ST CHRISTOPHER’S PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL
Summary of meeting on 18th May 2026
Members agreed a proposal to extend the term of the PPC Chair and Deputy Chairs from 2 years to 3 years, with immediate effect, postponing the election of a new chair from September 2026 to September 2027. A proposal to increase the number of PPC meetings from the current 4 per year was also discussed and agreed; PPC leadership will provide a recommendation on the number and timing of meetings in 2027 at the next PPC meeting.
Karen provided an update on plans for parish social activities incorporating the suggestions developed at the parish brainstorming discussion of social events held on 28th June 2025. We aim to hold 4 events per year, including a summer “tea and scones” event, and a Winter Fair. Discussion included how to encourage wider participation from parishioners in these events. Other parish activities were also discussed including “Papas Club” and the Advent Carol Service.
Nick provided an update on parish finances; discussion included the impact of the June 2025 financial appeal to parishioners, and the progress installing and configuring the credit/debit card readers. An update to parishioners covering both these topics is planned before the summer break. Father Antony reported that Martin had agreed to continue to chair the Finance Committee until September 2027.
Other topics discussed included safeguarding, a deanery evangelisation event in which several PPC members are participating, and agreement to proceed with the purchase of a set of stackable upholstered chairs for use in both the church and the hall. Rhoda described plans for a flower-arranging demonstration through which we hope to recruit more members to the flower-arranging team.
Parish music was also discussed, including plans for a parish meeting in June to explore the development of music across all our weekend masses, to understand parishioners’ preferences and encourage wider participation
Share your thoughts and suggestions
We would welcome your feedback on the work of the parish pastoral council as described in this meeting summary, and your ideas on how we could further develop our parish community. Please let us have your feedback either via the parish office (cheam@rcaos.org.uk) or by speaking to any member of the PPC. We’d also welcome further volunteers to contribute to organising or supporting our many activities and ministries. We really look forward to hearing from you.