**The Parochial Church Council of the Parish of Saint George with Saint Mary Magdalene Worcester** 

## **Annual Report & Financial Statement for year ended 31[st] December 2023** 


This image represents that we at St George’s strive to radiate the refracted light of God's love for us all, bursting out wide and far! 



Registered as a Charity No: 1128943
Page 2

## **Table of Contents** 

## **Administrative Information** 

|………………………………………………………………………………………|………………………………………………………………………………………|
|---|---|
|4||
|Church Ofcers|4|
|Membership of the PCC|4|
|Advisers|5|
|Structure, Governance & Management||
|5||
|Risk Assessment|5|
|Insurance|5|
|**Objectives & Activities for the Public Beneft**||
|……………………………………………………|**6**|
|Standing Committee||
|6||
|Fabric Committee|6|
|Magdalene Room Booking Secretary||
|6||
|Volunteers|6|
|Electoral Roll||
|7||
|**Ministry Report**||
|………………………………………………………………………………………||
|**7**||
|Work of the Parish||
|7||
|Developments during 2023||
|7||
|A Minister’s Letter||
|7||
|Ministry Team||
|9||
|Gratitude|9|
|Rev Jo’s Retirement||
|9||
|Looking ahead||
|9||



Page **3** 



## **Church Wardens Report** 

……………………………………………………………………………………… 

**10** 

## **Safeguarding** 

|………………………………………………………………………………………|………………………………………………………………………………………|
|---|---|
|**10**||
|**cial**|**Matters**|
|………………………………………………………………………………………||
|**11**||
|Independent Examiner’s Report||
|11||
|Financial Review<br>12||
|Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA)||
|13||
|Balance Sheet||
|14||
|Accounting Policies||
|15||
||2. Notes Incoming Resources|
|16||
||3. Notes Resources Expended|
|17||
||4. Unrestricted Fund|
|18||
||5. Designated & Restricted Fund|
|18||
||6. Fixed Assets|
|19|7. UK Investments|
||19<br>8. Debtors|
||19|
||9. Liabilities<br>19|



## **Financial Matters** 

## **Activities in the Parish** 

……………………………………………………………………………………… 

## **20** 

Church & Magdalene Room Bookings 

20 

Page **4** 



Rota Organiser 21 Kingdom Arts 22 Summer Fair 22 Children Young People & Family Worker 23 Children’s Work 25 Carol Service 25 Christian Aid 25 Bible Reading Fellowship 26 The Flower Guild 26 Eco- Church & Green Team 26 School Ministry Report 27 Deanery Synod 28 Quest Group 29 Mission Accompanier Report 29 The Altar Guild – Sacristy 30 Advent Travellers 30 Gift Aid & Giving 31 Zoom 31 Worcester Foodbank 31 Café Church 32 The Children’s Society 32 

Page **5** 



Social Media 

32 Make a Lasting Difference 33 

Page **6** 



## **Introduction** 

The PCC members (‘The Trustees’) present their annual report and accounts for the year ended 31st December 2023, which comply with the Church Accounting Regulations 2011 and the Charity Commissions Statement of Recommended Practice. 

## **Administrative Information** 

The Parish Church of Saint George is situated in Saint George’s Square, Worcester WR1 1HX. It is part of the Worcester Deanery in the Diocese of Worcester within the Church of England. 

**Public and working address of** 38 Blanquettes Avenue, Worcester WR3 **the PCC is:** 8DB **Emails may be sent to the PCC stgpccsec@gmail.com Secretary: The PCC website is:** www.saintgeorgesworcester.org.uk 

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Saint George with Saint Mary Magdalene, Worcester is the name of the charity, registered as a charity number 1128943 in England and Wales. The charity also uses the name PCC Saint George with Saint Mary Magdalene, Barbourne, Worcester. 

## **Church Officers** 

**Incumbent:** Reverend Jo Musson (Retired 30[th] September 2023) **Associate Priest:** Reverend Peter Davies Reverend Jennie Hayward **Church Warden(s):** (Vacancy) (Vacancy) **Duty Church Warden(s):** Chris Bishop Trish Greenwood Margaret Stokes Clive Crowther Pam Summers 

## **Membership of the PCC** 

**Chair:** Reverend Jo Musson (retired 30[th] September, 2023) **Ex-Officio:** (Vacancy) (Vacancy) **Representatives of the Deanery** (Vacancy) **Synod:** (Vacancy) _(3 year term, max. 2 consecutive terms)_ **Elected Members:** Alex New (2026) – Lay Vice Chair _(3 year term)_ Alison Clarke (2026) Margaret Stokes (2026) Patricia ‘Trish’ Greenwood (2024) – Treasurer Robert ‘Bob’ Rolison (2026) – Health & Safety Officer Lyn Crowther – Secretary, Parish _NB. retirement at APCM during year shown_ Safeguarding officer (2025) Page **7** 

_NB. retirement at APCM during year shown_ 



_in brackets_ 

Chris Bishop – (2025) Mark Hugill – (2025) – Parish Safeguarding admin Pam Summers (2026) Sue Cottam (2026) 

## **Co-Opted:** 

Page **8** 



## **Advisers** 

**Bankers:** Lloyds Bank PLC The Cross Worcester WR1 3PY **Independent Examiners:** Douglas B Lee TD, AIB 270A Birmingham Road Bromsgrove B61 0EZ **Architect:** Nick Joyce Architects LLP 5 Barbourne Road Worcester WR1 1RS 

## **Structure, Governance and Management** 

The PCC is a corporate body established by the Church of England. It operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure. The PCC was formerly an excepted charitable organisation but registered as a charity in its own right on 1[st] April 2009. The method of appointment of PCC members and church wardens is set out in the Church Representation Rules. The PCC has adopted a resolution requiring one third of its members to retire annually on a rota but being eligible for re-election. All church members are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and nomination to the PCC is open to all members on the roll. Information about being a member is made available throughout the nomination period. Decisions are made by majority vote at PCC meetings. The first meeting of the PCC after the Annual Parochial Church meeting (APCM) elects the Vice-Chairman, PCC Secretary, Treasurer, and Electoral Roll Officer. There are also five duty Church Wardens appointed. Day-to-day fabric matters are actioned by the Fabric Committee. 

By the nature of sharing our Vicar with Claines we are developing a close working relationship with them. This is formally managed through Ministry Team meetings, weekly joint Online Worship and occasional away days. The PCC meets a minimum of 4 times a year and also operates through a number of subcommittees, which meet between full meetings of the PCC. A Standing Committee meets between each PCC meeting. 

## **Risk Assessment** 

The members of the PCC regularly review the risks to which the Council might be exposed and recommend action to mitigate or to manage appropriately. The PCC reviews its Child Protection, Vulnerable Adults, and Health and Safety Policies on an annual basis, but the PCC Safeguarding Officer and the PCC Health and Safety Officer have delegated authority to manage these areas on a day-to-day basis. Financial risks are regularly reviewed by the PCC and are under the day-to-day control of the Treasurer. 

**Parish Safeguarding Officer:** Lyn Crowther **Health & Safety Officer:** Bob Rolison 

## **Insurance** 

The Ecclesiastical Insurance Office PLC provides the PCC with insurance cover. The Parish Guard Insurance policy was renewed on 1[st] January 2023 to provide 

Page **9** 



cover on Saint George’s Church and Magdalene Room and of the contents, after revaluation, for a total (index linked) figure of up to £16,620,000.  In addition, the policy covers other types of risk, such as Employers’ and Public Liability, and Personal Accident. 

## **Objectives and Activities for the Public** 

## **Benefit** 

## **Embracing difference, living as one, mirroring the** 

## **likeness of Christ.** 

Saint George’s is different. No pews. We sit in a circle with the altar in the centre because the Eucharist is at the heart of our worship and Saint George’s is at the heart of the local community, offering peace, prayer and practical support. Saint George’s is an inclusive church, we welcome every person because we believe everyone is made in the image of God. No exceptions. 

The PCC has the responsibility of co-operating with the Parish Priest in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. Its primary objective is the promotion of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to the doctrines and practices of the Church of England. It also has maintenance responsibilities for the churchyard, boundary walls and church gates by reason of the closing of the churchyard by an Order in Council dated 6[th] June 1859. PCC members confirm that they have referred to the guidance contained in the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit when reviewing the PCC’s aims and objectives and in planning future activities. The agreed objectives for the sub-committees working under the authority of the PCC are as follows: 

## **Standing Committee** 

Consisting of the Lay Vice Chair, Treasurer, PCC Secretary and Church/Magdalene Room booking secretary the committee has the power to transact the business of the PCC between meetings subject to any direction by the PCC. 

