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2021-12-31-accounts

St Peter ad Vincula

Wisborough Green

Annual Parochial Church Meeting

18[th] April 2021

Documentation Pack

St Peter ad Vincula, Wisborough Green

Agenda for the Annual Vestry Meeting to elect Churchwardens And the Annual Parochial Church Meeting 2021

Sunday 18[th] April 2021 - 12.30pm in the Church

Opening Prayers

ANNUAL VESTRY MEETING

  1. Election of Churchwardens

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

  1. Apologies for absence

  2. Minutes of the APCM dated 27[th] September 2020

  3. Matters arising (not on the current agenda)

  4. Election of parochial representatives of the laity to the Parochial Church Council

  5. Parish Reports:

Questions are welcome from parishioners whose names are entered on the roll of the parish with regard to the following reports received from the Parochial Church Council:

Motion: ‘That Mr. Christopher Edwards be re-appointed as the Independent Examiner of Accounts for St Peter ad Vincula for the year-end 31[st] December 2021’

ber 2021’
(b) Vicar’s Report
(c) Electoral Roll report
(d) A report on the Fabric and Goods & Ornaments of the Church
(e) A report on the proceedings of the Petworth Deanery Synod		 ber 2021’
(b) Vicar’s Report
(c) Electoral Roll report
(d) A report on the Fabric and Goods & Ornaments of the Church
(e) A report on the proceedings of the Petworth Deanery Synod		 ber 2021’
(b) Vicar’s Report
(c) Electoral Roll report
(d) A report on the Fabric and Goods & Ornaments of the Church
(e) A report on the proceedings of the Petworth Deanery Synod
The following reports can also be found in the APCM Booklet and are to be noted:
Alpha Course Bellringers Communications
Flower Arrangers Healing Ministry House Groups & Christian
Education Messy Church Music
Music Group Prayer Group Sacristans
Safeguarding St Peter’s Luncheon Club St Peter’s Mission Team
Village Care Team Wizzy Tots Xpresso

  1. Stewardship

  2. Any Other Business

The Grace

CONTENTS

Page(s)

Annual Trustee Report and Financial Statements of the PCC .......................... 1 - 15 (including Minutes of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting 27[th] September 2020) Vicar’s Report .......................................................................................................... 16 Electoral Roll Report ................................................................................................ 17 Fabric Report ........................................................................................................... 17 Report on Proceedings of Deanery Synod .............................................................. 19 OTHER ANNUAL REPORTS (in alphabetical order) Alpha Course ........................................................................................................... 20 Bell Ringers ............................................................................................................. 20 Communications ...................................................................................................... 21 Flower Arrangers ..................................................................................................... 23 Healing Ministry ....................................................................................................... 23 House Groups & Christian Education...................................................................... 23 Messy Church .......................................................................................................... 24 Music ........................................................................................................................ 25 Music Group ............................................................................................................ 25 Prayer Group ........................................................................................................... 26 Sacristans ................................................................................................................ 26 Safeguarding Report ............................................................................................... 27 St Peter’s Luncheon Club ........................................................................................ 27 St Peter’s Triple Mission .......................................................................................... 28 St Peter’s Village Care Team ................................................................................... 29 Wizzy Tots ................................................................................................................ 30 Xpresso ................................................................................................................... 30

St Peter ad Vincula, Wisborough Green

ANNUAL REPORT

AND

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

OF THE

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

For the year ended 31 December 2020

CONTENTS

Page Minutes of the APCM 2020 ........................................................................... 2 Trustees Annual report ................................................................................... 6 Notes to the Accounts .................................................................................. 11 Statement of financial activities (receipts & payments) ............................. 13 Balance Sheet (Statement of assets & liabilities) ........................................ 14 Report of the independent examiner ............................................................ 15

The Church of St Peter ad Vincula, Wisborough Green, West Sussex RH14 0DZ

Incumbent: The Reverend Clive Jenkins, The Vicarage, Glebe Way, Wisborough Green

Independent examiner: Mr. Christopher Edwards, Durbans, Wisborough Green Bankers: National Westminster Bank, High Street, Billingshurst, West Sussex

Registered Charity no: 1133950

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The Parish Church of St Peter ad Vincula in the benefice of Wisborough Green

Minutes of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting Sunday 27[th] September 2020

The meeting started at 11.55 a.m. with the Rev Clive Jenkins in the chair and attended by the churchwardens and 24 members of the congregation.

A. Vestry Meeting

Election of Churchwardens

Rev Jenkins opened the Vestry Meeting with a prayer.

  1. Election of Churchwardens –Richard Parish agreed to stand again as Churchwarden. Jamie Daniell retired as a Churchwarden and Rev. Clive Jenkins thanked him for all his hard work over the years and presented him with a card and vouchers.. Henrietta Warwick agreed to stand as a Churchwarden for the coming year. It was proposed by Sue Nicholls, seconded by Chris Harris that they were appointed with all in favour.

The Vestry Meeting closed at 12.05pm.

B. ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

  1. Apologies for absence

Roger & Sharon Moncur, Dave & Diane Roberts, Judy Moorey and Chris & Maggie Edwards gave their apologies.

2. Minutes of the APCM. 14/04/19

The Minutes of the meeting held on the 14[th] April 2019 had been circulated prior to the meeting. There were no questions so David Warwick proposed and Annie Daniell seconded the motion to approve the Minutes as a true and accurate record of the meeting which was carried unanimously.

3. Matters arising

There were no matters arising.

4. Election of parochial representatives of the laity to the Parochial Church Council

Rev Jenkins said the present PCC members had agreed to continue to serve as detailed on their respective nomination forms; these were Chris Harris, Dave Roberts, Jamie Daniell, Marion Jenkins, Nicola Mendelssohn, (Henrietta Warwick and Richard Parish, as Churchwardens, are not elected members of the PCC. Like Clive Jenkins, they are ex-officio members so do not need to be listed here), Roland Zilz, Rosemary Crafter and Sue Nicholls. There were no further nominations and a motion to elect all the nominees en bloc was proposed by Geoffrey Venables seconded by Pat Farmer and carried unanimously by the meeting. Rev Jenkins thanked all those who had served and were continuing to serve on the PCC.

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5. Parish Reports

  1. (a) Annual Report and Financial Statements Rev Jenkins confirmed that Jamie Daniell would continue to be Treasurer and asked the congregation if they had any questions to ask Jamie over the financial statements that had been circulated previously.

Geoffrey Venables queried the amount of gift aid tax that had been recovered from HMRC. Jamie explained that the gift aid from cash and standing orders was claimed once a year by David Warwick and that this is repaid once a year and that it hadn’t yet come into the 2019 accounts as at the end of the year. It came to just over £6000 for 2019 which should be added to the figure of £5626 which would make about £11500 claimed in total. Geoffrey also said that it was vitally important, whenever possible, that gifts should be gift aided. David Warwick also pointed out that any donation of cash over £25 would also be able to come under the gift aid rules. Robert Armistead asked that the actual printing of the accounts could be in slightly larger font. Clive Jenkins replied that this would be looked into doing next year. Clive Jenkins thanked Chris Edwards for the work he had done to ensure that the accounts were audited and set out correctly

Since there were no further questions relating to the accounts, Jane Glanville proposed and Chris Harris seconded the motion : ‘That the Accounts for 2019, as inspected by Christopher Edwards (Independent Examiner), be accepted as a true statement of accounts of the Parish Church of St Peter ad Vincula, Wisborough Green, for the year ended 31[st] December 2019’ which was carried unanimously.

