Minutes of the meeting of the Parochial Church Council of
St Nicholas’ Church, Shepperton
held in the Parish Centre at 8:15pm on Wednesday 13th February 2018
St Nicholas’ Church, Shepperton
held in the Parish Centre at 8:15pm on Wednesday 13th February 2018
Those present: Nicky Searle, Angela Enock-Shore, the Rev Pamela Barrie, Colin Barnard, Guy Blythman, Margaret Bennet, Elizabeth Harrow, Janice Wetherell, Kathy Hodge, Fiona Stevens, Peter Davis, and the Rector in the Chair.
1] Apologies for absence were received from Mike Ralph, Elaine Howard and Jo Child.
2] Conversation with Liz Felsing – the School and the Church
The PCC welcomed Liz Felsing, Head Teacher at St Nicholas School to the meeting. Although the Head is an ex-officio member of the PCC, the Rector said we have never asked our heads to attend in this respect, so this is a very special occasion. The faith relationship between church and school has become much more active over the last 6 years, so it seemed appropriate to invite Liz to a meeting to reflect on this. The Rector asked how we can maintain and develop this relationship going forward, noting we will be losing Pamela as children and families’ minister later this year. Might there be any areas of take-up within the school that could help address this? This will be for a bigger conversation later in the year.
Liz said that getting to know us has been great, and since the school sees the clergy some 3 times a week we have been able to build things together. The large majority of the children don’t go to church so how do we invite them into an experience of God without them feeling pressurised? This was definitely a challenge to start with and a few families had a bit of a rumble in the early days; the first year was very much testing the water. However this unease hasn’t continued. It is very clear that Christian values run through the school and parents can see this from the moment they arrive. How behaviour is managed, how we want children to grow – everything threads through. The Rector, Pamela and Liz have built very strong links. But Liz has often wondered whether she has done enough herself to get families more involved. However, seeing the families and the congregation from the church in the school together does feel like a whole family community coming together, and so she wants to keep that sense of communal gathering in worship going. The Community Eucharist has been introduced into the school five times a year, together with a Eucharist through each year group in KS2, while for the younger children a “bread sharing” liturgy has been developed. The children love to say they are taking part in something and there is probably more we can do to involve children, but they would need to be helped and taught. The children can leave knowing what it feels like to be part of a Christian community and may return to this later on. The Rector said that assemblies now have a shape that makes them feel rooted and real.
The discussion moved on to how it feels to worship as the church in the school, as some people are reported as saying that it is not their favourite occasion – perhaps in the slightly older generation. Some issues can be purely mechanical – use of the plastic chairs isn’t easy and watching on the screen can prove hard for some people. Perhaps there are some things we can improve on? Liz felt that it feels more spiritual if you have visited the school previously and seen some of the activities – the bread-sharing is quite uplifting. It can also be quite difficult to hear – pin-mics for people presenting would be helpful. We should look at the cost of this. However actions can speak much louder than words and it was noted how lovely it was seeing Jo talking with the children on the floor about the light of Jesus at the last in-school Eucharist.
It was suggested that we could look at the services over the whole year in school with the Church’s liturgical calendar, and set up a planned programme. This could be linked up with the school year, with new parents being specially invited. Geographically it is difficult that the school and church are so far apart, and that the church is tucked away in a corner by the river. Going into the school draws us back into the centre of Shepperton.
Liz offered to show anyone around the school to see how it runs and feels, and how the Christian ethos and curriculum works. She said they try to have a thoughtful form of Christian discipleship that has a depth to it. Pamela commented on the programme of Godly Play which she presently delivers and how the responses are often way beyond anything she might expect. Christian meditation is also now in development in the school.
It is wonderful to see what the church school does for the children in the community. It is also vitally important that we move forwards together.
The PCC thanked Liz for attending and said it was encouraging to hear how the bond is developing so fruitfully between the church and the school. Liz said she is always very happy to speak about the school to the church community.
3] The minutes of the meeting held on 17th January were approved and signed by the Rector with the following small amendment:
“The collections for Bronzefield - £250 would be spent on sleeping bags and the remainder used to buy winter coats and boots.”
4] Matters arising
5] Financial Report
Kathy reported that the General Fund balance at year end was £1885 and this would have been reduced to zero had there not been a £2000 legacy received in December. Any future deficit will have to be met by the Mission and Ministry Fund which is from legacies. This is already paying the salaries of the Administrator and the Children and Families’ Minister. Annual income is not sufficient to cover current level of expenditure. We are dependent on legacies and have been very fortunate to have received some very large sums in the last few years. However it is not acceptable to base medium term plans on the assumption that legacies will appear when we need them. Kathy had concerns that the inter-regnum may well have a negative effect on income. Stewardship had increased by 7.75% and running expenses were down by 12% - partly due to cancelling a very expensive British Gas Service contract. Revenue from Shepperton News and Plaques was considerably less in 2017 than previous year. The printing cost of Shepperton News has just been increased by 4% - £21 per month but this is the first increase for quite some time.
