ST. MARY S CHURCH ANNUAL PARISH REPORT St. Mary s PCC, Wivenhoe Registered Charity Number

Transcription

1 ST. MARY S CHURCH ANNUAL PARISH REPORT 2015 St. Mary s PCC, Wivenhoe Registered Charity Number

2 The Annual Parochial Church meeting will take place in Church on Sunday 24 th April 2016 at Apologies for absence AGENDA 2. Minutes of the meeting held on 26 th April Matters arising 4. Discussion of items 5. Acceptance of accounts 6. Appointment of Independent Examiner 7. Election of Church Wardens 8. Election of members of the P.C.C. 9. Appointment of Sidespersons 10. Safeguarding A Safe Church Policy 11. Any Other Business Index to Contents Minutes of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting, 26 th April 2015 Page 2 Deanery Synod Report Page 4 Electoral Roll Officers Report..... Page 4 Fabric Report Page 4 Health & Safety Group Report..... Page 5 Rectors Report Page 5 Secretary to PCC Report Page 10 Tidings Report Page 11 Treasurers Report and Annual Accounts.... Page 11 Bellringing Team Page 21 Catering Team Page 21 Church Cleaning Page 22 Churches Together Page 22 Communications Group Page 23 Director of Music Page 23 Flower Arrangers Page 24 FOSM Page 24 Fundraising Team Page 25 Safeguarding Page 26 St Mary s Overseas Link Page 26 St. Mary s Toddler Group Page 27 Sunday Club Page 27 Sunday Night Forum Page 28 Tuesday Evening Bible Study..... Page 28 Vision Group Page 28 Worship Group Page 29 1

3 The Minutes of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting held in Church on Sunday 26th April 2015 The Meeting opened at with the Revd. Erwin Lammens in the chair. He welcomed the 41 people present. Erwin spoke about and then read a prayer based on a section of St Pauls letter to the Christians of Rome (Romans 12) which mentioned gifts, dedication and service. Erwin then invited Peter Terry, Lay Vice Chairman to conduct the meeting. 1. Apologies for absence: Sylvia Usher, Margaret Allison, Shirley Forsgate, Tony Forsgate, Lynne Horner, Doreen Massey, Alan Massey, Joy Wilderspin, David Wilderspin, Glyn Stanway and Bill Heslop. 2. Minutes of the meeting held on 6th April 2014 Christina Volkmann proposed, Maureen Reynolds seconded and the meeting unanimously agreed that the minutes of the meeting held on Sunday 21 st April 2013 were a true record and these were signed by the Chairman. 3. Matters arising A letter thanking Martyn Lewis had been sent as requested at the last Annual Parochial Church meeting. 4. Discussion of items Peter Terry referred those present to the reports that were contained in the Annual Parish Report and asked if any of the contributors wished to give an update. a. Fabric Report: Sue Jones reported that a presentation would be given at the end of the APCM meeting which would show the current plans for the Annexe. The DAC had indicated that a meeting will be arranged in a week or so to discuss the Annexe once again. The faculty for the repair to the roof of the south aisle and associated stonework has been submitted. On the 8 th May the tenders are due back and it is hoped that work will be undertaken this summer. Peter spoke about the legacy received by St Mary s Church and informed those present that the wording of the legacy had been clarified with regard to its use. The roof and the associated stonework repairs will be undertaken using this funding and also as far as possible the replacement\repair of lighting, heating, sound, vestry refurbishment, seating and internal decoration. Hopefully there will be sufficient funds and Peter acknowledged that it was a great responsibility ensuring that the legacy was spent wisely. FOSM had also had a legacy some time ago and they have agreed to contribute towards the cost of the sound and lighting system costs. A Construction Design Manager has been identified for the roof and associated stonework repairs but his appointment is currently subject to the approval of the PCC expenditure. The architect Simon Marks will be responsible for all parts of the project as the various elements move forward. b. Erwin spoke about the church community and those in the wider community. He thanked all those present for their contribution to church life. Over the past year some of the key people involved in the church have gone through illness, bereavement and other difficulties but all have continued and he was so grateful for that and he appreciated what a good team he had. Peter spoke on behalf of all present and thanked Erwin for the marvellous work he did and the ministry that he provided for us. 5. Acceptance of accounts Lynne Horner, Treasurer, was not present. She had prepared a written report which was read out by Peter Terry. Unfortunately due to illness on my part the Accounts for 2014 are not ready to be presented and have yet to be examined by an Auditor. There are a few items I can confirm. The Parish Share for 2014 was paid in full. St Mary's received a substantial legacy in the sum of 400, This legacy is restricted in its use to the restoration and maintenance of St Mary's. The sum of 400, has therefore been placed in the Restricted Fabric Fund and cannot be used to pay the running costs of the church. I 2

