Benefice Profile Weedon and Everdon with Dodford

Transcription

1 Benefice Profile Weedon and Everdon with Dodford editor J Fuller

2 Welcome Thank you for taking the time to look at this profile. We are looking for a Priest in Charge (House for Duty) to lead our Benefice in faith. Our Benefice comprises three semi-rural parishes of Weedon, Everdon and Dodford. The Priest for Duty will live in the Vicarage at Weedon and their focus will be on ministry primarily in Weedon as the largest village of the three however there is an expectation that proportionally both Everdon and Dodford will receive leadership and ministry as well. An important part of the role will be to enable the church to engage with the local community, commit whole heartedly to Mission Outreach both locally and with wedding couples. This includes children, parents and teachers at Weedon primary school and Dodford s privately run nursery. The Benefice is fortunate to have two award winning wedding venues both located in Dodford. In terms of churchship and spirituality all three churches are predominately traditional whilst Dodford is a less formal church with a contemporary leaning in order to engage with a somewhat younger congregation. All three churches place a high priority on the authority of the Bible and would welcome a theological approach in a contemporary delivery. There is a breadth of churchship among the members from very traditional to evangelical-charismatic reflecting the span of years of it s members. The embryonic stages of a ministry team have been laid within the Benefice with a Lay Reader and Lay Pastoral Minister. Contents Weedon, Everdon and Dodford and the Surrounding area pg 3-5 Vision, Mission and Future Direction pg 6 Church Buildings pg 7-9 The Vicarage pg 10 Sunday and Weekly Services pg 11 Service styles and Other services pg Occasional Offices 2016 pg 15 Support Available pg 16 Youth and 's Work pg 17 Faith, fellowship and Ecumenical Links pg 18 Volunteers and Pastoral Care pg 19 Finance pg Organisation pg Person Specification for Priest for Duty pg 24 2 editor J Fuller

3 Weedon, Everdon and Dodford The Benefice is in the Daventry Deanery and Diocese of Peterborough. The churches are St Peter and Paul, Weedon, St Mary, Everdon and St Mary the Virgin, Dodford. The three churches have historically worked together as a Benefice apart from a short period of time. The three Benefice village churches are all within three miles of each other, and lie to the west of junction 16 of the M1. Rugby & Northampton are each about ten miles away, and the market town of Daventry about three miles away. The Grand Union Canal was opened as far as Weedon in However Blisworth tunnel was not completed until March The canal enters Weedon near "The Narrowboat" public house on Watling Street (A5). The canal crosses Church Street, running alongside and above the church at Weedon, over the River Nene and Bridge Street on aquaducts. There are mooring points near Weedon church with a thoroughfare through the churchyard to local shops, etc. Part of the canal used to go into the Royal Military Depot and was used to deliver men and materials. The canal leaves Weedon soon after bridge 23 heading northwards past Dodford. Whilst farming is still part of rural life, these are mainly commuter villages with most of those in employment commuting to e.g. Northampton, Rugby, Daventry, Milton Keynes, Birmingham and London. The A45 corridor from junction 16 to the west of Weedon is currently subject to road improvement works in the form of a bypass. All three villages consist of owner-occupier and housing association homes in an above average income and socio-economic class. 3 editor J Fuller

4 Weedon Weedon has a population approaching 3,000 and is a hub for the surrounding villages. Whilst there is some work in the village in local organisations, schools and shops, most commute for work, some work from home, some are unemployed. There are a lot of activities for families. The village boasts: An infants/primary school (Ofsted report good) Tesco Express, One stop shop, post office, gift shops, Doctors practice, Dentist, pharmacy, Vets, hairdressers Indian, Chinese restaurants/ takeaways, café, fish and chip shop, pubs, Hotels, motels Active Sports Association including football club with both youth and adult sections, Art group. A wealth of well supported groups and associations for all ages including a cubs, scouts group, brownie and rainbow groups and an Allotments association Petrol station, Antique shops, Bridal shops, Chandlers, Quilting shop, Apple computer shop The former Royal Ordnance Depot is now in private hands and is becoming a thriving area for retail outlets and workshops. These include a gym and café, garage, boxing club, book shop, photographic studio to name a few. A 24 million investment plan has recently been announced in the Daventry Express (often referred to as The GUSHER). The village has a mixture of old and new houses, private homes (several small developments were built in the 1970s, 80 s and 90 s), former and existing council and housing association properties. Weedon has excellent nursery and pre-schools and lively infant and junior school which have pseudo regular Christian assemblies and include visits to the church within their curriculum. The majority of children from the village go on to the local comprehensive schools in the area. There is also a sheltered housing complex for the elderly. There are two churches in the village: Anglican and URC; both these churches work closely together with many of the Weedon congregation attending the URC when there is no service held at St Peter and Paul despite alternative services held at Everdon and Dodford. The two ministers meet regularly during the year and take turns to host other joint services. The Remembrance Day service at Weedon alternates yearly with the URC however the Anglican Minister rotates around the three Benefice churches year on year. Full hospital facilities are available in Northampton and locally at the community hospital in Daventry. Mainline trains run from Long Buckby (limited service) or Northampton to Birmingham and London Euston. Further information is on the village website editor J Fuller

