Professional Documents
Culture Documents
FINCHAMPSTEAD
“Information Pack 2011”
for
The Annual Parochial Church Meeting
to be held in the Church Centre
on Sunday 10th April 2011 at 12 noon approx (after
shortened 11am service
Containing:
AGENDA
Part One (for those on the Church Electoral Roll and residents of the parish whose names
are on the civil Electoral Roll, all of whom may vote for churchwardens)
1. Opening Prayers
2. Apologies
ANNUAL VESTRY MEETING
Part Two (for those on the newly revised Church Electoral Roll)
ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING
For information:
(Please use the opportunity, having read the reports, to make any comments, ask questions or
raise any issues.)
1. Approval of minutes of 2010 Annual Parochial Church Meeting
2. Approval of the Annual Report and Financial Statement of the Parochial Church
Council up to the 31st December 2010
3. Report on the fabric, goods and ornaments of the Parish Church
4. Report on the proceedings of the Deanery Synod
5. Report on the new Electoral Roll for this APCM
6. Reports from the PCC committees (Social & Fundraising; Pastoral; Finance &
Stewardship; Fabric & Property; Mission & Charitable Giving; Outreach &
Discipleship; Worship & Liturgy; Communications, IT & Publicity) & Working
Groups (Conservation Project Group, Conservation Appeal Group and Good
Practice Advisory Group)
7. Reports from the Church’s organisations and groups and linked groups:
Fledgelings; Sunday Club; Youth Group; Mothers’ Union & Women’s
Fellowship; Churches Together in Crowthorne (CTC); Bell Ringers; Ladies’
Breakfasts; Housegroups; Churchyard Trust; Church Choir/Music; Church
School; Churches in Finchampstead Praying Together; Tuesday Working Party;
St James’ Football Club; Altar servers; Breastfeeding Network.
For decision:
An opportunity for anyone eligible to vote to ask questions about the Parish and its activities
At this point, PCC members will be asked to confirm by a show of hands that the
previous officers (Treasurer & Secretary) and Standing Committee members will
remain in post until the next PCC meeting (16th May 2011)
Closing prayers
ST JAMES’ PARISH FINCHAMPSTEAD
The Church Centre, Manor House, Church Lane
Finchampstead RG40 4LU
Tel/Fax: 0118 973 0133
PLEASE REPLY TO: Secretary Carolyn Fox
19 Gorse Ride North
Finchampstead
Berkshire
RG40 4ES
Tel: 0118 973 2262
carolynfox@aol.com
Given that God comes first in everything, make ourselves and others
Better Disciples of Christ.
Minutes of the Annual Vestry and Parochial Church Meetings
The Church Centre, on Sunday 11 April 2010 at 6pm.
Present
53 parishioners, whose names are on the Electoral Roll, signed the Register of Attendance. Both meetings were
chaired by Rev Dr Richard Warden.
2 Apologies
Apologies were received from David Booth, Hugh Dempster, Ann & Roger Jeater, Beth Peat, Andrew Powell, Hazel
Sutherland-Pilch, Ian & Nicola Woolston, Felicity Borham, Jodie Widman, Roy & Doreen Townend, Keith Hunt,
Audrey Metcalfe, Dorothy Taylor, Brian Hamblin, Gill Myall, Maurice & Hazel Levy, David Bedser, Anita Andrews and
Marg Andrews
3 Rector’s Remarks
Rev Richard checked that everyone had a pack of papers for the meetings. He referred to the Living Faith document
that had been handed out and explained that a new Deanery Mission Plan was being drawn up in line with the 5 aims
of this document:
• Sustaining the sacred centre
• Making disciples
• Making a difference in the world (At this point he spoke to Sharon Block on a speaker phone. As headteacher
of the pre-school in Kimberley, she told enthusiastically of the 5 pupils who will start at the school tomorrow as
a result of our sponsorship. She explained how our money would be used.)
• Creating vibrant Christian communities and
• Shaping confident, collaborative leadership (He noted that he and Rev John see and encourage this.)
Rev Richard explained that there are two meetings, the first, the Vestry Meeting to elect churchwardens, for everyone
on the Church Electoral Roll and anyone living in the parish who is on the civil electoral roll. At the second meeting,
the Annual Parochial Church Meeting for the rest of the business, only those on the Church Electoral Roll may vote.
5 Election of Churchwardens
There were two nominations in writing before the meeting as required for Churchwarden ! Nicky Alder and Ed
Sampson. There being no other nominations, they were duly elected. Rev Richard invited them to sit at the front. He
thanked them for their unstinting support and great time commitment over the past year and particularly thanked their
spouses. Rev Richard declared the meeting closed.
Approval
Page 1 of 6
ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING
The Church Wardens, Nicky Alder and Ed Sampson, joined the platform. Rev Richard congratulated them and they
were applauded.
FOR INFORMATION
It was proposed (Rebecca Head), seconded (John Dewhurst) and unanimously approved that the examined report
and financial statements be accepted.
Page 2 of 6
Social & Fundraising Team Sue Sampson.
Pastoral Team Paul Arscott.
Finance & Stewardship Committee Julie Morley.
Fabric & Property Committee Maurice Driver.
Mission & Charitable Giving Committee Julia Arscott.
Outreach & Discipleship Team Janet Clements.
Worship & Liturgy Committee Carolyn Fox.
Communications, IT & Publicity Committee Richard Peat.
Conservation Project Working Group Carolyn Fox, (supplemented by information in the Fabric
Goods and Ornaments Report and the detailed sheet prepared by Rev Richard).
Conservation Appeal Group Carolyn Fox.
Good Practice Advisory Group Carolyn Fox.
Rev Richard explained that the Committees and Working Groups do the practical work of the PCC and are
accountable to the PCC. He went through each of the reports and thanked the Committee leaders. Each was warmly
applauded. Paul Arscott spoke of the good practice document that was being prepared with advice from the Diocese
for the pastoral team to protect vulnerable people, the team and the church. He was thanked for his work as Lay
Eucharistic Minister. Rev John advised that a Friends of St James scheme was being developed to give non-regulars
a chance to keep in touch and for those who wished to give for the building only. It was hoped to launch this later in
the year. Maurice Driver drew attention to the need for maintenance work on the Manor House. As landlords and to
produce good income from our properties it behoved us to ensure good maintenance. Car parking continued to need
attention. Attention was drawn to the targeted Mission Giving mainly to four charities and also to the Lent sermons.
The congregational vote for a CUF project to support was the one in Hull. Attention was drawn to the ‘What’s it all
about’ course and Kate Meads explained the work of the Family Connexions team who are around to talk to people at
and after the Family services. Olive Butchart was thanked for her work with baptism families, dealing with the
registers and sending out anniversary cards. Sally Hamblin was thanked for her work producing and selling the
calendars and Christmas cards which had raised a great profit for the Conservation Fund. Rev John was thanked for
all he does in the parish and the meeting supported this with huge applause.
Ed Sampson gave a verbal update on the Conservation Project. There were a few outstanding issues for the Working
Party to resolve and see completed. The appeal had raised £566K over 4 years and costs had been £649K including
VAT, a large amount of which was hoped to be recovered under the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme. There
was expected to be a shortfall of about £4K. Maurice Driver commented that the results of the project were to be
seen in the church now. He proposed a vote of thanks to the whole team (Rev Richard, Ed Sampson, Nicky Alder,
Carolyn Fox and Wally Chapman). Rev Richard extended the thanks to past members, Maurice Driver, Paul Arscott
and Ian Gibb.
