Stuart opened with prayer and a reading from Isaiah 43, an encouraging passage in the frightening times in which we live; “do not fear I am with you” says the Lord. 

Elaine reported that we are planning to attend wedding expo’s, we have a great opportunity to minister to wedding couples with our beautiful properties. 

Stuart reported on newcomers to the church, particularly through Moran and Little Sheep. He recognises that our attendance is still impacted by covid caution. Easter services were greatly appreciated. There was a sense on Easter Sunday of being back to full churches, and so many friends returned. Jeff Ware is now well established and his ministry is much appreciated.

On matters property, the steps to the office at St Michael’s need to be resolved. There are a number of options ranging from $3,000 to $13,000 depending on the approach taken. This is connected to two other upcoming projects, one for a café / deck replacing the current office and the new covering of the driveway. This is a difficult issue, the wardens recommendation is that the least expensive should be selected, recognising that if we go ahead with the deck project, they would have to be replaced. Further quotes will be obtained, the wardens will work to get the combination of cost effective and pleasing responses.

A member of the parish has requested that we put a banner on the church to calling for action on climate change. The Parish Council was not supportive of the view, there are concerns that in the current election in Wentworth, this would be an overtly political statement and Parish Council moved not to proceed with this.

We discussed a series of ideas referred to as “the Reawakening” things that we can restart now that covid restrictions are lifting. Some things are underway, for example the vintage sale in May. Other ideas discussed included: St Michael’s convention, Michaelmunch, a fundraising concert, potential arts events.  We will consider more of these in the coming months.