Robert Armistead proposed and David Warwick seconded the motion : ‘That Christopher Edwards be re-appointed as the Independent Examiner of Accounts for St Peter ad Vincula for the year-ending 31[st] December 2020’. It was carried unanimously.

Jamie Daniell reported that the figures were a long time ago and he wanted to bring the congregation up to date on certain items. Our parish share is just over £6000 per month which is quite a lot of money to find and that the diocese now has agreed that we can reduce our payments by half until we get ourselves sorted out a bit. There have been some very generous donations recently which have been enormously appreciated and he has managed to put some money back into the reserves. Once we start to have wedding & funerals this will help to increase our income.

  1. (b) Vicar’s Report – Clive Jenkins reviewed the current situation. This year has been immensely impacted by the coronavirus virus. No Parish Pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Not able to put into practice all that was wanted to see and do with the ‘Leading Your Church into Growth’ Course. Sadly all of these things have been restricted. Alpha was going so well. General socialising was just not possible. Many planned things have had to stop. Not able to visit people in their homes, a great sadness. All on hold at the moment. Roger and Sharon Moncur have offered to co-ordinate a ‘zoom’ home group if anyone is interested. Clive has had some cream teas in the vicarage garden but not quite the same as all meeting together.

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Clive Jenkins thanked all the PCC for their work over the last year. He also thanked Roland Zilz for his outstanding contributions to communications. He thanked Miles Jarvis for his work on the audio visual part of the services which he creates himself. He also thanked Marion Jenkins for all her help behind the scenes with posters, handouts, Link Up, etc.

Clive also thanked John Crozier (JP) and Sue for all his help and generous financial assistance to do with the new shed in the churchyard.

  1. (c) Electoral Roll report – Rev. Jenkins reported that there were 95 names on the Electoral Ross of whom 66 are resident in the Parish and 29 live outside the Parish boundaries. Angela Craddock proposed and Henrietta Warwick seconded the proposal that the meeting accept these figures.

  2. (d) Fabric report –Richard Parish highlighted the report on page 19 of the document. There was a new sign informing people of the steps into church as there had been an unfortunate accident recently with a gentleman falling down the steps. Although he had not used the handrail, this was due to be strengthened and a small wooden handrail was to be put in place on the other side of the steps.

The glass screen on the left hand side of the toilet door is being re-designed and will be improved.

Unfortunately it was not going to be possible to make the South Door open automatically for disabled access due to the shape of the outside door.

We are still awaiting the 2018 Quinquennial Report delayed because of the reordering works until 2019. The architect had intimated that there are no major issues to be concerned about.

The churchyard is looking very good with many positive comments having been made.

A new Altar Table was on its way. Two generous donations have been made to cover the cost. A faculty has been applied for.

Richard reported that the church boiler is nearing the end of its life. The Churchwardens are looking into the possibility of installing a ground source heat pump system. Two companies have been consulted and we are awaiting their quotations. A preliminary application for a faculty has been submitted to the DAC. The Government funding for this will expire in March 2021. Robert Armistead asked what this would involve. Jamie Daniell explained the system.

There was also a problem with bees in the church. A survey is being carried out on the 28/09/20.

5 (e) Deanery Synod – See page 21 of the document.

6 Stewardship – David Warwick felt that this subject had already been covered in detail in the Treasurers Report.

7 Any other business – Geoffrey Venables expressed his disappointment in that there was no mention of the Alpha Course in the reports. Clive Jenkins said that this would be remedied in next year’s document although he had mentioned it in his verbal report.

4

Pat Farmer informed the congregation that the Pilgrimage to the Holy Land in April/May of 2020 had to be cancelled. She said that she didn’t know when or if it will be possible for it to be reorganised.

Jamie Daniell thanked Clive and Marion Jenkins for all their time and effort for their work for the parish which was very much appreciated. He said that Clive’s ministry was very important especially due to the present covid19 situation. The meeting agreed.

The meeting concluded with the Grace and closed at 12.35 p.m.

………………………………..

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Parochial Church Council of St Peter ad Vincula, Wisborough Green Registered Charity no. 1133950

Trustees Annual Report for 2020

Structure, Governance and Management

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.

Membership of the PCC is determined under the Church Representation Rules and consists of certain Ex officio members, the Churchwardens and members of the Deanery or General Synods together with members of the church who are elected by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM). Members of the congregation are warmly encouraged to stand for election to the PCC and an attempt is made to ensure a balance of skills and experience where possible.

The primary objective of St Peter’s PCC is the promotion of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to the doctrines and practices of the Church of England. The PCC has the responsibility of co -operating with the incumbent, the Rev Clive Jenkins, in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.

The PCC oversees the general financial dimension of the work of St Peter’s by monitoring income and expenditure, budgeting, maintaining appropriate financial controls and co-ordinating the annual Christian Stewardship review of donations through planned giving.

The Standing and Finance Committee is made up of the Incumbent, the Churchwardens, the PCC Secretary and Treasurer. It meets between meetings of the PCC and sets the agenda for the next full PCC meeting. It has the power to transact the business of the PCC between its meetings, subject to any directions given by the Council.

During the year, the following served as members of the PCC:

EX OFFICIO MEMBERS:
The Reverend Clive Jenkins Incumbent and PCC Chairman
Mr Richard Parish Churchwarden
Mrs. Henrietta Warwick Churchwarden and Safeguarding
ELECTED MEMBERS (and responsibilities):
Mrs. Sue Nicholls PCC Secretary
Mr. Jamie Daniell Treasurer and Deanery Synod Member
Ms. Rosemary Crafter Electoral Roll Officer
Ms. Nicola Mendelssohn Policies
Mr Chris Harris Graveyard Records
Mr David Roberts Church Cleaning
Mr Roland Zilz Editor of Ad Vincula and Communications
Mrs. Marion Jenkins Deanery Synod Member
Mrs. Tricia Howarth Co-opted December 2020

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Aspects of Church Life at St Peter’s

The Covid-19 Pandemic and the associated lockdowns and restrictions have seriously affected church life at St Peter’s during 2020. So many of the activities mentioned under the following headings have had to be suspended.

Prayer:

Individual and corporate spirituality through prayer groups, quiet mornings, intercessions, retreats, and a weekly parish prayer meeting which specifically prays for the life and work of all at St Peter’s are encouraged but during 2020 these activities have been seriously curtailed.

Christian Healing:

The ministry of healing and wholeness within our church is an integral part of our worship augmenting that which is already implicit in the Eucharist and our prayer life.