It was proposed (Julia Arscott), seconded (John Brain) and unanimously agreed that the reports be accepted en bloc.
Rev Richard commented on each report. The group leaders and helpers were all thanked for their commitment which
was greatly valued. He drew attention to the new Sunday Club team and the fact that Youth Group were just back
from the Iona trip which Cathy Clayton described as ‘life-changing’. Julia Arscott thanked Cathy & Steve Clayton and
Elisabeth Tracey for organising the trip. Paul Arscott thanked the Mothers’ Union for the great amount of Pastoral
work done unsung by that group. Rebecca Head expressed thanks to the CTC Hope as her children had enjoyed the
Page 3 of 6
activities. It was good to have the bellringers back after the church closure and they were glad to be back. Rev
Richard was indebted to Andrew Bosley for Stainer’s Crucifixion on the first Sunday back in church. He also thanked
the school governors for representing the church at the school. He congratulated Finchampstead Baptist Church on
the amazing facility that they have built.
It was proposed (Mary Dewhurst), seconded (Richard Owen) and unanimously agreed that the reports be accepted
en bloc.
The final piece of information was an announcement that Rev Richard will be leaving the Parish towards the end of
the summer. He read out his prepared statement (see attachment 2) as he found the announcement very difficult and
was very emotional. Ed Sampson spoke of the amazing job that Rev Richard has done for 6 years and how difficult it
was for him to go as he was ‘part of the family’. Cathy Clayton also expressed thanks to Penny Warden and there
was warm applause for Rev Richard and Penny.
FOR DECISION
a) 4 are elected until 2010: Sarah Booth, Julie Morley, Daphne-Lucan Wilson and Andy Witting.
b) 4 are elected until 2011: Mary Dewhurst, Kate Meads, Jonathan Marshall and Richard Owen.
c) 4 are elected until 2012: Maurice Driver, John Brain, Rebecca Head and Richard Peat.
The first group had come to the end of their term. Andy Witting did not wish to stand again. The nomination sheet
contained five names now that Julie Morley had been elected to Deanery Synod, namely, Sarah Booth, Daphne
Lucan-Wilson, Gill Myall, Ian Woolston and Barbara Brice. A vote was therefore needed and the secretary gave out
voting sheets. Rev John agreed to act as teller and, when he had counted the votes, he declared that Sarah Booth,
Gill Myall, Ian Woolston and Barbara Brice were duly elected.
Rev Richard thanked all those who had served on PCC and Standing Committee and particularly Daphne Lucan-
Wilson for her work over the years. They were applauded.
10 Appointment of Sidespeople
The names on the list of Sidespeople appointed at last APCM and by the PCC during the year were read out (see
attachment 1). Rev Richard referred to the ‘duties’ sheet in the Information Pack and said how important this role is.
There were no other volunteers from the meeting. They were declared as appointed for the coming Church year.
Rev Richard also thanked the servers, intercessors, chalice administrators, coffee rota volunteers, flower arrangers,
vergers, and those who cleaned the communion vessels and the altar linen. In addition he thanked all those who had
set up the Church Centre for services during the conservation work.
Page 4 of 6
Worship Grant Scheme was threatened to end in March 2011 and encouraged support for the petition for it to be
retained.
13 Conclusion
Finally, Rev. Richard referred to the proposal that the Treasurer (Andy Witting), Secretary (Carolyn Fox),
Churchwardens (Nicky Alder and Ed Sampson) and the two appointed members of the Standing Committee (Mary
Dewhurst and John Brain) stay in office until the next PCC meeting on 24 May. Maurice Driver proposed this to PCC
members, seconded by Julie Morley and unanimously agreed by the PCC members present.
There being no further business, the meeting closed at 8pm with the Living Faith prayer and the Grace.
Approval
Attachments:
Attachment 1
Andrews, Anita
Arscott, Julia
Coombs, John
Dewhurst, Mary
Driver, Maurice
Fox, Carolyn
Gray, Denise
Hamblin, Brian
Hamblin, Sally
Harris, Beverley
Hitti, Julie
Hossack, Rosemary
Judge, Fiona
Kitcher, Suzy
Lardner, Sheila
Laurent, Miriam
Lawrence, Jackie
Meads, Kate
Morris, Bill
Murray, Kim
Myall, Gill
Norman, Sue
Owen, Richard
Payne, Jackie
Pearce, Norman
Ray, Keith
Sampson, Sue
Van den Burg, Lindsay
Westphalen, Flemming
Westphalen, Louise
Workman, Felicity
Page 5 of 6
Attachment 2 Announcement from Rev Richard to APCM 2010
Having already spoken to our two bishops, the Archdeacon and our two churchwardens Nicky Alder and Ed Sampson, I have a
rather difficult announcement to make which is that, with a very heavy heart, I shall be moving on from St James’ towards the
end of the summer. I know this will come as something of a shock to many people, but to others it may not be too much of a
surprise.
I will have served for six wonderful years at St James, and during that time we have come a very long way together – as all the
reports to this APCM testify. We can be rightly proud of all that we have achieved as a healthy church and vibrant Christian
community. It will be incredibly difficult to leave this behind and say goodbye to so many people with whom I feel such an
immense bond of friendship. To my mind, and I think with good reason, this must be one of the most impressive parishes and
congregations in the land. The commitment to the service of others, the quality of our worship of God, our willingness to grow
under Christ, and the vibrant Spirit of welcome, friendliness and love are of a very high order indeed. Being Priest-in-Charge
here has been a most remarkable privilege in my life and whoever is appointed after me will be incredibly fortunate.
However, I have been offered a challenging opportunity to re-engage with my chaplaincy work, among 1300 young people –
aged 3 to 18 – as Chaplain and Head of Religious Studies to three schools in Mill Hill, north London. Being at the somewhat
advanced age of 53 for being offered such jobs, it was an opportunity I could not realistically turn down.
If parish work is ministry at the “front line”, then school chaplaincy is ministry “behind enemy lines” as I seek to bring the good
news of God’s love to this current generation of young people, who will be the next generation of adult Christians in the pews.
As Bishop John commented to me, strategically, schools ministry – which I had been in for 15 years before coming to St James’
– is crucially important. From experience I know that this ministry is often carried out in the face of indifference, ignorance and
hostility to the concept of God and faith. The stark contrast between parish life and schools ministry can best be encapsulated in
the fact that when people attend church at St James, they do so because they want to, but schools have compulsory chapel
attendance and the pupils would sooner be somewhere else! I will be called upon to be an evangelist and a teacher, as well as a
pastor and preacher.
My departure from St James has come a few years earlier than I had originally anticipated. This is partly because of the rather
difficult year I have experienced. Within my wider family there has been a great deal of serious illness, as well as tragic
bereavement, and a move out of parish ministry will allow me to spend more time addressing these wider family issues,
something which is of fundamental importance to me. It has not been easy finding time for seeing family with just the one day
off during midweek. In addition, and for the first time in our 26 years of married life, the move will allow Penny and me to live
in our own home together, nearer Penny’s family, albeit during school holidays.
