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Report of the English Martyrs' Parish Pastoral Council, January 2008
Money matters
One of the topics presented for discussion was the parlous state of the church organ. Most people may not be aware that there is any problem with the organ but in fact expert opinion is that it needs either extensive repair or replacement. Repair would cost upward of £35,000, whereas replacement with a digital organ would come to less than a third of this amount. Those principally concerned with the music of the church have decided, therefore, to go for the second option. Andrew Dunsire, our organist, has very generously offered to underwrite the cost of the new organ, but if other parishioners would like to contribute, they should let Fr Dominique know.
Still on the subject of finance, the PPC also considered a schedule of necessary work to be done to the fabric of our buildings, the most pressing of which is the provision of disabled toilets in the hall. There is also the problem of tree roots interfering with the drains, as well as repainting of and local repairs to the church. It may be possible to get a grant for 60% of the cost of some of the work, if the parish can raise the remaining 40%. In the past two years we have raised £43,000, which is encouraging, but we can’t rest on our laurels!
By the way, it now seems unlikely that English Martyrs’ church will become a listed building, which on balance is good news, as listed status can involve considerable restrictions and expense.
Your suggestions
There have been two requests in the Suggestion Box for jollier, and more familiar, hymns. This has come up before; clearly it is something that is close to people’s hearts, and Fr Dominique and the cantors will consult together about it, always bearing in mind that hymns must be chosen to reflect the readings of the particular Sunday.
A waste bin has been provided in the porch following another suggestion.
Fr Dominique has also received a couple of verbal requests for courses on scripture. As there is now an excellent programme of courses provided by the diocesan Adult Formation team, it seems sensible to make use of it. A way forward could be for groups within the parish to look at the programme and see if there are any courses that they would like to book. There are handbooks at the back of church and in the hall, from Fr Dominique, or from our Adult Formation rep, Judith Smeaton (704525; judith.smeaton@btinternet.com)
Parish pantomime
This is now fully cast (including a large number of children) and beginning rehearsals. The dates of performances are 28 and 29 February (evening) and 1 and 2 March (matinée). Watch out for tickets, going on sale soon!
Jeff Corker, the producer, adds: We are hoping to produce a glossy souvenir programme and are looking to finance this by selling advertising space for businesses in its pages. The cost would be £10 per advert and we hope your business would then come to the attention of up to 300 parishioners and panto fans. For details ring Jeff Corker on 793921.