The Midlands Churches of Christ

• There had been some confusion and miscommunication around the issue of the ‘blessing’ of one of the new babies in the church. The couple were invited to explain their request in person and explained that all they wished for, was for them to be able to simply come before the church and ‘introduce’ their new son to the congregation and say a pray of thanksgiving for him. This was as had previously been practised in the church in the past. The Shepherds were under the impression that a more formal arrangement had been requested, but this was not the case. It was agreed that the couple would set a date for this to happen and let us know. The couple then left the meeting at 8.20pm. It was agreed that some sort of thanksgiving slot would be appropriate within the worship service on a more regular basis. (The family name has been removed as a matter of confidentiality)

• The Minutes of the previous meeting were agreed

• It was noted that SB had established the Noticeboard at the back of the church. There had only been one prayer request dropped in the envelope so far. HT would co-ordinate the prayer sheet.

• It was agreed that the meeting to discuss next year’s plans would be on Saturday 13^th December at 10am at the study centre at the Botanical Gardens. HT to organise.

• A&HT had been to visit two possible venues last week - Aston Villa Leisure Centre and Birmingham Sports Centre. Neither venue was at all suitable, since they did not have a large enough hall on the ground floor. One had a room on a first floor location but this did not have disabled access. Neither were able to provide suitable rooms for the children. It was noted that our present rental of Ladywood Arts & Leisure Centre provides most of the things we are looking for! The search will continue.

• WB was able to confirm some costs for the Christmas Dinner Dance. The price for the venue was £250. There was the added cost of £150 for the use of the kitchen. (£400 all in). A sister in the congregation (with experience in these arrangements) had offered her services for sorting the table arrangements. A brother in the church was able to do the catering at £18.50 per head. Quick calculations proved that, based on the numbers interested, this would work out at approx. £28.50 per head. The church could subsidise this but it was suggested that enquiries be made elsewhere (possibly the Apollo on Hagley Road) to see if there were any venues that could undercut this price. WB would look into this.

• The UK Christmas Service on the 14^th December in London had been announced and only a handful of people had shown interest. Therefore, the church would not be providing any organised travel arrangements. People were free to go if they choose, but would have to make their own travel arrangements. WB had discussed this outcome with Trevor Gordon and John Partington in London and they were content with the situation.

• WB confirmed that he had purchased a keyboard for Marelize (the church pianist!) to practice on at a cost of £79. Reimbursement would now take place.

• HT confirmed that she had purchased a flipchart/whiteboard and pens for the Teens (TD collected this later in the evening).

• What aspects of church did you find beneficial in the past and would like to see brought back and why?
• What aspects of church life were missing in the past that you would like to see incorporated in the future and why?
• What would you say you bring to the fellowship?
• What focus do you think we should have for 2004?

HT to arrange paperwork accordingly to distribute to House Groups