Diocesan Conference - What Happened?

Netherwent Deanery led the lively Opening Worship.

The Bishop gave a review of the year (read it) and introduced Mr Michael Harvey who talked about Back to Church Sunday which the Bishop is encouraging us all to take part in during 2009.

Chairman Mr Sandy Blair presented The Report of the Diocesan Board of Finance and spoke of the implications to the Church of the present financial crisis. A breakdown of costs in the 2007 Accounts shows that the cost of Ministry was the major item. The 2009 Budget was prepared before the current financial unrest but the DBF plans to hold budget increases to a ceiling of 5% for the next five years. Increases in Parish Share would vary but would be capped at a ceiling of 20%.

Parishes were thanked for prompt payment of Parish Share and reminded that the preferred and recommended method of payment is by quarterly standing order.

The work of the Parsonage Board was noted and particular thanks were due to Simon Boyle, the recently retired Chairman of the Parsonage Board after ten years as Chairman and to Garry Reeder, the Inspector.

Detailed accounts are available from the Diocesan Office.

Conference voted unanimously to renew the link with the Diocese of the Highveld for a further five years (see p6)

Finally, answers were given to four written questions which members had submitted beforehand.

Conference 2009 is on 10th October

New Prayer Guides received their certificates

Watched by Revd Sr Anita Woodwell, Revd Kevin Hasler and Revd Jeremy Harris received certificates from the Bishop to mark their successful completion of training to become Prayer Guides. Revd Dr Alison Green has also completed the training but was not able to be at the Conference to be presented with her certificate.

Prayer Guides are qualified to lead weeks of guided prayer and weekend retreats with individual guidance.

This ministry is open to lay people as well as clergy. Contact Revd Sr Anita Woodwell (01633 482343) if you would like to know more about training or about having someone to lead guided prayer in your parish.