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2020-12-31-accounts

Charity Registration No. 1131574

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST

MEADS, EASTBOURNE

ACCOUNTS AND REPORTS

2020

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

AGENDAS
For the meetings to be held on
Tuesday 20 April 2021, commencing at 7.30pm
ANNUAL PARISH MEETING
1 Minutes of the last Annual Parish Meeting (see page 2)
2 Election of Churchwardens
ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING
1 Minutes of the last Annual Parochial Church Meeting (see page 2-11)
2 Matter arising therefrom
3 Electoral Roll Officer's Report
4 Trustee's Annual Report (See pages 14-20)
5 Annual Financial Report for the year ended 31
December 2020 and the report of the Independent
Examiner (See pages 12-39)
6 Churchwardens Report on the Fabric, Goods and
Ornaments of the Church (See pages 41-43)
7 Report on the Deanery Synod proceedings
8 Elections and appointments
i)
Parochial Church Council members
ii)
Independent Examiner
9 Reports from Church Organisations and Representatives (see pages 44-49)
10 Vicar's comments
11 Any other business

Closing Prayers

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETINGS HELD ON 13th OCTOBER 2020

ANNUAL PARISH MEETING

The Vicar the Revd Giles Carpenter opened the meeting in prayer

Mr Tony Mottram and Ms Diana Guthrie (Churchwardens) were present together with 65 Parishioners, (35 physically present and 30 virtually present via zoom).

Apologies were received from 4 parishioners

It was proposed by Mr Nick Pendry and seconded by Mr Ian Chisholm that the Minutes of the meeting held on 25th April 2019 be taken as read and a true record. This was agreed unanimously. There were no matters arising.

2 Election of Churchwardens

Nominations had been received from Mr Tony Mottram and Ms. Diana Guthrie who had been proposed and seconded as churchwardens for the coming year. There being no other nominations they were duly elected.

The Chairman then closed the Annual Parish Meeting

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

The Chair for this meeting was taken by Mr David Scott-Ralphs

The Minutes of the meeting held on 25[th] April 2019 had been displayed in the Church.

Following a proposal from Mrs Sally Scott-Ralphs, seconded by Mrs Maggie Gibson and agreed unanimously the minutes were accepted as correct.

2 Matters Arising

There were 2 matters arising:

The Chairman advised that after due consideration the PCC had decided that it was unnecessary as the Standing and Finance Committee have a small discretionary budget and limited scope to make decisions without referral to the PCC.

The Tower was deemed not secure enough to display all the silverware, however a silver lantern that had been bequeathed to the church is on display.

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETINGS HELD ON 13th OCTOBER 2020 (continued)

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

3 Electoral Roll Officer’s Report

Ms Diana Guthrie read the report compiled by the Electoral Roll Officer. On 6th October 2020 there were 233 people on St John’s Church Electoral Roll, of whom 145 (62%) were women, and 88 (38%) were men;142 (61%) lived in the parish and 91 (39%) lived outside.

6 people have been taken off the roll, and 72 added.

The Electoral Roll was rebuilt from scratch in April 2019 (this has to be done every 6 years in all Church of England churches), meaning that the 2019-2020 roll is much smaller than the previous one, but it is a much truer record of our current membership.

4 Annual Report of the Trustees

Annual Financial Report for the year ended 31 December 2019 and the Report of the 5 Independent Examiner

Treasurer’s Report for the 2020 APCM.

When I first agreed to be a church treasurer, I never thought I’d still be delivering Annual Reports 16 years later. Apparently, the average time served in prison for a life sentence is 14 years. I don’t know why I wasn’t offered parole. I’ve found that if you’re struggling to fill a voluntary post you only have to add ‘we’re also looking for a treasurer’ and that other post gets miraculously filled. Thank you, Ian, for not seeking out that other post. The 2 churches I’ve served over the 16 years couldn’t be more different, the first a small rural parish where apart from the vicar everyone else was a volunteer and as treasurer I would among many other things open and close the church every day, strim the churchyard, carpet and decorate the church hall and, not my favourite job, clean the toilets every week. We are very fortunate at St John’s to be able to employ a cleaner and I would like to say a big thank you to Rosie for all she does at the church and the Parish Hall. The churchmanship at the 2 churches also couldn’t be more different both moving, albeit in opposite directions, from what some would call middle of the road. These changes are not always comfortable, and I have found it a struggle at times but it’s important to remember that whatever the churchmanship and whatever the furniture we all follow the same Jesus and worship the same God.

Because this Annual Report is being presented 6 months later than normal, we’re already three quarters of the way through 2020 but it is important to remember that the Report relates to the year ended 31 December 2019. So much has happened this year it can be hard to remember 2019 and all that we then took for granted. The Report is essentially in 3 parts, the first The Trustees Report starting on page 11 sets out our aims as a Church, what we planned and hoped to do to achieve these aims and what we succeeded in doing. The second part starting on page 18 reviews our financial position including on page 29 the Independent Examiner’s Report. Finally starting on page 30 are a series of reports from the churchwardens, deanery synod representatives and the many individuals and groups which portray the human side of the church and give a flavour of how our various activities impact on not only Meads but the wider Eastbourne community.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETINGS HELD ON 13th OCTOBER 2020 (continued)

Annual Financial Report for the year ended 31 December 2019 and the Report of the 5 Independent Examiner (continued)

Treasurer’s Report for the 2020 APCM (continued)

As I remind you every year our existence as a charity demands that we show that we are a benefit to the community and not a private club. We remain open to all, as far as you can in these times, and there is no membership fee although we do seek to encourage involvement in all aspects of church life including finance. St John’s is very fortunate with the support it receives, and I want to say a big thank you to all the church family for their selfless generosity both through their financial giving and equally through the giving of their time and talents. As David mentioned on Sunday it is also important to stress that any financial giving is strictly confidential and known only to me as treasurer and in some cases the gift aid secretary. Your Giving is a contract with God not the PCC.

Turning to the financial performance in 2019, I won’t throw lots of numbers at you because they can be hard to follow and you all should have had the opportunity to see a copy of the Report. I will however mention the key points. The Statement of Financial Activities on page 19 shows that at the end of the year our Total Funds stood at £183069, a reduction over the year of almost £100,000. The allocation across the 16 separate Funds is shown on page 28. Out of the unrestricted funds which total £91673 our general reserves comprise the General Fund and the Reserve Fund where the combined balances have reduced from £70750 to £45184 through the course of the year. This is lower than the recommended minimum of 3 months normal expenditure £70/75,000 and the PCC will need to consider bolstering the reserves from the legacy income received this year. The completion of the Tower project involved a net outflow of £98,000 largely accounting for the overall reduction. However, during the course of any year there are exceptional items, ‘one off’s which are outside the normal day to day income and expenditure and which can mask the underlying financial performance. This can be expenditure on building projects or on the income side grants and legacies. For some years we have been running a revenue shortfall which in 2019 was around £25,000. This is not an immediate threat as we have been aware of some forthcoming legacies but an annual shortfall of £25,000 is not sustainable and as we have recently seen the Stewardship team are endeavoring to address the position. There was a small improvement in planned giving in 2019 and there are some encouraging signs that the shortfall has reduced. We are however in uncertain times and are fully aware that the incomes of many of the church family may be adversely affected by the current employment market and the low investment returns.

The use of legacies can be a contentious issue particularly when used to fund revenue shortfalls and it would be good if we were always in a position where these could be put towards future projects or initiatives. Most legacies are however bequeathed for general use and we should not always expect to see some tangible asset or project. They can for instance be used as an investment in a new post which the PCC feels will take forward our mission and lead to growth in the church family and ultimately growth in our giving income. What we can’t do is build them into our longer-term planning as we don’t know when the next one will be received indeed, we ought to hope that it will be a long time away.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETINGS HELD ON 13th OCTOBER 2020 (continued)

Annual Financial Report for the year ended 31 December 2019 and the Report of the 5 Independent Examiner (continued)

Treasurer’s Report for the 2020 APCM (continued)

The use of legacies can be a contentious issue particularly when used to fund revenue shortfalls and it would be good if we were always in a position where these could be put towards future projects or initiatives. Most legacies are however bequeathed for general use and we should not always expect to see some tangible asset or project. They can for instance be used as an investment in a new post which the PCC feels will take forward our mission and lead to growth in the church family and ultimately growth in our giving income. What we can’t do is build them into our longer-term planning as we don’t know when the next one will be received indeed, we ought to hope that it will be a long time away.

I will happily take questions but before doing so can I offer best wishes to Ian as he takes on the role of treasurer, also some personal thanks; to John Driver for his continuing support as Gift Aid secretary which stretches across many treasurers, also the office admin team who are always welcoming when I go in even though I’m interrupting what they are doing. I think many of us may be guilty at times of thinking that our problem or issue is the only one that matters. More generally can I thank those many members of the church family who have offered support and encouragement over the last 5 or 6 years including those who have on occasions asked the awkward questions – it is important in any organisation that the awkward questions are asked so don’t stop but please feel free to have a rest, at least until it’s the turn of the next speaker.

Frank Kelley Hon. Treasurer

Following the report, there were no questions raised.

It was proposed by Mr Ian Pinder, seconded by Mrs Catherine Butcher that the Trustees Annual Report to be taken as read and the Annual Financial Report be accepted. This was agreed unanimously.

The Chairman gave his personal thanks to the Treasurer for his help and support throughout his time as Treasurer and confirmed that Ian Pinder would take over the role of Treasurer.

6 Churchwardens’ Report on the Fabric, Goods and Ornaments of the Church Mr. Tony Mottram (Churchwarden) referred to the report on page 30.

He advised that the issues with damp on the flat roof will be fixed in the next 5-6 weeks, and that the roof on the north side of the building will need to be looked at in due course.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETINGS HELD ON 13th OCTOBER 2020 (continued)

Churchwardens’ Report on the Fabric, Goods and Ornaments of the Church 6 (continued)

The Quinquennial inspection was referred to, which has raised various items to be fixed within the church.

The Churchwarden advised that the church clock needs repair at an initial cost of £4,000 and was hoping to raise funds towards the cost from the wider community.

