Re NY SE | ae Carea 2er~ +|® ek) aie Pall iy! : t, 48 **AGM ANNUAL REPORT** 



## Hello 

Dear Church Family, 

It's a privilege to write my first annual report for St John's as your Vicar. 

I want to thank all those who have been serving with such dedication, some of which is 

reflected in this booklet. As you read through the annual reports I want you to feel, as I am, uplifted by the great work that is being done for the Lord. And as you read through the reports, please ask yourself “Is this an area where God could use me to build His kingdom in the coming year?” 

We must continually thank the Lord that we have ministries available for young and old where the word is taught, people are cared for and supported in following Jesus. I know this requires sacrificial use of time and money and that it presents challenges along the way. However, I believe that God wants us to extend our ministry and to not grow weary in doing good. 

I want to comment upon some places the Spirit seems to be doing a 'new thing'. It seems to me the door- to- door work is being honored by the Lord. Our volunteers are seeing people open to contact from St John's and some have been attending events. A couple have even become regular members of our Sunday worship. 




Christmas Unwrapped has been growing in effectiveness with outreach for several years. However this 

year, the representation from the parish was on a level I haven't seen in 14 years. It felt to me like not just a church event, but a parish event. I think we are experiencing a small breakthrough. I'm sure there are other new things the Spirit is doing that others of us can call to mind also. 

At this Annual Meeting we are launching our new Church Vision: 

'Passionate Disciples'. It is the fruit of the whole church survey we conducted and a PCC 

Away day in November 2024, as well as much prayer. We feel that God is calling us to invest in our walk with him, that we might enjoy him more and genuinely bless the parish, region and world. As we shape church life around our personal enjoyment of God from his Word, my hope is that we will be refreshed by our 'first love'. To learn more about this vision, visit our website, or look for the booklet at the back of church. We will also be speaking about this approach to discipleship in sermons from the end of April 

May the Lord Jesus make us His passionate disciples. 


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Si Walker<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>




## **Adventurers** Sunday 3-7 year olds 

Adventurers is our 3-7 year old group that meets during the 11am service on Sunday mornings. We spend time out during the talk and prayers; usually around 30 – 40 minutes. It's a joyful place to be! We have a smaller group than the previous year, with several children having moved up to Springboard and a couple having moved away. However, despite our usually smaller numbers we enjoy time singing together, dressing up, acting out Bible stories, playing games, doing craft and, of course, eating biscuits. 

We are currently using some material from Click, which we order from the Good Book Company. Our children have a range of needs and abilities but we aim to provide something for everyone. We are thankful for a superb team of leaders and helpers who love the children and are excited to share Jesus with them. There are few more rewarding things than watching their young faces light up when they understand something new about the Lord. 

Please pray for us as we continue to meet, that the Lord would keep bringing new families into the church and keep watering the seeds of faith that are sown week by week. 

Mim Walker & Diane Jackson 




## **Springboard** 

## Sunday 7-11 year olds 

Springboard is a group for 7 –11 year olds meeting on Sunday mornings during the 11am service. We now have around 15 regularly attending children on the rota but usually have around 10 attending on any given Sunday. We meet in the church hall and we find this works well for us. 

We continue to use ‘Click’ material as we have the last 3 years. Last year we looked at 'God's big plan', an overview of the message of the bible from Genesis to Hebrews. This year we are looking at the books of Samuel. 

We have three team leaders who rotate to lead the sessions each week: Neil Baxter, Catherine Blyth and Rob Mayhew. Rob has joined the team in the last 12 months and it's great to have a third leader and an answer to prayer. We are supported by co-leaders Susan Baxter, Judy Greenwood, Mike Taylor and Phil Mayhew is also planning to join the team. 

We are thankful for everyone who has commited to helping out at Springboard over the last year and giving up their Sundays to teach. We ask for prayers with finding additional co-leaders and that we can teach and help the children in an engaging way, to understand what it means to be a Christian and follow Jesus faithfully. 

Catherine Blyth 



It is a huge privilege to be leading the Explorer group this year. Not only do we have a great group of kids but to serve alongside the Explorer team is a joy. About half of the children who attend are part of the St John’s congregation and the rest are either from other churches or friends from schools. We started the academic year looking at our Identity, using material from Faith in Kids. We explored what it means to be made by God, made to love others, know that we hurt sometimes and need to forgive others. We also celebrated all the amazing things our bodies can do. In October we had another great “Jesus is Light” Party and Glynn Harrison shared the message. In the run up to Christmas we spent time on the Christmas story ending the year welcoming the parents to Explorers for hot chocolate and mince pies. We’ve been able to have great conversations with some parents and invited them to the Christmas events at St John’s. 

Currently we’re working our way through the Lord’s Prayer, spending time thinking and learning what it means to say “Our Father” and what exactly “hallowed” means. The kids have asked some great questions which is encouraging for us as leaders to know they are listening (at times) and thinking about what we’re sharing. We will be saying goodbye to a number of our group as they head off to secondary school next year. Our prayer is that they will continue to attend Christian groups, whether that is . Pathfinders or others in the area or at school. We trust that God will continue the good work in each of their lives as we share Christ to them and show them that Christians can be a lot of fun too 7-11 year olds Emma Cooper & Catherine Blyth .... 



I 

It has been wonderful to see the Pathfinders group continuing to grow eq py a py 5° Ele mae ah in 2024. We regularly have Cort 2) ae around 18 children = ee Es v | H 3 attending on a Tuesday evening to fellowship together ae : =. = SST : 22. See : and study God's word. This year we studied five main series. We started off the year looking at the fruits of the spirit. Each week, we studied a different fruit and how we can use the gifts of the holy spirit in our daily lives to bless others and to glorify God. We had a four part series on Psalm 139 and what a blessing it is that God truly knows us, surrounds us, creates us and tests us. The summer term was spent studying the gospel of Mark, and finished off with a BBQ and games at St Bees. In the autumn term, we completed a series of talks to answer questions that teenagers currently have - which lead nicely into our series which looked at the human body and it's purpose. December was of course filled with carol singing, games and a Christmas 11-14 year olds 

party! 

n 2025, we have been studying the ten commandments and considering how they apply in the children’s lives. 

Thank you for your continued prayers for the hearts and minds of these wonderful young people. We praise God for their continued attendance and their desire to know Him more. 

We’d like to thank the volunteers who help us to run Pathfinders and are so generous with their time. During this last term, it has been an extra blessing to have a couple of our CYFA students helping out as part of their DofE volunteering. 

We do need more helpers or leaders in Pathfinders, so please continue to pray that God will provide an answer to this issue. 

Suzanne Lane, Jonathan Blyth and Rob Mayhew 



What a joy it has been to witness the continual growth of CYFA. We have a thriving group of around 16 wonderful teens who are truly engaged and enthusiastic in the group. We have great conversations every week and it comes across that they have a real thirst for a deeper knowledge of God. 

Sadly we said goodbye to Rachel and John as group leaders, when they moved on to new churches, and we thank them for all that they gave to the group. We must also thank all the leaders and helpers who have stepped in to lead talks and to help keep the group running since then. It has been a real answer to prayer and we pray that they too are blessed by their time at CYFA. 

One of the main goals of CYFA is to equip the children with the ability to understand and apply the Bible for themselves as they face the challenges and adventures that come as they enter the next phase of their lives. 

Over the year, we've delved deeply into the Bible and focused a lot on living as a Christian in today's world. We've looked at how the Bible can help us answer those huge questions that we face at that time of life, along with the smaller decisions we make each day as we live for Jesus. 

In May 24, we celebrated as two of the group made a public declaration of their faith through full immersion baptism. 

We praise God for the lives of these young people and pray that they continue to seek God first in their lives 

Jake Little & Suzanne Lane 

**CYFA** 14-18 year olds 



## **Music** 

“It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O most High, to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp. For you make me glad by your deeds, O Lord, I sing for joy at the works of your hands” Ps 92:1 

As the Psalmist reminds us it is good for us to praise God for all He has done for us, showing mercy and faithfulness throughout all generations, and as musicians we do this by making music. Our aim is to proclaim the good news of Jesus as we sing Biblically rich hymns and worship songs , which reflect Gods word and build us up as His body. Let us thank God that He has blessed us as a Church family with many talented musicians and singers who use their gifts each week as they help the congregation encounter Jesus through Spirit filled worship. 

As well as our regular services this year we have enjoyed playing at the Open air joint service and had the privilege to be involved at our Vicar Si’s licencing service along with our Nigerian brothers and sisters who sang. Our Christmas services are always a joy especially with us all being involved over the festive season, and we took great delight in filling the whole chancel with singers and musicians and the church with candlelight and carols. 

At present we have twenty musicians and singers with varying levels of ability and many different styles, which add to the dynamic of the group – there is always room for more!! We have also welcomed new players, singers and even a Sax! over the year too, all of which are a great encouragement. Thank you to those who give up their time faithfully to practice, to meet weekly, to learn new songs and to help each Sunday, as well as our occasional visitors! Thank you also goes to the Sound and Screen operators, and all the work that goes on behind the scenes. 

Please do pray for those who choose, lead, sing and play each week, it is a privilege to do so but also a big commitment and we value your prayers and encouragement. 

Debra Swinburn 




I would like to put on record our thanks to Ian Ullyett, who was the PSO for St Johns for at least 10 years before he stepped down in the summer. His excellent records and wise advice have made the taking up of this role much easier than it would otherwise have been! 

