The Benefice of The Cookhams. A community enriched by Christian faith, worship and values

Transcription

1 Holy Trinity COOKHAM The Benefice of The Cookhams A community enriched by Christian faith, worship and values St John the Baptist COOKHAM DEAN Holy Trinity Cookham Benefice Profile St John the Baptist Cookham Dean Appointment of Associate Priest 2014 welcome involve This profile is published jointly by the Parochial Church Councils of Holy Trinity, Cookham and St John the Baptist, Cookham Dean. V2.1 - for distribution to applicants engage proclaim

2 Contents The Benefice Introduction Context and Location At a Glance Statement by Rt Revd Andrew Proud, Bishop of Reading Our Mission Our Vision Our Five Year Plan Plan Progress Describing the Role Introduction Partnership Community Roles Church Tradition, Liturgy and Music Social Interaction Working Together Other Requirements Personality and Character St John s House Location Accommodation Holy Trinity Cookham St John the Baptist Cookham Dean About our Benefice The Community of The Cookhams Churches in The Cookhams Things we do Together Clergy Resource Governance Ministry Team Parish Office Mission to our Schools Children and Communion Parish Magazine Communications Group Websites Social Action Group Vulnerable Person Protection Baptism Policy Marriage Policy Study Groups and Pilgrimages Inclusivity Good Friday 1 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

3 Contents Holy Trinity Cookham The Church The Vicarage Restoration Programme The Parish Centre and Paddock Other Property Church Services Musical Worship The Role of Lay Members Parochial Church Council and Electoral Roll Financial Position Charitable Giving Friends of Holy Trinity Whitechapel Mission Community Activities The Parishes St John the Baptist Cookham Dean The Church Jubilee Vestry St John s House Church Services Sunbeams Musical Worship The Role of Lay Members Parochial Church Council and Electoral Roll Financial Position Friends of Cookham Dean Church Administration Friendship Lunch Social Calendar Community Activities Churchyard Mornings The Wider Church Diocesan Perspective Deanery Perspective Benefice Participation Key Documents Vision Action Plan 2011 Annual Report and Accounts 2013 Holy Trinity Annual Report and Accounts 2013 St John the Baptist Parish Magazines, May 2014 and June 2014 editions The Wider Church Key Documents Progress on our Five Year Plan Appendix The Cookhams Benefice Profile

4 Introduction Context and Location Cookham is situated to the north of Maidenhead in Berkshire and is part of the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead. It is bounded by the River Thames on the north and eastern sides and separated from the town of Maidenhead itself by open land designated as Green Belt. Cookham has been a crossing point on the River Thames since Roman times, and the village itself is rich in historical heritage. Cookham Rise, about half a mile west of the village, was established with the arrival of the railway, which provides a well used commuting link into London Paddington via Maidenhead. Cookham Dean, about a mile further west, was until Victorian times essentially a farming community but is now a desirable residential area. The population of the area is about 8,000. Jubilee Street Party High Street, Cookham The Benefice of The Cookhams incorporates the parishes of Holy Trinity, Cookham and St John the Baptist, Cookham Dean. The Benefice was formed in 2003 upon the retirement of the Vicar of Cookham Dean, and the incumbent at Cookham became the Vicar of both parishes. Station Parade Shops, Cookham Rise The two parishes do have separate identities, and remain independent with their own Parochial Church Councils, but are committed to work together with a common Patronage, Ministry Team, and a common mission to the people of the area. There are currently no plans to change this pastoral arrangement. We also have close links with our fellow Christians in the local Methodist and Roman Catholic churches. Village Hall, Cookham Dean 3 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

5 Introduction At a Glance Key Statistics Holy Trinity Cookham St John the Baptist Cookham Dean Electoral Roll Normal Sunday Attendance Seating Capacity Church established c Annual Income 194, ,000 Diocesan Share 100,000 54,000 Reserves 192,000 45,000 The Cookhams Benefice Profile

6 Introduction Statement by the Rt Revd Andrew Proud, Bishop of Reading In the Oxford Diocese, our purpose is to create a caring, sustainable and growing presence in every community. This requires creativity, flexibility, vision and the desire to work in partnership with all God s people. This vacancy for an associate priest in the Cookhams provides a fantastic opportunity for someone who has just completed a first curacy to join the partnership of a relatively new and dynamic ministry team. This is a parish where creative, innovative things can and do happen. The team is committed to church growth and community engagement in the Cookhams and to taking a full part in the life of the Deanery. We are looking for a priest who has a passion to share their faith and the ability to share it with people of all ages and backgrounds; someone who is a real team player who can get things done. The team and the people are ready and the resources are there. If you have a sense of humour and you really understand that catholic evangelism is the task of the whole people of God, then this could be the post for you. +Andrew Reading 5 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

7 Our Mission Our Vision is A community enriched by Christian faith, worship and values Our Vision which means that Through our welcome of all people in our community we will seek to embody Christ s inclusive and unconditional love. We will involve ourselves with society and the wider world and carry out the Christ-like work of practical compassion and the pursuit of peace and justice for all people. We will engage with Christians from other traditions, people of other faiths and people of no faith to embody Christ s friendship, generosity and love. Through prayer, worship and service to the community we will proclaim the good news of God s love and constantly strive to be more faithful followers of Jesus. welcome, involve, engage, proclaim In 2011 the Benefice produced a five year Mission Action Plan, which should be read in conjunction with this Profile. Our Five Year Plan The Plan is based on the Oxford Diocese framework of Living Faith, and was one of the first to be formulated under that guidance. It is the basis on which our mission is currently carried out both as individual parishes, and together as a benefice. Whilst the Plan is a living document and subject to constant referral and review, it is envisaged that it will continue to form the basis of mission in the immediate future. As such, it will continue to be the reference document used and monitored by the two PCCs as the basis for their activities, projects and initiatives. The Cookhams Benefice Profile

8 Our Mission Plan Progress Although we have made progress on many elements of the plan there are still challenges to face. The Appendix at the end of this profile describes our progress to date, with a commentary on the status of each initiative. Welcome is a ministry that seems to come naturally, but nurture and developing discipleship are more problematic. This has the knock on effect that we have difficulty finding people to take on committed responsibility and be the potential future churchwardens, treasurers, etc. Succession planning is still a significant issue for us in both churches. On the other hand, we do have a vibrant benefice and lots of expertise and commitment still to sustain our activities and time to get the succession right. Both PCCs still believe that this Mission Action Plan is the basis of what is needed for our benefice. Our new Vicar, Fr. Nick, has indicated that the plan should be continued to the end of its natural life in 2015, and that a new cycle of planning along similar lines will be undertaken for The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