The Churchwarden made a plea for volunteers to help with the Parish Hall Committee and with the Audio and Visual Team, he said that we are truly blessed with the talents of those that help but could always do with more volunteers who will be given training.

Ms Sheila MacNicol and Mr Dick Thwaites were thanked for checking the silverware.

Finally, the Churchwarden extended his thanks to the Treasurer and his wife Patricia, for his knowledge and support which has been invaluable.

Following the report, there were no questions raised.

Mr Malcolm Preece proposed, seconded by Mrs Judy Stone that the report be accepted, this was agreed unanimously.

Tony Mottram was thanked for all his hard work.

7 Report of the Deanery Synod Proceedings

Mr David Scott-Ralphs referred to page 32 and reported that there had been 3 meetings of the Deanery Synod during the year. The Bishop of Chichester attended the meeting in March 2019 where they reflected over the last 5 years and looked ahead to the next 5 years, this gave St John’s the opportunity to highlight some of its achievements especially with Linking lives, Alpha and the Home Groups.

St John’s representatives were Mr David Scott-Ralphs, Mrs Sally Scott-Ralphs and Mrs Jill Preece on behalf of the clergy as well as Mr Ray Hassell who is stepping down this year.

The report was accepted on a proposal by Mr Frank Kelley, seconded by Mr Nick Pendry and agreed unanimously.

8 Elections and Appointments

i) Parochial Church Council

New nominations had been received and seconded for the following people

Mr Martyn Delamere Ms Gillian Howarth Mrs Janet Jackson Ms Myrtle Martin

Mrs Judith Stone and Mr Matt Kuchta were also unanimously elected following their co-option last year.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETINGS HELD ON 13th OCTOBER 2020 (continued)

8 Elections and Appointments (continued)

i) Parochial Church Council

Mrs Julia Pinder was re-elected unanimously on a proposal by Ms Sheila MacNicol,seconded by Mr Frank Kelley.

Mr Frank Kelley and Mr Ray Hassell who were both retiring were thanked for their services during the year.

ii) Deanery Synod Representatives

Nominations had been received and seconded for the following people who were elected unanimously:

Mrs Catherine Butcher

Ms Diana Guthrie

Nominations had also been received and seconded for Mrs Sally Scott-Ralphs and Mr David Scott Ralphs who were unanimously re-elected for a further term.

iii) Sidesmen and women

All sidesmen and women had been contacted and a list of people wishing to serve for the coming year was compiled by the PCC Secretary. The list will be approved at the next PCC meeting as it is no longer a requirement at the APCM.

The Chairman thanked all those who had served last year.

iv) Independent Examiner/Auditor

The Treasurer proposed Mr Michael Neilan who was prepared to continue for the coming year, seconded by Mr Tony Mottram, this was agreed unanimously with 1 abstention.

9 Reports from Church Organisations and Representatives

The Chairman said he hoped that everyone would read the reports on the many activities that had taken place in the past year and referred to p33 onwards.

He thanked all those who helped with the various groups.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETINGS HELD ON 13th OCTOBER 2020 (continued)

10 Vicar’s Comments

Pastoral Ministry

Jill Preece spoke of the last 7 months, which had been very challenging due to the covid pandemic. The Pastoral team found new ways to keep in touch and support people using letters, email, zoom and phone calls, they are now using Church Suite to ensure that they have a structure to reach people and to also ensure that all those in need of support are contacted. Jill would like to expand the Pastoral Team and made a plea for volunteers who will be given full training, she also asked us to care for others if we can and to get in touch if we know someone that needs support. When the pandemic is over the Pastoral team will extend the support to home visits.

St Michael and All Angels

Ben Sleep reflected on worship at his previous church where the Eucharist was at the centre of worship and compared it to the worship at St John’s where the Eucharist and Charismatic worship are at the heart of the Church. He stated that St Michael and All Angels have a Catholic Charismatic worship and referred to the Service there on 11[th ] October, where The Vicar and Ben were licensed as priest in charge and curate in charge. He advised that it was a fantastic day where they were warmly welcomed by all. He said that this would be a year of discernment, at the end of which both churches would decide whether or not to continue the partnership and whilst there may be massive challenges ahead it was an exciting beginning.

Vicar’s APCM report 2019-2020

Friends Good Evening-Well it seems like an age since our last APCM doesn’t it! And I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that the world has changed dramatically since we joined together to review 2018/19. I’ll say a few words about our journey through this pandemic shortly BUT I don’t want the events of the last 8/9 months to eclipse some of the significant life events of the church and the points of celebration that we have witnessed together. Upper most among those has to be the joy of baptising 12 adults down on Holywell beach! What a wonderful sign of God’s work among us and, in this season of invitation, an important reminder that we exist to share our faith and make disciples of Christ. This period also saw the completion of the work to the tower, not only do we now have a structurally sound tower, but we also have a fabulous exhibition space. In this regard, and on behalf of us all, I want to say a huge thank you to Catherine who, alongside the videoing talents of Adrian and Mark, has done an immense job.

I’ve been particularly struck by how some of the older generation at St John’s, especially Gill Cox, have been able to share their experiences through this project, which just serves to reaffirm our vision that everyone at St John’s, from the youngest to the oldest, has a part to play.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETINGS HELD ON 13th OCTOBER 2020 (continued)

10 Vicar’s Comments (continued)

Vicar’s APCM report 2019-2020 (continued)

This pre-lockdown period also saw the formation of our 5 Year vision for growth. My thanks to the PCC and, more recently, the wisdom and experienced input that George Fisher has offered us in developing this plan. Just to remind you that vision is built around 3 core aims: More unity as we grow in diversity (which included [quite prophetically as it happens]a vision to stream our worship to the housebound a full 6 months before lockdown); More invited into communion(creating a culture of welcome & invitation expressed partly through the running of regular Alpha); More channels opened to bless our community (which has at its heart the vision to serve the vision of the diocese to form apostolic partnerships). I want to say that the PCC has done its job really well! Thank you.

Not only has it attended to the important task of thinking strategically, it has done the even more important task of listening and discerning the direction that God wants to lead us in. That discernment of the Spirit’s prompting is the key distinction between us being a body and not a business. I’m grateful to you all for being obedient and attentive to that task. Of course, the events of the last 9 months have dominated our year! As I said in my recent report to the PCC, our journey through the pandemic has fallen into three distinct phases. The first firefighting phase; in which we were responding to the immediate need to move worship online and to support the community in practical and pastoral ways. Within the first few days of lockdown, we had contacted every household in the parish and had begun, through the church office, to coordinate a range of pastoral and practical support from shopping runs to dog walking. It should be said that such was the efficiency of this support that many of the counsellors around the town were contacting us asking for help. Our task became one of both responding directly to the needs where appropriate, and, where we couldn’t, signposting people to other agencies. One of those agencies was our own charity Linking Lives Eastbourne. As most will know,

St John’s was a founding member 4 years ago of the LLE charity. The charity was originally set up to support those who are experiencing loneliness and isolation through home visits but when lockdown was announced, the charity made a rapid shift to telephone befriending. The phones at LLE rang off the hook and I’m pleased to report that the churches across the town responded with God’s gracious abundance. As a result the Council Community Helpline listed us as one of the principal organisations that they signposted people to and the charity experienced an exponential growth curve! -to the point that we estimate that we have offered nearly 2000 hours of befriending in the last year alone.

From a personal perspective, it has been a privilege to be part of the start-up phase of the charity, but it was always the intention that the founding trustees (of which I am one of three) should hand over those responsibilities to representative members of the local churches.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETINGS HELD ON 13th OCTOBER 2020 (continued)

10 Vicar’s Comments (continued)

Vicar’s APCM report 2019-2020 (continued)

I’ve been in discussions recently with my fellow trustees and with their blessing I’ve approached our own John Caroe about his potential involvement. Those who know John will understand why he is such a good potential fit for the charity. He combines a mature and deep faith with a wealth of clinical experience of the impact that loneliness and isolation have on mental health. I’m delighted to say that John is happy to lend his support to Linking Lives as our representative, subject to PCC’s approval. So, I would like to nominate John (Caroe) to take over my role as trustee and represent St John’s as founding members of the charity.

From the firefighting phase we moved into what I called, the grieving phase. As well as grieving over the loss of so much that we have all taken for granted, this phase was characterised by a sharp rise in deaths, including some of our own church family including Arthur Pont, Sheila O’Hanlon and Jack Beach. We continue to grieve their loss and I’m in contact with each family to keep alive the future potential for a service (or services) that celebrate the lives of these very dear friends. Thirdly, since the government gave us permission to reopen the church, we have entered a new phase which I’ve called the Hybrid phase. St John’s was one of only a small handful of churches in Eastbourne that responded with an immediate reopening of the church for Sunday worship. Once again, I must express my deep gratitude to the individuals and teams that have been instrumental in enabling this to happen. Firstly, the wardens who have worked tirelessly to ensure we have a safe and secure environment for worship. Secondly, the team that have helped us make the transition from pre-recorded worship to live streaming our worship. Rachael Bishop has been magnificent and at times incredibly sacrificial with her time, as has Matt Kuchta heading up the AV team. Of course, it’s worth stressing that this hybrid phase would have been virtually impossible to navigate without the vision of the PCC to press ahead with the reordering of the building and the introduction of the new technology.

This Hybrid phrase in many ways has been the most challenging. Even with the technology it has been challenging leading worship in the dual spheres of the real and virtual world. I’m grateful to the ministry team for their flexibility and good humour throughout! By the grace of God I think, on the whole, we’ve coped well and with the very latest modifications that Ben has given much time to we are now able to open the building to at least 50% of our congregation each Sunday. Lastly, I want to say a few words about the outworking of that vision to serve the diocesan plan for growth through apostolic partnerships. Just to remind us all; it’s a vision rooted in a desire to be generous. To be generous with what God has given us. And to avoid being a cul de sac for that blessing by opening channels for others to be blessed too.