Colin queried whether the new lighting and heating system had made any savings? The Rector said not much – utility bills haven’t really changed but we are lighting the exterior of the church and also now have excellent security lighting, so we are lighting the area much more fully but for the same cost.
The PCC received the accounts for 2017 – proposed by Colin Barnard and seconded by Janice Wetherell and the accounts will now go forward to the Independent Examiner.
6] Church Building Projects
The Rector confirmed that all the specifications and papers regarding the work that would be involved if we move the Rood Screen and also for the dais work have now been sent to the Diocese and we await their response. He has asked the DAC to come and make a visit. The architect will also be visiting next week to look at the churchyard.
7] Churchwardens’ Notices
None
8] Correspondence
None
9] Preparing for the Future 1. “Who Are We?” – continuing the discussion from the previous meeting
The Rector posed the question – what is it like to be followers of Jesus Christ in Shepperton? What is it like to keep a church going?
The PCC broke into small group discussions.
10] AOB
The Rector wished to thank Colin for his term on the PCC. Thanks were also noted to the out-going PCC Secretary, who has been brilliant in this role. Sylvia Carter was announced as being willing to be the new PCC Secretary from May 2018.
There being no other business, the meeting closed with The Grace at 10.00pm.
The next meeting is the APCM on Sunday 15th April at 11.30am in the Church.
1] Apologies for absence were received from Mike Ralph, Elaine Howard and Jo Child.
2] Conversation with Liz Felsing – the School and the Church
The PCC welcomed Liz Felsing, Head Teacher at St Nicholas School to the meeting. Although the Head is an ex-officio member of the PCC, the Rector said we have never asked our heads to attend in this respect, so this is a very special occasion. The faith relationship between church and school has become much more active over the last 6 years, so it seemed appropriate to invite Liz to a meeting to reflect on this. The Rector asked how we can maintain and develop this relationship going forward, noting we will be losing Pamela as children and families’ minister later this year. Might there be any areas of take-up within the school that could help address this? This will be for a bigger conversation later in the year.
Liz said that getting to know us has been great, and since the school sees the clergy some 3 times a week we have been able to build things together. The large majority of the children don’t go to church so how do we invite them into an experience of God without them feeling pressurised? This was definitely a challenge to start with and a few families had a bit of a rumble in the early days; the first year was very much testing the water. However this unease hasn’t continued. It is very clear that Christian values run through the school and parents can see this from the moment they arrive. How behaviour is managed, how we want children to grow – everything threads through. The Rector, Pamela and Liz have built very strong links. But Liz has often wondered whether she has done enough herself to get families more involved. However, seeing the families and the congregation from the church in the school together does feel like a whole family community coming together, and so she wants to keep that sense of communal gathering in worship going. The Community Eucharist has been introduced into the school five times a year, together with a Eucharist through each year group in KS2, while for the younger children a “bread sharing” liturgy has been developed. The children love to say they are taking part in something and there is probably more we can do to involve children, but they would need to be helped and taught. The children can leave knowing what it feels like to be part of a Christian community and may return to this later on. The Rector said that assemblies now have a shape that makes them feel rooted and real.
The discussion moved on to how it feels to worship as the church in the school, as some people are reported as saying that it is not their favourite occasion – perhaps in the slightly older generation. Some issues can be purely mechanical – use of the plastic chairs isn’t easy and watching on the screen can prove hard for some people. Perhaps there are some things we can improve on? Liz felt that it feels more spiritual if you have visited the school previously and seen some of the activities – the bread-sharing is quite uplifting. It can also be quite difficult to hear – pin-mics for people presenting would be helpful. We should look at the cost of this. However actions can speak much louder than words and it was noted how lovely it was seeing Jo talking with the children on the floor about the light of Jesus at the last in-school Eucharist.
It was suggested that we could look at the services over the whole year in school with the Church’s liturgical calendar, and set up a planned programme. This could be linked up with the school year, with new parents being specially invited. Geographically it is difficult that the school and church are so far apart, and that the church is tucked away in a corner by the river. Going into the school draws us back into the centre of Shepperton.
Liz offered to show anyone around the school to see how it runs and feels, and how the Christian ethos and curriculum works. She said they try to have a thoughtful form of Christian discipleship that has a depth to it. Pamela commented on the programme of Godly Play which she presently delivers and how the responses are often way beyond anything she might expect. Christian meditation is also now in development in the school.
It is wonderful to see what the church school does for the children in the community. It is also vitally important that we move forwards together.
The PCC thanked Liz for attending and said it was encouraging to hear how the bond is developing so fruitfully between the church and the school. Liz said she is always very happy to speak about the school to the church community.
3] The minutes of the meeting held on 17th January were approved and signed by the Rector with the following small amendment:
“The collections for Bronzefield - £250 would be spent on sleeping bags and the remainder used to buy winter coats and boots.”