5 Everdon An attractive conservation village, Everdon has a population just over 350 from babes in arms to 92 and also includes Little Everdon, a small hamlet half a mile from Everdon church. The population is a complete mix of household sizes and occupations and there are no obvious social concerns with approximately 70% owner occupied, 20% local authority and 10% privately rented. Many of it s inhabitants commute although it is predominantly an agricultural village. It is a close knit community which is particularly successful with it s annual fete which draws crowds in from far and wide. The Victorian village school in Everdon was closed in 1968 but is now used as a County Council run Activities Centre for mainly urban children in the county to stay and learn about the countryside. There are primary schools at Badby and Newnham both 2 miles away and secondary schools in Daventry (4 miles) and Towcester (10 miles). It has organised extremely large classical concerts held in the church, the church here having the largest capacity. There is a public house near the church which is very popular and village hall. There are no other facilities in the village, most people using Weedon or Daventry for medical, dental and other needs. Dodford Dodford, a small former agricultural rural village in the west of Northamptonshire is situated approximately one mile to the north west of the A5 (Watling street) and the A45 crossroads at Weedon. The village is a commuter village with many residents travelling to work in the surrounding towns of Milton Keynes (26 miles), Northampton (10 miles) and Daventry (3 miles), whilst others travel daily to London. The nearest railway station is situated at the village of Long Buckby and the M1 motorway is nearby. The village has limited amenities; single track roads, no street names, no mains sewage, no gas, few pavements and not many street lamps. It has a church, village hall, a disused telephone box used as a landmark, two post boxes and a ford running through parts of it. There is a privately run nursery and two award winning wedding venues located at either side of the village, one of which is adjacent to the church. 5 editor J Fuller

6 Vision, Mission and Future Direction The combined statement for all three churches. Growing in Faith - to grow in confidence and knowledge of our faith; to draw other people into faith and church membership, with an emphasis on the use of small groups. At its core is a worshipping life together with a flexible approach to worship both traditional and in a contemporary evangelical style. Discipleship - To see everyone growing to maturity as Christians and using their everyday life for God s purpose. Inspiring Worship - to improve the quality of the worship. Prayer and Worship - People are supported and encouraged to pray and worship. To encourage each other in prayer, both collectively and on our own. Leadership - Our leaders are supported, trained and developed. To see growth in the number of people worshipping in church. Develop Fresh Expressions of Church. s Work - to encourage children to be disciples. Pastoral Care - to establish better arrangements for pastoral visiting To strengthen our links within the community and encourage attendance at church services and events. Stewardship - to identify and use our resources wisely in support of God s glory. To encourage the parishes in the Benefice to work together more closely Unity and Diversity - Everyone is welcomed, valued and heard. We shall support each other across the parish, the Benefice and from other denominations To strengthen links with the villages, recognising that even for those without a strong faith commitment the church can make a valuable contribution to village identity. 6 editor J Fuller