The committee also supports the Treasurer by reviewing the basis on which accounts are prepared. It identifies ways to improve income and reduce costs and considers matters of a financial nature which are reported to the PCC. This committee meets between PCC meetings. 

## **Fabric Committee** 

The Fabric Committee reports to the PCC on all matters relating to Saint George’s Church building, churchyard, Magdalene Room, fabric and Health & Safety. Bob Rolison inspects the fabric on a regular basis. 

**Chair of the Fabric Committee:** (vacancy) **Members:** Bob Rolison (Convener) 

## **Magdalene Room Booking Secretary** 

The Booking Secretary has the responsibility for the day-to-day running of the room, approving booking enquiries and making recommendations to the PCC for 

Page **10** 



hire charges. Together with the Chair of the Fabric Committee, they report to PCC on all matters relating to the fabric, facilities and equipment of the building: 

## **Booking Secretary:** Barbara Rolison 

## **Volunteers** 

In common with most churches, Saint George PCC’s activities could not happen without the input of many volunteers who offer their services on every single day of the week. The PCC is immensely grateful for all the hard work of its volunteers who contribute many hours of their time to the church. Although the number of volunteers is large, more are needed because the harvest is still more plentiful than our labourers can manage. 

## **Electoral Roll** 

Due to the sad death of Janet Peplow Trish Greenwood stepped in as Electoral Roll Office. As of 31[st] December 2023 there were 56 names on the electoral roll. 6 names have been removed during the year and 2 were added.  After the amendments to the roll leading up to the APCM there are 52      names on the Electoral Roll.  Of those, 30 are non-resident and 22 are resident in the parish. 

## **Ministry report** 

## **Work of the Parish** 

Reverend Jo Musson was Priest in Charge until September 2023, after which there has been a vacancy at Claines and St. George’s as the role of Priest in Charge for both churches is advertised. 

## **Developments during 2023** 

This year the work of the Parish was able proceed without pandemic restrictions, though some of ways of working which began because of restrictions were kept, such as Zoom services for those unable to come into church. Thanks for our Zoom drivers who continue with this work. 

St. George’s has continued to evolve, with some major additions to our work: 

- The appointment of a Mission Enabler, Nigel Tween, who began work in January. 

- The Licensing of Lay Ministers: Alison and Lyn from St. George’s and Ian and Phil from Claines became Authorised Lay Ministers and Rachel was licenced as a Reader to both churches. 

- The appointment of a Children’s Youth and Families worker, Helen Laird 

The funded Children’s Youth and Family Worker started in September, working jointly between St. George’s, St. Stephens and St. John Baptist and the primary schools connected to them. 

The funded Mission Accompanier role began in January and is a joint role with Claines. 

## **A Minister’s Letter** 

In previous years, our priest-in-charge has presented a Report for the parish’s Annual Report. Rev Jo took this responsibility very seriously and prayerfully invested much time in its preparation. We are grateful to God for how Rev Jo sought the Holy Spirit to guide her and thus to be our guide. 

Page **11** 



Moreover, we are grateful to God for her ministry and faithful service amongst us. Her ministry was sometimes unseen but visible and known to God, ministry that touched the lives of people and situations that craved God’s love, and situations into which she was prepared to speak and act with prophetic voice. 

I have been invited to make a report, which comes to you as one who is part of the ministry team that serves you. However, it is a personal Note and with a differently nuanced tone; perhaps better described as ‘A Minister’s Letter’. 

The wider ministry team comprises priests with the bishop’s permission to officiate (Revs Jennie Hayward and Peter Davies), licenced lay ministers (Jan Kear and Rachel Cramp) and authorised lay ministers (Alison Clarke, Ian Cramp, Lyn Crowther and Phil Kear). On behalf of everyone in the wider ministry team I express our thanks for your prayerfulness, commitment and support, and to the ministry team for their prayerful diligence in their ministry. And I offer our thanks to Helen Laird, our 

shared Children, Youth and Families Worker. Her energy and faith make hers a key appointment, and  her ministry in local schools, the parish and community is transformational. 

And to those thanks, I add thanks to those who have presided and preached during the vacancy enabling as far as possible for us to be fed in both word and sacrament. It’s good to name Bishops John and Martin, Archdeacons Nikki and Mark, and Revs Diane Cooksey, Doug Chaplin, John Wright and Ian Spencer who have encouraged, refreshed and guided us. 

Yet those who really keep the church running are not the ones who stand in front of a congregation to lead worship on Sundays and midweek. Those who keep the church running are those who witness day in, day out, who bring God’s love through being the light of Christ to the community both within and beyond church life, in pastoral care, in visiting, being alongside another in their moment of need or pain—their hearts truly sing ‘Brother, sister, let me serve you, let me be as Christ to 

you.’ And they are those who so generously give of their time as Zoom-drivers, parish officers, working on councils and committees, dealing with queries and without their collective experience and wisdom church life would flounder. And they are those who give sacrificially financially to support the mission and ministry of God’s church. And they are those who bring beauty and expression to our collective worship in music, song and floral arrangement. Then besides which, nothing in church life happens unless the numerous, parish saints who prepare, open, close, 

welcome, clean up someone else’s mess, keep our buildings safe … the list goes on 

… and unless these things are done, church simply doesn’t happen. So, to everyone, ‘Thank you,’ for your faithful and generous service and gracefulness. During the vacancy, our parish administrator, Tammara Adams, has been generous beyond all expectation in her commitment to both parishes. Thank you, Tammara, for the example of Christian service that you have shown. 

Nothing in church life happens without prayer. Prayer undergirds and upholds everything that God calls us to do. And chiefly, God calls us to worship him, the holy and blessèd, undivided Trinity: God who is Father, God who is Son, God who is Holy Spirit. Our sole purpose is to glorify God following the example of Jesus’ 

Page **12** 



life and witness, and the purpose of everything in parish life is to witness to that sole purpose. 

When I came to Claines and St George’s in 2015, the diocese asked me what I sought in where I would go next to serve in priestly ministry. I asked only that I would be with people whom I could love and would be loved by them. That gift has been mine vastly beyond any expectation with which I came. My prayer is that in June when we welcome Rev Sarah Carwardine that she, too, will know the light and presence of God in all our hearts, and so be encouraged in the abundance of both God’s and our collective love to fulfil all that God has for us in the coming years. 

Let us make this our prayer for Sarah and ourselves: _Lord, you have taught us that all our doings without love are nothing worth: send your Holy Spirit and pour into our hearts that most excellent gift of love, the true bond of peace and of all virtues, without which whoever lives is counted dead before you. Grant this for your only Son Jesus Christ’s sake. Amen._ 

Rev Peter Davies Associate Priest 

## **Ministry Team** 

Phil Kear and Ian Cramp from Claines and Alison Clarke and Lyn Crowther from Saint George’s, embarked on training to become Authorised Lay Ministers in Leading Worship. They were licensed in September 2023 and have worked to lead worship during the vacancy. 

Rachel Cramp completed her training to become a Licensed Lay Minister (Reader). She was licensed as a Reader (LLM) in September and continues to develop her role during the vacancy, leading worship and preaching in both churches.   She continues her roles at Claines School as Governor, leading assemblies and Godly Play. 

From September to December Lay clergy worked to provide services, usual and occasional. We were supported to be able to do this by retired priests Rev Jennie and Rev Peter, visiting priests and by the Rural Dean Diane Cooksey. We are grateful for their time and support. 

## **Gratitude** 

We are thankful for the work of the Mother’s Union, who are involved in every aspect of church life and give generously of their time for services including Weddings, baptisms, funerals. 

Thanks to Tammara for her work as Parish Administrator, which has increased 

Page **13** 



during the vacancy. She undertakes her role with a caring and efficient presence, ensuring parish news is spread and supports both churches. 

Music plays a key part in our parish worship. Thanks go to Sue Ashby and Alison Clarke for their contribution not only playing and singing but also helping to choose the hymns and songs for our services, especially during the vacancy. We are grateful for all the time and energy put into the varied music offerings at St. George’s. 

We had our annual Carol Service in December with some beautiful carols and thought-provoking readings.  Many thanks to Barbara, Elisabeth and Sue. 

We are very grateful for the huge amount of hard work of our treasurer, Trish Greenwood who works unstintingly on our behalf. 

## **Rev Jo’s Retirement** 

Rev. Jo retired at the end of September and had her first farewell service and party at St. George’s. The second one at Claines followed later in the month. She was overwhelmed with the generosity and outpouring of love shown by both congregations.  She said that although it was the right decision for her saying goodbye was one of the hardest things she’d done but knew we would be ok for the future.  Many thanks to all those who helped make that such a wonderful occasion for her. 

