A Year in Review Annual Report on 2021
Welcome to the report booklet prepared for the St Mary's Annual Meetings on Tuesday 26 April 2022. The reports in this booklet are on church activities in 2021. Please do try to come to the meeting which starts at 7.30pm in the Church Hall. There is a service of Holy Communion at 7pm prior to the meeting.
The agenda for the meeting is enclosed and a full report on church activities for you to read before the meeting. There will be a chance to ask questions on the reports but as usual the reports themselves won't be read out. You will find the accounts in a supplement in the centre of the booklet and you can find the minutes of last year's meeting, which we need to approve, at the back.
Revd Matthew Jackson, April 2022
for the Annual Parochial Church Meeting of St Mary’s Church Attleborough
Tuesday 26 April 2022 7.30pm in the Church Hall and on Zoom preceded by Holy Communion at 7pm
Registered Charity No: 1130508
ST MARY’S CHURCH – ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2021
THE ANNUAL PARISH CHURCH MEETING Tuesday 26 April 2022 at 7.30pm in St Mary’s Church Hall and on Zoom
AGENDA
Administrative information
St Mary’s Church, Attleborough is part of the Norwich Diocese in the Thetford & Rockland Deanery. The correspondence address is St Mary’s Church Office, Church Street, Attleborough, NR17 2AH. The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is registered with the Charity Commission (Number: 1130508).
Meeting 1
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1 Apologies for absence
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2 Minutes of the last meeting (13 April 2021) 3 Election of three Churchwardens
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4 Close of meeting
Structure, governance and management
The function and purpose of the PCC is outlined in the Parochial Church Councils (Powers) Measure 1956.
The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. All Church attendees are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC.
Meeting 2
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1 Apologies for absence
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2 Minutes of the previous APCM/Matters arising (13 April 2021) 3 Elections Parochial Church Council – four places for three years
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4 Reports:
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a. PCC
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b. Churchwardens
- (including Fabric, presentation of Log Book and Terrier)
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c. Presentation of Church Accounts
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d. Chairman’s report: Revd Matthew Jackson
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5 Opportunity to ask questions on the reports in this booklet 6 Appointment of Independent Examiner
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7 Presentation and Adoption of Electoral Roll 8 Appointment of Sidespeople
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9 Any other business, including time for general discussion of any matters of concern which may be brought to the meeting
A short meeting of the new PCC will follow this meeting
Objectives and activities
St Mary’s PCC has the responsibility of co-operating with the Incumbent and Churchwardens in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.
It also has maintenance responsibilities for the building.
The main activities of the PCC are the provision of church services, baptisms, weddings, funerals, youth and children’s work and teaching adults through home and prayer groups.
PCC membership and Report
Members of the PCC are either ex officio or elected at the Annual Parish Church Meeting (APCM), in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. During the year the following served as members of the PCC:
| Incumbent: | Revd Matthew Jackson | (Chairman) |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Priest: | Revd Andrew Slater | |
| Assistant Curate: | Revd Richard Washington | (from July 2021) |
| _Licensed Lay Minister {PtO)_Robert Andrews | ||
| Licensed Lay Minister | Brenda Greig | (also Deanery Synod rep) |
| Churchwardens: | David Bartington | |
| Marion Dawe | (Lay Vice-Chairman) | |
| Cherry Saunders | ||
| Deanery Synod rep: | Eileen Roberts |
Elected members: Catherine Buckley Carole Burt Sally Crockford Christopher MacKinnon Sharon Negus Emma Neve David Stubbert Susan Wilson Jonathan Tidnam Dorothy Woolliscroft Peter Wright Co-opted: Paul Andrew ( Fabric Officer) Director of Music: Ben Miller Secretary: Pat Buttolph Treasurer: Yvonne O’Dell
There are currently twenty one people serving on the PCC – eight ex-officio, twelve elected for a three-year term of office (including Deanery Synod representatives) and one co-option.
Pat Buttolph, Ben Miller and Yvonne O’Dell attend meetings as Secretary, Director of Music and treasurer respectively.
Sally Crockford, Sharon Negus and Jonathan Tidnam will retire after having completed a three year term of office, but are eligible to stand for a further three years if they wish. Peter Wright retires after having completed the maximum term of six years. We thank them for their commitment to the life of St Mary’s over this time.
There were 10 PCC meetings during 2021, with the first 7 of the year only on Zoom and meetings from September held in the Church Hall and also on Zoom. The average attendance at meetings during the year was 17.
Reports were given at meetings on finance, deanery matters, youth & children’s work, social & fundraising, church hall, fabric and music, when appropriate. Other business discussed and implemented during the year included general maintenance of the church, plans for the seasons of Lent, Easter, Advent and Christmas, working around Covid. Plans for the grand summer fete were discussed regularly.
Safeguarding was an item on each PCC meeting agenda.
An approved copy of the minutes of the most recent PCC meeting is always displayed on the notice board at the back of the church. Parishioners are encouraged to read the minutes and minutes of past meetings, which are available on request at the Church Office between Monday-Friday, 10-12 noon.
Pat Buttolph
On 31 December 2021 there were 121 parishioners on the Church Electoral Roll, of whom 32 were not resident within the parish.
Weekly attendance, taken on a ‘normal’ Sunday was 88 adults and 10 children, with online. Easter communicants numbered 86, Christmas communicants numbered 83. There were 22 baptisms during the year, 3 weddings, 22 funerals held in the church and 17 conducted at crematoriums or Colney Wood.
PCC account holders
Barclays Bank PLC, 45 Market Street, Wymondham, NR18 0AL. CCLA Investment Management Limited, The CBF Church of England Fund, Senator House, 85 Queen Victoria Street, London, EC4V 4ET.
Signed on behalf of the PCC by Revd Matthew Jackson 26 April 2022
REPORTS ON PARISH LIFE
Bell Ringing
There has been no ringing done during the pandemic due to covid restrictions and the severe lack of available ringers. We hope to begin ringing again in April 2022. Before the pandemic a large proportion of ringers were elderly, aged 80 years or more, and few younger people were taking up ringing due to the time commitment needed to become proficient. Many older ringers have now decided to stop ringing or to limit ringing to their home towers. We currently have 5 ringers attached to our tower, one fewer than needed as our 6th ringer has moved away, but ringing 5 bells still sounds good.
I will continue to try to get bands when asked but please be mindful that this is now much more difficult than before the pandemic.
Bible Study Group
Undaunted by Covid, the Monday evening Bible Study Group has continued to meet regularly during term time. The year began with Zoom meetings which enabled most of our regular members to take part, but as restrictions eased, we were able to move to the church hall, remaining socially distant but able to talk face to face. A series of studies entitled “ What can we believe these days ” covered topics ranging from T he Bible in an age of science, Doubts, Miracles, and Sharing our faith . More recently we have been thinking about The Fruit of The Spirit . New members are always welcome, and no knowledge of the Bible is required!
Bob Baker
Church attendance
Children’s Society
The covid pandemic curtailed many of our usual fund raising events in 2021 however we were finally allowed to empty house collecting boxes. This was a momentous occasion and we counted £799.20 which was then taken to the bank in a wheeled suitcase!
In November we were able to hold a coffee morning, which again was well supported and raised £369.62. This included some generous donations. Thank you to all who have continued to support the Society and especially the seven people who have taken new house boxes. We shall take them in for emptying at our next coffee morning in June.
The work of the Children’s Society has been active during the pandemic as more children than ever have needed help and encouragement. My sincere thanks to those who continue to help.
Pauline Parnell-Hopkinson
Christian Aid
The challenges brought on by Covid and the range of restrictions including a national lockdown for the first three months of 2021 meant the Group had to come up with new money-raising ideas and, as the Norfolk motto goes, “Do Different”.
This we did, and a Tana Lawn Cushion Draw, Easter Egg Raffle and Adopt a Country Appeal were introduced to replace the curry evening, Lent lunches, the main quiz, and the concert. These events together with the established knit-in, wine tasting evening, an Autumn quiz and the Benefice Christmas card enabled the Group to raise more than £5700 for Christian Aid. USAID match-funding of 17:1 on £1850 of this translated into an additional £31,450 being generated. In addition, delivery-only envelopes enabled £764 to be raised for Christian Aid Week.
I am grateful to be part of such a supportive Group which in turn is given tremendous support from the clergy and congregation at St Mary’s and increasingly (and pleasingly) from outside the church.
Peter Wright
Church Hall
Due to the Covid pandemic, the Hall had to be closed for a while and the Day Centre was suspended.
After a while the Day Centre were able to use the kitchen at a reduced hire rate to enable hot meals to be prepared on 5 days per week and delivered around the town.
The Hall committee has not met during the last 2 years as there was no reason, but we hope to be calling a meeting shortly to catch up. After many years Anne Tinker
has retired as secretary and we are all indebted to her for her long service and hard work. Andrea Lawson has kindly agreed to take on the role.
As you will see from the accounts the Hall income has been very modest as for some time we were not able open, and then only for limited use. As everything seems to be settling down now we look forward to returning to full strength before long.
David Stubbert, Chairman
Churchwardens
As I write this report I reflect on yet another year like no other. We have had restrictions lifted but as a community have remained cautious. A prudent measure. As wardens we have undertaken some of the duties you would expect prior to lockdown but to comply with the covid-19 regulations we did not undertake our usual duties. We still did our best to get the services to run smoothly and to offer a welcome to everyone but it has been a challenge behind a mask !
Newcomers were asked for a name for test and trace… not our usual style but I know we got to know a few more people this way so every cloud … AS I write this we are looking forward to back to normal… many of us have had covid 19 but we need to be mindful of all who remain scared or hesitant or who have just got out of the habit of coming to church.
My thanks go to my fellow wardens, David and Cherry, both of whom have worked tirelessly to make sure things run smoothly. Our thanks to everyone who has worked hard to ensure the life and witness at St Mary’s has continued.
Marion Dawe
Coffee & Chat
It was a real joy to be able to open Coffee and Chat in September 2021, to greet old friends and to welcome some new faces too, tinged also with some sadness for the people that are no longer able to join us.
