Annual Report for the Parochial Church Council for Wraxall with Failand
All Saints’ Church, Wraxall and
St Bartholomew’s Church, Failand
For the year ended December 31[st] 2025 Charity Registration Number1130482
www.wraxallwithfailand.org.uk
Parish of Wraxall with Failand
Annual Report and Financial Statements for the Year ended 31[st] December 2025
| Contents | Page | |
|---|---|---|
| Agendas | 3 | |
| Minutes of Annual Meeting of Parishioners 2025 | 4 | |
| Minutes of PCC Meeting at APCM 2025 | 6 | |
| Annual Report of the PCC | 7 | |
| Rector’s Report | 8 | |
| Treasurer’s Report | 9 | |
| Independent Examiner’s Report | 10 | |
| Consolidated Financial Statements | 12 | |
| Consolidated Balance Sheet | 13 | |
| Vaughan Trust | 15 | |
| 2024 Charity Donation Summary | 16 | |
| Wardens’ Report from All Saints’ | 17 | |
| Warden’s Report from St Bartholomew’s | 18 | |
| Pastoral Care Report | 19 | |
| Electoral Roll Report | 19 | |
| Safeguarding Report | 20 | |
| Church Activities | 21 | |
| Deanery Synod Reports | 27 | |
| END | 30 |
ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING AGENDAS
ANNUAL MEETING OF PARISHIONERS
Apologies for absence
Minutes of the last Meeting of Parishioners
Election/Proposal of Churchwardens
Election/Proposal of Deputy Churchwardens
ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING
Minutes of the last Annual Parochial Church Meeting
Matters arising
Acceptance of the Electoral Roll
Appointment of the Electoral Roll Officer for 2026
Annual Reports
Matters arising from this year’s Annual Report
Report on the Fabric, Goods and Ornaments of the Churches Report on the Proceedings of the Deanery Synod
Financial statements
To appoint an Independent Examiner for the ensuing year
Thank you to those who have served on PCC in 2024/25
To elect any new PCC representatives
Questions for the Rector/PCC
Closing prayer
PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL MEETING
Election of Officers:
Chair/Vice-Chair
Treasurer
Secretary
AOB
3
’ ’ - Benefice of Wraxall with Failand All Saints Wraxall. St Bartholomew s Failand
Record of Annual Meeting of Parishioners at Cross Tree Centre, Wraxall. Date of meeting: Sunday 6[th] April 2025
Time: 11.30am
Present: Rev Morey Andrews in the Chair and 27 members of the congregations Item Discussion Action/ decision/ responsibility Rector’s Introduction: As we look at our churches – what makes you smile? Thank you all so much for being a part of both our church communities. There is a rich history going back hundreds of years and our role is to discern what God wants in the here and now and moving forward. This is a meeting to look back with thankfulness on all that has happened and celebrate what God is doing in us and through us. We all know too that it is not a lone journey but one we do together. I knew this as I took three months out last year on sabbatical that all was in safe hands.
It is also right I say thank you to several folks who have served tirelessly, and of course there will be some I have not mentioned and again, please forgive me for any omissions. Firstly to Chris and Peter our church wardens – their commitment to God and to the church is outstanding, often going beyond and above the call of duty. If I do not say it enough thank you for the work you do, the support you give and the friendship along the way. Of course there are folks behind the scenes that support this work and please read the document to know who this is. Or just look around the room and we will see. I want to give thanks to Elize for the amazing amount of positive work she manages in so little time – juggling other work commitments and family – it is truly amazing. Also, working tirelessly with many hats is Eileen – pastorally, financially, socially, and all with moving house – thank you and well done for keeping the ship on the road. In serving tirelessly, I do need to thank Carol, a backbone and rock in the church – we meet every few weeks and sharing her wisdom and generosity is a blessing. Thank you. And Sylvia with her many hats – accompanying us on the journey. Thank you. I will mention Sarah too who was with us until the end of August last year – a breath of life and energy. Finally, to Becky as our safeguarding officer,; has now stepped down for good and right reasons – a huge thank you for all she has done. In the absence of a PSO – I am the primary point of contact. You may ask why I asked the opening question – well at the heart of the Christian message is the love and grace of God that pours into our hearts the fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5:22; Love, JOY, peace …
It’s not greater than any other but a compliment to all the fruit.
As we serve and minister in God’s love and by the power of the Holy Spirit – we will know His presence – but keep his JOY and remember this joy as we serve and face some of the struggles.
