ASHFORD BAPTIST CHURCH With a Mission at Boughton Aluph Ashford Baptist Church ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2023 Legal and Administrative Information las 3t 31 December 20231 Mlnlsters Rev Lorna Clark Sylvester and Rev Roh Sylvester (Appointed 0106 20151 Secretary Helen Wilson IRe-Elected 010123- 4th Yearl Treasurer Asslstant Treasurer Book Keeper Samuel Deans (Elected 17 05 23. Resigned 14 11231 Vacant Lynn Oliver Youth, Famllies and Community Worker Louisa Ley (Appointed 15 05 231 Children'5 Worker and Administrator Rachael Cox (Appointed 30 05 231 Deacons Helen Wilson (Elected 0101 181 Laxmiprasad (Daniell Rèi IElecled 0101211 Man Kumar ljohnl Sunwar (Elected 0101211 Rachel Phipps (Elected 0101 22. Resigned 06 11231 Jamie Phipps (Elected 010122. Resigned 06 11 231 Quentin Ma IElected 0101231 stephen Ley (Elected 010123. Resigned 20 11131 Sammy Deans (Elected 17 05 23. Resigned 14 1112 The Deacons and Ministers together comprise the Managing Trustees of the Church Registered Charity Numbey 1130593 Principal Address Ashford Baptist Church Saint john's Lane A5hford, Kent TN23 IPS Governing Document Church Constitution adopted on 20 03 2008 lamended on 06 07 221 Independent Examiner Katherine Reka FCCA Office 43, Cobalt Building 1600 Eureka Park Lower Pemberton Ashford Kent TN25 4BF Bankers HSBC Bank plc 39 High Street Ashford, Kent TN24 8TG Lloyds Bank 81 High Street Ashford, Kent TN24 85S Ministers, Annual Report 2023 Forgelling ivhul is beliind and slraining towards wlial is alieocl, press on lowurds the goal to win ilie prizefor wliicli God lias cftlled me lieavenwarils in Christ Jesus. PliilippianJ 3,.13-14 The year 2023 was the second full year back in the church building foT face-to-face worship.... we thank God for his faithfulness throughout the year, another extraordinary time, in the everyday life of the family of God here at ABC. The year began as it ended in 2022 with more and more friends from the Home Office being accommodated at the Holiday Inn. Kennington, coming to us for welcome, worship and belonging. Families and individuals from all over the world finding a home. and safety among us. Iranian and Albanian asylum seekers joined us, as well as others. The church response was amazingly generously with time, resources, kindness. welcome and hospitality. We received much from our new friends, in tenns of new perspectives on faith, friendship and knowing that as "we did it for one of th¢ least of these, we did it for Jesus" [Matthew 251. Some of our new fi'iends Came to faith others confirnied their faith sharing in baptism and coming into church membership, many too becoming involved in the team and ministry at ABC, sharing moving testimonies of the countries and conditions they had fled from, We have a pennanent reminder of our new friends in the painting in the sanctuary that Maryam did, of Jesus and the Woman at the Well in John 4, the lectern hanging that Negar made for the church and the Iranian Old Teslameni book that Haleh, Negar. and Zeynab made, by our Iranian believer friends. Also, others contributed to the sharing of Iranian music in worship, with Asrna and her son Arsan and Denisa sharing in the worship team - others in welcoming and hospitality, serving in their n¢w home. During 2023 the other 5ignifi¢ant movement of famtlies and individuals from the majority world, also cam¢ to work in Ashford and brought their faith and experience of God to ABC. Again, brining significant growth and variety to ABC. We are blessed that many in ABC who have been at the church for a long time saw this growth in the church as an answer to their prayers for new p¢ople and Children to re energis¢ us. Colossians 2.2-4 [MSG] -we want God to weave us together - Paul to ihe Colossians Iwantyou woven ip7to a tapestry oflove, info a truly multi-culiural community ofGod For some years we had been exploring the possibility of employing staff workers and had b¢¢n unable to find the right resource. Because of the increased numbers of families, Children, and youth, we felt an urgent need to resource this and appointed two part-time slaff workers from within the Church. to minister in the area of children's work and admin, youth, community ana r¢fugees, on a 3-y¢ar contract. In tem)s of Sundays, we were enriched by the contribution of many throughout the year- in Sunday groups for children and youth. welcoming, hospitality, worship, and technology. Preaching included the early church, Acts of th¢ apostles, and the Psalms in all theii. variety - Wlth baptisms, dedications and many coming into church membership. Our Nepalese Community continued their worship Sunday by Sunday and their regular 2pM Service time, as well as serving within the morning congi'egation. Boughton Chapel with th¢ii' community lunches, Coffee mornings and