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← The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of St. Augustine's Of Canterbury, Whitton

2023-12-31-accounts

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THE PARISH OF ST. AUGUSTINE OF CANTERBURY, WHITTON Registered charity no. 1134957

Trustees Annual Report for the Year ended 31[st] December 2023

Table of Content Page
Vicar’s Statement and review of the Year 1
Administrative and Legal Information 3
Governances Structure and Management 4
Objectives and Activities 4
Ecumenical Relationships 5
Deanery Synod Report 5
Electoral Roll Officer’s Report 5
Fabric and Churchwardens’ Report 6
Safeguarding Report 7
Children’s and Youth Ministry Report 8
Music and the Choir Report 10
Cornerstone Café 10
Dorcas Group 10
Prayer and Reflection 11
Prayer Link Group 11
St Augustine’s Art Class 11
Strollers’ Report 12
Uniformed Organisations Report 12
Financial Review – Stewardship and Treasurer’s Reports 13
Appendix I - Financial Statements including independent examiner's Report

Vicar’s Statement and review of the Year

Introduction

We give thanks to God for this past year and for all that we have been part of in this year under review. A lot happened and are shared in many of the reports, and here I also share some key highlights:

65th Anniversary Celebration

In keeping with the PCC’s resolution “to mark and celebrate our church's 65th Anniversary throughout the month of June in 2023 with series of activities in each week, culminating in a celebratory day on the last Sunday of June”, I am immensely grateful to the Planning and Implementation Team led by Mr. Rob Dowler.

The month of June was a hive of activities, as each weekend had something going on along with making the church building open during the week for people to see the various historical and current activities of the church life on display or/and to simply go and sit quietly in God’s presence.

It was wonderful to see so many people in the community come into the church grounds, some for the first time. One of the many highlights of the June events was the schools’ music concert performed by the choirs from Bishop Perrin, Heathfield and Nelson schools. The choirs put up a beautiful display of talent and skill in music that was enjoyed by all who attended.

As well as weekly events, each Sunday was celebrated with one of the following themes: Gratitude, Celebration, and Engagement - looking back with gratitude while celebrating the present and looking forward to engage with the future before us.

All these events and activities culminated in a “grand” celebratory Sunday worship service with a meal afterwards on Sunday 25th June. Invitations went to those who had previous association with St Augustine’s as well as current members and wider community. It was a blessing to welcome three former incumbents and two came with their spouses, Fr Tim Higgins, Fr Stephen Caple, and Fr Lyn Philips and one former Assistant Priest Revd. Ann Clarridge. The Area Dean, Revd. Ben Lovell, was the preacher and guest of honour, joined by his wife Revd. Cara Lovell and their children.

Along with the very effective Planning and Implementation Team, so many people from our church selflessly contributed in so many ways to holding what became a successful 65th anniversary of the church’s presence at our current location. To all I say congratulations and a huge thank you for the selfless commitment and dedication.

Home Groups & Spirituality

This year saw re-commencement of Home Groups initially in three homes and later on in two. The Home Groups have provided an opportunity and safe space to: explore the Bible and other issues together, explore those questions of faith we want to ask, to grow in our faith journey and understanding of God’s purpose for the world and for each one of us, and the fellowship that helps us know other people, as well as the opportunity to invite friends or anyone who may be seeking to know more about God and Christian faith. My heartfelt thanks to Kay Alldridge, Alwyn Williams, and Fiona and John Wolsoncroft for providing hospitable and welcoming spaces in their homes. I commend Home Groups to everyone, as well as the opportunity to be the host.

Parish Worship Life

The worship life of the parish has been sustained by a number of worship services including Sunday morning worship, Sunday Compline/evening online worship, Friday morning worship, and the monthly Prayer and Reflection. I would like to thank all those who have contributed to sustain these worship services that have enriched the spiritual wellbeing of the parish.

International/Cultural Diversity Evening

This year we hosted for the first time an international evening to celebrate God’s gift of our diversity through food, music and attires. Representations of these included nations of India, Scotland, Sri Lanka, Uganda, Tanzania, Wales, and Zambia. It was a beautiful evening full of joy and fun, not to mention sumptuous and tasty meals.

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Sound System and Live Streaming

During this year, the PCC agreed to improve the sound system including installing audio-video livestreaming facilities to enable those, who for any reason, may not be in attendance at worship services or similar events, to watch and be part of these services. The camera has been installed and livestreaming is expected to begin in the new year after sufficient internet is made available. To facilitate this, a church YouTube account has been set up and will also feature on our church website to enable live-streaming more accessible. We need more people to join the Audio-Video System operating team.

Meanwhile, measures have been put in place for those who may not be comfortable for their faces to be in the camera view.

Baptism, Confirmation & Wedding

In this year 5 children and 1 adult were baptised, 3 of whom attend worship services regularly. On Harvest Sunday 5 young people were confirmed by Bishop Emma Ineson during a beautiful afternoon worship service at All Saint’s Hampton. We look forward to another set of confirmation candidates, hopefully at next year’s Harvest Sunday! As with the previous year, we had one wedding ceremony. We hold in our prayers all those baptised, confirmed, and wedded this year.

Children, Youth & Uniformed Groups

This year has seen an increased participation and contribution of youth and children to the life and worship ministry of the church, which is very encouraging. Messy Church started at the beginning of the year and has proved to be popular as children looked forward to the third Saturday of every month. I am most grateful to the parents and all leaders of Junior and Youth and Messy Church, and the Uniformed groups. Please check out the reports about these ministries for more details.

