Minutes of the meeting of the Parochial Church Council of
St Nicholas’ Church, Shepperton
held in the Parish Centre at 8:15pm on Wednesday 24th July 2018
St Nicholas’ Church, Shepperton
held in the Parish Centre at 8:15pm on Wednesday 24th July 2018
Those present:
Nicky Searle, Angela Enock-Shore, Sharon Fish, Guy Blythman, Margaret Bennett, Janice Wetherell, Fiona Stevens, Pam Powell, Peter Davis,
Jo Child and the Rector in the Chair.
1. Apologies for absence were received from Pamela Barrie, Kathy Hodge, Elaine Howard, Elizabeth Harrow.
2. The minutes of the meeting held on 8th May 2018 were approved and signed by the RectorPamela clarified in section 8 that she was not particularly concerned re: the article in the Shepperton News but was concerned about the monthly updates that she sends to families with whom we have had contact. Pamela feels that it is very important to keep in contact with this group even though we may not see the fruits of that contact in terms of regular church attendance.
3. Matters Arising
First meeting of the natal support group. Small steering group under Kathy Hodge has been set up. As Kathy was not present, there was no further update.
4. Financial Report
Kathy was unable to attend but provided a report in advance. The Rector noted that there was a fall in occasional offices e.g. Wedding and Christenings and the impact that has on reduction in the number of fees and collections and the income that that brings. Fiona said it might be because people don’t bring cash. Margaret suggested adding bank details to the giving envelopes or a card to allow people to make an electronic transfer. The Rector said that it would be good to have a card reader but it would take more time and investigation into that option. Mike suggested that a card reader could also be used at the Summer and Winter fayres. Kathy Hodge will be asked to look into this further. The Rector asked if PCC felt they could make a decision on the common fund without Kathy present. It was agreed that they could not and that it would be discussed at the September meeting. Discussion on the percentage of income goes to pay the common fund being rather high and that this should be considered when deciding the amount for the common fund.
5. Safeguarding Audit
The Rector asked if there were any questions about the document that had been distributed in advance and confirmed that it would be completed by the Safeguarding officer going forward now that Pamela is leaving her post as Children and Families Minister. The Rector asked who the PCC thought was ‘vulnerable’. Examples included the Elderly, those with mental health difficulties and anyone who receives home communion. Margaret noted that some people would not feel comfortable to making home visits alone. See section 8. The Rector reminded the PCC that they should read and be familiar with the safeguarding requirements. It was noted that there had been no cases raised so far this year, but that the one case that was raised last year was referred to the necessary authorities.
6. Main Item: How do we prepare for the future? Who are we? Who are our neighbours? How should we live this?
The Rector said that his likely retirement date was May 2020 and that there was likely to be at least a 12 months interregnum. The PCC were asked to consider; How will the clergy role be supported? How will the PCC run the church without full time clergy? What are the essential tasks that have to be kept going? Following a general discussion, priorities raised were: Celebration of the Eucharist, Local Church School links, Support for the Head Teacher at St. Nicholas School, Home Communion, Occasional Offices i.e. Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals, Preparation and after-care for the Offices. Developing Children’s work, e.g. 11:15 service and Messy Church, Pastoral Care, PCC and APCM meetings, maintaining Shepperton News and communication with the wider Community. Priorities and necessary compromises due to reduced resources were also discussed. The Rector suggested that the PCC consider whether ‘leadership’ needed to be a single person or more of a community approach. Nicky suggested that we should ‘get ahead of the game’ and make ourselves aware of who is available to assist with those roles that must be done by Clergy and forge links with them. The Rector asked why is it important to maintain these things? Ideas were to grow the church and spread our faith rather than lose it, spiritual nourishment for the community through worship together and supporting/feeding one another spiritually. The PCC were asked to consider the wider Church e.g. Alma, Milange, Women’s World Day of Prayer, Christian Aid and Remembrance Sunday. It was agreed that more work that would need to be done on this. It was noted by the PCC that raising over £3,000 for Christian Aid this year was a wonderful achievement and thanks to Caroline Button for leading this effort.
7. Children and Families Minister - Responding to Pamela’s Departure - Maintaining outreach and keeping in touch with families.