Two things to say about this: firstly, whilst it’s important to emphasise that this first year of the partnership is a time of discernment, Bishop Will was hugely affirming of the move and shares our confidence for its future, which includes a succession plan that will enable Ben to assume greater responsibility for St Michael’s whilst also remaining a key part of the team here.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETINGS HELD ON 13th OCTOBER 2020 (continued)

10 Vicar’s Comments (continued)

Vicar’s APCM report 2019-2020 (continued)

I am personally really excited by the prospect of maintaining that teamwork. Secondly, this partnership is possible in no small part because over the last 6 years we have had a treasurer under whose leadership St John’s finances and resources have grown against a national trend in the opposite direction. This growth has enabled us to expand our staff team, to purchase new technology and to invest in a major reordering project and tower repairs, despite the fact that we had not long before undertaken a major capital project with the creation of the Jubilee Hall. And he’s done it all with such good humour! Frank, we are immensely grateful to you. Can I say, I’m personally grateful, not only for your wise management of our church finances, but also the pastoral support you’ve offered to me and our small but fabulous staff team. Now we have a small gift as a token of our appreciation, which a little bird told me you might want to put towards some all-weather gear for when you’re at the tiller of a narrow boat when the heavens open!

On behalf of us all Frank, a massive thank you!!

Following the Vicar’s report on a proposal from Mrs Judy Stone, seconded by Mr Ian Chisholm, the PCC unanimously agreed for John Caroe to take over from the Vicar as a trustee and St John’s representative for Linking Lives.

11 Any Other Business

Thanks, were given to Mrs Kim Leach for all her help with children’s work, and to The Worship Team for helping online and getting us back in to church.

John Caroe confirmed the Mission Giving team had met and that the following charities would receive donations this year.

Revive CMS CMCT Tearfund Release International Linking Lives St Wilfrid’s Hospice Beachy Head Chaplaincy Matthew25 Foodbank Night Shelter

The Chairman proposed a vote of thanks to the Vicar and the ministry team for their hard work this year, especially at a time of huge disruption with the covid pandemic, in responding quickly to the situation to set up alternative ways of worship, as well leading the partnership with St Michael and All Angels, which takes great courage and faith.

The meeting was closed in prayer by Sally Scott-Ralphs.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION

Incumbent The Revd Giles Carpenter Charity Number 1131574 Principal Address St John the Evangelist Church St Johns Road Eastbourne East Sussex BN20 7ND Website www.stjm.org.uk Independent Examiner Mr Michael Neilan Price & Company 30-32 Gildredge Road Eastbourne East Sussex BN21 4SH Bank CAF Bank Ltd Kings Hill West Malling Kent ME19 4JQ

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE CONTENTS

Page
Trustees' Annual Report 14 - 20
Trustees' Responsibilities 21
Independent examiner's report 22
Statement of financial activities 23
Balance sheet 24
Notes to the accounts 25 - 38
Statement of financial activities 2019 39

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE TRUSTEES' REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

The Trustees present their report and accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020.

The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in note 1 to the accounts and comply with the charity's constitution, the Charities Act 2011 and "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS102).

Objectives and activities

Our aims and purposes as a charity

The PCC has the responsibility of co-operating with the incumbent, the Revd Giles Carpenter, in:

The PCC also has responsibilty for the financial affairs of the parish and for the repair and maintenance of the Church fabric and the Parish Hall.

What we planned to do to achieve our charitable objectives

When planning our activities for the year, our incumbent and the PCC have considered the Charity Commission's Guidance on public benefit and in particular the specific guidance on 'charities for the advancement of religion'.

For 2020 we discussed and planned the following objectives and activities to fulfil our aims:

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE TRUSTEES' REPORT (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

What we achieved and how we affected beneficiaries' lives

Attendance at worship

2020 was an extraordinary year, the type we have never experienced before and certainly hope not to see again.

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a national lockdown at the end of March, which was partially lifted during the summer but reintroduced in November and again after Christmas. This resulted in the chucrh having to close its doors to all parishioners.

Thanks to our clergy, expertise from within our church family and the fact that we already had some of the technology in the church, online services of a high quality were quickly available and continued to be broadcast for the remainder of the year and beyond. The one positive of moving services online was that we were able to reach people who may never have visited St John's church previously.

The church family welcomes visitors from within as well as outside the parish boundary. Visitors attend by personal choice and it is our great pleasure to welcome anyone from all walks of life to take part in the life of the church. We contend that voluntary attendance to worship the Lord Jesus Christ is a major demonstration of the public benefit of our activities.

There are 233 persons on the church electoral roll. Before lockdown, during February the average weekly attendance was 210. In June during the first lockdown the average attendance online was 242. During October, when the church was partially reopened and online services continued, the average weekly attendance was 241.

St John’s meets to worship not just on Sundays but across the week. During this period of the pandemic, we have been meeting online for prayer on a daily basis Monday to Friday, as well as Prayer Plus on Saturday mornings and introducing other communal worshipping opportunities such as Twenty Twenty on a Monday evening.

A key element of our new Mission Action Plan 2020-2025 is 'more unity as we grow in diversity'. We have a vision to serve our parish by offering a breadth of worship as well as deliberately seeking to grow in areas where we are less represented, especially among teens and millenials. One of the highlights of the past year has been the weekly online Sunday scripture messages acted out by 'Mrs Kim', our Children and Families Worker Kim Leach, supported by her daughter Tegan. These have been wonderfully creative and have been loved by people young and old alike. Thank you Mrs Kim!

Teaching, baptising and nurturing new and existing believers

We continue to see more members of the church family involved in leading and participating in aspects of worship, which demonstrates the diversity of talent at our disposal. We continue to seek to extend the opportunities for the exercise of ministry and gifts within the life of our community. A second part of our Mission Action Plan is 'more invited into communion'. We want to build upon the foundation of welcome by encouraging a culture of invitation for everyone to experience intimacy with God through our worship and witness.

A key element in the area of nurturing faith and discipleship is home groups, which meet regularly on a weekly or fortnightly basis. There are 12 groups and approximately 150 people belong. One Alpha course ran during the year, with further courses planned for 2021.

The above aspects of church life and our new Mission Action Plan echo the Diocesan Vision for Growth for the next five years - being more open, more engaged and more converted to Jesus Christ.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE TRUSTEES' REPORT (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Provision of church buildings for people to enjoy

Despite the restrictions of the pandemic, we celebrated 3 weddings and were able to support 20 funeral services during the year. This latter high figure is a sad reflection of some of our own parish community falling prey to COVID-19 as well as other illnesses.

The pandemic has meant that we have been very restricted in opportunities to share food and fellowship together through activities such as Lunch Club and Coffee-Pot Plus at the Parish Hall, Cameo and Scrabble in the Jubilee Hall and Connexions teas at the Vicarage, the latter specifically for those new to the church and/or faith. However, our Men's Breakfasts have successfully transferred from the Holywell Tea Chalet to an online gathering, with a range of interesting speakers.

The Parish Hall, with its central location in Meads Street, is an important component in our outreach to the local community, but again activities were severely restricted during 2020. We are looking forward to seeing the Hall back in full use in the coming year. It has been listed by Eastbourne Borough Council as an 'asset of community value'.

Provision of pastoral care for people living in the parish

Pastoral care is headed by Revd Jill Preece. On a monthly basis in normal times, the pastoral support team visits care homes locally as well as people who are confined to home or are in hospital. Communion services are held on occasions for those too frail to attend the church.

The pandemic has meant an increased need within the parish for support of those living on their own and we were able to mobilise very quickly to reach out to people across the parish and offer practical support, phone calls and visits when permitted.

We continue to support both financially and with volunteers the Linking Lives Eastbourne charity, which was formed in 2016 with the assistance of other local churches to provide a befriending service to the lonely. Linking Lives saw substantial growth both in volunteers and beneficiaries across Eastbourne as a result of the pandemic.

Provision of tangible support to the poor and needy

The church family at St John’s continues to be a high contributor among the local churches donating to the Eastbourne Foodbank, as well as giving support to Matthew 25 Mission. In response to the pandemic affecting the livelihoods of many of our parishioners, thanks to the generosity of our congregation we were able to set up a Hardship Fund to provide funds when requested for a range of need. This Fund has raised over £9,000 and will continue to provide a lifeline into the future for people in difficult circumstances.

St John's and St Michael's Apostolic Partnership

In 2020 it was proposed that St John's enter into an Apostolic Partnership with St Michael and All Angels, another Eastbourne church in Upperton. This would result in St John's sending a small team and some financial resources to help rejuvenate the congregation at St Michael's. This is missional activity very much in line with the third element of St John's Mission Action Plan - 'more channels open to bless our community'. We have begun a year of discernment in which our incumbent Giles has become interim Priest in Charge at St Michael's, with a view to Curate Ben Sleep taking over from the summer of 2021 while remaining on the St John's ministry team. St John's has been wonderfully blessed in recent years and this is a God-given opportunity to share some of our blessings with another local church that needs our support.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE TRUSTEES' REPORT (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Other charitable giving

The income from the Duplex Bequest amounting to £620 (2019: £840) is included in the sums given by the PCC. A total of £15,240 (2019: £14,000) was given to 11 local and overseas charities as detailed in note 4 to the accounts.

The parish magazine is published twice each year and is distributed free to all households in the parish. This helps to maintain links between the church family and those who have not yet come to see St John's as their spiritual home.

Financial Review

Incoming and outgoing resources

The total receipts on unrestricted funds were £290,617 (2019: £280,955) and are detailed in the Financial Report. Restricted income of £33,758 took total incoming resources to £324,375 (2019: £283,546). Planned giving through envelopes and banker’s orders increased by 8%. But due to lockdown cash collections at services reduced by 75%.

The church was fortunate to receive legacies during the year totalling £100,000 (2019: £2,000). These have been placed in separate designated and restricted funds.

The hire of the Parish Hall was severely affected by the lockdown, with income reducing from £15,059 in 2019 to £4,923 in 2020.

The main expenditure items were the Parish Share, wages and Church and Parish Hall running costs.There was some additional equipment purchased during the year to enable online services to be broadcast.

