Summary of PCC Meeting of 11th November 2009

Attendance: 14 out of 24 members (58%)

The minutes of the meeting of 16^th September were approved.

Father David reported on the events of the proceeding two months highlighting: The welcome in church for Mr Andrew Simpson on the 20^th September, Back to Church Sunday 27^th September, ethics in the pub,

the successful Harvest Festival and Auction, the official opening of the Littlehampton Academy, the Church and Grounds clean up (helper’s support much appreciated), Quiz Night, South Stoke’s first recorded Patronal Festival and not forgetting a couple of significant weddings and Joe and Betty’s 50^th wedding anniversary.

The recent Deanery Synod meeting focussed on ‘Children’s Ministry’ but unfortunately there was a lack of time for sharing experiences and ideas. Consideration is being given to holding a practice workshop at St Nicholas and inviting local churches.

The Parish Quiet Day is planned for 12^th June 2010.

Bishop John’s announcement: On 25^th October Bishop John made a statement clarifying that he is not about to become a Roman Catholic. (This was in response to a Daily Telegraph article of the same day). However several PCC members expressed disquiet that he appears to be waiting until retirement before joining the Roman Catholic Church and this stance could be seen to compromise his position as our Anglican leader. After some discussion the consensus view was that Father David should raise the PCC’s concerns with Bishop Mark of Horsham.

Tim Thorpe will be facilitating the Parish Weekend in May – 54 people have signed up.

Arundel C of E School: Positive relations between church and school reported. 10 am Advent Service on 29^th November will be held in the school

Christian Aid The Big Sing will take place on 13^th December at 4:30 in the church,

The Friends of St Nicholas will be launched on 6^th December at the Patronal Festival.

Treasurer’s Report: The total expenditure to date for the re-ordering of the West Porch area (including the new doors and roof repairs) is about £35,000. This has been entirely funded by generous donations. Discussion took place as to how major building projects should be overseen in the future, Agreed that the terms of reference of the Fabric Committee will be revised and brought back to the next meeting.

The Treasurer circulated a financial report for the 9 months ending 30^th September showing £6638 in unrestricted funds. Regular giving is showing a 25% increase from the first quarter of the year to the third quarter.

Fabric Committee: minutes circulated. Majority view was for mending the church clock.

Mission & Renewal Committee: minutes circulated. Welcoming Leaflet out soon. Discussion regarding publishing PCC & committee minutes and summaries on the parish web-site. Majority (13 to 1) in favour of publishing.

Social & Catering Committee: the updated programme of events to be circulated to members. A spring quiz planned for 24^th April.

Churches Liaison Committee: the Christmas card has been agreed and dates of services in the run up to Christmas. (See pew sheet). Holocaust Memorial Service will take place on 27^th January 2:30 pm at the Convent.

The Electoral role stands at 243.

Under Any other Business the subject of Bequests was discussed. This will be considered further by the Finance Committee.

As Daniel H0dson will be away during the first quarter of this 2010 it was unanimously approved that Andy Mott will take over the chair of the Mission & Renewal Committee.