Our parish supports the following groups working with children, young people and adults who may be vulnerable: Adventurers, Springboard, Explorers, Pathfinders, CYFA, Visiting Team, CAP and Bell ringers. In addition, the PCC elected in January to also consider the music group in this same light for recruitment and training, in recognition of a number of young people now joining this group regularly to make music. The football school helpers and leaders were also subject to church of England safer recruitment pathways- for all these groups this includes interview, taking up of references, DBS checks at the appropriate level and encouraging all volunteers to complete the safeguarding training recommended by the church of England for their role. 

As part of the PSO role, I keep a record of when DBS and training modules need renewal (every 3 years now for both), and flag up to volunteers when updating is needed. It has been testament to the recognition of the importance of the safeguarding processes that the vast majority of our volunteers have been happy to respond to my emails about renewing training promptly and without the need for reminders! There has recently been advice from the diocese team that all volunteers should now also complete awareness of domestic violence training, so during this year I will encourage all our volunteers to complete and update all the training that is needed for their role. 

Currently there are 53 people in regular volunteering posts with a current DBS check and a further two people going through the appointment process. There were also an additional 10 volunteers recruited to help with Football School in 2024 (who do not currently volunteer in other roles) , who are all still up to date with their DBS checks and training. 



As PSO I have completed Basic Awareness, Foundation and leadership training as well as attending the awareness of domestic violence session that was held locally. I have completed the safer recruitment module and done the PSO induction course. I have appreciated the safeguarding masterclasses organised by our DSA (diocesan safeguarding advisor). 

There have been a number of concerns raised with me since the summer when I took on this role.- It has been reassuring to see how “safeguarding aware” all our volunteers are. I have sought advice from the DSA about all these situations, and Si and I have been able to manage the concerns and provide appropriate support. None of the situations reached the threshold for referral to the safeguarding hub, and could be characterised as being requests for advice about due process, or situations needing appropriate pastoral care. The DSA has been very accessible and helpful on each occasion. 

The PCC continues to adopt the safeguarding policy and guidance issued by the House of Bishops -much of which is displayed on the safeguarding noticeboard in the hall and can be accessed via the St Johns website. The most up to date source of safeguarding information can be found in the safeguarding e-manual on the Church of England's website. 

Thank you for continuing to support the safeguarding work to keep people safe and for assisting by undertaking the training required and applying for new or renewed DBS checks. Thanks also to Sue Lane, who has streamlined the admin side of safer recruitment since she started in the church administrator role. The role of deputy PSO continues to be vacant currently. 

## 

## Heather Naylor 




## **Sound & Visuals** 

2024 has seen a period of consolidation and gaining new knowledge 

about how the Audio/Visual (AV) systems at St John’s works, and we have started to utilise some of these new capabilities. New people have joined both the sound and visuals teams during the year and are currently going through training with more experienced members of the teams. 

We still need to expand the core capabilities of the teams so we can further support the work of the church, in particular, in the ability to live stream services, funerals & weddings. 

We have replaced the old handheld microphones in the church hall, which were failing, with a new handheld microphone and dedicated receiver unit. The calibration and setup of the whole sound system has been checked by the original installers and was found to be performing as expected and with 

no areas needing any adjustment. 

The system installers have also provided the church with an update Schematic diagram of the whole audio/visuals system to keep in our records and to aid fault diagnosis if any problems occur. 

David Holburt & Stephen Jackson 



We have had a busy year, with many events having taken place. At the start of the year, we had our CAP befriender training day. It was very well supported from the church, as we had Outreach UK do some gospel training. We are looking at doing the Befriender training in April this year, the date to be set once Outreach UK comes back to us with the date. 

Fare Share continues to support our clients on a weekly basis with food. This is such a wonderful way for us to stay connected to the clients, and to show Christian love to them. 

This year, Mildred managed to secure 6 Air friers, 6 Slow cookers and 6 blenders. She is going to be choosing 6 clients to show the how to use the appliances, teach them a recipe and take the food to make it. They will then be left with the appliances to carry on. The first client on the programme is loving cooking, and I have had many pictures where he has been in the kitchen at 4am doing batch cooking. This is such a success. Great thanks to Mildred and the team. 

Jackie Wilkinson, who is our CAP speaker, is key to connecting our partnership churches. We have done CAP Sunday in 5 of the partnership church this last year, which has been fantastic. 

Phil Mayhew continues to encourage us in prayer, by setting up the monthly prayer meetings. He has also picked up the role of looking for funding for grants for CAP. 

Phil Sisson is involved with Outreach UK, and has added so much to the running of CAP Whitehaven, by working tirelessly behind the scenes. 

We had a befriender afternoon tea, where they could all just relax and fellowship with each other. In October we had a CAP Love event, where Emmanuel Church in Moor Row hosted us. It was a lovely afternoon of worship and food. 

We have seen four clients go debt free this year, and two more will be debt free within two months. 

I would like to thank all the befrienders and volunteers we have in Whitehaven. They are so encouraging for me, and I could not do this job without them. 

Mel Turner 

CHRISTIANS AGAINST POVERTY 



## **Fareshare** 

During the last year we have continued to supply food to CAP clients. We started the year with 13 households consisting of 15 adults and 5 children. 

The picture continues to change. We are currently visiting 9 homes but only 12 people. 5 single men, 1 single lady and 3 couples but no children. 

We are grateful for the funding for Fareshare which we receive from St Johns and the other partnership churches. We also receive funding via the Cumberland Building Society which will continue until June 2025. This allows us to supplement what we have already received from Fareshare HQ in Preston. We did receive a fair amount of personal hygiene items such as showergels, deodrants and hand sanitisers which reduced the number of food items.  This has been amended so that such items now come as additional extras to the food items. 

Mildred Linstead & Jenny Mayhew 

## **Christmas Unwrapped** 

On 7 December 2024, we had Christmas Unwrapped. It was a lovely afternoon where everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. We had a wonderful attendance from the community and from our church family. There was over 150 people at one time. It is a non-threatening way of getting people into church. 

We had musicians playing in the foyer, welcoming people as they enter. In the hall we had crafts, food, tea and coffee, bouncy castle, candy floss and hot chocolate. 

In the church we had games set up, and the NISCU puppets came to bring us the Christmas message. 

It was a wonderful afternoon enjoyed by everyone. 

Mel Turner 



As always, we were privileged to host our Senior’s Afternoon Seniors Tea on Saturday 14th December 2024. A special afternoon of fun, food and Tea fellowship was planned - and this year Diane, Audrey and Kay were delighted to welcome Sarah Clarkwith her event management skills -onto the organising team! Well over 100 guests were invited and 79 attended on the day. In a break with tradition, this year we commenced with a violin overture, so ably performed by Martin and Marc as our guests arrived. Afternoon Tea was followed by entertainment from our favourite crooner-Malcolm Dowler - evoking memories of much-loved songs from times gone by. Our Explorer children then gave out wonderful gifts that they had made for our guests. Special thanks to Emma, Stan and all the Explorers for doing this. Our very own Rev’d Glynn then delivered a special Christmas Epilogue, bringing our afternoon of fellowship to a satisfying close. 

As ever, we are indebted to everyone who supports us in delivering this event; those of you who provide food, donations, and gladly give that most precious of commodities- your time: both in preparation beforehand and helping on the day. Our gratitude is especially given to Dave for organising the parking, to Joanne for playing the Piano for our carol singing and to the men working happily away in the kitchen! 

Finally, the biggest ‘thank you’ is to you our Guests for attending. It was so lovely to spend this special afternoon with you. And to those of you who helped for the first time this year or attended as a guest for the first time- we hope you enjoyed it too -and that you’ll join us again next year! We couldn’t do it without you all! 

1 Chronicles 29:13 ‘And now we thank you our God, and praise your glorious name’ 

Diane, Audrey, Sarah & Kay 



## **Tower Bells** 

2024 started with us ringing more or less most Sundays.  Unfortunately, Tuesday night  practices didn't happen, but we are pleased that they are now starting again. 

One of our ringers, Andrew Moncrief, suffered the loss of his father, Philip Moncrief, following a short illness. Phillip took Andrew to bell ringing and. although he wasn't a ringer himself, Phillip was an honorary bell ringer, and it was a pleasure for him to take Andrew bell ringing. In February, the bells were rung half muffled prior to Phillip's funeral, which Andrew agrees was a very touching and emotional time for everybody at Hensingham as well as the other ringers in the guild, who knew Phillip well. Andrew was very thankful that the ringing of the bells half muffled happened, and thanks Gordon and Soo for arranging it. 

For those who don't know, the bells at St John's were cast by Taylors Bellfoundry, Loughborough in 1913, 8 bells tenor 13 cwt in the key of F#. There are 9 ringers at Hensingham, and with the help of some of the Whitehaven ringers, we managed to ring all 8 bells on a Sunday a few times. 

During the year, four church members started learning but stopped because of work. We now have two youngsters learning to handle. 

Arlecdon visited regularly at the start of the year. Their tower is out of use due to building work. 

During 2024, we rang for Si's licensing service, 2 weddings, D day 80th anniversary, remembrance service and also tolled for the cenotaph. 

We had visitors from Glasgow cathedral, Scottish association and a band from south of England with friends. 

We always welcome new ringers, so please get in touch if you would like to learn the ropes. 

Gordon Gray 



## **Hand Bells** 

Unfortunately, due to team member absences, including ourselves, over the Christmas period, and remaining members unable to commit to regular practices, wecouldn’t offer the handbells over the festive period. We therefore returned the bells to their owner, Mark Cubey, for safe keeping. 

