Kingsthorpe Team Ministry St David s Church The Church of St John the Baptist ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING 2024 REPORTS St Mark's Church
APCM Agenda APCM Minutes 2023 Rector's Report Team Vicar's Report 10 Curates, Report 12 Deanery Synod Report No report Electoral Roll Reports 16 PCC Secretary's Report 16 St David's Churchwardens, Report 17 St John the Baptist Churchwarden's Report 18 St John the Baptist Fabric Committee Report 19 St Mark's Churchwarden Report 20 Lay Reader's Report 21 Lay Pastoral Ministers, Report 22 Safeguarding Z4 St John the Baptlst Cholr Report 24 St John the Baptist Flower Group Report 25 St Mark's Flower Fund Report 25 Mother5 Union Report 26 Kingsthorpe Churches Together Rep( 26 St Davfd's Tlme for Tots - Renew Famllles 27 Renew 88 28
Kingsthorpe Pocket Park Report Charity Commission Report KINGSTHORPE TEAM MINISTRY Charity Number 1130370 KINGSTHORPE PARISH ANNUAL MEETING 2024 28 29 AGENDA for the Annual Parochial Church Meeting to be held on Thursday 11 th April 2024 at St Davld's Church at 7.30pm. Prayers VESTRY MEING. Apologles for absence Appointment of Churchwardens Appointment of PCC members110 persons from each church) Appointment of Sidespersons. Appointment to Deanery Synod. PARISH MEETING: Minutes of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting of 11 Ih May 2023. Report from PCC Treasurer and approval of the accounts. Appointment of Independent Examlner. Electoral Rolllsl. Comments from Team Clergy. Reports from Lay Pastoral Ministers, Churchwardens, PCC Secretary and Deanery Synod - already circulated. Fabric reports. Rectors comments. Any Other Business: Date of 2025 Annual Parochial Church Meeting. NEW PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUMCIL:
Dates of future meetings. Appoirbtment of Lay Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer. Appointment of Safeguarding Officer. KINGSTHORPE TEAM MINISTRY ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL MEETING Minutes of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting held on Thursday) 11th May 2023 by Zoom & in person. Revd. Canon Jane Butler chaired the meeting. Revd Jonathan Lee & Revd Sarah Lee were also present. Matthew Brennan was interpreter. Present: On Zry)m In person 8 laity 21 laity Apolo8les: St. David St. John the Baptlst St. Mark None 2 laity 1 laity The meeting opened vrith prayers lead by Revd. Canon Jane Butler. VESTRY MEETING: Appolntment of Churchwardens: St. David: June Ward - proposed ShTrley Basford., seconded Terry Basford 2. Rebecca Adnitt - proposed Shirley Basford: seconded Terry Basford St. John the Ba 1. Vacant 2. Vacant tlst: Rev Jane state that she would make this matter known to the Archdeacon and ask hls advice. St. Mark.. Jo Carrick - proposed Ken Sumbler; seconded David Bunker 2. Vacant Revd Jane Butler thanked the outgoing churchwardens for all their work in the past year and that she Iwked forward to working with the newly elected church wardens in the coming year.
Appointment of Parochial Church Council: St. David: 1. Sarah-Jane Major Ex-OfficiolLay Reader. 2. Joyce Munroe IP June Ward S Muriel Stevenson) 3. Jane Serbyn IP Sarah-jane Major S June Ward) 4. Anne Stevens IP June Ward S Muriel Stevenson 5. Maureen Robinson IP Muriel Stevenscfft S June Ward) 6. Shirley Basford IP June Ward S Becky Adnitti 7. h4Ary Hard¥Mck IP Maureen Robinson S June Ward) Vacancies remain for three PCC place5. St. John the Ba tist: 1. Jenny Griffin Ex-OfficlolLay Reader. 2. Geoff Foster IP M Brame S A Bramel 3. Mandy Bentley IP P Gothard S P Stone) 4. Pauline Stone IP J Griffin S R stonel 5. Peter Borley.Cox IP M Brame S P Stonel Vacancies remain for five PCC places. St. Mark.. Ruth Gould IP Helen Hickman S J Carrickl Helen Hickman IP Richie Carrick S R Gould) Sue Evans IP W May S D Bunker) Richie Carrick IP S Cumbleton S E May) Kathy Wilcox IP E May S S Evans) L12 May IP Richle Carrick S Shirley Cumbletonl Paula Blackwell IP R Gould S C Woodleyl Samantha Hunt IP S Cumbleton S J Carrickl Shirley Cumbleton IP Richie Carrick S E May) Vacancles remaln for one PCC place. Appolntment of Sldespersons: St. David: All members of the congregation. St. John the Ba tist: All members of the congregation.
St. Mark.. All members of the congregation. All the above named were elected to serve as sidespersons in their individual churches for the coming year. All members present were in favour. Deanery Synod Representatives ex officlo12nd year of 3-year term). {5 persons allowed) Jenny Griffin Sarah-Jane Major PARISH MEETING: The Mlnutes of the meetlng held on Th Aprfl 2022 were slgned as a true record after the as all persons present were in favour. Flnance: Becky Adnltt told the APCM that Roger Cobley had recently passed away. He had been the Independent examiner for many years. Peter Borley-cox gave a brief overview as to how the parish finance5 had been over the last financial year. He explained that parish income had increased but not enough to cover its expenses. He reported that the parlsh reserves had Increased due to a bequest whlch had been received during the year. Sue Evans told the APCM that it was time that the parish revisited the parish reserves p)licy to ensure it meets current needs. Peter Borley.Cox proposed that the accounts were approved. It was seconded by Ruth Gould. All were In favour of thls motlon. Revd Jane thanked both Peter Borley-cox and Sue Evan5 for their hard work during the last year. Appolntment of Independent Examlner: Peter Borley-cox explained that Jackie Brame was willing to be the Independent Examiner again for the coming year. The appointment of Jackie Brame was proposed by Peter Borley-cox and seconded by Sue Evans. The meeting passed this motion.
