St Mary's PCC Meeting
26^th September 2011

Heating costs are rising as does the hot air in the church. Advice is being sought on making the heating more cost effective.

Planning consent was granted by NF NPA, thanks to the efforts of Clifford Jakes, for additional land, gifted by Lord Teynham to be incorporated into our churchyard; a group of 3 will manage the next stages of this project.

The Ken Allen Trust has generously borne the cost of the new Norleywood "To the Church" signpost, now imminent, and a new communion chalice.

Nicholas Walford is making progress updating and improving St Mary's website while new security measures are in hand to reduce theft risk.

The new arrangement of two front pews and the Quiet Corner, agreed by the PCC, will be ratified with the Diocese as a permanent change.

Members noted with satisfaction Neil's announcement of Revd Canon Tim Dakin's appointment to succeed Bishop Michael next spring.

Lynda gave dates for forthcoming services: Advent Sunday Group Evensong at St Saviours on 27^th Nov. at 3pm, Evensong with Bishop Jonathan on 4^th Dec. at 6.30 pm, Christingle Service on 11^th Dec. at 3pm, Crib Service at 4pm and Midnight Mass at 11pm on 24^th Dec., Christmas Day Communion at 10am and 9 Lessons and Carols at 6.30pm on 1^st Jan. in accordance with tradition. Lynda will be away from 14^th Nov. to 2^nd Dec.

Treasurer, Pat Mennie, reported more robust results following a reduction in parish share and the meeting agreed a contribution of £500 in 2011 to the Deanery Fund to help parishes less well funded than ourselves.

The PCC reviewed the changed morning service time as to its effect and agreed to revert on 8^th Jan. to 9.30am.

Leo asked members to give thought to an additional hymn book to provide wider choice; this to be discussed at the next meeting on 17th Nov.

Bernard Atkinson