AnnualReport2009

Group

Adult Group

Name

RossVevers, PatVevers

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Fellowship

Office bearers

GrahamLockhart, DorothyLockhart, SandraBarnard, AlanBarnard

Membership numbers

69

Attendance

35

Meeting times & days

First Friday of the month

Locations used by Group

Church

Highlights of the year

Every meeting

February barbeque at Norton’s Park

March "Hope after Taliban" with Mark and Vicki Timlin

April "Entertainer" with Franciscos Henri

May "Y generation and Kombi Krew" with Alanee

June "Running on Empty" with Robyn Koumourou

July "Christmas in July" at Lilydale International

August "Memory Lane" with Irene Marriot

September Origami with Japanese students

October with Dr Ray Ferguson, veterinarian

November Dr Maree Fallon on Alzheimers disease

December Christmas breakup at Mulgrave Country Club

Any needs that Church Council can assist

Group

Badminton

Name

IanMcMillan

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Promote health and feloowship through badminton with members of the congregation and the community.

Office bearers

IanMcMillan, OnnChin, LynneBoyer.

Membership numbers

20

Attendance

6 Monday and 6 Thursday

Meeting times & days

Mondays 8-10pm and Thursdays 8-10pm

Locations used by Group

Church hall

Highlights of the year

Through the church website, community members have come along to play. Assisted with the Fete, Chinese Banquet and the International Night.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

NIL

Group

Bible Study (SG)

Name

Garry Philpott

Purpose, Aims or Mission

To encourage each other to grow in faith , to uplift each other and our community in prayer, and celebrate God’s blessings in our lives.

Office bearers

Group Leader : Garry Philpott

Facilitator: Sue Laub

Membership numbers

10

Attendance

8

Meeting times & days

2009 -Monday fortnightly

2010- 1st Monday of the month ( subject to change) at 8.00pm

Locations used by Group

Private home

Highlights of the year

Experiencing God’s grace and love in our lives and in the lives of those around us.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

Group

C.A.E. Bookgroup Uniting Church GW

Name

Don & Bev Reid

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Enjoy reading and social interaction

Office bearers

Don Reid, Secretary. Mary Ward, social carer.

Membership numbers

15

Attendance

15

Meeting times & days

First Wednesday of each month.

Locations used by Group

Members’ homes

Highlights of the year

Organizing the book stall at the Church Fete each year, raising approximately $3000 this year

Any needs that Church Council can assist

None

Group

Careful Kitchen Crew

Name

Margaret Fraser

Purpose, Aims or Mission

• To provide leadership, training, advice and supervision regarding the implementation of GWUC’s approved Food Safety Program.

• To be a point of contact for City of Monash regarding food safety at GWUC.

• Review and update Food Safety Program as required and maintain communication with City of Monash regarding any changes

• To assist internal GWUC groups with planning for food related events and to provide information regarding use of the church kitchen as required.

• To assist with food safety information and monitoring at the annual fete

• To plan and provide regular training opportunities for all church groups and individuals who use the church kitchen

• Weekly: To monitor the cleanliness and other measures in the church kitchen in accordance with requirements of the Food Safety Program, including refrigerator clean, removal of unsafe foods, fridge temperature monitoring, regular cleaning of bins, cupboards, bench-tops

• Bi-monthly or as required: Cleaning of the dishwasher, defrosting the freezer, pest control, calibration of digital thermometer

• Attendance at regular working bees in church kitchen to clean walls, oven, microwave, rangehood, removing stains from crockery, etc.

• This group also takes responsibility for Sunday morning tea provisions (tea, coffee, sugar) and for purchasing some of the cleaning products and utensils used in the kitchen. NB. This is the only item for which we require funding.

Office bearers

GWUC Food Safety Supervisor: Margaret Fraser (to step down in 2010)

Other members: Cynthia Chin, Dianne Sides, Kelli Benjamin, Lois Hosking, Susan Stringer plus Michael Foo (as Property Committee rep)

Membership numbers

6

Attendance

5

Meeting times & days

About 4 formal meetings per year, plus email and informal contact as needed

Locations used by Group

Church kitchen, meeting space

Highlights of the year

• Continuing approval by City of Monash of our standards and procedures

• Assistance by majority of kitchen users with following Kitchen Instructions

• Annual training morning planned and successfully conducted in June.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

• Reminders to all groups that as an approved food service business, all kitchen users at GWUC are obliged to follow the Kitchen Instructions (as on kitchen wall), including emptying of bins, washing floors, removal of leftovers from fridge, etc.

Group

Children & Families Ministry Team

Name

Carolyn Blakemore

Purpose, Aims or Mission

To support the CF Coordinator, brainstorm new initiatives, oversee all Children and Families programs and activities at GWUC.

Office bearers

Chairperson and minute secretary rotate each meeting.

Lynne Boyer Church Council Representative.

Membership numbers

7

Attendance

5

Meeting times & days

Usually Thursday evenings once or twice a term.

Locations used by Group

Usually meet in member’s homes.