outreaches, engaged locally, as well as a monthly communion Se￿iCe on a Sunday. Our Minister Rob continued to chair CTA; having close relationships with the other churches in Ashford, ministering and worshipping together, with an emerging ministiy of chaplains to the Outlet shopping centre beginning. The changes continued in the late summer as we said goodbye to Phil Martin and Jane Martin leader of the music group and worship leader, Yespectively. They had played a huge part in the life of the church through the music and worship, and technology and now were moving on. Alison O'Donnel has taken on the leadership of the music group. In temis of the fabric of the church, whilst we stAII await the completion of the building proje¢t. refurb continued with a gift day and generous giving, so that there is now a fund for new lighter chairs and tables and perhaps new flooring too - all helpful with the different type of s¢rvi¢es we do and the multi-use of the worship space. We continued to think about our community and i'emaining safe and to that end, all thos¢ working with families, children, and vulnerable adults, continued to train with SEBA to have DBS. We showed the Level I Safeguarding Training Video within the Sunday service again for everyone to see. Additionally, we r¢stricted our livestreaming of Se￿i¢¢S to community members only. So, we look back with wonder and awe, much thankfulness for one another and for Our God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, an unchanging loving God, steadfast and active in times of change for all of us at ABC. Rev Lorna Sylvesler-minisker March 2024 [on behalf ofLorna and Rob Sylvesterjoinl pnini¥lers Church Secretary's Report 2023 Reflecting back over our church life this past year, it has been a busy year and has flown by for me. God has continued to bless us wlth more children and young people. It has been a privilege to welcome many new people from other parts of the country and the world, including refugee5 and asylum seekers, and to see them settle into the life of the church and become members. We have also experienced others moving away. We have celebrated 7 baptisms and 2 dedicatlons. We were pleased to employ a part-time Administrator and Children's Worker and a Family, Youth and Community Worker in May 2023. Handing over the daily admlnistration has been a blessing for me. We have seen our children's and youth work flourish, for which we give thanks. This year, we have again focused on community and fellowship events to enable us to get to know one another. This has included newcomers, lunches, curry evening, bluebell walk followed by afternoon tea and scones, BBQS, the paddle sport event in Hythe, coffee mornings and afternoons, Tearfund Qulz, and a Christmas Lunch and other events. Our café church style service has become a regular event. We enjoyed welcoming Joy Ransom from BMS, In October, as she retired from her work in Nepal and Peter and Andrea Frlzelle and famlly, for an extended stay from mid-December to January. Peter had opportunity to share more about hls work in Guatemala. Our Senior Support Team has provided themed lunches and talks every quarter,, the inclusion of communion has been a blessing to many. The Wednesday Women's Life Group has grown over the past year with a regular attendance of 18. We give thanks to those who have shared in the teaching. Our evenlng Life Groups have continued. Our Nepalese Fellowship continue to worship on Sunday afternoons. We give thanks forthe ongoing commitment of the Music Grouplworship Team, and especially for those who have stepped up In helping to lead worship, following Jane and Phil Martin leaving. The church'5 involvement in the Family, Food and Fun Project Ifunded by Ashford Together) has continued during the school holidays when able. It has been encouraging to open the church to the community of A5hford. We give thanks for all those involved and pray that funding will continue. We know there are many people who work in the background of church life, for which we Eive thanks.. _ our Sunday School Teachers, our Refreshment and Stewarding Teams, PA and Sound Desk Teams (assisting with Ilvestreamingl, communion servers, maintenance, cleaning, and security and others. I give thanks to those who have supported me. During this past year the leadership team have sought God's continued guidance and presence. As we came to the end of 2023,1 lookto the verses in Psalm 37: Commit your way to the Lord,. trust in him and he will do this" Helen Wllson l March 2024 SAFEGUARDING REPORT for 2023 Safeguarding involves a range of activities aimed at promoting every person's fundamental right to be safe. These include.. making and rnaintaining safe environments for all, having processes to follow should something go wrong, and providing support for everyone involved. 