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2021-12-31-accounts

for

MEETING OF PARISHIONERS and

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

Wednesday 30[th] March 2022 at 8 pm

In accordance with the Notices fixed to the Notice Boards, the Meeting of Parishioners for the purpose of appointing Churchwardens, and the Annual Parochial Church Meeting will be held in Christ Church, Bedford, on Wednesday 30[th] March 2022 at 8 pm.

Meeting of Parishioners

A G E N D A

  1. Apologies for absence 2. Appointment of Churchwardens

  2. Appointment of Assistant Churchwardens

Annual Parochial Church Meeting

A G E N D A

  1. Apologies for absence 2. Minutes of: a/ Last Annual Parochial Church Meeting b/ Meetings of Parishioners

  2. Election of one lay representative to the Deanery Synod for one year

  3. Election of 4 lay representatives to the Parochial Church Council for three years’ one lay representative for two years and two representatives for one year

5.

  2. Matters Arising from the minutes (and not covered by the reports)

  3. To receive a copy of the revised Electoral Roll

  4. To consider the Trustees 2021 Report and Accounts of the Parochial Church Council

  5. Election of an Independent Examiner for the current financial year

  6. Notification of appointment of Reader to the Parochial Church Council

  7. To consider Reports of: a/ the Fabric, Goods and Ornaments of the Church, b/ the Deanery Synod, c/ various Committees and Activities of the Church.

  8. Results of elections to the Deanery Synod and Parochial Church Council 12. Wardens’ Report and Closing Statements

CHRIS BROWN Vice-chair of the PCC

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CHRIST CHURCH BEDFORD

Minutes of the MEETING OF PARISHIONERS and of the

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

held on Tuesday 27 April 2021 at 8pm in the Church and on Zoom

Chairman: The Rev. Canon Richard Hibbert

Meeting of Parishioners

1. Apologies

Rebecca Bell, Barbara Burbidge, Ian and Penny Cooper, Eileen Crapnell, Min-Min Peaker, Simon Platt and Simon and Jo Wigg.

2. Appointment of Churchwardens

Two nominations have been received: Kay Berrington and Andrew Turpie. Richard Hibbert thanked Andrew and Kay for being willing to stand again and expressed his gratitude for their friendship and wisdom and for bringing their different skill sets to the business of leadership here at Christ Church. There being no other nominations they were declared duly elected for the forthcoming year. The meeting showed their appreciation with a round of applause.

3. Appointment of Assistant Churchwardens

On behalf of the wardens Richard Hibbert thanked the following who have been willing to serve as assistant wardens during the year:

Steven Allin Pauline Barber Margaret Baron Rachel Bennett
Fiona Betteley Rachel Day Daniel Gicharu Sarah Hibbert
Berty Jacob Sandra Mahaffey Sue Marshall Pat Mathias
Keith Priddin Margaret Ryan Mike Seamarks Mary Shaw
Dorothy Summerfield Steve Welsh Christine Worrall

Many of them have continued to serve when services took place through the Autumn and once again as we have opened up again in recent weeks. Others, we hope will return to serve once the restrictions ease further and the vaccine rollout progresses. Steven Allin and Margaret Ryan are stepping down and we thank you them for their service. The meeting showed their appreciation to all with a round of applause.

Kay Berrington proposed that Simon Berrington, Cheryl Grint and Christine James, be approved to join the list of Assistant Wardens and that the other 17 be reappointed. Jude Hamilton seconded the proposal, and the list was approved unanimously. Richard Hibbert said he was looking forward to work with the assistant wardens and expressed his thanks to those who have served and continue to serve in this important way.

Annual Parochial Church Meeting

1. Apologies

Rebecca Bell, Barbara Burbidge, Ian and Penny Cooper, Eileen Crapnell, Min-Min Peaker, Simon Platt and Simon and Jo Wigg.

2. Minutes of last Annual Parochial Church Meeting and Meeting of Parishioners

The minutes of the 2020 APCM, which was delayed until September due to COVID-19, are to be found on pages 2 to 5 of the APCM booklet, were approved and signed by the Chairman as an accurate record. Thanks were expressed to Pauline Grimley for keeping the minutes at the APCM and PCC.

3. Election of 4 lay representatives to the Parochial Church Council for 3 years

Four nominations had been received: Sue Templeman, Kenneth Barber, Rachel Day and Simon Berrington. There were no other nominations and so Sue, Ken Rachel and Simon were therefore

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declared duly elected to serve on the PCC for three years. Richard Hibbert thanked them for standing and said that he is looking forward to working with them on the PCC.

4. To receive a copy of the revised Electoral Roll

Pauline Grimley, acting Electoral Roll officer, explained that the Electoral Roll revision took place between 30[th] March and 12[th] April 2021. The number on the Electoral Roll now stands at 302, a decrease of 3 from 2020, of whom 24% live in the parish. The revised Electoral Roll was received by the meeting.

5. To consider the Trustees 2020 Report and Accounts of the Parochial Church Council

The Trustees Report and accounts are to be found on pages 6-31 of the APCM booklet. These pages form our official annual report for the Charity Commission. This year there is a report of the impact of COVID on our work (page 7) and on what we have been able to achieve in 2020 (page 9). There were no questions about pages 6-16 of the report.

The chair then invited the outgoing Treasurer, Ruth Janes, to speak to the accounts.

2020 was a strange year and one we hope we won’t see again. Charities were advised to prepare for worst case and advised to draw up plans for a worst-case scenario. The Resourcing Impact Group and the PCC reviewed the accounts very month rather than every 2 or 3 months as usual.

Page 29 shows that our unrestricted income for the year was £316,270. We are grateful to all those who gave to the work of Christ Church. Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs provides a major income stream via the gift aid scheme, and we applied for government grants and furloughed some staff under the job retention scheme. Our staff were all back at work by October and we haven’t used the government scheme since then. Our rental income was reduced during the year, but the photo voltaic panels gave us a good income.

Page 30 shows our expenditure. We did not spend any more on the Halls Redevelopment Project this year as we are awaiting sign off from the architect before we pay the retention and restricted giving is giving for specific purposes that is then spent for that purpose. We paid our parish share in full, monthly. A number of groups did not spend their budget due to COVID, for example, we could not hold our usual social and community events but Holiday at Home used some of their funds to put together and deliver goody bags to those who usually attend.

Our statement of financial activities can be found on page 18. It shows that we had a year-end surplus of £28,000. This was because we budgeted for a full-time youth minister and children’s minister and we didn’t have this level of staffing. The Mission Impact Group were unable to spend all their allocation, but it will be spent in 2020 in addition to the amount allocated in the 2021 budget. Work to 161 Dudley Street had been approved but was not carried out in 2020. The equipment for livestreaming was purchased in 2020 but will be capitalised and depreciated over several years. The true surplus is about £13,000 and would have been a deficit if we had a full complement of staff.

The budget for 2021 was set in October for PCC approval in November and due to COVID we do not know how much hall hire income we will receive. It is a deficit budget of just over £5,000; no provision was made for a youth minister salary and the Mission Impact group have been allocated 10% of unrestricted giving rather than 14% as we might have wished. The budget is for £18,000 less than the budgeted expenditure for 2020: 2021 could be a tough year, but we trust God to provide.

Ruth expressed her thanks to Chris Worrall for doing the weekly banking, the wardens and assistant wardens for recording the basket collections as services and Pauline in the office for looking after donations made during the lockdowns. She also thanked Richard Lindley and the other members of the Resourcing Impact Group (RIG) for their support whilst she has been treasurer.

A question was asked as to whether buying out the equity sharing loan of 161 Dudley Street had been considered. RIG has considered this several times, but we would need to take out a commercial

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mortgage to do it and our income has not been steady enough to take one on. We have also looked at other options to house a curate but have not found anything satisfactory.

Richard Hibbert thanked Ruth for her comprehensive report and for making the accounts understandable. Ruth has been Honorary Treasurer since April 2015 and is now stepping down. She has provided an exemplary service dealing not only with an annual charity budget of £300,000 but also a £2.5 million halls redevelopment. These are not trifling figures and she has carried us through the COVID pandemic. She worked to change the church bank account from Nat West to CAF Bank and has implemented an increasingly cashless and contactless donation system. She coped with a vicar who kept asking questions and employing new people, who then had to be added to the payroll. She has been steady, completely reliable and accurate, a humble and self-effacing person who has confidence in Christ. We owe Ruth, Phil and the children so much for your dedication and faithfulness: thank you.

Ruth Janes proposed that the accounts be accepted by the APCM, Wendy Pegg seconded the proposal, and everyone assented.

6. Election of an Independent Examiner for the current financial year

Ruth Janes proposed that we reappoint Suzy Goodson of Wright Connections Ltd as the Independent Examiner for the 2021 accounts. Sue Platt seconded the proposal, and everyone was in favour of it. Richard Hibbert then thanked Richard Lindley who has been chair of RIG since 2013 and is now seeking to stand down. Every year he takes our day to day accounts and convert them into the format required by the Charity Commission for a charity of our size.

7. Election of Reader(s) to the Parochial Church Council

The Church Representation rules permit the election of anyone who holds the Bishop’s Licence as a Reader to the PCC. Michael Bishop had indicated that he was willing and would like to serve as an exofficio member of the PCC, and this was accepted.

8. To consider reports of: -

8.1 The Deanery Synod

This report is to be found on page 11 of the APCM booklet. There were no questions, and this report was received.

8.2 The Mission Action Plan Review

Our current Mission Action Plan is to be found on pages 50 and 51 and reminds us of our priorities and what we are trying to work towards. As we come out of this pandemic we will try and put them into practice.

8.3 Sustainability Group

Martin Hamilton gave a presentation on behalf of the Sustainability Group (a subgroup of the Buildings Impact Group) asking How big is our Carbon Footprint ? The group have established a benchmark to enable us to see the scale of our carbon footprint and begin to consider changes that we can make. The carbon footprint of the church buildings has been reduced with the measures taken with the building project, but the carbon footprint of the church family is considerable. The group are suggesting that whilst we should look to reduce and not ignore the carbon footprint of the church, we need to look at how the church family as a community of people can reduce their combined carbon footprint and encourage the wider community to do the same.

8.4 The Fabric, Goods and Ornaments of the Church

This report was produced by the Buildings Impact Group on behalf of the wardens, and it is to be found on pages 32-33 of the APCM Report. The Church Wardens are legally responsible for the fabric, goods and ornaments of the church and they are supported in the day-to-day work by the Buildings Impact Group.

8.5 Various Committees and Activities of the Church

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These reports are to be found on pages 33-49 of the APCM report. They show how things have adapted to the restrictions imposed by the pandemic.

9. Consideration of any other business of Parochial or general church interest

There were no matters of parochial or general church business that anyone wished to raise at the meeting.

10. Vicar’s Report

2020 was a year of great upheaval dominated by COVID, things are not going to go back to what they were before. We had to adapt our worship, ministry and mission, but the key priorities we identified in our Mission Action Plan continue to ring true. We launched a new website, stepped up our social media presence and developed online worship and ministry. We served the struggling in our community through Foodbank, the Rapid Response Freezer and the Vicar’s Discretionary Fund. Despite everything we achieved a financial surplus for the year.

We have read and enacted government guidance and looked for solutions that enabled things to continue, but we have missed out on being connected with each other and with our local community. Our worship has continued to serve us week by week and we have developed on-line children and youth resources. Our halls have been used for those groups and activities that the government have permitted to continue, such as family contact time and support groups. We look forward to more groups returning and a return to worship in person. We will, however, continue to livestream for those who cannot attend. We will need to re-engage with our local community and discern how to serve those who are crying out for support. Please pray for our COVID Reconstruction Group as they meet to seek the way ahead.

Thank you to the paid staff at Christ Church. John, AJ (who left in August) and Ruth (who began in October) in ministry; Pauline, Dawn and Kathryn (who left in December) in ‘administry’ and Richard, Vandon, Wendy and Pat (who left in the summer) who maintain and clean our buildings. They have served us well in this year of adjustment and change.

