Summary of the PCC meeting held on Monday 24th November 

After Prayers and Apologies, the minutes of 6^th October were accepted 

Matters Arising: The Guides were invited to consider St Gabriel’s Christmas Tree Festival. Steve Germain analysed energy costs between the Hall and the Church, concluding that the Church used 43% of the energy, despite being used much less. The Hall cost c.£8 per hour for heating and lighting. Non-paying groups amount to 40 – 45% of usage. 

Finance: We looked at the Accounts and Treasurer’s comments. Withholding the December payment of the Parish Share deficit has reduced the forecast deficit £11,000 to £5300.  Surplus soup money collected in 2024 will be divided equally between Christian Aid, The Ethiopian Medical Project and the Ghanaian Children`s Trust. 

Vision Planning: The KYCKYN course has met twice. We have 6 participants and 2 facilitators. It is in the early stages with much to do. 

Authorised Lay Ministry: Nigel Coates and Helen Swann were authorised as ALMs last Sunday. The PCC approved provisional Role Descriptions.

Safeguarding: We discussed photography during services and agreed that photographs should not be taken at the crib service with a photo-opportunity at the end. 

Eco-Church: The Salvation Army has removed the clothing bank because of costs so we are looking for a replacement. Catherine McKinnell MP’s visit was very positive. We are looking out for suitable signage for the kitchen to reinforce our use of Eco-friendly products.

Heaton Churches Together has shrunk due to closures and reduced engagement. Heaton Festival will not happen in 2026. The Vicar suggested we pursue issues of ecumenical interest, e.g. Eco church and combatting racism.  Christian Unity service 4pm January 18^th at St Gabriel’s.

Deanery Synod: Area Dean, Phil Medley is leaving the Diocese in January.

Future dates: 

6^th December  Litter Pick 10am for 30 mins followed by refreshments.

13^th December Carols in the Park. Linking up with the Paddy Freeman Singers for carols from 12.30 – 1.00pm.

21^st December Carol Service 6pm

22^nd December Carol Singing round the Parish 6.30pm.

AOB: The Vicar has been approached by the Serbian Orthodox Church, asking if they can use the church on three or four dates in the year. The archdeacon was consulted and there is considerable protocol to be explored but the PCC did not object.

2026 is the 800^th anniversary of the death of St. Francis and some Franciscans are carrying out a pilgrimage from visiting all the Franciscan houses in England from Alnmouth to Plaistow. The Alnmouth to Durham leg will pass through Newcastle on 21^st/22^nd July, could we assist with accommodation?  We are happy to explore it!

Next meeting: 26^th January at 7.15pm.