Handbell practices have now started up again on Monday evenings.  Anyone wishing to join us, please contact Soo or Gordon. 

graysoo@btinternet.com graygordon@btinternet.com 

Soo Gray 

## **Doorstep Outreach** 

Our small team of 6 have continued delivering the monthly Good News newspapers in our outreach onto the Hensingham estate. 

We use the newspaper and Gospels from the Pocket Testament league which have a clear explanation of the Gospel message of salvation in them. Each team of 2 visit monthly about 20-30 homes at each visit which, depending on the conversations, can take around an hour in total. 

Many of those doorstop conversations develop and we have had lovely invites inside for coffee and opportunities to invite people to church, outreach events and have had many opportunities to pray with people. 

We have opportunities to take part in training from Outreach UK including their “Casting Your Nets” programme where we can grow in confidence in sharing more effectively the faith that has saved us. 

We are looking to grow the team so we can cover more of the estate, build relationships and share our faith so more people can come to know Jesus as their Saviour. 

Please consider if this is something that you feel God may be calling you do. You could accompany one of us one month to see how it works and also join our Whats App prayer group who encourage us as we venture out each month praying for us and the families and people we visit. 



## **Doorstep Outreach** 

Extract from The Call to Share by Pastor David 

“As believers, we recognize that our journey begins with a calling—a gentle nudge from the Holy Spirit urging us to share the good news of Jesus Christ. We can be confident that God equips us with everything we need to communicate His love effectively. Sharing our faith isn’t just about eloquent words; it’s about living authentically and being witnesses of God’s transformative power in our lives. The Bible encourages us to step out in faith and share what God has done, knowing that He will guide our conversations and fill our hearts with compassion. Together, we can heed this call and be the light that illuminates the path to salvation for others.By leaning on God’s strength, we can step outside our comfort zones and speak life into the hearts of others. Sharing the good news takes courage, but with the Holy Spirit guiding us, we can approach conversations confidently. We don’t have to have all the answers; our stories and authenticity can make powerful contributions to someone’s journey with Jesus.” 

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9 


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Phil Sisson<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>




## **Pastoral Visiting Team** 

The  pastoral visiting team visit church members who cannot manage to attend church for any reason.  This may be due to being elderly with decreased mobility or through illness.  We visit people in their own homes, if they are comfortable for us to do so, or telephone them for a chat. 

Monthly communion continues at Walkmill Court and Johnson House when Yvonne Owen accompanies Si.  Some people also may have communion in their own homes if they are unable to attend church and one of us may sometimes accompany Si with this. 

On all occasions we feel that it is a pleasure and a privilege for us to be invited into people’s homes or to spend time chatting on the phone. 

We are aware that many members of the church keep in touch with those in need in the church family and know that we are only a small part of this caring service. 

We have been fortunate in recent months to be able to welcome Julian Berkeley to the visiting team. 

If you know of anyone who would like a visit or a phone call, please let us know or if you would like to be part of the team, please contact us. 

Susan Baxter, Enid Starkey, Yvonne Owen, Kay Cartmell, Julian Berkeley and Judith Hodgson 



## **Bible Study Groups** 

This past year we have seen an increase in the number of people attending Bible studies. We have nine Bible studies meeting weekly. The continued fellowship through prayer and support for one another is such a blessing to witness. 

The past year we have we studied Isaiah, The Ten Commandment's and are in the process of doing The Purpose Driven Life series. 

We value your continued prayer for our groups, hosts and leaders. 

We continue to ask for prayer for the Lord to raise up new leaders and hosts. 

We believe that Bible studies create a great opportunity to examine the scriptures. 

There is immense value in this because of God working through the Bible. The word of God is alive and active. 

The purpose of a Bible study is to share fellowship and care pastorally for each other and of course study the scriptures together. 

We realise that prayer should be at the heart of all of these activities, as we depend on God completely to work amongst us. 


Karl Turner 



In the last year after looking at the Exodus, we have done a few selected passages in Mark, and had an in-depth look at 2 Corinthians and recently finished Haggai, which has provided some good opportunities to develop skills within the group and start training new leaders. We are now about to begin a couple of months in Amos, which will probably be quite challenging in several ways. 

## **Living Room** 

It has been a real encouragement to see a renewed enthusiasm from the group for prioritising Bible Study attendance over other alternatives as well as welcoming a few new faces - even if some just for a short while. As we delight in God's Word together our prayer is that we would seek God and love Him more & more, at the expense of our natural love for the world and her draws. 

Mike Taylor & Tommy Choy 


The ladies bible study meets on the second Monday of the month at 10am in the church lounge. 

During the last months we have finished our readings in Phillipians and have started a new book  “The ‘I am’ sayings of Christ”. 

In December we explored “I am the Light of the world” using bible readings from Genesis to the book of Revelations.  Our theme was darkness to light as we thought of Jesus the Light of the world at Christmas. 

After our study and discussion, we have a time of reflection and prayer. The meeting ends with refreshments and a time for fellowship and encouragement with each other. 

In the words of Psalm 119 v105 “Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path”. 

Val Tyson 

**Ladies Bible Study** 



## **Chinese Bible Study** 

Our Chinese Bible Study Group currently has 15 members, with an average attendance rate over 90%.  In 2024, we have welcomed three new members, two of them are still exploring the Christian faith. Thank God!  One of them, Mr. Julian Lo, has already decided to follow Christ. 

## Bible Study Progress 

Our group has previously studied Revelation, Galatians, Ephesians, and 1 & 2 Corinthians. In 2025, we have begun studying the Gospel of Mark to help new members deepening their understanding on the life of Jesus Christ, which also allowing all of us to review, share and refresh Jesus teachings. 

## Leadership & Mission 

We have five Bible study leaders: Ken, Grace, Lan, Kitty and Danny. 

Our group co-ordinators are Grace and Augustinus. 

Our mission and goals are: 

- To deepen our understanding of God through Bible study 

- To practice biblical truth in our daily lives 

- To grow spiritually 

- To guide and lead the non-believers to Christ 

- To build a community that glorifies God’s love 

In the Group, we truly experience the unity of God’s family with great harmony and enthusiasm in our gatherings. 

## Outreach Ministry 

On February 4th, we organized a “Chinese New Year Gospel Gathering”, providing an opportunity to invite non-believing Chinese friends to hear the message of salvation.  The event highlighted the similarities between Passover with Chinese Ne Year traditions, helping attendees to connect cultural traditions with biblical truths. The gathering also included scripture sharing and personal testimonies from believers. 

We thank God for His blessings and look forward to growing together in faith and continuing to share His love with others! 

To 



We have had 10 baptisms in church since the last annual meeting. When infants are brought for baptism, families receive two preparation mornings and attend church three times in the lead up. The preparation mornings include discussing a gospel outline, going through baptism and thanksgiving services and getting to know each other. The wonderful team who help in delivering this preparation are: Glynn and Liz Jones, Mosun Lawal, Phill Mayhew and Obasi Okorie. Recently we have tweaked the training to include a video by the Church Pastoral Aid Society. The video talks about the child being set on a journey and how parents should be walking the same narrow road of faith in Jesus. 

We have had 10 baptisms in church since the last annual meeting. 

Since I last reported, we have had 16 enquiries for infant baptism. Parents are then warmly directed to the St John's Policy on baptism. 11 of these enquiries then resulted in families deciding to follow through and book onto preparation days. 

It has been a joy to build relationships with families who we know are committed to being properly prepared for this important step in their child's life. Conversations about faith in Jesus become easy in this environment. Although we offer thanksgiving as an alternative, so far all families have chosen baptism. 

Glynn Jones is currently preparing two candidates for 'adult' baptism which we hope will happen this Easter. 

In the next few months I hope to teach upon the meaning and purpose of the sacrament of baptism in Sunday services. 

Si Walker 




## **Mission Partners** 


We rejoice to be able to share in a small way in gospel work around the world. This includes: 

Andrew and Bethany Walker and family, serving in Argentina with Crosslinks. 

Their church's ministries continue to grow and there seems to be a hunger in church for God and his Word. A recent marriage course was a blessing. 

Mountain Spring Ministries working with Pashtun seekers and new believers. Khalid, who coordinates this from the UK has faced many challenges. Please pray for the family following the murder of his brother in Afghanistan. This event meant Khalid sadly had to delay his visit to St John's last November. 

Church on the Moor. This church plant is now two years old and has baptised several people who are professing faith from its ministry. Please pray for it to be continually established and protected by the Lord. We are continually thankful to God that he has overcome so many obstacles to make this church possible. 

Cumbria Christian Youth Camp. Pray for the trustees, leaders, assistants and campers as they share the gospel with many young people. 

Ben and Liz Griffin with 100 Hundred Fold. The gospel continues to be taken through electronic means (micro SD cards etc) into places that would otherwise be off- limits. We had a great visit from them this year when they shared a presentation and Ben preached. 

Romuald and Liz Lasnes with European Mission Fellowship. Excitingly they had their first child this year and, as part of a church planting collective, are very close to beginning a new church in the 11th district of Paris. 

The Leprosy Mission. This year's focus is to take help into a leprosy colony in Odisha, India, that has been cut off from aid. We heard about this from a visiting speaker and were prompted to pray by the shocking conditions we saw in Odisha via a video presentation. 

Albanian Evangelical Mission. Please pray that the tiny gospel churches would be sustained by God despite some opposition and many new believers leaving Albania. We were visited this year by a representative, Fiona, who led us in prayer and updated us. 



**St Andrew’s, St John’s, St Bridget’s, Church on the Moor** 

## **Mission Communities** 

We have been feeling the benefit of Church On The Moor being part of the Mission Community. Paul Kerry and I have enjoyed having Joe as part of our minister's meetings. We provide good support to one another and can discuss issues that arise in ministry and pray for one another. 