Highlights of the year

With special thanks to Kimberly Easton the GWUC Playgroups have had another successful year supporting families in our local community. The Playgroups are seen as an important part of GWUC's outreach, and are now being support by Community Outreach with the hope of beginning a "Christian Playgroup" on Wednesday's in 2010.

The 4.30pm worship has had a very consistent group of new and old families this year. With it's current format it continues to provide a fun, safe, Christian community for families as they seek to explore Christ in their daily lives. Some highlights have been picnic and prayer walks at Jells Park, presentation of bibles to our Grade 3 children, having some of our upper primary children help to lead the singing in worship, our very yummy meals, watching the children as they enthusiastically learn more about God in interactive and creative ways and seeing a Christ centred community grow where adults and children deepen their friendships and care for each other.

Baptismal afternoon tea.

First Aid Course - with the attendance of a number playgroup parents and members of the congregation.

Attendance at "Overflow" (CF and youth training day held at the CTM) by Carolyn Blakemore, Diane Craig, Heather Hon and Kimberly Easton.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

Employment of a 0.5 or 0.25 Children and Families Coordinator

With the resignation of Carolyn, the CFM team will need continuing support from the Church Council as to how might their role change and the appointment of a convenor.

Group

Choir

Name

Barbara Hurst

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Enhancement of the worship life of the church through music and song.

Office bearers

Membership numbers

24

Attendance

12

Meeting times & days

Rehearsals, weekly on Thursdays at 8pm. Performances, 1st and 3rd Sundays at 9am worship

Locations used by Group

The church. Room 1 for Thursday evening rehearsals. Room 3 for Sunday morning rehearsals

Highlights of the year

1. Start/Middle/End of Year social gatherings at members' homes.

2. Anniversary service (combined with other choir groups)

3. Ecumenical Choral Festival (all Monash area church choir groups) (did not attend in 2009, due to choir absences)

4. Christmas Festival of Lessons and Carols (Sassafras Uniting Church 30 Nov 2008, 29 Nov 2009, GWUC 17 Dec 2008, 13 Dec 2009

5. Occasional after-rehearsal coffee evenings.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

Adequate (heated!) space for rehearsals, and storage of music (preferably accessible during rehearsals). The choir freezes in winter because Room 1 has been made unavailable, and often has difficulty in accessing music kept in the cupboards in Room 1 because of other competing uses.

Group

Christmas Alight

Name

Belinda Chung

Purpose, Aims or Mission

To share the REAL meaning of Christmas with local Children.

Office bearers

Belinda Chung and Gail Irvine Convenors

Membership numbers

50 helpers

Attendance

Meeting times & days

Two or three days in December

Locations used by Group

Whole church building

Highlights of the year

• This year 97 children from the local and not so local area (we had enrolments from as far afield as Bentleigh, Lysterfield and Oakleigh this year, as well as over 60 from Glen Waverley and Mount Waverley) came together to celebrate the miracle of Christmas.

• Christmas Alight involves members of all church services, and of all ages – from Kids Church, youth, and volunteers from all services.

• We are involved in telling the real story of Christmas to those who are most likely to forget it – children!

• This year we learnt about the pieces of Christmas - the star, angels, shepherds and Jesus were sung, drawn, made, eaten, and learnt about.

• Children left the program with the understanding that the Good News about Christmas is the birth of Jesus, not the gifts. Seeing their faces, their excitement and joy at the activities and message offered is incredible.

• It is an amazing outreach program, culminating in a family BBQ where people have a chance to meet, chat and enjoy the Church’s hospitality.

• My personal highlight of the year was being shouted down by a group of about 60 children when I suggested that the Good News was that we received presents at Christmas. They were adamant that I was wrong, and many shouted out to me that the Good News was that Jesus was born. What an amazing gift to all volunteers to see this before Christmas.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

The continued support of the Church Council is appreciated. Allowing the event to run, and to use the facilities of the Church over the period of the event.

Group

Church Council

Name

BeverlyMcGlead

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Management of the Church

Office bearers

John Hurst, acting chair. David Morgan, secretary.

Membership numbers

22

Attendance

15-18

Meeting times & days

Third Wednesday of each month. Executive the previous Thursday

Locations used by Group

Room 1. Office.

Highlights of the year

Highlights:

1. “Advance Day” – 30 May, 4 Jul, when Elders and Councillors met to discuss a) the church vision, and b) worship times and ministerial needs

2. “Growing Generous Givers” a campaign to recognize and encourage the financial support given by the congregation towards the missional areas of the church.

3. “On The Way Together” the fruition of a year-long study of the church’s mission and vision, culminating in a statement of our mission strategy in the four areas: Community of Faith; Inclusive Community; Community Hub; Community of Outreach.

4. The development of a new framework for the “Church Structures”, a document identifying the roles, responsibilities and relationships of the major church infrastructure groups.

5. The development of a recommendation to proceed with the appointment to the vacant Minister of the Word position, a recommendation subsequently approved nem. con. by the Congregation.