Janice and Angie said that a committee has been formed which has arrange cover of the responsibilities at the 11:15 Service. A diary planning session should be arranged for the coming year to discuss other aspects of Pamela’s ministry before Advent.
8. Vulnerable People’s Champion & Safeguarding on-line training for new PCC members.
9. PCC Representative for The Friends of St. Nicholas Church
Julia Jelly was a guest at the PCC. Julia advised that it is in the ‘Friends’ constitution that a member of the PCC is also a member of the ‘Friends’.
The previous connection has been lost now that Michael Bletchley is sadly no longer with us. Julia said that she feels that a proper link would be beneficial to ensure consistency between the two. The Aim of the ‘Friends’ is to support the church and not guide it’s future direction.
Angie Enock-Shore volunteered to be the PCC Representative and will be co-opted onto the ‘Friends’ Committee.
10. Church Building Projects
The DAC have agreed in principle to the Screen being moved but want to know more about how it would be used as a display for Art Work. The Rector will follow up on this point with them, to clarify their specific concerns. Awaiting costings from the Architect. The Friends may have money to cover the Churchyard Gates and the signs for the Slave’s and Love-Peacock graves. The PCC noted how nice the Churchyard is looking despite the hot weather, expressing thanks to those who are maintaining it.
11. Correspondence None.
12. Churchwardens’ Notices
Janice advised that she had spoken with a lady who, through a misunderstanding had been making unapproved changes in the Churchyard and Cemetery, which was having a negative impact. Janice was advised by the local Police Support team that the lady was ‘vulnerable’ and that they were unable to take any action without a specific incident happening and that we should dial 999 in the event of an incident. The Lady seems to have stopped for the time being but it was agreed that an eye should be kept out for her, and that we should pray for her. The Rector noted that the Mental Health Pastoral Care course will be run again in Guildford.
Pamela’s leaving ‘do’ was suggested for the 30th September, It was suggested that a lunchtime event would enable families and children to attend as they were so key to Pamela’s ministry. ‘Bring a Vegetarian dish’ was suggested. The event will be held in the Church and Parish Centre following the 11:15 Service.
13. AOB (Previously notified to the chairman) None.
There being no other business, the meeting closed with The Grace at 10.00pm.
The next meeting is on 4th September at 20:15 in the Parish Centre.
Nicky Searle, Angela Enock-Shore, Sharon Fish, Guy Blythman, Margaret Bennett, Janice Wetherell, Fiona Stevens, Pam Powell, Peter Davis,
Jo Child and the Rector in the Chair.
1. Apologies for absence were received from Pamela Barrie, Kathy Hodge, Elaine Howard, Elizabeth Harrow.
2. The minutes of the meeting held on 8th May 2018 were approved and signed by the RectorPamela clarified in section 8 that she was not particularly concerned re: the article in the Shepperton News but was concerned about the monthly updates that she sends to families with whom we have had contact. Pamela feels that it is very important to keep in contact with this group even though we may not see the fruits of that contact in terms of regular church attendance.
3. Matters Arising
First meeting of the natal support group. Small steering group under Kathy Hodge has been set up. As Kathy was not present, there was no further update.
4. Financial Report
Kathy was unable to attend but provided a report in advance. The Rector noted that there was a fall in occasional offices e.g. Wedding and Christenings and the impact that has on reduction in the number of fees and collections and the income that that brings. Fiona said it might be because people don’t bring cash. Margaret suggested adding bank details to the giving envelopes or a card to allow people to make an electronic transfer. The Rector said that it would be good to have a card reader but it would take more time and investigation into that option. Mike suggested that a card reader could also be used at the Summer and Winter fayres. Kathy Hodge will be asked to look into this further. The Rector asked if PCC felt they could make a decision on the common fund without Kathy present. It was agreed that they could not and that it would be discussed at the September meeting. Discussion on the percentage of income goes to pay the common fund being rather high and that this should be considered when deciding the amount for the common fund.
5. Safeguarding Audit
The Rector asked if there were any questions about the document that had been distributed in advance and confirmed that it would be completed by the Safeguarding officer going forward now that Pamela is leaving her post as Children and Families Minister. The Rector asked who the PCC thought was ‘vulnerable’. Examples included the Elderly, those with mental health difficulties and anyone who receives home communion. Margaret noted that some people would not feel comfortable to making home visits alone. See section 8. The Rector reminded the PCC that they should read and be familiar with the safeguarding requirements. It was noted that there had been no cases raised so far this year, but that the one case that was raised last year was referred to the necessary authorities.
