St. Mary the Virgin and All Souls, Bulwell, Nottingham PATRON: BISHOP OF SOUTHWELL & NOTTINGHAM PARISH PROFILE 2017
CONTENTS Interior shot of our church, a Grade II listed building INTRODUCTION & WELCOME 1 MISSION 2 OUR NEW PRIEST 3 WHY JOIN US? 4 LOCATION & COMMUNITY 5 THE CHURCH AND ITS PEOPLE 7 ST. MARY S CofE PRIMARY SCHOOL 9 THE CHURCH & THE COMMUNITY 11 FINANCES 14 APPENDICES 16 i
STATEMENT FROM The Bishop of Southwell & Nottingham, the Rt Revd Paul Williams and the Archdeacon of Nottingham, the Venerable Sarah Clark The Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham incorporates the City of Nottingham, the whole County of Nottinghamshire and five parishes in South Yorkshire. The population is 1.15 million 51% live in the greater Nottingham conurbation, 31% in ex-mining areas and 18% in rural. There are 305 churches (252 parishes), served by 142 stipendiary clergy and licensed lay workers. In 2016 a refreshed diocesan vision was embraced across the diocese, recognising the imperative for Growing Disciples: Wider, Younger, Deeper. Wider in that we will seek to grow disciples in every part of the diocese, with no retreat from any community: urban centre; outer estates; rural villages; or market towns. Younger in that we will seek fresh ways to harness the boldness and creativity of children, students and young people across the diocese, not least in Nottingham which is the 4th youngest city outside London. Deeper as we grow in knowing Christ, so that as his disciples we can be an increasing blessing to the people among whom we live and serve in the workplace, family and community. The Bishops Senior Staff, Bishop s Council and Diocesan Synod have demonstrated their clear commitment to sharing in all aspects of this vision and strategy. In autumn 2016 more than 1000 PCC members attended 5 vision evenings around the diocese. We have discerned a series of emerging priorities that will facilitate growing new disciples in every parish across the diocese. Compelled by the love of Christ by 2023 we will seek to: Welcome 7000 new disciples into the fellowship of Christ and his church. Commission 1000 younger leaders (especially 15-30 year olds) equipped and inspired to serve the purposes of God in the Church and society. Plant or graft 75 New Worshipping Communities (NWCs) across the diocese to increase our reach in telling the story of Jesus to all. Grow 25 larger Resource Churches with clear commitment to develop leaders, plant New Worshipping Communities, and disciple the young. Serve and pray together as 1 Church contending for the gospel in every community and sphere of public life in our city, county and region. ii
STATEMENT (Cont d) In this new chapter every parish has an opportunity to review its role within the diocesan mission, so that it can play a significant part in the strategic commitment to Growing Disciples wider, younger and deeper. It is in the context of this vision that the appointment of a Vicar to Bulwell takes place. This is an excellent opportunity for an inspiring and engaging priest to lead St Mary s into growth, engaging with the local community who value and respect their parish church. Within St Mary s there is a strong committed lay leadership who will play their part in the journey that lies ahead. Bishop Paul has said: It is my hope that each worshipping community will develop a compelling picture of its own future in God s purposes with an expectation of growing numerically and in the scope of its mission. It is my prayer that the new Vicar of Bulwell will have the creative leadership and imagination to develop discipleship, plan for growth and reach out to the unchurched of all ages in its locality. iii
STATEMENT FROM PETER HUXTABLE, AREA DEAN There is a lovely sense of hope and prayer and generosity springing up from the people and a dependency on God for him to do a new thing across the area Called to serve in Nottingham? It is an exciting and challenging time to be joining in God s mission in Nottingham. Nottingham North Deanery, despite it s name, actually takes in parishes from the South-West (Stapleford and Wollaton), and also parishes up the M1 corridor to the west of Junction 26 up to Kimberley, as well as the areas of Nottingham to the north and west (Bulwell and Bestwood), before curving around to Sherwood, heading out of the city to the north-east. The Deanery is highly populated and full of the challenges of bringing the gospel to generations who have mostly had little to do with church. As well as Bulwell, there are currently a number of other vacancies, and our desire is to bring new leaders into the Deanery who have a deep compassion for ordinary people coupled with a joy and hope that, under God, he will open the door to new possibilities of growth for all the churches. Poor in pocket, rich in spirit The churches in Nottingham North serve many of the poorer areas of the City of Nottingham, with several large outer estates on the western and northern side of the city. Over 50% of churches are in the bottom 15% of the CUF deprivation figures; and 30% in the bottom 4%. It is a very challenging area for mission