4 can also confirm that the Diocese cannot take this money into account when calculating St Mary's future Parish Share. No Gift Aid was reclaimed during Approximately 10, Gift Aid is due for 2014 and it is hoped this will be reclaimed during The General Fund stands at approximately 30, as at 31 December Due to St Mary's income exceeding 500,000.00, we can no longer have the accounts examined by an Independent Examiner but are required to have a Statutory Audit by a Registered Auditor and unfortunately Martyn Lewis who has examined St Mary's accounts in the past is no longer able to undertake this work. 6. Appointment of Independent Examiner Payton Tyler Mears will be asked to act as Statutory Auditor for the accounts. It was proposed by Bill Eborn, seconded by Jane Hughes and unanimously agreed by the meeting that Peyton Tyler Mears be appointed Statutory Auditor for a Election of Church Wardens It was proposed by Richard Cawley, seconded by Graham Wadley, and agreed unanimously that Suzanne Jones be elected Churchwarden. It was proposed by Graeme Martin, seconded by Margaret Allison and agreed unanimously that Eric Jakens be elected Churchwarden Peter Terry thanked both of them for their sterling work during the past year. 8. Election of members of the P.C.C. Peter thanked Shirley Forsgate and Barry Smith for their time and commitment as members of the PCC upon the completion of their three year term. Erwin gave Barry a thank you card and Shirley will receive hers at a later date. New PCC members Helena Hughes, proposed by John Williams, seconded by Anne Williams and unanimously agreed. Janet Marks, proposed by Graeme Martin, seconded by Joan Barratt and unanimously agreed. An information sheet was provided to the new PCC members explaining the role of the PCC and notification of the dates of the meetings for the coming year were made available to all PCC members and report writers. 9. Appointment of Sidespersons The following people were approved by the meeting to act as Sidespersons: Graeme Martin; Carolyn Martin; Maureen Smith; Austin Baines; Bonnie Hill; John Williams; Anne Williams; Barry Smith; Lyn Smith; Maureen Reynolds; Susan Scrivener; Anne Hanagan; Nick Gustard; Doreen Massey; Jan Marks and Mary Jakens. Sue Jones proposed the above named be approved as Sidespersons by the meeting, seconded by Joan Barrett and agreed unanimously. 10. Safeguarding A Safe Church Policy The Safe Church Policy document had been approved and signed at the Parochial Church Meeting on 10 th February 2015 and the meeting formally adopted the Policy. The policy was adopted unanimously. 11. Any Other Business A vote of thanks was given to Peter Terry by Christina. Meetings were well conducted and always finished on time. Jane Hughes thanked Bonnie for her secretarial skills. There being no other business Erwin and Peter thanked all those who had attended the meeting and closed the meeting at Erwin then gave a presentation which outlined the key areas of ministry and work that needed to be considered in the year ahead. This was followed by a presentation from Graham Wadley on the current Annexe plans. Erwin finished with a review of the roof and stonework repairs that would be undertaken in the near future. Erwin then led a service of Compline. 3

5 Deanery Synod Report The main theme through the year has been the Transforming Presence (TP) project which is ongoing. Transforming Presence is the name given in the Chelmsford Diocese to the process of re-imagining ministry across all its churches, with a view to engaging the laity more actively in the spreading of the Gospel in our several locations and to create, through the Mission and Ministry Units (MMUs), working arrangements whereby churches can pool their expertise in fields where one is proficient and another may be lacking. Obviously this would involve more than a cosy get-together every once in a while and would also have implications for the Parish Share arrangements we're all used to. A proposal for revision of this scheme was put forward by Rev Jenni Tomlinson in 2015 and is under discussion. St Mary's congregation has been kept informed about TP developments through four monthly articles published in Tidings magazine during 2015 and the periodic reports that were submitted to the PCC. Nick Gustard, Rick Cawley, Marika Footring Electoral Roll Officers Report During 2015 two members of our congregation moved from the parish. Unfortunately five members, all of whom attended services regularly, have died. They are really missed by the congregation as a whole. Some of the members on the Roll are not resident within the parish but they are very welcome to our congregation. There are now one hundred and thirteen members on the Electoral Roll at the time of writing this report. It is worth pointing out again that adding your name to the Electoral Roll does not commit anyone to any office, or financial obligation, but entitles you to speak or vote at the Annual Meeting. Though it is a legal requirement that the Electoral Roll is available in church at all times, there is a list of names only in a file at the back of church with no addresses given. Please contact Lynne Horner who has just taken over as Electoral Roll Officer if you would like to be added to the Roll. Fabric Report Last year we said it had been a momentous year for the fabric of St Mary s. This year has been momentous too because as I write this report the roof repairs and the proposed Annexe have both taken large strides forward. The repairs started with the scaffolding being erected in October. Currently the tiles have been removed and work on the ceiling is progressing. There have been some unseen problems which are to be expected with an old building and we were warned of this by our architect Simon Marks. Both our architect Simon and Bakers of Danbury (the builders involved with the work) have been excellent with their communication and care of the important repairs that they are undertaking. Hopefully as you read this at the AGM the roof and ceiling repairs will be completed! We now have an excellent Fabric Committee ably chaired by Peter Terry. All the members are actively involved with many aspects of our church refurbishment. It all started with a very good minibus trip (organised very efficiently by Bonnie) last April when we visited a carefully selected group of churches to gather information about heating, lighting, sound systems, AV systems, and seating. Each of these areas is being researched by someone on the Fabric committee. We meet on a regular basis to review information and prepare recommendations that are then discussed at PCC meetings. Our aim is to make St Mary s an attractive building where the congregation, visitors, friends and the local community can have good access, can see, hear, sit comfortably in Summer or Winter and feel secure. Most important of all we wish them to feel very welcome. The small but enthusiastic Building committee (sometimes known as the when group!) are now in their fifth year of striving to get a much needed Annexe built on the South side of our church. To date we finally have a design that has been accepted by both Colchester Conservation department and the DAC. As I write the architects Inkpen and Downie of Colchester are fine tuning the plans and we will meet with them soon to discuss submitting the plans to Colchester Borough Council and 4