6. Main Item: How do we prepare for the future? Who are we? Who are our neighbours? How should we live this?
The Rector said that his likely retirement date was May 2020 and that there was likely to be at least a 12 months interregnum. The PCC were asked to consider; How will the clergy role be supported? How will the PCC run the church without full time clergy? What are the essential tasks that have to be kept going? Following a general discussion, priorities raised were: Celebration of the Eucharist, Local Church School links, Support for the Head Teacher at St. Nicholas School, Home Communion, Occasional Offices i.e. Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals, Preparation and after-care for the Offices. Developing Children’s work, e.g. 11:15 service and Messy Church, Pastoral Care, PCC and APCM meetings, maintaining Shepperton News and communication with the wider Community. Priorities and necessary compromises due to reduced resources were also discussed. The Rector suggested that the PCC consider whether ‘leadership’ needed to be a single person or more of a community approach. Nicky suggested that we should ‘get ahead of the game’ and make ourselves aware of who is available to assist with those roles that must be done by Clergy and forge links with them. The Rector asked why is it important to maintain these things? Ideas were to grow the church and spread our faith rather than lose it, spiritual nourishment for the community through worship together and supporting/feeding one another spiritually. The PCC were asked to consider the wider Church e.g. Alma, Milange, Women’s World Day of Prayer, Christian Aid and Remembrance Sunday. It was agreed that more work that would need to be done on this. It was noted by the PCC that raising over £3,000 for Christian Aid this year was a wonderful achievement and thanks to Caroline Button for leading this effort.
7. Children and Families Minister - Responding to Pamela’s Departure - Maintaining outreach and keeping in touch with families.
Janice and Angie said that a committee has been formed which has arrange cover of the responsibilities at the 11:15 Service. A diary planning session should be arranged for the coming year to discuss other aspects of Pamela’s ministry before Advent.
8. Vulnerable People’s Champion & Safeguarding on-line training for new PCC members.
- The Rector suggested that the home communion team could take that role as a ‘job share’ reporting to Elizabeth if they have any concerns. Margaret suggested that this might be a conflict of interest. The Rector noted that there should be a Job description for the Home Communion team. Jo suggested that the team could contribute to the creation of the job description. The Rector will speak with John Child in the first instance about participating in creating the Job Description. Margaret asked if the Visitors need to have DBS checks but The Rector said that he had been advised that they do not. The Rector to check frequency of DBS re-check with Pamela.
- Safeguarding on-line training should be undertaken by all members of the PCC who have not already completed it. Sylvia to send the link to Sharon, Angela, Mike, Margaret and Guy.
9. PCC Representative for The Friends of St. Nicholas Church
Julia Jelly was a guest at the PCC. Julia advised that it is in the ‘Friends’ constitution that a member of the PCC is also a member of the ‘Friends’.
The previous connection has been lost now that Michael Bletchley is sadly no longer with us. Julia said that she feels that a proper link would be beneficial to ensure consistency between the two. The Aim of the ‘Friends’ is to support the church and not guide it’s future direction.
Angie Enock-Shore volunteered to be the PCC Representative and will be co-opted onto the ‘Friends’ Committee.
10. Church Building Projects
The DAC have agreed in principle to the Screen being moved but want to know more about how it would be used as a display for Art Work. The Rector will follow up on this point with them, to clarify their specific concerns. Awaiting costings from the Architect. The Friends may have money to cover the Churchyard Gates and the signs for the Slave’s and Love-Peacock graves. The PCC noted how nice the Churchyard is looking despite the hot weather, expressing thanks to those who are maintaining it.
11. Correspondence None.
12. Churchwardens’ Notices
Janice advised that she had spoken with a lady who, through a misunderstanding had been making unapproved changes in the Churchyard and Cemetery, which was having a negative impact. Janice was advised by the local Police Support team that the lady was ‘vulnerable’ and that they were unable to take any action without a specific incident happening and that we should dial 999 in the event of an incident. The Lady seems to have stopped for the time being but it was agreed that an eye should be kept out for her, and that we should pray for her. The Rector noted that the Mental Health Pastoral Care course will be run again in Guildford.