Thank you, the congregation, for your love and care for the Christ Church staff, for your prayers and your resourcing of our wider mission and ministry.

As we look back at all God has done for us, we must give Him the glory and seek to serve Him always.

11. Closing Statements

Andrew Turpie thanked everyone for their prayers and support. In particular he thanked the many people who volunteer to make sure the church can function and in particular those who help the services run smoothly. With the uncertainties of COVID the assistant wardens, sidespeople and welcomers people have worked as a team to help make sure those coming to services feel welcome and safe. People are coming back to church and things are opening up as the vaccine rollout progresses.

He thanked the wonderful staff team who have continued to work hard including during the recent lock down. Jess Walker will join the staff team in the summer so the youth will continue to benefit from her passion for their development. Ruth Hulme has done a fantastic job with the children. Benjamin Hulme has worked on our social media output and supported the youth work. Dawn Hire efficiently looks after the bookings for our halls. Vandon Grimley does so many jobs to keep the site running and Pauline Grimley ensures the smooth running of so much and we are grateful we can call on knowledge diligence and hard work. It was a privilege to be part of John Bell’s priesting and we are thankful for all that he brings and we thank Rebecca, Sophie and Daniel in supporting him so he can serve us. Finally he thanked our vicar, Richard Hibbert, for his thought provoking preaching and his care for each of the congregation and he thanked Sarah and Emily too.

Richard Hibbert, thanked Andrew for his words, thanked those who had attended the meeting both in person and online and thanked everyone for their prayers.

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The meeting closed with prayer at 9.24 pm.

CHRIST CHURCH BEDFORD Minutes of the MEETING OF PARISHIONERS

held on Wednesday 17 November 2021 at 7.30pm in the Church Chairman: The Rev. Canon Richard Hibbert

4. Apologies

Rebecca Bell, Simon Berrington, Michael Bishop, Pat Davies and Kirsty Pirrie.

5. Thanks to Andrew Turpie

Richard Hibbert expressed warm and grateful thanks to Andrew Turpie who is stepping down as churchwarden. At the time of his election to office earlier this year, he had indicated that he would probably need to step down after about six months to concentrate on his work. His quiet wisdom, leadership, loyalty, and friendship will be missed. He and his family will be staying at Christ Church. We will give then a thank you gift later this week.

6. Appointment of Churchwarden

One nomination has been received: Andrew Russell proposed by Michael Bishop and seconded by Sue Marshall. There being no other nominations Andrew Russell was declared duly elected. The meeting showed their appreciation with a round of applause. Andrew was thanked for being willing to take on the role, particularly with the knowledge that Richard Hibbert is leaving shortly and Christ Church will be entering a vacancy.

7. Consideration of the number of successive terms of office that can be served by a Churchwarden. Kay Berrington completes six years in office at next year’s APCM and under the Churchwardens measure 2001 is required to step down, but the meeting is permitted to decide that this rule does not apply. In order to provide continuity through the forthcoming vacancy and a safe pair of hands to support Andrew Russell, it is proposed to enable Kay to stand for a 7th year at the 2022 APCM. Richard Hibbert proposed This meeting of Parishioners resolves that section 3 of the Churchwardens measure 2001, shall not apply in relation to the parish of Christ Church Bedford. This can be rescinded at a future date. The motion was carried.

The meeting closed at 7.37pm and was followed by Andrew Russell being sworn in by the Area Dean, Revd Dr Sam Cappleman.

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www.ccbedford.org

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2021

FOR

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE

ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF

CHRIST CHURCH BEDFORD (“Christ Church”)

REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER 1134785

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES

CONTENTS

Report of Trustees 3 - 12
Independent Examiner's Report 13
Statement of Financial Activities 14
Balance sheet 15
Cash Flow Statement 16
Notes to the Financial Statements 17-27

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

Report of Trustees

The trustees present their report and the audited financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2021. The trustees have adopted the provisions of the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) “Accounting and Reporting by Charities” (FRS 102) in preparing the annual report and financial statements of the charity.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies set out in notes to the accounts and comply with the charity’s governing document, the Charities Act 2011 and Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice, applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland published in October 2019.

COVID-19

COVID-19 has had a reduced impact on church and community life during 2021, in that some of the hirers and activities continued with appropriate restrictions in place. As restrictions lifted so the activity in the halls grew. Hirers became more comfortable with working within the restrictions and delivering their activity.

Worship returned to minimum numbers at the beginning of the year, but as restrictions were lifted steps were taken as quickly as possible to facilitate in-person worship. This has continued throughout 2021 with regular reviews of COVID guidance and our safe implementation. Live streaming has also continued in order to offer connected worship to those still shielding at home, those on holiday, and to potential visitors and newcomers.

As at 31 December 2021, the PCC is following Risk Assessment No. 10.1 (from 10 December 2021). Risk Assessment No. 10 began in July 2021 as public singing was permitted.

Financially, the impact of COVID has been minimal. There was a loss of hall hire for the first quarter as only Pre-School and Barnardo’s were using the halls. From the second quarter, hirers returned in accordance with Government guidance, such that by the third quarter there was a clear sense of normal usage and activity throughout the premises. A strength of the church’s finances has been the commitment to Standing Orders and Gift Aid rather than cash collections, and there is a continuing drive to reduce cash/cheques in favour of contactless card and BACS transactions.

Aims and purposes

The primary responsibility of Christ Church Parochial Church Council (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 cooperating with the incumbent, Reverend Canon Richard Hibbert, in promoting, in the ecclesiastical parish, the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.

The mission statement of our Church is ‘To enable everyone to become maturing followers of Christ, who experience and live out God’s love daily in every part of their lives’.

The Core Values of our Church are: -

Generous in faith
Real about ourselves
Accepting of all
Compassionate to our community
Encouraging all who come

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES

The headline priorities of our Church for 2021 continued:

  1. Making new disciples

  2. Deepening our faith

  3. Transforming our community

  4. Visible social media

Objectives and activities

When planning our activities for the year, we have considered the Charities Commission's guidance on public benefit and, in particular, the supplementary guidance on charities for the advancement of religion. We enable ordinary people to live out their faith as part of our parish community through:

To facilitate all this, we maintain the fabric of the Church and complex at 140 Dudley Street. The PCC also had responsibility for the upkeep of 161 Dudley Street.

The main Priorities and Objectives of our Church for 2021 were: -

Priorities and Objectives

1. Making new disciples

2. Deepening our faith

3. Transforming our community

4. Creating a greater and more visible social media presence

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES

In order to achieve these objectives and respond to realised needs, the PCC has: -

  1. Appointed Benjamin Hulme as Social Media Lead (6 hours/week) who creates and delivers a stream of social media posts across Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

  2. Appointed Jess Walker as Youth Minister (20 hours/week) to develop and grow our youth work across Sundays, Tuesday Bible Study and Friday Youth Night.

  3. Promoted a Pledge Day (28 November 2021) to increase donation income and the number of donors, with result that an additional £17,000 has been pledged for 2022.

  4. Delivered locally New Wine: United Breaks Out through the church’s PA/AV and livestreaming resources, allowing church and wider community to engage with this annual Christian camp. Five Young People attended the summer youth residential Dreaming The Impossible with three youth leaders.

  5. Ensured the appropriate repair and safety of our buildings, including improvements to the curate’s home and a new handrail to the main halls entrance. Reviewed and improved our environmental footprint through replacing church sanctuary floodlights with LED lights and applying successfully for the A Rocha Eco Church Bronze level award.

  6. Reviewed, created and/or updated appropriately our legal obligations and policies in regard to Data Privacy, Live Streaming, CCTV, Safe Use of Images, and Reporting of Serious Incidents to the Charity Commission.

  7. Reviewed our Safeguarding administration and approved the use of the Church of England Parish Safeguarding Dashboard, which provides an overview and enables detailed follow up of Safeguarding in the parish.

  8. Began preparations for the vacancy, beginning February 2022, by expanding the Standing Committee membership to best reflect the needs of the Committee and the breadth of the church membership.

Role of Volunteers

Many of our activities are supported by a large number of volunteers, without whom we would not be able to operate. Good examples from 2021 include:

o Sunday ministry:

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES

daily videos posted to Facebook community, receiving an average 45 views each day. It is impossible to quantify in financial terms the contribution made by these and many other volunteers, but it is considerable, without which the PCC would not be able to fulfil its charitable objectives.

We thank all the many volunteers, who work so hard to make this church the lively and vibrant community that it is. In particular, we thank the Churchwardens, Kay Berrington, Andrew Turpie (till November 2021) and Andrew Russell (from November 2021) who have worked so tirelessly on our behalf during 2021.

Achievements and performance

Worship and prayer

This continued mostly uninterrupted by COVID, the rhythm of worship and prayer being foundational to the ministry and mission of Christ Church. COVID restrictions did not prevent live streamed worship between 10 January and 28 March 2021. It was really good to return to offering in-person worship in time for Holy Week and Easter.

Music for our worship was provided by Chris Brown and family, Leyla Burrows, Alex Mnatzaganian, Matt and Laura Jewell, Min-Min Peaker, Will and Ruth Rawes, capably producing ever richer production quality worship. The reader and intercessor either attended the church, with the small team delivering the service, or provided a video. The latter enabled wider participation from families.

The value of holding two Zoom accounts allowed us the flexibility to deliver more than one activity or meeting. Zoom enabled lockdown Sunday evenings to become a place of discipleship, with Alan Cottenden offering Biblical teaching from the book of James, and then during Lent a series on “Faith and …”, discussing how Christian faith can be a positive player in the public space.

From May 2021, we provided a COVID-compliant new service, Sundays@Seven, where in tables of up to 6 people in the main hall an interactive video, song and discussion style service was delivered. This evening service transferred to the church from July, adding a live worship group and has developed its own distinct contemporary style.

When Government restrictions were lifted in April 2021, a wedding with 12 participants was provided. In September 2021, with minimal restrictions, a funeral in church for a much-loved church member occurred. Face coverings have been worn at busier services (e.g. 10.30am) but not at less busy ones. By December 2021, we were ready to remove the requirement of face coverings, but the Government tightened restrictions again. We have not felt the need to require Eventbrite for services, but offered social distance markers for those preferring greater space around them. Typical attendance at 9am has been 20 people, at 10.30am 120 people, and at 7pm 35 people. We estimate that we have been joined by about a further 50 people on-line on a regular basis.

At present, there are 287 names on the Church Electoral Roll, 74 of whom are resident within the parish. 6 names were added during the year and 21 were removed either through death, or because they moved away from the parish or to another church.

As well as our regular services, we enable our community to celebrate and thank God at life’s milestones: 13 baptisms, 7 confirmations, 1 wedding and 4 funerals and services of thanksgiving.

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES

Deanery Synod

We had 4 Deanery Synod elected representatives and 3 Diocesan Synod representatives, offering an important link between our parish and the wider Church of England. At each Deanery Synod meeting, there is a primary focus of discussion, and the opportunity to hear of the work of the wider church: General Synod, Diocesan Synod, Diocesan Board of Finance and Deanery Standing Committee. There were 3 Deanery Synod meetings in 2021.

March – Zoom meeting

The primary focus was local Deanery ministry and mission together with reports from Diocesan Synod (March 2021 – announcing a Diocesan deficit in 2021 of £500,000), Bishop's Council and the Diocesan Board of Finance. There was a further update on the Bedford South Consultation, which continues to await retirements for any implementation of proposals. The appointment of the Deanery Lay Vice Chair: Pauline Kendall (member of St Mary's Wootton) was proposed and approved. The meeting received a presentation by Revd Canon Kevin Goss entitled: St Paul's Bedford - Past, Present and Future .

June

The focus was the Dwell Well project, which provides support packs for the newly housed and challenges homelessness. It is a joint project between St Mary’s Goldington and St Paul’s Bedford. The Synod also received advice on safeguarding training and supporting those within parishes that have mental health issues arising from the COVID pandemic. The meeting received a presentation from Christian Cole, Diocesan Youth Missioner, on starting to prioritise youth work within churches if we want to see a younger church.

