The Parish of Fendalton
St Barnabas and St Thomas
Growing on the journey of faith
134th Annual General Meeting
Sunday 1st March 2009
at 11.15 am in St Barnabas Church Hall
Reports Agenda & Minutes
AGM BOOKLET
Vicar’s Report: Revd John Day I am writing this report during my Study Leave. Having just spent the day at a conference on ‘The Church in the 21st century’, I am particularly excited about the life and worship of our parish and what the future holds for us. Our parish life is characterised by dedication and hard work, and I am immensely privileged to be the Vicar of Fendalton at this time in its history. There is such faith and trust in God; thank you to everyone and thank you to my colleagues.
I commend this AGM Booklet to you – to your prayers, reflection and thanksgiving. Please read it carefully and note how our parish is growing and developing.
We do have many challenges, but God in Jesus, who is the Way, the Truth and the Life, equips us and empowers us. Over the past few years we have set ourselves the mission of ‘growing on the journey of faith’. Our prayer is to reflect God’s love for the world, a never-ending, forgiving, healing, unconditional love. Each week, through worship, prayer, caring, and service we seek to invite people to faith and to grow in faith in God. We seek to give the young and the old entry points into God’s rich and wonderful life. We celebrate the Eucharist, Communion, God sharing life in all its fullness with us.
We need your help in God’s mission to the whole world. Please commit yourself to God; offer yourself in life-changing service, making this world, this city, a better place. God has moved in your life; in return join with us as we partner with God to give a richer, deeper, more fulfilling life to those around us.
John Day
Priest in Charge Report: Revd Philip Robinson
Dear Parishioners,
Since our arrival in September and beginning ministry in the parish in October, Adrienne and I have been very warmly welcomed and encouraged by everyone’s sense of good will, hospitality and signs of friendship. We are happy to be living, worshipping and serving with you in Christ's church in this place.
John left in December on Study leave. Pastoral and administrative oversight has been continued by the Wardens, Team Leaders and Administrative staff together. There has been a good working relationship ensuring that all the important things are being covered.
Services have continued with good average attendances especially at Christmas time as well as during January. We have all, the staff, had some time out for refreshment and to enjoy the summer days.
To consolidate our working together and plan for the early part of the year a staff training and support day was held on February 9 at Sister Eveleen House, Scarborough.
I keep in touch with John by email on an almost weekly basis so that we maintain good communication. I will look forward to his return at Easter.
May I compliment all who hold positions of leadership in the parish and who help in a myriad of ways? God is blessed by what you do and the way you do it gladly.
God Bless you.
Philip Robinson
CONTENTS
|
Vicar’s Report |
Page 2 |
Music Reports |
Page 14 |
|
Priest in Charge Report |
Page 2 |
Pastoral Outreach Team |
Page 16 |
|
Treasurers Report |
Page 3 |
Social & Hospitality Reports |
Page 18 |
|
Wardens’ Report |
Page 5 |
Wafer Report |
Page 21 |
|
St Thomas’ Report |
Page 7 |
Works Report |
Page 21 |
|
Admin Team Report |
Page 8 |
R.I.P. |
Page 23 |
|
AAW Reports |
Page 9 |
AGM Agenda |
Page 24 |
|
Children & Youth Reports |
Page 10 |
Minutes from last year |
Page 25 |
TREASURER’S REPORT
When comparing the 2008 accounts with those of 2007 it should be noted that 2008’s are for twelve months, whereas those for 2007 were for 11 months.
To Dec 2007 To Dec 2008
1st Feb to 31st Dec 07 1st Jan to 31st Dec 08
(11 months) (12 months) Income
297,701 Offertories and donations 330,831
Fund raising activities 68,396
Legacies 43,849
16,154 Interest earned 35,966
12,500 Grant for staff salaries 25,500
49,290 Other income 58,575
375,645 563,117
Expenditure
150,230 Clergy stipends and expenses 174,076
22,799 Worship, music, etc. 23,501
19,538 Youth programme 35,243
26,010 Mission and outreach 28,080
27,089 Diocesan quota 28,373
51,312 Maintenance, insurance, rates, etc. 84,060
74,520 Office & verger salary & costs 97,495
371,478 470,828
4,167 Surplus before depreciation 92,289
(33,221) Depreciation (35,288)
(29,054) Surplus after depreciation 57,001
At first glance this is an outstanding result. However, to get a true picture there should be subtracted from the final figure the grants and donations received for the playground ($36,261) which totally covered the costs of installation, and also the net sum raised from the fair ($32,675) which has been set aside for capital expenditure. It should also be noted that two legacies were received totalling $43,849 and that these were critical to us finishing the year in the black.
We are also dependent on the grant from the Council of $25,000 for work with the elderly and youth and for the sterling efforts of the wafer room (surplus $13,341) and the funeral caterers (surplus $10,303.) It is of concern that offertories and donations represented only 59% of our income.
Expenditure was in line with budget, except for maintenance etc and office costs. Nearly $16,000 was spent on our Tui Street property which could fairly be described as catch up work. There were increased costs for power and insurance. $5,759 was spent on architect’s fees on investigations into a new building. The increase in office costs is a result of extra staff being employed.
Our financial position is strong though vestry has concerns relating to this year’s budget which we will discuss at the AGM.
The full accounts are currently being audited. When the audit is complete they will be posted on our website and copies will also be available from the parish office.
David Page, Treasurer; 4 February 2009.
AGM Reports:
WARDEN’S REPORT
This year has been an exciting one in the life of the Parish. A year that has seen its share of staff changes and also one that saw a successful fair held, a Parish Mission Weekend, the introduction to the Parish of Alpha, the setting up of a new Webpage, growth in the life of our Antioch service, a new playground dedicated and one that saw our Vicar John depart for England for a well earned sabbatical. Importantly, we have all continued to grow on our Journey of Faith. While our finances have and will be stretched into the coming year, grants from the Christchurch City Council for Pastoral Outreach and for a variety of Parish activities have enabled the Parish to maintain its staff team of 3 full time clergy and a Curate. Our youth ministry continues to flourish and our pastoral activities through home communions and pastoral visiting have increased. We are also fortunate to have the services of one non-stipendiary staff member and have again enjoyed the ministry of retired clergy. The Parish has also benefited through the generosity of parishioners through a successful Christmas Thanksgiving appeal and numerous legacies. Take some time to look at our new webpage and provide feedback to the office on improvements.
As we report to this, the Parish’s 134th AGM, we can be proud that our Parish is in a positive mood and while we will not be free from the present economic downturn, we believe that the Parish is well placed going into 2009.
There have again been a number of staff changes this year. It was with sadness that we farewelled Jenny Wilkens at the end of July. Jenny left us to take up the position of Canon in Residence at Wellington Cathedral and we farewelled her at a combined service on the 29th June; she went with our love and God’s blessings. Jenny’s contribution to the staff team and parish was immense and we sincerely thank her. Philip Robinson (and wife Adrienne) joined us from Timaru in August, Sandy Constable left us in November and then, in December, welcoming our new Curate, Andrew McDonald (and wife Anna and their delightful children Eilish and Ailan). We were sorry to see Fay Deam resign her position as ‘lifestreams’ music coordinator although we are fortunate to have Angela Wightman continue in that role. Felicity Day has taken over the role of resourcing and organising crèche and Kidzone. Vicki Gilmour, in addition to her role in pastoral care for families at church, in the community and at Mainly Music, also includes outreach in the community through art. Katrina Hill, who joined us to work in the youth ministry position, leaves shortly which will create a vacancy in this area of ministry.
In addition to our paid staff, we have a number of committed people involved in a voluntary capacity and we thank them for their help and commitment. A parish this size relies on its volunteers to allow many things to happen.
We welcome offers of assistance in all areas of ministry including helping our Verger, Heuchan, with grounds maintenance, especially during the autumn with the gathering up of leaves and general gardening throughout the year. We acknowledge the huge debt we owe to John Smart for his tireless efforts involving many hours of work in keeping our grounds looking so good. Well done John!
Parishioners’ commitment to Congregational teams is another area where we, as wardens, would like to see total commitment from all parishioners.
The Parish mission weekend in March with Bp Richard Ellena was enjoyed by many and vestry will continue to explore other similar opportunities in the future.