We are continuing much as before, although I think everyone will agree that Sean is not only missed for his company but also for the delicious scones and cakes that he kindly baked for us. We do thank him for his devotion and generosity. It has also been strange not to have Robert with us in the kitchen. I know many of you enjoyed his unique ‘humour’, and I have certainly missed his administration and accounting skills. Happily, he is now back in the UK and has told me that he has not hung up his pinny yet!
We are blessed with a team of lovely volunteers, who willingly give up their Saturday mornings to help with the running of Coffee and Chat; thank you ladies and gents, your help is invaluable and your smiles welcoming.
We do thank all our regular guests for their support not just for returning after the pandemic, but also before. I know that some of you have been coming to Coffee and Chat for many, many years.
We are a non-profit group and the funds that we raise are distributed to mainly local charities. Since September 2021, with the support of our customers we have been able to donate to the following causes;
Uganda Support Fund, Drop In and Play, St Martins Housing Trust. Total donation amount of £200.00
We also received a donation from Catherine Clark who sold her cards when the Listening Ear group came on 23 October. The amount was £12.00. If you run a local charity/organisation, or would like to suggest one, please let me know as we would be pleased to be able to help you financially if we can. Finally, if you have yet to visit us, please do. We are open every Saturday (apart from Christmas week) from 10am to 11.30am.
Alison Sayer
Community Lunch
We are a very friendly group who usually meet on the first, third and fifth Fridays of the month. We gather in the church hall from 12.00 onwards, aiming to serve the meal at 12.30 p.m. Diners each bring a small raffle prize and pay 20 pence for two raffle tickets; the proceeds go towards Christmas gifts for diners and volunteers. We did not meet between March 2020 and September 2021. When we resumed, we asked the Day Centre to provide us with our first course, which is always delicious and plentiful. Dorothy supplies a variety of puddings. We have a loyal band of volunteers who set the tables, serve the meals and wash up. The meal costs £6 and is intended for those who live alone and would benefit from a good midday meal enjoyed in company. Applications should be made via the Rector.
Dorothy Woolliscroft
Drop-in & Play
Drop in and Play started again in May 2021 under the new name of Book in and Play in order to meet contemporary government coronavirus guidelines. This in itself was no mean feat as we were managing the group before the July target of all adults being offered Covid vaccines. However, guided by the Local Outbreak Management team in Wymondham we were able to produce and implement an appropriate Covid 19 Risk Assessment which served us well. Due to Covid rates we opted to give provision in term time only. Our main priority was to afford enough space for adults and children to meet and play safely in a Covid secure environment. Alison Sayer sourced new and beautiful baby blankets and an abundance of ergonomically designed baby toys. Each baby was given their own “pod” with a thick blanket and their own box of toys for use in the session to avoid cross contamination. This system was welcomed by parents and is still in use at the time of writing. We split the Hall into defined Baby and Toddler areas to facilitate safe play and provided a changing weekly provision of crafts, miniature world, books, puzzles and games. Alison produced beautiful Play Plans to help support this new way of working. We had many comments expressing gratitude that at long last parents could socialise their tots and babies in a group environment to help improve their development which had suffered in the isolation of the pandemic. We served roughly 20 families according to our track and trace register, with average weekly attendance between 12- 16 children albeit with big variations depending on infection rates and illness. As Covid rules relaxed we very gradually eased our infection control protocols, so that by the end of the year we were able to introduce singing at the request of parents. At Christmas Matthew showed the group a charming cartoon version of the Christmas Story as seen through the eyes of a mouse living in the stable. 10 hard back books about the Christmas Story were given to families. I would like to take this opportunity to say a sincere thank you to Alison, Joan, Margaret, Jenny, Jonathan, Linda, Catherine and Barbara for their dedicated solid hard work in making the group such a success.
Cherry Saunders
Deanery Synod
There were two meetings of the Thetford & Rockland Deanery Synod in 2021. The first of these was on 20 June at Eccles, this being the first meeting since September 2019! Revd Canon Steve Wright was Commissioned as Rural Dean at this meeting by the Rt Revd Alan Winton, following Revd Matthew Jackson retiring from this role after 11 years.
The second meeting was on 19 October at Old Buckenham when Revd Canon Steve Wright led us in discussion on the subject of ‘Diocesan Vision and Reality – What can happen when the two collide?’
St Mary’s representatives on the Synod are Brenda Greig and Eileen Roberts, with myself as Secretary.
Electoral Roll
The past year has seen 4 additional names added to the Electoral Roll and 3 people who sadly died during the year have been removed. The current total, as at 4 April 2022, stands at 123.
Carole Burt
Fabric
During 2021 no structural work was carried out on St Mary’s.
At the beginning of the year the diocese informed the PCC of a scheme that offered help in installing roof alarms to the church as several churches around East Anglia had lead stripped from their roofs. Although it was felt that our building was
Pat Buttolph
safer than rural churches, the PCC agreed to having an alarm fitted, which was installed on 28 May.
During the early spring an area of plaster fell from the wall close to the south (link) door. We have received a quote for repair (£2,500); the company who quoted specified that their workload was such that they couldn’t take on the work
immediately. It was felt that as long as there was no danger in prolonging the repair, this should be delayed.
In August the heating boilers were serviced and in November an in-depth electrical survey was carried out by Alan Cross Electricians. This is required for insurance purposes.
Paul Andrew
Foodbank
The Methodist Church is closing, Pastor Sean will be delivering his last sermon over the Easter period. I’m pleased to report, that the Foodbank will continue to have access to the Church Hall and facilities for some time, but no definite finite date. In regard to an alternative suitable premises, that is in the hands of the Thetford Trussell Trust.
We are currently running with two small teams on a fortnightly rota, to serve the need of the local community, every Saturday morning. This has been the situation since the onset of the Covid pandemic. We are now looking for volunteers especially Team Leaders which will enable expansion of the rota.
We receive many food donations from individuals and the local Churches, which is most appreciated. There is always a greater need over holiday periods, Christmas was very busy and we were able to provide extra festive food, including frozen chickens and various meat joints.
Our volunteer Teams are there to serve and help, often people have a need to talk and share their problems; we are good listeners! Pastor Sean was available every Saturday, providing pastoral care and good advice on many personal problems and issues, he will be greatly missed.
Peter Rowles
Flowers
2021 was a disrupted year for us all and when on 4 January we went into lockdown, schools closed and church became an online event. Flowers in church stopped too of course. What joy therefore to be able to arrange flowers again for Easter in April.
Thank you to the people who have given donations in memory of loved ones or in celebration of special occasions. Our weekly flowers are appreciated by members of the congregation and visitors.
Thank you to the ladies who take a turn to arrange our pulpit flowers and to Joan Smith who assists me in many ways in the planning at festivals. New arrangers are welcome.
Donations can be given to Pat in the church office for flowers at any time but particularly for festivals.
Pauline Parnell-Hopkinson
Friday Fun Club
This group met infrequently during the last year and there was an element of stop start due to the pandemic. Our fundraising activities came to a halt as did any of the other things we did. We managed to keep in touch and have now resumed our regular sessions and look forward to many exciting new opportunities.
Marion Dawe
Friends of St Mary’s Church
A quiet year for the ‘Friends’, The trustees have met and the clerk has ensured we have complied with charity regulation. Funds have slowly accumulated through regular giving and donations coming through ‘Easyfundraising’.
As we move out of Covid restrictions it is hoped to become more proactive, though this may need to be considered in the context of wider Church Building development plans.
James Trounce, Chair and Treasurer
Gift Aid
In 2021 we were able to claim back from HMRC the sum of £11951.47 on donations made by people who had either signed a gift aid declaration or used one of the yellow envelopes. This figure includes our annual allowance for plate collections.
The designated weekly envelopes were used by 14 people of which 5 were gift aided. Monthly bank standing order donations were made by 53 people and 44 of these were gift aided.
During the periods when the church was closed due to the pandemic, more use was made of the options to donate online and by direct credit to the bank. When the church is open it is also possible to donate via the card reader. Now that there are several different ways to donate it is important that donors consider whether they are able to gift aid their donations. If they can, a signed gift aid declaration is required which enables us to claim an extra 25% at no cost to the donor.
Please contact me if you would like a gift aid declaration form or if you are not sure if you are eligible to gift aid.
Arthur Peters
Magazine distribution and collation
The Link is issued ten times per year. The price remains 50 pence per copy (£5 per year). Four hundred copies are printed in house by Pat Buttolph and a new cover is created for each month. Christine Beales arranges for local firms to advertise in the magazine and heads the collation team which meets usually on the last Thursday or Friday in the month. Nineteen distributors then deliver to the subscribers on their round. What used to be the Diocesan News magazine is now discontinued, but news from the Norwich diocese is now available weekly on their website.
For a few months during the pandemic The Link did not appear, but soon became available monthly on the parish website, as it still is. Last year all subscriptions were collected in June to bring all payments in line and they will henceforth be collected in June for the following year. After a baptism the family receives the magazine free for a year.
May I thank once again those who collate and distribute. I do urge all members of our congregation to read the magazine. It contains details of coming events, reports on our activities and interesting articles. Recently we have made a great effort to increase the variety and interest of the magazine’s content and the Rector will welcome contributions from parishioners.
D o rothy Woolliscroft
Mothers’ Union
Following an 18 month break during the Covid pandemic we were finally able to meet in September 2021.
A general meeting was held to discuss the way forward for the branch in the coming year. As our branch leader had been unable to continue through ill health, it was decided to run the branch by committee. Many of our existing members attended this meeting, plus three new people who transferred from other branches having moved to the area and who are now members of our congregation. The October meeting was a social event where members could introduce themselves to others and in November we looked at the long history of our church including a tour of the church pointing out interesting details. Our annual carol service followed by refreshments took place in December and we had arranged a full programme of speakers and events for the coming year. Discussions with High Oak and Wymondham Abbey branches took place with the hope that we can collaborate more closely in future, joining together for some meetings and events.
We are very fortunate to have excellent support from our clergy and a positive response from our members which will enable us to keep this branch moving forward.
