The Rev Kate Wharton attended a PCC Tonight, and is feeling the benefits of the training in her own PCC.
'I went along to a PCC Tonight event with about six PCC members, and it was clear from the start this would be something that will genuinely change what we do. The evening helped us realise it would be worth using the resource material and it generated a real appetite in the group to want to do more.
'We’ve got a good PCC anyway, with a decent mix of people that reflects the church as a whole – their ages range from 16 to 81! Having said that, I know there are plenty of ways we can make it better and things for me to learn as a PCC chair. Using the resource material together has helped us realise our role is about more than just buildings and light bulbs, and that decisions about mission and worship aren’t just my job as the vicar.
'Ultimately, if a PCC is better run, happier and more cohesive it will make better decisions and have more confidence about making a positive difference in all aspects of church life. PCCs now don’t just feel like business meetings – we feel more like a team that prays, eats and talks together.
'PCC Tonight is great because it’s affordable and each session doesn’t need much preparation time. It’s very clear and the activities make it accessible for all members, so it’s definitely something that I’d recommend for other churches.
'As a vicar with a small team, the support of a strong PCC which asks good questions and understands its role is already making a huge difference.'
The Rev Kate Wharton, Vicar of St George’s Everton