Report on PCC Meeting: Tuesday 17 March 2026

After the meeting was opened in prayer by Jenny, the PCC began by addressing several initial administrative matters. Lucy mentioned that, although not a full house, there was still a strong attendance and reflected that this would be the final PCC meeting in its current form before some members step down and new members are welcomed. The February accounts were then discussed, with Lucy proposing amendments in response to comments from Lionel; Jill, who examines the accounts, was also content with the proposed changes.

The PCC then discussed the church’s social media and privacy policies, particularly the WhatsApp group used to communicate with parents connected to Toastie Club. Ben was thanked for his work administering the group and supporting the church’s social media presence, with Elizabeth acting as signatory. Michelle raised queries regarding the privacy and data protection elements of the policy, it was agreed that further clarification would be sought from Kelly.

Michelle also updated PCC on the Terrier and Inventory work currently underway. She explained that locating some items, including the church silver and pieces of stained glass, had proved challenging, though members expressed appreciation for the organisation and systems now being implemented to catalogue the church’s many historic and unique items more effectively.

Church House was the next item on the agenda, with Andy providing an update on progress. Impact have now signed, and solicitors have issued the lease to the Diocesan Board, although the board is not expected to meet until mid-April. Andy also confirmed that he had been in contact with Paul regarding arrangements for a hoped-for handover by 1 April. PCC members expressed gratitude to Andy for the significant amount of work he has undertaken in managing the process.

Lucy then updated the PCC on discussions surrounding hymn books. Following meetings with Andy and Paul, at least three possible hymn books have been identified, with Roseanne tracking progress through a detailed spreadsheet. The group will now review the options against agreed criteria before making recommendations. It was also proposed that the congregation could be involved through a vote on favourite hymns, alongside a “Hymns and Pimms” social singalong event planned for 21 June.

Vicky introduced the initial discussions regarding heat pumps and wider environmental improvements. PCC members had been provided with an outline plan, with the first stage focusing on scoping the project and obtaining indicative costs. It was noted that the project could involve not only heat pumps, but also installation works and solar panels. As the church does not currently possess the necessary in-house expertise, the appointment of a consultant will likely be required.

Lucy then invited PCC members to reflect on the life and work of the PCC during 2025–2026, considering the committee’s priorities, culture and effectiveness as new members join in the future. Members broke into small groups to discuss what had worked well and what could be improved. Church House featured prominently in discussions, alongside creation care and pastoral care. Important decisions over the past year were highlighted, including work surrounding hymn books, environmental matters, safeguarding, heat pumps and Sheila’s contributions to Synod discussions.

The PCC also reflected on how the church’s culture has developed. Members spoke positively about the appointment of Ben as a youth worker for older children within the congregation, recognising it as a sign of the importance placed on safeguarding and youth ministry. Sue’s appointment was also warmly praised, with members acknowledging the fresh energy and positivity she has brought to the church community through her ministry. Members identified the PCC’s strengths as including continuity alongside new perspectives, diversity of age and skills, mutual respect and the creation of a safe environment in which questions can be asked openly. Looking ahead, there was discussion about introducing occasional informal elements to meetings to strengthen relationships between members.

Jenny then spoke about mission and outreach, updating PCC on the church’s three current charity partnerships. She explained that she had recently met with a regional coordinator and was exploring opportunities to partner with the Bedford Borough fostering team. The PCC discussed whether to continue supporting three charities simultaneously or pause one partnership, with one suggestion being to conclude support for Amais after four years while continuing with the remaining charities. Members also discussed the possibility of moving from a three-year minimum partnership period to a four-year cycle, whilst recognising that partnerships should still be reviewed if they are no longer working effectively.

Sheila provided an update from General Synod, speaking about the importance of strong communication within the wider Church and the importance of local churches as the grassroots of growth and mission. She noted that recent appointment changes had altered the atmosphere somewhat, though it remained too early to determine their longer-term impact.

The meeting concluded with Lucy sharing that, as part of St Andrew’s ongoing commitment to creation care, a representative from Sustainable Flowers would soon attend a service to speak about their work. Under any other business, it was also agreed that Tuesday 5 May would be set aside as an opportunity for both new and existing members to gain a fuller understanding of the workings of the PCC.

Overall, the meeting provided an opportunity not only to address important practical matters, but also to reflect positively on the culture, priorities and future direction of the PCC as it prepares for a period of transition and renewal.