**Reports for the Annual Church Life Meeting of Wesley Methodist church, Leigh-on-Sea 26th June 2022** 1 ## **’ – ACM MINISTER S REPORT WESLEY METHODIST 2022** I have been the minister at Leigh Wesley for just over 4 years now, and boy, have we been through some stuff in that time! In some ways it feels like we’ve had a couple years chopped out of history, as most activities were put on hold because of the Covid-19 pandemic. We have lost some dear church members and friends over the past couple of years, and our hearts still go out to those whose loved ones have died, and yet were unable to celebrate their lives in the way they would have wished to due to Covid restrictions. We remember these departed heroes with love and fondness. My gratitude goes out to our pastoral visitors, and especially their coordinator, Eileen Simmons, for their support to us through phone calls, e mails and cards over this difficult period, and which they still continue to provide. Even though these times were very difficult for us as a church, and as individuals, we have managed to come out of the other side, and in this past year we have seen some real positive signs of new mission and growth. - ➢ We have had new friends attending Sunday worship. - ➢ We have started a new café venue, which is seeing regular and new people every week. - ➢ Parent and toddlers is under ‘new management’, and is flourishing once again. - ➢ Our fusion Youth club has now surpassed its pre-Covid numbers. - ➢ Our Memory Worship service has restarted, and although we lost a number of dear friends during lockdown, is gaining in numbers once again. - ➢ The tea and cake afternoons have been as popular as ever. And many of our other activities such and the Wesley Theatre Group and table tennis have restarted and are thriving. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who lead and support the activities at Wesley. This is not taken for granted. So, thank you! For me, life and ministry has changed as I come to the end of my first year as a student presbyter/minister. My time is split between my Pastor/Preacher role, and being a student, attending monthly study weekends and ‘Easter school’ at the Queen’s Foundation College in Birmingham, participating in weekly online seminars, doing huge amounts of preparatory and background reading, and completing assignments, as well as attending and participating in placement churches both in the South Essex circuit, and in Harlow. This has been a challenging time, not least as it restricts the amount of time I can give to my pastoral ministry, but also a very rewarding time, as I develop and widen my theological skills both practically, and academically. I ask for your prayers, support and patience, as I continue to study for the next 2 years. 2 ## A prayer for the future… Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for all that You have provided for us in a time when the future looked so bleak. Let us never forget that our citizenship is in heaven, and that no matter what happens in our lives, while we remain on earth You are in control, and You have promised to care for all Your children. Help us to live our lives in a manner that is pleasing to You in this ever-changing world, and help us not to put our hope and trust in the leaders of this world, nor the things of this world that are passing away, but may we always remember that our hope is built on nothing less than Jesus and His righteousness. For this we praise and thank You Lord. Thank You, Father, that You know the end from the beginning, and that You are truly in control of all that happens. Not only in our lives but in every corner of the world. Guide, protect and supply for the needs of all Your children and thank You Father that we know our future is secure in You, no matter what may take place in the world. We praise Your name, and thank You for Your loving kindness. Amen. May God richly bless you, ## **Pastor Steve Mayo** May 2022 3 ## **Mission and Outreach Report by Gaye Greenway** As we have progressed through the pandemic, our Worship has returned to more usual numbers and this has been reflected in numbers attended our many diverse mission activities. As a result of numerous ideas produced at the Worship and Mission Consultation meetings, two informative and attractive postcards were produced and delivered around local streets. They are available at our popular Sanctuary cafe and of course to worshippers. Our most recent Consultation meeting highlighted our need for consolidation of our varied activities which cater to all age groups in our community. As a result you will have received a leaflet "All You Can" which we hope will produce a good response and enable us to continue our Mission work. In addition various fund raising events are planned, the Jubilee lunch, 2 table sales and Orpheus concert, all of which bring people in to our building widening community interaction. Please support these events if you can, as well as the ongoing program of events at Wesley. ## **Pastoral Report by Eileen Simmons** On the Wednesday of this week we held our Pastoral Visitors’ meeting. Pastor Steve commented that he thought the system worked very well indeed and people felt known and cared for. We hold two such meetings a year. Some Pastoral Visitors were unable to attend, but had either phoned me or emailed details of individuals in their group. It is always so interesting to hear about significant events in the lives of our Wesley Family. Unfortunately we do not have full coverage of all those on the community roll, but between us few things get missed. I regard Pastoral care as covering the complete range of events and it so lovely to learn about the birth of children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, new jobs as well as sad news of illness. When the pandemic set in we did a full analysis of who might need help with food shopping etc. and ensured full coverage in this case. There is a lot of overlap e.g. one man has kept in touch weekly with his church friend since March 2020. We can never have too much pastoral linking and although to become a Pastoral Visitor with a group one 4 needs to be a member, we have some very supportive individuals on the community roll who do the work with perhaps one or two individuals and then link with a Pastoral Visitor Please if you think you could volunteer for this invaluable task talk to me about it. People do so appreciate visits, cards, telephone conversations