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← Lightcity Church

2024-12-31-accounts

Lightcity Church

Reports & Accounts Financial Year Ending 31/12/2024

Contents

Legal & Administrative Details Trustees Report Independent Examiners Report Receipts & Payments Statement Asset & Liability Statement Notes to the Accounts

Year ending 31st December 2024

Charity Name: Lightcity Church

Charity Registration No : 1094949

Address: 149 Glastonbury Road, Morden, Surrey, SM4 6PD

Trustees

Timothy Krolak Rev David Kwakye-Saka Emmanuel Attuquayefio Emelia Kwakye-Saka

General Overview

LightCity Church is a Pentecostal church and a UK-registered charity dedicated to advancing the Kingdom of God. Our mission is threefold: to gather souls, equip and empower believers, and send them out to serve in ministry and community life. We are a family and community-centred church, committed to strengthening families, building communities, and sharing the transformative message of Jesus Christ.

Public Benefit

The Trustees confirm that they have complied with their duty to have due regard to the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit. LightCity Church serves the community through a wide range of charitable and spiritual programmes offering spiritual, emotional, and practical support to individuals and families in need, irrespective of background or belief.

Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees continues to serve faithfully as stewards of LightCity Church’s mission, resources, and vision. With diverse expertise in ministry, finance, compliance, and community development, the Board ensures effective governance and spiritual oversight.

Trustees meet regularly to review strategy, assess risks, and support the leadership team. Their service reflects both administrative diligence and pastoral care, ensuring that every decision advances Gospel Light’s mission of transformation and discipleship.

Tribute to Jesse Debrah Grant

After many years of faithful and dedicated service, Jesse Debrah Grant has retired from the Board of Trustees. His tenure has been marked by wisdom, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to LightCity mission and legacy.

Jesse Debrah Grant’s contributions have shaped our governance, inspired our leadership, and strengthened our spiritual foundation. His presence on the board was not only strategic but deeply pastoral, offering clarity in decision-making and compassion in leadership. As he steps back from formal duties, we honour his legacy with gratitude and prayer. May his next chapter be filled with rest, reflection, and continued impact in the lives he touched.

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Governance and Compliance

In January, a one-day training session was held for trustees, leaders, and members on governance, compliance, and updates to charity law. Key areas covered included:

The training reinforced our commitment to integrity, transparency, and accountability in all church operations.

Key Achievements

1. Advancement of the Christian Faith

Community Worship and Prayer: We continued to provide a safe and welcoming environment for weekly worship and reflection, attended by people of diverse ages and backgrounds. Special prayer gatherings were held throughout the year, focusing on national unity, peace, and community development.

2. Youth and Children’s Ministry

The year under review saw remarkable growth in our youth and children’s ministries:

Youth Event: Over 20 young people attended our December event, themed around spiritual identity, leadership, and liberation. The event fostered spiritual maturity, self-confidence, and fellowship among participants.

Children’s Ministry Expansion: We created an engaging space for children’s activities, improving comfort, safety, and learning.

Knife Crime Prevention Initiative: In collaboration with local churches and charities, we participated in a community event that attracted hundreds of people following the tragic loss of a community member due to knife crime. The event paid tribute to a dear daughter and friend lost tragically to knife crime and provided sombre reflection of the legal, physical, and emotional consequences of carrying or using knives.

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3. Advancement of Education and Careers

We invested in the educational and career development of children and young people through:

Tutoring Programmes: Primary school students improved literacy and numeracy skills, whilst secondary school students benefitted from specific GCSE subject sessions from our resident qualified teacher resulting in measurable academic progress.

Personal Development: A Financial Peace course was hosted, which taught over 30 people money management, debt reduction and financial resilience skills.

Educational Sponsorship: LightCity Church has sponsored and continues to sponsor over 25 students to be able to attend primary school all the way through to university.