and growth, with some of the lowest attendances of any deanery in the country despite the healthy range of good initiatives. Despite this, there is a lovely sense of hope and prayer and generosity springing up from the people and a dependency on God for him to do a new thing across the area. We would love the new incumbent of Bulwell to share some of this sense of vision and hope for the wider area. Growth plans Regular monthly prayer times calling on God to breathe his life into our churches and communities Larger churches to become resource churches for others Curates trained, and then to plant or graft new congregations in smaller, struggling churches, bringing a team with them from their sending church. A range of ministry from ordained to lay evangelists working as a team across parishes Younger leaders trained to enable the church to grow younger once more. iv
STATEMENT (Cont d) Bulwell Bulwell, as an established and bustling community with an attractive town centre and the church on the doorstep, has huge mission potential. Not only is there the opportunity to lead St Mary s into growth, but with such a large parish population, the possibilities are there for the new priest to help discern where new worshipping communities might come into being in the future. We look forward to the postholder playing an active part in the sharing of resources and ideas for the growth of the churches across the Deanery, as well as the task of growing disciples in its own setting. What an opportunity for someone to use their creativity and collaborative skills to help the church make fresh connections into the community, building on the faith, enthusiasm and wisdom of the congregation, to develop what is possible under God. v
INTRODUCTION & WELCOME We welcome any questions you may have or if you would like to arrange a visit prior to your application please contact one of our church wardens: Martin Walton Tel: 0115 9136896 Elizabeth Dyer Tel: 0115 9753746 Mob: 07763034700 Email: churchwardens2@gmail.com Welcome and thank you for showing an interest in our vacancy Our church is a beautiful and historic Grade II listed building which stands in a commanding position overlooking Bulwell. The community recognise it as their church and often turn to it in times of need or for occasional offices. There is a long standing congregation who have been supportive of change and excellent links with St Mary s Church of England Primary School. There are also a large number of uniformed organisation groups who use the church facilities. Bulwell is a suburb of Nottingham and within a short drive from Derbyshire countryside and Sherwood Forest. The new incumbent will find a very supportive and active PCC looking for clear direction and guidance, having been in interregnum for the past eighteen months. We are aiming to make the church more appealing to the young and those looking for help to find God. St Mary s Church wishes to serve not only its own congregation but also those within the parish seeking support, help and inspiration which God can provide to those who are open to him. 1
MISSION As a church we embrace the diocesan strategic focus of Growing disciples, wider, younger, deeper and have reprioritised our three local mission strands. These are: 1 2 3 We aspire to develop closer relationships with younger people by working with our uniformed organisations Support Bestwood & Bulwell foodbank and in so doing help local people in crisis Aim to pay our full Parish share The PCC are aware that these should be reviewed and are open to fresh perspectives and suggestions. This is an exciting time at St. Marys and one which we feel God has great plans, especially in building links with children, schools and family members to help grow the church and its discipleship. While we are growing the church, we still need to support our longstanding members of our congregation. 2
OUR NEW PRIEST In support of the Diocesan vision of growing faith amongst the younger generations, being prepared to nurture and inspire those around them to a growing Christian discipleship, our congregation is seeking a priest to lead us who can: Engage and enjoy working with children, young people, parents, teachers and uniformed organisations Be comfortable with and supportive of all types of worship, including the wearing of robes, where appropriate and who is able to get across the strong message of Christ s gospel in an accessible way, making it relevant to our lives today Inspire and encourage others to grow in discipleship and deepen their faith. Be a strong, enthusiastic and resilient leader who can empathetically consult, decide and act in the best interests of the church and its community, including our senior members We are also looking for the following desirable attributes: Prayerful, and able to take care of their own spiritual needs A good communicator with a sense of humour friendly, open and welcoming, who relates well to everyone in the congregation and wider communities Pastorally aware with a compassionate heart, able to recognise where hurt needs to be healed and lead people gently into Christ s love Outward looking and will encourage active outreach. To be visible in the wider community and committed to supporting the aims and traditions of the Royal British Legion. We pay reasonable clergy expenses and do expect you to take proper holidays and days off. We will also support you with your own personal and professional development. 3