and chats before and after church or at the Sanctuary Café, community lunches, afternoon tea and cakes and so on. We are all God’s children and to care for each other is one of the greatest privileges in life. ## **Safeguarding Report by Judith Taylor** This year has seen an increase in the number of circuit trainers which will mean that Safeguarding Training will be able to be offered more regularly. This training will be either in face or online and is a requirement of the Methodist Church for specific volunteers and employers. Our Safeguarding Policy is reviewed every year by Church Council and a copy is provided to all hirers to ensure they are aware of the protocol. Safeguarding remains a high priority and DBS checks are completed to help safeguard all. ## **Service – a place in the community, a place for justice Report by Ian Lowe** ## **Circuit News** ## **Methodist Way of Life and Circuit Mission Planning Day** The Methodist Way of Life is underway with Sunday services and weekly studies on this theme throughout the Methodist Church. The District Discipleship Enabler (Angela Brydon) has surveyed the whole District to identify how we approach evangelism and the need to engage. We have had a Circuit Mission planning day where the Circuit Leadership team and representatives from the Churches met. Facilitated by Angela, we looked at our strengths and challenges, as well as starting to dream dreams for our Churches and Circuit in the future. Also at the event was Steve Watson, the new District Property Secretary; the remit of this role has been extended to take an overview of Mission and buildings. Now the conversation will continue in the Churches who are working through the 8 stage planning process. We have agreed a follow up day on Saturday 18[th] June to then agree some priorities and a Circuit Mission plan for ‘Reimagining the Southend and Leigh Circuit’. Everyone is invited to get involved in the process 5 in your Churches as much as you can and share your hopes and dreams. Also pray for this process, our Circuit, our Community and that we can share the good news of Christ in Southend and Leigh. ## **Town Centre Ministry** Circuit Meeting (CM) agreed that this work should now be called the **City Centre Ministry** as Southend has gained City status. The work progresses well – Deacon Sarah and Clive continue to progress the work and to seek chaplains to work with them. The last “Chaplaincy Everywhere” course identified 9 people, of whom 3 shadowed the work for some time, but circumstances mean they are now working elsewhere. The team is still seeking people to shadow them and are planning to run a further course in the autumn. The group is creating a new logo based on the city status and ideas are welcome. Plans are also in hand for Synod to meet in Southend so they can get a feel for the work. ## **The Experience Project at Whittingham Avenue Mission Centre** The work started 2 months before the pandemic and it gives testimony to the power of prayer that it continues to develop. There was a change of direction in June 2020 triggered by the level of food donations coming from Ocado. Some 13 different enterprises and foodbanks are being supplied with food, in addition to the families on the estate. The project works with its team leader, Simon Matthews, 2 part time staff members and 11 volunteers. The project has plans for the future to develop the work, but much of the food collection and delivery relies on the donations on one local businessman. This level of work cannot be supported in full financially by the Circuit, although funding is in place until 31[st] January 2023. The plan is to establish The Experience Project as a “Charitable Incorporated Organisation” (a CIO). This status will allow the project to apply for external funding on the basis of its own accounts and funds and not linked to those of the Circuit. The CIO, once formed, will have 5 trustees, at least one of whom will be the Circuit Superintendent. Currently the Project is seeking CIO status, an ongoing contribution from the Circuit of £7,500 per annum and use of the Whittingham Avenue premises for some 10 years, preferably at a peppercorn rent. Much of this detail requires further work, due diligence and negotiation, together with an understanding of who appoints the trustees and what the role entails and requires. The Circuit Meeting agreed in principle to applying for CIO status whilst the Circuit Leadership Team (CLT) undertake the necessary due diligence aspects regarding leases (peppercorn rent/full repairing lease/licence and trustee appointments). 6 ## **Pastoral Oversight and Stationing** From 1[st] October 2021, Pastor Steve Mayo relinquished oversight of Belfairs to achieve the reduction in his hours required, whilst he is in training, by MCPOC (Ministerial Candidates and Probationers Oversight Committee). Rev. Clifford Newman took pastoral oversight of Belfairs for this period. Rev Zena Smith will assume pastoral oversight of Hadleigh Methodist Church from 1[st] September 2022 – she will have oversight of all 4 Castle Point churches. Rev. Peter Moorhouse had oversight of 5 churches, the Experience Project and his role of Superintendent, which is not acceptable for his well-being or that of the churches and Circuit. The Circuit entered Stationing for 2022 with a profile to include Thorpe Bay and UMC churches. The Circuit Meeting discussed the recommendation, notably the additional costs of some £50K per year which would be required via the assessment primarily. The budget had been reduced in 2020/21, but churches need to be aware that it would increase from 2022/23 and should start planning for this. The Circuit was successful in the Stationing process and probationer presbyter Agnes Sam will join the Circuit on 1[st] September 2022 working at UMC and Thorpe Bay and input to the City Centre ministry. ## **Conference 2021** ## **Presidential theme for 21/22** The Rev Sonia Hicks, President of Conference, set as the theme for her Presidential Year “God’s Table – an invitation to all”. ## **Conference confirms resolutions on marriage and relationships** Following prayerful consideration by the whole Church, the Methodist Conference voted to confirm provisional resolutions on the principles or qualities of good relating, understanding of cohabitation and same sex marriages conducted on Methodist premises or by Methodist office-holders. A report on marriage and relationships, ‘ _God in Love