9 Describing the Role We are looking for an Associate Priest to work alongside our Vicar and other members of our Ministry Team to lead us and help us take forward our mission in The Cookhams. Introduction This vacancy has arisen because the previous Associate Priest has been appointed Vicar, following the departure of the previous incumbent to take up a post at York Minster. Whilst we are clear about the direction we think we should take, we are open to challenge and the Associate Priest is a key role in not just assisting but challenging and leading where appropriate. We are not averse to change where this can be shown to be in the interests of our mission, and the last 10 years have seen substantial changes in both parishes. The full description of the role is set out in the Role Description document which should be read in conjunction with this profile. The section here describes how the role currently fits with our activities, mission and community. Some roles and responsibilities will clearly be shared between Vicar and Associate Priest but it is envisaged that some responsibilities will be specifically delegated to the Associate Priest and that a partnership will evolve rather than a leader/ assistant relationship. Partnership Whilst clearly the Vicar of the Benefice is the leader of the Benefice and has the overall responsibility for all aspects, the size of the operation calls for an Associate Priest who will be proactive and share the load with him. There will also be times when such leadership will fall to the Associate Priest, for example when the Vicar is on holiday or called to other duties. It is essential, therefore, that the Associate Priest is engaged, competent and knowledgeable about the activities on a day to day basis if our mission is to succeed so that there can be a division of labour, and no reliance on any one person. The Cookhams Benefice Profile

10 Describing the Role Community Roles The sense of community in The Cookhams is very strong, and the Ministry Team will be expected to ensure that the church is part of that community, has its say and plays an active role in it. We see our churches as being very much part of the wider community, not just the Christian one. The Vicar of the Benefice holds the following community posts:- Pinder Hall, Cookham Rise Trustee of The King s Hall Trust (which houses the Stanley Spencer Collection) Trustee of Pinder Hall (the community hall in Cookham Rise) Custodian Trustee of Elizabeth House Over 60s Day Centre Chairman of Cookham Voluntary Services Trustee of the land on which Cookham Dean School stands Ex officio governor of Cookham Dean School (Voluntary Aided) The Associate Priest would be expected to support the Vicar in fulfilling these roles effectively. Elizabeth House Day Centre Holy Trinity Church of England School is Voluntary Controlled and there is no ex officio role as a governor. However, this would not preclude the Vicar or the Associate Priest from becoming a governor in his or her own right. There are five nursing homes for the elderly in the benefice as well as Elizabeth House, an active Over 60s Day Centre, and ministry to these is key part of the role. There are other institutions within the benefice, notably the Odney Club (John Lewis Partnership Staff Establishment) and the Chartered Institute of Marketing, with which both the Vicar and the Associate Priest can expect to form a relationship. Cookham Dean Primary School Drawing by David Colthup 9 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

11 Describing the Role Both churches have a traditional approach to worship with a catholic tendency. Incense and bells have been used on special occasions at Holy Trinity but not for regular services. Church Tradition Liturgy and Music Both churches make extensive use of Common Worship as the basis of their liturgy. The benefice produces its own set of service booklets, including ones for special occasions or one off services. BCP is used for Matins (monthly at St John the Baptist) and Evensong (monthly at St John the Baptist, 2 or 3 times monthly at Holy Trinity). It is also used once a month at 8.00am on Sunday at Holy Trinity, and one Wednesday a month at St John the Baptist. The choirs of Holy Trinity Both churches have a traditional approach to supporting worship through music. There are robed choirs at both churches at all the main services. Common Praise is used as the hymnal at St John the Baptist. Hymns at Holy Trinity come from a variety of hymn books and are printed on a hymn sheet each week. The singing of Psalms is a regular feature of the weekly worship at St John the Baptist. The organ console at Cookham Dean Anthems are sung in both churches on most Sundays. The parishes operate busy social calendars in their own rights, and the social calendar of the community is such that there will be ample opportunity for the Associate Priest to meet and mix with both those connected with the church and community on a frequent basis. Social Interaction The ability to successfully interact with the church and secular communities in this way is considered a key part in developing and maintaining the churches place in the wider community. The Cookhams Benefice Profile

12 Describing the Role Working Together We offer full support to all our clergy in their roles. Whilst the two parishes are quite different, both share a common purpose and are willing to work together for the common good. The successful candidate can look forward to a convivial working environment, with business conducted on a frank but friendly basis. The benefice is committed to the pastoral care of its clergy, and full consideration for holidays, Sundays off and weekly days off can be expected, subject to coordination with the other clergy members and operational considerations. The benefice is also committed to allowing a proportionate amount of time for study and participation in cell groups and occasional retreats and quiet days. The benefice is also mindful that the post is part time, and seeks to ensure that this arrangement is honoured. In return, some flexibility to meet operational requirements may need to be planned from time to time. Other Requirements Car Driver The geography of the benefice means that the ability to drive is desirable. It is about 2 miles from Holy Trinity to St John the Baptist and a two hundred foot climb! In addition the logistics of the Sunday services can really only be made to work efficiently by using a car. Use of Information Technology The ability to conduct business electronically is also essential. The benefice is well established in this respect. All officers and PCC members are on , and many operate on a paperless basis at meetings. St John s House (see page 13) is equipped with a broadband connection. 11 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

13 Describing the Role We are looking for someone who:- can support the Vicar across a wide range of activities is energetic, enthusiastic and keen to work collaboratively drawing out and building on the gifts of others Personality and Character is a person of prayer whose spirituality focuses on the Eucharist, an imaginative and challenging preacher and a sensitive leader of both traditional and contemporary worship is able to meet the challenge of increasing the involvement of children and young families in the life of the church whilst developing the spirituality, skills and expectations of older people has an inclusive approach to the faith and is willing to engage creatively with the wider community is sociable and able to mix easily with people of all ages A recent survey of parishioners revealed that the character and personal characteristics above were what they looked for most in a member of the clergy, where the size of the characteristic is proportional to the number of times it was referenced. The Cookhams Benefice Profile