Worship:

The worship environment and range of services offered is reviewed at intervals, together with an exploration of the liturgical and musical resources, traditional and modern, available. In a normal year, Sung Communion, All Age Communion, Time for God and Refresh Contemporary Worship would all be held on a regular basis. During 2020 this has not always been possible as, for long periods during the year, the Church has been closed for communal worship and group meetings not allowed.

Christian Education:

Through the promotion of daily bible study guides and house study groups, which meet regularly throughout the year, church members are encouraged to grow in faith. House study groups have not been able to meet during 2020 although one group has conducted online Bible study.

Christian Stewardship:

The teaching and impetus about Christian giving and stewardship of our time and talents, as well as our money is maintained. All are regarded as a trust from God to be utilised in his service. Focus is put on requesting a review of such giving and encouraging new members to give as appropriate. Those who already do so, on a regular basis are acknowledged with grateful thanks.

Young People:

Every opportunity is sought for children and young people to learn and experience Christian life, fellowship and worship through the Time for God service and special family services at Christmas and Easter. There is a strong link with the local primary school which is encouraged to visit the church and hold major festival services there for all the children during term-time. Normally, ‘Wizzy Tots’ meets regularly and ‘Messy Church’ is held in the Village Hall once a month. It has not been possible for these groups to meet during 2020

Pastoral Care:

Pastoral care and friendship is offered to those who are housebound or otherwise in need. Newcomers to the village are welcomed and issued with a booklet containing useful information and contact details. A village car and library service is available for those who require it. The village car service has not been able to operate during 2020 and house visits have been suspended.

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St. Peter’s Mission Team

There is a focus on mission both in the UK and the wider world, and in 2020 a number of charitable causes were supported ranging from local to international as well as for Diocesan Family Support Work.

Social Development:

An attempt is made to develop an enhanced sense of fellowship both within the church community and the village through the organization of a range of social activities. Film Nights, the screening of televised national events both sporting and otherwise, Church Breakfasts with a speaker, the Harvest Supper and Harvest Auction, Xpresso, Singing For Fun at Wyatt House and St Peter’s Lunch Club which has become a village institution since it was first started 25 years ago, and is open to all in the village providing fellowship and food on six occasions throughout the year, are all examples of this. During 2020 these activities have been suspended.

General Review of the Year

2020 was coloured by the Coronavirus Pandemic and the restrictions imposed as a result of the nationwide lockdowns which came into force at the end of March.

For the first three months of the year, however, life continued as normal with the main event being the licensing, on 22[nd] January of Rev. Clive Jenkins as incumbent. Since his arrival in Wisborough Green, Clive had been priest-incharge. The licensing was conducted by the Archdeacon of Horsham, the Ven. Fiona Windsor.

Two Film Nights were held, one in February and one in early March before lockdown restrictions put an end to normal activities.

At the Annual Parochial Church Meeting, delayed from April 2020 until 27[th] September 2020, Mr. Jamie Daniell stood down as Churchwarden after a number of years of sterling service.

Mr Richard Parish was re-elected as Churchwarden and Mrs Henrietta Warwick elected as Churchwarden to replace Mr Jamie Daniell.

The Churchwardens met with the Incumbent on Zoom regularly throughout the year.

Standing and Finance Committee meetings as well as full PCC meetings were held on Zoom throughout the year.

Our finances continued to be monitored and for this, sincere thanks are extended to our Treasurer Jamie Daniell. Mrs Zoe Hall, a professional bookkeeper was employed during 2019 as a financial assistant. This appointment proved to be most successful and as a result Zoe’s role and responsibilities were extended during 2020. The audited accounts together with the Annual Financial Report for 2020 appear elsewhere in this booklet.

It is important to note that the ministry within and beyond St Peter’s is a shared enterprise and as such, there are many people who are actively involved – too many to mention by name. Mrs. Sue Nicholls was re-elected as the PCC Secretary and thanks go to her as well as to all the members of the PCC and everyone who shares in the ministry of St Peter’s, great or small, as together we discern God’s call of us in the service of his Kingdom.

In 2020 there were 96 parishioners on the church electoral roll which was revised in March. 66 members of the Roll are resident in the Parish and 30 outside.

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Because of lockdowns, the number of services held in Church was limited during 2020. The average weekly attendance at these services was 51 adults (16+) and 3 children.

The Church building was closed from 23[rd] March when the first major lockdown began and all services were suspended from that date. To fill the gaps this suspension caused, recorded, virtual services were produced and the links to these recordings made available on the Church website. When we were able to re-open the building on 5th July and hold services again, albeit constrained by the restrictions imposed, these services were recorded and made available for those unable to attend in person.

We owe a great debt of gratitude to Roland Zilz who has masterminded the production of the virtual services as well as the recording of the live services once we were able to return to Church. He has given endless hours of his time and his skills and dedication to the task have been much appreciated.

In last year’s report, following the completion of the re-ordering works, it was acknowledged that we now have a church that is in excellent condition with facilities compatible with the 21[st] century and that as well as continuing to provide a strong, spiritual centre to the village it is our duty to ensure that this facility should be used for the benefit of the whole community. Sadly, because of Covid19, we have not been able to move forward with our plans to do this but it is to be hoped that it won’t be too long before we can resume monthly Film Nights and events centred on televised screenings of major occasions such as those organized in 2019 around the Rugby World Cup Final and the Last Night of the Proms.

It was not possible to go ahead in June with the planned Open Gardens but it is hoped that this event will now take place in May 2021. Easter, Harvest and Christmas celebrations in 2020 were very restricted. A Harvest Service was held but rather than the traditional gifts of garden flowers and vegetables, donations were made to Family Support Work. There was no Harvest Supper and for the first time for many years, the traditional Harvest Auction at The Cricketers could not take place. Christmas saw just two services on Christmas morning. There was no Carol Service, Christmas Eve Crib Service or Christmas Eve Midnight Service. We were, however, able to go carol singing on three nights during the week before Christmas observing the regulations regarding social distancing. Thanks are due to those who supported this initiative and to Henrietta Warwick for organising the three evenings.

To counter this somewhat negative view of the year it is important to acknowledge that a number of positives have come from it. It was pleasing to be able, for much of the year, to keep the Church building open for private visits, prayer and contemplation even though it was not possible to hold services. It is perhaps true to say that the lockdowns have helped, with the aid of technology, to foster greater Christian support and friendship. We have come, in many ways, to rely on each other much more. St Peter’s, in conjunction with the Parish Council, has been a part of the ‘Village Care Scheme’ offering help and support to the villagers of Wisborough Green who require it. Our virtual and recorded services, which have been made available online, have received many ‘hits’ and have been enjoyed and appreciated not only by members of our own congregation but also by others from outside of our community. It is to be hoped that some who have viewed these may be encouraged to attend live services in Church when more ‘normal’ times return and they are resumed.

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Financial Review of the Year

The audited accounts together with the Annual Financial Report for 2020 appear on the following pages of this booklet.

Treasurer’s Report to APCM for 2020

The accounts for the year are attached and thanks are due to Chris Edwards who has undertaken the annual independent examination of these. A very laborious job!

