ST CHRISTOPHER’S PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL
SUMMARY OF COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON 9TH SEPTEMBER 2025
Martin updated members on progress with a number of activities, including recruitment of volunteers to the parish finance team, and plans for an ecumenical service in the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in January 2026. Virginia provided an update on progress towards the installation of credit/debit card readers at both entrances to the church. Kim, one of our safeguarding representatives, provided an update on safeguarding activities; it was agreed that our representatives should speak at all weekend masses to make parishioners aware of the provisions.
Johanna reported on the progress being made by the group examining maintenance and refurbishment of the premises. A set of fabric-covered stackable chairs with arms are to be purchased for use in the area of the church designated for use by people with restricted mobility. The chairs can also be used in the parish hall when required. Johanna noted that, following feedback, the area designated for use by people with restricted mobility has been relocated to ensure that those using the area could see and hear clearly.
Fire safety was discussed in some detail, following the recent fire safety review and training provided by the diocese. The church is a relatively confined space and the combination of some narrow passing points, vestments and other flammable materials, and the use of candles, make fire one of our more significant risks, with the potential for serious harm. Among various actions needed, building evacuation arrangements are to be shared with parishioners and tested annually.
There was some discussion about the siting of the Memorial Book; pending a long-term solution it was proposed to site it on a stand in front of the altar for the month of November.
The brainstorming discussion of parish hospitality and social events, held on 28th June, had generated several ideas that are already being implemented; other suggestions will be considered in coming months. It is planned to hold a similar session to discuss the spiritual life of the parish in the Spring.
Violet provided an update on plans for the Advent Carol Service. Last year’s event was held on the last Sunday before Christmas. In the hope of increased attendance, this year’s event will take place on Friday 5th December to coordinate with Cheam Village Christmas Fair.
Johanna presented a summary of the parish response to the archdiocese’s “Called to Bear Fruit” consultation. This led to a more general discussion about how to engage with various different ages within the parish and in particular young adults. It was suggested that we are really good at engagement up to age 16 but that we are not successfully engaging the 18-30 year olds. A small group of PPC members agreed to discuss this further and bring ideas to the next meeting.
It was agreed to hold a “Sign-up Sunday” event on 20th-21st September to encourage parishioners to volunteer to get involved in parish activities. A Jubilee Year visit to Westminster Cathedral is also being arranged.
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.