14 St John s House Location St John s House is owned by the Diocese and is designated as the accommodation for the Associate Priest. It is located in Spring Lane, Cookham Dean, SL6 9PN. It is about 300m from St John the Baptist church and was the Vicarage when Cookham Dean had its own vicar. The house is about 60 years old and is in good order having been refurbished by the Diocese about 5 years ago, including replacement windows. Central Heating and hot water is provided through a gas fired radiator system. The garden is mostly laid to grass. Accommodation There are two reception rooms, a kitchen, study, cloakroom/ toilet, with four bedrooms, bathroom and a separate toilet upstairs. The kitchen was completely refitted in The study is equipped with telephone and broadband connection and has segregated access via the front door for parish business purposes. There is a detached garage, and additional parking for three cars. 13 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

15 About our Benefice Cookham is an area about 4 miles north of Maidenhead, within the boundary of the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead in east Berkshire and bounded on its northern and eastern sides by the River Thames. Cookham consists of three distinct residential areas: Cookham Village, Cookham Rise and Cookham Dean, but the parish of Holy Trinity, which covers Cookham Village and Cookham Rise, also embraces a fourth distinct area in North Maidenhead adjacent to the Thames. Each is separated by open countryside, most of which is designated Green Belt. The three areas of Cookham are locally referred to as The Village, The Rise and The Dean. The Community of The Cookhams Just over 600 people live in Cookham Village itself. Cookham Rise is situated about a mile to the west of the Village with a population of nearly 5,000. Cookham Dean is another mile further west with a population of 1,300. North Maidenhead is a residential area of over 1,000 people, giving a total population for the benefice of nearly 8,000. The Stanley Spencer Gallery in Cookham High Street Although there is a wide range of socio-economic backgrounds, there is a higher than average representation of professional and artistic people. Each of the areas has its own strong sense of identity and community, and it is a popular place to live. It is also a popular place to visit, both for its open countryside, the River Thames and its historical and artistic heritage. The artist Stanley Spencer lived and worked here and his work is exhibited in the Stanley Spencer Gallery in Cookham Village. There is a variety of public houses and restaurants, and the National Trust land attracts many visitors, especially in the summer. The Cookhams are within easy reach of the nearby towns of Maidenhead, Windsor, Slough, High Wycombe and Reading. There is a rail link to Maidenhead with The view from Cookham across The Moor towards The Pound and Cookham Rise The Cookhams Benefice Profile

16 About our Benefice direct trains to London Paddington at peak times, and there is good road access to the M4 and M40. Many people commute daily to London. There are several local shops at Cookham Rise as well as a chemist, dentist, Medical Centre, a flourishing "over 60s" Day Centre and a Community Hall. Both the Methodist Church and St Elizabeth s Roman Catholic Church are located in The Rise. The nearest major hospitals are at High Wycombe and Wexham Park, Slough. There is also a small out-patient hospital at St Mark s, Maidenhead. The parade of shops in Cookham Rise The benefice has three very good primary schools, a private preparatory school and two nursery schools. Two of the schools, Holy Trinity Primary School and Cookham Dean Primary School are Church of England Primary Schools, and have close links with the respective two churches. There are five comprehensive schools in nearby Maidenhead, and grammar schools are available in Slough and in Buckinghamshire generally. Cookham has its own community website and the website also gives a general description of the area. It also holds a biannual Cookham Festival dedicated to local art, crafts, drama and music, organised and presented by local residents. The view from Cookham Rise towards Cookham Dean There is a Roman Catholic and a Methodist church in the area, and the latter publicises its services and activities in the Parish Magazine. 15 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

17 About our Benefice The location of the two Anglican churches means that the residents of Cookham Rise, who form the greater part of the population, go either up the hill to St John the Baptist, Cookham Dean, or down into the Village to Holy Trinity, Cookham. Churches in The Cookhams Whilst working together and sharing a common Ministry Team and purpose, the two parishes have distinct characteristics. In broad terms, Holy Trinity is about twice the size of St John the Baptist in terms of its church building, electoral roll, church attendance, income, etc. Roman Catholic Church Holy Trinity St John the Baptist Methodist Church The Cookhams Benefice Profile

18 Things we do Together Clergy Resources In accordance with the Deanery Plan, the allocation of clergy for The Benefice is currently one full time stipendiary priest to act as Vicar of both parishes, with a house; and a part time Associate Priest with a half stipend and a house. Fr Nick Plant is the Vicar of the Benefice of The Cookhams, and was appointed in 2014, having previously been the Associate Priest. Fr Nick Plant Vicar of The Cookhams? The position of Associate Priest is the one being advertised, and is 4.5 days per week (including Sunday) with a house in Cookham Dean provided by the Diocese. Fr David Joynes is a self-supporting minister resident in Cookham Village, who was ordained priest in June The Revd Jo Ellington is a self-supporting minister resident in Cookham Dean who was ordained deacon in July Associate Priest Charles Walmsley is an experienced Licensed Lay Minister resident in Cookham Rise. The Benefice has established itself as a Training Parish for Curates in Training. It has now successfully hosted two curates, who have gone on to be parish priests in Perth, Western Australia, and Dulverton, Somerset respectively. Fr David Joynes The benefice will be continuing its role as a place of training, with David Joynes and Jo Ellington continuing their training in the Benefice. The Revd Jo Ellington Licensed Lay Minister Charles Walmsley 17 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

19 Things we do Together The two parishes are independently governed through their own PCCs and Standing Committees. Joint meetings of the Standing Committees of both parishes are held regularly to discuss matters of mutual interest affecting both parishes. Governance The Ministry Team meets monthly under the chairmanship of the Vicar, and comprises the Clergy, the Churchwardens from each parish, the Benefice Administrator and a note taker. Ministry Team The purpose of the Ministry Team is to guide, organise and monitor the overall pattern of worship across the whole benefice, and to plan the approach to matters such as the form and programme of services at Festivals, other special services, confirmation, Lent study courses, parish retreats, prayer groups etc. The Team considers any issues that will protect and/or advance the spiritual life of the congregation and generate opportunities to spread the influence of Christian spirituality beyond our immediately identifiable membership. The Benefice has a Parish Office located at Holy Trinity adjoining the Parish Centre. It acts on behalf of both parishes. It is open Monday to Friday mornings and is staffed by a parttime paid Benefice Administrator. The cost of the Parish Office is apportioned between the two parishes. Parish Office The Parish Office is well equipped with an up-to-date computer and other modern equipment needed to support creative ministry and a busy worshipping community. Weddings, Baptisms and Funerals are arranged through the Parish Office, with preparation and pastoral ministry being shared by the Clergy team. The Administrator takes responsibility for general administration, controls the lettings of the Holy Trinity Parish Centre facilities and is responsible for payments of church fees and petty cash. The Parish Office The Cookhams Benefice Profile

