## Church In Wales Yr Eglwys Nghymru The Diocese of Swansea and Brecon The Parish of Llansamlet St John’s, Bircgrove St Samlet’s, Llansamlet St Paul’s, Glais Parochial Church Council Registered charity no. 1135372 Annual Report for the year ending 31[st] December 2022 ## **The Parish of Llansamlet** ## **Parochial Church Council Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2022** ## **Administration Information** The Parish is situated in Swansea within the Area Deanery of Afon Tawe which is part of the Diocese of Swansea and Brecon. The correspondence address is The Vicarage, 61 Church Road, Llansamlet, Swansea, SA7 9RL. The Parish is registered with the Charity Commission from 2010, registered number 1135372. ## **Parochial Church Council (Trustees)** The PCC members who have served from 1 January until the date this report was approved are: Clergy Rev’d Geraint Wathan Rev’d Jimmy Page People’s Warden Mr J Matthewson Vicar’s Warden Mrs S Bowen People’s Sub-Warden Mrs V Usher Mrs K Walters Vicar’s Sub-Warden Mrs J Palmer Secretary Mrs J Palmer Treasurer Mr RJ Winchester Other members of the PCC Mrs E Mathewson Mr N Brister Mrs R Wells Mrs V Mann Mrs J Davies Mrs J Griffiths Mrs S John Mr J Jones Mrs A Rees Mrs M Rees Mr D North Mr J Hughes Mrs K Walters Mr K Thomas Mr T Evans Structure, Governance and Management The Parish is governed according to the Constitution of the Church in Wales, under section 13.1 of the Welsh Churches Act 1914, as amended from time to time by the Governing Body. The PCC is not a body corporate. Its composition, procedures and powers are regulated by the Constitution, which provides that before assuming office, every member must sign a declaration that he or she will be bound by the Constitution. ## **Objectives and activities** The promotion of the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelical, social and ecumenical in the parish. ## **Achievements and performance** Electoral Roll members 135 Easter communicants - 89 Christmas communicants - 97 Regular contributing members 85 ## **Statement of Trustees Responsibities** To comply with the provisions of the Constitution of the Church in Wales. ## **Review of the Year** The proposals in the Diocese to change the method of allocation of Parish Share was brought into effect for this year whereby the Deanery could decide its own apportionment between Parishes of a global amount allocated by the Diocesan Board of Finance and this is causing some uncertainty as to the costs which will be payable in the future by the individual Parishes. The parish has undergone a major work of rejuvenation on St Samlet’s Church, for which the parish reserves have been utilised and one of the properties sold. ## **Public Benefit** The PCC have considered the guidance issued by the Charity Commission and are satisfied that through their community activities and utilisation of church property for community use are providing services to the general public in the Parish of Llansamlet. ## **Advisors** Independent Examiner – To Be confirmed Bankers Solicitors - HSBC plc Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 30[th] April 2022 and signed on its behalf by Rev GD Wathan ## **Introduction to the Report** 2022 was to be the year we got back to normal following the restrictions put in place during the Covid pandemic. By Easter we were able to limit the restrictions and celebrate with great thanksgiving and hope that we may never have to experience such an event again. As we looked to restart many of the activities we would usually have undertaken, we were then faced with the closing of St Samlet’s for the major rejuvenation project that has now been completed. The hope is that this is now the last major works the church buildings will need for a considerable time, and that we can once again focus on the life of the parish and the ways to share the gospel. I hope in this report you will find something of the life of the parish. My thanks go to all who have helped in our parish over the last year and I pray that the next will be a more straight forward time to share the Gospel and with it the love of God. Many Blessings Geraint ## **Warden’s Report** Once again we have had many changes to our Church life. The most part of the last year has seen us move our worship to St. Johns Church, due to the building works being done in St. Samlets. We have to thank David Rooke for his management of this huge project. We now have a warm Church to continue our worship in, and hopefully the works that have been done will enable us to continue worshipping in St Samlets for another 100 years. Despite the move during which After School Club had to be temporarily stopped, foodbank has been able to continue, as has other activities. Links have continued with the foodbanks in the area and with Ysgol Lon las during Advent. We have also been able to continue links with the Salvation Army. We have sadly lost several faithful members of the Parish during the last year, including our organist Glen Crookes. Glen greatly enhanced our worship as a very talented organist. The Community garden has commenced, and Shine Cymru have greatly contributed to this. The young people who have a variety of disabilities are a joy to work with in the garden. Hopefully, more people from the local community will join in this project as it progresses and a link made from the community into the Church and vice versa. Warm hub started initially in St Johns, but has now moved to Llansamlet. We thank those who cover these sessions and those who cook for it. We now need to preserve the future of our Church by continuing to Gather, Grow and Go. Sue Bowen Vicars Warden. ## **St Paul’s Church** The congregation of St.Paul’s Church is small with Sunday attendances varying between five and ten. Despite the distance between St. Paul’s Church in Glais and St. Samlet’s Church in Llansamlet, the congregation aims to contribute, along with that of St. John’s, Birchgrove, to the life of the Parish of Llansamlet and there is, therefore, always a warm and friendly welcome at the various services. ## Worship A Eucharist Service is held on the second and fourth Sunday of each month with all the usual services at Easter, Christmas and on the other important days in the Church