The National Council of UCG–British Isles met in Gloucester May 21.

Circulation report: Jan Schroeder reported that the circulation of The Good News is likely to rise with the resumption of UCGIA's Internet advertising.

Financial report: Barbara Fenney discussed a proposed budget for the financial year beginning July 1. After discussion, National Council members confirmed that the budget should be based on the principle of meeting the needs of the Church and its members first, and then using remaining funds to support the distribution of the GN and other literature. Once approved, the budget will be submitted for ratification at the annual general meeting July 16.

Young Adults' Leadership Week: The National Council reviewed details of the young adults' activity to be held July 21 and 28 near Mablethorpe. Council members confirmed their support and agreed to donate £800 from Church funds. Ministers and other adult leaders will be fully involved with the young adults in this activity, which is being organized by Hannah Ellams.

Gospel Cost Minimization proposal: The National Council considered a proposal from Church members in the Isle of Man for minimizing the costs of preaching the gospel that would involve Internet advertising on the Manxnet Web site. Those responding to the ad would be directed to online-only versions of GN articles. The Council referred this suggestion to its Media and Internet Committee to examine the technicalities and strategic and cost implications.

Feast 2006: Gerhard Marx reported that around 125 people had registered so far for the York Feast site.

Feast Site Selection: David Fenney reported on behalf of this committee, which is searching out potentially less expensive sites, such as caravan parks, especially where it may be possible for all Feastgoers to be housed on the site.

Media and Internet: Peter Hawkins reported for the committee on the effective use of Google ads and other items.

Strategic Planning and Finance: David Fenney reported on behalf of this committee. The report included:

•Suggestions for optimizing the running costs of the local congregations.

•Preliminary disaster recovery plans.

•A review of the impact of the Royal Mail's Pricing in Proportion scheme.

National Council members: As chairman, Bryan Ellams reported that Gerhard Marx, a ministerial member of the National Council, had decided to retire from the Council when his term expires at the annual general meeting. Council members offered a vote of thanks to Mr. Marx for his service to the Council since its formation in 1998.UN