ANNUAL REPORT 2008-09

During the year there have been more changes of Committee members, and we await representatives from a few associations to make a full complement. On the authorisation of the AGM, the Committee identified a suitable nomination for Vice Chair, the Revd Catriona Gorton. A Promotions Officer was appointed also, the Revd Alison Mackay. The Revd Geoffrey Colmer completed his term as ex-President.

Members of the Committee have a useful annual meeting with the BUGB Senior Management Team and a creative exchange at Committee meetings with the Ministry Department. Topics in the Committee minutes included post-NAM support, HMG immigration policy, Independent Methodists, disciplinary procedures, safeguarding, interim ministry and the place of Trade Unions. We heard that one of the Union’s goals is to increase the number of women candidating for ministry.

The Revd Michael Cleaves, our International Secretary, acts as a valued link with colleagues overseas, and BMF also hears reports from the Retired Baptist Ministers Housing Society, the Pension Fund and Whitley Lectureship.

One major piece of work launched at the beginning of 2009 was the “Life in Ministry” survey, where BMF is seeking to let ministers register their thoughts on their calling and the practicalities of its context. The responses will be analysed and we hope the results will give us a strong indication of issues that BMF should pursue in the coming years.

The Journal experienced another year of disruption. We offer our thanks to Hazel Sherman for all her efforts as Editor and for her fortitude in difficult circumstances. Hazel has felt it right to stand down and via the Editorial Board, the Revd Sally Nelson was approached to be Editor from the July 2009 issue. Our thanks also to John Houseago for standing-in for the April issue. The Editor continues to invite suitable pieces for consideration.

.

Whilst the 2008 AGM was held at Didcot, the 2009 event is planned during the Bournemouth Assembly and afterward the Revd John Rackley is scheduled to deliver the annual seminar “The Acceptable Outsider”

The Committee continues to exercise careful oversight of financial resources. Let me reminded you of the Benevolent Fund – to make a gift or to suggest an individual where the support of BMF can become tangible in case of need. And if you have a change of address, please let the Treasurer know. The BMF Committee continues to value members’ commitment to pray for each other every Sunday morning.

Stephen Copson May 2009