At our September Meeting we were primarily concerned about proposals for our Mission Partnership which outlined alternative arrangements of churches through which we might call a new minister to the partnership and redistribute the duties of our present two ministers. After considerable discussion the Elders felt that they themselves were still unclear about what is being proposed and the implications it will have for our church and fellowship here in Ponteland. While we want to bring the proposals to the church meeting later this month, we could not bring a firm recommendation also. We will meet with Philip before the Meeting but it is probable that deferral will be advocated.
The issue is extremely important and all members are urged both to study the briefing notes and to come to church meetings.
We are arranging that, at the Harvest Service on 12th October, cheese and wine/soft drinks will be served after worship. We hope to have a pleasant social occasion and do hope that members will bring along friends and acquaintances to participate in our morning worship and in informal fellowship afterwards.
The Elders reviewed the Open Day and were very pleased that, despite the awful weather, we came together in fellowship and enjoyed a successful time, the only drawback being that we were not able to show ourselves off to many members of the local community.
We have agreed a new series of programmes to study, both this autumn and in the new year.
We heard from our treasurer that there had been some response to our letter about finances and are thankful that our appeal has been heard. We ask that you continue to support us to the best of your ability.
Fred Milligan,
Church Secretary
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