| PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL
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CONTENTS
Jan 2011 Meeting
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Sacred Heart Parish Pastoral Council
Minutes of the 73rd Meeting, Monday 24th January 2011
Present: Jan Minns, Allan Cran, Father J Crampsey, Fr. P Scally, Bruce McKenzie, Pat Cavanagh, Nancy Cavanagh, Anne Hughes, Chris Lugton, Ana Maria Armbrecht
Apologies received from John Hargreaves Lynn Johnson,
1) Meditation done by Ana Maria
2)It was noted that the last meeting was held in September 2010. The meeting planned for October was cancelled (no one can remember the reason) but an informal meeting previous to the open parish meeting was held in December.
3) Matters arising from the Minutes from the previous meeting:
The dampness problem in our Lady’s altar is been seen to. Experts are doing tests to find out the underlying cause.
Pat reported that the income from the gift aid last year was around £12000, but they were not sure because the government is due to change the contribution from 28 pence per pound to 25 pence. It is not clear whether that will apply to last year or starts this year.
4) Matters arising not covered by the agenda:
Lauriston Hall issues
Father Jim said that the person that runs the Ceilidh at the Lauriston Hall has agreed to take charge of managing the Hall as a Venue for the festival this year. An £11,000 fee for the 3 weeks has been agreed. The cleaning costs will be divided equally between the church and the other party. It has been discussed at the finance committee the need to appoint a Hall manager. A post will be advertised for a 22 hour job. The job plan still to be discussed. Fr. Jim has been in touch with the Agustinian church who run a consortium together with Greyfriar Kirk and St. Columbas by the Castle church where by the share a manager that promotes their hall premises as venue for different events. Fr Jim will meet with them and discuss their experience and the possibility of the Lauriston Hall becoming involved in that consortium.
Church Sound system
Experts have been to check the church’s sound system. The wiring is in good condition but the speakers are not appropriate and will need to be changed. Once the new system is in place the reader need to learn to get used to it (learn to read more slowly).
Course for Youth Ministry
Fr. Jim said a course to train a person for Youth Ministry for Parishes will be held and the parish would be happy to sponsor a suitable person. Suggestions of someone suitable and willing are welcomed.
Child/Vulnerable Adults Protection
The new P.V.G system will be launched officially on the 28th Feb 2011. All the church volunteers that deal with children and vulnerable adults will need to be rechecked. It is not clear when this will happen for the people involved in our church and further information with instructions is awaited.
PPC Retirals
Christ Lugton handed her resignation letter. Ana stated she is willing to stay but may not be able to take a full leading role due full time work commitments. Bruce brought up the issue that he has no portfolio and it was suggested that he could take a coordinating role in the social committee. He was happy to give it a go.
Nancy said she sometimes feel she does not fulfil the role within the outreach ministry and suggested perhaps Michelle might be a better person to do it, but she may not be able to commit since she is already involved with the children’s liturgy and J&P group and also works in Glasgow.
Parish Volunteers
Several options were discussed. One is to get names of possible volunteers put forward by PPC members. Other is to hold a parish volunteers fair where by people involved in different activities could have a stall at the end of weekend masses to explain what they do and encourage volunteers to come forward. That could be planned for the summer months and be held at the Church’s court yard. The gift audit as a survey on its own is unlikely to yield much.
Notes from the Open Parish Meeting
The cost of getting the new organ and all the work is around £300,000. It was suggested that the choir could sing again in the gallery at the back of the church but it is better if the congregation can see the singers. It was suggested that one of the front benches be removed to allow more space or that the choir use the first few rows of seats on the right hand side of the church.
Finances:
Still in good shape. The church needs a good reserve for any unexpected needs.
Date of next meeting: Monday 21st March 2011 7 pm
Pat will do the opening prayer
Minutes of the 66th Meeting Tuesday 19th May 2009
1. Jan Minns opened the meeting with a reading from the gospel of St. John.
2. Election of Chair. Jan Minns was proposed by Chris Lugton and seconded by Bruce McKenzie.
3. Present: Fr. Bernard Walker S.J., Fr. Jim Henderson S.J., Patrick Cavanaugh ,Bruce McKenzie, Alan Cran, Jan Minns, Chris Lugton.
Apologies were received from Nancy Cavanagh, Ana Maria Armbrecht, Alison Herrington, Anne Giles, Anne Hughes, Lynn Johnson.
Angela Campbell was welcomed to give the Eco-Congregation Update.
4. Minutes of the meeting on 23rd March were accepted.
5. Matters arising not covered by the agenda.
A. Still no information from the Tollcross Council of Churches regarding payment for our entry in the Easter flyer.
B. Jean Lugton went to York in June for a meeting on social outreach from Jesuit parishes. She found the sharing of information at the meeting very useful.
