PCC Jottings - November 2007

Youth Worker. Catie-Anne Harper gave a report on the activities of the youth of the church. She was joined by James Preston who gave a report on his trip to the Bridgwater venture camp, in Somerset. James told us of music sessions, one of which he had led, and of exploring new ways to worship. He had found the experience very moving especially the talk on the crucifixion. He is still in touch with friends he made during the weekend.

Back to the 80’s Musical. Catie-Anne reported progress on the Back to the 80’s Musical which is to be performed in Norbury church on 2nd February 2008. Tickets will be on sale from December, so book early to avoid disappointment.

Godly Play. Information was given out of a success at a nearby church – St Michael’s church in Macclesfield. A storytelling service is held at 9.30 on Sunday mornings. It is child-friendly but open to adults. The format is built around the telling of a story from the bible using models, which the children can handle after the talk, to bring the story to life. We shall consider whether we might use some ideas from St. Michael’s.

Stabilising Memorials. Norbury church remains responsible for the safety of churchyard memorials until Stockport Council takes over in August 2008. We are therefore having to pay for many memorials to be secured with wooden stakes. We are also having to cope with the upset that many families feel when they find their memorials secured in this way. We informed many of them previously that their memorials needed to be made secure. The stake can be removed as soon as remedial work is done to the memorial.

Out of the Ark. Our thanks and appreciation was expressed to an anonymous donor who had paid for a set of CDs which will be a valuable aid for our children’s work.

Visit to Chester Cathedral. A visit to Chester Cathedral is being arranged for 26th February 2008 to include a meal in the Cathedral. The cost, including coach travel, will be £30.00 per person.

Chester Diocesan Lay Conference. This year the conference will focus on Mission. It is to be held at the Swanwick Conference Centre in Derbyshire from 16th – 18th May 2008. As the title says, this is for lay people so if anyone would like further details please contact Martin Collins.

Finance. With just two months to go in the year the Treasurer reported an expected deficit of between £9,000 and £11,000 for the year. This will be met from accumulated reserves. Obviously there are only limited funds in our reserves, so a programme of sermon themes on giving to God’s work has been planned, under the general title Called to Discipleship. These will start on the first Sunday in Lent, 10th February, 2008, and last for five weeks.

And Finally. A Merry Christmas to all you readers – yes, a little early, but the Norbury large Christmas card is even now being designed and prepared. As last year people can add their name to the card, instead of sending individual cards, to people and make a donation towards the charities being supported, which this year are Christian Aid and The Leprosy Mission.

Richard Crocker