Engagement with Schools

Engagement with our local schools (Bishop Perrin and Heathfield) continue this year through church and school Assemblies including learning visits to the church and special events such as Easter, Harvest and Christmas. Along with these two schools, Waldegrave came again to celebrate Christmas Carol Services in church. In the course of this year, positive contact with Turing House school was made and the Headteacher visited St Augustine’s during the 65th Anniversary celebratory month of June. These relationships are an important part of our connection with the community.

Churches Together in Whitton (CTiW)

CTiW, of which we are a member, continues to be an expression of what it means for churches to work together. As in previous years through CTiW we came together on Good Friday for the Walk of Witness from the end of Montrose Avenue to Sts Philip and James.

On Christmas day CTiW provided the annual meal to those in our community who otherwise would be alone or would have no proper meal. It was a privilege to be present this year and participate in delivering a meal to one of our church members. I give thanks to all who have offered their time and other resources to make this possible.

Obituary

In this past year, the church lost two faithful members, Rosemary Styles and Charles Deakin, whose absence from us is greatly missed. We are most grateful for their life and faith and the gift they both were to us and to the community, and we commend them to God’s eternal presence.

Points for Prayer

Do join me in praying for,

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Word of gratitude

There has been an increase in people offering to contribute to the activities and events in the life of our church. This is to be commended and encouraged, let us keep it up. I am therefore most grateful to every member of this church community and for the many different contributions everyone makes in sustaining the thriving life, worship, mission and ministry of this church especially during this 65th Anniversary year.

Thanks be to the Almighty God for the sustaining love and grace upon each one of us and collectively as a church, even as we look to the future with hope in the saving grace and power of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Revd. Canon John Kafwanka Kaoma

Administrative and Legal Information

St Augustine of Canterbury Church is situated in Whitton, in the London Borough of Richmond Upon Thames and is a part of the Hampton Deanery in the Kensington Episcopal Area of the Diocese of London.

Correspondence Address The Vicarage,
Hospital Bridge Road,
Twickenham, TW2 6DE
Incumbent The Rev Canon John Kafwanka K (Since 6thJanuary 2021)
PCC Members Sian Cadogan, Childrens’ Champion (Elected 2020)
Pauline Churchman, PCC Secretary (Re-elected 2020)
Jay Cao (Re-elected 2021)
Joseph Magona Treasurer (Elected 2023)
Elizabeth Muir (Elected 2022)
Graham Beaumont (Elected 2022)
Limbani Kafwanka (Elected 2023)
Deanery Synod Rep(s) Joan Greening (Elected 2023)
Constance Chingwaru (Elected 2023)
Kay Alldridge (Elected 2023)
Churchwardens Sue Thornton, Vice Chair (First elected 2021, re-elected May 2023)
Roubina de Winton (First elected 2021, re-elected May 2023)
Other Church Officials
Bookkeeper Peter de Winton
Children’s Champion Sian Cadogan
DBS Checker/Lead Recruiter Alwyn Williams (appointed 2023)
Electoral Roll Officer Jayne Firth
Parish Safeguarding Officer Gill Gooding
Sacristan Jane Derry
Stewardship Recorder Roubina de Winton
Vulnerable Adults Champion Constance Chingwaru

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Independent Examiner James Parker, 16 Cranbrook Drive, Twickenham TW2 6HN

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

Governances Structure and Management

The St Augustine Whitton Parochial Church Council (PCC), registered charity no 1134957, is a corporate body established by the Church of England and operates under the ‘PCC ’(Powers) Measures of 1956.

PCC members, elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM), serve for a period of three years after which they are required to step down for a minimum of one year before re-election, unless APCM passes a resolution to change the rule.

The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules (M15). All church attendees and Parish members are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and may stand for election to the PCC if they have been on the Electoral Roll for six months prior to the APCM and are over 16 years of age, or in the case of a new roll have been on the old roll for the required rulings.

The PCC is the main decision making body of a parish, and in co-operating with the incumbent has the responsibility of promoting the mission of God in the parish; including, pastoral, evangelism, social and ecumenical. It also has the responsibility to care and maintain the fabric of the church as well as the church hall and the parish house, and their contents.

The PCC has the legal responsibility for maintenance of proper financial books and records, put adequate control systems in place to safeguard the assets and the format and content of the financial statement of the parish.

With the incumbent the PCC has a duty of care to ensure the protection of the vulnerable in their church community, and those suffering from racial, economic and other injustices.

The PCC should make known and put into effect any provisions made by the Diocesan Synod or the Deanery Synod, but without prejudice to the powers of the Council on any particular matter. Also, to contribute and where appropriate give advice to the Deanery Synod on any matter referred to the Council and raise such matters as the Council consider appropriate with the Deanery Synod, thus showing the link between the PCC, the Deanery Synod and through it with the Diocesan Synod.

Whilst members of the PCC cannot be expected to know all the rules and legal implications of certain fields but would be expected to seek advice before any discussions and decisions made. This could involve such things as health and safety, discrimination legislation, child protection, church appointments, church services and property conveyancing.

The PCC is required to hold sufficient number of meetings to enable sufficient transaction of its business in a year.

Constituted by PCC to transact PCC’s business in between the meetings, the Standing Committee is made up of the Incumbent, the Churchwardens, Treasurer and the PCC Secretary.

