South and West - Report on the inaugural area meeting on the 30th June.

South West Region ‘Zoom’ Meeting – 30 June

Clergy, Churchwardens and Ops. Managers from across the South West gathered for the region’s first online meeting – most “attending” for the first time. 

The network’s national Chair, Hilary Barber (Halifax Minster) gave an introduction to the Major Churches Network and a summary of recent developments, training opportunities and the recent day conferences at Oxford and Cambridge.

Given the region’s large geographical area, and variable transport links, it was agreed that future meetings would alternate between short, online meetings, and ‘in person’ gatherings at various locations across the dioceses – to allow members to see other Major Churches in action.

The main speaker for the day was Joseph Davies – EIG’s southern Church Support Manager – who gave an overview of the range services and (free) advice that the company offers. He drew out those areas with particular relevance to major churches – security and Martyn’s Law; emergency planning;  Fundraising strategy and Applying for Grants.

Next meeting – Wednesday 21 October

We are invited to Wimborne Minster (Dorset) and the Minster Church of St Cuthburga.                     Following the 11am Eucharist, there will be an opportunity to see something of the Minster’s rich heritage, including the Chained Library; and to hear about current operational practices and its recent designation as a “Net Zero Demonstrator Church”.

Further details and directions will be circulated in good time.