St John's is continuing to send a preacher to St Andrew's and St Bridget's once every two months. Paul Kerry is due to be on Sabbatical in September and we will send more preachers and service leaders during that time. It is also part of the Associate Vicar job description, that they will be involved in the service at St Andrew's once a month. We also occasionally cover funerals and baptisms for one another in the Anglican churches of the Mission Community. 

Recently Joe led a training session on the public reading of scripture that was opened to the Mission Community. We also have 4 joint services together this year for Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Ascension Day and Pentecost Sunday (evening). Our joint activities are being publicised on a new webpage: www.churchonthemoor.com/mc-events. There you will see that Paul Kerry does some morning devotions on youtube which you can access. Do check this page out! 

We pray that we will be able to plant other churches to join this growing community of churches for the salvation of more people in West Cumbria. 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
Si Walker<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>




tees | VALUES jiet YA NL - atA pee Y “4 ee ob “ g Ar \ a as r **e** eee, **School** = al ae + Ds **Links** I am still taking my weekly assembly at Hensingham Primary. Last term we aa | = went through the Lord's Prayer, taking a different line each week and explaining the a concepts. The children can now recite the \ | Lord's Prayer from memory and hopefully > / understand something of what it means. This term we have been looking at people that we meet 9 in the Bible. So far we have looked at Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Joseph. I'm really encouraged by how well the children take part. They all enjoy acting the stories out and we have a repertoire of action songs that they now request! This past year we had Hensingham Primary come to church for their Easter Service, Leavers Service (a new development!) and their Christmas service. One of my favourite moments this year in school was being greeted by a pupil: 'Hello fellow Christian. I'm a Christian too.' 

The last year has seen several challenges for Jericho Primary with the death of a pupil and also damage to the building which means some pupils have been relocated 

to other sites. I was very pleased to have Jericho join us for their Easter service and four Christmas services plus an invite to their Christmas play at school. Opportunities for assemblies have been less this year which I think is mostly due to busyness on both sides. 

St John's has continued its financial support for the Northern Inter Schools Christian Union (NISCU) which works in Whitehaven Academy, provides a listening service for pupils and takes a puppet show into primary schools (you might have seen them at Christmas Unwrapped!) 

Si Walker 



## **Northern Inter School Christian Union** 

St Johns Church has continued its support for NISCU (Northern-Inter Schools Christian Union). 

In the last year, we have appointed Laura Smith as a new worker to concentrate specifically in the Whitehaven/Workington area, but also providing support to Lesley McLaughlin and the Primary Puppet Teams where required. 

Tom Vyner-Brooks, who I mentioned last year, was here for the year (up until the summer), and provided good support to the work in Whitehaven Academy and ‘Ignite’ on the Friday evening at St Andrews Church. 

I mentioned Laura had been brought in with a view to working in the ‘West’ of the area. It has been good to see the progress made, with the following links established: 

- Jericho Primary School: Initially providing a ‘Listening Service’ in response to a request from the school, but now is also involved in other groups/clubs. Paul and Suzanne Cooper also support the school in relation to the ‘Listening Service’. Monkwray Primary School: Club in the school. 

- Kells Infant School: R.E. Lessons arranged. 

- Seascale Primary School: Club in the school. 

- Whitehaven Academy: This is providing clubs in conjunction with the work Alison Riley and Lily Beth Smith were already involved in. 

The clubs in the schools are geared towards the children’s age and interests. They are structured around the 5 well-being themes (‘Connect’, ‘Learning’, ‘Active’, ‘Take Notice’ and ‘Give’): the last 15 minutes are spent tackling ‘Big Questions’ that the children produce themselves. 

Lesley has continued in the school clubs and assemblies that I made reference to in last year’s report, developing deeper relationships with the staff and pupils. These include primary schools at Bassenthwaite, Braithwaite, Brigham St Bridgets, Dean, Flimby, Holme St Cuthberts, Eaglesfield Paddle School, All Saints Cockermouth, Bridekirk, St Herbert’s Keswick. **NISCU** .. 



## **NISCU** 

She is also involved in clubs in Cockermouth and Keswick Secondary Schools, as well as providing support to the Primary Puppets. 

The Primary Puppets continue to provide puppet assemblies across the year, covering different themes: ‘Kindness Counts’ with the theme of the story of Zacchaeus, ‘Harvest and Thankfulness’, ‘Star Gazing’ (Christmas assembly) and ‘What does Easter mean to you?’. 

I made reference to the ‘Listening Service’ which has been made available to the schools. We mentioned the work in ‘All Saints, Cockermouth’ last year and have included information of work which has begun at Jericho School. Schools embrace the 1-2-1 Listening Service as an important element in their responsibility for pastoral care and express great appreciation. 

One additional thing I would like to mention is the weekly email that is sent out each week (’Stand in the Gap’) which provides prayer points and information for the week ahead. If people would like to receive this, get in touch with us. 

As a church, we also pray for the schools in our local area and how we, as a church or as individuals, can be involved and support them (e.g. governors, teachers/teaching assistants, prayer for a local school). It is encouraging the links we have, as a church, with both Hensingham and Jericho Primary Schools. 

Thanks again for your support: it is much appreciated. 

Neil Baxter 



Since writing the last report, only two meetings of the Calder Deanery Synod have taken place, one having been cancelled due to logistical issues. 

## **Deanery** 

In addition to discussion of Deanery business, regular reports were received from Network Youth Church and the Diocesan Synod.  There were also very informative presentations from the Diocesan Disability Advisor and the president of Carlisle Mother’s Union. 

St John’s Hensingham is represented by our clergy, and lay members Andy Walkingshaw and Paul Smith, but we are allocated a further lay member position. It would be good if someone was able to fill that vacancy. A very important role of Deanery Synod members is that, every five years (next time in 2026), they elect members to the General Synod. 

The main and obvious issue in 2024 has been the church heating system which has reduced efficacy due to failure of one of our two gas boilers. We have been able to make a number of incremental changes to maximise the output of the remaining boiler such as removing the radiator shelves and adjusting run times and these have resulted in improved comfort levels over the last few weeks. The obvious answer would seem to be replacing the faulty boiler but, in order to meet our Carbon Net Zero commitments and to have a reliable, efficient system fit for the future, it looks like we will need a broader solution. 

This is likely to be a complex and major project and there are many different options to consider, so we have engaged a professional heating design engineer to help us. We are working to have a new system in place before next winter (subject to completing a net-zerocompliant design, faculty approvals and engaging contractors to carry out the work)2025 is likely to be a busy year for maintenance, as we plan to have high-level stonework cleared of vegetation and re-pointed. 

The PCC have also started to consider plans for improving the toilet provision. This would also be a major undertaking, and therefore more information will be made available to the whole church as the **Fabric** project progresses. **& Wardens** 



## 

The most significant development this year has been the appointment of Si Walker as our vicar, for which we are very thankful to God. The vacancy period can be challenging for church wardens, as usually there are no clergy left within the church, but in this instance we have had Si working hard throughout. We were delighted to be a part of his installation service last summer and have been grateful to see his ministry continue to grow since. We are currently in the selection process for an Associate Minister and we pray that God would be calling the right man to the position. 

This year has seen other changes within the Diocese, with Bishop Rob Saner-Haigh now the acting Bishop of Carlisle, and the Ven. Stewart Fyfe having taken over as Archdeacon. We are thankful to have their support and prayer. The Archdeacon conducted his first visitation in early 2025 - a process of auditing churches within the deanery - and we are pleased to say that he was effusive about St Johns ministry. 

We are grateful for the many people that work behind the scenes to keep things running at 

St John’s. We are particularly thankful for the services of those who have stood down, Ian Ulyett, as Parish Safeguarding Officer, Jenny Kurzyk, as PCC Secretary and Jon Berry  as Church Secretary. We also acknowledge the work of Andy Walkingshaw and John Hodgson who have performed great feats, with limited resources this winter, to keep the church warm. 

Whilst most of the day-to-day work is carried out by the grounds team, to whom we are very grateful for their weekly dedication in keeping our church and its grounds so well kept, it falls to the Wardens to ensure that the church building, grounds, silver and ornaments are intact and secure and the terrier - a legal document showing the land owned by the church – and the inventory/log book have been checked and are up to date. 

Rich Davey & Phil Sisson 



The number on the church electoral roll is 181 - down from 199 in 2024. There were 6 regular meetings of the PCC during the year, one additional meeting and an away day as well as those meetings by the vacancy process. 

## **PCC** 

As well as the regular standing reports some of the items agreed or discussed were as follows: 

Recruitment of our new Vicar Si Walker, PSO Heather Naylor, Church Administrator Suzanne Lane and HR Co-ordinator Ann Christian. We give thanks for Fergus, Ian and Kay and Jon for their many years of service to us. 

Modifications to the Chancel and Lounge, draft proofing in the tower room and plans for the refurbishment of the toilets and hall modifications. 

Problems with the heating / boiler have been ongoing during the year despite attempts to resolve the issues on a long term basis. Implementation of the Ephesian Fund to give our Parish Share and a resolution expressing impaired fellowship with those who would use the General Synod’s commended prayers and stand alone services. Analysis of the results of the church survey and how this will influence our ongoing Vision Document – Passionate Disciples. 

Discussion on the Thirty Theses on Contending for the Faith against False Teaching in the Church ( Lee Gatiss ). 

Adoption of Principles for Commending Ministry -revision of the Maidstone Commitments and a commitment to Positive Complementarianism. 

