## **Parish of Luton, St. Anne with St. Christopher**
## **Annual Report 2025**
## **Registered Charity Number: 1134772**
## **Including accounts for year ending 31 December**
**2025**
Page **1** of **27**
## **ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE PARISH OF LUTON ST. ANNE WITH ST. CHRISTOPHER 2025**
## **INTRODUCTION**
Welcome to our annual report for 2025. This document contains reports and accounts relating to this parish.
To comply with the Charities Act, this report contains information that is supplementary to that which is being presented as a Parish Statement to the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM).
## **Aims and Purposes**
The Parochial Church Council (PCC) of the Parish of Luton, St Anne with St Christopher, has the responsibility of cooperating with the incumbent, Mother Anne Crosby, in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. The PCC is also responsible for the maintenance of the two parish churches, St Anne’s and St Christopher’s, in Luton.
## **Objectives and Activities**
The PCC is committed to enabling as many people as possible to worship in our churches and to become part of the parish community.
When planning our activities for the year, we have considered the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit and the supplementary guidance on charities for the advancement of religion. We try to enable people to live out their faith as part of the parish community through:
- Worship and prayer; learning about the gospel; and developing their knowledge and trust in Jesus.
- Provision of pastoral care for those people living in the parish.
- Missionary and outreach work.
To facilitate this work, it is important that we maintain the fabric of the two churches and their halls.
## **Achievement and Performance**
The PCC is keen to offer a range of services across the parish during the week and over the year that our community find both beneficial and spiritually fulfilling.
Current patterns of worship comprise: Sunday morning services of Holy Eucharist at both St. Anne’s Church and at
St. Christopher’s Church; a mid-week service at St. Christopher’s (Holy Eucharist except for the first Wednesday which is _Morning Worship)._
Patronal festivals and other special days are celebrated with evening services of Holy Eucharist.
Fellowship time takes place after most services.
Holy Baptism takes place at mutually convenient services There were 3 Baptisms in 2025.
Page **2** of **27**
Funeral ministry is undertaken by the vicar.
Weddings potentially take place at both St Anne’s and St Christopher’s although in 2025 there were no weddings.
The number of electors certified upon the Church Electoral Roll in 2025 was 41.
The parish is part of the _Inclusive Church_ Network.
## **Deanery Synod**
One member sits on the Deanery Synod, along with the Vicar and Licensed Lay Reader(ex-officio). There is one vacant position.
## **The Churches**
Various maintenance tasks have been completed in both churches, details of which are in the accompanying Churchwarden’s report.
Both church halls are regularly hired out to local community groups.
In association with Neville’s Funeral Services, _Talking Elephants_ took place monthly in the hall at St. Anne’s Church.
Both churches have gardens to keep in order. At St Christopher’s, a member of the local community volunteers his services, cutting the grass and keeping the borders in order. This has been supplemented by volunteers from the Church community and the Community Pay Back Scheme. St Anne’s and St Christopher’s both receive working parties from the Community Pay Back Scheme. These groups of people undertake gardening and maintenance work in the church and the grounds under supervision from their supervisor. The Garden of Remembrance in St. Christopher’s grounds is significant for the community and is a place where parishioners may have the ashes of their loved ones interred.
## **Pastoral Care**
Some members of the parish are unable to attend church due to sickness or age. The vicar, and suitably safeguarded lay members visit and take Holy Communion as appropriate. Those receiving Holy Communion at home are regularly prayed for by the wider church community. Parishioners are also visited in hospital where appropriate and possible.
Young people have the opportunity attend Luton Unite, an ecumenical town wide gathering of Christian young people meeting at Youthscape.
Page **3** of **27**
## **Mission and Evangelism**
The Church’s Life, Ministry and Mission is always on the agenda of PCC meetings, reminding us of our need for mission and evangelism within the everyday life of the churches.
## **Ecumenical Relationships**
Our two churches are the only two church buildings within the parish. Mthr Anne meets regularly with other local clergy in the east of Luton. Mthr Anne serves on the Luton Churches Together executive committee and also attends monthly prayer meetings, when possible, with church leaders of all denominations from across the town.
## **Financial Review**
The parish has one bank account and set of accounts The PCC has responsibility for the parish’s finances, supported by the Parish Standing and Finance Committee.
The parish unrestricted income in 2025 was £59,166 and payments of £58,916. The unrestricted bank balance at 31[st] December 2025 was £51,479. The full details and report are printed in the annual report, which is available to those on the Electoral Roll before the Annual Church Meeting.
## **Reserves Policy**
The policy states that we plan to have to hand the equivalent of three months ’regular expenditure, excluding Building and Fabric costs, money that has been designated for specific projects and restricted funds.
## **Risk Management**
All regular worshippers in the parish have been, and continue to be, encouraged to give generously. Both churches have a contactless payment machine. The parish Facebook page and ‘A Church Near You’ have options to enable people to financially support the parish, and an ‘Easy Fundraising’ account has been established. Everyone is encouraged to be part of the stewardship scheme and, if they are taxpayers, to gift-aid their giving.