7 Church Buildings St Peter and Paul, Weedon St Peter and Paul is a grade II listed building. The Church and churchyard are situated near the south-eastern boundary of the village, between the two steep embankments of the Grand Union Canal and West Coast main line railway. The tower was built in the late 12th century and is all that remains of the medieval church. There is a fine Norman arch to the ground floor of the tower which houses the ground floor ringing chamber and a fine ring of eight bells. One of the stained glass windows is dedicated to St Werburgh, made by a local artist. As well as an organ there is a piano in the church (used for concerts). The organ underwent a major refurbishment in Weedon is a closed churchyard maintained by the County Council. The church is opened daily. In the latest Quinquennial report roof repairs were identified and have been completed however electrics and internal decoration are still outstanding. The works in the Tower have been completed. Parish Council (under the railway arches next to the church) for allotment and church users. The Chapter House, built of Cotswold stone, is a traditional octagonal design and incorporates a Choir vestry, a well equipped kitchen, toilet and meeting facility. It is used for parish activities and Deanery and Diocesan events. It is also hired out to sewing groups and a music group with the funds greatly assisting the expenses of the Church. It is equipped with internet facilities and telephone and this year has been refurbished, with new carpet and chairs, as well as repainting. In June new storage heaters were fitted. The Church conforms to health and safety and disability regulations. a tarmac path, with no steps, leads into the church and another to the Chapter House. The only steps are in the Chancel, but Holy Communion is celebrated below these, at a modern nave altar. There is a loop sound system and adapted toilet facilities. A recent car park has been established by the Weedon church weddings are primarily from within the parish however are supplemented on occasion with weddings fed through by Dodmoor House. Coffee mornings and tea afternoons are held monthly to raise money for charitable giving as well as the Christingle service and Remembrance service 7 editor J Fuller

8 St Mary, Everdon Everdon church is a Grade II* listed building. The church stands in an elevated position in the centre of the village and was built mainly in the 14th century on the site of an earlier church, all of which remains is the font which is still in use today. The church is very large suggesting that at one time Everdon was a wealthy village, probably associated with the wool trade. There is a six peel of bells which are regularly rung and there is a thriving campanology group. The pipe organ is played by visiting organists but only for special services and ideally requires an overhaul and re-tuning, however an electric organ is regularly used. The church is actively restoring the building on an ongoing basis and is actively working towards installing a servery and toilet facilities. The church is currently kept open every day of the year during daylight hours, thanks to a loyal key holder. The most versatile of all three churches within the Benefice it is fully adaptable and lends itself to other extra large events with pews being reversible and removable! Seating in Everdon is around ideal for concerts or very large church services with the Deanery Day being held here in the past and also Feast of Tabernacles with a meal to follow in the Jewish style. Weddings are few in Everdon, mainly from parishioners but like Weedon, the feeders are either Dodmoor House or indeed Fawsley Hall. The churchyard is maintained by volunteers with paid support for help with trees and more difficult maintenance. 8 editor J Fuller

9 St Mary the Virgin, Dodford This is the only Grade 1 listed church in the smallest village in the Benefice. A church has been on the current site according to the Doomsday book. There are some fine monuments within the church building including Alabaster, Stone, and Wooden effigies. Stained glass windows are installed in the Bell Tower, Chancel and North Aisle. Some of these are documented in the local archives at Northampton. Restoration work to the Tower, entrance porch and south west window has been undertaken and recently the chancel has been re-plastered and decorated. The north aisle has had structural cracking repaired with replastering and redecoration. During this year the stone surrounds of the tower doorway will be replaced. Restoration is actively being progressed. Complete restoration of the church organ has been completed in conjunction with maintenance works to the north aisle. The organ was relocated 3ft forward during the restoration to facilitate future development behind the organ. The church architect is currently drafting required plans for further repairs to the buildings structure, including structural cracking between the nave and chancel, roof guttering and repointing of the exterior walls to the building. A new electrical supply plan has been obtained addressing the issue raised in Quinquennial reports to include lighting and power circuits. The church lacks toilet and kitchen facilities due to no mains water connection to the site. However refreshments are provided at the end of all services and has included a FULL English breakfast. There is no WiFi and no telephone landline to the church. Currently there is no alarm system however no value items are held in the church and lead roofing is limited. The community assisted in creating a car park for the church on wasteland opposite the main entrance gates which can hold some eighteen vehicles. The church can seat 150 in the pews with the north aisle providing potentially another 50 seats. Aware of its need to strengthen links with the local community, part of Dodford church s remit will be to work in partnership with the community to improve the building for community use. With the continually diminishing parish congregation the question of the church s viability has been raised. The church building is one of only two public buildings in the village but is currently only used for regular Sunday Christian worship and Occasional Offices. The PCC recognises the value of the building as a place of quiet, prayer and contemplation. Despite it s annexed position from the village, it is open and unattended on Saturdays during April to October. Dodford is reliant on weddings to supplement its income to support continued restoration works, currently the majority of weddings being fed only via Dodford Manor. Dodford church is actively seeking to ensure disability access is available within the constraints of a grade 1 listed building. 9 editor J Fuller

