Scots Fellowship

Seven Fellowship Members gathered for our February Meeting, and we enjoyed a chat over lunch. Rev. Norah Norris was Facilitator, and welcomed us all - we are delighted that Penelope Horn has joined us. Norah welcomed especially Dr Margaret Secombe, Chair of the Church Council who joined us for lunch, and later brought us up-to-date with some of what the Church Council does.

Margaret Secombe told us about the people who are long-term tenants at Scots - The Big Issue, Jazz Archive, and now the Op Shop - there have been some changes with the volunteers but the Op Shop has now developed with regular helpers. In the last 12 months there have been several enquiries for space, and some people are prepared to pay. Margaret also gave us a comprehensive report on all aspects of the church building - there are many recommendations, so the Architect was asked to report - nothing is really urgent, the building is fundamentally sound, but a number of renovations and re-developments should be considered. The Architect works with the Adelaide City Council for Conservation. A new floor is needed in the church sanctuary, and so the way forward is to make a list of what has to be done, and the cost, and put a detailed plan to the Council - this is needed before we get any money - the Council will pay 50% of individual projects.

We were delighted to have Margaret "put us in the picture" and warmly thanked her for coming to share with us.

Birthday greetings were extended to Alleyne Womersley and Betty Christiansen who each celebrate their birthday this month. We were reminded that Ash Wednesday is 14th February, and that our next meeting on Thursday 1^st March is in Lent. Since he was unable to attend our first meeting for the year, we have invited our minister, the Rev Dr Peter Trudinger, to be our special guest at that meeting and to present an appropriate program for the season. Margaret Morey offered to be Facilitator and Penelope Horn will help get the room ready and be responsible for kitchen duties. An invitation is extended to all members of the congregation, women and men, to join us - BYO lunch, we will make you a cup of tea or coffee, and you are assured of a very warm welcome.  Mary Thomas