Electoral Roll: St. David: The APCM were told that St Davids had a total of 27 members on their electoral roll. IA decrease of 10) St. John the Ba tist: The APCM were told that St John the Baptist had a total of 77 members on their electoral. roll. IA decrease of 31. St. Mark.. The APCM were told that St Marks had a total of 43 members on their electoral roll. IAn increase of 11 Curate's Comments Revds. Jonathan and Sarah told the APCM that their report in the booklet covered everything they wanted to say. Report from Organlsatlons & Commlttees Includlng the Fabrlc Report5 Foodbank The APM were told that the foodbank was very successful and the number of families using the facility had grown to 358. It has 30 volunteers. In the week prior to the APCM, the fcM)dbank had helped 866 adults and 489 children. Rev Jane took the opportunity to thank Cheryl and all her helpers. Fabrlc Commlttees St John the Baptist Mark Brame stated the St John the Baptist Fabric Committee reFM)rt was in the Ix)oklet.
Sarah-Jane asked about the chapter house project. Mark Brame said this was on hold as they were still waiting for a response from the DAC. St Davids St Davids were still waiting for permission for their disabled toilet. Again. this is a DAC issue. Jane Serbyn said the worry was that the project had grant funding which may be lost if the project is delayed. St Marks Jo Carrick sald that the St Marks report was In the booklet, but she said that the large project to repair the crack in the church would be starting soon. This was a costly project by the £7,C4)0 cost had been covered by pledges. Revd. Jane told the meetlng that any other reports were in the booklet whlch had been clrculated. She asked if there were any questions. There were none. Rector's Comments: Revd Jane sald her comments were too In the report in booklet. Mark Brame stated that he was disappointed with the St John the Bapt15t reaction to his standing in down with no volunteer coming forward to fill the role. Rev Jane thanked him for his hard work and dedication. She explalned that If there was no resolutlon to the Issue then a full and frank discussion would be needed at the next PCC meeting about how the parish is to continue across the three churche5. She saw that the joint service on the 2151 May 2023 as an opportunity for this. Any Other Buslness: Dorothy Brooke asked if Rev Jane wa5 feeling better after having missed the Easter services. Rev jane thanked Matthew Brennan for helping with signing at the PCC meetings. Date of 2024 Annual IAeeting". Thursday, 11" April 2024 at 7.30pm.
This ended the bu5ine55 of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting. Appolntments to the new Parochlal Church Councll: Lay Chalr - Mandy Bentley Secretary - Helen Hickman Treasurer- Peter Borley-cox and Assistant Sue Evans Safeguardlng Offlcer - Jane Serbyn All members present were in favour of these appointments: Dates of Parochlal Church Coundl meetlnqs for 2023124 25th May 2023 2T' July 2023 28th September 2023 23" November 2023 25th Jan 2024 28th March 2024 2024 APCM 11th April 2024 The meeting closed wth the Prayers. Rector's Re ort In 2023 we have worked well as a team of churches. During the winter we had warm spaces in each of the churches. Rev Jonathan led this. This was not widely taken up but the who took part enjoyed it and kept warm. We were lucky enough to gain a donation from the council towards the running of this. During this time we started family servites on the 1st Sunday of the month in all churches, this had mixed success depending on the number of children that were at the services. It was certainly a learning curve for some. We continued wth brick church, the attendance varies from month to month, even so we continued doing this led by Rev Jonathan. Woodland church was also continued wth Rev Sarah this has grown and it Is multigenerational. The youngest been a toddler the oldest being in their 90's. The Sunday morning
seNices C¢)ntinued as normal. Special" seNice were done for all the festivals during the year. During 2023 1 was ill for 10 weeks and I would like to thank Rev's Jonathan and Sarah for holding the fort and taking the Easter seNices. With out their help and cover I wouldn't have been able to recuperate as well with little thought for the parish during this time. During this time children's attiwties, home groups have continued as well as a renew 88 being started for familie5. In August 2023 Rev Alison Wagner jOTned us as the team vicar of St David's and school chaplain to Malcolm Arnold Academy. This has proved to be a very good appointment. Rev Ali has been well received by members of all the churches. The finance position is continuing to be precarious, and less money is being able to be paid towards the parish share due to more money being needed for payment oof utility bills. Peter Borley- Cox is finishing as treasurer at the APCM after 18 years. I want to thank him for all the work he has done during this time. As we are golng into 2024 we are looklng at new possibilitles for mlsslon and growth. I would like to thank everyone who works behind the scenes, as well as those who help week by week, especially I would like to thank all the church wardens that take on so many extra duties as well as church warden duties. I would like to thank my clergy and laity team that both work with me and support me. I would like to thank Revds. Jonathan and Sarah for all they have done in the last three years as they prepare to move on. We wish them well. Canon Jane Butler Team Rector Team Vlcar's Re ort I have been in my role as Team Vlcar and Chapialn at for nearly 8 months and there's been a lot to get used to. l am in very familiar territory, only a mile away from where I grew up but in an entirely new landscape. l am incredibly grateful for the welcome and support I have received across the parish. Thank you. Some Hi hts: 1, The Launde Retreat- a wonderful opportunity to pray with and get to know many members of the churches. Before we left Launde, three of us prayed in the outdoor Chapel lone each from St D's. St J's and St M's) for the parish, it felt significant. 2, The Vision Day= Denise did an excellent job of guiding and encouraging us to share our hopes and fears in the context of prayer.... Always prayer. 10