Unites Us’_ , was received by the Conference in 2019 and the local District Synods were asked to consider the provisional resolutions and report back to this year’s Conference. The Conference received a report on the results of the local conferring which showed that 29 out of the 30 Synods confirmed support for the provisional resolutions. The Methodist Church included other denominations and Methodist Churches across the world in the process of listening and consultation, with written submissions from ecumenical partners to the ‘ _God In Love Unites Us_ ’ report and workshops with global Methodist partners. Following the vote on the provisional resolutions the Rev. Sonia Hicks said: "The debate today and our wider conversation has been conducted with grace and mutual respect. As we move forward together after 7 this historic day for our Church, we must remember to continue to hold each other in prayer, and to support each other respecting our differences." Following this resolution from Conference, each Church Council has to vote on whether they will apply for a licence to marry same sex couples in their Church. Wesley voted in favour of this in January 2022. ## **Conference votes on banning of conversion therapy** The Methodist Conference has decided that no conversion therapy can take place in its name and called on the UK government to ban the practice without delay. The Conference also moved to support the ‘Memorandum of Understanding on Conversion Therapy in the UK’ definition of conversion therapy, which offers the most significant and widely supported definition, with up to 20 health, counselling and psychotherapy organisations having signed up to it, including the Association of Christian Counsellors. The text of the agreed reply to the Memorial to the Conference, which was brought by the Birmingham Synod, is as follows: The Conference agrees: (1) to support and adopt the ‘Memorandum of Understanding on Conversion Therapy in the UK’ definition of conversion therapy as quoted above, - (2) to call on all Methodists to refuse to offer or participate in offering conversion therapy in any form. - (3) that no conversion therapy can take place in the name of the Methodist Church. The Conference directs the Methodist Council to consider, draft and publish a policy on ‘Conversion Therapy’ in light of points (1) to (3) of this response. The Conference calls on the UK Government to ban ‘Conversion Therapy’ without further delay and, therefore, also directs the Methodist Council to consider further the most appropriate way in which to engage with the government on this issue. A ban on Conversion Therapy was included in the Queen’s Speech in May 2022 with the expectation that a Bill will be laid before Parliament in this session. ## **Trustee numbers** Since 1933 the minimum number of members required to form a Methodist Society (church) has been 6, with the facility for Circuits to appoint people to help local churches not reaching that number. Conference 2021 amended the Standing Order and the number now required is 12 and Circuits may no longer appoint members to assist – effectively closure is required. This is proving controversial in many areas. 8 ## **Communications Report by Anna Wratislaw** Communications within Wesley – in all the varying forms it takes - has been very busy over the past year, as church life has adapted to the changes to Covid guidance, and many activities have (re)started. Whilst many of the regular precovid jobs remain (creating worship posters, publishing the Clarion, updating the website etc), we have also integrated new ways of working and methods of communication brought in during the pandemic (email distributions for example). Thank you to Judith Taylor for ensuring that the Clarion and any additional notices are emailed and/or posted to all those we have contact details for - this has been invaluable in keeping in contact with our community. We have also had new initiatives to advertise, such as The Sanctuary Café; promoted special services over Christmas, Easter and the Teddy Bears Picnic on Mothering Sunday; and completed a project to create informational postcards on Worship and Community activities at Wesley. 1000 of each type of postcard were printed and the distribution within our local area started; there are cards still available if you are able to distribute these, or if the supply in the sanctuary runs low. I have been working with Sue Hockett to update and re-format the weekly notice sheet; at the time of writing, we will be looking to restart this in the next few weeks. Thank you to Sue for volunteering to produce this each week. I am also looking at how we display our communications and purchasing some leaflet stands for the church sanctuary – this should make it easier for everyone to know where to find information and where to signpost others. There are a couple of ongoing projects within the area of communications, including the updating of the church website to reflect the change in hirers and activities since the pandemic, and the rollout of new data consent forms as part of GDPR compliance. Please continue to be mindful of GDPR regulations and our policies if you are ever in a position where you need to take, keep or use personal data of any kind, or share any photos or information in regards to our events. Please speak to myself or Judith Taylor if you have any questions on GPDR or data protection within the church context. Thanks to all who help create, proofread and distribute our communications in all their forms. 9 **Worship and Mission and Outreach by Sanya Strachan** ## **Worship Consultation** All are warmly welcome to this meeting. Help contribute and bring ideas for the worship life of our community here at Leigh Wesley Methodist Church. ## **Wednesday 7 September, 2022** **8-9pm online** (link to be circulated at a later date) 10 ## **Church Council Members as from 5[th] May 2022** |**Name:**|**Capacity**|**Elected**
**to role**|**Completed**
**6 years**|**Re-election**
**required for one**
**year.**| |---|---|---|---|---| |Rev. Peter
Moorhouse|Superintendent|||| |Pastor Steve
Mayo|Minister in charge
(Chair of Council)|||| |Judy Taylor|Church Secretary/
Safeguarding|**2014**|**2020**|**√**| |Gaye Greenway|Co-ordinating Steward
Circuit Rep
Outreach|**2014**|**2020**|**√**| |Ian Lowe|Serving, Inclusion and
Justice in the Circuit
community.
Circuit rep for Wesley.|**2014**|**2020**|**√**| |Anna Wratislaw|Communication.