Music
The COVID-19 pandemic has continued to affect music-making at St Mary’s this year, with the choir not permitted to sing at services during the spring lockdown. During this time, the weekly 10am Sunday service was streamed online from the church, with hymns played on the organ, and the choir had a go at some online singing (although it was agreed by all that singing together is much easier in person!). Following an easing in the government restrictions, we were permitted to have singers again during Holy Week, with soloists providing music on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, and a quartet of socially distanced singers singing on Easter Eve (including a joyful rendition of Mozart’s Spatzenmesse ) and Easter Day. Over the following weeks, services were sung by either men’s voices or upper voices (all socially distanced by two metres), occasionally joining together for larger services including a successful “Hymns from home” so that members of the congregation could sing hymns together from home. Unfortunately, the rules changed again in May meaning that only groups of 6 singers were permitted, but the choir nobly rose to this challenge and a rota system was soon established to allow four-part harmony to return! At the end of June, we resumed our monthly Choral Evensong, and by July congregational hymn singing was back (although with face masks) and the full choir was able to return and sing through the entire summer. In the autumn the choir resumed a relatively normal schedule of rehearsals and services, singing for the weekly 10am Parish Eucharist and monthly services of Choral Evensong, plus occasional extra evening services. The men again sang for the Patronal Festival at All Saints’ Church, Besthorpe, and the full choir enjoyed singing for Choral Evensong at Harvest (3 October), Eucharist on Christ the King (21 November, including Mozart’s Missa Brevis in D, KV 194 ) and two Christmas carol services at Besthorpe and St Mary’s (19 December).
It has been heartening to receive so much support from members of the choir throughout all the difficulties of this year – even when COVID-19 guidance and rules have changed at relatively short notice! I’m pleased to report that numbers in the choir have remained steady, although unfortunately several choristers have not returned after the lockdowns and restrictions on our singing. That said, we have three very dedicated choristers who sing with us regularly, and I’m hopeful that we can rebuild the number of choristers as we emerge from the pandemic. The choir is always on the look-out for new members (both adults and children), so do please get in touch if you might be interested in finding out more about joining. Despite the pandemic, we were able to hold two concerts in 2021, including a performance by early music trio Hexachordia (23 May) and an organ and
harpsichord recital by Malcolm Archer (former Director of Music at Wells and St Paul’s Cathedrals), including a selection from Bach’s Goldberg Variations (28 August). We were also kindly gifted a grand piano for the church, so many thanks to the donor (who wishes to remain anonymous) for this very generous gift, which will be used to support our music-making over the coming years. In addition, we were awarded a grant by Youth Music to establish a music outreach programme for
Mary Dark
children in the local community, working in partnership with the Norfolk Music Hub. This grant will be used to fund a part-time music outreach worker to be based at St Mary’s and working with local schools from 2022, and will kick start our music project.
Overall, the year has not been without its troubles, but I’m pleased to report that music-making has been able to continue strongly at St Mary’s over the last 12 months. None of this would be possible without the support of many people, so many thanks to all members of the choir, our organists (especially Nigel Waring, Assistant Director of Music, but also David Barnard, Simon Cole, Bob Gee and David Hilton as assistant organists covering occasional services), and the parents of the choristers, for all their commitment and support over the past year. Thanks also go to all of those who have supported our concerts, events and who have donated to the choir fund and help fundraise for the music project.
The organ has experienced a few minor faults over the past year, as expected with an ageing instrument, but these have been repaired by EJ Johnson & Son Ltd, who continue to maintain and tune the organ. Faculty permission has now been granted for the proposed organ rebuild. Choir funds this year have been used to purchase new copies of music (anthems and communion service settings).
Ben Miller
Open the Book
As with so many activities, regular Open the Book (OTB) presentations in schools came to an abrupt end in March 2020. Though Matthew was able to resume assemblies online, the OTB teams did not function through most of 2021 because of the Covid restrictions in place in schools.
However, with the installation of the new camera and sound system in St Mary’s in the first half of 2021, it became apparent that this could be used to broadcast live OTB presentations into assemblies at Attleborough Primary, without the need to be physically present. After receiving a positive response to the idea from the school, Matthew asked Richard to take on this project and discuss it with the members of the OTB teams.
In October 2021 it was decided with the teams to test out the viability of doing this during a regular 10am Service at St Mary’s. All 10am Eucharists are now broadcast live on YouTube providing an effective testing environment. There was also the added benefit of allowing the regular 10am congregation a chance to get a better sense of this important element of our church community’s mission and evangelism to young people.
The All Saints’ Service on 31 October was chosen because the Gospel reading for that day (John 11.32-44) corresponded exactly to Module 4/1 of the Year Three Bible Story Book . The plan was announced in the weeks before All Saints’ with an invitation to all church members to join the project should they wish to.
Working together as one team, seasoned team members, joined by some new faces, planned and rehearsed the presentation. They then presented the story during the service on 31 October in place of the sermon. It went well and was well received, showing that an online broadcast could work as a means of presenting Bible stories to children in assemblies. Equally, the successful presentation led to a renewed sense of purpose for the project and a plan to start broadcasts direct into Attleborough Primary from January 2022.
Warm and heartfelt thanks to all involved for their enthusiasm, talents and commitment and for what was a fun, fulfilling and engaging experience.
Richard Washington
Safeguarding
The Church of England states clearly that, “The care and protection of children, young people and adults involved in church activities is the responsibility of everyone who participates in the life of our church.”
Over the past year, we have sought to help people involved at Saint Mary’s to understand their responsibilities and to know what to do if they have a concern. A new safeguarding poster and a leaflet have been produced with contact details and information about what to do.
In January, a short presentation took place after the 10.00 a.m. Eucharist. Twentyeight questionnaires were completed regarding safeguarding practice which allowed me to get a snap shot of what further training may be necessary. The results were presented to a P.C.C. meeting in February and were also published in the Parish Magazine. The questionnaires were anonymous and informed a discussion after they were completed as part of the presentation.
Safeguarding does not have to be a complicated thing. If you have a concern about anybody involved in a church activity, please pass it on. All concerns will be taken seriously and will be discussed. If necessary, they will be passed on to the diocesan safeguarding officers for their consideration.
Safeguarding is everybody’s responsibility. Please never be afraid of raising a concern.
Andrew Slater
Servers
Over the last two years the Serving team have spent a good deal of time in “hibernation”.
When we were able to recommence activities it was, of necessity, in a very modest way and we all look forward to being “back to normal” at Easter.
Many of you will have noticed that Margaret Smith and Jasmin Jackson have now retired. We are very grateful for their unstinting work over many years and wish them a restful retirement.
We have been fortunate that Mike Rayner has been a very enthusiastic addition to our serving team as he has a lifetime of serving experience to share. Paul has been able to return after a short break and we look forward to Nina’s return in the summer, when we all hope to be back stronger and fitter.
We have been blessed with a great team, willing to learn something new, and very helpful and cooperative and we are all most grateful for their continued work to the Glory of God.
As usual if anyone feels called to this ministry please contact me, or any of the clergy; no previous experience is necessary.
David Stubbert
Sidespeople
Our excellent sides people have had very little continuity in their roles this year. Meet and greet seemed to consist of signing in and washing hands and keeping our distance so we look forward with hope to the next year when we can get back to having our sidespeople to meet and greet as before. This is such a vital role in the church as we are often judged by the greeting we give.
Uganda Support Fund
Due to the ongoing pandemic, our fundraising in 2021 was very limited. Schools in Uganda remained closed until January 2022 but we sent some funds to New Glory School for ongoing maintenance which was made possible due to kind donations from individual supporters.
Scovia qualified as a midwife and we were able to support her with her nursing registration fees. Thank you to various supporters who continue to donate monthly.
Our regular stalls at coffee and chat have started again now and we are grateful for your support at these. Now that schools have opened in Uganda, we are continuing to support New Glory School and various individual children who require school fees.
Please do contact us for further information.
Clare Bakashaba & Sylvia Webster
Marion Dawe
Sunday Club
2021 was a challenging year in many ways and started with a national lockdown. This meant that Sunday Club was unable to meet safely until lockdown restrictions eased later in the year.
In the spring of 2021, Marion Dawes, who coordinated Sunday Club for many years and organised inspiring and creative lessons, decided to step down from the role. We are hugely grateful for all she has done for Sunday club during her time leading it and want to thank her for her dedication to the children and young people in St. Mary’s.
In June, COVID restrictions had eased, and Sunday Club was able to restart. We held lessons outside in the churchyard to begin with and moved back into the church hall once the weather turned cooler in the Autumn Term. It has been wonderful to see children coming together in Sunday Club again and I would like to thank all those who have supported Sunday Club this year by running sessions and supervising children.
It was a joy to be able to hold a nativity again this year. The children loved putting on their costumes and acting out the Christmas story. The nativity wouldn’t have taken place without Marion who wrote the script, cast the parts, and organised the children perfectly.
Lorna Goodrich
Minutes of the Annual Church Meetings held on Tuesday 13 April 2021 at 7.30pm on Zoom
1.
Annual Parochial Church Meeting
Apologies for absence
David Bartington, Catherine Buckley, Sharon Negus,
1.
Parishioners Meeting
Apologies for absence
David Bartington, Catherine Buckley, Sharon Negus.
2. Minutes of the APCM meeting held on 10 November 2020
It was proposed by David Stubbert, seconded by Eileen Roberts and agreed by all who had been present at this meeting that the minutes were an accurate record of proceedings and these were signed by the Chairman accordingly.
Twenty six people were in attendance at this Zoom meeting.
3. Elections
2.
Minutes of the Parishioners meeting held on 10 November 2020
It was proposed by Brenda Greig, seconded by Susan Wilson and agreed by all who had been present at this meeting that the minutes were an accurate record of proceedings and these were signed by the Chairman accordingly.
3.
Election of churchwardens
The Rector thanked the Churchwardens of the past difficult year, Paul Andrew, Marion Dawe and Ed Tyrer for their hard work and support. Ed had fulfilled the maximum of 6 years in this role and Paul wished to stand down from this post owing to other commitments and all expressed their thanks to them for the work they had given to St Mary’s as Churchwardens.
Nominations for three churchwardens for the year April 2021/2022 had been put forward before the meeting.