Objectives and Activities

The PCC is committed to enabling the whole people of God to grow in their faith and to live out the love of Jesus Christ in worship and in action as part of the parish community at St Augustine. To this end the Incumbent works with the PCC to encourage and involve in the services and other activities people of the parish community to serve the wider community.

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In particular, we try to encourage and enable ordinary people to live out their faith in their everyday life through:

Ecumenical Relationships

St Augustine is a part of Churches together in Whitton (CTiW) that undertake three main activities each year.

Deanery Synod Report

The Deanery Synod is an important part of the governance of the Church of England and shares the mission of the Church in local areas. They are places for sharing good practice between the Parishes of a Deanery, and act as a communication line between the Diocesan Synod and the Parishes. It is really important that Parishes are well represented at Deanery Synod, and we would strongly encourage people to stand for election.

Parochial representatives to the Deanery Synods are elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meetings (APCM) every three years, the last elections took place in 2023 and those elected are to hold office from 1[st] July 2023. Kay Alldridge was elected to join two existing members of the Deanery Synod: Joan Greening and Connie Chingwaru. These three represented the Parish at the Deanery of Hampton.

Hampton Deanery Synod comprises 16 churches in our local area. St Michael and St George, Fulwell; St Mary’s, Hampton; All Saints, Hampton; St James, Hampton Hill; St John, Hampton Wick; St Richard, Hanworth; St Mary with St Alban, Teddington; St Mark, Teddington; Holy Trinity, Twickenham; St Mary, Twickenham, All Saints, Twickenham; St Stephen, Twickenham; All Hallows, Twickenham; St Augustine, Whitton; SS Philip and James, Whitton; SS Peter and Paul, Teddington (now Peter and Paul Centre).

Each meeting comprises an opening welcome by the Area Dean (currently Revd. Ben Lovell), worship and an introduction to the host church, usually led by a minister of that church. Apologies for absence are noted along with the approval of the minutes from the previous meeting with any matters arising dealt with. Every meeting has a theme, on which the guest speaker makes a presentation. The meeting concludes with prayer.

Our thanks go to Joan Greening who has served as our representative for several years but has now given her notice of resignation at the next APCM.

J Greening, C Chingwaru and K Alldridge

Electoral Roll Officer’s Report

The Electoral Roll as at end of December 2023 remains at 165. The roll is currently being revised in advance of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting and up to date verbal report will be given at that meeting.

Jayne Firth

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Fabric and Churchwardens’ Report

In May 2023 Sue and Roubina were re-elected as churchwardens. We would like to thank everyone who has helped us to manage and discharge our various duties, without the support of our church family we would not be able to serve our community.

During the year Sue and Roubina with the help of the hospitality team and the 65[th] Anniversary team organised many events such as the 65[th] Anniversary Celebrations, the Childrens ’Concert, the Quiz Night, the Summer Fair, the Harvest Lunch, the Fireworks the film night and finally the Winter Fair. These events are good opportunities to bring together the wider community.

The Quinquennial Inspection carried out by the diocesan architect in 2021, highlighted various areas that require attention. We have continued to prioritise and work through some of the items identified in the report.

The church

Church Hall .

The hall is used for parish social activities such as tea and coffee after the Sunday services, quiz night, International evening etc. Also, as part of our outreach, the uniform organisations use the hall for their activities on Thursdays and Fridays and every other Wednesdays. The hall is also used by the church Art Group once a month on a Saturday.

The hall is also a source of income for St Augustine through the rentals to:

The hall is available for private hire for parties with the hourly rate set and reviewed by the PCC. Our casual higher agreement has recently been reviewed and approved by the PCC.

The Hall is regularly maintained. However, the roof requires some attention due to its age and the recent rains has highlighted the need to keep this under review.

Grounds

At St Augustine’s we are incredibly blessed, not only do we have space to park cars, but we also have lovely grounds too. This enables us to hold our annual Summer Fete, the Uniform groups and YGT (Youth Get Together) group use it for their outdoor activities in the summer.

This can only happen when there are enough people to keep the grounds tidy and well cared for. On behalf of the church community, we would like to say a big thank you to Graham B, Michael, Gill,

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Peter, Gerald, and Graham A. These few come every work party, however, there are others, and we would like to thank all those who give up their time when they can. Not all the work can be done by the work party, work is required on the trees, with preservation order, in the remembrance garden. An application has been submitted to the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames to allow us to carry out the necessary work.

A big thank you to Ann Goff who regularly prunes the roses and tends to flowers, and particularly last summer we had lovely blooms from them. We can’t remember when the roses were planted but it was many years ago.

The Work Party or Garden clearing, whatever you like to call it is held on the 1[st] Saturday of the month, but it doesn’t have to be confined to that time. If you have a spare hour during the week or any weekend there is no problem for you to come and do some weeding or clearing. There are always weeds growing in the Memorial Beds (and it ~~so~~ looks so much nicer when it has been cleared!). Weeds continue to grow around the church, these do need to be kept in check. There are two wheely bins with blue lids for the garden rubbish so no need to take it home.

Let’s try and make the grounds a pleasure to be in, we hope that there will be more people to join the clearing party on every 1[st] Saturday of the month. As they say – “Many hands make light work”. So, see you there.

Powder Mill Lane

The tenants at 60 Powder Mill Lane gave notice of their intention to leave at the end of July. The PCC approved change of property agent and the property was let again on 13[th] August through sterling Ackroyd for a period of two years at rental of £26,400 per annum. We were able to make some improvements to the property, mainly installing new UPVC window in the ground floor living room, making good the brick shed and extensive clearing and planting in the garden.

