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ANNUAL REPORT

For year ending 31st December 2024

(As required by Church Accounting Regulations 2006)

Registered Charity Number 1129833

Website: https://www.abingdonparish.org.uk/

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES ANNUAL REPORT FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION ........................................................................................... 2	ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION ........................................................................................... 2
AIMS AND PURPOSES .................................................................................................................... 3
1	ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE ................................................................ 3
1a	Team Clergy Report ................................................................................................. 3
1b	Church Electoral Roll [Richard Kirby] ................................................................... 4
1c	PCC [Eluned Hallas, PCC Secretary] .................................................................... 6
1d	Safeguarding [Patricia Hudson, PSO] .................................................................... 7
1e	Abingdon Deanery Synod [Sue Scott] ..................................................................... 8
1f	Abingdon Diocesan Synod [Sue Scott] .................................................................... 9
1g	St Nicolas School and Education Trust Abingdon [Eluned Hallas] ....................... 9
2	STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MEMBERSHIP ........................................... 10
3	PROPERTY ................................................................................................................... 11
3a	The Rectory [Linda Hobbs] ................................................................................... 11
3b	Enock House, Musson Close [Linda Hobbs] ......................................................... 11
3c	Fairacres Road [Rob Bough] ................................................................................ 12
OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES ............................................................................................ 12
PUBLIC	BENEFIT ............................................................................................................................ 12
TREASURER’S REPORT ON THE YEAR ENDED 31 DEC 2024 ......................................... 14
Appendix	1 St Helen’s Church Church Wardens’ & Fabric Reports ........................................ 28
Appendix	2 St Michael and All Angels’ Church Church Wardens’ & Fabric Reports ............ 31
Appendix	3 St Nicolas’ Church Church Wardens’ & Fabric Reports ....................................... 33
Appendix	4 Faith Forum ................................................................................................................. 36
Appendix	5 A Candle in the Window ............................................................................................. 37
Appendix	6 Abingdon Society of Bellringers ................................................................................. 38
Appendix	7 Report on the activities of the Church in Abingdon ................................................ 39
Appendix	8 Report on St Nicolas School ....................................................................................... 42
Appendix	9 Report on the Abingdon Foodbank ........................................................................... 43

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (Continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024 (As required by Church Accounting Regulations 2006)

ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Abingdon-on-Thames is a registered charity, Charity Registration Number 1129833.

The Parish of Abingdon-on-Thames is situated in the town of Abingdon, Oxfordshire. It is part of the Diocese of Oxford within the Church of England. The correspondence address is:

The Hon Secretary, Abingdon-on-Thames PCC

c/o The Parish Centre, St Helen's Court, Abingdon OX14 5BS

The Parish comprises the churches and congregations of St Helen, St Michael & All Angels and St Nicolas.

PCC members

PCC members are the Trustees of the Charity. PCC members who have served from 1[st] January 2024 until the date that this report and the financial statements were approved are:

Stipendiary Team clergy :

The Revd Dr E C Miller (to 30 November) The Revd P A Smith

Non-stipendiary clergy : The Revd Dr J Brown The Revd A K M Adam (from 1 Feb 2024)

Licensed Lay Minister Representative

Mrs G Bevington

Churchwardens :

Mrs E Hallas Mrs L Heffernan Mrs L Hobbs (to April 2024) Miss M Horton (from July 2024) Miss J Kelly Mr D Pope Mr P Rast-Lindsell

Ex-Officio – representatives on Diocesan Synod:

– representatives on Deanery Synod: The Revd R Rutherford

Elected representatives - Deanery Synod : Miss A E Green Mrs E Hallas Miss A Scott Mrs S Scott Dr H Glennie

Elected PCC members : Mrs M Anderson (from April 2024) Mrs K Burland Mrs H Clare (from April 2024) Mr J Clare Dr H Glennie Mrs J Fishpool Dr G Lewis Mrs J Smith Mrs S E M Read (to June 2024)

Miss A Scott

Mrs S Scott (Bishop’s Council Member)

Officers ( from April 2024): Chairman The Revd Dr E C Miller Auditors (to October 2024) Mercer Lewin Ltd, Chartered Accountants Vice Chairman Mrs S Scott 6-7 Citibase, New Barclay House Acting Chair from Oct 2024 234 Botley Rd Secretary Mrs E Hallas Oxford, OX2 0HP Treasurer Mrs S Read (to June 2024)

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

AIMS AND PURPOSES

Under the PCC (Powers) Measure 1956, the parish of Abingdon-on-Thames Parochial Church Council (PCC) has the responsibility of cooperating with the incumbent in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish, the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. Each DCC is similarly required to co-operate with the minister in charge of the district church. The PCC is also specifically responsible for the maintenance of the Parish Centre (in St Helen’s Court) and Enock House (2 Musson Close).

1 ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

1a Team Clergy Report

As the parish is currently in vacancy, there is no Rector’s report. At the request of the church wardens, this brief report from the team clergy has been prepared to summarise notable events and accomplishments across the parish in 2024.

Sunday services

Regular provision of Sunday services has continued across all three churches. St Helen’s and St Nic’s continue to live-stream services on Zoom for those who are unable to attend in person. In September and October, the Rector presided in each of the three churches across the parish as a farewell in preparation for his retirement in November. A corporate Eucharist at 3pm on All Saints’ Sunday marked the Revd Dr Charles Miller’s last Sunday and was a joyful celebration of both the feast of All Saints and of Charles’ ministry in and service to the parish during his time as Rector.

The licensed team clergy, the Revd Paul Smith, the Revd Dr A.K.M. Adam (AKMA), and the Revd Dr Jen Brown, continue to lead services regularly, supported by the honorary assistant clergy. We are grateful to the honorary assistant clergy for all that they do, and for their willingness to take on additional services during the vacancy period.

We are particularly grateful to the honorary assistant clergy for their commitment to the 8am BCP Holy Communion service, held in St Helen’s and St Nic’s in alternate months. We would also like to express thanks to the Revd Richard Pyke for taking the lead on Taizé services in St Helen’s. These have been very successful and at the end of the year, one of these services took place on the eve of Advent at St Michael’s. This was well attended and it was considered that they may be room for it to be developed in that venue occasionally – a project for 2025! A decision was taken at St Helen’s to reinvigorate the First Sunday Eucharist, with its aim of being more accessible to children and those who attend church infrequently. This was begun with the Epiphany service in January. Revd Jen has taken the lead on this, and it is hoped that this service will be attractive to families with young children.

Ministry team

As noted above, Charles Miller retired as Rector in November. Charles was thanked for his ministry in the parish at a parish lunch in September. There have been no other changes in personnel among the licensed clergy (Team Vicar, Fr Paul Smith, and Associate Priests, Fr AKMA and Revd Jen). We were delighted that Linda Hobbs began training for Licensed Lay Ministry (LLM).

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Outreach

Outreach to the wider parish continued in various forms in 2024.

St Helen’s Easter Garden in the west porch provided an opportunity to engage with passers-by, particularly families with children. The parish centre hosted Agnostics Anonymous, a talk followed by Q&A and discussion on a range of topics, which is open to all. The Christingle service at St Helen’s again attracted a large number of families, as did the Epiphany carol service and Tea.

St Michael’s continued to see encouraging attendance both at its Good Friday Children’s Liturgy and Christmas Crib Service for children and young families. Although, the project has not made the progress it would have like to have achieved during 2024, a small group of people have been meeting to set up a Children’s Church which shall meet during the Mass on the first Sunday of the month. At the time of writing this report Children’s Church has met twice since February and is moving on apace. Welcoming people into church during the Spring and Summer for Cream Teas has been a wonderful way of meeting new people from near and far as well as making a good contribution to the very significant sum of money which was brought in by the hard work of volunteers from within the congregation during the year.

St Nic’s is open regularly on a Monday morning by the kindness of a few volunteers and receives visitors who enjoy the space for prayer and stillness. We have also had opportunities to welcome children from different schools giving them an insight into the treasure of St Nic’s as an historic place of worship. Our South Porch featured its usual Nativity tableau, but new this year was a Lent display based on the Cross, updated week by week with key reminders of Holy Week.

As we go forward into 2025, we are grateful to the wardens at each of the churches for their support and hard work, and to the congregations of St Helen’s, St Michael’s, and St Nic’s for their prayers and faithful witness in this place.

Paul Smith, Team Vicar Jen Brown, Associate Priest A.K.M. Adam, Associate Priest

1b Church Electoral Roll [Richard Kirby]

There is a Parish Electoral Roll Officer (ERO) for Abingdon-on-Thames, but each of the three churches in the parish maintains a section of the Roll.

Richard Kirby retired as ERO during 2024 and we thank him for his work over a number of years.

Report to the 2024 Annual Meeting

Stability is a state that I love to see in any set of data, as it means no big surprises and we have enjoyed stability for a few years. I still hesitate to consider making any prediction, but whatever the Parish is doing at present to maintain membership, seems to be working, which is better than we hear is happening elsewhere, albeit anecdotally. Let’s be clear, the stability in our Parish is down to the good work to enrol new members to replace those which naturally leave.

The deletions and additions, as a percentage of the individual rolls, have not been significantly different year to year nor between the three churches. We are consistent in about a 5% deletion and a 5% addition each year. This percentage varies from year to year for both, but is not significantly different. St Helen’s additions of 21 this year is very welcome, but no one will know what we have done differently to achieve this good result. It is likely to be the attention paid by the CERO to identify new members and her persuasive character to ensure them to join the roll.

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Next year, 2025, we shall start the roll from scratch again, a time traditionally we see change to the stability we have enjoyed over recent years.

Thank you to the three Church Electoral Roll Officers that have worked on the rolls and produced the data for this report: Keith Bowman, Eluned Hallas and Kate Burland. I do believe stability is in part down to their good work.

Richard Kirby

Parish Electoral Roll Officer, April 2024

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

1c PCC [Eluned Hallas, PCC Secretary]

The business of the PCC concerns those issues best approached on a Parish, rather than Church, basis. It is also a useful forum for communications throughout the Parish, including details of Parish and Church sponsored events, staff updates and feedback on Deanery and Diocesan issues.

The PCC of the Parish of Abingdon-on-Thames met in person seven times during 2024, with the Standing Committee / Clergy & Wardens Group meeting regularly during the year.