Ongoing work to uphold all matters in compliance with the Parish Safeguarding Policy including use of the Diocesan Safeguarding Dashboard. 

The PCC has complied with the duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016 ( duty to have regard to the House of Bishop’s guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults ) 

Rich Davey & Phil Sisson 



Egremont Road Si Walker Hensingham Vicar Cumbria simon@stjohnshensingham.org.uk CA28 8QW 



St Johns Hensingham Accounts 2024 

Registered Charity No: 1127413 

## **Statement of Financial Activities** 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
Unrestricted  Designated  Restricted  Endowment  2024 Total 2023 Prior<br>Funds  Funds  Funds  Funds  Funds  Year Funds<br>Income and endowments from:<br>Donations and legacies £       159,932 £         47,900 £       207,832 £       227,819<br>Income from charitable activities £            3,702 £           3,702 £           4,139<br>Other trading activities £            1,243 £              110 £           1,353 £           6,423<br>Investments £            3,175 £           3,175 £           2,906<br>Total income £       168,052 £         48,010 £       216,062 £       241,287<br>Expenditure on:<br>Expenditure on charitable activities -£      159,682 -£        16,300 -£        34,815 -£     210,797 -£     306,181<br>Total expenditure -£      159,682 -£       16,300 -£       34,815 -£     210,797 -£     306,181<br>Net income / (expenditure) resources before transfer £            8,370 -£       16,300 £         13,195 £           5,265 -£       64,894<br>Transfers -£        22,993 £         22,993<br>Other recognised gains / losses<br>Net movement in funds -£        14,623 £           6,693 £         13,195 £           5,265 -£       64,894<br>Total funds brought forward £            3,951 £       105,701 £         44,491 £       154,144 £       219,037<br>Total funds carried forward -£        10,672 £       112,394 £         57,686 £       159,409 £       154,144<br>Represented By:<br>Unrestricted<br>General fund -£        10,672 -£       10,672 £           3,951<br>Designated<br>Associate Vicar Designated RESERVE £         20,000 £         20,000 £         20,000<br>Building Fund Designated RESERVE £         37,699 £         37,699 £         31,699<br>CAP Designated RESERVE £           4,000 £           4,000 £           3,000<br>Church Plant Designated<br>Evangelism Designated £         50,000 £         50,000 £         50,000<br>MissionD £              695 £              695 £           1,002<br>£       112,394 £       112,394 £       105,701<br>Restricted<br>Associate Vicar Restricted £           8,914 £           8,914<br>CAP Restricted £         31,336 £         31,336 £         26,934<br>CAP Special Projects £           3,348 £           3,348 £           3,126<br>FareShare CAP £           4,424 £           4,424 £           4,044<br>Church Plant Restricted<br>Gift Day £           5,166 £           5,166 £           4,480<br>Evangelism Restricted £              513<br>Mission Restricted £              200 £              200 £           1,442<br>Local Hardship Fund £              367 £              367 £              367<br>Harvest £              629 £              629 £              309<br>Bellringers Fund £           3,145 £           3,145 £           3,008<br>CYFA<br>Pathfinders £                96 £                96 £                96<br>Explorers Group £              112<br>Tiny Tots £                61 £                61 £                61<br>£         57,686 £         57,686 £         44,491<br>Grand Total Funds  £       159,409  £       154,144<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


Page 1 of 5 



St Johns Hensingham Accounts 2024 

Registered Charity No: 1127413 

## **Balance Sheet** ~~Balance She~~ et 

|**2024 Total**<br>**Funds**<br>**2023 Prior**<br>**Year Funds**<br>7,127<br>£<br>7,739<br>£<br>2024Total<br>2023 Prior<br>Funds YearFunds|**2023 Prior**<br>**Year Funds**|
|---|---|
|160,811<br>£<br>162,767<br>£<br>**167,938**<br>**£**<br>**170,506**<br>**£**<br>8,529<br>-£<br>16,362<br>-£<br>**8,529**<br>**-£**<br>**16,362**<br>**-£**<br>**159,409**<br>**£**<br>**154,144**<br>**£**<br>£<br>7,127 £<br>7,739<br>~<br>£160,811 £<br>162,767<br>£<br>167,938 £<br>170,506<br>.<br>-£<br>8,529 -£ _16,362<br>-£<br>8,529<br>-£<br>16,362<br>~||
|10,672<br>-£<br>£3,951<br>112,394<br>£<br>£105,701<br>57,686<br>£<br>£44,491<br>**159,409**<br>**£**<br>**£154,144**<br>£<br>159,409 £<br>154,144<br>-£<br>10,672<br>£3,951<br>~~£~~<br>~~112,394~~<br>~~£105,701~~<br>~<br>£<br>57,686<br>£44,491<br>£<br>159,409<br>£154,144||



**Current assets** Current Debtors assets Cash at bank and in hand Debtors 

**Liabilities** 

Creditors: Amounts falling due in one year Liabilities 

**Total net assets less liabilities** 

Unrestricted -£ 10,672 Designated £ 112,394 **Grand Total** Restricted Unrestricted ~~Designated £~~ -£ £ **£** ~~112,394~~ 10,672 **159,409** 57,686 ~~£105,701~~ £3,951 £44, Grand Total Restricted ££ 159,40957,686 £154,144£44,491 **Approved by the Parochial Church Council and signed on its behalf by:** Approved by the Parochial Church Council and signed on its behalf by: Signed:….......................................................................................................................................... Date:….............................................................................. SROcv scasc Decnefiecvs= iahs Seana Dacha Inblepadecmne dons onyoneynenerereoneseceesrenenseneee nae OSESid 2 Name:…........................................................................................................................................... ENE.”is **'** ch athenaWA\eo A **' Independent Examiner** ara ieee Danse neren aac eccerearnzreneacoams **s Report to the Trustees of St John** rose novessrocneresocssnouepteesnesssautesnsnisc **s Hensingham Parochial Church Council.** taunts oAsttie sbi rsfesni NSCS I report on the accounts of the church for the year ended 31st December 2024 which are set out on pages 1 to 5. | report on the accounts of the church for the year ended 31st December 2024 which are set out on pages 1 to 5. 

Respective Responsibilities of Trustees and Examiner Respective Responsibilities of Trustees and Examiner 

The church's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts.  The church's trustees consider that an audit is not required for The church's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The church's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 and that an independent examination is needed. this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 and that an independent examination is needed. 

It is my responsibility to: It is my responsibility to: « Examine the accounts (under section 145 of the 2011 Act); •      Examine the accounts (under section 145 of the 2011 Act); - To follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners (under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 - To follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners (under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act); and Act); and - To state whether particular matters have come to my attention. - To state whether particular matters have come to my attention. 

## **' Basis of Independent Examiner** Basis of independent Examiner's **s report** report 

My examination was carried out in accordance with the genral Directions given by the Charity Commission. My examination was carried out in accordance with the genral Directions given by the Charity Commission. An exmintion includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those An exmintion includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, 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 concerning any such matters.  The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair view’ and the report is limited to those matters set consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair view' and the report is limited to those matters set out out in the statement below. in the statement below. 

Independent Examiner's statement Independent Examiner's statement 

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention: In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention: 1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements 1)  which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements * to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act; and •      to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act; and * to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act have •      to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act have not be met; or not be met; or 2) to which in my opinion attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. 2)  to which in my opinion attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. 

Signed:….......................................................................................................................................... ne <n —.2..00. = —_ae var... Date:….............................................................................. S ViseLX atPa ‘ D ¢ f ABIELA , aa Name:…........................................................................................................................................... REIT Wit tec vitnlachsattsnonnntnemneosionnonasdanssannnsebsncntLWAunanesisononebvabiterstcaetasasetsesassisanuskeeeronACKowsasiiissiis ( wa tiegieeny CAEvast esa w) 

Page 2 of 5 



St Johns Hensingham Accounts 2024 

Registered Charity No: 1127413 

## **Statement of Assets and Liabilities** 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
2024 Total 2023 Prior<br>General Designated Restricted Endowment Funds  Year Funds<br>Current assets - Cash at bank and in hand<br>Business Reserve Account (Nat West) -£        11,926 £         87,095 £         31,212 £       106,381 £       121,011<br>CBF Church of England Deposit Fund (CCLA) -£                  8 £         23,039 £         11,502 £         34,533 £         32,793<br>Current Account (Nat West) -£          3,550 £           9,461 £         13,909 £         19,820 £           8,922<br>Petty Cash -  £                 77 £                77 £                41<br>Totals -£        15,407 £       119,594 £         56,624 £       160,811 £       162,767<br>Current assets - Debtors<br>Debtors -  £            6,065 £           1,062 £           7,127 £           7,739<br>Liabilities - Creditors: Amounts falling due in<br>one year<br>Creditors -  -£          1,329 -£          7,200 -£          8,529 -£       16,362<br>Grand total -£        10,672 £       112,394 £         57,686 £       159,409 £       154,144<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


## **Fund Movement by Type** 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
Sum of Start  Sum of  Sum of  Sum of  Sum of<br>Fund Balance Income Expenditure Transfer Value<br>General £3,951 £168,052 -£159,682 -£22,993 -£10,672<br>Unrestricted Total £3,951 £168,052 -£159,682 -£22,993 -£10,672<br>Associate Vicar RESERVE £20,000 £20,000<br>Building Fund RESERVE £31,699 £6,000 £37,699<br>CAP RESERVE £3,000 £1,000 £4,000<br>EvangelismD £50,000 £50,000<br>MissionD £1,002 -£16,300 £15,993 £695<br>Designated Total £105,701 -£16,300 £22,993 £112,394<br>Associate Vicar R £17,226 -£8,312 £8,914<br>PlantR £300 -£300<br>CAPR £26,711 £22,653 -£18,028 £31,336.09<br>CAP Special Projects £3,348 £3,347.86<br>FareShare £4,044 £4,577 -£4,198 £4,424.09<br>Gift Day £4,480 £1,575 -£889 £5,166<br>EvangelismR £513 £250 -£763 -£0.00<br>MissionR £1,442 £580 -£1,822 £200<br>Local Hardship £367 £367<br>Harvest £309 £320 £629<br>Bellringers £3,008 £227 -£90 £3,145<br>CYFA<br>Pathfinders £96 £96<br>Explorers £112 -£112<br>Tiny Tots £61 £61<br>Ephesians Fund £302 -£302<br>Restricted Total £44,491 £48,010 -£34,815 £57,686<br>Grand Total £154,144 £216,062 -£210,797 £159,409<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


## **Notes to Transfers:** 

1) Transfers out of the General fund comprise: 

£6,000 to the building fund for future buildling work and to build the reserve to cover quinquennial costs and energy net-zero projects 

£15,993 representing 10% of Donations and gift aid to the general fund (unrestricted) 

£1,000 to CAPR to give adequate reserves should the CAP project be wound down unexpectedly. 