The Church Campus

The grounds of St Augustine also house St Augustine Community Care Trust, known as Homelink Day Respite Centre building, which was set up in 1997 through the efforts of the Incumbent and the parishioners of St Augustine who, having identified the need for respite care in the local community, raised the funds necessary to build St Augustine’s Church Hall to operate as the centre to serve the local community as its outreach.

The service continued to operate from the church hall until 2015, when through funding received from The Department of Health and Richmond Borough Council amongst other funders the dedicated purpose-built centre was built and from which it operates today. St Augustine’s PCC generously allowed Homelink to build the centre and operate rent free. Homelink continues to work in partnership with St Augustine and benefits from our support.

In 2019, the Trust became an incorporated charity and a charitable company limited by guarantee, registered as St Augustine's Community Care Trust (Trading as Homelink) and as part of its constitution the Archdeacon of Middlesex, the Incumbent and a member of St Augustine’s congregation, nominated by the PCC, serve on the board of directors of Homelink. In 2021, Roubina de Winton was nominated by the PCC and was appointed to the board of its directors.

Sue Thornton & Roubina de Winton

Safeguarding Report

We have continued to ensure that at St Augustine’s is compliant with the safeguarding regulations and that everyone (especially children and vulnerable adults) feels safe attending any church activities. We now have an updated list of those who require a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for their role in Church. We have completed the annual audit for submission to the Diocese and addressed any matters arising from it. Online training and refresher courses have been completed by most PCC members. An online Deanery Safeguarding Officers’ forum has been set up to support safeguarding in all parishes with help from the Diocese and we are also meeting face to face regularly. There are also monthly Zoom meetings for the whole of the Kensington area Church Safeguarding Officers (CSOs) also known as Parish Safeguarding Officers (PSO).

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The Parish Dashboard and Parish Hub are useful online tools which are kept up to date with all relevant information by the Church Safeguarding Officers (PSO) and Churchwardens. The reports generated by these are regularly reviewed by the Parochial Church Council (PCC).

The Sunday School register is fully functional and is be completed every week by the Leader. The DBS requirements for regular helpers have been checked to ensure we are fully compliant, and they have undertaken the relevant training.

Alwyn Williams has now been appointed as the Church DBS Checker and Head Recruitment Officer and continues to ensure DBS checks are completed as required. We would need to appoint an additional Recruiter.

The Church wardens and safeguarding team are made aware of the vulnerable adults and unaccompanied children in the congregation.

Gill Gooding Parish Safeguarding Officer

Children’s and Youth Ministry Report

Another blessed year has come to an end, and we thank God for his goodness and mercies experienced in the ministry of the Junior and Youth church and Toddler group/Messy Church.

Junior Church

Since January, the Junior church continued meeting every Sunday at 10:00am, beginning the service with the rest of the congregation and then go to their own time of learning and worship in the Church Hall and return to join at holy communion.

The Junior church ranges from 4 years to around 11, though some younger than 4 have would join in at times.

The current register has about 34 from the Junior group but the number of attendances varies every Sunday between 4 and 8 children. About 4 children who attended Junior church last year had now moved to youth group and there are 3 who have joined the choir though still attend the junior church.

Youth

The youth group constitutes those from year 5 to year 13 and has continued to grow steadily with monthly attendance ranging from 8-11. During the year under review there were no children from other churches. Current register has about 21 youths. The youths seem to be happy and always look forward to the next YGT.

The group continues to enjoy the activities such as sharing ideas of what is possible, playing table and off-the-table games, reflecting on their faith, eating food together (pizza is still the most favourite!), and preparing for the All-Age worship service.

Messy Church

I am glad to mention that this year we started the messy church for the children from 0- 8yrs old and our first meeting was on 29[th] April 2023. Messy church meets every 3[rd] Saturday of the month. We started with 4 children and their parents and now we have 7children. Attendance varies from 4-5. Messy church brings together children and their parents for time of fun, art and crafts, games, storytelling, sing along, dancing, bible stories and enjoy refreshments. It provides the opportunity for children and their parents to interact with other families in a more relaxed and conducive atmosphere. We meet in church and sometimes in the church hall when it is available. Fr John comes and interacts with families and children as well. This year we celebrated some children’s birthdays, and we’ll continue to do more next year.

We have 3 leaders, Martha, Patricia and Sabine, young leader Agape and 2 helpers, Laura and James. Our prayer is that more people to join this group.

Confirmation

We are grateful to God that this year we had 5 young people to be confirmed by Bishop Emma from the Junior and Youth Church, and that 3 youths have joined the choir.

Participation in Worship Service

Junior and Youth church have continued to take leading roles in the All Age/Family services: bible

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readings, intercession prayers, sharing what they learn in Junior ~~in~~ church. It is very encouraging that more children are coming up wanting to share something in church, especially those in the junior church.

Mothering Sunday

Again, the Children performed a beautiful play and a poem in honour of all mothers and together with the uniformed groups helped distribute the posy of flowers to all the women present in church that Sunday. It always brings joy to see the children being involved in the ministry of the church.

Lent Study

This year 11 youths participated in the Lent study held at the vicarage, led by Fr John and I. Some of the parents of the youth also took part. It was such a wonderful time to reflect on God’s word together. We used Bishop Emma’s Lenten book, and it was really a blessing to the youths and all of us.