We look forward with confidence we have in faith; we trust in Him even if we are not clear of the pathways, and look with hope for the future. Questions at the end please.
| 1. | Apologies | Carol Sapsed, June Smith, Liz Hussey, Nicola Brieley, David and Yvette | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dunn, Brenda Coxell, David Robinson, Nick and Irene Carter | |||
| 2. | Minutes of the | The minutes from the last APCM were agreed and signed as a true and | |
| last meeting | accurate record. All agreed with no abstentions. | ||
| of Parishioners | |||
| 3. | Elections of | Thank you very much to our churchwardens for all their amazing hard | |
| Churchwarden | work this year. 2 wardens have elected to stand again-Peter Heard | ||
| s and Chapel | and Christine Sage. | ||
| Warden | AS: Peter Heard proposed by Eileen Oates, seconded by John Stevens. | ||
| All in favour |
4
SB: Christine Sage proposed by Robert Sheppard and seconded by David Bird .All in favour Deputy Churchwardens: thanks shared for their work and support. Deputy Church Warden All Saints: John Stevens. All in favour 4. Election of Deputy Deputy Warden at St Bartholomew’s: Robert Sheppard. Churchwarden All in favour s The meeting closed at 11.46 am
5
Benefice of Wraxall with Failand
Record of PCC meeting held at the APCM in The Cross Tree Centre, Wraxall. Date of meeting: Sunday 6[th] April 2025 Time: 12.08-12.16
Present: Rev Morey Andrews (MA) Eileen Oates (EO), Sue Irwin (SI), John Stevens (JS), Chris Sage (CS), Peter Heard (PH), Robert Sheppard (RS), David Bird (DB), Sylvia Phillips (SP) In attendance:
Elize Jutsum (EJ) (Minutes)
| Item | Actions | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | Apologies | Liz Hussey (LH) | |
| 2.0 | Minutes of last meeting. | Signed as a true and accurate record. | |
| 3.0 | Election of Officers | Chair – Morey Andrews Vice Chair – Vacant Treasurer – David Bird PCC Secretary – Elize Jutsum Rev Morey Andrews as Chair Vice Chair-Peter Heard could step in if needed EJ Secretary, Morey Andrews proposed and Christine Sage seconded, all in favour. Parish Treasurer Role: Eileen Oates proposes David Bird as treasurer for both churches and Robert Sheppard seconded. All in favour with no abstentions. Treasurer for St Bartholomew’s: David Bird (Failand Account) Treasurer for All Saints’: David Bird (Wraxall Account) |
|
| 4.0 | AOB | SI would like to donate funds for new white linen for the communion table at All Saints’. Approved by all. Thanks to Sue and Bryan. |
|
| Next Standing Committee Meeting 8~~th~~May 11am Zoom PCC meeting: Monday2nd June 10.30am in CTC |
End **12.16pm ** |
6
Parish of Wraxall with Failand Annual Report of the Parochial Church Council For the year ended 31[st] December 2025
The parish has two Churches: All Saints Church is situated in the village of Wraxall in North Somerset and St Bartholomew’s is in the adjacent village of Failand. They are part of the Portishead Deanery in the Diocese of Bath and Wells within the Church of England.
The correspondence address is: The Parish Office, All Saints Church, Wraxall Hill, Wraxall, BS48 1LB. In 2009 the Parochial Church Council registered with the Charities Commission. The Charity Registration number is 1130482.
Rev. Morey Andrews Incumbent licensed 6th October 2021 Rev. Carol Edwards Retired Priest
Who served during the year 2024 (PCC):
| Peter Heard | Church Warden |
|---|---|
| John Stevens | Deputy Warden |
| Chris Sage | Church Warden |
| Robert Sheppard | Deputy Warden |
| Sylvia Phillips | Reader |
| David Bird | Treasurer-All Saints and St Bartholomew’s |
| John Stevens | Deanery Synod |
| Sue Irwin | Deanery Synod |
| Eileen Oates | All Saints’ |
| Robert Sheppard | St Bartholomew’s |
| Carol Edwards | All Saints’ (Co-opted) |
| Elizabeth Hussey | All Saints’ |
| Elize Jutsum | PCC Secretary until September 2025 |
| Emma Biddle | PCC secretary from September 2025 |
The primary object of the PCC is the promotion of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to the doctrines and practices of the Church of England. The PCC (Power Measure 1956 states the PCC ‘is to cooperate with the minister in promoting in the parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical’).
The general pattern of services in both churches, having been reviewed throughout the year:
All Saints’:
1st Sunday 8.30am BCP Holy Communion 10.00 Holy Communion 2nd Sunday 10.00 Holy Communion 3rd Sunday 10.00/10.30 (Livestreamed) 4th Sunday 10.00/10.30 Holy Communion with Prayer Ministry 5th Sunday 10.00/10.30 Holy Communion
St Bartholomew’s:
1st Sunday 6.00pm Evening Worship 3rd Sunday 6.00pm Holy Communion 5th Sunday 6.00pm Evening Worship
Morning Prayer: Mon-Wednesday 8.15am via Zoom Thursday 10.00am Holy Communion on Zoom
7
Rector’s Report
Verbal report to be received followed by written notes for the minutes.