C. Fr. Walker has heard nothing more regarding a sign pointing to the Sacred Heart church.
D. Jan Minns will be going in June to a meeting in York of representatives of Parish Councils of other Jesuit parishes.
E. No mention had been made on Ash Wednesday regarding the church being open all day for quiet prayer and reflection. However mention would be made at all Masses on the feast of the Ascension.
F. Jericho House. Chris Lugton has visited. Ideally they would like a team of eight from Sacred Heart. Other parishes are also involved.
G. 31st July. 150 Invitations had been sent out and there had been many acceptances. 80 names so far on the list in the Foyer .There is a question of numbers and regular parishioners have priority.
H. Child Protection. Glass windows have been put on the doors of all offices and rooms where interviews take place.
6. The Hall. Chris Lugton and Jan Minns had met the architect earlier in the day. Tenders had been sent out and were due in on 22nd May. Work should begin early in June , to be completed by 14th July. The work will involve the kitchen , toilets, entrance foyer and a disabled toilet.
7. 150th Anniversary Celebrations. A cake for 120 people had been ordered at a cost of £112.00p.plus £7.00p for picture of the church. The Sacred Heart logo will be on serviettes and tablecloths.
8. Eco congregation Update presented by Angela Campbell.
The recycling poster competition was well- received and she is working with the two prize winners to create a more professional version for use. With Fr. Walker’s permission one of the posters will become a poster for the foyer and the second will be placed by the recycling bins to draw attention to them.
The steering group’s next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday 9th June.
Angela will propose that the steering group meet again in August, then at the beginning of October, December, February, April and June of next year in order to plan activities and events. She hopes that we will be in a position to apply for an award sometime over that period or certainly by June 2010.
Angela had two proposals towards reducing the amount of paper we use.
a. Reduce. Printing or copying double sided when possible e.g. the agenda and minutes for this meeting could have been copied back to back.
b. Reuse. Having a scrap paper tray in each office in which paper can be placed for reuse before being recycled (all but confidential paper should be re-used if only one side is printed or written on)
The initiative would apply to all committees and personnel operating in the parish and would need to be communicated to those affected.
Bruce McKenzie said that to avoid photocopying hymns they could be kept on file in the music room.
Fr. Walker due attention to the SCIAF Wee Box and the amount of paper etc. that it involved.
9. Feast of the Sacred Heart. 19th June. Mass at 6.30pm followed by a reception of wine and nibbles. Location to be determined with regard to work being done in the hall. Possibility of Ogilvie Room and the stage area once that area had been cleared.
10. Group Feedback.
A. Liturgy. The Committee had met on 13th May to review the Holy Week services and to plan for the Sacred Heart and St. Ignatius.
B. Finance. The auditor had been happy with the presentation of accounts but in future they need to be professionally audited. The financial position of the parish is unchanged. Gift Aid should yield about £10.000.00p
Shortly Gift Aid will only be able to claim 25% rather than 28% as at present. We have a new copying machine - a very good deal from Xerox.
11. Glass in doors as already mentioned. Up to date checks required on all new volunteers.
12. June Social on 24th June. At St. Thomas of Aquin. Mass at 6.30pm followed by reception.
13. Next Meeting : Tuesday 15th September. Alan Cran will lead the meditation. A secretary still be appointed.
14. Any other competent business.
A. To celebrate Fr. Walker’s departure there will be a reception in the Hall after the 10.45am Mass on 28th June.
B. Fr. Walker is still trying to get together with Sister Kathleen Curran who is keen to work in the parish. Need for visiting housebound and people who find it difficult to get to Mass regularly.
C. Keeping in contact with people who have entered the Church recently. Follow up for children who have been confirmed and have made their First Holy Communion. At present not many stay on for Saturday classes., but to bear in mind that some of those children come from other parishes.
The meeting ended with a prayer.
Minutes of the 65th Meeting Monday 23rd March 2009
1. Fr. Walker opened the meeting with a prayer and a reading from the
Gospel of the day.
2. Apologies received from Pat & Nancy Cavanagh, and from Jacqui du Rocher. It is unlikely that Jacqui will be continuing as a member of the PPC; for this meeting Jan Minns came in her place.
3. Minutes of the meeting on 26th January - the following corrections need to be made.
(5) The Advent Ceilidh raised £520.00p
(7c) Lauriston Street should read Lauriston Gardens. (No payment has been requested from Tollcross Council of Churches ;the matter will be pursued.)
(10) Eco-Congregation. We are registered but do not as yet have accredited status.
4. Matter arising not covered by the agenda.
(4b) No further progress on signposting to the church. Barbara Conboy will pursue the matter with an SNP councillor.
(5a) Jan Minns reported on the PPC members of Jesuit parishes’ meeting at the Bar Convent in York 20th-21st February. :the next phase is to see how we can collaborate more given the diversity of SJ parishes and distances between parishes. Another meeting is planned in June.
(5b) Bruce McKenzie has problems attending the Social Outreach meeting of SJ parishes in York 24th-25th April since he has been asked to attend another ecumenical meeting at that time. He will go to York if a substitute cannot be found.