10 The Vicarage, Weedon The Vicarage is located across the road from the church along a private road with access to two other properties. It lies in close proximity to the railway and canal. It was built in the 1960 s in the grounds of the original Vicarage (now Pine Reach). It has four bedrooms, a living room, dining room, and study all overlooking a good sized garden, mostly laid to lawn which will please those who love gardening, with views of the Glebe and countryside. There is an attached garage. Church events have been held within the gardens in the past. With the post office, dentist, hairdressers, pubs and local shops all within easy flat walking distance and the surgery, school, village hall and vets within a few minutes by car, this home would suit someone who has family or guests who visit, or who enjoys entertaining. Large and capacious on the ground floor this is an ideal family home. 10 editor J Fuller

11 Sunday and Weekday Services The current Service schedule Weedon Everdon Dodford Ist Sunday Holy Communion 2nd 10 am Thursday Holy Communion nd Sunday Holy Communion 3rd Saturday Messy Church 3rd Sunday 4th Thursday 4th Sunday 5th Sunday am Morning Praise Lay led 10 am Holy Communion Holy Communion 11 am Joint Family Service with/without Holy Communion This alternates between Everdon and Dodford month on month 11 am Holy Communion NO SERVICE 11 am Holy Communion Holy Communion The only regular service in the month 11 am Joint Family Service with/without Holy Communion This alternates between Everdon and Dodford month on month only in a five Sunday month am Benefice Service with/without Holy Communion Rotates around each church monthly. Other services include: Unity Service is a joint service with the URC held in Weedon village hall Ash Wednesday is held at Weedon Maundy Thursday is held at Weedon Watch of the Passion is held at Weedon from 12-3 pm Easter Day rotates around the three churches two Vicar led whilst the third church is lay led or with stand in Vicar Weedon Weekender is ordinarily Everdon s Benefice Service however Weedon and Everdon swap Benefice Services to facilitate both church s needs. Remembrance Service - the Vicar attends in rotation around the Benefice with the URC Minister alternating at Weedon only the third church is lay led or has a stand in Vicar Dodford Nine Lessons and Carols - generally Sunday before Christmas dependant on Brass Band availability Weedon Christingle Christmas Eve 4 pm Everdon Nine Lessons and Carols with Christingles Christmas Eve 6 pm Midnight Mass at 11 pm rotates yearly around each church led by the Vicar the other two churches have a Vicar led Christmas Day service 11 editor J Fuller

12 Service Styles Benefice wide: The previous Incumbent organised several Benefice Bible Studies covering 6 or 10 week periods, held at lunch time with a BYO lunch and in the evening with a Vicar prepared meal for those who have been at work all day. These have been most illuminating and there is a continued thirst for Biblical teaching within the Benefice which has also provided fellowship opportunities for those who attend. This is an Outreach Mission which is reaching out beyond this Benefice. Mission Praise and the NIV Bible are used however not all churches in the Benefice have pew Bibles. Café church has worked well at Dodford and Weedon with Everdon yet to take the plunge. A really relaxed service doing what Jesus loved doing - sharing fellowship and hospitality. St Peter and Paul Weedon All services which are Vicar led are Holy Communion, formal and traditional with the Vicar robing. The music is from Mission Praise and hymns sung to organ music. In the event of no organist either the piano is used, CD s or downloaded hymns played using WiFi. There is no choir or worship group. Audio visual technology is envisioned for the future. Some services are conducted from booklets based on Common Worship. Bibles are available on request. St Mary, Everdon Our churchmanship could reasonably be described as middle of the road. The Vicar wears traditional vestments. We have an 11am Eucharist from Common Worship, there is a monthly Benefice Service on the last Sunday of each month which rotates around the three parishes. In the event that there is no organist, hymns are sung a Capella. We also have bi-monthly family services shared with Dodford. Audio visual does not work here unless it is at night, as the church is very light and airy. There is no choir or worship group. St Mary the Virgin, Dodford All services which are Vicar led are informal, whilst still maintaining tradition but in a relaxed contemporary style, with the Vicar robing for Holy Communion and occasionally for Family Services. Robing in Dodford is not viewed as being a pre-requisite. Hymns are from Mission Praise and accompanied by either organ/piano music or the Hymnal. There is no choir or worship group. Audio visual technology has been used for services utilising home cinema equipment. Services are conducted from booklets based on Common Worship. 12 editor J Fuller