calendar. It was a pleasure holding the Christingle Service on Christmas Eve when the Church was filled to capacity. As always, it was good to see so many children there with their parents and, especially, the awe and wonder when the lights were turned off and the Church was lit by candlelight. The donation of tins and dry goods at the Harvest Festival Service was donated to the Clydach Food Bank. ## Community Outreach Due to the closure of St. Samlet’s Church for repairs to the fabric of the building, the Rebecca Barton Dance Academy, which formerly used the hall at the Llansamlet Church for their meetings, has been using the accommodation at St. Paul’s as well as making use of St. John’s Church. Classes in St. Paul’s take place on Sunday mornings at 11 am and other sessions are held as and when required. There is a plan for the Dance Academy to become permanently based in St. Paul’s with the present floor covering (carpet tiles) being replaced with a vinyl floor covering at the Dance Academy’s expense. This will mean a much greater use of the building but such usage will need to be arranged with Church services in mind as the building is, first and foremost, a centre of worship. ## Parish Fundraising No events have been held during this period. ## Fabric of the Building Over many months, a number of problems have been encountered with the building. First and foremost: the fly infestation. This has caused much grief and upset and it was even felt that the Church should close due to the health hazard. However, there was an improvement in October when a contractor was engaged to fumigate the whole building including the loft. The situation has improved but there are plans to fit fly guards over the roof vents to deter further flies from entering but a further fumigation will be needed as fly problems can be stubborn to eradicate. In addition, rainwater enters through the west windows, the hot water boiler in the kitchen does not function, the light switch in the kitchen needs replacing (it is currently taped over as a safety measure), there is a surplus of toys in the storage cupboard which, if removed, will make better use of the cupboard, there are surplus youth club items in a few places taking up space, some of which are in the exit path for the escape door, the boiler house lock needs replacing, the front door lock needs attention, clips need to be fixed to the central heating pipes to secure them to the walls and one of the floodlights in the sanctuary is not working. Recently, a meeting of all worshippers with Vicar Geraint and Father Jim was held to air these problems and to get them logged for action to be taken. There is every hope that action will soon see these problem areas sorted. To keep St Paul’s in line with St. John’s and St. Samlet’s, a request has been made to replace the tired and worn kitchen area. If this is done, then the facilities could be used on various occasions which could raise the profile of the Church in the local area. Thanks We are a small congregation but we all give freely of our time to enable the services to be maintained, and a big thank you is extended to everyone for their commitment in keeping the services going. Your support is greatly appreciated. Thanks are given to Vicar Geraint and to Father Jim whose unfailing support is appreciated by all. It will be a sad occasion when Jim has to leave the Parish to minister elsewhere as a result of the changes being brought about by the Ministry Areas. Thanks, also, are extended to Martin Whatty who now plays the organ at our services. The Passing of Janet North During this year, we said our last goodbyes to a long standing stalwart of the Church. Janet North had been ill for some time but passed away peacefully. Her husband David looked after her during her ill health and we all understood the sadness which he was experiencing. Janet’s funeral was held in St. Paul’s and it was heartwarming to see the Church filled to overflowing with mourners and the respect in which she and David are held in Glais. For many years, Janet was in charge of the bookings for the use of the premises and both she and David over the years were together stalwarts of St. Paul’s. It is good to see David back amongst us and his advice is still much appreciated in Church matters. Another Sad Occasion In September, we said a last goodbye to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. To mark this sad occasion, a book of condolence was made available for those in Glais who wished to record their thoughts at this time. It is a pleasure to report that the book was well received and that many entries were made – possibly the most entries of all three churches in the Parish. ## **St John’s Church** Prior to Covid restrictions finally being lifted in March, Services in St John’s continued through the latter part of 2021, and into January and February 2022. Congregational numbers continued to be recorded, due to the number of infections remaining high. Thankfully by the time Easter had arrived in April, the Services were continuing unrestricted. With the commencement of the Llansamlet Rejuvenation Project in May, St Samlet’s had to be emptied, all essential items packed away and stored. St John’s then transformed into a mini version of St Samlet’s! Firstly, the transfer from one church to another of all the necessary items which would be required to ensure all the services, meetings and group events could continue. Calendars were co-ordinated, keys cut, cupboards filled, additional chairs co-opted from St Paul’s. All this to ensure everyone from the Dance group, Mother and Toddlers, Foodbank, Flower Club, Brownies, Choir, Sunday school and On Call could still be accommodated. These in addition to the Sunday Eucharist Services, Wednesday Eucharist, PCC, and monthly Mothers Union. By September confirmation was received that the work to St Samlets was going to be delayed until early 2023. Undeterred by the news and with a well adopted routine by this time, planning for the forthcoming months ensued. With grateful thanks to the Clergy a Remembrance Service took place at each of our churches and Primrose Park. November turned into December and plans were put in place for providing the Warm Hub on Wednesdays and Thursdays to assist