The Friends is an organization consisting of members of the present congregation, former members who for various reasons have now moved elsewhere, members of other congregations, and of none.

What we have in common is an appreciation of the architecture of the church, or of its musical and liturgical traditions, or of its historic mission in Highgate. Many of us see a vital connection between some or all of these aspects of S Alban's life and we support the church and its life by our continued interest and prayer.

More practically, we raise money through subscriptions and social events in order to extend the resources available to the Parochial Church Council for projects which it would not normally be able to provide through general PCC funds, to enhance the beauty of the church and its surroundings and to maintain and improve its facilities.

In the same way we support the community rôle of the church, working ecumenically with other churches in Highgate, S Anne's Roman Catholic Church and Highgate Baptist Church, and with other Anglican churches in the Central Birmingham Deanery.

As we believe that the S Alban's community is larger and more diverse than the S Alban's congregation at any given time, we keep extra-congregational members in touch with the affairs and activities of the church. All members receive newsletters and notices of Festival Services, celebrations and other events.

Examples of what The Friends has achieved already

Since 1986 over £20,000 has been raised for various projects.

• Restoring the paintings “The Holy Family” and “The Scourging of Christ” in the church and “S Peter” in the entrance foyer to S Patrick's room.
• The provision of a commercial dishwasher and replacement cooker in the church kitchen, and tablecloths for use in S Patrick's room.
• Installing and renewing a payphone by S Patrick's room and annually paying half the line rental.
• Renewing the festal frontal for the Lady Chapel Altar and providing the materials for the hassocks in the chapels of Our Lady and S Patrick.
• Providing handrails on the steps at the west door and padded chairs with arms for use by the infirm.
• Renewing the church notice board and providing flower tubs by the west door and the notice board.
• Replacing the upright piano in the church.
• Providing a framed roll of incumbents in the church.
• Restoring the graves of our founders, the Pollock brothers, and our benefactors the Ratcliffs, in Moseley churchyard.

How to Join the Friends

Joining is easy and subscription rates are low - £6.00 annually. Students under 21 and senior citizens may join at the special rate of £2.00 per annum. Extended 5 year memberships are £25.00 and £10.00 respectively.

If you pay income tax and pay a standard rate membership subscription, you can increase your contribution to the Friends through Gift Aid, without any additional cost to yourself.

Contact the Treasurer for further information.