8
Treasurers Report on the Accounts to the 31st December 2025
Wraxall with Failand PCC
In presenting this brief report for the year 2025, I propose to highlight the points of main interest only:
General Fund (Unrestricted) All Saints St Bartholomews £ £ Income 63189.15 26296.40 Cross Tree Lettings/ Designated Champing 2804.25 1336.64 funds Lodge 75% 8933.53 Expenditure 77097.78 23479.91 Excess of Expenditure -2170.85 4153.13 over available income adjust for organist Combined result £1,982 Parish share paid £50673.72 39865.08 10808.64 included
For 2026 Parish Share requested is £48342, the PCC have agreed to pay 15% less a total of £41000
The combined funds held within the benefice are:
| Unrestricted Designated Restricted |
37907 47573 33176 |
|---|---|
| £118,656 |
AMD Bird Treasurer
9
Independent Examiner's Certificate for the PCC Accounts
10
Disckmure GL¥ h¥v lThld¢l411• 01 r15 1(.9 iTrJ q LOSS mri( Iv4J 201£, Tr0 IS N• f Ll(y( rhf ihis c•¥1•41( lé S•fvnr f• •Cr>w• rtftrn Ci¥ÉeJ ins Uvck OF i+w¢•A¢ f••lllD6P r •xmin•rwhx gothtiif nssn f• f•¥Cn fncS¢ f¥1( L{& (Issw•&6 fn( LÉvéL 6 IDI(• STW) f (0511 CQLltrJ DJ . 11
YaxaN vthh Faffand PCC Slat•m•nt of Flnanclal Actlvlo For the porlod from 01 January 2025 to 31 Docembw 2025 219IB.71 4wc¥) 426 I27 4j57.iyj 324751 27W •WJl Wlg.1• .7r2 Imo) 17.IY938 7.1)20 1.21X) 1717J6 747A1 14Mffj6 1W4.9 19.trJ03 11.fA7AO 1,7 18mJ gW4.1• 1m510 7V&tsJ 75J7028 &VJ4.82 17X)41 21A14A5 747.J6 &115.dS 5A1 7.9) Y.F85 111,1(OAJ 11Ath.10 A37WI (TmJ• J11nAJ IXWAO 1JIJJ•.79 17547 3Fz15pn>pJ1 dl
31MV2025 31n¥2024 Flx•d ••••ts 445.LKJ 6431..CaAKSiW1317 6W.(XXA¢W10111)1314S T1 Flx•d 13.51• 13.m.40 10.Q079 $5 11..fAAI¢7J FthFth1 12.'C£L4(CWthl131n010 513'.caAIW 10IfyY2TXI 1012.13 WJ19 7ooYJ.c 4ffl8.75 44ry1 4.rJ)Di 81.ClXI.tYi 9,SfjB.75 485JS 2X.44 1.C61.47 IAX22 Tothl Cun•Tht •M•ts 101.34&11 112.322A4 U•bIl*• 9)4 1332.00 1.110.J9 Mlt knt {d•ll¢ll) 118,65129 124M1.45 PaMrv•• p.1&¢) 2,on60 le,.4? 111J24K 1&760.ro 1fJ1370.14 3,T1229 Totsl R•s•r¥ 118.05129 124.011.45
13512. XXD07 9fj&1.90 4J010.fQ 11XJ1 3&37124 3117547 T*1 124I61AI
| The Richard Vaughan Trust Year ended 31st December Income and Expenditure account Income Investment Income Refund of legal fees and compensation Withdrawal of investment funds Total Income Expenditure Church running costs Bank Fees Transfer to Wraxall for Youth Worker Total Expenditure Surplus/(Deficit) for year |
2025 2024 1572 1553 3000 |
|---|---|
| 4572 1553 |
|
| 800 800 43 3000 |
|
| 3843 800 |
|
| 729 753 |
Balance sheet
| Investments | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2656.69 COIF Investment Fund (see note below) | ||
| Income shares at Market value | 51332 | 57042 |
| Current Assets | ||
| Cash at bank and in hand | 3357 | 2628 |
| 54689 | 59670 | |
| Represented by: | ||
| Endowment | 51332 | 57042 |
| Accumulated Income | 3357 | 2628 |
| 54689 | 59670 |
Note Investment Fund Income Units Units held 1st Jan 2025 2810.90 Units sold 24th Sept 25 154.2036 Units held 31st Dec 2025 2656.69
15
2025 Charity Account Summary
| Caringin Bristol | £ 565.00 |
|---|---|
| Christian Aid | £ 132.00 |
| CMS | £ 323.50 |
| Tearfund | £ 243.97 |
| The Clevedon & District Foodbank CIO | £ 155.00 |
| The Children's Society | £ 769.11 |
| The LeprosyMission | £ 96.70 |
| Total | £ 2,285.28 |
16
Warden’s Report from All Saints’ Wraxall 2026 for the year 2025
Services and seasonal events have continued throughout the year in the usual pattern, and we are grateful to Morey, Carol and Sylvia for their dedication and leadership in sustaining the rhythm of worship. In addition to our regular services, there was one wedding, four funeral services and one interment of ashes. There were no baptisms this year.