October

The main presentation was from the Diocesan Vocation team, highlighting the new ‘Will you take his call’ event in November 2021. This aims to prompt interest in those exploring a vocation within the Church of England. The changes in Reader Ministry Training, now 2 years with an introductory year, was explained and attendance encouraged. The new discernment process for those exploring ordination in the Church of England was also explained.

Pastoral care

Pastoral care continued as in 2021 with Home Groups at the centre and a wider network of catching up in person and by telephone for those unable to attend church. Church members not seen on Sundays, as best as could be ascertained, were contacted pastorally by either the Vicar or Curate. This led mostly to renewed attendance on Sunday or a greater understanding of their circumstances and the support offered through the live streamed services. Church members also initiated their own pastoral care networks

A number of key activities linked to pastoral care (e.g. Lunch Club, Go 4 Gold, Ladies Late Breakfast, Men’s Breakfast) recommenced in person from September onwards. Two lay members who held the Bishop’s License to provide Home Communion stepped down and the third arranged to be limited to their current contact. This part of pastoral care will be re-visited by the to-be-formed pastoral visiting team in 2022.

Our parish magazine is published bi-monthly. Under COVID-19, our editors were Hannah and Erinna, who together published 6 inspiring editions in 2021, creating a pastoral, spiritual and informative link amongst church members, hall users and our local community.

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES

Mission and evangelism

Helping others is a demonstration of our faith, whether practical, emotional or spiritual.

The Mission Impact Group channels support and news between our Mission Partners, scattered across Africa, the Middle East and Europe, and encourages prayer for them. One Mission Partner returned to the UK, ceasing to be a mission partner, and a new mission partner was approved to replace them.

Alpha Courses, run by Outreach Impact Group, occurred physically and on-line:

Alpha is an 11-week course that enables participants to consider the basics of the Christian faith and the work of Jesus Christ.

Further opportunities were provided through Grow Group, which re-started from September 2021, and an informal Bible Study group, Explore, between May and September.

Ecumenical relationships

We delight in our ecumenical links to other local churches across Bedford and benefit from HOPE Bedfordshire. COVID-19 restrictions have continued to reduce ecumenical opportunities for ministry and mission. However, the regular meeting of evangelical pastors/ministers from across north Bedfordshire has recommenced.

Financial review

Total receipts on unrestricted funds were £303,115, with £188,567 from standing orders and £47,121 was from Gift Aid. Restricted donations totalled £11,015. Further details are shown in the annual financial statements.

£300,346 was spent from unrestricted funds to provide the Christian ministry from Christ Church, including the contribution to the diocesan parish share of £137,648 which largely provides the stipends and housing for the clergy.

Net movement in funds was an increase of £1,497 during the year, and the total reserves increased to £183,082.

The principal source of donations are the church members. The PCC takes its environmental, social and ethical duties seriously and consideration of these undergird the ministry decisions of the church.

Reserves policy

It is PCC policy to try to maintain sufficient funds, being between 3 and 6 months of expenditure to ensure the smooth financial running of the church, and ensure that unexpected expenditure can be met as and when required. Total funds held at the year end amounted to £183,082.

The balance on the general reserves at the year end was £135,559 which is considered adequate since it represents approximately 4 months of expenditure, and is therefore within the PCC policy. Of this amount £131,669 is available without the sale of fixed assets. Total unrestricted funds (including the general fund) amounted to £170,225 with £34,321 representing amounts raised in respect of a previous house purchase.

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PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES

The purpose of any restricted fund is noted in the financial statements. Restricted funds are in respect of specific projects and or schemes.

Financial risks

Total restricted funds amounted to a deficit of £1,272. The cash reserves of the church, excluding restricted funds, totalled £123,711 as at 31 December 2021. The budget for 2022 was approved by the PCC showing a deficit of £18,000, but following a gift day in late November, if pledges are met, the budget should be approximately break even.

COVID-19 has impacted the level of hall lettings and cash donations, which have recovered from 2020 but are not at the level of 2019, these represent a small percentage of the total income of the church. Most of the income generated by the church is from regular standing orders. The level of standing orders has remained consistent during the year and this, together with careful management of resources, has not had a significant impact on the financial risks of the church. The PCC therefore considers it has sufficient resources to sustain its purposes and activities during 2022.

Plans for future periods

The PCC is saddened by the announcement of the Vicar’s resignation in October 2021. Revd Canon Richard Hibbert will be leaving the parish in February 2022 to be licensed as Interim Vicar of Holy Trinity Coventry on 7 March 2022.

The PCC has been determined to continue implementing its Mission Action Plan and to promote the full flourishing of the church during the Vacancy Mindful of its duties, it regularly reviews its COVID risk assessment, the PCC finances and the ministries of the church.

The PCC is particularly concerned for the future of youth work and in 2022 will seek to appoint a new Youth Minister following the resignation of Jess Walker (31 December 2021).

Financially, the Trustees are confident that donation income will be increased, hall hire income will return to pre-COVID levels and that a balanced budget be achieved. The Trustees approved a budget for 2022 with a deficit projected of £18,000, but are confident that the Pledge Day (28 November 2021) offerings will cover such so that 2022 expenditure will be covered by donation/hire income. Any reduction on COVID-19 risk as the year proceeds will positively affect both finances and ministry.

Risk management

The PCC is aware of its risk management duties and has affirmed a number of policies, including the Notes of Guidance for PCC meetings and PCC responsibilities. During the year a Lone Worker policy and an updated Safeguarding policy were approved. Our data holding procedures were evaluated and amended where necessary to meet the General Data Protection Regulation 2018, as well as Fire Risk assessment, policies and fire safety equipment. Risks are regularly reviewed and systems and procedures have been put in place to manage these risks.

The PCC ensured that the church and halls were assessed for COVID-19 risk and new signage displayed, one-way systems implemented, and staff encouraged to work from home, where possible.

The PCC has complied with the duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline measure 2016 (duty to have due regard to House of Bishops' guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults).

PCC trustees, youth and children's paid and voluntary leaders, and volunteers in contact with vulnerable adults are DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checked.

9

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES

Structure, governance and management

Christ Church is a corporate body established by the Church of England, and it is part of the deanery of Bedford and the Diocese of St Albans.

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. At Christ Church the membership of the PCC consists of the licensed clergy, churchwardens, one of the Readers, members of Diocesan and Deanery Synods and members elected by those members of the congregation who are on the electoral roll of the church. All those who attend our services / members of the congregation are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC.

New PCC members/trustees were offered a copy of The PCC Member’s Essential Guide , and a copy of the PCC Notes of Guidance. Induction of new PCC members/trustees was completed by Zoom.

The PCC members are responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern and importance to the parish including deciding on how the funds of the PCC are to be spent.

The PCC met 7 times during 2022 with an average attendance of 72%.

Given its wide responsibilities the PCC has a number of impact groups, each one dealing with a particular aspect of parish life. These groups, which include communications, mission, buildings, outreach, resourcing, fellowship, and young people, are all responsible to the PCC and report back to it regularly with reports of their meetings, decisions and recommendations being received by the PCC and discussed as necessary.

Standing Committee: This committee is required by law. It has power to transact the business of the PCC between its meetings, subject to any directions given by the Council.

Buildings Impact Group: This group is responsible for the management and development of Christ Church PCC’s buildings and infrastructure.

Communications Impact Group: This group is responsible for oversight of both external and internal communications, including our physical and online presence.

Fellowship Impact Group: This group is responsible for the planning, resourcing and delivery of events focused on the development of fellowship within Christ Church.

Mission Impact Group: This group is responsible for caring, praying and practically supporting our Mission Partners and Organisations and encouraging vocations and support to mission at home and overseas.

Outreach Impact Group: This group is responsible for the planning, resourcing, coordination and delivery of all pre-evangelistic, evangelistic and early discipleship support at Christ Church.

Resourcing Impact Group: This group is responsible for the financing of Christ Church and the prudent management of its financial resources.

Worship Impact Group: This group is responsible for the planning, resourcing, coordination and delivery of all corporate worship at Christ Church.

Young People’s Impact Group: The Young People’s Impact Group is responsible for supporting the Youth Minister and the Children’s Minister in developing and implementing a strategy for young people’s and family work at Christ Church, which directly contributes to the achievement of Christ Church’s mission.

10

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD REPORT OF TRUSTEES

Administrative information

Christ Church is situated at 140 Dudley Street, Bedford. It is part of the Diocese of St Albans within the Church of England. The correspondence address is 140 Dudley Street Bedford MK40 3SX. Registered charity number 1134785 under the name the Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Christ Church Bedford. It is also known as Christ Church Bedford, PCC or Christ Church.

PCC members who have served at any time from 1 January 2021 until the date this report was approved are:

are:
Ex-Officio Members:
Incumbent The Revd Canon Richard Hibbert Chairman (until 30 January 2022)
Curate The Revd John Bell
Wardens Mrs Kay Berrington
Dr Andrew Russell (from 17 November 2021)
Mr Andrew Turpie (until 17 November 2021)
Reader Mr Michael Bishop
Diocesan Synod Mr Christopher Burrows (until 1 August 2021)
Mr Daniel Gicharu (from 1 August 2021)
Mrs Min-Min Peaker
Mr Christopher Stevens Treasurer (from 1 August 2021)
Deanery Synod Ms Rachel Bennett
Mr Daniel Gicharu (until 1 August 2021)
Mr Paul Templeman
Mr AJ Wade
Vacancy (from 1 August 2021)
Elected Members:
Mr Ken Barber (from 27 April 2021
Mr Simon Berrington
Mr Christopher Brown
Dr Jon Day
Ms Rachel Day (from 27 April 2021)
Mrs Margaret Haywood
Ms Amy Hutchinson
Mrs Ruth Janes Treasurer (until 27 April 2021)
Miss Wendy Pegg
Mr Keith Priddin (until 27 April 2021)
Dr Andrew Russell (until 17 November 2021)
Ms Helen Ryan
Mrs Sue Templeman
Miss Jessica Walker
Co-opted members
Mr Christopher Stevens (20 May to 1 August 2021)
Andrew Turpie (from 25 November 2021)
(PCC Secretary ) Mrs Pauline Grimley (not a PCC member)

11

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

REPORT OF TRUSTEES

Bank:

CAF Bank Ltd 25 Kings Hill Avenue, Kings Hill West Malling Kent ME19 4JQ

Independent Examiner:

Suzanne Goodson BSc FCA Wright Connections Limited Registered Auditors Bedford I-Lab Priory Business Park Stannard Way Bedford MK44 3RZ

Day-to-day management of the charity is delegated to the incumbent and in the vacancy (from February 2022), the churchwardens:

Incumbent (as at 31 December 2021): The Revd Canon Richard Hibbert

Christ Church Vicarage 115 Denmark Street Bedford MK40 3TJ

Approved by the PCC on 17 March 2022 and signed on their behalf:

Mr Chris Brown (PCC Lay Vice Chair)

12

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

Independent examiner's report to the trustees of Parochial Church Council of The Ecclesiastical Parish of Christ Church Bedford

I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2021 which are set out on pages 14 to 27.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity’s trustees you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’).

I report in respect of my examination of the charity’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.

Independent examiner's statement

Since the charity’s gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a body listed in section 145 of the Act. I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, which is one of the listed bodies. I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 130 of the Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or

  3. the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair view’ which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Suzanne Goodson BSc FCA Institute of Chartered Accountants England & Wales Wright Connections Limited Bedford I-Lab Stannard Way Bedford MK44 3RZ

Date: .............................................