Kensington Episcopal Area Youth Events

This year the youths attended 4 youth events, which included:

Nativity Play

On Saturday 23[rd] December, the Junior and Youth church again put up a beautiful Nativity play. It was wonderful to see both those in Junior and Youth church perform with great confidence. Many people attended and the children were well supported.

Leader’s Seminar

This year Growing Younger training event took place on 14[th] October at St Mellitus College organised by the Diocese of London Children and Youth Ministry for Kensington Episcopal Area. Hilda and I attended. The sessions included seminars by local practitioners to equip and encourage both volunteers and professionals working with children and young people in the Kensington Episcopal Area. A lot of resources were shared and it was a wonderful event.

Leadership

I am glad to mention that the leadership team has slightly grown. We have 4 leaders: Patricia, Sian, Martha, and Sabine who joined us this year in a leadership role and 4 helpers, Ana, James, Laura and Hilda. We have a young leader, Agape, who joined us this year in June. But we are still in need of more especially in the youth side. We give thanks to God for the addition to the team and may God bless the team.

A word of thanks

On behalf of Junior and Youth Church and family ministry, I would like to say a big thank ~~word~~ you to all the leaders and helpers for their hard work in helping the children to grow in faith and their knowledge of God and God’s love for them. I would also like to thank Fr John for the prayers for the leaders, helpers, and the children. Thank you too to Alwyn who for helping process the DBS checks and Gill for enabling safeguarding trainings.

To the whole congregation and parents, we are grateful for the support and prayers. As a team we

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continue giving thanks to God for the privilege to work and support the young people.

Challenges and Prayer Points

There’s still need for more leaders and helpers, in order to operate at full capacity and meet the needs of children’s ministry. Having more leaders will ensure that the younger and older children at junior and youth are managed according to age, which is currently not possible because there are not enough leaders. This results in some of the children avoiding attending Junior and Youth church on Sundays, especially the older ones.

If you feel God is speaking to you to be part of the leadership team and use your God-given gifts in this exciting ministry of supporting the young people, please speak to any of the team members or Fr John.

There’s a need for indoor and outdoor games for the children. Especially the Youths and Messy church. Children love variety of activities to keep them active but also for fun.

Martha Kafwanka o n behalf of the Junior & Youth Leadership Team

Music and the Choir Report

I am so pleased and grateful to the choir for carrying on, St Augustine’s is renowned for their choir and, although, now, we are short on numbers, it doesn’t matter, we are there every Sunday ready to lead the congregation in song.

Singing to recorded music is not always easy, it never seems to occur to the person who did the recording that we have to breath sometimes! However, a big thank you to the congregation for sticking with us.

I would like to give a big thank you to the young people who sing in the choir, Lily, Melanie, Rosie and Agape, also not forgetting us older ones, Ben, Elmo, Peter, Bob, Joan, Elizabeth, Florence and Kay – thank you.

A special thank you to Sian, who, as you know, comes and plays when she can. At the moment there seems to be a shortage of organists who can make the commitment to a church, but we haven’t stopped looking.

Sue Thornton

Cornerstone Café

Cornerstone meets on the second Tuesday of the month in our beautiful church. We offer coffee, tea and cakes, often made by Gerald, and an opportunity for conversation and companionship. We aim to offer support for people going through difficult times. Scrabble and dominoes usually feature.

We have approximately fifteen people who attend, although not all can make it every month, and some bring along a friend which has introduced new people.

We usually advertise the date on social media sites and although we get a ‘likes ’we haven’t had new people joining us this way.

Dina kindly played carols again for us in December and is happy for this to be an annual event. We need to choose more carefully next time as our voices weren’t up to the high notes!

Kathy Bale on behalf of the Cornerstone Team

Dorcas Group

Our group is now made up of three people as Angela and Jo have decided to retire and we thank them both for their input and sewing skills during their time with the group.

The Old and New Testament banners are now in place in the Lady Chapel depicting bible stories. A panel on each of these marks our 65[th] anniversary of the consecration of this building. These were

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blessed by Bishop Graham at the Harvest Confirmation service in 2023.

You will see that the River of Prayer and Noah’s Ark have been repositioned into the Lady Chapel, which also includes the Baptism of Jesus and the Annunciation. This corner now provides a focal point for the school children when they visit the church.

We are now working on two hangings, one representing the coronation of King Charles III and the other commemorating the life of the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Jane Derry on behalf of the Dorcas Team

Prayer and Reflection

The monthly Prayer and Reflection Group meets in church on the first Tuesday of every month – at 11am for an hour. Various members of the group take turns to lead us in quiet reflection to deepen our spiritual life and Christian journey. This can sometimes lead to discussions and other times quite in which to reflect. We finish the session with prayers together. For example, in the last months, we reflected on “Colours”, “For the beauty of the earth” and “Blessings for the New Year”.

This group offers a valuable contribution to the spiritual life of St Augustine’s, and everyone is welcome to join us or attend.

Dina Bartle

Prayer Link Group

Prayer link is a confidential service offered by a group of people in this church to pray for those in need each day for seven days.

Emergency prayers, prayers for loved ones, prayers for healing, prayers for comfort - this group exists to provide prayer, friendship and support where required.

The group also acts as an effective evangelistic tool. Quite often, when offering prayers to support non-Christian friends and acquaintances, they often respond enthusiastically with prayer requests of their own as a result, so enabling us to illustrate the kind of loving service that we as Christians can provide.

Prayer link provides a unique and valuable contribution to the life of our church.