Churchwardens are elected annually and usually cannot stand for more than 6 years in succession.
| David Bartington Marion Dawe Jacqueline (Cherry) Saunders |
Proposer Edward Tyrer Anne Tinker Paul Andrew |
Seconder Marion Dawe Cliff Amos Eileen Roberts |
|---|---|---|
With there being no further nomination forms received by the Chairman prior to the meeting the above elections were agreed unanimously.
The meeting closed at 7.35pm.
4. Close of meeting
(a) PCC members (four places for three years)
At the APCM in 2011 it had been agreed that although PCC members stand for a period of 3 years, members could be put forward to be elected for a further 3 year period, but could not stand for more than 6 years in succession.
The following were proposed and seconded to stand on the Attleborough PCC for a three year term:
| Catherine Buckley Chris MacKinnon Emma Neve Dorothy Woolliscroft |
Proposer Mary Dark Sally Crockford Ben Miller Pauline Parnell-Hopkinson |
Seconder Susan Wilson David Stubbert Emma Jackson Yvonne O’Dell |
|---|---|---|
2 Reports
Reports of the PCC, Deanery Synod and Churchwardens (including Fabric) were presented.
The Terrier and Log Book had been updated during the year and were available for inspection in the church office.
(b) Treasurer
Presentation of Audited Church Accounts for year ending 31.12.2020
In the Treasurer’s absence the Chairman presented the accounts for the year ending 31 December 2020.
These had been approved by the PCC and signed by the Chairman and Treasurer at a PCC meeting on 9 March 2021 for presentation to the APCM.
With there being no questions raised, it was proposed by Dorothy Woolliscroft, seconded by Susan Wilson, and agreed by all present that the accounts for 2020 be commended.
The Chairman wished to record his thanks to treasurer Yvonne O’Dell for her conscientious dedication and sound handling of the St Mary’s finances.
(c) Rector’s Report
Revd Matthew Jackson gave his report as Rector of the parish and Chairman of the Attleborough PCC.
A copy of this would be printed in the May 2021 edition of The Link parish magazine and filed on record with the 2020 Annual Report. Printed copies were also available on the table at the back of the church.
6.
Appointment of Independent Examiner
Thanks was expressed to Anne Lister who had been the Independent Examiner for the 2020 accounts but felt that she did not wish to continue in this role.
It was therefore proposed by Dorothy Woolliscroft, seconded by David Stubbert and agreed by all present that George Ridgway be appointed Independent Examiner for the coming year.
With their being no further nominations the above was duly appointed. It was agreed that Anne Lister be presented with a gift from the PCC in thanks for her work as Examiner in 2020.
7. Presentation and adoption of Electoral Roll
There were 122 members on the Church Electoral Roll as at 29 March 2021. It was proposed by Marion Dawe, seconded by Susan Wilson and agreed by all present that the 2020/21 Roll be adopted.
The Rector wished to record his thanks to Carole on behalf of the parish for her work as Electoral Roll Officer throughout the year.
8. Appointment of sidespeople
Owing to the current Covid restrictions regarding sidespeople it was agreed that that these elections be deferred until the next APCM.
9. Any Other Business
(a) Thank you to Matthew
Marion Dawe thanked Matthew, on behalf of the parish, for his dedicated ministry and leadership as Rector during the past year. Also to Matthew’s wife Emma and his family for their vital support behind the scenes.
10. Close of meeting
The meeting closed at 8.10pm with The Grace being said together.
FRnncial Rert and Actoullts for the year Mded 311)ttember 2021 Fin4n¢il Revitiv G¢nwAI fund A third Government naticwl lockdown was imp)s¢d in the early p*rt of the year as th¢ Coronaviru5 pandemi ontinued and St Mary's, as other churches. wa5 a¥aiD Unable trj hold 'in person. worship from ¢arly January until . almost the end of Mats. This resulted in incorne items in the General Fund ArLount being lower than had been bopcd for in 2021 aThl were not suffjctenl to ¢over ¢XPfflMlitut4 thffeby w(thing a deficil in net incom¢ of 43.893). Income from giving {collection4 donatton& and any Gift Aid ¢Jaims therTr) and standing order donations have incTeased in 2021 ¢ompartd to 2020. and online and card re&Jer donations have continued to enhaDC¢ this in¢i)me. Incom¢ from ma8a7.ine sales h&$ Increas but no advertising Tneome was Tffeived during the year due to the disruption eaused kn local adv¢rtiSCTS by wvid. With th¢ reled coronavirus me&8urn& some we<klin&s we4p held and thercfor¢ weddin8 fees have increased slightty over 2020. St Mary's was able to hold a Summer Fete this year and with other fundraising gave income of a little over £5,400. Salw payments remAtn similar to 2020 although less wag rwxived fn)m thc Government as th¢ furlou8h heme was phased out durin8 the year. A withdrawal from thc d¢tKJsit account w&$ necessary in March since th¢re was insuificient income into the General und to meet on-going expenditur¢. There w8s a large incom¢ from a legw in S¢ptember and ft transfer of £5,000 from the Unftstricted txwies Fund to the G¢n¢ral Fund hag been shown. It is hop1 subwueni years will show impmved iDCm¢ and more usual wlts. Deglpated a¢le5 Fund (Unrtjtrleted) A legacy of £28,437 received during th¢ year. Expenses were for the online worship stre4tnin8 instsllation, whi¢h was covered by graM4 and for the cost of ekctric81 testing and certification. DeJl8nated H1 Fund rollowing Phed lifttng of Ihe Govemment's lockdo1 and c4)ronavirus measure4 there was incr¢&sed use of the hall. reyulting in this year's iD¢om¢ b¢An8 hi8her than 2020. Ser4icin8 to the boil¢r and fans incurttd a cost of £1,891. Fabrle & Heatlol Fumd (Re41rl¢ted) A fwibilily study of the ¢hut¢h and Tooms was carried ou¢ with some of thls ¢xpMdityTe being offset by way of a Other Rejtrletsd Funds There was a rEew r¢stricted fund, th¢ Music Project Fund. Donkn 1Ved durin8 the ye4r were mainly in r¢St of thi$ fund. Flxed A88¢ts The mid rna¢t valu¢ of the two In1 fund investmènt assets at the year end was £11879 (2020.. £11.268). Reserves Poliey It is PCC poli¢y to maintain at le&8t an availablc current &wt baian¢e on the Gen¢rnl Fund which equates to approximately four monthg unrestricted payments ¢x¢ludin8 Parish Shar¢ to cover potential creditors. The unrestrithd legacies. fund i5 available to m¢¢t one off ¢osts and any emergency siiualions that may arÉse. Th¢ balance ofnet current ats of the General Fund at th¢ end of the year 2021 approxim81ely meets that policy. The designated Hall Fund r¢tsins a balance to meet firtur¢ MainnCe $ts for the hall. The balances frir the Vario other restrirt¢d ndS a the r¢sult of monies rais or donated for their respective puEpx)ses. It is the policy of th¢ PCC to invest the availabl¢ fund balanc with the Church of ED8iand Deposit fund. The accoiutts weTr approved on b¢half of the Pah181 chUh CouD¢iI on f131 i b LZ by. . ChaArniaD
stMary' Church.Alllal>ornugh GornI fvr¥J 4.$•2 In8 S,J)3 6407 618 1.833 1 7.ts) 7.598 &7t6 5, 1,7r¢ I.• 2,1 siarnllTr4 (xNJd 4476 11.9 1416 10 io 237 &441 152S S.7•7 Fl 710 Fwl la 5.t¢0 10Jm 1.107 Qi g it.61 1ql(Q &418 Cmh BTrWD I JVU4AY, ¢•th#IKE6 CIFVKla1 Lme& IS. fOMTr4G PESOimS ¥J.4SP 1,1BS 743 on1h))tnIp.Atr TrMN 927 1 NET¢E8cl1lCEs BAL4N¢ES BIFg¥D I BhUNCltsD31 C¢C*MPER &117) 44J27
21.LX6 17 13Ai3 11S47 4918 IJJ 574 1,287 1.SIB l.lJ4 1.4&5 Dwxntb•C 41• 17 49ZI TOTIL I¢CWE $OlrE$ TIPLom RE80L8 BAL4NfES BffiWD I J4M BALAPiÈSCIFWD31 EE¢EWER tsVAT&i VJUI4 TOTIL e$e# NET0m¢ fo$cLRcE8 BALAIUSBIPI I J414F BALAIUS eJFWD 31 ¢7.O7 19.111 47W #.•)7 1•1 47J•7 Oth•rPaio FuTrd• rrA4WGfiE5cIeS 1 a120 IL cl1 its) IMPCC R••0 t•PthI FLYtChJb In LWkn&P PW 9A8¢) 31 OECEIER IDTAL Iw£TrlIEsj1tES 167M*I 11i(¥J) 147,72$ i.927 OWEMEwfw Fl 1Aa¥J IW37 181475 144>X) 31 fECEMBUI
Attleborough Parochlal Church Council Bal•nc• Sh•¢1 •t 31 Decembgr 2tr21 IFlgurn• roUled to near•* Rèthcttrd Unrp&rfcl•d G8n8rdl Totsl & Fk8tlNJ Rostrt¢tsd FL1 F1 FCED ASSglS CURRENT ASSETS Barclays Dewslt CBF Cash D8btorn I•s8 SLk8p8n8• TOTAL CLRRENT AS< 34.102 33.394 29.SN 32.563 6,524 1,927 72,311 97,847 4,411 4,411 87.W 31.655 40,191 8.4S1 174. Lo88 Llabllfi8S 16,674 1.157 17.832 TOTAL NET CL¥IRENI 10.102 07. J),497 40,191 8.451 156,738 TOTAL NET ASSETS 18,840 67,W X).497 40.191 8,451 183,476 FD ASSETS h)w8lments CBF 0.738 CiMgENT ASSETS Bwdays Bank Derosll CBF 747 1.119 44.xl 29.947 18,449 117.791 41,538 4.1&S 4.165 TOTAL CLIIRENT AS£ 10.952 45.127 31. 47.287 5,993 140.405 L888 Llthllftb8s TOTAL PETCLRgEMI 45,127 29,239 47,287 s,3 138,622 TOTAL ASSETS 14734 45.127 29.239 47.287 s,3 141 y•4dY)thAfmtrtr¢•d•x FUND F4 Fun& 1106 8,451 0 5,4 161