St Christopher’s is considerably dependent on rental income to meet most of its essential expenses. Most of the regular congregation at the church are not full-time wage-earners, the majority being aged 60 and above. There seems no easy way of managing these risks at present.
## **General Policies**
The PCC has now agreed a total of twenty parish policies which are reviewed annually, namely:
Page **4** of **27**
- Safeguarding – best practice as per the Church of England
- Safeguarding adults when they are vulnerable
- Safeguarding Children
- Church and Hall Evacuation
- Conflict of Interest
- Equal Opportunities
- Domestic Abuse
- Health, Safety and Welfare
- Lone Working
- Race Equality
- Reserves
- Risk Management
- Youth and Children’s Work
- Coach trips
- Displaying of hirers banners
- Supporting persons in need
- Noticeboards
- Garden of Remembrance
- Advertisers in parish publicity
- Wedding Arrangements
## **Volunteers**
There are a number of volunteers who give of their time and effort and work so hard to keep the parish a lively and vibrant community. We follow the diocesan guidelines regarding child protection and DBS checking. We are grateful to our Churchwardens Michelle Reeves and Verma Denny, the Parish Treasurer Michael Whelan, and Safeguarding Officer Emma Reid, who have wonderfully fulfilled their duties and responsibilities.
## **Structure and Governance**
The Parochial Church Council is a corporate body established by the Church of England. The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure. The PCC is a registered charity.
The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules.
During 2025 the PCC met on 6 occasions.
## **Administrative Information**
The Parish of Luton, St Anne with St Christopher, is situated in the Deanery of Luton. It is part of the St Albans Diocese in the Church of England. The Registered Charity number is 1134772.
Page **5** of **27**
The Parish Office is located at: Parish Office, St. Christopher’s Church Hall, Felix Avenue, Luton, LU2 7LE. Further details in the reports from groups and other financial details can be requested from this address.
## **VICAR’S ANNUAL REPORT 2025**
Revd Anne Crosby SMMS (Mthr) Vicar of the Parish of Luton, St Anne with St Christopher
## **Introduction**
2025 has been a year of consolidation for the parish, shaped by both challenge and faithfulness. Ongoing illness has significantly affected our Lay Leader and Lay Leader of Worship, and this has inevitably impacted our shared ministry. In the midst of depletion, we have sought to remain attentive to the work God calls us to do: encouraging growth in faith, service, and community engagement, and continuing to align our life together with God’s purposes.
## **Gratitude and Acknowledgements**
I begin, as always, with my heartfelt thanks to the Ministry Team:
Michelle Reeves and Verma Denny, Churchwardens Dianne Scott, Lay Reader Olubukola Olowoye, Lay Leader of Worship
Fr Grantley Finlayson, retired clergy, who offered monthly priestly ministry until November 2025
My sincere thanks also go to:
Michael Whelan, Parish Treasurer, for his diligent and careful management of parish finances Emma Reid, Parish Safeguarding Officer, for her faithful attention to safeguarding matters Dianne Scott, PCC Secretary
All PCC members for their service and commitment
I am also deeply grateful to everyone who contributes to the worship and life of the parish: those involved in social and fundraising events, building maintenance, hospitality, music, prayer, and the many acts of quiet faithfulness that sustain our common life.
## **Worship and Services**
At the beginning of the year, we continued with the service pattern established during the COVID pandemic:
Sundays: 10.30am at St Anne’s; 4.00pm at St Christopher’s Wednesdays: 10.30am at St Christopher’s
Page **6** of **27**
Following consultation with congregations, the PCC discerned that it was time to return to pre-pandemic service times:
Sundays: 9.15am at St Christopher’s; 11.15am at St Anne’s Wednesdays: 10.30am at St Christopher’s
It was agreed that all services would normally be celebrations of the Holy Eucharist, except when clerical cover was unavailable, and that Sunday sermons would include opportunities for engagement with children present. These changes were introduced at the beginning of September.
Initially, attendance at St Anne’s dipped, though numbers are now beginning to recover. At St Christopher’s there was an immediate and sustained increase in Sunday attendance. Overall, attendance at both churches remains low, and this continues to be an area for prayerful reflection and intentional mission.
## **St Christopher’s Church Hall Project**
Following the PCC’s decision to sell the Church Hall, exploration began into the possible reordering of St Christopher’s Church. Progress has been limited due to the inability to secure a project manager. Attendance at the monthly prayer meeting for the parish and this project has been low, and there appears to be limited engagement at present.
This project has therefore stalled and requires further exploration by the PCC, together with a renewed commitment from the parish if it is to move forward.
## **Wider Ministry**
This year I moved from serving as Assistant Area Dean for Luton to becoming a Co-Acting Area Dean, a role I will hold until a new Area Dean is appointed by the Acting Bishop of St Albans, the Bishop of Bedford, the Rt Revd Richard Atkinson.