3, My first baptism at St Dawd's welcomed the ywngest member of our family at St Dawd's. When I was preachir)g later on in the year on Simeon recognising Jesus in the Temple. he lour lovely baby) th gurgles and squawks provided a wonderful reminder that God was actually a baby in Christ and needed love and care from a human family. 3, Christmas.. Carols at St John's in the church after the Christmas Tree Festival. St David's full of primary school children t(e and a great visit to Purple Oaks School for a Christmas Serwce. A wonderful Crib Service, well attended but wth an atmosphere o( joy in the presence of the Holy Spirit. 4, Woodland Church Is a really speclal tlme outslde explorfng God In a reflective and dynamic way on Bradlaugh Fields. A great cross parish team leads thi5 creatively each month and I've loved joining in. 5, The Be Still Course in January encouraged us to think about how we make time for God in our busy lives and the importance and gift of that practice. Jesus wthdrew to quiet places to pray we learned to do that more. It was Ilke a mlnl-retreat in the week. 6, The Lent Course. l only attended 2 but the conversations, again cross parish were thoughtful and faith building. Some thin s to look forward to: Café Church.. Offering a more informal service rooted in hospitality, worship. prayer and Biblical exploration. A truly intergenerational affair, please pray for this. Greater Ilnks wlth the schools- The team at St Mark under Rev Sarah have Invested and sewen much fruit from their work in Whitehllls. My hope is that our growing links th Northgate, Kingsthorpe Grove, MAPS and Purple Oaks will strengthen and that our churches W11 become familiar places for the children in the parish. An Ordinand- The arrival of an Ordinand to train with us for the final year of their studies is very exciting. I will be returning to my old college, St Mellitus occasionally and I hope that we will all benefit from this exchange as we seek to equip them for their curacy and as we enjoy their gifts. Confirmations in July.. Bishop Debbie is coming to St David's. Please pray for the preparation and the candidates as they take this step of faith. Canon Jane has been a tremendous support in my first few months, dispensing wise advice, praying for me and also letting me 'get on with it! Tr The boys lall
three of them) are getting used to another house and church community and mostly thriwng but it is still a period of adjustfflent. I have not always found it easy to balance the two posts, they could both be full time jobs. This Holy Week and Easter is proving a particular challenge. So, l am learning to say 'no' at times, and to remind myself l am not here to solve everybody's problems but to wint them to God and to pray. What SITPS SO easily is the time for prayer and reflection. the work that looks pointless but is the bedrock of our Christian lives. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus the author and perfector of our faith. Let Him write the story of this parish and fill it ¥Mth people he is calling. Revd All Curates. Re rt The third year of our curacles has been very good, we feel at home here In Kingsthorpe, thank you to everyone for their continued encouragement of our ministry, It has been a busy year for us since the last APCM. The pattern of our week has continued with a mix of online and in person services. Morning prayer on Tuesdays and Wednesdays continues on 200m and enables several people to join in who would be unable to attend these seThices if held in person. 9. 30am Thursday morning Holy Communion at St John the Baptist Church and a monthly 11.30am momins Holy Communion service at St David's have become regular events. We do encourage anyone who is available at those times of the day to join us if they can, it is so lovely to meet to pray and worship together. It has been great to welcome Rev Alison Wagner to the team, and she now enjoys the running of the monthly Wednesday Holy Communion at St Davids. Sarah and Jonathan have both taken 3 weddings each during the summer of 2023, which was both a privilege and a joy. We have enjoyed continuing to take regular baptisms and it has been an honour to continue to walk with bereaved families and take funerals for their loved ones. Over the summer of 2023 we undertook training to deliver "The Bereavement Jourrbey" 7- week course, and in September ran this for the first time in thi5 parish, alongside Chris Woodley and Jo Carrick who had also done the training. Sarah.Jane Major then took over the administration for this course and together wth Jo ran a second course at St Marks which has been well attended by community contacts. The five of u5 found the training really valuable and the course has been excellent. The team hope to continue to offer this as a parish perhaps twice a year. 12
In July and August 2023. we ran Summer Informal Worship evenings, to learn some new songs from video input. read and study the Bible and pray together. A small group from across the churches met and really enjoyed times of fellowship together on Sunday evenings rotating around the different churches. Little Stars which launched in Sept 2021 altemating between St Mark's Church, and St John the Baptist Church has continued throughout school term times. This group is for parentslcarers and their children and attracts usually through word of mouth or Facebook, between around 8.10 families each week for a 1.30-3pm session. We have seen an increase in Grandmothers attending w6th their grandchildren recently. Little Stars has stories, songs and prayers on seasonal theme accompanied by live piano music and the presence of a large Teddy Bear dressed in his liturgically coloured waistcoat. After this there is informal time relaxing with toys, chat and refreshments. Many new friendships have been forged and there have been several meals organlsed during the last year jointly by the leaders of the Tots at St David's and the Little Stars leaders to get the mums and carers together for a happy social occasion. After Easter 2024 this group will meet weekly at St Mark's Church, where it has been better attended than at St Jthns. There is a strong lay team able to lead this group and take it forward. Brick Church has continued at St. John-the-Baptist Church on a monthly basls save for a pause over the sunny summer months. The format remains the same.. we enjoy a Bible story together Iread and watched on a 'Lego-video' I before launching into an hour or so of fun with Lego and Duplo, taking themes from the Bible story and building together wth creativity and imagination. Thls Is coupled wth a Lego treasure hunt, a prayer wall and colouring sheets, which is all followed by Grace, and more chat over a 'SandCh & cake, tea together. Numbers have grown throughout 2024 particularly and we have enjoyed welcoming new families to that and other services too. A big thank you to the team who come to set up and take down to help this run smoothly and to the "Tea Team" and bakers who produce a fantastic aftern¢)on tea every month. September 2022 saw the launch of Woodland Church at the Outdoor Classroom on the Brampton Valley Way. Spring 2023 saw a new start for Woodland Church in Bradlaugh Fields behind St David's Church. We wander across from the front of St Dawds once a month, pickinq up litter as we go, and then meet up wth others at the gates to the Fields. We risk assess together, and launch the theme for that month, then wander and wonder in the park together. This has helped to form friendships across the generations, and we have had people 13