Note5 to the fill¢•al 8tatsmeDts for the yar ended 31 De¢wber 2021 I. ACCOUNTING POLICIES The financial statements have been pretAred under the historical costc4)nv¢ntion except for revaluation of two ttvst fimd inveslTDent assets. The inv¢stmts of two trust funds {Attlelx)rou8b Bell Pightle &nd Attleborough Church IAn(ts) We revalu at 31 December 2006 8nd subsequent movement ID the mthet value is not material. The financial statements iDclu(k all ttanwtions, aets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the Ounts of thurch groups that owe their affdiation to another body. Fundy Restricted funds rwesent incom¢ donations or grants re1 f(Y a splfIC obJt or Invited by the PCC for a specific obj¢¢l. The funds may Only eXded on th¢ SlfIC object fwwhi¢h th¢y were given. Any balance remaining unspent at the end of c year must be carried forward as a balance on that fund. The PCC does not inv¢st s¢paratety for fiznd. Interest 1$ apportioned to individual funds on an average balance basis. Figures are round¢d to newrst £. Unrestricted funds are 8eneral funds which can used PUTP)ses. The Hall Fund has be¢n desi8nkt¢d by the PCC to provide for 1[¢ maintcnance of th¢ Hall from the income generated by the lettings. It is an unrestrict¢d fund and the PCC can decide to spend it for any other PUTPOS¢. In particular. it has delegated to th¢ Hall Committee responsibiltty to some of the funds generated by l¢ttin8s on donations to ¢harities. In the year 2008 the PCC 0ced to a new de5igntha fund unrestricted le8aciH to show 8 Clear view of how these are 5p¢nt. 2. Incomlng rnoure plann givin& collectiotts and donations are recwised when reiVed. Tax refunds arc Tecognised wh¢n the incomin8 Yesource to wthi¢h they r¢lat¢ is received. Gr8nts and lewi¢s ar¢ aceounied for when the PCC is legally ¢ntitlwJ to the amounts du¢. Investment incom¢ and in¢er¢st on deposits are reco15¢d when received. All incoming Tesources are accounted for 8ros& 3. R¢8ource8 expellded Grants and donations are acwunted for when PAid over. or when aw8rde(( if that award creates a binding or constructive obligalion. The die58n parish share 18 ac¢oiint¢d for the amounl decided by the PCC that it can re&son8bly afford from its unrestrict¢d fimds and has been fully paid for many years. All other expcndiiure is g¢n¢rally recognised when it is incurred is accoun for grosg. Flxed asaets Cons¢crated s1 benefv &Yowty is nol included in the accounts in rdI¢ with $.9q2Xa) of the ChRriti¢5 Art 1993. Movablc church furnishings held by the re£tor and churchwardens on 5pKial tru for the PCC and require a fUlty for disposal are iDali¢nable prop#ty. listed in the church's inventory, whiGh can be inspected (at any re&sonable time). For 8n)thin8 acquir¢d prior lo 2000 theTe is insufficient cost infornlation available and th¢refore such assets 8re nol valued in the financial statsments. Sub9uCnty all expendityre has been %ltien off when incutre The Diocesan Board of Finance holds the Sets of the two thjst funds with investment in the Income Shar¢s of the CBF Church of England Fund. The income frLun thes¢ trusts is forthe ecclesiastical purposes of the parish and is incI£¢d in the I)mIng resourc of the General fiuMI. 5. Staff Costs a) During th¢ year the PCC employed a s¢¢retary, church and hall cleaners all part time. Totsl salaries paid during the year wcre £20.050 (2020: £19.7). b) Payments to PCC members As organist Mr. J B Miller. who was a cwited m¢Jnkrof Ihe PCC, paid £4.495 and this payMt is included in Director of Mwic expenw. 6. Debtors For 2021 G¢nwal fiind i)ebt0, is urrtleaT¢d bank ¢heques of £821 from sic¢S over the Chrisknas period. a tsx refund due from Gift Aid of £3.396 (2020: Gift aid refund £3,014), and donatio of £194. Credltors (Current LlabilTtie8) The year 2021 G¢Dal fijnd furnt Liabililieg are the outstanding instalments for Parish Sh¥ £13.502. outstanding fees payable to th¢ Dioceses of £1241, insEnnc¢ £746 (2020: £902). ¢l¢£tri¢ity and gas bTIIs of £118 (2020: £306). miscellaneous other £1.067 (2020: £748). The Hall Fund 'Current Liability. is th¢ outstsnding iLstsIments of its share ofthe iDsuranc¢ £746 (2020: £902), ekntri¢ity a1 gas bills of £235 (2020: £611) and zniK¢llan¢(ws other £17612020: £314).
THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND Diocese of Norwich Independent Examiners Certificate <kn accounts lorth• y•ar •nd•d" Chwlty no111 •nyl: C)5a8 I rel to the tru8t8es on my ex8nwkn Oft accowth oltr abo thaiity fft Tpjsn for th yed 311 Ill Joii Ro•poMlbllttl•• and b•l• ol roport the requirem of the Chalies Act 2011 Prt). I feport kn resp1 ofmy exanlnalkn oftt Trwt's al¥ ced SOdk 145 ofth8 2011 Act #rk1 In caffwr¥ (xrt my examkn4l. I have fOthyd 41 8prlc8ble Dtrecll( 9fj¥ by Charty Commisslon urth se¢fion 1445llb) of Ihe A( Ind•p•ndgTht •x•mln•fs •tat•m ]1. CknglJrfrKY appknbla th•t in, any rnalerfal resp8¢t: • ts accnts dxl not corytyrf vAth the appkable clMKwn9 the f(mn and conlent of ac£owts $el out in ChaiitK88 (Acccxts aThl Repts) Rewd8li(Th 2C#)8 0[ th8n ary that ts accowl$ g¥e 0 1n is a Ma Mnsilered •8 part of an I Iwe no ccYKewo and h8¥e $8 fm) crtlw m•ttw5 kn ccm8ctlon wh the examlnalitin to attention sh(MA t dr4 In tris rw ui order to on8b a proper whjerstandhg of tr* Name: IER Oct 2018
9lalItyS1 or b fjf) CCAG LMA II Q-rfLA.- 6oLoL) C JoQroL kJlli 2AS D1•clo Only cLpte If the examlner needs to hlghlwlt materlal matters of concem {see CC32. Independent examinatlon of charlty accounts; direcllons and guidance forexaminersl. 6+ here detalls of It•ms examlner wlsh•s dlsdos• ER Oct 2018
A Year in Review Annual Report on 2021
Welcome to the report booklet prepared for the St Mary's Annual Meetings on Tuesday 26 April 2022. The reports in this booklet are on church activities in 2021. Please do try to come to the meeting which starts at 7.30pm in the Church Hall. There is a service of Holy Communion at 7pm prior to the meeting.
The agenda for the meeting is enclosed and a full report on church activities for you to read before the meeting. There will be a chance to ask questions on the reports but as usual the reports themselves won't be read out. You will find the accounts in a supplement in the centre of the booklet and you can find the minutes of last year's meeting, which we need to approve, at the back.
Revd Matthew Jackson, April 2022
for the Annual Parochial Church Meeting of St Mary’s Church Attleborough
Tuesday 26 April 2022 7.30pm in the Church Hall and on Zoom preceded by Holy Communion at 7pm
Registered Charity No: 1130508
ST MARY’S CHURCH – ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2021
THE ANNUAL PARISH CHURCH MEETING Tuesday 26 April 2022 at 7.30pm in St Mary’s Church Hall and on Zoom
AGENDA
Administrative information
St Mary’s Church, Attleborough is part of the Norwich Diocese in the Thetford & Rockland Deanery. The correspondence address is St Mary’s Church Office, Church Street, Attleborough, NR17 2AH. The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is registered with the Charity Commission (Number: 1130508).
Meeting 1
-
1 Apologies for absence
-
2 Minutes of the last meeting (13 April 2021) 3 Election of three Churchwardens
-
4 Close of meeting
Structure, governance and management
The function and purpose of the PCC is outlined in the Parochial Church Councils (Powers) Measure 1956.
The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. All Church attendees are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC.
Meeting 2
-
1 Apologies for absence
-
2 Minutes of the previous APCM/Matters arising (13 April 2021) 3 Elections Parochial Church Council – four places for three years
-
4 Reports:
-
a. PCC
-
b. Churchwardens
- (including Fabric, presentation of Log Book and Terrier)
-
c. Presentation of Church Accounts
-
d. Chairman’s report: Revd Matthew Jackson
-
5 Opportunity to ask questions on the reports in this booklet 6 Appointment of Independent Examiner
-
7 Presentation and Adoption of Electoral Roll 8 Appointment of Sidespeople
-
9 Any other business, including time for general discussion of any matters of concern which may be brought to the meeting
A short meeting of the new PCC will follow this meeting
Objectives and activities
St Mary’s PCC has the responsibility of co-operating with the Incumbent and Churchwardens in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.
It also has maintenance responsibilities for the building.
The main activities of the PCC are the provision of church services, baptisms, weddings, funerals, youth and children’s work and teaching adults through home and prayer groups.
PCC membership and Report
Members of the PCC are either ex officio or elected at the Annual Parish Church Meeting (APCM), in accordance with the Church Representation Rules. During the year the following served as members of the PCC:
| Incumbent: | Revd Matthew Jackson | (Chairman) |
|---|---|---|
| Assistant Priest: | Revd Andrew Slater | |
| Assistant Curate: | Revd Richard Washington | (from July 2021) |
| _Licensed Lay Minister {PtO)_Robert Andrews | ||
| Licensed Lay Minister | Brenda Greig | (also Deanery Synod rep) |
| Churchwardens: | David Bartington | |
| Marion Dawe | (Lay Vice-Chairman) | |
| Cherry Saunders | ||
| Deanery Synod rep: | Eileen Roberts |
Elected members: Catherine Buckley Carole Burt Sally Crockford Christopher MacKinnon Sharon Negus Emma Neve David Stubbert Susan Wilson Jonathan Tidnam Dorothy Woolliscroft Peter Wright Co-opted: Paul Andrew ( Fabric Officer) Director of Music: Ben Miller Secretary: Pat Buttolph Treasurer: Yvonne O’Dell
There are currently twenty one people serving on the PCC – eight ex-officio, twelve elected for a three-year term of office (including Deanery Synod representatives) and one co-option.