6 presenting the Annexe project to the local community. Once we have got planning John Ashworth has kindly agreed to lead our fundraising team. There will be an update presentation at the AGM. Last year we ended our report with the words there is a lot of hard work ahead to organise all the repairs and renovations on the church and to keep the Annexe project going this still applies one year later. However it is good to look back positively and see how much has been achieved during this last year. St Mary s is right in the heart of the Wivenhoe community. It is very important to keep our lovely church in good repair for future generations to worship in and enjoy. Sue Jones and Eric Jakens Churchwardens. Health & Safety Group Report As always, the Health and Safety Group strives to ensure that the Church and its premises are safe for all who use them. The Health and Safety Group also monitor events in unusual venues, for example the Christingle Service held in the Ivor Crewe Lecture Hall for which a separate Health and Safety assessment was conducted. The Group s activities involve adjusting our arrangements from time to time and sometimes in accordance with changes in legal requirements. Most importantly, a Fire Risk Assessment has been written. At the beginning of this Church Year, there was some concern about fire safety procedures. As a result, the local Fire Protection Officer was invited to the Church, and on his advice, the following measures have been recommended: Establishment of Fire Assembly Points outside the Church Carrying out an evacuation exercise, aka a fire drill to stress-test our evacuation procedures. Watch this space! All the necessary regular checks have been done on the fire appliances. A safety assessment of the electrical wiring has been carried out, but any work in this area would fall under the remit of the Church Wardens. We are currently working on implementing the advice given by the Fire Protection Officer. However, much of this is dependent on the completion of the current roof repairs, for which separate Health and Safety arrangements are in place. The Rector s APCM Report Looking back over 2015 and anticipating the opportunities in 2016 Repair and Renovation at St Mary s 2015 has seen the beginning of the works of phase 1 (roof repair and outdoors stonework repair in the south aisle) which is supposed to be finished by the end of March Most of these works had received the Priority A label in the Quinquennial inspection report. This means that these repairs needed urgent attention. Despite the scaffolding we were able to continue to worship in church on Sundays and Wednesday evenings. Only the Christingle service had to be moved to another venue. The University of Essex kindly offered the Ivor Crewe Hall for the service that was attended by more than 300 people. In January and February 2016 when the north aisle roof had been removed additional heating was in place. Nevertheless, during a spell of freezing outside temperatures it was difficult to keep the church warm. Understandably, numbers of attendance dropped on cold Sundays and the choir rehearsals had to take place at the Methodist church for which we only had to pay a moderate hire fee. The church plate suffered as a result of lower attendance and the extra costs for heating. I d like to thank the congregation for their understanding, the Fabric group and PCC for their approval and support of the project, the church architect Simon Marks, contractor Bakers of Danbury, CDM Jon Rensink and those responsible for communication to the community and press releases. 5

7 This first phase will be followed by interior repair and renovation which may include heating, lighting, sound system, organ repair and re-decoration. It possibly also includes audio-visual equipment and the re-ordering of the church. It is hoped that a start of phase 2 could be made after this year s summer or early The third phase will then focus on the remaining less urgent repair works as listed in the Quinquennial inspection. This third phase may need to make use of grants and fundraising. Phase 1 and 2 are covered by a generous legacy by a church member who passed away in 2013; the cost of the sound system and lighting will be covered by a legacy that FOSM received. I am very thankful to those who support the church in this way. The Annexe During a process of 50 months the Building Committee has negotiated with architects, Diocesan Advisory Committee, Church Building Council, Historic England (formerly English Heritage), Wivenhoe Town Council, Colchester Borough Council, and the Colchester planning conservation officer. The need for an annexe became more apparent because of the increase of activities which St Mary s organises for families and children, and the frequent use by the church choir, St Mary s singers, and other musical groups, and meetings and services with lesser attendance. In the winter some of these meetings could benefit from a smaller but warmer venue. Currently there is no proper wheelchair access to the church, and a toilet for disabled people is lacking. The annexe will consist of a meeting room for maximum 40, two toilets (including one for disabled persons), a small kitchen, a lobby, storage and wheelchair access. The new facility would attract community organisations to make use of it. Also families and their guests at weddings, baptisms and funerals would benefit from this facility. Statistics I have done my usual research at the end of the calendar year and worked out the numbers of attendance for I like to compare them with previous years. The figures do not include big services such as Christmas, Harvest Festival, Mothering Sunday, Civic Service, Confirmation and Deanery Evensong. Sunday morning attendance am am under am adults Numbers at the 10.30am service have seen an increase in the last decade. Also the number of children attending Sunday morning has increased. The presence of a weekly Sunday club, a monthly All Age worship service and the occasional baptism at the morning service have resulted in this numerical rise. But it seems that after years of growth we have plat formed. There is hardly a change in the figures since Unfortunately over the last five years we lost more than 20 regular members because of illness or death. In the same period however we welcomed many new people who have found a home at St Mary s. Evening services Evensong past Taizé

