March is normally the time when...

March is normally the time of year when congregations in the Church of Scotland have to complete their Annual Accounts for the previous calendar year and Banchory Ternan East along with many others has been doing just that. Alongside the Accounts, we also prepare an Annual Report and these are presented to the Kirk Session – the Trustees – for approval.

Although we were not able to have a physical meeting this year, we managed to approve the documents by email.
With this exercise in mind, my thoughts turned to the regular expenditure that is required to run our church. To quote The Church of Scotland ‘In the midst of the current global and economic crisis our church buildings may be closed but the work of the church goes on. The regular, committed and generous giving of our members is necessary to support and sustain that work.’
Although, we are not currently worshipping in the church, you will have seen the variety of worship resources on the website. As you will realise, there are regular Ministry & Mission costs to be covered and also local salaries, maintenance and regular costs such as insurance and phone bills. So, you may be concerned about the East Church’s finances and how our income will be affected when our building is closed and services are cancelled.
If you give your offering regularly by Freewill Offering envelope or the open plate, you may wish to consider setting up a Standing Order or give directly via BACS. In addition, if you think Gift Aid may be suitable for you, then please ask for further information. Details can be obtained from the Treasurer, Helen by Telephone on 01330 824409 or email treasurer@banchoryeastchurch.com. However, if you prefer to continue to give through envelopes, please hold onto them and they can be submitted once it is permitted and safe to do so.
The provision of ministry and mission is only sustainable through the ongoing generosity of the members who support the church – so any additional help you can give would be appreciated.

Mike Jamieson. Session Clerk.
13th April