Pat Buttolph, Ben Miller and Yvonne O’Dell attend meetings as Secretary, Director of Music and treasurer respectively.
Sally Crockford, Sharon Negus and Jonathan Tidnam will retire after having completed a three year term of office, but are eligible to stand for a further three years if they wish. Peter Wright retires after having completed the maximum term of six years. We thank them for their commitment to the life of St Mary’s over this time.
There were 10 PCC meetings during 2021, with the first 7 of the year only on Zoom and meetings from September held in the Church Hall and also on Zoom. The average attendance at meetings during the year was 17.
Reports were given at meetings on finance, deanery matters, youth & children’s work, social & fundraising, church hall, fabric and music, when appropriate. Other business discussed and implemented during the year included general maintenance of the church, plans for the seasons of Lent, Easter, Advent and Christmas, working around Covid. Plans for the grand summer fete were discussed regularly.
Safeguarding was an item on each PCC meeting agenda.
An approved copy of the minutes of the most recent PCC meeting is always displayed on the notice board at the back of the church. Parishioners are encouraged to read the minutes and minutes of past meetings, which are available on request at the Church Office between Monday-Friday, 10-12 noon.
Pat Buttolph
On 31 December 2021 there were 121 parishioners on the Church Electoral Roll, of whom 32 were not resident within the parish.
Weekly attendance, taken on a ‘normal’ Sunday was 88 adults and 10 children, with online. Easter communicants numbered 86, Christmas communicants numbered 83. There were 22 baptisms during the year, 3 weddings, 22 funerals held in the church and 17 conducted at crematoriums or Colney Wood.
PCC account holders
Barclays Bank PLC, 45 Market Street, Wymondham, NR18 0AL. CCLA Investment Management Limited, The CBF Church of England Fund, Senator House, 85 Queen Victoria Street, London, EC4V 4ET.
Signed on behalf of the PCC by Revd Matthew Jackson 26 April 2022
REPORTS ON PARISH LIFE
Bell Ringing
There has been no ringing done during the pandemic due to covid restrictions and the severe lack of available ringers. We hope to begin ringing again in April 2022. Before the pandemic a large proportion of ringers were elderly, aged 80 years or more, and few younger people were taking up ringing due to the time commitment needed to become proficient. Many older ringers have now decided to stop ringing or to limit ringing to their home towers. We currently have 5 ringers attached to our tower, one fewer than needed as our 6th ringer has moved away, but ringing 5 bells still sounds good.
I will continue to try to get bands when asked but please be mindful that this is now much more difficult than before the pandemic.
Bible Study Group
Undaunted by Covid, the Monday evening Bible Study Group has continued to meet regularly during term time. The year began with Zoom meetings which enabled most of our regular members to take part, but as restrictions eased, we were able to move to the church hall, remaining socially distant but able to talk face to face. A series of studies entitled “ What can we believe these days ” covered topics ranging from T he Bible in an age of science, Doubts, Miracles, and Sharing our faith . More recently we have been thinking about The Fruit of The Spirit . New members are always welcome, and no knowledge of the Bible is required!
Bob Baker
Church attendance
Children’s Society
The covid pandemic curtailed many of our usual fund raising events in 2021 however we were finally allowed to empty house collecting boxes. This was a momentous occasion and we counted £799.20 which was then taken to the bank in a wheeled suitcase!
In November we were able to hold a coffee morning, which again was well supported and raised £369.62. This included some generous donations. Thank you to all who have continued to support the Society and especially the seven people who have taken new house boxes. We shall take them in for emptying at our next coffee morning in June.
The work of the Children’s Society has been active during the pandemic as more children than ever have needed help and encouragement. My sincere thanks to those who continue to help.
Pauline Parnell-Hopkinson
Christian Aid
The challenges brought on by Covid and the range of restrictions including a national lockdown for the first three months of 2021 meant the Group had to come up with new money-raising ideas and, as the Norfolk motto goes, “Do Different”.
This we did, and a Tana Lawn Cushion Draw, Easter Egg Raffle and Adopt a Country Appeal were introduced to replace the curry evening, Lent lunches, the main quiz, and the concert. These events together with the established knit-in, wine tasting evening, an Autumn quiz and the Benefice Christmas card enabled the Group to raise more than £5700 for Christian Aid. USAID match-funding of 17:1 on £1850 of this translated into an additional £31,450 being generated. In addition, delivery-only envelopes enabled £764 to be raised for Christian Aid Week.
I am grateful to be part of such a supportive Group which in turn is given tremendous support from the clergy and congregation at St Mary’s and increasingly (and pleasingly) from outside the church.
Peter Wright
Church Hall
Due to the Covid pandemic, the Hall had to be closed for a while and the Day Centre was suspended.
After a while the Day Centre were able to use the kitchen at a reduced hire rate to enable hot meals to be prepared on 5 days per week and delivered around the town.
The Hall committee has not met during the last 2 years as there was no reason, but we hope to be calling a meeting shortly to catch up. After many years Anne Tinker
has retired as secretary and we are all indebted to her for her long service and hard work. Andrea Lawson has kindly agreed to take on the role.
As you will see from the accounts the Hall income has been very modest as for some time we were not able open, and then only for limited use. As everything seems to be settling down now we look forward to returning to full strength before long.
David Stubbert, Chairman
Churchwardens
As I write this report I reflect on yet another year like no other. We have had restrictions lifted but as a community have remained cautious. A prudent measure. As wardens we have undertaken some of the duties you would expect prior to lockdown but to comply with the covid-19 regulations we did not undertake our usual duties. We still did our best to get the services to run smoothly and to offer a welcome to everyone but it has been a challenge behind a mask !
Newcomers were asked for a name for test and trace… not our usual style but I know we got to know a few more people this way so every cloud … AS I write this we are looking forward to back to normal… many of us have had covid 19 but we need to be mindful of all who remain scared or hesitant or who have just got out of the habit of coming to church.
My thanks go to my fellow wardens, David and Cherry, both of whom have worked tirelessly to make sure things run smoothly. Our thanks to everyone who has worked hard to ensure the life and witness at St Mary’s has continued.
Marion Dawe
Coffee & Chat
It was a real joy to be able to open Coffee and Chat in September 2021, to greet old friends and to welcome some new faces too, tinged also with some sadness for the people that are no longer able to join us.
We are continuing much as before, although I think everyone will agree that Sean is not only missed for his company but also for the delicious scones and cakes that he kindly baked for us. We do thank him for his devotion and generosity. It has also been strange not to have Robert with us in the kitchen. I know many of you enjoyed his unique ‘humour’, and I have certainly missed his administration and accounting skills. Happily, he is now back in the UK and has told me that he has not hung up his pinny yet!
We are blessed with a team of lovely volunteers, who willingly give up their Saturday mornings to help with the running of Coffee and Chat; thank you ladies and gents, your help is invaluable and your smiles welcoming.
We do thank all our regular guests for their support not just for returning after the pandemic, but also before. I know that some of you have been coming to Coffee and Chat for many, many years.
We are a non-profit group and the funds that we raise are distributed to mainly local charities. Since September 2021, with the support of our customers we have been able to donate to the following causes;
Uganda Support Fund, Drop In and Play, St Martins Housing Trust. Total donation amount of £200.00
We also received a donation from Catherine Clark who sold her cards when the Listening Ear group came on 23 October. The amount was £12.00. If you run a local charity/organisation, or would like to suggest one, please let me know as we would be pleased to be able to help you financially if we can. Finally, if you have yet to visit us, please do. We are open every Saturday (apart from Christmas week) from 10am to 11.30am.
Alison Sayer
Community Lunch
We are a very friendly group who usually meet on the first, third and fifth Fridays of the month. We gather in the church hall from 12.00 onwards, aiming to serve the meal at 12.30 p.m. Diners each bring a small raffle prize and pay 20 pence for two raffle tickets; the proceeds go towards Christmas gifts for diners and volunteers. We did not meet between March 2020 and September 2021. When we resumed, we asked the Day Centre to provide us with our first course, which is always delicious and plentiful. Dorothy supplies a variety of puddings. We have a loyal band of volunteers who set the tables, serve the meals and wash up. The meal costs £6 and is intended for those who live alone and would benefit from a good midday meal enjoyed in company. Applications should be made via the Rector.
Dorothy Woolliscroft
Drop-in & Play
Drop in and Play started again in May 2021 under the new name of Book in and Play in order to meet contemporary government coronavirus guidelines. This in itself was no mean feat as we were managing the group before the July target of all adults being offered Covid vaccines. However, guided by the Local Outbreak Management team in Wymondham we were able to produce and implement an appropriate Covid 19 Risk Assessment which served us well. Due to Covid rates we opted to give provision in term time only. Our main priority was to afford enough space for adults and children to meet and play safely in a Covid secure environment. Alison Sayer sourced new and beautiful baby blankets and an abundance of ergonomically designed baby toys. Each baby was given their own “pod” with a thick blanket and their own box of toys for use in the session to avoid cross contamination. This system was welcomed by parents and is still in use at the time of writing. We split the Hall into defined Baby and Toddler areas to facilitate safe play and provided a changing weekly provision of crafts, miniature world, books, puzzles and games. Alison produced beautiful Play Plans to help support this new way of working. We had many comments expressing gratitude that at long last parents could socialise their tots and babies in a group environment to help improve their development which had suffered in the isolation of the pandemic. We served roughly 20 families according to our track and trace register, with average weekly attendance between 12- 16 children albeit with big variations depending on infection rates and illness. As Covid rules relaxed we very gradually eased our infection control protocols, so that by the end of the year we were able to introduce singing at the request of parents. At Christmas Matthew showed the group a charming cartoon version of the Christmas Story as seen through the eyes of a mouse living in the stable. 10 hard back books about the Christmas Story were given to families. I would like to take this opportunity to say a sincere thank you to Alison, Joan, Margaret, Jenny, Jonathan, Linda, Catherine and Barbara for their dedicated solid hard work in making the group such a success.