(7e) Re office workers .Nothing was said on Ash Wednesday but information about Sacred Heart will be given on Ascension Thursday
21st May.
(12c) Re. Jericho House and help to run the soup kitchen. Jan Minns pointed out that a former helper had felt threatened by some residents and had withdrawn. Chris Lugton volunteered to help, and a notice asking for volunteers will appear in the newsletter. A donation has been sent to Jericho House from the Poor Fund.
5. The Hall. Approval has been obtained from the building regulators regarding the kitchen and toilets. Tenders will go out in the next two weeks and hopefully work will begin in April, to finish by mid-July.
An application has been made to the climate Change Trust and a reply will be received on 25th March, the date of their next meeting. We have also made application to another trust, but they would be more interested in the employment of a hall manager. We are still going to be a bit short of cash but the architect can make some adjustments.
If we receive a grant from Climate Change Trust we will be able to lower the ceiling, lower the level of the stage, put in a disabled hoist and sand the floor.
If we do not receive the grant we will just do a major spruce up.
The air handling unit which will be installed above the stage is a major financial item.
In summary - the toilets and kitchen will be done in the next few months.
Other items will be done either during or after the celebrations.
6. 150th Anniversary Celebrations.
31st July Opening Mass at 6.30pm The Cardinal will preach.
31stJuly - 30th September Exhibition in the Foyer.
26th September Open Doors Day.
30th October . Presentation by sister Aelred of St. Catherine’s Convent.
11th December Concert - Merchison & Colinton Choir.
25th March St. Aloysius College Choir singing Mozart’s Requiem.
22nd April Edinburgh University Renaissance Singers.
21st May. Dinner in the Roxburghe Hotel.
31st July Closing Mass.
7 Group feedback.
Finance. Auditors will be coming in the very near future. For future reference Oscar requires that a qualified accountant presents our accounts. Otherwise Finances remain unchanged.
. Liturgy. Recent meeting focused on Holy Week, the Sacred Heart : Mass at 6.30pm, and the Mass on 31st July.
Justice & Peace No report.
Outreach. No report, but question of welcoming catholics returning to the church.
8. Eco - congregation. Minutes of Meeting on 19th January produced.
We are registered but do not as yet have accredited status.
Work is to be done on : The Involvement of Children
Practical issues.
Global neighbours.
A re-cycling poster competition has been initiated.
We hope to upgrade re-cycling bags in the hall in the near future.
Attention was drawn to the re-cycling bins in the Grassmarket.
9. Child Protection. The annual audit has been made and we are fulfilling all the requirements: checking new parish workers, visiting priests, glass on doors of offices
Re. youth. Anne Hughes will contact Jim Griffin the new youth officer for the diocese.
10. AOCB. a. Lynn Johnson reported on a monthly appearing ecumenical newsletter in which we could post coming events.
b Bruce McKenzie reported on attending the Synod of the Episcopal Church of Scotland.
The date of the next meeting : Tuesday 19th May at 7.00pm in the Ogilvie Room. Anne Hughes will lead the meditation.
The date of the PPC Social : Wednesday 24th June at 6.30pm in St. Thomas of Aquin School.
The meeting closed with a prayer.
Minutes of the 63rd Meeting on Wednesday 19 November 2008 at 7.00 p.m.
Present: Fr B Walker, Fr J Henderson, A Hughes (Chair), N Cavanagh, P Cavanagh, A Giles, A Cran, J Hargreaves, L Johnston, C Lugton.
Anne Hughes welcomed all to the meeting.
Nancy Cavanagh led the opening prayer.
Apologies had been received from Alison Hetherington and Ana-Marie Armbrecht.
Minutes of the last meeting were accepted.
Matters Arising. BW noted that the music at the 8.00 p.m. Sunday Mass was continuing , but participation from the congregation was still weak. The Organ was now being played more regularly, and was causing fewer problems. A parishioner who is an organ student had also produced excellent sound from the electronic instrument. No contact had been made with St Thomas of Aquin School about Zimbabwe, since they have been appointing a new Head Teacher, who is now in post. Contact had been made with a local Councillor regarding signposting to the church and Lauriston Centre. We said we would be willing to pay for it; he said he would look into it. Lighting in the church and to the war memorial had been completed.
1. Chair and Vice-chair. BW emphasised the necessity of electing for these offices at the next meeting.
2. Open Meeting. This would take the same form as last year. BW to give an introduction; Committee members to lead groups in providing feedback. The meeting to finish by 12.40.
3. Fundraising for Zimbabwe. The recent raffle had raised some £250. A bottle stall was planned. The proceeds of the St Andrew’s Day Ceilidh would go to the same cause.