4] Matters arising
- The Rector wished to thank Elizabeth Harrow for the energy she has put into organising the Lent Groups. It all felt very fresh with some people committing to home groups who have never done so before.
- The post-natal group – a flyer will be given out on Mothering Sunday, the next Messy Church and at The Big Breakfast regarding a general meeting to be held in May to garner opinion on this proposal. Homestart are very supportive although this is not a formal link. Sure-start Centre and the Health Visitors are also supportive.
- All the papers for the appointment of the Lay Reader, Richard Ghail, have been submitted and hopefully he will be preaching by April.
5] Financial Report
Kathy reported that the General Fund balance at year end was £1885 and this would have been reduced to zero had there not been a £2000 legacy received in December. Any future deficit will have to be met by the Mission and Ministry Fund which is from legacies. This is already paying the salaries of the Administrator and the Children and Families’ Minister. Annual income is not sufficient to cover current level of expenditure. We are dependent on legacies and have been very fortunate to have received some very large sums in the last few years. However it is not acceptable to base medium term plans on the assumption that legacies will appear when we need them. Kathy had concerns that the inter-regnum may well have a negative effect on income. Stewardship had increased by 7.75% and running expenses were down by 12% - partly due to cancelling a very expensive British Gas Service contract. Revenue from Shepperton News and Plaques was considerably less in 2017 than previous year. The printing cost of Shepperton News has just been increased by 4% - £21 per month but this is the first increase for quite some time.
Colin queried whether the new lighting and heating system had made any savings? The Rector said not much – utility bills haven’t really changed but we are lighting the exterior of the church and also now have excellent security lighting, so we are lighting the area much more fully but for the same cost.
The PCC received the accounts for 2017 – proposed by Colin Barnard and seconded by Janice Wetherell and the accounts will now go forward to the Independent Examiner.
6] Church Building Projects
The Rector confirmed that all the specifications and papers regarding the work that would be involved if we move the Rood Screen and also for the dais work have now been sent to the Diocese and we await their response. He has asked the DAC to come and make a visit. The architect will also be visiting next week to look at the churchyard.
7] Churchwardens’ Notices
None
8] Correspondence
None
9] Preparing for the Future 1. “Who Are We?” – continuing the discussion from the previous meeting
The Rector posed the question – what is it like to be followers of Jesus Christ in Shepperton? What is it like to keep a church going?
The PCC broke into small group discussions.
- Quite often what you do does reflect who you are – the two things are linked. We tend to do things that we invest bits of ourselves into. However very often the problem arises that you are doing something “forever” and you can’t move on further - you lose your energy. You can’t release the mantle because it feels as if there is no-one to hand things on to.
- It’s detrimental because you are not doing it with enthusiasm. Not being able to hand tasks on stunts your own growth.
- Does it make a difference to work in small teams, as you get energy working together? You tend to always go to the same people, the people you know – who won’t say no! Invariably the same names crop up. Sometimes it is just easier to sit down and sort it yourself.
- We can be burdened with responsibility. However, you can be brought back to appreciate why you are doing a certain task – remember why it matters.
- Sometimes you need to target the people who are known to do things. If you put out a general request, no-one thinks it’s for them. A direct personal request always works but maybe we should pick on other people?
- If we’ve reached a point where it is the same people always doing things, is it a time to question if it is the right thing to be doing – do we simply just stop doing some things?
- Picking up one task doesn’t mean you want it to be the expectation that you will do it for ever more.
- We need to think about what is essential and non essential. Where do we feel God’s pleasure here?
- Actively contributing within the services is good – this has a different resonance to others tasks mentioned.
- Small intimate groups work well and have God’s presence.
- Using our talents – helping “the great machine” to move along. We are cogs in the greater enterprise but cogs that are using their gifts. You don’t need to feel valued; you get something out of just being involved.
- Service partners give us great pleasure. The relationships we create – the fellowship – different walks of life coming together.
- Being asked to do something new can bring about an undiscovered pleasure.
- Outreach – interaction with people – the Village & Winter Fairs and the Christian Aid Big Breakfast.
- Your relationship mellows with the church – much the same way as a marriage mellows!
- St Nicholas feels like home and I want to take part in it despite visiting other churches.
10] AOB
The Rector wished to thank Colin for his term on the PCC. Thanks were also noted to the out-going PCC Secretary, who has been brilliant in this role. Sylvia Carter was announced as being willing to be the new PCC Secretary from May 2018.
There being no other business, the meeting closed with The Grace at 10.00pm.
The next meeting is the APCM on Sunday 15th April at 11.30am in the Church.
Minutes of the meeting of the Parochial Church Council of
St Nicholas’ Church, Shepperton
held in the Parish Centre at 8:15pm on Wednesday 17th January 2018
St Nicholas’ Church, Shepperton
held in the Parish Centre at 8:15pm on Wednesday 17th January 2018
Those present: Nicky Searle, the Rev Pamela Barrie, Guy Blythman, Margaret Bennet, Elizabeth Harrow, Janice Wetherell, Mike Ralph, Kathy Hodge, Peter Davis and the Rector in the Chair.