In January we welcomed the Revd Dr Andrew Adam to the Parish and the PCC.

A joint meeting of PCC, DCC and invited congregation members in June launched the Parish’s EcoChurch initiative – with nominated representatives in each church tasked with taking this forward, and the Revd Dr Jen Brown taking the lead at PCC.

PCC discussions during the year focussed on

Safeguarding with the appointment of a new Parish Safeguarding Officer driving the introduction of new policies and procedures across the Parish. Work is now starting on role descriptions and risk assessments for the many activities carried out across the Parish.
Finance including regular monitoring and budget setting. Susan Read stepped down as Parish Treasurer during the year, and we thank her for all her work. Susan remains Treasurer of St Helen’s, sits on the Finance Working Group, and continues to produce the end of year consolidated accounts. The St Nicolas’ and St Michael’s Treasurer is a member of PCC, as is a member of the St Helen’s finance team, allowing informed discussion of finance across the three churches. The PCC continues to scrutinise quarterly reports and budget proposals. That these are submitted as one per church (rather than consolidated) makes understanding each church’s position easier to understand.
Eco-Church – including the adoption of a Parish Eco Policy, and procedures to promote best practice across the parish.
Children, Young People and Family (CYPF) work across the Parish.
Clergy welfare.
Health & Safety Governance – beginning a new initiative to establish, consolidate and standardise H&S practices across the Parish. There is much work still to be done on this.
Publicity for Christmas & Easter Services, and other church organised events, aiming to reduce date conflict and improve awareness within the community.
Opportunities for education and discipleship.

The PCC continues to review and approve faculty applications and other fabric matters across the Parish, and GDPR and Parish Policies remain regular items on the PCC agendas

From the retirement of the Rector in November, and continuing into 2025, much effort has been given to the process of recruiting a new Rector for the Parish, and Team Vicar for St Helen’s. This has involved consultation within the PCC and DCCs, an Open Parish Meeting (January 2025), and discussions with stakeholders both within and without the Parish. Individuals were encouraged to submit their views to Church Wardens (in writing or aurally) and all submissions were shared with the relevant parties. A Working Group drawn from all three churches was tasked with drawing up a profile of the Parish for refinement and approval by the PCC. Wardens worked together to combine the various contributions into a Person Profile, also for approval by PCC.

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

PCC members were asked to approve the composition of the Selection Panel, based on recommendations from the Diocese, which has been supporting us through the process. We hope an advertisement will be placed in early May 2025.

1d Safeguarding [Patricia Hudson, PSO]

There are no known current concerns in the parish which is good, some more pastoral issues have been addressed.

The positive attitude towards Safeguarding across the parish is very encouraging and productive

Since becoming PSO last Summer, with much help from too many people to name, my initial priority has been to establish an accurate and complete list of everyone in a role which needs DBS and/or some level of training. Thank you all for your patience as I’m learning to match faces to names and clarify roles

I’m very grateful that Catherine Kimber is DBS verifier. A discrete Safeguarding email account has also been set up. I’m looking forward to working with Kate Burland on the overlaps with Health and Safety.

I have led F2F Basic Awareness and Foundation training sessions for anyone who prefers that to doing e-learning and they went well. I’m very willing to hold anymore required and/or to support anyone on an individual basis to access e-learning

Safeguarding Posters – giving contact details - are now going up in all church buildings

I have drafted both role descriptions and risk assessments for the following – coffee, flowers, vergers, childrens’ workers, toddler group, stewards/sidespeople, cleaning, wardens, bell ringing, pastoral team. Choir to follow. The aim is to have one simple document that works for both team leaders and team members as a common baseline for the whole parish but with capacity for specifics to each church to either be inserted or added as an attachment for detailed instructions that are site specific. It is important that the distinct individual character of each church is celebrated. These documents are out for consultation at the time of writing and final agreed drafts will follow soon.

We need these documents not to tick boxes but because of our respect, care and love for each other as a Christian community, to facilitate effective safe working practice and as a foundation for growth so newcomers can take on roles.

The parish dashboard which is a useful tool for checking progress and structuring next steps stands at 63 % now, progress from 41% a few months ago

To progress further we need to

Complete the list of church activities, and those involved in leadership / support roles in each
Record all volunteers’ Basic Awareness and Foundation Training, and DBS

To my knowledge, we have 63 officers across the parish (wardens, PCC members, vergers and children/vulnerable adults workers - not counting coffee, flowers and cleaning vitally important as they are.) Most are trained for the role but not everyone has yet completed Foundation level Safeguarding training

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Our main area for improvement (as in many parishes) is recruitment and people management. We will start from where we are, no retrospective action. We may need to look at the paid parish roles especially in this time of vacancy.

My thanks to Jenny Fishpool for all her work at St Nicolas and to Emmanuel Chukwuma for support at St Helens. It would be good to recruit a DSCO for St Michael’s

1e Abingdon Deanery Synod [Sue Scott]

Abingdon Deanery Synod is part of the Diocese of Oxford and is one of 11 deaneries within the Archdeaconry of Dorchester whose membership represents 26 churches in 10 benefices.

The Synod is a vehicle to discuss key issues and to look at the church’s ministry and mission in a geographical area. The Deanery Synod sits between the Parishes with their PCCs and the Diocese with the Diocesan Synod. It is a key channel of communication.

The Synod is a place to support each other in difficult times and a place to celebrate the good things happening in our churches. It is also a place where the views of the Parishes can be brought together. Proposals can be made to Diocesan Synod for discussion if the Deanery feels this is necessary/appropriate. Clergy and Laity have equal status in the Synod.

The Parish currently has 5 elected members from the House of Laity:-

Alexandra Green (St Helen’s) Hazel Glennie (St Helen’s)

Alexandra Scott (St Michael and All Angels) ex officio Diocesan Synod Sue Scott (St Michael and All Angels) Lay Chair and ex officio Diocesan Synod Eluned Hallas (St Nicolas)

This has been a challenging year for many of our churches and things continue to be difficult for many. The aim has been to create a balance between providing information, giving time for discussion and also responding to common concerns. The Synod met 4 times in 2024 (February, May, October and November). In response to feedback some of the meetings now take place on zoom and some in person. Some of the business covered has included: -

Finance issues including the Budget, Parish Share, The Deanery Parish Support Fund and Mission Grants
Opportunities to share good practice and expertise to develop Parish Mission Action Plans – with a particular focus on work with Children,Young people and Families which is part of a 5 year focus for all parishes and deaneries in the Diocese.
Outside speakers – including a report back from the General Synod and finding out about the work of Parish Development Officers.
Raising awareness of Diocese resources and how to access services eg Churchwarden Training, use of Safeguarding Dashboards and Church Energy Audits
New Congregations/New initiatives/ Eco church/Children and families/LLF updates

A key role of the Deanery Synod is to represent the views of the Parishes and to seek ways to support the work of the Church in this place. Please speak to your Parish representatives so that they can raise issues questions or concerns on your behalf. Churchwardens are also very welcome to attend.

Minutes of all Synod meetings and Standing Committee meetings can be found on the website at abingdondeanery.org.uk together with other news and information about the work of the Deanery Synod.

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Please could you pray for the work of the Deanery Synod as it strives to seek God’s guidance to support the work of the Church in this place.

Sue Scott, St Michael and All Angels representative and Lay Chair Abingdon Deanery Synod

1f Abingdon Diocesan Synod [Sue Scott]

The Diocesan Synod is the governing body of the Church of England in Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes. The bishop has a duty to consult the Diocesan Synod on matters of general importance and concern to the diocese and in turn, Diocesan Synod provides a connection to Deanery Synods and PCCs.

We currently have full representation for the House of Laity (3) and only 1 representative from the House of Clergy in the Dorchester Archdeaconry. Two of the House of Laity representatives are from within our Parish. An election took place in 2024 and so the current membership will cover the period 2024 to 2027.Members of Diocesan Synod are ex Officio members of Deanery Synod and PCC for the duration of the term of office to Diocesan Synod.

The Synod meets 3 times a year usually on a Saturday to consider issues facing the church in the Diocese - to share experience from across the diocese and to consider issues which face the national church. Members can also be elected to boards and committees including Bishop’s Council which is the executive committee of the Diocesan Synod. The Parish currently has representation at this level.

Synod met in March, June and November 2024.Two of these meetings were online and one in person.

The Church is facing a time of great challenge. Some of the issues which have been discussed are: -

Living in Love and Faith
Eco church
Common Vision
Environmental issues and steps needed to achieve net zero by 2035
Finance, Parish Share, SSM/LLM fees
Ukrainian Crisis
How parishes can more easily access diocesan resources – what is out there?

Further information about the work of the Synod can be found at www.oxford.anglican.org The pathway to follow is – homepage>who we are>How we are governed>Diocesan Synod> documents

The Synod does not always speak as one voice. But the aim is that together we can work towards being a more Compassionate, Courageous and Contemplative Church.

Sue Scott, Diocesan Synod Representative

1g St Nicolas School and Education Trust Abingdon [Eluned Hallas]

The St Nicolas School and Education Trust Abingdon is a CIO incorporated, in 2022, to take over the assets and activities of an existing exempt charity: Abingdon St Nicholas Church of England Primary School charity.

The four ex-officio Trustees are: the Team Rector of the Parish of Abingdon-on-Thames, and the Team Vicar and Churchwardens of St Nicolas Church, Parish of Abingdon-on-Thames. The charity trustees may appoint up to two trustees provided that such appointment(s) are approved by the

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Abingdon-on-Thames in the County and Diocese of Oxford. The Oxford Diocesan Board of Education (ODBE) may appoint one charity trustee. Following the retirement of the Team Rector, the Diocese approved the appointment of Mr Robert Bough as interim Trustee.

During 2024 discussions mostly covered negotiations with the Charity Commission over the legal transfer of assets from the old to the new charitable organisation. At the same time discussions were opened over the formal transfer of investments and cash to the investment managers appointed by the Trustees.

The objects of the CIO are for the public benefit within the parish of Abingdon-on-Thames in the County and Diocese of Oxford:

To advance education in such ways as the trustees shall from time to time think fit
To advance the Christian faith in accordance with the beliefs and practices of the Church of
England:
To further the objects and work of the Church of England in the said Parish in such ways as
the trustees shall from time to time think fit.