8 There is no decline in numbers for our evening services though these are not high figures. Taizé worship continues to attract a good number of people; several of the participants do not attend St Mary s at other occasions. Not quite a 100 club on Sundays In 2015 on average 96 people attended church on a Sunday (82 at 10.30am and 14 at 8am). On a Sunday with Evensong (but without 8am Communion) we do even a bit better: 82 at 10.30am and 17 at 6.00pm, which makes a total of 99. Not quite 100. Pastoral and initiation services Baptisms Confirmations Weddings Renewal of wedding vows Funerals and burials Cremation services No record No record No record 8 11 St Mary s is the church where Wivenhoe residents are welcome to celebrate family events in a Christian way. There is a strong link between our church and many Wivenhoe families. In baptisms took place and 8 confirmations (all candidates were from this Parish). There were 10 weddings, 20 funeral services and 11 services at the crematorium. Events for families with children For the third year the Sunday club leaders organised a successful Easter event on Holy Saturday for families with children (40+ children attended), a Nativity play with our Sunday Club during Advent (17 children took part), a Teddy Bear Picnic for our Toddlers Group in the Rectory Garden (50 toddlers and the same amount of Mums and a few Dads) and the visit from St Nicholas (100+ children attending). And of course, there was Mothering Sunday, Harvest and Christingle with the involvement of the three Wivenhoe schools. The success of the Christingle and Crib Services illustrates the interest of families with young children in one-off services and events, rather than a weekly commitment. What gives me joy? It is now more than 6 years that I am your parish priest, companion on your journey of faith, incumbent, and rector, in the service of the community of Wivenhoe, the Deanery of Colchester and Diocese of Chelmsford. I also hope that I ve been a friend to you over these years but where I ve failed to be close to you because of lack of time or oversight I ask you to forgive and encourage me. It has been a joy to be among you and I hope this may continue for many years. We have realised a lot over the years. But everything that we have established was the result of the effort of many. For this year s report I would like to share with you what has brought joy into my ministry among you. 115 reasons to be thankful (in no particular order) St Mary s dedicated team of church officers Our Reader Associated priest 7

9 Local authorised preacher Retired clergy Trainee for priesthood Churchwardens and assistant churchwarden PCC chair PCC secretary PCC treasurer PCC administrator All PCC members The Worship Group The Vision Group Fundraising Committee Agenda Setting Committee and Standing Committee Building Committee Catering Committee Communications Committee The Fabric Group Pastoral Visitors Group Spirituality steering group All Age worship Workgroup The welcoming team The sidespersons Newcomers to the church and their positive response by taking up responsibilities The efforts of reaching out to non-church people The use of the church for community events: June Market, Art on the Railings, Parish Quiz, Art Exhibition, December Market, Book Sale, Table Top Sale, Open Gardens, Barbecue, Harvest Lunch, several fairs, Last Night of the Proms, Carols on the Quay, St Nicholas arrival, concerts by St Mary s Singers and visiting music groups. The response to our special services aiming at specific groups: Service for wedding couples, for the parents of baptised children and for the bereaved families Remembrance Sunday Service and Civic Service The Christmas services including the Carol Services, Christingle service, Crib service, Midnight and Day services Holy Week and Easter Services which take us to the heart of our faith and belonging For our congregation and its diversity of gifts The monthly house communion Those who host the house communions and the social time afterwards and those who offer lifts The organisers of the outing for the elderly last summer and the generous donation that made it possible Those organising lifts to the church on a Sunday morning Our Harvest Lunch and Festival Our diversity in Worship The Parish Prayer Day Our Patronal Festival The 7 past 7 midweek reflection Easter Workshops for children The Nativity Play Our toddler s corner with toys and books The Sunday Club children and their leaders The Sunday Club coordinator St Mary s Child Protection Representative Our Safeguarding Officer DBS officer 8