2) The Gift day fund of £5,166 is made up of remaining funds for Hall windows £3,591 and 2024 appeal made £1,575 

Page 3 of 5 



St Johns Hensingham Accounts 2024 

Registered Charity No: 1127413 

## **Analysis of income and expenditure** 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
2024 Total 2023 Prior<br>SOFA Heading (Notes) Nominal Unrestricted Designated Restricted Funds  Year Funds<br>Donations and Legacies GAGiving £83,890 £22,584 £106,474 £108,675<br>NGAGiving £26,184 £3,859 £30,043 £38,138<br>Collection £11,599 £11,599 £12,164<br>OtherGiving £18,779 £4,872 £23,652 £26,980<br>GiftAidRecovered £19,480 £3,262 £22,741 £28,714<br>(1) Grant £13,323 £13,323 £13,006<br>FundRaisingIncome £143<br>Donations and Legacies Total £159,932 £47,900 £207,832 £227,819<br>Income from Charitable Activities Fees £2,637 £2,637 £3,544<br>Hall Letting £1,065 £1,065 £595<br>Income from Charitable Activities Total £3,702 £3,702 £4,139<br>Other trading activities BkStallIncome £863 £863 £958<br>SocialIncome £381 £381 £3,904<br>MiscIncome £110 £110 £1,561<br>Other trading activities Total £1,243 £110 £1,353 £6,423<br>Investments Interest £3,175 £3,175 £2,906<br>Investments Total £3,175 £3,175 £2,906<br>£168,052 £48,010 £216,062 £241,287<br>Expenditure                                                              (2) MissionGiving&Donations -£16,300 -£11,320 -£27,620 -£53,574<br>(3) MinstryOffer -£74,526 -£302 -£74,828 -£76,957<br>(4) SalariesWagesNiPension -£26,196 -£18,093 -£44,289 -£83,290<br>Expenses -£1,202 -£1,737 -£2,939 -£6,886<br>Evangelism&MissionCosts -£2,026 -£763 -£2,788 -£3,318<br>YoungPeople'sGroups -£592 -£112 -£704 -£389<br>UpkeepOfServices -£4,916 -£4,916 -£3,096<br>Electricity -£5,525 -£5,525 -£9,509<br>(5) Gas -£3,186 -£3,186 -£2,277<br>Water -£475 -£475 -£357<br>Telephone -£464 -£464 -£532<br>Insurance -£4,459 -£4,459 -£4,210<br>Admin -£3,503 -£600 -£4,103 -£3,070<br>HallCosts -£1,758 -£1,758 -£258<br>BkStallCosts -£930 -£930 -£2,200<br>MaintenanceChurch -£4,049 -£4,049 -£4,571<br>MajorRepairsToChurch -£32,671<br>(6) NewBuildingWork -£24,227 -£1,889 -£26,116 -£7,129<br>OtherExpenditure(Social) -£1,033 -£1,033 -£8,991<br>MajorRepairsToHall -£616 -£616 -£2,898<br>Expenditure Total -£159,682 -£16,300 -£34,815 -£210,797 -£306,181<br>£8,370 -£16,300 £13,195 £5,265 -£64,894<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


## **Notes:** 

(1)  Grants: £7,948 for CAPgiven by Copeland Community Fund; £ 1,000 for CAP given by Emmanuel Church Moor Row; £4,075 for Fareshare given by Cumberland Building Society; £300 for Church Plant given by New Life Church Whitehaven. 

(2)  Mission Giving designated expenditure: £16,300 Mission distribution as Page 5 

(3)  Ministry Offer includes full cost of ministry at St Johns plus support to Mission Community Churches to cover two full time clergy across the mission community 

(4)  Salaries £44,289 is less than previous years as it does not include six months of Associate VIcar salaries nor the element spent in 2023 to set up Church on the Moor. 

(5)  Eletricity and Gas costs remain high but are bought through Parish Buying to gain advantage of bulk buying across multiple parishes and cost smoothing through peaks.  Electricity is sourced from a renewables allocation to reduce carbon footprint. 

(6)  One off costs of Chancel Mods (£ 22,447) plus   Architect and Survey fees for Toilet and Additional rooms options (£3,669) 

Page 4 of 5 



St Johns Hensingham Accounts 2024 

Registered Charity No: 1127413 

## **Summary of 2024** 

This year we have been able to spend on the discretionary projects that will enhance our worship and mission.  Hence the PCC embarked on projects including: the chancel re-ordering project to enhance our church environment and improve our worshop mission.  We also updated the lounge seating and added a desk workstation for the church co-ordinator. 

It is such a blessing to be able to promote the whole mission of the church through the allocation of financial resources. In the light of the outlook below: the desire to recruit an Associate Vicar and to ease the inflationary cost pressures; a Stewardship Sunday was held in January 2025.  We haven't done this for a few years: giving has remained static whilst costs have increased. Hence a gap of around 10% was put before the church and a call to prayer and action including maximising our Gift Aid use was encouraged. 

## **Outlook going forwards:** 

Going forwards, we are facing increased non-discretioniary costs in the form of: inflation; ministry offer; maintenance costs and the route to net-zero. 

1) **Inflation** :  The costs of inflation impacts most significantly on wages and energy.  As we have a policy to pay at least the "Living Wage Foundation" rate (which is slightly higher than the government legal rate), salary costs are increasing at 10% per annum.  In addition, energy costs remain consistently high, and as the church is a commercial organisation, we do not benefit from consumer rates, though as a charity we benefit from a reduced rate of 5% VAT. To ensure competitive pricing, the gas and electricity supply contracts have beem moved to "Parish Buying", an organisation that uses the collective buying power of around 5,000 parishes nationwide to negotiate favourable rates.  The electricity costs have fallen considerably, but the gas costs are slightly higher resulting in an energy cost reduction of £3,000.  Another benefit of using Parish Buying is that their contracts comply with Church of England net-zero guidance and favours renewable electricity. 

2) **Ministry Offer** :  The diocesan contribution is set at a level that ensures we cover the diocesan ministry costs of two full time clergy across the three churches: St Johns, St Bridgets and St Andrews.  In order to do this, St Johns contributes around 120% of the costs of a single full-time clergy.  The diocese is keen that St Johns returns to a position where we contribute about 150% of clergy costs.  This level reflects our historical giving when the three churches had a diocesan vicar each.  The diocese have asked the PCC to consider our giving level in the light of this historical precedent and this year we will aim to enter a Partnership Agreement between the diocese and the Mission Community which will set out our commitments to resourcing mission over the next few years. 

3) **Maintenance costs** :  The quinnquennial inspection in 2021 identified around £60,000 of work to be carried out over five years.  This will be carried out as needed and planned.  The annual budget setting process will consider how to phase the work and use the maintenance reserve and may required allocation from other designated funds. 

4) **Route to Net Zero** :  The Church of England synod has set a target to achieve net-zero by 2030.   As a result, the rules regarding fossil fuel boiler replacementrecent have changed necessitating a faculty submission to Carlisle Diocese.  The PCC has sought advice from the diocese and completed an energy survey.  Whatever option is chosen, additional costs will need to be included in future spending plans. 

