Why Alive in Faith is important to me'

Holy Apostles, Norwich recently concluded their Alive in Faith efforts with tremendous success. The community as a whole was galvanised by the needs that face our Diocese and the importance of supporting our collective vision to build a sure foundation for the future. This is exemplified by the fact that 62% of the parish family decided Alive in Faith was a priority for them. Fr. Laurie Locke was truly grateful to everyone for taking the time to learn about this important initiative and was humbled by the response.

At the heart of every parish are its parishioners. Manju Sunny is a student at the University of East Anglia, and a parishioner at Holy Apostles. She first came to learn about the campaign directly from Fr. Laurie, and when asked why she decided to lend her support, she responded:

I have decided to make a pledge towards the Alive in Faith campaign because of the many benefits it would have on the parish. The Church has played a key role in my faith and I know that many priests in our diocese need our help and support to strengthen our community. They spread the many teachings of Christ, lead the many members of the parish in becoming good Christians and educate us in leading a sacred Christian life. That's why I have taken the action to give back to the parish by supporting them through a pledge and praying for their success in this mission.

Being a university student I am faced with financial struggles and making a pledge wouldn't seem like the first thing to do, but in the long term knowing that the parish will reap many benefits makes me feel that I have been able to contribute. Having the chance to help the community that has done so much for me and has warmly welcomed me only makes me happy. I would encourage students to be involved with the community and to support their parish, because "It is more blessed to give than to receive' (Acts 20:35). Thank you.