Deputy Rep for GG.|**2016**|**2022**|**√**| |Eileen Simmons|Pastoral Co-ordinator|**2015**|**2021**|**√**| |Sanya Strachan|Worship and Mission|**2021**|**2027**|| |Emma Hearn|Youth||**2024**|| |Geoff Hart|Property Link Officer||**2019**|**√**| |Geoff Hawkins|Church Rep||**2019**|**√**| |Helen Boyd|Church Rep||**2019**|**√**| |June Childs|Church Rep||**2021**|**√**| |Alex Childs|Church Rep|**2021**|**2027**|| |Rupert Bertie|Church Rep||**2022**|**√**| |David Cox|Church Rep||**2024**|| ## **Advisors to CC** Tina Gowers/Alan Severne 11 ## **The Sanctuary Café Report by Emma Hearn** The Sanctuary Café has been running for over a year now and I am incredibly proud of its success and the volunteers who have made it so. What does the café do? – well it’s an important part of our community bringing people, that might not have otherwise, into our beautiful church for conversation, friendship, comfort, laughter, to be listened, to be welcomed – a place where they can have a sense of belonging. We see people from all walks of life– a single parent with their child, widowers meeting to chat, a lady who is on the road to drug rehabilitation and welcomed the church environment as a safe place where discussions of her new found faith can be sort, friends meeting regularly for chats and a good coffee, church members, families, retired couples, regular customers who come from afar especially for our café – the list goes on. It really has been wonderful meeting and getting to know new people in our community. Jane is often on hand should someone want to spend time with her in private prayer, Gaye too always with a kind listening ear to anyone wanting that solace. We have a fabulous volunteer team of tea and coffee servers, and it has been great to welcome new people (not previously connected with the Church) that help on Friday and Saturday mornings. We also have a young lady doing her DofE and volunteers on a Saturday as part of her award. A mention to our cake makers – we thank you so much! Amazing cakes which the customers love and keeps them coming back. We have run several charity coffee mornings – Containers of Hope and MacMillan. Hugely successful not only financially for the charities but brilliant at bringing the community together. We were privileged to have had Sir David Amess support our MacMillan coffee morning 2 weeks before his untimely death. The café financially is holding its own and supporting the teas and coffees after Church services. We are hoping to improve our serving station and coffee machines soon and have been grateful to the Coop with extra funds to help with this. 12 However….. we need more support with the café. We need: **Cake makers** – once a month, once every 2 months anything that you can help with. Perhaps you have a neighbour who is a great cake maker, and you could pay for them to make the cakes and donate them to the café every few months? **Servers** – can you spare a couple of hours on a Friday or Saturday? Could you go on the rota? **Listening ear** – can you spare a couple of hours to just be present when the café is on? Just be there to chat! If you can please do get in touch with me as we really do need more support. 13 ## **Memory Worship Report by Julie Peek** Back in 2016 Rev Julia Monaghan and I set up a monthly church service for people living with dementia; we called Memory Worship. The afternoon takes a regular pattern of welcome; singing well known hymns, reading familiar passages of scripture, and saying the Lord's Prayer together the formal part of the service is 30 minutes before leading into a craft activity and hospitality, providing an opportunity for conversation to reinforce the theme of the service. Our dedicated team of volunteers are always on hand with tea, lovely homemade cake and Methodist fellowship. This style of worship has proved really helpful and quickly has been replicated by churches all over the country. Most close to home with our friends at Thorpe Bay Methodist Church. So, every month there are two Southend &Leigh Methodist circuit churches offering a Memory Worship service one on the 1st and one on the 3rd Monday of the month. There are plans also afoot in Rayleigh with a joint venture between Rayleigh Methodist Church and Christ Church URC. All stopped in March 2020 when COVID 19 stopped the world. This forced me to rethink and put together a ‘Memory Worship at Home’ service to be viewed on YouTube. Initially intended for the people that had been attending services at Wesley and Thorpe Bay but grew to connect with care homes and isolated individuals all over the country. This became a valuable way to remain connected for 15 months locally to LWP Westerley. You can view here by pasting this link into your browser – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmdLC8_ZDnic6cCDsbtblVQ Our first Memory Worship service in person took place Monday 19[th] July with the theme of ‘In God’s name we pray’ and as Methodists we sing our prayers. It was very moving to be able to sing in church for the first time in over a year. Since returning to worship at Wesley in person we have had several visits from the Methodist Connexional team and on the last occasion in Oct they kindly put together a film to explain the benefits of Memory Worship. Memory Worship - Leigh-on-Sea - YouTube On 30th Nov I was privileged to be asked to speak at a Methodist Connexional webinar entitled “Making Our Churches More Dementia Friendly”. The webinar can now be viewed on Methodist website in its - - - - - entirety here: www.methodist.org.uk/safeguarding/webinars/making our churches more dementia - - - - - friendly webinar tuesday 30 november 2021/ 14 The photographs below illustrate a few of the friends that have popped in to be with us at Memory Worship. It is proven that animals, children and music have the ability to make special connections; stimulate feelings of wellbeing. We also had Year 1 Clams class from West Leigh Infant school sing to us in April and Rev Margaret Deans shared communion at our Easter Monday service. All of the above result in moments of spontaneous spiritual connection. Lastly, I would really like to thank all our wonderful Memory Worship helpers who without whom we couldn’t deliver this service. 