20 Things we do Together Mission to Our Schools Holy Trinity Primary School is a Voluntary Controlled Church of England Primary School and Cookham Dean Primary School is a Voluntary Aided Church of England Primary School. Both have close links with the respective two churches. As well as providing foundation governors, regular assemblies are conducted at the schools by clergy, and the schools regularly visit the churches for both services and educational purposes. Cookham Dean School arriving for an end of term service at St John the Baptist Mission to the other non C of E schools is also a key part of our mission to children. The other schools are the Primary School in Cookham Rise and Herries Preparatory School in Cookham Dean. Herries hold services and assemblies at St John the Baptist on a regular basis and Cookham Rise has an assembly taken by a member of the clergy once or twice a term. An unusual feature of The Cookhams is the high number of primary school children - well over 700. The 500+ families of which they are part represent an important mission opportunity for the benefice and its vicar. There are no secondary schools in the parish, and children attend schools in Maidenhead, Wycombe and Marlow. Children and Communion Across both parishes we actively seek to support parents in the nurture of their children s faith. Part of this support is to invite young children who have been baptised to receive Communion, recognising that they are fully part of the Church. Both lay members of the congregation and ordained ministers are involved in the children s preparation. Children around the altar at St John the Baptist Holy Trinity Cookham was the first parish in Berkshire to propose and implement a scheme for admitting children to Communion before Confirmation. Out of our experience we were able to contribute to the House of Bishops Guidelines. St John the Baptist, Cookham Dean followed the practice very shortly afterwards. 19 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

21 Things we do Together The Benefice has a single magazine that is published monthly. In 2012 it underwent a major relaunch, with an A4 page size, colour pages, and increased coverage to include community events. It is distributed free of charge to every household in the benefice by volunteers and agents, and is self-financing through the sale of advertising space. Parish Magazine The magazine is printed, collated and stapled on a new Xerox printing facility in the Parish Office. This printing facility is available to other organisations and individuals on a chargeable basis. The Parish Magazine is also available on the Benefice websites. A joint communications group oversees all aspects of the development of communications. The aim is to develop a common brand across the benefice yet maintaining the individual identities and needs of each parish. Communications Group It re-launched the Parish Magazine in 2012, and work has recently been completed to update the functionality of the websites with a design that gives the two parishes a common look and feel, and a greater recognition of working together. At the same time the churches are now on Facebook. Portable sail flags that can be taken to village fetes, and other events around the benefice will help us with outreach on these occasions. Websites The Cookhams Benefice Profile

22 Things we do Together Social Action Group The Social Action Group draws its resources from both parishes and the local Methodist church. It specifically looks at social issues, making a difference in the world. In 2008 it sponsored and set up a weekly drop in facility at Elizabeth House for people suffering from memory loss (dementia) and their carers. There are now 10 regular attenders. Its most recent initiative is to organise support for the local foodbank based in Maidenhead. Vulnerable Person Protection Both PCCs have adopted the Oxford Diocese guidance on the Safeguarding of Children and Vulnerable Adults. The PCCs have appointed Safeguarding Officers who sit on their PCCs. There is a Verifier responsible for checks on any people involved in regular church activities. Local Safeguarding Policies are updated in the light of the latest guidance. Baptism Policy The benefice policy is for Baptisms to take place in the context of the Parish Eucharist on a Sunday morning. Eligibility requirements are that the candidate, or parents in the case of a child, either live in the parish or have worshipped regularly at the church. Cookham Dean will also offer baptism where the candidate s family have a connection with the church, e.g. married there or grandparents worship at the church. The liturgy used is a special adaptation to get the maximum engagement from both Baptism families and the regular congregation. All parents and if possible godparents are expected to take part in preparation meetings. Children baptized at St John the Baptist There are approximately 40 baptisms a year across the benefice. Each church designates one Sunday a month for baptisms, except in Lent and Advent. 21 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

23 Things we do Together In our churches we uphold the traditional teaching of the Church about marriage, that it is a gift of God in creation and a means of grace and it should always be undertaken as a lifelong commitment. Marriage Policy We marry couples in either of our Churches provided they meet the residence requirements or have qualifying connections with one of our Churches. Couples are strongly encouraged to share in our marriage preparation. The clergy currently in the Benefice have been willing to offer remarriage to a divorced party where neither party has been complicit in the breakdown of the other s marriage. We will also offer the Service of Prayer and Dedication after a Civil Marriage providing the relationship in question did not begin before a previous marriage ended. A wedding at Holy Trinity There are marriages across the Benefice each year. Study Groups are organised as part of the overall Benefice activities. A successful series of evening bible studies and a Lent Course with over 80 people involved in several groups meeting in people s homes. Study Groups and Pilgrimages In recent years there have been organised pilgrimages to Rome & Assisi, Wales, East Anglia, Walsingham and the West Country. In 2010 a large group from the Benefice went to the Passion Play in Oberammergau, followed by a week s holiday together on Lake Garda. A rainy day in Rome! The very strong emphasis on welcome is coupled with a strong inclusive attitude to anyone who is seeking the Kingdom of God. Both churches subscribe to the principles of Inclusive Church. Inclusivity The Cookhams Benefice Profile

24 Things we do Together Good Friday Good Friday is a day that is spent together as a benefice. The day starts with a Children s Service in the style of a Stations of The Cross around St John the Baptist. There is then a walk of witness from St John s to Holy Trinity by way of our Stations of The Cross which have become a feature of our outreach and have received considerable artistic acclaim over recent years. A theme is chosen each year, and local artists or the schools prepare the 10 stations on that basis. A short reflection takes place at each station. Over 100 people, including Christians from the Methodist and Catholic Churches (who each host a station) take part. Jesus dies on the Cross in ceramic tiles by Holy Trinity School A traditional Good Friday liturgy then takes place in Holy Trinity. Recent Initiatives Three initiatives have been started recently:- Breakfast Discussion Group for Men - meeting on a Saturday morning once a month with a speaker, discussion and, of course, a cooked breakfast! Rocky s Plaice - a week of summer holiday club fun for around 70 children from Cookham based on the Scripture Union format. This initiative is one that had high priority in our 5 Year Plan, and which has now come to reality. Young Persons Discussion Group - a group of older children meet once a month on a Sunday afternoon to debate and discuss topical and ethical subjects. Whilst in their early stages we hope that these will become a regular part of our ministry to our community. 23 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

