Synopsis of the Minutes of the meeting of the PCC held in Royston Parish Church on Tuesday 28 July 2026 at 7.00 p.m.
Present: There were 16 present, the meeting was chaired by the vicar.
The meeting was opened with prayer
There were 4 apologies
The minutes of the previous meeting held on 16th June were approved after a small amendment.
Under matters arising:
The PCC was reassured the PCC that the clergy was aware of the desirability of using public transport and car sharing where appropriate. only travel costs to retreats are claimed and not accommodation, even though there is an entitlement to this.
With regard to solar panels, it was reported that the architect would need to arrange for the weight of solar panels to be assessed on the building and consideration should be given to whether local businesses may wish to purchase energy from the church.
There was discussion on data security, the matter is in hand.
The standing committee had not taken any decisions requiring ratification.
The finance report was received, all is progressing correctly although dialogue with the electricity company continues. There were no questions on any other financial matters.
Committee Reports
a. Outreach (17 June)
The PCC was content with the memorandum with the parenting chaos group.
b. Fabric (7 July)
The Broken gravestone is receiving attention
Progress had been made regarding the boundary between the church and the Priory.
The cross on the chapel roof needs attention and is was agreed to attend to this as a matter of urgency.
c. Events (11 July)
It was agreed that the grant for community spaces would be spent on heating with some of the remainder being spent on a coffee machine and a tea pot.
d. HR Committee (28 July)
The vacancy for a minister of music and of a music outreach worker is in hand but there was nothing to report yet.
The concept of sharing the screen and using a personal device (such as an IPAD) is progressing well.
The PCC reviewed the cost to organisations hiring the church, this was unanimously agreed.
Acknowledging that technology (including audio visual, streaming, data management, and office tasks) is an important aspect of church life, PCC members had a long and detailed discussion, distinguishing between work which should be carried out professionally and tasks which are suited to volunteers. Steps need to be taken to ensure that the church is up to date and on top of these matters.
The vicar would shortly be having a conversation with an IT expert and would report.
It was confirmed that the church would be represented at the Installation of the Bishop of St Albans
The meeting closed with Grace at 9.30pm.