The Steering Committee has been formed to prepare for the successful union of our two congregations. The committee meets fortnightly and at the time of writing has met 3 times.
Work is in hand on several fronts
Fact Finding – Understanding how each congregation is organised and establishing ‘one source of truth’ to base proposals on. The parish profiles used at the last vacancies have been reviewed and preparation of an up to date profile for the united congregation is in progress.
Each kirk session has sub-committees and the roles and responsibilities of these are being reviewed with the aim of providing an effective structure for the untied congregation.
Basis of Union – the formal document that enables the union to take place. Once agreed each congregation will asked to vote for or against accepting it.
Much of the document is standard but the name of the united charge and the paragraph on places of worship are specific to us.
Possible wording for the section on places of worship is being reviewed with presbytery, and both congregations have been asked to suggest names for the united charge by Monday 20th April.
Church Treasurer – A very important role and one that is about to get bigger. Discussions with the current treasurers are taking place with the aim of spreading the load across several people in a coherent way.
Magazines – The Blether & Kirk News are both active but different. It has been suggested that neither should be scrapped and that both have a role to play in the united charge. Discussions with representatives of both publications to discuss ways forward are being arranged.
A Vision for our Church – An attempt to look beyond the act of union. Where do we see our unified church in 5 years time? What is it that we want for & from our Church? What will it be about? Further discussions and input from everyone will be required.
Two Initiatives
- Forming a Praise Band. Anyone, anyone who is interested in being part of the band please contact Martin (mpetty712@gmail.com).
- Leading church services – There is a recognised need to increase the number of those willing to act in this capacity. Roy is happy to help start this up with those who have already expressed interest, and it is hoped that more members of the congregations will feel confident to get involved.