I hope that in the post everyone will have received, or will soon receive, a letter and a booklet about being a partner at Elim Ryedale Church. At the AGM in November I explained that I felt I had not been diligent in encouraging people to become partners as we really had an ‘open to all’ policy. However, constitutionally we are obliged to keep a record of those who have made a formal decision to be a partner with Elim Ryedale Church because they are the ones who have the right to vote if the need arises in a decision making process. I also recognised that many people have been partners for many years and the Church has changed and I believe this is an opportunity to clarify the reason for partnering with Elim Ryedale Church and the expectations of a Partner. The desire is not to question those who are already partners but to give them the opportunity to reaffirm that commitment to God and to each other. It is also an opportunity for those who have recently joined Elim Ryedale Church to consider becoming a partner. Please can I encourage everyone to respond to the letter and to read through the booklet so that we can welcome new partners on Sunday 5th February and re-affirm those who have already made that commitment. I believe this will be a significant day in the life of Elim Ryedale Church and therefore can I encourage EVERYONE to be there. It is essential that we all make this a priority and come together to renew our covenant with God and with each other. However, can I assure everyone that we will continue to run an ‘open to all’ policy and will continue to encourage everyone who can to attend Church meetings. So far we have not needed to make decisions by taking a vote and my desire is to continue working things through by discussion and mutual agreement. The constitutional side of partnership comes in more if there is a problem which so far God has graciously helped us to avoid, praise God! If you have any questions or concerns about this process please make an appointment to meet with Andy or one of the other leaders.