2009 was a somewhat difficult year, due to changes with the Chair of Council. In January RossMackinnon was elected as chair, replacing Graeme Frecker who had been chair for a number of years. Unfortunately, Ross was not able to continue in the role, and stood down shortly after his election. A new election saw BeverlyMcGlead elected as chair, with JohnHurst as her deputy. Then in July, Beverley suffered a fall, which meant that she was unable to continue, and John assumed the role of Acting Chair while Beverley recovered. At the time of writing, Beverley has indicated that she will not seek re-election for 2010.

During Beverley’s time as chair, an “Advance Day” was organized for May 6, and held at High St Rd Uniting Church, thanks to the good graces of the congregation there, and particularly to Rev Julie Ross. At this workshop, about 60 elders and councillors, under the leadership of Roger Vass discussed the difficulties facing the church (notably financial), and drafted some plans to address them during the day. Of particular help in this process was the On The Way Together vision that had been assembled under the guidance of Presbytery Minister — Mission Education: Rev Steve Terrell.

That day proved too short to complete all the business that had been planned, and a second workshop was organized for 4 Jul 2009, this time under the guidance of the new Acting Chair, John Hurst. A report on this meeting is available at http://www.ajh.id.au/ggg/CouncilRetreat4Jul2009.

Two key decisions came out of this meeting: a) to affirm the worship times, but to endeavour to make them genuinely accessible to wider audiences, and b) to proceed with the vision of filling the vacant 3rd placement. The latter had the consequence of needing action on the financial position, and to this end, Roger Vass convened a committee that developed a Growing Generous Givers plan, through consultation with Rev Carolyn Kitto from NSW UCA. This group set a target of realising a 30% increase in planned giving which unfortunately was not fully met, although we were encouraged by the achieved 21% increase, much more than had been realised in previous giving campaigns. The group also met all their sub-goals, such as increasing the number of direct debit givers.

The work of the GGG campaign, and the recommendations of the council with respect to the third MoW placement, were endorsed nem. con. by a Congregational Meeting on 30 Nov 2009, and many saw this as a very positive step.

During the year, a small sub-committee, led by Judy Lowe, examined the governance structures of the church, and presented a report to Council on Church Structures. This report identifies a new way of viewing the key relationships between the various governance groups of the church, and is currently being implemented.

The Council has also been occupied in thrashing out the implications of the On The Way Together vision, and this has had some particular consequences, such as the need to re-establish the church Communications Committee, which will need to be charged with developing a broader strategy to ensure that all members of the congregation are aware of the Council’s vision for the future of the church, particularly with respect to the operation of the OTWT mission groups. These Missional groups (Outreach, Community Hub, Inclusive Community, and Growing Faith) also figure prominently in the Council’s thinking on the third MoW placement, and the development of the church profile for the Ministry Team.

The Council has begun the process of replacing the office computer, and establishing a more modern database, which will better serve the needs of the congregation.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

Group

Cleaning & Mowing

Name

Ross Lennon

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Reports through Property.

Office bearers

Membership numbers

Attendance

Meeting times & days

Locations used by Group

Highlights of the year

Any needs that Church Council can assist

Group

Elders

Name

RossMackinnon

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Spiritual oversight of the congregation

Office bearers

RossMackinnon Convernor

John Hurst Minute Secretary

Membership numbers

39

Attendance

25

Meeting times & days

Second Wednesday, February to December

Locations used by Group

Room 1 for meetings

Highlights of the year

1. We now know how many Elders we have. (This was not known at the start of the year!)

2. Elections for Elders were held in June, the first elections in three years – 23 Elders were elected, including 9 new Elders.

3. Communication with Church Council is improving – each Elders’ Gathering includes items for Church Council.

4. Elders were involved in and endorsed the recommendations of the Church Council’s Structures Committee. We look forward to these recommendations being fully implemented.

5. Elders are starting to see that their role is more than just “serving at communion and welcoming people to worship” – they are being encouraged to take an active interest in at least one of the four Missional Groups – and are doing so.

6. Elders should increasingly become better informed about what is happening around the Church as our Gatherings now include reports and feedback from the Ministry team, the four Missional Groups and Church Council.

7. Elders are being encouraged to assist more in leading worship and to consider undertaking studies for Lay Preaching Accreditation.

8. Joint “Advance Day” sharing with Church Councillors in July.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

1. Include an Elders segment on the Agenda each Church Council meeting.

2. Implement fully the recommendations of the Structures Committee.

3. Continue to work to improve communication between Church Council and the Elders.

4. Remember that the Elders exist and have an important part to play in Church life.

5. Consider making the “Advance Day” joint meeting an annual event.

Group

Encounter Group (SG)

Name

Lois Hosking

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Fellowship & Personal enrichment

Office bearers

n/a

Membership numbers

6

Attendance

4-6

Meeting times & days

Second and Fourth Tuesdays of the month at 8pm

Locations used by Group

Private home

Highlights of the year

Any needs that Church Council can assist

Group

Fete Committee

Name

Yan Emms

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Raise money to fund Outreach Projects

Office bearers

Cliff Baker, Yan Emms, Judy Fry,

Murray Lowe, Faye Wagon

Membership numbers

5

Attendance

5

Meeting times & days

Monthly from June to October

Locations used by Group

Homes

Highlights of the year

A time when the whole church is involved with a singular purpose. Great attititude, generosity and enthusiasm from setting up to cleaning up. The community supports our fete through donations and participation in it.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

The COP committee needs to be formed and seeking proposals from church members by April so that the Congregational meeting can endorse the selection by June. This will help greatly when we promote our fete to the community and when seeking corporate donations.