15 ## FUSION Youth & Kids Fusion+ ## _**Emma Hearn Fusion Youth Leader June 2022**_ Report by FUSION Youth & Kids AND Fusion Youth & Kids meet on a Thursday night at 6pm and have up to 100 children attend of primary school age. The children enter through the church and then go through to the back where there are a number of different activities set up – board games, sports, xbox, karaoke, hairdressing, lego, dressing up and lots more! The last half an hour we come into the Church space for our ‘worship’ where we sing songs, have a 10/15minute talk lead by me and then some group games and prayers from our prayer board to round the evening off. Fusion+ is for senior school children and runs from 7.30pm until 9pm straight after Fusion The tone and vibe of Fusion+ is very different to Fusion but the principle is the same. It is an opportunity for us to share our love of Jesus, provide a safe and secure place for the children to hang out. The evenings at Fusion+ run similar to Fusion with games being left out for them to use such as the pool table, xbox, basketball but mostly they like eating, playing music and playing hide and seek! 15 minutes before the evening ends we come into the Church space for a time of reflection over the past week. I then call us to prayer and read out any prayers left on our cactus (can be seen at the side of Church under the clock!). Over the last couple of months I have been unable to run this due to work commitments however hopefully this will be back up and running soon. We had a fantastic 2 hour Easter Special with 100 children attending – lots of fun had by all with inflatables, games, food all ending with the Easter Story. Just before Christmas I told Pastor Steve that I would be stepping down as Leader of Fusion from Easter and this was written in my report Church Council in January 2022. Unfortunately, nobody has come forward or been found to run it so I have agreed to continue for a few more weeks until a replacement can be made. I have dedicated my time to Fusion for the last 7 years giving up every Thursday often to the detriment of my family and feel I need to take a little step back from the weekly running of it. I will of course continue to be part of the Fusion Team of helpers on a rota basis. Our Team We have sadly lost a number of volunteers due to Covid concerns, ill health and retirement. Geoff Fulford – also known as ‘Fruity Geoff’ as he would bring fruit every week cut up for the children to eat, hung up his apron and on his last evening with us he served burgers and ice-cream to everyone. We also have lost Geoff Nash – ‘Register Geoff’ who helped with the register once a month with Fusion+. We thank both Geoff’s for their support and help with Fusion. Steve Hockett – ‘Sporty Steve’ has also stepped down from helping once a month running the sports and we greatly 16 miss him but thank him also for his support and help with Fusion. Due to Covid unfortunately Rupert Bertie has been unable to attend. Rupert could normally be found with a table tennis bat in his hand. He continues to be in our prayers and we are thankful for his love and support for Fusion. Due to ill health John Hearn has been unable to help out much this year but hopefully will be back on the team running a game of dodgeball or football soon. I still have my righthand ladies - Sam Rogers and Clare Raker who work tirelessly for Fusion although they will be stepping down later in the year when I do. Rose a mum of children who have attend the clubs also attends with a watchful eye, beautiful singing voice and generally wonderful person to have around. From our Church family we have the wonderful Gaye, Jane, Iso and Anna who regularly help out. Gaye spending time with the children whilst doing their crafts and Iso again providing much support and guidance. Alan and Judy clear all the chairs for us every week – this is such a massive help and I am so grateful for the support they provide ensuring the safety of running both youth clubs. Our very own Steve Mayo who may not be able to attend regularly due to his many other commitments, has and continues to be, a massive support not only to me personally, but to the youth of our church and community. Last but by no means least, our wonderful Youth Team (around 12 of them) are of senior age and come each week to help set up and help run activities. We are extremely blessed to have these people working with us at Wesley however we are in desperate need of more volunteers with the loss of so many of our team. Please come along if you able to help out in anyway – once a month, in the kitchen, taking the register, sitting chatting with the children – whatever your ability, whatever your age, there is a place for you at Fusion and will be a massive contribution. If you would like to have a look around one Thursday, please let me know and we would be happy to have you. I am pleased to confirm that, Fusion Youth & Kids and Fusion+, has recently received its second payment from the Co-op Local Community Fund of £2,244.38. Making an incredible total from the Co-op of £3,603.01 which has already gone towards much needed new equipment and fund special projects for the youth of our church and community. ## **: Reports from other church groups** ## **Clarion report by Judy Taylor** It has been another busy year with the Clarion and I am grateful for all the lovely comments from people who have received the month Clarion and Prayer Diary through the post. I would like also like to say a huge thank you to Terry Harper who proof reads the Clarion and Prayer Diary every month. The Clarion is for the church to use so please if you have an article/poem/information you would like included please email me or leave a note at church. 17 ## **Flower Room report by Annette Charnock** Firstly, I would like to send my thanks to those members who have so generously contributed to the flower fund regularly over the years and also more recently for the Easter flowers. Due to the Covid restrictions, sadly, it was no longer possible to provide flowers that were given in memory of loved ones or in fact, any flowers at all. The restrictions made it hard for me to shop, collect money etc. I have also found it difficult being on my own, arranging the flowers regularly, although I am very grateful to Marjorie for helping me from time to time. I made the decision to change from fresh flowers to silk as this is a solution to ensure that whenever there is a service, there would be a colourful display in church for those that attend and this also makes it easier for me to manage. Since restrictions have been lifted, I have decided that they will remain for the most part, silk flowers with the exception of certain occasions. I have purchased a varied selection of flowers to match the changing seasons and am thinking of new ways to decorate the church. ## **ADVISORY GROUP ON FINANCE** (formerly the Finance Advisory group) By ## Geoff Nash Meeting in advance of Church Council, to whom we report, the group has met three times.. The group is made up of Pastor Steve (Chair), Tina Gowers John Hearn, Alan Severne, Ian Lowe, Rupert Bertie and Geoff Nash. The current accounts are presented at each meeting, noted and the need for any action discussed. An update on the Sanctuary Café is also received. We will be reviewing the charges to hirers at our June meeting as some have been paying the same fee for up to four years. A number of projects are under consideration and grant or grants towards the refurbishment of the organ are being investigated. Wesley always has pressing financial needs, so the group wishes to support any fund raising. We encourage people to contribute on Gift Day and to consider leaving the church a legacy in their wills. 