Welcome to Friends of Essex Churches Trust
We revitalise buildings that make communities proud.
We raise money to award grants to preserve and improve Christian places of worship of all denominations in the historic county of Essex (including the unitary authorities of Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock together with the five London Boroughs of Barking & Dagenham, Havering, Newham, Redbridge and Waltham Forest)
Our Projects
Wethersfield, St. Mary Magdalene
Roof repairs and internal decoration
Our church, St Mary Magdalene, sits in a central spot within the North Essex village of Wethersfield. It also plays a central role in the life of the village; we are open daily, and have at least two services a...
Read MoreRide & Stride
Hundreds of people take part in Our Ride+Stride fundraising adventure – a sponsored bike ride or walk, every year.
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Events
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Spring Study Day 2025
Wednesday 7th May 2025
Join John Vigar for visits to four interesting churches in north Essex at
Bradwell-juxta-Coggeshall, Cressing, Rivenhall and Stisted
£15 for members and £20 for non-members
Payment is preferred via BACS using reference "Spring Study Day"
(sort code: 20-19-95, account no.: 60427888) or a... Read More -
Friends Annual Lecture and Annual General Meeting
Thursday 22nd May 2025
The Friends Annual Lecture and Annual General Meeting and will be held at Holy Trinity Church, High Street, Rayleigh, Essex SS6 8BB on Thursday, 22nd May 2025.
The highlight of the evening will be The Friends Annual Lecture by John Vigar... Read More
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Open Garden 2025
Thursday 5th June 2025
A rare opportunity to view the gardens at Gestingthorpe Hall; the former home of Captain Lawrence Oates. This extensive garden with a series of spectacular mixed borders includes an iris walk and buxus allée. The magnificent restoration of the... Read More