## **Appendix:  Mission Allocation** 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
Mission Account 2024 Restricted Funds 2024<br>Brought forward from 2023 £1,002<br>Estimate of 10 % of 2023 giving & gift aid transferred from General Fund £15,993<br>Total to distribute £16,995<br>Charity Column1 Disbursement Charity Column1 Disbursement<br>CAP £1,200 CAP Central £6,000<br>CCYC £1,200 Fareshare £4,198<br>Ben & Liz Griffin UFM (UK based) £1,200 Mountain Springs (Chinese Bible Study<br>£600<br>NISCU £1,380 Group)<br>Anglican Mission in England £1,200 Church on the Moor (New Life) £300<br>Church on the Moor £1,200 World Vision Sponsorship £222<br>Calder Deanery Network Youth £500 TOTAL £11,320<br>Lamb Healthcare £1,200<br>Serving in Mission (Ann Christian) £1,200<br>Albanian Evangelical Mission £1,200<br>Mountain Springs £1,200<br>European Mission (Romuald Lasnes) £1,200<br>Crosslinks (Walkers in Argentina) £1,620<br>Crosslinks Tore Gibbons & Emi Fernandez (Chile) £800<br>Total 2023 £16,300<br>Carry forward to 2024 £695<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


Page 5 of 5 



St Johns Hensingham Accounts 2024 

Registered Charity No: 1127413 

## **Statement of Financial Activities** 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
Unrestricted  Designated  Restricted  Endowment  2024 Total 2023 Prior<br>Funds  Funds  Funds  Funds  Funds  Year Funds<br>Income and endowments from:<br>Donations and legacies £       159,932 £         47,900 £       207,832 £       227,819<br>Income from charitable activities £            3,702 £           3,702 £           4,139<br>Other trading activities £            1,243 £              110 £           1,353 £           6,423<br>Investments £            3,175 £           3,175 £           2,906<br>Total income £       168,052 £         48,010 £       216,062 £       241,287<br>Expenditure on:<br>Expenditure on charitable activities -£      159,682 -£        16,300 -£        34,815 -£     210,797 -£     306,181<br>Total expenditure -£      159,682 -£       16,300 -£       34,815 -£     210,797 -£     306,181<br>Net income / (expenditure) resources before transfer £            8,370 -£       16,300 £         13,195 £           5,265 -£       64,894<br>Transfers -£        22,993 £         22,993<br>Other recognised gains / losses<br>Net movement in funds -£        14,623 £           6,693 £         13,195 £           5,265 -£       64,894<br>Total funds brought forward £            3,951 £       105,701 £         44,491 £       154,144 £       219,037<br>Total funds carried forward -£        10,672 £       112,394 £         57,686 £       159,409 £       154,144<br>Represented By:<br>Unrestricted<br>General fund -£        10,672 -£       10,672 £           3,951<br>Designated<br>Associate Vicar Designated RESERVE £         20,000 £         20,000 £         20,000<br>Building Fund Designated RESERVE £         37,699 £         37,699 £         31,699<br>CAP Designated RESERVE £           4,000 £           4,000 £           3,000<br>Church Plant Designated<br>Evangelism Designated £         50,000 £         50,000 £         50,000<br>MissionD £              695 £              695 £           1,002<br>£       112,394 £       112,394 £       105,701<br>Restricted<br>Associate Vicar Restricted £           8,914 £           8,914<br>CAP Restricted £         31,336 £         31,336 £         26,934<br>CAP Special Projects £           3,348 £           3,348 £           3,126<br>FareShare CAP £           4,424 £           4,424 £           4,044<br>Church Plant Restricted<br>Gift Day £           5,166 £           5,166 £           4,480<br>Evangelism Restricted £              513<br>Mission Restricted £              200 £              200 £           1,442<br>Local Hardship Fund £              367 £              367 £              367<br>Harvest £              629 £              629 £              309<br>Bellringers Fund £           3,145 £           3,145 £           3,008<br>CYFA<br>Pathfinders £                96 £                96 £                96<br>Explorers Group £              112<br>Tiny Tots £                61 £                61 £                61<br>£         57,686 £         57,686 £         44,491<br>Grand Total Funds  £       159,409  £       154,144<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


Page 1 of 5 



St Johns Hensingham Accounts 2024 

Registered Charity No: 1127413 

## **Balance Sheet** ~~Balance She~~ et 

|**2024 Total**<br>**Funds**<br>**2023 Prior**<br>**Year Funds**<br>7,127<br>£<br>7,739<br>£<br>2024Total<br>2023 Prior<br>Funds YearFunds|**2023 Prior**<br>**Year Funds**|
|---|---|
|160,811<br>£<br>162,767<br>£<br>**167,938**<br>**£**<br>**170,506**<br>**£**<br>8,529<br>-£<br>16,362<br>-£<br>**8,529**<br>**-£**<br>**16,362**<br>**-£**<br>**159,409**<br>**£**<br>**154,144**<br>**£**<br>£<br>7,127 £<br>7,739<br>~<br>£160,811 £<br>162,767<br>£<br>167,938 £<br>170,506<br>.<br>-£<br>8,529 -£ _16,362<br>-£<br>8,529<br>-£<br>16,362<br>~||
|10,672<br>-£<br>£3,951<br>112,394<br>£<br>£105,701<br>57,686<br>£<br>£44,491<br>**159,409**<br>**£**<br>**£154,144**<br>£<br>159,409 £<br>154,144<br>-£<br>10,672<br>£3,951<br>~~£~~<br>~~112,394~~<br>~~£105,701~~<br>~<br>£<br>57,686<br>£44,491<br>£<br>159,409<br>£154,144||



**Current assets** Current Debtors assets Cash at bank and in hand Debtors 

**Liabilities** 

Creditors: Amounts falling due in one year Liabilities 

**Total net assets less liabilities** 

Unrestricted -£ 10,672 Designated £ 112,394 **Grand Total** Restricted Unrestricted ~~Designated £~~ -£ £ **£** ~~112,394~~ 10,672 **159,409** 57,686 ~~£105,701~~ £3,951 £44, Grand Total Restricted ££ 159,40957,686 £154,144£44,491 **Approved by the Parochial Church Council and signed on its behalf by:** Approved by the Parochial Church Council and signed on its behalf by: Signed:….......................................................................................................................................... Date:….............................................................................. SROcv scasc Decnefiecvs= iahs Seana Dacha Inblepadecmne dons onyoneynenerereoneseceesrenenseneee nae OSESid 2 Name:…........................................................................................................................................... ENE.”is **'** ch athenaWA\eo A **' Independent Examiner** ara ieee Danse neren aac eccerearnzreneacoams **s Report to the Trustees of St John** rose novessrocneresocssnouepteesnesssautesnsnisc **s Hensingham Parochial Church Council.** taunts oAsttie sbi rsfesni NSCS I report on the accounts of the church for the year ended 31st December 2024 which are set out on pages 1 to 5. | report on the accounts of the church for the year ended 31st December 2024 which are set out on pages 1 to 5. 

Respective Responsibilities of Trustees and Examiner Respective Responsibilities of Trustees and Examiner 

The church's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts.  The church's trustees consider that an audit is not required for The church's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The church's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 and that an independent examination is needed. this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 and that an independent examination is needed. 

It is my responsibility to: It is my responsibility to: « Examine the accounts (under section 145 of the 2011 Act); •      Examine the accounts (under section 145 of the 2011 Act); - To follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners (under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 - To follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners (under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act); and Act); and - To state whether particular matters have come to my attention. - To state whether particular matters have come to my attention. 

## **' Basis of Independent Examiner** Basis of independent Examiner's **s report** report 

My examination was carried out in accordance with the genral Directions given by the Charity Commission. My examination was carried out in accordance with the genral Directions given by the Charity Commission. An exmintion includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those An exmintion includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, 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 concerning any such matters.  The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair view’ and the report is limited to those matters set consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair view' and the report is limited to those matters set out out in the statement below. in the statement below. 

Independent Examiner's statement Independent Examiner's statement 

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention: In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention: 1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements 1)  which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements * to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act; and •      to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act; and * to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act have •      to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act have not be met; or not be met; or 2) to which in my opinion attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. 2)  to which in my opinion attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. 

Signed:….......................................................................................................................................... ne <n —.2..00. = —_ae var... Date:….............................................................................. S ViseLX atPa ‘ D ¢ f ABIELA , aa Name:…........................................................................................................................................... REIT Wit tec vitnlachsattsnonnntnemneosionnonasdanssannnsebsncntLWAunanesisononebvabiterstcaetasasetsesassisanuskeeeronACKowsasiiissiis ( wa tiegieeny CAEvast esa w) 

Page 2 of 5 



St Johns Hensingham Accounts 2024 

Registered Charity No: 1127413 

## **Statement of Assets and Liabilities** 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
2024 Total 2023 Prior<br>General Designated Restricted Endowment Funds  Year Funds<br>Current assets - Cash at bank and in hand<br>Business Reserve Account (Nat West) -£        11,926 £         87,095 £         31,212 £       106,381 £       121,011<br>CBF Church of England Deposit Fund (CCLA) -£                  8 £         23,039 £         11,502 £         34,533 £         32,793<br>Current Account (Nat West) -£          3,550 £           9,461 £         13,909 £         19,820 £           8,922<br>Petty Cash -  £                 77 £                77 £                41<br>Totals -£        15,407 £       119,594 £         56,624 £       160,811 £       162,767<br>Current assets - Debtors<br>Debtors -  £            6,065 £           1,062 £           7,127 £           7,739<br>Liabilities - Creditors: Amounts falling due in<br>one year<br>Creditors -  -£          1,329 -£          7,200 -£          8,529 -£       16,362<br>Grand total -£        10,672 £       112,394 £         57,686 £       159,409 £       154,144<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


## **Fund Movement by Type** 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
Sum of Start  Sum of  Sum of  Sum of  Sum of<br>Fund Balance Income Expenditure Transfer Value<br>General £3,951 £168,052 -£159,682 -£22,993 -£10,672<br>Unrestricted Total £3,951 £168,052 -£159,682 -£22,993 -£10,672<br>Associate Vicar RESERVE £20,000 £20,000<br>Building Fund RESERVE £31,699 £6,000 £37,699<br>CAP RESERVE £3,000 £1,000 £4,000<br>EvangelismD £50,000 £50,000<br>MissionD £1,002 -£16,300 £15,993 £695<br>Designated Total £105,701 -£16,300 £22,993 £112,394<br>Associate Vicar R £17,226 -£8,312 £8,914<br>PlantR £300 -£300<br>CAPR £26,711 £22,653 -£18,028 £31,336.09<br>CAP Special Projects £3,348 £3,347.86<br>FareShare £4,044 £4,577 -£4,198 £4,424.09<br>Gift Day £4,480 £1,575 -£889 £5,166<br>EvangelismR £513 £250 -£763 -£0.00<br>MissionR £1,442 £580 -£1,822 £200<br>Local Hardship £367 £367<br>Harvest £309 £320 £629<br>Bellringers £3,008 £227 -£90 £3,145<br>CYFA<br>Pathfinders £96 £96<br>Explorers £112 -£112<br>Tiny Tots £61 £61<br>Ephesians Fund £302 -£302<br>Restricted Total £44,491 £48,010 -£34,815 £57,686<br>Grand Total £154,144 £216,062 -£210,797 £159,409<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


## **Notes to Transfers:** 

1) Transfers out of the General fund comprise: 

£6,000 to the building fund for future buildling work and to build the reserve to cover quinquennial costs and energy net-zero projects 

£15,993 representing 10% of Donations and gift aid to the general fund (unrestricted) 

£1,000 to CAPR to give adequate reserves should the CAP project be wound down unexpectedly. 

