The Midlands Churches of Christ

MINUTES OF THE SHEPHERDING GROUP
Thursday 22nd January 2004

ATTENDEES: Jimmy Ogunshakin, Warner Baker, Trevor & Maxine Dennis, Duncan Lawrence, Jon & Marelize Yorke, Mick Andrews, Scott Bryden
APOLOGIES: Juliette Lawrence, Kay Baker, Clare Bryden, Deborah Ogunshakin, Bob & Maureen Truman, Andy & Helen Torbet.

The meeting began at 8pm and opened with a prayer.

  Topic Action
1. Matters Arising from Previous Minutes  
 
  • SB stated at AT had left message for Ade Desalu, but nothing had been reported. JO is seeing Ade.
 JO
 
  • TD stated that he was ready to input the information from the Committees for the church meeting on 13th February.
 
 
  • It was noted that an announcement needs to be made about Paul Henry now being in Birmingham. Some information has been removed to protect privacy and confidentiality.
 ALL
 
  • In discussions on the brainstorming sessions, it was noted that some external sources had rumoured that the church was going back to the ‘old style’ of ‘discipling’ and evangelism. Although it was obviously incorrect it was noted that these rumours exist and need to be addressed. It was noted by all that there is a need for advice and guidance on marriage, dating, women & men fellowship evenings. These are to be scheduled throughout the year.
All
 
  • It was noted that Vicky Redgrave, Derek & Carol Edmondson, Mick Andrews and Denzil had all shown interest in being shepherds. More parties are also required as Warner & Kay are stepping down from Shepherding to look after Kingdom Kids. It was noted that any new shepherds are to be ratified by the congregation.
 
2. House Groups (inc. Leicester & Coventry) and Youth Ministry  
  It was noted that Dirk & Stefy were running a house group every two weeks in Erdington/Sutton Coldfield. They were looking for another party to assist. Shepherds to check Dirk & Stefy’s arrangements prior to an announcement informing the church members. All
  DL raised a number of issues for the Leicester church.  
 
  • They would prefer to pay their present venue six months in advance to secure the same meeting room. Presently they have to meet in different rooms each week. This was agreed.
    		•  
     
  • Church will be coming to Birmingham for the service on 1st February.
    		•  
     
  • Previously it had been mentioned about the possibility of Leicester of having their own cheque book. The principle was agreed, but finance team to precure appropriate procedures.
    		• JO/Finance
     
  • Leicester want to be able to provide reasonable disbursements to guest speakers.
    		•   
    3. Legal/Finance  
      JO ran through the draft trust documents in a brief manner. Concern was raised on liabilities, but JO assured shepherds that the documents are standard forms for any organisation that holds funds. JO further stated that although there is no document in place at the moment, there is an implied responsibility. It was agreed that all parties will study the document for the next meeting and prayer about the matter. The document, when in a suitable format, is to be made available for perusal and comment by the congregation prior to finalisation. All
    4. Pastoral Matters  
      The Wolverhampton church are having a celebration service on 29th February and they have given Birmingham an open invitation. It was agreed to gain a show of hands on Sunday of those who would like to visit on this date and inform Wolverhampton to assist in their preparations. All
      WB stated that there had been a number of issues that require pastoral intervention:  
     
  • Some information has been removed to protect privacy and confidentiality.
    		•  
     
  • A dating couple had been immoral in their relationship and had been advised that this is not appropriate for God’s people.
    		•  
     
  • Some information has been removed to protect privacy and confidentiality. It was agreed that the devotionals must be re-implemented in February. JO and MY agreed to assist with pulling this event together with other talented members of the congregation. JO will also assist Colin Twigg with the Sunday Worship service and encouraging male song leaders.
    		• JO & MY
     
  • JY commented that he believed that many of the issues that prevented the church experiencing the fullness of God was it’s lack of understanding and trust in the Holy Spirit. He handed out a copy of a comment sheet, which will form the basis of his forthcoming sermon. He requested feedback from all.
    		• All

    Scott Bryden

    Minute Taker

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