The Parish Fair in September was the culmination of many months of hard work under the capable leadership of Don McKenzie. This as a great effort which resulted in some $35,000 being raised for essential building improvements. The first project, using fair proceeds, was the painting and re-carpeting of the Tui room. The upgrading of the kitchen in the administration building is also underway and we will then be looking for ways to improve the toilets in that building. Thank you to Patsy Wardell, Marjorie Smart, Ruth Harwood, Marion Cook and Lindsay Stowell for the preparation & painting of the Tui Room.
This year also saw the dedication of a children’s playground, funding for which came principally from community grants. Thanks to Steve Wakefield for his efforts in seeing this project through to completion.
The ‘lifestreams’ congregation continues to grow with space in the hall an ongoing problem. A special general meeting of parishioners held in September considered future plans and vestry will continue to explore options for growth, including a possible new building to be sited to the rear of our existing church building. Further discussion will be held with parishioners before committing the Parish to any future development of the site. Attendance at the Eucharist in Church is steady but with Philip Robinson having been given the task of growing this congregation, it is anticipated that, with Philip’s enthusiasm, growth will follow. St Thomas’ congregation, although decreasing in number, continues to show strong spiritual and pastoral support for each other.
Antioch, the weekly youth services on Sunday evenings has shown steady growth with some 25 young people now regularly worshipping at this service.
We continue to be a vibrant community fulfilling the many and varied needs of our congregations and wider community, e.g. Support of the City Mission, Bible in Schools, Reading in Schools, Hand in Hand and Christian World Service.
St Barnabas continues to be home to many community groups, from Alcoholics Anonymous to the Rose Society, Guides and Brownies, Calligraphy classes, Garden clubs and St Thomas has its Bridge club tenant, just to name a few.
In addition to those already named, there are many other people who give so much of their time to this place and who deserve special mention. Our thanks to Lorraine Jones and her Monday Munch team for the important hospitality offered to all those who attend these fortnightly events.
To Greg Brown who ensures that the ‘lifestreams’ service is set up each Sunday, thank you. Special thanks to Angela Wightman and Virginia Ashby for organising music and for encouraging the team of young musicians.
The Wafer Room with its many volunteer helpers under the able leadership of Noel and Val Strack, continues to be a profitable venture for the Parish providing benefit to not only the Parish but also the wider church community. It could not operate, however, without the administrative skills of Graeme Webster who spends many hours each week handling and dispatching orders.
Thanks again to John Smart, who, in addition to all the work he does around the grounds takes responsibility, along with his team of helpers, to look after the weekly Parish banking.
Thank you to the Sanctuary Guild under Pat Laban and Val Beckwith and their team of willing helpers for all the work they do attending to the altar linen, cleaning of the silver and brass and for the arranging of flowers. We often take for granted the way the church is always looked after - It does not, however, happen by itself!
Our thanks go to Denis Guyan our Organist and Choir Master for the wonderful diversity of choral music provided and for the commitment of choir members. The challenge for 2009 is to see a greater music ministry in the 10.00am Eucharist in church. If you feel that you could offer your gifts, or know of someone who loves singing and would love to join the choir and participate in this area of ministry, please see Denis. Again, we have appreciated those special services including the All Souls Requiem (Faure Requiem), Christmas and Easter music, the Advent lessons and Carols and the traditional 9 Lessons and Carols. Thank you also to our organists at St Thomas, Geoffrey Hall and Tony Barnett for their help and also to Marcia Cockburn and Fay Norman for their assistance on Thursdays.
The Mainly Music Programme (two sessions each Friday morning and a waiting list) is thriving and our thanks go especially to the committed team of helpers who help organise the morning tea for the mothers and children each week.
We give thanks to all those in youth programmes in our Parish; to Mary Cropp and the enthusiasm of the team and to Paul Stanaway for his leadership in this area. The support of parents in this area of ministry is also appreciated.
Pastoral outreach continues through the dedication of many volunteers as they carry Pastoral Outreach, through Home Communion, to house bound and sick parishioners. This very important ministry for the parish should not be underestimated. We also thank those involved in the Ministry of Healing and for the comfort this provides for many.
We give special thanks to Robyn Gopperth and her team for organising and providing food for Parish funerals, earning welcome supplementary income for the Parish. Thanks also to Ruth Harwood and the hospitality team who ensure that the many events we have in the parish are catered for.
We thank the Sides people, under the leadership of Bryce Murphy, for the essential part they play in each of our regular services. Their commitment to this important ministry is greatly appreciated.
No report would be complete without acknowledging the dedication and commitment of our Parish staff team, Marion Cook, Heuchan Parr, Kofé Havea, Denis Guyan, Felicity Day, Vicki Gilmour, Angela Wightman, Virginia Ashby and Katrina Hill.
The support of volunteers, who can be found most days around our Parish facilities, is acknowledged. There is always a task waiting for a willing helper. Can you offer some time to help? It all helps make this Parish such a great place to be a part of.
Finally, and most importantly, we express our continued deep appreciation and thanks for the leadership support and spiritual guidance that is given to the entire Parish by our dedicated clergy team, The Revs John Day, Philip Robinson, Jill Keir, Paul Stanaway, our new Curate Andrew McDonald and, during John’s sabbatical, Ross Allan. Our thanks to Sandy Constable for her ministry during this past year. Thanks also to our retired clergy John Greenslade, Alan McKenzie and Bishop Brian Carrell who have helped us all in so many ways on our continuing journey of faith.
Wayne Hann (Vicar’s Warden) Ruth Harwood (People’s Warden)
ST THOMAS’S REPORT
Once again the loss of further members of our congregation has reduced the number of our regulars, which now number only 27. Nevertheless we have still managed to maintain an average attendance of just over 24 over the whole year, including Christmas Day, which exceeds the minimum stipulated in the resolution at the end of 2006. However this figure includes a birthday party occasion when there were 93 present! If this occasion and Christmas are removed the average reverts to just over 22. Although on many occasions the numbers have been swelled by the presence of visitors, it is worth recording that on a recent Sunday there was an attendance of 23 and, apart from the Presider, all were on our list of 27. This represents 81% of our membership. One is tempted to suggest that were this to be achieved by other congregations the church would not be big enough! It was also pleasing to note that when the Treasurer presented a summary of offertories from the various congregations that per capita St Thomas’s topped the list!
St Thomas’s Day was once again a happy event, the annual lunch being well attended by 38, including a number from Vestry and St Barnabas. St Thomas’s Day this year will be celebrated on Sunday, July 5, and we intend to repeat the lunch at the same venue, Cranford Street Robbie’s.
Apart from the Sundays and Christmas Day we have had Eucharists at 9.30am on Ash Wednesday and the Wednesday in Holy Week, also prayers on Good Friday before the cross was carried across to St Barnabas. There have also been nine funerals in the church during the past twelve months, only one of which was of a former member of our congregation, the other eight being arranged by Palmer Funeral Services. Palmer Funeral Services still do the church cleaning for us.
We are indebted to the parish clergy for taking our services – John, Jenny, Philip, Jill, Paul & Sandy and we have welcomed on occasions Bishop Brian Carrell and John Greenslade and, recently, Ross Allen. We are grateful to Geoffrey Hall and Tony Barnett for their contributions as organists and also Graham Hollobon and Faye Norman who have helped out on a number of occasions.
As always we are very pleased to welcome visitors to our Sunday service at 9.30 am.
Peter Barton (Warden)
ADMINISTRATION TEAM REPORT
-to lead and direct an administration service for the parish
The Administration Team (Wayne Hann, chair, Revd John Day, Philip Robinson, David Page, John Smart, Peter Barton, Corinne Haines, Steve Wakefield and Warwick Webb) assist with the day to day functioning of the Parish. We have responsibility for the general administration of the Parish, including Parish finances, plus also the payment of staff wages, repairs and maintenance of church buildings and grounds. We are indebted to David Page, our treasurer, for the provision of helpful advice and guidance on Parish finances through day to day sound financial management including preparation of annual budget information.