1] Apologies for absence were received from: Angela Enock-Shore, Colin Barnard, Fiona Stevens, Elaine Howard and Jo Child.
2] The Minutes of the meeting held on 21st November 2017 were approved and signed by the Rector with the following small amendments:-
Previous Standing Committee was held on 27th December and not 9th January.
Donations in remembrance of Ian Spooner were over £600.
3] Matters arising:
4] Financial Report
Kathy confirmed that the draft accounts for 2017 will be presented at the February PCC meeting when figures can be discussed in more detail. Due to a poor last quarter, there will be a General Fund deficit for 2017 of approximately £3800 (subject to any yearend adjustments.) We have halved the 2016 deficit but the small General Fund reserve will be reduced to just over £300. However a legacy of £2000 from Alison Richards, received in December, has been added to the Mission & Ministry Fund. The PCC agreed that this donation should now be credited to the General Fund. Another legacy of £10,000 from Jack Pocklington will be considered further when it comes through. A final payment from English Heritage Lottery Fund of £7490 had arrived but of course is designated.
Ecclesiastical Insurance is celebrating 150 years. Throughout 2018 for anyone in the congregation who takes up insurance with them, Ecclesiastical will then donate £130 per new policy to the church. The PCC agreed this was worth publicizing and information will be made available.
5] Tell us about causes you support?
The Rector felt that we can get very bound up with just supporting the church so it was good to hear about the wider giving and support that happens – whether for very personal reasons or not. Across the PCC members reported giving to a very diverse group of causes:- Princess Alice Hospice, the Brooke Animal Hospital, British Red Cross, NSPCC, Compassion in World Farming, Water Aid, Sport Relief, Crisis at Christmas, Broadleaf Woodland, USPG to name just a few. This is in addition to supporting Manna Food Bank and making donations to charity shops.
6] New Licensed Lay Minister (Lay Reader)
Janice had met with Richard Ghail and would recommend his appointment. She said he was a very interesting chap who was keen to work with the older teenagers. The appointment was seconded by Kathy and the Rector will now initiate the paperwork.
7] The Church Interior Project
The Rector reported that we are now further on with this, having spoken with the architect recently. The architect has now developed a scheme for moving the screen and rerouting the heating system pipework. To reiterate, the project includes redecoration, replacing the dais, re-carpeting and possibly moving the screen. If we are to move the screen then we must know exactly how we are going to achieve this as this affects quotations for the work from builders. Nicky queried whether we could box the pipes and make it look like a false beam, but this had been considered before and might be as intrusive. The Diocesan Advisory Committee will be invited to come and see the church and give their opinion, as ultimately they need to give permission. Additionally moving the pulpit to the south side of the dais (where it was originally sited in the early twentieth century) would work well in terms of creating more space on the dais. The architect had drawn up plans for this idea and it looks convincing. The Rector did say that his real concern was that this didn’t turn into a vanity project – something to be done before he leaves. He asked the PCC to be critical friends over this matter and to speak up if things became too expensive and were taking too long. Removing the screen would mean the church looking as it was originally intended by the Jacobean builders - a far more open, less hierarchical building. There are computer images available of the church without the screen and these will be sourced and sent out with the minutes. Pamela asked whether these images could be presented on the screen in the Parish Centre so people could get a real perspective and this will be considered.
8] Children and Families Minister
Following on from the discussion at the November meeting regarding a possible support group for mothers and under-ones, Pamela had written up the idea for a Post Natal Support Group in more detail. She requested the PCC to look at this proposal away from
the meeting to decide whether this is a practical idea that could be taken forward. She emphasised that if we do undertake it then it must be professional and the marketing of such a group equally so. It would take quite a lot of commitment and people would need to say realistically whether they would support it properly. The Parent and Toddler Group had a wealth of experience and skills that could be transferred to such a group. Might it be worthwhile testing the water with the congregation in the meantime? The Rector said he would make an application to the Parish Charities Committee to kick start the project if needs be. The project could be considered more closely at the next PCC meeting.
Pamela also raised the question as to how many 9-12 olds do we think we have in our congregation? Estimates ranged from 6-20 but Pamela said it was about a dozen. Pamela felt quite strongly that this particular age group are growing out of what we can offer them. Indeed how much do we value this age group at all? Are we able to offer something with strong social content, rather than theological or devotional?
Prior to the meeting the Rector had circulated a list of tasks that Pamela currently undertakes. He asked the PCC to look at this list and think about what elements we would want to keep, the people to whom they would fall in any new arrangement and what we would have to stop doing completely. This is for discussion at the next meeting. It was suggested that Liz Felsing could be asked to attend the next meeting to discuss, amongst other things, the involvement of the school in our ministry to young people and their families.
9] Main item: Preparing for the Future 1. “Who Are We?”
