News from St Mary's - March 2005

The Bishops' Pastoral Letter - Follow-up

The Bishop of Winchester had written personally in December and stated that he was appreciative of the evident detailed and prayerful consideration given by the PCC and wider congregation. He took note of the challenges and questions raised and all would be very helpful as the Standing Committee and Synod reflect on the main themes arising from the initiative and how best to support and enable parishes in taking forward their mission and work.

Perhaps the two most important matters are first, to create a policy for youth and second, to carry out a survey of parishioners. Whilst the survey had been intended primarily to learn what support there might be for the proposals to develop St Mary's church (assuming that it is decided to build the new porch with a WC and kitchenette, and replace the Nave pews with chairs), views on the reasons for not attending church will also be sought. It should take place soon after Easter to tie in with the decision-making for the development project.

Photo of St Mary's in 1898 by Francis Frith

Mr Freeman Smith has kindly donated a beautifully framed and most interesting sepia photo taken by Francis Frith of St Mary's. This showed the yew tree close to the Porch to have been only a small trimmed bush. We hope to be given permission by TVBC to remove these two trees in March and plant a silver birch near the east end. A similar photo of Monxton Church shows that there was no yew tree at all. 

Church and Churchyard

A report was issued in 2004 from the Church of England Church Heritage Forum "Building faith in our future" (www.cofe.anglican.org). This is an important central policy document for preserving and enhancing our church buildings, which provide 42% of all listed buildings, and attract central funds.

The Churchyard Meadows now have a new volunteer caring for them, and progress should speed up. We would be very grateful for one or two younger volunteers to give half an hour a week, at a time that suits them, in the Summer to help with grass cutting. Please contact David Mallam on 772240.

Church and Churchyard Spring Clean - 9.30 a.m. 19 March

We have several untidy corners inside the church, including sorting out the choir vestry, and plenty of clearing needed in the churchyard. It may be that we can remove the yew tree. Anyone who can spare a couple of hours early on Saturday 19 March will be very welcome indeed.