"Hello. I started in January and the first few months have been a whirl. As a seasoned community worker and adult education/events organiser, I expected to get out to meet local folk and then plunge into programme preparation. It hasn't been that simple. Didn’t anticipate how much time I'd need to learn about buildings insurance, food hygiene regulations and gardening - not things I was known for before...

Staff have patiently (well, mostly!) helped me through the informal/eventful induction process. So have the many incredibly supportive volunteers we rely on. I haven't taken my L-plates off yet.

I'm the first female in this job. I'm also the first to be neither ordained nor theologically trained. So what are my priorities and what am I doing about them?

* To raise our profile and unique potential to new users - that's already happening through my diverse networks, whether for conferences, celebrations or midweek B&B breaks. Do you know someone who needs to know about us? Let me at them
* To make our name as the perfect, unforgettable venue for weddings, christenings, family parties and many other gatherings and celebrations, religious and civil - we can do the lot! People are finding out - book now To make the place more family friendly. Nappy changing now in place, toy lending and creche arranged where required! Fin (3) regularly inspects these facilities
* To offer space for retreat, spiritual development, healing and personal growth,whether you're religious or not. Coaching and spiritual guidance appointments now available. Healing retreats planned soon
* To demonstrate responsiveness, imagination and flexibility in our customer service as we extend our hospitality to new users. Just-completed refurbishments demand your inspection. We're working hard together to meet your needs and learn from your feedback
* To continue the rediscovery of SCH's original ecumenical mission - creating contemporary dialogues among and between faith groups, along with more diverse cultures and communities of potential guests, grasping topical nettles within the programme and in our outreach to others. We're talking to inter-faith and other networks, broadening our remit and our marketing..

We're working towards self-governance and long-term self-sufficiency from later this year. Challenging indeed at such a time, but with our vision and your support we'll get there. Most of all, I need to hear what you think and what you want from us. Why not get in touch and talk it over with me? I'm happy to invite you in for a coffee - or maybe to come to where you are. Take a look round the delights of SCH,online and (we hope) in person. There's bound to be something we can do for you.

Yours convivially,
Carol Stobie

HOUSE EVENTS

More details & booking for any of above: reservations@scottishchurcheshouse.org 01786 823588

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