from almost every decade from O's-90's doing life together, sharing and having fun. We pause for activitie5 and reflection, and we have looked at trees, seeds. hidden things, and recently built a complete Easter Garden near the outdoor classroom play area. We have gone into partnership with the team at the Barn there, who are willing to open up the facilities for us once a month and provide hot and cold drinks for sale at a very reasonable price, plus indoor Space for crafts and singing if the weather outside proves difficult for our activities and toilet facilities. It has been really wonderful to see this develop and grow and a big thank you to the team who put so much effort into leading. baking and organising so that this Fresh Expression of church runs smoothly. Our Ilnks w6th Whltehllls Sch¢)ol have grown, and In the summer term, Reception came to visit St Mark's and learn about the building and what goes on in a church. Year 6 visited us for a special Prayer Space event, and in small groups of 15 explored what it means to pray. We also visited school to help them with their transition process as they prepared to leave for secondary school. In the autumn term, Rev Sarah continued to take assemblies regularly at the school covering Church festivals for them. Rev Sarah visited year 6 lessons, and Year 2 vi51ted St Marks for an Explore Advent morning, the highlight of which was the hunting for and taking home of a beautifully coloured jewel, after learning that Gthj values them as much as they do their precious stone. Year 5 & 6 came to us for their Carol seryice again this year, which was a lovely opportunity to warmly welcome all the parents and say a few words about the importance of God's love for us all. In the spring term we have visited year 4 to talk about Easter, and year 5 have visited us to Explore Easter. Two children from Whitehills who attended and enjoyed the Christingle Service have been baptised in March 2024. A wonderful team was involved in both the set up and the running of the Explore days in particular and our thanks go to everyone who was Involved as the chlldren and staff thoroughly enjoyed thelr tlme at St Mark's Church. We have continued to have good links vrith the Uniformed organisations in the parish this year, who came to us for Remembrance Sunday in November 2023, but prior to that in June 2023 the Squirrels came on a visit in the summer term to explore St John the Baptist Church. We invited the uniformed groups to attend a Carol Service put on particularly with them in mind at St Mark's Church in December 2023. this was well attended by the Scout/Cub/Beaver troupes, and we were also joined by some of the Girls Brigade from our ecumenical partners at the Baptist Church. Irb January 2024 we celebrated the week of prayer for Christian Unity by planning and holding an ecumenical service in St Mark's Church with people involved from all our three churches, plus Christians from the Roman Catholic, 14
Baptist and Methodist Churches. Rev Sarah really enjoyed connecting with all our local churches in the planr)ing of this service. We had high numbers in attendance, and it was well received by all. We were delighted that Rev lan Suttie. a retired Methodist Minister from Kingsthorpe Churches Together, Rev Dr Samantha Gillard the new methodist minister and Father Daniel from the Roman Catholic Cathedral were able to join us for this semce. Men's Group has continued to meet during the past year and includes people from all three churche5. They have enjoyed watching rugby and cricket, playing indoor bowls, eating together enjoying company and conversation. Summer 2023 there was a successful walk. a boat trip and spectating at a cricket match. We have continued to enjoy being part of the team who run 'Fun and Faith. for our young people; and also, being involved in the running of the Advent and Lent courses. We have enjoyed supporting the work of Renew 88 Wellbeing on Wednesdays and the Café on Saturday mornings at St Davlds. Rev Jonathan moved curacy placement in January 2024 to Christ the King Church in Kettering, to assist with staffing there and to broaden his experience in a different type of parish. Rev Sarah has continued here in Kingsthorpe. We would both like to thank Rev Canon Jane and the people of Kingsthorpe Team Ministry very much for the opportunity to be curates here and to grow in confidence in our ministry with your support. We are now "signed off" and looking for our next post as incumbents which will probably happen this summer 2024. $0 this is our last report for the APCM. We hope and pray that all the wonderful work that is happening in this parish continues to help those of this commsjnity grow in faith and love. Thank you. Rev Sarah and Rev Jonathan Deane ort - no rewrt received. St David Electoral Roll Re ort The 2024 membership stand5 at 25. St John the Ba tlst Elertoral Roll Re We began the year with 77 on the Roll. 6 have left the parish. 3 have died. No new members have been added. There are now 68 members on the Roll. 15 ort
Jenny Griffin St Mark's Elertoral Roll R ort Passed away: 1 New member: I The 2024 membership remains at 43 K Sumbler PCC Secreta 'sRe The Parochial Church Council met five times in the 2023-24 parochial year. Officers were elected at the end of the annual meeting. All the meetings were quorate. Until November 2023 all PCC meetings were a hybrid was offered wth both in person meetings taking place at St David's church alongside Zoom but slnce this time all meeting were In person. Attendance was very good. The main items of business across the year: The PCC did not manage to pay the Parish Share in full. The level of Income needed has not recovered slnce the pandemlc. However, the parish have Set up a committee which purpose is to see how income could be maximise at each of the three churches. lThe decision was made in 2013 to pay the parish share in full as a priority. requiring regular fund. raising events). The parlsh contlnued vAth Its outreach actlvltles with the contlnuatlon of Brlck Church and Food for Thought. New activlties were started such as woodland church and the Bereavement Journey course. Safeguarding work twk place to ensure the three churches arbd the parish continued to be compliant in all aspects of safeguarding Revd Alison Wagner joined the parish as Team Vicar and Chaplain of Malcolm Arnold Academy in August 2023. Deanery Synod is attended regularly. Core Groups remain and were able to recover and meet in person during the year, i.e., Pastoral Care, Nurture and Growth. Youth, and Mission. Helen Hickman St Davids Church Warden re Vestments & Chattels 16