4. Follow-up to Fr Provincial’s visit. It was agreed that the meeting had been inspiring. Fr Provincial was keen that we should continue to pursue the issues raised. AH reported that she was proposing to start a ‘teen café’ for students from St Thomas’ at lunchtime on Fridays, with a social dimension and some religious input. She also planned prayers in Advent for young people after the Sunday 10.45 Mass. BW raised the question of contacting the people working in the offices in the neighbourhood; a number of possibilities of advertising were mentioned. It was agreed that our welcoming, especially at the 10.45 Mass, had improved. We needed to make an effort to support new parishioners, especially in the Hall after Mass. The work done recently by the Legion of Mary must be followed up. Our website and newsletter should make clear that visitors are welcome and that the priests were available for anyone who wished to speak to them.
5. Senior Parishioners’ Christmas Party. This would take place on January 10th 2009. The same caterers as last time had been approached, and they would charge £9 per head as last year. There would be a collection at Masses in December to replace the Building Fund collection.
6. The Hall. BW spoke to the plan set out by Fr Boles on 29 July. There was some disappointment that the kitchen would still be downstairs; BW said he would see if any change could be made to this part of the plan.
7. Group Feedback. (a) The SAFE Committee. Fr Henderson explained that, since its work had largely been taken over by the Lauriston Jesuit Centre, this committee would fold up. (b) Justice and Peace. The series of films on Tuesdays had been well attended; there would be an extra Fair Trade stall in December. (c) Finance. The Parish finances were in good shape. (d) As noted above under item 4, there would be prayer for young people after the 1045 Mass during Advent.
8. Eco-Congregation. Angela Campbell is trying to form a steering group, but her first efforts brought only one reply. JHargreaves and Fr Boles attended a reception to celebrate the 200th eco-congregation.
9. Child Protection. The annual presentation to the parish took place on September 27/28. AH attended a training session for co-ordinators, with some information on internet safety.
There was no other business to discuss.
The next meeting was arranged for 26 January at 7 p.m. Fr Henderson would lead the Meditation.
Nancy Cavanagh led the closing prayer.
Minutes of the 59th Meeting on Monday 21 January 2008
Fr Walker opened the meeting with a prayer.
Present: Fr B Walker, Fr J Henderson, A Campbell, A Cran, C Lugton, J Hargreaves,
P Bonella.
The Chair welcomed all to the meeting.
Apologies had been received from Mike and Anne White and from Lynn Johnston.
The Minutes of the last meeting were accepted.
Matters Arising. BW reported that the planned meeting before the 8.00 p.m. Mass had taken place, and that only 3 people had turned up, none of them undergraduates. He had also invited any who wished to come to the Ogilvie Room after the Mass, but there had been only two takers, neither of them regular attenders at that Mass. He proposed to contact Sr Kathleen, the chaplain at Napier, to discuss the way forward. ACran suggested that coffee in the foyer might be more popular; BW was not keen on this, in view of the new carpet. PB thought that the format of that Mass is satisfactory.
ACampbell reported on progress towards Eco-Congregation status. We had taken 4 modules to work on; implementation was not as daunting as it looked. Responsibility for two had been taken by the Finance Committee, which was working on them; one had been given to the Children’s Liturgy Group, and the Justice and Peace group was dealing with the fourth. It was agreed that the matter should be a permanent item on the PPC agenda.
BW reported on progress with plans for the Hall. He and JHargreaves had had a meeting with Hardies, who were enthusiastic and promised to contact the architects who had produced the earlier plan, with a view to our discussing with them our proposed, quite radical, changes. JHargreaves reported that the Hall roof was in urgent need of attention, and some £20,000 would need to be spent within the next year.
1. Feedback from Parish Meeting. PB was thanked for the notes she had provided. There was extended discussion of the points raised, especially of those made by several people. The question of audibility and requests for use of the pulpit was of greatest concern to BW. He explained why he was unhappy with the idea of going back to regular use of the pulpit for the homily. He asked that parishioners let him know of the precise occasions when they find hearing difficult, so that either individuals could be advised on delivery or any ‘dead spots’ in the church could be identified. He agreed to hold a meeting for readers soon on the practicalities of clear delivery. Connected with this was the question of lighting the lectern, which was proving intractable.
There had been a number of requests for more use of the Organ. BW reminded members that Forth Pipe Organs had estimated over £100,000 for a complete overhaul, which even they admitted would not be money well spent. They had suggested, after the most recent maintenance visit, that the instrument was suffering from lack of use; they also said that if organists would agree to practise on it and make precise notes of any problems, they would attempt to address these over a period of a few days, charging on an hourly basis. It was thought that one or two parishioners knew students who might be willing to take up this offer.
Outreach. BW mentioned that he had accepted an offer from the Legion of Mary to undertake a survey of the homes in our geographical parish area in September 2008. He would also undertake to drop leaflets with our Mass times in the Guest Houses on Gilmore Place. Signage at the end of Lauriston Street pointing to the church was another frequent request; this had been refused by the Council on earlier occasions, but it might be worth trying again. BW suggested that floodlighting of the façade might be considered.
