What Happened at the Annual Church Meeting? 

At the end of May was our Annual Church Meeting: a time when we shared lovely food and fellowship, then Stephen led us to discuss around tables the ways we can help the church in our vision. We did have a tiny bit of official business at the end!

Stephen reported on the work of the Leadership and Pastoral teams, including mapping of what our church does across all the various and varied groups and activities, and exploring how to better connect with those who are new or who otherwise are not engaged in groups, as part of our discipleship, and to aid growth in faith for all.

Linda and Helen spoke about the ‘Bridges’ group, explaining this group formed over 30 years ago, with the aim of bridging any gaps within the church and beyond, having recognised we all have an instinctive need for community. Bridges have organised many activities and events that were fun and open to all, in relaxed “come as you are” situations, building relationships and a sense of belonging to our church, and leading to spiritual growth.  They are small in number but will welcome ideas and assistance for their activities.

This led to these questions discussed, and a summary of the answers:
Where in life do I build relationships?
Shopping - local pub - shared hobbies - parent groups/ school gate - walking the dog - work - church

What spaces in the life of the church or the community do you see a desire for greater connecting?
More house groups- babysitting - evening market for workers - easier access to existing groups - away days - linking together families/ men/ mams/ women/ church congregation - organised events to celebrate milestones

I would like to volunteer for ……..?
There were some specific volunteers: to assist with children on Sunday mornings, to run a fitness class, and for occasional help at the Monday Market

Please let any of the Leadership Team know if you wish to add to any of these!
      
The meeting appointed our Leadership Stewards and representatives to Church Council, the legal body of trustees. The list of Leadership Stewards is available on this page.

Jill Warden ( Treasurer) gave a brief report on church finances, which show an increase in income from giving and from hire of premises, with expenditure near to the anticipated level ( although some of the funds budgeted for improvements at Chopwell have not yet been spent so will be carried forward to next year’s budget).

The meeting closed in prayer.