25 Holy Trinity Cookham Holy Trinity church is a Grade II listed building part Saxon, part Norman and part Medieval. It can therefore boast nearly 1000 years of worship, and there are many features of this history still evident, including a surviving Norman window, the Anchoress window and part of the foundations that formed her cell. The Church There are many memorials and graves within the church depicting the history of the community and worship down the millennium. Although close to the Thames itself, the site has never been known to flood. Although the churchyard is now closed to burials, there is space for interment of ashes. Holy Trinity from the south A well used footpath which forms part of the Thames Path traverses the churchyard, and is a popular route from the village to the river. as such it receives hundreds of visitors each week. The churchyard is maintained and mowed by a small band of 4-6 volunteers, and plans are in hand to simplify the flower beds. It is our practice to leave the church open during daylight hours to allow any passer-by to experience the peace and holiness of this ancient building. Holy Trinity from the north The tower, which is not open to the public, houses a well-tuned full ring of ten bells, which were restored and enhanced in The bells are pealed on a regular basis for main services and practice. The Vicarage The Vicarage, adjacent to the Church, is a modern four bedroom house owned by the Diocese and designated as the accommodation for the Vicar of The Cookhams. The Vicarage The Cookhams Benefice Profile

26 Holy Trinity Cookham Restoration Programme A substantial restoration programme has been undertaken in the last three years which includes the relaying of tiled floors in the nave and the elevation and relaying of the floor across the chancel and side chapels. The roof and rainwater management also underwent renovation and renewal, and new lighting and a new sound system have been installed. The windows, which are of varying ages, also need attention and a three year programme to restore them started in Finance for the various phasing of the restoration programme has come from a mixture of sources, including PCC funds, legacies, substantial donations and fund raising by the congregation. Restoration work on the roof The total cost of the restoration programme is of the order of 450,000, of which all but around 100,000 has already been secured. The Parish Centre and Paddock This building was converted from the former Queen Anne Vicarage and is now well used for community and private events. It consists of three function rooms and a kitchen on the ground floor, with three tenanted first floor flats let at commercial rents on the first floor. A part-time caretaker is employed to keep the Parish Centre clean and in good order of basic repair. The Parish Centre Adjacent to the Parish Centre is a large field known as The Paddock. It is used as a supplementary car park by worshippers and visitors to the church and Parish Centre. The field is occasionally rented by Caravan Clubs. Other Property In addition to the three flats above the Parish Centre, the parish also owns a two-bedroom maisonette in Cookham Rise let at commercial rent. 25 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

27 Holy Trinity Cookham The services across the benefice are designed so that the vicar is able to be present at the main services at both churches every week. This is considered an important part of the vicar s role. It also means that, if necessary, the Sunday services can be taken by one priest in the case of sickness, holidays etc. Figures in brackets indicate approximate attendance. Church Services Sundays 8.00am Holy Communion (1 st, 3 rd, 5 th Sunday) (10) 11.00am Parish Eucharist (sung) (145) 6.30pm Evensong (sung) or another choral service (45) Weekdays 2 nd Monday in month 7:30pm Healing Eucharist (10) 4 th Monday in month 8.00pm Soul Space (10) Thursday (each week) 7.30am Holy Communion (10) Vestments are worn by the President at Services of Holy Communion. Parish Eucharist at Holy Trinity An important feature of the 11:00am Parish Eucharist is our ministry to children. In response to a shrinking roll we are trialling a single Sunday Club catering for children aged 3-12 with 20 children registered. The children meet in the Parish Centre and join the main service at the offertory. On the 1st Sunday of the month they stay in the Parish Centre for a Godly Play presentation. We have a youth group serving both churches (Splat Pac) of 12 young people aged 11+ meeting twice a month in the Parish Centre on a Sunday, pm. Soul Space is a minute session in the evening where different facets of prayer and meditation are explored. This has included appreciation of Icons, Lectio Divina, praying with the Rosary, silence and choral music. Parish Eucharist at Holy Trinity Three times each week, two or three lay members of the congregation meet in church to pray together for the needs and concerns of others, using the prayer requests from the general public posted in the church. The Cookhams Benefice Profile

28 Holy Trinity Cookham Musical worship Holy Trinity has a fine musical tradition, led by a Director of Music and Assistant Director. The choir of boys and men (22 members) and girls (13 members) cover two services each Sunday in term time. They sing in excess of 6 anthems each Sunday. The girls sing two Sunday morning services a month, Midnight Mass, and on Good Friday, and the men and boys sing the other services. There are visits to cathedrals and broadcasts. The church has a trilogy of Carol Services (Advent, Christmas and Epiphany) with a tradition of holding its Christmas Carol Service on Christmas Day at 6.30pm. The Choirs of Holy Trinity There is a 3 manual pipe organ, recently extensively restored. Role of Lay Members There is a positive policy of encouraging involvement of lay members in many areas of ministry where suitable talent exists or can be developed. This widens our base of support for clergy and deepens the commitment of parishioners, strengthening the feeling of joint ownership of faith and mutual support. For example, there is a team of eight lay Chalice Administrators who assist with distributing the Sacrament at services in church and who take the Sacrament to local nursing homes. There are extensive rotas of servers, sidesmen, readers and leaders of intercession. Server, Crucifer and Acolytes at Holy Trinity We have a Pastoral Network responsible for being aware of, and interested in a small number of the congregation. 27 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