WHY JOIN US? There is a small core leadership team, a committed PCC and an enthusiastic congregation who are eager to work with the new priest. The PCC feels that there are many opportunities within the church and parish that could be developed further. With guidance and through action, we envisage this would create better relationships for the church and community. Things we would like from our priest... To be open to new ideas (Thomas Age 15) Below are a few highlights taken from the SWOT analysis (see appendix 1) Supportive and active PCC, willing to listen Great opportunity to work with youngsters and make a difference in the parish A well maintained church, (funded by a substantial legacy) with good accessible facilities within plus car parking Good links with community organisations, including Bulwell Churches Together Further develop All Age worship Help us develop more modern communication avenues Be ambitious and has aspirations for the whole congregation (Byron age 15) To build up good relationships with our uniformed groups (Elizabeth age 14) To look at ways of working with young families (Sonia, young mum of two) 4
LOCATION & COMMUNITY BULWELL Population: 22,400 (2011 census) Parish population: 15,200 (Research & Statistics department, Church of England) Ethnicity: Age profile: 83% are white British 60% are under age 44 Location Bulwell is a suburb of Nottingham, situated about 3miles from Junction 26 of the M1 motorway and 3.5miles North West of the Nottingham city centre. There is good road and rail access to London, Birmingham, Leeds and Manchester. The Derbyshire Dales, Sherwood Forest and East Midlands Airport are just a short drive away. Bulwell acts as a transportation hub for the North Nottingham area providing excellent links to the City Centre as well as north of the County and other surrounding areas. Bulwell has three tram stations and a train station serving Bulwell as well as regular bus services. Conservation area In Winter 2016, Bulwell was declared Nottingham s newest Conservation area to recognise the heritage of the place. St Mary s Church, Bulwell Baptist Church and the Seventh Day Adventist Church are landmark buildings within the conservation area. The conservation status gives further powers over demolition and restoration of buildings within the designated area, that includes the Market place and beyond. 5
LOCATION & COMMUNITY Parish wards 2 Bulwell & Bulwell Forest Local Councillors: (all Labour) John Hartshorne, Jackie Morris (also Sheriff of Nottingham), Ginny Klein, Eunice Campbell, Nick McDonald, Alan Clark Local MP: (Lab) Graham Allen The Community Bulwell holds 4 open air markets a week and there are a variety of shops, supermarkets, numerous banks and building societies and a small Retail Park. We benefit from two large open spaces which incorporate two municipal golf courses: Bulwell Hall and Bulwell Forest. In addition, the Bulwell Bogs situated alongside the River Leen, incorporates a children s playground and a water park. This area is well used by local residents and for some, forms the base for their summer holidays. Adjacent to the River Leen, lies Bulwell Riverside which is a new Joint Service Centre offering customers easy, convenient and local access to City Council services (library, youth work, social services and sports facilities) local GP practices and NHS Nottingham City clinics, all accessible under one roof. There are three more medical practices and several dental surgeries available within the parish. Schools Bulwell has several private day nurseries plus one Sure Start Centre. There are six primary Schools, including St Marys CofE primary school where the church has very strong links. Within the parish there is one Academy secondary school, which has sixth form provision. Other facilities We have several residential and nursing homes in the parish. There is also a local Community Hospital specialising in the care of mental illness and drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Some of the clients attend St. Mary s Church when possible. The following facilities are also within the parish: Crabtree Family Centre, Healthy Living Centre. Army Reserve Centre, Royal British Legion (Bulwell Branch) Ken Martin Leisure Centre, Mellish Sports Centre Action Groups Bulwell Forest Action Group is a new development which is supported by the church although independent of it. It is a group of people that join together to share information and ideas to make a difference to the local community. 6
