StAugustine's-Hamilton_Parish-Pulse-Nr3_Nov-2014

Parish Council activities – Hugh’s view

During 2014 the Council has enjoyed having three new members, and introducing some new ideas. A significant part of the Council focus has been on outreach to the community, in recent times manifested by Youthchat and Pink October. We would encourage feedback regarding these to Marian or Rodney. The upcoming Carols shall of course represent our largest outreach event for 2014, and then in April 2015 we shall have the ANZAC event and Dedication of the new windows … a ‘once in a decade’ event. More details elsewhere. Regrettably, finances continue also to occupy the minds of the Council, which is the designated funding authority for the Parish. We all recognise the invaluable contribution made by our Jumble team, which allows us to fund both a Diocesan

Assessment (donation)-approved at a steady $35,000 for 2015, fund the cost of office and musical support and maintenance activities. In a time of diminishing attendances and related giving, plus declining fundraising income, Council is facing challenges in providing a positive budget for 2015 whilst preserving our Reserves … and maintaining our beautiful grounds and gardens, which survive on the goodwill, many hours spent and donations of Tom, Michael and their small team. However, outreach relies upon many aspects, from the tolling of our bell over the surrounding suburbs to the generosity and goodwill of our parish- ioners as they interface with others – and the visual beauty of our grounds and gardens, which are enjoyed daily by many families.

ST FRANCIS’ DAY 2014 There was movement at St Augustine’s, for the word had got around that the priest was helping us celebrate the joy of pets in our lives … (sorry, Banjo!). At both services there were animals large and small, some held somewhat anxiously by their owners, others just basking in the pats and pettings from all these strangers. As Marian blessed each one and Rodney photographed it for posterity, Blessing cards were handed out to commemorate the Service and all returned to their pews with very little noise. It is always somewhat amazing to have cats, dogs, and guinea pigs etc sitting quietly together with only the occasional little investigation to establish that they are all friends here!

We were particularly delighted to have so many adopt the pink theme for the day (Pink October). There were pink bows, pink leads, even a pink tutu on a very large dog.

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