Parochial Church Council…..
…..notes from the last meeting held Wednesday May 2nd 2007.
The meeting was chaired by Revd Mary Gregory in the absence of the Vicar and she welcomed the Churchwardens Brian Adamson and Terry Raper and Deputy Churchwardens Joyce Barker and Jonathan Newton, who had all been elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting. Mary also welcomed two new members to the PCC, Janet Alick and Paul Mordue, and a the return of Jill McGarvie. A full list of PCC members, officials and committees for 2007/2008 can be seen in the Church Porch.
There was a great deal of concern expressed by members about the increased number of thefts of lead from the roof and an increase in the levels of vandalism, litter, graffiti, gravestones pushed over, and evidence of drug taking around church. It was agreed that the presence of groups of young people was intimidating and it was not recommended that anyone should confront them but to telephone the Police on 01302 385466 or the Community Wardens on 07795 128042.
The PCC, after recommendations from the Fabric Committee and Worship Team agreed to purchase a Digital Hymnal Plus, a device to provide music for services when an organist is not available. This will cost just over £2,000, the money coming from donations already made and the Endowment Trust. This does not in any way detract from the fund-raising to refurbish the organ.
It was brought to the notice of the PCC that a recent television programme had suggested that some properties in the vicinity of old churches could be liable for a large contribution to the Chancel Roof Repair Fund and that the owners should take out insurance. This PCC is not aware of any property in the parish of Hatfield which is liable for a contribution, and if properties were discovered then this PCC are firmly opposed to asking for the contribution. Further inquiries are being made as to any possible liabilities.
An appeal was made for volunteers to mount a “big clean-up” of church, churchyard and Barn field on Friday/Saturday 15th - 16th June 2007 before the Gardens Weekend and Art Show the following weekend 23rd-24th June.
The next PCC meeting will be held on Thursday 7th June 2007 instead of the usual first Wednesday of the month.
Brian Waterhouse.
May 2007