St Oswald's Magazine StOM 1512 | Page 16

on the wall outside. Many of these tasks have been the work of Ashley Craddock, our new property convener. Together with Lesley-ann on 24th October I attended a seminar at St Silas on Growing the Church, led by the Venerable Bob Jackson. Much of was said was new to me, but certainly not to Lesley-ann, who had already put some of the recommendations in place. For instance to make the church more welcoming, the music was improved by having a machine ready to play the hymns, if the organist was not available, but we gratefully acknowledge that Anne Cowan has played for us more frequently. The introduction of real coffee served after the service, as well as a wonderful meal cooked and served for all of us by Ashley, need praise and thanksgiving. We helped to raise funds for the Bishop’s Lent Appeal and for the City Mission at harvest. We certainly need to raise some more for ourselves, mini markets and raffles were held fairly regularly, but no larger events. We are hoping that a Mini Christmas Market, planned for St Nicolas Day, should be fun as well as raising funds. I have tried to contribute to outreach by regularly contributing to the magazine and help with its distribution. I continue to invite absent or silent members by phone or letter, and I am pleased to see some of them back among the congregation. I also shall continue to make the pew sheet – as I have done for more than 10 years. Brigitte Williams Lay Representative and People’s Warden. Flowers Thanks to Jean and Freda we continue to enhance the Church with flowers marking personal anniversaries when requested. Anyone who would like to join the flower team on a regular or occasional basis would be very welcome. Sunday school The Sunday school is enjoying Lesley-Ann’s input encouraging the children to be an integral part of the Church family. We look forward to growth in the number of children in Sunday school and adults involved in this important work. My thanks to Freda for her ever enthusiastic support. Protection of vulnerable groups We continue to implement the Scottish Episcopal Church policies and procedures. The annual questionnaire is available for anyone to examine. Dorothy M Nicholson StOM Page 16