Church is a case of use it or lose it

SIR – The article about Christ Church in your newspaper appears to have caused some disquiet and misunderstanding. Christ Church is not facing imminent closure. It is very much in business. For years Christ Church has been dogged by rumours of closure. Although these were unfounded, they have been very damaging, disheartening the congregation and deterring some new worshippers. Unfortunately, as the diocese is short of money and clergy, they have not been able to replace the Rev Peter Furber as vicar of the whole parish of Christ Church with St Mary’s. However, with the help of retired clergy and readers, we have kept the services going, together with an extensive programme of social activities. The archdeacon’s announcement, saying that closure for public worship was one option among many, has presented us with a further challenge. We see no reason for closing Christ Church for public worship and we know how much it is needed for baptisms, weddings and funerals, as well as school services and other events needing a large space. Your readers can help to assure the future of this main town church, one of the few Malvern churches right in the centre of the residential area, by rallying round, attending Sunday services, held at 8am and 11am, and other events, and supporting us in any other way that they can. It really is a case of use it or lose it.