13

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (Including Income and Expenditure account)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 December 2021

Note
INCOME FROM
Donations and Legacies
4
Charitable activities
5
Other trading activities
Investments
6
TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES
EXPENDITURE ON
Charitable activities
7
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
Transfers between funds
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds brought forward
18
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD at
31 December 2021
18		 Unrestricted Restricted
Funds
Funds
£
£
252,064
11,015
46,335
485
4,668
0
49
0
303,115
11,500
300,346
12,772
300,346
12,772
2,769
(1,272)
0
0
2,769
(1,272)
167,111
14,474
169,880
13,202		 Total
Funds
31-Dec-21
£
263,078
46,820
4,668
49
314,615
313,118
313,118
1,497
0
1,497
181,585
183,082		 Total
Funds
31-Dec-20
£
302,883
37,493
5,728
0
346,104
304,704
304,704
41,400
0
41,400
140,185
181,585

All income and expenditure is derived from continuing activities

14

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

BALANCE SHEET AT 31 December 2021
Note 31-Dec-21 31-Dec-20
£ £ £ £
12 93,890 99,410
13 12,487 14,104
194,165 187,600
206,652 201,705
15 -61,781 -63,851
144,871 137,854
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES 238,761 237,264
CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE
AFTER MORE THAN ONE YEAR 16 -55,679 -55,679
NET ASSETS **183,082 ** 181,585
18
169,880 167,111
13,202 14,474
TOTAL CHARITY FUNDS **183,082 ** 181,585

Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 17th March 2022 and signed on its behalf by:

Mr Christopher Brown Lay Vice Chair

Mr Christopher Stevens Hon. Treasurer

The notes on pages 17 to 27 form part of these accounts

Charity registration number 1134785

15

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

CASH FLOW STATEMENT

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 December 2021

Note
Cash flow from operating activities
Cash generated from activities
3
Cash flow from investing activities
Payments to acquire tangible fixed assets
Interest received
Net cash flow from investing activities
Cash flow from financing activities
Receipts/(repayment) from issue/(repayment) of long term
loans
Interest paid
Net cash flow from financing activities
Net increase/decrease in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at 1.1.21
Cash and cash equivalents at 31.12.21
Cash and cash equivalents consists of
Cash at bank and in hand
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the
reporting period not available for charitable purposes
as held as agent		 31-Dec-21
10,836
0
49
49
0
(4,320)
(4,320)
6,565
187,600
194,164
194,164
707		 31-Dec-20
48,199
(8,313)
0
(8,313)
(20,000)
(4,246)
(24,246)
15,640
171,960
187,600
187,600
908

16

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31st December 2021

1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

a) General information

Christ Church, a registered charity in the United Kingdom is a corporate body established by the Church of England, and it is part of the deanery of Bedford and the Diocese of St Albans. Its trustees are all members of the Parochial Church Council and they operate under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure. The PCC is a Registered Charity. In the event of the charity being wound up, the liability in respect of the guarantee is limited to £1 per member of the charity. The address of the registered office is given in the charity administrative information on page 11 of these financial statements. The nature of the charity’s operations and principal activities can be found in The Trustees Report on pages 3 to 12.

b) Basis of preparing the financial statements

The charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102. The accounts (financial statements) have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) issued in October 2019 and the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011 and UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice.

The financial statements have been prepared to give a ‘true and fair’ view and have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a ‘true and fair view’. This departure has involved following the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland issued in October 2019 rather than the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice effective from 1 April 2005 which has since been withdrawn.

The financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis under the historical cost convention. The financial statements are prepared in sterling which is the functional currency of the charity and rounded to the nearest £.

The significant accounting policies applied in the preparation of these financial statements are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all years prescribed.

c) Income recognition

Voluntary income and capital sources

All incoming resources , including government grants are included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SoFA) when the charity is legally entitled to the income after any performance conditions have been met, the amount can be measured reliably and it is probable that the income will be received.

Collections are recognised when made. For donations to be recognised the charity will have been notified of the amounts and the settlement date in writing. Pledged amounts are only recognised on receipt of the funds.

Income tax recoverable on gift aid scheme donations is recognised in the period the income is received. Grants and legacies to the PCC are accounted for as soon as the PCC is notified of the entitlement and the likely amount due.

Donated facilities and donated professional services are recognised in income at their fair value when their economic benefit is probable, it can be measured reliably and the charity has control over the item. Fair value is determined on the basis of the value of the gift to the charity. For example, the amount the charity would be willing to pay in the open market for such facilities and services. A corresponding amount is recognised in expenditure.

17

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31st December 2020

No amount is included in the financial statements for volunteer time in line with the SORP (FRS 102).

Where practicable, gifts in kind donated for distribution to the beneficiaries of the charity are included in stock and donations in the financial statements upon receipt. If it is impracticable to assess the fair value at receipt or if the costs to undertake such a valuation outweigh any benefits, then the fair value is recognised as a component of donations when it is distributed and an equivalent amount recognised as charitable expenditure.

Other trading activities

Other trading activities represent feed in tariffs from solar panels, and are recognised on entitlement.

Other ordinary income

Rental income from the letting of church premises is accounted for when earned. Fees due to the PCC for weddings, funerals, etc. are accounted for on an event by event basis.

d) Expenditure recognition

All expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all costs related to the category. Expenditure is recognised where there is a legal or constructive obligation to make payments to third parties, it is probable that the settlement will be required and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably.

Costs directly related to the work of the church

The Diocesan parish share is accounted for when payable and any amount unpaid at 31st December is included as a creditor in the Balance Sheet. Grants and donations are accounted for at the earlier of payment or formal approval by the PCC. Grants offered subject to conditions which have not been met at the year-end date are noted as a commitment but not accrued as expenditure.

e) Tangible fixed assets

Consecrated land and buildings and moveable church property

Consecrated and beneficial property is excluded from the financial statements by s. 10(2) of the Charities Act 2011.

No value is placed on moveable church furnishings held by the churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal since the PCC considers these to be inalienable property.

All expenditure on consecrated and beneficial property and moveable church furnishings, whether maintenance or improvement, is written off in the year incurred. This includes all expenditure incurred to date in respect of the Hall Redevelopment Project, including the build costs, since the build is occurring on consecrated ground, and as such cannot be capitalised.

Other land and buildings

Other land and buildings held on behalf of the PCC for its own purposes are valued at cost. No depreciation is charged on such properties since it is considered that the estimated residual value of the properties is in excess of the purchase price. Any expenditure on maintenance or improvement is written off in the year incurred.

Other fixtures, fittings and office equipment

Equipment purchased within the accounting period is capitalised on the balance sheet. Individual items of equipment with a purchase price of £1,000 or less are written off in the year in which the asset is acquired.

Depreciation

Depreciation is provided on all tangible fixed assets, at rates calculated to write off the cost, less estimated residual value, of each asset in a systematic basis over its expected useful life. Depreciation rates used are as follows: -

18

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31st December 2020

Furniture and solar panels – 10% per annum (estimated useful life 10 years), Equipment – 33.33% (estimated useful life 3 years)

f) Taxation

The charity is exempt from tax on its charitable activities.

g) Fund accounting

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the charity and which have not been designated for other purposes.

Designated funds comprise unrestricted funds that have been set aside by the trustees for particular purposes. The aim and use of each designated fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements.

The purpose of any restricted fund is noted in the financial statements. Restricted funds include amounts raised for the Hall Redevelopment Project (HRP).

The financial statements include transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC can be held responsible. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe an affiliation to another body nor those that are informal gatherings of church members.

h) Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits

The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charity's pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate.

i) Bank and Cash

Bank and Cash include short-term deposits which include cash held on deposit at CAF Bank.

j) Loans

Loans and borrowings are initially recognised at the transaction price including transaction costs. Subsequently, they are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method, less impairment. If an arrangement constitutes a finance transaction it is measured at present value.

k) Concessionary loans

Concessionary loans include those payable to third parties which are interest free and are made to advance charitable purposes. Where the loan is repayable on demand within one year, the loan is measured at cost, less impairment. Where the loan is repayable more than one year, the loan is initially measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method, less impairment.

l) Debtors and creditors receivable/payable within 1 year

Amounts owing to the PCC at 31st December in respect of fees, rents or other income are included as debtors at transactional values less any provision for amounts that may prove to be uncollectible. Debtors and creditors with no stated interest rate and receivable or payable within one year are recorded at transaction price. Any losses arising from impairment are recognised in expenditure.

m) Judgements

No judgements (apart from those involving estimates) have been made in the process of applying the above accounting policies.

19

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2021

2 YEAR ENDED 31 December 2020 Comparatives

Note
INCOME FROM
Donations and Legacies
Charitable activities
Other trading activities
Investments
TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES
EXPENDITURE ON
Charitable activities
TOTAL EXPENDITURE
NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)
Transfers between funds
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
Reconciliation of funds
Total funds brought forward
TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD at
31 December 2020		 Unrestricted
HRP
Restricted
Funds
Funds
Funds
£
£
£
277,549
5,038
20,296
32,993
0
4,500
5,728
0
0
0
0
0
316,270
5,038
24,796
288,375
0
16,329
288,375
0
16,329
27,895
5,038
8,467
4,500
(700)
(3,800)
32,395
4,338
4,667
134,716 (4,065)
9,534
167,111
273
14,201		 Total
Funds
31-Dec-20
£
302,883
37,493
5,728
0
346,104
304,704
304,704
41,400
0
41,400
140,185
181,585

All income and expenditure is derived from continuing activities

20

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2021

3 Reconciliation of net expenditure for year to net cash flow from operating activities

Net expenditure for year
Interest receivable
Interest payable
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets
Decrease (increase) in debtors
Increase (decrease) in creditors
Net cash flow from operating activities
4 Income from Donations and Legacies
Gifts
Legacies
Government grants
Other Donations
5 Income from charitable activities
Rental income
Grants
Events and activities
Fees
6 Income from investments
Deposit interest
7 Charitable Activities Costs
Direct costs
£
Church Activities
268,371
See note 21 for further details
8 Support/ Governance costs
Independent examiners remuneration
9 Net income for the period is stated after charging
Depreciation of tangible fixed assets		 Direct costs
£
268,371		 31-Dec-21
£
1,497
(49)
4,320
5,520
1,617
(2,070)
10,836
31-Dec-21
£
235,689
0
0
27,390
263,078
31-Dec-21
£
26,861
550
17,295
2,114
46,820
31-Dec-21
£
49
Donations
£
44,747
31-Dec-21
£
1,620
31-Dec-21
£
5,520		 31-Dec-20
£
41,400
0
4,246
7,838
4,566
(9,851)
48,199
31-Dec-20
£
254,013
0
13,077
35,793
302,883
31-Dec-20
£
18,343
4,900
13,189
1,061
37,493
31-Dec-20
£
0
Total
£
313,118
31-Dec-20
£
1,800
31-Dec-20
£
7,838

21

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2021

10 Trustees and key management personnel remuneration and expenses

One trustees (W Pegg) received £1,093 for church work during the year (2020 - Two - W Pegg and AJ Wade £30,672)

In 2021 and 2020 the incumbent and the curate were remunerated by way of a stipend by a a related party, being the Diocese of St Albans who are responsible for setting the level of remuneration. As is standard practice in the Church of England the clergy were provided with housing by the Diocese (incumbent) and PCC (curate).

Two trustees, including incumbent and curate, were reimbursed £4,010 during the year (2020, Four trustees - £2,109). This was for travel, hospitality, books and expenditure on behalf of the church.

11 Staff Costs

Wages and salaries
Social security costs
Defined contribution pension costs		 31-Dec-21
31-Dec-20
£
£
60,847
56,491
0
667
3,673
2,604
64,520
59,762

The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:

Youth minister and Families and Children's worker
Other
No employees received remuneration in excess of £60,000
Fixed Assets
COST
At 1 January 2021
Additions
Disposals
At 31 December 2021
DEPRECIATION
At 1 January 2021
Charge for the year
Disposals
At 31 December 2021
NET BOOK VALUE
At 31 December 2021
At 31 December 2020		 2021
2020
2
1
6
6
8
7
Freehold
Property
Equipment
Total
£
£
£
90,000
90,379
180,379
0
0
0
0
0
0
90,000
90,379
180,379
0
80,969
80,969
0
5,520
5,520
0
0
0
0
86,489
86,489
90,000
3,890
93,890
90,000
9,410
99,410

12 Fixed Assets

Note:

The property held at 31 December 2021 consists of 161 Dudley Street, Bedford, which is subject to an equity sharing loan from the Church Commissioners (see loan note for further details).

