The Oxfordshire Historic Churches Trust is proud to support the many individuals and communities who take part in Ride + Stride, our county-wide fundraising initiative to help preserve Oxfordshire’s historic churches and chapels. While many participants cycle or walk between churches on the day, there is an equally valuable – and often overlooked – way to be involved: by serving as a Church Welcomer.

For those who prefer not to travel, or who are no longer able to do so, Church Welcoming offers a highly accessible and meaningful way to support the event. Welcomers provide a vital service by greeting Riders and Striders as they arrive at their destination, recording visits, and signing sponsorship forms. Their presence ensures that churches remain open and welcoming throughout the day and that visiting participants are met with hospitality and encouragement.

This role is especially suited to those who wish to contribute to the success of Ride + Stride without undertaking the physical demands of walking or cycling. It allows individuals to participate fully in the event from within their own parish church, offering both a warm welcome and a point of connection to the wider Ride + Stride community.

Welcoming can also be a personal fundraising opportunity. Traditionally, some Welcomers have asked friends and family for sponsorship based on the number of hours they are on duty. This year, we are encouraging supporters to consider new approaches – such as asking for £10 for every 5 minutes spent welcoming. Just one hour in your local church could raise well over £100, with half of the proceeds supporting your chosen parish and the other half contributing to OHCT’s county-wide work.

Fundraising can be done easily through our GoodHub page: https://www.goodhub.com/go/ohct-ride-and-stride-2025

As Ride + Stride continues to evolve, so too do the ways in which people participate. From team efforts that take place over several weeks, to themed routes and local heritage walks, the event remains open to creativity while grounded in its core purpose: safeguarding our historic churches for future generations.

Church Welcomers are an essential part of this tradition. Whether you are welcoming visitors for an hour or an afternoon, your presence contributes to the smooth running of the day, provides a warm reception to those journeying between churches, and offers a valuable source of funds.

If you would like to serve as a Church Welcomer in your parish this year, we encourage you to speak to your local Ride + Stride coordinator or contact OHCT at [email protected] for further details.

We are grateful to all those who participate in Ride + Stride – whether on foot, on wheels, or seated at the church door.