While we have finished the year in a strong financial position, thanks to the receipt of a significant legacy and the generosity of parishioners in response to the Christmas Thanksgiving appeal, our financial position is far from satisfactory. The continued generous support of the Fendalton/Waimairi Community Board through its annual grant is acknowledged. The Parish is hugely dependent on this grant. It is sobering to note that after taking into account the Community Board grant, wafer room and funeral catering income and interest on the Barker Estate, our offertories represent only 59% of total Parish income. It would be excellent to have 100%, with grants, etc being extra!
Following the departure of Rev Jenny Wilkens the Parish has spent several thousand dollars upgrading its property at 15 Tui St. The interior has been painted and the fish pond removed. Further work is planned for this coming year including exterior painting. A Diocesan inspection of clergy housing has identified some essential work required on the Vicarage. This will be reviewed in the New Year and a programme to complete the work identified put in place. The costs associated with this work, however, are not currently included in the proposed budget.
Proceeds from the fair, after providing for a tithe, are to be spent on improvements to Parish facilities. A start has been made, with the painting of the Tui Room and laying of new carpet completed and an upgrade of the kitchen in the Administration building to be done shortly. Improvements to the toilets in this building are also proposed.
Considerable progress has been made this year in relation to the Parish database and we now have an updated webpage.
We record our grateful thanks to John and the clergy team and to all our staff who have carried out their duties and responsibilities to a high order. Thanks also to the many parishioners who have given so much practical assistance in so many ways throughout the past year. We should never overlook the generous support we receive from our many volunteers.
Wayne Hann Chair.
ASSOCIATION OF ANGLICAN WOMEN
AAW –THE AFTERNOON GROUP had a very successful year. A number of our speakers throughout the year were members of our Parish and they talked about their outreach to the wider Community and shared their talents.
In July we had our shared luncheon with the Evening Group when we were entertained by Mark Hadlow.
In October we had our Annual Outing when we went to Lyttelton by bus leaving something of the Parish History and met other members of their Group.
At the Annual meeting in November Rae McMullen was thanked for all her efforts on our behalf and given a gift Also Joan Homer a regular attendee for many years was made a Life Member.
We look forward to more enjoyable fellowship in 2009
Yvonne Byrne
AAW-INTERMEDIATE GROUP
Our meetings are the first Wednesday in the month and although referred to as the Evening AAW (7.30pm) we actually change to 2.00pm meetings in colder and darker months! Our group experienced a year of fellowship, friendship, fun, sharing & stimulation, partly due to the variety of the programme selected and enjoyed by 20 to 30 women meeting together, but also to the bond that develops and the caring and support that is given. It is with sadness that we have recorded the deaths of three of our members - Margaret Wyatt (10.03.08), Margaret Elliott (09.09.08) and Anne Just (25.11.08) - while giving thanks for the contribution they made to our fellowship over the years.
For both 2008 and 2009 the year began on the first Sunday in February with the observation of AAW Sunday. This year special significance was given at the 10.00am service to awareness of what AAW stands for with emphasis on the aims of the Fellowship; a shared tea held at Holly Lea has become a feature followed by the 7.00pm Songs of Praise with commissioning of leaders and committees.
Some members take the opportunity to attend extra Diocesan AAW happenings – especially the Festival Communion. We support the Overseas and Outreach financial commitment of AAW at a national level, also the Fellowship of the Least Coin and contribute towards Cents in May for the National Council of Women to which the AAW is affiliated.
Our February meeting (2nd Thursday) is in response to the annual invitation received from our linked branch in the Parish of Ellesmere. This includes a Eucharist at a church in their parish, St John’s, Leeston this year, followed by tea and fellowship at the home of a member. Always enjoyed by those attend.
Other changes to regular meetings in the Tui Room are in May when we have traditionally shared a group lunch –2008 at the Chateau on the Park. As part of our ‘Outreach’ this will include members of the wider church family. July is our at-home hospitality lunch with invited guests from Ellesmere, those with Diocesan AAW leadership, Parish staff, etc and members from our other AAW groups. Last year Mark Hadlow was our draw card. This year we look forward to Bishop Victoria Matthews as our after lunch speaker.
An in-house meeting when we used our own resources to focus on relationships and all that engendered them. Speakers at meetings included reminiscences of a refugee in Germany, administration at the Christchurch Cathedral, considering Martha and Mary –“to work is to pray”, and a non-touristy tour of South America.
Please know that you would be most welcome to visit or join this group at any time during the year
Pamela McKenzie, Leader
AAW –IN BETWEENS EVENING GROUP
In Betweens members are proud of our great traditions of strong friendships and caring for each other, plus service to the Church.
Some of the highlights for our monthly meetings last year were a celebration evening of members' creativity and gifts, a visit to the sisters at the Community of the Sacred Name (CSN), Our October meeting became one of outreach to all the Parish women as we welcomed Revd Philip and Adrienne Robinson to our Parish family. It was a most enjoyable Parish occasion. We gave $648 to local charities and $522 to Overseas and Outreach, as well as donations of goods to City Mission Foodbank, CSN, Walsh House and pantries for newly arriving clergy. We hosted Age Concern members to a splendid afternoon tea. Together with other AAW groups we welcomed Parish women to a morning tea for Bishop Richard Ellena.
Our service commitments included spring cleaning the Church, running a very successful cake stall at our Parish fair and hosting a morning tea each month after the Thursday Eucharist. Individual members also made very worthwhile contributions to the Parish freezer which is stocked with meals for the clergy to take out to those in need, and to members who suffered bereavement or illness. We concluded the year with a total membership of 124, including 94 paid subscriptions and eight honorary members.
As we look forward to another eventful year (our 39th) we thank God for the rich blessings and energy flowing through our In Betweens group.
Diane Brooker Newton, Leader
ARCHIVES
Anzac Day 2008 was very special as, for the first time, we honoured the Vietnam War Veterans and our sincere gratitude to John Masters for sharing his memorabilia, maps and medals, which increased our knowledge deeply. Many parishioners shared their treasures and helped make the display precious. Having morning tea after the Service added to the fellowship and warm thanks to the ladies who organised that.
Throughout the year several special dates were recognised, enquiries answered as possible, and as usual contributions to the photograph albums appreciated.
As last year, I ask for someone with digital photographic expertise to help record our heritage.
My personal thanks to Marion and Heuchan for their helpfulness at all times.
Maya Loveridge.
CHILDREN AND YOUTH TEAM REPORTS
TEAM: Revs John Day and Paul Stanaway, Greg and Angela Brown, Sharlene Lee, Vicki Gilmour, Helen Wakefield, Anna Webster, Angela Wightman, Lynn Ellis, Marette Wells, Felicity Day and Mary Cropp (Chair)
Angela Wightman – lifestreams music, Vicki Gilmour - mainly music and Playgroup, Felicity Day – Crèche and Kidzone, Helen Wakefield – Bible-in-Schools, Paul Stanaway – Youth and Antioch will provide reports regarding the area of ministry for which they are responsible.
It is my pleasure, on behalf of the Children and Youth Team, to present the following report of all the activities our young people are involved in across the breadth of The Parish of Fendalton.
Continued growth in the under 5’s age group resulted in establishment of a playgroup catering for pre-schoolers and their parents/ caregivers. The constitution will reflect that the group is a strategic aspect of our parish outreach and that there is to be gospel content in every session. Although we are delighted that the Children’s ministry has ongoing growth we express concern of the workload of staff and volunteers.
Sharlene Lee headed the Kidzone programme, but unfortunately she had to step down from this role mid-year. Felicity Day has assumed responsibility for this very important ministry area. She is well supported by a great team of volunteers, who assist and teach on a 3 week roster. Felicity has a vision for the growth and development of Kidzone and would also like to establish a mid-week ‘youth group’ for primary school aged kids. I would like to thank Sharlene for her able leadership of the Kidzone team and her contribution to the Children and Youth Team.
Holiday Programmes featured twice on our calendar, beginning with The Kidsfest ‘Backpack Bach’ held over July 14-16. In October a Light Party was held to replace Halloween. It was well attended by many of our Kidzone kids and their friends. Pohutukawa Paddock was held on 22 December which attracted a large number of primary and intermediate school aged youngsters. Marette Wells and Christine Fokkens coordinated and fronted these programmes and were able to recruit volunteers from all the different congregations of our parish including a large number of our high school aged folk. On behalf of Vestry and the Children and Youth Team I would like to extend my appreciation to the great team of volunteers in these very worthwhile events.
