Day 13: Working boy

Short blog today.  Why? Because I worked! Well kinda.

I went into the Diocesan offices today for 9am, and learnt all about what they do, and how they do it.  The first part of the day I spent with Jo Ann, who basically does my job, Jess' job, Anne's job and Gemma's job all in one.  The Diocese has 44 parishes plus 5 Missions, and operates it income through a scheme called Fair Share (similar to our Parish Share).

It was fascinating to see how familiar the whole system is, whilst culturally different.  Jo Ann was very kind and patient with me, and I really got a feel for how the Diocese works, and has changed over the last ten years.

I then met Bishop Mary.  I didn't know what to say or ask, but she was so welcoming I felt instantly at ease.  Quite possibly the nicest person I've ever met!  Although she was obviously  busy, she made time in her schedule to sit and chat with me.  I really appreciated it, and hope that I didn't come over poorly.  She spoke about the work they do, and the challenges the church has.  I wouldn't have imagined some of the things.  Yet she and her officers do it with a smile on their lips and a grace in their hearts.  I think Gloucester is so incredibly lucky to have this link.

I then went to lunch with Brian, the Chair of the Finance Committee Richard and the Diocesan treasurer Joanna.  It was so cool to sit and eat, relaxed, but prepping for the meeting in the afternoon.  I think we should defiantly do breakfast pre our Finance meetings!

Then we had the meeting of Finance Committee.  Its basically our Finance, Audit and Investment groups all rolled into one.  We covered a range of subjects, including a reading at the start which I was asked to comment on.  DIDN'T SEE THAT COMING!  lol way to be put on the spot :)  The range and variety of things this committee was able to talk about was incredible.  The meeting was also much more interactive then ours, with two conference calls, one planned, and one to a Treasurer.  It was really interesting to sit in on, and I thank Brian for allowing me to be there.

I then collected my thoughts, went to Safeway and bought dinner and lunch for my adventure tomorrow, then ended the day watching old cars pass me by as they headed for the Rally.

A good day, different to any I've had so far, but truly a great experience.  If Bishop's Ranch opened my heart, then Monterey has opened my mind.