The PCC broke into small groups to consider this question – the beginning of a process to help churches whose lives are in transition to focus more clearly on what is important. The Rector remarked that if we say something such as, “we are a Eucharistic community” (a description that has been used in the past), we would need to be very clear and to be able to make a convincing case for what we mean and want by claiming such an identity.
The following things were noted:
10] Correspondence
Ann McDonough had written to the PCC to suggest we enter Spelthorne in Bloom under the category of Best Kept Place of Worship. The PCC agreed this was a great idea and thanks to Ann for bringing this to our attention and for pursuing the necessary application forms.
There being no other business, the meeting closed with The Grace at 9.55pm.
Next scheduled PCC Meeting – Tuesday 13th February at 8.15pm.
Next Standing Committee Meeting – Tuesday 31st January
1] Apologies for absence were received from: Angela Enock-Shore, Colin Barnard, Fiona Stevens, Elaine Howard and Jo Child.
2] The Minutes of the meeting held on 21st November 2017 were approved and signed by the Rector with the following small amendments:-
Previous Standing Committee was held on 27th December and not 9th January.
Donations in remembrance of Ian Spooner were over £600.
3] Matters arising:
- There was a full obituary to the Rev Harold Nicholson in the Church Times – available online.
- The Mental Health and Pastoral Care Course, which Guildford Diocese organise, will not be running in January as previously thought.
- Elizabeth Harrow had made good progress with setting up the Lent and Autumn study groups. The Lent groups could also help with our core thoughts of who we are at St Nicholas. At the end of the Lent Course there will be a second corporate gathering (the other will be at its opening) and it was thought we might offer a bring-and-share supper then.
- The collections for Bronzefield had been very successful with 18 sleeping bags donated and £610 in cash. It has been agreed that £250 would be used to buy winter coats and boots – with receipts supplied. Home and homelessness will be a significant part of the Lent discussions this year.
4] Financial Report
Kathy confirmed that the draft accounts for 2017 will be presented at the February PCC meeting when figures can be discussed in more detail. Due to a poor last quarter, there will be a General Fund deficit for 2017 of approximately £3800 (subject to any yearend adjustments.) We have halved the 2016 deficit but the small General Fund reserve will be reduced to just over £300. However a legacy of £2000 from Alison Richards, received in December, has been added to the Mission & Ministry Fund. The PCC agreed that this donation should now be credited to the General Fund. Another legacy of £10,000 from Jack Pocklington will be considered further when it comes through. A final payment from English Heritage Lottery Fund of £7490 had arrived but of course is designated.
Ecclesiastical Insurance is celebrating 150 years. Throughout 2018 for anyone in the congregation who takes up insurance with them, Ecclesiastical will then donate £130 per new policy to the church. The PCC agreed this was worth publicizing and information will be made available.
5] Tell us about causes you support?
The Rector felt that we can get very bound up with just supporting the church so it was good to hear about the wider giving and support that happens – whether for very personal reasons or not. Across the PCC members reported giving to a very diverse group of causes:- Princess Alice Hospice, the Brooke Animal Hospital, British Red Cross, NSPCC, Compassion in World Farming, Water Aid, Sport Relief, Crisis at Christmas, Broadleaf Woodland, USPG to name just a few. This is in addition to supporting Manna Food Bank and making donations to charity shops.
6] New Licensed Lay Minister (Lay Reader)
Janice had met with Richard Ghail and would recommend his appointment. She said he was a very interesting chap who was keen to work with the older teenagers. The appointment was seconded by Kathy and the Rector will now initiate the paperwork.
7] The Church Interior Project
The Rector reported that we are now further on with this, having spoken with the architect recently. The architect has now developed a scheme for moving the screen and rerouting the heating system pipework. To reiterate, the project includes redecoration, replacing the dais, re-carpeting and possibly moving the screen. If we are to move the screen then we must know exactly how we are going to achieve this as this affects quotations for the work from builders. Nicky queried whether we could box the pipes and make it look like a false beam, but this had been considered before and might be as intrusive. The Diocesan Advisory Committee will be invited to come and see the church and give their opinion, as ultimately they need to give permission. Additionally moving the pulpit to the south side of the dais (where it was originally sited in the early twentieth century) would work well in terms of creating more space on the dais. The architect had drawn up plans for this idea and it looks convincing. The Rector did say that his real concern was that this didn’t turn into a vanity project – something to be done before he leaves. He asked the PCC to be critical friends over this matter and to speak up if things became too expensive and were taking too long. Removing the screen would mean the church looking as it was originally intended by the Jacobean builders - a far more open, less hierarchical building. There are computer images available of the church without the screen and these will be sourced and sent out with the minutes. Pamela asked whether these images could be presented on the screen in the Parish Centre so people could get a real perspective and this will be considered.