It was agreed that it would be important to arrange an opportunity for feedback to the parish on our response to the questions raised.
2. Goals for the Parish arising from the last item.
It was agreed that a short-term goal would be audibility and reading; medium-term – outreach; long-term – the Hall.
3. Fundraising for Zimbabwe. BW was anxious to maintain this. It was suggested we hold a St Patrick’s Day event on the evening of Saturday 15 March. The Social Committee should be approached as soon as possible.
4. Elections to the PPC. An announcement would be made that nominations to vacant positions should be given to the Parish Priest by 2 March. He would approve them, check the nominees’ willingness, and give a list to the Chair. Names and photographs etc. would be displayed in the foyer as last time. The procedure for voting would be simplified; it would take place, as previously agreed, on April 12/13, 19/20 and 26/27.
5. Group Feedback. Social Committee. The Senior Lunch had been a great success, and the catering was very good value.
There were no other reports.
6. Child Protection. In the absence of Anne Hughes, thee was no report.
Any Other Business. Volunteers were needed to attend at meetings of the new Parish Pastoral Grouping (next meeting 5 Feb) and at occasional meetings of the full Deanery (22 Sept).
Date of Next Meeting Monday 3 March
Meditation – Fr Henderson
Secretary BW
BW led a closing prayer.
Minutes of the 58th Meeting on Tuesday 13 November 2007
Present: Fr Bernard Walker, Fr Jim Henderson, Angela Campbell (Chair), J Hargreaves, Lynn Johnson, Anne Hughes, Anne White, Mike White, Chris Lugton, Bruce McKenzie, Alan Cran.
Fr Henderson opened the meeting with a reading from the life of St Stanislaus Kostka SJ.
Angela Campbell welcomed all to the meeting. There were Apologies from Bob Minns, Nancy Cavanagh and Philippa Bonella.
Minutes of the previous meeting: Chris Lugton should have been noted as present.
Matters arising. Eco-congregations – ‘green’ issues should be in the forefront of planning for upgrading of the Hall. St Ignatius College Zimbabwe – it should be recorded that over £5000 had been sent to Jesuit Missions for the College. Welcoming – BW thought it was still somewhat patchy. He had produced copies of the Mass responses in English for foreign visitors, but more needed to be done to ensure that it reached those who needed it. The Hall – some plans for large-scale changes, made a few years ago, had been found; BW would discuss them with Fr Boles, and the matter would then be taken to the Hall Committee.
1. Parish Meeting – Sunday 18 November.
Angela Campbell thought that the questionnaire should perhaps have been issued earlier. A wide-ranging discussion took place. It was agreed that after a short introduction from the Chair, the meeting would break into groups of about 6, each including one or two members of the Committee, in which the 3 questions would be discussed and the papers filled in. After about 12 – 15 minutes there would be a plenary session in which a representative of each group would report, and a general discussion would follow. An opportunity should be taken to list some of the achievements of the committee over the year, and the Chair and possibly the Parish Priest would summarise. It was expected that the Hall would figure largely among suggestions for improvements. The meeting should finish by about 12.45 p.m.
2. Group Feedback Youth – the recent Ceilidh had been successful and had made a profit of £45, which it was intended to donate to SCIAF’s scheme to buy a goat for Africa, and to Childline or a children’s cancer charity. A further planning meeting was to take place. Social – it was proposed and agreed that the Senior Lunch would take place on Saturday 19 January, with a collection for that purpose on the first weekend of December. Spirituality - More films were planned; also a course on prayer in the new year. Justice and Peace. The celebration of Burns Night was still being planned.
3. Child Protection. Completion of Disclosure and Registration records was continuing. Liz Carty would be asked to provide an awareness session here in the near future.
4. Sunday evening Mass. BW reported that there had been a discussion in the Jesuit Community about how best to serve the students who attend this Mass. One possibility was to provide, possibly monthly, an opportunity before Mass for students to discuss their ideas over pizza and tea/coffee; from this it might be possible to provide some further opportunity for discussion and input. Could they provide some music? Perhaps we could liaise with the Jesuit Community in Glasgow over Celebrants. A further possibility would be to change the Mass time to an earlier hour. BW would liaise with Sister Kathleen with a view to a first meeting early in the new year.
5. AOB. Fr Henderson reported on the meeting of the Pastoral Grouping of parishes which took place on 8 November at St Columba’s. Discussion had centred on possibilities for co-operation between the parishes of the group. Fr Walker asked that further fund-raising for St Ignatius College, Zimbabwe be considered. He also asked about the parish’s participation in the City’s Doors Open Day in 2001; recollections of this event were very positive, and it was suggested we might consider repeating it in 2009 for our 150th anniversary. Finally, he reported that the Province had asked parishes to consider if they could recommend any young people (over age 18) who might benefit from participation in the World Youth Day in Sydney in 2008, under the aegis of the Province’s MAGiS08 project. Some possible names were suggested.
