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Vision For St. James' Church It is some time since I reported on the progress of Welland PCC's plans to develop St James, so here is the updated vision. As you know we are aiming to provide a welcoming church which, whilst remaining a centre of worship, also seeks to respond to the needs of the wider rural community. Our development group has been working hard and has carried out a lot of research to identify what needs the community has that are not currently satisfied by existing facilities or organisations. This has involved statistical research, surveys, interviews and visits to other churches, where re-ordering has taken place. Our research has highlighted several areas where the church building may be of help:
We were successful in securing a Local Network Fund grant for £7,000 for a project to develop the "undercroft" (a disused vestry) in St. James as a meeting room for 14 to 18 year olds. This area has a separate entrance to the main church and, as such, is a space that the teenagers can use for meeting and playing pool, music and generally socialising. However, it has not been used for a number of years and was in need of extensive refurbishment to make it a safe and welcoming meeting place. As I write this in mid-August the renovations are well under way. The teenagers have been very much involved in contributing to this project and will be responsible for decorating the facility and choosing equipment. They have also drawn up a code of conduct in conjunction with the County Youth Service and with members of Welland PCC.
Another new venture called 'Just Clobber' opened in St. James on Tuesday 20th July for the sale of nearly new clothing, books and quality bric-a-brac. This is now open every Tuesday between 10 am and 4 pm. Entrance is free and all proceeds from sales go to St. James' Church. The venture (initiated and organised by Jackie Guy) has proved to be very successful to date and we have been overwhelmed by support from residents in Welland and those further a field. So come along, hunt for a bargain, meet your friends and have a the opportunity of the church being open to find a peaceful corner to yourself. Beyond this, our next steps will be to actively seek grant funding to to:
We would then be in a position to offer St. James for a wider range of activities such as concerts, drama, film showings and art exhibitions. If you have am comments or suggestions please feel free to contact me. David Richardson
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| (C) St James' Church Parochial Church Council 2004 | ||