Our parish roll reflects the growth of young people who attend our services, and in the 0 – 30 year age group we have around 250 on our books. As a result of the vision of Growing on the Journey of Faith we can cater for all of these age groups with mainly music, playgroup, crèche, Kidzone, Youth Groups, Thursday Space, lifestreams and Antioch. Playgroup and mainly music provide an easy entry point to our church. We are developing and nurturing our own youth leaders. We are attracting more families into lifestreams. Antioch provides a service for a diverse congregation of young adults. Overall we can be very proud of what we have achieved over recent years and we look forward to 2009 as we fulfil our ministry to the young people of the parish.
Thank you to everyone involved in youth ministry who do so much to ensure that the variety of programmes we offer are delivered smoothly. We are grateful to all of our volunteers who offer their valuable time to all of these ministries. We look forward to 2009 as we continue to fulfil our ministry mission to the young people of our parish.
Mary Cropp
CHILDREN & YOUTH GROUPS REPORTS
ANTIOCH/THURSDAY SPACE
Antioch is our young adult’s church service which runs every Sunday evening at 7pm. It is aimed at 17-30 year olds though we do have some folk who are younger attending. The last year has seem some good settling into the service and fellowship with each other, it has also seen some new faces joining our church. The average numbers have gently increased and we currently have between 23-30; sometimes as many folk as 36. Antioch has developed its liturgical flow, music, biblical study, time of prayer and Holy Communion. I would say that in all these areas, Antioch has grown in head understanding and heart based worship. Biblical knowledge is increasing and dedication to the church and God is very visible.
Highlights this year include: 6 confirmations of Antioch members by Bishop Victoria, two mission services which have encouraged the older members to evangelise and mentor some younger youth group folk, missions work and fundraising for various groups e.g. Friends of Zimbabwe, Christmas shoe box appeal and of course the writing of ‘Amazing Creation’ the Advent study guide.
The members of Antioch are very involved with the rest of church life and consider it their responsibility to promote St Barnabas and act as workers in this vineyard. They have been active in holiday programmes, university work, youth camps and were the people who established a fair trade stall in church which is available after services.
As well as this, their desire for sharp biblical study is high. Many members of Antioch attend Thursday Space the regular house group/bible study. We have been studying hard through Acts spending almost the entire year on this book. Enjoyment of deep theological study is increasing and we are strongly considering splitting into two groups next year.
Paul Stanaway
BIBLEBASHERS
BibleBashers was new to 2008 and is part of the youth ministry of St Barnabas church. It is a bible study aimed at high schoolers, held on a Sunday morning during Lifestreams Ten ‘o’ clock services. BibleBashers was started because there was a clear need for a group that would provide an alternative to staying in church for this age group. In 2008 BibleBashers was lead by Katrina Hill, Jessie Stapleton and Jethro Day. Sadly Katrina left at the end of 2008, so through 2009 it will be lead by Jethro and Jessie, being supervised by Andrew McDonald. We have a pool of around 20 youth, with an average of 6-12 attending weekly.
The main goal of BibleBashers is to help the group grow on the journey of faith. This is done though reading and discussing the bible, prayer and fellowship. Most Sundays we start the session with a quick catch up of the past week, have an opening prayer then we read the week’s reading, followed by discussion and snack food. We round our time up with group prayer, and then rejoin the service in time for communion. Also during the session one of the members will bring the snack food and find a way to relate it to that weeks reading. The group is also encouraged to read the week’s reading before Sunday, this has been met with great success.
For most of 2008 we studied Sermon on the Mount (Matt 5-7). We did this by working through it theme by theme, paying close attention to the parable of The Two Builders (Matt 7:24-29). To conclude this series of studies we held a ‘prayer over’ at St Faith’s church New Brighton during the third term holidays. For the rest of the year we studied and are continuing in 2009 to study Mark’s Gospel, reading a chapter each week. All of these studies have been put together by the leadership team.
The growth we have seen within the group has been encouraging. We have had a specific focus on nurturing leadership qualities of individual persons. Future plans are to continue running a group which is flexible to the changing needs of the youth.
BIBLE IN SCHOOLS
The Bible In Schools team remained dedicated and enthusiastic throughout 2008. The team services Burnside Primary (Thursday) and Fendalton open-air School (Friday). Unfortunately, due to lack of teachers, not all classes can be reached, so teachers are focusing on Junior and Middle school classes.
Mid year saw Jenny Wilkens depart for Wellington, and Lyn Ellis taking over her class at Fendalton. The Bible in School teachers remain dedicated and enthusiastic about their jobs, and feel the gap that is present, with no teaching in the upper classes. It is an issue that needs to be constantly highlighted and prayed about. We are aware that Bible in Schools is allowed to be present in the schools at the discretion of the Principal. Already there is a conflict of interest at Fendalton, as the school has timetabled Kapa Haka lessons at the same time as Bible in Schools – thus making it difficult for those children who wish to be involved in both.
The resources used are excellent, and are thoroughly enjoyed by teachers and pupils. The Bible In Schools ministry provides training, back up and supervision for teachers, and teachers enjoy a welcome cup of tea and prayer time after lessons. The response from the children is always heartening, and it is a joy to see how the love of God and the message of his Word which brings a smile to their faces.
Please add the needs of the Bible in School team to your prayer list, especially to ensure we get continued access to the children of these schools. The ripple effect of these lessons on extended family and friends cannot be underestimated.
Lyn Ellis
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY ON A SUNDAY
Sharlene Lee finished in her role as Children’s Ministry Coordinator and was replaced by Felicity Day in the middle of the year. Thank you Sharlene for all your hard work and the energy you brought to the role.
Crèche - Bubbles
We have a core of 9 children in our pre-school group and we have 14 children on the roll.
We moved the crèche from the Makora Room to the Tui Room to provide more space and make setting up easier.
This year Sharlene initiated an organized programme for our crèche children. We use the Scripture Union Light Resources and we normally have a song, game, story and prayer aimed at their level. This has been very successful, especially for our 3 and 4 year olds. They have settled well into the group. The children are learning more about God’s love and they have also enjoyed the activities.
We aim to have a teacher and a helper at each session and this has been achieved most weeks this year.
We are considering starting Bubbles at 9.50am to give parents a chance to settle their children before the service so they don’t miss the readings.
Kidzone – Splash and Xstream
As with Bubbles, we have started using the Light Resources. Splash is aimed at 5 to 8 year olds and Xstream at 8 to 13 year olds. These resources have been brilliant for teaching the kids about God using games, stories, drama and craft. The range of activities aims to meet different learning needs, so we have reading/writing type activities but also kinesthetic, aural, oral and visual activities. Each week we have one simple learning objective based on a reading. The resources make God’s message relevant and accessible to the kids. We have series of 3 to 4 weeks based on a book, theme or character in the Bible.
We have approximately 60 children on our roll, 38 of whom are regular attenders and we average between 20 and 30 children per week. Excitingly we welcomed 10 new children in term 4.
Between the three groups, we have 26 adult volunteers who help either as leaders or helpers in three or four week blocks. A huge thank you to everyone who helps with this crucial area of the church’s ministry! The time and energy you give is hugely appreciated!
Other activities during the year:
Lent - we used the ‘Love Life Live Lent booklets’ which were a fun way for kids to do something during Lent which helped them grow in faith and make the world around them a better place.
Light Party – (Instead of a fireworks night). This is a positive alternative to Halloween and the first time we have run one. Thirty families attended, including some from mainly music. It was a good place for families to meet, for those on the fringe to become more involved. We learnt about some Biblical Super Heroes and had a lot of fun.
We had a party for the Xstream group which was held primarily to help the kids feel a better sense of belonging and to welcome new members.
Many families also supported the shoe box appeal for Samaritan’s Purse.
The Bike Park trip was a brilliant way to start 2009 where families met up again after the summer break.
We hope to run all these again in 2009.
Christmas was again a brilliant time for families. Many kids were involved with the pageant, whether as singers, musicians or actors, and at the Christingle Services. During the January combined services we had craft activities, however, as lifestreams numbers dropped sharply during January we may need to rethink holiday provision.
