Parish council minutes 23/01/24

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting 23rd January 2024

Present

Fr Colm, John Thompson, Tom Hoban, Tony Power, Mike McNally, Maria Melia, Alejandro

Gonzalez, Mary Harrison, Tom Harrison, Cynthia Dunn, Graham Donnachie, Inivted John

Reilly O’Donnell, Margaret Wallace.

1. Fr Colm opened the meeting with a prayer.

2. Apologies –Joanna Pallister, Leanne Heseltine, Joe Hughes, Emma Turnbull, Kathleen

Murray.

3. Minutes of the meeting 10th October 2023 accepted.

4. Parish Update – Fr commented on his thoughts regarding the current position of the Parish.

Parish numbers remained steady although in recent weeks there appears to be an increase

in attendance. The Parish continues to provide a broad range of activities and it was agreed

that many of these activities extended outwards to the wider Durham community. This was

considered a positive step forward in raising the profile of the Parish of the Durham Martyrs

and potentially lead to stronger links being formed. He thanked the work of parishioners

who help with these activities but suggested more volunteers were needed. Fr referred to a

recent meeting held to consider how the Parish can develop and move forward, an update is

included in a separate item under AONB presented by John Reilly O’Donnell. Fr provided an

update regarding the buildings and the progress on developments relating to St Bede’s

Presbytery and the surrounding land, further comments can be found under item 5 and 6. Fr

informed the Council that there would be an increase in the occasions of the international

meal held at St Joseph’s.

5. Finance feedback – An updated finance report was provided; all collections are up year on

year. Expenditure both committed and anticipated included window replacements in St

Joseph’s presbytery, new windows and interior decorating of St. Joseph’s church,

replacement of light fittings and roof repairs St Godric’s along with removal of Knotweed.

Increased energy costs and upkeep of buildings and groundwork. The introduction of the

fourth way of giving, that is via the use of a card reader is ongoing and it is hoped it will be

in place by the end of February 2024, an update will be included in the Parish weekly

bulletin, what appeared to be a relatively straightforward implementation has become a bit

of a challenge. 70% of collection money comes from direct given and is greatly appreciated.

Thanks to the finance committee for their work in ensuring the Parish of the Durham

Martyrs can meet the many financial costs currently facing the Parish. St Bede’s presbytery

has been vacated by CAFOD and progress is underway to consider how the buildings and

land can be used to support the local community.

6. Building Committee feedback – the committee reported that the replacement windows for

St Joseph’s presbytery is now complete. The replacement of the stolen copper roofing is

reaching completion. Groundworks at St Joseph’s complete and a tree survey is scheduled

to assess the safety of the Cypress trees in the car park. Lighting has been updated in

St.Godric’s and this has led to an improvement in the overall lighting. Issues with a leaking

roof continues. Ground maintenance is ongoing at St Godric’s with the treatment and

removal of knotweed required. CAFOD have vacated St Bede’s and discussion regarding

future use in progress.

7. Dates of Parish Council meetings 2024/25

16th April 2024 7pm St Joseph’s.

9th July 2024 7pm St Joseph’s AGM followed by Council meeting.

15th October 2024 7pm St Joseph’s.

14th January 2025 7pm St Joseph’s.

8. AONB

o Parish Services – 11.00 Sunday mass St Joseph’s will move to a 10.30 start, Fr Colm is

considering appropriate days and timings of the Sacraments of Baptism and

Reconciliation.

o Update of activities from Alejandro regarding international events identified

increased regularity of international meals and other activities planned for the

forthcoming year, it was agreed that the last events had proved very successful.

o A request was made for updated information regarding the Parish Handbook, several

update had been received by Margaret Wallace for inclusion in the new edition.

o John Reilly O’Donnell presented notes from the recent Development meeting to

consider how the Parish can develop and continue to grow. The group identified

both short and long term objectives and were clear that these could not be achieved

without carfeul though and effort. Several themes were identified including the need

to integrate further with the international community and it was agreed that more

effort was needed to encourage individuals to take up roles in the various ministries.

This encouragement should come from the different groups to approach individuals

and invite them to take up a role within a chosen ministry. A second theme was the

need to actively engage with the youth of the parish, it was felt that the youth were

not inspired despite the work and effort from a key youth worker. This resulted in a

lengthy discussion as how we as a Parish can reengage with the youth and

encourage them to become more active in the life of the Parish and generate new

ideas of what would encourage them to make that step froward. A further theme

was how can the Parish appeal to a wider group of parishioners and engage in the

many activities that are ongoing in the Parish, there is a need to consider succession

planning particularly regarding the function and upkeep of the Parish. Linked closely

to this theme is how the Parish can support parishioners who are facing challenges

including social, health, and wellbeing. It was acknowledged that there are groups

available who can and do offer and provide help to individual not just within the

Parish but also the wider community. Fr John O’Brien has been involved in one of the

meetings and it is hoped he will join the group at the next meeting to consider how

the group can move forward and turn the ideas and suggestions into action points.