## **Looking ahead** 

Work to appoint a new Priest in Charge began before Rev. Jo retired, with her consent. The PCCs of both churches are grateful for the additional time this has afforded us in filling the role.  St. George’s and Claines have worked jointly to create a Parish Profile, which is used to advertise the role.  We are grateful for all the work that was put into this particularly by Alison Clarke. The post has been advertised nationally and applications are due to close in January 2024. A big thank you to everyone (too numerous to mention) who have kept St. George’s running smoothly particularly during the vacancy. 

## **Church Wardens Report** 

Following the resignation of Pam Summers at last year’s APCM St. George’s has been without a church warden.  Many thanks to Pam for all her hard work during her time as church warden.  This, of course, has not finished as she is now one of the duty wardens along with Chris Bishop, Trish Greenwood, Margaret Stokes and Clive Crowther. 

The PCC are very grateful for all that they do in helping to keep the many aspects that make up the services of St. George’s running smoothly. 

These services include Sundays and Wednesdays.  Thanks to Pam, Trish, Joy, Bob, Barbara, Margaret who act as welcomers on Wednesdays. 

During the vacancy many others have stepped forward or continued to be stalwarts in helping with all the various ‘services’ required to keep the ‘show on the road’.  It has been difficult, but thankfully we have managed to do it.  A special mention must go to Trish who is the backbone of the church and does many of the necessary jobs behind the scenes. 

Page **14** 



**Safeguarding** (Mark Hugill, Parish Safeguarding Admin) **Safeguarding Principles** 

The PCC are committed to abide by the Church of England’s safeguarding guidance to ensure we are 

protecting our children, young people and vulnerable adults.  The safeguarding policy was signed on 16th January 2024. 

Lyn Crowther took over as Parish Safeguarding Officer on 13th June 2023, whilst I have maintained administrative duties.  I have continued to administer DBS checks for participants in church activities involving children and vulnerable adults and tracking progress in several areas on the Safeguarding Portal. The Diocesan office has continued to be a valuable source of support and guidance to achieve this aim.  Lyn is your first contact for any safeguarding concerns. 

In line with Diocesan office processes, I have continued to review various areas of church safeguarding on the Safeguarding Portal, including Church Activities, liaising with representatives for 

updates and guidance where appropriate. DBS checks have progressed amongst volunteers within these Church Activities, although some remain outstanding.  There has been a push to increase the pool of volunteers for activities involving children, including the revived Messy Church further to the appointment of Helen Laird. 

As a church we should ensure we comply with the Church of England’s Safer Recruitment and People Management Guidance so that we are protecting our children, young people and vulnerable adults. Anyone running/supervising a church activity should please visit www.churchofengland.org/safeguarding/safeguarding-e-manual/saferrecruitment-and-peoplemanagement-guidance so as you are aware of guidance prior to getting new volunteers on board. 

Please remember that DBS checks run for 3 years rather than the previous 5 years. Please seek help if you are having difficulties with the online DBS system, the new Confidential Declaration Form or 

accessing the safeguarding training website. 

There will be a safeguarding audit in the Worcester Diocese from 1st-5th July 2024 and we may be 

required to be a part of this.  More information should be forthcoming from the Diocesan office. 

Please note that I will be stepping down from safeguarding administration duties after the APCM. 

Thank you for your support. 

Page **15** 



## **Financial Matters** _**(Trish Greenwood)**_ 


Page **16** 



## **FINANCIAL REVIEW** 

## **Investment Policy** 

The PCC’s investment policy is regularly reviewed by members.  The Council seeks to maximise long term income without exposing capital to undue risk. 

## **Reserves Policy** 

The PCC’s policy is to invest funds balances with the CBF Church of England Deposit Fund. 

## **PCC Members Responsibility** 

The PCC members are responsible for preparing the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice. 

The Charity Law requires the PCC members to prepare financial statement for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the PCC and of the surplus or deficit of the PCC for that period.  In preparing these financial statements, the PCC members are required to: 

- select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; 

- make judgement and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; 

- prepare financial statement on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the PCC will continue in business. 

The PCC members are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the PCC and to enable them to ensure responsible for safeguarding the assets of the PCC and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. 

The largest item of expenditure was in respect of the Ministry Share which was £26,828 which is a small increase of £500 on the previous year. The loss during the year of £6868 is mainly due to the regular giving of people who unfortunately have died, left the church or had to decrease their giving. 

Page **17** 




**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
d<br>Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA)<br>Unrestricted Funds / Designated & Restricted Funds<br>Debtors / Liabilities / Fund Details<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


Page **18** 



Tht P*roehi*l Chureh Council of The E¢¢tl¢slAstioal Parisb of
S*ittt Ceor¥E Ivith SAtnl mAry.m￿0￿klltyW￿r¢¢3Icr
Charlty Number 1128943
Balance Sheei *% 1131 J)¢ttmb¢r 2023
UnTr*tri¢￿Desl8nthd R¢Stri¢￿1 EAdowDml TO￿ r
Fiird8
F￿￿5
2023
2022
Notes £
FIXEDASSBTS
ive5tsnents
3210
3210
3013
3210
3210
3013
Cb'RkEKf ASSk'l'%
Debtors and Pr¢¥Etyrn¢nts
5hortterni iiqxksits
Cash at B8nk
2605
2605
88119
43095
2470
13003
56207
13003
40822
2273
43427
77389
I3￿3
133819 71680
LEABILLI'ILS
Amowits [￿ling dts¢ wiihinon¢yeaT
4935
4935
NET CIJRRf..NT ASSETS
77389
13M3
128884
598fj9
TQTALNBT ASSETS
38492
77389
13003
3210 132094 62882
PARISHFUNDS
UnL?qtr1¢￿lFI1lld$
Dest￿￿te&R￿gErI¢t￿l FuDd5
Enth)wnJcJrtFtstsJs
38492
38492
90392
3210
45360
14509
3013
77389
I3￿3
3210
38492
77389
I3￿3
3210 132D94 62882
Apwyed by thcP￿Dth1￿l Churd] on
Si￿ on its b¥half by
AN
PC'C Chgir
Trwuter
Page 19

