In a world where things change very quickly and many traditions have fallen by the wayside, Church rummage fundraising sales remain a part of the fabric of society. The sale that is produced twice a year at St. Philip in Dunbar is arguably one of the most successful in the diocese and is a great example of a parish working together for common good and reaching out to their neighbourhood. Many thanks to St. Philip's rector, the Venerable John Stephens for taking some time to share some background about this initiative with diocesan communications.
"The Rummage Sale here at St. Philip’s is a tradition stretching back for about 45 years (at least!) We have two a year and it is an incredible place of gathering people of the church, the neighbourhood and different parts of the city. We sell just about everything from frying pans to leather jackets, Easter bonnets to Pink Floyd LP’s. We have about 75 people lined up to get in when we open the doors: all the regulars (which includes antique dealers, book dealers, movie costume scouts and parents looking for good quality toys for their kids), newcomers and local legends. We probably have about 400 people come through our doors in search of a bargain and a social time over coffee and doughnuts. The volunteers from the church range in age of about 10 to 90 and everything in between. Many times we have been left notes of thanks for the great bargains and treasures people have found. This last sale we received a note from the organizer for the Lord Byng School Graduation Committee thanking us for a collection of books we supplied to them. In the spring of 2015 we had a TV crew come and film a story on local Garage Sales. The Sale is a wonderful tradition of building community, fellowship, laughter and teamwork... and we raise a few dollars as well. The September 2015 edition raised about $5400.
PHOTOS
- The dry goods table, fabric, blankets, patterns
- A warm welcome was offered to everyone coming in the main entrance
- Lots of clothing
- Christmas Items
- The main sales area in the gym
- Books, CD's and Art
For more photos check out the diocesan Faceback pages Anglican Conversation.