Dina Bartle

St Augustine’s Art Class

In 2002 after a Parish trip for a short stay at a convent overlooking Lake Maggiore a group of us under the watchful eye of Fr Regan O’Callaghan, a curate at St Augustine’s at the time, formed a group of people who were prepared see what, if any, artistic talent they might have and the group, now greatly diminished in number has continued since that time.

Starting with rather formal “Life Studies” with some very interesting and “curious” results the sessions have moved on over the years with a number of different teachers and today our classes are very informal and relaxed with tuition from Sylvie.

We meet on Saturday mornings once a month, except in August and December, in the church hall from 10.00 am until about 12.30.

Artistic skills cover a wide spectrum both of talents, materials and subjects but, without exception everyone’s output has improved and the atmosphere at our monthly sessions is totally nonjudgemental. We are there to relax in a friendly atmosphere and spend a short time each month doing something creative and different from the daily round.

You may well have seen some examples of our efforts in the display which formed part of the 65[th] Anniversary Celebrations in June last year.

We need more to join us however - so why not give it a try. The standard response is “but I can’t

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draw/paint” but that probably is not true and you will very find that you can and enjoy finding that you can. Some materials can be provided if you have none.

Date for the remainder of this year are: - 13[th] April, 1[st] June, 22[nd] June, 20[th] July, 21[st ] September 19[th] October and 23[rd] November. Sessions cost £8.00 or £60.00 for a year.

Please come along and give it a try - first session free of charge!

Rob Dowler & Sue Thornton

Strollers’ Report

It has been a very busy and enjoyable year of walking. We have walked in mid month and at month end throughout 2023 (except December), and the need for fresh air and company continues to bring our members together.

We continued to meet each month during 2023 on the final Saturday (conditions permitting) and on alternate mid weekdays in mid month. This appears to work for most members as many have regular mid week commitments.

Once again, we focused on local walks accessible from public transport, to avoid car use and also to see more of our beautiful locality. But we also visited pastures new and further away such as Morden Park and Highgate. Sometimes the travel becomes part of the adventure! Average walk distance was 5 to 6 miles with the emphasis on routes that suited all abilities.

We received and acted on suggestions for new walks from members, which has resulted in discovering some promising new days out. The coffee and picnic lunch stops have increased the social enjoyment. During the year, the database of members has enlarged and it is good to see some new faces, which are always welcome, and look forward to more adventures in 2024.

Peter de Winton & John Woodley

Uniformed Organisations

It has been such a pleasure for us at Guides, Brownies and Rainbows to have been able to meet over the last year – seeing young people enjoying their activities and each other’s company has been so rewarding. Over the last few terms, we have been working on a series of badges and awards as part of the Guiding programme which has involved activities as diverse as fire-lighting, dancing, cooking and creating. Some of our badge work has focused on sustainability and diversity as we mix a range of activities between traditional Guiding skills such as first aid and map reading with contemporary issues. Some of our Leaders and Rangers represented Guiding at the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall in November acting as ushers and programme sellers.

We have a great group of girls who throw themselves whole-heartedly into everything we do, including our off-site activities which have covered camps, holidays, high ropes, outdoor cooking, and skating. Next term we are running some camps and holidays and hopefully benefiting from the better weather; there’s lots to look forward to!

In September we welcomed a newly formed Rangers group to our Church Hall. They meet every other Wednesday.

Gill Gooding

12

Financial Review for the Year

Stewardship Report

We continue to receive stewardship and donations at our regular services via the contactless system and Open Plate as well as through monthly standing orders. Your generosity enables the PCC to maintain the church services, church buildings and partially meet our obligation to the church of England Common Fund.

In 2023 the total of Stewardship & Open Plate donations amounted to £28,910 (2022; £30,424) and we are able to maximise these donations claiming Gift Aid and GASDS schemes where possible. Stewardship forms for setting up direct debits are available from https://www.st-augustine-of-canterbury-whitton.org/give.

If you wish to contribute by weekly envelopes, please speak to Fr John or one of the churchwardens.

The PCC would like to thank you for your generosity and continued support.

----- Start of picture text -----
Stewardship and Open Plate Giving
----- End of picture text -----

----- Start of picture text -----
62,500
49,336
48,084
50,000 46,744
44,514 44,227
40,054
38,469
37,500
29,880 31,283 30,424
28,910
25,000
12,500
5,033 4,107 5,308 4,578 3,820 4,115 4,129 3,352 4,724 4,494
2,162
'-
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Stewardship Open plate Total
----- End of picture text -----

----- Start of picture text -----
Roubina de Winton
----- End of picture text -----

Treasurer’s Report

Income and endowments

The Total Income for the year was £101,949 (2022; £99,772). Although there was a fall in Stewardship and open plate income to £28,910 (2022; £30,424) attributed to planned giving, Gift Aid £7,686 (2022; £8,809) and Donations to £6,190 (2022; £3,636), the 2% increment was primarily due to an increase in Rental Income for the house on Powder Mill Lane £23,950 (2022; £20,135), supported by better income from investments owing to higher interest rates.

Additional income was realised through fund raising from parking for Rugby Matches and other church events including the successful 65[th] birthday celebration events, totalling £6,509 (2022; £7,192).

Following a brief period of vacancy, a new tenant was secured for the parish house on Powder Mill Lane at an increased rent of £26,400 pa. The rent is due to be reviewed in August 2025. However, the lease can be broken in August 2024.

13

The Church Hall hire agreement by the Nursery which runs till August 2026 continues to provide revenue of £14,500pa. In addition, casual hire for a Zumba class and several one off hires for parties have generated an income of £2,360 (2022; £2,150).