These are all as previous year, are in good seIceable condition, valuables are retained with in a locked safe, when not being used for worship. Bullding & Fabrlcs The sound systems and projector for the Church Hall is now completed. and is being used for seNices, training and faith and fun. Disabled toilets - Debates continues, sign off obtained from the faculty, commencement date for the works to be advised. Compliance Checks - all necessary checks f¢y electrical, fire test and PAT testing complete & up to date. General Ali Wagner was 1Scensed on the 61h August 2023, by Bishop Andrew Proud, and the Archdeacon Richard. A lovely service with refreshments afterward5. Ali 15 a great asset to St. David's, and the team working together is a delight. Thank You Rena & Kelvln - For the upkeep of the grounds. The front elevatlon to the Church is looking amazing. Anne - For the organisation of the 50150 club. and for keeping up to date the electoral roll. Peter Cotter - For all his work 'behind the scenes.. he will be missed as he and his wife have moved away A big thank you for SeThers, Sides People, the now small Chior, Flower arrangers. tea makers. and all who contribute to the church upkeep and services. Fund Ralslng Bod's Little band Murder Mystery party Quiz Night Servlces Remembrance Sunday - a fantastic display of knitted poppies, complemented by the metal shadow solider. This did draw in the local community and pas5ers-by to the outdoor section of the serwce. Childrens Crib Service - The Christmas Eve service was truly magical. a spectacle to delight, and faith learning for all. We would also like to thank Rev Cannon Jane, Rev Sarah, Rev Jonathan, Sarah. jane Major and Rev Ali. June & Becky 17
St. John the Ba tfst Churchwardens Re St. John the Baptist Churchwardens Report, 2023. We continued to hold Morning Prayer on Zwm on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at 9:C(Jam. SeNices continued throughout the year with the Rector and Curates usually leading, on a rota. The 10:(K)am Sunday service5 were attended by. usually, about 30 - 35 people. with an average of 42 throughout the year. January saw the KCT Ecumenical service at St. John the Baptist with over 1(MJ in attendance. Thursday morning 9:30am Holy Communion averaged about 4, wth numbers between 2 and 8. this seICe is being held in the Chapter House through the winter months to save on heating costs. At Easter we held services of Compline (Monday, Tuesday. and Wednesday). Maundy Thursday, Good Friday. Easter Eve. and Easter Day. all of which were well attended,. with about 70 on Easter Day. In the sumrner we did offer an 'informal worship" service on a Sunday evening in July and August, but it didn't attract any newcomers to attend. The Church was open for Heritage Weekend this year. with the display of the 'Chained Library" from the 1611P centuries. and the Victorian Architect's drawings from the 1863 restoration work also on show. The annual 'Ride & Stride" event went ahead as planned on the Saturday. The church h05ted a Village Harvest Festival service at the end of September with over 2C¥J children present. The annual Remembrance Service was held In November, wlth about 80 In church, followed by the Act of Remembrance at Kingsthorpe War Memorial. This service was well attended, with Kingsthorpe and Whitehills Scout Groups joinins us. The Christmas Tree Festival was arranged for the start of December and was well attended and finished off with"Carols on the Green" which was held inside church due to FMX)r weather. There were about 150 stood in church to sing carol5, with refreshments provided, although no fire-pits this year! Over Christmas we held a Nine Lessons and Carols service, a Crib Seryice labout 130 attended), Midnight Mass and Christmas Day Family Eucharist. We also hosted a Christingle Semce thin church for the local Kingsthorpe Village Primary School with about 170 teachers. parents and children taking part. 18
Little Stars, Brick Church and Woodland Church have all continued to flourish throughout the year. Mark Brame St John the Ba tlst - Fabrlc Re ort The fabric committee has met regularly during the year. A health and safety review was carried out regularly this year and updated as required. Work on the project to extend the Chapterl)ouse contlnued In the early part of the year but due to the DAC not responding to our requests for the faculty application forms, has been put on hold. The work identified in the quinquennial inspection was prioritised and the agreement of the Archdeacon and architect for the work was of "housekeeping" nature to be done. The work was left until the autumn when the leave5 had fallen and an attempt to find scrfneone to do the work will be made before spring. Annual seryicing of the clock. boilers. alami systems and fire extinguishers was carried out. DisCU55ions are ongoing regarding the additional earthing required for the lightenin8 conductor. The trees and shrubs in the churchyard have been trimmed regularly by the contractor working for the councll. A defribulator, funded by the Parish Council, has been installed externally on the Chaplerhouse. There was one organised churchyard tidy.up in the year. The fabric committee would however Ilke to thank those that have, as Individuals, on occasion done some tidwng up. Alan Isaac St Mark's Churchwardens re Fabric of the Church The boilers had their annual service and no issues identified. 19
All the appropriate checks to meet the fire requlations and electrical testing have been undertaken. The Qulnquennial inyction was completed in June 2023. The report identified areas that needed work carried out. The fabric committee decided the first job would be to fix the vestry flooring as there were rotten floorboards. This wa5 completed. The repairs were funded by the church fundraising holding a Harvest Supper. The fabric committee are planning to iderbtify and prioritise other jobs that need doing. The church holds a couple of workdays throughout the year allowing small jobs to be completed. Thank you to the fabdc commlttee who do so much to malntaln the church, often keeping many repairs "in house" to enable us to save money. Thank you 3150 to the congregation who keep our church and grounds tidy and clean. We have lots of llIng volunteers who give up their time to maintain the church. General. Our Sunday attendance numbers have remained stable. During the year we welcomed the Whitehills School children at Easter and Advent. They held their Year 516 carol service at St Marks as well as running the explore Easter & Advent courses. We also held a carol service for uniformed groups just before Christmas welcoming over 80 young people and their families. Thanks are needed to all those who volunteer in welcoming the school and help with the refreshments. Rev Sarah has worked tirelessly to organise these events. We held annual carols on the green and havlng sung a few carols on the green we then came inside the church to continue the service. This began and ended with the pipe band pLayin8. Also. the Christingle service was 'full to capacity, this year. Hall bcKskings continue to bring in a good income and the hall is used regularly throughout the week by lots of different groups. The bereavefflent course was held in the hall in September. There was one group meeting at St Marks during the day and another at SJB in the evening. This was well attended. Having volunteered to be churchwarden l expressed that I would need a small band of people to help me. Volunteers stepped forward and I want to say a big thank you to you all. This certainly made my role easier and it was g¢)od to work alongside and have support from you all. 20