I am happy to report that this difficult year has, in fact, brought a period of relief for our parish finances. Some of you may remember that at the end of 2019, our accounts showed that we had ‘traded’ at a loss of around £12,500 and were working our way rapidly through the reserves that we had. At the end of 2020, the position when taken as a snapshot at 31[st] December shows a position which is more akin to break even – an excellent result in financial terms even if this was as a trade-off against the curtailment of so many other activities.

As will be seen from the accounts, the factors that have led to this turn round have been as follows:

INCOME – the most relevant point is that the level of individual giving actually increased by about £7,000, which is a very real reflection on the generosity of not only the regular congregation, but also those outside the immediate church community. Other forms of income were generally down with the exception of the magazine, which continued to make a positive contribution.

EXPENDITURE – The PCC has a policy that at least 2 months worth of normal expenditure should be kept in reserve. We were able to continue paying our full 100% Parish Share of £6,166 per month until August. At that stage it became clear that our reserves were becoming severely depleted and the Diocese agreed that we could reduce our monthly commitment to our Parish Share to a level of £3,000 per month for the remainder of the year. This enabled us to restore the levels of reserves required under the PCC policy to the right level by the end of the year.

Looking forward, our agreed 100% level of Parish Share under which Clive’s time is now shared with Kirdford and Plaistow), has been set at a £37,128 for 2021 (£3,094 a month), a level at which we should be better able to cope and at which we may be able to consider making some additional contributions towards the Diocese both to meet their costs and the costs of those parishes unable to meet their costs.

The PCC have been having discussions regarding the future of the heating system in the church. The most likely outcome at this stage is the need for the provision of a replacement oil-fired boiler at some stage in the future. Funds for this would be available from the residue of the Laurence Knight legacy.

Jamie Daniell Treasurer March 2021

Independent Examiner

Our thanks are due, once again, to Chris Edwards, who has kindly undertaken the independent examination of the accounts for 2020.

This Trustees’ Annual Report was

Approved by the PCC and signed on their behalf by Revd. Clive Jenkins, PCC Chairman.

10

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Notes to the Annual Financial Report UnreStd(ted General: WEned Yotsi rotol Funds ￿L￿d Fund 2019 Geneièting Funds Éo. EO,(N) £0.00 £3M86 £0.￿.. EO.(XI £0. £871.75 £1,321.94: ÉO.f¥J Éo. £0.00 £i.a21.94 5.69B.55 EQ.thJ fo. £000 f87.ao E336.93 Tra￿￿1 £o.Tr)'. EO.QO o.(w) £0.00 £om ChhstsèsTree FtSti¥al £O.(w)." Éo. £o.fy) £0.00 £oth) E7S £O.OD ÉQ.OD E1,7￿£0 £7.491.03 É2.Y30.83 6&496.tTr7 É2.014 ÈS.. £61,327.( ,162.74 £485.32., Éo. ÉooD £000 Pir15hsaietothlche5terDlocesE Éo.oJ £0.00 É61,317.L¥J £L16L74 É4Sk3Z lkgan15t.Ch￿r8￿d Musil AfjlniSTryCos Mi55V)n &e¥anB415m r05ts Me&sYChvr¢h. wlktyfots.Y￿rth EO. EO. £0. E2,615.59 É811.63 ÉOJYJ £0. £￿00 EO. fOOD £0.00 £oK £0 EO.QO fo(w) ¥0. 83594 £9,357.59 U.JS2.07 £1,871.62.. £o.¢)J EO.fy) £0.00 9.J57.59 ,a5107 £IM7X.6t fom £9.￿7.09 EJ611.96 i,n3.$0 £o.co PrlThtlfiE. photocopy.ofhcèÈxynsÈ EO. Éo. £0.00 Éo. Éo. £0.00 Weddln8& Funer￿ FeestoOloro5e CuuncilTax EO.OJ EO.OD £0.00 EO.iYJ EO.OD £0.00 EJ.13&91 E3.W7.7 Newbuildin8￿Fk Fbwet5 tO.(w) É1.385.0) £o.th) £￿00 ÉiJ8kty) £iLw 87.84&46 £274.03 £000 $0.ty) £iaÈ ÉOIM) £0.00 Éia8.IX) É2{￿89 (harftab￿castS £84636.45 E6.916 50. £7.470.991 EL385.tTrJ EO.W £o.o) £0.00 Ea4011.45 E6.916.50 182,074.66 E&957.44 É8.131.SO Chur(h yaid afid Cl( ma8iiinegriThtlffl8&exponse MaintpniiKe EO £0. Éo. ÉO.OD £0.00 E7A7￿99 EQ.iYJ fOOD £0.00 £oK Chur(hmairtl.Andiede¢oiatlOTh EQ.QO fo(M) ÉSV&32 Bank Char8es Ixhertradlrecosts £335.81 EQ. Eofy) £0.00 E477.43 £0 EO.0) £0 £0.00 EQOD £15.834.63 Éo. £0.00 £0.00 È15Aa4.63 16.480.69 £102.251.68 El.385. £o.o) £0.00 £103.636.5 £2￿.04￿38

Summary ot Financial Receipts and Payments Al￿ndS É?1.26k64 £fk Ij.￿5￿ £0 11530 EL395Jll £15% IJ&Vll.JS thhEtretpl05 tJSS.tyJ £&c ttho) £165ASB £uc lQl.91575 £1.¥4L EIV47Fg lJ5&61575 El.￿￿j £F.4gIJ¥ IX3?9JV l￿B¥jur Éo. ti.a15.C E(iO) ÉLa15A¥J LUSL63 ÉIyJ461 £0 hwpayrneDts Tqt41p £0. EO. E103.6% .£5￿42 EI.449CIl £CkOD .£47.41058 E21.193.66 IIL191A6 6J4.J9 ÉEIJrn51 2LIgIS5 447.¥￿1 13

Statement of Assets and Liabilities Totol Go￿ra1 De￿inal￿d l Funds AIIFvnds Bankcurrentalc 79￿64? Bank re5etve alc 79830846 PCC.owned bank bala￿ £1.335.73' E21.(¥JD.51 £0.00 Éo. £0.00 £1.335.73 £5257.64 £0. EO. £0. £ZI.QW.51 E1&936.03 E22.33&24 £0. EO. £0. Z.336.24 E21.193.66 Dloce5anA55ned Fe￿ recewed Total ￿rA¢and01￿￿￿C0unl$ £0. EO. £0. £0.00 22,33&24 EO Earij £0.00 £2Z.336.24 E21,393.66 WethJln8 lees n0tyerrece￿ed LocalAUt￿￿8rènt lorchutthyard EQ. £0 EQ fOIX) £a £om Ea £000 £a 25Y6ofE13984.86 EXIOIOO IGA lrtwmel GrftAid recovetable £3A96.21 £0. Earij £0.00 £5.496.21 DÈbtors £o.(x) Éo É& £0. £8,496.21. É5.103. E45.932.53 £41977.12 2,78&56 E45,76X68 11(WIS92SC8F Invéstmént (Luxfoidl I1(￿lI49F C8F Fixed Interest FundlLuxorél Inv¢stmerf assÈtyatrnarketvalts¢ EO. £0. EO. £45,931.53 £2B86.93 £0. EO. E2.886.93 É2,8B&9a £0.00 Eorij É45,932.53 £4B,819.46 M&G Fkyed Int Chèri Bond ED.W £92.15S.33 £D.Lkl £9115533 Ea £o,00 E92.155.33 £92.1S5.33 E8&95&S8 E88,9S&68 Invstm#nt assltsatcott £0.00 EOL¥J £0. £o.L Total ass•ts 253Z3.17 £91155.33 Earij £45,Y32.53 £166,807.24 £16J.019.02 Lla1Jlll￿es'. Unpieseoted Cheques 6è1. from DrèinèB* Pwjert Grn¥EYaFd Mèlnl £0. Ea £o.Ik) EO.W'. £0.00 EO. £000 £& ED. £0.00 Éo. £Q.OD Unpawj Diocesanfee5foi wedd11￿￿￿Er￿l5 £o.ou EO. £O.QD £2.309.00 £16￿00 E2Joy.fpJ £0.00 £I,309.00 E3.645.

Independent Examinerfs Report to the Trustees of St Peter Ad Wincula Church. Wisborough Green. Parochial Church Council I report on the accounts for the year ended 31si December 2020. Respecdve responslbllltles of the Triistees and Independent Examlner As Trustees of the charity. the members of the PCC are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. They consider that an audit is not required for thls year under $144{2] of the Charities Art2011 (the 2011 Art) and thatan independentexamination is needed. Itis my responsibility to Examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act; Follow the procedure laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners sertlon 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Art: and stste whether particular matters have come to my attentio Basls of Independent Examlnerfs Statement . My exa¥nination 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 these records. Italso includes consideration ofany unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from the management committee concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in a full audiL and consequendy I do not express an audit opinion on the accounts. Independent Examinerfs Statement In connection with my examination, no matters have come to my attention l. Which give me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements to keep accounting records in accordance with s 130 of the 2011 Actr, or to prepare accounts which accord with these accounting records have not been met," or 2. to which. in my opinion. attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Signed on ........ Christopher E Edwards Durbans Roundstreet Common Wisborough Green West Sussex RH14 OAR

Vicar’s Report 2020

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint (Isaiah 40:31 NIV) .

What a year! With plans put on hold, events cancelled or rescheduled, services going on line, who could have imagined a year ago that an outbreak of a virus in Wuhan, China would impact the world in the way it has! As you can see from the reports of our various groups and activities within the Parish, many have had to be put on hold to ensure we comply with Government guidance and restrictions. However, we have ensured that the parish magazine ‘Ad Vincula’ has continued to serve the local community and our Facebook page and website have been kept upto-date with news and comments. Many thanks to Roland Zilz, who works so hard behind the scenes to create such an attractive and current presentation. Add to this our virtual and online services to which Roland has given many hours of his time, to ensure they are of a high quality.

We were able, while in Church in between the closures, to maintain our music. Maybe not to the levels we have been used to here, as the choir and music group were muted or behind visors! Many thanks to John Vinall, our Director of Music and to David Warwick and Gill Parish for their work to keep a joyful noise offered to the Lord in our worship.

Thankfully the Church has remained open for private prayer and reflection each day over the last year, when we could not have our Sunday services. This is due to the regular and faithful work of Phil and Pat Gage, who open and close the Church Monday to Friday and to Richard Pinkham who maintains this role at weekends.

Many thanks also go to our Church Wardens, Richard Parish and Henrietta Warwick, who have ensured social distancing is maintained whenever we have been able to open the Church for services. This also includes the thorough disinfecting of the Church after worship. It was decided at the outbreak of the lockdown to maintain the regular cleaning of the Church each week, as we regularly attract many visitors and our thanks go to Dave and Diane Roberts and the team of cleaners for fulfilling this role.

2020 was to have been the year when we were hoping to develop and explore more ways of ‘Leading (our) Your Church into Growth’, but like most outreach programmes across the whole of the country, they have had to be put on pause. However, as the prophet Isaiah tells us, “Those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.” We may be on pause at the moment but faithful and regular prayer continues, day in and day out across the parish and we pray that with the easing of restrictions across the country, 2021 may be the beginning of just a restart to Church life, but a re-alignment of our priorities as a parish that also links into our Diocesan Strategy for growth, which is the ‘Four Mores’: more engaged, more representative, more generous, more converted. Let us pray that we can refocus on what God is doing and wants to do in Wisborough Green.

Clive Jenkins

16

Electoral Roll

The Electoral Roll was amended in March 2020. The new Roll has 96 names. Of these 66 were resident in the parish and 30 lived outside the parish boundaries.

Rosemary Crafter Electoral Roll Officer

Fabric Report 2020

Quinquennial Inspection

This inspection, due in 2018, but delayed because of the ongoing re-ordering works, finally took place in May 2019. We still await the written report but understand that there are no major problems to be anticipated.

Re-ordering Works

These were completed in October 2018, and ended a period of upheaval that had lasted for well over a year. 2019 saw detailed ‘snagging’ work undertaken. It was planned to carry out the following work in 2020 but largely as a result of the restrictions imposed by the Covid-19 Pandemic, this has not been possible. It is hoped that it will now be completed during 2021.

The South Porch Door is the main entrance for wheelchairs. It was planned to install an electric push button at wheelchair height set on a short post and positioned discreetly inside the door jamb on the right hand side. This button would release a lock on the door so that it could be pushed open for access. Unfortunately, due to the size and weight of the South Porch doors, it has not been possible to install this system and it appears that the doors will have to continue to be opened manually.

Electrical Work

A number of minor alterations to the operation of the lighting inside church together with the installation of a sensor light over the North Porch doors to aid illumination of the curved steps leading down into Church have been completed during the year. This work has have been carried out by our electrician Chris Bryant of Wisborough Green.

17

Altar Table

Following generous gifts from two donors, we have been able to commission a new portable altar table to replace the one used at present. The table, designed by our architect, Simon Goddard, has been constructed by Peter West of East Dean. It includes a piece of glass designed and installed by Mel Howse to match the glass in the two vestries and also reflects other aspects of the Church’s interior. The table will be dedicated by Bishop Ruth and come into service during 2021.

Heating

Conscious of the fact that the oil fuelled boiler could be nearing the end of its life and aware that any new system needs to be as economical and environmentally friendly as possible, the Churchwardens, together with Jamie Daniell (Treasurer), have continued to pursue information on other options.

Investigations have included consideration of the installation of underfloor heating from a non-fossil fuel heat source, how this might best be done and what the likely costs might be. Reports have been commissioned and received from both our architect, Simon Goddard and also Mark Bowen of ION Building Services Consulting Engineers. The PCC is in the process of considering the information contained in these reports as well as the recommendations made. An initial estimate of costs involved has also been received from Valley Builders, the contractors employed to carry out the recent re-ordering works.

No final decision has yet been made and it may well be that we leave things as they are for a couple more years and then replace the existing boiler. If it is considered that a more ambitious project such as underfloor heating from a nonfossil fuel heat source is the best way forward then that would be carefully planned in stages. However, the refurbishment of the present boiler house which is in very poor condition is something which may need immediate attention.

Bees

Bees have been present in the fabric of the Church for many years but there have been a number of recent occasions when they have begun to cause problems with the use of the building. These problems have mainly been due to the effects of wasps that are drowsy on an over-fill of honey from the plentiful stores within the building.

During the summer of 2020 we consulted with David Gowers of AIM Pest Management who identified five colonies of bees, one on the west elevation of the building and four on the east. He recommended that we should commission, Tim Wylie, an expert from St Neots, Cambridge, to inspect, report and recommend the action needed. Tim is an architect with a very special interest in bees and their existence in listed buildings. He has been employed by a number of Cambridge Colleges, most recently Jesus College, to deal with the problems that have arisen.

Tim visited St Peter’s in late September and furnished us shortly after with his initial findings. We await his detailed report and recommendations but anticipate that this will be another costly project. We do have a responsibility, however, to deal with this problem as it is now classed as a health and safety hazard.

18

Churchyard

Many comments have again been received during the year as to how good the churchyard is looking.

Guide Book

2020 saw the production of a new Guide Book to St Peter’s. This document is now a glossy booklet containing new photographs taken by Miles Jarvis together with some aerial ones by Chris Bryant. The text has been re-written and updated to include full details of the recent re-ordering work.

Finally, thanks are due to all those who regularly give up their time to keep the Church clean and tidy. It’s a tribute to all that many comments are made as to how beautiful and well-kept St Peter’s is.

The Churchwardens

Petworth Deanery Synod Report

The Synod met only once in 2020, due to the Pandemic.

Our February meeting took place in St Mary’s, Petworth, when we were given a presentation by the Reverend Colin Datchler (formerly Priest-in-Charge of Fittleworth and Stopham, now Chaplain at Seaford College). Accompanied by the head boy and girl and other students, they explained the system of pastoral care and support that the college offers. The students shared their experiences of the chaplaincy system which covers all school years. New students are welcomed and offered ‘peer buddies’ to link with. A pastoral support network is also available if required.

The evening concluded with a number of questions to the students, who shared their experiences honestly and openly regarding the chaplaincy team during their time in the school.

The Deanery Synod hopes to meet either online or in person from the Spring of 2021.

Marion Jenkins and Jamie Daniell Deanery Synod Representatives

19

OTHER ANNUAL REPORTS

(in alphabetical order)

ALPHA COURSE

Our 2020 Alpha Course was buffeted by restrictions due to the Pandemic regulations. The six participants had to be split into two groups of three, one of the groups, completing the course, having gone from an Alpha Supper to an afternoon tea gathering. We are hoping that the other group will complete the course later this spring.

We are currently running a virtual Alpha Course with four participants, which has its limitations, no food for example which is an integral part of building friendships, but we are able to meet up on Zoom. We can chat before the video which is sent to each participant separately. We then reconvene on Zoom to discuss the video and any questions that have arisen.

Thanks are due to Geoff Venables, Helen Vause and those who have produced the food over previous Alpha Courses to make it a successful tool in sharing the Gospel. We shall be offering those who have done the course, and those who are participating, a follow on session in the summer. Finally thank you to all those who have prayed and are praying for Alpha here in the parish.

Clive Jenkins

BELLRINGERS

I started my report for 2019 by saying that we had had another year of mixed fortunes – little did I know what 2020 held in store for us. We made a good start to the year with Brian Nulty our new Ringing Master and the return of Rachel following the birth of Hugo. We were able to ring at least four of our six bells on Sundays and to practice on Wednesday evenings in January and February. However, the start of the ‘Lockdown’ in March and the closure of the Church meant that there we no longer allowed to ring the bells for Sunday worship or for our usual practice.

March also brought news that one of our ringers, Sarah Pinchin, had moved from Surrey to the Cotswolds. We felt the impact of the coronavirus even more when Brian and his wife took the decision, after a lifetime of living in Sussex, to move to Scotland to be nearer to their daughter. Long standing ringer with many years of service, Jenny Miles, also decided that even when we are allowed to start ringing again she would not be joining us. So it is even more important if we are to keep the bells of St. Peter’s ringing that we can recruit new ringers. So please consider whether you might be the next recruit, to suddenly realise what a fantastic hobby this ancient art is. The Bellringers of St. Peter’s need YOU!

The Central Council of Change Ringers carried out an extensive risk analysis when Churches were once again allowed to open their doors in July and unfortunately, because the space between the ropes does not allow for a 2m social distance between ringers, we were unable to safely start ringing again before the end of the year.

Val Mourilyan

20

COMMUNICATIONS

‘Communications’ relates to how information about the Church, its activities, events, etc. is disseminated to everybody, including non-churchgoers, with the aim of encouraging a greater involvement with the Church.

Ad Vincula Magazine

Although published and financed by St Peter’s, Wisborough Green’s Parish Magazine, "AD VINCULA", is a true "community" magazine, which, in addition to providing news and articles on Church Life woven through the contents, provides extensive coverage of general village items. The magazine also provides a positive financial contribution to church funds.

The year started in a normal fashion with the magazine containing 56 pages (19 with adverts) and a print run of 900. By March, however, when preparing the April edition, the new coronavirus known as Covid-19, which had seemed so distant when started in China in December 2019, was starting to make a real impact in the UK and the first “lockdown” was instigated. As a result, the April magazine was just full of cancelled events and a few advertisers started to withdraw as their businesses were closed down. Those that kept their adverts but could not trade were later offered credit for the following year on request.

From the May edition onwards, the number of pages stayed fairly static (varying between 52 and 56) but the numbers printed were reduced to 800 as those places, where the magazines were regularly placed, were closed or felt unable to take them. Due to the virus situation and the need for vulnerable people to self-isolate, many of our volunteer deliverers were unable to deliver the magazines to residents. The volunteer scheme, set up to help vulnerable residents affected by the Pandemic and coordinated by the Parish Council and St Peter’s Care Team, was pressed into service to help deliver the magazines to the 689 households in Wisborough Green.

We are very grateful to all our deliverers, both regular and temporary, for ensuring that the printed copies of Ad Vincula could continue to be available throughout the year. As usual, an electronic version was placed monthly on the church website and links to this were published on the Facebook sites of the Church and the Wisborough Green Noticeboard.

The magazine continued to be printed by Bishops Printers near Portsmouth and the quality of the print remained at a very high standard. Printing rates remained constant throughout 2020. As we had increased our advertising rates slightly for 2020, we managed to end the year with a healthy increased surplus compared to 2019. This surplus, however, will need to be set against a potential deficit for 2021 as several advertisers had been offered credit for the number of months they were unable to trade during 2020. An additional source of income comes from those wishing to take advantage of our useful distribution network, by placing an ‘insert’ into the magazine for which we charge £100 a time.

Magazine 2020 Finances:
Income
Expenditure Surplus
Advertisers:
£9,128.50
Inserts (Parish Council):
£300.00
Printing:
-
£7,062.96
Totals:
£9,428.50
£7,062.96
£2,365.54		 Magazine 2020 Finances:
Income
Expenditure Surplus
Advertisers:
£9,128.50
Inserts (Parish Council):
£300.00
Printing:
-
£7,062.96
Totals:
£9,428.50
£7,062.96
£2,365.54		 Magazine 2020 Finances:
Income
Expenditure Surplus
Advertisers:
£9,128.50
Inserts (Parish Council):
£300.00
Printing:
-
£7,062.96
Totals:
£9,428.50
£7,062.96
£2,365.54
Totals:
£9,428.50
£7,062.96		 £2,365.54

21

Church Website - http://www.wisboroughgreenparishchurch.org.uk/

The website is maintained by Roland Zilz and provides comprehensive information about the church and its activities. This information is useful to existing members of the congregation as well as to those making contact with the church for the first time.

The most popular page viewed, not surprisingly, is the Home Page which, during 2020, contained information about restrictions related to the Covid-19 Pandemic, links to Church videos and Safeguarding in the Church. Other popular pages were “Parish Magazine”, “Contacts”, “Upcoming Events” and (new for 2020) individual service videos. During 2020, pages showing the different regular church services available were removed as all these services were suspended or seriously restricted due to the Pandemic.

The costs of running the website remain at about £100 per year

Social Media

Church Facebook Site - https://www.facebook.com/stpeterwg/

A Facebook page for the church has been in existence since early 2016 with Marion Jenkins and Roland Zilz as Administrators. During 2020, the number of “followers” had increased from 113 to 145. There is clearly a potential for using Facebook as a vehicle for disseminating information and for engaging with people, but it needs to be kept up to date with interesting posts to keep them engaged. Sharing posts to the wider Wisborough Green Noticeboard increases exposure to about 2,000 people.

Church Instagram Account - https://www.instagram.com/stpeterwg/

A Church Instagram Account was established in August 2017 in an attempt to reach those who don’t use Facebook for whatever reason. To date, this site has only 26 followers.

No costs are directly associated with Facebook or Instagram.

Church Service Videos

During the first lockdown, from March to June, no communal church services could be held but a series of short video messages and “virtual” services were produced and placed on our website for everybody to access. Communal worship was allowed to recommence from Sunday 5 July but, due to necessary measures to maintain social distancing, seating capacity was greatly reduced. As many people were still self-isolating or did not feel safe re-joining communal church services at that time, it was decided to record these services and place them on our website as soon as possible afterwards to allow others to view from the comfort and safety of their homes and to still feel part of the church family. This pattern continued until the end of the year with a short period of virtual services during November due to the second National Lockdown.

It is anticipated that the need to record our services for viewing by a wider audience is likely to continue for the foreseeable future. With this in mind, consideration will need to be given to establishing a more permanent recording system that would allow different people to operate.

Roland Zilz

22

FLOWER ARRANGERS

Due to the restrictions of the past year, the activities of the flower team were significantly limited. Weddings were postponed and it seemed inappropriate to spend a lot of money on flower orders for Easter and Christmas.

However, the church did not remain undecorated, and a pedestal was moved to the church porch and the rota continued to operate. Placing flowers outside where they could be enjoyed by passers-by and appreciated by anyone in the churchyard was seen as a sign of hope and encouragement.

As always we are most grateful to all who were involved.

Maggie Edwards

HEALING MINISTRY

The Prayer for Healing is available in the Lady Chapel during the administration of Communion at the first, third and fourth Sunday services.

There are two members of the team ready to pray with anyone who comes forward at this time.

Gillian Gough

HOUSE GROUP & CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

Wednesday Home Group has continued to function on Zoom during the pandemic. Certainly not as warm and friendly as meeting face to face, but we are grateful for technology that has allowed us to meet virtually.

Having enjoyed looking into The Apostles Creed, an early statement of Christian belief, we were fortunate to complete our study before lockdown. Following on with Richard Foster’s “Celebration of Discipline”, the path spiritual to growth, This proved to be quite a challenge, as it is written, “ This timeless classic has helped well over a million people to discover a richer spiritual life infused with joy, peace and a deeper understanding of God.”

Currently we are enjoying the study of Acts of the Apostles, telling of the founding of the early Christian church, and the spread of its message to the Roman Empire.

Home Groups are a special way of learning, sharing and enjoying aspects of our Christian Faith, in companionship with others. On Wednesday evenings we meet at 7.30. Do contact Doris, 01403 700606 (doris.smallwood@icloud.com), if you would like to know more.

Doris Smallwood

23

HOUSE GROUP 2020

We only had two full meetings for Lent to study a Course called The Mystery of Everything. We are hoping to resume the Course again when we are allowed back together in groups again, however, a group of us managed to get away for a Lenten break at Hilfield Retreat Centre in Dorset for three nights in early March just before lockdown.

Gillian Gough

MESSY CHURCH 2020

Our Messy Church sessions were running more-or-less monthly in Wisborough Green Village Hall before the pandemic restrictions started with the first lockdown in March 2020. The children, aged between 0 to 11 years would attend with a parent, carer, or as a family after school. We have had 40 children attending together with another 15 family members who accompany them. We have a Messy Church team of around 12 brilliant helpers who prepare and run the crafts and activities, provide refreshments and a welcome and finally help with the supper and clearing up afterwards.

The sessions would begin with refreshments, an introduction to the theme (Bible story or key festivals celebrated by the Church) followed by approximately 50 minutes of crafts and activities. There would then be a celebration which includes singing and listening to the story or theme of the day bring everything together. A simple tea would then be served to everyone before they leaving with their bag of crafts.

Messy Church is run with a wonderful band of volunteers from the congregation here at St. Peter’s. Many thanks to everyone. We do not yet know when we will be able to recommence this activity.

Marion Jenkins

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MUSIC REPORT 2020

Unfortunately, very little to report during this difficult year.

We sang for Clive’s installation service on the 22[nd] January and our last choir rehearsal was on Friday 13[th] March 2020.

The choir was rehearsing for Mothering Sunday and preparations were being made for music at Eastertide when the first lockdown occurred.

Since then, there has been very little live music making in church.

After the first lockdown was eased we spent some weeks singing 3 hymns with restricted verses and wearing face shields. The choir members were very enthusiastic and I think their efforts were appreciated by the congregation.

At the beginning of the year we were very sorry to lose the services of Jane Glanville as she moved to Scotland.

Throughout all these lockdown weeks the organist and Gill Parish had to play and record all the music for ‘virtual’ services.

This proved to be a steep learning curve as we struggled with technology and the stresses of recording. We were so fortunate to have the guidance and expertise of Roland Zilz to assist, as he skillfully coordinated all contributions to making very impressive presentations.

As we approach Easter 2021, we might be able to see some sort of normality returning. If this happens we will need to address the recruitment of more singers for the choir.

I would like to record my thanks to all members of the choir for their support and understanding and to the Churchwardens and Clive as we have all learnt to cope with strange and difficult times.

John Vinall

THE MUSIC GROUP

Sadly, the activities of the music group were curtailed this year by the impact of the pandemic. We only had 5 normal services before normal services were suspended. Various members of the music group, especially Gill Parish, have made contributions to the online virtual services that have been produced during the past year. One highlight was a session where a couple of songs were recorded to send to Clive’s friend in Germany whose church was making an Advent collection of online musical recordings.

We hope to be back with something like normal service at some point during the year.

David Warwick

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PRAYER GROUP

Unfortunately, due to the Lockdown the Prayer Group and Quiet Mornings were unable to take place in 2020.

The telephone Prayer Chain continued to operate for emergency “arrow prayers” for people in distress of one sort or another e.g. hospital operations, bereavement, relationship difficulties. These are always completely confidential. Members of the Prayer Chain are displayed on the noticeboard in Church and anyone can be contacted at any time.

Wendy Duff

SACRISTANS REPORT

2020 began as years begin – but very soon became unusual!

Initially we had to change the way we prepared all in readiness for our communion service. We no longer prepared wine for the congregation – but we certainly had to remember to put hand sanitizer near to the altar for the vicar. He also needed a face shield to protect himself and the congregation. It was all easily managed – but strange.

We are indebted to our small team of sacristans. They adapted beautifully to every requirement made of them. Thank you.

In lockdown we did very little. However, I think we owe many thanks to Pat and Phil Gage for their unfailing diligence during all the months that the church has been open. Every day they have made sure that a votive candle is burning and that there are candles ready to be lit should visitors to the church wish to light one. Weekly they have made sure that the Sanctuary Candle- which burns night and day without going out – is lit and if it needs replacing they see to it. Unfortunately, as Phil was attending to the task of replacing the Sanctuary Candle, the chain on which it hangs broke! The glass chamber, which houses the candle, smashed – giving Phil and Pat quite a shock! Thankfully, I believe neither of them was harmed – but they did clear away the mess! A big ‘thank you’ to both of them.

Jean Hindmarsh Sacristan Team Leader

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SAFEGUARDING REPORT

Safeguarding is discussed at each PCC meeting and the Parish Safeguarding Officer ensures that all Diocesan guidance is discussed and implemented.

DBS checks are carried out for all those involved in work within the parish with children and vulnerable adults for example JAM club, Messy Church, pastoral care team etc. Volunteers working with these groups who have not had a DBS check should contact the Parish Safeguarding Officer.

In accordance with Diocesan guidance, we have a safeguarding statement on the front page of the church website with links to the parish safeguarding policy statement and to contact details for relevant people and organisations within the parish, Diocese and wider community.

At the end of 2020 the Diocesan Safeguarding Team carried out an audit of Safeguarding provision. Whilst it was difficult to assess activities which were no longer running due to Covid19, it was re-emphasized that all those working as volunteers with groups involving children and vulnerable adults should have a DBS chick and should also undertake the basic level of Safeguarding Training offered by the Diocese. Once the groups are up and running again a request will be sent out for the training to be completed.

Henrietta Warwick Safeguarding Officer

ST PETER’S LUNCHEON CLUB

We had two meetings before lockdown:

16[th] January, 85 members – Lamb hotpot & veg, treacle tart

20[th] February, 86 members - Roast turkey & all the trimmings, lemon posset

Gillian Gough

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ST. PETER’S TRIPLE MISSION

Firstly to thank you all for your love, prayers and support during this last year. Of course we missed our actual involvement in our fund raising events but amazed ourselves (or me anyway!) at how much is possible online.

We started with the virtual Unlock Walk in the East End of London in April (this year in the City). We always walk for Family Support but this did not happen. However, FSW had great problems with their Food For Families. The Deanery was asked to ‘step up’ and Petworth (in particular Wisborough Green) were magnificent with donations – and this has continued. Family Support has been even more needed in the past year.

Rachel and Eric, working for YWAM in Uganda, have sent us regular updates on the family and amazing ministry in their village and further afield and also their building projects. Recently Rachel has been unwell and they have so valued our prayers.

We have also received updates from Joel Gage on the grave situation for many of the refugees left stranded in Greece – in the very overcrowded refugee camp and trying to live in Athens or the islands. Our contributions have gone to small but desperately needed projects eg. sanitary supplies and breakfasts for those with no means of income.

We look forward to 2021 with hope and thankfulness for each other for the wider world.

Judy Moorey

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ST. PETER’S VILLAGE CARE TEAM

The village care team has, as of necessity this past year, only been active in individual instances.

We worked with the Parish Council, who set up a scheme to encourage anyone able, to sign up to volunteer to help meet the various needs of vulnerable residents during this COVID time.

A Wisborough Green community policy was drawn up on the 17[th] March 2020 for both volunteers and service users. Louise Davies, our Parish Council Clerk, put in a lot of time and effort to draw this up to meet with the insurance requirements, also co-ordinating volunteers with residents in need. Many thanks Louise.

71 people registered, some as Mr. & Mrs., others as individuals. 14 households were helped, though we are aware that many people were helping out neighbours and friends who didn’t come through the official scheme. New friendships were formed, older generations met younger for the first time, and people were very grateful for the support and care given. Volunteers not being used appeared disappointed not to be called upon. All willing and wanting to help.

Unfortunately the car service had to be suspended as many drivers fell into the vulnerable category themselves. So to keep both drivers and users safe this decision was taken.

The offer to take minibus members for their vaccinations in the minibus was not taken up by anyone. Only one enquiry was forthcoming. We are assuming then that people managed with family and friends.

The volunteers scheme was still active through the second lockdown, volunteers still being willing to carry on as before with shopping, telephone calls and prescription collecting.

A big thank you must go to our caring community here who helped to meet so many needs during this difficult time.

Suzanne Mosley

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WIZZY TOTS

Wizzy Tots is the name of St Peter’s Toddler Group, but we have not been running now for over a year. Our last session was in March 2020 before the first lockdown.

The group usually met in Term Time from 9.30-11am in Wisborough Green Village Hall with a charge of £2 per adult and child, then 50p per extra child, to help cover the cost of refreshments and craft materials. Coffee and tea are served to the adults throughout the morning. The children have a snack after a singing session at about 10.15am. There is a variety of activities for the children: a baby area, slide, construction toys, small world and imaginative play. A different craft/ creative activity is provided most weeks.

We are hoping to recommence Wizzy Tots in the Church as the Village Hall is having building work done. This will be on a Thursday morning between 10am and 11.30am and our first session will be on Thursday 29th April 2021. It will be run in accordance with Covid advice.

This has been a happy and welcoming group where we get to know the mums, grandparents, carers and children. Please recommend Wizzy Tots if you have young families living close by.

Marion Jenkins

XPRESSO

Owing to the Covid lockdown, Xpresso meetings were suspended from March 2020.

Throughout 2020 there were hopes that the Friday coffee mornings would resume but as we know, social gatherings were forbidden. Later in 2021, however, we hope to see our regular patrons and others again as soon as permitted.

We will still need helpers, so if anyone would like to join the team please contact Sheila Armistead on 01403 700319.

Sheila Armistead

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