Ch*wlty Yum￿r 1138943
Not¢s fiDArrclxlat41¢m¢•ts forthty¢ar Ènded 31 TJrtfmhtr201J
I. ACeOllNITNG POLJC
Prep*raliD
The fn)wi4I staie4fLents u]](krth¢ hI¥￿￿(al CO￿ ¢xeqJt forthe inve4111￿tA whi¥h EW¢ includ£d 8tM$rkd vuIuo. 05
vdified lry lts¢E¢vJ￿l0rt o1'cert￿&￿Y1B withth P]nw￿lA114erKmt&ti¥Sia￿￿Wlfo[8MaII￿￿Htt￿￿41effCctiveAryiI 21)081 th
ChariTie¥ Acl 2Ql l And th¢wwr¢mthtsoflhe of Recom￿￿thI PraLtiC4 A¢wonillt¥8ftd Rcportio8 by thaitiJt5, Try do ￿t the
yLtsoec]wrth 8tDUP8ibBtowtthiT uwnaffib&t*YkfrJ an(ther bDdy. ty tlw)se IhatBttinf<Kwl ￿be￿n&S of¢h￿￿h membet5.
(kli￿alfi￿rts rePr￿Ent fa]nd50f thePCL Th)1 Subjedlts*tsy￿StrJdI0W tegardingtsSTuse BDdrtrt av?ilBbkfor8FyIictitioTJ on the 8eRer81
pUrp0y￿ u1.￿ pcc. fun(ls bv It￿. Ifc fw purFw¢ os¢ al￿ IuDd¥are fuDds of wbicb th¢ ¢q)lthl
mtiiothin£d. ttwine fTOW may iinreytrj￿1tt¢oH
RC1￿Cted fiIThlqr9YfS￿I{￿I ￿￿￿mCfT0rn ￿￿pu41¢d(mI)Y lI￿r¢￿ri¢l￿1 obj&ts th¢ tsrrnsofthotrusi, donollon ut
an¢ ￿CtlY￿3 Thr fiN￿5￿&yon1Y syeLIfiG￿J￿ forw.htthkn We￿ 85Vak AYLyknknrte Erttbainll￿￿1i9peth At
reEthy¥w nw81 ￿&￿[i¢d lorn•Jd￿ & bRIwt7ntt* fwmi. 'll￿v('l lllY•t ayAr• WhNelkne is tto
¥KPRfd* iDv¢simwL uJierLst ApTrxtsot￿l tt* wdivid￿[ r￿S on thavuaBrbDIwKe bosi8.
BndowiDentfwith ￿{With1 trf whiLb unfv iw)J￿e WiSill8 &vJn iijvesthientof u*l¢ither 85
rcstrid¢a or fvrT￿idl ea*oWiFJx
YHtyur¢¢b
Plantth 8ri'in%, ￿1Ved. TK< EefiHth ￿¢1￿¢￿￿{1&￿w￿￿*]jMl￿R1llg Th4u￿tswh1ChIW relate is
¢j%"¢d. (il'unts alldIe8&L'￿% ttttrlfl., 18 IcgDIty Divi11￿d5￿￿￿XDlM￿gd￿j￿*knre￿jVlbk,
interesr is ac(7￿ All 01￿ TrAY>n￿ ig tew8Diz¢d it is re￿il*bIL All incoming res¢Mir¢ty for 8ross.
8aiNsurlth¥¥es iio bOv¢4￿1¢nts i% i)Jwdised8dir¢ètt1o3￿ ott ru'ount¢d for Inth¢
GraDts and d0nllii0￿ llre ￿ld￿ver. or illlrfjt cre4t2$4lHt¥JiTrgoTCOSLWn￿1lI*Qbb￿r￿ti U)r PCC.. 11
Dioe¢san S)un5h Shw¢ is for %¥t•)drK. AinwAJ Th%¢iVfxl wfdly fDr MISJÉOD Xtr dthitwith furAs. Al1otlMsox￿dtlur£ is
8enerallN' rttow>irtd wE*ftii 14 iIKiUTed ard for ST￿1. e.Iwth¥*iwilitO¢XTfuMCY Cl￿1*￿[￿￿$ ih ￿X￿￿kill8thB PCL'q worl 10 iuttt il
objeLgiV(L (ltivtttsath￿C￿￿S￿￿lstorI￿e￿per￿ts oy￿S¥cl￿g ￿￿[k￿fIbcpcc.
Tr7AcII AJyetB
CoFLrecrthedlotdandbuildiy ondmowthle ¢lwGhJiuTrKshv
Cort8¢ci*q4 and b£￿¢¢￿￿KrtY tx in¢lud¢d sn th¢ •C{￿￿nts. No is pl￿ed on mnvèble chtWL* furnishing8 held bythe
11trhward￿￿ ￿ S[￿JaI tTusifor &rrc. •MI whith for dTS￿￿￿ since l*epec_ ¢<*￿. this Eok iTr.Tritenabl¢
prvpLrly. All eXp￿dil￿re i11￿￿￿￿j during thL' yw on conMJxted ot l*neficc bilildin￿ whethEr rnatJ)tensncc oi. improvem¢nL ig ivritte4
off a5 ¢xpenditurn in tht SOFA th￿1 FqJThet)' discloBed.
herJiknureJ,fiMiy rfile e4wipw#l
E4uIpment￿￿ thedjwch i.8dcpreciaÉed slrniBbt-lin¥ ovcrfow>rw8. TudivithMI of wipnenl with
r¢has¢ of £l.(K)O oi. less arE wriÈt(x nff when the acqutt
InTre5tments aTe ￿lUed at matk¢t y￿U< Unrealisal reahs¢d gal￿ l<Kw% on iuvethents ate i￿luded inttK of Financial
A¥*ivitie&.
Atnowits oivirJ8 to the PCC tn rtsYrrt*%of E(xoroth# incorne #Ershwn as ¢￿bI￿ lesSSVOViSIOJLS for thÈftllRyprov¢n(rt io
collethabl<
Short lemi dq)0sits ind￿¢￿%￿ kndd oji (kpmit with the CIIIP Lthurch DfE]gland Fillmls or with Ijoyds B8nk pl¢.
Page 20

The P•rochl*l Cbllrrli Cotsrtcil of Tbt ￿teRes1*¥lit￿l PaTlsh ot
S91ni George wlih 5lllnt MAry M*Bd•lellL'. WorcLgter
Ch*rltv Number 1128943
ly￿￿$ to the VINAHcig1 $141¢meDt for tht year e#d*l 31 D¢cethber 20LI
2 JNCOMJNG RESOLRCES
Unrestrith&l Design￿ R¢stricled
Fut¥Js
ds
Totsj Funds
2023
2022
FwLd3
Voh]ntary tncorlle
Planned giViDg.'
(￿ft Aid Donati
'laxrecover8ble
oft gift tiid
Collxtioix loprn plnte) ftt All s¢r¥ic
Sundry t1)i￿liOnS
ILg#cics
WC.C. Qil'lttts
OrB8n FUNI
24308
7,150
4.1(K)
1.184
1.483
26,308
7.150
4.100
1,184
1,739
75,116
344
8,898
5.563
4,680
2,807
256
75.116
675
40.225
115.597
50.967
Activities fw 8¢tKr4tiTJg fiJtLd8
Fuud rnising
Trai(kr
4.412
14Q
4.412
140
5,462
4.552
4,552
5.597
Chts￿h A¢ttvIIi¢s
.029
2.805
9.447
1.029
1805
9,447
1.081
4,870
9.078
l.cLtiI)Eg- LThuTch
ttttli￿s. MaEadulf4Jc R(K)m
13.281
15,029
In￿)￿ frDtn inv￿tnmts
Jntcre5r
1,443
1,443
1.443
1.443
170
170
ilk￿n￿llg tESOUT
58.058
76,815
114,873
Page 21

The P•rochl¥l Church Counrll ofTh¢ Kttt1¢51A3tlcNI Parlsh Of
Saint Ge•rge with Sli￿1 Mary Magdalellp. M'orcester
ChArity Niimbw I l28943
Nolu to the IIMn¢lAI for the year •ndtd31 D*e*btr 2023
3 RBSOURCBS EXPENDED
Utirts¢rictsd Duign￿￿ Re51ri¢trAI Endowintnt
Funds
Funds
FuDds
Fund$
2022
2023
Fyndraisin8 Costs
1147
Missionary & Charitsble glYitt8
Horn¢
Othcr Lherritieg
1500
loo
3600
4247
4247
4247
4247
Lk8Acie8
535
Ctswch Adivttlcs
Minisuy..
Dioce5all P8Tish Share
Ministry Support FuNd
CleJ,￿ expcnyey
Visi￿agc1s[gY
Music aud Wor5bip
Churth buildu)85
Ru[￿￿)8
In$iirpnre
26828
26828
26302
40(M)
1082
962
12J
3210
962
123
3210
4487
6025
3687
431
2001
2157
3850
2185
2973
613
4487
6025
3687
431
2001
2157
385
2185
2973
1869
5477
ChildrcJ]'q Wotk
Magdal¢iie R￿]ll. w515
M￿,￿Ul¢jI¢ Kooni- uiilitieB
Major Kep to Room
Sundry costs
PATI￿7 Ollic4' ii)iiiribulioAI
HelEn Lalrd (cliildrenl
Comtnunily PrnI￿
Prof￿10n￿l Tre¢ylAudi(I
124
1896
1399
1033
2149
932
9.12
96
59532
932
60464
53596
Totsl rcsourccs used
64926
932
65858
58772
Page 22

The P#roehlal Cburch Ctsuncll ofThe Eeccleslastlcal P*rlsh or
S#lttt CeDrye wltb S&inl Mary M*gd¥lene, Ivorcester
Ch*rlty Number 1128943
Ntstes to the flmon¢l41 sl*t¢ments for the year ended 31 December 2023
Fixed A$xets uwl by th¢ pcr
Not
Mwk¢t Murk
Valur
Valiie
E#drJwrnent Trund5 rThnpri8e four fijnds held th the nym¢ofThe Wotte8ter
Di()ctsan TnL81 R4i#ier¢d145 Trus¢ee81, for the PCC.:.
2023
2022
The CBF aiurLh of EnglalldF￿￿ tlltere81 Fund
6896.96 lrtm¢ Shpto QJaTtiy for Ecclt&i&8tic41 Puryos¢i
The CBF Ctwrchuf Engl8tkl ITrv¢sthient fut￿. 55 ShHrrs
Beque8tof the latc Ernily Hu8hc8 for Assistant Clergy
1243
1.135
The CBF Chwrh of Engl8t￿ Invtt*tmenl FuNI-79 Incothe Shsrts
T A Jo[￿S DiscicfiOh&ry Tru81
1786
1.631
Thc CBF Churth of Enxland Dysit Fw
3,210
Dclknrs.. Arno￿￿ r￿lin% due withing1￿ y￿r
2023
1386
1.082
Debtors
219
1.388
2,005
2,470
Liabiiiti¢8'. Am(Nwts ￿11￿8 wiihlll on¢ y¢4r
2,023
2.022
Crtslitors
5,995
Novemu￿Cratroll Or￿p￿s￿ have Trgid to 8ny of trust¢¢5 duingth¢ y¢ar.
F￿1￿% D¢tAils
Tk d#sigNi¢d Sniall Fund¥ I￿[￿de..
2(
2022
F￿)%￿ I'und
Quio't Gdrdb
Wo[L￿ter show
K￿￿d[)M Ali8
Noth Atk
171
123
163
48
414
85
l)urin8 thoy¢or w¢ hove mad¢ twnonts and various charities..
Lhrislian Aid. LhildiYAiS Syii¥iy. Wo¢wt¢r A K(Klia"frusi,
Flible s￿.￿ety. fvfytriad Cffitr< Libya thi'oughChri8riiin Aid, Roylll Brilish Lt8ior4
dmbrocc rh¢ Miildl¢ C￿1. s)m.￿ruIk￿ Eartlwu8k6 1)]icl garden TN8L
National Chwches Tnis¢, St P8ub Hostel,Maw Day Centre.
Page 23