Our outreach beyond the church building has continued. First Sunday services have been held regularly at Sycamore Lodge, and we were glad to host services in church for both Wraxall School and The Downs School, strengthening our links with the wider community. The Cross Tree Centre remains a valued and well-used resource, hired out for parties, meetings and other events.
In July the West Gallery Choir, “Called to be Saints” marked their 30th anniversary by performing in our church. It was a memorable occasion, appreciated by all who attended. During the year we said farewell to Elize as she moved on to study for a Master’s degree, and we thank her for her contribution to our church life. We were delighted to welcome Emma as our new Parish Administrator and look forward to working with her in the years ahead.
Routine maintenance has been carried out to ensure that our buildings remain safe, secure and welcoming. Essential checks and servicing have included the inventory review, portable appliance testing, fire extinguisher and smoke detector inspections, servicing of the security system, clock servicing, organ tuning, lightning conductor checks, and boiler servicing.
In addition to routine maintenance, a number of significant repairs were required this year. The Church Hall roof needed considerable attention following winter storms, with guttering replaced, debris cleared from the north roof, and timbers treated for woodworm. The glass roof in the foyer was sealed to prevent leaks, and some stonework at the entrance was repaired.
Within the church building, repointing was carried out near the vestry, and leadwork by the parapet on the chancel roof was sealed. The clock winding mechanism failed, and was repaired by our horologist. Repairs were also needed to the security camera system and to the water boiler.
Work was also undertaken in the churchyard and grounds. The gate from the lower churchyard to the driveway was replaced—many thanks to Jon Jutsum. Repairs to the stone wall by the church hall were carried out, and we are grateful to Andy Clarke for his work. The main gate by the lych gate was repaired following damage, and several path lights were restored to working order. Part of the car park wall required repair; this was organised and funded by the owners of Stubbs Cottage, for which we are very thankful.
The Lodge has, in general, had a trouble-free year. Routine maintenance was completed, including fire extinguisher checks and chimney sweeping. A new extractor fan was installed and a blocked drain cleared, but otherwise the property has remained in good order.
The churchyard working party has once again done sterling work in maintaining the grounds. We are especially grateful to Bob for organising the team and for his excellent work in keeping equipment maintained and operational. Finally, a huge “thank you” to everyone who contributes to the care and upkeep of our beautiful church, churchyard and buildings—those who undertake practical tasks, those who organise and administer, and those who quietly give their time and skills throughout the year.
Peter Heard, Church Warden (All Saints’ Church)
17
Warden’s Report from St. Bartholomew’s Failand 2026 for the year 2025
Our Service pattern remains the same with the addition of a morning service on Remembrance Sunday. We also have Last Hour of the Cross (Quiet Reflection) on Good Friday.
We continue to have an organist on the first and third Sunday and recorded music on the fifth Sunday.
During the year we had one Memorial Service, one burial of an infant and two interment of ashes plus two weddings.
The regular checks of the Fire extinguishers (two needed replacing) and lightning conductor were carried out and the routine tuning of the organ. The clock was also serviced. On advice from the electrical engineer PAT testing is only needed biannually so was not necessary this year.
All gutters and down pipes were cleared and the churchyard regularly maintained by Dreamscape gardening. Overhanging branches on the north side which were touching the church were removed as requested in the Quinquennial.
The Community Pay Back group attended during the summer but their last visit was in August. Their main job was to keep the gravel paths weed free.
Donations from our harvest festival again went to the Salvation Army Hostel and to Nailsea Food Bank . All toys from the Toy service went to a local charity.
The Bristol Chamber Orchestra Concert raised £1,000
Champing was down this year and only raised £1,200
During the summer Dawson Steeplejacks carried out a survey of the Spire as recommended in the last Quinquennial report.
This highlighted serious internal and external defects in its structure requiring fairly urgent attention. The total cost of repairs was quoted as £10,500.
In November the internal work commenced and all the rotten non structural timber was removed. The external repointing will take place April 2026.
To raise much needed funds for this project we set up a Just Giving fund raising web page to reach out to the local community. We’re not quite there yet but it has been very successful.
In October the local Gardening Group tidied the north west corner of the churchyard and planted more bulbs.
They also held wreath making workshops and all profits went to the Spire appeal.
Finally we finished the year with our much loved Carol Service.