10 The PCC fully subscribing to the diocesan child protection policy Our health and safety officers The support to the Tuesday morning Wivenhoe Toddlers Group (formerly St Mary s Toddler Group) by the women of the coffee rota The Teddy Bear Picnic in the Rectory Garden The nurture courses such as Pilgrim course, York course and confirmation preparation The 8 confirmation candidates The confirmation service last September by Bishop Roger Morris The fortnightly Bible Study The Lesson readers Intercessors Communion Assistants Sidespersons & Welcoming Team (already mentioned but I won t count them again) Server The coffee rota volunteers Our director of music and organist and his generosity The Church Choir St Mary s Singers, soloists, director, pianist and organist Occasional organists Those looking after the sound system during services, recordings, and choice of music at 7 past 7 The Bellringers and Tower Captain Our flower lady and her team, those who volunteer to be on the flower rota The beautiful floral arrangements at Harvest, Christmas and Easter The wedding flowers by an experienced florist The church cleaning team and its coordinator The brass cleaning and polishing team The hosts of the wedding preparation The baptism officer The vergers The registers clerk The calligrapher of the memorial crosses The anonymous donor of the crosses The catering committee and its Chair; for their generosity The orchestras, ensembles, performers, speakers, and history Group using the church for their events The church bookings officer The organisers of the Open Gardens The Deanery Synod representatives The progress in the formation of a Mission and Ministry Unit with the Greenstead churches and St John s The Children s Society officer and all who help at the Box Opening and Christingle Service. The Mothers Union in Namalemba in Uganda and our link person Rachel Butterfield, our contact in Namalemba and for her safe return The beauty of our Grade II* listed church building The Friends of St Mary s and its chair, secretary, treasurer, committee members, and members FOSM s Fairs and AGM with lunch; Art exhibition and coffee mornings Those who donate their Coop share benefit to St Mary s The generosity of our congregation and supporters who made it possible to pay our parish share and all other church running costs for the fifth time running For their regular giving The Faculty officer 9

11 All those looking after the pew Sheet, Tidings, website, twitter, Facebook page, photocopies, collating and stapling, press releases, flyers, posters, ing database and notice board The good links with the local schools, the services, assemblies and occasional class visits to the church My fellow governors and the teachers and staff at Millfields Primary and Broomgrove Infant School, Broomgrove junior School The link with the University of Essex and broader community Churches Together in Wivenhoe My colleagues from the other Christian churches The joint CTW services The CTW Christmas card: its designer, distribution coordinator and all distributors Christian Aid street collection volunteers Christian Aid coordinator for Wivenhoe The wedding couples and their happiness The baptism families and their commitment The bereaved families and their hope For them who make them welcome or bring comfort For those who pray at moments I don t make time for prayer My family: An, Jonas and Mieke All those I have forgotten to mention For my Lord, whom I adore, worship and trust Erwin Lammens, rector Secretary to PCC Report The PCC is a charity excepted from registration with the Charity Commission. The PCC (Powers Measure 1956) states that the PCC is to co-operate with the Minister in promoting in the Parish the whole Mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. The PCC is responsible for the maintenance and repair of the church building of St Mary the Virgin, and for the movables in the church. Members of the PCC are either ex-officio, co-opted or elected by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. During the past year the following have served as members of the PCC Incumbent The Revd. Erwin Lammens Chairman Reader Prof. Glyn Stanway Co-opted The Revd. Julia Murphy Churchwardens Mr. Eric Jakens Mrs. Sue Jones Deanery Synod Representatives Mr. Rick Cawley Dr. Nick Gustard Mrs. Marika Footring Ex-officio Members Miss Lynne Horner Treasurer Mrs. Bonnie Hill Secretary Mr. Graham Wadley Director of Music Mr. Graeme Martin Asst Churchwarden Mr. Peter Terry Lay Vice-Chairman Elected Members Ms. Christina Volkmann Mrs. Margaret Allison Mrs. Jane Hughes Mrs. Margaret Bigwood Mrs. Mary Jakens Mrs. Carolyn Martin Ms. Helena Hughes Mrs. Jan Marks 10

12 Since the last Annual Meeting the PCC have met on 10 occasions. The PCC members above have worked together to ensure that St Marys Church continues to develop and grow both spiritually and within the local community. The PCC receive monthly reports from not only the Treasurer, but also the Churchwardens, Fundraising Team, Catering Team, Fabric Group, Building Committee, Worship & Vision Groups, our Colchester Deanery Synod representatives, Wivenhoe Churches Together, Health & Safety, Safeguarding, FOSM and information on the Children s Ministry, youth work and young adults. This gives an excellent view of what is current, what needs to be addressed and promotes discussion. The Agenda setting meetings continue on a monthly basis where The Rector, Lay Vice-Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer and Churchwardens meet to prepare for the P.C.C. meeting. The PCC meeting minutes are available at the back of the Church, in a folder, or can be accessed from the St. Mary s Church website, if there are issues arising from the Minutes, or other matters, please do speak to a council member. PCC members represent all those involved with Church life and photographs of all council members are displayed in Church and also on our website. Bonnie Hill Tidings Report Due to the generosity of our printer (R J Osborn of Brightlingsea) we are able to continue having a different coloured logo on the front cover of Tidings at no extra cost. We think that our readers enjoy associating these with the different events and seasons which occur in that particular month The number of subscribers remains stable at around the 270 mark. Obviously we would like to increase this number so if anyone knows of someone who would like Tidings delivered please let Roy Murchie know ( ). St Mary s Church events are advertised in Tidings and we also provide details of services etc. for the Wivenhoe Congregational and Methodist churches. If anyone would like to advertise an event (which will be happening in the church in particular or Wivenhoe) the deadline will be the same as for Tidings copy and is given in Tidings. My thanks go to Graeme Martin for dealing with the advertising and to Roy Murchie for arranging the distribution and to all the people who regularly drop Tidings through peoples doors. John Williams Tidings editor Treasurers Report General Fund Total unrestricted receipts were 90,004, a decrease of 10,195 from last year. The following increased from 2014: gift aided donations, activities generating funds (church markets and fundraising). The following decreased from 2014: planned giving by envelopes and direct to the bank, loose plate collections, donations, fees from wedding and funerals. We did not hold a Gift Day in No Gift Aid was reclaimed during 2015, 2014 and also for the last quarter of 2013 this will be reclaimed during The accounts have been prepared on a SOFA basis and therefore this unclaimed Gift Aid has been included in the figures in the accounts they have not been included in the figures in this Report. No legacies were received in Restricted receipts were 4,475, a decrease from 2014 when a substantial legacy was received. Total payments were 116,837 an increase of 20,786 from last year. The following payments increased from 2014: church maintenance, running expenses, upkeep of services, major repairs (including installation of roof alarm). The Parish Share for 2015 of 57, was paid in full. The Parish Share for 2016 is 61, less a 1% discount of leaving a balance of 60, to pay. This is an increase on the Parish Share for 2015 of 2,