The Parish of the Durham Martyrs is actively involved in the wider Durham

community including weekly lunches, the memory café, the support fund and

Sanctuary 21. The next phase will be to begin to implement short term goals and

gain wider parish and community involvement. Details of the next meeting will be

circulated via the Parish bulletin; members of this group are currently involved in

planning the next meeting.

o Presentation of the Bereavement group provided by Margaret Wallace. Margaret

provided a profile of the group which was established in 2007. There are a small

number of volunteers, but their input is far reaching not only within the Parish of the

Durham Martyrs but extending to a wider community. Margaret provided an insight

into the experience e members of the group shared and how that experience

enabled the bereaved to address some of the issues facing them following a personal

bereavement. The group have links to the Diocesan Bereavement Service, the

Emmaus Listening Service and with several Durham Martyrs Parish groups. Annual

remembrances take place and include a Memorial Sunday, Christmas, Easter, and a

celebration Mass of the Lives of Loved Ones. The group appreciate the support from

Fr Colm and the Parish in enabling them to provide such an important service.

o Report from Joe Hughes – Support fund has received one application in the last nine

months. Use of St Godric’s church included two successful concerts by the University

Chamber Choir and one by the Durham Singers. There is potentially two further

enquiries being considered.

The next PPC meeting will be on 16th April 2024 7pm St Joseph’s.

Parish council minutes 10/10/23

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting 10th October 2023

Present

Fr Colm, Joe Hughes, John Thompson, Tom Hoban, Kathleen Murray, Tony Power, Mike McNally Maria Melia, Emma Turnbull, Alejandro Gonzalez

1. Fr Colm opened the meeting with a prayer.

2. Apologies – Mary Harrison, Tom Harrison, Joanna Pallister, Leanne Heseltine, Cynthia Dunn

3. Parish Update – Fr Colm referred to Bishop Stephen’s recent letter read out during mass over the weekend. Fr Colm commented on one issue raised, that of Church buildings and the need for consideration in their viability and use. Fr commented on the broad activities within the Parish and the work the Parish is involved in. He thanked the support of parishioners who help with activities such as Ministry work and community work such as the lunch club and Memory Café, these are positive aspects of a considerate and diverse Parish. Fr referred to comments he had received from sources within the Parish as to what steps the Parish was taking in rebuilding the Parish community. There was a feeling that the challenges facing the Parish needed to be addressed such as church attendance, the loss of young families, engaging the youth to become active members of the Parish and rebuilding links with the schools of the Parish. It is necessary to consider In which direction the Parish is moving towards and how the Parish can move forward and meet the needs of an ever-changing society. This generated a positive discussion, and it was agreed that a core group of should be established to take this forward. Fr Colm would be arranging an open evening to invite Fr John O’Brien to facilitate the discussion.

Action – Core group to be identified.

The current situation facing St Leonard’s school were considered and it was agreed that the staff and pupils of St Leonard’s were coping incredibly well considering the challenges they were facing. Alternative arrangements have been implemented including the use of Ushaw College and both churches in accommodating some of the teaching and events. It is anticipated work will commence in 2024 on the rebuild and will be completed in 2026, in the meantime alternative accommodation in portacabins will be available.

It is anticipated the Parish will enjoy the experience of our wider international community in the form of international meals and the celebrations of International Feast days. The start of these celebrations will take place in December celebrating the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Action – Alejandro

Journey in Faith will recommence and will be led by Joanna Pallister, the sessions are open to individuals who may be considereing entering the church, or for those who wish to know more about their Catholic Faith, external speakers will provide a springboard for discussion during the sessions.

Fr gave an update on the use of St Bede’s presbytery; he informed the Council that CAFOD would be vacating the premises. This offers an opportunity for some ideas to be considered in how the Presbytery can be used to the advantage of the Parish and community.

Action all.