13 Debtors: amounts falling due within 1 year
Other debtors		 31-Dec-21
31-Dec-20
£
£
12,487
14,104
12,487
14,104

22

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2021

14 Monies raised for others

During the year the following monies were collected for external organisations

Menara (Christmas appeal 2021)
Home of Hope toilets (Christmas appeal 2019)
Monkole Bible printing
Bedford foodbank (Christmas appeal 2020)
Bishops Harvest appeal
Ordinand training
BHHCT
Other		 31-Dec-21
31-Dec-20
£
£
675
0
0
684
0
3,563
393
502
398
1,745
205
99
930
0
156
1,807
2,756
8,400

A total of £707 was held as at 31 December 2021 (£908 31 December 2020)

15 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

HRG creditors
Other creditors		 31-Dec-21
31-Dec-20
£
£
57,252
57,810
4,529
6,041
61,781
63,851

16 Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year

Other creditors 31-Dec-21
31-Dec-20
£
£
55,679
55,679
55,679
55,679

The PCC has a loan of £55,679 from the Church Commissioners which was taken out to assist with the purchase of 161 Dudley Street (the Curate's House) This is an interest only value linked loan representing 62% of the original value of the property. It is repayable on sale of the property together with a 62% share in any increase in value since acquisition. There are no plans to sell 161 Dudley Street

23

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2021

17 Related parties

The Diocese of St Albans is a related party by way of the constitution Details of receipts from related parties are found in note 20 Details of payments to related parties are found in notes 21 and 22

18 Fund reconciliation - 2021

Unrestricted funds

Unrestricted funds
General fund
Designated funds
Unrestricted house reserve - 161 Dudley Street		 Balance at
Balance at
01-Jan-21
Income
Expenditure
Transfers
31-Dec-21
£
£
£
£
£
123,790
303,115
(300,346)
4,630
131,189
9,000
(4,630)
4,370
34,321
0
34,321
167,111
303,115
(300,346)
0
169,880

Designated funds as at 31 December 2020 for misison giving and repairs were spent during the year A designated fund was established for the excess of amounts committed (£14,000) over that raised (£9,670) for live streaming.

Restricted funds

Restricted funds
Balance at Balance at
01-Jan-21 Income Expenditure Transfers 31-Dec-21
£ £ £ £ £
Vicars discretionary fund and restricted mission 2,623 10,840 (11,490) 1,973
Live streaming 9,495 175 9,670
HRP funds 273 0 0 273
Holiday at Home 2,083 485 (1,282) 1,286
Total restricted 14,474 11,500 (12,772) 0 13,202
Fixed assets
Cash and current investments
Other current assets
Creditors: amounts due in less than one year
Creditors: amounts due in more than one year		 Unrestricted Restricted
funds
funds
Total
31-Dec-21
31-Dec-21
31-Dec-21
£
£
£
93,890
93,890
123,711
70,454
194,165
12,487
12,487
-61,781
-57,252
-61,781
-55,679
-55,679
169,880
13,202
183,082

24

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2021

19 INCOME
Unrestricted Restricted
Funds
Funds
£
£
Income from Donations and Legacies
Standing orders & Envelope Scheme
188,567
Legacies
0
Basket Collections
0
Government grants resulting from COVID-19
0
Income tax reclaimed
47,121
Other donations
16,375
11,015
252,064
11,015
Note - included above are the following amounts given by trustees
Unrestricted
Total
Income from charitable activities
Rental income
26,861
Social & Youth Events
12,839
Grants
550
Morning Out receipts
438
Lunch Club Receipts
655
Holiday at Home
485
Fees
2,114
Sundry receipts
2,878
46,335
485		 19 INCOME
Unrestricted Restricted
Funds
Funds
£
£
Income from Donations and Legacies
Standing orders & Envelope Scheme
188,567
Legacies
0
Basket Collections
0
Government grants resulting from COVID-19
0
Income tax reclaimed
47,121
Other donations
16,375
11,015
252,064
11,015
Note - included above are the following amounts given by trustees
Unrestricted
Total
Income from charitable activities
Rental income
26,861
Social & Youth Events
12,839
Grants
550
Morning Out receipts
438
Lunch Club Receipts
655
Holiday at Home
485
Fees
2,114
Sundry receipts
2,878
46,335
485		 Total Funds
31-Dec-21
£
188,567
0
0
0
47,121
27,390
263,078
28,100
28,100
26,861
12,839
550
438
655
485
2,114
2,878
46,820		 Total Funds
31-Dec-20
£
200,953
0
762
13,077
52,298
35,793
302,883
30,533
30,533
18,343
6,696
4,900
385
1,144
0
1,061
4,964
46,335
485		 37,493

Note: Included in sundry income is an amount of £0 received from the Diocese of St Albans (2020 - £3286).

Income from other trading activities
Income from solar panels
Income from investment
Deposit interest
TOTAL INCOME		 4,668 4,668
4,668
49		 5,728
4,668
0		 5,728
49
0		 0
49
0		 49 0
314,615
303,115
11,500		 346,104

25

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2021

20 Resources spent
Notes
Grants
Mission and charitable giving
Other donations
Directly relating to Church Ministry
Parish share - payment to a related party
Clergy & staff expenses
Housing costs
Services including music
Telephones
Books
Explorers, Holiday Club & Youth Work
Training
Morning Out
Lunch Club
Holiday at Home
Outreach (including social events)
Sundries
Interest payable
Church management and administration
Heat and light
Insurance
Cleaning Materials
Church and property maintenance
Equipment - not capitalised
Hall Redevelopment
Salaries and wages
Printing, postage and stationery
Other
Depreciation
Support/Governance Costs
TOTAL RESOURCES SPENT		 Unrestricted Restricted
Funds
Funds
£
£
33,258
2,992
0
8,498
33,258
11,490
137,648
3,624
1,462
2,974
2,456
162
3,342
25
289
583
1,282
12,295
1,174
4,320
170,354
1,282
5,250
2,266
2,653
10,888
0
507
0
64,638
1,644
1,747
5,520
95,114
0		 Total Funds
31-Dec-21
£
36,250
8,498
44,747
137,648
3,624
1,462
2,974
2,456
162
3,342
25
289
583
1,282
12,295
1,174
4,320
171,636
5,250
2,266
2,653
10,888
507
0
64,638
1,644
1,747
5,520
95,114
1,620
313,118		 Total Funds
31-Dec-20
£
30,201
9,253
39,454
137,648
2,809
957
4,235
2,928
50
3,961
65
421
799
887
6,682
1,698
4,246
167,386
4,419
2,700
2,482
15,577
-79
0
59,762
1,633
1,732
7,838
96,064
1,620 1,800
300,346
12,772		 304,704

26

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF THE ECCLESIASTICAL PARISH OF CHRIST CHURCH, BEDFORD

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 31 December 2021

21 DETAILS OF MISSION AND CHARITABLE GIVING Total
31-Dec-		 Total
31-Dec-
General Restricted 21
£
5,750
3,800
6,450
0
1,000
1,700
750
2,250
0
1,500
500
3,000
317
25,517
5,950
600
1,050
100
600
120
100
100
244
0
337		 20
£ £ £
OVERSEAS
Rob & Ruth S - Middle East 4,750 1,000 6,500
SIM (supporting the Deneufchâtel's) 1,875 1,925 6,560
Gayet (work in Belgium) 6,450 0 6,026
Specific work in Middle East 0 0 500
Barnabas Fund 1,000 0 0
Diocese of Gulf and Cyprus 1,700 0 0
Egypt EDA 750 0 500
Bradleys 2,250 0 0
Samuti - interfaith helpers 0 0 500
Friends of Johannesburg Bible College 1,500 0 0
Neno Macadamia Fund 500 0 0
Malawi Orphan Fund 3,000 0 1,000
Other specific giving 317 0 0
24,092 2,925 21,586
HOME
Bedford Area Schools Christian Support Trust 5,950 0 4,540
King's Arms Project - Bedford 600 0 500
COACH including Beth Bradley 1,050 0 1,000
Bedford Street Angels 100 0 550
Bedford Foodbank 600 0 500
Care for the Family 120 0 0
Just Love 100 0 500
Friends for Life 100 0 525
Eden (prison bibles) 244 0 0
Barnabas Fund 0 0 500
Other specific giving 302 67 0
9,166 67 10,701 8,615
36,218
8,530
Total Mission 33,258 2,992 30,201
OTHER
Discretionary donations 0 8,498 9,253
0 8,498 8,530 9,253
TOTAL MISSION GIVING 33,258 11,490 44,748 **39,454 **
Note: Mission giving was set at 14% of General Gifts in 2021 (2020: 13%)

Note: Mission giving was set at 14% of General Gifts in 2021 (2020: 13%)

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CHURCH WARDEN’S REPORT ON THE FABRIC, GOODS, AND ORNAMENTS OF CHRIST CHURCH BEDFORD AND BUILDINGS IMPACT GROUP REPORT

Membership : Ken Barber, Pat Davies, James Roe, Vandon Grimley (Site Manager), Martin Hamilton (Sec) and Rachel Bennett (Chair).

The Buildings Impact Group has achieved much during 2021/22. Routine Activities:

Archdeacon’s Inspection:

The Annual Inspection was carried out in September by Pauline Kendall Lay Vice Chair of the Deanery. We were praised for our detailed MAP, our streaming of services during the pandemic and the excellent work of our Safeguarding Officer. Regarding the Quinquennial Inspection Pauline was pleased that brickwork repairs had been started on the curate’s house chimneys and encouraged us to ensure all work noted in the Quinquennial Report for both the church and curate’s house was completed within the five-year timeframe as required.

Quinquennial Inspection (QI) (Last carried out Autumn 2018)

The QI report covers both the main Church Buildings/grounds and 161 Dudley Street. As the halls are new, they were not included in the inspection.

Programme and BIG seeks to ensure tasks are carried out, subject to resources, within the recommended time span.

Insurance : The Resourcing Impact Group(RIG) set up a new insurance cover for us in 2020, with Trinitas. BIG works to ensure that all aspects, within our insurance policy, are in good order.

Policies:

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Additional BIG matters:

BIG continues to monitor what needs to be done and completed satisfactorily. We continue to be very grateful for Steve Ashton ’s assistance with this matter.

- Sound proofing of rooms 2 and 3: Reverberation control in Rooms 2 and 3: We are very grateful to Martin Hamilton who has worked tirelessly to have this matter dealt with. It is hoped that by Easter 2022 the new sound absorption panels will have been installed and the high levels of disturbing noise will be reduced to acceptable levels.

In conclusion:

We give thanks to God for the wonderful buildings entrusted to us. As COVID restrictions are gradually relaxed, it is good to see the building being used more frequently and we welcome back both local community and church family members. Our sincere thanks to many members of the church who give of their time, energy and skills to help maintain the halls church and 161 sites.

We thank God for His many blessings and pray that our buildings will continue to be used for the extension of His kingdom.

Kay Berrington and Andrew Russell, Churchwardens; Rachel Bennett, Chair of Buildings Impact Group

SAFEGUARDING REPORT

The Safeguarding Team now comprises of Pauline Carter, Pauline Grimley, Ruth Hulme, Dawn Hire, and as there is now a vacancy for a youth leader, once they are appointed, they will be a part of the team.

The team have met approximately six weekly since August 2021 and have worked together on ensuring that Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks are undertaken as required for all persons working in recognised roles with both vulnerable adults and children. There have been no safeguarding issues brought to the team’s attention within the last twelve months but the team continue to be vigilant to ensure a timely response to any issues which are identified.

The DBS Checks use the ebulk system at 31:8. All PCC members are charity trustees and because Christ Church runs children's and youth work and sometimes works with adults with care and support needs all of our trustees are DBS checked.