Career Development: Professionals from LightCity Church representing the chaplaincy, nursing, PR, teaching, project management and real estate sectors have mentored, held CV writing sessions, interview training for young adults and junior employees to elevate their confidence and success in their work lives.

4. Marital and Family Counselling

We provided counselling and pastoral care to 30 families, equipping couples with tools for stronger, faith-based relationships and fostering emotional and relational stability within homes.

5. Women’s Empowerment

Our women’s empowerment programme was launched to train and support women in entrepreneurship, self-worth, and personal growth. LightCity Church embraces intentional, spiritually enriching, and community activities for women. Here are some examples that align with what LightCity offer:

Women on Mission: Weekly gathering where women reflect on their spiritual journeys, family stories, and personal growth.

Grace in Action: Our women team up to visit and serve vulnerable neighbours, delivering care packages, offering prayer walks, or hosting a “Blessing Table” with free essentials, all while channelling compassion into tangible impact and empowering women to lead with mercy and strength.

Social Activities: Family Beach Trip – August 2024

Our annual family beach trip to Hastings brought together over 40 members and friends for a joyful day of fellowship and fun.

Highlights included :

It was truly a day of laughter, unity, and gratitude.

6. Relief of Poverty & Health Support

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Through our mother church in Ghana, we supported initiatives to alleviate poverty and promote community well-being. Locally, we offered free health screenings to over 150 individuals in partnership with healthcare providers.

7. Community Outreach

We actively engaged with our local neighbourhood through events such as community barbecues and youth outreach. Conversations are underway with a homeless support charity (Sutton Night Watch) to co-develop support programmes for people who are rough sleeping. Plans are also in progress to host workshops on mental health, addiction recovery, and stress management, providing holistic care for our community.

8. Leadership Training

In July, we hosted a dynamic Leadership Training Conference that equipped both emerging and established leaders with spiritual insight and practical tools. Workshops covered topics such as Leading with Integrity, Vision Casting, Strategic Planning, and Building Resilient Teams. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and this event will now be held annually as part of our leadership development programme.

9. International Outreach

LightCity Church is actively transforming lives in Ghana through outreach, health services, and the construction of a new church to deepen community impact. LightCity Church’s international mission in Ghana reflects a vibrant commitment to both spiritual growth and community well-being. Each year, the church organises mission trips that blend faith-based outreach with practical support, reaching under-served communities with compassion and care.

Community Outreach and Well-Being Initiatives: LightCity Church’s efforts in Ghana go far beyond preaching. Our programmes include:

These initiatives are designed not just to meet immediate needs but to foster long-term transformation rooted in faith, dignity, and empowerment.

Building a New Church in Ghana: A cornerstone of LightCity Church’s mission is the construction of a new church in Ghana. This isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about creating a permanent sanctuary for worship, community gathering, and ongoing outreach. The new church will:

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10. Strategic Goals (Next 5 Years)

Guided by Ephesians 4:1-16, Lightcity Church aims to be a thriving, Spirit-filled community rooted in love, service, and discipleship. Our strategic goals include:

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11. Consultant

LightCity Church has partnered with an independent charity consultant to bring clarity, structure, and fresh momentum to our mission. We are collaborating with an independent charity consultant to guide our organisation through a season of strategic growth. This partnership is focused on strengthening our governance, expanding our impact, and developing sustainable income streams that will support our long-term vision. Together, we are laying the foundations for a resilient and thriving future. One that honours our mission and empowers our community.

12. Financial Review

Our financial stewardship remains strong and mission-focused:

Growth: Over the past five years, income has increased by more than 50%.

Compliance: All financial obligations and transparency maintained to the public and the Charity Commission.

Purposeful Spending: One-third of annual income supports missions, outreach, and benevolence.

Strategic Budgeting: Resources are carefully allocated to programmes, staff, and facility improvements.

Future Investment: Financial planning supports new church plants and ongoing facility renovations. Every pound given is prayerfully managed to advance the Gospel and empower communities.

