians and singers from local schools will be performing.

Saturday's highlight is the Gala Concert. It will feature contemporary Christian singer-songwriter Chris Eaton. As well as performing at the Royal Albert Hall, Chris has written hits for Cliff Richard, Michael Ball and Janet Jackson among many others. Also performing at the Gala Concert will be the award winning - 25 strong - Phoenix Brass band. The Mayor and Mayoress of Dudley will be attending. Tickets cost £6, contact Margaret Penn on 01384 270806 for more information.

There will be celebration church services on the Sunday, the festival's final day.

An extra-special occasion - thousands expected

The Spring Festival has four main aims. To make more people aware of the St Mary's community. To welcome the new Priest in Charge Rev Giles Kendall and his family. To raise money for charity, and to celebrate the ongoing restoration of St Mary's - the oldest church in Dudley.

Flower arranging at St Mary's

Or as Churchwarden Margaret Penn says: “2008 represents a further milestone in the life of St Mary's Church as the Rev Giles Kendall joins us. We hope that thousands will visit over the three days.”

The festival's organisers wish to thank the local businesses and individuals who have sponsored the festival. Their generosity means that all money raised during the festival can be given to charity - half to World Vision (educating children in the third world) and half to St Mary's restoration fund.

Elaine Ford, Events Co-ordinator: “We are thrilled with the large number of people who have offered to help us during this festival time. I am sure the end result will be inspirational.”

Address, times, and tickets

Admission to St Mary’s Spring Festival is free, apart from Saturday's Gala Concert.

The Gala Concert is being held on Saturday 17th May 2008. Tickets cost £6 each.
Contact Margaret Penn on 01384 270806 for more information.

Address: St Mary’s Church, The Village, Kingswinford, Dudley DY68AY

The Spring Festival is on 16, 17 and 18 May 2008.