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The Friends of Salisbury Cathedral
From the Salisbury Journal, first published Friday 2nd Feb 2007.
You often hear the phrase "joined up thinking" in the media. It usually refers to government departments working together rather than paddling their own particular canoes. But it could also mean thinking about joining up to groups or organisations.
People seem reluctant these days to join things. This perhaps reflects busy lives and an unwillingness to commit to anything that might impinge on valuable spare time. Maybe it is not 'cool' to join up! But what is true is that membership of organisations like the Friends is falling.When I took over as Secretary to the Friends in 1999, our membership was around 3,500 and by 2004 had crept up over the 3,600 mark. My ambition for the Friends - often mentioned at AGMs - is to get us over the magic 4,000 threshold.
However, recently membership has gradually fallen. The welcome number of new members is more than balanced out by deaths, resignations and lapses of membership. So we are slowly slipping backwards instead of moving forward - very frustrating!Former choristers are made Honorary members for ten years when they leave the choir and we are delighted that some of them choose to become full paying members at the end of that time. They certainly help to lower the average age!
If we are to continue to help the Cathedral we badly need more members, particularly in the 40s - 60s age range. Your only commitment is to pay your subscription - not an excessive amount.
We are fortunate that many members of the Cathedral congregation have joined the Friends but there may be people new to Salisbury who have not heard of us. If you are one, or you know someone who might like to join, download a form from our website: www.salisburycathedralfriends.co.uk - or if you are passing the office at 52 The Close pop in and collect one. Alternatively pick up a leaflet at our stand by the medieval clock at the west end of the Cathedral. We would warmly welcome new members and encourage you to ask your friends and family to join us. So please indulge in some joining up thinking'!Jane Erith, Secretary
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