Chris Sage, Church Warden (St Bartholomew’s)
18
Pastoral Care Report
The parish pastoral care team continue to send Birthday, Anniversary and Get well cards to members of both congregations. We also deliver Christmas and Easter cards signed by church family members to those unable to attend church. This enables people to remain in contact with church life and to hear news of the wider church community.
As part of our pastoral care for members of both our congregations ‘Home Communion’ is taken to those who are unable to attend church services. The aim is that everyone who wants to, can receive Communion at least once a month.
It is a huge privilege to visit people in this way and to share the Sacrament with them. They are always grateful and love to hear news of those they know in the congregation.
At present there are 3 people receiving ‘Home Communion.
Another aspect of our pastoral care is the availability of home cooked meals for those who may require one.
Members of the pastoral team are: Eileen Oates, Meg Caton, Susan Sanderson, Megan Crook, Sylvia Phillips and Sue Johnson.
Thank you to everyone it is a real privileged to belong to such a caring community.
Eileen
Electoral Roll Report 2025
The Roll has been displayed as required by COE regulations and is a snapshot of the people who wish to register their commitment to the church. All those registered, are thus entitled to vote at the AGM and can serve on the PCC and Diocesan committees. It is perfectly possible that more people are committed, and attend both churches but have chosen not to register.
58 people worship at All Saints, 16 people worship at St Bartholomew’s. St Bartholomew’s 9 people out of 16 do not live in the parish.
Out of the total 58 who attend All Saints, 42 people do not live in the parish. The total number for both churches is 74.
Carol Sapsed. Electoral Roll Officer.
19
Safeguarding Report Wraxall with Failand
The Parish of Wraxall with Failand seeks to deliver its mission, at all times, in compliance with the House of Bishops guidance on Safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, as detailed in ‘Promoting a Safer Church’.
There have been no Safeguarding Incidents reported over the past reporting period that have required mandatory notification to the Diocesan Safeguarding Office. The Parish Safeguarding Officer does however liaise with the diocese office to discuss sanitised issues when appropriate even though the threshold for mandatory reporting has not been met.
All parish personnel , whether employed or volunteers for whom a vetting and barring checks, (DBS) are mandatory for their role, are compliant in both application with standard renewal every three years.
Completion of Safeguarding training continues as a rolling programme, with a combination of self learning via the national training modules, facilitated group learning and provision by the diocese. This is an ongoing to situation to seek to maximise both understanding and practical application of safeguarding practices.
The parish continues to utilise both the national Parish Dashboard and the Safeguarding Hub, to record and develop its Safeguarding information. These computerised systems enable parishes to retain information securely whilst measuring itself against national standards. Access to the portals are restricted, and compliant with GDPR. They also produce clear and succinct action plans which are supplied to the PCC to enable them to have an overview of both compliance with national standards and issues requiring attention.
Becky Cawsey Parish Safeguarding Officer Parish of Wraxall with Failand
20
Church Activities (Alphabetical order)
Bible and Teaching
If prayer is the engine room then the word of God is the fuel.
To enable this, we continue to follow the lectionary teaching during our services preaching and teaching as the Lord leads.
Through the year we follow various courses together
Lent last year we looked at a course designed to Know Christ more, covering areas such as Discipleship, Prayer, the Word, Fasting and the Sabbath.
In the Autumn we studied the book of Philippians together.
In Advent we met weekly during the afternoon focusing on the Wonder of God.
I do encourage you to read your bibles daily, and if you would like some advice on how to do this then please get in touch.
It is hoped as we read the word of God we will be inspired to live more like Jesus day by day.
Morey
Children and Youth 2025
Ministry to Wraxall School and to The Down’s School continued throughout the year.
Regular assemblies, pupil chaplaincy, the occasional after schools event and End of term services / end of year celebrations continued.
A highlight was the Down’s school Christingle service just before Christmas, which was packed.
Hosting Bubble Church for our Crib Service this year was a great success and great fun.
Junior parkrun continues in Golden Valley Playing fields and we see some children from Wraxall and the Down’s school come along.
Morey continues to be a Governor at the school which has combined responsibilities with St Mary’s, Portbury.
Whilst writing it is tinged with sadness as the final stages of the consultation on the closing of Wraxall School is becoming a reality. The future of the staff, pupils, families and community are in our prayers.
We are enabling a good end with celebrations and unity.
We continue to prayer for and look at ways for renewed connection with children, young people and families.
21
All Saints’ Churchyard Working Party Report
The team turn up each month to give their time to keeping our churchyard looking nice and tidy. The equipment is mostly ok but we do have to cope with minor niggles on a limited budget. The grass has been kept under control with mowers and strimmers and any plant growth on the boundary walls has either been removed or cut back.
Some of the team bring their own equipment but the church mowers and strimmers need fuel which the church provides. I feel that there is a need to have some sort of petty cash fund to help to keep the equipment in working order.