Jo Carrick La Reader R ort Another busy year, but one full of blessings and opportunities to meet and worship together. Over the last year I have continued to lead worship. a5 well as jointly working with clergy during our time of joint Sei(e5. It has been a pleasure to work with the team as we welcome local schools to our buildings to explore the Christian faith as part of their RE curriculum. Fun and falth continue to meet fortnlghtly, and we have recently welcomed two new member5. Our youns people are a credit to themselves, and their families. It is a real privilege to work with them as we journey together in falth. Little Stars is now a well-established group and Tuesday afternoon is a highlight of my week as parents, grandparents and carers come together to have fun together as well as findin8 out al)out Jesus and His love and compassion for us all. It is particularly special to watch the adults support each other both practically and emotionally. Food 4 Thought continues to meet every other month. A group of us from across the parish are working together to provide arb alternative service with a meal at St Marks Church. Numbers are small but those who come along are enjoying the time we spend together exploring our faith through fellowship, music and prayer. For some of our congregation it 15 difficult to come out and about so I led a Lent course this year. l appreciate journeying together with others through Lent. It has been a privilege to work with Jo Carrick a5 we welcomed seven ladies to St I•Arks to complete the Bereavement Journey Course. Lastly a few thanks, for our wonderful congregations who also make me feel welcome, our curates who I have enjoyed workinq wth and like others it was exciting to welcome Rev Ali to the parish and I look forward to working wth 21
her in the coming months. Lastly Rev Jane for her encouragement, guidance, teaching and prayers. I look forward to the coming year. ccmtinuing my journey with Christ together th you all. May we all receive Gods love and Grace. Sarah - Jane Major Re ort from the La Pastoral Mlnlster 2023124. This was a busy and rewarding year, church work, pastoral care had not stopped, it was if anything even busier in a different way with new initiatives. In addition, St Marks Church Prayer request and concerns again were well up year on year. They are fed into the Lay Minister and sent out to the group. numbering over 14 incILing Clergy strictly adhering to the content of the request. Care home communions continued, Personal external communion and individual home communion continued. via the Lay Mirbister and thank5 to the curates and Sarah Jane in helping across the Parish. Personally over 60 home communions have been carried out over the past year all regularly receive communion at least once a month i.e. the elderly and house bound who are very grateful. However, some have now been moved out into other par6shes and with our relationship with other parishes are able to hand thi5 over. It is necessary to be re-licenced as a Lay Minister in Sept 2025 for another 5 years. With regret I have decided to step down before that date. however a constant review is undertaken by Rev Jane whereby individually as ministers nd Lay Minister5, St Mark's Still operate a prayer triplet which was and is carrying on although it is down to one triplet meeting once a month. Fun & Faith continues to operate, live and the youngsters have great fun along th some varied ethical, faith, theological topics prayer and teaching. Thanks to Kathy, Sarah Jane, Rev Sarah, and Rev Johnathan and (MJr new addition Becky Adnitt keeping this worthythile Ministry at St Dawd's. The youth enjoyed an outing at Wickstead Park and the bowling alley and the Pancake Day, was also carried out. Thanks to Johnathan Hunt in baking again. and to all that help to make this another success. Food for thought, continues to thrive with good numbers, food and Christian contellt. There is plenty on offer in the Parish. However, I would encourage you all where you would always be welcome at this initiative It might be that 22
you would be interested in leading or taking on a roll however small, if only on an ad hoc basis, if so, discuss this th one of the Ministers or Church warden5. With the Mission meeting we had a while ago there were many ideas, we now have the impetus to do some let us all work together and hamess all our gifts that good Lord has provided. House groups and courses. alternative service5 are on offer to all regardle55 of your ability or standing. you don't have to be an academic we can all learn from each other to increase our faith and share our experiences. In addltlon, as a Pastoral resource l am Involved, in addition with Rev Sarah involvement, Sarah Jane with Whitehills Primary school I support them wth such items a5 Experience Easter, Advent, Church etc and a great time is had by I wish it to be noted that l am extremely grateful for the help and support of other members of the congregation and Team Clergy that people In our community are cared for. The pastoral needs are well covered at St Marks and across the Team as a whole. Blessings on you all Chris Woodley. ILPMI Safe uardln The Parish continues to hold Safeguarding at the centre of Its framework. The Diocese Dashboard is working at the highest level and continues to keep abreast of new and updated issues. All the churches activities have annually reviewed policie5. risk assessment and appropriately registered DBS checked. paid and volunteer workers. Each church has a safeguarding representative who meet quarterly throughout the year and as necessary to ensure safety within our churches. The Safeguarding officer maintains contatt with the Rector and the two representative5 to ensure that continuity of care is covered across the parish. Training sessions for basiclFoundalion Safeguarding. Domestic abuse, and an overview of Food hygiene. Health and safety and first aid have been offered to PCC trustees and volunteers of the church and community groups throughout the year. Jane Serbyn St John the Ba tlst Cholr Re ort Choir membership remains stable, and it is good to see Rachael la student at Northampton University who joined us last yearl able to attend more regularly now that she is living c105er to SJB. Unfortunately, we haven't gained any further new members, SO with the onwards march of time the long-term future of the choir remains precarious. 23
