Constitution

The Wesleyan Reform Union (WRU) Church in St. Just is the one known locally as the St. Just Free Church.  It is a body of Christian worshippers who have met regularly in the building in Bosorne Terrace, St. Just, since its construction in 1860, and is affiliated nationally to the Wesleyan Reform Union of Churches.

The formation of the Union is based on the connexional principle, which “is fundamental to our witness in the wider Church.  At the same time, each Church and Circuit [of churches] has full autonomy, being responsible for all decisions affecting its internal affairs.  In order to maintain both of these principles in balance it is essential that Churches and Circuits aim to promote the principles and interests of the Union as a whole, especially with regard to policies recommended by the Annual Conference, while exercising their individual freedom and authority.  The Wesleyan Reform Union shall comprise the Circuits and Churches which have expressed a desire to accept its principles of faith and order, and conform to its system of government.   They are received on to the official list of Wesleyan Reform Churches by vote of Conference and share the rights and privileges of the Connexion.” (Ref. “WRU Statement of Faith and Practice”, available, with further information, on the Union’s website at www.thewru.com).

The “parent body” of the WRU currently has its Head Office in Sheffield (though this situation is under revue as at the time of the last revision of this document).  Its organisation is headed by an annually appointed President, supported by a full-time Administration Manager, a Treasurer, and administration staff.  The Staff at Head Office are there to offer guidance and support to local Churches by request.  In order for Churches to remain within the Union, each individual Church member is requested to pay an annual subscription.

Each individual WRU Church (or Circuit) is led by a Minister, supported by a group of locally appointed Trustees, who must be on the current list of Church Members.  There is also a Treasurer and Secretary, who must be Members, but who can also be Trustees.  In order for a Church to remain viable (and in an ideal situation), it is recommended that such a Church must have a minimum of 11 Members, of whom no fewer than 6 shall be Trustees.  In the absence of a Minister, the Membership and/or the Trustees may appoint one of their own number to act as a Chair-person and to legally represent a Committee of the Membership and/or Trustees if events so require.  A Church Plan may be drawn up to list the names of people considered appropriate to lead services and meetings as needful.

The Trustees have joint and several responsibility for the maintenance and upkeep of the fabric of the building, and to arrange for any Pastoral concerns to be addressed as appropriate.

This Church is run by the Minister, the Treasurer, the Secretary,  together with as many of the other members as can attend the monthly Church Meetings.  The membership as a whole is very enthusiastic and supportive of those members who have taken on responsibility for the various aspects of administration.  The basic principles of consultation and accountability are maintained in a manner which is as responsible, reasonable and practicable as is possible.