2023 has been a very busy year of highs and lows. March 18th was one of the highs. We had a happy and productive training day here at ABC which was led by the SEBA Safeguarding Lead, Wendy Mann. She visited earlier in the year to give encouragement as we welcomed in the surge of new children including those from the Holiday Inn and was very complimentary on the way the children's and young people's workers had adapted and adjusted. She was impressed with the knowledge she found here on the training day and the team spirit she found among us. One of the lows came when this wise and warm woman completed her life on earth and was taken quite suddenly. It felt like losing a friend of the church. 2023 ended without a replacement in place which proved tricky when a few complicated matters came along. As stated in our policy we work with outside agencies when the need arises. This year we have had the support of the police, the probation service, the London Baptist Association Safeguarding Lead,. the BU Safeguarding department and our SEBA Regional Minister. The Code of Behaviour which we began to work on last year was finally agreed by the members and is displayed for us all on the Safeguarding notice board. We note that this is good practice for us all not just our team of workers. In May the BU had provided some updates to the Safeguarding Policy and Procedures which were helpful. Whilst our church statement of intent about Safeguarding is displayed on the noti￿ board, the whole policy is comprehensive and quite lengthy so access via the BU website is accessible to us all. www.ba tist.or .uldsafe uardin In December the Safeguarding Team set to work to review our policy and practice using the BU Safeguarding Audit Tool. This proved to be a big task so completion was planned for the New Year. The church is blessed to have a strong safeguarding team and we are all very grateful for our conscientious team of workers and helpers. Margaret Woollven and Quentin Ma Boughton Chapel Annual Report- 2023 We continue to grow the Lunch Club and we are pleased that 3 new people from the village are now coming. For the Coffee Morning, we have added in a light lunch, and we have an average of 16 people coming along. We had the wall between the vestry and passageway removed, to make it into a useable room which is a much better use of space and has made it a lot lighter. Also, a new fire door has been fitted between the kitchen and the new room. We have continued to have a monthly communion service led by Lorna and once by Dayo which has been a great blessing to us. We are small in number but have a heart to serve God in this place. Yours in God's seNi Heidi and Alan Law 24 February 2024 Boys. Brigade and Girls, Association Annual Report- 2023 The 2022123 season was the first full year of having Girls in the company, we feel really blessed that the girls can continue in Brigades and it has enriched the company evening. Numbers steadily grew over the year with two non-church affiliated youth members volunteering to help in the Anchors and Juniors section for their D of E service award. Numbers In 2022 23 Anchor Boys 3 two church family children and one non-church family Anchor Glrls 3 two church family children and one attending another church with her famllv Junior Boys 6 four church family children and one attending another church wlth her family Junior Glrls Z one attending another church with her family and one non-church Company Boys 2 two from a non-church family Company Glrls 2 one church family child and one attending another church with her family Senior Boys 3 three boys from non-church family Senlor Glrls 3 three girls from non-church family tal hildren ij Cycle ride for company and seniors 17 We took a church service UVL Mrs COX Good morning Professor Wh'te We had a joint Junior, Company and Seniors Camp Whole company day trip to Adventure Island in Southend We said goodbye to Ashleigh Cole after 14 years in Brigades I kSHFORD BRIGADES 2009 TO 2023 TOTAL OF 14 VEARS We continued to run our normal cla5swork throughout the year. These included arts, crafts, sports, Christian falth and we paid our respects to the late Queen Elizabeth11 by laying some thank you messages and flower5 at Ashford Memorial Gardens. We lost 2 leaders durin8 the year, James Wilson took some time out to concentrate on h15 education and Liz Oliver left due to work commitments. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my BB helpers/Leaders for their support over 2022 and 2023 session. Mark Humphrie5, Liz Ollver, Nicola Oliver, Rachael Cox, Tracy Smlth, Jame5 Wilson, Jon Youngi Vicky Cole, Sarah Deans and Sammy Deans. Finally please pray that through all our activities we will be a witness to the love of God and bring our young people to making a commitment to follow our Lord and saviour. Regards Simon White Captain is¢ Ashford Boys, Brigade and Girls, Association. 