I WAS concerned to read E Sanderson's letter (Citizen, April 29) about the involvement of churches in community activities.

As minister of the church referred to, Ashton Methodist Church, I would like to clear up several issues.

The church has not 'fallen into disrepair' and is very clearly wanted and well-used as a place of worship.

We are seeking ways of making our premises more flexible so that the local community can share the resources available.

The community already uses the building in various ways - we simply wish to extend that usage to many more people.

In this we are not working in isolation, but with other agencies to see how together we can respond effectively to enhance the life of the community.

We seek a positive, enabling role which will benefit others.

Despite your reader's questioning of our sanity, we believe in a loving God whose care and concern is for everyone.

The proposed developments at Ashton Methodist Church are to enable the premises to be used to express that love.

Rev Tony Farrar, Ashton Methodist Church

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.