Pamela’s leaving ‘do’ was suggested for the 30th September, It was suggested that a lunchtime event would enable families and children to attend as they were so key to Pamela’s ministry. ‘Bring a Vegetarian dish’ was suggested. The event will be held in the Church and Parish Centre following the 11:15 Service.
13. AOB (Previously notified to the chairman) None.
There being no other business, the meeting closed with The Grace at 10.00pm.
The next meeting is on 4th September at 20:15 in the Parish Centre.
Minutes of the meeting of the Parochial Church Council of
St Nicholas’ Church, Shepperton
held in the Parish Centre at 8:15pm on Wednesday 8th May 2018
St Nicholas’ Church, Shepperton
held in the Parish Centre at 8:15pm on Wednesday 8th May 2018
Those present:
Nicky Searle, Angela Enock-Shore, Pamela Barrie, Sharon Fish, Guy Blythman, Margaret Bennett, Elizabeth Harrow, Janice Wetherell, Kathy Hodge, Fiona Stevens, Pam Powell, Peter Davis, Jo Child and the Rector in the Chair.
1. Apologies for absence were received from Mike Ralph and Elaine Howard.
2. The minutes of the meeting held on 13th February 2018 were approved and signed by the Rector
3. Matters arising
4. Welcome to the PCC - Dates of Meetings for 2018/19
5. Financial Report
6. Identifying Attendees for the Deanery Finance meeting 9th May, St. Mary’s, Sunbury
7. Main Item: How do we prepare for the future? Who are we? Who are our neighbours? How should we live this?
8. Children and Families Minister - Responding to Pamela’s Departure
9. Re-licensing of LLM, Richard Ghail
10. Church Building Projects
11. Correspondence -
12. Churchwardens’ Notices - None
13. AOB (Previously notified to the chairman)
There being no other business, the meeting closed with The Grace at 10.20pm.
The next meeting is on 24th July at 20:15 in the Parish Centre.
Nicky Searle, Angela Enock-Shore, Pamela Barrie, Sharon Fish, Guy Blythman, Margaret Bennett, Elizabeth Harrow, Janice Wetherell, Kathy Hodge, Fiona Stevens, Pam Powell, Peter Davis, Jo Child and the Rector in the Chair.
1. Apologies for absence were received from Mike Ralph and Elaine Howard.
2. The minutes of the meeting held on 13th February 2018 were approved and signed by the Rector
3. Matters arising
- Angie commented that the PCC had been very impressed by Liz Felsing at the last meeting and that it would be good for Liz to speak to the wider congregation in Church in future.
- Nicky commented that it was important to nurture the links between the Church and the School in light of Pamela leaving and the Rector’s retirement. The Rector commented that the link should not be dependent upon the Clergy and that lay people should contribute to building these relationships.
- The Rector advised that the School had decided that their charity fundraising this year would be in support of the School project in Milange and that a working group between the Church and School would be established to oversee this.
- The Rector reminded the PCC that the first meeting to look at possibility of a Post Natal Support Group would take place on Saturday 12th May.
4. Welcome to the PCC - Dates of Meetings for 2018/19
- The Rector welcomed Sharon Fish and Pam Powell and thanked them for taking up the ministry of the PCC. The Rector provided a high level summary of the role of the PCC noting that its three main priorities were to be responsible for the building, the direction of worship and the direction of the Church in the Parish. He also said that the latter would be particularly important after his retirement which would take place by May 2020 at the latest. The Rector also said that while the PCC would normally have a Mission Action Plan, he did not think that it was the right priority in the context of the forthcoming changes. He also reminded the PCC that it was their job to be prepared to really ‘hear’ one another and to not speak over one another during meetings.
- Dates agreed for future meetings are to be on Tuesdays at 20:15 in the Parish Centre on the following dates: 24th July, 4th September, 9th October, 13th November 2018 and 15th January and 19th February 2019.
- The APCM will take place on Sunday 28th April. It was agreed that a Crèche would be provided in order to encourage and support young families, especially those who usually attend the 11:15 service.
- It was the agreement of the PCC that Peter Carpenter would be co-opted onto the PCC for future meetings, his having missed the cut off date for entry to the church electoral roll.