The National Safeguarding Team has, in 2022, released a range of safeguarding learning pathways for people with roles within the Church of England to complete, in a linear fashion, now known as the Safeguarding Learning and Development Framework. This has brought many changes in the training requirements needed to be completed by staff and volunteers in various roles within the church – with Safeguarding Awareness (formerly C0) and Safeguarding Foundations (formerly C1) then Safeguarding leadership and Senior leadership. If you are completing safeguarding training for the first time you will

29

need to complete awareness and foundations first. A new module: Raising awareness of Domestic Abuse is now required to be completed by staff in many roles. You will be advised and contacted by someone from the Safeguarding team if there are online modules which you will need to complete. The framework can be viewed on https://www.churchofengland.org/safeguarding/safeguarding-learning-and-development

Christ Church continues to use the Parish Safeguarding Dashboard (www.safeguardingdashboards.org.uk) this is a tool to measure where we are with Safeguarding compliance. An action plan is then generated to inform the safeguarding team and the PCC using a traffic light system regarding what still needs to be done.

Pauline Carter, Parish Safeguarding Lead

OUTREACH IMPACT GROUP REPORT

Group members: Cheryl Grint [Chair], Sarah Walker [Secretary], Helen and Andrew Russell, Penny Gilham, Sue Templeman, Kay Berrington, Pat Mathias, Margaret Baron, Judy Miller, Daniel Gicharu, John Bell.

The Outreach Impact Group (OIG) has continued throughout the year to reach out to the community and offer opportunities to come into contact with Christ Church, to explore questions about faith and build new relationships.

Alpha

Alpha courses successfully ran throughout the year during the evening, sometimes in person but at other times via Zoom due to Coronavirus restrictions and anxieties.

Grow Group

The group continues to be led by Michael Bishop and various themes are studied. It has developed into a post-course support group for those who previously attended Alpha.

OIG and FIG

There has been some collaboration between the Impact Groups, supporting each other especially when extra manpower is needed.

Pizza in the Parish 10[th] October 2021

There was a wonderful, joyful atmosphere, and a great sense of community throughout the afternoon. Many young families attended, some of whom attend, or used to attend, Morning Out. One senior lady was very grateful that Christ Church was restarting events. She explained that it was her first time being around so many people since lockdown 2020.

Carols on the Church Lawn – Christmas Eve 2021

Despite the wet weather, about 100 folk attended and the majority of people were not Christ Church regulars. The refreshments were most welcome and guests stayed and socialised for a long time afterwards.

Cheryl Grint, Chair of Outreach Impact Group

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MISSION IMPACT GROUP REPORT

Current membership: Steve Gardner (Chair), Sidney Miller, Gillian Lindley, Mary Shaw, Rosemary Phillips, Jon Day, & Paul Templeman. Darren Hughes served during the year.

In 2021, a door closed when Christ Church bade farewell to Rob & Ruth Strange and family, as Mission Partners. They have settled back in the UK, having served God for over 14 years in first Syria and latterly Jordon. We recently delighted in thanking them in person for their long mission partnership with us. They were very appreciative and duly thanked Christ Church for its faithful support, through finance and prayer.

At the same time as Rob & Ruth were announcing their intention to return to the UK, a door opened when Beth, a former member of Christ Church, and her husband Jordan, shared with us that God was speaking to them about serving him overseas. In February 2022 Beth & Jordan’s plans finally came to fruition and they have now moved overseas. Christ Church will continue to support them.

We continued our monthly Sunday mission slots, and with COVID rules easing from time to time, we were able to welcome other Mission Partners over the summer. YP & Jude Gayet, (photo shows the Gayet family with Sidney Miller) who help run a home church and Christian youth activities in Nivelles, popped in on a short visit from Belgium, via an Irish wedding. In August we welcomed John and Jenny Miller for the first time as Mission Partners. They shared with us about their life and work in Johannesburg, South Africa. John works at the Johannesburg Bible College and Christ Church provides support through a financial bursary which facilitates the attendance of poor students.

In November Hilary Deneufchâtel returned to Benin, Africa, where she and her family had lived for 12 years, and had helped translate the Old Testament into the Monkolé language. Hilary now lives in France and Christ Church continues to support her as she trains to work as a Bible Translations consultant, working through SIM. The return to Benin was prompted by an invitation to participate in a Thanksgiving service for the Bibles, which was followed by their distribution to the Monkolé people.

We continued to support the Home of Hope through the Malawi Orphan Fund , who have had a very challenging year. Unfortunately no visits this year.

IMPACT , a Bedford charity who provide assemblies, lunch club and religious education materials for local schools, found creative ways of working through the pandemic, using videos and study packs, when visitor visits were not allowed. Two members of our congregation work for them.

Unfortunately, Christ Church were unable to resume Open the Book assemblies in schools in 2021. The Goldington Green and Castle Newnham Teams did pool their talents to help produce two short films using creative green screen techniques; these have since been downloaded via IMPACT by over 40 school classes. Right is a picture of David Currie portraying Paul “losing faith” and nearly drowning, as he walked across the lake to Jesus.

Steve Gardner, Chair of Mission Impact Group

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YOUNG PEOPLE'S IMPACT GROUP REPORT

The Impact Group currently consists of 4 members: John Bell (Chair), Martin Hamilton, Ruth Hulme (Children’s Minister), and Gillian Lindley. Our Youth Minister, Jess Walker, stepped down from YPIG in December 2021 when she left her role as Youth Minister to pursue new employment opportunities. We are very grateful to Jess for everything she brought to YPIG and our Youth Ministry during her time as trainee Youth Minister and then Youth Minister. We will be looking to add to our membership in the coming year, and will be seeking a new chairperson as I come to the end of my curacy here at Christ Church.

During the past 12 months YPIG has met on an ad-hoc basis roughly every other month with a focus on supporting and enabling our children’s and youth ministries during what has been a very ‘interesting’ period as we have emerged from the COVID pandemic. Our continued desire is that the children and young people we meet experience God’s love and saving grace for them. Prayer is an important part of what we do here in order to seek God's vision for the young people of Christ Church.

We would like to say a huge thank you to all those who have stepped in to lead and support our Youth Ministry following Jess’ departure. Particular thanks go to AJ Wade who has stepped in to lead our Friday Night Youth, and to Jude Hamilton who is leading J-Team – the Sunday Group for our 11-14 year olds. There are too many others to name who have stepped in to support our youth activities during this period, but we thank you all – you know who you are, and your help is very much appreciated.

John Bell, Chair of Young People’s Impact Group

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY REPORT

Mid-week groups: Little Fishes (babies under 12months)

The Little Fishes group has been growing positively in the last year. There is a group of 10 parents who are engaged with the group and 4 who have contacted showing interest in the group. In the last year we have had 2 baptisms (and 2 baptisms planned to happen in the near future) with parents who have come to Little Fishes, which incidentally has caused a small increase in babies engaging in Daring Disciples on Sunday mornings. Little Fishes sessions always include food for thought, support and encouragement through Starting Rite or Wonderfully Made sessions.

Morning Out

We are welcoming new people to morning out each week and have 80 parents' names on the

register (updated Feb 2022): on average we have 25 families weekly. I have created a prayer postbox for families to submit prayer requests, and now use the TV screen slides to increase awareness of other church activities. We ensure that the craft is linked to the theme so that the children have something to remember the session, and we give Christian input through stories, themes and songs. Our volunteer team includes 9 people who help in different roles including coffee, welcome, storytelling, craft preparation and setting up and packing down.

32

Forge

We have a regular group of 5 children who attend and 3 children who come irregularly. We have a hope that this club will enable a smooth transition for children in Year 6 to Year 7 youth settings in church. We envision that the children will be able to lead younger children and develop their own projects in the long term. We have group games, followed by a movie clip and discussions with Christian thought questions such as ‘The Bible talks about Heaven, what is heaven? How can we be ready for heaven?’, and philosophy and ethics questions like ‘What can change your beliefs? Do you feel that the Villain should change his ways?’ The children are encouraged to form their own opinions whilst also being told about the

Christian approach to situations in movies.

Children’s ministry on Sundays:

Daring Disciples

This group engages children in experiential worship and the team always encourages parents who bring in young babies to join in. We hope that through joining in, the children’s faith is growing and they will become confident with prayer and worship. Recently we have been looking at baptism, the baptism of Jesus and John the Baptist. We currently have 2 volunteer leaders, and 6 volunteer helpers for this group. We have 16 children on the register and on average have 8 each week.

Passports

This year the passports group's ethos has been updated and the team has been given fresh direction. The Energize Syllabus is used and the new vision for the leaders is: To do all we can to enable all children who come to the group, to find a faith in Jesus, and as role models be a part in growing and cultivating their faith so that they will hold onto their faith throughout their whole lives. We have met with the parents to discuss changes such as including the children in Holy Communion. We have welcomed 2 new leaders to the passports team, making a team of 5 leaders who co-lead sessions, 2 helpers and parent helpers. The coleadership strategy is designed to welcome new leaders in and thus create a more sustainable team.

These groups do not meet during All Age services to give the leaders the chance to reflect and time to refresh. Including the children in Holy Communion as well as in All Age services fulfils our vision that our children are fully included in the church family, we further this by encouraging them to play with instruments during the praise songs. We also have an area at the back of church with specifically Christian themed toys and books for any children who do not want to go out to a group.

I have invested some time in finding out how volunteers are finding things and have been able to have 1 to 1 conversations with those who need further support. Daring Disciples volunteers have had the opportunity to do training with Sharon Moughtin and Passports leaders have been encouraged to join The Resources Cupboard Virtual Book Club for help and training. There will be training clinic sessions for all leaders and those interested, to ask their questions and to target areas that they are struggling with.

Wild Church

Wild church has met for 3 Sessions and is building foundations. The team is gelling together and sharing skills. The sessions offer a different environment for worship and are focussed on reaching families who don’t attend on a Sunday morning. We have had 4 families join from Christ church and we are encouraging

33

them to bring along friends and family to create a culture of sharing with those who are not in our church circle.

Upcoming Plans

The main upcoming plans for the children’s ministry will be in the school holidays as this is when children have more time to spend with their church friends and families. During Easter we will be doing an Outdoor Activity Day based on Journeys in the Bible, which links in with what the adults are looking at in this year’s Lent course. We will also be using interactive stations during ‘Rise Up with Jesus’ in which children and families will explore the different parts of the Easter story. We will continue encouraging children and families to get involved with all age services. I plan to continue to try to build bridges with local schools and am currently connecting with the children from Castle Newnham School through attending Song Squad sessions. I have been able to meet the children in preschool as I was invited to do the Christmas story with them. The Prayer for Schools team is meeting again, and I hope that more people will join to show support to school workers.

In the near future I will focus more on parenting for faith among the church parents, and will be using Meals with Jesus by Ed Drew as a structure for children and families to unpack New Testament stories and spend time with God at home. I will encourage families across church to engage in this in their own time at home, ideally over a meal, then after the sessions are done, the families will be invited to come together for a church meal. They will then share feedback about what they have discovered in their Meals with Jesus times at home.

Ruth Hulme, Children’s Minister

YOUTH MINISTRY REPORT

In July 2021 Jess was appointed as Youth Minister at Christ Church but sadly for us she decided to explore other employment opportunities and stepped down from this role when her contract came to an end in December. During her time as Trainee Youth Minister and then as Youth Minister, Jess looked after our young people through the challenges of the pandemic, and took a group of them to Dream the Impossible in Nottingham over the summer.

We currently have three youth groups running consistently through the week. On Sundays we have J Team (led by Jude) for those young people in school years 7 to 9, where they explore the Bible and have the opportunity to ask questions and grow deeper in their own faith. On Tuesday nights we have a similar opportunity for our older youth (years 10-13) through our zoom Bible study, led by Barbara and Alan. These groups are all about creating a safe space for our young people to ask those questions about faith that they really struggle with.