13 Average attendance at services Location St Peter and Paul St Mary, Everdon St Mary the Virgin, Dodford Other Services Electoral Roll Service and Youth 0-16 Totals Frequency 0930 hrs Holy Communion three times a month 0930 lay led once a month 1030 Benefice Quarterly 1000 Thursday Holy Communion once a fortnight 1030 Messy Church Monthly 1100 Holy Communion 12 twice a month 1100 Joint Family Service 18 Bi-monthly 1030 Benefice 23 Quarterly 0930 hrs Holy Communion once a month 1100 Joint Family Service Bi-monthly 1030 Benefice Quarterly St Peter and Paul New service in Unity Service (Joint with URC) 2016 approx. 40 Maundy Thursday n/a n/a 15 17a/2c 9a/0c Easter Day 37a/0c n/a 34a/3c 43a/2c 11a/2c Patronal Day 28a/0c 34a/0c 24a/2c 42a/3c 18a/3c Weedon Weekender n/a n/a n/a Harvest Service n/a n/a 41a/4c 30a/4c 23a/1c Remembrance Service 100a/39c URC service 135a/39c URC service 66a/39c Christingle No detail recorded 232 c200 Nine Lessons and Carols 17a/0c 32a/0c 39a/0c 32a/0c 33a/0c Midnight Mass 39a/0c No service 62a/0c No service No service Christmas Day No service 17a/0c No service 17a/1c 10a/1c 13 editor J Fuller

14 St Mary's, Everdon Easter Day 16a/4c 60a/12c 26a/8c No Service No Service Harvest Service 18a/1c 30a/9c 13a/1c 13a/1c 18a/1c Remembrance Service 34a/4c 35a/5c 35a/1c 50a/2c 45a/2c Christingle and Nine Lessons and Carols 98a/27c 85a/20c 122a/28c 110a/23c 150a/25c Midnight Mass No Service No Service No Service No Service 35a/0c Christmas Day 29a/16c 28a/1c 12a/0c 24a/4c No Service St Mary the Virgin, Dodford Easter Day 24a/2c No service 12a/3c Sunrise service 35a/7c No service Harvest Service 46a/25c 21a/13c 32a/8c 23a/11c 17a/3c Remembrance Service 17a/9c 21a/2c 72a/8c centenary 14a/0c 22a/3c Carol Service with Daventry Brass 135a/20c 115a/15c 145a/20c 136a/25c 116a/17c Midnight Mass No service 19a/0c No service 39a/0c No service Christmas Day 18a/4c No service 11a/0c No service 7a/3c 14 editor J Fuller

15 Occasional Offices 2016 Baptisms Confirmations Weddings Funerals Cremations Internment of Ashes St Peter and Paul, Weedon St Mary, Everdon St Mary the Virgin, Dodford At St Peter and Paul, Weedon Baptisms are currently conducted as a private service. Confirmations none recent Funerals - closed for burials, however burials are conducted at the cemetery close by. Ashes are still accepted within the churchyard through an existing Faculty. in At St Mary, Everdon Baptisms are currently conducted as a private service. Confirmations none recent Funerals - open churchyard for burials and ashes At St Mary the Virgin, Dodford Baptisms are conducted as part of the Family Service and Baptism preparation is provided ahead of that service in the church after an 11 am Family Service. Confirmations have usually occurred with wedding couples following their attendance at services for the minimum period of time required by legislation but more likely if they have attended for a more protracted period of time. Funerals - open churchyard for burials and ashes. Two faculties in place. 15 editor J Fuller

16 Support Available Lay Reader Steve Moore is currently the Church Warden at Dodford but has tendered his notice not to stand at the 2018 APCM after 14 years in the chair. He is due to be Licensed as a Lay Reader in September Lay Pastoral Minister Jennie Fuller at Dodford, was Licensed in September Works in full time employment. Organists: Tony Johns is the organist for Weedon and on occasion supports Everdon. Cassandra Pratt plays for Fawsley church and occasionally supports Everdon. Jane Day is the organist/pianist at Dodford. Steve Moore, Jennie Fuller and Allan Meller operate the Hymnal at Dodford. Readers: Weedon has a rota of sides persons/readers. Everdon has a rota of sides persons/readers. Steve Moore, Jennie Fuller and Allan Meller are the readers at Dodford. Intercessors: Weedon has a rota of Intercessors. Everdon relies on the Vicar to conduct prayers. The Vicar, Steve Moore and Jennie Fuller conduct prayers at Dodford. Eucharist Assistants: Sandra Rogers, Betty Harris and Sheila Troth at Weedon. Charles Coaker, Anne Ford, Bridget Whittaker and Helen Thompson at Everdon. Steve Moore, Jennie Fuller and Allan Meller at Dodford. Clergyman: A Part-time clergyman lives in Weedon village who is currently linked with Long Buckby but is willing to assist Weedon if needed and available 16 editor J Fuller