Following the retirement of the Bishop of St Albans, I ceased to be the Bishop’s Nominee for USPG (Partners in Global Mission), though I have continued to maintain close links with the organisation.
I attended the USPG Annual Conference, *“We Believe, We Belong?”*, which centred on the Nicene Creed—an ecumenical statement of faith affirmed across centuries and cultures. The conference explored what it means to believe and belong in today’s world.
Keynote speakers included:
The Rt Revd Dr Vicentia Kgabe, Bishop of Lesotho, who spoke of the Church growing stronger when every part is welcomed, drawing on the South African philosophy of Ubuntu—“I am because we are”. The Rt Revd Philip Wright, Bishop of Belize, who described the Church as a global, colourful garden, whose beauty lies in its diversity.
Page **7** of **27**
Workshops explored the Creed through the lenses of reparatory justice, interfaith relations, and migration. Attending this conference enriched my ministry and has informed both my preaching and parish leadership.
## **Community Outreach and Engagement**
Serving our local community remains central to our parish identity.
In partnership with the Social Justice Team of Luton Borough Council, we established a monthly Community Lunch in St Christopher’s Church Hall. Beginning in July with just six people from the congregation, the lunch quickly grew. At the Christmas Lunch, thirty six people attended, many of whom also joined the Christmas Carol Service beforehand. We have applied for grant funding to sustain this ministry beyond the initial period of council support. My grateful thanks go to Ian Johnson and his team for their commitment and generosity.
We have continued to strengthen relationships with local councillors and charitable organisations. Attendance at the Professional Neighbourhood Networking Coffee Morning and the Luton 2040 Conference has further developed our reputation within the town.
This year I was invited to lead Christmas Carols at Luton Pride, an event marked by warmth, welcome, and many positive pastoral conversations. Ongoing engagement with this town-wide community continues to grow. Having attended Pride Day since its inception in 2022, I was also invited to the Annual Pride Launch Event, which is both a celebration and a time of remembrance.
Through attending the inaugural Islamophobia Conference, continuing membership of Luton Council of Faiths, and serving on the executive board of Luton Churches Together, I remain engaged with the wider faith life of the town, informing my leadership and our parish’s outreach.
As part of the 150th anniversary of Luton Borough Council, each ward hosted a Christmas tree. Due to our community engagement, the Round Green Ward tree was placed outside St Christopher’s Church. At the lighting ceremony we sang carols, prayed together, and invited people to write messages on baubles—remembrances, hopes, and longings. For many, this was their only opportunity to share in a Christian Christmas celebration. The Guides kindly served refreshments afterwards.
We continue to offer craft groups, social events, Talking Elephants, Bacon Butty mornings, and Community Refreshment Stops.
Following our annual Social and Fundraising meeting—attended this year by members of the wider community— we renamed some activities as part of our engagement strategy:
Saturday Crafters → Stitch Along Bacon Butty Morning → Butty and Beyond Community Refreshment Stop → Cake and Company
Our reputation for care and compassion continues to grow as we respond to requests for help and support.
Page **8** of **27**
## **Children and Family Ministry**
Although few children worship regularly in the parish, our schools and nursery outreach continues to grow:
- Regular Collective Worship at Wenlock CE Academy along with termly worship at St Mary’s, with children leading . In addition Year-group sessions are held at St Anne’s, exploring the church and Christian themes
- Termly sessions for Hart Hill Nursery, including Harvest, Lent, and Christingle are held in St Anne’s and at the Nursery
- Strengthened links with Crawley Green Infant School, including sharing the Christmas story at St Anne’s
- An Easter visit from Richmond Hill West School(children with special educational needs) to St Christopher’s
My thanks to Annette Considine for maintaining connections with Luton Unite (Youthscape) and for her encouragement in supporting secondary-aged young people.
This area of ministry would benefit greatly from additional support if it is to flourish more fully.
## **Guides and Scouts**
Our links with the Guide and Scout movements continue to strengthen. Both groups now automatically participate in the Remembrance Sunday service.
This year, I lead the first Christingle service specifically for the the Scouts, marking the end of the Autumn term. This was very well received, and a programme of Scout–Church engagement is planned for 2026.
## **Prayer and Digital Fellowship**
- This year we have introduced Healing Ministry Training online via WhatsApp. During this monthly training we explore the Bible looking at specific themes. This year we have thought about Calling, Truth, Listening, Personality, Body Language and Inner Healing.
- The WhatsApp Prayer Group offers a safe space for sharing prayer needs.
- Parish Chat helps keep the congregation connected through joys, sorrows, and updates.
- Facebook continues to share worship and events with the wider community.
- Most Sundays we livestream worship from St Anne’s.
## **Parish Visibility and Mission**
Our decorated church railings remain a much-loved feature in the town, offering joy and a visible sign of Christian presence.