Looking forward, the bishops and the Archdeacon are very aware that St James has become one of the largest congregations in
the Oxford diocese, and that it will be important to move swiftly to find a suitable person to lead St James into the next phase of
its growth and development. To this end the Archdeacon has offered to come and meet with the churchwardens and the PCC in
the near future. Although the process will take place independently of me, I want to re-assure everyone that I will do all that I
can to ease the process. I care passionately about the future of St James’. All this means that I will not be going on sabbatical as
planned, and so I will give my full energies to St James’ over the next 4! months.
I have particular concerns for the pressure all this will bring for a number of people, especially for John Edwards as he takes the
lead in our services, and the churchwardens as they carry the responsibility of administration and for finding my successor. I
know they will get huge support from the congregation.
When I arrived, Bishop Stephen said that I should aim to become dispensable! By that he meant that I should seek to build
sound structures and strong teams that would survive in my absence, and I have worked hard to achieve this. St James’ is in
very robust shape, and in incredibly capable hands, with people exercising their leadership and gifts throughout the whole of its
life. I firmly believe that St James’ will go from strength to strength during the forthcoming vacancy and under new leadership.
I know they will receive the same love and support that I have had during my time here, and for this, I thank God.
Page 6 of 6
St James’ Church
Parish of Finchampstead
Deanery of Sonning
Diocese of Oxford
The Parochial Church Council (PCC) presents its Annual Report and Financial
Statements for the year ended 31 December 2010.
St James’ Church
Church Office
Manor House
Church Lane
Finchampstead
Berkshire
RG40 4LU
Tel: 0118 973 0133
Office@stjames.finchampstead.co.uk
CONTENTS
1. Annual Report of the Parochial Church Council (Trustees’ Report) Page 2 - 7
2. Independent Examiner’s Report Page 8
3. Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) Page 9
4. Balance Sheet Page 10
5. Notes to Financial Statements Page 11 - 16
St James’ Church Finchampstead
Trustees’ Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2010
1. Trustees’ Annual Report
Administrative Information
Finchampstead Parochial Church Council is the governing body for St. James’ Church, Finchampstead.
The church is situated at Church Lane, Finchampstead, Wokingham, Berkshire, RG40 4LU and is in
Sonning Deanery in the Diocese of Oxford within the Church of England.
The PCC’s principal bankers are CAF Bank Ltd.
The independent examiner is Karen Symons FCA, Willow Corner, 7 Ackrells Mead, Little Sandhurst,
Berkshire GU47 8JJ
The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is a registered charity. – no 1130075 and all its members
(elected, ex officio and co-opted) are now Charity Trustees registered with the Charity Commission.
Members of the PCC are generally either ex-officio or elected by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting
(APCM) in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. Under the Synodical Government
Amendment Measure 2003, the elected places come up for election on a three year cycle and
members may stand for re-election. If anyone stands down early, a replacement fills the remainder of
the three year term, to maintain the three year rotation. Three groups have been established, with those
to replace members standing down early being decided by lot after the required total number have
been elected.
The three groups are now designated A, B & C below as follows:
Group A - elected to APCM 2011.
Group B - elected to APCM 2012
Group C - elected to APCM 2010 and 2013.
Deanery Synod representatives are elected for 3 years (at present to 31/05/2011) and become ex
officio members of the PCC.
The Churchwardens are elected annually at the ‘Vestry Meeting’ preceding the APCM and, under the
Churchwardens Measure 2001, may be re-elected up to a maximum of six consecutive years served.
The churchwardens are admitted to office by the bishop between the APCM and 31st July each year
but take up their place on PCC immediately after election. A retiring churchwarden continues in office
until the successor is admitted to office.
The Associate Priest is automatically part of the PCC. Licensed Lay Ministers may be part of the PCC
but Dr Keith Atton does not wish to be so.
During the year the following served as members of the PCC (Trustees):-
Incumbent: Rev. Dr Richard Warden – (Chairman) to 31 July 10 then Vacancy
Associate Priest: Rev. John Edwards (NSM)
Churchwardens: Mrs Nicky Alder (served continuously since APCM 2008)
Mr Ed Sampson (served continuously from APCM 2009)
Representatives on the Deanery Synod:
Mr. Paul Arscott (Licensed Lay Eucharistic Minister)
Mrs Julia Arscott
Mrs Carolyn Fox (PCC Secretary)
Mrs Gill Myall to APCM 10
Mrs Julie Morley from APCM 10
Elected Member:
Mrs. Sarah Booth (C)
Mr. John Brain (B)
Mrs Barbara Brice (C)
Mrs. Mary Dewhurst (A)
Mr. Maurice Driver (B)
Mrs Rebecca Head (B)
Mrs. Daphne Lucan-Wilson (C) to APCM 2010
Mr Jonathan Marshall (A)
Mrs Kate Meads (A)
Mrs. Julie Morley (C) to APCM 2010
Mrs. Gill Myall (C ) from APCM 10
Mr Richard Owen (A)
Mr Richard Peat (B) (Lay Vice Chair)
Risk Management
The PCC recognises its responsibility to assess and manage the various risks to which it is exposed:
a) Financial
The Financial Management software enables the Treasurer to make regular reports to the PCC and to
track and analyse trends much more effectively. The PCC asks the Finance & Stewardship Committee
to assess the income/expenditure situation and takes appropriate action to ensure its financial stability
regularly. Control is maintained over cash receipts and cheques over £1000 drawn on the CAFcash
account require two signatures from a short designated list. All payments via online banking require to
be authorized by a ‘second signatory’. 2010 saw the introduction of increased recording of invoices
received and paid in order that there is a full audit trail from receiving the invoice to being able to
identify where the invoice is posted in the accounts. All financial data on computer is backed up
regularly so that records can be recreated if necessary. Fund balances are in good interest bearing
accounts mainly with the Diocese and CAF.
b) Reputational
The PCC and its committees oversee all activities that impact on the local population as appropriate.
c) Statutory
The PCC and Church members in general have a wide range of expertise that is called upon to ensure
that the PCC complies with its legal and statutory duties. One PCC member updates Charity Trustee
details with the Charity Commission and submits accounts and reports. The Health and Safety advisor,
Ian Clements of Quadriga Ltd, appointed in March 05, ended his contract in April 2010 and on 20
September 2010 a new contract was signed with Flemming Westphalen of qsuk ltd to supply Health &
Safety advice. He is currently reviewing the PCC’s documents and processes in order to give up to
date advice. In line with the Licensing Of Premises Act, the Church Centre has an Entertainment
Licence. Fire Protection advice has been given by RES, resulting in a review and renewal of fire
protection devices to meet statutory guidelines. A Data Protection Officer has been appointed.
d) Operational
The PCC takes responsibility for maintaining the fabric of our building, particularly this year through the
completion of a major conservation project. Trustee Indemnity Insurance is in place for PCC members.
Our Insurance policies with Ecclesiastical Insurance are reviewed annually, thanks to the expertise of
Peter McBrien. Contractors on Church premises are asked to sign up to a code of conduct, ‘Guidelines
for the Safety of Contractors on Church Premises’(copy in Church Office)and a Policy and Principles
document for the safety of volunteers working on the premises is being reviewed by the new Health &
Safety Advisor. Its contents had been shared with the Tuesday Working Party. The PCC has a Serious
Incident Reporting Procedure for use by its groups (copy in Church Office). The Pastoral Team now
has a Pastoral Care Guidelines document. Non-PCC members with access to parish records now sign
a confidentiality statement.