17 Youth and s Work St Peter and Paul, Weedon Little Lambs led by the Church Warden with help from parents, takes the form of a social event with a light Christian input. There are currently 4-5 mums/grandparents with 1 or 2 children each and is held on Thursday afternoons. This drop in session has potential for future development Weedon has run a Messy Church under various leaderships for a period of five years held once a month from on the third Saturday in the month. Attracting anywhere between 6 and sixty children aged 2-10 and their parents and carers, it typically comprises a short introduction to the theme or story, about 90 minutes of linked craft, games and worship and a meal, sometimes prepared communally. A youth group for secondary-aged children has developed out of Messy Church a little over a year ago and provides fertile ground for future Ministry. Currently led by the Church Youth advisor for Northamptonshire and occasionally the 's worker and supplemented with help from Weedon church. Weedon is affiliated with NAYC. Spiritual Growth There is no Youth or s Work taking place in Everdon or Dodford. Both are mature villages and most children go outside the villages for their entertainment and schooling. This position is unlikely to change. There are no home groups or prayer groups however under the previous incumbency, a number of 6 or 10 week Bible study sessions were held over each year including Alpha and Gamma courses. Also film nights based on faith were held at Weedon all of which included a Vicar prepared meal. Each were conducted as a lunch time session and also an evening session. Dodford is currently conducting a feasibility study of film nights in the church in anticipation of a kick off in October. 17 editor J Fuller

18 Faith and Fellowship There is a desire for Bible Study groups and prayers group. The Benefice entrusts the new incumbent to progress this area of Ministry. Ecumenical links There appears to be a divide within the Benefice in this regard with St Peter and Paul occasionally engaging with the URC for services, both located in Weedon, whilst Everdon and Dodford help/support each other with lesser support from Weedon. Despite this, the Benefice is united as a whole. Extended Benefice church links with the URC include events like the Unity Service, run for the first time in January 2017 utilising Weedon Village Hall. The event, run using power point and the URC Hymnal, was a successful first event however failed to encourage new attendees albeit plans are already in hand for 2018 s Unity week. This was a new and a continuing initiative which could provide the Mission Outreach that both the Benefice and the URC need especially in Weedon providing there is enthusiasm from current church members for fresh and new expressions of what is church in the 21st century. Community Activities The main community activities are run by St Peter and Paul take place in Weedon and are primarily for Weedon however both Everdon and Dodford are welcome to attend. Weedon holds a bi-annual Christmas Tree Festival alternating with a Christmas Fayre/Bazaar. There is a Mothers Union branch in Weedon with approx. 15 members meeting monthly. Like minded Ladies: a social group who meet monthly and assist with fund raising events. Quiz night: held twice a year; Bellringing group who are affiliated to the Northamptonshire Guild of Bell Ringers practice regularly at Weedon. Everdon holds a Firework s party which draws in large crowds. All three churches participate in the September Ride and Stride event. All three villages hold an annual fete/weekender event. All three hold Harvest Services and Harvest Suppers. 18 editor J Fuller