Alongside the Diocese of St Albans and Luton Deanery, we are exploring how to Grow Younger and More Diverse, in keeping with our commitment as part of the Inclusive Church Network.
Page **9** of **27**
Our missional life also enables me to participate actively in the Diocesan Mixed Ecology Symposium.
## **Conclusion**
Throughout this year, we have sought to notice God at work—within the life of the parish and in the lives of those we encounter. Sharing these moments has become an important part of our worship, as we prepare to go out to love and serve the Lord.
Looking ahead, the coming year will focus on more intentional prayer and deeper engagement with Scripture, listening carefully for what God is saying to us as a parish.
Every blessing,
Revd Anne Crosby SMMS (Mthr)
Vicar of the Parish of Luton, St Anne with St Christopher
## **SAFEGUARDING REPORT 2025**
The House of Bishops’ Safeguarding Policy states that the Church will train and equip church officers with the confidence and skills they need to care for and support children, young people and vulnerable adults, and to recognise and respond appropriately to abuse.
In line with this guidance, the parish follows the Diocesan Safeguarding Dashboard to ensure that safeguarding requirements are met. PCC members ensure that their safeguarding training remains up to date, including completion of the Foundation Pathway. Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks have also been renewed this year, where the three-year renewal period had been reached. The Vicar, Church Reader and all PCC members have met these safeguarding requirements.
Safeguarding remains a standing item on the PCC agenda and is reviewed monthly to ensure that we continue to work together to meet the safeguarding needs of our congregation and the wider community.
During 2025, one safeguarding concern was reported. This was managed in accordance with the House of Bishops’ safeguarding policies and diocesan guidance by the Parish Safeguarding Officer, the Vicar and the Diocesan Safeguarding Team.
The PCC takes its duty and obligation to protect all seriously. We are committed to the safeguarding, care and nurture of everyone within our church community. We follow the House of Bishops’ guidance and policies and have adopted the Church of England’s safeguarding policies and practice guidance. We continue to work closely with the
Page **10** of **27**
Diocesan Safeguarding Team and are grateful for their advice and support. The PCC recognises that safeguarding is an ongoing responsibility and remains committed to ensuring that our church is a safe and welcoming place for all.
Emma Reid
Parish Safeguarding Officer
## **MEMBERSHIP OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL as at 31[st] December 2025**
**Churchwardens:**
Michelle Reeves Verma Denny
## **Vicar and chairperson:**
Mthr Anne Crosby **Elected Members:**
Ann Moore (Deanery Synod Rep) Olubukola Olowoye Emma Reid Dianne Scott Sandra Tuffnell Michael Whelan (Treasurer) Susan Whelan
## **CHURCHWARDENS’ REPORT**
This year has been another busy year in the parish. Thank you to Verma who has stepped into the role of Churchwarden alongside myself and is doing an amazing job!
In February I received a call to say a car had gone into the fence at St Christopher’s Church, taking out telegraph pole on the way through. Thankfully no-one was hurt, but we needed to get a section of the fence replaced. I would like to say a heartfelt thank you on behalf of myself, Verma and all of the PCC, to Tommy and Shelly from Shelmar Ltd who offered to replace the damaged section of fencing, it was very much appreciated.
Across the parish, the boilers in both churches have been serviced, and the couplings changed in both boilers in St Anne’s.
Page **11** of **27**
The fire extinguishers across the parish have been checked and were all fine with the exception of one being replaced in St Christopher’s Church.
The roof alarm at St Christopher had its’ annual test and no problems were identified.
The Alarm and security system in St Anne’s has had its’ annual service and is working well.
The Kitchen at St Annes has had its’ annual service.
The Lightening Conductor at St Anne’s has been tested and passed.
The emergency lights in both Churches are tested regularly throughout the year. In addition we do a 3 hour test annually; as a result of this two emergency lights in St Anne’s and one at St Christopher’s were replaced with more efficient LED versions and this is something we will continue to do where any lighting needs to be replaced.
We continue to have the Community Payback team coming in to both churches and have helped with cleaning, maintenance of the church grounds and stripping the floors.
Lastly, I would like to thank everyone who has offered their services throughout the year, your support is invaluable and very much appreciated!
Michelle Reeves and Verma Denny
## **PCC SECRETARY’S REPORT 2025**
The Parochial Church Council (PCC) of the Parish of Luton, St. Anne with St. Christopher is a charity, and its members are Trustees of the charity; as such its constitution and operation are bound by legal requirements. The principle function of the PCC is “promoting in the parish the whole mission of the Church”.[1] The PCC, and her Standing Committee, met regularly during 2025 in the Jubilee Room at St. Christopher’s Hall.
During the past year all PCC meetings have opened in worship based upon the _PCC TONIGHT ©CPAS LITURGY FOR A PCC MEETING,_ which includes time both for prayer and for exploring the Gospel reading of the day.