## **Activities in the Parish** 

## **Church and Magdalene Room Bookings 2022/23** _**(Barbara Rolison)**_ 

My grateful thanks go to everyone who has supported me this year. [You know who you are] 

The hire charges for regular hire are: - 

£16 an hour for the hall 

- £40 an hour for the church. 

Parties are at a higher rate of £60 [3 hours] and one-off meetings are £25. Church concerts are £250 [5 hours] with an hourly hire at £55 

## **Magdalene Room:** 

- The summer fair team used the Magdalene room and kitchen in July. 

- There were 5 children’s birthday parties. 

- Most classes take a summer break during the school holidays. 3 classes continued throughout. 

- All previous regular hirers [9 classes every week, 1 monthly on 2nd Sunday] continued this year. 

- A new temporary hirer joined in January. 

- There are spaces for more mostly in afternoons. 

- 3 hirers elected to use the church during the insulation and hatch work in the hall. 

- Mothers Union and Kingdom Arts and Café church have a regular monthly booking. 

- The classical guitar society also meet monthly and hold a summer concert with afternoon tea. 

- There was a wedding reception in the Magdalene room. 

- There were several events for Christian Aid. 

- Messy church runs Saturday events seasonally. 

- A group of local artists had a Christmas Art Fair and it was so successful that they have booked again for this year. 

- A weekly calendar of bookings is displayed on the notice board in the link FYI. 

- Kathy continues to clean 2 early mornings each week. A temporary cleaner was employed during January, when she was away. 

## **Church Bookings** 

- Kingdom Arts continues to thrive and increase in new attendees from across the Diocese and beyond! 

- St. Georges School held the following services, Leavers service, Harvest, Remembrance, Christmas, Candlemas and Easter. They visit occasionally during the year in year groups. 

- The regular free lunchtime concerts have variable audiences and continued through the Summer, Autumn, and Spring, not December, raising small amounts for the church. Many of the attendees are new to St Georges Church. 

- In August there was a family concert, an additional Jazz evening, raised £100 for the church. 

- WPO rehearse in church on Wednesday evenings. 

- There have weekend piano pupil concerts, with more booked. 

- The Ceilidh was greatly appreciated and great fun. 

Page **24** 



- There was a wedding in October. 

- The Christmas Carol Concert was greatly enjoyed. 

## **Fabric Committee report – Bob Rolison** 

## **Church Fixtures & Fittings** 

- Sorted the organ store with Trish. 

- Replaced all 3 locks (in front door, outside door, office access door), and the link door lock. 

- Several items of surplus furniture (tables and chairs) and wood removed. 

- The clock was serviced. 

- The boiler was serviced. 

- Quote obtained to repair water ingress to South tower. Now in progress. 

- Replacement of the PIR controlling the path light. 

- Quote obtained to provide additional light to path. 

- Weekly maintenance continues with ongoing repairs, mending, fixing, signage etc. eg:- 

   - Obtained new keys for 2 of the filing cabinets in the office. 

   - Replaced lock (together with key) in office desk drawer. 

   - Fitted (stacking) labels to large chair trolleys. 

## **Magdalene Room Fixtures & Fittings** 

- The insulation in Magdalene loft and the central heating pipes was increased. 

- The opportunity was taken to make a larger and safer loft hatch with access from the hall and an integral ladder. 

- All but the heaviest gazebos (for the summer fair) were stored in the Magdalene loft, together with other summer fair items. 

- The boiler was serviced. 

- The Christmas decorations were stored in the ‘small’ loft (accessed from the disabled toilet hatch). 

- Repaired the failed lock in one of the toilet doors. 

- Mirror fitted in disabled toilet. 

- Dog poo sign put up in quiet garden near Magdalene room door. 

## **Rota organiser - Sue Cottam** 

I organise the monthly rota of volunteers for the main St George’s Church service. Our volunteers do an amazing job each week - Church services would not take place without them. 

The roles are various: Intercessor - person leading prayer 

- A server and one or two chalice assistants for when we celebrate Holy Communion 

- Duty Warden 

- Sides people/Welcomers (x2) 

Page **25** 



- Readers (x2) - readings from the Bible are set dependent on the time of year 

- in the Church calendar 

- Children & Young People Worship Leaders (twice monthly) 

I receive a Service Provision each month telling me which clergy are presiding and who will be providing music (organ/piano/band); during the vacancy our Parish administrator is coordinating this for both churches. 

Since I took over this role we have lost quite a few of our volunteers and therefore we are always looking out for additional folk to put themselves forward for whatever role they think they might like to do.  If you don’t currently volunteer, please pray for guidance and see what God may have in mind for you! 

## **Kingdom Arts Report  (Alex New & Sue Ashby-Davies)** 

It has been another full and exciting year at Kingdom Arts. We are grateful to God for what he has taught us, for the people who have joined us and for the support and encouragement we receive from one another. We look to celebrate in this report all that God has done for us this year. 

We have loved unpacking our new theme where we’ve looked at the stories behind some of our well-known hymns, songs and poems of faith. Thank you to those on the team, who researched these songs and presented them in such exciting and imaginative ways. 

We have heard the stories behind “Silent night”, “It is well with My Soul”, Woodbine Willie’s” poetry and some African American Spirituals to mention a few. It’s been so uplifting to sing some of them in our times of Worship. The Artwork always ties in with the theme and its quite incredible to listen to the comments at the end of our morning on not only what people have learnt from the various art techniques, but what God might have brought to them through this time together. The creative writing that people produce is quite something and often brings a tear to your eye. Do look at the website and see what is produced each month. (www.kingdom-arts.co.uk) 

We had a visit from one of the Diocesan Communications teams before Christmas. She was writing an article on New Worshipping Communities using us as an example. We have appeared twice in the Diocesan Prayer diary in 2023/24!! 

We are developing and encouraging more people to take roles in running some of the “art” tables. We are amazed at the talent God has brought and is continuing to bring to our fellowship. None of this would happen without the support, care, love, hard work and encouragement of the amazingly gifted team. Each member brings their own particular and unique gifts and talents to be used unstintingly. Barbara and Bob, Clive and Lyn, Jan Butterworth, Pam, Trevor, Margaret Stokes, Carolyn. Our morning would not be complete without the delicious soup that our Super Chef Jan makes. We can’t thank you enough, Jan. 

We continue to thank God for his provision for us and look forward to all that this year may bring to us. 

Page **26** 



## **Summer Fair (Elisabeth Witter)** 

This year, we were delighted to be entertained by Jodie Lauren, Shulah Oliver and the Worcester 

Ukelele orchestra. I have been running these fairs since 2007 and this was the first time that we 

have had loads of rain – I think we were more than due. Lots of rain restricted the number of people 

who came, but it doesn’t restrict all the work that everyone puts in. Thank you so much – to each 

and every one of you, especially our Anthony. Together we raised £1880. 

## **Children Young people and Family Worker [CYF worker]** 

Helen Laird was appointed as the new CYF worker for 3 churches from October 2023. She has skills, experience, empathy. And lots of ideas. 

After a time of settling in, Helen has worked specifically with St Georges school with Godly play, the children’s worship leaders and Open the Book. At church she has begun to establish or support regular groups e.g. Children’s church and youth group. 

Events are now being planned for Pancake day across the churches and for Easter with schools. 

The Joint Churches Mission Group, who oversee the joint role are: St George’s; Elisabeth Witter and Barbara Rolison St Stephen’s: Robyn Rooney, Sarah Smith Claines: Anna Skeats, Lorraine Deeprose Revd. Lyndsay will oversee this project and Rachel Cramp will temporarily be Helen’s line manager. 