Group

Finance Stewards

Name

Blair Feenaghty

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Count, record and bank offerings

Office bearers

Convenor: Blair Feenaghty

Membership numbers

41

Attendance

Meeting times & days

Locations used by Group

Outer vestry after services

Highlights of the year

Any needs that Church Council can assist

New volunteers are always welcome. The average age is getting too high.

Group

FISH Aqua

Name

Judith & Warren Greenwood

Purpose, Aims or Mission

To provide pastoral care, friendship and fellowship to all who participate in the group

Office bearers

Judith & Warren Greenwood

Membership numbers

21

Attendance

18

Meeting times & days

8 times per year, usually Sunday evening meals.

Locations used by Group

Each others homes, restaurants, parks and beaches

Highlights of the year

Outstanding pastoral care, great fellowship, animated conversations on a wide variety of topics. Together with providing service at whole church meals, gatherings and events.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

To encourage and organise more families into FISH groups.

To revitalise the young families FISH groups.

To support existing FISH groups that are struggling.

Group

FISH Gold

Name

Sue & David Morgan

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Sharing feloowship in each others' homes

Office bearers

Convenors: Sue Morgan & Yan Emms

Membership numbers

16

Attendance

12

Meeting times & days

Sunday lunch about 6 times per year

Locations used by Group

Members' homes

Highlights of the year

Yum Cha.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

None

Group

FISH Orange

Name

Annette & Martin Wojak

Purpose, Aims or Mission

An environment in which to foster fellowship and support between group members, and to promote belonging and involvement in the wider community of the church.

Office bearers

Group Contact: Annette Wojak

Membership numbers

27

Attendance

14

Meeting times & days

Sunday lunch or afternoon tea 4 or 5 times per year on dates determined by group members

Locations used by Group

Members homes and local parks

Highlights of the year

Sharing in the joys and issues of family life.

Relaxing together with our families.

Extending friendships beyond group meeting times.

Welcoming new families and new babes to our group.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

None at this stage.

Group

FISH Purple

Name

Fiona & Niel Leister

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Support, friendship & pastoral care for group members.

Office bearers

Fiona & Neil Leister Convenors.

Membership numbers

18

Attendance

16

Meeting times & days

8 times per year for either Lunch, Afternoon Tea on Dinner usually over the weekend.

Locations used by Group

Members homes and other venues as required.

Highlights of the year

Red Hill market and Christmas get together.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

None.

Group

FISH Red

Name

Lynne and Clyde Boyer

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Meet together, Keep in touch, support each other

Office bearers

Lynne Boyer group leader

Membership numbers

Attendance

14

Meeting times & days

Not often

Locations used by Group

Church, home groups.

Highlights of the year

A large number of the group, including the youth, getting together for the trivia night and the Asian banquet. Supporting members when unwell and in bereavement.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

Nil

Group

FISH Yellow

Name

AnneMcMillan & IanMcMillan

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Develop relationships in a social atmosphere and provide support for each other.

Office bearers

IanMcMillan Coordinator

Membership numbers

16

Attendance

14

Meeting times & days

Usually a Sunday, either lunch or dinner.

Locations used by Group

Usually members' homes.

Highlights of the year

We share in the special events of the group, e.g. weddings, special birthdays and achievements within the families.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

NIL

Group

Flowers Power

Name

Margaret Frecker

Purpose, Aims or Mission

To arrange flowers that beautify the worship centre through each week, and that enhance worship, wedding and funeral services.

“May God grant that our hearts, our eyes and our hands receive His inspiration, enabling us to glorify His house with the beauty of leaves and blossoms which He has created”

Office bearers

Margaret Frecker, Convenor

Membership numbers

18

Attendance

Meeting times & days

Rarely

Locations used by Group

Church kitchen for preparation, usually for three hours on Friday or Saturday.

Highlights of the year

Many members of our church family comment on the flowers in our worship centre and feel personally involved through the “Thoughtful Flowers” program.

This year we have farewelled two ladies who have given their time and talents for many years and they will be really missed. But good news! We welcome three new volunteers and the return of another.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

Funds for flowers are supplied by members who support the “Thoughtful Flowers” program (32 weeks in 2010), and by the families involved in weddings and funerals.

If the flowers are ‘not funded’ the arranger may claim up to $30 from church funds.

The estimated net cost to church funds is uncertain, but in 2009 appears to be $289.

Some arrangers make no claim; most ladies use some flowers from private gardens.