Safeguarding, Finance and the care of our buildings always feature on the meeting agendas alongside consideration of the spiritual life of the parish.
Although the size of the body is small, the members of the PCC have continued to work hard together in love as we seek the flourishing of those we serve in both the Church and the wider community.
> 1 https://www.churchofengland.org
Page **12** of **27**
Dianne Scott (PCC Secretary)
## **DEANERY SYNOD REPORT 2025**
Luton Deanery consists of the Anglican Parishes of Luton plus Woodside and Caddington in the Archdeaconry of Bedford. The Synod is a body consisting of clergy together with lay representatives from every parish elected on a three- yearly basis. Those elected also serve on the Parochial Church Council. During 2025, Ann Moore served as an elected Deanery Synod Representative. Mthr Anne Crosby and Dianne Scott -as vicar and licensed lay reader- also served on Deanery Synod.
Deanery Synod met four times during the year as follows: 17[th] February at St. Paul’s Church, Luton; 2[nd] June at St. Mary’s, Sundon; 13[th] October at St. Augustine’s, Luton and 24[th] November at our own St. Christopher’s Church. Meetings always include: a short act of worship; financial report; “news” from the parishes together with a central focus consisting of a visiting speaker and/ or group activities.
In line with the Church of England nationally, “growing younger and more diverse” is a major strategic priority in our own Diocese of St. Albans. In Luton Deanery much work has been done to ensure full participation in relation to this in the hope that the mission of Luton’s parishes will fully benefit. As a result, much of Synod’s time has been spent in relation to the associated funding bid.
During 2025, Luton Deanery said farewell to Area Dean, David Kesterton who retired towards the end of the Summer. A new Area Dean has yet to be appointed and the role is currently being covered jointly by the Assistant Area Deans: Mthr Anne Crosby and Revd Josias de Souza.
Dianne Scott (PCC Secretary)
## **BUILDING AND FABRICS COMMITTEE 2025**
Our Buildings & Fabrics Committee is a sub-group of the PCC. It is responsible for the routine maintenance, improvements and upkeep of both Churches, Halls and grounds which is carried out throughout the year by a small group of volunteers. It also advises the PCC about any necessary work that might involve major expenditure. The committee has reduced in numbers over the last year and we have only been able to meet on one occasion, however we do communicate urgent issues via our WhatsApp group and are in regular contact.
During the year we have looked at the replacement of the wooden fences at St Annes and this is something that will be done in the next year.
We look at repairs and maintenance that have been noted in our Quinquennial inspections and ensure that they are addressed in addition to the general maintenance tasks that need to be done.
Page **13** of **27**
We continue to try and make our churches more efficient and are committed to replacing our existing lights and emergency lights to LED as and when they need replacing.
If you would be interested in joining the Building and Fabric Committee please let me know, we are always open to new members.
Michelle Reeves
## **TUESDAY CRAFT GROUP AT ST. ANNE’S 2025**
2025 has been another successful year . The group has between 10-15 adults attending during term time only. The numbers vary from week to week . Some work on their own projects often stopping to support requests that come their way.
We started 2025 knitting small baskets which would be able to hold small chocolate eggs in time for Easter to be distributed to the congregation.
Then, the charity Chums put a plea once again for little knitted elephants for children to receive, containing a chocolate egg. They said they would been grateful for both or just chocolate eggs. We were able to respond. After that, we were asked if it would possible for anyone to kindly knit hats for the natal unit at the Luton and Dunstable . This time it could be any colour as they were urgently needed. This is ongoing .
At the end of the 2025 the group also sent a few knitted items to the Salvation Army that St. Ann’s were unable to sell .
Regards Denise Dove .
## **SATURDAY CRAFTERS REPORT 2025**
Saturday Crafters have continued to meet in the Jubilee Room on the fourth Saturday of most months (we do not usually meet in August or December).
We are a small, but busy group. During the year we have continued to work on the new altar frontals for St. Christopher’s Church. We also enjoy knitting or crocheting different things for our Church fence - different types of bunting have been made this year.
Although at the meetings we tend to focus on making things for the Church, we are happy to get in other projects as well. The group is open to anyone and everyone, we welcome new members and new ideas, and are always happy to sit and enjoy a cup of tea and a chat.
Ann Moore
Page **14** of **27**
## **PARISH CRAFT FAIRS 2025**
During 2025 four Craft Fairs were held in St Christopher’s Church. Crafters can hire a table to display and sell their hand-made items. There is usually a good demand from crafters for the stalls.
The Fairs this year have once again been fairly successful on many fronts. Firstly, they are fund raisers for our parish funds, but also it is good to see our Church building open and being used by the local and the wider community. Many of the crafters have developed links with each other (as well as with us), often sharing ideas and tips with those new to Craft Fairs.
The Craft Fairs are very hard work for the organisers, the helpers and the crafters, but they are really enjoyable. If you have not yet been able to come to one of the Craft Fairs, please pop into one in 2026, or if you would like to help please have a word with me.
