The Friends of St John's.

The spire of St John's church is visible from across the city, a symbol of the active Christian community worshipping there. But St John's is so much more than that.

It is not only an important historical building in the heart of the beautiful conservation area which is Ranmoor, but also a resource for many organisations and individuals. The church building is used by diverse groups, including local schools, charities, choirs and orchestras; and important public meetings are held there.

Many people, even if not regular worshippers, have a connection with the church; thousands have passed through its doors and been touched by its beautiful interior, and the peaceful, spiritual atmosphere within.

St John's also supports a fine musical tradition. It has one of the finest organs in the area and two liturgical choirs. The building is well suited for concerts with its excellent acoustics, and is used by many of the well known Sheffield choirs and orchestras as well as other musical groups.

The maintenance of this beautiful grade 2* listed building, and the worship within, costs £4,000 per week. The church receives no government support, and the vast majority of this amount is given by the regular worshippers. In addition to the day to day running costs, there are often extra items which need to be funded. We have recently installed a new sound system; the lighting needs renewing, the organ maintenance is expensive and other things crop up from time to time. It has long been an ambition to improve toilet and other facilities to make use of the church more convenient. Disabled access needs to be improved and there are other pressing maintenance issues.

We need your help to ensure that St John's continues to be a vibrant part of the life of Sheffield, and available to all those who use it. Please consider becoming a "Friend of St John's"

The aims of the Friends of St John's are:

• To raise funds to assist with the conservation of the building and its environs.
• To support the PCC in it's maintenance of and improvements to the church, its contents and facilities.
• To Support the Anglican choral tradition within St John's, the musical life of the church and the conservation and maintenance of the organ.

By becoming a Friend you will:

• be kept in touch with St John's by means of an annual report and regular newsletters.
• have the opportunity of attending events at St John's (with specially discounted tickets for events organised by St John's).
• take part, if you wish, in a programme of social and fundraising events.

We ask our Friends for:

• their goodwill, prayers and encouragement.
• an annual or life subscription that will help support St John's and its work.

You do not need to be a churchgoer to be a Friend or have any particular connection with St. John's. Friends are well-wishers with an interest in our aims, whether living locally or away from Sheffield.

The cost of being a Friend is £25 per annum but we have reductions for senior citizens and students. We also welcome corporate membership from local businesses.

Subscriptions will be due on 1st May each year and you can pay by cheque or Standing Order.

We are able to claim Gift Aid, if you are a taxpayer, so please fill in the Gift Aid Declaration, if appropriate.

Subscription Rates:-

• Individual £25
• Joint £40
• Corporate £50
• Individual Senior Citizen/Student £20
• Joint Senior Citizen/Student £35

If you would like to become a Friend of St. John’s please contact the Parish Office by post:
The Parish Office, Ranmoor Parish Centre, 5, Ranmoor Park Road, Sheffield, S10 3GX.

or email:  secretary@stjohnsranmoor.org.uk

for an application form.