Reserves Policy

Reserves Position

To affirm that reserves are actively maintained publicly while LightCity Church does not currently have a formal reserves policy.

At 31 December 2024, the charity held reserves of £33,062. These funds are retained to:

The trustees consider this reserve level prudent and aligned with the charity's long-term sustainability and growth plans.

Risk Management

The trustees regularly review the key risks facing the charity, with particular focus on:

Financial sustainability

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Safeguarding and welfare of beneficiaries Governance and regulatory compliance Venue stability and operational continuity

Appropriate systems are in place to manage these risks, including financial monitoring, safeguarding procedures, and trustee oversight.

13. Future Outlook

Our vision is to be an “Acts Church for Today” centred on Christ, filled with the Spirit, rooted in Scripture, and joyful in service.

14. Mission: Leading generations into a life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ through transformation, not mere information.

15. Focus Areas:

16. Community Engagement

Continued focus on family life ministry, pastoral care, and youth empowerment. Plans for church retreats to foster fellowship and spiritual renewal.

Conclusion

The Trustees are grateful for the ongoing generosity of donors and the dedication of volunteers and staff. Through faith, service, and careful stewardship, the charity has continued to make a meaningful difference providing support, education, and community for the benefit of all.

Statement of Trustees’ Responsibilities

The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees’ Annual Report and ensuring the charity’s accounting records comply with the Charities Act 2011 and the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008.

Signature

This report was approved by the trustees, and is signed on their behalf by:

Trustees

Rev David Kwakye-Saka Timothy Krolak Emmanuel Attuquayefio Emelia Kwakye-Saka

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David Kwakye-Saka po Signature 30th October 2025 po

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Independent Examiners Report

I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of Lightcity Church ('the charity') for the year ended 31/12/2024.

Responsibilities and Basis of Report

As the Trustees of the Charity, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 ('the 2011 Act'). I report in respect of my examination of the Charity's accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.

Independent Examiner’s Statement

Your attention is drawn to the fact that the Charity has prepared the accounts in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) in preference to the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the extant regulations but has been withdrawn.

I understand that this has been done in order for the accounts to provide a true and fair view in accordance with the Generally Accepted Accounting Practice effective for reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2015.

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Charity as required by section 130 of the 2011 Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

  3. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair' view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Independent Examiner’s Details

Name: D Tabiri FCCA

Address: 177 Ballens Road, Chatham, Kent, ME5 8PG

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Name D Tabiri
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Signature
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Receipts & Payments Statement

Unrestricted Restricted Total Prior Year
Receipts
Donations & Legacies
Donations 35,676 480 36,156 26,997
Gift Aid 0 0 0 0
Grants 0 0 0 0
Charitable Activities
Event Income 0 0 0 0
Investments
Bank Interest 311 0 311 230
Trading Activities
Rental Income 0 0 0 0
Sales 0 0 0 0
Other
Loans Received 0 0 0 0
Other Income 0 0 0 0
Sale of Fixed Assets 0 0 0 0
Sale of Investments 0 0 0 0
Total receipts 35,987 480 36,467 27,227
Payments
Charitable Activities
Activities 4,179 804 4,983 18,284
Admin 8,423 0 8,423 0
Advertising 361 0 361 278
Bank Charges 0 0 0 0
Event Costs 0 0 0 0
Gifts Given 0 0 0 0
Other Expenditure 0 0 0 0
Premises 8,591 0 8,591 12,575
Staff Expenses 1,260 0 1,260 2,537
Stipend Payments 5,151 0 5,151 0
Governance Costs
Governance Costs 300 0 300 0
Other
Fixed Asset Purchases 0 0 0 0
Loans Repaid 0 0 0 0
Money Invested 0 0 0 0
Total payments 28,264 804 29,068 33,674
Net Receipts / Payments (before
transfers)		 7,723 -324 7,399 -6,447
Fund Transfers In 3,000 324 3,324 0
Fund Transfers Out 3,324 0 3,324 0
Net Movement of Cash Funds 7,399 0 7,399 -6,447
Total Cash Funds Brought
Forward		 25,663 0 25,663 32,110
Total Cash Funds Carried
Forward		 33,062 0 33,062 25,663
Represented By
General (Unrestricted) 33,062 0 33,062 25,663
Missions (Restricted) 0 0 0 0
Fund for Church Building for
LCC Ghana (Designated)		 0 0 0 0
Fund for future Church Building
for LCC UK (Designated)		 0 0 0 0