The retirement of the Team Rector, who had the lead in many of the discussion, temporarily slowed progress, but it is hoped that transfer of funds will be complete in 2025-26, freeing the Trustees to begin to determine how best to meet the Trust’s objectives.

In 2024 the Trust (though the Diocesan Trustees) supported St Nicolas CE School, Abingdon through the provision of Bibles for new entrants, and class bibles to assist with class based worship.

2 STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MEMBERSHIP

The Parish of Abingdon-on-Thames is served by a Team Rector, based at St Helen’s (currently in vacancy), and a Team Vicar shared between St Nicolas’ and St Michael’s.

The Parochial Church Council of Abingdon-on-Thames is a corporate body established by the Church of England. The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure, and was formally registered with the Charity Commission on 27 May 2009.

Lay members of the PCC are appointed in accordance with the provisions of the Church Representation Rules, as originally authorized as Schedule 3 to the Synodical Government Measure 1969 and subsequently amended by the General Synod. All eligible church attendees are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC.

In addition to the Parochial Church Council (PCC) for the parish of Abingdon-on-Thames, there are three District Church Councils (DCCs). The PCC has delegated to the DCCs responsibility for detailed implementation of most of its functions, in a continuation of a Scheme approved by the Bishop. The PCC is therefore able to concentrate on those matters which cannot be delegated, or are of common concern. It has two committees:

The Standing Committee (comprising the Team Rector & Team Vicar, church wardens, the secretary, the treasurer, and the vice-chairman) has power to transact the business of the PCC between its meetings, subject to any directions given by the PCC.

The Finance Working Group (comprising the Parish Treasurer, the Treasurers of the DCCs and a limited number of co-opted members) oversees the financial activities of the parish, including the annual budget and financial statements. It meets as required. The budget and financial statements

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

are approved by the PCC after individual church finances have been considered by individual DCCs. In addition to meeting the statutory requirements of the Charities Commission, the immediate aims of the Group are, firstly, to provide a forum at which the Treasurers can discuss common problems and learn from each other. Secondly, the Group is attempting to develop key performance indicators that provide early warnings of potential difficulties. Third, the Group expects to undertake risk analysis which will include longer term projections of our financial status.

PCC members (and DCC members) are encouraged to attend training sessions as appropriate. Most often these are courses organised by the Diocese of Oxford.

The PCC is exposed to risks associated with buildings, finances and availability of volunteer effort. Buildings are insured and regularly inspected, finances are overseen by the PCC, and DCCs, and volunteers are constantly sought to carry the administrative burden of the PCC and DCCs. The maintenance of ancient buildings is a heavy responsibility for the PCC, but this is not unusual in the Church of England. Health and Safety, Child Protection and other pertinent legislation is adhered to, and there are policies in place to this effect. DCCs operate within a budget and financial envelope determined by their annual income and reserves and approved by the PCC. Special appeals are launched for special projects (typically capital projects) as appropriate. To say ‘The Lord will provide’ may not be an acceptable approach to financial risk management in the secular world; but seeking the Will of God through constant prayer and responding to His Will moment by moment are key instruments by which the PCC manages risk in labour and financial matters.

3 PROPERTY

3a The Rectory [Linda Hobbs]

The Rectory is a 4 bedroom house, linked to the Parish Centre. The property offers flexible, spacious family accommodation, with a large rear garden which should be attractive to us attracting a new Rector, whom we anticipate will join us in 2025.

The Rectory became vacant in October 2024. The Diocese had planned to carry out extensive property improvements and repairs prior to it again being used as a residence. The opportunity unexpectedly arose for a short term let resulting in all planned work being delayed until the current tenancy has terminated. All required works will be completed prior to any new tenancy commencing.

3b Enock House, Musson Close [Linda Hobbs]

2 Musson Close

Musson Close is a 4 bedroomed Town house situated close by the river Thames, within easy walking distance of Abingdon town centre, St Helens Church and the other 2 churches, St Nicolas and St Michaels and all Angels.

The Parish purchased the property in 2015. The property is currently used as a main residence by the Associate Priest, Rev AKMA Adams and his wife Margaret.

AKMA and Margaret have been resident since November 2023, a short while before commencing his position as House for Duty Priest. At termination of the License, the property will be returned to the use of the Church.

Currently it is anticipated that the property will continue to be used as residence for the House for

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Duty position, however if the position were vacant, consideration could be made to the house being rented on the open market, which would generate a considerable return each month.

Under the terms of the License, (agreed by the Diocese) the Associate Priest has no liability to pay rent, water rates, Council Tax or Insurance. All costs associated with the upkeep and of the property being met by Church funds. All costs incurred by the Associate Priest in fulfilling his post, are also met by Church funds.

Since Akma and Margaret took up residence there has been minimal requirement for repairs to the property. Since the writing of the last report the annual Gas Certificate, (required by law for all properties under license or tenancy) has been carried out, having passed all safety requirements there was no requirement for additional repair costs.

Late summer 2024, a need arose to replace the faulty shower, this work was out by a private plumber at a cost of £360.

The property continues to be managed by Linda Hobbs

3c Fairacres Road [Rob Bough]

Pursuant to a bequest from Mr Derek Enock in 2009, each church in the parish has an interest in a residential property in Fairacres Road, Oxford, which is held on a trust. The current occupant of the property has the right to reside there for as long as she wishes. If the property is sold, she will be entitled to the income from the invested sale proceeds. Upon her death the property or proceeds from the sale will pass to the five beneficiaries of Mr Enock’s estate. The trust is administered for the beneficiaries by Freeths Solicitors. The position remains the same as last year, with the occupant continuing to reside at the premises.

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

The following Vision Statement was agreed by the PCC on 22nd November 2000 and continues to apply to the Parish of Abingdon-on-Thames:

“A single unified parish with a Team Ministry in which clergy and laity work together to serve interdependent congregations, within an active ecumenical organisation where:
The Gospel of Christ is celebrated through worship and fellowship, with individual congregations providing a spectrum of traditions
The life of the Church is built up through teaching, preaching, evangelism, pastoral care and ecumenical co-operation

• God's love is made known in mission and service to the community and society as a whole.” The activities undertaken to enable the PCC to achieve these objectives are described in the Achievements & Performance section, and in the reports from the constituent churches.

The PCC is heavily dependent upon the contribution of volunteers to drive forward the mission of the church and the Kingdom of God.

Public Benefit

The PCC is aware of the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit in "The Advancement of Religion for the Public Benefit" and have regard to it in their administration of the Parish. The PCC believes that, by fulfilling its responsibility to work together with the incumbent in the Parish and

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

co-operate in all matters of concern and importance for the promotion of the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical, it provides a benefit to the public by:

providing resources and facilities for public worship, pastoral care and spiritual, moral and intellectual development, both for its members and for anyone who wishes to benefit from what the Church offers;
promoting Christian values, and service by members of the churches in the Parish to their communities, to the benefit of individuals and society as a whole.

Reports from individual churches are attached as Appendices to this report.

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

TREASURER’S REPORT ON THE YEAR ENDED 31 DEC 2024

The Parish of Abingdon-on-Thames consists of three churches (St Helen’s, St Michael’s and St Nicolas’) which have separate treasurers and accounts. The Parish accounts are produced by consolidating the accounts of the three churches.

Income and Expenditure

The “bottom line” for the Parish in the year 2024 was a surplus of £48k (2023: deficit £41k). This was an excellent outcome, and considerably better than the £90k loss set as the budget for 2024. Considerable efforts at fundraising contributed to the outcome, particularly at St Helen’s and St Michael’s Churches.

It is pleasing to see that the voluntary income received was significantly more than the budget we set for the year. The unrestricted funds (encompassing the day-to-day income and costs of our churches) had a surplus of £16.5k before transfers.

Church fabric costs in 2024 included £18k building insurance costs, £3k of repairs to the Blacknall Tomb in St Nicolas and £2k in organ repairs for St Helen’s.

Balance Sheet

The Balance Sheet shows fund and investments held at the end of the year, i.e.£1,318k (£1,252k in 2023).

The largest component of this is investments valued as at 31 December 2024: £541k, (2023: £553k). The reduction in value is partly due to the sale of £28k worth of St Michael’s property investments and their conversion into short term deposits. But this was partially offset by gains in value of the other investments.

The Parish owns two freehold properties, the Parish Centre and the House for Duty property purchased in 2015. Legal title of both is held by the Diocesan Trustees (Oxford) Ltd as custodian trustees on behalf of the Parish. Both are held for the mission of the church. The two properties appear in the balance sheet as Tangible Fixed Assets.

In 2024 we purchased a printer/photocopier for office use. It is proving much cheaper to run without the expensive lease costs we paid on previous printers.

Short term deposits increased during the year, partly at St Michael’s from the sale of investments and partly by St Nicolas’ taking advantage of the higher interest rates available to open a bank deposit account for cash holdings.

PCC policy is that unused fund balances should be invested with CBF Church of England funds.

Restricted Funds

Restricted funds are often for long term projects, so may be built up over several years and spent over a short period of time. Surpluses and deficits on these funds are not necessarily unexpected or worrying.

In 2024 St Nicolas received a legacy of £39k toward the work needed on the Blacknall Aisle.

Grants received included £3.5k of VAT refunded on church repairs under the Listed Places of Worship Scheme.

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

St Nicolas’ Church is the beneficiary of the Blacknall Trust, administered by Christ’s Hospital. Every year the church receives a proportion of the dividends received from the substantial investments of the Trust. The income may only be spent on the fabric of St Nicolas’ Church. In 2024 St Nicolas received £11.5k from the Blacknall Trust.

Going Concern

The PCC is required to operate on a going concern basis. The Parish has a policy to hold at least two months of average expenditure in liquid form. All three churches had sufficient liquidity at the year end

The Parish also aims to have reserves, appropriate to each church, to cover the future demands of building maintenance. This is less easy to evaluate and needs further consideration. I do not consider there to be risk of any of the churches being unable to pay for their building maintenance in the next three years, but we need to keep this under review.

Susan Read, Treasurer, St Helen’s Church, Abingdon

24 March 2025

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Appendix 1 St Helen’s Church Church Wardens’ & Fabric Reports

2024 was a year of two halves - with a Rector and without one. As I took up the post of warden in June I can report only on the latter half of the year, much of which was spent preparing for Charles’ retirement and then adjusting to a new regime. We gave Charles a protracted farewell season including the fine parish lunch at the Garden Hilton hotel in September, a last 10.30am service at St. Helen’s and then the splendid final service in November with a church packed to the rafters.

By December we had settled down into the new regime of a vacancy, largely thanks to the ministry of our two part time Associate Priests, Akma and Jen and the work of our retired clergy with PtO. They have been most generous with their time and efforts. It is a measure of how blessed we are with clergy that Low Sunday will be the first time we will have needed to call on a priest from outside our team of clergy to take the 10.30 Eucharist at St. Helen’s.

Everyone has pulled together; the DCC has been most supportive throughout this period and we are grateful to Geoff Meen for taking on the role of Chair. No matters have been allowed to slip during the vacancy and with the clear and helpful support of Pat Hudson we have managed to make a bit of progress in improving our attention to safeguarding and to Health and Safety. Norman Gee has done sterling work in installing new office computers and a small group has been looking into the office phone system. This will need renewing in the near future. The Events team have continued to work very hard in putting on a series of concerts last year and the barn dance in Feb, helping to raise money for the church but also to bring us together as a congregation.

Do, please, look at our Church Report for the ADCM to find out about all the activities which have been taking place in 2024, but to highlight a few: it was good to be able to continue the initiative of having a ‘presentation’ in the west porch of the church over Easter and Christmas. Sue Pemberton produced a lovely Easter garden which was on display and stewards handed out sheets giving details of Easter services, and mini eggs to passersby. At Christmas we had our usual nativity scene and again greeted those walking past with good wishes.

We have been able to continue with some more newcomers’ lunches, giving those comparatively new to the church the chance to meet and get to know others who have been around a while.

Thanks to Jen who arranged further series of Faith Forum last year at the later time of 12.30, with a light lunch beforehand. The later time enables our friends at St Michael’s to attend as their Sunday service clashed with the earlier time of 9.15am.

I personally was delighted to pass the management of the Christmas market to Jeanette Thomas and Pat Hudson last year. They did a tremendous job and well over £3,000 was raised in total for church funds. It is also an occasion when we can welcome townsfolk into our building.

The Choir has continued to grow in size and skill under the masterful leadership of Peter Foster, ably assisted by Andrew Shouler. The quality of the singing and music over the Christmas period was some of the best I have heard at St. Helen’s; thank you, Peter.

Like so many churches, our congregation is aging which means that active volunteers are thinner on the ground. Our Junior Church, Quest and Senior Quest have reduced in numbers but we still have quite a few children and young people in our congregation, some of whom it is lovely to welcome back in university vacations.

It is good to report that our finances are sound with a welcome net income of a few thousand over expenditure in the General Fund at the end of 2024. As we move into 2025, we are gearing up for a

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

big fundraising campaign to pay for new lighting and wiring throughout the church and the redecoration of some of the walls. Much of the groundwork has now been done and we are awaiting the approval of the DAC before entering a formal Faculty application. A substantial amount has already been pledged to the campaign.

Finally, a large thank you to all those who help to keep the church up and running whether it’s behind the scenes in preparing for services, stewarding the church, pastoral care and visiting the housebound, the Friends of St Helen’s etc.; we are all parts of the one body which maintains a spiritual presence and a beautiful building for the people of Abingdon and beyond.

Margaret Horton & David Pope, Churchwardens

FABRIC REPORT

One of the priorities for 2024 has been the investigation and repair of roof leaks, both for the Church and the Parish Centre. There had been a problem for some time with damp in a corner of the Parish Office near where the Office roof adjoins the wall of the Rectory. The damp had caused damage to plaster and paint in the corner. The contractor discovered that there was a fault in the construction of the lead step flashing on the roof. The lower layer of waterproofing (lead soakers) had been omitted when the Centre was built. The contractor lifted the tiles and the existing flashing, and fitted new soakers underneath. This appears to have fixed the leak, however it will take some time for the wall to dry out completely before it is redecorated.

There was a second leak in the Centre, near the top of the dormer. The location made it difficult to reach, because of the corrugated PVC roofing in the area, blocking access from ground level. The contractor put a crawling board on top of the PVC and was able to inspect the lead flashing, finding a small crack in the lead. This has been filled with a sealant.

For the Church, there had been a persistent roof leak near the organ. Despite repeated visual inspections, there was no obvious sign of cracks in the lead in that area or nearby. The leak was located by squirting water onto the roof from a hosepipe, working upwards until water started leaking into the Church. There had been a failure underneath the edge of a lead repair patch, which made the crack very difficult to see.

The Tower notice board had been suffering from rotting of the wood in some areas, along with unsightly discolouration of the back board. Our thanks go to the Church Caretaker Robin Day for undertaking extensive woodwork repairs. The refurbished board is now mounted on spacers, slightly offset from the church wall, to reduce the risk of water getting trapped behind the board.

There has been progress with the monitoring of the Archives Room, as reported last year. There had been concern from a professional archivist about the risk of damp in the unheated room. The measurements now cover a full year and show that Relative Humidity is within or close to the recommended range in all weather conditions. There has been no risk of condensation or mould growth on the archives during this extended period.

There has been a problem for some time with the mechanism for opening and closing the high clerestory windows in the Nave. The window cords have frayed over the years and no longer run smoothly over the pulleys. It is possible for the cord to come off the pulley wheel and get stuck at the side of the wheel, so the window becomes jammed, open or closed. It would be possible to replace the cords, but it has been decided to leave the windows permanently closed. There have been problems with pigeons entering the Church by these windows, if they are left open for any length of time.

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Other fabric work has included the replacement of a leaking water heater in the Church Servery, also a continuation of the regular roof maintenance, clearing gutters and downpipes.

Stephen Thomas, Fabric Officer

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Appendix 2 St Michael and All Angels’ Church Church Wardens’ & Fabric Reports

CHURCHWARDENS’ REPORT

Worship and Services:

During 2024 we held our regular pattern of services with a Sung Mass on Sunday at 09.30 and a Said Mass on Thursday (although during the winter months we changed this to a Tuesday for reasons of energy economy). In addition, we celebrated certain Holy Days, such as Ash Wednesday, Dedication Festival, All Souls Day. The average attendance on Sundays is 39 and the average attendance for the midweek Mass is 8.

Lent and Easter: During Lent each Tuesday evening there was an opportunity to walk the Stations of the Cross. In Holy Week, Mass was celebrated on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday led by the Revd Canon Richard Pyke. On Maundy Thursday we observed the Mass of the Lord’s Supper with the Washing of the Feet. On Good Friday morning Carol Bowman led a short interactive children’s service which was attended by 38 adults and 18 children, and which was followed by a variety of craft activities whilst refreshments were served.

Christmas: Our Christmas celebrations commenced with our popular Crib Service led by Maggie Davis and Carol Bowman and was attended by 54 adults and 39 children. The Service of Nine Lessons and Carols took place on Christmas Eve with an attendance of 135. Many thanks to Glynne Butt and the choir for their superb contribution to this beautiful service. Christmas Morning Mass was attended by 38 people.

We had 3 baptisms and 2 services of Thanksgiving in 2024. Two weddings were celebrated. Additionally, there were 7 funerals which included one held at the Crematorium. One interment of ashes was held for our dear friend Adrienne Compton-James.

We are very grateful to our honorary clergy and to our clergy for their continued dedication and commitment to service which enables us to worship at St Michael’s.

Community:

Abingdon School held 3 services during 2024. A Leavers’ service, in June, with 272 in attendance; and Lower School and Parents and Boarders’ Carol Services in December with a total of 560 in attendance. St Nicolas School held their Easter Service with an attendance of 187.

In April we were fortunate enough to enjoy a Service in which Cothill Boys Choir led the singing. Many thanks to Graham Howell for arranging this lovely service.

The Oxford Diocese Ride and Stride was held as usual. We opened the church to meet and greet the cyclists and offered refreshments as part of our cream teas series. Two keen cyclists rode to and from Oxford to support the causes of Oxfordshire Historic Churches Trust and St Michael’s.

The Albert Park Singers continue to use the church for their rehearsals and held two concerts during the year; both were splendid, joyful occasions.

During the year, the church was hired out to various organisations to hold concerts: Abingdon Music Festival, The Abingdon Chorale Choir, Bella’s Family Choir.

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

The church room is used by one group on a regular basis. It has also been hired on an ad hoc basis during the year.

We have continued to support various charities throughout the year: TAB, Tariro, Flexicare, Be Free Young Carers, Abingdon Foodbank, The Porch, Homeless Oxfordshire.

Volunteers:

One of the strong characteristics of St Michael’s is the way that members of the congregation come together to help in so many ways. We should like to thank all our volunteers who contribute to keep things running smoothly. We could not manage without those who clean the church and church room; those who arrange the flowers; those who do vital odd jobs – small repairs, cleaning and repairing the linen or sorting out the heating or sound; those who make the coffee; the vergers at weddings and funerals; our sidepersons; those who manage publicity on the website. Nor should we forget to express our gratitude to our fund-raising team whose efforts have improved our financial situation and brought more music and people into the church. And we shouldn’t forget our DCC whose members meet regularly for the benefit of St Michael’s. We thank them for their commitment. We thank you all.

We would like to thank those who help in our worship: those who serve at the altar, our sacristans, our organists, readers and intercessors, our dedicated choir members, our bell ringers. Much work goes on behind the scenes; we must thank David Duce who prepares our service booklets for all our worship, and faithfully creates the pew leaflet each week so keeping us all informed. We are also blessed to have members of the congregation who are happy to lead worship, for instance in Silent Reflections, walking the Stations of the Cross, Advent walks.

Finally, a big thank you to Fr Paul for his leadership, support, kindness and love. Let us continue to pray for the Lord’s blessing on him.

Louise Heffernan and Joyce Kelly, March 2025

FABRIC & ENERGY REPORT 2024

Routine Maintenance was conducted as usual in 2024. The boilers were serviced, PAT testing carried out, the organ tuned, fire extinguishers and alarms maintained.

In the heavy storms of the autumn and winter we had a major leak in the South Aisle. We have had 2 companies out to give us advice and quotes for any work which would need to be undertaken. The matter is ongoing and we hope to get it rectified before any damage occurs.

The DCC is keen for us to get a security light above the North Door and we have got 2 quotes for this work and hope to get DAC approval for this to be done.

The Fabric and Energy Committee are actively looking at ways in which we can heat St Michael’s Church both effectively and efficiently. This is, obviously, an ongoing project.

Louise Heffernan and Joyce Kelly March 2025

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Appendix 3 St Nicolas’ Church Church Wardens’ & Fabric Reports

Services:

Our Sunday Services followed the normal pattern in 2024, with the 8.00am Parish Holy Communion (1662), alternating monthly with St Helen’s, and our main morning service at 11.15am.

St Nicolas also hosted the Parish Ascension Day evening Communion and St Nicolas Evensong – both with the support of musicians from our sister churches and wider afield. At our St Nicolas Evensong we welcomed our Bowles Lecturer and Chaplain of Trinity College, the Reverend Joshua Brocklesby as Preacher. It was good to be able to make this connection which we hope will continue. We aim to zoom all 11:15 (and celebration) services, and also to make the sermons available on line.

In June it was good to be able to host a short Service for pilgrims at the start of their second day of the St Frideswide‘s Way walk. This new pilgrim route between Christ Church Cathedral and Reading Abbey follows the Thames for much of its route, and a booklet of the route and prayers / mediations for use by pilgrims features many of the churches passed – including St Nicolas’ & St Helen’s.

Our monthly Services of Communion by Extension at Bridge House and Old Station House continued, and during good weather it was good to welcome residents and carers from Old Station House to St Nic’s for a short service followed by a time of fellowship.

We again provided the venue for the Church in Abingdon week of lunch time prayers for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. This year the theme was Caring for the Planet with each session focussing on an aspect of ecological concern – plastic pollution; transport, effects on climate change on biodiversity etc. The after service refreshments offered further time to explore the topics. Many thanks to all who helped by stewarding and providing lunch.

It was a privilege to host the funerals of two long standing members of the congregation – David Howard and Andrew Birks. Both of whom had given many years of service on the DCC and as Warden (David) and Treasurer (Andrew).

Activities:

During the year a small group (headed by Roger Cox and Patrick Holligan) focussed on our environmental footprint – looking at how we use the building, energy consumption, travel to church, the consumables we use in cleaning, printing etc, how the garden is looked after, and the impact of environmental concerns in our prayers and services etc. You may have noticed some changes – the use where possible of locally grown flowers (many from congregation members’ gardens); less use of (non-recyclable) oasis in flower arranging; turning unnecessary lights off etc; the ‘blister pack’ recycling point at the back of church. The Annexe refurbishment last year included improved insulation, double glazing, efficient heating and hot water etc.

At the end of the exercise we were delighted to be awarded the Silver A Roche Eco Award. But this is an ongoing process as we continue to seek to minimise our environmental impact.

For many years we have displayed a Nativity Scene in the south porch in the run up to Christmas which has caught the eye of many passers-by. In 2024 we arranged a Lent Display, consisting of a stark wooden cross with symbols of Holy Week being added week by week during Lent. This too

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

seemed to attract attention, and will be repeated in 2025, we are thinking of other innovative ways in which we could use the porch as outreach even when we are closed.

Throughout the year the church was open Church to visitors – primarily on Monday mornings, but also for the OHCT Ride & Stride Day, Heritage Open Days, and to coincide with Saturday events in the Market Place. We often have other visits from various groups, both local and from further afield. Thank you to all who have assisted in Stewarding at these events. During Heritage Open Days we were also the venue for a ‘Picture in a Day’ art exhibition which we hope will be repeated in 2025.

The after-service coffee on Third Sundays offers the opportunity for the congregation to talk and get to know each other more. This was extended in September when our Harvest Festival service was followed by a Bring & Share lunch in Church. The traditional St Nicolas Day Lunch at Coseners House in December was attended by members from all three churches in the Parish.

There have been a few fundraising concerts for St Nic’s plus other Sunday afternoon concerts by Abbey Chamber Concerts. We also hosted two art sales by Abbey Artists and a couple of evening events by Mostly Books. In the run up to Christmas we welcomed back Cards for Good causes – selling charity cards and goods. Cards for Good Causes very kindly ‘shuffled up’ to enable us to be open for the Abingdon Extravaganza – with a sale of donated knitted goods, a tombola and a raffle featuring as star prize another of Julia’s magnificent Christmas Cakes. Many thanks to all who organised and supported these events.

Thanks:

On behalf of the congregation, I’d like to give thanks to all those (ordained and lay) who have led services at St Nic’s over the year. Also, to Jenny for all her work as Treasurer. Thank you too, to those who have led our prayers and our music, and to the people who provide flowers.

Especially, I would like to thank everyone who has supported St Nicolas throughout the year. Whether through prayer, donations, or practical work week by week - doing those small tasks which we would only notice if they were not done.

FABRIC REPORT 2024

Twenty twenty-four has mainly been a year of preparation fabric wise. We reported last year we had started consultations on the refurbishment of the Blacknall Memorial / Blacknall Aisle. In 2024 we invited specialist conservators to look at and quote for work to both the Memorial & Aisle, and started discussions with the Diocesan Advisory Committee (essentially the Diocesan Planning Authority). It is good to be able to report that we have now received permission to move ahead with restoration of the Monument. We have also received permission to undertake some external drainage and guttering works which we hope will make the Aisle less susceptible to damp.

We commissioned a full report on the wall paintings, which concluded that they are Victorian, and suggested how they might be preserved into the future. We are now awaiting permission to conserve the walls of the Blacknall Aisle, after which we will need to decide on future conservation / preservation.

As a first step the wiring running along the edge of the painted wall was rerouted and placed in trunking.

We are very honoured that the family of Dr Andrew Birks, longtime Treasurer for St Nicolas and the parish, has decided to make a substantial donation in his memory towards the tri-partite project. Donations made at his funeral have also been designated for the work.

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

With conservation work on the monument planned to take place in early summer, we are now planning on a commemorative Service on 21 August 2025 - the 400th Anniversary of John & Jane’s death.

During the year we also commissioned a Diocesan Sponsored Energy Audit to identify ways of lowering our energy usage. The main short term project suggested was to fit lower energy lights, and install motion detectors in areas where lights can sometimes be left on unnecessarily. Approval for this has now been achieved, and work should take place in spring 2025.

The final part of our Annexe project was completed with a number of badly eroded grave markers being moved into the old boiler room under the organ chamber. This required some repointing to the retaining wall by the steps down.

Routine testing of the lightening conductor, central heating, automatic doors and fire extinguishers was carried out during the year. The organ and piano were retuned regularly. Eluned Hallas

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Appendix 4 Faith Forum

Faith Forum is part of the parish’s adult education provision, and gives an opportunity for members of the congregations and others in the parish to hear talks on aspects of the Christian faith and how Christian faith relates to other areas of life and culture. Beginning with the Spring 2024 series, the timing of Faith Forum meetings was moved from before to after the St Helen’s 10.30 service, to make it more accessible to members of all three congregations. A buffet lunch is provided from 12.30pm, and the talks run from 12.45pm to 1.30pm (including Q&A time). The change of time, while not without some drawbacks, most notably the gap between the end of the St Helen’s service and the start of Faith Forum, has provided popular, with 30 to 40 attendees at each talk. Thanks to Linda Hobbs, Hazel Glennie, and Elizabeth Simpson for their work in providing hospitality for Faith Forum.

The Faith Forum planning group continues to meet at the end of each Faith Forum ‘season’, to review the most recent programme and plan for future talks.

Faith Forum talks continue to be streamed on Zoom and recorded. Recordings are then made available on the parish website.

Topics covered in 2024 were the Sacraments (Spring 2024) and Ways to Engage with the Bible (Autumn 2024). Topics being covered in 2025 are ‘Big Topics’ in Theology (Spring 2025) and Personal Spirituality (Autumn 2025). Other topics being considered for future series include Environmental Theology, the Language of Liturgy, and Denominational Identities.

The planning group is next due to meet following the conclusion of the spring 2025 series, to agree speakers for the autumn series and to agree topics for 2026.

I would like to express my thanks to the members of the planning group: Norman Gee, Eluned Hallas, Linda Hobbs, Margaret Hoskins, David Pope, Rob Rutherford and Roderick Smith. I would also like to thank Nick Hallas for Zoom hosting, and Steve Thomas for ensuring recordings of Faith Forum make it onto the parish website. Thanks are also due to the speakers who provided talks in 2024.

Revd Dr Jennifer Brown Associate Priest, Faith Forum Lead

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Appendix 5 A Candle in the Window

You will remember that this online version of the Parish Magazine was started in April 2020 as one means by which members of the Parish could keep in touch during the pandemic. We are still going.

Our guiding principles for the Parish magazine remain the same:

To represent the whole Parish by encouraging as many as possible to contribute
To encourage a wide readership
To inform, educate and entertain.

Is it fulfilling those purposes? It is hard to answer that – what would you say? We don’t get much feedback! The only statistic we have is to look at the number of downloads. It is about 100 and printed copies are also available at St Nicolas and at the Parish Office for those who need them. Thanks to those who organise that. However, this raw statistic doesn’t tell us if the magazine is being enjoyed or even read! A survey might help but I think someone else should take that on!

Thank you to all contributors and to you the readers. Please continue to contribute and to read! We think that the magazine provides a rich mixture. Please tell us how to improve it! Email candle@abingdonparish.org.uk

Rob Rutherford, Louise Heffernan and Eluned Hallas

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PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Appendix 6 Abingdon Society of Bellringers

Tower Bell Ringers

The bells are rung every Sunday morning at St Helen’s and St Nicolas’, while Tuesday evening practices alternate at the two towers. On Friday afternoons we welcome boys from Abingdon School for their practice. This is followed by a lively session for our own youngsters, who are making excellent progress. Some are able to qualify for the Oxford Diocesan team in the annual National Youth Contest.

As part of the Oxon Ringing School (along with Dorchester-on-Thames, Witney and Kirtlington), adults are taught basic bell handing on Saturday mornings. This is possible with the generous help of volunteer experienced teachers from a wide area of Oxfordshire.

In 2024 we organised two Association of Ringing Teachers (ART) day courses to train new teachers of bell ringing. Quite a few new teachers attend the Ringing School to be mentored and gain experience in order to achieve accreditation.

Last year we rang for the occasional wedding and tolled for a number of funerals.

Visitors are very welcome to come up the tower to see the bells and ringing. We are happy to teach girls and boys (from age 10) who may be interested in learning to handle a bell and join in.

Brian Read, Tower Captain March 2025

Handbell Ringers

In 2024 our team had eleven members, enough for all the events at which we were asked to perform.

We held ten weekly practices starting on 13th October. We again met in the Parish Centre each Sunday evening.

We provided background music at three church Christmas fairs this year (St Michael’s, St Helen’s and Dorchester Abbey). We entertained at three clubs, two church carol services and one care home. I also gave a talk on handbells to the Trefoil Guild.

I’d like to thank all the handbell ringers again this year for their helpfulness and for the fun we have had.

Susan Read, Handbell Group Leader

March 2025

www.abingdonbells.org.uk

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Appendix 7 Report on the activities of the Church in Abingdon

Parish Representatives:

St H: Alexandra Green St M: John Clare St N: Sue Holligan

Staff Changes:

There have been a few changes in the clergy over the past year: Revd David Masters was appointed as the new minister for the Peachcroft Christian Centre; Revd Ian Griffiths left Trinity and All Saints and Revd Georgina Bondzi-Simpson was appointed; Revd James Whymark was appointed Associate Vicar at Christ Church; Revd Dr A K M Adam (AKMA) joined the staff at St Helen’s as the new House-for-Duty minister, and Revd Dr Charles Miller retired as Team Rector and Team Vicar for St Helens in November; Michael Ivey left Abingdon Community Church - Assistant Pastor Robin Howard and Duncan Graham will cover until a new minister is appointed.

Task groups and associated projects:

The CiA has continued to support a number of community projects and working groups that concentrate on specific areas of cooperation. These include:

Task groups

T he Christian Aid group held the Christian Aid Week.
The Christian Forum column continues to appear in the Abingdon Round & About monthly magazine under the direction of the CiA Administrator Debra Mcknight.
Several exchange visits of the Church Twinning group have taken place – one to Abingdon, one to Sint Niklaus and one to Argentan.
The work of Desire continues.
An Alpha launch night took place at Christ Church and St Edmund as a prelim to their Alpha courses.
The work of Prayer Spaces continues in Abingdon schools with Ellie Ball in charge of schools in south Abingdon and Heather Hughes leading those in schools in north Abingdon.

Associated projects

35 Ock Street, a hospitality centre for the community offering a café and a listening ear, and meeting rooms for local groups and agencies.
The Abingdon Bridge, which has continued to reach out to the youth of Abingdon, providing support, advice and guidance to an increasing number of vulnerable young people in the community.
Abingdon Street Pastors who are out on the streets of Abingdon on Saturday nights
Experience Easter, which now offers both live and online versions at Trinity Church.

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

United activities 2024

January

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, theme: Caring for the Planet Midday prayers at St Nic’s Church.

The Inter-church quiz, at Christ Church, was won by Abingdon Baptist Church, and raised £104.37 for the charity SeeSaw.

The United Service at Our Lady and St Edmund’s Church raised £90 for the John Ray Initiative.

February

CiA AGM

Connect youth weekend at Youlbury.

March

The World Day of Prayer service at All Saints Church organised by the CiA Administrator and volunteers from the previous WDP committee. The service for 2024 was prepared by the women of Palestine with the theme ‘I beg you, bear with one another in love’. Revd Ian Griffiths led the service.

TrinityLearning’s Easter Experience at Trinity Church offering both live and online workshops to KS2 school children to access the Easter story.

The procession of witness on Good Friday stopping in the Market Place for a short outdoor service led by Pastor Ellie Bal and joined by the fellowship group singers from Christ Church and musicians from the Abingdon Baptist Church. Mini Easter eggs and an Easter Tract were given out.

April

A Connect event at Christ Church.

Church Twinning Group arranged a visit to Abingdon for a group of women from Schongau.

May

Christian Aid week market place sale and a street collection raised £1024

June

The 4th Abingdon Passion Play in the Abbey Gardens.

Church Twinning invited visitors from Sint Niklaas to attend the Abingdon Passion Play. Pre-election hustings for the General Election in July at Abingdon Baptist Church.

July

The South Abingdon Play & Activity Day event in Southern Town Park with Abingdon Community Church taking place. AVC and ABC had to pull out at late notice.

September

Christ Church and St Edmund both held Alpha launch nights, prior to the start of their Alpha courses.

A Connect event at Christ Church.

October

The Michaelmas fair service with Deacon Selina Nisbett leading.

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

December

People from all the churches gathered in the Market Place to sing carols and give out leaflets detailing all the Christmas services taking place across Abingdon. Children’s crafts, festive nibbles were also on offer.

The Peachcroft Christian Centre hosted a Christmas Day lunch for about 60 people from around Abingdon.

Finance

The grants paid in 2024 were:

•The Abingdon Bridge £2000 for their work with disadvantaged young people
•DESIRE youth network £1500 to help run schools weeks and larger events
•Abingdon Street Pastors £1000 to fund their ongoing help for people out at night
•Experience Easter £750 to help school children and their teachers explore the Easter story
•Archway £750 for their work with the lonely in and around Abingdon

Debra McKnight CiA Administrator

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Appendix 8 Report on St Nicolas School

St Nicolas CE Primary continues to flourish and serve the children and families of the parish and beyond. The connection with the Parish is very much valued, not least through Father Paul's ongoing commitment to take regular assemblies in school and the whole school church services at Christmas (Trinity Church), Easter (St Michael’s) and at the end of the school year (St Helen’s). This connection helps to enhance the school's commitment to its Christian ethos and values which are celebrated in the whole school assemblies on Mondays and in class collective worship during the week.

In accordance with the government’s requirement for all Governing Bodies, the three core strategic functions of the school's Governing Body are: to ensure the clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction of the school; to hold the head teacher to account for the educational performance of the school and its pupils; and to oversee the financial performance of the school and making sure its money is well spent. During the 2023/24 school year, Staff and Governors spent time looking improving children's outcomes in writing, embedding the vision and values into school life, and improving school attendance across all year groups. The budget continues to be challenging as funding for education across the country is squeezed and so support from charities, like Christ's Hospital and from the St Nicolas School Association has been invaluable. The full Governors' report can be read here which provides further information.

At the end of the year, Governors and staff expressed their sincere thanks to Eluned Hallas who stepped down as Foundation Governor after 18 years. Although it was hoped that Father Paul Smith would take on this role, the demands of the Parish's interregnum have not made this possible. As a result there is a current vacancy and the Chair of Governors would be delighted to hear from anyone interested in learning more about this opportunity to serve the children of the Parish and wider community in this way.

Finally, it is with great pleasure that we also share the news of the very positive SIAMS inspection (for Church of England schools, in addition to OFSTED) that took place at the start of this academic year. The inspection was an opportunity to highlight the impact that the school’s Christian vision has on the flourishing of the whole school community. The findings reflected the school's positive values, inclusive ethos, and high expectations where everyone is valued as an individual. The full report can be found here

Katrina Hancock, Chair of Governors

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Appendix 9 Report on the Abingdon Foodbank

Abingdon Food Bank continues to be an important lifeline for many families in need within our community. In the last year a new Manager has been appointed, he is initiating additional staff training to ensure Foodbank users have access to assistance with Benefit advice. The food bank is under Trussel Trust management.

Abingdon has two food banks, the Christchurch hub opens Tuesday and Friday mornings, South Abingdon Foodbank at Preston Road food opens Wednesday afternoon.

There is an ever increasing demand for support with an increasing need from refugee families, these families and individuals have no recourse to public funds, therefor until employment is found there is a need for short term food support. The Christ Church hub also offers a regular language café aimed to integrate families and improve language skills.

The Parish of Abingdon continues to actively support the work of the Food banks. Regular donations of tinned foods as well as monetary donations help to support this important work and ministry.

We would like to offer thanks to all who have contributed in any way to the work of Food Banks locally and nationally. Without the work of paid employees, volunteers and those who donate, clients would be facing even more difficult situations.

Linda Hobbs

Food Bank volunteer (St H)

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES I report on the accounts of the above parish forlhe year ended 31 Dernber 2024. Responsibilities and Basls of Report As the trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 ('the ACV). I report in respect of my examination of the parish's accounts carried out under s145 of the Act and, in carrying out my examination, I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act. Independent Examinerfs statement The parish's gross income exceeds £250.000 and l am qualified to undertake the examination by virtue of being a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. I have complet8d my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination which gives me cause to believe that in any material respect.. the accounting records were not kept in accordan with section 130 of the Act: or the accounts did not accord with the accounting records: or the accounts did not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Chafities (Accounts and Reports) regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and faiff view which is not a matter Considered as part of an Independent Examination. I have no COnrnS and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this port in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. A Churchill Stone FCA DChA Mercer Lewin Ltd Chartered Accountants 6-7 Citibase. New Barclay House 234 Botley Rd Oxford OX2 OHP 11 kn12olS 16

THE PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 2024 Unrestricted Restrlcted Endowment funds funds Funds 2023 Total Total Note INCOME Voluntary income Acb'vib'es for generating funds Investrnent income From church activities Other income 2a 2b 2c 2d 239.914 30,589 10.309 19,834 195 49,201 52 24.236 1.842 289.115 30,641 34,546 21,676 195 289,156 16.716 32.385 18,283 739 300.842 75.332 376,173 357,280 EXPENDITURE Fundraising costs Church activities Other expenditure 4,251 279,896 110 4,251 323.306 110 3,735 392.921 1.790 398,446 3a 43.409 284.257 43,409 327,667 Net Income (Expenditure) before Investment Gains 16,584 31,922 48,507 (41.166) Galns and lossas on investment assets on revaluatlon 9,151 4.164 4,460 17.775 46,823 Transfers between funds (11,280) 11.280 (o) (o) Net movement in funds 14,456 47.366 4,460 66,282 5,657 Total funds brought forward 723,915 233,597 294,092 1,251,603 1.245,946 Total funds carried forward 738,371 280.963 298.552 1.317.885 1,251,603 17

THE PARISH OF ABINGDON.ON-THAMES BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024 2024 Unrestricted Restrlcted Endowment funds funds Funds 2023 Total Total Note FIXED ASSETS Tangible assets Investments 389.092 202.323 14.437 139.070 83,185 199.866 486,714 541.260 491,328 553,375 1.044,703 591,415 153,507 283.052 1.027.974 CURRENT ASSETS Stocks Debtors Short temi deposits Cash at bank and in hand 3.851 36.777 98.893 20.206 3.851 55,126 235,783 21.166 272 54.659 151,531 31.829 18,349 121.390 960 15,500 159,727 140.699 15,500 315,926 CREDITORS Amounts due withln one year NETCURRENT ASSETS 238.291 12,772 146.956 113.243) 26.015 31.YJO 206.900 127.456 15.500 289,912 NET ASSETS 738.371 280,963 298,552 1,317,885 1.251.603 FUNDS OF THE CHURCH Unreslricted funds Restricted funds Endowment funds 738.371 738.371 280,963 298,552 298,552 298,552 1,317,885 726.180 231,332 294,092 1.251,603 10 11 280,963 738,371 280,963 These accounts were approved by the PCC on ............................ and are signed on its behalf by.. Sue Scott PCC Chairman Susan Read. FMAAT Treasurer, St Helen's DCC Dr J Smith (a.k.a. Dr J Metcalfe) Treasurer St Michael's & St Nicolas DCCS 18

THE PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES Basis of re aralion The Parish is a public benefit entity within the meaning of FRS 102. The financial statements have been prepared under The Charities Act 2011 and in acCOrdar with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 and with the Regulations, Irue and fair vie, provisions. together with FRS102 (2016) as the applicable accounting standard and the 2016 version of the Ststement of Recommended Practice, Accounting and Reporting by Charities (SORP {FRS 102)). b. Funds Unrestricted funds are general funds available for the general objectives of the church. Funds designated for a particular purpose by the PCC are also unrestricted. Restrtcted funds can only be used for the purposes for which thy have been given. wthin the objectives of the church. The cost of raising and administering such funds are charged against those specific fijnds. Endowment funds represent endowments. of vthich the capital musl be rnaintained. and the dividend income used only for the restricted purposes arising from the establishment of the endowments. c. Incomin resources All incoming resources are included in the Statem8nt of Financial Activities ("SoFA") when the church becomes legally entitled to the income and when the amount can be quantified with reasonable certainty. Collections are ¢09n1$ed when received by or on behalf of the PCC. Planned giving is recognised only when reived. Grants and legacies are re¢ognised as soon as the PCC becomes awa of its legal entitlement and the amount due is quantifiable with reasonable rtainty. Income tax recoverable on gift aid donations is accounted for when the gift is re¢eived. When incoming resou$ have related expendlture {as with fijndraising income and sales of book sand magazines) the incoming resources and the related reSoUrS expended are accounted for gross in the SOFA. Interest is accounted for when receivable and includes any recoverable tsx. Rental income from letting church pr8mises is recognised when the r8ntal Is due. Realised gains or losses are recognised when investments are sold. Unrealised gains or losses are accounted for on revaluation of investrnenls at 31st December. d. Resources ex ended Expenditure is included on an accruals basis and is recognised when there is a legal or constructive obligation to pay for goods or ServIS and settlement 15 probable and quantifiable. As the church is not registered for VAT, all the expenditu is shown inclusive of VAT. Governan costs include the costs of the preparation of the annual accounts. the cost of PCC meetings and the legal cost of advio on governan or constitutional matters. Grants and charitable giving are accounted for when paid over or when awarded. rf the award creates a binding obligation on the PCC. provided that there are no conditions to be met relating to the grant which remain in the control of the church. Consecrated and beneficed property of any kind is excluded from the accounts by s.10<2) of the Charrties Act 2011. All expenditure incurred during the year on such property is written off as expenditure in the SOFA and separately disclosed e. Pensions The PCC encourages its employees to join the a Penslon Scheme whlch is a defined contribution penslon scheme. Th8 PCC matches contributions made by employees. The assels of the scheme are held separately from those of the PCC. The contributions payable by the PCC are charged to Ihe SOFA as they are incurred. 19

THE PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 1. Accountlng policies Icontlnuad) f. Fixed assels The Parish owns various freehold properties, Ihe majority of which were acquired prior to the requirement lo capilalise such expenditure. These properties have therefore not been included in cost. Freehold property acquired more recently is included at cosL No depreciatSon is provided on buildings with a current estimated residual value of not less than their carrying value, otherwise the cost of buildings acquired is depreciated over a period of 100 years. Office equipment is depreciated on a Straight line basis over 3 to 5 years. Other equipment is depreciated on a straight line basis over 20 years. Investments are valued 81 Market Value. Current assets Amounts owed to the Parish al the year end in respect of fees, rents and other income are shown as debtors. Short terni deposits include cash on deposit either with the CBF Church of England Funds or al the ban 2024 Unrestricted Restrlcted Endowment Funds funds Funds 2023 Total Z INCOMING RESOURCES Total a. Voluntary income Planned regular giving Income tax recoverable Olher giving Colle¢lions (open plalel Legacies Grants. Govt, Local Authorfti85 Grants, other Sundry donatlons 169,413 45,086 169,413 47.730 170,959 45,459 13,233 13,233 39,284 3.174 8,265 8.016 289.115 12,142 20,145 5,250 14,352 20,850 289.156 39,284 2,647 1,818 2.809 49.201 527 6,447 5,207 239,914 b. Actlvitles for generatlng fund5 Fetes & other fund-ralslng 30,589 30.589 52 52 30.641 30.641 16.716 16.716 Income from Investments Dividends & Interest Rent from land or other buildings Share of income from Blacknall legacy 10.309 12,677 22,987 19,560 11.559 24,236 11,559 34.546 12,825 32.385 10.309 d. Income from Churctt actlvltle5 Bookstall Church hall lettings Magazines Fees 57 12.654 12,595 1.520 14.115 7.240 19,834 322 1,842 7.562 21,676 5.573 18,283 20

THE PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 2024 Unrestricted Restri¢ted Endowment Funds funds Funds 2023 Total 3. RESOURCES EXPENDED Total . Church Activities Church overseas Relief & Development agencies Home missions, other church societies Secular charities Ministry Parish share Incumbents, expenses Assistant staff Church fuel Church running expenses. other Church maintenan Upkeep of services Bookstsll Support Costs Parish Centre running costs Hotsse for Assistsnt Cleric Salaries. wages and honoraria Major repairs & replacements (installations Printing, ststionery etc. Gereral administration Lease of office equipment Depreciation Bank charges 2,105 2.789 7,800 157,450 2.691 259 25.817 8.772 2.080 7,988 2.105 2,789 7,800 157,450 2,691 259 28.342 24,340 14,488 9,417 1.839 2.489 4,280 158,371 3,939 428 36.426 26.291 32,893 8.122 525 15.568 12.408 1,429 492 7.702 492 7.702 3.516 36.916 3.043 5.630 170 3,845 12,959 1.350 323,306 442 6.992 5.131 34.905 52.720 6,100 147 5,101 5.599 706 392,921 3.516 26,916 3.043 5,630 170 3.845 6.209 1.350 279,896 6.750 43.409 b. Analysis of other costs Independent examination 110 110 1,790 1,790 110 110 2024 2023 4. STAFF COSTS Organists Vergers Parish administrator Cleaners Other stsff costs 12,266 5,949 16.247 2,082 373 11,736 5,237 14.858 1.833 1.240 34,905 36,916 Th8 average no of employees was as foll¢)ws: Organists Vergers Parish administrator Cleaner None of the Trustees reiVed any remuneration or employee benefits during the year. The lay trustees. where applicable. who acted as agents to the PCC in making approved payments on Its behalf, were reimbursed for these expenses on presentation of suitable documentary evidence. Clergy working expenses were reimbursed in accordance with Church of England guidelines. 21

THE PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 5. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS Freehold Office Other Propety Equipment Equipment 2024 Total Cost At 1 January 2024 Written off Additions 512,450 17.500) 30.785 543.235 (7,500) 8,345 544.080 8,345 At 31 December 2024 504.950 8,345 30.785 Depreciation At 1 January 2024 Written off Charge for the year At 31 December 2024 38.750 (750) 2.000 38,000 15,157 51,907 {750) 6.209 57,366 1.361 2.848 18,005 1.361 Net book value at 1 January 2024 475,700 15,628 491.328 Net book value at 31 December 2024 466.950 6.984 12,780 486,714 The market value of the freehold properties are considered to be in excess of the above carrying value. however, it is not considered practicable or cost effective to quantify the difference. 6. INVESTMENTS Unrestrlcted Restricted Endowment funds fvnds Funds Totsl 2024 Tolal 2023 CBF Investment Fund CBF Fixed Interest Securities CBF Global Equity Income Fund CBF Property Fund CBF UK Equity Income Fund COIF Investment Fund 3.029 62.969 108.768 134,945 4,126 156,703 294.676 287.080 67,095 65.009 108.768 102,362 29.509 27,205 42,210 27.557 27.557 43,164 43,164 202,323 139.070 199.866 Unrestricted Restricted Endowment funds fijnds Funds 541.260 553,375 Total 2024 Market value Total 2023 At 1 January Investments purchased Investrnents transferred Dividends reinvested Surplusl(deficit) on revaluation At 31 Dernber 223,062 134.906 195,406 553.375 506,552 (27,686) (27,686) 1,084 45.740 553.375 6,947 202.323 4.164 139,070 4,460 15.571 199,886 541.260 2024 7. DEBTORS 2023 Income tsx recoverable Prepayments and accmed income 12.200 42.926 55,126 15,770 38.888 54.659 8. CREDITORS Sundry creditors and accruals 26.015 31.390 22

THE PARISH OF AB1NGDoNN-THAMEs NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Brought Income Expend- foMard iture Inv movement Transfer Carried forward 9. UNRESTRICTED FUNDS General funds 479,457 299.429 {283.970) 8.963 (10,188) 493.691 Designated funds St Helen's Church Archivist fund Babies & toddlers Clerical housing (designated) Hospitality fund Strategic Fund Christmas dinner club Vicar & Wardens fund 4,807 4,235 207.379 1.092 23.400 186 560 4.993 4.794 207.379 (1.092) 38 231 398 189 23.627 67 3.819 (163) (124) 3.545 Total unrestricted funds 723.915 300.842 (284,257 9.151 (11.280) 738.371 10. RESTRICTED FUNDS St Helen's Church Bell fund Centre fabric fund Choir fund Church fabric fund Church roof fund Clerical houslng (restricted) Development fund Flower fund Lady aisle fund PR fund Sanctuary & choir fund Special Music fund 23,226 5,382 93 47,679 996 12.030 1,253 637 7.373 875 590 5,133 1.226 11 (587) 585 360 24.450 5.753 (93) 5.058 (18.564) 260 1.734 (10,266) 1.566 (1.566) (723) 1,359 35,532 1,256 3.758 1,253 801 7.937 705 938 5.226 259 564 (170) (582) 929 93 St Michael's Church Fabric fund Heating fund Roof fund Vemon Butt Fund 76 525 130 2.819 (1.096) (525) 1,020 130 12.819 10.000 St Nicolas, Church Altar Linen Bell fund Blacknall maintenan Blacknall tomb repair Church lands Churchyard repair Fabric Fund Flower fund Organ Fund 3.060 146 30 126 112.210 15.980 10.743 41.224 922 1.360 1,327 517 3.206 65 125.665 48.417 1.787 1.160 (91) {4,386) {3,550) {496) (684) 1.860 37 106 88 (124) 19 88 Total restricted funds 233.597 75,332 43.409 4.164 11,280 280.963 23

THE PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 Brought forward Income Inv movement Transfer Carried fOard 11. ENDOWMENT FUNDS St Helen's Church 16118 Qck St proceeds A Challenor Bequest Abingdon Oldfield Bequest Backhus Trust Church Fabric Fund (endowmentl Church Repair Trust E Hawkins Charity Elderfield Trust Hyde Trust North Bequest PCC Trust Preston Tnjst 15,500 22.470 83.185 8.952 28.867 9.381 12.953 294 4,860 10,670 8.115 20.300 15.500 22.984 83,185 9.157 29.528 9.596 13.249 301 4.971 10.914 8,301 20.764 514 205 661 215 296 111 244 465 St Michael's Church Challenor5 & Halcornbe Fabric fund Harris Trust Roof fijnd 8.409 2.441 5.538 4.679 192 56 127 107 8.602 2.497 5.665 4.786 St Nicolas, Church tar Linen Church Lands Charity 5,267 42.210 121 954 5.388 43.164 294,092 4,460 298.552 12. ANALYSIS OF ASSETS Unrestricted Restricted Endowment Funds Funds Funds Total Tangible fixed assets Investments Current assèts CUnI liabilitses 389.092 202,323 159.727 12.772 738,371 14,437 139,070 140,699 13,243 280.963 83,185 199.866 15,500 486,714 541.260 315,926 {26.015 298,552 1,317,885 13. DESCRIPTION OF FUNDS Designated funds - set aslde by thè PCC St Helen's Church Archivist fund Funds eamed by the ¢hur¢h archivist from research on behalf of family historians used for archivisfs materials Funds eamed by running a club for mothers of young children used for equipment for the club Funds received from legacies and fund raising. Partly used toward the purchase of Enod( House for the House For Duty priest. Remainder held for future projects. Donation5 received for the provision of refreshments at events in the church and hall. Surplus donated to St Helen's Church Funds for use at the discretion of the Rector Babies and Toddlers Clerical Housing Fund Hospitality fund Vicar and wardens, fund Window Publisher Income and expenditure publishing a book by the Rector some years ago. St Nicolas. Church Reordering fijnd In 2022 this fvnd was designatsd to be used for the refurbishment of the toilet and kitchen block. 24

THE PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 13. DESCRIPTION OF FUNDS (continued) Restricted funds, given for a partlcular purpose St Helen's Church Bell fund From a legacy of Edgar Humfrey and donations by ringers for the repair and renewal of the bells and fittings. Donations reIVed for the repair of the church ntre. Income from donations and ddIng choir fees. Expenditure on tnusic and choir equipment Endowment income and donations for the repair and renewal of church fabric. Endowment income for the repair of the church roof except that of Lady Aisle. Endowment income for the capital costs of clerical housing. Funds restricted to the work described by the 1999 Development Plan. Donations made by members of the congregation for church flowers Endowment income for the repair of the roof of the Lady Aisle. Donations received toward the cost of publicty for church events Sanctuary and thoir fund Endowment incorne for furniture, linen, etc. for the sanctuary and choir. Special music fund Donations for use at the discrelion of the Director of Music to further the tnusic ministry of St Helen's beyond what budgeted funds allow. Centre fabric fund Choir fund Church fabric fund Church roof fund Clerical housing fund Development fund Flower fund Lady aisle fund PR fund St Mlchael's Church Fabric fund Endowment income and donations received for the repair and maintenance of the church buildings Donations solely for the cost of heating the church building Endowment incorne received for the repair of the church roof For specific. on&off. special expenses approved by the DCC Heating Fund Roof fund Vemon Butt Fund St Nicolas. Church Altar nen fund Endowment income for the provision of altar linen and choir robes Funds raised or donated towards the maintenance of the bells and their fttings. Endowment income received from the Charity of John Blacknall foi'maintaining. repairing and insuring against fire the fabric, ornaments and furniture,. Bell fund Blacknall maintenance Blacknall Tomb Repair Fund Churchyard Fund Church Lands For repairs to the Blacknall memorial and the area around the memorial For the maintenance of the churchyard and garden. The income from an historic endowment fund for the upkeep of the church building and the running of seNi¢es. Income raised for the repair and maintenance of the church buildings. Donations made by members of the congregation for church flowers For the repair and upkeep of the organ Fabric Fund Flower Fund Organ Fund 25

THE PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 13. DESCRIPTION OF FUNDS Icontlnued) Endowment funds St Helen's Church Abingdon Oldfield Bequest A Challenor 8equest Church repair trust Preston Tnjst Income restrrcted to housing for the assistant clergy of the parish Income for vesture, fumishings and fittings In the sanciuary and choir Income for the repair of the church roof except that of Lady Alsle. Income for the upkeep of the roof and ancient paintings of the Lady Aisle. Income for the upkeep and maintenance of the fabric of St Helen's Church. 16118 Ock Street proed$. Church fabric fund. Hyde Trust All other St Helen's endowment funds Endowment income to be used for general purposes of St Helen's Churdi St Nicolas. Church Altsr Linen Endowment for the provision of 'new altsr linen. surplices and cassocks,. Endowment for the'repairing. maintenance and benefft. of St Nicolas Church. Church Lands Charity St Michael's Church Challenors and Holcombe Unrestricled income for the use of the church. Bequests Harris Trust Income for the benefit of St Mithael's Church. by way of upkeep. adornment or In any manner as the vicar and church wardens deem expedrent. Income for the general upkeep of the Church Income for the repair of the church roof Fabric fund Church repair trust 14. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS During the year the Trustees mad8 donations to the Charity as members of the congregations. These donations lotalled £29157 {2023: £17442). 15. LEGACIES The parish is a beneficiary of the will of DJ Enock and funds have been received in prlor years. The Parish is aware that a further sum is due under this legacy however the property in question Is subject to a life tenancy and therefore neither the sum invofved nor the timing of receipt is yet known. For these reasons no additional amount has been accrued in respect of this further income. 26

THE PARISH OF ABINGDONQN-THAMES NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 16. COMPARATWE SOFA FOR PREVIOUS YEAR Unrestricted Restricted Endowment funds funds Funds Total 2023 INCOME Voluntary income Activities for generating funds Investment income Frorn church activities Other income 247,276 16.672 9,553 18.283 525 41.880 289,156 16,716 32,385 18.283 739 22.833 214 292.308 64,972 357.280 EXPENDITURE Fundraising costs Church activities Other expenditure 3.735 310.146 1,790 315,671 3.735 392,921 1.790 398.446 82,775 82,775 Net Incoma (Expenditure) before Investment Gains (23.363) (17,803) (41,166) Gains and losses on investment assets on revaluation 17.564 12,475 16.784 46,823 Transfers between funds Net movement In funds 4,938 (10,736) 4,938 (390) 16,784 5,857 Total funds brought forward 736.916 231.723 277.307 1.245,946 Totsl funds carried forward 726.180 231,332 294.092 1,251,603 27

2024-12-31-accounts

ANNUAL REPORT

For year ending 31st December 2024

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES ANNUAL REPORT FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Table of Contents

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (Continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024 (As required by Church Accounting Regulations 2006)

ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

PCC members

Stipendiary Team clergy :

Licensed Lay Minister Representative

Churchwardens :

Ex-Officio – representatives on Diocesan Synod:

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

AIMS AND PURPOSES

1 ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE

1a Team Clergy Report

Sunday services

Ministry team

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Outreach

1b Church Electoral Roll [Richard Kirby]

Report to the 2024 Annual Meeting

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Richard Kirby

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

1c PCC [Eluned Hallas, PCC Secretary]

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

1d Safeguarding [Patricia Hudson, PSO]

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

1e Abingdon Deanery Synod [Sue Scott]

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

1f Abingdon Diocesan Synod [Sue Scott]

1g St Nicolas School and Education Trust Abingdon [Eluned Hallas]

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

2 STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MEMBERSHIP

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

3 PROPERTY

3a The Rectory [Linda Hobbs]

3b Enock House, Musson Close [Linda Hobbs]

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

3c Fairacres Road [Rob Bough]

OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES

Public Benefit

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Reports from individual churches are attached as Appendices to this report.

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

TREASURER’S REPORT ON THE YEAR ENDED 31 DEC 2024

Income and Expenditure

Balance Sheet

Restricted Funds

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Going Concern

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Appendix 1 St Helen’s Church Church Wardens’ & Fabric Reports

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

FABRIC REPORT

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Appendix 2

St Michael and All Angels’ Church Church Wardens’ & Fabric Reports

CHURCHWARDENS’ REPORT

Worship and Services:

Community:

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Volunteers:

FABRIC & ENERGY REPORT 2024

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Appendix 3 St Nicolas’ Church Church Wardens’ & Fabric Reports

Services:

Activities:

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Thanks:

FABRIC REPORT 2024

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Appendix 4 Faith Forum

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Appendix 5 A Candle in the Window

PARISH OF ABINGDON-ON-THAMES Annual Report (continued) FOR YEAR ENDING 31st DECEMBER 2024

Appendix 6 Abingdon Society of Bellringers