The jubilee garden remains in good order and the bench benefits from occasional treatment with preservative. Any help with a bit of gardening would be appreciated. We do look forward to our tea and cake every month, thank you Meg.
Bob Caton
Entertainments Report (Wraxall)
We give thanks for the events that have taken place over the past months a wonderful opportunity to share fellowship together.
Agape supper donations raised in aid of Christian Aid.
Mens’ fellowship supper an opportunity to say thank you and show our appreciation for all the hard work and dedication not only to those who maintain our beautiful church yard but also those who carry out many and varied roles that enrich our church community.
Harvest Tea a time of fellowship delicious cakes and an opportunity once again to test our knowledge over a fun quiz.
Service of remembering.
Carol service.
Christmas Fayre an opportunity for out reach to enjoy a bacon roll or home made soup. A time to meet and welcome members of the community, families and friends in a relaxed welcoming space.
Ladies coffee morning.
Lent Lunch donations in aid of Tear Fund
Committee members Sue Irwin – Chair Eileen Oates – Secretary Iris Croome – Treasurer Caroline Watts, Jane Knight, Yvette Dunn and Brenda Coxell.
(The Entertainments that have taken place at St Bartholomew’s can be found in Chris Sage’s Warden Report for St Bartholomew’s)
22
Flower Guild, All Saints Wraxall
Once more the Guild members have continued to decorate the Church throughout the year.
We have been asked to arrange flowers for weddings and funeral, a great honour for us.
We are trying to bring in new ways of doing the flowers by using vases and plants instead of floral foam (better known as Oasis) as this product is very bad for the environment as it is not biodegradable and when it is used it is done very sparingly.
Whichever way we do the flowers it is to celebrate that our Church is alive and welcoming.
We are always ready to welcome new arrangers, just speak to anyone of the team.
Sue and the team (Eileen, Caroline, Maureen, Marie, Sharon and Jane)
Julian Group Report
“ Be still and know that I am God”
Julian Meetings foster the practice of contemplative prayer in the Christian tradition and are named after Julian of Norwich, a fourteenth-century mystic. They are for people of all denominations or none.
What is contemplative prayer? SIMPLY BEING: Contemplative prayer is a matter of being; being in stillness, being in God; not achieving anything or trying to find words, but simply being. Psalm 46:10.
Prayerful silence is greatly helped when two or three people are together, and this can complement our daily personal prayer.
Belonging to a group can be a source of help and encouragement.
We are a group of on average 9 ladies and 1 gentleman from several local churches who meet on the first Monday of each month at 2pm in the Charlton Chapel at All Saints church.
The meeting starts with a short piece of meditative music, a brief reading which then leads into about 20 minutes of silence.
If you are not sure if it's for you I would encourage you to come along and "Taste and See”.
Eileen Oates
23
Mother’s Union Report
The members enjoyed an interesting and varied programme during 2025.
This included Sylvia taking a Lent reflection and Rev'd Morey spoke on his recent sabbatical with an interesting visual presentation. Marie spoke about her family who had emigrated to Canada. June hosted an afternoon tea at her house and we enjoyed fellowship, a bring and buy, and a browse of the M.U cards. Having enjoyed a meal together we went to Wraxall Church for John to tell the members interesting facts starting at the lychgate and finishing in the Church, always new facts to hear. Rev'd Carol lead the branch in an Autumn Communion and members shared their favourite Bible passage and or hymn.
The branch had two fundraising events, the proceeds being split between our local projects, and worldwide there are members in over eighty countries around the world.
During the year, members joined in many Deanery and Diocese events.
The Mothers' Union will celebrate 150 years since Mary Sumner had her vision and that vision of no matter how big or small, Mothers' Union are there to help provide support and love, free of judgement. Our branch in Wraxall has been doing this work for over 100 years.
Sue Irwin Co-ordinator and all members Wraxall M.U
Outreach/Evangelism
– We are called to be witnesses in the world to God’s love and saving Grace.
In many ways we do this in our acts of service and as we read the report we see we do this also through our worship and other ministries.
As a church we are wanting to grow and to do this we need to be seeking opportunities for sharing the Gospel.
Let’s keep being faithful and praying for these opportunities to come.
Let’s pray to the Lord of the Harvest (Matthew 9:38) to raise up workers in the harvest Field.
As part of this we are seeking to engage more with our communities, so keep praying for opportunities to do this.
My hope for this year is to run a new start course and see folks come to know and follow Jesus.
24
Prayer
Prayer is the engine room of church life and continues to be at the heart of all we do. Morning prayer on zoom continues – Monday to Wednesday (all are welcome to join).
The Julian group meets each month (please see their report).
Prayer ministry occurs after Holy Communion on the fourth Sunday service in All saints. The prayer board is still available for writing prayers and in the Charlton Chapel, opportunities for lighting of candles.
We intercede during our corporate times of worship.
