Disscussion Concerning the Marriott Bequest

Information about the proposed application of the Marriot Bequest from David Fraser

Representing the committee charged to prepare a proposal for application of the Marriott bequest, David Fraser prepared the following video. It is on the Church Shared Google drive and is called: Marriott Bequest V3 HD for Congregational Meeting March 14th 2021. A link for this video will be created here. (A low resolution version of this video is here.)

A Response to the proposals for the Marriott bequest from Alison Barr

Firstly, I’d like to acknowledge the work of the committee, and thank them for their time and considerable effort in this difficult task. Even before I listened to the video, the constraints in the terms of the bequest reminded me of something I was told about making a will - “ Don’t dictate from the grave.”

Now to the proposal of the 4 projects.

• Purchase of a piano for the worship centre. As music is an important aspect in the life of the congregation , and, indeed, for many of us personally, a good instrument is essential. I would support this project.
• Because of the terms of the bequest, the other 3 projects are all focussed on the past, and this is of concern to me. I could support the production of a book on the history of Glen Waverley Uniting Church. This would be a worthwhile contribution not only to GWUC itself, but also to the communities of which GWUC is, and the 3 uniting denominations were part. It also would be the best place to acknowledge the contributions of the Marriott family over many years. However, it should be noted that the process of gathering and collating material, prioritising and writing is enormous and time consuming, even if there is professional input.

• For me, the other 2 projects - picture windows and additions to the corner sign - are just not needed, my main reason being that they are too centred on the past. In the February Crosslight, Rev. Cameron McAdam, a candidate for our next Moderator, puts my thinking much better than I can. The UCA is facing “ financial challenge, numerical decline, ageing demographics, shortage of ministry agents and under-utilised property resources “ - and we are part of this.

We want people to join GWUC because in our fellowship and proclamation, and in our caring and service, they find an expression of faith relevant to the world today and into a changing and uncertain future.