Thank you all for your generosity of thoughtful responses to the questionnaire last weekend. This consultation, which is taking place across the Diocese, will assist the Bishop in his future decisions.

Easter has come and gone and judging by our numbers, though not counting, they appeared to be up on previous years. St Leonard’s begins a new era, and we are delighted. Well done to the present, and past staff members for their contribution to the education of our children. We look forward to celebrating our Sunday Parish Mass on the 12th July in the new building.

In looking forward to the exciting challenges of the future, can I appeal for volunteers to be Ministers of the Eucharist and Readers of the Word of God at our Masses. Succession isn’t just a great TV series, it’s vital for preparing for the future. There were many constructive comments in the recent questionnaire, but getting the opinion of younger members of our congregation is imperative. If I’m wrong about this assessment, please do let me know.

New Durham and District Workman’s Club. Rumours abound (and with some credibility) that the future of the Club is uncertain. This is a sign, perhaps, of the social changes taking place throughout society. However, we (parish) will need to be more prepared than we were for recent new buildings at the corner of Mill Lane and the Sherburn Road. Unfortunately, we are fast becoming part of the university campus and this inevitably impacts on the availability of housing for locals, especially those less well off.  If there are any further developments on the Club’s future, I will keep you updated, and if any parishioners have definitive updates, please keep me in the loop. Thanks.

We are proceeding with the development of St Bede’s car park and expect developments there soon. It has been a long process, but we expect movement very soon. My continued thanks to parishioners who are investing a great deal of time and effort into this important project. The parish finance committee met this week. Tom Harrison outlined the relatively healthy state of the parish finances, but with a clear view to the challenges ahead.

Two excellent additions have been made to the Finance Committee in Greg and Swee. Esther Robson updated us on the continued value of the Gift Aid.