Although this isn't the first time there has been a raffle at St Peter's (as our archives show), we understand there are different viewpoints about this kind of outreach activity at our church. The team's reason for choosing a raffle for our 130th anniversary is twofold.
 
Firstly, because we want to meet people where they are, engaging the community in whatever ways make sense to them, drawing them in by the everyday experiences of their lives. Already the sales of tickets have enabled positive conversations with people beyond the church and outside of Christianity.
 
Secondly, it is to raise awareness in advance of both the 130th Anniversary event and the Bridging the Gap outreach that the raffle profits (if any) will fund. (This use of the proceeds is a stipulation of our gaming licence). This raffle is not about raising money for general church funds or a replacement for parishioners' giving, as we still expect the church to be funded by its members.
 
We hope you will support the leadership of the event, and the Bridging the Gap Food Box outreach, by either buying or selling raffle tickets. If this is not for you, there are plenty of other ways you can support this celebration of our life and service in this town. Tickets are available from the church office during office hours from Tuesdays to Thursdays, 9 AM - 1PM.
 
If you have any concerns or questions, please contact the Rector or a Warden.