Finally on Fridays we have our all-youth Friday Night Youth group (led by AJ), for school years 7 to 13. This allows all our youth members to get to know each other and build relationships between the various ages – it’s a space where our young people can come together and have fun as well as wrestle with various life issues in the context of their faith. Typically, the first Friday of the month is a social get together where our youth engage in activities that build and grow relationships. Over the past year, this has included a fireworks get together, with hot chocolate and a movie; sofa races in the church halls; and many other activities. Often, Friday evenings have ended with a worship session, allowing

34

our youth to grow in confidence which has seen many of them becoming more and more involved in the worship band at our Sunday evening services.

Our youth ministry has an amazing team of volunteers, and many more have joined the team over the last few months as we search for our new Youth and Young People’s Minister. We continue to pray for our youth and we continue to pray for the person God is preparing to come and lead them.

John Bell

WORSHIP IMPACT GROUP

In the summer the musicians spent time together through a number of online breakfast meetings in preparation for returning to church to lead live worship. We thought about who we are as worshippers and that we want to be “a team who know ourselves to be God’s beloved and, from the foundation of our relationship with God and each other, seek to worship in spirit in truth and be equipped to love and serve our congregation through sung worship”. The team was recommissioned in the autumn and whilst some members have stepped down or moved on to new callings, over the last few months we have been pleased to welcome a number of new members to the team. It was great to be able to hold our traditional carol service in church again this year. Thank you to Ruth Rawes, Matt Jewell and Ben Atkins for leading the music and to all who sang and played.

Many thanks go to the PA team who have served the Church during the last year, Simon Platt, Vandon Grimley, William Eves and Ian Cooper. It has been a challenging year for the PA team as we have moved with the Church from recorded music and the majority of the Worshippers using streaming back to communal worship in Church with a Live band and streaming. A particular challenge has been balancing the conflicting requirements of a sound balance for the Church itself and a different balance for the live steam. The sound in Church has always been our main priority and we have been limited by the equipment as to how much we could vary the streaming feed. Our current sound desk has served the Church well over the last 15 years but technology has moved on significantly, especially with the change in capabilities when comparing an older analogue sound desk (such as ours) to a digitally controlled desk. We have now placed an order for a new digital sound desk which will enable us to overcome some of the issues of creating a good sound balance for both uses.

The new mixer along with some other enhancements will enable us to improve the sound available for everyone wherever they may be worshipping and should serve us well for another 15 years. We are also making some other changes to the Worship Area foldback which are only possible with a digital desk where some of the members of the band will be able to control their own sound mixes for the foldback. These will also be available in earpieces removing the need for some of the speakers in the worship area which will improve the visibility of the Worship Group to the congregation and on the live stream as well as being greener by reducing power consumption.

The final change to the system is the re-introduction of a subwoofer so as to give a better sound at the bass end of the register, this will restore the sound in Church to the way it was before our previous subwoofers were stolen in 2019. Changes to the cabling around the Church will enable us to tidy up and hide the cabling installed at short notice to make the streaming cameras work.

Carolyn Barnes, Chair Worship Impact Group

35

COMMUNICATIONS IMPACT GROUP REPORT

Current members: John Bell, Sue Templeman, Paul Templeman, Hannah Hibbert, Ben Hulme, Rachel Day and Simon Berrington (Chair)

Our Church website has moved to a new template which refreshes the visual design and brings other improvements to the structure of pages. We continue to get feedback from new church members of the positive impact of the website’s clear access to information. A big thank you to Paul Templeman for his continued great support to the church in running our website and tirelessly seeking ways to improve and add to its use and content.

The live streaming of services and other events continues to be part of our delivery of services to our Church members and a wider audience online. Both Paul Templeman and Simon Platt have been key in setting up our Live streaming within the Church.

While we have sited our cameras in their long-term position, there is still work to do to update and review our AV cabling used for sound/visuals and live streaming within the church. This project is linked to our need to replace the sound desk to provide a coherent, reliable system.

The replacement of software and hardware is reliant on a team of volunteers to use it during services. This will be foremost in the planning and delivery of a new system.

Our use of social media continues to grow and develop. A big thank you to Ben Hulme for his efforts during another period of COVID restrictions. It has been great to see Ben’s increased use of animated posts develop over recent months.

The Life magazine, our Bi-monthly church magazine continues to develop under Hannah Hibbert’s editorship. She has developed the content over the last year and dealt with the challenges of the pandemic. A big change has been the move to use Canva software to create the magazine. This has given the magazine a new great modern looking design.

Finally, thank you all those who are involved in creating any form of communications within the Church. Your use of the standard colours and fonts ensures we have a consistency to our communications.

Simon Berrington, Chair of Communications Impact Group

FELLOWSHIP IMPACT GROUP REPORT

Members: Rachel Bennett (Interim Chair), Wendy Pegg, Kirsty Pirrie, Susan Fearon, Jill Leggat, Nesta Major, Hannah Hibbert (Secretary). (Leavers – Sarah Hibbert and Richard Hibbert)

COVID-19 Restrictions within the early half of 2021 resulted in a lack of events being held by FIG due to guidance at that time. FIG hopes to host more events in 2022 following the announcement of all restrictions being lifted as of the 24[th] February 2022.

10[th] October 2021 – FIG and OIG worked together on an OIG event = Pizza in the Parish , this worked well and has set a precedent for any larger events that OIG or FIG would like to hold in the future, to enable shared support across the two impact groups.

20[th] November 2021 - FIG held the annual Tearfund Big Quiz Night – This year we were delighted to be able to hold the event live and in person once again! A fantastic turn out! FIG members paid particular

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attention to be more sustainable in the running of this event following guidance from the Sustainability group. We did this by recycling answer sheets at the end of the quiz and by asking quizzers to use scrap paper to make notes on throughout the quiz.

29[th] January 2022 - FIG members joined other Impact Groups and members of the local community in assisting and attending the Farewell event for the Hibbert Family who have moved on from Christ Church after serving here for 20+ years. An excellent night was had by all. FIG thanks Richard and Sarah for their support with FIG events over the years.

FIG has asked Rachel Bennett to step in and act as our Interim Chair while FIG continues to search for another Chair of the Fellowship Impact Group – If you would like to take up this role please do come and discuss this with any one of us within the impact group.

FIG have sadly lost two members in Sarah and Richard now they have moved to Coventry, but three new members have agreed to join FIG in 2022: June Pedzeni, Susan Henderson and Daniel Gicharu

Hannah Hibbert, (Secretary of Fellowship Impact Group)

RESOURCING IMPACT GROUP REPORT

Members: Ian Brown, Ewan McAdam Keith Priddin, Chris Stevens, Steve Welsh and Richard Lindley

RIG’s remit is to consider how to resource the work of the church. The work covers the finances of the church, but RIG also seeks to ensure best value for contracts with suppliers, and other areas where resources can be better used. RIG also seeks to encourage the members of the Church to think about giving (time, talents and treasure), and to be responsible stewards of all that God has given us, both as individuals and corporately.

Chris Stevens has acted as Treasurer for 2021. The role continues to be extremely demanding, and takes many hours each week to complete. The church should be under no illusion as to how much work this entails.

2021 was less impacted by COVD-19, but was still a year with financial challenges continuing to impact the finances. It is gratifying to report a small surplus for the year. Unlike many churches most of our regular giving is in the form of standing orders – which has held up well.

Some of RIG’s roles are routine, but nonetheless very important tasks, examples being reviewing accounts and setting budgets but also ensuring that we minimise costs of regular ongoing activities eg utilities, insurance, and the photocopier. We have other ideas to access the congregation’s resources, which we hope to roll out in 2022.

Above all we want to support the Church in using our resources for God’s glory.

Richard Lindley, Chair Resourcing Impact Group

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CHRIST CHURCH PRE-SCHOOL REPORT

The impacts of the pandemic continue to be felt within our Pre-School and we expect that to continue for a number of years. Children are joining us with a very different life experience than they would have had previously. Fortunately we have a very experienced staff who are quickly identifying the best ways to support both the children and their families.

The great work that is being done by the team is reflected in the number of applications for places within the setting both immediately and for the future. We have lots of two-year olds looking to join us. The work of Paula, our pre-school leader, over the last year has been phenomenal. She provides a calm and warm welcome to all our children, advice and guidance to all the families, encourages and supports the team working within the setting all with enthusiasm and kindness. The role she fills is definitely challenging. We are fortunate that her ability to adjust and work within the ever-changing situation is done so well and with a smile.

We entered the pandemic with a healthy contingency fund thanks to the work and guidance of our treasurer Gillian Lindley. We are incredibly grateful as this has allowed us to keep operating over the last two years. The challenge now is to rebuild it.

We thank all at Christ Church for your continued support of Pre-School.

Kat Allender, Pre-School Administrator

CHRIST CHURCH HALLS REPORT

Commercial and Charitable Organisations using the Halls:

Following the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions imposed by the government in November 2020, the start of 2021 continued to be challenging in the halls. All except those groups or organisations who provide education or support were unable to meet. This meant we were only able to hire halls to Christ Church Preschool and Barnardo’s, with Transitions UK (a young people’s support group) returning on 4[th] March.

The lifting of some COVID lockdown restrictions in March 2021 saw us able to welcome back those of our regular hirers who provide children’s supervised activities. These included the theatre group and a private tuition provider. After the next phase of the lifting of the restrictions we were thrilled to welcome a new group of young mums and their toddlers from the 14[th] April. They hire Room 7 for up to 3 hours on Wednesday mornings. Brownies returned on Tuesday evenings in early May and as things opened up further the jugglers and Pilates groups returned. Unfortunately, a few organisations were unable to come back mainly due to a fall in their numbers. Our newest regular hirer, a community choir called ‘Take A Deep Breath’, joined us in November 2021. They meet for a couple of hours on Monday evenings.

In addition, there were a few birthday party bookings and several groups or organisations booked rooms for one off or occasional meetings, conferences, training sessions, rehearsals etc. when regulations permitted them to do so.

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Since Christmas 2021 there have been many more bookings for parties and family gatherings, as well as groups who need rooms for meetings and rehearsals etc. Some have already taken place and others are due to take place throughout this current year.

With the recent lifting of all restrictions the halls are again filled with the sound of laughter, chatter, singing and music and friendly faces have appeared once more from behind masks. We look forward to welcoming more and more visitors to our halls over the coming months.

Dawn Hire, Centre Bookings Administrator

FOODBANK REPORT

In September 2021 we were able to re-establish 2 teams at Christ Church Distribution Centre. We welcomed back Susan Fearon and Penny Gilham. Due to continued social distancing, ongoing Omicron restrictions, Bedford Foodbank management took the decision [which is still in place, till summer 2022], that none of the distribution centres would open up for teas, coffees, chats etc.

We continue to operate with 10 volunteers, shared between the 2 teams. We are extremely grateful that we have 4 men volunteers, as there is much handling of very heavy crates, driving, loading and unloading the FB van. 6 volunteers attend each week.

BFB management team, and volunteers, are still very conscious of keeping both clients and volunteers safe, and although national restrictions have been lifted, we err on the side of caution. In effect this means:

We continue to be extremely grateful and appreciate all the donations we receive weekly. We are thankful to Pauline Grimley for putting the information in the news sheet every week, and to those who donate fresh goods e.g. fruit, vegetables, bread, eggs etc.

Financial Donations: people have given monetary donations, to be spent on ‘extras’. We were aware that many clients were walking long distances e.g. from Shortstown. We agreed to buy shopping trolleys [agreed with Foodbank management – volunteers are not supposed to deliver to clients’ homes]. The clients have been delighted and quite overwhelmed at times by the quantity of food, toiletries etc., and having a trolley has enabled them to take everything on offer!!

We now have:

In 2021 1398 people were fed at the Christ Church distribution centre; 2289.34 kg was donated – providing 5451 meals and 14791.84kg was distributed. Bedford Foodbank has 7 distribution centres and in 2021 we fed 11,575 people of whom 4027 were children. We were able to distribute 137,129.75kg of food and toiletries. This provided 326,500 meals. Christ Church foodbank teams are so thankful for all the ongoing support we receive, on a weekly basis. Sadly, we will continue to need your support, as we serve those in need.