8] Children and Families Minister
Following on from the discussion at the November meeting regarding a possible support group for mothers and under-ones, Pamela had written up the idea for a Post Natal Support Group in more detail. She requested the PCC to look at this proposal away from
the meeting to decide whether this is a practical idea that could be taken forward. She emphasised that if we do undertake it then it must be professional and the marketing of such a group equally so. It would take quite a lot of commitment and people would need to say realistically whether they would support it properly. The Parent and Toddler Group had a wealth of experience and skills that could be transferred to such a group. Might it be worthwhile testing the water with the congregation in the meantime? The Rector said he would make an application to the Parish Charities Committee to kick start the project if needs be. The project could be considered more closely at the next PCC meeting.
Pamela also raised the question as to how many 9-12 olds do we think we have in our congregation? Estimates ranged from 6-20 but Pamela said it was about a dozen. Pamela felt quite strongly that this particular age group are growing out of what we can offer them. Indeed how much do we value this age group at all? Are we able to offer something with strong social content, rather than theological or devotional?
Prior to the meeting the Rector had circulated a list of tasks that Pamela currently undertakes. He asked the PCC to look at this list and think about what elements we would want to keep, the people to whom they would fall in any new arrangement and what we would have to stop doing completely. This is for discussion at the next meeting. It was suggested that Liz Felsing could be asked to attend the next meeting to discuss, amongst other things, the involvement of the school in our ministry to young people and their families.
9] Main item: Preparing for the Future 1. “Who Are We?”
The PCC broke into small groups to consider this question – the beginning of a process to help churches whose lives are in transition to focus more clearly on what is important. The Rector remarked that if we say something such as, “we are a Eucharistic community” (a description that has been used in the past), we would need to be very clear and to be able to make a convincing case for what we mean and want by claiming such an identity.
The following things were noted:
- Despite difficult times around us, Shepperton is a community which maintains a community spirit and identity, and as a church we are part of the wider community, albeit a small one.
- We are changing as a community, however, and not necessarily in a way everyone would like.
- The edges of our community are so muddy and fuzzy that it can actually make it harder for us to define who we are as a church. The wider community feel St Nicholas is their church, but for the most part don’t actually attend.
- There is presently one teacher from St Nicholas School who attends regularly. The relationship between the church and the church school is now as strong as it has ever been in the memory of the PCC - previously there had been a sense of disconnect between the two.
- We are, like most Anglican churches of our kind - and many other organisations where regular commitment is sought, a declining number and a more elderly congregation. We also have a greater preponderance of women - which, again, is common.
- We are quite conservative!
- The 11.15am Service feels more like a case of individual attendance with little corporate aspect.
- We are a gathering place for people at key festivals such as the crib service and have a growing outreach to families via the 11.15 and Messy Church services.
- The Remembrance Day Service is always well attended by all ages and is a sign that there is still a community out there.
10] Correspondence
Ann McDonough had written to the PCC to suggest we enter Spelthorne in Bloom under the category of Best Kept Place of Worship. The PCC agreed this was a great idea and thanks to Ann for bringing this to our attention and for pursuing the necessary application forms.
There being no other business, the meeting closed with The Grace at 9.55pm.
Next scheduled PCC Meeting – Tuesday 13th February at 8.15pm.
Next Standing Committee Meeting – Tuesday 31st January
Minutes of the meeting of the Parochial Church Council of
St Nicholas’ Church, Shepperton
held in the Parish Centre at 8:15pm on Monday 21st November 2017
St Nicholas’ Church, Shepperton
held in the Parish Centre at 8:15pm on Monday 21st November 2017
PRESENT
Jo Child, Guy Blythman, Peter Davis, Rev Pamela Barrie, Margaret Bennett, Fiona Stevens, Janice Wetherell, Kathy Hodge, Nicky Searle, Colin Barnard, Angela Enock-Shore, Elaine Howard and the Rector in the Chair.
(1) APOLOGIES
Elizabeth Harrow, Mike Ralph, Susan Smith.
Caroline Button had resigned from the PCC due to work commitments and the Rector expressed gratitude to her for the excellent service she had performed while part of it. Prayers were said for the Reverend Harold Nicholson, who sadly had died, the Rector noting with enormous appreciation his contribution to the life of St Nicholas’.
(2) MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
These were approved and signed.
(3) MATTERS ARISING
Janice Wetherell said that she had had no contact yet with our prospective Reader who was expecting the birth of a child and was therefore busy with family matters. She would get in touch with him again soon.
Elizabeth Harrow has assembled a team to help organise next year’s Lent and autumn study groups.
There was still a need for servers and Eucharistic assistants for the 8 a.m. service.
(4) FINANCIAL REPORT
The financial situation was much as before; we are still expecting something approaching a break even outcome - with the possibility of a small surplus or modest deficit for the year. Donations of £1,000 and £500, the latter being in memory of Ian Spooner, had been received. Income from collections had been good.
(5) SETTING OF WEDDING AND FUNERAL FEES FOR 2018
It was decided to keep these at their current levels.
(6) CHURCH INTERIOR PROJECT
We were still waiting for the architect to finish drawing up a scheme.