All give their skill without charge, and about eight hours of their time to arrange and tend the flowers during the week about three times each year. Funerals, and sometimes weddings, require fresh arrangements during a working week: funerals are unplanned! Storage space in the kitchen is needed for floral equipment.

Group

Free Spirit

Name

Vida Foo

Purpose, Aims or Mission

To assist in our church worship service once a month and when required

Help other churches in enriching their worship service

Assist in fund raising as part of our outreach projects

Be self-funding

Office bearers

Music director: Deb Leigh

Assistant music director: Philippa Hillman

Music selection and purchase: Deb Leigh and Alan Cook

Liaison with ministerial team: Vida Foo

Librarians: Maria Gillies and Robin Pope

Music borrowing: Lise Hales

Performance calendar/schedule: Geoff Willis

Roll: Robin Pope

Scarves and ties: Marj Snare

Prayer and care: Marj Snare

Treasurer: John Snare

Historian: John Snare

Supper roster: Max Thomson

Membership numbers

Attendance

Meeting times & days

Every Wednesday 8pm

Locations used by Group

Private home.

Highlights of the year

Any needs that Church Council can assist

Group

GWUC Playgroups

Name

KayeMackinnon

Purpose, Aims or Mission

To provide an opportunity for our Church community to outreach and serve the local community.

To create a caring Christian environment where local families play, connect with others, and develop supportive relationships.

Office bearers

Playgroup Coordinator – Kimberly Easton

Support Team Members – KayeMackinnon, Geraldine Fleming, Pam Graham, Helen Boucher, Belinda Chung, Diane Craig

Membership numbers

25 families, 40 children

Attendance

Virtually all.

Meeting times & days

10-12pm each Monday and Tuesday during School Terms

A new group will be formed in 2010 running from 10-12pm each Wednesday during School Terms

Locations used by Group

Rooms 2 & 3 and the Playground

Highlights of the year

* 2009 was a very successful and enjoyable year at Playgroups. This important community outreach reached over 30 local families including over 40 children throughout the year. Families came from a diverse range of cultures and backgrounds with only three of the families attending Glen Waverley Uniting Church regularly.

* An event was held each Term with Morning Tea and a special activity or craft provided, for example our Easter Morning Tea was very successful with the mum’s and kids enjoying warm Hot Cross Buns, fruit and an Easter Egg Hunt. The children also enjoyed making Easter craft provided by Belinda Chung, many thanks to Belinda, Carolyn and Kaye for assisting to make these events successful. Plans are currently underway for our Christmas Parties which Santa will visit and distribute gifts for the children and mum’s.

* In August the Playgroup Support Team was formed with the assistance of the Outreach Team. We are now looking forward to being able to develop our Playgroups into Missional Playgroups and provide an even better outreach service to our local community.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

With the closing of Occasional Childcare at the end of Term 3 a number of tasks and their associated costs that previously were the responsibility of OCC became the responsibility of Playgroups. The management of these tasks (e.g. refilling the sandpit, tanbark, maintenance of equipment and toys) are still being discussed and assistance may be necessary from the Church community in the future.

Group

Keep Fit Group

Name

Nancy Burns

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Women only group, exercising, dancing and marching.

Office bearers

Val Bannister runs the group and hires Church facilities

Membership numbers

50

Attendance

40

Meeting times & days

9:45am Thursday during school terms

Locations used by Group

Hall

Highlights of the year

Recoveries from illness and injury being helped by the group.

New grandchildren and great grand children.

About one third of the group come from the GWUC congregation.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

Normal services to building renters.

Group

Kids Church (Sunday School)

Name

Debbie Graham

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Kids Church is children and young people discovering who God is. What is He like? What does He do, and how that relates to our own lives?

Office bearers

Carolyn Blakemore -Coordinator /Staffing

Deb Graham-Administration

Marnie Troiani- Teacher Support

Membership numbers

42 children

Attendance

20

Meeting times & days

4:30 Sunday, and part of the Children's and Families' service

Locations used by Group

Whole church building and playground. Local parks including Jells

Highlights of the year

Children NAGGING their parents to bring them to Kids Church!

Whole family days including Mother and Father’s day pampering celebrations as well as games and movie nights.

Presentation of bibles to our grade 3 students.

Kids being active participants in weekly worship, -leading singing, collecting the offering, helping with communion, saying grace............

Having youth and more senior congregation members get involved in running kids church.

Scripture topics studied this year

• Jesus and John the Baptist- Matthew/Luke

• Easter Encounters -Luke

• Isaac and our Faithful God- Genesis

• Story Seeds – Matthew

• Adventures with God – Acts

• God is with Jacob – Genesis

• Jesus Rescues- Mathew/Romans

• Birth of a Nation (Moses) – Exodus

• Christmas Praise - Luke

The bright happy faces and the enthusiasm the children bring to learning about Christ.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

Implement current Child Safe (or Church Safe) procedures for Kids Church as was done for NCYC. Current practices are out of date with other organisations leaving our children and adult volunteers at risk.

Coordination from a Children’s and Families worker.

Encourage all congregational members to come along and see what happens in Kids Church. They might just be surprised.