2 Organisation
2.1 Treasury Team – Thanks are extended to the Treasury Team who have continued to work hard
during the 2010 financial year. The final stages of the conservation project led to additional work and
often difficult bookings within the accounts yet these were managed well. A new system was
implemented during the year that made it easier to trace invoices through the system, this has reduced
queries and enabled the Treasury Team to understand the monthly financial postings. Special thanks
are due to Keith Hunt, Debbie Watthey and Marion Row who continue to support the Treasurer in his
duties.
2.2 Finance & Stewardship Committee (F&S) – The Committee continued to meet regularly during the
year. Financial responsibility is designated from the PCC to the F&S committee and the committee
continues to be active in all aspects of church life. Thanks go to all members of the F&S committee
who work hard during the year to provide input into the key financial decisions in respect of our Church.
Special thanks should be extended to Robert Alder, our Giving and Gift Aid co-ordinator, who continues
to identify opportunities for planned giving in the church and whose hard work has seen a growth in
Income over the year.
3 Processes
3.1 Donation Processes - Robert Alder deserves much credit for the way in which he has run the whole
of our Gift Aid & Giving system. Together with Rev. John Edwards, Robert has encouraged members
of the congregation to move to direct donations through standing order which has reduced the amount
of administrative work required in relation to the counting and banking of cash and cheques.
The principal routes for planned giving are:-
• Standing Order direct to the CAF Bank account for Church and Parish general funds;
Automation of the donation & giving processes has given us the ability to make more regular gift aid
claims from HMRC, with associated cash flow benefits. A series of sermons were used in late 2010 to
communicate the financial challenges at St James, and this has seen good early results from our
congregation.
3.2 CAF Banking / CCLA - Improvements made in 2009 have meant that banking arrangements have
remained largely unchanged in 2010 with ever increasing movement away from the use of cheques to
online payment origination to suppliers and for salary and expenses payments. Online banking,
through CAF Bank’s secure website remains a key element of our day-to-day treasury activities. We
can view and download information about all CAF Bank accounts, view statements, set up ad hoc and
regular payments. This has also contributed to our ability to produce timely month end financial
accounts.
3.3 Reserves Policy
An appropriate Reserves Policy is at present under consideration.
4 Outlook to 2011
4.1 Parish Share – The parish has been advised that the Parish Share for 2011 has increased above
inflation (+6.58%), taking our overall contribution to the Diocese from £81k to £85k. This is a significant
challenge to manage during 2011. The higher Parish Share, in addition to the VAT increase mean the
cost base of the Parish has increased significantly before any additional costs are incurred from the
ever expanding work of our Church.
4.2 Manor House works – The F&P committee have effected some minor works during 2010 which are
aimed at reducing the work list on the Manor House and the investment properties. There remain some
challenges in identifying the key aspects of work that need to be completed and the F&S committee
continues to work closely with the F&P committee to ensure that cash is available for the highest
priority elements of work. The two designated funds that have been set aside for F&P works will help
the F&P committee to plan the work that can be conducted in 2011.
4.3 VAT Claim & conservation – As previously discussed the LPW VAT claim has not yet been
finalised. There are likely to be further queries from the scheme’s administrators. There remains a risk
that the PCC do not receive the full value of the original claim. At the moment any reduction in the
claim value would increase the deficit on the Conservation Fund.
4.4 Merger of the parishes – During 2011 the formal process of merging the parishes of St James’ and
St Mary and St John will continue. There are likely to be financial implications as the two parishes
merge and these will require close co-ordination with representatives from St Mary and St John.
Special Thanks
Thank you to all who support the work of the parish with their time, talents and money. Every gift
however large or small is very much appreciated.
The PCC is particularly thankful to all those who contribute to the running of the church community here
at St James’ week by week, either with individual responsibilities or as part of a group, team or
committee. An amazing amount of time and talent is gifted to the church regularly, supporting church
services, organizing social events, administration, pastoral care, practical skills etc.
The PCC wishes to thank everyone who contributes in these many ways.
This report on the Financial Statements of the PCC for the year ended 31 December 2010, which are set out
on pages 9 to 16, is in respect of an examination carried out in accordance with the Church Accounting
Regulations 2006 ('the Regulations') and s.43 of the Charities Act 1993 ('the Act').
As the members of the PCC you are responsible for the preparation of the Financial Statements; you
consider that the audit requirement of Regulations and section 43(2) of the Act does not apply. It is my
responsibility to issue this report on those Financial Statements in accordance with the terms of Regulations.
My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission
under section 43(7)(b) of the Act and to be found in the Church guidance, 2006 edition. That examination
includes a review of the accounting records kept by the PCC and a comparison of the Financial Statements
with those records. It also includes considering any unusual items or disclosures in the Financial
Statements and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures
undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently I do not
express an audit opinion on the view given by the Financial Statements.
(1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements
• to prepare Financial Statements which accord with the accounting records and to comply
with the accounting requirements of the Act and the Regulations have not been met; or
(2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the
Financial Statements to be reached.
RESOURCES EXPENDED
Missionary and charitable giving 1(c) & 3(a) £ 8,974 £ - £ 8,974 £ 12,406
Ministry - The Work of the Church 1(c),3(b) & 4(a) £ 134,177 £ - £ 134,177 £ 127,151
Church Conservation and Organ Restoration 3(c) £ 202 £ 288,175 £ 288,377 £ 272,909
Church Centre and Grounds 3(d) £ 20,703 £ 80 £ 20,783 £ 18,514
Manor House Flats 3(f) £ 5,707 £ - £ 5,707 £ 6,041
Fund-raising and Donation costs 3(g) £ 1,031 £ 823 £ 1,854 £ 1,109
Churchyard Trust (Helen Taylor) 3(e) £ - £ 10,896 £ 10,896 £ 10,060
Investment Costs 3(h) £ 540 £ - £ 540 £ 1,037
TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED £ 171,334 £ 299,973 £ 471,307 £ 449,226
NET INCOMING RESOURCES BEFORE OTHER RECOGNISED GAINS AND LOSSES £ 12,258 -£ 275,465 -£ 263,207 -£ 224,355
CURRENT ASSETS
Gift Aid Tax Recoverable 6 £ 6,611 £ 4,617
Debtors 6 £ 3,331 £ 3,523
Cash at Bank and in Hand £ 106,736 £ 352,864
£ 116,678 £ 361,004
PARISH FUNDS
Unrestricted 8 £ 867,754 £ 847,335
Restricted 8 £ 273,132 £ 479,468
£ 1,140,886 £ 1,326,803
Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 21st March 2011 and signed on its behalf by: Richard Peat (Vice Chairman of the PCC)
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 1997 as amended by the Church Accounting (Amendment) Regulations 2006 together with applicable accounting standards and the Charities SORP 2005.
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the valuation of investment assets, which are shown at market value.
(a) Funds
General funds represent the funds of the PCC that are not subject to any restrictions regarding their use and are available for application on the general purposes of the PCC. Funds designated for a particular purpose by the PCC are also unrestricted.
The accounts 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 main affiliation to another body nor those that are informal gatherings of Church members.
The Church School was purchased in 1925 and is held under trusts ‘for ecclesiastical purposes in Finchampstead Parish’. Under the terms of the conveyance of the property the Custodian Trustees are Diocesan Trustees (Oxford) Limited and the Administrative
Trustees are the PCC. The PCC’s interest is included at the cost of original acquisition.