18 ## **Finance Report for Annual Church Meeting 2022 by Tina Gowers** Things seem to be getting back to normality now and we currently have £14K more than we did this time last year. However, as we all know, utility bills have gone up, and will go up again in October and our circuit assessment will be going up too as we welcome an extra, much needed, Minister. Also, no major repairs and maintenance has been done on the church for some time and the car park area, behind the old manse, must still be levelled and tarmac’d. The offerings currently do not meet the circuit assessment by around ££2,500 so a predicted end of year deficit will be £3,800 however, a Gift Aid claim for £4,500 will cover this and this is probably the first time in years that Wesley’s’ giving has covered the assessment which is brilliant news. A total Gift aid claim of £6,800 has been made with some going to external charities. The income from the Sanctuary Café, Afternoon Teas and weekly lunches is helping to cover other expenditure. None of these activities are provided for profit, the sole purpose of these groups is outreach and serving our community but, the income means that these groups, and others can continue and, in turn, we can continue to serve the people in our neighbourhood. The income from lettings isn’t currently covering all property expenditure but it does cover all the regular expenditure i.e., utilities, cleaning, insurance, staff and some for repairs and maintenance. All in all, I think Wesley is in pretty good shape this year and I thank those people who volunteer, at the various outreach groups, as they are continuing to serve both the people in our community and their church. ## **Talking Poetry Report by Joan Hawkins** Talking Poetry has enjoyed a successful return to our fortnightly meetings since September last year . We currently have 11 members with an average attendance of about 7. Reading our chosen poem by a given poet and sharing thoughts about a wide variety of poets keeps our sessions fresh and enjoyable. We meet every two weeks on a Wednesday from 2.30 - 4 pm and if you are interested please text Joan on 07871 180644 or email joanh838@icloud.com 19 ## **Charity Report from Tina Gowers** Money raised, for Charities, since 1st September 2021. These amounts include Gift Aid received which is claimed from 6th April 2021 to 5th April 2022. TearFund £166.04 (more raised in previous financial year) Action for Children £54.27 (Gift aid only) MHA £15.10 (Gift aid only) MacMillan £590.44 Southend Foodbank £53.75 Storehouse / Vineyard £100.00 MusicMan Project £146.52 Childrens Society £159.77 Nkanfoa Methodist School £143.75 Hope International £625.25 Ukraine Appeal £401.80 World Missions £150.45 Christian Aid £57.15 (more coming in) ## **NB from Eileen Simmons.** Tina has kindly included the gift aid she has claimed as at April 22. Some collections have set dates eg I am now planning for the collection for Action for Children Sunday, which is on July 10th 2022. ## **The Zone on Sunday Report by Anna Wratislaw** The Zone on Sunday has sadly not met since the start of Covid, however we now facilitate activities within the church sanctuary for the children and young people to take part in during worship. If anyone would like to help prepare these activities (e.g. craft), please speak to Anna Wratislaw. 20 ## **Report on Lunches by Jane Fulford.** Many, many thanks to Miriam Gifford and her friends for this new venture. Every Thursday except the third week of the month Miriam offers a baked potato with three choices, a dessert and tea or coffee for a suggested donation of £7. We have any number from 4 to 12 people. We hope it is serving a need and all are welcome. Any money raised has been is given for church funds. Thank you again to Miriam ## **Creative Worship Report by JANE FULFORD** For a time, we did not hold this more mediative and creative service but coming out of Covid we decided to offer it again on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 8pm. It is always different, and I thank Sue Hockett and Isobel Wratislaw for their wonderful contributions The numbers are small but those who come appreciate what is offered. On a couple of occasions, we have had new people join us. Perhaps with renewed advertisement we may gain more support. All are welcome ## **TODDLER Group REPORT by Georgina Paveling** The group reopened its doors in September last year, much to the delight of parents/carers and children who visit. The group runs every Wednesday 10-12, we extended the time as we know as mothers ourselves it can be hard to get there on time and it be worthwhile going if you’re late. We invested in a coffee machine and we bake fresh cakes each week, which has enabled us to ask for an increased donation of £2(most of the group’s members feel we should charge more it’s such good coffee and cake). Most weeks attendance is high ranging from 17-35 parents and children depending on holidays. We also run through the holidays as we know other groups close in this time. The people who come to group are a mix of grandparents, carers, mums and we get a few daddies too which is nice. And now the group has become more established we have our regular members and see great 21 relationships developing and a real sense of support of the group and each other. Which is invaluable for any parent Carer and children who attend. As well as offering good coffee and cakes we have introduced some new features to the playgroup. We now have a dressing up rail, home corner with kitchen and table and chairs, ironing board etc and a cozy corner with soft rugs and cushions and books to read. We structure the playgroup time every week with free play, tidy time, then a story followed by singing with the parachute and bubbles. Which the children and parents love. In addition to the usual playgroup structure, we do have crafting activities set up for seasonal events such as Christmas, Halloween, Easter, Mother’s Day etc. We also set up a tuff tray when we have a theme and that has lots of sensory fun things for the children to get stuck into. The group also has a mascot called Wesley. Wesley the lion has his own bag and pyjamas & passport. We encourage the children to each take a turn to have Wesley for week at home and take pictures and tell us about their adventures with him This all goes in the book ‘Where Wesley went’ and includes pictures which we share with group around story time. It’s become very popular and Wesley is a much loved character by the group. The playgroup now has its own Instagram and Facebook groups. These are closed groups and invite only. But allows us to interact with the playgroup members and keep them up to date of any events/activities we have planned etc. It’s also a great tool to promote any events happening in the church too. The volunteers Becca, Charlotte, June and Gaye all work so hard in running the group. Giving their time and energy which I know is so appreciated by those who come to the group. And we continue to welcome new members. 