6th March 2023 Review- Youth, Community and Familie5 work. May-Dec 2023 YOUTH The Youth provision has witnessed a signiflcant increase In participation among indlviduals aged 11-17. Thi5 rise can be attributed to both new families joining the church and an influx of refugee youth. Consequently, there has been a notable impact on overall attendance across various programmes such as the Youth Club, Sunday Groups, and events. From May to December, there has been a noticeable trend of young people attending multiple provlsions. For example, the Youth Club has experienced a substantial increase, with attendance rising from an average of 10 to 36 young individuals. A pivotal moment occurred during the Youth Fireworks Night on November 3rd, which served as a catalyst for unity between church-affiliated and non-affillated youth. Many young attendees from the church, as well as regulars from the Youth Club formerly distinct groups participated alongside numerous refugee youth. This event facilitated slgnificant interaction and the formation of new friendships. Moreover, the rlse in attendance has also led to greater gender diversitv, 35 there was previously disproportionate number of male attendees. Now, more girls are actively participating in the programmes offered. A considerable portlon of the youth attending the Sunday group identify as Christians and possess a fundamental understanding of the Bible. They are also comfortable openly dSscussing thelr faith and engaging in prayer. As the year draw5 to a close, a few young individuals have begun serving within the church alonEside adults or their parents. While there has been some interest from new Individuals in taking on leadership or helper roles within the youth provision, there remalns a requirement for an additional leader in the Sundav Group. Additionallyi It's worth noting that the Involvement of young people In serving within the church demonstrates a growing sense of responsibility and commitment to their faith community. This 10 engagement not only provides them with valuable opportunities for personal growth and development but also strengthens the bond between the youth and the broader church body. Furthermore, the wlllingness of new indivlduals to Step forward as leaders or helpers signifles a positive trend toward5 community engagement and support for youth activities. However, the ongoing need for an additional leader in the Sunday Group highlights the importance of continued recruitment efforts and the nurturlng of leadership skills among the youth themselves. What we have been praylng lor slnce May 2023: Young individuals would forge frlendships with each other, leading to a crossover between variou5 provisions. There is an increase in the attendance of girls at the Youth Group. Efforts are being made to cultivate more leaders. Young people are expected to deepen their faith. Young people would feel inte8rated into the church communitv, engaglng in service activities or shadowing adults in varlous capacitles. PRAYERS GOING FORWARD Into 2024 l. Spiritual Growth and Baptism: Pray that they continue to deepen their relationship with God, grow In their understanding of faith, and experience spiritual maturity. 'But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. 2 Peter 3:18 2. Emotional Health: Pray for their emotional resilience, inner peace, and the abillty to cope with any challenges or struggles they may face. 'Do not be anxious about anything, but in everv situation, by prayer and petltion, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4.'6-7 3. Physlcal Health: Pray for their physlcal well-belng, safety, and protection from illne55 or harm. 'He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings, you will find refuge. his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. Psalm 91.4 4. Academic Success. Wlsdorn, and Love for God: Pray for their academic endeavors, that they may excel in their studies• gain wisdom, and develop a love for learning, rooted in their love for God. 'For wisdom will come into your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Proverbs 2.'10. Pray also that they develop a deep love for God and His Word, finding delight in studying and applying Scripture to their lives. '1 delight In your decrees; I will not neglect your word." Psalm 119.16. S. Relationships: Pray for healthy friendships and positive influences in their lives, 35 well as guidance in their interactions with peers, family members, and authority figure5. 'Walk with the wlse and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm. Proverbs 13:20 6. Dlscernment: Pray that they have clarity and discernment In making decisions, especiallv regardlng Important life choices and peer pressure. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understandingi in all your ways Submit to hlm, and he will tnake your paths straight. Proverbs 3'.5-6 7. Purpose and Calllng: Pray that they discover and pursue thelr God-given talents, passions, and purpose in life, and that they find fulfillment In serving others and making a positive impact in the world."For we are God's handiwork, created in ChristJesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephe5ian5 2:10 8. Protection from Negatlve Influences: Pray for protection from negative Influences such as substance abuse, unhealthy relatlOn5hips, and harmful media or social pressures. The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer,. my God Is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. Psalm 18..2 9. OpportLJnitles for Growth: Pray that they encounter opportunities for personal and spiritual growth, mentorship, and leadership development within the church and community. "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Hebrews 10'.24 10. Boldness and Confldence: Pray that they have the courage and confidence to live out their faith boldly, share their beliefs with others, and be a light in their schools, neighborhoods, and social circles. 'For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."_ 2 Timothy I'.7 COMMUNITY It has been a bustling year for us with a notable influx of new faces joining our church communitv. Keeping up with the plethora of new name5 and individuals has presented its challenges. Among these newcomers, there has been a significant presence of individua15 from abroad, particularly from North African countries, many of whofft work at the local hospital. However, due to the demands of their shift patterns, forging connections wlth them has proven to be a bit challengin8 as their attendance at church tends to be irregular. Additlonally, there 15 a core 8roup of refugees who falthfully attend our church, and towards the latter part of the year, we welcomed a new wave of South American refugees who have started participating in activitles and occasionally attending church, albeit sporadicallv. Spring brought about some exciting outings for our congregation, including a delightful bluebell walk and a visit to the rare breeds centre, both of whlch were well-attended and enjoyed by all. Easter wa5 3 vibrant and bustling time with an Easter egg hunt that attracted new visitors, further enriching our community. The Easter Services were well-attended, culminating in a joyous celebration with Big Praise. Moreover, our prayer day was a notable success, drawing in a good number of participant5. It was held within the church premises, featuring varlous prayer stations that provided individuals with the opportunity to 51t, reflect, and flnd solace in the tranquility of prayer and stillness. During the summer, we hosted a serles of fantastic events, Wlth Paddlesport emerging as the hlghlight, drawing in a large crowd and leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. The allure of paddlesport attracted many to try their hand at It, while everyone relished in the camaraderie and delicious BBQfare offered. Another standout event was the Church BBQ which brought together a vibrant gathering of individuals for an evening of fellowship, conversation, and delectable food. While weekly opportunities for young people and children to meet didn't garner massive attendance, the church Still served as a welcoming Space for gatherings when needed. Interestingly, a particularly well-attended day coincided with rainy weather, prompting u5 to organise arts and crafts activlties for the children indoors. It was during this event that we had the pleasure of meetlng and connecting with new individuals. Through this initial encounter, they have slnce become regular attendees, enriching our community wlth their presence and participatlon. We orchestrated a couple of delightful picnics in the park, which garnered enthusiastic participation, despite the occasional challenge of enduring scorching hot days. These gathering5 provided moments of joy and relaxation for attendees to bask in the beauty of nature while fostering bonds of fellowship and camaraderie. 