Asset & Liability Statement

Cash Assets

Cash Assets Cash Assets Cash Assets Cash Assets Cash Assets Cash Assets Cash Assets
Unrestricted Restricted Total Prior Year
General (Unrestricted) 33,062 0 33,062 25,663
Missions (Restricted) 0 0 0 0
Fund for Church Building for
LCC Ghana (Designated)		 0 0 0 0
Fund for future Church Building
for LCC UK (Designated)		 0 0 0 0
Other Monetary Assets
Notes Unrestricted Restricted Total Prior Year
Gift Aid 0 0 0 0
Stock 0 0 0 0
Other 0 0 0 0
Investment Assets
Notes Unrestricted Restricted Total Prior Year
Property 0 0 0 0
Investment
Accounts		 0 0 0 0
Other 0 0 0 0
Fixed Assets
Notes Unrestricted Restricted Total Prior Year
Land &
Buildings		 0 0 0 0
Music & PA
Equipment		 0 0 0 0
Computers &
IT		 0 0 0 0
Furniture 0 0 0 0
Motor Vehicles 0 0 0 0
Liabilities
Notes Unrestricted Restricted Total Prior Year
Loans
Outstanding		 0 0 0 0
Pension
Payment
Owed		 0 0 0 0
HMRC
Payments
Owed		 0 0 0 0
Independent
Examination
Fee Due		 0 0 0 0
Other 0 0 0 0

Signature

These accounts have been approved by the trustees, and are signed on their behalf by:

Name David Kwakye-Saka PO Signature 30th October 2025 Date po

Notes to the Accounts

Accounting Policies

These accounts have been prepared on a receipts and payments basis in accordance with section 133 of the Charities Act 2011.

Transactions to Related Parties

During the financial year, two trustees received remuneration for services provided to the charity in accordance with the provisions of the governing document, which permit trustees to receive reasonable payment for services supplied to the charity other than in their capacity as trustees. All payments were approved by the Board of Trustees and made in accordance with the charity’s conflicts of interest policy.

Rev. David Kwakye-Saka, a trustee, received stipend payments totalling £4,800.80 during the year. These payments were made as agreed in the constitution and approved by the Trustees, in recognition of his regular services to the charity in leading and enabling weekly Sunday services and associated ministry activities.

Mrs Emelia Kwakye-Saka, a trustee, received an honorarium of £350 for services provided to the church in connection with preaching and ministry activities. This payment represented reasonable and proper remuneration for the work undertaken.

In addition, expenses totalling £148 were reimbursed to Mrs Kwakye-Saka for travel and other outof-pocket costs incurred while carrying out her duties as a trustee.

No other trustees received remuneration, benefits, or expense reimbursements during the year.

Movement of Funds

Fund Name Opening Balance Income Expenditure Fund Transfers Closing Balance
Unrestricted
General (Unrestricted) 25,663 35,987 25,264 -3,324 33,062
Total 25,663 35,987 25,264 -3,324 33,062
Designated
Fund for Church
Building for LCC Ghana
(Designated)		 0 0 3,000 3,000 0
Fund for future Church
Building for LCC UK
(Designated)		 0 0 0 0 0
Total 0 0 3,000 3,000 0
Unrestricted Total 25,663 35,987 28,264 -324 33,062
Restricted
Missions (Restricted) 0 480 804 324 0
Total 0 480 804 324 0
Restricted Total 0 480 804 324 0
TOTAL 25,663 36,467 29,068 0 33,062