4. Finance feedback – a written report was submitted to the Council. Year of end accounts have been submitted to the Diocese and undergoing audit. Gift Aid update highlighted an increase in interest with several parishioners signing up, thanks to Esther Robson for her presentation. Expenditure highlighted the impact on Parish finances in areas such as replacement windows in St Joseph’s church and presbytery, decorating of St Joseph’ along with replacement lighting St Godric’s and the increase in energy bills. Grounds maintenance was addressed, and this has incurred extra cost due to work which has been identified in the Buildings and H&S report. The fourth way of Giving is ongoing A credit/debit card payment system as an additional method of financially contributing to the Parish will be introduced on Saturday 15th July. A simple instruction guide will help with the use of the machine.

5. Building Committee feedback – a written report was submitted by the Buildings’ committee, ongoing maintenance continues across the Parish. Issues with St Godric’s roof continue, with a further leak appearing in the storage cupboard. Estimates for replacement from Halogen to LED have been submitted. Ground maintenance is ongoing at St Godric’s with the necessary removal of Japanese Knotweed. Currently awaiting copper roof replacement at St Joseph’s church, a decision regarding the replacement of windows in St Joseph’s continues and replacement windows for the presbytery has been agreed. Drainage problems around St Joseph’s has now been rectified. Diocesan property department have carried out a survey to determine the use of RAAC in the construction of the church. Ground maintenance is continuous across the Parish of the Durham Martyrs including St Bede’s presbytery, St Godric’s Church, St Joseph’s church. Discussions are taking place regarding work on St Bede’s Cemetery specifically regarding the repair of the Lychgate. CAFOD will be vacating St Bede’s presbytery with a possible view to change in usage. Health and safety inspections are complete with exception of a fire drill across both Churches, a date will be announced soon. Food hygiene and safety were rated top, well done to all those involved.

6. It was suggested that the time of 11.00 Mass at St Joseph’s change to 10.30, a discussion followed, and a consensus reached to change the Mass time, however, if there was a change in circumstances regarding the presence of the Franciscans, Mass times would be reconsidered. Action Fr Colm. It was noted that due to a change in circumstances regarding St Leonard’s School, alternative arrangements for the Christmas mass would be necessary.

7. A report from the support fund was provided, funds remain available, for those in need.

AOB

o Parish welcoming update was provided, a discussion followed and highlighted several issues regarding the formality of the role of the welcomer. The discussion referred to the approaches used in both St Godric’s and St Joseph’s and recognised that the layout of the entrance and Narthex differed considerably, which, influenced the approach used by the welcomers. The greeting area in St Godric’s is restricted in size and almost lends itself to a brief but warm welcome without being too invasive. St Joseph’s offers a much larger entrance and Narthex allowing more welcomers to be present, however, this does give a feeling of a more formal approach to the welcome. The wearing of name badges was seen by some as too formal, yet provides parishioners, especially those new or visiting the Parish with a named individual. The concept of the welcomer has been present for some time and it was felt that at this moment further discussion is required as to the function and role of the welcomer. It was noted that a meeting of those involved in St Godric’s church will meet on Sunday 22nd October.

Fr Colm will meet with Graham to discuss arrangements for St Joseph’s.

o Update of activities from Alejandro regarding international celebrations included arrangements for an international lunch, a celebration of the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Other events are to be considered for the future.

The next PPC meeting will be on 23rd January 2024 7pm St Joseph’s.

AGM Parish Council Minutes 2023

Here are the minutes from the AGM meeting held Tuesday 20th June. Attached are the accompanying reports.

Durham Martyrs’ Parish Council Annual General Meeting 20 June 2023

Welcome – John thank you for attending this evening.

Apologies received Joe Hughes, Joanna Pallister, Leanne Hesletine

1 Opening prayer

Fr Colm opened the meeting with a prayer.

2 Chairperson’s Report – John Thompson

At the last AGM in 2022 several issues were identified for the forthcoming year. We

considered how as a Parish we could move forward and return to pre Covid activity across

the many groups who make up our community. We have seen a gradual return to Parish life

although the impact of the Covid pandemic has left its legacy. The return of volunteers has

been slow and this has affected the ability to offer the level of support and service we as a

Parish have been proud of delivering in the past. Work is ongoing in encouraging new

volunteers. As a Parish we have a diverse profile with a broad cultural basis, this needs to

be reflected in the ministries we offer. The reintroduction of the international meal has

proved popular and shows a Parish which reflects the importance of sharing our cultural

backgrounds and brings about greater inclusivity. The international meal is not the only

example of this, a further example is the choir.