12 Throughout the season transition into autumn, our church community remained active and engaged in various uplifting activities. A5 autumn unfolded, we ushered in the Love Your Church weekend, a special occasion dedicated to rallying support for our beloved church. People from all walks of life came together to show their love and commitment, participating wholeheartedly in a myriad of activities. The Sunday bring-and-share lunch was a highlight, where laughter and conversation flowed freely, and the atmosphere brimmed wlth warmth and community spirit. Moreover, our gift day initiative proved to be a resounding success, with the generov5 contributions of £18,000 raised for the acquisition of new tables and chairs, enhancing our church's facilities for future gatherings and events. In embracing the season's spirit, we hosted the Light Party as an alternative celebration to Halloween. offering a wholesome and enjoyable experience for children and adult5 alike. The event saw a delightful turnout, wlth both church members and visltors joining in the festivitie5, spreading joy and laughter throughout the evening. Amidst our regular schedule, Chit Chat contlnued to be a cherished occaslon for our communityi provlding a relaxed setting for individuals to come together over steaming cups of coffee or tea. Beyond the beverages, attendees relished in the opportunity to engage in frlendly banter, share stories, and foster meaningful connections. The availability of games such as pool and table tennls added an extra layer of enjoyment to the gatherings, further enhancing the sense of camaraderie and belonging. A highlight of our autumn programme was the much-anticipated Bible journaling workshop, where particlpants delved into the art of creative expression through studying the word. The workshop was full and proved to be immensely enrichin8 for those in attendance, a5 they learned to intertwine their faith with artistic exploration. Additionally, a dedicated craft table for children provided a platform for parents to engage in the workshop while their little ones were entertained with creative activitles. In our commFtment to nurturing spiritual growth and family bonds, we also facilltated the Parenting for Faith course. This invaluable programme empowered parents and caregivers with the tools and insights to openly share their faith with their children, guiding them Into a deeper relationship with Jesus and establishing firm splritual foundations for their journey of faith. Through these initiatives and event5, our church community thrived, fostering a culture of love, unity, and spiritual growth among its members. We also participated in Tearfund's The Big Quiz night, which proved to be immensely popular among our Community. Individuals brought along snacks and drinks, forming teams to compete against each other in a lively quiz session. The event was a great success, raising £140 for Tearfund's charitable efforts. As we approached the Christmas 5ea50n, Chit Chat organised a craft session for the children. However, it was disheartening to see that only refugees attended, with no other church members joining in, Despite this, we pressed on with our festive celebrations. We held a Christingle service, symbolising the light of Christ, and followed it up with the ever-popular Carols by Candlelight Service. After the services, we enjoyed delicious food and festive fun together, embracing the joy and warmth of the season in fellowship wlth one another. Prayers during this season 13 Participating in various events and activities fosters fellowship and camaraderie among members of the communlty. Engaging in fellowship encourages the development of lasting friendships as individuals connect with one another in shared experiences and mutual interests. These interactions provide opportunities for individuals to deepen their faith through meaningful conversations, shared reflections, and collective worshlp. As we come together in prayer and support one another in our spiritual journeys, we cultivate a strong sense of unity and solidarity, transforming into a vibrant and prayerful community. Praying for ABC going forward l. Spirltual Growth: Deepen our relationship with God and experience spiritual transformation. 2. Unlty and Harmony.. Promote unity, understanding, and love within the church community. 3. Leadership and GLtldance: Grant wisdom, discernment, and 5trenEth to church leaders and volunteers. Pray for the ministerlal position that God would have his hand firmly on this. 4. Heallng and Comfort: Provide healing and comfort to the sick, suffering, and grieving. 5. Outreach and Mlsslon: Open doors for sharing the gospel and serving others, 6. Increased Glving: Bless our givin& increase the giving to enable us to sustain and expand ministries and missions. 7. Sustenance During Mlnlsterlal Vacancy: Provlde Euidance and sustenance during this period without minlsters. Protectlon and Safety: Keep the church and its members safe, both physically and spiritually. 9. Families and Relalionshlps: Bless marrlages, families, and relationships within the church. 10. Soclal Justice and Compasslon: Advocate for justice, equality. and compassion in society. 