19 Volunteers As a Benefice each church has some volunteers to help run the church and its services, however in insufficient and declining numbers. Participation is always encouraged and welcomed across a wide range of activities from cleaning and flower arranging to leading intercessions, reading, Eucharist assistants, and help with leading other parts of worship, however not easily achieved, including tending the churchyards. We would like to encourage greater lay participation in worship and a continued increase in our experience and expertise across a range of styles including café and messy church. St Peter and Paul, Weedon Volunteer and paid church cleaners, flower arrangers. The Pay back team are utilised in and around Weedon. St Mary, Everdon Volunteers for cleaning, flower arrangers and church yard mowing. St Mary the Virgin Dodford has no rota for flowers, cleaning, refreshments, meet and greet, intercessions or readers - relying on hope and prayer that someone will be there and might step up to the plate. St Mary the Virgin does however have a very tiny contingent of churchyard elves who maintain the churchyard to an appropriate level suitable for weddings and also to facilitate easy access for visits to family graves which has increased over recent years following efforts to regain control of an overgrown and unkempt churchyard. Pastoral Care The pastoral care around the Benefice is poorly covered despite having an LPM. The LPM works fulltime so the much needed day-time pastoral care undertaken by the previous Incumbent and silent volunteers provides some but not enough pastoral care. One person in Everdon is known to conduct Home Communion, visits, and provides trips out for those in need; one volunteer in Weedon tries to meet Weedon s needs, whilst at Dodford, the PCC (LPM included) together with non-church members generally keep an eye on those in need; however, there is no pastoral team to provide home visits most of which need to be conducted during the day and in Weedon. Also the local sheltered housing complex no longer receives support from Weedon church due to insufficient volunteers. The LPM has asked an individual who is no longer able to attend church to receive Holy Communion whether they would like to receive home Holy Communion however this invitation has been declined. 19 editor J Fuller

20 Finance Benefice Overview The Benefice Share has been paid in full each year for a minimum of 15 years, however on occasion certain churches have held back 5% of the Parish Share. In 2013 it was agreed to increase the Benefice Share to strive towards the costs of a full time Incumbent and whilst this has continued year on year, this has not been achieved. The Benefice Share for 2017 is distributed as follows: Weedon 55%; Everdon 28%; Dodford 17%. St Peter and Paul, Weedon Fees received from hiring out the Chapter House help Weedon to cover our costs, together with interest received from various assets. However, to continue to pay the Parish Share in full, especially with the repair work that has to be done, fundraising is required to raise the rest. There are several concerts held throughout the year. There is a reliance on donations/legacies. A new Stewardship campaign and a Friends of Weedon Church are being considered. St Mary, Everdon All donors are encouraged to give on a regular basis using Gift Aid if applicable. The biggest fundraising event is the annual village fete held on August Bank Holiday Monday regularly raising large sums divided equally with the village hall. Other events include Harvest Supper and auction usually over subscribed, annual Summer Drinks Party hosted by volunteers. Less regular events include Open Gardens and Concerts in the church. Applications are in process for a faculty to install a server and toilet in the church building. Approximately 60% of the funds required have been raised. Work is hopefully planned for A further 60% of funds required to repair stone work on the south facing windows has also been raised. In 2016 weekly church collections raised 4,218 and covenants raised 5,475. Annual and very popular Bonfire Party attracts numerous people from far and wide and results in a healthy fundraising opportunity. St Mary the Virgin, Dodford It is becoming increasingly difficult to generate enough income to meet outgoings. An attempt to start a Friends of Dodford Church resulted in only three people (two already on the PCC) coming forward. The Parish Share has risen from 1903 in 2013 to this year s figure of Without the 15 weddings held during 2016, a loss of over 2000 would have been sustained. This demonstrates the importance of maintaining significant numbers of weddings in future years. In 2017 a transfer of funds from the General account to the Church Fabric Fund are already earmarked to cover essential works this year. Any future restoration expenses will have to be covered by fundraising from grant making bodies supplemented by the PCC engaging in pro-active approaches to fundraising. 20 editor J Fuller

21 Clergy expenses Are paid in full following national guidelines Stewardship This is an area for leadership and guidance from a new incumbent Charitable Giving in 2016 Weedon donated 0.0% of it s income to charity. Everdon donated 6.5% of it s income to charity Dodford donated 4.63% of it s income to charity - recipients being The Royal British Legion whilst the Carol service collection was split equally between UNICEF Syrian Refugee Crisis and the National Churches Trust in Reserves Weedon 25,000; Everdon has no other reserves; Dodford has no reserves. Major restricted or designated funds as at Dec 2016 St Peter and Paul, Weedon: 6229 shares in Central Board of Finance Investment Fund; Fabric Fund (restricted) 64,367.74; [incorporates Bell Fund (restricted), Organ (restricted), Lighting fund (restricted), Roof Fund (restricted), Chapter House Fund and Electrical/heating fund (restricted)]. St Mary, Everdon: N01 A/c ; No2 A/c only used for bill payments; Restoration Fund 64, (restricted), Servery and Toilet Fund 36, (restricted). St Mary the Virgin, Dodford: Fabric Fund (restricted): 18,020.72; Churchyard fund (restricted): ; Bell Fund (restricted): ; Organ Fund (restricted): The annual reports and accounts for 2017 are available from the respective church Treasurers. 21 editor J Fuller

