Present: Sarah Aebersold, Linda Bisig, Hector Davie, David Low, Hans Pfyffer, David Wotherspoon (first few minutes)
Most of the meeting consisted of an informal discussion of ideas for adding new dimensions to the church's worship
LB described an idea for a Lenten/Easter tree - in the form of a cross, it could be used as the focus for worship, meditation and drama throughout Lent, and could be decked with flowers at Easter. It was felt this could be a valuable idea.
LB felt the worship could be enriched by drawing on the multi-cultural background of the congregation.
There were possibilities for using drama more. This could involve short vignettes - the idea was not to demand numerous participants, or complex or committed preparation.
There were also possibilities for anthems, and for Taizé music. Again this need not involve large numbers or undue commitment.
HP and DL felt that Morning Prayer might be enriched by an occasional sung psalm, and by the singing of the Te Deum and Benedictus. It was agreed to introduce the Benedictus, with a sung psalm (25:1-10) on the first Sunday in Lent (12 March}, and to reinforce this by using the Benedictus again on 26 March. HP would contact Nigel Coombs with a view to practising after the service on 20 February. LB would ensure that the practice would be announced at the service on 13 February.
It was noted that there was no known setting of the ASB (/Common Worship) versicles and responses.
There was discussion as to whether the choir should sit in a block, or distribute themselves throughout the congregation. This partly depended on the confidence of individual Choir members.
HD circulated copies of the eight proposed eucharistic prayers, which were coming before General Synod during February.
It was noted that in the absence of concrete material, discussion was unlikely to be productive. There was some discussion as to the roles of the Chaplain, the Council and the group in making proposals. It was agreed to watch the situation closely, and to seek further information. It was noted that clergy would be circulated during March with details of materials to be produced.
The meeting closed at 2130.
| What | By whom | When |
| Prepare Benedictus and psalm for MP on 12 and 26 March | LB, DL, HKP | 20 February |
| Further consideration of Easter tree | LB, DCW | 12 March |
| Seek information about Common Worship | All | April meeting? |
HD/2000-02-12