Depreciation is not provided on Land / Buildings.
The PCC considers that the market value of its interests in land and buildings is likely to be considerably in excess of their carrying value & considers it not practicable to quantify the difference in view of the nature of the properties, that any attempt at such
quantification would not assist users of the Accounts.
Equipment used within the church premises is written off as expenditure in the SOFA. Office equipment is depreciated over 4 years and the handbells over 5 years
(e) Investments
Investments are valued at Market Value. Investment Freehold property has been valued by the Treasurer as an estimate of the current market value.
(f) Transfer of Funds
During the year the PCC undertakes work / projects that will be funded out of Restricted or Unrestricted funds. From time to time it is necessary to transfer funds from Unrestricted PCC General Funds to restricted funds to make provision for any projected
overspend. A full analysis of fund movements is available in Note 8. Restricted funds are always used for the purpose identifid at the formation
Finchampstead Parochial Church Council of St. James' Church, Finchampstead
Notes to Financial Statements
For Year Ending 31st December 2010
Page 12
Unrestricted Restricted
2. INCOMING RESOURCES Total 2010 Total 2009
Funds Funds
2(a) Voluntary Income
Gift Aid donations £ 68,456 £ 4,783 £ 73,238 £ 67,466
Tax Recoverable £ 19,295 £ 1,563 £ 20,857 £ 19,201
Collections £ 7,617 £ 4,612 £ 12,229 £ 36,576
Bequests, Grants and Donations £ 11,865 £ - £ 11,865 £ 9,780
£ 107,232 £ 10,957 £ 118,190 £ 133,023
Parish Office Staff Costs includes the cost of 1 part time employee
The PCC pays a retainer to the Director of Music, this amount is not included in the above note as the Director of Music is not an employee of the PCC
PCC Trust PCC Equity H.T. Trust Total 2010 Total 2010 Fixed
(b) Investments H.T. Trust Equity
Property Investments Deposit Investments Assets
Market value at 1st January 2010 £ 227,153 £ 317,964 £ 130,139 £ 123,000 £ 798,255 Tangible
Purchases at cost £ - £ - £ - £ - £ - plus
Disposal at carrying value £ - £ - £ - -£ 12,000 -£ 12,000 Investments
surplus on revaluation £ 22,847 £ 45,082 £ 9,361 £ - £ 77,290
loss on disposal £ - £ - £ - £ - £ -
Market value at 31 December 2010 £ 250,000 £ 363,046 £ 139,500 £ 111,000 £ 863,545 £ 1,047,183
2010 2009
Unrestricted funds £ 796,684 £ 725,687
Restricted funds £ 250,500 £ 253,139
£ 1,047,183 £ 978,826
The equity investments are in the CBF Church of England UK Equity fund.
Balance at 31 December 2010 £ 232,306 £ 4,000 £ 10,000 £ 8,000 £ 403 £ 613,045 £ - £ - £ 867,754
(8.d.) The conservation project was completed during the year but shows an overall deficit while awaiting the outcome of the Listed Place of Worship Grant Application (LPW), which allows for the
refunding of VAT on certain repair works carried out during the conservation. For the purposes of these accounts a transfer is made from PCC funds to the conservation project to reflect a small
surplus position. During December a final claim was made to the LPW scheme which had a value of £23,422.68, due to the contingent nature of this claim it is not recognised in the
annual accounts as accrued income
Churchyard Monuments
The Fabric & Property Committee has developed an ongoing plan which is reviewed at the F & P
meetings. General maintenance of grass and hedges are undertaken regularly both in the Manor
House grounds and the Churchyard and the memorials and monuments are surveyed from time to
time to ensure that they don’t become a health hazard. Cleaning and tidying of the memorials is a
time-consuming task but we are gradually improving the condition of those which are suffering
from overgrown flora, ivies and lichens, etc.
Many thanks go to the Churchyard Trust members who have diligently raised funds for the
maintenance work to the Churchyard and its gates & fences and funding the regular grass cutting
contracts. The churchyard is visited regularly by both local and past residents and it is a very
important part of the role of the Church at this time. The space for burials is getting very short but
the interment of Ashes adjacent to the southern boundary wall has proved to be a successful
location.
Local Crime
Over past months there has been a spate of break-ins associated with many Churches in
surrounding Parishes. The reasons for the break-ins seem to have been variously looking for re-
sellable valuables and other items and some of course seeking roofing lead, etc. The break-in here
at St James in January 2011 unexpectedly only removed the small leaded window in the porch, but
there had been several occasions where the 1590 door bolt appeared to have been withdrawn with
the purpose of returning later and gaining easy entry.
Our current CCTV has proved very useful but we are currently reviewing the need to add further
cameras and increasing the capacity of the CCTV recording media enabling us to extend the period
of ‘look back’. We have also taken the precautions of putting away out of sight much of the
silverware, etc.
Thanks
We have received two new Kneelers within the past year and also a generous gift enabling a new
altar frontal to be made to our own design. Also the visiting Vermont Choir in October 2010
presented us with a ceramic communion chalice set as a ‘thank-you’ for hosting and
accommodating them during their time with us.
Conserving a 12th Century Grade-1 listed Church building, the Manor House, the surrounding
grounds, the wider campus fencing, walls and boundaries, etc. is a massive task which takes a lot
of time and talents. Huge thanks go to all those who support this effort and a special thanks to the
Tuesday Working Party who toil through rain or sunshine. There is also a significant amount of
regular work involved with; cleaning the Church, cleaning the silverware, washing altar linen, etc
and we are immensely grateful to all those folks who help us to keep the life of the Church moving.
www.webjam.com/sonningdeanery
The next completely new Electoral Roll will be in 2013 (and every 6th year
thereafter). In the interim the Roll is revised with additions and deletions as they
become known to the Electoral Roll Officer Sarah Booth.
Amendments can take place at any time, except between 25th March and the
APCM on 10th April 2011. The formal notice of revision prior to this year’s
APCM was displayed as required during the weeks prior to the 24th March
deadline.
During the year 11 new applications have been received and 13 names were
deleted because of death, moving away or no longer worshipping regularly. The
revised roll is now on display in the Church and Church Centre. No more names
can be added until after the APCM.
There are now 395 names on the Roll entitled to vote at the 2011 APCM.
SUMMARY
RESIDENT 143
NON-RESIDENT 252
NET DECREASE 2
Sarah Booth
(Electoral Roll Officer). 25th March 2011
Additions
Charlotte Owen
Sandy Godfrey
Sam Leadsom
Louis Ramsay
Stephanie Ramsay
Clarissa Kershaw
Selby Kershaw
Kate Parsons
Oliver Parsons
Anita Cole
Peter Cole
Deletions
Deceased
Eric Cox
Norman Morris
Frances Plaisted
Christine Brett
Frances Bradley
Since last April the Social and Fundraising Team have had another active and productive year.
The total amount raised during the year is around £8,000 – with the profits going towards the Conservation
Fund, Church Flower Fund, Local Charities and General Church Funds.
We also support and co-ordinate the bring and share meal on Maundy Thursday, provide hot cross buns on Good
Friday, offer refreshments after special services and Lent Lectures and continue to provide a rota for coffee
after Sunday Services.