13 Included in the Receipts and Payments is 4,261 given to many different charities, equivalent to 4.7% of the General Fund unrestricted income. This is an increase from 2014 (3.2%) and 2013 (4.1%). Church costs have been kept to a minimum during 2015 and the Church has benefited from many donations to cover the cost of particular items throughout the year. The General Fund stands at 33, as at 31 December Designated Fund The Sunday Club fund balance is Restricted Funds The Fabric fund received donations of 1, The Fabric fund balance has decreased from 405, to 394, Expenses during 2015 included installation of a roof alarm and professional charges incurred prior to the major roof repairs. The Organ fund balance has increased from to No expenses during 2015 were paid from the Organ Fund. The Choir fund balance has increased from to There were no expenses during The Annexe fund (previously known as the SE Corner Fund). The balance of this fund is 0.00 as transfers were made to the General Fund to cover architect fees that had been paid from the General Fund. The Bell fund has received 632 donations from the bellringers and has had no expenses. The balance has therefore increased from 10, to 11, The Maintenance (Cory) fund balance is All monies in this fund have been transferred from the General Fund. The fund was set up in response to provisions in the grant St Mary's received from Cory to pay for the repair of the church wall. The Flower fund balance has decreased from 1, to 1, The Elderley in the Parish fund balance is 0.00 and this Fund has now been closed as the purpose for which the Fund was created has been fulfilled. The Friends of St Mary's fund balance is 46, I would like to thank all those who have contributed in any way to the finances for 2015 Lynne Horner Ex-Hon Treasurer, St Mary-the-Virgin, Wivenhoe (resigned 12 November with effect from 31 st December 2015 ) 12

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15 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST MARY'S WIVENHOE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2015 Incoming resources TOTAL TOTAL Unrestrictedn Restricted FUNDS FUNDS Notes Funds u Funds Voluntary income 2a 62, , , , Activities for generating funds 2b 12, , , , Income from investments 2c , , Church activities 2d 15, , , Other incoming resources 2e Total incoming resources 90, , , , Resources expended Church activities 3a 102, , , , Costs of generating voluntary income 3a 3, , , , Governance Costs 3d Total resources expended 105, , , , Net incoming/(outgoing) resources before transfers (15,640.04) (6,517.64) (22,157.68) 414, Gross transfers between funds 4, (4,448.38) (11,191.66) (10,966.02) (22,157.68) 414, Other recognised gains/losses Gains/(losses) on investment assets 6 Net movement in funds (11,191.66) (10,966.02) (22,157.68) 414, Total funds brought forward at 1 January , , , , Total funds carried forward at 31 December , , , ,

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17 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST MARY'S WIVENHOE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER Accounting Policies a Basis of financial statements The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 in accordance with applicable accounting standards and the currentstatement of Reccomends Accountsing and Reporting by Charities (SORP 2005). The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for investments assets whicha re shown at market value. The financial statements include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe their affiliation to another body, nor those which are informal gatherings of church members. b Fund accounting Endowment funds - are funds, the capital of which must be retained either permenantly or at the PCC's discretion; the income derived from the endowment is to be used, either as restricted or unrestricted funds, depending on the purpose for which endowment was established in the first place. Restricted funds comprise (a) income from trusts or endowments which is to be expended only on the restricted purposes intended by the donor and (b) revenue donations or grants for a specific PCC activity intended by the donor. Any balance remaing unspent at the end of the year is carried forward as a balance on that fund. Unrestricted funds are income funs which are to be spent on the PCC's general purposes. c d e Designated funds -are general funds set aside by the PCC for use in the future. Project funds are designated for particular projects for administration purposes only. Funds designated as invested in fixed assets for the PCC's own use abated in line with assets' annual depreciation charges in the SOFA. Designated funds remain unrestricted and the PCC will move any surplus to other general funds. Incoming resources Planned giving, collections and similar donations are recognised when received. Tax refunds are recongnised when the incoming resources to which they realte is received. Grants and legacies are accounted for when the PCC is entitled to use of the resources, their ultimate receipts is considered reasonably certain and the amounts due are reliably quantifiable. Dividents are accounted for when declared receivable, interest as and when accrued by the payer. All incoming resources are accounted for gross. Resources expended Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that award creates a binding or constructive obligation on the PCC. The Diocesan Parish Share expected to be paid over is accounted for when due. All other expenditure is generaly recognised when it is incurred and is accounted for gross. Fixed Assets Consecrated and beneficed property of any kind is excluded from the accounts by s.10(2)(a) and (c) of the Charities Act Moveable church furnishing held by the Rector and Churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal, are accounted as inalienable property listed in the church's inventory, which can be inspected (at any reasonable time). For anything acquired prior to 2000 there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the financial statements. Subsequently no individual item has cost more than 1,000 so all such expenditure has been written off when incurred. Equipment used within the church premises is depreciated on a straight line basis over four years. Individual items of equipment with a purchase price of 500 or less are written off when the asset is acquired. Investments are valued at market value at 31st December. 16