THE CHURCH AND ITS PEOPLE Regular Services Time When Service AV. nos. 9am Service 1st Sunday Common Worship Holy Communion (said) 16 10am Services 1st Sunday All Age Worship (non Holy Communion) and Baptisms 3rd Sunday All Age Eucharist prepared by New Young Christians (NYC) and All Age planning group 48 2nd, 4th & 5th Sundays Common Worship Holy Communion (sung) 9.30am services Monday BCP Holy Communion (said) 6 Wed & Friday Morning Prayer (Common Worship) Thursdays Common Worship Holy Communion (said) 12 The congregation are drawn from all traditions of the Church of England and other Christian denominations. Whilst we embrace traditional church values, we also recognise the need to be more open to those who are less familiar with the ways of the church and would like to get to know us better. Congregation statistics can be found on appendix 1. Leadership The Core Leadership: consists of the priest, when in post, two churchwardens and four deputies. As both churchwardens work full time, they are supported by the four deputies who are more flexible and available during the day. Decision making is through the PCC. There is currently no clerical support and no other licensed ministers, either lay or ordained. We are extremely fortunate that many members of our congregation participate in all aspects of worship. This includes acting as sidespersons and welcomers, reading lessons and intercessions, PA operators, Eucharistic ministers and Altar servers. We are proud to have three young people involved in the two latter activities. Aims Our main mission strand is to foster closer relationships with young people, as 45% of our congregation are over the age of 65 (see appendix 2). This presents a challenge but we also see it as an opportunity to sow the seed in young discipleship. At one of the New Young Christian (NYC) fortnightly meetings, they work alongside adult members of the congregation to plan the All Age Eucharist. 7
THE CHURCH AND ITS PEOPLE St Mary s has a fixed east facing altar. During the vacancy this has been an issue for many of the visiting clergy. Following a full consultation with the congregation and with the support of the Archdeacon a faculty application was made for a new purpose built wooden altar. This will be movable, west facing and will stand in front of the original altar as shown in the picture. Aims (cont d) Among the uniformed organisations based at St. Mary s there is one of the largest Guide units within the City which provides another opportunity to work with younger people and their associated families. In 2016, during the Christmas period 425 nursery and primary school children along with 542 adults came to the Church to celebrate the birth of Jesus. They also celebrated Harvest Festival at St Marys, bringing 402 children with 33 adults. In the community One member of the congregation is our nominated Mental Health Champion and has involvement with street pastoring. A Nurture group had been set up to support any newcomers to the church to help develop their faith. In December 2016 this had to be suspended due to lack of newcomers. We have a small team of Eucharistic ministers who administer home communion to those who are in need. Up until the interregnum, regular acts of worship were held in one of the nursing homes, and in one of the sheltered housing complexes. 8
ST. MARY S CofE PRIMARY SCHOOL Rated Good in all categories by Ofsted (2014) There is a strong link between Bulwell St Mary s CofE primary school and the church. The priest has automatic membership as a Foundation Governor and the PCC have several representatives on the governing body, including the current vice chair. The PCC also approve two of the Foundation Governors. In 2014. the school was rated by Ofsted to be Good in all categories and is now working hard towards being Outstanding. In 2016, the school gained academy status. We recognise that our school offers fertile ground for seeds of faith to flourish in young families and it is our fervent prayer that the new priest will help us to move forward in our desire to nurture young disciples. 9
ST. MARY S CofE PRIMARY SCHOOL Statement from Headteacher Daniel Farthing We benefit from a reciprocal relationship with St Mary s Church and are keen to enhance our existing provision with the new priest We offer... Support for church activities participation in special services eg Ashing, carols, promotion of baptisms Visits to church as part of the curriculum Support the church as part of the wider community collections for local foodbank, forum for working with other churches eg Trent Vineyard A communication network for promoting church events/ activities 322 children from 284 families providing instant access via email or text message Well established mutually beneficial links with key members of both organisations governance, worship & events eg involvement with FAST programme (encouraging growth of family values, sustainability in developing support networks, increase potential of children) We are looking for involvement in the life of the school... Regularly leading collective acts of worship Contribute to the annual plan for worship and assembly in school Supporting our curriculum Prioritising attendance at school events/ activities Being a proactive governor who loves the community we serve and will take an active role in all aspects of school life 10