11. Gratltude and Thanksglvlng: Express gratitude for God's blessings and faithfulne55. Louisa Ley 28 February 2024 Children's Worker and Admlnlstrator's Report {May to December 2023) I was delighted to be offered the post of ChSldren's Worker and Adminlstrator and I commenod employment at the end of May. As the church had been without a paid Administrattsr for some time, initlally, my tlme was spent concentrating on the admln side of the role, tidying up flles and emails, and taking over responsibility for the general admin of the church from Helen, Including weekly Sheets, rotas etc. As a Children's Worker, it has been wonderful to see an increased number of families with children attending our Sunday services and it is a blessing to welcome families from all over the world, with different tultures and gifts. Our Sunday Club groups and creche continue5 to grow in numbers. The team of leaders and helpers ha5 increased and all are dedicated, willlng and enthusiastic people who have a desire to support and encourage children as they commence their walk in Faith. There is, however, stlll a need for additional volunteers, particularly as it has become apparent that the youngest Sunday School group Ichildren aged 3 to 71 now needs to be split into two, Whllst this is a wonderful problem to have, it Is a problem, and we would ask the congregatlon to include this in thelr prayers. In additlon to Sunday Club and creche, ABC also offers famllie5 and children in our community the opportunity to attend Boys, Brigade & Girls, Association and Family, Food and Fun. 14 In the autumn, Louisa and myself hosted a Parenting for Faith course run by 8RF Ministrles, The course was helpful and informatlve and, because it was delivered via Zoom, parents and carers were able to attend without having to organise babysitters. I have enjoyed assisting Helen and Louisa wlth the organisation of several church events includlng the Easter Egg Trail, Paddle Sports, Church Picnic, Church BBQ'S, Love your Church weekends, monthly Chit Chats and the Light Party. These events have been well attended and have provided an opportunity for people to get to know one another better. Louisa and I have also led two Café Church services over the summer, and we are pleased to have been Eiven the opportunity to lead some more in 2024. My ongoing prayer request for the famllles and children in our church is that they will find a real connection to God and their relationship with Him will deepen. l also pray that our familles will unite and Support one another, and that new families will come to ABC and feel welcomed. My prayer for myself is that I wlll be a true servant of God and that everything I do will be for his glory, and not mine. I pray that people will find me warm and welcoming and that God wlll give me the confidence to Inspire and nurture other5. 1 thank God for the people He has placed around me to help me, to guide me and to prop me up when needed. It is a blessing to be Involved in a church with such a diverse community and I would like to thank you for your advlce, prayers and support. Ra¢hael Cox 15 March 2024 15 Trustees Re5ponsibilRties Under the Charities Act 1993 the Trustees al'e required to prepare a statement of accounts foi. each financial year which gives a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity at the end of the financial year and the incoming resources and application of r¢sources in the year. In preparing th¢ statement the Trustees ar¢ required to:. l. Select suilable accounting policies and apply them consistently. 2. Mak¢ judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent. 3. State whether applicable accounting standards and statements of recommended practiees have been followed, subject to any materkaI departures disclosed and explained in th¢ statement of accounts. 4. Prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless il is inappropriate to presume that the charity will wThtinue its operations. The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with r¢asonable accuracy at any time th¢ financial position of the charity at that time and to enable the Trustees to ensure that any stal¢ment of account prepared by them complies with the regulations under Section 42(1) of the Charities Aci 1992. They ar¢ also responsible for safe-guarding the assets of the trust and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention of fraud and othei. irregularities. Approval: This report was approved by the deacons on . lo &vftthilwand signed on their behalf. Signed: Signed: Name: ,1l.LW....￿. Iu ILGQ>4...... Ch￿'¢h Secretary: ............ Deacon:...... Docusign Envelope10.. 