2) The Gift day fund of £5,166 is made up of remaining funds for Hall windows £3,591 and 2024 appeal made £1,575 

Page 3 of 5 



St Johns Hensingham Accounts 2024 

Registered Charity No: 1127413 

## **Analysis of income and expenditure** 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
2024 Total 2023 Prior<br>SOFA Heading (Notes) Nominal Unrestricted Designated Restricted Funds  Year Funds<br>Donations and Legacies GAGiving £83,890 £22,584 £106,474 £108,675<br>NGAGiving £26,184 £3,859 £30,043 £38,138<br>Collection £11,599 £11,599 £12,164<br>OtherGiving £18,779 £4,872 £23,652 £26,980<br>GiftAidRecovered £19,480 £3,262 £22,741 £28,714<br>(1) Grant £13,323 £13,323 £13,006<br>FundRaisingIncome £143<br>Donations and Legacies Total £159,932 £47,900 £207,832 £227,819<br>Income from Charitable Activities Fees £2,637 £2,637 £3,544<br>Hall Letting £1,065 £1,065 £595<br>Income from Charitable Activities Total £3,702 £3,702 £4,139<br>Other trading activities BkStallIncome £863 £863 £958<br>SocialIncome £381 £381 £3,904<br>MiscIncome £110 £110 £1,561<br>Other trading activities Total £1,243 £110 £1,353 £6,423<br>Investments Interest £3,175 £3,175 £2,906<br>Investments Total £3,175 £3,175 £2,906<br>£168,052 £48,010 £216,062 £241,287<br>Expenditure                                                              (2) MissionGiving&Donations -£16,300 -£11,320 -£27,620 -£53,574<br>(3) MinstryOffer -£74,526 -£302 -£74,828 -£76,957<br>(4) SalariesWagesNiPension -£26,196 -£18,093 -£44,289 -£83,290<br>Expenses -£1,202 -£1,737 -£2,939 -£6,886<br>Evangelism&MissionCosts -£2,026 -£763 -£2,788 -£3,318<br>YoungPeople'sGroups -£592 -£112 -£704 -£389<br>UpkeepOfServices -£4,916 -£4,916 -£3,096<br>Electricity -£5,525 -£5,525 -£9,509<br>(5) Gas -£3,186 -£3,186 -£2,277<br>Water -£475 -£475 -£357<br>Telephone -£464 -£464 -£532<br>Insurance -£4,459 -£4,459 -£4,210<br>Admin -£3,503 -£600 -£4,103 -£3,070<br>HallCosts -£1,758 -£1,758 -£258<br>BkStallCosts -£930 -£930 -£2,200<br>MaintenanceChurch -£4,049 -£4,049 -£4,571<br>MajorRepairsToChurch -£32,671<br>(6) NewBuildingWork -£24,227 -£1,889 -£26,116 -£7,129<br>OtherExpenditure(Social) -£1,033 -£1,033 -£8,991<br>MajorRepairsToHall -£616 -£616 -£2,898<br>Expenditure Total -£159,682 -£16,300 -£34,815 -£210,797 -£306,181<br>£8,370 -£16,300 £13,195 £5,265 -£64,894<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


## **Notes:** 

(1)  Grants: £7,948 for CAPgiven by Copeland Community Fund; £ 1,000 for CAP given by Emmanuel Church Moor Row; £4,075 for Fareshare given by Cumberland Building Society; £300 for Church Plant given by New Life Church Whitehaven. 

(2)  Mission Giving designated expenditure: £16,300 Mission distribution as Page 5 

(3)  Ministry Offer includes full cost of ministry at St Johns plus support to Mission Community Churches to cover two full time clergy across the mission community 

(4)  Salaries £44,289 is less than previous years as it does not include six months of Associate VIcar salaries nor the element spent in 2023 to set up Church on the Moor. 

(5)  Eletricity and Gas costs remain high but are bought through Parish Buying to gain advantage of bulk buying across multiple parishes and cost smoothing through peaks.  Electricity is sourced from a renewables allocation to reduce carbon footprint. 

(6)  One off costs of Chancel Mods (£ 22,447) plus   Architect and Survey fees for Toilet and Additional rooms options (£3,669) 

Page 4 of 5 



St Johns Hensingham Accounts 2024 

Registered Charity No: 1127413 

## **Summary of 2024** 

This year we have been able to spend on the discretionary projects that will enhance our worship and mission.  Hence the PCC embarked on projects including: the chancel re-ordering project to enhance our church environment and improve our worshop mission.  We also updated the lounge seating and added a desk workstation for the church co-ordinator. 

It is such a blessing to be able to promote the whole mission of the church through the allocation of financial resources. In the light of the outlook below: the desire to recruit an Associate Vicar and to ease the inflationary cost pressures; a Stewardship Sunday was held in January 2025.  We haven't done this for a few years: giving has remained static whilst costs have increased. Hence a gap of around 10% was put before the church and a call to prayer and action including maximising our Gift Aid use was encouraged. 

## **Outlook going forwards:** 

Going forwards, we are facing increased non-discretioniary costs in the form of: inflation; ministry offer; maintenance costs and the route to net-zero. 

1) **Inflation** :  The costs of inflation impacts most significantly on wages and energy.  As we have a policy to pay at least the "Living Wage Foundation" rate (which is slightly higher than the government legal rate), salary costs are increasing at 10% per annum.  In addition, energy costs remain consistently high, and as the church is a commercial organisation, we do not benefit from consumer rates, though as a charity we benefit from a reduced rate of 5% VAT. To ensure competitive pricing, the gas and electricity supply contracts have beem moved to "Parish Buying", an organisation that uses the collective buying power of around 5,000 parishes nationwide to negotiate favourable rates.  The electricity costs have fallen considerably, but the gas costs are slightly higher resulting in an energy cost reduction of £3,000.  Another benefit of using Parish Buying is that their contracts comply with Church of England net-zero guidance and favours renewable electricity. 

2) **Ministry Offer** :  The diocesan contribution is set at a level that ensures we cover the diocesan ministry costs of two full time clergy across the three churches: St Johns, St Bridgets and St Andrews.  In order to do this, St Johns contributes around 120% of the costs of a single full-time clergy.  The diocese is keen that St Johns returns to a position where we contribute about 150% of clergy costs.  This level reflects our historical giving when the three churches had a diocesan vicar each.  The diocese have asked the PCC to consider our giving level in the light of this historical precedent and this year we will aim to enter a Partnership Agreement between the diocese and the Mission Community which will set out our commitments to resourcing mission over the next few years. 

3) **Maintenance costs** :  The quinnquennial inspection in 2021 identified around £60,000 of work to be carried out over five years.  This will be carried out as needed and planned.  The annual budget setting process will consider how to phase the work and use the maintenance reserve and may required allocation from other designated funds. 

4) **Route to Net Zero** :  The Church of England synod has set a target to achieve net-zero by 2030.   As a result, the rules regarding fossil fuel boiler replacementrecent have changed necessitating a faculty submission to Carlisle Diocese.  The PCC has sought advice from the diocese and completed an energy survey.  Whatever option is chosen, additional costs will need to be included in future spending plans. 

## **Appendix:  Mission Allocation** 


**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
Mission Account 2024 Restricted Funds 2024<br>Brought forward from 2023 £1,002<br>Estimate of 10 % of 2023 giving & gift aid transferred from General Fund £15,993<br>Total to distribute £16,995<br>Charity Column1 Disbursement Charity Column1 Disbursement<br>CAP £1,200 CAP Central £6,000<br>CCYC £1,200 Fareshare £4,198<br>Ben & Liz Griffin UFM (UK based) £1,200 Mountain Springs (Chinese Bible Study<br>£600<br>NISCU £1,380 Group)<br>Anglican Mission in England £1,200 Church on the Moor (New Life) £300<br>Church on the Moor £1,200 World Vision Sponsorship £222<br>Calder Deanery Network Youth £500 TOTAL £11,320<br>Lamb Healthcare £1,200<br>Serving in Mission (Ann Christian) £1,200<br>Albanian Evangelical Mission £1,200<br>Mountain Springs £1,200<br>European Mission (Romuald Lasnes) £1,200<br>Crosslinks (Walkers in Argentina) £1,620<br>Crosslinks Tore Gibbons & Emi Fernandez (Chile) £800<br>Total 2023 £16,300<br>Carry forward to 2024 £695<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


Page 5 of 5