Nevertheless, the choir is Still able to lead the congregation in the setting of the Eucharist and to sing an anthem most Sundays. We also held our traditional festival of nine lessons and carols on Advent 4, which was attended by around 30 worshippers. though this was possible only with the help of several former SJB choristers and singers from St D and St M. I was encouraged that the appeal for funds to repair a defect that had arisen with the organ, raised over E9(X) in just a few weeks and l extend my thank5 to all who contributed. The remedial work has now been undertaken, though the same issue is occurring elsewhere in the instrument, which will need to be addressed in the near future. Finally, I'd like to thank all members of the choir for their continued commitment and enthusiayn at this challenging time irb the choir's history. My thanks also go to Robert for his assistance the organ until the end of August 2023 when he departed for a post at another church and to Laura who helps out whenever she is able. lan Smith, Organist SJB St John the Ba tlst Flowers Arran ers Annual Re ort We are continuing with our efforts to be more sustainable and have done more arrangements using different containers and without floral foam. We have also been able to do some arrangements with our own horne-grown flowers and foliage. We hope to be able to more of this in the future. For the Christmas Tree Festival we did a Four Seasons tree decorated with fresh, dried and sllk flowers. We are always looking for new people to help with the flowers. If anyone is interested in joining the flower arrangers or helping in any way, please contact either Pauline Stone, Carol Isaac or Jenny Griffin. Thank you to all those who have given towards the cost of flowers throughout the year either for special (Kcasions. or in memory of someone or just a5 donations. Thank you also to all who have arranged flowers or helped in any way especially at Easter and Christmas. Pauline Stone, Carol Isaac, Jenny Griffin St Mark's Flower Fund Re ort 24
We have continued only asking for d¢Mations at Festival times and we have managed to provide fresh flowers every Sunday, except for the summer months when we have placed silk arrangements in church because of the extremely hot conditions in the building. At the end of 2023 the accounts stood at £202.42 cash in hand. At the time of writing this report the account currently stands at £199.00 having received donations towards the Easter arrangements. My thanks to those who have made dcffiations during the year and also to Ruth who helps with the arrangements. Llz May Kln sthor e Churches T ether Annual Re The KCT Annual General meeting was held on Tuesday 315¢ March at St Marks church hall. There were representatives from St John the Baptist, St Marks, St Davids St Aidan's, the Methodist and Baptist churches. Ruth Gould 1st Marksl was re-elected as Chairperson. Maureen Robinson (St Davidsl as Vice chair and David Bunker a5 s¢Yretary. We welcomed the Rev lan Suttie a retired methodist minister to the meetings. Three meetings were held during the year to discuss and plan events and seryices. The year started with a joint seryice for all the denominations at St John the Baptist church during the week of Chrlstian Unity. KCT agreed to take over the organising of the service for the World Day of Prayer in March but due to a lack of time this did not happen in 2023. The Good Friday service and Walk of Witness did take place and was well attended. Representatives were invited and attended a multi faith service at the Roman Catholic Cathedral for the coronation of King Charles the Third. Representatives also attended a seryice and lunch to celebrate the Baptist Church Bicentenary in June and a serv6ce to say farewell to Rev Francis M'ltllrl and his family in July. They have moved to London where Rev Francis wll continue his ministry. In December KCT sang Christmas Carols outside Waitrose lead by Rev Ali. Ruth Gould. Mothers Union Re ort Another year has gone by. It has been heartwarming to meet regularly, enjoying each other's company and listening to some excellent speakers. Members also enjoyed a summer gathering at Lamport Hall, three of our ladies enjoyed time away together in York for the annual conference in September. I also had a good few days on retreat wth MU at Launde Abbey. Several of us also went to St Benedict's for Mary Sumner Day, enjowng fellowship, worship and scrumptious refreshments. The Christmas lunch is always a highlight of the 25
year, and it didn't disappoint, we all enjoyed a hearty lunch at the golf club In Kingsthorpe. The dedicated very small committee also meet regularly and keep me on my toes. A personal thank you to Jane S and her excellent organising skills, Andrea for managing the accounts Pauline for arranging our speakers and Anne for their dedication and se words. A big thank you especially to Jane Roberts who after servicing on the committee for many years ha5 decided to Step down. Our ladies continue to give of their time and Christian fellowship at Baptisms. Thank you, Pauline Gothard, for organising the team and Eileen who now sends cards to each family. The clergy and familles really value your input at these very important and special services. As we move into the new year we look fOard to meeting together, sharing the values of Mothers Union vrith each other, learning together about the influences and hardships that families face in this country and further afield. We do have a committee that is willing to continue to Stand for just one more year but we would also welcome a couple of new members to join us. We have welcomed some new members to our group but vAth sadness we sald our final gi)odbye5 to Brenda, she will be mi55ed but remembered wth affection. As your chair I thank you for your support and prayers and as we move into a new year thank you for your commitment and support of such a wonderful organisation and may we continue as a branch upholding the aim5 and objectives of the worldwde l*lothers Union. Earlier in the report I said that your committee are willing to stand for one more year, this is to allow members of the Kingsthorpe branch to find a new chair, secretary. treasurer and comfflittee members. Your officers are all busy ladies and are committed to many other roles in the parish so we are looking to others to take on these roles. With that in mind we have decided not to invite a speaker to our October meeting but instead talk about the future of the Kingsthorpe Mothers Union about the roles of chair, treasurer and secretary and who might like to take these on. We wll also look at other roles committee members can take on so that the AGM in February 2025 can run smoothly. Sarah - Jane Major 26
St Davld's Tlme for Tots - Renew Famllles (Thursdays 1. 30-3pm in term timel This group for parentslcarers and their children aged between 0-5yrs continues to flourish. It attracts families from across the parish and beyond. The group have met regularly over the past year using the local parks during the school's summer break to keep in touch. Families are encouraged to join in with the activities of the church in the form of services and social engagement. Twice this past year the adults have met Sla1[Y to share a meal and to continue to build relationships. We are blessed to have developed a core team of volunteers who support family's wellbeing and share the responsibilities of the sessions. IEarly Years, Health visitor, Listeners and mental health first aiderl This year we are thankful to the West Northants Council Wellness programme for their grant donation of E25C(i. These funds have secured hall hire. play equipment, trips out, social entertainment. and refreshments. In recent months the group has acknowledged the need for support to young families suffering from social isolation, depression, and anxiety. We have provided wellbeing programmes .and parenting courses to support vulnerable individuals and families. The group has rebranded as Renew 88 Families 0.5 café in January 2024 Jane Serbyn Renew 88 This group meets throughout the year on a Wednesday momins in St David'5 Church Hall (10-1 pm) During 202314 our numbers have steadily grown (Currently 351 The sessions provide a mix of fellowship and craft as well as having a regular time of meditatlon and prayer. A communion servlce Is available to the group once month for those who wish to attend. The group provide5 a space where 'lt5 ok not to be d(.. Members are referred from Social Prescribers at local surgeries as well as those who regularly attend from within the parish. We have received a grant of E25(Kl from West Northants Council Wellness programme which has been used t¢)wards hall hire, resources, games, and soup lunches. The group recognises everyone by name and not by label and offers fellowship and support in a non. judgemental space. Jane Serbyn The Friends of Kin sthor e New Church ard Pocket Park Committee 27