During the next year we have various events planned, both social and fundraising: Musical Supper Evening with
“Enigma”, Church Family Barbeque, Church Bi-Annual Fete in the Memorial Park, Church Tower Open with Cream
Teas for Patronal Festival Day, Harvest Supper etc. etc.
Thank you for continuing to support the social and fundraising events throughout the year, and in particular
many thanks to those who often bake or donate food, take home boxes of washing up, buy and provide raffle
tickets, help at the Church fete etc., your help and support is very much appreciated and invaluable.
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The committee meets formally some six times a year, but much business is carried out “informally” as and when the
demand arises. Currently, the committee comprises both Churchwardens, Rosemary Hossack, Richard Owen (as
chairman of the Churchyard Trust), Maurice Driver (PCC appointed chairman), Peter McBrien (“Temporary”
secretary for the past several years) Norman Pearce and Bob Brooks; these two latter members being representatives
of the Tuesday Working Party which contributes much to the upkeep of the property, and with which the F&P
Committee maintains a close link.
The committee is in the process of establishing a three-year schedule of necessary works to be agreed with the
Finance and Stewardship Committee for funding support. Meantime, those most urgent tasks having a safety or
economic reason for their early completion are being undertaken.
Maurice Driver. March 2011
In the summer time some of our group attended Yellow Braces the Oxford Diocese youth event, plenty of
outdoor fun and worship.
In September we began preparing our panto. We raised over £500 over two performances of Hook's Revenge.
Our young people sang, danced and acted their way through the two acts, thanks to the directing of Julie
Morley and choreography of our very own Barbara Brice. Jan Van den berg spent hours with help from his
family making and painting the magnificent scenery. He really was a star. Elisabeth Tracey was catering
manager supreme and the food sold in the interval raised £150!! With the proceeds raised in donations at the
performances we have been able to buy new equipment for youth group and send a large donation for Great
Ormond Street.
Over the past few months our youth have led two services and this is now a regular feature with our young
people taking the sermon, reading, intercessing and even drumming at the 11am service. In January some of
our group contributed during the Rodgers and Hammerstein evening. A special mention for the rock band who
were managed and assisted by the brilliant David Booth.
We now have 30 Members at Youth Group. We have welcomed some new members from St Mary and St John.
Our Easter vigil in 2011 will take place as usual this year. Where would we be without our amazing leaders and
helpers: Julie Morley, Cathy and Steve Clayton, Katherine and Kevin Li, Elisabeth Tracey and Nigel
Kennington.
God bless and a great big thank you to the PCC for funding resource materials from Urban Saints. We have
also welcomed guest speakers this year including a member of the Orthodox Jewish Community in Reading,
Simon Guilleband a missionary and a climate change action group.
God Bless, Cathy Clayton
Mothers’ Union & Women’s Fellowship Report for the Church APCM 2011
Our theme for 2010 was “Relationships on Rules” encouraging us to focus on two principle commandments ~
to love God and to love our neighbour. In order to carry these out we should then concentrate on establishing
good relationships with all.
During the year we enjoyed hearing a good variety of speakers. Rev’d John gave us further information and
experiences of his visit to Ethiopia. We all enjoyed Daphne Payne’s visit with her dog Goldie and hearing
about Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. We were pleased to support the Yeldall Manor Rehabilitation Centre with
our Epiphany Gifts, providing a variety of foods for their residents.
We observed the Women’s World Day of Prayer in March and the Wave of Prayer in June.
In August we enjoyed our Mary Sumner Birthday Lunch raising funds for our Overseas Fund. Our other social
Reports from Church Groups and Linked Organisations APCM 2011 2
event was our enjoyable Christmas Tea with members, visitors and friends after the Christmas Carol Service.
Throughout the year we have supported the Fledglings by preparing refreshments at their weekly sessions. We
provided the usual buffet lunch for parents and carers at the Fledglings Christmas Party ~ a very happy
occasion.
We held 3 evening meetings for those members who work or have school age children. We will continue with
these during 2011.
We still maintain a membership of 35. However we do miss our dear friend and late treasurer Chris Brett. We
give thanks for her huge contribution and commitment to our branch over the past 10 years.
We gratefully acknowledge the very generous donation of £600 to our overseas fund from the mission
committee at St James.
We would like to extend a warm welcome to any men and women who would like to join us.
Sarah Owen, Branch Leader
St James’ Belfry
We were all very pleased to get back into the belfry in March. It is a great pleasure to ring our lovely
bells again and enjoy the new sound and video relay from the church which will help us know when to
start the ringing for weddings and to see what is going on in the church.
We have welcomed another new member to the Tower, Debbie Blamire, who lives in Crowthorne and
who has been ringing regularly for Sunday service. We have enjoyed the company of a few ringers
who have been visiting the area and it has been especially nice to have Eversley Tower practise with
us on a few occasions when they have been short of ringers as they had extended a warm welcome to
us during the church renovations.
There was an infestation of ladybirds in the Tower which lasted several months. They were something
of a nuisance flying around as we were ringing but they disappeared eventually.
There were only a few weddings during the year but various groups of ringers came to ring as part of a
Ringing Outing, including groups from Putney and another of ex-Berkshire ringers and the Bradfield
Ringing Course used our tower again in August.
The Open Tower for the Patronal Festival was once again a very successful event. We really should
have kept count of the number of visitors. There were certainly an awful lot. We enjoyed showing
them the bells and the view from the Tower and explaining a little about the bells and bell-ringing.
In October Debbie Blamire and Chris Markham attended a course on Ringing Up and Ringing Down
in Peal run by the Branch and held at Finchampstead.
We have continued meeting for our regular Wednesday night practice and ringing for Sunday services
and, after a few months of very low numbers our numbers have picked up again and we are able to
give more help to the beginners and have a chance to practise more complicated ringing methods. This
is due in part to regular attendance on practice nights by Derek Palmer, the Sandhurst Tower Captain
and we appreciate his company and assistance. Our Tower Captain, Hugh Dempster, and Mary Ede
have, in turn, been able to help out Sandhurst Tower on Monday nights with the training of a number
Reports from Church Groups and Linked Organisations APCM 2011 3
of learners there. We have also been joined from time to time on practice nights by ringers from
Rotherwick, Eversley, Sandhurst, Swallowfield, Sonning and Binfield. In the last few weeks Liz
Harris has been travelling across from Binfield to practise with us as there are currently too few
ringers at their tower to sustain a practice.
We enjoyed a lovely Christmas Meal at the Queen’s Oak and we are now looking forward to a year
full of weddings and the opportunity to keep ringing.
Patricia Amos
Ladies’ Breakfast
We meet once every half term. Ladies of all ages. We laugh, chat, munch and pray together. All of us
value and look forward to our times of fellowship together. Relaxed, pampered and refreshed we are
ready to re-engage with our busy hectic lives. Do join us even if only occasionally. We meet one
Saturday per half term between 8-45 and 10-15 am in the church centre.
Contact Cathy Clayton for more information.
Housegroups
a) Housegroups run by Francis Moore.
These housegroups are ecumenical and attract members from churches across the CTC area, including
all three Finchampstead Churches. Our activities are reported in the Finchampstead Magazine each
month. We focus mainly on bible studies and issues affecting Christian life in the world today, using
DVDs of lectures by famous international speakers to stimulate our full and frank discussions. This
year we have studied the ‘book of Proverbs’, and ‘Battles Christian Face’ with Revd. Vaughan
Roberts, and ‘Matthew’s gospel with Prof. Don Carson. Once a year we have a summer outing, and
this year we were blessed with a lovely sunny day for a very enjoyable visit to Waverly Abbey House.
