St. Mary’s PCC Jottings – January 2026
The Parochial Church Council of St Mary’s, Overton, met on 19th January 2026 to review current projects, parish life, and plans for the year ahead.
Significant progress was reported on the bell restoration project, with welding completed and the louvres due for replacement later in January. Fundraising continues as well as preparations for a dedication service, with the Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane Cllr Colin Phillimore invited to attend once the bells are rehung.
The PCC also received updates on wider church buildings and sustainability plans. A planning application for improvements to the pathway is nearly ready for submission, and the recently completed energy audit has highlighted major long‑term considerations and prompted a 10‑year plan for the church’s energy strategy.
Safeguarding remained a central focus of the meeting. Updated documents including the Safeguarding Responsibilities of Churchwardens, the Social Media Policy Statement, and the Safeguarding Action Plan were reviewed.
Christmas services were warmly received across the parish, with an especially strong turnout for the Christingle Service. Overton Churches Together also enjoyed excellent community engagement at the Christmas Market Carols.
In other areas of church life, recruitment for a Families Minister is moving forward, with plans to advertise the role shortly.
The next PCC meeting will take place on 16th March 2026, with the APCM scheduled for 29th April 2026.