We hope to start a regular weekday group for Splash and/or Xstream some time this year which would have a similar format to the Barnabas Angels and BAIT. This would:
§ give us a lot more teaching time.
§ be a good lead into the older youth groups.
§ be a great place for mainly music families to move onto after their children have started school.
§ be a step between mainly music/playgroup and lifestreams because the difference between these too can be daunting for non-churched families.
§ be church for children who have other commitments on Sundays
Again a big thanks to everyone who helps with children’s ministry!!
Felicity Day
MAINLY MUSIC AND ST BARNABAS PLAYGROUP
Mainly music continues to offer preschool music and movement and pastoral care to the community and parish members. Both Friday sessions are full, with 60 families on the roll. We continue to operate a waiting list which experienced very little movement in the last half of last year. We receive approximately 10 new enquiries a term. More volunteer help is needed for this thriving, energizing ministry.
We can now welcome people into the St Barnabas Playgroup. After 4 sessions at the end of 2008 we have 27 children on the roll. A constitution is pending which will link the playgroup and its purposes firmly to those of the parish. There is a high degree of community ownership with some long term mainly music families initiating the group and being very involved in its running. This is strengthening their links with St Barnabas in a way that fits with their stage of life. Ministry of Education funding is being sought and as with mainly music, will be self resourcing.
Vicki Gilmour
YOUTH GROUPS
The last year has, as ever, been very full with youth group activities and events. The regular Friday evening sessions for Barnabas’ Angels (school years 7-9) and BAIT (school years 10-13) term have generally seen good numbers and energy. Each group meets on a Friday night to do some games/activities, socialise and have a time of bible study together. The studies are first presented in a short 4/5 minute talk and then discussed openly in small groups. We try and stay focused on the study for that night but also want to make it a relaxed and fairly easy going time. Most members of the group actually really appreciate this time, especially the chances they have to ask some of their many questions.
The youth groups have been a part of numerous diocesan events as well as smaller St Barnabas trips etc. These include: Easter Camp 08, a massive Easter weekend camp hosted by Canterbury Youth Services and had almost 5000 young people at this year (we eagerly look forward to Easter Camp 09). Two barn dances which were shyly attended but those who did go really enjoyed them, the annual dodgeball tournament (we won again this year), a beach/forest trip, adrenaline forest high wire course and many more. We are just about to head off to our annual summer camp at Glenroy. It will be 4 days and nights long and will involve about 30 youth and 8 leaders.
In general I would say that the youth groups are going well although I have been concerned for the Barnabas’ Angels group lately. For the last 6 months there have been over 20 individuals attending but never on the same night. The average attendance for people over the last term has been 1 in 3 Friday evenings and has sometimes given a group of 10, sometimes as low as 3. The near future of this group and how it runs is in discussion, I strongly encourage the members of this group to really dedicate time to the Friday night sessions, if we can get everyone along on the same night, you will have MUCH more fun.
Paul Stanaway
MUSIC REPORTS
CHURCH MUSIC AND CHOIRS
2008 has seen more than the usual musical activity by choirs, organists, and vocal and instrumental musicians. From 27th January, when the Parish Choir resumed after its holiday break, there wasn’t a month without some sort of special musical occasion.
The regular major festivals in the Christian calendar were celebrated musically: Ash Wednesday and Stations of the Cross in Lent; Palm Sunday Anthems; excerpts from Stainer’s “Crucifixion” on Good Friday; Resurrection Anthems and Taizé Chants on Easter Day; Anzac Day Service; singing at St Thomas’ for their Patronal Festival Sunday; a full performance of Fauré’s “Requiem” for All Souls’ Day on 9th November, with soloists Howard Harvey and Virginia Nichols and organist Graham Hollobon; and the usual Advent Lessons and Carols on 30th November, and traditional Nine Lessons and Carols on 21st December.
Unfortunately the organ developed a problem with its blower motor during November, so an electronic organ had to be used for the Advent Lessons and Carols service. The motor needed repairs to its sleeve bearings, with adjustments required to the balance the large fan. We were lucky that expert work by the engineers from ABB Ltd eventually produced an excellent result.
Guest choristers were recruited to enlarge the choir for not only the 9 Lessons & Carols and the Fauré Requiem, but also the unusual and stimulating new Cantata by Colin Gibson, “The Spirit Within”, which we performed on 24th August. A string quartet of top-flight students was engaged, as well as soloists Jeremy Baker and Virginia Nichols, with Russell Kent on the organ and piano.
Innovations this year included the seven occasions when representatives from the choir sang informally at a home in Rochford Place for severely disabled people. This was thoroughly outside of some of our comfort zones, but apparently very worthwhile for the residents and appreciated by the staff. After the home purchased an electronic keyboard, these occasions were much easier to manage, saving us from carting an instrument, complete with amplifier/speaker, connections, music etc., to and fro.
Other notable occasions included:
Ø Bishop Richard Ellena’s visit in March, when Richard helped accompany his own composition “Go Out!”;
Ø Nan Anderson’s visit in July, when she shared with us some of her rich musical experiences;
Ø Bishop Victoria Matthews’ visit in November, when we combined with the lifestreams band for a special Confirmation Eucharist;
Ø Songs of Praise – for AAW (3rd February), and Men (16th November) – which gave opportunities for individual favourites to be sung and illustrated;
Ø The choir party hosted by Marcia and Derek Cockburn after carol-singing at rest homes, in December.
Grateful thanks is offered to numerous regular and guest musicians (besides those already mentioned above):
Ø Adrien Borrie (trumpet) and Jeff Hill (trombone) whose contributions have enhanced the hymn-singing at many 10am services in the church;
Ø relief organists Fay Norman, and Sue Lennon (when Denis was in Dunedin singing at the Cathedral with the Jubilate Singers);
Ø Malcolm Palmer (when Denis was at Organ Congress in Auckland for Queen’s Birthday Weekend);
Ø and Grant Hutchinson when the choir was at St Thomas’.
Finally, I would like to acknowledge the assistance of both the clergy and various parishioners in preparation of musical schedules and events. The 5 Choir-Clergy Chats we had during the year helped keep us focussed; and the 4 hymn-choosing sessions for 10am church services ensured that the music selections are not just the prerogative of one individual!
Denis Guyan
Organist-Choir Director
LIFESTREAMS MUSIC
Looking back, 2008 has been a eventful year for lifestreams music. This year has sadly seen the resignation of Faye Deam as Music Coordinator, a position that is now filled by Angela Wightman, with Virginia Ashby relieving on a regular basis.
Music in lifestreams has seen an increase in variety, with a greater number of people now involved. Last year saw the start of the Children Singing Group during All Age services – a group of 6-10 youngsters aged 5-10 years, who have helped in leading the worship. Last year also saw a group of young musicians join together for the first time to lead the songs for the children’s Christmas Pageant. It was fantastic to see the dedication and enthusiasm that went into that event. Well done to Braden, Tom C, Tom M, Natalie, Evie and Amelia.
The main lifestreams band has seen a number of transitions, from a rotating core of members through to new styles and new pieces of music. Huge thanks to Michael, Terry, Julia, Jeff, Olivia, Jennie, Semi, Moon, Sophia, Stephanie, Virginia, Hannah and Kevin, who have put in so much time and effort over the last year. Even if they are not regular members of the band, they were often available at short notice. You are all very much appreciated!
We are now looking forward to a new year of musical worship.
Angela Whiteman
PASTORAL CARE& PRAYER GROUPS REPORTS
CITY MISSION
The parish link with the City Mission continues to be a valuable ingredient in our parish life. A number of parishioners volunteer their time and we stock the Hand-in-Hand project. Thanks to those who provide the resources for this – you can always drop off a financial contribution to the office or hand in products and clothing suitable for new born babies and their Mums.
HOME COMMUNION
Again, visits with communion continue to provide a much appreciated ministry to parishioners no longer able to come to church or temporarily confined to home through illness. Our thanks go to Wendy Paris for organising the roster and the team visiting. Presently we visit around 31 individuals or couples, who greatly value this link with their former church community. We also visit three retirement homes either fortnightly or monthly.
It is a privilege to share the Sacraments and enjoy a time of fellowship with those unable to be at church. More assistants are needed so if you would like to consider this ministry please talk to Kofe’ or John about joining the team.
