Firstly, I would like to thank everyone who was involved in organising the Christmas events and services; those of you who spent valuable time decorating the church; the music; the wonderful choir participation and the leadership of our priests for each and every service.  

Now it is time to turn our focus to the start of the new decade and what that entails for us in 2010. It is likely that Bishop Mark will be prayerfully considering options for our new vicar early in 2010. Then consultations will start the process of finding someone who is appropriate for our community.

In the meantime, the PCC must now plan services and events up to Easter and beyond. We shall be planning a Lent course along with managing the daily services, regular baptisms, and occasional funerals.

We must also address the financial stewardship for the parish, as throughout the  Deanery all parishes are under great pressure to maintain and even increase their contributions. Personal giving is crucial for us and especially beneficial, if those contributors who are tax payers, use the gift aid envelopes on Sundays which allows us to claim back tax from the Inland Revenue.   

Additionally, we have to meet unexpected costs associated with the dry rot eradication over the south aisle and the repair to the organ roof. These two issues are likely to cost in the region of £10,000. The PCC has invited Dr Alan Thurlow, the retired Diocese director of music at Chichester, to come to talk with us about the restoration of our lovely Binns pipe organ and the possible sources that may offer some assistance in funding the restoration work.

May I take this opportunity to wish all a happy New Year.

Graham Todd
Lay Chairman of the PCC