## **Report for APCM St Georges 2024 from Helen Laird, Children’s families and youth worker** 

I started work for St Georges, Claines & St Stephens at the end of September 2023. After a 

period of induction, I have been getting to know the three churches and some of the local schools. 

I have submitted a report to the churches Mission Group, which this should be read alongside. However, specifically for St Georges, work carried out, since the last PCC: 

- Gather - December 6th 2 families came. I heard we were clashing with an event run by Sansome Walk which I intend to visit on February 14th . I now 

Page **27** 



have their dates, so am arranging Gather so as not to clash with their fortnightly offer. 

- January 24th – The school did not advertise, Lucy was not working that day, the head chased but unfortunately the parent mail was not sent – no one came. The team had a planning meeting. 

- February 28th is the next Gather – this has been advertised and will be re-advertised. 

- March 19th is the following date for Gather where we will use the Experience Easter resources. 

## **St Georges School** 

I have joined the assembly rota along with Pam and Barbara and did an assembly on Joy in January. 

I have joined the Open the Book team, and we led an assembly in December. A Splat the Snowman was taken into St Georges to be a presence at The School Fayre, the splat the Snowman was built by the Youth Group. A tentative link between waiting to hit the snowman at the right time and waiting during Advent. 

I had to re-build the church year clock as the sticky Velcro had not been substantial enough, this Velcro has now been glued to the backing. 

I worked with members of the school council to re-write the school prayer: 

_Dear Lord, thank you for our friends, family and those who help us. Thank you for your good gifts to us._ 

_We are sorry we don’t always love your world and everyone in it. Please protect those we love._ 

_Please help us to be the best that we can be every day. Amen_ 

This was used at the assembly in January where we asked for feedback to school council 

members to see if any amendments were required. 

## **Open the Book** 

I along with Lynn Satchell trained the St Georges OtB team on February 5, the training was 

advertised by both the Diocese and Open the Book and there were 30 attendees. 

## **Riversides** 

January 13th, Rachel and I took Godly Play into the Primary Years and told the Holy Family 

story, the school then provided crafts for reflection time and then we came back together for our celebration/prayer time. The session was very well received, the school did a write up which can be found on their website Godly Play Visit – Riversides School. I hope to return to the school again with further Godly Play stories. 

Page **28** 



## **POG (Path of God)** 

The joint churches youth group met in January where we had a session about how special they are using Max Lucado’s book, ‘You’re Special’. The next session is planned for February 

25th , where Becky is planning a lent session using a deal or no deal format. 

## **Activity Sheets** 

I am copying activity sheets from Footprint (for older children), Step by Step (for younger children) and Roots which are being placed weekly in the children’s area at church. Unused 

ones are being collected to be utilised again at the appropriate time in x3 years. 

## **Plans** 

## **Children’s worship** 

I have been asked to be at St Georges on a 3rd Sunday to help set up a children’s worship, volunteers will be required to join the children’s worship team. 

## **Experience Easter** 

Both St Georges and Riversides are booked to visit church on March 19th to the Experience 

Easter event. This will be a full day, and I need volunteers to do the whole day or ½ day, to 

sit on a chair at a ‘station’ and read the text. 

**Pancake Party** – It had been hoped to run a pancake party but due to a lack of volunteers, 

email sent to Mission group, this is now too late to organise. 

## **Concerns** 

Volunteers are the main concern for my role as a whole. My role is to equip and encourage members of church within the children’s and youth ministry not to do it all without volunteers my role will be difficult to fulfil. There are several people who are volunteering in these roles for which I am grateful – we need more. **Children's Work (Elisabeth Witter)** 

As you know, Becky L, Pam H and myself have been running a Children and Youth worship session 

every first Sunday of the month. Our numbers fluctuate, generally getting between 2 and 12 

children. Recently, we have also re-introduced Children and Youth worship on the third Sunday. 

This summer, Lyn C ran a session almost every week, as we had such a need. Thanks so much. 

We still need one more person to help with this. If you are able to help, please let one of us know. 

This year, we have also continued our monthly Youth Group and, since Helen L has been given the 

Page **29** 



role with the three churches, this is now run for all three of those churches, alternating around them. The Youth Group is great fun and we have around 12 for most sessions. 

Last year, we ran two Messy Church sessions – what joy! 

Thanks to the whole team. Those who help regularly and those who step up when needed. You are all fab. 

## **Carol Service (Elisabeth Witter)** 

We were once again delighted to be able to hold our Carol Service this year. It really seems to bring Christmas into focus. Thanks to those who came, to Barbara R for organising the service, to those who organised the mulled wine and cakes following the service and to our stupendous Sue for all of her hard work. Thanks to all of our wonderful singers and readers. 

## **Christian Aid – annual report (Alison Clarke combined report Claines and St George’s)** 

‘Everyone is equal in the sight of God.’ 

For over 75 years, this truth has inspired Christian Aid to stand together in solidarity with our most marginalised global neighbours, of all faiths and none.  Poverty is an outrage against humanity. It robs people of their dignity and lets injustice thrive. 

As a Christian Aid Emergency Church, St George’s is able to respond quickly in times of need. We were able to donate generously to the Africa Hunger Crisis appeal in 2022, as well as to the 

Turkey/Syria earthquakes appeal in 2023. 

In May 2023 at St George’s, our Christian Aid Week service was led by Revd. Lindsey. We learned about and prayed for rural farmers in Malawi, about the benefits – in the context of the changing 

climate - of cultivating pigeon peas instead of traditional crops. At Claines, just over £100 and at St George’s almost £1,000 was raised through generous giving, challenges and a folk concert. A big ‘thank you’ to Sue Cottam for her Pigeon Peas Challenge. 

In 2023, shortly after the outbreak of war in the Middle East, we used Christian Aid resources to hold a prayer vigil for peace in Gaza, Israel and Palestine, as well as in Ukraine. This was a joint initiative of St George’s and St John Baptist, Claines and was attended by people from other denominations and Anglican churches. 

In February 2024, St George’s hosted the Worcester Christian Aid group’s annual Fish and Chip 

Supper. This was held in the Magdalene Room and well attended by around 50 people. We enjoyed a great supper, provided by Paul at the Golden Gourmet restaurant on the Tything. We learned about Christian Aid’s work in Sierra Leone from CA supporter Paul Grime and abut themes for  Christian Aid Week 2024 from Church Engagement and Fundraising Officer for the West Midlands, Batanai Padya. We were also delighted to be able to recognise our dear friend Dot 

Page **30** 



Johnson for her many years of service and campaigning with Christian Aid’s Long Service Award. 

To get involved with Christian Aid activities or to find out more, please speak to Alison Clarke - 

clarke.alison@gmail.com 

## **Bible Reading Fellowship (Joy Kyte)** 

BRF (The Bible Reading Fellowship) produce several guides in booklet form providing practical insights and helping to shed fresh light on well-known and not so-well known bible passages, sometimes sharing the writers’ spiritual journey with the reader. Contributors are drawn from a range of different Church backgrounds. The notes come in several forms, which are detailed on the church notice board. The most popular with St George’s readers are ‘New Daylight’ which can also be purchased in large print. 

The booklets are produced three times per year, January, May and September, at an average annual cost of £14.97 or £19.05 for large print. 

To obtain any of the above-mentioned booklets, or to find out more, please speak to Joy Kyte on 01905 27863 or at jpkyte@tiscali.co.uk 

## **The Flower Guild (Jan Tovey)** 

I remain a ‘guild’ of one, with the occasional help of my family on special festival days. Easter, Harvest, Remembrance and Christmas are the main celebrations and do involve more preparation and organising – not to mention clearing up. This is when my loyal band of immediate family are so helpful. Each week I arrange or tidy the flowers and pop in 2-3 times to give them a drink. One day soon I shall have to admit to defeat, because of age and health, and send out a plea to anyone who would consider working alongside me. 

You are not marked out of 10 for skills but your friendship and support would mean the world. 

Thanks to everyone for your continuous donations towards the festivals and I shall endeavour to keep this commitment to God and to the church as long as I can. 

## **GREEN TEAM/ ECO CHURCH REPORT TO APCM (Alison Clarke)** 

Eco Church is A Rocha UK’s award scheme for churches in England and Wales who want to demonstrate that the gospel is good news for God’s earth. It offers an accreditation scheme for churches wanting to become as ‘green’ as possible and covers all areas of church life: Worship and Teaching, Management of Church Buildings and Land, Community and Global Engagement and Lifestyle. 

Page **31** 



St George’s was awarded the Silver award in late 2023. We are now working towards the Gold award – much more challenging. 

