PCC update June 2021

Tara writes:

The PCC spent a sunny Saturday morning (12/6) inside St. James' by the Park church building discussing several things, the main one of which was how to move forward with respect to the buildings. 

We started, however, by reflecting on this discipleship shape tool to be used to help deepen our discipleship - give it a go if you want! We'll be using this more in the coming months as we continue our thinking about how we make and become disciples in our church and community.

It was quite exciting to finally think about buildings options moving forwards. The diagrams first shared at the Annual Meeting were very informative. Thank you to those who have commented on them. We looked at 5 different plans using the already allocated £5000 mentioned at the Annual Meeting from church funds. 

We agreed to ask Studio 4 architects to draw up more detailed plans with a view to gaining planning permission for a two storey complete rebuild of the Parish Hall. Detailed plans of two options for some reconfiguring of the interior of St James' will also be worked up including consideration of extra room space at the back at ground level and improving site lines for any upstairs congregation. The combined changes to the church building and the new hall should provide the space and accommodation required for both midweek and Sunday activities. Part of this next process will include working out the potential cost of these works. The new hall would include office space and with this in mind, it is likely, but not decided, that 133 Church Street would be sold once work on new offices is completed. The future of the organ was also discussed but nothing decided - more work will be done on this before decisions are made. 

The buildings development group are doing an amazing job for which PCC is most grateful. Please pray for this process, for the Lord's wisdom in the discussions & expenditure of time and money. Also for all of us to have patience to persevere and get this long project right for His glory.

On another topic close to our hearts: we were surprised and sad to hear that nobody has applied for the children's team leader post, a role we believe vital for our children and future young people. Please  also ask God to show the leadership how to proceed so He can be glorified through how we bring up the next generation. That we make them strong & resilient in The Way of the One who supports us above, below,  behind, before us and all around us!

To finish on a positive note, we are grateful that Steve Condell has been appointed as buildings maintenance manager.

On these topics and any others important to you, do feel free to have  further discussions with any PCC member. We want to, wherever possible, be  available and open with the whole congregation. Considering your views and learning how to "disagree well"  can be one of the really important ways God guides & moves us forwards.

Thanks for reading and look forward to hearing from you.
Tara, on behalf of whole PCC