Date of Next Meeting 21 January 2008.
Meditation Fr Walker
Secretary Fr Walker
Minutes of the 57th Meeting on Monday 10 September 2007
Present: Fr Walker, Fr Henderson, Angela Campbell (Chair), Philippa Bonella, Nancy Cavanagh, Alan Cran, John Hargreaves, Anne Hughes, Bob Minns, Jan Minns.
Angela C led the opening prayer, and welcomed all to the meeting. There were Apologies from Mike and Anne White.
The Minutes of the previous meeting were approved.
Matters Arising. Eco-Congregation – John H had arranged recycling facilities in the Hall. Materials were being passed on to the children’s liturgy group and to the Finance Committee; the Justice and Peace Group had taken the module on Global Neighbours. The Social evening had been very successful. An appeal for Jesuit Missions was arranged for October 13/14, with the collection going to St Ignatius College Zimbabwe.
1. St Aloysius Glasgow. Alan C reported that the visit to St Aloysius had been much enjoyed, and the hospitality was excellent. The suitability of the date, 22 September, for a return visit here was not yet confirmed, but confirmation was expected this week. It is proposed that they come to the 1230 Mass, followed by lunch in the Ogilvie room. We would all bring some food, and BW would provide wine. CL would provide cutlery etc. There was some discussion of what might be arranged to follow lunch, but no conclusion was reached.
2. (a) Parish Meeting. This would take place on November 18 in the Hall after the 1045 Mass. The format would be similar to last year, but no table between the speakers and the parishioners, which had been seen to be divisive. The meeting would be preceded by an Insert in the Bulletin on ‘being a Jesuit parish’, and a simple questionnaire, to encourage participation. (‘What does the parish do well … what could it do better … what can you offer?’)
(b) Dates for PPC Election 2008. It was agreed that nominations would be accepted in Lent, with voting taking place on 3 weekends, April 12/13, 19/20, 26/27 (the second of these is a holiday weekend).
(c) PPC Social. This would be held on 11 June 2008, and would be an opportunity for retiring and new members to meet. It was suggested that an invitation might be extended to a few loyal workers outside the PPC.
3. Goals for the Parish – feedback. Efforts in the area of welcoming should continue. BW undertook to publish a leaflet with the Mass responses, for foreign visitors. A list of coming parish events would be made available to the members of the PPC. The updating of the goals would be revisited after the parish meeting.
4. Feedback from the first Hall Committee Meeting. BW reported on short term and long term plans, and particularly on the hopes of the Lauriston Centre for the provision of smaller spaces within the Hall. It had been agreed that further progress would have to await contact with the City Planning Department and with an architect.
5. Group Feedback. LJ, for the Spirituality Group, reported that the film The Gospel according to St Matthew by Pasolini had been appreciated. AH for the Youth Group said that the Youth Ceilidh would probably take place on October 26, but we were waiting to hear from other parishes. Angela C, for Justice and Peace, said there would be an event for Burns Night on 25 January, focussing on his ‘social’ poetry. A Fair Trade Fashions event was also planned.
6. Child Protection. Anne Hughes and Brenda-Anne McLauchlan had spoken at all Masses about the need for registration, Disclosure and attendance at awareness sessions.
Any Other Business The meeting at the Lauriston Centre on 13 September would clash with the choir practice, but catering would be arranged.
Ideas were suggested for fundraising for St Ignatius College Zimbabwe, including the sale of food with coffee after the 1045 Mass, a Bottle Stall, and an appeal for left-over holiday cash.
Fr Walker ended by announcing the receipt of a bequest from the Estate of Matthew Martin, as former parishioner who died in September 2006, of £371,875.24 plus interest. The council expressed amazement and delight!
The date of the next meeting was agreed for Tuesday 13 November, since Fr G Hughes would be speaking at the Lauriston Centre on all Mondays from 8 October until 26 November. Fr Henderson would lead the meditation.
Minutes of the 56th Meeting on Monday 21st May 2007
Present: Fr Walker, Fr Henderson, Angela Campbell (Chair), John Hargreaves, Alan Cran, Bruce McKenzie, Philippa Bonella, Nancy Cavanagh, Anne Hughes, Chris Lugton, Bob Minns, Jan Minns, Anne White, Mike White.
There were no Apologies.
Matters arising. There was as yet no monthly or annual planner. No letter had yet been drafted for newly registered parishioners, though cards have been sent out in the meantime. No comments had been received by the Chair on the proposed Modus Operandi, so it was taken that this was accepted.
1. Our goals for the Parish.
(a) AC and AW had done some welcoming; it had seemed to be helpful. Other parishioners not on the PPC had expressed willingness.
(b) It was suggested that space might be found for a monthly planner on one of the notice boards in the foyer.