PASTORAL CARE
to provide loving contact with the parish community
The visiting of parishioners and especially the needy and less able, continues to be an essential feature of our parish. We have been very grateful to Rev Sandy Constable for overseeing this ministry during the last year or so. However, with Sandy leaving the parish last November, the reins were then taken over by Kofe’, who with the guidance of John & the clergy, and the help of a very special group of volunteers, undertook a vastly growing number of visits to homes, hospitals and retirement homes in the area. Again, our thanks especially go to Mary Mills, Jean Ashmore and Neville Paris.
During the months of April through to June, we were fortunate enough to participate in a Pastoral Care Encounter Course run by Rev Allanah Church. The attendance at the course averaged around 28-30 each fortnight, and everyone enjoyed learning new pastoral care skills.
On the 19th November, a team made up by clergy & staff attended an afternoon tea party organised by Kofé’ and the staff of Ngaio Marsh Retirement Village for our parishioners in residence there. The afternoon was greatly enjoyed by all who were able to attend, and we look forward to more of these events being organized.
If you are interested in joining our fun Pastoral Care Team, please feel free to make contact with Kofé. It is always a blessing to be able to spend time and prayer with those in our parish who need it most.
PRAYER AND HEALING MINISTRIES
The Prayer Groups continued to provide a solid foundation of intercession to our parish. Thanks to the team of faithful intercessors. Kofé’ sends out a weekly prayer letter of intercessions and thanksgivings. If you would like to receive this, please let the office know.
The Healing & Prayer ministry, taken over by Rev Jill Keir continues to be a vital part of the parish and its services. Thanks to the team of volunteers offering this ministry each week during the two 10 o’clock services and also to the clergy who offer prayer at St Thomas, the Thursday 10 o’clock Eucharist and the 7pm Evening service once a month.
PARISH FREEZER
Our thanks go to the people who stock our freezer and to Jan Webley for coordinating this ministry. If you wish to provide a meal for the freezer, we require cooked and then frozen main course meals suitable either for one or two people, or a family of four/five; please label the meal, clearly indicating the ingredients.
During the latter part of the year, Kofe’ invited the Women at The Well group to provide meals for the Wijetillake family. This suggestion was met with much enthusiasm and Kofe was able to visit the family each Tuesday with a cooked meal. This outreach provided a welcome break for Angela as she continued to struggle with the huge change in her family situation.
SCHOOL READING SCHEME AT AORANGI
Over the past year Parishioners have again been involved with the reading in schools programme at Aorangi School.
Those involved have found it a very rewarding experience and this supporting work with the pupils at the school is now into its fifth year. Each week in term eight Parishioners are rostered to classes for approximately one hour to read with pupils selected by their teacher.
It is a privilege to share in this work and I do thank all those involved for their commitment and gift of time and the encouragement they offer the children
Jenny Robinson
STILL POINT
Still point is a time of reflection that this last year has met monthly in the St Barnabas sanctuary at 7.30 pm for a reflective time to be still with God.
We start with quietening prayers, to become more attentive to our compassionate God. We listen to a Bible reading, read several times slowly, and some questions are asked to help our reflection. We then have a time of silence to let the words of scripture speak to us.
We conclude with a time of mutual listening and sharing, with no obligation to share.
Many this year have appreciated this time out in their busy lives.
We are starting the new year with a Lenten reflection meeting weekly, during Lent, from 3rd March.
Still Point will resume monthly at 7.30pm on Tuesdays starting on Tuesday 5th May.
Do join us, all are welcome.
Helen Straubel and Diane Brooker Newton
THE MARRIAGE COURSE
We have now been running the Marriage Course for five years and during that time about 96 couples have attended the course. It is a valuable resource helping to build healthy marriages.
Many thanks to Sandy took over the organisation of this course during the last year. Many thanks to past attendees who came along hosted and catered; serving the tea, coffee and desserts.
If you have not yet attended a Marriage Course – then come along to the one this year!
THE MARRIAGE PREPARATION COURSE
Twenty seven couples attended our Marriage Prep Course last year and found it to be extremely helpful.
There are four sessions to the course:
1. A look at the Marriage Service and the practical details of the wedding day
2. Who am I marrying? – our personalities
3. Reconciliation & Forgiveness in marriage
4. The ways we show and receive love – the five Love Languages
Our thanks to those who helped cater and to those who offer their time to lead the sessions.
SOCIAL & HOSPITALITY GROUP REPORTS
Social and hospitality for the parish aims to engender good fellowship within the parish and between the parish and the community.
This past year has seen an increase in the number of functions which required hospitality and my thanks go to all the willing people who carried out those tasks so willingly.
Breakfast after the 8am service, Monday munch, mainly music, funeral catering, deep freeze with ready meals for those requiring help, the AAW groups, “Women at the Well”, morning teas at the conclusion of the Thursday and 10am service to name a few, all contribute to the social and hospitality function of our parish.
The parish dinner held at Medbury which concluded the mission lead by Bishop Richard Ellena of Nelson, was such a success so much so that there is a request to hold another Parish dinner. A booking has been made for the 18th April in the hall to welcome our vicar John back from study leave. There will be more information in the next magazine.
The dinners of 8 organized by May Carroll have become very successful over the years she has organized them These are a great way for people to met members of the parish who may not attend the same service that you do. Thank you May for your organizational skills and to those who host them.
Shrove Tuesday saw members of all ages of the parish competing in Pancake races held on the lawn at St Barnabas. There was even greater excitement when we concluded the evening by eating pancakes cooked once again by a great team helpers.
The traditional nine lessons and carol service concluded the year with parishioners and choir joining together for fellowship with a glass of wine and mince pies.
Thank you to all who were co-opted and helped willingly during the past year.
Your commitment and energy was much appreciated.
Ruth Harwood
FUNERAL CATERING;
Approx 20 funerals and 2 afternoon teas have been catered for this past year. It continues to be a great outreach to offer people, though sad when it is a parishioner we know well.
Thank you to all the women who help so willingly with either food, flowers or serving.
Robyn Gopperth
LIVING ALONE
Our small group has once again had a successful year beginning with the annual garden party at the Community of the Sacred Name. We have been out most months with afternoon tea at Mona Vale and Lunch at the Chateau on the Park to name a few.
We would especially like to thank Eleanor O’Sullivan for her help in organising our June meeting. After a shared lunch we were entertained by Louise Renwick, who was about to sit her A.T.C.L. for the recorder. After lunch Eleanor’s Cousin, Colin Patterson, donned his farmer’s hat and took his long manuka stick and began entertaining us with his humorous poems and amazing country stories.
If new members would like to join our group they would be made most welcome.
Beatrice Yorke
MONDAY MUNCH Approximately 25-30 elderly parishioners who live mainly in their own homes or in care, meet in the Parish Hall at 12noon on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month to enjoy fellowship and fun as well as lunch provided and served by a committed team of helpers. We are grateful to Margaret Mahoney who once a month plays popular tunes on the Keyboard. A Christmas Lunch on the 1st Monday in December is a great occasion with a delicious meal and entertainment by the Special Music and Jazz Groups from Westburn School.
Members of the clergy team and other staff members join us when they are free.
We would be grateful for offers of extra food when required or anyone able to pick up or take home afterwards, folk who would otherwise be unable to come to lunch. If you would like to join us this year and want further information or need transport, please contact
Lorraine Jones (Co-ordinator) Ph.3513 575
SUNDAY BREAKFAST GROUP
Seventeen ladies form the Breakfast Group which provides breakfast in the Tui room each Sunday after the 8am service. We work in teams of three, enjoying the company of many regular attendees with a rewarding number of new people partaking this year.
During the year we were saddened by the death of Anne Just who had been with the group from its inception. At our annual group breakfast we took time to remember her with a moment’s silence.
During 2008 we collected $511-15 at the breakfasts and $415-00 has been donated to the following charities:
· The City Mission.
· The "Chopper Appeal."
· The Salvation Army.
· The Charity Hospital.