(7) CHILDREN AND FAMILIES MINISTER
Pamela spoke about a proposed support group for mothers and under 1s which would meet at St. Nicholas, as a response to the Mental Health and Pastoral Care course which four members of the church have been attending this autumn. The Children’s Centre and Homestart were supportive of the scheme, which it was envisaged could start after Easter. Helpers will be needed.
The course, focussing on understanding mental health issues, which Guildford Diocese organise, was proving extremely useful. It will begin a new ten week run from January 10th.
Colin Barnard drew the meeting’s attention to a recent talk at the Shepperton Residents’ Association on dementia.
(8) PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE (1) − WHO ARE WE?
The Rev Pamela Barrie (Curate and Children and Families Minister) and the Rector confirmed that they would be retiring in the latter part of 2018 and 2019 respectively. The next interregnum at St. Nicholas would be entirely different to those experienced on at least the last two occasions (taking us back to the 1960s), with no stipendiary member of staff to manage the church through the time of seeking a new parish priest. Elizabeth Greenwood could in no way be expected to take on this role.
It is almost certainly the case that the church will never again know the levels of ordained ministerial input that it has experienced in recent years, necessitating a profound change in the culture of our ministry and mission if we are to maintain the levels of worship and outreach that we have at present - a more collaborative culture with the whole church taking responsibility.
As part of the preparation for the future - and in time for the putting together of a statement of need for the Bishop as our patron - the Rector suggested we could undertake a process used with churches whose lives are in transition. It involves looking at three questions: (1) Who are we? (2) Who is our neighbour? (3) Given what we have discovered, what do we do - how do we move forward into the next stage of our life?
It would be good to have some outside help with regard to the third part of the process. It was agreed that what was good about St Nicholas’ was our sense of community, of belonging, of purpose; we had a tradition of being humane, accepting and supportive which had led to our being well-regarded in the community. We would need to work with someone who appreciated this Incarnational approach to the Christian life.
There are other allies to be considered in this process, particularly St. Nicholas School, and it was hoped Liz Felsing would be able to attend a PCC meeting in the coming year.
When it comes to advertising for a new parish priest, Pamela Barrie noted that advertisements for new incumbents in Church Times were often worded in such a way as to appeal to men rather than women. We would need to be aware of this and ensure that we appealed to the widest possible field of potential candidates.
Margaret Bennett felt there was a problem with a lack of confidence in our own ability to interpret Scripture, which would put us at a disadvantage in the absence of professional clergy.
Ideally we would want to replace Pamela with a new Children and Families Minister; but it was noted that this had been a difficult post to recruit for in the past. We would also want to continue with a professional part-time administrator, without which most clergy would be unwilling to consider the church. But it was noted that both posts are currently funded by legacies and are not covered at all by our general income, which makes them vulnerable in the near future.
All the above issues could profitably be the subject of an away-day - perhaps more than one?
(9) CORRESPONDENCE
Pamela had heard from the Managing Chaplain at Bronzefield Prison who is requesting sleeping bags and basic toiletries for inmates who are being released without any prospect of accommodation. The PCC agreed to support the scheme and Pamela would put something in the notices. Care needs be taken in how the initiative is represented, following some negative comment in the press.
There were a greater number of homeless people in Spelthorne than was perhaps appreciated. Colin Barnard spoke of three centres being set up within the borough to help address their needs. The Rector asked for more information on this and Colin said he would make enquiries.
(10) CHURCHWARDENS
The churchwardens had no matters to raise.
(11) DATE OF NEXT MEETING
This will be on 17th January, 8:00pm in the Parish Centre.
The next Standing Committee would be on the 9th Jan at 8:00pm in the Rectory
Jo Child, Guy Blythman, Peter Davis, Rev Pamela Barrie, Margaret Bennett, Fiona Stevens, Janice Wetherell, Kathy Hodge, Nicky Searle, Colin Barnard, Angela Enock-Shore, Elaine Howard and the Rector in the Chair.
(1) APOLOGIES
Elizabeth Harrow, Mike Ralph, Susan Smith.
Caroline Button had resigned from the PCC due to work commitments and the Rector expressed gratitude to her for the excellent service she had performed while part of it. Prayers were said for the Reverend Harold Nicholson, who sadly had died, the Rector noting with enormous appreciation his contribution to the life of St Nicholas’.
(2) MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
These were approved and signed.
(3) MATTERS ARISING
Janice Wetherell said that she had had no contact yet with our prospective Reader who was expecting the birth of a child and was therefore busy with family matters. She would get in touch with him again soon.
Elizabeth Harrow has assembled a team to help organise next year’s Lent and autumn study groups.
There was still a need for servers and Eucharistic assistants for the 8 a.m. service.
(4) FINANCIAL REPORT
The financial situation was much as before; we are still expecting something approaching a break even outcome - with the possibility of a small surplus or modest deficit for the year. Donations of £1,000 and £500, the latter being in memory of Ian Spooner, had been received. Income from collections had been good.