You are welcome to attend any of our advertised meetings; just give us a ring on 0118 973 2592 for
details. Audrey and Francis Moore
b) Housegroups run by Neil Bidston
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Altar Servers
At St James we have a group of some 15 Altar Servers – boys and girls. Led by three adults, they assist at all
main Holy Communion Services. Their purpose is to ensure the smooth running of the services which includes
setting up the church and clearing up afterwards. Whilst the main intent is to help the congregation participate
in the service by example, it is also a way of personally developing their spirituality and their Christian faith.
Full training is given to the roles that the individuals have which includes an understanding of the Churches
Year, the meaning of Liturgy and the various artefacts used in services. Usually the minimum age is nine. There
is no requirement for the individual to have been confirmed although this ministry is a good starting point for
that commitment.
Normally two junior servers, together with two adults, are required for a Holy Communion service. This will be
an adult to assist the priest, and adult to carry the processional cross and two juniors as acolytes. The acolytes,
with the crucifer, lead the procession in and out of services; form a “guard of honour” for the reading of the
gospel and leading the procession of the gifts. On average a junior server is require for a service every 5/6
weeks. It is therefore a commitment that is not onerous but very valuable to the church.
Paul Arscott, Senior Server
Breastfeeding Network annual report to St James' Church ( This is a separate organisation but
PCC supports it by providing the facilities of the Church Centre each week free of charge)
The Breastfeeding Network would like to thank the PCC and all those at St James' who have continued
to so kindly support the Breastfeeding Drop-in Group by allowing us to use a room each week.
Here is how we make use of the centre each week;
Many women feel a sense of isolation and lack of support in the early postnatal days. This may be due to a
combination of a reduction in NHS postnatal care, social expectations of self- reliance and that many do not
have the benefit of an extended family locally. Our Centre at St James’ Finchampstead continues to be an
important source of help to local mothers.
Some of the women that have come along to the group for a while now would like to train as
Breastfeeding Network Helpers. We are planning to do some fundraising to help towards the costs. We
shall be splitting the proceeds between the Breastfeeding Network and St James' Church funds. Please
rd
do come and support us! Thursday 23 June between 1 pm – 4 pm. Cream tea (scones, cream and
strawberry jam!). A play area for pre-school children, toy and baby/toddler clothes sale and of course
the chance for all the community to come together for a chat!
Their third and most important role is on a personal level. A churchwarden cares for
the parish priest and the parish priest's family. A churchwarden should also care for
the congregation, to encourage its members in their Christian faith, and to help heal
any quarrels or disagreements that arise between them or between the congregation
and the parish priest.
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Duties and responsibilities of Churchwardens are stated briefly in Canon E1. They may be summarised as:
• Churchwardens, when admitted, are officers of the bishop. They shall discharge such duties as are by law and custom
assigned to them; they shall be foremost in representing the laity and in co-operating with the incumbent; they shall
use their best endeavours by example and precept to encourage the parishioners in the practice of true religion and
to promote unity and peace among them. They shall also maintain order and decency in the church and churchyard,
especially during the time of divine service.
• They are the legal owners, on behalf of the parishioners, of the plate, ornaments, furniture and furnishings and other articles
belonging to the church - they are responsible for ensuring that none of those articles is disposed of without a faculty, and
that valuable items, alms boxes, etc. are secure against theft.
• In consultation with the incumbent, they must compile and keep up to date an inventory of all the articles belonging to the
church, a "terrier" of the lands belonging to the church. and a logbook of all alterations, additions and repairs to the church,
its lands and articles and to other events affecting any of them and keep the PCC informed to enable it to carry out its
functions in relation to the fabric of the church.
• Again, in consultation with the incumbent, churchwardens must in every year carry out or arrange for an inspection of the
fabric of the church and the articles belonging to it, and make a report on these to the Parochial Church Council, which then
delivers the report to the Annual Parochial Church Meeting.
• They should try to ensure that the PCC carries out its responsibilities for the care, maintenance and insurance of the fabric,
goods and ornaments of the church and the care and maintenance of the churchyard. In particular it is the duty of the
churchwardens to ensure that the necessary faculty is obtained before any works are carried out.
• Churchwardens should try to ensure that the incumbent is relieved of administrative work, particularly in connection
with such matters as the insurance, heating, lighting, cleaning and maintenance of the church and other parish buildings,
and the repair or replacement of such things as hassocks, hymn and prayer books, noticeboards and the like.
• They should try to ensure that the PCC meets its financial obligations, including contributions to diocesan funds and the
payment in full of the working expenses of the clergy in the parish.
• A churchwarden may hold the office of treasurer of the PCC, and if no one else is willing to act in that capacity, the
churchwardens who are members of the PCC must do so.
• Churchwardens are responsible for taking any offerings or collections in church (helped by the sidesmen).
• The churchwardens are also responsible for arranging provision of the bread and the wine for the Holy Communion..
• They are responsible for the seating of the congregation in the church, and for the maintenance of good order and
behaviour, especially during services, assisted in these duties by the sidesmen. The churchwardens should arrange the
sidesmen's rota, and ensure that the sidesmen know what their duties are. Churchwardens have power to eject anyone
creating a disturbance during a service, so long as they do not use unnecessary violence; they may also arrest a person
guilty of riotous, violent or indecent behaviour in the church or churchyard and bring that person before a magistrate.
• During a vacancy in the benefice, the churchwardens will normally be the "sequestrators", together with the Area Dean and
any other person appointed by the bishop, and must carry our the duties required of them by the bishop. At other times
when the incumbent is absent, the churchwardens are responsible for ensuring that church services are maintained and the
needs of any visiting clergy are adequately provided for.
• As lay officers of the bishop, the churchwardens ought, when necessary, to report to him or to the archdeacon as to the state
of the parish and any neglect or default by the incumbent in discharging his or her duties. They must also make accurate
replies (their "presentments") to the "articles of enquiry" put to them on the occasion of each visitation.
• On going out of office they shall duly deliver to their successors any goods of the church remaining in their hands together
with the inventory which shall be checked by their successors
Term of office - all churchwardens must be 'admitted to office' by making the necessary declarations before their Archdeacon (or
another appointed by the Bishop) by 31 July in the year of their election. They are appointed for a one year term of office which
commences on the date on which they are formally admitted to office, and continues until they or their successors are again duly
admitted, or until 31 July in the year following their election at the latest. However, churchwardens become ex-officio members
of their church council from the actual date of their election. Once in office, a churchwarden may resign his office by written
notice to the bishop by post and shall take effect two months after the notice is served or at an earlier date agreed by the bishop in
consultation with the minister and other churchwardens.
After six successive periods of office a person cannot be re-appointed as churchwarden unless the meeting of parishioners positively
and exceptionally passes a resolution to allow this to happen. Such a resolution can be revoked at any subsequent meeting of
parishioners. Any person who has served six successive years as churchwarden cannot be re-appointed for another two years (again,
unless the meeting resolves otherwise). The year from which this provision takes effect is 2002.