THE CHURCH & THE COMMUNITY Ocassional offices Occasional Office 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Baptisms 28 23 23 9 7 Weddings 18 11 14 8 9 Blessing of marriage service 0 0 2 0 1 Funeral services in Church 21 12 23 21 13 Funeral services at crematorium 13 24 22 9 1 Confirmations -Adults -Children 7 2 6 5 1 3 1 3 0 0 Weddings/ Baptisms Marriage ministry St Mary s benefits both from the beauty of its building and its elevated location. The bell ringers, choir and organist all add to the occasion. We also receive requests from non-uk citizens who marry under licence. Currently St. Mary s PCC allow s first divorcees to remarry in church at the discretion of the priest. Prepared & Presented for Confirmation Candidates were presented for confirmation at Southwell Minster except for 2013 when they took place at St.John s, Carrington. No candidates were prepared in 2016 Baptisms These are offered during the All- Age worship service on the first Sunday of the month. We try to ensure that no more than two families are bringing children for baptism at each service. Adult baptisms are also undertaken as required. 11
THE CHURCH & THE COMMUNITY We are extremely fortunate in having a Social team who hold regular fundraising events throughout the year. Example events include, Christmas & Summer Fayres, Quiz night (with food), Parish picnic and Band Concert (attended by Lord Mayor of Nottingham & Lord Lieutenant of Nottingham) Events are enjoyed by church members but are also a feature of community life. It is amazing how much good work and goodwill takes place within the church and within the parish; for example, Knit & Natter group who supply thousands of knitted items to Police Convoys, contributions made towards Operation Christmas Child, the Leprosy Mission and Christian Aid. There is also close collaboration between the church and the Royal British Legion. During 2015/16, as one of our mission strands, the congregation have been supporting the Bestwood and Bulwell foodbank, linked to the Trussell Trust. This foodbank is run as an alliance of local churches. Since its inception four years ago, it has fed over 10,000 people, of which 45% of those were children. Our New Young Christian group have been to other churches to participate in youth mass and led their own at St Mary s Church. One NYC member is currently a member of the Diocesan Youth Council. 12
THE CHURCH & THE COMMUNITY Opposite the church on Station Road stands the Rectory, owned by the Diocese. It is a 5 bedroomed detached house with a double garage, large gardens on three sides, downstairs toilet and study which is segregated from the main house by a door. It benefits from gas central heating and double glazing. Church Buildings & churchyard The parish church of St Mary s has been in existence since 1134, though the current church building dates from 1850.The architect of the latter building was Henry Isaac Stevens. The church itself sits within the churchyard which has been closed to burials since 1979. A garden of remembrance is available for internment of cremated remains. The tower contains a ring of 8 bells in a modern frame, which were re-hung in 1990. In 2006/7 the organ by Forster & Andrews, was entirely rebuilt by W.H Grove & Son and is now of recital standard. During 2015, we replaced carpets within the meeting areas plus more recently renewed the main church boiler. Ecumenism Bulwell Churches Together meet at least twice annually. There is a Ministers Fraternal (consisting of ministers, pastors, priests and moderators) which hold regular meetings. Bulwell Churches together raises the profile of the Churches in the wider community by arranging stalls at community events. It also organises a Good Friday walk of witness and service, and a Christmas Carol service. St. Mary s continues to play a full and active role within the Churches Together Group. 13
FINANCES Parish share payments 2015: 25,102 76% 2014: 32,114 97% 2013: 28,038 85% 2012: 17,854 54% (low because of work at curate s house) 2011: 29,952 90% 2010: 27,816 88% 2009: 31,294 100% The church, is in the fortunate position of having a healthy legacy for the maintenance and upkeep of the bells, Church and Churchyard. Church income typically has been around 50,000 a year ( 22k giving, 13k fees in 2015) with expenditure also being around 50,000 because any surplus is paid over as Parish Share. However expenditure in 2015 was higher due to replacement of carpets ( 6k) and church boiler ( 5,100) 2009 was the last time we paid 100% Parish Share ( 31,294), since then we have paid between 76% - 97%, (except for one year when extensive work was done on the curate s house) The PCC owns a 4 bedroom semi- detached property with garden and off road parking, which is intended for the use of a curate. The house is currently being rented out on short term contracts. The property is sited in the middle of the parish, a short walk from the town centre. 14