(c) The Hall. Fr Walker announced that he had appointed a number of people to a Hall Committee, and he distributed a draft remit. He said that Fr Provincial on his recent visitation of the Community had suggested consideration of the possibility of handing over management of the Hall to an outside agency, who would attempt to run it at a profit, paying us a rent and making it available for our needs. A discussion followed, but Fr Walker suggested that details should be considered by the Hall committee, and AC added that the committee should report back to the PPC.
2. Eco-Congregation. AC reported that we had received the four modules we had requested from eco-congregation Scotland. It was agreed that the material on buildings and on finance should be passed to the Finance Committee, and that on ‘Global Neighbours’ to the Justice and Peace group. Fr Walker would ask the Sunday Catechists whether they could include material from the module for children, ‘Acorns to Oaks’ in their programme.
John H said that some practical steps had already been taken regarding lights and recycling. Further recycling facilities could be provided in the hall. Ethical policies in investment etc. were considered by a Province Committee which included Fr Boles.
3. Proposed Visit to St Aloysius. June 30th was suggested as a date which was convenient for most. AC would propose this to the parish Priest.
4. June Social get together. After protracted attempts to find a convenient date, it was agreed to hold this on 5th September. John H would approach St Thomas’ School about accommodation; otherwise St Catharine’s Convent was a possibility. At the first subsequent meeting in September we would attempt to fix a date for June 2008.
5. Group Feedback. BMcK said it was hoped to hold an Archdiocesan Youth Ceilidh here in September. Fr Henderson announced that there would be a showing of Pasolini’s film of the Gospel of St Matthew on June 17, sponsored by the SAFE Committee.
6. Child Protection. AH and Brenda-Anne McLoughlin would speak after all Masses on September 8/9 on awareness of child protection issues.
7. AOB. Fr Walker reported that he had corresponded with Jesuit Missions and Fr Roland von Nidda of St Ignatius College Chishawasha in Zimbabwe about the possibility of our parish supporting that College in these very difficult times. This plan was approved with enthusiasm, and suggestions were made for fundraising.
Date of next meeting: Monday 10 September.
Meditation Leader:
Secretary: Fr Walker
Mike White read a closing reflection.
Minutes of the 55th Meeting on Monday 26 March 2007 at 7.00 p.m.
Present: Fr Walker, Fr Henderson, Angela Campbell (Chair), John Hargreaves, Alan Cran, Bruce McKenzie, Nancy Cavanagh, Philippa Bonella, Chris Lugton, Anne White, Mike White, Lynne Johnson.
Apologies had been received from Anne Hughes, Bob Minns, Jan Minns.
Bruce McKenzie opened the meeting with a reading from Jose-Maria Escriva. Angela Campbell welcomed all to the meeting.
The Minutes of the previous meeting were approved.
Matters Arising. There was continued discussion of the question of welcoming at Sunday Mass. At the 10.45 there was always someone to give out hymn books etc., but any welcoming presence of members of the PPC would be appreciated. BMcK said he had felt more welcomed on a visit to St Patrick’s. It did not matter if one did not know who was new to the parish – just keep smiling! Members were urged to do what they felt they could. The suggestion of wearing name-tabs was not received with enthusiasm. It was suggested that there should be a letter sent in response to those who filled in ‘new parishioner’ forms. BW and JHargreaves would arrange this. Members, and any friends, should make a point of socialising generally in the Hall after the 10.45 Mass. An attempt should be made to make contact with the new students’ residence across the road.
1. Feedback from DPC Meeting with the Cardinal. It seemed that our request to be moved from group 5 to group 2 would be accepted. Proposed Groups 4 and 5 would be amalgamated. Edinburgh City would be one Deanery, under the name of St Giles. The new DPC would meet not more than twice annually. There would be meetings of the geographical clusters and, it was suggested, of overlapping interest groups to share ideas and resources. BW thought that the meeting had been very positive.
2. Amended Modus Operandi. This was provisionally agreed, though AC said she would consider any observations over the next few days.
3. Diocesan Mission Statement and Commitments. AC said that the APC wanted a response. The meeting found the documents confusing and unclear. Who are they from, and to whom addressed? Their purpose needs to be clarified in the title. Are these guidelines/aspirations ‘from above’, or are we all taking ownership of them? The goals are vague; one wants to ask in many cases how they are to be achieved. Or is this to be worked out by each parish?
4. Our goals for the parish this year. There was a wide-ranging ‘brainstorming’ on this item. Suggestions came under the general heads of: increased involvement of parishioners; welcoming; upgrading of the hall; becoming an eco-congregation; revival of Christian Life Community (CLC) Group; Community spirit and the Eucharist; students and young people; outreach; forward planning; making clustering work.
It was agreed to make welcoming an immediate goal; also the production of an annual and monthly planner. BW and JHargreaves to forward the latter. BW was investigating the possibilities for improvement of the hall; a cleaning team was already being formed.