Overall there was a surplus of £81,745 (2019: deficit £99,348). The surplus was due to the legacies received.

Sharing the ministry costs of the Diocese of Chichester

The largest expenditure of the PCC was the sum of £74,040 (2019: £75,624) paid to the diocese for our share of all churches’ Parish Ministry Costs and church insurance incurred by the diocese. This amount covers the housing, stipend and pension costs of the clergy and also a standard sum for diocesan central costs, clergy training and a contribution to national church funds.

Currently, the church is meeting 100% of the costs allocated to this church. It is important to note that approximately 80% of the total paid relates directly to the clergy costs of this parish, the remainder being the shared costs of the Christian family throughout the whole Church of England, including assistance towards the upkeep of churches less able to manage than ourselves.

Staff costs

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, staff have worked on adjusted hours as required and two members of staff were furloughed for several months. One member of staff is currently on part-time furlough.

The church received £8,790 from the Government via the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS).

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE TRUSTEES' REPORT (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Financial Review (continued)

Repairs to the fabric of the church building

The pandemic meant that we were constrained in carrying out repair works during the year which are identified in the latest quinquennial report. Quotes have been received for repairs to two flat roof areas, for which the PCC has agreed to set aside £5,000 per annum in a designated Roof Repair fund as provision for this work. It is intended to effect these repairs in 2021, alongside work to improve access to the church and upgrading of the entrance.

Reserves Policy

It is the policy of the PCC that unrestricted funds which have not been designated for a specific use should be maintained at a level equivalent to three month's unrestricted expenditure against unforeseen situations.

It is PCC policy to invest temporarily surplus general funds with the CBF Church of England deposit fund, returning proportionately these funds to our current account, as they are needed to pay day to day bills.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT OF THE CHARITY

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is registered with the Charity Commission as required by the Charities Act 2011.

Its governing document is the Parochial Church Councils (Powers) Measure 1956.

During the year the following served as members of the Parochial Church Council:

Charity Number 1131574
Incumbent The Revd Giles Carpenter (Chairman)
Curate The Revd Ben Sleep
Assistant Priest The Revd Jill Preece
Readers Mr Jorj Kowsun
Mrs Sarah Hassell
Mrs Catherine Butcher
Mr Nicholas Pendry
Wardens Mr Tony Mottram
Miss Diana Guthrie
Deputy Warden Miss Sheila MacNicol
Deanery Synod: Mr David Scott-Ralphs (Vice Chairman)
Miss Sally Scott-Ralphs
Mr Raymond Hassell (Retired 13 October 2020)
Mrs Catherine Butcher (Joined 13 October 2020)
Miss Diana Guthrie (Joined 13 October 2020)
Elected Members Mrs Debbie Canning
Mrs Phyllis Hall
Mr Frank Kelley (Retired 13 October 2020)
Mrs Julia Pinder (Secretary)
Dr John Caroe
Mr Ian Pinder (Treasurer)
Mr Ian Chisholm
Mr Clem Jackson
Mr Matt Kuchta (Joined 13 October 2020)
Mrs Judith Stone (Joined 13 October 2020)
Mrs Janet Jackson (Joined 13 October 2020)
Ms Gilli Howarth (Joined 13 October 2020)
Ms Myrtle Martin (Joined 13 October 2020)
Mr Martyn Delamere (Joined 13 October 2020)

Membership of the PCC is determined under the Church Representation Rules and consists of certain ex-officio members (the incumbent/priest-in-charge, curate, lay readers licensed to officiate in the church), the churchwardens and members of the Deanery, Diocesan or General Synods and up to 15 members of the Church who are elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM). Members are warmly encouraged to stand for election to the PCC and we try to ensure a balance of skills and experience where possible.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT OF THE CHARITY

The PCC operates through two committees to oversee various aspects of the Church's corporate life, which are:-

Standing Committee

This is the only committee required by law. It has the power to transact any business of the PCC between its meetings, subject to any direction given by the full PCC.

The Standing Committee also undertakes the function of a Finance Committee by monitoring the Church's finances and proposing actions to be taken to preserve the funds.

Parish Hall Committee

The committee has responsibility for hiring out the Parish Hall and maintaining the property.

Various teams exist, comprising members of the PCC and others, to further the work of the Church and report their efforts and proposals to the PCC where decisions are taken.

This Trustees' Annual Report was approved by the PCC and signed on their behalf by The Revd Giles Carpenter, PCC Chairman.

Giles Carpenter

Date: 7th April 2021

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE TRUSTEES' REPORT (continued) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

Statement of Trustees' Responsibilities

The Trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Report and the Accounts in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Accepted Accountancy Practice).

The Law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the Trustees to prepare accounts for each financial period which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the Charity for that period.

In preparing those accounts, the Trustees are required to:

The Trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the accounts comply with the Charities Act 2011. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE PCC OF ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST

I report on the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020, which are set out on pages 23 to 38.

Respective responsibilities of trustees and independent examiner

The charity trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed. I am qualified to undertake the examination by being a qualified member of The Chartered Institute of England and Wales.

It is my responsibility to:

Basis of independent examiner's report

My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a "true and fair view" and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.

Independent examiner's statement

Since the gross income for the year exceeds the amount provided for in Section 145(3) of the Act, I confirm that I am qualified to act as Independent Examiner under the provisions of the Act and that my qualification is as shown below.

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:

Michael Neilan

Michael Neilan Chartered Accountant

Dated: 8th April 2021

Price & Company 30-32 Gildredge Road Eastbourne BN21 4SH

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

----- Start of picture text -----
Unrestricted Restricted Endowment Total Total
funds funds funds 2020 2019
£ £ £ £ £
Notes
Incoming Resources from
generated funds
-
Donations and Legacies 281,512 31,748 313,260 257,042
Incoming resources from charitable
- -
activities or grants 2,414 2,414 4,006
- -
Other trading activities 5,319 5,319 19,379
Investment income 896 2,010 - 2,906 3,119
Other incoming resources 476 - - 476 -
Total incoming resources 2 290,617 33,758 - 324,375 283,546
Resources Expended
Church activities 3 225,185 3,617 228,802 378,681
-
Cost of generating voluntary
income 75 - - 75 281
- -
Other trading activities 18,262 18,262 16,417
Governance costs 3 1,620 - - 1,620 1,560
-
Total Resources expended 245,142 3,617 248,759 396,939
Net outgoing resources 45,475 30,141 75,616 (113,393)
before transfers
Gross transfers between funds - - - - -
Net incoming Resources before other
-
45,475 30,141 75,616 (113,393)
recognised gains and losses
Gains on investment assets - - 6,129 6,129 14,045
Net Movement in Funds 45,475 30,141 6,129 81,745 (99,348)
Fund balances at 1 January 2020 91,672 2,266 89,131 183,069 282,417
Fund balances at 31 December 2020 137,147 32,407 95,260 264,814 183,069
----- End of picture text -----

The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year.

All income and expenditure derives from continuing activities

The notes on pages 25 to 37 form part of this account

A detailed breakdown of the comparative figures per Fund is shown on page 38

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE BALANCE SHEET FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

----- Start of picture text -----
2020 2019
Notes £ £ £ £
Fixed assets
Tangible assets 6 1,198 2,395
Endowment Assets 95,260 89,131
96,458 91,526
Current assets
Debtors 7 15,479 18,546
Short term deposits 52,296 71,192
Cash at bank and in hand 113,251 14,058
181,026 103,796
Creditors: amounts falling due
within one year 8 (12,670) (12,253)
Net current assets 168,356 91,543
Total assets less current liabilities 264,814 183,069
Income funds
Unrestricted funds 9 137,147 91,672
Restricted funds 9 32,407 2,266
Endowment funds 9 95,260 89,131
264,814 183,069
----- End of picture text -----

The accounts were approved by the Trustees on 7th April 2021 and were signed on its behalf by:-

Giles Carpenter

Giles Carpenter

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

1 Accounting policies

1.1 Charity information

The charity was established under the Parochial Church Powers Measure (1956) as amended and Church Representation Rules and is a charity registered in England and Wales (charity number 1131574).

1.1 Accounting convention

The Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice, applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard 102 (effective 1 January 2019), the Charities Act 2011 and applicable regulations. The charity is a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102.

To ensure that the accounts show a true and fair view, the trustees have not complied fully with the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 as these refer specifically to the previous 2005 SORP and have not been updated to reflect the changes in legislation to the FRS102 SORP.

The accounts are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity.

The Financial Statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention as modified by the inclusion of investments at market value.

1.2 Going concern

At the time of approving the accounts, the PCC have reasonable expectation that the Charity has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the PCC continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the accounts.

1.3 Funds accounting

Funds held by the PCC are:

Unrestricted funds general funds which can be used for PCC ordinary purposes.
Designated funds monies set aside by the PCC out of unrestricted funds for specific
future purposes or projects.
Restricted funds Income from trusts or endowments which may be expended only
on those restricted objects provided in terms of the trust or
bequest;
Donations or grants received for a specifc object or invited by the
PCC for a specifc object. The funds may only be expended on the
specific object for which they were given. Any balance remaining
unspent at the end of the year is carried forward as a balance on
that fund.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

1 Accounting policies (continued)

1.3 Funds accounting (continued)

Endowment funds

Funds the capital of which must be maintained only; income arising from the investment of the endowment may be used, either as restricted or unrestricted funds, depending on the purpose set out in the terms of the original endowment.

1.4 Incoming resources

All income and endowments, which are accounted for without deduction for any costs of receivability, are recognised when there is evidence of entitlement, receipt is probable and the amount can be measured reliably.

Donations and legacies

Planned giving, collections and donations are recognised when received.

Gift aid recovered is recognised when the income to which it is attached is received.

Grants and legacies are recognised when the formal offer in writing of the funding is received by the PCC.

Charitable activities

Statutory fees for weddings and funerals are recognised when the events have occurred. Fees received in advance of the event are recognised as deferred income until the event occurs. The statutory proportion of fees held as agent for and due to the Diocese of Chichester, are not recognised as income and are included in creditors until paid.