FINANCES RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2015 Receipts Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Total funds 2015 2014 Incoming resources from donors 22,332-22,332 22,855 Other voluntary incoming resources 1,159-1,159 1,690 Incoming resources from operating activities - to further the Council s objectives 13,221-13,221 19,331 - to generate funds 4,688-4,688 5,174 Income from investments 1,963 3,534 5,497 1,481 Total receipts 43,363 3,534 46,897 50,531 Payments Charitable Giving 691-691 981 Activities directly relating to the work of the Church 42,492 17,164 59,656 49,510 Church Management & Administration 2,584 37 2,621 1,639 Cost of Generating funds 458-458 748 Governance Costs - - - - Total payments 46,225 17,201 63,426 52,878 Net receipts/ payments (2,862) (13,667) (16,529) (2,347) Cash, bank & investment accounts at 1 Jan 23,694 347,422 371,116 373,463 Cash, bank & investment accounts at 31 Dec 20,832 333,755 354,587 371,116 15
APPENDICES Appendix 1 Congregation statistics Electoral roll (End of Dec 2016) Male 28 Female 71 Resident 66 Non- resident 33 Total: 99 Age profile of congregation including those who are ill & receiving Holy Communion Services profile Average attendance figures at normal Sunday services 16
APPENDICES Communicants & attendance for easter & Christmas Appendix 2 Our SWOT analysis is based on a survey open to all congregants and associated groups over a four week period. We had approximately 30% response from the congregation Our Strengths Strong leadership supported by social team and members of the congregation Well maintained church with good facilities Good links with many community organisations Well supported by the wider community Long standing generous congregation, who have been supportive of change Excellent links with St.Mary s Primary Church of England School Provide a variety of services Opportunities Develop relationships with uniformed groups and their wider community Develop further our links with all schools within the parish Access more modern communication avenues Further develop All Age worship Weaknesses Aging congregation Lack of lay readers, ordained ministers and clerical support Access issues due to the steepness of the hill Poor interaction with organisations using church facilities Limited activities for younger children Lack of follow up to occasional offices Minority of the congregation fearful of change Threats Lose members and morale if the vacancy continues for a long time Inability to pay full parish share Excessive bureaucracy requirements from the Diocese and legislation, discourages volunteers 17
APPENDICES Appendix 3 Church Organisation and Associated Groups Choir A small group of enthusiastic adult and young choristers managed by a well respected organist. Bell Ringers A small committed team that ring the bells for occasional offices and Sunday services. They practice once a week and are supported by an experienced and long standing Tower Captain. The Tower Captain has close links with all churches in the Nottingham District of Church Bellringers and our ringers assist at other churches, when possible. We also have other ringers who visit our tower. Mothers Union For the past 120 years a branch of the Mother s Union has met on a monthly basis at the church. In December 2016, members decided to continue but meet at other local group/churches. The Bulwell Mothers Union branch does have close links with other churches in the Deanery and the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham. Ladies Group For over 30 years there has been a ladies group meeting fortnightly at the church. the group tended to support ladies who did not normally attend church services. Due to the increasing frailty and age of its members this has recently been closed down. The former leader is hoping to maintain contact with past members. Social Team The church has a very proactive Social Team, organising events throughout the year. These events raise funds for the church and are often supported by the groups affiliated to the church. Uniformed Groups A large number of uniformed groups with approximately 150 children on their registers. These include Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and Rangers, Beavers, Cubs and Scouts. Toddler Group A well attended Toddler group meets weekly in term time and often has a waiting list. NYC Our New Young Christian group (NYC) was set up in 2008 and is for years 6-9 and they meet twice a month. We are proud of how earlier members have now progressed within the church. Nurture Group A newly formed group that met once a month with the aim of supporting those new to the church. This was suspended in December 2016. 18
APPENDICES Appendix 4 Church Urban Fund statistics St Mary s is amongst the most deprived parishes in England IMD rank of 12036 out of 12660 35% child poverty Comparatively low life expectancy Low levels of qualifications High levels of lone parents There are some challenging issues in this parish and we recommend that all prospective candidates take time to investigate these statistics in detail by visiting the website http://www.cuf.org.uk/poverty-england Appendix 5 Useful weblinks Parish profile www.achurchnearyou.com/bulwell-stmary-the-virgin-all-souls Church history www.southwellchurches.nottingham.ac.uk/ bulwell-st-mary/hhistory.php St. Marys 19