If anyone has any need for prayer then please do get in touch.
My hope this year is we engage with the Diocesan year of prayer; that we will share stories of both the answered prayers and frustrations we feel when God seems distant! Most of all – keep praying.
Time for Tea
We have met on the second Thursday afternoon of the month in the Cross Tree Centre ten times, in our church once, because of the local elections, and cancelled only on one occasion.
We are grateful to have had most interesting speakers on a variety of subjects including Meg talking about sign language, Marie on her hobby of shooting, Rev. Russ on his career together with John Stevens on his career. We have had various attempts at quizzes, a Beetle drive, and were most interested to hear about the "Shedders" of Wraxall who welcome requests for items to repair. The highlight has been Carols and a further concert from the choir of Wraxall School, both performed with great enthusiasm! (Sadly probably not to happen again.)
Numbers vary from about 12 to16 and we would welcome anyone to join us for light-hearted entertainment and a good tea afterwards.
Susan Sanderson
25
Wraxall Charity
Our charitable aims and objectives are to provide assistance for the purpose of the relief of hardship and need to people residing in the parish of Wraxall & Failand.
Examples of assistance that might be granted
-
Support for people in financial hardship
-
The cost of purchasing essential household items such as a washing machine or fridge.
-
The cost of purchasing essential personal items such as school uniform or shoes.
-
Travelling expenses for medical care or for visiting.
-
The cost of respite or convalescent assistance.
-
The cost of special food or medical aids or equipment.
-
Payment of fees for a course or travelling expenses to assist people.
-
Grants to organisations providing care in the community, mental health support and foodbanks.
-
Help with household heating costs
Please see the below link for more details
https://www.wraxallcharities.com
Our hope is to assist more people and to make ourselves better known.
Morey
Wraxall Tower Report
Practices and service ringing continued, following the usual pattern of Monday evening practices and service ringing at 9.30-10am on second and fourth Sundays. Our number vary, but we are blessed by visitors from other towers, who find our practices useful and friendly. Our learners are making good progress. The bells were rung for one wedding in 2025. Simple maintenance tasks have been carried out as normal (e.g. lubricating sliders, rope maintenance etc.), but soon some of the clappers will have to be re-bushed, which will require the services of a bell hanger.
Peter Heard, Tower Captain
26
Deanery Synod Report 2025 by John Stevens
Thursday March 6th
The meeting began with a short service of reflection, led by Rev James Packman. Rev Rob EastwoodDewing (co-Area Dean) then welcomed everyone to the meeting, following which Rob Norman (lay Area Dean) dealt with the necessary admin matters (approval of minutes of last meeting and of the 2024 accounts). There was then a presentation by Jenny Hollingsworth, Diocesan Secretary. Jenny said that looking around the Diocese her main impression was of hope, expressed in the many sometimes small things which are being achieved. Discipleship is important, and her aim was to help Parish teams connect with their communities via ordinary events, by giving them the support they need (but it must be the right support). Although church membership is predominantly from the older age groups, there are younger groups out there who are searching, not necessarily in a secular way. Jenny quoted Isaiah 55:2, which suggests putting down unprofitable things. We need to meet people where they are and bring them the good news. There is nothing wrong with trying something out and failing – real failure is not trying.
In response to questions, Jenny said that her role was like the CEO of a charity, including ensuring that all parishes are staffed, recruitment, finance and HR. She also helps support the Bishop. She mentioned the “Quick win” grant fund and said that there will be more support for the DAC. It was noted that the Archdeacon’s Visitation is confirmed to be at Christ Church. The meeting closed with prayer and blessing.
Tuesday June 3[rd]
This was a Deanery-wide meeting, which was well-attended. The main business was a talk titled ‘Faith in Science’, given by Andrew Halestrap, Emeritus Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Bristol. Andrew is also involved with Christians in Science (www.cis.org.uk).
Andrew began by describing his education and career, concluding with his work at Bristol University. He quoted Augustine of Hippo “all truth belongs to God” (also Psalm 111 v2). Much scientific work has been done by Christians e.g. Galileo, Kepler, Newton, James Clerk Maxwell. A recent survey of scientists in Nature showed that 40% believe in God, 15% are atheists and 45% agnostic. Science and faith are not in conflict – science explains How while religion is concerned with Why. God is constantly active in the universe – he’s not the God of the Gaps (Charles Coulson).
Reasons for believing in God:
-
The origins of the universe – why did it come into being?
-
Design order – the beauty and intricacy of the universe, the consistency of the laws of nature and the ability to make logical deductions from them imply a designer.
-
The fine tuning of the laws of nature which allows us to exist.
-
The universe has meaning – we know the difference between true and false, good and evil.
-
The Incarnation.