It would be great if some of the Baptismal Elders came to Kids Church helping to foster close bonds across generations.

More/improved storage for craft and curriculum materials. The current Kids Church cupboard is quite dilapidated and access to it and the materials is difficult.

Group

Leisure Time

Name

MargaretFraser

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Leisure Time is an outreach program of GWUC. It serves the aged and lonely members of the wider community in an inclusive and caring way.

Leisure Time aims to:

o Enable those in its care to develop positive relationships with each other and their community;

o Deliver high quality services which promote human dignity;

o Ensure that the programs are non-discriminatory and are planned, implemented, managed and evaluated in a consultative and participative manner;

o Provide or encourage innovative services;

o Liaise and cooperate with other community service agencies in developing accessible and relevant services; and

o Advocate publicly on behalf of those who require services

Office bearers

Coordinator: MargaretFraser

Secretary: PamMcDonald

Treasurer: CliffBaker

Membership numbers

18 guests, 11 active committee

Attendance

Averages 12-15 guests and volunteers (3-4 hosts, 3 kitchen helpers and 3 drivers)

Meeting times & days

Every Monday, except public holidays and Christmas holidays, 10.30am-2pm

Locations used by Group

Fellowship area, kitchen and Room 1.

Highlights of the year

• Continuing positive relationships with and between guests. Many say it is the highlight of their week.

• We have organised 5 outings this year, and they also provide interesting opportunities, laughter and fun for our guests.

• Promotion of Leisure Time widely in the community. Four new guests this year and two more to start in Feb 2010.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

• Encourage links between Leisure Time and other church groups.

• Raise awareness of what Leisure Time offers both within the church and to the wider community

• Encourage congregational members to assist as volunteers – most people help once per month.

• Pray for continued wisdom in planning our programs, and for our guests.

Group

Meditation Group (SG)

Name

Bobbie Rooks

Purpose, Aims or Mission

In Silence to Contemplate (or feel without thought) The Divine

Office bearers

-

Membership numbers

7

Attendance

6

Meeting times & days

Monday evening weekly

Locations used by Group

Home

Highlights of the year

An evening of considering "Death, Dying & the Afterlife" with Ray Delaney

An evening watching an inspiring DVD re "Finding Our True Selves" and "Embracing the Present Moment"

Each week of Living the Stillness, Silence and Emptiness that Fills us. Being at Peace

Any needs that Church Council can assist

-

Group

Men's Fellowship

Name

Malcolm Chamberlain

Purpose, Aims or Mission

To foster Christian Fellowship

Office bearers

Chairman & Treasurer: Malcolm Chamberlain

Membership numbers

40

Attendance

26

Meeting times & days

2pm, First Tuesday of the month.

Locations used by Group

Room 1

Highlights of the year

Sharing together and listening to guest speakers.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

None.

Group

MG Community of Faith

Name

RossMackinnon

Purpose, Aims or Mission

To develop the faith of members.

Office bearers

RossMackinnon Convernor

Membership numbers

7 (the Steering Group)

Attendance

6

Meeting times & days

First Thursday, February to December

Locations used by Group

Members' homes for meetings

Highlights of the year

1. Establishment as a Church Council Committee.

2. Determining key priorities as:

Worship

Study Groups

Leadership development

“Events” (like the Isaiah Festival of 2008).

3. Preparing an overall worship plan for 2010 – this includes guest preachers for the 5th Sundays and an endeavour to involve more lay people (especially Elders) in planning and leading in worship.

4. The Lenten Study Group and the two spin-off groups from this.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

Take an interest in, and encourage us!

Group

MG Community Outreach

Name

LynMcDonald

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Generally in line with the OTWT Draft Plan 2

Office bearers

LynMcDonald, Co-ordinator

Kaye Mackinnon, Secretary

Membership numbers

11

Attendance

7-9

Meeting times & days

1st Thursday of Month (except January), 8:00pm

Locations used by Group

Homes of Mackinnon’s & McDonald’s

Highlights of the year

* “Christian Playgroups”; KimberlyEaston has provided the impetus, having assembled ideas and data over the last few years on Christian Playgroups (not just a community venue which happens to be GWUC), “waiting” for someone to listen to her. KayeMackinnon has provided support and assembled a management Team comprising herself, GeraldineFleming, PamGraham and LorraineArgall (Treasurer). Hostesses are being sought to provide a “warm, friendly, presence at each Playgroup session and provide a Christian connection to GWUC. A third Playgroup (Wednesday) is planned to operate in 2010 and will be led by HelenBoucher.

* Contact with Brentwood Secondary College; as they seek to strengthen their support of student needs other than just academic. . Alanee is GWUC’s contact for a range of specialist support.

Asylum Seekers in 19 Southdown Manse; Robin Pope and her committee have been involved in various areas of Asylum Seekers work including the Asylum Seeker Centre Dandenong, and the Outer Eastern Asylum Seeker Network. The Recommendation to Church Council that the Manse at 19 Southdown Ave be provided rent free to Hotham Mission was passed unanimously and the Manse now houses a family. Robin has been very busy as she continues her work with these most vulnerable and disadvantaged people by being the contact person for GWUC. A small group of volunteers mow the manse lawns (with a dedicated, repaired lawn mower) as it is inappropriate for the current guests to do so. An information and volunteer training session will be held on Sunday 29th November 2009.