18 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST MARY'S WIVENHOE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER Incoming resources TOTAL TOTAL Unrestricted Restricted FUNDS FUNDS Funds Funds a Voluntary income Planned giving Gift Aid donations 24, , , Income tax recoverable 8, , , Other 9, , , Collections at all services Open plate 9, , , Gift days Grants Sundry donations and appeals 10, , , Legacies 410, , , , , b c d e Activities for generating funds Parish Magazine (advertising) June & December markets 5, , , Fundraising 6, , , , , , , , Income from investments Dividends on CBF Investment Fund Bank and CBF Depositr fund interest , , Rent- temporary letting on curate's house , , Income from Church Activities Fees from weddings and funerals 14, , , Parish magazine (sales) 1, , , Church hall lettings local community use Bookstall 15, , , Other other incoming resources Insurance claims Other reciepts Total incoming resources 90, , , ,

19 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST MARY'S WIVENHOE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2015 a 3 Resources expended TOTAL TOTAL Unrestricted Restricted FUNDS FUNDS Funds Funds Church Activities Missionary and charitable giving: Overseas: Missionary Societies Home Mission 1, , Secular charities 3, , , , , , Ministry costs:diocesan Parish Share 57, , , Other ministry costs 2, , , Church running expenses Church maintenance 2, , , Church running expenses 5, , , Upkeep of services 1, , , Organ & Organists 2, , , Vergers Major Repairs - Structural renewal 6, , , , Major Repairs - Installation alarm 4, , Parish training Parish magazine costs 2, , , Upkeep of churchyard Assigned fees to Diocese 7, , , Administration 3, , , Bank charges 98, , , , b c Generation of voluntary income Stewardship costs Cost of appeals Fundraising costs 3, , , , , , , , Governance costs Independent examiners remuneration PCC members induction training Cost of annual accounts Total resources expended 105, , , ,

20 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST MARY'S WIVENHOE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER CURRENT ASSETS a Investments Market value 1st January 2014 Purchases at cost Gain on revaluation Market value 31st December 2014 b Debtors less than one year Unrestricted Restricted Total 2014 Tax recoverable 15, ,588 7,518 Prepayments and accrued interest Deenery accounts project Audit fee Other debtors 15, ,588 7,518 8 LIABILITIES Creditors falling dues in less than Unrestricted Restricted Total 2014 one year Accruals for utilities and other cost 1,600 1,600 Other creditors Parish Share 1,600 1,600 Amounts falling due after more than one year Other creditors ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS Unrestricted Restricted Endowment Total Funds Funds Funds Funds 2015 Tangible fixed assets Investment fixed assets Current assets 489, , Liabilities (1,600.00) (1,600.00) Amounts falling due in one year Amounts falling due after one year 488, ,

21 PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST MARY'S WIVENHOE NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER Statement of funds Bal b/fwd Income Expenditure Transfers, Bal c/fwd 1 Jan 2015 other gains 31 Dec 2015 and losses Unrestricted Fund General fund 45, , (105,623.77) 4, , Sunday Club (220.30) , , (105,844.07) 4, , Restricted Fund Annex Fund 1, (1,688.38) 0.00 Bell Fund 10, , Choir Fund Elderly in parish 1, (1,000.00) 0.00 Friends of St Marys 44, , (232.80) 46, Fabric Fund 405, , (9,666.73) (3,000.00) 394, Flower Fund 1, (94.00) 1, Cory Maintenance Organ Fund , , (10,993.53) (4,448.38) 453, Total funds 510, , (116,837.60) ,