Thursday September 25[th]
This was a normal Synod meeting, held at St George’s Church Hall, Easton-in-Gordano. After opening worship, led by Rev Astrid Tiesema-Samsom, co Area Dean, she welcomed everyone to the meeting. The new Deanery Secretary, Caroline Edwards, was then introduced to the meeting and formally appointed.
There was then a session where we were encouraged to exchange ideas with other churches. To do this, we were asked to move to other tables, so that there was a mix of churches represented on each table. We were provided a list of 16 questions to use as the basis for our discussions, including “At Christmas in our church we always…”, “One thing we could do to help our church thrive in the future is…” and “What does the term Eco Church mean to you?”
Among the interesting ideas that came from this were a free Christmas Day Dinner for all in the
27
parish, use of the church for secular activities (e.g. concerts), attain Eco Church status, and replace pews by chairs to increase flexibility. There was a surprising number that didn’t know about Champing at Failand, which was one of the more unusual activities mentioned.
None of the churches on my table had solar panels fitted, although some had had faculties for them refused. One church had bronze Eco Church status and was trying for silver. After the announcement of future meeting dates, the meeting closed with the Lord’s Prayer.
Wednesday November 19[th]
This was a Deanery-wide meeting held at Walton St Mary’s, Clevedon. After opening worship there was a talk on ‘Conservation, Spirituality and Faith’, by Mary Colwell, environmentalist, author and producer. Mary previously worked at the BBC Natural History Unit and is now Director of Curlew Action.
Mary said that it is not now obvious to her that religion is associated with care for the environment, but it was for the early church and is in the Bible. She cited also the Celtic Saints – Columba, Brigid and Cuthbert, For us worship and faith have moved indoors – we need to reclaim the outdoors! Mary spoke of the twin crises of climate change and bio-diversity loss, the latter not being as wellrecognised as the former. Signs of these crises are heatwaves, glaciers melting, drought and less biodiversity – there are fewer animals and birds to be seen, even in our lifetimes. The thought of these crises can be overwhelming, but there are things we can do as individuals.
As an example of what can be done, Mary told us about her work with curlews – we are losing around 5,500 of these in the UK per year. There are very few in the South of England and Wales, but more in Scotland and the North. Much of the loss is due to more intensive farming methods (curlews are ground-nesting birds), as well as climate change.
Long term there is concern that children are less knowledgeable about nature, so may be less concerned about preserving it – surveys say that 50% don’t recognize a nettle, 83% can’t identify a bumble bee and 25% don’t know what a badger or robin look like! Possible reasons are more options for indoor play, fewer green spaces and greater anxiety about allowing children outside to play.
After thanks to Mary, the meeting closed with the Grace.
28
Portishead Deanery Report 2025
We met, as usual, four times in 2025; two of the meetings (June and November) were deanery-wide meetings, open to anyone to attend, while the March and September meetings were full Synods.
March – This Synod was held at Holy Trinity Nailsea and saw the approval of the 2024 Deanery accounts as well as an interesting talk by Jenny Hollingsworth, Bath & Wells Diocesan Secretary with the unusual opportunity to ask questions directly to the Diocese’s CEO.
June – The venue for this Deanery-wide meeting was the Church of the Ascension, Keedwell. It was a very well-attended meeting and we heard a fascinating talk from Andrew Halestrap, the Emeritus Professor of Biochemistry at Bristol University. Andrew gave a talk called “Faith in Science” and spoke about the relationship between science and his Christian faith.
September – The September Synod took place at St George’s Church Hall, Easton-in-Gordano, and provided an opportunity for Synod members to meet each other and encouraged good conversation. It also saw Caroline Edwards being introduced as the new Deanery Secretary as well as being the Portishead Co- Area Deans and Lay Dean’s PA, taking over from Rob Norman, who has been the Acting Deanery Secretary since Lesley Farrall resigned in September 2020. Caroline’s email address is portishead.deanery1@gmail.com
November – The venue for the November Deanery-wide meeting was St Mary’s, Walton and saw a riveting presentation by Mary Colwell, who is an environmentalist, author and producer who previously worked for the BBC Natural History Unit. The presentation was called “Conservation, Spirituality and Faith”, and made us think about wildlife conservation. The meeting also heard about the fact that St Michael & All Angels (Flax Bourton) had recently been awarded a Gold Award as an Eco Church from A Rocha. We have enjoyed having Assistant Diocesan Secretary Peter Evans as our Deanery Accompanier and Claire Horton, the Bath Archdeaconry Deanery & Parish Adviser, has also been very helpful.
The Deanery Mission & Pastoral Group has met every two months throughout 2025 while the Deanery Leadership Team has met every month, where possible.
We want to express our gratitude to the clergy and officials of all the deanery churches for their hard
Rob Norman (Lay Dean), Astrid Tiesema-Samsom (Co-Area Dean), Rob Eastwood Dewing (Co-Area Dean) January 2026
29
End of APCM Report