- April 26, 2024
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An arts and crafts fair will feature both locally-made and out-of-state products.
About 50 men and women of St. James Episcopal Church, 44 S. Halifax Drive, have formed a group to pay down the church’s debt, and they are planning an Arts and Crafts Fair for March 21 and 22 at the church.
The Rev. Ernest Bennett, interim rector, said they have cut the debt in half in the past year, not only with their own efforts, but by inspiring others to donate. He said it’s similar to when a child has a lemonade stand, trying to raise money for charity. Others see the effort, and say “I can do something to help.”
“They have been a source of income and also a catalyst for very good feelings about the church,” Bennett said.
The church found itself in debt when the school closed in 2013 after 50 years in the community.
Called Friends of St. James, the group formed about a year ago to meet the financial challenges. They have conducted several money-raising functions.
The effort for the Arts and Craft Show started six months ago, with the Friends meeting twice a week to create crafts.
“It’s such fun,” said Dodson. “We have more laughs. Besides raising money, we’re making friends.” She said people who go to the 8 a.m. service are getting to know the people who go to the 10 a.m. service.
In addition to their own crafts, vendors from as far away as North Carolina and Georgia are going to be selling their wares, she said.
Last year they had a rummage sale, fish fry and a holiday tea, which were all very successful, said Ruth Dodson, chairwoman of Friends.
The holiday tea was held at Oceanside Country Club in November and included tips on home decorating. “We had such a good turnout,” she said.
Bennett said one reason for the debt is that when the school was operating, not enough attention was paid to income and expenses.
“That’s something you have to watch in any business,” he said.
Dropping enrollment was also part of the problem.
In the summer before the school closed completely, the church closed the middle school in a cost-cutting measure. Bennett said he believes that caused further loss of enrollment in the grade school, because some parents lost confidence in the stability of the school.
He said the Friends of St James has been a great benefit.
“It’s a wonderful thing to see,” he said one morning in the craft room, where people were getting busy. “They are here to serve and benefit the parish.”
Arts and Crafts Fair
The next fundraiser planned is an Arts and Crafts Fair set for 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on March 21; and noon to 4 p.m. on March 22 in the Parish Hall at St. James Episcopal Church, 44 S. Halifax Drive.