29 Holy Trinity Cookham There are 24 members of the PCC including the clergy, churchwardens and Deanery Synod representatives. The Vice Chair of the PCC acts as chair for the meetings. Parochial Church Council and Electoral Roll The running of PCC business is helped by a number of groups and committees which report to the PCC. Details of these and their work are to be found in the Annual Parochial Church Meeting Report enclosed. These committees report to each PCC in advance, thereby making good use of formal PCC time. It is usual to start each PCC with prayer followed by a discussion item on a topical subject related to the church at large or to the parish. The Vision Action Plan is a key resource in understanding and managing our mission. It is used as a framework for initiatives and actions, and priorities from it are progressed at every PCC meeting. The 2014 Electoral Roll stands at 252, of which 71 reside outside the Benefice. The Annual Accounts show that there was a sizeable deficit on the unrestricted account in In recent years the account has more or less broken even, and work is underway to identify and address the issues underlying this. Financial Position Notwithstanding this, income is based on a strong system of regular giving which provides a sound foundation for forward planning. In the last three years over 700,000 was raised for refurbishment and restoration work on the church fabric, including relaying of stone floors, roof and guttering and widow refurbishment. The Diocesan Share is paid in full by Bank Standing order. In 2014, the share for Holy Trinity Cookham is 100,048. The Cookhams Benefice Profile

30 Holy Trinity Cookham Charitable Giving It is our policy to budget for a minimum level of Charitable Giving as a specific expenditure item based roughly on 10% of net income after allowing for certain essential payments. In addition to our regular annual charitable giving we have a good record of innovative and successful fund-raising projects. Our Millennium Appeal raised 22,000 which we directed to a USPG project where families in a deprived area of Chile are building their own houses with the help of an experienced field worker. Fund raising for the homeless More recently the Cookham Churches raised in excess of 25,000 for water projects in the Kedida area of Ethiopia. Friends of Holy Trinity The Friends of Holy Trinity is an organisation with members who are not necessarily directly involved with the church but who appreciate the beauty and non spiritual contribution that Holy Trinity Church gives the community. This provides a useful source of additional finance. Whitechapel Mission The church has had a long association with the Whitechapel Mission in East London. On the 4th Sunday of each month, a team of four volunteers assist in preparing and serving breakfast to the homeless. We also collect and take men s clothing such as waterproof jackets, jeans, lots of socks, warm tops as well as basic toiletries such as soap, shampoo, and toothpaste. Breakfast at Whitechapel Community Activities Many members of the congregation are actively involved alongside other members of the community (not necessarily church members) with the various fellowships and clubs in Cookham such as the Holy Trinity Ladies Group, Women s Institutes, Scouts, Guides and St. John Ambulance. 29 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

31 St John the Baptist Cookham Dean The church in Cookham Dean was founded in 1845, when the area was a relatively poor district compared with the situation today. Nowadays, Cookham Dean is relatively affluent with a high concentration of professional and retired inhabitants. However, in recent years the number of young families has increased, and a significant part of the church s mission is to children and young families. There is a strong sense of community in Cookham Dean, which has its own Village Hall and WI Hall within 100m of the church. The Church The church is a Grade II* listed building located in the Cookham Dean Conservation Area. There is an extensive churchyard with commanding views over the Thames valley towards Cliveden. The churchyard is well maintained by a combination of contract and voluntary resource, and is still open to burials and interment of ashes. View from the churchyard The church has seating for around 150 people in comfort, and with 200 it is packed. The seating is on wooden pews which are not fixed. There is a separate Clergy Vestry in the church adjacent to the sanctuary. The church is in good decorative and structural order, with only minor repair work currently required following the 2011 Quinquennial Inspection. In 2009 the southwest corner of the church underwent major structural repair including underpinning following the substantial movement of that part of the building. The cost was met by the insurers. The Sanctuary It is the practice to leave the church itself open during daylight hours to allow visitors to experience a contact with God, no matter how casual that might be and in spite of the risks which this carries today. This is a well-used facility. The original Victorian Vicarage located next to the church is now a private dwelling. The Jubilee Vestry The Cookhams Benefice Profile

32 St John the Baptist Cookham Dean The Jubilee Vestry The Jubilee Vestry adjoining the church is a parish room which was completely rebuilt in 2012/13 to give more much-needed space for parish activities, storage, a new kitchen and toilets including provision for the disabled and baby changing. The main space can be divided into two by means of a substantial partition to accommodate the two separate groups of Sunbeams (see page 32) on a Sunday morning. The space is then opened out for the congregation to enjoy coffee after the service. Coffee Time It was a major project that took several years to plan and execute. It was funded with approximately 90,000 from church reserves and 250,000 of fund raising, donations and grants, a substantial amount of which came from parishioners and the local community. It represents a substantial investment for the future. St John s House St John s House is a four bedroom detached house about 300m from the church. This was the Vicarage when the parish was independent, and is designated the accommodation for the Associate Priest and his or her family. More details are to be found on page The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

33 St John the Baptist Cookham Dean The services across the benefice are designed so that the vicar is able to be present at the main services at both churches every week. This is considered an important part of the vicar s role. It also means that, if necessary, the Sunday services can be taken by one priest in the case of sickness, holidays etc. Figures in brackets indicate approximate attendance. Church Services Sundays 8.00am Holy Communion (2 nd and 4 th Sundays) (6) 9.15am Parish Eucharist (sung) (100) 11.00am Matins (sung) (1 st Sunday) (15) 6.30pm Evensong (sung) (3 rd Sunday) (40) Weekdays Wednesday (each week) 10.00am Holy Communion (20) Vestments are worn by the President at Services of Holy Communion. Parish Eucharist at St John the Baptist An important feature of the Sunday 9.15 Parish Eucharist is the provision for children and young people. Sunbeams is open to children of all ages, and currently there are two groups; under 7 s and over 7 s. The groups meet in church, and go through to the Jubilee Vestry at the start of the service, then re-join the service at The Peace. Parents are welcome to accompany their children initially, but are encouraged to stay in church. Sunbeams On returning to church the younger children explain to the congregation what they have been learning about. About once a month, at the end of the service, the senior Sunbeams present The Galilean Breakfast Show to share what they have been learning about. All organisers and helpers are compliant with the House of Bishops Guidelines on Child Protection. Sunbeams The Cookhams Benefice Profile