Churchwardens automatically vacate their office if they cease to have their name entered on the church electoral roll, and a casual
vacancy arises. A casual vacancy also arises if a person elected to be a churchwarden fails to be admitted to office by 31 July in the
year in which they were elected.
In the event of a casual vacancy during the year of office, the vacant place may be filled in the same manner as the person being
replaced had originally been appointed (i.e. election or Incumbent's nomination) except where, in the case of nomination by the
minister and that minister has ceased to hold office in the parish, the casual vacancy shall be filled by election by a meeting of the
parishioners. A person elected to fill a casual vacancy must be admitted to office within three months of the election or before the
next Annual Meeting of Parishioners if earlier.
……
Canon (Church) Law E 2 Of sidesmen or assistants to the churchwardens
1. The sidesmen of the parish shall be appointed by the annual parochial church meeting or,
if need arises between annual parochial church meetings, by the parochial church council.
2. No person whose name is not on the church electoral roll is eligible as a sidesman, but all
persons whose names are on the roll are so eligible.
3. It shall be the duty of the sidesmen to promote the cause of true religion in the parish and
to assist the churchwardens in the discharge of their duties in maintaining order and decency
in the church and churchyard, especially during the time of divine service.
www.cofe.anglican.org/about/churchlawlegis/canons/complete.pdf
Sidespeople are often the first people you meet as you come through the door. Although
part of their role is to welcome people to the service their main function seems to be to give
out the right books and papers! With such a variety of services that isn’t always as easy
as it sounds. Along with the ‘books’ you should receive a Pew Sheet which contains the
readings for the Sunday and includes notices for the week ahead. Fortunately part of the
design of the new pews is to have room for the hymn books to be left in them, but the other
papers and service sheets still have to be handed out correctly.
In practice sidespeople do much more than give out books. They are responsible under
the direction of the Churchwardens for making sure that all the practical jobs in preparation
for worship are done (everything from putting out the brass collection plate to lighting altar
candles, from finding people to take up the bread and wine for communion to making sure
the ‘Band Box’ is available for Family Service) and that everything in the body of the church
goes smoothly during the service, including finding seats for latecomers, offering ‘Happy
Bags’ to small children and directing people up for Communion.
They take the collection and deal with it after the service, recording the different colour
envelopes and counting the loose cash. They also count carefully so that we know exactly
how many people under and over 16 are in church. The Church of England loves statistics
and so do we. It is very helpful to look back in the service register where numbers of those
attending and receiving communion (when it is a communion service) are recorded and see
how many people we might expect on any given Sunday. This is especially important at
festival times, not only the major times of the church’s year such as Easter and Christmas
but at times when we have our own major events and services.
Sidespeople are the smiling, helpful and welcoming face of St James’. They are among the
first to arrive for a service so that they can prepare the church to greet you and they are
generally among the last to leave, after making sure that everything is correctly put away
and the church is left tidily and safely for the next people to come in. Although they may
have their own favourite service, we rather hope that they’ll be willing to take a turn at any
of our services from time to time as needed. CarolynFox
Roles and responsibilities of Deanery Synod members
I. Live and grow as a disciple of Jesus Christ, sustained by word and sacrament
within the fellowship of the worshipping Church;
2. Represent the best interests of the parish on the Deanery Synod, by all means
available, including turning up to meetings! Be a point of contact between
deanery and parish, participating fully in the life of the PCC, and remembering
that a prime purpose of the deanery is to support and enable work in parishes,
but not to direct it.
3. Help develop forward looking deanery projects to support the parishes in their
local mission and ministry
6. Elect and support the officers of the deanery, treasurer, lay chair, secretary
and Standing Committee, and to contribute to the shaping of deanery synod
agendas
7. Support the mission of the Church by prayer and personal example; to seek out
and support good practice in collaboration between parishes and ecumenically. To
promote honest and harmonious working relationships throughout the Church in
the deanery.
8. Seek out ways of linking into the structures of society within which the deanery
is set, including local government. To participate fully in the corporate life of the
area in Christ’s name, seeking new ways of understanding and communicating
with its communities and people.
11. Work to grow cultures of generosity and genuine stewardship within the
Church, which honour and develop the gifts and ministry resources of all
12. Take an interest in relationships which link what is going on locally into the
diocese and the world church
PROFILE OF A PCC MEMBER/CHARITY TRUSTEE
Qualities
• A person of faith and a regular worshipper at St Jamesʼ [on the church electoral roll for at
least 6 months (except under 18s who may have been on for less time), at least sixteen years of age and an
actual communicant (i.e. having received communion according to the use of the Church of England or of a
Church in communion with the Church of England at least three times in the preceding twelve months).]
• An ability to think, reflect and pray about the life of the Church in this place and
the wider Church
• A sense of humour
Job Specification
• To pre-read the agenda and papers and to give thought and prayer to them
The role of St Jamesʼ PCC (as decided by the members in May 1999) is “to act
collaboratively with responsibility and vision to further the work of the Holy Spirit in
our Parish and the world”.
Legal Responsibilities of Charity Trustees
(extracts from a guide by solicitors Bates Wells and Braithwaite)
Charity trustees are the people who have the general control and management of a charity’s
administration: in short, they are ultimately responsible for the charity.
According to the rules of the Church of England as they apply to this parish, the PCC shall
consist of:
• All clerks in Holy Orders licensed to the parish; i.e. our Rector/Rector Designate once
licensed, Rev John Edwards as our associate priest and our expected non
stipendiary associate curate once ordained. (3)
• Such, if any, of the lay ministers (readers) who are licensed to the parish and whose
names are on the roll of the parish, as the annual meeting may determine; (0)
(A previous APCM determined that licensed lay ministers here were not required to be
on PCC, in line with Dr Keith Attonʼs wishes. If the APCM wish to change that it would
require a resolution at this APCM effective from the next APCM.)
• All persons on the roll of the parish who are lay members of Deanery, Diocesan or
General Synod. (Julia Arscott, Paul Arscott, Carolyn Fox and Julie Morley are the
present representatives on Deanery Synod until 31st May 2011. New
representatives will be elected at APCM 2011 to serve from 1st June 2011)
(4)
• Such number of representatives of the laity as prescribed. From 2005, the prescribed
formula is to be based on Electoral Roll numbers (6 for Rolls of up to 50, 9 for 51-100, 12
for 101-200 and 15 for 201 and above) unless the 2004 APCM made some other
arrangement (which it did, by determining that this number should not exceed 12, as a
PCC of 20 people in total was felt to be quite big enough.) (12)
•
Under Synodical Government (Amendment) Measure 2003 which came into effect on 1
January 2004, the ʻdefaultʼ tenure of office for elected lay members of the PCC is three
years, with one third retiring by rotation each year.
The present representatives are:; Mary Dewhurst, Kate Meads, Jonathan Marshall and
Richard Owen elected to 2011; Maurice Driver, John Brain, Rebecca Head and
Richard Peat elected until 2012; Sarah Booth, Gill Myall, Ian Woolston and Barbara
Brice elected to 2013.
[If anyone else stands down out of turn, it is our custom to fill the total number of places and
then, after they are elected, to choose by lot who of this total will fill the shorter term
vacancy(ies) and who will be for three years.]
Under the Synodical Government Measure a person must also now have been on the
Electoral Roll for 6 months to qualify for election to the PCC or Deanery Synod and
must be an actual communicant.