22 Bellringers Report The Wivenhoe Bellringers have had another successful year. We have continued to ring regularly for Sunday services and of course to hold our regular Wednesday evening Practice night. We continue to be in the enviable position of having more than sufficient ringers available, although as you may be aware, many other towers throughout the country struggle to have sufficient ringers to ring with such regularity. We have not had the pleasure of any new learners joining us this year, and would very much welcome anyone who is interested in finding out more to come and investigate us. As in previous years, we rang for quite a number of weddings, including recently for the wedding of one of our own ringers, and were able to accommodate the mid-week weddings. All of the ringing was done by the "Wivenhoe" ringers as there are now enough of us to raise a band from our own resources, and is indicative of the band's progress and competency to fulfil this role. The tolling of the tenor for funeral services, as the funeral cortege leaves the church and churchyard continues to be undertaken by the slightly more mature ringers as the funeral services usually take place during office hours. We are pleased that this is appreciated by those concerned and also within the wider community. As a tower we ventured further afield in Essex and spent a very pleasant Saturday ringing at four other towers in the Halstead/Gosfield area. This gives invaluable experience to the ringers, as each ring of bells in each tower is unique and provides a challenge as well as a convivial day out in the Essex countryside. The 'social' side of ringing also extends to us supporting local pubs and coffee shops. The recent work to the church roof did cause us a few problems with the bell ropes becoming excessively damp and unsafe to use to ring. We have now overcome this problem by inserting the bottom section of the rope into a tube which helps keep them dry. The completion of the works to the roof has obviously helped too. The bells themselves are still in good condition, following the refurbishment in We continue to keep a close eye on all the working parts to ensure that the bells are properly maintained. Some of the bell ropes are showing signs of wear, but after 18 years of use this is only to be expected. It may be prudent to order a few spare ropes shortly as well as a spare stay or two to replace those damaged over the years. The stay, made from Ash wood, is the "safety valve" and is designed to break in order to prevent further damage to the working parts of the bell, and is regarded as a frequently replaced item. Throughout the year we have continued to receive many compliments from local residents and passers-by who enjoy and appreciate hearing the bells ringing over Wivenhoe, even regarding this as one of the many highlights of living in Wivenhoe. We are appreciated further afield too, across the river to Fingringhoe, with one couple who go out of their way to express their appreciation every Christmas. This does demonstrate the importance of the church bells within both the community and St Mary s itself. As always, we continue to be mindful of the close proximity of the tower to local businesses and residences, and the possibility of causing disturbance. As a consequence, we endeavour to publicise when the bells are to be rung at times different to our usual times to maintain our good relations with the community. Adrienne Wood, Tower Captain Catering Committee Report Quiz night February 2015 Cakes were provided and tea and coffee served during the interval. Graham Wadley s celebration of 50 years as Church Organist We helped with organising refreshments at the concert given for Graham. June Market As usual we served tea, coffee, cakes and lunches at the market. Unfortunately takings were down by about 90 on the previous year. BBQ In July the annual BBQ was held in the Rectory Garden. Puddings were donated and salads provided by the catering team and others. 21

23 Deanery Evensong and Confirmation Cakes etc. were provided for both events. Harvest Lunch No harvest lunch in 2015 due to church maintenance. December Market We ran the church cake stall. Donation of cakes were down in Thanks to all who help with the catering and Sunday morning coffee for their hard work and generosity. Anne Williams Church Cleaning Report During the last year, St. Mary s has been kept spick and span by a dedicated team of helpers. Additional cleaning has been required during the building work and also with sorting out the porch on a number of occasions. The cleaning team and other helpers have been brilliant in spending extra time, and with cleaning on Saturdays where necessary, to keep our church fit for worship. Many thanks to everyone who helped over the year. We would really appreciate some new team members for this important work. Jane Stanway Churches Together Wivenhoe Report In January Justin Lunniss retired as chairman and Betty Rampling took his place. In March Rosemary Murchie retired as secretary and Vic Copus took her place. Week of Prayer for Christian Unity was celebrated by a pulpit swap (ministers preaching in other churches). Lent 2015 was marked by three sessions, all held at St. Monica s and organised by Fr. Mark Swires. These were led by Fr. Mark, Justin Lunniss and Julia Murphy. They were poorly attended. Two lent lunches were held. Banner A group of women made a banner with the wording Churches Together on one side and the Blessing Wivenhoe logo on the other. This was first used at the Congregational Church on Good Friday. The intention is to rotate it around the churches and display it at outdoor activities. June Market & Art on the Railings C.T.W. erected the cross and the banner and had a gazebo in which members were available to chat with people: this was popular. Small cards and scriptures were handed out, also particulars of events. All was well received. Quiet Day This was led by Revd. Sandy Hicks, one of the Mission Team The numbers from Wivenhoe were disappointing: thankfully Sandy s Church, Brightlingsea Baptist, supported the event. Healing Service This was held in St. Mary s Church on October 18 th. Erwin, Justin and Julia led in a very gentle and thought provoking way. The service was well attended and many came forward for prayer. Two healing services are planned for Christmas Thanks to Lynne Horner the organising and delivery of the Christmas card, to every house in Wivenhoe, went smoothly. The new design was well received. Carols on the Quay was very successful once again and the collection of 850 was divided between Crisis (UK charity) and Foundation for Relief and Reconciliation in the Middle East (Overseas charity). Christian Aid The door to door collection was organised by Gill Black and raised 2, Events were fairly well attended. Ian Biffen retired as representative. Youths There is a possibility of a youth bus visiting Wivenhoe. C.T.W. is in contact with a youth worker in Tiptree. Dickie Bird is co-ordinating this. Welcome Card This was designed and approved and is available in each church with details of services. It is useful to give to newcomers. Refugees A C.T.W. statement of Welcome and Commitment has been drawn up and is available on all church websites. Prayer line C.T.W. is investigating an on-line prayer line to supplement the existing C.T.W. monthly prayer meetings. Constitution This has been put together by the clergy and agreed by the Steering Group. Ann Evershed 22