Penny Cooper, Christ Church Foodbank Co-ordinator

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HOME GROUPS REPORT

Reports from a selection of our Home Groups:

Bromham Home Group

The group consists of eight very reliable members and one occasional attender, and meets in various homes in Bromham, Kempston and Bedford every Friday morning. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a few meetings were held on Zoom (not very successfully), and through the Summer quite a number were enjoyed in members’ gardens.

We have at least 45 mins Bible Study followed with a time of prayer, and (of course) coffee and cake. We occasionally have a Social (usually a bring-and-share lunch, inviting others where possible).

We do not necessarily follow the Church sermon/study programmes, choosing Bible Study Series books or topics as seem right for the group members at the time. The year 2021/22 has included studies on the parables of Jesus, Ephesians and Acts (in parallel); and Ruth and Revelation as per Church.

Light Green Home Group

The group has resumed meeting on Wednesday afternoons in the Prayer Room. We follow the Sunday morning sermons which gives us the opportunity for deeper discussion and to consider additional material. This has been extremely valuable with the study focused on the book of Revelation which has given us a greater insight into what this means for us today. The group is very diverse which brings considerable cultural experiences and thoughts into the arena. It is also very close knot which enables caring and sharing.

Teal Home Group

Until quite recently, members of Teal Home Group were led by Jon & Jane Day but now Chris Somervell has taken over. Besides Chris, we are Jon & Jane Day, John & Fiona Betteley, Paul & Sue Templeman, Dennis & Pat Davies, Hannah Hibbert, Will Eves & Clair Argent. Our group is friendly, caring and sociable. We have enjoyed weekly Wednesday evening meetings in person and with the help of Zoom. We’ve been out for meals together, picnics, cinema visits, quiz evenings and enjoyable socials with bring and share suppers.

Lime Home Group

After meeting on Zoom and in our garden during 2021, Lime Group has rejoiced to meet face to face since September. We have relished delving into the bible in our weekly discussions, prayed and laughed together, encouraged and comforted each other and met for an occasional social, including a memorable reunion with our previous leaders, Edward and Margaret. Mostly our studies have followed the sermon series, but we’ve also completed the insightful Bible Course, produced by The Bible Society. A new venture has been our participation in the food.gives project - we have just filled our third box with dried food goods to be sent to hungry believers abroad (see https://www.food.gives/gb/).

PRAYER MINISTRY REPORT

It’s wonderful to have Prayer Ministry available in church again. It is a real privilege to be able to stand alongside others as they seek God in lots of different aspects of their lives. This can be in thanksgiving as well as in times of struggle. As a team we do not have the answers but we worship a God who is intimate

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and not distant, who knows the pain of this life and so knows our pain and who didn’t leave us alone but sent the Holy Spirit to guide us. Our role is to point to the Lord and listen to him.

A huge thank you to those who have served on the team and those who currently are. Please come and talk to us if you would like to know more.

Rebecca and John Bell, Prayer Ministry Coordinators

THE PRAYER PARTNER NETWORK REPORT

The COVID distancing restrictions made meeting up in person as prayer partners very difficult so most groups have stayed in touch using WhatsApp, Zoom or by telephone.

Encouraging new partnerships proved to be extremely hard as those who had mentioned an interest in doing this all had different requirements, such as transport issues or time restrictions which did not match up. I suggested that people could just ask someone they felt comfortable with to join them if this was a possibility.

However, at the end of 2021 two new groups of 3 were formed (one of women & the other men!)

All the existing partnerships continued throughout the time of isolation except one due to circumstances & other commitments. At present, there are 31 prayer partners meeting regularly - Ten of which are men & the rest women.

There are three groups of two, seven groups of three & one group of four partners.

Talking to those who pray together, in person meeting is favoured and this is now happening again. Having talked to others about opportunities to pray, it seems that house groups are often where some opt to share prayer needs rather than in a prayer partnership.

Sue Templeman

LADIES' MINISTRIES REPORT

At the beginning of the year we made the decision to run Ladies’ coffee mornings over ‘Zoom’. Over 30 Ladies enjoyed the opportunity each month to reconnect with friends, to pray together and to hear inspiring talks by our various speakers. We were delighted that so many ladies joined the zoom coffee and valued the time spent together.

From September, the coffee morning moved back into the church hall, with suitably distanced measures.

It was such a pleasure to be able to meet once again in person and it was agreed to establish the coffee mornings as a regular event on the first Saturday of each month.

Thanks to everyone who has helped both in the kitchen and on the welcome desk, as well as to our speakers who have contributed to making the mornings such a special time.

Lesley Greenslade on behalf of the Ladies Ministry Team

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MEN’S MINISTRIES REPORT

Men’s breakfast recommenced following COVID restrictions in September2021 and runs each month at a time of 9:00 to 10:30am, normally on the fourth Saturday of the month. The pattern for the morning is to have breakfast and chat up to approximately 10:00am and then break away for a discussion about a topic relevant to men in Christ Church.

We meet at Christ Church and have tea/coffee, orange juice, cereal, croissant, toast and jam/marmalade and an egg and/or bacon bap (veggie option available on request). It is requested people sign up following the email to the men of the church at mens.breakfast@ccbedford.org

though it is fine to just turn up as we would love to see you.

This a valuable time to build up friendships and develop support networks.

It is planned to have guest speakers fairly regularly from within Christ Church and also from outside.

Men’s socials have been organized in the past with visits to the rugby, pub nights and also a curry night. Socials will again be organized from late Spring 2022 onwards and advertised within Christ Church. Attendance numbers vary and suggestions for new social evenings are always welcome, as are topics to include in the discussion section of the breakfast.

John Betteley

WALKING GROUP REPORT

The church walking group meets up twice a month (first and third Sunday) and have been walking round the embankment area starting at 2:30pm from the hub. We spilt into two main groups for an approximate one hour walk:

We then meet back at the hub at Christ Church for tea/coffee and cake. Going forward, now that the weather will hopefully be getting warmer and drier, we will be

walking further afield around the Bedford area and meeting back at someone’s house for tea and cake. We do share lifts to the venue for those without transport. It is a great opportunity to meet and get to know other people within the church and is valued by those that attend. Not only is it good for our physical health with the exercise but is also beneficial for our mental wellbeing as it enables us to get out

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and chat with others and to get to know people better. If you have not tried it yet I would strongly encourage you to join us next time.

John and Fiona Betteley

GO4GOLD REPORT

As soon as we were able after lockdown, we started inviting people to come to meet just for a chat once a month, to bring their own cake and drink and to wear masks. We invited local speakers talking about their work or hobbies. There were about 18 present. As things improved and there was more freedom it wasn’t necessary to socially distance, and we moved into the large hall. We now meet on the third Friday of the month . We had a very engaging talk about Malawi and enjoyed trying the macadamia nuts in various guises, salted, sweet etc. A local councillor came to tell us about tree planting in Bedford. Ruth came full of enthusiasm for her calling to work with children. We also started a film club on the second Friday with popcorn and ice creams!! The numbers have steadily increased, and newcomers have been welcomed. We look forward to many more entertaining afternoons with our usual tea and cake an essential part of get together at Christ Church!

Susan Fearon

HOLIDAY AT HOME REPORT

You will remember that H@H 2020 had to be cancelled due to the pandemic. Members of the Committee therefore home-visited everyone we have had contact with as past Guests and had a COVID-safe chat at their front door, bringing them some tokens of H@H such as the renowned Sticky Toffee Puddings and some paper activities for them to enjoy indoors. Our visits in August and at Christmas 2020 and Easter 2021 were greatly appreciated.

The 2021 H@H planning season also presented many difficulties. We were ‘locked down’ when we started the process in January 2021, meeting only on Zoom, and we didn’t know whether we could run H@H at all in August, or what restrictions would be in place, or what we could offer safely for our Guests.

As most attractions were firmly shut and unable to tell us when they could open, or what facilities they could provide for us, sadly the Coach Trip Day Outing was the first planning casualty.

We then looked at the two days in the Church and Hub. Could we safely accommodate and provide lunch for the usual 50 or so guests? In time matters began to clarify, and we were able to provisionally approach some people to entertain or to speak or to run an activity – some being approached at a very late stage. But in the end a workable programme was successfully put together.

There was Steve the amazing Juggler, we had a participatory ‘Olympic Games’ (coinciding with the Japan Games), we toured the Holy Land in slides, there was an amazing presentation of fashion clothing from the 1920s to the 1960s, and a virtual canal boat trip (‘what floats our boat’), and to cap it all, two local professional Opera Singers and their accompanist gave us all a wonderful and varied Concert. And so many people enjoyed just meeting and chatting, after so long living alone in COVID isolation.

So, despite all the planning problems, everyone enjoyed their two-day H@H – as shown by the many

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cards, letters, emails and personal conversations expressing our Guests’ appreciation for what we had laid on, despite all.

John Braithwaite, Chair of the Holiday at Home Committee

COACH HOLIDAY REPORT

Another wonderful CCB holiday, this time we went to Weston-super-Mare, staying at The Grand.

Gold Hill Travel was our coach company again and, as ever, we cruised along beautifully on all the journeys we took! For a change we took a short ride on the open top vintage bus from Dunster to Minehead and we just had to take a steam train ride which was great fun and very relaxing, worth every toot toot from the engine!!

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We’ll miss the sleeping Vicar on our next Christ Church holiday! We are off to Eastbourne in July, what a treat!

One of our days out last August was to Cheddar Gorge where we all got off the coach and sang ‘Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Let me find my rest in thee’. It was a very poignant moment. We were encouraged to look forward and look up from the gorge/valley and see the spectacular ‘vision’. What a truth in life’s journey!

These holidays are such a blessing to all who come and can be summed up by a comment made by one of the guests… ‘Thank you team for all the time and effort you put into arranging such a successful holiday. We did enjoy the change and the excellent company.’

So, July 4th-8th we are off to the south coast with a full coach of 50 guests. We pray for safety, fun, fellowship, and good food but most of all that it will be a time to know Jesus more in all we see and do.

SUSTAINABILITY AND SHRINKING THE FOOTPRINT

Last year's presentation to the APCM showed how the Church Family Carbon Footprint dwarfs the Church Buildings Carbon Footprint. The Buildings Impact Group subgroup on sustainability should therefore be out of a job and it is over to the PCC to drive forward on the issue of addressing the Church Family Carbon Footprint. However, it was recognised that this will take time and so the subgroup continued to meet this year and act in a “consulting” type of role making various proposals to the PCC.

The PCC agreed to offset the damage from church buildings emissions including those from 2021 onwards. They have chosen to use the excellent Neno Macadamia Trust scheme which not only offsets the damage we are doing but promotes sustainable agriculture and food security amongst many other benefits in Malawi. Further to this, MIG then purchased more offsetting from their 2021 budget which will cover past damages from 2019 and 2020.

The PCC agreed that setting up another Impact Group for Sustainability was not the way to go as the challenge needs to be covered across all strands of Church life and all the Impact Groups need to think

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creatively about how to do that. With that in mind the PCC asked all Impact Groups to “actively consider and engage with the issue of sustainability and report back on the outcomes and future plans to the PCC and the APCM in 2022”.

In January 2022 the PCC agreed to go forward with the first stage of what is hoped will be a pioneering project to find the tools and ambition to address our Church Family Carbon Footprint as part of our ongoing Mission engagement. This first stage will estimate the combined carbon footprint of all PCC members and their households for 2021. The learning from that will be by individuals and the group and will cover not only the quantitative issues (the size of the footprint, which are the biggest sector contributors and where the group can make most difference moving forward) but also the psychological issues including where the barriers to engagement are and what it’s like to think about it as a group and not just as individuals. It is expected it will provide a benchmark for the future and help PCC to decide how they can move the whole thing forward as an integral part of our Mission and MAP.

We are pleased that CCB is now a Bronze Award Eco Church and we need to start thinking about the Silver Award. This will involve far more church members and local community participation and links with the PCC Carbon Footprint Project.

Pat Davies, Martin Hamilton and Richard Hibbert (until January 2022)

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