22 Organisation Parochial Church Councils Each PCC meets as follows: St Peter and Paul, Weedon: normally every three months however increasing to bi-monthly St Mary, Everdon: Bi-monthly generally St Mary the Virgin, Dodford: four times a year although this is being pushed to six times a year but shorter meetings. Weedon There is an expectation that the new Incumbent will attend ALL PCC meetings to oversee proceedings even if they are not the Chair. 9 PCC members consisting of 1 Church Warden who is also the church Secretary and Safe Guarding Officer, 1 Treasurer, 1 Verger, and 6 ordinary members one of whom is the Deanery Synod rep who is also the Vice Chair. There is also a minute secretary. Everdon 10 PCC members consisting of 2 Church Wardens, 1 Treasurer, Secretary (ex-officio), 7 ordinary members Everdon has no Safe Guarding Officer. Dodford 6 PCC members consisting of Church Warden (soon to be Licenced as a Reader) and has therefore given notice to stand down as Church Warden at the APCM in 2018; Secretary who is also the organist, 4 ordinary members, (one who is the Deanery Synod representative, one who is the LPM and one who is the Treasurer). 22 editor J Fuller

23 Communications All services are displayed on Church notices boards. Weedon continues to publish The Light, formerly used by all three churches, to pass on church information and also via the bi-monthly Village magazine and the Parish Council website For Everdon the Vicar s monthly newsletter and services are ed to those whose addresses are known by the current Incumbent. The Everdon Parish Newsletter is produced by the Parish Council twice yearly and sent to everyone in the village and gives contact details of the Vicar, churchwardens and the secretary of the PCC, together with a report. The Vicar s newsletter is now published in the Dodford Diary, the village magazine, together with church services 11 times a year. The first Light issued Weedon and currently Dodford both utilise the A church near you website. by Dodford in 2006 Staff Team Meeting A Staff Team Meeting is held once every six months in May and November and is currently attended by Church Wardens, Secretaries and Treasurer s. The meeting is preceded by a Vicar cooked meal and short fellowship. The meeting discusses events and matters arising for the Benefice for the following six months and discusses service schedules for High Day s, Holy Days, special events. The meeting is recorded. 23 editor J Fuller

24 Person Specification Our ideal Incumbent would: Romans 8: 28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Appreciate a rural lifestyle within a semi-urban environment and have a visible presence throughout our three communities, provide pastoral care, and to take the lead in spiritual matters. Have a dynamic and inspirational approach to worship with an evangelical outlook and be receptive to new concepts. Possess strength and passion for mission outreach, with a particular emphasis on attracting more young people and families to attend church activities and to build upon that which has already been embedded within the Benefice. Be willing to fully support, encourage and attend fundraising events. Attend all PCC meetings even if not the Chair Be a good listener, approachable and welcoming, with a sense of humour! Have strong interpersonal skills, managerial qualities and excellent IT and administrative skills Have a musically strong vocal lead (a distinct advantage) and have a culinary flair as well!! LOVE weddings!! We have a lot!! Through discussion, understanding and co-operation have the capacity to drive our churches forwards in order to future proof for the 21 st century. The opportunity to further God s work within the Benefice beckons the right person. Is this YOU? Are YOU being called? 24 editor J Fuller

25 A position for YOU?? If you feel that God is calling you to minister to our Benefice you can obtain further information from: The Ven. Richard Ormston, the Archdeacon of Northampton: Tel: ; The Canon Revd. Sarah Brown (Rural Dean): Tel: As none of us have a website as such further information about our Benefice and the local communities can be found by contacting the church wardens. WEEDON has an active page on A Church Near You - ACNY website post code is NN7 4ED Sandra Rogers: sandravrogers@gmail.com EVERDON Charles Coaker: chccoaker@btinternet.com Bridget Whittaker: biddyann@btinternet.com DODFORD: has an active page on A Church Near You - ACNY website post code is NN7 4SU Dodford is also trialling the C of E Pastoral Diary website Steve Moore: dodford.church2001@btinternet.com 25 editor J Fuller