Notes of Parish Forum held on Sunday 24 November 2002 at 3.30pm in the Upper RoomCanon Michael welcomed all present and the meeting began with Scripture and prayer.
Review of Forum
Canon opened the discussion by asking for comments and views as to how the Forum was working.
The question was asked as to the purpose of the Forum and Canon outlined that the function of the Forum is to provide a place of dialogue between priest and people of the parish for the building up of God's Kingdom. It is also a time for the exchange of information. It is not a decision making body, but it is a very important means of communication and also a great help in the decision making process.
Not everyone present had realised that the notes of the Forum meetings were posted on the noticeboard in the Church porch so Canon read through some notes from previous meetings to jog memories. Some would have preferred to be furnished with a personal copy of the notes, but as these may be read in the porch and also on the website it was thought that this was adequate.
One person has discontinued attending the Liturgy Preparation Meetings because it was mentioned that Canon Ryan, as presider over the Liturgy, has the right to change hymns that have been chosen by the people attending the meeting if he thinks it is appropriate. This is not done lightly as the people who prepare the Liturgy are appreciated for the work they do.
The question was raised regarding formation of the laity. One was concerned that the laity have not got a vision of what is going to be needed in the future. It was understood that collaboration between priest and people is the only way forward. The Bishops' document The Sign We Give was referred to as a very good model to follow.
It was pointed out that formation is already taking place through the doing of the many ministries that are flourishing in the parish. A number of people at the meeting then told us about the particular ministries they were involved in and the formation they are receiving:
Liturgy of the Word with Children - Marie Ledgeway outlined the work that is being done by the different teams. They have four evening meetings a year to plan and discuss future sessions eg. Advent, Christmas and the Crib Service on Christmas Eve.
Ecumenism - Angela Breffit spoke about her attendance at the Winter Meeting of the Council of Churches where she was one of the speakers on the theme of 'How your faith influences your work'. Angela is a supply teacher and told us how her faith inspires her work.
St Wilfrid's School - Eileen Sparks, vice chair of Governors said that she had been involved in meetings concerning the Admission Policy and spoke of the excellent way in which the new teachers have settled into the school under the direction of an enthusiastic head teacher. He has come with plenty of fresh ideas and he is already making an impact.
Hospital Chaplaincy - Sr Margaret IBVM and Sr Margaret RSM gave us an account of how well the chaplaincy works. There are five Catholic lay people on the chaplaincy team and they work very well with the ecumenical team headed by the Rev Bob Rogers. They visit the Catholic patients and take them Holy Communion at the weekend and sometimes during the week.
Ministers of the Word for the weekend meet every Wednesday at 8pm to share insights on the Scripture and have a practice in Church.
Ministers of the Eucharist meet regularly for a time of prayer and sharing. Two ministers organise and lead the prayer time at each meeting. It was asked that for those unable to attending the meetings that a short summary should be provided for them.
RCIA - Elsie Lyon gave an account of the meetings where 12 or 14 people meet every Tuesday in the Upper Room. Seven of the group are making the journey into full initiation into the Church.
It was stated that all these meetings, at times, take place without the presence of Canon Michael and this in itself is formation of the laity.
Catechists Course Attention was drawn to the forthcoming course starting in January. This is a great opportunity for people to get involved at the heart of the Church.
LITURGY
The music group is now in place and many favourable comments have been received.
Again it was proposed that the Mass Sheets be brought back into use. Canon Michael said that the Church encourages us to listen as the Word of God is proclaimed. Missals may be of help if used as a preparation for our Sunday Liturgy. Also it was mentioned that the Simple Prayer Book and the Catholic Diary contain the ordinary of the Mass.
Anointing of the Sick was appreciated by those who were anointed and it is hoped that this will be celebrated annually.
The November Memorial Mass was well attended and many took part by lighting a candle and placing it in front of the altar in memory of their loved ones.
Saints Feastdays: It was requested that these days be printed on the weekly newsletter. This is not often possible because of lack of space but a copy of the Diocesan Ordo would be posted in the porch.
SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION
Baptism: A four week course has just been concluded and it seems that it is a real help in introducing people to each other as well as informing them of their responsibilities
First Communion Preparation: Four catechists are supporting parents and helping children prepare for the Sacrament.
ASCENT
Maureen Potter gave us the background to the Movement - for the 50 years plus age group. Its three aims are: spirituality, friendship and mission. The first meeting in Central York took place in October and was attended by some 20 people. The group will meet in the Upper Room on the last Friday of each month after the 12.10pm Mass and all denominations are welcome.
GOSPEL CHALLENGE
Lionel Sloane-Stanley enthused about the recent weekend in the Upper Room. He recommends it to everyone!
FINANCE
Canon Michael was pleased to say that the monies are coming in steadily. Our Refurbishment Account stands at £158,995.71 and the Parish Account is £30,837.46 giving us a grand total of £189,833.17
Next Forum - Canon Michael announced that the dates for next years meetings would be published soon.