· The Save The Children Fund
Lexie Knowsley
SUNDAY 10AM MORNING TEA
This roster, made up of about 40 people, has worked smoothly, every Sunday, over the past year. I appreciate the support of a variety of folk who make themselves available to prepare, serve and clear up, as it’s a huge task. They work in groups of three and come from both the lifestreams service and the 10am in Church. It’s a very large gathering after these services and the fellowship time is a significant weekly event in the life of the Parish. We appreciate the money which is put into the koha basket. I always need more people to help on this roster, so do please offer, especially if you are usually at this gathering.
Stephanie Sturge
SANCTUARY GUILD REPORTS
LINEN / SILVER / BRASS REPORT
I thank the members of the linen, silver and brass cleaning rosters for their continued support. There were no resignations during the past year and I am grateful that they are all prepared to carry on their duties this year.
New linen acquired included two corporals for the Vestry, two tray cloths, several purificators (some have been put aside in reserve) and a cloth for the forward altar. Another one will be made soon when the fabric is available (temporarily out of stock). The four altar cloths used in the chapel are very old and the fabric is beginning to deteriorate –they will need replacing in the near future. Otherwise there is a plentiful supply of linen in good order.
Pat Laban
FLOWER SECTION REPORT
I am pleased to report that there is a full roster for the arranging of the Altar Flowers. Thank you to the members for giving their time. I would also like to thank the members who help to decorate the church so beautifully for the Christmas and Easter Festivals. There are always many favourable comments made about the work. We were saddened to lose one of our long time members, Margaret Elliott, during the year. Margaret was always so willing to help and had her special window sill for her arrangements.
I would like to thank Margaret Ackroyd for the wonderful work she did in remaking the satin wedding bows. It is a pleasure to have such bows to show the wedding couples.
Valerie Beckwith
WAFER ROOM
We wish to report another productive year has ended.
All runs smoothly & we thank all the people who work so diligently in the Wafer Room to produce Communion Wafers. In 2008 we made & sold 489800 “People’s” wafers & 6042” Priest’s” wafers
We ended the year with a Christmas celebration at Alison Ayling’s beautiful home and garden and thank her for her hospitality
Due to shifts and changes during the year, we could do with some additional help in 2009, and would be grateful for additional volunteers (both Men & Women) to assist our happy team.
We need, in the cooking area -Semi-automatic machine - two helpers, and also two volunteers who would be prepared to work on the Boring Machine -this is the machine that cuts the wafers.
If you are able to assist by giving a morning or afternoon a week or a fortnight please phone either Graham Webster-3517606 or Noel or Valerie Strack-3554546. We look forward to another productive year.
WORKS COMMITTEE REPORT
During the year three major projects were undertaken. Firstly was the installation of the Children’s playground, secondly the refurbishment of the house and garden at 15 Tui Street and thirdly the painting and re-carpeting of the Tui Room in the administration block.
Most of the planning and work associated with the erection of the children’s playground was done under the supervision of Steve Wakefield. This new facility with its bright colours has brought many favourable comments and is proving very popular with the children for whom it was erected. There is still considerable landscaping to be completed around the external perimeter. This includes the planting of some more shrubs, the positioning of the tiles created by Vicky Gilmour’s mosaic class and the planting of grass. The first effort to plant grass was unsuccessful because of the sudden advent of the dry weather.
Between the departure of Jenny Wilkens and the arrival of Philip and Adrienne Robinson the opportunity was taken to refurbish the house at 15 Tui Street. The whole of the interior was repainted and it is planned to paint the outside woodwork in the near future. The fish pond, which had been leaking for some time, was removed and the tiled courtyard extended to this area. Peter and Mary Mills made a big start on tidying up the garden and the Robinsons have continued with this work. Also a number of other smaller refurbishment projects at Tui Street were undertaken.
Some time ago the parish was presented with a Tapa cloth by Kofé and Leni Havea and their family. After considerable deliberation it was decided the only place it could be hung so people could see and appreciate it was on the west wall of the Tui room. In respect for this magnificent item it was considered appropriate to paint the Tui Room and renew its carpet, before the cloth is dedicated on Sunday the 8th February when the parish celebrates Tikanga Pasefika. This work has been undertaken under the supervision of Ruth Harwood, with help from Marion Cook, Lindsay Stowell, Patsy Wardell, Marjorie Smart and a number of others.
During the year the roof above the youth room in the hall developed a bad leak and this was repaired.
As always the gardens and lawns have taken considerable work. Every effort has been made to keep these as neat and presentable as possible. In keeping with present policy the move towards modifying them so they require less upkeep has continued. In keeping with this objective any garden that is considered unnecessary is being converted to lawn. With the installation of the children’s playground the garden outside the office needed to be removed. As many of the spring bulbs and shrubs – Camellias and Rhododendrons – as possible were recovered from it and moved to other suitable areas, mostly to the gardens around the car park.
During the year by mutual agreement the neighbour in Tui Street next to the hall had the wattle trees on the boundary removed. Their removal has resolved a growing safety concern as well as reducing the amount of material available to block gutters and litter the halls flat roofs.
In spite of all the work that has been done during the year maintenance is an ongoing operation and there are still a number of items requiring attention. Many of these are at various stages of planning.
Finally there are many people to thank who help with the maintenance of the buildings and grounds, but six people who deserve special mention. They are Wayne Hann for his help and advice, Don Mackenzie for his expert advice and work on building maintenance, Mary and Peter Mills for their work on the garden at 15 Tui Street and especially Owen and Lorraine Jones for the tremendous work they do in looking after the church and gardens at St Thomas’s. The work these people do, plus all those other people who help in any way, is very much appreciated.
for the Works Committee
J.G.Smart
We give praise and thanks to God for lives well lived, full of faith.
May our loved ones rest in peace and rise in glory.
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St. Thomas |
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Dorothy Wicks (Pat) |
Margaret Wyatt |
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George Colombus |
Hilda Howse |
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Judith Vogan |
Margaret Williams |
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St. Barnabas |
Revd Riga Blair |
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Natalie Borthwick |
John Johnston |
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Ian Coop |
Ross Fairgray |
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Stuart Lemm |
Pamela Wakefield |
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Robert Scott |
Iris Chapman |
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Merva Jeune |
Margaret Elliott |
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Morva Fountain |
Albert Guthrie (Ron) |
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Brian Birchall |
Aldyth Guthrie (Mary) |
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Jocelyn Kingscote |
Karin Scannell |
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Beverley Walsh |
Charles Bishop |
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Heruini Johnston (Pip) |
Leah Simpson |
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Dinah McCormick |
Patricia Hilson (Pat) |
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Henry Manning |
Sarah Waghorn |
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Margery Drake |
Phyllis Stevens |
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Lyndon Davis |
Ann Just |
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David Bushell |
Helen Hewland |
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Patricia Phillips |
Annie Taylor |
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Braithwaite Smith |
Thelma Milne |
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Kathleen Shelley |
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Since January 2008 |
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The Parish of Fendalton: St Barnabas & St Thomas |
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Growing on the journey of faith |
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134th Annual General Meeting |
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11.15am Sunday 1st March in the Church Hall |
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AGENDA |
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1 |
Prayers |
Philip (including silence for those who have died) |
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2 |
Present |
Please sign in as you arrive |
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3 |
Apologies |
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4 |
Minutes of the 133rd Annual Meeting 2nd March 2008 |
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5 |
Matters Arising |
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6 |
Report from Vicar |
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7 |
Report from Priest in Charge |
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6 |
Treasurers Report and budget |
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6 |
Report from Wardens |
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7 |
Report from St Thomas |
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8 |
Other Reports to be received and approved, and questions discussed |
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8 |
Election of Officers |
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a) Vicar’s Warden – to be appointed by the Vicar b) People’s Warden c) Treasurer d) St Thomas’ Warden – from St Thomas’ AGM e) Two representatives to Diocesan Synod f) Vestry Members (nominations on separate paper) g) Auditor |
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9 |
General Business |
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10 |
Results of Vestry election |
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11 |
Closing Prayers |
The Wardens |
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PARISH OF FENDALTON
MINUTES OF THE 133rd ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF ST BARNABAS CHURCH, HELD IN THE PARISH HALL AT 11.15AM
SUNDAY 2 March 2008
Rev Jenny Wilkens opened the meeting with prayer and read the list of those parishioners who had died during the year. (John Hurst to be added to the list). The attendees were also asked to pray for Selwyn Hadlow and Frank Fahy who are not well.