5. Eco-Congregations. BW and AC to move forward on this.
6. Proposed dates for visit to St Aloysius. May 12 and 26 were possible dates; neither was possible for everyone. The proposed format was Mass in the Church, lunch and meeting with St Aloysius PPC.
7. Group Feedback. On behalf of the Finance Group, John Hargreaves presented the parish trustee’s report and Accounts for the year ended December 2006.
8. Child Protection. In Anne Hughes’ absence, BW reported that the process of completing Disclosure Scotland forms was continuing.
9. AOB. A proposal to try to arrange another combined service with St Andrew and St George’s, after the success of last year’s combined Vespers, was welcomed.
The next meeting was fixed for May 21st. Mike White would lead the meditation, and BW would again produce the Minutes.
Minutes of Sacred Heart Parish Pastoral Council Meeting
29th January, 2007
Present: Fr Walker, Fr Henderson, Angela Campbell (chair), John Hargreaves, Alan Cran, Bruce McKenzie, Nancy Cavanagh, Anne Hughes, Philippa Bonella, Chris Lugton Bob Minns, Jan Minns (minutes).
Apologies: Anne White, Mike White, and Lynne Johnson
Angela welcomed those present to the meeting and the meeting was opened with a prayer.
Minutes from the previous meeting were read and accepted. ‘Fr Walker would like the Justice and Peace Group to be included in the PPC membership’ from item 1 under A.O.B.
Matters Arising:
It was suggested that members of the PPC be available to welcome people to Mass on an ‘ad hoc’ basis, at whatever Mass they usually attend. Also to be aware of new comers to the Parish in order to welcome them and be of assistance as required.
Youth Workers are going to arrange a Ceilidh for the young people after Easter and are still working through ideas on how to make contact with those within the Parish and also others who may be interested from St Thomas Aquinas School.
Agenda:
1. Review of Modus Operandi of the PPC – A list of proposals were given to members for perusal and to make suggestions at the next meeting.
Parishioners could be invited to attend meetings if they have any ‘burning issues’ to discuss – after consultation with the Parish Priest.
Frequency of meetings changed to two monthly and go on till 9pm.
2. Update on foyer; Holyrood Madonna has been moved to Fr Bernard’s office. St Peter’s statue was too difficult to move and could have been damaged in the attempt. The contractors didn’t inspire confidence so the Plaque of The Transfiguration was put back up. Unfortunately there will be no access to the doorway behind St Peter as was planned. Electricians OK and modern spot lights to go up. Painters are very efficient and will soon finish. Carpets and lights still to come. Colour will be yellowish. Fr Walker would like to have a glass topped display cabinet for the repository to avoid dragging the stands back and forth but this will depend on cost. There will be three or four pin boards for notices.
3. Proposed visit to/from PPC of St Aloysius: Angela to discuss with their chairperson – May be a Saturday visit could be arranged – Mass – Take own lunch - ?sometime in May.
4. Feedback from Parish Groups: Need to advertise our whereabouts. Important to make people feel welcome and to be available to greet them coming into Mass. Maybe Eucharist Ministers could be approached to see if they are willing to do this.
5. Child Protection; Disclosure forms are being sent out to long standing volunteers now. There will be a meeting on 24/02/07 at St Mary’s Cathedral to discuss Diocesan Guidelines re Vulnerable Adults and two people from Sacred Heart are invited to attend. Vulnerable Adults now termed Adults at Risk.
A.O.B.
Finance Group met last week and a full report is being written – There is a projected surplus of around £13,000.
Hall Committee; Needs to be formed to take responsibility for overall management and long term improvement of the facility. Hall needs to be cleaned on a regular basis.
Reps could be found from Justice & Peace, Social Committee, Youth Group, John Hargreaves, Fr Bernard, and Fr Chris Boles for the Lauriston Jesuit Centre. A full refurbishment of the Hall could be too expensive.
Novena of Grace 4/03/07 – 12/03/07 to be preached by Fr Michael O’Halloran – to be advertised.
Film on the life of John Paul Two; Will be shown on 25/03/07 – bring a packed lunch as it is a long film. Time to be arranged.
Series of talks by Fr Basil Clark – Flyer in back of Church.
Meeting closed with a prayer.
Next Meeting 26/03/07 at 7pm. Minutes - Fr Bernard, Meditation to be led by Bruce McKenzie.
Parish Pastoral Council – Elected Members 2006-2007
Chairperson Angela Campbell
Outreach Jan Minns
Nancy Cavanagh
Social Life Anne White
Chris Lugton
Spirituality and Adult Faith Formation Angela Campbell
Lynn Johnson
Liturgy and Sacramental Preparation Robert Minns
Alan Cran
Youth Bruce McKenzie
Anne Hughes
Finance Michael White (vice Chair)
Philippa Bonella
Ex Officio Members - Father Bernard Walker
Father Jim Henderson
John Hargreaves
(asst. administrator)