Unfortunately, due to the demands on my time, I have not been able in the past year, to develop ideas for the Green Team, in particular to get the children and young people involved. However, the church as a whole has responded really well to recycling as. We collect soft plastics [crisp packets, pill bubble strips, plastic wrappers etc, which cannot be placed in domestic recycling bins], batteries and ink cartridges and I take these to the bigger supermarkets for recycling. We also send cartridges to a scheme which makes donations to charity on our behalf for this recycling. The current beneficiary is the RNLI. 

Alongside Trisha’s work in monitoring our energy use, we have taken our first steps to reducing the carbon footprint of our buildings by having new loft insulation installed in the Magdalene Room. As a PCC we are beginning to explore how we navigate towards net zero in the years to come. 

There are some excellent resources on the A Rocha [Eco Church] website which will help us all to understand these challenges better. 

## **School Report (Pam Summers)** 

The link between St. George's CofE School and Church continues to grow new links while keeping traditions at the heart of our joint family. Barbara, Alison and myself are School Governors. 

Each term School attends major festival services in church. Key stage one and two take it in turn to lead the services. Parents have been very supportive and we have had well attended services throughout the year. This year's Harvest Festival donated  more than 300 items to the Foodbank. 

During the year class visits to church take place as part of R.E. and the questions that are asked are varied and challenging. Each nook and cranny that we may accept as "just" part of the building are investigated and have to be explained. Visits to the Cathedral are treated in the same way. If you think you know "church" look again with the eyes of a 5 year old and rediscover the beauty, history and meaning of our buildings. 

Open the Book visits took on a new look as some of the "long service members" retired. Barbara and myself kept a link with the Church as leaders of Monday Assemblies. The new team of Helen, Barbara, Sue, Helen and myself are now back in school twice a term. 

Due to bad weather I was unable to arrange a visit to the Quiet Garden for the then Y1 class. Instead we held an indoor version which was just as thoughtful. Hopefully it will be rescheduled during the coming Summer. 

Just before the end of Autumn Term I was able to visit year R (Reception) and present them with knitted Teddies (which had been blessed by Rev. Peter)  made by members of our congregation. As always the excitement and joy from the children make this such a worthwhile activity. 

The highlight of my School Year (also my most scary) was an invitation to face year 3 and 4 and answer questions on why I am a Christian. How would you answer.... **.How do I know I'm a Christian and how do I show it?** 

Page **32** 



## **APCM report from Deanery Synod for 2023** 

The Worcester Area Deanery Synod has been established for three years. In the year 2023 there were three formal meetings of the Deanery Synod and one gathering of members for the Ascension Day Service (18th May) which was at Hallow. The first meeting was held at the parish church of St Philip and St James in Hallow in March. Area Dean, Revd Diane Cooksey, asked the outgoing Archdeacon, Robert Jones to lead us in worship. Revd Kalantha Brewis the Vicar at Hallow gave an overview of the four churches that make up the West Worcester Beacon Group of churches with Hallow being the largest, but also including Grimley, Holt, and Lower Broadheath. The (then) Lay Chair, Robert Pearce, gave an update on vacancies – particularly the Saltway Team which is to be provided with an extra 50% diocesan post to make it up to a full-time post – and the position of retired, Revd David Sherwin’s position to be filled as a ‘House for Duty’.  Feedback was given from the Diocesan Synod and a copy of that summary later circulated for PCC members and Parish Secretaries. If you as a Parishioner did not get a copy of that and want to in the future then ask your Deanery Representative or PCC Secretary. 

A question from the floor of the Meeting why we did not ‘as a Deanery’ discuss the ‘Living in Love and Faith’. Revd. Diane Cooksey explained that it had not been a matter for Synods except General Synod although people were encouraged to engage with the Living in Love and Faith (LLF) process. She said that there had been extensive advertising of Diocesan LLF Courses and also as a Deanery we too had provided an online course too so that people could discuss the issues. It had not been well attended. About ‘Kingdom People’ and priorities. Diane Cooksey spoke about the vision for doubling the number of children and young people attending. The intention to fund ‘at least’ two children/youth workers per Deanery. Regarding ‘New Housing Communities’ we were told that money may be available for new building development. Mention was made of ‘Faith at Work’. 

New and returning Synod Members attended the 1st Session of the 2nd Worcester Area Deanery Synod at Broadwas Village Hall in July. The Area Dean reminded the meeting that our Deanery currently has 42 church buildings not including the Cathedral; 12 Benefices; 31 Parishes; 14 stipendiary Clergy; 6 stipendiary Curates; an unknown amount of PTO’s (as some live within or without the Deanery…); 2 self-supporting Curates; 13 LLM’s (and some in training); 27 ALM’s (last year!) of differing vocations. 

Synod Representatives were asked to consider what: 1) Joys; 2) Challenges; that we thought our individual Parishes represented. Diane explained that following the retirement of Revd David Sherwin 18 months ago, it had been agreed that the Northwest parishes of Clifton, The Shelsleys and Harpley will be transferred to the Kidderminster and Stourport Deanery where they will form part of what will 

Page **33** 



be a ‘Rural Mission Area’ with three priests sharing a responsibility for them all. It was hoped that the Rev’d Julia Curtis will be licensed to these parishes in the Autumn. 

Sarah Northall spoke on Mainly Music – Anne Potter spoke about ‘Forest Church’, Lyndsey Coulthard told us of a ‘Sunday Stars’. Money is available (up to £1000 initially) to ‘kickstart’ a project from the Kingdom People fund. 

Diane declared Sue Rowlands – Lay Chair; Paul Fulbrook  – Secretary; Robert Pearce – Treasurer. Diane appointed Revd’s Paul Wilcox and Anne Potter to the Deanery Leadership Team. 

Prayer cards obtained from The Diocese relating to ‘Vision’ and ‘Growth’ were distributed for members to take back to their PCC’s. 

The final meeting took place on Tuesday 14th November 2023 at St Helen’s, Worcester. 

Rev’d Dr Rich Johnson gave Synod some information about the restoration of St Helen’s Church, including a brief history of St Helen, the mother of Emperor Constantine. The meeting was told about the long-term plan for installing a door in the church directly onto the High Street. 

Sue Rowlands, the Lay Chair, gave a brief introduction to herself and said that she would like to be invited to parishes to come and find out more about them. She introduced the three priorities that should be the focus over the next 3 years of this current synod. They are: Praying for one another, Communicating more effectively, Working more Collaboratively where appropriate. 

The date of future meetings was given out including the intention to hold the November 2024 one on a Saturday morning saving the need to travel on a dark night and to allow for a more innovative discussion platform. 

## **Quest Group  - Trish Greenwood** 

The group is for someone who has recently lost a loved one and can chat to others in a similar position. The numbers have stayed at a steady 15 including 3 new members, of which I am very grateful as one has joined the committee after Jo’s leaving and also makes cakes!!  We meet every third Thursday of the month for tea and cake. 

During the year we had afternoon tea at the Cob House we were treated to a lovely tea, and afterwards some went to see the Alpacas in the field. We had Christmas Dinner at the New Inn, Ombersley Road, and as always could not fault the meal and we were looked after very well. We said a sad farewell to Rev Jo as the Quest Group was something she  started when she first came to Claines and St Georges. If you are interested in joining the group please contact Trish for more details. 01905 28580 

## **Mission Accompanier Report - Nigel Tween** 

We began our Mission Accompanier (MA) journey in January 2023. The Diocese of Worcester, transformation and change programme identified the need to develop a Mission Accompanier (MA) scheme to assist parishes in becoming healthier and more sustainable. 

Page **34** 



The purpose of the MA scheme is to enable churches to engage with two key questions: what does health and sustainability look like in our context/setting/tradition, and what do we need to do to get to that point (and what resources/support do you need)? The scheme commenced in the Diocese of Worcester in the Spring of 2022 and has grown to support 64 Churches in 35 contexts (parishes/groups/teams) supported by 24 Mission Accompaniers. 

I am enjoying my MA role working with St John the Baptist, Claines and St George’s, Barbourne. I held regular meetings with Rev Jo Musson and the MA team it was also a pleasure to preach one Sunday at each church and visit some of the midweek activities. Following Rev Musson’s  retirement Phil Kear, Alison Clarke and I have continued to liaise. It is acknowledged that with so many added responsibilities we slowed down during the vacancy. 

In March 2023 we held a Parish-away day with teams from both churches. Various people had been tasked to prepare presentations. We spent time reviewing the past-present life of our parish, and we considered Next steps. This resulted in identifying three primary targets for the “Health and Sustainability” planning. 

- To appoint a Children and Family Worker – Complete! 