34 St John the Baptist Cookham Dean Musical Worship There is an active mixed choir of about 12 regular adults and 15 juniors. The organist and choirmaster is active in training and rehearsing the Junior Choir and the choir is affiliated to the RSCM. The church has a three manual traditional organ that was rebuilt in The choir sings anthems regularly and leads the congregation in Choral Evensong once a month, and at special seasonal services. There is also an orchestra, which consists of about 10 instrumentalists of all ages from the congregation, who play the music accompanying the hymns about once every three months. St John the Baptist Choir A smaller adult choir under separate leadership leads the monthly Matins service. The Role of Lay Members There is a positive policy of encouraging involvement of lay members in many areas of ministry where suitable talent exists or can be developed. This widens our base of support for clergy and deepens the commitment of parishioners, strengthening the feeling of joint ownership of faith and mutual support. There is a team of Servers and Chalice Administrators who assist with distributing the Sacrament at services in church and who take the Sacrament to the local nursing home. There are extensive rotas of people who serve as sidesmen, readers and leaders of intercession. We also have a Pastoral Network team of lay members of the congregation, each responsible for being aware of and interested in a small number of the congregation. 33 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

35 St John the Baptist Cookham Dean The PCC consists of 21 members including the clergy, churchwardens and Deanery Synod Representatives. The Vice Chair of the PCC acts as chair for the meetings. Parochial Church Council and Electoral Roll There is a Standing Committee consisting of the Clergy, Churchwardens, Treasurer and Secretary. Joint meetings of the Standing Committees of both parishes are held regularly to discuss matters of mutual interest and affecting both parishes. The PCC is helped by a number of groups and committees which report to it. These committees consist of members who are both on the PCC and those who are not. The Vision Action Plan is a key resource in understanding and managing our mission. It is used as a framework for initiatives and actions, and priorities from it are progressed at every PCC meeting. It is usual to start each PCC with prayer followed by a discussion item on a topical subject related to the church at large or to the parish. The 2014 Electoral Roll stands at 132, of which 32 reside outside the Benefice. The Annual Accounts show that our unrestricted income is of the order of 105,000 per annum, and we are registered with the Charity Commissioners. However, the fund raising for the Jubilee Vestry continues, giving a temporary increase to this figure. It is planned to complete fund raising for the Jubilee Vestry by the end of Much of our income is through planned giving, and we have an active and effective Fund Raising Programme through a series of social events which also greatly enhance the social and outreach activities of the Parish. Financial Position We have managed to achieve a modest surplus over a number of years and our reserves had built up to the extent that they could be used to partially finance the building of the Jubilee The Cookhams Benefice Profile

36 St John the Baptist Cookham Dean Vestry. The financial plan is still to have around 50,000 of reserves once the costs of the project have been met. The Parish has a track record of frugality and control of expenditure. By far the largest outgoing each year is the Diocesan Share (see below), which accounts for about 60% of our income. The accounts for 2013 showed a deficit of 6,843, but this was almost entirely due to an unscheduled replacement of cast iron central heating pipes which sprang a leak during the year. Diocesan Share The Diocesan Share is paid in full every year by Bank Standing Order over the first ten months. In 2014 the share for St John the Baptist is 54,621. Charitable Giving It is our policy to budget for a minimum level of Charitable Giving as a specific expenditure item based roughly on 10% of net income after allowing for certain essential payments. In 2013 the figure for giving was approximately 8,381. Friends of Cookham Dean Church The Friends of St John the Baptist is a scheme whereby individuals who are not necessarily directly involved with the church but who appreciate the beauty and non spiritual contribution that the church gives to the community can support it financially. The practice has been to use this source of additional finance for capital projects, e.g. replacement of the boiler, or for fabric repairs. Administration In conjunction with the Parish Office, a certain amount of local administration associated with St John the Baptist, Cookham Dean is carried out on a voluntary basis by the PCC Secretary from her home. The parish has a copy printer located at the Secretary s home and the weekly edition of Pew News, service booklets and reading sheets are produced locally. Whilst the Secretary uses her own computer to carry out this work, a monthly backup of the data is held in the church safe. 35 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

37 St John the Baptist Cookham Dean One of the regular features of the calendar is the Friendship Lunch. This is held once a month in the Jubilee Vestry and is attended by about 30 people, not necessarily church members, who would normally eat Sunday lunch alone or not at all. A modest charge to cover expenses is made and the whole operation undertaken by church members on a voluntary basis. The increasing popularity of this was one of the reasons for the rebuilding of the Jubilee Vestry. Friendship Lunch Friendship Lunch The Parish organises a full social event calendar throughout the year, with activities such as Bingo, Bangers and Mash, Quiz Night and Harvest Supper, involving as wide an age range as possible. We believe we were intended to enjoy our faith and fellowship. Social Calendar Many of the people in the parish (including, but not necessarily exclusively church members) are actively involved with the various fellowships, clubs and fund raising activities in Cookham Dean such as The Village Club, two Women s Institutes and the Thames Hospicecare Support Group, to name but a few. Community Activities Another regular feature is Churchyard Mornings, held once a month on Saturdays throughout the summer months. It is not unusual to find 10 or 12 people busy keeping the churchyard tidy. Churchyard Mornings Supplemented by contractors who undertake the mowing of the active part of the churchyard, we have a churchyard to be proud of, and which, with its stunning views across the Thames valley, brings peace and solace to those who visit it. Churchyard Working Party The Cookhams Benefice Profile

38 The Wider Church Diocesan Perspective The Diocese of Oxford serves the mission of the Church in Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire. The Diocese comprises more than 600 parishes, with over 800 churches, serving a diverse population of more than 2 million people located in all types of settings. Our Diocesan Bishop is the Rt Revd John Pritchard. Due to the size and complexity of the Diocese, we also have three Area Bishops who exercise considerable strategic oversight for their Episcopal areas. The Bishop of Reading is the Rt Revd Andrew Proud who has been the Area Bishop since The Archdeacon of Berkshire is the Venerable Olivia Graham. Christ Church Cathedral Growing out of the previous Diocesan vision and values statement called Sharing Life, in 2009 Bishop John launched the revised Diocesan vision entitled Living Faith for the Future, aimed at encouraging holistic mission and spirituality at the heart of daily life. It contains five key values which inform our strategic directions: sustaining the sacred centre creating vibrant Christian communities making disciples making a difference in the world shaping confident collaborative leaders. These values are built on the principles of not neglecting the past but building on it; not so much about strategy but culture; not top down but liberating the local; not targets but directions; not about structures but about relationships; not one size fits all but flexibility and not about complexity but elegance. Diocesan Church House Full information on Living Faith for the future can be found at It is expected that all clergy appointed into the Archdeaconry of Berkshire will want to commit themselves to this Diocesan vision and its strategic directions. 37 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