The Telecoms mast on the church tower continues to yield £7,859. Future rents are being negotiated at the Diocese level meaning that this figure is likely to change in future.

Expenditure

Expenditure for the year was £98,607 (2022; £95,713). The primary item of expenditure was a £50,000 contribution to the Common Fund, which has been increased to £53,000 in 2024.

The Church running expenses were £92,773 (2022; £94,276) with the highest expense being Church major repairs of £12,222, which consisted largely of £6,267 on the upgrade to our Audio-Visual system to allow live streaming of services and £5,705 on roof and associated repairs which was required by the quinquennial inspection. Other major costs were, Utilities £6,818 (2022; £6,403), Church Hall maintenance and repairs £2,016 (2022; £1,207) and Insurance £5,207 (2022; £5,130).

Surplus in 2023

The net incoming funds for the year were £3,342 (2022; £4,059) added to which was a gain of £1,022 in investment capital value following year end revaluation. The total funds now stand at £537,426 (2022; £532,057) of which the unrestricted funds balance was £55,723, including the Fabric Fund of £15,090. The Parish House will be revalued at the end of 2024.

The unrestricted funds are held to smooth out cash flow fluctuations and meet emergencies. The Designated Fabric fund is to be used for any major repairs or improvements.

Looking forward to 2024

We anticipate that Voluntary Income will continue to reduce but that income from investments will hold up. We are going to experience increased Utility costs as the existing 3 year fixed deal for gas and electricity ends in July 2024. The budget agreed by the PCC shows a surplus of £4,426 for the year.

Joseph Magona

14

Appendix I

Independent examiner's Report

ndependent examiner's Report Report Report
To the Trustees of St Augustine of Canterbury Church, Whitton
On accounts for the year
ended
31 December 2023		 Charity no 1134957
Set out on pages 2 to 8

Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner

The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Charities Act”) and that an independent examination is needed.

It is my responsibility to:

Basis of independent examiner’s statement

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

Independent examiner's statement

In connection with my examination, no material matters have come to my attention which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:

I 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.

James Parker 16 Cranbrook Drive Twickenham TW2 6HN

1

St Augustine of Canterbury Whitton

Statement of Financial Activities For the year ended 31 December 2023

Note
Income and endowments
Voluntary income
2a
Activities for generating funds
2b
Income from investments
2c
Church activities
2d
Total Income
Expenditure
Church activities
Ministry and church running cost
3a
Missionary and charitable giving
3b
Expenditure on raising funds
3c
Total expenditure
Net income/(expenditure) before
investment gains/losses
Gains/ (Losses) on Investments
4b
Net Movement in Funds
Balances B/Fwd at 1 January 2023
Balances C/Fwd at 31 December 2023		 Unrestricted
General
Fund
Designated
Fabric
Fund
Restricted
Funds
Total Funds
2023
2022
£
£
£
£
£
42,560
226
42,786
44,773
6,509
6,509
7,192
51,683
51,683
46,523
971
971
1,284
101,723
226
-
101,949
99,772
80,551
12,222
92,773
94,276
3,415
3,415
779
2,419
2,419
658
86,385
12,222
-
98,607
95,713
15,338
(11,996)
-
3,342
4,059
(415)
-
1,437
1,022
(3,054)
14,923
(11,996)
1,437
4,364
1,005
25,710
27,086
480,266
533,062
532,057
40,633
15,090
481,703
537,426
533,062

2

St Augustine of Canterbury Whitton

Balance Sheet at 31 December 2023

alance Sheet at 31 December 2023
Note
Fixed Assets
Tangible
4a
Investments
4b
Current Assets
Debtors
7
Deposits
Cash at bank and in hand
Liabilities:
Amounts Falling Due Within One Year
8
Net Assets
Funds
5
Unrestricted including Designated
Restricted
Total Funds		 2023
2022
£
£
465,001
465,001
33,922
32,900
498,923
497,901
3227
1,951
33,006
35,478
6,892
11,485
43,125
48,914
(4,622)
(13,753)
537,426
533,062
55,723
52,796
481,703
480,266
537,426
533,062

Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 19 March 2024 and signed on its behalf by

The Revd. Canon John Kafwanka K(Chairman)

The notes attached form part of these accounts.

3

St Augustine of Canterbury Whitton

Notes to the Financial Statements For the year ended 31 December 2023

1 Accounting Policies

The accounts are prepared under the historical cost convention (except for the valuation of investment assets, which are shown at market value), in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 and Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with FRS 102 (effective 1 January 2015) Charities SORP (FRS102) and the Charities Act 2011.

The charity meets the definition of a public benefit charity.

There are no material uncertainties about the charity’s ability to continue in operation as a going concern.

Funds

The Unrestricted funds are general funds which can be used for PCC ordinary purposes. The Fabric Fund is a Designated fund for major repairs or building improvements to the Church, the Hall and the Parish House.

Income

Planned giving, collections and donations are recognised when received. Gift aid refunds are recognised when the Incoming resource to which they relate are received. Grants and Legacies are accounted for when the PCC is legally entitled to the amounts due. All other Income is accounted for when receivable. All Incoming resources are accounted for gross.

Expenditure

Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over. The diocesan parish share is accounted for when due. All other expenditure Is generally recognised when it Is incurred and is accounted for gross.

Fixed assets

Consecrated and Beneficed property Is excluded from the accounts by s.96(2)(A) of the Charities Act 1993. All expenditure incurred during the year on consecrated or benefice buildings and moveable church furnishings, whether maintenance or improvement, is written off as expenditure In the SOFA and separately disclosed.

