Vicar gambles on talents of flock
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.THE REV Colin Fox gave his 170-strong congregation pounds 10 each with the order 'go forth and multiply' - and they came back with pounds 7,000.
Mr Fox's gamble paid dividends to finance emergency repairs to his church. He handed pounds 10 to each member of the congregation of St John the Baptist in Pewsey, Wiltshire, and gave them four months to come back with a profit.
One woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, believes in divine intervention after she placed her first bet on two horses, and won pounds 35.
Pat Beresford, a retired teacher, had one of the biggest profit margins - pounds 550 from sales of a village history book.
Other members held barbecues, bring-and-buy sales and piano recitals to raise money.
Mr Fox said: 'It was a tremendous effort which far exceeded my expectations when I told people to go forth and multiply.
'Four parishioners allowed me to borrow the money in the first place and I didn't lose a penny. Only a handful of people returned with the bare pounds 10. It all paid off handsomely.
'One lady did have a sense of humour and, acting on a tip from her son, placed a bet on the horses.
'I had no reservations about doing it - I had faith in my flock. A parable in the Bible says people were given a sum of money and told to go forth and use their talents wisely. I'm pleased to say most people reacted in the same way by doubling and trebling their gifts.
'It was a marvellous effort by so many people which gave a real sense of community spirit.'
The cash will be used to rewire St John's, a 13th century Norman church.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments