PARISH OF
BERKSWICH
GOD'S LOVE IN COMMUNITY
Annual Report for the year ending 31st December 2@24
Charity Commission registration number. 1129997
Page I

11
Page 2

Dear alL,
Welcome to our 2@24 Annual Report
This report is always a good opportunity to spend some time taking stock-reflecting on who we are,
strengthening relationships, and looking ahead to the future.
We are truly blessed with a dedicated team of volunteers who serve on the PCC and work tirelessly
behind the scenes to ensure the smooth running of our three places of worship. Without their
commitment, much of what we do would not be possible, and l am deeply grateful for their service.
On a personal note, having spent the last part of this year ill, the family and myself have been
grateful for your support and prayers and look fonvard to the year ahead. The path ahead may not
be easy or what we expect, but I trust that it will be the right one. My hope is that Christ's Church
here in Berkswich will continue to grow-like tender new shoots taking root for the future. Growth in
service and mission can only happen when we are confident in ourselves and our faith, and that is
something we continue to nurture together.
Serving God
Worship remains at the heart of our parish. All Saints, Holy Trinity and St Thomas provide spaces
where people can encounter God-whether through personal prayer or in corporate worship.
Holy Trinity, as the parish church. holds a special place as the heart of our community- as a space
in which we gather together to offer mutual support and love through our drop-in, Crafty Cafe, and
other events we have seen many testify to this. It is also a house of prayer, and those who join us for
other community events feel this too - as the steady increase in candle usage during these times
attests to.
The celebration of the Sacraments offers us a regular rhythm in our worship life. It is a joy to witness
and participate in both personal and communal expressions of faith both at our Sunday services and
our Midweek services. As a parish, we came together for several key celebrations, including the
Feasts of SS Thomas, All Saints, Holy Trinity, the Triduum and our 'fifth Sunday, parish eucharists.
While as with most other parishes in the nation our congregational numbers are still recovering
post-COVID, we remain hopeful and are still seeing growth. Baptisms and weddings have declined
significantly from the pasL while funerals, interments, and ashes burials have remained steady.
Interestingly, even after humanist or civic funerals, many still seek comfort and hope from the
church-reminding us of the deep and enduring need for God in people's lives.
Page 3

Serving Our Community
Our churches remain open and welcoming to the wider community, striving to serve all ages and
backgrounds. We firmly believe that no one is excluded from God's love, and we seek to reflect that
in our parish life.
I hope that people see all our churches as an extension of their own homes-places of peace,
refuge, and connection. Our engagement with local schools remains Last year, we welcomed pupils
and teachers from Berkswich CofE Primary School, Oakridge, Barnfields and have involvement with
Walton High School too. We are pleased to see these relationships continue into 2@25.
Our churches also serve as vibrant community hubs. Holy Trinity hosts a well-attended weekly drop-
in and Crafty Café; St Thomas hosts our Church School on many occasions along with our thriving
chapter of the Mothers, Union, and All Saints sees people regularly gather to share poetry and
support at our Poetry Cafe. Finally, our churchyard and gardens continue to be a place of solace for
visitors, dog walkers, and those remembering loved ones.
Serving You
At its heart, our parish is a welcoming plac￿3 home for all who seek God. It has been a privilege to
gather together, pray, and serve alongside so many of you over the past year.
Safeguarding remains a top priority. In light of national concerns, we continue to review and
strengthen our policies to ensure that our parish is a safe space for everyone. The Parish of
Berkswich is a place where individuals can find their own space to connect-with God, with others,
and with themselves. As we look to the year ahead, we build upon all that has been, trusting in God's
guidance for what is to come.
We move forward in faith, hope, and love.
Thank you again for all you have done. I commend all the reports which await you in this review of
2@24 and look forward to walking with you with anticipation and an eagerness to be transformed by
God's Spirit.
Fr Graham
Page 4

Objectives and Activities
The Parochial Church Council of Berkswich (the PCC) has the responsibility of ccFoperating with
the incumbent, the Reverend Graham Adamson, in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish, the whole
mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelicaL social and ecumenical. The PCC is also spiritually
responsible for the maintenance of the church.
The PCC is committed to enabling as many people as possible to worship at our church and to
become part of our parish community at Berkswich. The PCC maintains an overview of worship
throughout the parish and makes suggestions on how our services can involve the many groups
that live within our parish. Our services and worship put faith into practice through prayer, scripture,
music and sacrament. Also, through non sacramental activities of hospitality and fellowship we aim
to reach and provide loving support to non church members of the community.
Statement of Public Benefit
The trustees of the PCC are aware of the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit in The
Advancement of Religion for the Public Benefit and have had regard to it in their administration of
the Charity. The trustees believe that, by promoting the work of the Church of England in the
Ecclesiastical Parish of Berkswich it helps to promote the whole mission of the Church (pastoral,
evangelistic, social and ecumenical) more effectively. within the Ecclesiastical Parish, and that in
doing so it provides a benefit to the public by.
Providing 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" and
Promoting Christian values and service by members of the Church in and to their communities,
to the benefit of individuals and society as a whole.
The Parish of Berkswich demonstrates public benefit with the following activities
Regular physical and virtual public worship open to alL
The provision of sacred space for personal prayer and contemplation.
Pastoral work, including visiting the sick. frail and bereaved.
Teaching of Christianity through sermons, courses and small groups.
Taking of religious assemblies in schools.
Promotion of Christianity through staging of events and meetings and the distribution of
literature.
Promotion of the whole mission of the church through provision of activities for senior
citizens, parents, toddlers. young people and other special needs groups.
Teaching and discussion of Christian Ethics.
Page 5

EnvironmentaVEthical issues e.g. jumble sales (unsold items recycled), supporting other
charities in the UK and overseas.
Community involvement, including the support of local cultural events (music, artistic, etc)
and social action.
Encouraging local community and commercial activities, through advertising local services
and facilities via the Three Decker, our Parish Magazine.
Achievements and Performance
Development of opportunities for prayer. reflection and faith sharing
a. Baptism and Marriage preparation provide opportunities for teaching, support and
welcome to the church.
b. The number of Special Christmas services in each church to welcome as many
families to joyful celebration as we could.
c. Our All Souls service and Blue Christmas service offered opportunity for the recently
bereaved to have a space where they can have peace to reflect.
d. The dropin provides much valued and appreciated opportunities for support and
fellowship.
e. A space by the Lychgate is being developed as an area to use art to help our
community reflect and react to events. This year, the space was provided to reflect on
the conflict in Ukraine and to mark Harvest, Easter and Christma&
f. Following the success of Berkswich Unlocked art exhibition, we launched Crafty Café -
a café with a specific focus on providing mindfulness and mental health support to the
community. The café has been used by providers in the area as a 'social prescription,.
2. Planning and development of fundraising activities
Following the pandemic we were able to relaunch our Christmas and Summer Fayre
fundraising activities, organise concerts, coffee mornings and other events. We look forward
to doing more in 2@24.
3. Exploration of Eucharistic and Social Life in ways that lead to growth opportunities.
Discipleship courses and discussions were held which gave opportunities to learn and
worship together in formal and informal settings, and to meet people. A Lent and Advent
WhatsApp Daily Reflection provided a successful way for the congregation to consider their
faith during these important festivals. Special welcome services and Patronal Festivals and
social events are joyful occasions and give opportunities to welcome members of other
churches, and our local community.
4. Ecumenical links
The parish remains a part of the Lovestafford ecumenical group.
Page 6

Church Attendance 2024
The average Sunday service attendances are as follows (2@23 in brackets):
Holy Trinity: 64 (52) - NB these exclude online worshippers.
St Thomas,: 3@ (Choral Evensong)
All Saints: 21 (18)
Online Worship: 8 households; approK 12@ Facebook 'views'
The average weekday service attendances are as foll0v￿.
Holy Trinity: 6 (5)
St Thomas,: 25 (17)
All Saints: @ (3)
Dora Rose Nursing Home (monthly): 25
Winchester Court (monthly): 12 (8)
Parish Electoral ROLL there are currently 135 people on the Electoral Roll (APCM 2@23 =153)
Fresh Expressions average monthly attendance
Holy Trinity
4@
St Thomas,
All Saints
Occasional Offices (parish-wide)
Baptisms
15 (12)
Banns
2 (1)
Weddings
5(3)
Funerals
35 (66)
Page 7

Issues raised for action at PCC meetings included:
Social event&
Wider Deanery and Diocesan Matters.
Responses to national safeguarding issues and what we can do to offer a reassuring voice to the
wider parish community
Reviews to regular service pattern, including the continuing success of monthly Choral Evensong
and Digging Deeper
Continued management of and development of our church building&
Deepening discipleship through WhatsApp reflections, and other activities.
Deeper engagement with and development of our new (and established) 'cafes' _ including
Tuesday DroFFi n, Crafty Café, Poetry Café, after-worship coffee.
Integration of and development of Digging Deeper services with parish life
Continuing parish involvement in wider Deanery Synod discussions around Shaping for Mission
Financial Review
See Treasurers report.
Reserves Policy
It is PCC policy to try to maintain a balance on free reserves (net current assets) which eouates to
at least three months unrestricted payments. This is equivalent to £33,@84. It is held to smooth
out fluctuations in cash flow and to meet emergencies. The balance of the free reserves at the
year end was £52,36) which is substantially higher than this target. The PCC are comfortable with
this surplus during the current economic uncertainty.
Investment policy
The charity is granted power to invest in suitable investments under the PCC Powers Measure
1956 and the Trustees Act 2@@@. As a charity, the Trustees have a duty of care to take such
advice as is appropriate before investments are undertaken. This advice is sought from the
Central Board of Finance (CCLA) in London.
The charity's investment policies are based on two key principles: _
Page 8

Ethical Investment- this includes ensuring that investments are held in companies which have
high standards of corporate governance and act in a responsible way towards stakeholders.
Long-term responsibilities
the trustees are aware of their long-term responsibilities in
respect of the Restricted and Unrestricted reserves and as a result follow a prudent approach
to investment decisions.
Investment policy for long-term funds is aimed primarily at generating a sustainable income, with
due regard to the need for the preservation of capital value, and the possible need to realise
investments to meet operational needs. The charity does not have a policy of generating income
at excessive or high risk - known as "purchasing income" where high returns are guaranteed at
the expense of capital.
In summary, the charity has an overall policy to maximise income while preserving the real value of
its funds. Due to the nature of the charity, an ethical investment policy is taken into consideration
when investments are made:
The charity follows the Ethical Investment Advisory policy as recommended by the Lichfield
Diocese which includes the following:
"We aim to invest in companies that:
will develop their business in the interests of shareholders;
demonstrate responsible employment practices;
are conscientious concerning issues of corporate governance, the environment and
human rights;
are sensitive to the community in which they operate."
Planned giving, collections and donations are the main sources of fund raising along with tax
recoverable.
Safeguarding
The PCC believe they have fulfilled their duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy
Discipline Measure 2@16 (duty to have due regard to House of Bishops, guidance on safeguarding
children and vulnerable adults). Safeguarding is a standing item on all PCC Agendas and is
considered at every meeting). All PCC members (and members of the congregation) have been
encouraged to complete the on-line safeguarding courses, Basic and Foundation (previously C@
and C1), and all who have a statutory obligation to obtain a DBS are expected to do so.
Reporting Serious Incidents
A Serious Incident is an adverse event, whether actual or alleged, which results in or risks
significant harm to the charity's beneficiaries, employees, office holders, volunteers or to others
Page 9

who come into contact with the charity through its work, loss of the charity's money or assets,
damage to the charity's property or harm to the charity's work or reputation.
The trustees are not aware of any Serious Incidents in the last year. Incident Reporting is a
standing item on all PCC Agendas and considered at every meeting.
Fundraising
The PCC takes its fundraising responsibilities seriously and is very grateful to all donors -
whether regular or occasional - for their support of the church and church events. PCC
supporters are never taken for granted. The PCC take full responsibility for fundraising and do
not use commercial organisations or professional fundraisers. All money raised is either by
donations, fundraising events, special appeals or legacies for which the PCC are most grateful.
Volunteers
The members of the PCC would like to thank all the volunteers who work so hard to make our
Church a lively and vibrant community. Our especial thanks go to our congregational wardens,
Church Wardens, PCC and appointed officers who have all worked so tirelessly on our behalf.
Risk Management
The Church Wardens with the Parish Health and Safety Officer carry out regular Health and Safety
Reviews and regularly inspect premises for potential hazards. We have safeguarding policies in
place for child protection and for work with vulnerable adults, including rigorous DBS checking of
staff and volunteers. Our insurances are reviewed annually to ensure adequate cover. An informal
review of any new risks which may impact the work of the Church in the Parish is ongoing.
Structure, Management and Governance
The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is a body corporate established by the Church of England
and is a charity registered with the Charity Commission. The PCC is governed by the Parochial
Church Council Powers Measure (1956) as amended that came into eff ect on 2nd January 1957,
and the Church Representation Rules (contained in Schedule 3 to the Synodical Government
Measure 1969 as amended).
The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. The
Council comprises the Incumbent, the Churchwardens, a representative of the Readers, those
elected to the Deanery or Diocesan Synod, and other members who are elected at the Annual
Parochial Church Meeting, by those on the Electoral Roll. Members of the congregation are
always urged to join the Electoral Roll, and to stand for election to the PCC.
Page 10

The PCC members are responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern and
importance in the parish, and for all financial matters. The PCC meet 9 times a year. Given its
responsibilities, the PCC has a number of sub committees, each dealing with a particular aspect
of parish life. These include Employment, Mission and Outreach, Buildings and Churchyards and
Finance. Each reports back to the PCC.
PCC meetings are all public meetings and all members of the congregation are invited to attend.
Members are entitled to attend at all PCC meetings, but do not have a vote.
Related Parties
Donations from Related Parties
Donations from related parties during the year totalled £11,232 All these donations were received
without conditions.
Remuneration paid to Trustees
None of the trustees have been paid any remuneration or received any other benefits from
employment with the PCC
Expenses paid to Trustees
1 trustee was reimbursed £1,217 for travel and subsistence during the year.
Page 11

Reference and Administrative details
The Parish of Berkswich is a Registered Charity number 1129997 and has three churches: Holy
Trinity (the Parish Church) is situated in Baswich; St Thomas, is situated in Walton-on-the-Hill,
and All Saints is situated in Brocton. The parish is part of the Diocese of Lichfield within the
Church of England. The correspondence address is: Parish Office, Holy Trinity Church, Baswich
Lane, ST17 @BY. Website: ￿Vw.berkswIch.Org.uk
st
PCC members who have served from 1 January 2@23 until the date this report was approved
were:
Ex-officio
Vicar
The Revd Graham Adamson SCP
Curate
The Revd David Clark
Assistant Priests
The Revd Joy Bishop
The Revd John Sterling
Church Wardens
Chris Bowen
Mary Moss
Diocesan Synod
Dorothy Sterling
Deanery Synod Reps
Julie Morrison (and Planned Giving)
Mary Sapsford
Elected Members
Euan Adamson (until May 2@24)
Maddy Dudek
Mark Dudek
Julie Grymel
Sue Hatton (PCC Secretary)
Sarah Mitchell
Andrew Morrison (PCC Treasurer and Finance until May 2@23)
Mary Moss (Mission & Outreach and Safeguarding Officer)
Julie Wainwright (from May 2@22)
Paul Browne (Treasurer from May 2@23)
Kathy Browne (from May 2@23)
Page 12

Non PCC members, who help with the running of the churches
Rosie Broom (Parish Off ice Administrator from January 2@23)
Colin Jones (Congregational Warden - St Thomas)
Bob Gilson (Congregational Warden - All Saints then St Thomas)
Beryl Foster (Congegational Warden - Holy Trinity)
After serving on the PCC for six years it is currently the parish policy for people to take a year off
before standing again.
PCC Sub-CommTttees
stsnding Committee
Fr. Graham Adamson (Vicar), Mary Moss (Parish Warden), Chris Bowen (Parish Warden), Andrew
Morrison (until May 2@23) (Finance Off icer), Paul Browne (Finance Off icer), Sue Hatton
(Secretary).
Buildings and Churchyards Committee
Fr Graham Adamson. Chris Bowen. Judith Rennard, Colin Jones, Beryl Foster, Bob Gilson,
Dave Hatton, Robert MacFarland, Mark Garside
Employment Committee
Fr Graham Adamson, Chris Bowen, Andrew Morrison (until May 2@23), Paul Browne (from May
2@23), Phil Botfield (advisory)
In addition, ad-hoc committees and teams were formed to fulfil specific functions through the
year - for example the Christmas Fayre Committee.
PCC members receive information on trustee responsibilities, basic health and safety, risk
management and safeguarding procedures.
Day to day management control of the churches is exercised by the Incumbent Revd. Graham
Adamson, and the Churchwardens, Mary Moss and Chris Bowen, contactable through the Parish
Office, Baswich Lane, Stafford, ST17 @BN, Telephone @1785 253111 or email at:
raham.adamson@berkswich.or
wardenma
@berkswich.or
wardenchris@berkswich.or
Page 13

Name and addresses of advisers
Parish Bankers
Cooperative Bank, PO Box 25@, Delf House, Southway, Skelmersdale,
WN8 6wr
Independent Examiner Jonathan Hill
Lichfield Diocesan Board of Finance, St Marys House, The Close, Licfield.
WS13 7LD
Architects
Adrian Mathias, BHB Architects
Revd. Graham Adamson SCP, Vicar of Berkswich
Page 14

Berkswich PCC Reports
stsfford Synod Reports 2024
Significant discussions for us as a Church and parish took place in both Diocesan and Deanery
Synod this year.
Diocesan Synod in 2@24 discussed both locaL national and global issues. These included
the now formal link between the Diocese of Lichfield and the Diocese of Hyderabad in
Pakistan (which will be focused on links with our church schools)
the financial situation the Diocese finds itself in
clergy wellbeing and recruitment
a new Net-zero Carbon Action plan 2@24-3@
The last meeting of 2@23 had asked Stafford Deanery to consider what they wanted Synod to
discuss and reflect on, and this has shaped the meetings in 2@24.
We began in February with a 'Discussion time,, providing a place for Synod Reps to consider how we
welcome people into our churches; what we can do to respond to the ongoing situation in Ukraine;
what our voice in the next General Election should be; are we too hung up on church instead of
being Christians; and how we encourage our communities to go deeper into God.
During our June meeting we had a presentation from Tim Watson of the Greenhouse Project.
Greenhouse is a way of supporting parishes in developing Fresh Expressions and Pioneer Ministries,
giving them grass-roots support and resources to introduce new initiatives and gain support in
growing them. The project was due to be launched in Stafford Episcopal Area in September 2@24,
but this was cancelled due to staff ing changes and, sadly, has not b￿n rearranged.
In September Synod met not in a church but in one of our Deanery Church Schools. The meeting
took the form of a Question and Answer with Julie Jones, the Diocesan CEO. Julie answered many
challenging questions comprehensively and honestly, including considering whether the Diocese
was too 'admin top heavy,. Julie has close Stafford connections, and it was good to hear from her at
Deanery.
In December, the last meeting of the year involved a presentation from the Diocesan organisation
Transforming Communities. The team from Transforming Communities discussed many of the
initiatives we have been involved in - including Enabling All and Places of Welcome, but also some
we have not yet introduced in the parish. including Dementia Friendly Church.
The finances of the Deanery were also discusse(L our bank account being closed by Barclays earlier
that year. It was decided that we will not investigate setting up a new bank account until newly
Page 15

revealed plans to merge Stafford Deanery with Eccleshall and Stone are finalised. This possible
merger is due to be the focus of the first Synod of 2@25.
Buildings and Churchyards
I shall be standing down as Chair of this committee this year and would like to record my thanks to
the committee members for their help and patience as it has been a relatively quiet year for
buildings work. In particular, I wish to express my thanks to Mark Garside, David Hatton and my
fellow Warden, Mary Moss. Without the involvement of these three very little would have been done. I
will, however, continue in the role until a replacement comes forward. Mark has produced a
spreadsheet listing all the church buildings and work required at each together with a priority for
that work. This is an extremely useful document for the committee to focus their efforts.
A big thank you also to our gardening teams at St Thomas, and Holy Trinity who keep our
churchyards tidy.
Issues listed by Church
All Churches and Hall.. The Lighting in place in our churches has, or is in the process of being
brought up to date, with LED fittings and bulbs installed wherever possible. Replacement Fire
Extinguishers have been procured and are in the process of replacing the existing ones. Unlike
traditional extinguishers, these units are general purpose and do not require the same level of
inspection. Both these items are intended to reduce ongoing costs to the Parish. To aid access to
buildings key safes have been installed at St Thomas's and the HalL
All Saints.. There are existing issues at All Saints which require attentlon, namely external painting,
problems with the bell and clearing of the east side drainage grills. These items will be addressed in
the coming months. Following the utility billing issue Dave Hatton has continued to monitor the
meter readings and send them in. On a minor matter the Vestry mirror has been relocated, following
a general tidy up of the vestry and kitchen areas.
Holy Trinity The churchyard clean-up was well supported but yet again we ran out of time before a
significant impact could be made. Going forward, it may be prudent to consider an additional date
perhaps in the autumn. There is still an ongoing problem with neighbours to the churchyard having
issues relating to the trees and part of the boundary walL but we are hoping to meet with the
principal person, with a representative from the Diocese shortly. Since the last report the doors have
been repaired but the weather seems to have caused them to warp when it is damp. Also, one of the
top bolts had come adrift but Dave H has refixed it. The problems with the guttering over the main
door and on the corner of the transept have been addressed and a roof leak whÉYe the transept
Page 16

extension meets the original church pillar has been addressed. Since the last report the rear door
closer has been removed and refixed. Also following the theft reported last rear a security system
has been installed at the back door.
St Thomas,: Work continues to replace internal lights but the main concern over the past year has
been the falling plaster, predominantly in the altar area but in other areas too. 2@24 was an
extremely wet year and this has taken its toll on the church. There has been work carried out to
remove all loose plaster and make good the roof that was causing water ingress. Going forward
more work will be reouired on the roof to the leadwork but the contractor is happy that the
immediate issues have been resolved but we do need to review regularly.
Parish Treasurer's Report
Over the course of the year there were a number fund raising events which provided a major input to
the Parish funs - the most notable being the Summer Fete and the Christmas Fayre both of which
raised significant sums. Other Events such as the Makers Market and additional social events all
made contribution to our funds. The success of these events is due in large part both to the many
volunteers who generously gave of their time in organisation and running them and to those who
provided monetary and material contributions.
As ever a mainstay of the parish finances are the dependable and generous donations given by
regular donors and are much appreciated.
As we go into 2@25 and beyond the question of finding finance for building maintenance with be an
important aspect of our finances as well as ensuring that we fulfil our Common Fund obligation.
Paul Browne Treasurer 2@24
Planned Giving and Gift Aid Officer's Report
We started 2@22 with 87 people in the scheme. The number of people on the scheme decreases
every year, with some moving to the Direct Giving (direct debit) scheme run by Lichfield diocese.
I have completed a table showing the last thr& years of Parish Planned Giving and Gift Aid
contributions from you, as shown below.
Source of donation
Total Planned Giving Donations Gift Aided
Total Planned Giving Donations Not Gift Aided
Grand Total from Planned giving Scheme
2022
£36,482
£5,482
£41,964
2023
£31,834
£6,72@
£38,554
2@24
£28,488
£7,631
£36,@79
Page 17

One-off White Gift Aided Donation Envelopes
Gift Aided Tax reclaim on Gift Aided Donations
Grand Total Income for Year
£2,411
£9,237
£53,613
£1,883
£8,@@8
£48.445
£3,31@
£7,552
£46,981
These figures do not include money from Direct Giving. This is sorted out by the Lichfield Diocesan
Gift Aid Team who send any monies from this scheme directly to the church bank account. We have
an approximate total for the year of £11.5@@ from the Direct Giving.
The majority of the Parish income comes from some sort of Planned Giving donations and where
possible Gift Aided Tax is reclaimed. This money is used to pay the Parish Share, which in turn pays
the clergy wages and the upkeep for the churches; it also helps other churches who have only a
small congregation and so are unable to support themselves.
If anyone wishes to join a Planned Giving Scheme, you can contact myself. My phone number can be
found in the church magazine.
Julie Morrison - Parish Gift Aid Secretary
1914125
Safeguarding
Safeguarding countrywide has become a feature in the news of late. However, in 2@24 as a parish
we continued to take safeguarding seriously and to try to make sure that everyone is made aware
that safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and reporting any concern however small. We
encouraged members of our congregations to follow the basic and foundation courses online to give
them a clearer understanding.
All clergy and those responsible for safeguarding are up to date with the Diocesan safeguarding
training. All PCC members are encouraged to gain the Basic and Foundation certificates and have
an up-to-date DBS certificate. Our Safeguarding Policy was updated and can be viewed on our
website.
In addition we intend to continue the practice of having a Sunday dedicated to Safeguarding.
Music and choir
The choir appreciate the dedication and support from our organist and choir master, Roy Wightman.
He is willing to take time to find suitable music to suit the voices of our choir. He also sometimes
composes his own version of an anthem or setting. We are grateful for his and Jeremy's time in
accompanying our sung services and for the recessional organ voluntaries played weekly.
Page 18

The choir has regular practices on a Friday during the school term. They concentrate on the hymns
and settings for the up-and-coming Sunday along with any major events coming up like the
Christmas Nine Lessons and Carols and the Triduum at Easter. Eight/ nine months out of twelve the
choir sing at the monthly Choral Evensong. This requires the learning of new anthems, new and
varied settings, Magnificat, Nunc Dimittis and psalm.
We are very fortunate in the parish to have some very talented musicians, whether on the violin,
organ or piano. Patrick and Kerry on the violin and Roy and Jeremy on the organ and piano. All these
give so much time to the enjoyment of music and praise within the parish. In June 2@24 everyone,
including the choir, joined together to perform a concert in support of Iona in her quest to attend a
youth choral training week.
St Thomas and Holy Trinity Churchyard gardening team
Another year has passed and once again St Thomas's church garden has been maintained to a high
standard. Kept neat and tidy by a regular group of 6-8 volunteers, weeding, mowing, trimming, path
clearing and cutting back of shrubs which have overgrown, it is admired by passers by and visitors to
the church. The Bench has been sanded and re varnished and draws people in to sit and have a
moment of Quiet.
David helps to keep the lawns maintained along with sharpening and cleaning the mowers.
Christine keeps the tubs by the front door stocked with beautiful seasonal plants to cheer us as we
enter. Roger P Jones spent a couple of days cutting back all the trees which were overgrown which
was brilliant as it was too big a job for all of us. The perimeter church wall is also kept tidy and free
of weeds. The team is led by John Morris and our reward is hearing visitors say how lovely our
treasured garden is.
Holy Trinity Churchyard is maintained by a small but dedicated team, who are never unwilling to
accept offers of help from othersl We are always willing to accept any assistance (and that does not
just require heavy lifting - help with lighter work is useful too). One stretch of the churchyard is
strimmed just twice a year, left the rest of the time as a 'wild-area'. This has seen a marked
increase in biodiversity within the whole of the churchyard.
Drop-in
This is going strongly with attendance of 17 - 2@ plus each week, so obviously answering a need in
the community. The drop in has a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Some people spend their
time helping each other with crosswords. Other games and puzzles are available but mostly talk. All
birthdays are celebrated with a cake, homemade of coursel We have had several new people join the
group over the last year. It's open to alL so if you know someone who may be lonely, or is recently
bereaved, they would be very welcome.
Thanks again to Berly Foster who does a lot of the organising and to all who help so much.
Page 19

Dora Rose
David visits Dora Rose most weeks. The normal pattern is for a pastoral call, chatting to residents
and staff and introducing himself to new residents on one week and the following week he holds an
act of worship which includes distribution of Holy Communion.
Three or four times a year there is a said Eucharist, generally at Epiphany, Easter, Harvest and for
another significant event in the life of the Church or the nation. Services are well attended by
residents and visitors sometimes join us as do staff if tFEir duties permit.
At Christmas we held a Carol Service, ably supported by members of the Church choir, and to mark
Remembrance Day Stafford Grammar School contributed to the service with readings and a
trumpeter to play the Last Post and Reveille.
Healing Ministry
In November twelve members of the congregations gathered at Winchester Court to explore
Christian Healing Ministry. One outcome was to offer the laying on of hands and anointing as part of
the monthly Eucharist at Winchester Court. This has been well received by those who attend that
service. Following that session four people have been trained to offer the ministry of laying on of
hands with prayer for healing. They have begun to exercise this ministry during our time of healing
at Eucharists in the Parish, including at Winchester Court.
David's healing ministry extends to his role at Katharine House Hospice. This ministry was
recognised by the diocese when David was licensed as Volunteer Chaplain by Bishop Matthew in
ApriL
Crafty Café
This successful craft group is now in its 3rd year and continues to serve and engage with the wider
local community, offering a safe space for people to be creative, socialise and form positive
relationships. We continue to be mindful of and clear about our safeguarding responsibilities.
It is now well known that crafting can alleviate the symptoms of anxiety, depression, loneliness and
even dementia according to research (Crafts CounciL 2@2@}.
Various crafts are on offer each week, including painting, stitching, colouring, knitting, crochet and
various other activities.
Page 20

We also organise regular group activities such as decorating the lychgate for Christmas, with knitted
nativity figures. making over a hundred angels to decorate the Church for Michaelmas" and recently,
some members knitted a prayer blanket for a church member moving to a new home.
Whilst we do not overtly discuss religion unless someone initiates the conversation, the topic often
arises in conversation. Some people now attend church regularly and some for special occasions.
Many, who may not engage with the Church will still ask for our prayers for themselves or for loved
ones.
The group is perhaps best summed up in the words of a carer who attends regularly.
I love this group; it's two hours a week when I can forget about my worries and
matter if I cry...I'm just accepted.,
it doesn't
Mary Sapsford
Page 21

**The flowers in church have always been important to me.  I find real joy in being in God’s house; at peace, making everywhere The flower arrangers are really trying beautiful.  It’s also a great time for to work towards more sustainable fellowship and enjoying what we create. flower arrangements – with the care of God’s creation always in our mind and It’s been good to have a challenge, exploring heart. new ways of arranging flowers.  It’s a learning curve but I think we are all improving with practise.  It’s a great way to I really enjoy the opportunity I have worship and praise God been given.** oy Colour - Beauty - Prayer Cleanliness - Hygiene **I always like to start my flower arranging with a prayer, thanking God for the flowers and privilege of arranging them. I enjoy flower arranging. I enjoy and find it a privilege to** oe Rota - Support - Guidance **arrange flowers in Holy Trinity. Flower arranging is a bit like gardening I enjoy the friendship of the – it helps me relax and connect with group I am in.  I love the nature. beauty of the flowers. With Sue’s guidance and patience I am** 

**I enjoy and find it a privilege to arrange flowers in Holy Trinity. Flower arranging is a bit like gardening – it helps me relax and connect with nature. With Sue’s guidance and patience I am now able to try new things and last year started our Easter garden.** 

**I find flower arranging very therapeutic – it’s not something I had done before arriving in this parish.** 

Page 22 



Overwhelmingly, it was obvious from their comments just how dedicated a bunch of flower arrangers
we are fortunate to have. Everyone had some positive, constructive comments to make, and
everyone is committed to taking the best possible care of God's Creation, with suggestions such
as...
'Take only the foliage that you need, don't waste it,
'Use beads or plastic covered chicken wire in preference to an oasis,
'Keep flower arranging vessels clean to avoid contamination,
'Pour used flower water away outside, not down the kitchen sink as it blocks easily with debris,
There are 11 flower arrangers in Holy Trinity, divided into 4 groups so working on a rota and led by
Beryl Foster and Mary Sapsford. Kathy Browne is responsible for the flower arrangements in St.
Thomas, Church, and works with the help of Jean and Olive, while Sue Hodgens and Julie take care
of the flower arrangements in All Saints.
Take care of our planet - God's Creationl
Social and Fundraising
Our fundraising efforts for 2@24 began with a Quiz in January, which was well supported with
approximately 16 teams of 4. Our Quizmaster Bob Mudway once again, planned the Quiz and we are
grateful for his continued enthusiasm and commitment.
As usual our main fundraiser for the year was the Parish Summer Fete, held at Milford Cricket Club,
raising over £6@@@. This was a huge task which involved an enormous amount of effort from many
people. We are thankful that we had many willing hands volunteering to cover the whole range of
tasks from car parking, manning a stalL baking, printing, donating goods, sourcing Grand Draw
prizes etc.. Without that help the Fete would not be the success that it is.
The twice yearly Makers, Markets were very popular and give local artists an opportunity to display
and sell their crafts, as well as bringing in some funds for the Parish. Crafty Café work hard to
produce small gifts for sale, Parish Plants are for sale, and the sale of refreshments help to raise a
few extra pounds for the funds.
Other social events during the year included the Cheese and Wine evening, a 'Concert for Iona,, to
enable Iona to attend a Choral Singing workshop in York, a National Tea Day gathering after the
Holy Eucharist service on a Sunday, and a very entertaining performance by 'Go Ukulele Crazy!1
which included David and Angela Clark playing their ukuleles! Later in the year the John Moor Quire
performed an interesting and enjoyable Concert of Georgian era carols and songs, which was well
attended, and we also held our traditional Christmas Fayre, another good fundraiser as it also
includes the Christmas Draw.
Page 23

Katharine House Hospice also benefitted from funds raised at a Coffee Morning held at St. Thomas,
Church, where there was a range of gifts donated. flowers for sale, plants, books etc.. And of course
plenty of choice of home-made cakes to eat in or take homel The four Lent Lunches also raised
funds for Christian Aid and our Parish Funds.
Thanks go to everyone who has helped in any way to provide a social occasion or a major fundraiser.
If anyone has any ideas for future events, please let us know!
l.l¥l+
•V
Page 24