The Friends of Kingsthorpe New Churchyard Pocket Park meet at 10 am every Saturday between March ar)d October to maintain and improve thi5 old cemetery. The aim is to provide a quiet area of green space within the village. The work required to achieve this includes cutting back brambles, nettles and other fast-growng plants to allow space for planted bulbs and other plants to thrive. The large trees thin the park require maintenance such as lopping of dead branches from time to time. The park currently contains a Large active badger set. The badgers are left in peace despite the significant damage they make. Much effort goes into keeping the paths in order - sweeping fallen leaves, refitting some of the edging stones and spreadlng wood chippings when necessary. Over the past few years The Friends have been engaged in a programme of replacing the old. rather crude, wooden benches in the park with cast iron framed benches wth recycled plastic slats. In addition to their own fundraising, they have received significant financial help for this work from the Kingsthorpe Manor and Town Charitable Trust. Children form Kingsthorpe Village primary SchcM)l use the park one day per week for nature trails and woodland (servatIOns. They get much pleasure from seeing the plants grow and the many birds nesting in the bird boxes. The Friends are confident local resSdents value this area and the new seating Is much appreciated. Re ort for Charlt Commlsslon The purpose of our Church Is to grow toyether in the foith of Jesus Chrlst and to share God's love with all. ANNUAL REPORT 2023 KINGSTHORPE TEAM MINISTRY PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (Charity No. 1130370) for St. Davld. Eastern Avenue. NN2 7QB St. John the Baptist. Kingsthorpe Vlllage. NN2 6QZ St. Mark. St. Mark's Crescent. NN2 8EG The staffing level in the parish during the Last year wa5 Rector IRevd. Canon Jane Butlerl, the Curates Revds. Jonathan and Sarah Lee. However in January 28
2024, Rev Jonathan Lee left the parish to continue his curacy with Kettering. In August 2023, Rev Alison Wagner was ap)Inted teaffl vicar th the chaplaincy of Malcolm Arnold Academy. Assistance is also given to the parish by Rev Stuart Mousir-Harrison. The Lay Pastoral Minister is Christopher Woodley. Mrs. Sarah- Jane Major is a Reader Ministry. Mrs. Judith Whitmore was the Lay Evangelists within the parish. Thank5 are due to Interpreters Jackie Hutchinson and Matthew Brennan who work with the Rector. The Annual Parochial Church Meeting took place on 11 th May 2023 on Zoom and in person Follo¥Mng the Annual Parochial Church Meeting the membership of the Parochial Church Council was made up as follows: _ St. Davld: Rebecca Adnitt Ichurchwardenl. Sarah.Jane Major (Lay Readerlex.officiol, Maureen Robinson, Joyce Munroe, Shirley Basford, Mary Hardwick, Jane Serbyn and June Ward Ichurchwardenl. St. John the Baptlst: Mandy Bentley (Lay Chairl, Peter Borley.Cox (Treasurerl. Mark Brame Ichurchwardenl, Geoffrey Foster. Jennifer Griffin (Deanery Synodlex-officiol, and Pauline Stone. St. Mark: Jo Carrick (churchwardl, Shirley Cumblet(m. Suzanne Evans (Assistant Treasurer), Ruth Gould. Helen Hickman (Secretary), Elizabeth May. Samantha Hunt, Kathy Wilcox, Paula Blackwell and Richie Carrick. The Par(Khial Church Council met six times in full session in the year. Between May 2023 and November 2023, the PCC meet in person at St David's with an option of dialling in on Zoom for those who wshed to but since November 2023 all meeting have only been in person. All meeting were quorate. (Representation to the PCC frorn each church ct the onnual meetins in 2013 incre05ed to 10 persons over and t7bove Churchwarden5 t7nd Deonery Synod members10s agreed and notlfied In 2012)). Various members of the PCC support the life of the Parish through sub-groups, i.e., Pastoral Care, Nurture and Grovrth. Youth activity and Mission. 29
Deanery Synod representation after the annual meeting was 1 person. (The electoral roll allows for 5 positions). The Parish was unable to pay the Parish Share in full in 2023. Fund.raising efforts slowly continued to grow during the year. However, the increase in the cost of utilities had a more than significant impact on the parish's financial position. The Parish Office. with a Team Co-ordinator and voluntary assistance, continues to be an important asset. Mrs Jane Serbyn is the Parish Safeguarding Officer. She has ensured that across the team on-line training has been undertaken where individuals have access to the technology to do so. She provided regular updates to the Parochial Church Council. The Team has representatives to the local Kingsthorpe Village ConseNation Group, Pocket Park Committee, Kingsthorpe Churches Together and St. Davids Community Associatlon. The Community Café at St. Dawd's was able to reopen. St David's have been running a $ceSsful and well used foodbank. Fabric matters are dealt with regularly at all churches. The redevelopment of the Chapter House at St. John the Baptist has stalled due to the planning permission expiring. During 2023, contact th the local schools has continued. There have been in person visits made to our churches at Christmas. Other events In the year: Christmas day service5 House group and on-line Lent course Easter Services Christmas Tree Festival A Nine Lessons & carols services were held in the parish. A Remembrance Day service was held at the War Memorlal In Kingsthorpe. Crib and Christingle services Fun & Faith youth group met regularly. Each of the church halls is used to hold a variety of community events and sponsored by the church congregations. 30
Adminlstratlve Information: Bankers: CAF Bank Ltd. 25 Kings Hall Avenue, Kings Hill. West Malling, Kent. ME19 4JQ CCL4 Investment Management Ltd, The CBF Church of England Funds, Senator House, 85 Queen Victoria Street, London, EC4V 4ET. Independent Examiner: Jackie Brame FCCA. For Parfsh Matters: The Reverend Canon Jane Butler, The Rectory, 16 Green End, Kingsthorpe, Northampton. NN2 6RD Parish Office.. St. David's Church & Hall, Eastern Avenue South, Kingsthorpe, Northampton, NN2 7QB. Tel.. 01604 720781. Webslte: v4v4w.kin sthor echurches.co.uk Facebook - Kingsthorpe Parish HJH Mar 2024 31