- *To develop effective Communication Plan – In progress 

- To continue on going prayer – In progress 

*The greatest need is to work on communication and telling our story, there is no need to launch new activities with so many good and creative programmes already in place. We are wanting to ‘tell our story’. We believe our God is a ‘Welcoming God and we want to be a Welcoming People’. We have begun work on this important task – So, watch this space! 

The Parish Profile is a wonderful witness to the faithfulness of God and His people. The scope, variety and quality of both churches is exemplary. It is encouraging to see all that is being achieved as we live out our witness to Christ 

Finally, it has been an absolute joy to work with you. I am encouraged by the life and activity of the parish. Some churches are understandably still static after Covid. It feels to me that Claines St Johns and St. George’s are in a good place. You are to be congratulated on the breadth and range of all that was achieved. May God continue to bless each of you _._ 

END 29[th] Feb 2024 

_Nigel Tween is our Mission Accompanier. He is married to Rachel and they have three daughters and six grandchildren. Nigel has been a pastor and was Principal of Regents Theological College in West Malvern for ten years. He now spends his time between being grandad and mentoring church leaders and supporting local churches. Nigel and Rachel Live in Wollaston and they attend St Michael’s Norton._ 

## **The Altar Guild – Sacristy (Trish Greenwood)** 

Page **35** 



The Lord’s table is prepared each Sunday by a team of ladies.  The team consists of Judith Peachey, Carolyn Corfield and myself. 

It has changed a little as we are not having communion on the 4[th] Sunday but there is still plenty to do before the Sunday Service.  Silver polished, candles checked, wine and wafers put ready with the linen.  It is then ready for the Eucharist Assistant to put on the altar on Sunday morning.  Thank you ladies for all you do, and for covering for me if I’m away. 

## **Advent Travellers** 

This year the Advent Travellers started out from the church service on the Sunday before Advent.  Helen Laird, children’s, family and youth worker organised for each sheep to have a label asking for them to be returned at the Crib Service on Christmas Eve and quite a few of them were (complete with labels intact ready for this year).  Pam Summers took them into school and did an assembly before sending them off on their journey.  Families could sign up to host the travellers using a link to an internet site and we could all follow their progress on Facebook – either the dedicated page or our church one.  It was great to have them all back for the Crib Service and to see them in the church until they were ‘rested’ at Candlemas to be brought out again next Advent. Thanks to everyone who helped with this. 

## **Gift Aid and Giving (Trish Greenwood)** 

I would first like to thank Yvonne Parker who in the last few years has given me great support in my work as Treasurer. Yvonne took on the Gift Aid several years ago and without her help and several phone calls to the Tax Office the Gift Aid refund is collected quickly and efficiently. 

We have been members of The Parish Giving Scheme for 5 years with 21 on the scheme, this is similar to direct debit. We have 16 who pay by Standing Order and 7 on the weekly envelope scheme. Whichever way you choose to give when the giving is regular it helps me to budget for the year. The tax collected on the Gift Aid for the year totalled £7150. 

If you would like to give to the church but not sure which way is best for you and the church, please have a word with me. 

“ _Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver_ ” 2 CORINTHIANS 9:7 

## **Mother’s Union (Carolyn Corfield – Branch Leader)** 

This year has been a struggling one for the branch, two members, Janet Peplow and Tabitha Selvarajah sadly died, and one member moved away from Worcester, Valerie Prodger.  We miss their presence and input to the Branch. 

Our Spring Fair was well attended and we raised £403 and made 80 posies for Mothering Sunday. 

We have knitted teddies, shawls, knee blankets, twiddle blankets, babies bonnets and booties. 

Page **36** 



In July we had our yearly outing.  We went to the Cob House Country Park for afternoon tea.  We invited the clergy and others who have helped us during the year.  It was a wonderful afternoon. 

The 16 days of activism against domestic violence is still continuing for us.  We had a display in the church with old shoes with different quotes attached and a tree for the white and purple ribbons.  On the toilet doors the posters are still up with the little cards which people are able to take as they wish.  The church PCC has agreed for us to leave these up permanently. 

We welcome the members of the Cathedral and City branch to our meetings on a permanent basis.  We now have a new title St. George’s with Cathedral and City Branch. 

May we continue to pray for all the work and love of past and present members of the Mother’s Union. 

## **Zoom – Elisabeth Witter** 

Once again we have continued to share services each week via Zoom. 

As you know, we simplified the Zoom host role last year and we have continued in this way.  We have really struggled for another year, with only the three people who are willing to host. The job of the host, is: 

- to prep the hymn words, if they are able to, 

- to chat to the person in the church and check that the sound is correct just before the service, 

- to show the service words and hymn words during the service. 

- If appropriate, we also have a chat with people after the service. 

This is not onerous.  We would provide full training and support. _Please_ can we have another volunteer, to do this important work?  We help those who are house-bound, who are ill and even those off on their holidays and listening in on the train!  It is important. 

## **Worcester Foodbank (Lyn Crowther – St. George’s)** 

At both churches we support Worcester Foodbank by giving a regular supply of both food and essential household goods.  Financial support is also given from church funds and from individuals.  Both churches give support from volunteers either working in the warehouse or as delivery drivers.  Last year for St. George’s report I wrote that we were in the middle of a storm due to increasing costs of food and fuel which resulted in an increase of people using the Foodbank. Unfortunately, this trend has continued and I’m sorry to say has got worse. December 2023 saw record numbers needing the services of the Foodbank.  The increased opening times of 2022 continued all through 2023 and looks as if they will be needed for the foreseeable future.  Volunteers are always needed particularly for deliveries.  It is something which is mainly but not exclusively suitable for couples as need two people in each vehicle.  For further information talk to Jane and Simon at Claines or Clive and myself at St. George’s.  In the 

Page **37** 



meantime, our regular giving of food, goods, time and money are essential to the ongoing work of the Foodbank here in Worcester.  A heartfelt thanks to you all. 

## **Café Church (Lyn Crowther)** 

The change of Café Church from the 4[th] Sunday to the 2[nd] Sunday has meant we don’t clash so much with bank holidays and school holidays and means we have a more consistent number of families in the congregation.  It also makes it easier for those leading Café Church as quite a few of us have families we like to see during holiday times.  We appreciate all the help we receive from our families either with the singing or reading or just generally being there and helping make such a wonderful atmosphere but we do love having everyone there whatever their circumstances.  Some members of our now regular congregation started off by coming to Café Church and we are very grateful that they found a welcoming place at that service. 

The main features of Café Church are the interaction between everyone, the welcome, the relaxed atmosphere and, of course, the refreshments (coffee, toast, cake etc.) 

Sadly, we only had Rev. Jo with us for one Café Church and that was when she announced her retirement so a bitter sweet event.  The we said goodbye to Ade who helped so much with the music and technology (we miss that so much).  It does mean we are struggling a bit at the moment with leaders and if you feel this could be your ministry please join us. 

The team of Alison, Pam, Jan, Clive and myself look forward to welcoming you to Café Church in the Magdalene Room on the 2[nd] Sunday of each month. 

## **The Children’s Society (Helen Gilbert)** 

I am pleased to report that we were able to send a total of £477.00 to the Children’s Society in 2023.  This consisted of £362.00 from house box collections and £115.00 from our Christingle Service.  Thank you very much to everyone who contributed towards this. 

To quote from a letter which I received from the Children’s Society, ‘it’s thanks to the money raised in churches and congregations like St. George’s Church, Barbourne that we are able to be here for children and young people when they need us most ….. Your support really does change lives.’ 

Information about the work of the Children’s Society, its current projects and campaigns, can be found on its website childrenssociety.org.uk 

**Social Media Website St George’s Facebook Page:** 

**http://www.saintgeorgesworcester.org.uk/** 

Page **38** 



https://www.facebook.com/saintgeorgesworcester is administered by Alison Clarke, with editors: Elisabeth Witter, Jan Butterworth, Barbara Mitra, Peter Davies and Beck Lowe 

. 

## **Make a Lasting Difference (Trish Greenwood)** 

Legacies are the largest single source of income for many charities in this country today.  Once you have provided for your family and friends, leaving a small gift to St. George’s Church will ensure that our work can continue for many years to come.  All legacies are tax free; if you can make such a gift in your will, its value will be deducted from your estate before inheritance tax is calculated.  If you are thinking about leaving a legacy or have already remembered us in your will, we would love then to have the opportunity to talk to you about it; everything you say will be treated in the strictest confidence. We would love then to have the opportunity to thank you for your generosity.  When considering leaving a legacy, we recommend that you consult a solicitor who will be able to give you specialist advice according to your own individual circumstances. 

Remembering your Church in your will is a wonderful way both to thank God for the blessings you have received and to help your Church ensure it can meet the needs of future generations. 

Page **39**