13558CE5-58DA48e2-8E32-D8113CBBE64A ASHFORD BAPTIST CHURCH IRegistered Charlty No 11305931 INDEPENOENTEXAMINER'SRÉPORT I reportto thetrustees on my examlnation of the account5 ofthe Church forthe yearended 31 De￿mber 2023, whSch are Set out on piges 2 to9. Re5 sand basls of ort A5 the charSty'S trustees you are responslble for the Prepara￿On of the attount5 In accrdance wlth the requlrernents of the Charltles Act zoii I theAct I I report in respect of my examlnation of the Trust'5 accounts carrled out under section 145 of the 2011 Act. and In carryins out my ex3mlninafjon, I havefo11owed all theapplltable Dlréctions Élven by the Charlfv CommlssLon under sectton 14Sl5llbl of theAct. Inde Èndent examlthei's stale I have complered myexèmlnadon. I confirm that DO m3terl81 matters have come to my atten￿on In conneciion wlth the examlnadon which ilwes me cau5eto belleve th* in, any material respett.. 4 the accounting rÈtords were not kept In accordancewlth sethon 130 of the Ch3rides Att,. 4 the accounts did not accord with the accounting records.. or the actountsdld not comply wlth the applicable requirement ¢oncernin£ the form and content of account5 as set out In the Charlfjes (Accounts and Reports) ReEulafjon5 2(KJ8 other than bny requlrement that the accounts ghve a *rue and falr. viewwhkh15 not a matterconsidered as part of an Independent exaMIna￿On. I have no conternsand have come across no other matters In tonnettTon with the examlnation to which attention should be drawn inthls report In orderto enable H proper understanding of the aecount5 to be reached. 518ned.. Name.. Katherine Reka FCCA Addres5'. Offlce43, The Cobalt Bulldlng 1600 Eureka Park Lower Pemberton Ashford Kent TN25 4BF Date.. 10th Septembpr 2024 Docu81gn Envelope ID.. 13558CE&S8DA4662-8E32￿a113CBBEe4A ASHFORD BAPTIST CHURCH Pa8e I (Re￿Stered Chgrfty ND 11305931 STATEK14TOFFINANCIMACTWbTIESFQR YE*41ENDÈts31DECÉM8ER 2023 Not¢ Il¢$¢ikt¢ Unfe5tdcted Fund5 202% Incoffl Generall￿ndd￿￿th0n5 1,814 13,903 16,626 19,558 Speclal ovEn3Trts&GIftAld 18,409 LE,￿9 1(kn,729 141,765 13,548 34,781 106.984 Artivliy In[omÉ Investment Income Le8ade5, dDn3tyon5 and lund Otherlntome To141 IncornlD8le5DU¥cÈ%fffjmchèrftab￿3￿V1ttes 4,141 1798 4,141 5,377 475 2,8fj0 154fi18 1,462 2,335 792 1,579 475 1,285 111.323 Ex ndè re£tthar1tab￿eXpe￿dttvre 38,998 127,902 I66￿0 144,872 PaBe 2 Docu5un Ew8lope ID.. 1355BCE5-58DA4B62-8E32-08113CBBE64A ASHFORD BAPTIST CHURCH Mana&efflÈntan&AdFT4Th1stra￿0n 38,998 OTotal Resou[￿ended 17,24Q 145,142 17,240 164,140 114.461 134,921 6&5 141,175 10,058 154,930 Net lout40ill8vlncomin8Re5ov￿es 4,297 -33,819 -29,512 -14,755 otherr¢¢ognlsedsainsl105se5 NEt M¢vemAfftt kn FU￿￿5 -14,755 ds Fund Èknnce5 tQil8hl fDiwèrd 35 1 January 2023 115,563 234fi14 330.177 344,932 Ttah5FÈrsbetweev fU[￿S 1,141 .50D F¥nd balan￿Scar￿￿d&)rWard £M177 Docuslgn Etwelope ITr. t3558CE5-580A4862-8E32.D8113CBBE64A ASHFORD BAPTIST CHURCH •¢31 Dectmber2023 The￿leS On w8e54 to9formp3rtofihèst FinanclalStaiement5 IRe8lsttfedCharlty No 11305931 BALAtrICESHÈET ASAT31ST DECEM8ER2D23 298,481 327,527 CURRENT CredliO*S BIUTIES EEftESENTF.D BW. Resvkied Fund5 £330,ITI 115.%3 1022 118,219 2023 Noio FIXED ASSETS Trn8lbleA5sets 1,723 2,650 CURRENT Debtors 3.2AO 2,838 IncotneTax r£co¥ergblÈ 4,744 S,V7 sh 2t bank 8nd lÈ)hand 12 290.498 319,462 18L936 É300.155 214.614 E330,L77 Unrestrlrted FLknds Pa￿4 Do¢u$ign Envelope ID.- f3558CE5.58DA48824E32.D8113CBBE64A ASHFORD BAPTIST CHURCH The note5 on pa8es4 to 9foYM part Df the5E Flnanclal Statements ge3 IAe8lsteredChaiity No 11305931 NOTE5TOTmEFINA￿QAL$TA1EmEF￿S FOR1HEYEJRÉNDE0315TDECEN*Eft2023 B•515 of prepa1￿10￿41￿n•ndllttUte￿Thts ThÈNn￿¢￿I 51atemeTrtshw beenprepJiedtty8lve atru@andfpArvlewand haYE dewriedfitsmthe c￿rideS IAccoUTht$ and RepDitsI Re8ulaYon$2ts)8 only iothÈ eNtèntreqvired to piovld2a'tru2 and lalr'view.Thls dep3rtore has involvèd follo￿￿8 thE Charile5 SQRP IFR91021 published 161vly 2014 ratherthan rhe AccounOn84Dd RepordngbyChari*es.'5tatemeTrt of Recommended Prdc¥ce Ètfecifve frorn l April ZQ05 whlch ha5 51Th12been vAthdrwn. Thefinanciol ststements havp be?n prepared underthehlstoilcal c05tctsThventton with Items recvBntstdèt or tr3ns3thon vatue unless Otherw￿@S1a[¥d inth@ ￿l*v￿at notestothe5eaccDunt5.Thefin3ncvJl siatement5 have been prep8redln a￿￿rdance Withihe51atemEnt ol Rpcommended PraIti￿.. Accoun￿￿8 and Reporhn8b¥Charitie5 Ptepallfigth￿1r accounts inaccordancÈwlthlho Financ121 AeporhngStanc13rd ppli¢able inthe UKaThdRepubllcof Ifek4nd IFRS 1021 Issued on L6Jul¥ 2014 6nd Finandal RppofknnK siandaidappllcable iv the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 andchaflleskl 2011. Ashfoid BapO51 Church constitutesa pthlk benefit èndtyas dehned by F￿102. Do¢u8ign Envelope ID.. 13558CE&58DA4882-8E32_D8113CBBE64A ASHFORD BAPTIST CHURCH A¢CouTr￿n8 General Fundsgre unrestrKtedfu￿s vthkharÈa¥èllablefor ihe dIsCre￿O￿ of thÈTr￿Stees Ill furthèrance 01t￿generAl oblectfvesof tho charlty andwhiEh hrt rLOt been de5i8natedfofoiher Aestrlcied Fundsore lund5whl¢h aretobe accordafi¢È WJithspeciNc reslrirtion£ Imp052d bydonots. rhe(Osisolralslngand adn)In151erlDB5uch funds3￿ charged a¢ainStthe specM¢fund. Thèalm and use of each iÈstridedlwO155etOutlnthe [￿e5 lothefinan