22 ## **Property Report from Alan Severne** ## **Old Manse Garden** The company previously selected have not responded positively to communications and I am now looking for alternatives. ## **Electrical Works/Inspection** The remedial works to rectify the faults etc identified by our last inspection, which were authorised by CC at the last meeting have now been carried out. This uncovered some surprising issues with the computer suite room which added to the time required. However the electricians were unable to fully resolve the problem with the outside bollard lights to the front. This is thought to be due to water entering the cabling underground and they believe that the solution will involve disassembling the front steps – the faulty section lies between the upper two bollard lights and the lower ones. The section has been isolated so that the remaining lights can work. The upper section bollards which are faulty will be swapped with the lower ones at the next visit. The outside light over the fire exit door has been replaced with a new LED unit which provides good illumination over the area. A similar unit is to be installed lighting the Youth Hall fire exit. The defective control unit in the Sanctuary has been replaced, but two further channels have failed. We are waiting for replacement units to become available. Electricians will also install secondary relays in an additional enclosure – this will reduce the load on the control units. If a more robust solution is found using different equipment before the replacement units become available then we will follow electricians advice on this. The demand for this type of control is very limited and alternatives likewise. I have recently found that some of the other control equipment is now discontinued, though at present there are no known faults with this. I am seeking further quotes for replacement of some fluorescent lighting. Pat testing will be carried out before the end of summer holidays. ## **Roofs/soffits/gutters** Although there are no obvious current leaks, it is likely that some areas of flat roofing will require repair soon and we should consider if any can / should be reroofed rather than more make-do-and-mend should funds permit. I believe we should investigate soffit etc condition and consider if replacement is practicable; replacement has been deferred for a significant time. 23 I hope to have the flat roof areas inspected professionally in the near future. Two tiles are known to have come off the church roof during the high winds. Quotes to replace these (the tiles are cheap, but the access may not be) will be obtained at the same time as the flat roofs. ## **General** We are now in that part of the buildings’ maintenance cycle where higher costs can be expected. Exterior decorating is due and some items which have been deferred will need to be addressed very soon. The Annual Property Return is due soon and I intend to present it to CC at this meeting. ## **Sanctuary** Internally the Sanctuary is generally still in good order, with minor issues only. Under certain unusual weather conditions rain can penetrate the roof. Externally some of the pointing should be replaced soon, (I am currently looking for someone to address part of this) and there are a small number of broken segments within the stained glass windows. ## **Sanctuary Damp** Damp in the porch to the sanctuary is still to be permanently resolved. ## **Halls** Internally some parts of the Halls are very overdue for decorating, though this does not seem to overly concern our Hirers. Externally coated areas are due for retreatment, and some window cills and cracks in render need to be addressed. Damp has appeared over two windows in the canteen room, source as yet unknown. The roof has some small blisters but no visible cracks – water may be travelling some distance. ## **Boilers** These appear to be working well. Annual Service is due during June. ## **Plumbing/drains** The water heater in the youth hall toilets appears to be incapable of heating water to a level appropriate to kill legionella. This is a safety feature from the point of view of scalds burns and small children but needs to be managed. Drains have blocked once, possibly due to historically accumulated old fat migrating with the increased kitchen use. 24 ## **Wesley Table Tennis Club 60’s+Report by K. & M. Charnock.** We continue to meet on a Friday afternoon from 2pm - 4pm, in Wesley Hall, term only. Our price has been increased to £3.00. time Due to Covid 19, age, health and, sadly, four members passed away, our numbers have dropped. However, those friends who still regularly attend enjoy an afternoon of Table Tennis, refreshments, social chat and the friendship and fellowship we extend to them. There is always a warm Wesley Welcome. We would like to thank the church for the encouragement, support and prayers given to our group, which is very much appreciated. Peace and Blessings, Keith & Marjorie Charnock ## **Time for Prayer /Time for Healing by Jane Fulford** The monthly Time for Healing meeting was suspended in 2020 and much of 2021 in line with the Government's Covid restrictions. The successful opening of the Sanctuary Café on Saturdays and the resulting change in the ambience of the church during the time of the café's operation has prompted a rethink of the nature and purpose of this small prayer group. It is now being offered as Time for Prayer, a group intended to provide a quiet space of both communal and private prayer with a focus on general, healing, and personal matters. Meetings restarted in Autumn 2021 with no meetings being held in January or February 2022. To avoid the inevitable busyness of the Sanctuary on Saturdays, weekday meetings were trialled in April and May, but this proved inconvenient for a number of the regular attendees. It was therefore decided to revert to a Saturday date once again from June 2022, but with a start time of 9.30am, in order to allow for a period of quiet contemplation prior to the opening of the Café. Hopefully this will be convenient for everyone. Other ideas on how to maintain the purpose and accessibility of this group would be welcomed. Please contact Jane Fulford. (Email: fulford.family@btinternet.com) 25 ## **Wesley Theatre Group report by Judith Taylor** It has been wonderful to be back treading the boards and entertaining people. A big welcome to Christine and Rob who have joined us, great to have you on board. We look forward to working on A Murder Mystery with meal for our July production and further details will follow in the Clarion. We would like to thank our loyal audiences who carry