Other trading activities

Where income is receivable in return for selling goods or providing services, income is recognised either when received or in the case of concerts, for the year it occurs irrespectrive of date of receipt. Advance bookings are included in creditors until the concert has taken place.

Sales of magazines and study notes are recognised when received.

Investment income

Dividends are accounted for when due and payable. Interest entitlements are accounted for as they accrue.

Other income

All other income is recognised in accordance with the above overall policy.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

1 Accounting policies (continued)

1.5 Resources expended

Expenditure is recognised on an accruals basis as a liability is incurred.

Grants

Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over or, when awarded, where the award creates a binding obligation on the PCC.

Charitable activities

Charitable expenditure comprises those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activities and services for its beneficiaries. It includes both costs that can be allocated directly to such activities and those costs of an indirect nature necessary to support them.

Governance costs

This includes those costs associated with meeting the constitutional and statutory requirements of the charity and include the independent examination fees and costs linked to the strategic management of the charity.

1.6 Tangible fixed assets and depreciation

Consecrated and benefice property of any kind is excluded from the accounts by s.10(2)(a) and (c) of the Charities Act 2011.

Movable church furnishings held by the vicar and churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal are inalienable property, listed in the church's inventory, which can be inspected (at any reasonable time). For anything acquired prior to 2000 there is insufficient cost information available and therefore the cost of such assets is not stated in the financial statements. Individual items that cost less than £1,000 are written off in expenditure when incurred.

Tangible fixed assets are stated at cost less depreciation. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to write off the cost less estimated residual value of each asset over its expected useful life, as follows:

Fixtures, fittings and equipment

25% on a straight line basis

The gains and losses arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in net income/(expenditure) for the year.

Investments

Investments are stated at mid-market value at the Balance Sheet date.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

1 Accounting policies (continued)

1.7 Leasing commitments

Rentals payable under operating leases are charged against income on a straight line basis over the period of the lease.

1.8 Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.

1.9 Current assets

Amounts owing to the PCC at 31 December in respect of fees, rents or other income are recognised as debtors less provision for amounts that may prove uncollectible.

Short-term deposits include cash held on deposit either with the CBF Church of England Funds or at the bank.

1.1 Critical accounting estimates and judgements

In application of the Charity's accounting policies, the Trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

2 Incoming resources

Unrestricted
Restricted
Endowment
funds
funds
funds
£
£
£
Donations and legacies
Planned giving
Gift Aid donations
114,251
-
-
Tax recoverable
30,052
1,412
-
Other
26,759
-
-
Cash collections at services
2,782
100
-
Donations, appeals, etc
7,028
10,236
-
Grants
20,640
-
-
Legacies
80,000
20,000
-
281,512
31,748
-
Magazines, books and cards
502
-
-
Fees
1,520
-
-
Clubs
392
-
-
2,414
-
-
Other trading activities
Parish Hall lettings
4,923
-
-
Fund raising events
396
-
-
5,319
-
-
Investment income
Dividends and interest (gross)
896
2,010
-
896
2,010
-
Other incoming resources
Other income
476
-
-
476
-
-
TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES
290,617
33,758
-
Year to 31 December 2020
Incoming resources from
charitable activities or grants		 Total
£
114,251
31,464
26,759
2,882
17,264
20,640
100,000
313,260
502
1,520
392
2,414
4,923
396
5,319
2,906
2,906
476
476
324,375

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

2 Incoming resources (continued)

Unrestricted
Restricted
Endowment
funds
funds
funds
£
£
£
Donations and legacies
Planned giving
Gift Aid donations
108,881
-
-
Tax recoverable
31,760
-
-
Other
24,806
-
-
Cash collections at services
11,854
-
-
Donations, appeals, etc
12,741
-
-
Grants
65,000
-
-
Legacies
2,000
-
-
257,042
-
-
Magazines, books and cards
1,667
-
-
Fees
1,323
-
-
Clubs
1,016
-
-
4,006
-
-
Other trading activities
Parish Hall lettings
15,059
-
-
Fund raising events
4,320
-
-
19,379
-
-
Investment income
Dividends and interest (gross)
528
2,591
-
528
2,591
-
Other incoming resources
Other income
-
-
-
-
-
-
TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES
280,955
2,591
-
Year to 31 December 2019
Incoming resources from
charitable activities or grants		 Total
£
108,881
31,760
24,806
11,854
12,741
65,000
2,000
257,042
1,667
1,323
1,016
4,006
15,059
4,320
19,379
3,119
3,119
-
-
283,546

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

3 Total resources expended

Unrestricted
Restricted
Endowment
funds
funds
funds
£
£
£
Charitable activities
Missionary and charitable giving
Church overseas
Missionary societies
3,000
-
-
Relief and development agencies
2,000
-
-
Home missions
8,380
1,860
-
Note 4
13,380
1,860
-
Ministry:
Parish contribution
74,040
-
-
Housing expenses
7,040
-
-
Clergy expenses
2,228
-
-
Church running expenses
21,068
-
-
Church maintenance
7,171
-
-
Upkeep of services
12,238
-
-
Upkeep of church garden
156
1,670
-
Expenditure on parish magazine,
books and cards
2,365
-
-
Mission outreach and training
434
-
-
Salaries
49,814
-
-
Children's activities
198
-
-
Printing, office supplies and
-
-
telephone
4,973
-
-
Other administration costs
5,679
87
-
New and replacement, furniture
and equipment
7,746
-
-
Major works
603
-
-
Tower and festival project
16,052
-
-
Total charitable activities
225,185
3,617
-
Cost of generating voluntary
income
Stewardship expenses
75
-
-
Cost of applying for grants
-
-
-
75
-
-
Other trading activities
Parish Hall running costs
18,002
-
-
Cost of events
260
-
-
18,262
-
-
Governance costs
Independent Examination fee
1,620
-
-
1,620
-
-
TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED
245,142
3,617
-
Year to 31 December 2020		 Total
£
3,000
2,000
10,240
15,240
74,040
7,040
2,228
21,068
7,171
12,238
1,826
2,365
434
49,814
198
-
4,973
5,766
7,746
603
16,052
-
228,802
75
-
75
18,002
260
18,262
1,620
1,620
248,759

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

3 Total resources expended

Unrestricted
Restricted
Endowment
funds
funds
funds
£
£
£
Charitable activities
Missionary and charitable giving
Church overseas
Missionary societies
3,000
-
-
Relief and development agencies
2,500
200
-
Home mission
7,660
640
-
Note 4
13,160
840
-
Ministry:
Parish contribution
75,624
-
-
Housing expenses
7,316
-
-
Clergy expenses
3,499
-
-
Church running expenses
21,565
-
-
Church maintenance
13,971
-
-
Upkeep of services
14,995
150
-
Upkeep of church garden
1,187
1,971
-
Expenditure on parish magazine,
books and cards
1,905
-
-
Mission outreach and training
2,826
-
-
Salaries
36,781
-
-
Children's activities
456
-
-
Printing, office supplies and
telephone
8,396
-
-
Other administration costs
11,535
424
-
New and replacement, furniture
and equipment
5,180
-
-
Major works
705
-
-
Tower and festival project
154,635
-
-
Total charitable activities
373,736
3,385
-
Cost of generating voluntary
income
Stewardship expenses
281
-
-
Cost of applying for grants
-
-
-
281
-
-
Other trading activities
Parish Hall running costs
17,067
-
-
Cost of events
910
-
-
17,977
-
-
Governance costs
Independent Examination fee
1,560
-
-
1,560
-
-
TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED
393,554
3,385
-
Year to 31 December 2019		 Total
£
3,000
2,700
8,300
14,000
75,624
7,316
3,499
21,565
13,971
15,145
3,158
1,905
2,826
36,781
456
8,396
11,959
5,180
705
154,635
377,121
281
-
281
17,067
910
17,977
1,560
1,560
396,939

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

4 Missionary and charitable giving

Unrestricted
Restricted
Endowment
funds
funds
funds
£
£
£
Overseas
CMS
1,000
-
-
Revive
1,000
-
-
Tearfund
1,000
-
-
CMCT
1,000
-
-
Release International
1,000
-
-
5,000
-
-
Home
Linking Lives Eastbourne
1,780
220
-
St Wilfrids Hospice
1,300
200
-
Beachy Head Chaplaincy
1,300
200
-
Eastbourne Winter Night Shelter
1,000
-
-
Matthew 25
1,500
-
-
Eastbourne Foodbank
1,500
-
-
Parish Hardship Fund
-
1,240
-
8,380
1,860
-
Total Giving
13,380
1,860
-
Overseas
CMS
1,000
-
-
Revive
1,000
-
-
Tearfund
1,000
200
-
Mission Aviation F'ship
500
-
-
Mission to Seafarers
300
-
-
CMCT
1,000
-
-
Release International
1,000
-
-
5,800
200
-
Home
-
Linking Lives Eastbourne
1,760
240
-
St Wilfrids Hospice
1,000
200
-
Beachy Head Chaplaincy
1,000
200
-
Eastbourne Winter Night Shelter
900
-
-
Matthew 25
1,200
-
-
Eastbourne Foodbank
1,200
-
-
St Luke's Healthcare for Clergy
100
-
-
PARACHE
200
-
-
7,360
640
-
Total Giving
13,160
840
-
Year to 31 December 2020
Year to 31 December 2019		 Total
£
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
5,000
2,000
1,500
1,500
1,000
1,500
1,500
1,240
10,240
15,240
1,000
1,000
1,200
500
300
1,000
1,000
6,000
-
2,000
1,200
1,200
900
1,200
1,200
100
200
8,000
14,000

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

5 Staff costs

Administration
Unrestricted Fund
Family & Children
Worker
Maintenance of
Church & Parish
Hall		 Wages &
salaries
26,684
22,917
10,527
60,128		 Social
security
costs
402
377
66
845		 Pension
contributions
1,210
1,146
526
2,882		 Total
2020
28,296
24,440
11,119
63,855		 Total
2019
20,095
18,258
11,230
49,583

During the year the PCC employed an average of 4 people in the following posts: Church and Parish Hall administrators; a Children and Families Worker and a cleaner.

There are no employees who received total emoluments of more than £60,000.

6 Tangible fixed assets

Cost
At 01 January 2020
Additions
Disposals
At 31 December 2020
Depreciation
At 01 January 2020
Charge for the year
Disposals
At 31 December 2020
Net book value
At 31 December 2020
At 31 December 2018
Investments
Market value at 1 January 2020
Gains/(losses) in year
Market value at 31 December 2020		 Equipment
£
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-		 Total
£
£
4,791
4,791
-
-
-
-
4,791
4,791
2,396
2,396
1,197
1,197
-
-
3,593
3,593
1,198
1,198
2,395
2,395
Total
2020
Total
2019
£
£
89,131
75,086
6,129
14,045
95,260
89,131
Furniture
Endowment Fund

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

7 Debtors

Income tax recoverable
Prepayments
Other debtors		 Total
2020
Total
2019
£
£
6,500
6,500
1,106
4,313
7,873
7,733
15,479
18,546
Unrestricted Fund

8 Creditors

Accruals and deferred income
Creditors for goods and services		 Total
2020
Total
2019
£
£
1,770
2,510
10,900
9,743
12,670
12,253
Unrestricted Fund

9 Movement in funds

£
£
£
£
£
Garden Maintenance
56,760
3,903
-
-
60,663
Duplex Bequest
28,940
1,990
-
-
30,930
Flower Fund
3,431
236
-
-
3,667
Movement in Funds
Balance at 01
January 2020
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
Balance at
31
December
2020
Transfers		 £
£
£
£
£
Garden Maintenance
56,760
3,903
-
-
60,663
Duplex Bequest
28,940
1,990
-
-
30,930
Flower Fund
3,431
236
-
-
3,667
Movement in Funds
Balance at 01
January 2020
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
Balance at
31
December
2020
Transfers		 £
£
£
£
£
Garden Maintenance
56,760
3,903
-
-
60,663
Duplex Bequest
28,940
1,990
-
-
30,930
Flower Fund
3,431
236
-
-
3,667
Movement in Funds
Balance at 01
January 2020
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
Balance at
31
December
2020
Transfers		 £
£
£
£
£
Garden Maintenance
56,760
3,903
-
-
60,663
Duplex Bequest
28,940
1,990
-
-
30,930
Flower Fund
3,431
236
-
-
3,667
Movement in Funds
Balance at 01
January 2020
Incoming
resources
Resources
expended
Balance at
31
December
2020
Transfers
Total Endownment Funds 89,131
6,129		 -
95,260
Garden Fund
Charities Fund
Flower Fund
St John's School Governers
Parish Hardship Fund
Legacy Repairs
Church Clock		 1,321
1,315
(1,669)
1
644
(620)
612
351
-
332
-
(88)
-
9,819
(1,240)
-
20,000
-
-
1,629
-		 -
967
-
25
-
963
-
244
-
8,579
-
20,000
-
1,629
Total Restricted Funds 2,266
33,758
(3,617)		 -
32,407
General Fund
Designated Funds
Parish Hall Fund
Parish Hall Maintenance
Reserve Fund
Organ Fund
Repair Fund
Roof Repair Fund
Anniversary Appeal Fund
Tower & Festival Project
Legacy Reserve		 5,184
193,030
(203,907)
13,515
4,582
(19,060)
10,000
-
-
40,000
-
-
2,734
1,850
-
380
-
(6,123)
15,000
-
-
4,768
843
(3,141)
91
10,312
(12,911)
-
80,000		 18,183
12,490
817.00
(146)
-
10,000
-
40,000
-
4,584
10,000
4,257
-
15,000
(1,500)
970
2,500
(8)
(30,000)
50,000
Total Unresticted Funds 91,672
290,617
(245,142)		 -
137,147
Total Funds 183,069
330,504
(248,759)		 -
264,814

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

10 Analysis of net assets between funds

Fund balances at 31 December 2020 are represented by:

£
Tangible fixed assets
1,198
Investment fixed assets
-
Current assets (excl bank)
15,480
Cash at bank and on deposit
126,293
Current liabilities
(5,824)
137,147
Fund balances at 31 December 2019 are represented by:
£
Tangible fixed assets
2,395
Investment fixed assets
-
Current assets (excl bank)
18,546
Cash at bank and on deposit
82,984
Current liabilities
(12,253)
91,672
Unrestricted
funds
Unrestricted		 £
£
-
-
-
95,260
-
-
39,253
-
(6,846)
-
32,407
95,260
£
£
-
-
-
89,131
-
-
2,266
-
-
-
2,266
89,131
Endowment
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Restricted Endowment		 Total
£
1,198
95,260
15,480
165,546
(12,670)
264,814
Total
£
2,395
89,131
18,546
85,250
(12,253)
183,069

11 Statement of Funds

Endowment Funds

These are required by the donors to be invested and the income spent on specific objectives.

The Garden Maintenance Fund is a permanent endowment, invested in CBF Investment Fund shares (2,961 shares), which requires income to be spent on maintenance of the church garden.

The Duplex Beques t is a permanent endowment, invested in CBF Investment Fund shares (1,509.70 shares), which requires income to be given to charitable causes.

The Flower Fund is a permanent endowment, invested in CBF Investment Fund shares (179 shares), which requires income to be spent on floral decoration of the church.

The CBF Investment Fund shares were valued at £20.4873 per share at 31 December 2020 (2019: £19.1691 per share).

Restricted Funds

These are not invested permanently but are to be spent within reasonable timescales

The Garden Fund which holds income for the upkeep of the church garden.

The Flower Fund which holds income to provide for the floral decoration of the church.

The Charities Fund which holds income from the Duplex Bequest pending payment to charities.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

11 Statement of Funds (continued)

Restricted Funds (continued)

St John School Governor's Fund which holds monies allocated by the PCC to meet costs incurred by governors in carrying out their roles.

The Parish Hardship Fund which holds income to provide financial support to individuals or families within the Parish.

The Legacy Repairs Fund which holds legacy income for the repair of the church and connected property.

The Church Clock Fund which holds income for the repair of the church clock.

Unrestricted Funds

These are not subject to any donor restrictions and can be spent as the PCC decides.

The PCC has designated certain funds for administrative purposes and to set aside monies for future anticipated expenditure. The designated funds comprise:-

Parish Hall Fund to provide for the running costs and upkeep of the Parish Hall.

Parish Hall Maintenance Fund to provide for maintaining the fabric of the Parish Hall.

Reserve Fund to provide funds as a contingency and for the further development of the church.

Organ Fund to provide future repairs to the organ.

Repair Fund to provide for repairs and decoration of the church and replacement of equipment.

Roof Repair Fund to provide for future repairs to flat roofs as recommended in quinquennial report.

Anniversary Appeal Fund to meet the costs associated with the Re-ordering Project

Tower & Festival Project Fund to monitor income and costs associated with the Remembrance Festival and Heritage Projects

12 Payments to PCC Members

Mrs Catherine Butcher received £1,750 (2019: £18,000) in her role as Heritage Project Coordinator.

Other payments were made to PCC members in reimbursement of expenses incurred on behalf of the PCC:

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2020

13 Related party transactions

There were no transations with any other related parties other than those already disclosed. (2019: None)

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2019

----- Start of picture text -----
Unrestricted Restricted Endowment Total
funds funds funds 2019
£ £ £ £
Notes
Incoming Resources from
generated funds
- -
Donations and Legacies 257,042 257,042
Incoming resources from charitable
- -
activities or grants 4,006 4,006
- -
Other trading activities 19,379 19,379
Investment income 528 2,591 - 3,119
- - - -
Other incoming resources
Total incoming resources 2 280,955 2,591 - 283,546
Resources Expended
Church activities 3 375,296 3,385 - 378,681
Cost of generating voluntary
income 281 - - 281
- -
Other trading activities 17,977 17,977
Governance costs 3 - - -
-
Total Resources expended 393,554 3,385 396,939
-
Net outgoing resources (112,599) (794) (113,393)
before transfers
Gross transfers between funds 500 (500) 0 -
Net incoming Resources before other
-
(112,099) (1,294) (113,393)
recognised gains and losses
Gains on investment assets - - 14045 14,045
Net Movement in Funds (112,099) (1,294) 14,045 (99,348)
Fund balances at 1 January 2019 203,771 3,560 75,086 282,417
Fund balances at 31 December 2019 91,672 2,266 89,131 183,069
----- End of picture text -----

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

CHURCHWARDEN MESSAGE

This report combines elements that were intended for last year’s APCM and never made it due to the Pandemic.

I would like to begin by acknowledging Diana Guthrie election to the post of Churchwarden. It’s a been great blessing to have her on the team.

Over the past months I have been challenged to identify, by those who do not attend church, ‘Just what good is the church?’ It set me thinking, (which is always dangerous 😊!). Here at St John the Evangelist, to use its full title, it is easy to fall into thinking that apart from Sundays and a few high days and holidays not much happens in these buildings, but nothing could be further from the truth.

The church which meets in these buildings is responsible for providing a focal point for our community to engage in such occasions as rites of passage - baptisms, marriages and funerals – and state occasions. But it goes much further than this. I have been much struck by this passage from Jeremiah 29 vv 5-7:

‘Build houses and settle down; … a lso, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper...’

This passage is particularly relevant to us, for when I look at what goes on here I find huge encouragement. Our church provides a safe haven for young people to develop through our Scouting groups, and a place for the community to find friendship and society through our Scrabble Club, Men’s Breakfast, CAMEO, Baby and Toddler group, Who Let the Dads Out?, jazz concerts, choirs, organ recitals, gardening team ... not to mention serving 1500 meals a year to the community via the Lunch Club and Coffee Pot +. One of our newer initiatives is the Eastbourne through the Wars exhibition in the church tower, which regularly draws in visitors on Saturday afternoons. The church building is used by our local state and private schools, and the halls are home to numerous clubs and societies; the Jubilee Hall is recognised by the Council as an Emergency Day Shelter, and we have provided accommodation for the homeless through the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol initiative.

But St John’s goes deeper than this because church members are an active blessing in the far wider community. We help provide service and financial support for organisations such as the Eastbourne Food Bank, Matthew 25, Beachy Head Chaplaincy, Linking Lives, and the Winter Night Shelter, to name just a few. I know many of you are actively engaged in charities that seek to meet the needs of our town, driven by love and compassion for others, knowing that there is a God who loves and cares for us all and asks us to engage with him in demonstrating it to a world gone astray.

So next time you come into the building you may just take a different view of what good the church is and be encouraged to think of the part you play in this, remembering that God has promised that where the city prospers because of us, so too will we.

Tony

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

CHURCHWARDEN'S REPORT FOR 2020-21

COPING WITH THE CORONAVIRUS

This has had an enormous impact on the life of St John’s, as we’ve spent a year in lockdown or adhering to very strict rules about meeting. Probably not since St John’s was built in the mid-19[th ] century has the church ceased to meet physically in one venue or another. But great advances in computer technology have enabled most of us to meet online, via Sunday services and daily services of Morning Prayer; these have brought fellowship and cheer to many who’ve been unable to meet up with friends and family beyond their immediate household. And in the limited period when we were able to re-open the church for services, the benefits of flexible seating became very obvious. Going to church once again became a great privilege.

The Churchwardens’ duties are very varied, but an obvious one is keeping an up-to-date record of all church property and maintenance.

INVENTORY AND TERRIER

The annual inventory of Church goods and chattels was carried out in January this year. Since the reordering of the church in 2018 there have been substantial additions, particularly in regard to audiovisual equipment.

We are very grateful to Dick Thwaites for checking the church silverware in February 2021; this was found to be in order.

There is no Terrier (an account of Church lands and properties), but our understanding is that the Church itself, the Jubilee Hall complex and the Parish Hall are the main components of the land property element of the Terrier. St John’s School was originally owned by St John’s Church, but was passed to the Diocese.

BUILDING WORK AND MAINTENANCE

The pandemic has affected the improvements and repairs that we had hoped to get done over the past year.

QUINQUENNIAL INSPECTION 2019

Every five years we are required by the Church of England to commission an inspection of the church fabric and buildings by our architects (CPL Ltd, of Polegate), who produce a report indicating what work needs to be undertaken to keep our buildings in good order. The latest inspection was carried out last September. (The cost of this extensive and detailed Inspection was about £6,000).

This report asks us to undertake surveys on:

Drainage External boundary walls Stonework in the main body of the church not covered by the last reordering in 2018 Electrical systems Asbestos Main roof

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

CHURCHWARDEN'S REPORT FOR 2020-21 (CONTINUED)

QUINQUENNIAL INSPECTION 2019 (CONTINUED)

And there are a number of smaller tasks which can be undertaken by church members.

The inspection report recommended that we carry out roof repairs to the flat roofs on the south side (over the Chapel and Office) this year and make plans to undertake the same work on the north side at a later date. Work on the flat roof on the south side is outstanding, while an agreement was being reached on the materials to be used.

It suggested the need to make provision for better access into and within the buildings for people who have mobility problems. This would comprise automatic opening doors to the cloister, automatic opening doors to the area outside the vestry (which also serves the disabled toilet), and the provision of sliding external doors to the Jubilee Hall / Pauling Room. This provision is picked up in our mission plan.

These are just some highlights from a very detailed report. The PCC have discussed some of these and have agreed that we move forward with the last two items, ie. the flat roof repairs to the south side and the accessibility doors. Several specialist contractors have been approached for quotations.

OTHER BUILDING ISSUES

The flat roof over the fire exit by the Jubilee Hall kitchen has been an issue for several years now, and pinpointing the exact cause of the problem has been difficult. We have been advised that the top coping stones may need to be relayed, and we are now waiting for the contractors to carry out the remedial work.

OTHER BUILDING ISSUES

The wall of the first toilet encountered in the Jubilee Hall is showing signs of rising damp, and this is being investigated, as is the roofing over the hallway leading to the Pauling Room, which is also showing evidence of damp.

One of the aims of the Building for the Future Project included the internal redecoration of the church to ceiling height, but we were unable to do this at the time; in addition, the large Portland stone piers need cleaning. If anyone would like to organise or be part of a team to clean these and also do some low-level redecoration please let us know.

The church clock mechanism began to fail in March 2020 (about the time of the first lockdown); some ad hoc repairs were done, but in the end we had to stop it completely. An appeal for funds for repairs raised £1,628.50 and it is hoped that the repairs will be completed before the 2021 APCM.

REPAIRS LOG

We would like to record our thanks to Dick Thwaites for all the time and energy he puts into helping to maintain the buildings both here in the Church and at the Parish Hall, as well as the task of keeping the Repairs Log up-to-date.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

CHURCHWARDEN'S REPORT FOR 2020-21 (CONTINUED)

CHURCH OFFICE

We have been greatly blessed by the commitment of our office staff, Rachael Bishop and Lindsay Small; needing to work from home for most of this year they have kept St John’s on the road, often working nonsocial hours when necessary. The technical support they have given to the broadcasting of services and to communicating with Church members has been invaluable.

We want to thank Rosie Whittaker for all the work she’s managed to do within furlough restrictions to keep the Church and the Parish Hall clean and safe for us to use.

RELATIONS WITH OUR COMMUNITY

We help provide service and financial support for local organisations such as the Eastbourne Food Bank, Matthew 25, Beachy Head Chaplaincy, Linking Lives, and the Winter Night Shelter, to name just a few. Over the last year, opportunities to give practical service have had to change, but St John’s has been a focus for practical help to those most impacted by the pandemic, organising food deliveries, phoning isolated people, praying.

SERVING IN CHURCH

There has been a real sea-change over the past few years in the growing pressure to comply with new and updated regulations, such as Health & Safety, Safeguarding, Food Hygiene, Equality (especially in regard to disability), Mental Health, Insurance, Music and Performance Copyright. The church office is pivotal and under a lot of pressure, and the churchwardens often wonder where the time required to do all that is asked of us is going to come from – we need more help from the church members.

So we would encourage you to think carefully about where you might be able to help out, even if it’s on a limited basis. During the services for instance, could you help as a sidesperson ushering people to communion or helping with taking the collection? And we have a particular need for audio-visual help if we are going to stream services out to those in the congregation who can no longer get to church; this is an exciting opportunity to literally see the Church engaging with our community. And our work with children and families is blossoming under the leadership of Kim Leach; could you help to register children or run a session? If your talents are more practical, maybe you could help with some of the regular maintenance of the building and garden.

If you would like to discuss getting involved, then please come and talk to one of us.

Both the Churchwardens are stepping down at the forthcoming APCM, but would like to thank the Church membership for their prayers and support over the last few years. We urge you to pray for the incoming Churchwardens and indeed for all the work of our Church.

Tony Mottram and Diana Guthrie March 2021

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

REPORTS FROM CHURCH ORGANISATIONS AND REPRESENTATIVES

Prayer Ministry

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Philippians 4.6

Prayer undergirds all that we do at St John’s, and although we have been unable to offer prayer ministry in person over the past year that does not mean that we have stopped praying. Our times of Morning Prayer have been one means of sharing prayer needs and praying for one another, and old and new forms of communication have been used to ask for prayer and to offer prayer. The Holy Spirit is not limited by lockdown or social distancing and continues to bring healing and restoration in so many different ways.

As we return to in person gathering we hope soon to to resume prayer after services and to meet again as a team to pray for one another. We would love to hear from anyone who would like to find out more about joining this team.

Jill Preece

Pastoral Care Team

The experience of the past year has highlighted to us all how much we need interaction with one another, and many of us have experienced for the first time the social isolation that some live with on a day to day basis. It has been a year where we have grieved the deaths of loved ones from our own families and from our church family, and a year of restricted contact and fellowship.

We are grateful to the pastoral team who have worked hard to keep in contact with those we know of in particular need and those who are especially isolated. Inevitably we will have missed some people and we are very sorry if you feel that is you. Please forgive us and let us know so we can include you.

We recognise and appreciate that pastoral care often happens in a natural way within the church, and we are grateful for those who have reached out and supported others during this difficult time. However the aim of having a team is to provide a structure that ensures no-one is missed out, and to ensure that we offer a safe and supportive framework for both those contacted and those who make contact. As a part of this all the team have safeguarding checks and undertake safeguarding training, and we plan to undertake further training in other aspects of offering good pastoral care.

If you or someone you know would appreciate the support of the team, or if you would like to join the team, please speak to me.

Jill Preece

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

REPORTS FROM CHURCH ORGANISATIONS AND REPRESENTATIVES

Outreach to those in Care Homes, including PARCHE (Pastoral Action in Residential Care Homes for the Elderly)

The Care Homes and retirement housing units in the parish, along with many throughout the country, have had a difficult time during the past year. Sadly due to Covid restrictions we have been unable to visit both for services or to visit members of our Church family who live there. The only exception was a short spell when a small team took Communion to those in Camelot which was very warmly appreciated. During the first lockdown we delivered to each home prayer cards for the residents and staff to use together and we have maintained contact through phone calls, letters and cards and have continued to pray for residents and staff in our shared prayer times.

As restrictions ease we look forward to resuming visits and services and would welcome new members to our teams. If you speak to any of those who have taken part in these visits you will hear how much they enjoy these times and value the relationships and opportunities they bring. Contact Jill Preece, Sarah Hassell or Derek Mouland if you would like to know more.

Jill Preece

Eastbourne Foodbank

The Eastbourne Foodbank has experienced extreme highs and lows in this incredibly unusual year of COVID-19 pandemic.

In March 2020 when the first lockdown was announced all the foodbank collection satellites closed leaving no alternative other than to deliver. The task looked daunting but with good fortune a team of Samaritans came forward, Eastbourne Borough Council Environment First team, British Gas engineers who were working but not making any business calls and the 4x4 Sussex car club, without these teams life would have been difficult as 1450 deliveries were being made a month.

When the first lockdown came to a close a decision had been made by the Foodbank Operations Management to close the Grove collection point and open a number of collection points across the Eastbourne town and surrounding areas, 6 in all, open on different days of the week. Although Grove Road had closed for food collection, it remained open for advocacy, debit counselling and benefit support for DLA’s and PIP’s by appointment. The revised format has worked well, but surprisingly the number of clients collecting food dropped dramatically which was a surprise with the increased number of people out of work. It slowly became clear with a number of Government initiatives, such as the increase made to the Universal Credit, the furlough scheme and housing evictions being suspended and latterly towards the end of 2020 a new charity opened in Eastbourne offering short dated food at very low cost. Since the start of the 2021 lockdown numbers have slowly started to increase with average of 43 home deliveries a week and approximately 140 collections made a week across the satellites.

Collections from churches since March 2020 ceased and have yet to restart, but the generosity of the Eastbourne population both in food donations in the supermarkets and monetary donations have been staggering and for this the Eastbourne Foodbank give you thanks, without this generosity there would be no foodbank.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

REPORTS FROM CHURCH ORGANISATIONS AND REPRESENTATIVES

Eastbourne Foodbank (continued)

Although the churches have been closed I am certain many of you continue to offer prayers which is an important factor to the Management Team and the Trustees, as the foodbank is aligned to the Trussell Trust a Christian charity.

Once again thank you St John’s for your support.

Dennis Thompson Eastbourne Foodbank Trustee

Men’s Breakfast

Another excellent year of speakers, albeit held in a very different environment, no sunning ourselves in the warm sunlight on the Holywell Café terrace, but locked away in our homes using ZOOM technology to meet. I have must say it has not deterred one or two munching away at bacon rolls or muesli as the watch and listen to the speakers.

The year was late in getting underway with our first speaker in June on ZOOM coming in from Australia, an early morning for us but a rather late evening for him. Over the past 11 months the breakfast has been blessed with 5 speakers from St John’s and 6 external speakers, a number coming from All Saints.

The number attending I am pleased to say continues in the high twenties and this is made up of newcomers and some of our regular attendees choosing to give ZOOM a miss. The speakers from All Saints continued to attend our breakfast and I am pleased to say on the back of their attending our breakfast they have restarted their own All Saints Men’s Breakfast which had lapsed due to the lockdown.

I would ask those regulars who do attend the breakfasts to encourage anybody both within the church and outside the church; they would be most welcome to join us. Sadly this offer of welcoming as many to join us is only possible while ZOOM is in use, as once we are free to return to Holywell, sitting on the terrace would not be a problem, and inside the café we are limited to a maximum of 30.

I thank the gentlemen for their loyal support in attending, without them it would be very difficult for the speakers.

Dennis Thompson

St John’s Men’s Breakfast Organiser

Home Groups

Despite Covid, Home Groups have been alive and kicking!. The majority of groups have been meeting on Zoom – these meetings have been enjoyable and have provided both fellowship, support and much valued spiritual nourishment. When the Rule of 6 applied some groups were able to meet in person.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

REPORTS FROM CHURCH ORGANISATIONS AND REPRESENTATIVES

Home Groups (continued)

Those in groups who have not been able to meet on zoom have been contacted periodically by their home group leaders to make sure they are keeping well and are feeling connected. At least one group has, when the rules allowed, held successful picnics in the back garden.

Kate and Clive Dilloway’s group elected to follow The Bible Course and opened it up to all-comers – this has worked really well.

Nick Pendry

The Alpha Course

Alpha courses give people the opportunity to explore faith in a relaxed setting where no question is off limits. The 8-week course serves as an introduction to faith for those who have never considered Christianity, as well as a refresher course for people who have attended church for many years.

Alpha groups have been held each year at St John’s since 2017. More than 20 people have been involved in leading the seven courses up to and including the 2020 course. Of the 46 people who have attended Alpha at St John’s, 30 have become regular attenders. Almost all of the 30 ‘Alpha graduates’ have become part of an ongoing midweek group, with some taking up responsibilities within the life of the church, including helping with other Alpha courses. Having a follow-on group ready to start has played a significant part in the journey from being ‘enquirers’ to ‘disciples’.

The Holy Spirit day, which is held as part of the course, is often the turning point for guests as headknowledge about faith becomes an experience of the living God, at work in individual lives by the power of the Holy Spirit. It is thrilling to see God work in this way, as guests who join the course as sceptics, become followers of Jesus.

The prayer support team plays a vital part in the Alpha course, with several members of the church praying each week for the guests and their journey to faith.

In 2020 we held one face-to-face Alpha course and advertised an online course once the Covid-19 lockdown came into force. This first attempt at Alpha online didn’t attract sufficient guests to run a course. Previous Alpha courses had relied heavily on the vicar inviting guests. Online Alpha courses needed a different approach, with frequent mentions in the Sunday services online and invitations going out from St Johns’ regulars to their friends and relatives.

Encouraged by reports from around the country that Alpha was even more successful online that face-toface, and by the statistic that 23% of adults in England were connected with online church each month including 4% who had no previous connection with church,* we used the autumn of 2020 to advertise a new online Alpha course to start in January 2021. The January 2021 course, run jointly with St Michael and All Angels, attracted 26 guests including several regular members of the church congregations. Because numbers were high, two of the ‘guests’ were recruited to help lead break-out groups, and around 20 of the guests completed most of the course including seven who had never attended either church in person, but had found us online. George Fisher and John Caroe are continuing to lead the follow-on group for St John’s, with a follow-on group also being run at St Michaels.

*https://www.hopetogether.org.uk/Groups/358586/Connecting_with_anonymous.aspx

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

REPORTS FROM CHURCH ORGANISATIONS AND REPRESENTATIVES

The Church Garden

The church gardens provide a beautiful tranquil space which is enjoyed by church goers, Meads residents and tourists venturing up the hill from the promenade. The ashes of loved ones are scattered in the memorial garden and flowers or crosses are placed there on Remembrance Sunday and other anniversaries. The gardens, which are funded by a legacy, provide an important part of church life and are kept looking lovely by a few hard working volunteers.

This year of course has been like no other for the gardeners but the garden has kept on growing oblivious to the pandemic. In the first lockdown last spring it provided an absolute lifeline to two or three of us who met there twice a week and did the clearing jobs which in normal times would take too long in our busy lives. It was so nice to get out and do something useful. This extra work has really paid off now as spring bulbs and primroses can peep from behind the shrubs.

The garden also proved invaluable to many during the pandemic who, whilst living in flats in Eastbourne, were able to get out into the lovely spring sunshine and give us a wave or have a socially distanced chat. Many sat quietly on the benches and prayed, perhaps reflected on lost loved ones or simply looked at the beautiful, God given, garden.

We have continued to meet regularly and are almost always to be found working on a Friday morning if anyone should want to join us to work or just chat in the safety of the open air.

Karen Fletcher-Wright Gardening Team Leader

JUNIOR CHURCH

For most pat of this last year Junior Church has been online. As we went into lockdown, we began producing a weekly video for families to watch at home along with activity sheets which the children could do to help them engage with each session in fun ways. We continued to follow the church themes so that families could continue to ‘walk’ together on their faith journey. Unfortunately, because the videos were watched online through YouTube, we could not log exactly who of our families were engaging with it, but we do know an average of 15 families were watching each week. Online Junior Church is not ideal, however a positive outcome is that we had a few families engaging with it who don’t normally attend St. John’s and they found the resource extremely helpful. As we came out of the first lockdown, we had families back in church and a few children attended each week. And although we couldn’t join the adults for any part of the service, it was good to do face to face worship and activities with those who attended. After Christmas parents had huge pressures with doing online schooling etc. so the weekly videos were paused, and resources were put onto the website to allow families to engage in a different way. Songs and prayer activities were signposted, and a ‘FaithVenture’ tool was created with simple activities for families to engage with in their own time. Before we closed the church, we would have contact with families at services, so when we could no longer do that – we had to make sure that we contacted them in other ways to offer support etc. As children were involved in sharing during the church services, we also had to think about how we kept that element in what we did – so each week children would participate in videos that were added into the online teaching.

Online church also opened up the opportunity to add an all-age element to the adult church service, which has been very popular with both the children and the adult.

Christmas nativity was done completely online with a special all age service produced. Many church families were involved in making it a huge success with over 130 households watching.

ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST, MEADS, EASTBOURNE

REPORTS FROM CHURCH ORGANISATIONS AND REPRESENTATIVES

HOLIDAY CLUB

We ran two online holiday clubs this year. In April we produced a three-day Easter holiday club with a Superhero theme. We met some superheroes from the Bible – David and Queen Esther who helped us learn how God helped them to save their people and we met Paul who shared how meeting Jesus had changed him from a baddie to a hero. In August we produced a five-day holiday club with an ‘Under the Sea’ theme. Characters from the bible helped us to learn that God is with us wherever we are. Each holiday club consisted of daily video with members of the church contributing to the different elements – bible story, prayer, challenge, interesting facts etc. and there were age-appropriate activity booklets with activities and crafts for children to download and complete. The holiday clubs were a huge success engaging around 150 families in the Easter holiday club and 64 families in the Summer Holiday club.

BABY AND TODDLER GROUP

Unfortunately, due to covid restrictions we had to close baby and toddler group which was a very hard decision to have to make. We have tried to keep in contact with the families through social media and encounters in the community.

CHURCH LINKS

We had the great pleasure of inviting All Saints Youth and Children’s team to join with us in organizing an Advent Lights trail in Meads during Advent. Working together on this little project has strengthened relationships between the churches and opened up new ways of joint ministry in our community. We are looking forward to more collaboration in the future.

SCHOOL LINKS

The past year has been a challenge and looked very different for Kim in the school. For part of the time the normal two days a week were spent in school, however as we went into lockdown and school bubbles were initiated, Kim has played a more supportive role in school while organising collective worship and pastoral care sessions online from home. The assembly videos and Pastoral Care lessons were made available to all the families which gave the school a wonderful opportunity to give parents and carers an insight into how the Christian Ethos of the school is sustained through the work that Kim does. Although we could not force families to engage with the assemblies and Pastoral Care lessons, many of them did and the school received very positive feedback.