(5) SETTING OF WEDDING AND FUNERAL FEES FOR 2018
It was decided to keep these at their current levels.
(6) CHURCH INTERIOR PROJECT
We were still waiting for the architect to finish drawing up a scheme.
(7) CHILDREN AND FAMILIES MINISTER
Pamela spoke about a proposed support group for mothers and under 1s which would meet at St. Nicholas, as a response to the Mental Health and Pastoral Care course which four members of the church have been attending this autumn. The Children’s Centre and Homestart were supportive of the scheme, which it was envisaged could start after Easter. Helpers will be needed.
The course, focussing on understanding mental health issues, which Guildford Diocese organise, was proving extremely useful. It will begin a new ten week run from January 10th.
Colin Barnard drew the meeting’s attention to a recent talk at the Shepperton Residents’ Association on dementia.
(8) PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE (1) − WHO ARE WE?
The Rev Pamela Barrie (Curate and Children and Families Minister) and the Rector confirmed that they would be retiring in the latter part of 2018 and 2019 respectively. The next interregnum at St. Nicholas would be entirely different to those experienced on at least the last two occasions (taking us back to the 1960s), with no stipendiary member of staff to manage the church through the time of seeking a new parish priest. Elizabeth Greenwood could in no way be expected to take on this role.
It is almost certainly the case that the church will never again know the levels of ordained ministerial input that it has experienced in recent years, necessitating a profound change in the culture of our ministry and mission if we are to maintain the levels of worship and outreach that we have at present - a more collaborative culture with the whole church taking responsibility.
As part of the preparation for the future - and in time for the putting together of a statement of need for the Bishop as our patron - the Rector suggested we could undertake a process used with churches whose lives are in transition. It involves looking at three questions: (1) Who are we? (2) Who is our neighbour? (3) Given what we have discovered, what do we do - how do we move forward into the next stage of our life?
It would be good to have some outside help with regard to the third part of the process. It was agreed that what was good about St Nicholas’ was our sense of community, of belonging, of purpose; we had a tradition of being humane, accepting and supportive which had led to our being well-regarded in the community. We would need to work with someone who appreciated this Incarnational approach to the Christian life.
There are other allies to be considered in this process, particularly St. Nicholas School, and it was hoped Liz Felsing would be able to attend a PCC meeting in the coming year.
When it comes to advertising for a new parish priest, Pamela Barrie noted that advertisements for new incumbents in Church Times were often worded in such a way as to appeal to men rather than women. We would need to be aware of this and ensure that we appealed to the widest possible field of potential candidates.
Margaret Bennett felt there was a problem with a lack of confidence in our own ability to interpret Scripture, which would put us at a disadvantage in the absence of professional clergy.
Ideally we would want to replace Pamela with a new Children and Families Minister; but it was noted that this had been a difficult post to recruit for in the past. We would also want to continue with a professional part-time administrator, without which most clergy would be unwilling to consider the church. But it was noted that both posts are currently funded by legacies and are not covered at all by our general income, which makes them vulnerable in the near future.
All the above issues could profitably be the subject of an away-day - perhaps more than one?
(9) CORRESPONDENCE
Pamela had heard from the Managing Chaplain at Bronzefield Prison who is requesting sleeping bags and basic toiletries for inmates who are being released without any prospect of accommodation. The PCC agreed to support the scheme and Pamela would put something in the notices. Care needs be taken in how the initiative is represented, following some negative comment in the press.
There were a greater number of homeless people in Spelthorne than was perhaps appreciated. Colin Barnard spoke of three centres being set up within the borough to help address their needs. The Rector asked for more information on this and Colin said he would make enquiries.
(10) CHURCHWARDENS
The churchwardens had no matters to raise.
(11) DATE OF NEXT MEETING
This will be on 17th January, 8:00pm in the Parish Centre.
The next Standing Committee would be on the 9th Jan at 8:00pm in the Rectory
Outward Giving
At St Nicholas we recognise that we are part of the World-wide family of Christ,
and that our “neighbour” exists both locally and throughout the world.
We have an ongoing commitment to the community of St Simeon of Cyrene, based in and around Milange, Mozambique,
We look at particular seasons, particularly Lent and Harvest, to support a Church Charity.
In our Summer and Winter Fairs we have we have a source of charitable income from which to ask those at the APCM
to choose two recipients of outward giving, one home and one abroad.
(In recent years we have kept a principle of dividing the fairs between the mission of St Nicholas Church and outward giving).
We are aware of a particular responsibility for the Church of England’s Missionary Societies,
such as the United Society & the Church Missionary Society.
We reserve the right to respond to specific needs arising out of world events or other needs brought to our attention,
by way of designated special collections or fund raising events.
We would ask anyone proposing a special collection to make the PCC secretary aware of this in advance, in order to prevent over exposure.
St Nicholas will continue to support the work of charities operating in Shepperton via the historic funds of the Shepperton Parish Charities.
Adopted by the PCC – 1st February 2016