on supporting us, with out you there would be no show. We are hoping this year to look at replacing some more of the older lights on the stage to bring them up to modern standard of lighting for a performance area, this will be after the lighting rig has undergone a stress test to ensure that it is safe. Next year will be our panto year, and we would welcome anyone who is interested in joining us for this production as part of the cast or crew ,you would be most welcome, experience is not required. If you have any questions or would like any further information please contact, Judy Taylor, Isobel Wratislaw. ## **Afternoon Teas Report by Janet Whiddett** It was good to begin a full programme of Afternoon Tea and Cakes in April 2022 and many people came, pleased to be back together. Last year we managed to open in July. August and September, each afternoon was well attended and after several requests we ran a Christmas Afternoon Tea in December, which proved very popular. After uncertain times during the pandemic having a chat in person with old friends over a cup of tea seemed like luxury – a simple normality we had almost forgotten. How lovely to hear the buzz of good conversation and much laughter coming from the Canteen Room again. With many thanks to all who attend and support these afternoons. Our special thanks to Pam and Linda, a great team making our refreshments AND clearing away each time; for all the bakers bringing different cakes to taste and for all who donate shop bought treats. We all enjoy them and usually there is a slice or two to take back home 26 ## **House groups -Cameo Report by Jane Fulford** This housegroup is a mixed group of members from Wesley and Rochford. We usually meet once a month on a Wednesday in the afternoon or evening. There is no set agenda for the year we decide each meeting the time before – so a mix of topics can be reviewed varying from Scripture to current local and national concerns. This year after not meeting because of Covid we have followed suggested discussions of A Methodist Way of Life. We number about 8 and any newcomers are very welcome. Thank you to Eileen who has been our host for several meetings. Thank you to those who have attended. ## **Thursday Call Report by Isobel Wratislaw** Thursday Call continues to meet on the third Thursday of the month, and over the past year has continued to meet on Zoom, although we have recently moved back to meeting in the homes of members (we can always facilitate joining by zoom for those not able to attend in person). Each session is led by a different member, alternating the style and theme, with recent meetings looking at passages from the book of Proverbs, and covering the Lent course based on the film _Chocolat._ We would always welcome anyone who feels this might be something they’d like to join. Please see Isobel Wratislaw for details. ## • **Appendix Audited accounts** 27 Church Accruals Accounts 2021-2022 THE METHODIST CHURCH TEMPLATE REPORT AND ACCOUNTS (ACCRUALS BASIS) for the year ended 31 August 2022 Leigh Wesley Methodlst Church R8glst•r•d Charity- Reglstratlon n￿n￿or 01 oppli¢8bl•) 1130293 Circuit No 34-10 MinBtsr Pastor SteRhen Mayo Church Stsward8 Gaye Groenway lan Lowe Elleen Simmons Judy Taylor Anna Wratislaw Emma Hearn PAn a Strachon Church Trnasurer Name of Church Leigh Wesley Methodist Church No 34110 ststement of Financial Activities (SOFA) for the year ended 31 August 2022 Notes to Designated the General FuThl Funds Restrict¢d Endowmert Totsl accounts (Unrestricted) (unrestricted) Funds Funds 2021-22 Income and Endowments 1 Offerings and tax recoverable 2 Donations & Grants 3 Interest and investment income 4 In¢ome from investment properties 5 Other income 6 Intemal organisations 7 Other charitable actiV￿e5 Total from charitable actmlles 8 Leth'ngs 9 Other income Total Income and endowrngnts Expenditure 10 Circuit assessment or share 11 Grants and donations 12 Property maintenan 13 Insurance.utilibes etc 14 Provisions 15 Depreciation 16 OfFice expenses 17 Other expenditure 18 Salaries & pensions 19 Intem81 organisabons Total charitsblg eXpendI￿re 20 Gainslllossesl on monetsry investrments 21 Gainsl(losses) on investM￿t piopelties 22 Not in¢omollexpenditure} 23 Transfer5 funds 24 Other gainslllosses) 25 Net movement in funds 26 Total fijnds brought foThvard 27 Totsl funds carrted forward 30.542 5.033 234 5.033 234 8.8115 8,806 8,275 8.275 44,615 52.013 8275 52,890 52,013 96.627 8275 104.902 32.549 9.039 18.T18 9.039 18.778 6.832 16.503 6.832 16,503 3A66 87,534 12.559 624- 4,810 625 13.183 57.850 71.033 4185 5.792 9,977 17,367 63.643 81,010 £4no trBirttu 17etter4lOfficeUM Namg of Church Leigh Wesley Methodlst Church P40 WIO Balance Sheet as at 31 August 2022 Totals 2022 T*)t* 2021 FurKIs Flxed Assets Church bulpjing and other IEwe$tment propert￿5 InVest￿￿ts knsur*l fdhJ S.282,￿9 5.282.669 4,923,2 rotsi b7xedass•ts 5.282.869 S,281669 4,923,236 Dgbtors and pr8payrnents Loans by tt)e Churches Investments wth TMCP Central Finance Board DeposlL8 Cash at Bank and in hand Toial ¢uffentassds 56.957 14.076 56.957 24.053 81.010 45.798 17,844 63.642 9.976 Current Ilabllltles Creditors Idue in under 1 yeaT) Grants payabk wthin 2017-18 rotsi tu￿￿￿tIlablIllIeS 71.033 9,976 81.010 s￿53.702 9.976 5.363.679 4,986,878 Longtsm? Ilabllltiès due after more than one Grants ayable after2017-18 Loans to Ihe Church ear Netass &353,702 361679 4,986.878 Funds oftho Chur¢h General Fund IUnre51ri¢ledl Dtsignatsd Furtds IUnre5triGtedl rolal UrtrestrictedFunds Restrict8d Funds Endowment Funds 71.033 9.976 71,033 57,850 5,792 63,642 81.010 Tolal Funds 81.oqo 81,010 63,642 OpenirwJ Recei Pa￿ents Closir ancès Ir>tèm81 Organi¥8liony Receipts Total External Charitiable O Bal Fwd 0110912021 Income Expenditure- Passed to Charf(i Bal cl￿d 31108122 isations Signed 406 2834 3241 Church Treasurer Payment to Trustees 2022 2021 Payments made to trustees for additional services provided to the Church by agreement with the Church Council Meeting 4540.4 764.47 Number of trustees who were paid expenses Nature of the expenses If there are no payments to Trustees. please record no expenses were paid. General church expenses Total amount paid Fees for examlnation or audit of the accounts Independent examinerfs or audÉtors' fees for reporting on the accounts Other fees leg: advice. accountancy services) paid to the independent examiner £ or auditor 764 nll nll Pald employees Staff Costs Dald durlno the Year were: Gross wages. salaries and benefits in kind 16,093 15.603 Employerfs National Insurance costs Pension costs Total staff costs 16,093 15,603 Average number of staff employeed during the year were: Leigh Wesley Methodist Basis of Independent Examine￿$ Report My examination was carried Olrt in accordance wtth the general direclions gr¥en by the Charity Commisston. An examin8tion indudes 8 review oftho aLz Ss& Date ZL . Ple8S8 delete orcirde as appropnets