5. Financial Report
- Kathy reported that there was a deficit of £2,000 at the end of Q1. She expressed her hope that the financial situation would improve as the year progressed.
- Kathy noted that £354.00 was raised for the Diocesan Homelessness Appeal and that £104.00 was raised for the USPG Appeal.
- Kathy suggested that an upcoming bill for maintenance of the tower clock (£1,000 for 5 years) should be allocated to the Fabric Fund. The PCC agreed to this suggestion.
- Kathy asked whether the Fabric and Restoration funds should be combined since the main restoration project was now complete. There was a discussion as to whether or not should happen and it was the agreement of the PCC that the funds should be kept separate. It was also agreed that future projects such as the movement of the Screen should not come from either of these funds and that separate fundraising should be arranged for that project.
- It was agreed that Architect fees for preparation for the upcoming internal works should be paid from the Mission and Ministry fund and that the Architect fees for the proposed Labyrinth in the Churchyard should be taken from the Churchyard fund.
6. Identifying Attendees for the Deanery Finance meeting 9th May, St. Mary’s, Sunbury
- It was agreed that Kathy Hodge, Janice Wetherell and Guy Blythman would attend the meeting.
7. Main Item: How do we prepare for the future? Who are we? Who are our neighbours? How should we live this?
- The Rector asked ‘What sort of community is St. Nicholas’ and asked the PCC to consider this after he read aloud the coming Sunday’s Gospel, John 17. 6-19, with its stress on Jesus’ people as being in the world, but not of the world. How does it feel to be in Shepperton, but not completely of Shepperton? How can we be God’s gift to our surrounding community?
- The Rector asked the PCC to reflect further on John 17 over the next few months as they continue to explore ‘who we are’. He also asked the PCC to think about ‘What is your job in the Church - and how that job makes it a place of meaning’.
8. Children and Families Minister - Responding to Pamela’s Departure
- The Rector asked the PCC for their feelings on the news of Pamela’s planned departure on 31st July 2018. Feelings expressed were ‘Worried’, ‘Sadness’, ‘Daunted’, ‘Grateful’, ‘hopeful for the future’, and ‘loss of a respected and trusted colleague’.
- The Rector commented that he thought that the role would be hard to recruit, especially as the salary for the role was not large. The Rector asked the PCC to consider what aspects of Pamela’s work they wanted to carry forward that had already begun. It was agreed that key areas were:
- 11:15 service
- Messy Church
- Link with St. Nicholas School.
- Retaining the strong teams that had been built to support each of these.
- Pamela also suggested the following roles she had undertaken of which others had perhaps not been aware:
- Administering the Baptism visitors group
- Article in the Shepperton News
- PowerPoint for the 11:15 service
- The Rector suggested that if Lay members were to be involved in supporting any of these jobs in future, then planning would need to begin as soon as possible. It was agreed that the Job Description for the Children and Families Minister would be re-distributed with the Minutes to bring better awareness of the role to the PCC.
9. Re-licensing of LLM, Richard Ghail
- The Rector advised that Richard’s license would need to be renewed this Advent. It was the unanimous agreement of the PCC that it should be renewed. Proposed by Nicky Searle and seconded by Janice Wetherell.
10. Church Building Projects
- The Rector advised that the Architect’s plans would be presented to the Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC) on 22nd May for their feedback. It was agreed that the proposed costs for the project should be shared with the PCC. The Rector advised that these had already been requested. Kathy asked that the costs be broken down to provide greater clarity on each part of the project.
11. Correspondence -
- Permission for photograph memorials in the cemetery
- Alternative Worship on Easter Day
12. Churchwardens’ Notices - None
13. AOB (Previously notified to the chairman)
- There were 5 new applications to join the electoral roll. These were approved by the PCC and will be forwarded by the Rector to the Recorder.
- The Diocesan Safeguarding Statement was agreed by the PCC and signed by the Rector and Churchwardens.
- The Rector explained the reasons for his coming absence in June and the first part of July, and would be grateful if the Wardens and PCC could explain this to any who were concerned about the matter.
There being no other business, the meeting closed with The Grace at 10.20pm.
The next meeting is on 24th July at 20:15 in the Parish Centre.
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
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