PRESENT: Rev John Day as Chairman; 86 parishioners (listed separately) attended
APOLOGIES:
Frank Fahy, Catherine Chandler, Selwyn Hadlow, Barry Fahey, Margaret Elliott, Carol Kingsland, Derek Cockburn, Freda Moore, Jan Batten, David Batten, Judith Todd, John Laurie, Zeta Laurie, Bruce Deam, Fay Deam, Amanda Cairns, Faye Norman, Graeme Robinson, Jenny Robinson, Jane Baker, Cam Moore, Adrianne Moore, Angela Moore, Stephanie Sturge, Brian Carrell, John Greenslade, Virginia Ashby, Jo Brewer, Colin Brown, Wendy Paris, Merv Vile, Jan Hay, John Glue, John Smart, Ann Abbott, Judith Mackenzie, Steve Perano, Jethro Day, Jessie Stapleton, Eleanor O’Sullivan, Steven Marshall
MINUTES OF THE 132nd ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 11 March 2007
These had been circulated in advance of the meeting and were confirmed as a true and correct record; proposed by David Page, seconded Mary Mills
MATTERS ARISING;
Marjorie Smart clarified that the use of lay people to take services was suggested as an option where we were short of clergy.
VICAR’S REPORT:
John spoke on Christology and Ecclesiology.- Jesus and the Church. Jesus is our model of ministry. He gathered a group of people, he taught them, lived with them and died with them, and afterwards when they were in fear and trembling, resurrected and met them in the upper room. Jesus was sent by the Father, and in our turn we are also sent, sent to be the Father’s love in the world. This was their mission and it is ours today. John then reflected on where God is sending the Parish of Fendalton in 2008. He listed a large number of activities that the Parish is involved in, and finished with the desire to accompany people in coming home to God in Christ. All the ills of society will be alleviated if the Church takes seriously the invitation to be sent. It requires dedication, commitment and sacrifice. Living this life will bring blessings 20-fold, 50-fold, 100-fold with a cup full and running over with resurrection life. It is life in all its fullness, it is God’s life; the Way the Truth and the Life. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.
A full copy of the report is attached to formal copy of the minutes
Wendy Kington thanked John for his inspirational report.
AGM REPORTS:
These had been distributed before the meeting and were taken as read. Moved , seconded Leonie Stapleton
Amendments to the reports
Warden’s report – Apologies for missing Sandy’s name in the list of clergy
St Thomas report – noted that NZPB services have higher attendees than BCP services. John Day commented that Palmers Funeral Services pay a fee each time they use the Church for a funeral.
Treasurer’s report
David Page noted that the Parish was a large operation, 5 clergy, 4 are paid stipends and 12 part time lay staff, - 4 admin, 3 youth, 2 music and 3 “other”.
David commented that comparison year on year was difficult because this year was for 11 months compared with 12 months in the previous year. There was no increase in giving in real terms, but wafer sales, funeral catering, wedding income all increased. David thanked those who run those activities. The figures were also helped by the receipt of a grant from the City Council of which $12,500 was brought into the accounts for this year. A legacy of $278,000 was received during the year and interest of $12,750 from this has been included in income. Cost for the 11 months are roughly the same as the 12 months of the previous year, with the increase due to higher staff numbers, and a higher level of activity.
David noted that parishioners have not adjusted their giving to take account of inflation and increased activity in the parish. If each giver gave $5 more a week, then we would move to a profit situation.
The accounts show a surplus before depreciation of $4,167. Expenditure on capital items was $17,282, and depreciation on assets was 22,331. The net operating deficit was $29,054. The financial position is satisfactory. The value of fixed assets increased because the rating value of the properties increased by $1,550,000 during the year. Total equity at year end was $6,485,911.
David moved the adoption of the accounts, seconded by Wayne Hann, carried. David thanked Howard Le Couteur for his work as auditor, and Wayne thanked David for his work as Treasurer, and hoped he would be happy to continue in this role. The auditor has concerns about the presentation of the accounts which will be resolved before next year end
Paul Straubel - Overhead is difficult to read. Could copies of the financial reports be circulated at the meeting next year?
John Drennan – Has the Diocese changed the balance date for all parishes? Yes, so that Parish and the Diocese balance date are in sync.
Jean Ashmore – Noted that youth costs have increased from $19000 to $36000. Yes, a result of employing 3 people in youth, whereas previously only paid for Angela Brown. Also increase in expenses. No costs for the playground have been included in these accounts. David noted that we do get a grant from the council that goes towards paying for youth costs
May Carrell – have staff joined KiwiSaver? Yes, so there will be a cost of 1% of salaries as the required parish contribution this coming year.
Administration
Wayne thanked John Smart for his works activities, and for leading the banking team. Wayne encouraged anyone with spare time to offer to help around the parish.
Playground to be installed, and shrubs to be relocated. Plum tree will be removed. Neighbour in Tui Street has been asked to remove diseased trees.
Vestry is gathering more information on building plans/options. Will be brought to a full parish meeting for discussion. Commitment to staff is the prime focus of our current funds. Garden of remembrance is on hold while new building is being discussed as it makes sense to incorporate it in the plans if the new building goes ahead.
Children and Youth
Mary Cropp thanked Angela Brown for leading the children’s activities. Welcome to Vicky Gilmour and Sharlene Lee who are taking over. Vicky will do pastoral care for families, and Sharlene will lead Kidzone. Katrina Hill has been employed to help Paul with the youth on Friday nights.
Nurture and Education
Activities during the year included Lent Study groups, Home Groups studying The Acts of the Apostles, Word on Monday with the aim of previewing the week’s readings, Home Group at the vicarage, Women and the Well, Time for God Services once per month, Weekend of celebrations for the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the slave trade – with a group going to the movie Amazing Grace, FaithTech focusing on faith and technology, and Quandries a group meeting to explore issues of faith, and Stillpoint an hour of guided reflective prayer each month.
Pastoral Outreach
Sandy has taken over responsibility for these activities, with the addition of Kofe to the team during the year. There is an increasing focus on older parishioners including visiting retirement homes, those in hospital and those receiving home communion. A grant has been received from the council for work with the elderly
Other activities include, prayer groups, Healing and Prayer ministry, help with the City Mission including the Hand in Hand project, the Marriage Course, the Marriage Preparation Course, Home communions and the School Reading Scheme. Many thanks to everyone involved in these activities
In 2008 there will be a focus on the Pastoral Care Contacts with additional training.
Social and Hospitality
Ruth is grateful for the help she receives – would like to build up a more permanent team. Thanks to Robyn Gopperth for funeral catering. Thanks to Lexie Knowsley for the 8.00am Breakfast and Stephanie Sturge for the 10.00am morning tea roster – more people needed for this. Thanks also to Lorraine Jones for organising Monday Munch.
Worship
Special thanks to Denis Guyan and Angela Wightman for their contribution to music in the Church and Lifestreams. Thanks and prayers go to Fay Deam who has been off sick for several months. Thanks to Marcia Cockburn who has stepped down from playing the organ.
Other reports are available in the AGM booklet.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Vicar’s Warden
Wayne Hann to continue in the role of Vicar’s Warden.
People’s Warden
Ruth Harwood was nominated unopposed. Elected for her 5th year
Treasurer
David Page was nominated unopposed.
Synod
Moka Ritchie and Mary Cropp continue for the balance of their 3 year period.
Vestry members
The following people were duly elected to Vestry
Owen Jones, Steve Wakefield, Corinne Haines, Greg Brown, Neville Paris, Wendy Kington, Peter Moore, John Smart, Patsy Wardell, Michael Hann
Auditor
Howard Le Couteur is prepared to continue as auditor. Wayne thanked him for his support of the parish in this role.
GENERAL BUSINESS
Marjorie Smart – we should review the comments from Dianna Rattray’s cycle tour, re how churches welcomed her.
Don Mackenzie – is organising the church fair. Is looking for additional storage. Meeting for conveners on 5th April.
Keith Wardell – Thanked John for his leadership of the parish, thanked all clergy and the office staff, and all who work in the parish.
Ruth Harwood closed the meeting with prayer, at 12.50pm.