* “Tanks for Timor” Project. Meagan & Judy Lowe and Jane Hart, visited Baguia, East Timor in September 2009 and walked the gruelling track to the mountainous village of Gulari and it’s Primary School. They told Outreach Group that there was no reticulated water at the School (and village) and the "Tanks for Timor” Project was established with support of Church Council. “Mini tanks” (empty soup/baked beans/ spaghetti/ etc tins with an appropriate label) are offered as collection tins for loose change, together with a donation form (Tax Deduction receipt) via the “Friends of Baguia, who are an established fund able to forward 100% of funds to Baguia. A 3minute DVD has been produced by Meagan to show a few photos and explain the situation.

Jan, Belinda and Andrew Clear recommended this fund for those people who wished to make a donation in memory of Bruce.

* GW Food and Wine Festival: Organised by Alanee with little notice and supported by the youth and young adults. Provided children’s’ craft activities, over 800 projects. Lots of comments and thanks from Parents.

“We look forward to more involvement in 2010. Wouldn’t it be great to see the GWUC choirs on the main stages!”

This is a GREAT opportunity of OUTREACH and COMMUNITY just outside our front door.

* Kombi Krew: Already a well established Outreach project is expanding to be involved in the South Port Soup Kitchen on Thursday nights. They will serve healthy meals including some food from the South Port Community Garden, South Port Uniting.

Whilst Kombi Krew has themselves done the organising and commitment to this venture, Outreach group stand ready to support them.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

* General: Be aware of the Group’s activities, Communicate with the Group, and support the activities.

* Consider the recommendations put to Church Council from time to time.

Playgroups: Visit the Groups; encourage more volunteers.

* Asylum Seekers: Learn about the “facts”, seek to understand the privacy issues these people face.

* “Tanks for Timor” Project: Monetary support

GW Food & Wine Festival: Enthusiasm and support of GWUC’s involvement, assist with early planning for 2010 event.

Group

MG Inclusive Community

Name

Jan Clear

Purpose, Aims or Mission

• Work with Church Council committee to review and improve means of communication.

• To extend welcome activities across all services.

• To develop small groups and community activities.

Office bearers

Jan CLear Coordinator

Membership numbers

3

Attendance

3

Meeting times & days

Flexible.

Locations used by Group

Church or private homes.

Highlights of the year

Craft expo WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Fete, International Dinner, Christmas Alight – Community activities.

Starting fellowship group for young overseas students and workers.

Reports from Inclusive Community Missional Group presented to Pastoral Committee.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

Vounteer as need arises.

Group

Ministry to Seniors

Name

Alison Dingwall

Purpose, Aims or Mission

To minister to senior members of GWUC in spiritual, pastoral, social and supportive ways, and to the wider community through links with retirement villages, hostels and nursing homes.

Office bearers

Coordinator:Alison Dingwall

Support group members:LoisHosking, GrahamLockhart, KayeMackinnon, ElwynPederson, JohnPooley

Membership numbers

60

Attendance

Varies with activity

Meeting times & days

Senior Services: 3 – 4 times per year: Sundays 2.30pm

Information sessions at GWUC: 1 per year

Afternoon tea group: 3rd Wednesday in month

Devotions at up to 10 Hostels, etc Various, weekly, fortnightly, monthly, quarterly.

Locations used by Group

Church, Fellowship area, kitchen, Room 1, Noreen Rodgers’ home, Retirement villages, hostels, nursing homes.

Highlights of the year

- Each Senior Service, followed by afternoon tea – a time of fellowship for attendees

- Sunday 27 Sept 2009 – Senior Service, including Holy Communion

- Sunday 20 December 2009 – Christmas Senior Service, including Holy Communion

Any needs that Church Council can assist

- Follow up earlier CC request, in Jan 2009, to Port Phillip East Presbytery for recognition of Alison Dingwall as presider at Holy Communion as need arises at GWUC, not just limited permission for Senior Ministry

- Ensure continued funding for Ministry to Seniors

- Encourage Elders and CC members to attend and support services at nursing homes, hostels, etc

- Provide grant for purchase of 10 large print song books, for use with devotions at nursing homes, etc; approx $35.00 each.

Donation from Cumberland View for services conducted there could be used towards this purchase .

Group

Netball: The Mighty GWUCs

Name

Nicole Boyer

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Participate competitively in the Waverley Night Netball Tuesday competition.

Office bearers

Nicole Boyer (Team Captain and Treasurer)

Membership numbers

Nine financial members plus emergencies

Attendance

9

Meeting times & days

Games are on Tuesday evenings with starting times ranging from 6.10pm to 10.25pm. No training sessions are held and there are no games on public holidays or during school holidays.

Locations used by Group

Games are held at Waverley Netball Centre, Jells Park.