Cherry Saunders
Deanery Synod
There were two meetings of the Thetford & Rockland Deanery Synod in 2021. The first of these was on 20 June at Eccles, this being the first meeting since September 2019! Revd Canon Steve Wright was Commissioned as Rural Dean at this meeting by the Rt Revd Alan Winton, following Revd Matthew Jackson retiring from this role after 11 years.
The second meeting was on 19 October at Old Buckenham when Revd Canon Steve Wright led us in discussion on the subject of ‘Diocesan Vision and Reality – What can happen when the two collide?’
St Mary’s representatives on the Synod are Brenda Greig and Eileen Roberts, with myself as Secretary.
Electoral Roll
The past year has seen 4 additional names added to the Electoral Roll and 3 people who sadly died during the year have been removed. The current total, as at 4 April 2022, stands at 123.
Carole Burt
Fabric
During 2021 no structural work was carried out on St Mary’s.
At the beginning of the year the diocese informed the PCC of a scheme that offered help in installing roof alarms to the church as several churches around East Anglia had lead stripped from their roofs. Although it was felt that our building was
Pat Buttolph
safer than rural churches, the PCC agreed to having an alarm fitted, which was installed on 28 May.
During the early spring an area of plaster fell from the wall close to the south (link) door. We have received a quote for repair (£2,500); the company who quoted specified that their workload was such that they couldn’t take on the work
immediately. It was felt that as long as there was no danger in prolonging the repair, this should be delayed.
In August the heating boilers were serviced and in November an in-depth electrical survey was carried out by Alan Cross Electricians. This is required for insurance purposes.
Paul Andrew
Foodbank
The Methodist Church is closing, Pastor Sean will be delivering his last sermon over the Easter period. I’m pleased to report, that the Foodbank will continue to have access to the Church Hall and facilities for some time, but no definite finite date. In regard to an alternative suitable premises, that is in the hands of the Thetford Trussell Trust.
We are currently running with two small teams on a fortnightly rota, to serve the need of the local community, every Saturday morning. This has been the situation since the onset of the Covid pandemic. We are now looking for volunteers especially Team Leaders which will enable expansion of the rota.
We receive many food donations from individuals and the local Churches, which is most appreciated. There is always a greater need over holiday periods, Christmas was very busy and we were able to provide extra festive food, including frozen chickens and various meat joints.
Our volunteer Teams are there to serve and help, often people have a need to talk and share their problems; we are good listeners! Pastor Sean was available every Saturday, providing pastoral care and good advice on many personal problems and issues, he will be greatly missed.
Peter Rowles
Flowers
2021 was a disrupted year for us all and when on 4 January we went into lockdown, schools closed and church became an online event. Flowers in church stopped too of course. What joy therefore to be able to arrange flowers again for Easter in April.
Thank you to the people who have given donations in memory of loved ones or in celebration of special occasions. Our weekly flowers are appreciated by members of the congregation and visitors.
Thank you to the ladies who take a turn to arrange our pulpit flowers and to Joan Smith who assists me in many ways in the planning at festivals. New arrangers are welcome.
Donations can be given to Pat in the church office for flowers at any time but particularly for festivals.
Pauline Parnell-Hopkinson
Friday Fun Club
This group met infrequently during the last year and there was an element of stop start due to the pandemic. Our fundraising activities came to a halt as did any of the other things we did. We managed to keep in touch and have now resumed our regular sessions and look forward to many exciting new opportunities.
Marion Dawe
Friends of St Mary’s Church
A quiet year for the ‘Friends’, The trustees have met and the clerk has ensured we have complied with charity regulation. Funds have slowly accumulated through regular giving and donations coming through ‘Easyfundraising’.
As we move out of Covid restrictions it is hoped to become more proactive, though this may need to be considered in the context of wider Church Building development plans.
James Trounce, Chair and Treasurer
Gift Aid
In 2021 we were able to claim back from HMRC the sum of £11951.47 on donations made by people who had either signed a gift aid declaration or used one of the yellow envelopes. This figure includes our annual allowance for plate collections.
The designated weekly envelopes were used by 14 people of which 5 were gift aided. Monthly bank standing order donations were made by 53 people and 44 of these were gift aided.
During the periods when the church was closed due to the pandemic, more use was made of the options to donate online and by direct credit to the bank. When the church is open it is also possible to donate via the card reader. Now that there are several different ways to donate it is important that donors consider whether they are able to gift aid their donations. If they can, a signed gift aid declaration is required which enables us to claim an extra 25% at no cost to the donor.
Please contact me if you would like a gift aid declaration form or if you are not sure if you are eligible to gift aid.
Arthur Peters
Magazine distribution and collation
The Link is issued ten times per year. The price remains 50 pence per copy (£5 per year). Four hundred copies are printed in house by Pat Buttolph and a new cover is created for each month. Christine Beales arranges for local firms to advertise in the magazine and heads the collation team which meets usually on the last Thursday or Friday in the month. Nineteen distributors then deliver to the subscribers on their round. What used to be the Diocesan News magazine is now discontinued, but news from the Norwich diocese is now available weekly on their website.
For a few months during the pandemic The Link did not appear, but soon became available monthly on the parish website, as it still is. Last year all subscriptions were collected in June to bring all payments in line and they will henceforth be collected in June for the following year. After a baptism the family receives the magazine free for a year.
May I thank once again those who collate and distribute. I do urge all members of our congregation to read the magazine. It contains details of coming events, reports on our activities and interesting articles. Recently we have made a great effort to increase the variety and interest of the magazine’s content and the Rector will welcome contributions from parishioners.
D o rothy Woolliscroft
Mothers’ Union
Following an 18 month break during the Covid pandemic we were finally able to meet in September 2021.
A general meeting was held to discuss the way forward for the branch in the coming year. As our branch leader had been unable to continue through ill health, it was decided to run the branch by committee. Many of our existing members attended this meeting, plus three new people who transferred from other branches having moved to the area and who are now members of our congregation. The October meeting was a social event where members could introduce themselves to others and in November we looked at the long history of our church including a tour of the church pointing out interesting details. Our annual carol service followed by refreshments took place in December and we had arranged a full programme of speakers and events for the coming year. Discussions with High Oak and Wymondham Abbey branches took place with the hope that we can collaborate more closely in future, joining together for some meetings and events.
We are very fortunate to have excellent support from our clergy and a positive response from our members which will enable us to keep this branch moving forward.
Music
The COVID-19 pandemic has continued to affect music-making at St Mary’s this year, with the choir not permitted to sing at services during the spring lockdown. During this time, the weekly 10am Sunday service was streamed online from the church, with hymns played on the organ, and the choir had a go at some online singing (although it was agreed by all that singing together is much easier in person!). Following an easing in the government restrictions, we were permitted to have singers again during Holy Week, with soloists providing music on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, and a quartet of socially distanced singers singing on Easter Eve (including a joyful rendition of Mozart’s Spatzenmesse ) and Easter Day. Over the following weeks, services were sung by either men’s voices or upper voices (all socially distanced by two metres), occasionally joining together for larger services including a successful “Hymns from home” so that members of the congregation could sing hymns together from home. Unfortunately, the rules changed again in May meaning that only groups of 6 singers were permitted, but the choir nobly rose to this challenge and a rota system was soon established to allow four-part harmony to return! At the end of June, we resumed our monthly Choral Evensong, and by July congregational hymn singing was back (although with face masks) and the full choir was able to return and sing through the entire summer. In the autumn the choir resumed a relatively normal schedule of rehearsals and services, singing for the weekly 10am Parish Eucharist and monthly services of Choral Evensong, plus occasional extra evening services. The men again sang for the Patronal Festival at All Saints’ Church, Besthorpe, and the full choir enjoyed singing for Choral Evensong at Harvest (3 October), Eucharist on Christ the King (21 November, including Mozart’s Missa Brevis in D, KV 194 ) and two Christmas carol services at Besthorpe and St Mary’s (19 December).
It has been heartening to receive so much support from members of the choir throughout all the difficulties of this year – even when COVID-19 guidance and rules have changed at relatively short notice! I’m pleased to report that numbers in the choir have remained steady, although unfortunately several choristers have not returned after the lockdowns and restrictions on our singing. That said, we have three very dedicated choristers who sing with us regularly, and I’m hopeful that we can rebuild the number of choristers as we emerge from the pandemic. The choir is always on the look-out for new members (both adults and children), so do please get in touch if you might be interested in finding out more about joining. Despite the pandemic, we were able to hold two concerts in 2021, including a performance by early music trio Hexachordia (23 May) and an organ and
harpsichord recital by Malcolm Archer (former Director of Music at Wells and St Paul’s Cathedrals), including a selection from Bach’s Goldberg Variations (28 August). We were also kindly gifted a grand piano for the church, so many thanks to the donor (who wishes to remain anonymous) for this very generous gift, which will be used to support our music-making over the coming years. In addition, we were awarded a grant by Youth Music to establish a music outreach programme for
Mary Dark
children in the local community, working in partnership with the Norfolk Music Hub. This grant will be used to fund a part-time music outreach worker to be based at St Mary’s and working with local schools from 2022, and will kick start our music project.
Overall, the year has not been without its troubles, but I’m pleased to report that music-making has been able to continue strongly at St Mary’s over the last 12 months. None of this would be possible without the support of many people, so many thanks to all members of the choir, our organists (especially Nigel Waring, Assistant Director of Music, but also David Barnard, Simon Cole, Bob Gee and David Hilton as assistant organists covering occasional services), and the parents of the choristers, for all their commitment and support over the past year. Thanks also go to all of those who have supported our concerts, events and who have donated to the choir fund and help fundraise for the music project.
The organ has experienced a few minor faults over the past year, as expected with an ageing instrument, but these have been repaired by EJ Johnson & Son Ltd, who continue to maintain and tune the organ. Faculty permission has now been granted for the proposed organ rebuild. Choir funds this year have been used to purchase new copies of music (anthems and communion service settings).