Ann Moore
## **CREATIVE SCRAPBOOKING 2025**
We are a friendly group who enjoy sharing and creating memory albums and other crafts while enjoying light refreshments together. To help you create your projects, there is a selection of tools available for you to use, as well as papers and cards which can be purchased if required.
Not all our members scrapbook. Within the group, we also have paper crafters who use a die-cutting machine to make boxes, bags and other projects, as well as card makers, crocheters and knitters.
Whatever your craft, you are very welcome to join us – you might even learn something new! We support and encourage one another by sharing ideas, skills and inspiration.
There is a small fee to cover the use of tools and refreshments. We look forward to welcoming you for some enjoyable and well-deserved creative time.
Emma Reid
## **LUTON UNITE 2025**
Luton Unite meets at Youthscape on the first Friday of the month, during term-time, from 7-9.00pm. It puts on exciting events for young people from Years 7-13. The evening is an opportunity for them to meet other young people from different churches and denominations across the town, and to be part of a growing, vibrant group. The aim is for young people to experience the breadth and depth of the Christian community in Luton. The sessions are run by Youth workers from Youthscape, along with volunteer leaders from the different churches. The evening starts with games, before launching into a time of worship and learning about our faith. This year, we are exploring big questions, such as: Who is God? What do we think about heaven and hell? The session concludes
Page **15** of **27**
with a social activity. Games and crafts, dessert nights, the Traitors, and Nerf Battles have been particularly popular. A highlight of the year was the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory themed Christmas Ball. In addition to the main event, on the third Thursday of the month, smaller groups meet for Luton Unite Deeper. This provides an opportunity to go deeper into the topic introduced at the main event. During the summer, the young people are offered the chance to attend Satellites, a 5-day Christian event in Somerset, designed to inspire teenagers to live with God at the centre of their lives.
If you know any young people who would like to know more about these events, please come and speak to me.
Annette Considine
## **TALKING ELEPHANTS 2025**
The Talking Elephants bereavement support group meets at St Anne’s Church on the third Thursday of the month from 10-11.30am.
We are pleased to host these sessions alongside Nevilles Funeral Service, as part of their wider project. Our numbers tend to be fairly low but this gives everyone the time and space they need to engage with the group. Members meet one another in an informal setting, ready to listen and offer support. There is often much joy and warmth as we share our experiences. Do come along and join us; you will receive a warm welcome.
Special thanks to Michelle, who is our regular representative from Neville’s. I give thanks for their team and all that they do.
Annette Considine
## **SCOUTING AT ST. ANNE’S**
The past year has been a highly productive one for St. Anne’s Scouts. We have successfully delivered a wide and varied programme of activities and events for our young members. However, recruitment continues to be a challenge, particularly as recent attempts to advertise through local school newsletters have been unsuccessful.
We are proud to be part of the St. Anne’s family and are making a concerted effort to become more engaged with the church and its congregation. In addition to our traditional attendance at the Remembrance Day service, we invited Reverend Anne to conduct a Christingle service during our final meeting before Christmas. This event was very well received and greatly appreciated by everyone involved.
Page **16** of **27**
Another highlight of the year was the donation of several large, surplus tents to the Jamaican cyclone relief appeal. This initiative was a significant success and was subsequently featured in the local press.
https://www.lutontoday.co.uk/community/st-annes-scouts-lend-a-hand-to-jamaica-hurricane-appeal-5392766
## **MONTHLY PRAYER GROUP (ST. CHRISTOPHER’S, 1[ST] MONDAY) 2025**
The first priority stated in the Parish’s new Mission Action Plan is: _to make our buildings fit for purpose thus enabling the parish to become sustainable_ **.**
The second priority involved seeking God’s guidance and blessing about such parish development. To this end, a new intercessory prayer group began to meet in September 2024 at St. Christopher’s Church.
Under the leadership of Licensed Lay Reader, Dianne Scott, this group has sought inspiration from the experiences of the early church by reading a chapter of _the Acts of the Apostles_ at each gathering.
During 2025 this group has been very sparsely attended and it is likely to be discontinued in the new year.
Dianne Scott (Licensed Lay Reader)
## **BIBLE STUDY 2025**
During 2025, a group met each month on the second Thursday evening in St. Christopher’s _Jubilee Room_ to study the Bible together.
Through the year we journeyed from Genesis to Revelation, seeking to learn more about the “big picture” of God’s “Good News” as revealed in scripture.
During Advent it became possible to offer weekly sessions at both St. Anne’s Hall on Monday afternoons and at St. Christopher’s on Thursday evenings. This study followed the themes of the candles we light in church every Sunday during Advent, helping us to go deeper into the spirituality of that season.
In addition, during Lent Mthr Anne led a weekly “Book Club” where we were able to consider together Paula Gooder’s: _Women of Holy Week._
Spending time reading our Bibles helps us all to “go deeper” in our walk with Jesus and it is good to do this together sometimes! At St. Anne with St. Christopher’s we aim to make Bible study fun and accessible for everyone who wants to take part.
Evenings begin with tea/coffee and end with a short service of _Compline- Night Prayer_ .
Afternoon sessions are slightly shorter.
Page **17** of **27**
Whatever your favoured learning style or ability, everyone is welcome- look out for up to date details in the weekly pew sheet.
Dianne Scott (Licensed Lay Reader)
Page **18** of **27**
## **Parish of Luton, St Anne with St Christopher**
## **Treasurer’s report for the year ending 31 December 2025**
The calendar year 2025 was another challenging year for the parish. Overall, income increased in 2025 by £5,708, 2025 £66,072 (2024: £60,364). Costs also increased in 2025 by £5,140, 2025 £64,101 (2024: £58,961). Net receipts increased in 2025 by £568, 2025 £1,971 (2024: £1,403).
## Unrestricted Fund Receipts:
The major sources of the receipts of the parish were from stewardship and pledges, rental income resulting from the hire by external parties of the parish buildings and tax rebates. Stewardship and pledges from members of the parish have fallen by £1,945, 2025 £17,540 (2024: £19,485). The rental income received from both the halls and churches decreased by £1,251 to £16,437 (2024: £17,688). Tax rebates received in 2025 increased by £9,584 to £9,584 (2024: £0).
## Unrestricted Fund Payments:
The light, heat and water charge fell by £3,087 to £11,373 (2024: £14,460). Our parish share contribution increased by £8,000 to £26,000 (2024: £18,000).
## Restricted Fund Receipts and Payments:
Restricted fund receipts of £6,906 in 2025 related to donations for the buildings and fabric fund of St Christopher £126, a legacy for St Christopher of £3,000, an insurance claim receipt of £780 in respect of the window at St Christopher and a legacy for St Anne of £3,000. Restricted fund payments of £5,185 related to payments made in respect of the maintenance of St Anne’s church £1,274 taken from the St Anne’s buildings and fabric fund and payments made in respect of the maintenance of St Christopher’s church £3,911 taken from the St Christopher’s buildings and fabric fund.
## Bank balances:
The unrestricted funds account balance increased by £250 to £51,479 (2024: £51,229).
The restricted funds account increased by £1,721 to £60,777 (2024: £59,056).
Interest from the business reserve account £1,122 (2024: £1,414).
## The year ahead:
I believe that the year ahead will be another challenging year for the parish. There are expected to be cost pressures generally with inflation running at 3%. There are also concerns that energy costs could be higher in 2026 due to current supply problems in the Middle East, a particular worry, as we have three large buildings to heat.
Our prospects will hinge on the results of our efforts in the following areas:
1. Increasing our congregation size.
2. Increasing our rental income.
3. Mitigating energy costs.
4. Filing a gift aid claim for 2025.
Page **19** of **27**
I would like to thank all members of the PCC for their support during the year.
Thank you to all the people who have given financially to the parish in any way. Your donations are vital in allowing the important work of the parish to continue.
Thank you to all those who have gift aided their donations. This enables the parish to claim an extra 25% of your donation from the government if you are a UK taxpayer.
Thank you to Colin Sparshott who has continued as the Independent Examiner for the Parish.
M.Whelan Treasurer 08/03/2026.
Page **20** of **27**
## **Parish of Luton, St Anne with St Christopher Charity number 1134772 Receipts and Payments Accounts**
**For the period from 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2025**
||**Unrestricte**|**Restricte**|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
||**d**|**d**|**Total**|**Last**|
||**Funds**|**Funds**|**Funds**|**Year**|
||**2025**|**2025**|**2025**|**2024**|
||**£**|**£**|**£**|**£**|
|**Receipts**|||||
|Stewardship and pledges|17,540||17,540|19,485|
|Gift aided envelopes|||0|365|
|Donations and bequests|3,859|3,126|6,985|4,113|
|Specific collections|448||448|1,005|
|Income tax refund|9,584||9,584|0|
|Collections - loose|3,317||3,317|5,038|
|Collections - weddings and funerals|||0|514|
|Weddings and funeral fees|1,814||1,814|1,404|
|Refreshments|156||156|596|
|Hall and church rental|16,437||16,437|17,688|
|Fundraising events|4,887||4,887|5,067|
|Buildings and fabrics||3,000|3,000|0|
|Pop in club|||0|436|
|Grants received|||0|2,638|
|Sundry|||0|213|
|Insurance claims||780|780|390|
Page **21** of **27**
|Interest received
**Total Receipts**
**Payments**
Light, heat and water
Insurance
Repairs and renewals
Hall and church rent refunds
Service requirements
Maintenance grounds
Parish share scheme
Charitable donations
Administration, stationery and stamps
Internet / telephone
Photocopier / printer
Clergy expenses
Envelopes / legal / inscriptions
Refreshments
Sundry expenses
Buildings and fabrics|1,122
1,122
1,414|
|---|---|
||59,166
6,906
66,072
60,364|
||**Unrestricte**
**d**
**Restricte**
**d**
**Total**
**Last**
**Funds**
**Funds**
**Funds**
**Year**
**2025**
**2025**
**2025**
**2024**
**£**
**£**
**£**
**£**
11,373
11,373
14,460
4,973
4,973
4,554
5,052
5,185
10,237
8,383
206
206
800
477
477
960
192
192
168
26,000
26,000
18,000
531
531
1,301
47
47
99
1,723
1,723
1,489
832
832
1,248
2,958
2,958
2,784
879
879
952
107
107
124
47
47
35
3,000
3,000
2,456|
Page **22** of **27**
|Fees|518||518|1,146|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|**Total Payments**|58,916|5,185|64,101|58,961|
||**Unrestricte**|**Restricte**|||
||**d**|**d**|**Total**|**Last**|
||**Funds**|**Funds**|**Funds**|**Year**|
||**£**|**£**|**£**|**£**|
||**2025**|**2025**|**2025**|**2024**|
|**Net of receipts / payments**|250|1,721|1,971|1,403|
||||110,28|108,88|
|Cash funds last year end|51,229|59,056|5|2|
||||112,25|110,28|
|Cash funds this year end|51,479|60,777|6|5|
|**Cash Funds**|||||
||||101,51||
|Deposit account|46,110|55,400|0|98,888|
|Current account|5,369|5,377|10,746|11,397|
||||112,25|110,28|
||51,479|60,777|6|5|
|**Notes**|||||
|**1. Parish Share Liability**|||||
|Parish share liability in respect of:|**2025**|**2024**|||
||**£**|**£**|||
|2025|24,952|0|||
|2024|32,507|32,507|||
|2023|19,732|19,732|||
|2022|0|31,246|||
||77,191|83,485|||
|The present policy of the Diocese is to consider writing off balances over 3 years old, if|||||
|proposed by the Deanery. The 2022 balance of £31,246 has been written|off under these||||
|arrangements. The total parish share liability is not reflected in the above receipts|||||
|and payments account.|||||
|**2. Unrestricted Funds Creditors**|**2025**|**2024**|||
||**£**|**£**|||
|Light and heat|1,407|1,407|||
|Repairs and renewals|429|0|||
|Photocopier / printer|408|0|||
Page **23** of **27**
The light and heat creditor is a disputed liability in respect of a previous gas supplier. These creditors have not been reflected in the above receipts and payments account.
|**3. Charitable Donations**
USPG
The Bishop's Harvest
Church Urban Fund
Children's Society
Noah Enterprise
Beds & Herts Historic Church Trust
Churches Together
The Woodland Trust
Beds Hospital NHS
Luton Foodbank
Local donations
**4. Restricted Funds**
**Building Projects St Anne**
Balance Brought Forward
Receipts
Payments
Balance Carried Forward
**Building Projects St Christopher**
Balance Brought Forward
Receipts
Payments
Balance Carried Forward
**Edible Round Green Project**
Balance Brought Forward
Receipts
Payments
Balance Carried Forward|**2025**
**2024**
**£**
**£**
29
82
182
100
0
88
0
363
20
82
0
50
40
40
0
130
0
327
160
0
100
39|
|---|---|
||531
1,301|
||**2025**
**2024**
**£**
**£**
26,770
29,903
3,000
-1,274
-3,133|
||28,496
26,770|
||**2025**
**2024**
**£**
**£**
28,487
23,888
3,906
4,599
-3,911|
||28,482
28,487|
||**2025**
**2024**
**£**
**£**
2,805
2,870
0
0
0
-65|
||2,805
2,805|
Page **24** of **27**
|**Flowers**
Balance Brought Forward
Receipts
Payments
Balance Carried Forward
**Pop in Club**
Balance Brought Forward
Receipts
Payments
Balance Carried Forward
**Mission**
Balance Brought Forward
Receipts
Payments
Balance Carried Forward
**Total Restricted Funds**
Balance Brought Forward
Receipts
Payments
Balance Carried Forward|**2025**
**2024**
**£**
**£**
58
0
0
58
0
0|
|---|---|
||58
58|
||**2025**
**2024**
**£**
**£**
436
0
0
436
0
0|
||436
436|
||**2025**
**2024**
**£**
**£**
500
0
0
500
0
0|
||500
500|
||**2025**
**2024**
**£**
**£**
59,056
56,660
6,906
5,594
-5,185
-3,198|
||60,777
59,056|
Page **25** of **27**
•tIo h)Lil Irl wilh Mi•
R•gvl•Mr
26
OLlhJ sPAr{Tr
F.cc.A
SI Y
15 8yB.
Page 26 of 27
Page 27 of 27