Investments

Investments are measured at fair value as at the balance sheet date using the quoted market price. The statement of financial activities includes the net gains and losses arising on revaluation and disposals throughout the year.

4

St Augustine of Canterbury Whitton

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For the year ended 31 December 2023

2 Income and endowments

2a Voluntary Income
Planned Giving: Gift Aid donations
Gift Aid Recovered
Planned Giving: Non Gift Aid donations
Collections (open plate)
Grants
Sundry donations
2b Activities for generating funds
Fund raising
2c Income from investments
Dividends on CBF Investment Fund
Distributions on Charifund (M&G)
CBF Deposit fund interest
Rent on parish house
Rent Church Hall
Rent for phone mast
2d Income from church activities
Fees for weddings and funerals
Total Income and endowments		 Unrestricted
Restricted
Total Funds
Funds
Funds
2023
2022
£
£
£
£
23,026
23,026
23,798
7,686
7,686
8,809
1,390
1,390
1,902
4,494
4,494
4,724
-
-
1,903
6,190
6,190
3,636
42,786
-
42,786
44,773
6,509
-
6.509
7,192
457
457
454
1,026
1,026
996
1,529
1,529
427
23,950
23,950
20,135
16,862
16,652
16,652
7,859
7,859
7,859
51,683
-
51,683
46,523
971
-
971
1,284
101,949
-
101,949
99,772

5

St Augustine of Canterbury Whitton

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For the year ended 31 December 2023

3 Expenditure

3a Ministry and church running cost
London Diocesan Fund
Youth Ministry
Clergy Travel
Church Major Repairs
Upkeep of Churchyard
Gas, Electricity & Water
Director of Music
Insurance
Church Maintenance and Routine Repairs
Hall Maintenance & Routine Repairs
Cleaning
Telephone and Broadband
Printing stationery and office consumables
Subscriptions
Costs of fund raising events
Music licenses and other
IT and other Equipment
Hospitality
Upkeep of Services
Maintenance of musical instruments
Bank Charges
Parish house repairs
Property agent fees

3b Missionary and charitable giving
Overseas:
International Rescue Committee Ukraine
DEC Earthquake Appeal Turkey & Syria
Bishop’s Lent Appeal 2023 – MANNA
ALMA
Home:
Bishop’s Easter Appeal 2022
Leprosy Mission
Crisis at Christmas
Homelink
British Heart Foundation
Princes Alice Hospice
Otakar Kraus Music Trust
SANDS
Poppy Appeal
3c Expenditure on raising funds
Total Church activities		 Total Funds
General
£
Designated
£
2023
£
2022
£
50,000
50,000
295
296
273
122
12,222
9,874
445
6,887
6,818
6,403
1,460
5,559
5,207
5,130
1,403
2,155
2,016
1,207
916
1,101
866
1,023
718
958
791
780
2419
658
471
650
-
555
586
525
943
478
567
312
117
165
3,651
96
3,008
-
Unrestricted Funds
80,551
12,222
92,773
94,276
-
-
188
203
203
-
115
115
-
616
616
-
-
187
-
227
261
261
177
1,055
1,055
-
377
377
-
352
352
-
180
180
-
188
188
-
68
68
-
3,415
-
3,415
779
2,419
-
2,419
658
86,385
12,222
98,607
95,713

6

St Augustine of Canterbury Whitton

Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) For the year ended 31 December 2023

4 Fixed Assets

The property at 60 Powder Mill Lane is revalued at 5 year intervals. The Church Hall which was transferred from Homelink in 2015 is included at a nominal value of £1.

4a Tangible Fixed Assets
Valuation at 1 January 2023
Cumulative depreciation
Valuation at 31 December 2023
4b Investment Fixed Assets
Market Value 1 January 2023
Revaluation adjustment 31 December 2023
Market Value 31 December 2023
5 Analysis of movements by Fund
Unrestricted Funds
General Fund
Fabric Fund
Restricted Funds
Investment Fund
Parish House/ Church Hall fund
Total Funds
6 Analysis of balance sheet by fund
Fixed assets
Current assets
Current liabilities
Total		 Parish House
Church
Hall
Total
£
£
£
465,000
114,369
579,369
(114,368)
(114,368)
465,000
1
465,001
CCLA
CBF Fund
M&G
Charifund
Total
£
£
£
15,265
17,635
32,900
1,437
(415)
1,022
16,702
17,220
33,922
Balance at
January
2023
Net
Resource
Movement
Balance at
31 December
2023
£
£
£
25,710
14,923
40,633
27,086
(11,996)
15,090
52,796
2,927
55,723
15,265
1,437
16,702
465,001
-
465,001
480,266
1437
481,703
533,062
4,364
537,426
Unrestricted
Restricted
Total
£
£
£
17,220
481,703
498,923
43,125
-
43,125
(4,622)
(4,622)
55,723
481,703
537,426

7

St Augustine of Canterbury Whitton

St Augustine of Canterbury Whitton
7 Debtors
Debtors and prepayments
8 Liabilities: Amounts falling due within one year
Deferred income
Accrual of utility and other costs
Notes to
the Financial Statements
For the year
ended 31 December 2023		 2023
2022
£
£
3,227
1,951
1,964
1,964
2,658
11,609
4,622
13,573

9 Related Party Transaction

During the year, the Director of music, a member of the PCC received £1,460 for services rendered.

8