Ben Miller
Open the Book
As with so many activities, regular Open the Book (OTB) presentations in schools came to an abrupt end in March 2020. Though Matthew was able to resume assemblies online, the OTB teams did not function through most of 2021 because of the Covid restrictions in place in schools.
However, with the installation of the new camera and sound system in St Mary’s in the first half of 2021, it became apparent that this could be used to broadcast live OTB presentations into assemblies at Attleborough Primary, without the need to be physically present. After receiving a positive response to the idea from the school, Matthew asked Richard to take on this project and discuss it with the members of the OTB teams.
In October 2021 it was decided with the teams to test out the viability of doing this during a regular 10am Service at St Mary’s. All 10am Eucharists are now broadcast live on YouTube providing an effective testing environment. There was also the added benefit of allowing the regular 10am congregation a chance to get a better sense of this important element of our church community’s mission and evangelism to young people.
The All Saints’ Service on 31 October was chosen because the Gospel reading for that day (John 11.32-44) corresponded exactly to Module 4/1 of the Year Three Bible Story Book . The plan was announced in the weeks before All Saints’ with an invitation to all church members to join the project should they wish to.
Working together as one team, seasoned team members, joined by some new faces, planned and rehearsed the presentation. They then presented the story during the service on 31 October in place of the sermon. It went well and was well received, showing that an online broadcast could work as a means of presenting Bible stories to children in assemblies. Equally, the successful presentation led to a renewed sense of purpose for the project and a plan to start broadcasts direct into Attleborough Primary from January 2022.
Warm and heartfelt thanks to all involved for their enthusiasm, talents and commitment and for what was a fun, fulfilling and engaging experience.
Richard Washington
Safeguarding
The Church of England states clearly that, “The care and protection of children, young people and adults involved in church activities is the responsibility of everyone who participates in the life of our church.”
Over the past year, we have sought to help people involved at Saint Mary’s to understand their responsibilities and to know what to do if they have a concern. A new safeguarding poster and a leaflet have been produced with contact details and information about what to do.
In January, a short presentation took place after the 10.00 a.m. Eucharist. Twentyeight questionnaires were completed regarding safeguarding practice which allowed me to get a snap shot of what further training may be necessary. The results were presented to a P.C.C. meeting in February and were also published in the Parish Magazine. The questionnaires were anonymous and informed a discussion after they were completed as part of the presentation.
Safeguarding does not have to be a complicated thing. If you have a concern about anybody involved in a church activity, please pass it on. All concerns will be taken seriously and will be discussed. If necessary, they will be passed on to the diocesan safeguarding officers for their consideration.
Safeguarding is everybody’s responsibility. Please never be afraid of raising a concern.
Andrew Slater
Servers
Over the last two years the Serving team have spent a good deal of time in “hibernation”.
When we were able to recommence activities it was, of necessity, in a very modest way and we all look forward to being “back to normal” at Easter.
Many of you will have noticed that Margaret Smith and Jasmin Jackson have now retired. We are very grateful for their unstinting work over many years and wish them a restful retirement.
We have been fortunate that Mike Rayner has been a very enthusiastic addition to our serving team as he has a lifetime of serving experience to share. Paul has been able to return after a short break and we look forward to Nina’s return in the summer, when we all hope to be back stronger and fitter.
We have been blessed with a great team, willing to learn something new, and very helpful and cooperative and we are all most grateful for their continued work to the Glory of God.
As usual if anyone feels called to this ministry please contact me, or any of the clergy; no previous experience is necessary.
David Stubbert
Sidespeople
Our excellent sides people have had very little continuity in their roles this year. Meet and greet seemed to consist of signing in and washing hands and keeping our distance so we look forward with hope to the next year when we can get back to having our sidespeople to meet and greet as before. This is such a vital role in the church as we are often judged by the greeting we give.
Uganda Support Fund
Due to the ongoing pandemic, our fundraising in 2021 was very limited. Schools in Uganda remained closed until January 2022 but we sent some funds to New Glory School for ongoing maintenance which was made possible due to kind donations from individual supporters.
Scovia qualified as a midwife and we were able to support her with her nursing registration fees. Thank you to various supporters who continue to donate monthly.
Our regular stalls at coffee and chat have started again now and we are grateful for your support at these. Now that schools have opened in Uganda, we are continuing to support New Glory School and various individual children who require school fees.
Please do contact us for further information.
Clare Bakashaba & Sylvia Webster
Marion Dawe
Sunday Club
2021 was a challenging year in many ways and started with a national lockdown. This meant that Sunday Club was unable to meet safely until lockdown restrictions eased later in the year.
In the spring of 2021, Marion Dawes, who coordinated Sunday Club for many years and organised inspiring and creative lessons, decided to step down from the role. We are hugely grateful for all she has done for Sunday club during her time leading it and want to thank her for her dedication to the children and young people in St. Mary’s.
In June, COVID restrictions had eased, and Sunday Club was able to restart. We held lessons outside in the churchyard to begin with and moved back into the church hall once the weather turned cooler in the Autumn Term. It has been wonderful to see children coming together in Sunday Club again and I would like to thank all those who have supported Sunday Club this year by running sessions and supervising children.
It was a joy to be able to hold a nativity again this year. The children loved putting on their costumes and acting out the Christmas story. The nativity wouldn’t have taken place without Marion who wrote the script, cast the parts, and organised the children perfectly.
Lorna Goodrich
Minutes of the Annual Church Meetings held on Tuesday 13 April 2021 at 7.30pm on Zoom
1.
Annual Parochial Church Meeting
Apologies for absence
David Bartington, Catherine Buckley, Sharon Negus,
1.
Parishioners Meeting
Apologies for absence
David Bartington, Catherine Buckley, Sharon Negus.
2. Minutes of the APCM meeting held on 10 November 2020
It was proposed by David Stubbert, seconded by Eileen Roberts and agreed by all who had been present at this meeting that the minutes were an accurate record of proceedings and these were signed by the Chairman accordingly.
Twenty six people were in attendance at this Zoom meeting.
3. Elections
2.
Minutes of the Parishioners meeting held on 10 November 2020
It was proposed by Brenda Greig, seconded by Susan Wilson and agreed by all who had been present at this meeting that the minutes were an accurate record of proceedings and these were signed by the Chairman accordingly.
3.
Election of churchwardens
The Rector thanked the Churchwardens of the past difficult year, Paul Andrew, Marion Dawe and Ed Tyrer for their hard work and support. Ed had fulfilled the maximum of 6 years in this role and Paul wished to stand down from this post owing to other commitments and all expressed their thanks to them for the work they had given to St Mary’s as Churchwardens.
Nominations for three churchwardens for the year April 2021/2022 had been put forward before the meeting.
Churchwardens are elected annually and usually cannot stand for more than 6 years in succession.
| David Bartington Marion Dawe Jacqueline (Cherry) Saunders |
Proposer Edward Tyrer Anne Tinker Paul Andrew |
Seconder Marion Dawe Cliff Amos Eileen Roberts |
|---|---|---|
With there being no further nomination forms received by the Chairman prior to the meeting the above elections were agreed unanimously.
The meeting closed at 7.35pm.
4. Close of meeting
(a) PCC members (four places for three years)
At the APCM in 2011 it had been agreed that although PCC members stand for a period of 3 years, members could be put forward to be elected for a further 3 year period, but could not stand for more than 6 years in succession.
The following were proposed and seconded to stand on the Attleborough PCC for a three year term:
| Catherine Buckley Chris MacKinnon Emma Neve Dorothy Woolliscroft |
Proposer Mary Dark Sally Crockford Ben Miller Pauline Parnell-Hopkinson |
Seconder Susan Wilson David Stubbert Emma Jackson Yvonne O’Dell |
|---|---|---|
2 Reports
Reports of the PCC, Deanery Synod and Churchwardens (including Fabric) were presented.
The Terrier and Log Book had been updated during the year and were available for inspection in the church office.
(b) Treasurer
Presentation of Audited Church Accounts for year ending 31.12.2020
In the Treasurer’s absence the Chairman presented the accounts for the year ending 31 December 2020.
These had been approved by the PCC and signed by the Chairman and Treasurer at a PCC meeting on 9 March 2021 for presentation to the APCM.
With there being no questions raised, it was proposed by Dorothy Woolliscroft, seconded by Susan Wilson, and agreed by all present that the accounts for 2020 be commended.
The Chairman wished to record his thanks to treasurer Yvonne O’Dell for her conscientious dedication and sound handling of the St Mary’s finances.
(c) Rector’s Report
Revd Matthew Jackson gave his report as Rector of the parish and Chairman of the Attleborough PCC.
A copy of this would be printed in the May 2021 edition of The Link parish magazine and filed on record with the 2020 Annual Report. Printed copies were also available on the table at the back of the church.
6.
Appointment of Independent Examiner
Thanks was expressed to Anne Lister who had been the Independent Examiner for the 2020 accounts but felt that she did not wish to continue in this role.
It was therefore proposed by Dorothy Woolliscroft, seconded by David Stubbert and agreed by all present that George Ridgway be appointed Independent Examiner for the coming year.
With their being no further nominations the above was duly appointed. It was agreed that Anne Lister be presented with a gift from the PCC in thanks for her work as Examiner in 2020.
7. Presentation and adoption of Electoral Roll
There were 122 members on the Church Electoral Roll as at 29 March 2021. It was proposed by Marion Dawe, seconded by Susan Wilson and agreed by all present that the 2020/21 Roll be adopted.
The Rector wished to record his thanks to Carole on behalf of the parish for her work as Electoral Roll Officer throughout the year.
8. Appointment of sidespeople
Owing to the current Covid restrictions regarding sidespeople it was agreed that that these elections be deferred until the next APCM.
9. Any Other Business
(a) Thank you to Matthew
Marion Dawe thanked Matthew, on behalf of the parish, for his dedicated ministry and leadership as Rector during the past year. Also to Matthew’s wife Emma and his family for their vital support behind the scenes.
10. Close of meeting
The meeting closed at 8.10pm with The Grace being said together.