39 The Wider Church The Reading Episcopal Area extends from west Berkshire along the M4 corridor to Windsor. It includes very rural areas and large centres of population such as Reading and Bracknell and with a population of 800,000 is larger than many dioceses in the Church of England. The episcopal area is divided into deaneries and the Benefice of The Cookhams is part of the Maidenhead and Windsor Deanery. Other parishes in the Maidenhead & Windsor Deanery can be seen here. -we-are/reading/deaneries/maidenhead-and-windsor/ Deanery Perspective The Benefice of the Cookhams is the largest ministry unit in the Maidenhead & Windsor Deanery with around 16% of the electoral roll and contributing around 17% of the Deanery s total diocesan share. There are 13 full time and one half time stipendiary posts in the Deanery including those allocated to The Cookhams. The Cookhams, therefore, with 1.5, has 11% of the deanery s stipendiary resources. The benefice supports and is actively involved in the work of the deanery and the diocese. In addition to the Deanery Synod representatives from each parish, the previous incumbent was Area Dean, one of the churchwardens in the benefice is currently Deanery Secretary, a member of Diocesan Synod and sits on the Diocesan Church House Organisation and Staff Subcommittee (DCHOSS) of Bishop s Council. One member of one of the PCCs is an Oxford Diocesan Trustee. Benefice Participation The Cookhams Benefice Profile

40 Key Documents This profile should be read in conjunction with the following key documents. Mission Action Plan Annual Reports Parish Magazine 39 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

41 Appendix Progress with our Five Year Plan Traffic Light Progress Still to do! In progress or partially completed Completed and in place The Cookhams Benefice Profile

42 Appendix: Our Five Year Plan Activity Status WEEK BY WEEK WORSHIP AND ACTIVITIES Maintain high quality and variety of worship STRENGTHEN THE CHRISTIAN ETHOS OF THE LOCAL SCHOOLS Regular School Assemblies This is an ongoing business as usual activity. In place and working well Regular links with non-church schools Encourage more school visits to church Hold a service once a term with parents and teachers Regular contact with Herries Preparatory School and Cookham Rise Primary School. Educational as well as worship visits now taking place. Four of these have now been held and more planned. IMPROVED BUILDINGS FOR ENHANCED PURPOSES Upkeep and Development of our Church Buildings Substantial restoration programme at Holy Trinity well underway. Structural issue at St John the Baptist rectified, and Vestry rebuilt Encourage prayer for casual visitors Improve the presentation of the churches to visitors Prayer cards and welcome leaflets in both churches Will be done following building and restoration work. Encourage the wider uses of the churches Both churches are frequently used for concerts and events not directly connected with church activities. Both churches hosted events as part of Cookham Festival, and local choirs and musical ensembles perform regularly. Longer term building considerations OTHER POINTS FOR ACTION Bible Reading Guidance, House Groups, Quiet Days and Pilgrimages Support music as an integral part of what we do, and look at other ways to use alternative forms of music in our worship. Still under consideration These are organised on an ongoing periodic basis. A key consideration is our reliance on the Director of Music and Organist/Choirmaster at both churches. St John s Orchestra provide occasional alternative accompaniment to hymns at Cookham Dean 41 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

43 Appendix: Our Five Year Plan Activity Status FINDING OUT ABOUT OURSELVES Evaluating current skills and activities Create an attractive stand/display for use at community events to publicise our work. Seek to establish a recognition in the community of the Pastoral Care available from and provided by the churches. SOCIAL ACTION GROUP We should seek to establish the Social Action Group on a Benefice and Ecumenical basis. Not started. Two flags, one for each parish now available. Not Started. Done, but more projects still need to be identified. COMMUNICATIONS STRATEGY Formulate a Benefice-wide Communications Strategy with wide ranging appeal which can look into all aspects of how we communicate, Parish Magazine, Website, Press, Cookham Voice etc. Well established: Magazine transformation complete. Websites re-launched and a programme of enhancements underway. Facebook page established. Other issues still being addressed. Traffic Light Progress Still to do! In progress or partially completed Completed and in place The Cookhams Benefice Profile

44 Appendix: Our Five Year Plan PASTORAL NETWORK Activity Establish a practical working Pastoral Network COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Develop and encourage Church social events to be outreach opportunities. Status This is ongoing and there is still lots to do. St John the Baptist has appointed a Membership Secretary to bring the membership records and Electoral Roll Officer under one person. This is developing. The Jubilee celebrations organised by St John the Baptist for 400 people was the celebration event for Cookham Dean. Other opportunities for similar events need to be considered in the light of other initiatives, such as Elizabeth House. Several church members are actively involved in fund raising for Elizabeth House. There is a Friendship Lunch once a month (except the summer) held in the Jubilee Vestry at St John the Baptist. OTHER ACTIONS Our role as a natural leader for community initiatives in Cookham. Working with and complementing other churches and community organisations Not yet established fully. Social Action Group is a start towards achieving this. There are other regular ecumenical events. such as the Good Friday Walk of Witness (see page 28), the ecumenical lunch and ecumenical worship at the Cookham Festival. Traffic Light Progress Still to do! In progress or partially completed Completed and in place 43 The Cookhams Benefice Profile 2014

45 Appendix: Our Five Year Plan Activity Status UNDERSTAND THE NEEDS OF OUR COMMUNITIES AND CONGREGATIONS Demographic data With hindsight this may not tell us any more than we already know. Political Landscape We should also liaise with the Parish Council and our Local Councillors to ensure our understanding and appreciation of the political landscape. Community Events We should consider holding community social events for particular groups of people in our communities. Wedding couples, Baptism families and the Bereaved We should invite these people back after an appropriate period of time This should be integrated as part of our Pastoral Network activity (see Creating Vibrant Christian Communities above). Formal contact not yet established. Not yet established fully. This is done, but not integrated with other pastoral activity yet. BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICE FOR THE BENEFICE Job Descriptions and Succession for Church Officers Only just started. PCC Talent Sharing Done for the first time at Holy Trinity in 2008 and at St John the Baptist in Ministry Team and Joint Standing Committees The composition of the Ministry Team and Joint Standing Committees should be reviewed to ensure the best use of time and the breadth of input needed to run a Benefice of two separate parishes efficiently Completed. Hold an annual joint PCC event Although several have been held since 2003 when the benefice was formed, the establishment of a regular annual event started in The Cookhams Benefice Profile