Minister's Letter - October 2026

Dear friends,

Now Summer is behind us, we are starting to see signs of Autumn, including the falling and changing colours of leaves, and a drop in temperatures. For me it is a beautiful season which showcases God’s handiwork in creation. He continues to be at work in the world – and in our lives!

Most of you will know we have had some challenging conversations during this year, about the Exchange Project, the boiler and heating system, and not least about the viability of St. John’s. And there have been times when the situation has felt very bleak.

Following the condemnation of the boiler, a significant energy survey was carried out of the building, which led to the need to explore a new heating system that would fulfil our responsibility as Christians to demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and all things eco.

Having sought a second opinion about the boiler, it has been made clear that it was a blocked flue that was the problem, and the boiler is in fact in working order. Good news for the winter!

God continues to be at work in the world – and in our lives!

On Tuesday 15 September, we held an extra-ordinary joint meeting of the Church Council and the Exchange Project Committee, where we discussed and agreed the following proposals:

1. That we continue to use the existing gas central heating system until it is clear there needs to be a replacement.

2. That we commit to developing a strategy towards becoming an Eco Church, including a long-term installation of an Eco-compatible heating system.

3. That we seek to appoint a paid Centre Manager with responsibility for:

Bookings

Community outreach

Property – repairs and maintenance.

4. That the Exchange Project Committee is disbanded and that all matters relating to the Church and its facilities and activities become the overall responsibility of the Church Council.

(NB This may be subject to the approval of Circuit Meeting, as the EP was set up as a Circuit project.)

5. That we appoint Simon Stephens as Treasurer for St. John’s.

God continues to be at work in the world – and in our lives!

We are deeply grateful to Steve Fishwick for his work as Treasurer, and for managing our finances so efficiently.

We are also deeply grateful for Barbara who continues to hold the fort in terms of bookings, various quotes, meeting various companies etc, and more behind the scenes.

I am in contact with the District Lay Employment officer with regards to the appointment of a Centre Manager, and we will be discussing with the Circuit Leadership Team the application for grants to fund the appointment.

There is much still to do. But please continue to pray, because God continues to be at work in the world – and in our lives!

We praise Him for all that is past, and trust Him for all that’s to come!

God bless you,

Adrian