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Steve Atack, Founding Patron of The Friends of St Mary Abbots
Steve Atack, Founding Patron and Member of the Friends of St Mary Abbots sadly passed away on 30th April 2026. A huge supporter and stalwart of the church, he worked tirelessly on projects which helped enhance and preserve the fabric of the building. A good friend and supporter of the clergy and parish team, he will be very much missed.
May he rest in peace and rise in glory. |
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Some of the projects supported by Steve and the Friends of St Mary Abbots
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The Friends of St Mary Abbots Church Kensington
Who are the Friends of St Mary Abbots Church Kensington?
The Friends is a lively association deeply involved in the St Mary Abbots church community and undertaking a range of projects which we support through fund raising, bequests and social events.
The friends were founded by Steve Atack with parishioners of the church, residents of the Kensington community, local businesses and associations and members in other countries who wish to be associated with the work of the Friends in helping to maintain the fabric and fittings of this fine example of Sir George Gilbert Scott's distinctive church architecture.
Membership of the Friends of St Mary Abbots Church Kensington is open to people of all faiths and those of none who care about and have an interest in this beautiful church in the heart of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.
The Friends is a lively association deeply involved in the St Mary Abbots church community and undertaking a range of projects which we support through fund raising, bequests and social events.
The friends were founded by Steve Atack with parishioners of the church, residents of the Kensington community, local businesses and associations and members in other countries who wish to be associated with the work of the Friends in helping to maintain the fabric and fittings of this fine example of Sir George Gilbert Scott's distinctive church architecture.
Membership of the Friends of St Mary Abbots Church Kensington is open to people of all faiths and those of none who care about and have an interest in this beautiful church in the heart of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.
Previous Friends' Projects
Projects funded by the Friends include an impressive £50,000 towards installation of the new the access ramp at the South Door in 2023, improvements to lighting inside the churchyard and windows (a millennium project) in 2022, the installation of a new Chiming Bell in the church tower (the first new bell since 1872), new signage outside the church, provision of new carpeting around the altars, donation of a new set of surplices for both the adult and children's choirs in support of the excellent musical traditions of St Mary Abbots and many other works to repair and maintain this splendid and vibrant church.
Our active team of Patrons includes: Mr Guy Heald, Church Warden, Rt Hon Lord David Cameron, Bishop Tim Thornton and Mr Mark Pendlington, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk, The Rt Revd & Rt Hon Richard Chartres, The Rt Rev'd Michael Colclough and Prof Lord Alton of Liverpool
Our active team of Patrons includes: Mr Guy Heald, Church Warden, Rt Hon Lord David Cameron, Bishop Tim Thornton and Mr Mark Pendlington, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Suffolk, The Rt Revd & Rt Hon Richard Chartres, The Rt Rev'd Michael Colclough and Prof Lord Alton of Liverpool
Joining The Friends of St Mary Abbots
What benefits do I receive if I join the Friends of St Mary Abbots Church Kensington?
- The opportunity to take part in the annual programme of The Friends social events which include musical and cultural events, lectures, visits and AGM.
- Information about the Church's programme of concerts, talks and lectures and community events such as the Summer Garden Party, Bonfire Night, The Victorian Christmas Fair and Patronal Festival.
How do I join the Friends of St Mary Abbots Church Kensington?
Please write to The Friends of St Mary Abbots Church Kensington, c/o Parish Office,
St Mary Abbots Centre, Vicarage Gate,
London W8 4HN.
Or email the Parish Manager HERE.
Please write to The Friends of St Mary Abbots Church Kensington, c/o Parish Office,
St Mary Abbots Centre, Vicarage Gate,
London W8 4HN.
Or email the Parish Manager HERE.
Legacy - How to remember the Friends in your will
You might consider making a bequest to the Friends of St Mary Abbots Church Kensington and help ensure that a church stands on this historic site at the heart of Kensington for a further 1000 years! Should you require any guidance, the Friends' Legal Adviser is available to assist you in total confidence and can be contacted HERE.