Highlights of the year

The Mighty GWUCs played in the finals for the first time in the Spring Season of 2009, progressing to the preliminary final before being eliminated by the eventual premiers.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

Group

Pastoral Committee

Name

Jan Clear

Purpose, Aims or Mission

• Maintain membership rolls.

• Coordinate visitation program.

• Integrate newcomers into congregational life.

• Promote and coordinate prayer ministry.

• Respond to supportive care needs.

• Foster programs.

Office bearers

Jan Clear Coordinator

Membership numbers

13

Attendance

8

Meeting times & days

First Tuesday of even months

Locations used by Group

Room 2

Highlights of the year

Our goal is to build and maintain loving and caring relationships within our congregation. We realise that pastoral care is the concern and task of all members but pastoral care committee members facilitate this expression of mutual care.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

Support the work of the Pastoral Committee.

Group

UCAF

Name

Geraldine Fleming

Purpose, Aims or Mission

To enable members to share in Christ’s mission, meeting together for Fellowship, Service and Worship.

Office bearers

President: Geraldine Fleming

Vice-President: Diana Coles

Secretary: Alison Barr

Treasurer: Norma Saxton

Newsletter: Pamela Mc Donald

Past President BeverlyMcGlead (ex officio)

Day Group: BarbaraThompson, AnnWardell

Evening Group: GwenStone, ShirleyMiller

Membership numbers

Total About 80

Attendance

Day Group: 30 members. Evening Group: 25 members

Meeting times & days

Day: 10.00am 1st Tuesday of month , Evening: 8.00pm 3rd Monday of month

Locations used by Group

Room 1, fellowship area & kitchen

Highlights of the year

Annual Fundraising Lunch. 150 people attended. Mrs de Kretser, who was our guest of honour spoke about life in the Big House. We raised $2050.00 for Share Appeal.

Cake Stall at Fete, raising $2267.00 for Outreach.

AM Group Visit to Best Chance. Many interesting speakers including: Mr Neville Muir from Deaf Ministries, Robyn Manning from St Marks Adult Day Centre, Mrs Val Brown and her ‘Miracle Soap’. In house speakers included Margaret Allen, and a very relaxing meeting listening to music selected by Barbara & Ann. Visit to the home of Rev Ineke Gyles where we shared fellowship and lunch.

Both Groups were delighted to welcome Rev Beth Hancock & Rev Ineke Gyles and listen to their personal stories.

PM Group: Fellowship Tea & quiz, David & Shirley Williams, Lloyd Phillips –Poetry can be fun. Crafting for the fete. Jean Trezise – East Timor. NormaSaxton – Christmas Chocolates.

The interest shown by Rev Ineke Gyles by attending meetings when she could, was very much appreciated by all.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

FYI We were unable to find two people who were willing to be leaders of the Evening Group for 2010. Many have already held positions and new, younger members are scarce. Therefore we will welcome all to join in the morning group. It will be good to have one main group but I know that some will not be able to attend as the time does not suit and for that I am sorry.

Group

Welcoming / Newcomers' Committee

Name

Jan Clear

Purpose, Aims or Mission

• To arrange for visitation of newcomers.

• To arrange welcoming functions for newcomers.

• To prepare the welcoming table roster.

• To disseminate information about church activities.

• Report to Pastoral Care Committee.

• Arrange transfers.

Office bearers

Jan Clear Coordinator

Membership numbers

7

Attendance

5

Meeting times & days

January and mid year if needed

Locations used by Group

All meetings and functions held in private homes

Highlights of the year

• Welcoming Table is put up every Sunday morning. Stewards and welcoming Elders take new people to the welcoming table and introduce them.

• Welcoming functions are held in February (Garden Picnic), May/ June (Casserole lunch), October/ November (BBQ).

Any needs that Church Council can assist

It would be great if each church council member could attend at least one welcoming function per year.

Group

Welfare Committee

Name

Dorothy Lockhart

Purpose, Aims or Mission

To provide financial as well as spiritual and practical support to those in our church and in the wider community who are in need. Primarily our focus is on the day-to-day living expenses, health, education and general independent functioning of individuals and families, including encouraging them to access existing community resources.

Office bearers

Coordinator/Secretary: Dorothy Lockhart. Treasurer: Jenny Vass.

Membership numbers

5

Attendance

5

Meeting times & days

Quarterly or as required.

Locations used by Group

Church or members' homes.

Highlights of the year

Christmas Hampers to identified families

Any needs that Church Council can assist

Please continue present arrangements - grant as per budget preparation form

Group

Working with Children Check

Name

Lynne Boyer

Purpose, Aims or Mission

Comply with UC and Australian law to have WWCC for people in our congregation who work with children.

Office bearers

Lynne Boyer

Membership numbers

1

Attendance

Meeting times & days

No meetings

Locations used by Group

Church Office

Highlights of the year

61 members have WWCC and have complied with UC requirements to provide a photocopy of their card. A further 28 members have a WWCC but have not copied their card.

Any needs that Church Council can assist

None