A further challenge is how we can encourage people back into church. Attendance is lower

but this is not unique to the Parish of the Durham Martyrs. It is reflected across the diocese

and nationally. It is not specific to age although physical evidence of those attending

services clearly identifies the absence of younger people including primary and secondary

education. This is an area where much discussion has taken place and is ongoing. There is

a debate as to how as a Parish we can address this issue. It is not only the Parish who bears

sole responsibility in addressing this issue but encouragement and support from parents and

family is important. Education is equally important and the role of Religious Education is

fundamental in helping our young people to understand the relevance of faith in society and

the church. Academisation, in particular the Bishop Wilkinson Trust responsible for the

schools within our Parish community, must ensure the Principles and ethos of Religious

Education remains strong within the school curriculum. The Parish of the Durham Martyrs is

well represented on the Governing committees within the four Schools.

I do not intend to go into detail regarding the Parish finances and will leave that to Tom

Harrison. However, as a Parish we are grateful for the generosity shown by Parishioners

who support and contribute financially to the Parish and its’ upkeep.

The challenge of succession planning continues, the age profile of volunteers is pointing to

the higher end of the scale. The need to encourage volunteers to supplement our various

Parish teams remains an ongoing challenge.

The work of Br John and Br Paul respectively, is well recognised and received across the

City and their support within the Durham Martyrs is appreciated.

Changes in the PPC membership have occurred – we said goodbye to Katie. During her

time working in the Parish, Katie developed a very broad role supporting and working with

many of the groups within the Durham Martyrs. Her involvement with the youth was seen as

an opportunity to reconnect with the ethos of Catholic life. Tom Harrison took on the role of

Financial Director and we welcome his experience in guiding the Parish to more positive

times. After 10 years Margaret has decided to hang up her pen and close her book and is

stepping down from the Parish Council. Margaret has guided the Parish through very

challenging times and she will be missed by all on Council. I understand Margaret is not

disappearing totally but will remain active within the Parish.

2

Reports Section

A. Financial Report – Tom Harrison provided a written report of the Parish

Finances, he highlighted several areas including energy cost and

maintenance which will impact on the finances of the Parish. Tom informed

the meeting of the introduction of a debit/credit card reader as a supplement

to the planned giving and loose plate collections. It is not a replacement as

the greatest percentage of offering are via standing order which benefits the

Parish through tax reclaim.

B. Health and Safety and Buildings Committee Report – Mary Harrison

provided a written report regarding health and safety issues, building and

grounds maintenance and ongoing work. There was a short report regarding

St Bede’s Cemetery, Tom Hoban informed the meeting of discussions which

are taking place with Dream Heritage, a charitable organisation who are

involved in reclaiming and restoring areas of historical and local interest.

C. Reports from Groups in the Parish. All written reports were available to

view on the evening of the AGM.

I. Bereavement Support Group - Margaret Wallace provided a written

update of the Bereavement Support Group, this was supported by a

short verbal report on events and support provided over the past year,

including a return to the Memorial Sunday Mass and memorial

services. Monthly meetings continue.

II. Inclusive Church Group - Graham Donachie provided a written

report for the meeting along with a verbal update of recent

developments regarding the group. The group is expanding and a

request for volunteers was made. Links have been established in the

community and with local GP practices. Feedback is very positive, and

the Cafe continues to meet on the second Tuesday of the month.

III. Lunch Clubs (Kathleen Murray) Kathleen reported that the lunch club

continues to meet each Wednesday, however, volunteer drivers are still

required to help with transport.

IV. Parish Support Fund (Joe Hughes) A written report was submitted outlining

the status of the fund

V. St Godric’s Steering Group (Joe Hughes) A Written report was submitted

outlining future events including Heritage open days and Lumierre. Report

available along with the minutes of the AGM.

E. Amendments to constitution

3

No changes had been proposed.

F Announcement of current membership of Parish Council and Committees

Parish Council members

Fr Colm

Standing Committee Chairs

• Finance – Tom Harrison

• Building – Mary Harrison

• Liturgy – Vacant

• Social – Maria Melia

Foundation Members

• Graham Donachie

• Tom Hoban

• Mike McNally

• Vacant

Elected Members

• Emma Turnbull

• Cynthia Dunn

• Joanna Pallister

• John Thompson

• Tony Power

Safeguarding Representative

• Kathleen Murray

Regularly invited Guests

• Leanne Heseltine re website

• Joe Hughes re Parish Support Fund

Vice-Chair - vacant

AGM report Memory Cafe 2023.pdf

Download PDF • 153KB

Finance report June 23.pdf

Download PDF • 147KB

PARISH COUNCIL REPORT 6-6-23 v2.pdf

Download PDF • 120KB

Buildings H&S june23.pdf

Download PDF • 91KB