those struggling with the cost of living and energy crisis. A sincere ‘Thank You’ goes to those who very kindly provided and donated food for this venture, (prior to David obtaining funding) and those who gave freely of their time to cover the hours to keep the church open. Despite the uncertainty of how well attended the revised Christmas services would be received, it was pleasantly surprising that the numbers at each of the services exceeded expectation. Even those whom we might only see once or twice per year in St Samlet’s, joined us at St John’s However, confirmation has been received that St Samlet’s will re-open on Sunday 5[th] February. So, it is, with a little sadness everything will now be transported back, and St John’s will revert to becoming its usual calmer and quieter church again. But at least now we know what seemingly impossible results can be achieved in such a small space when the need arises! ## **Mothers’ Union** The Mothers’ Union is a World-Wide Organisation. Our branch meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm in St Samlet’s. Mothers’ Union Prayer Loving Lord, We thank you for your love so freely given to us all. We pray for families around the world. Bless the work of the Mothers’ Union as we share your love through the encouragement, strengthening and support of family life. Empowered by your Spirit, May we be united in prayer and worship and in love and service, reach out as your hands across the world. In Jesus’ name. Amen The theme for 2022 - 2024 was. Transformation - NOW. (many changes are to be made within the next three years) We start the year with the Eucharist and each month we have a variety of interesting speakers. We participate in all projects at Diocesan/Branch level and those set by Mary Sumner House which is the headquarters of Mothers’ Union based in London. As a Branch we help support the Homeless, Women’s Refuge, Away from it all holidays and Faith in Families. Retreat days are organised within the diocese, these are very well attended and this is a good time for peace and reflection. The Wave of Prayer, which is held all around the world at different times, was held in our Parish on Feb 20th. This is a time to reflect and pray for our link branch’s around the world. Our Diocese is linked with Free-state, South Africa, Bondo in Kenya, Offa and Ogbia in Nigeria, Diocese of Argentina and the Diocese of Uraguay. It is inspiring to know that while we are praying for our links there is someone in the world praying for us. The Patron of Mothers’ Union, Queen Elizabeth 11 celebrated her Platinum Jubilee, we marked this by holding an afternoon tea where there was much fun and laughter with singing and flag waving , a lovely afternoon of fellowship. We have much talent within our branch and in November Mrs Elizabeth Stephens entertained us with a flower demonstration which had a Christmas theme. Arrangements made that afternoon were kindly given to us to raffle and auction. Our thanks to Liz for giving her time and talent, with the money made we were able to fund a family to a caravan holiday in Trecco Bay. We ended the year with the favourite Carols and Readings. Mary Summers Personal Prayer All this day O Lord let me touch as many lives as possible for thee, and every life I touch do thou by they spirit quicken, whether through the word I speak, the prayer I breathe or the life I live . Amen. Rachel Wells (Branch Leader) ## **Afternoon Sunday School** When St Samlet’s closed for renovations, the decision was made by the adults involved to halt Afternoon Sunday School, though contact was maintained with all the children who attended. After a great deal of prayer and discussion Rachel Wells and I have decided to end our years of teaching on a Sunday afternoon. We both still retain a firm belief and passion for teaching the gospel to children, but felt it is time for younger adults to take over that responsibility. As you can understand, I am sure, this has not been an easy decision and one that has caused a great deal of heartache. However, changes occur and we look forward to the future in the sure knowledge that we will help and support children whenever we are able to. Thank you generous God for the years of joy, love and contentment you gave us as we have worked over the years to help children know about you and your love. Guide us in the future to work where you call us. Amen. ## **On Call** Birchgrove church has given us a safe and happy haven during the past year as we have enjoyed our time there on a Sunday evening. We met between 4:30 and 6:30, taking with us a limited amount of equipment, but plenty of enthusiasm. There are three older adults and a younger leader and a variety of activities that the children choose and plan themselves. A short period of prayer/teaching starts and ends each session and ideas are discussed. All youngsters at the moment are church linked, but we would welcome all young people in Comprehensive school age range if they wished to join us. We thank you God for the young people in our parish. Help us to love, nurture and guide them through their faith and their daily lives. Amen ## **Pastoral Visiting Group** This group has developed steadily over the past year and is committed and passionate about their roles. Vicar and our curate have been very supportive, and we thank them for this. All our work is discussed and planned with love and prayer so that we are able to reflect God’s love to all. Information and work is very private and confidential and we are working hard to reach as many people as possible. Please support this outreach with your prayers and by informing us of anyone that we can support. Help us loving father to be your hands so that we are able to help your kingdom grow. Amen ## **Morning Sunday School** Sunday School during the morning service restarted this year and we have a core group of loyal regulars, being led be several leaders and helpers that take it in turn to lead. It was a challenge meeting in St john’s behind the curtain, but the children were never less than enthusiastic. It is always amazing to see just how engaging and talented the children are, as well as it being a joy to see how confident they have grown in sharing with the church what they have been doing in Sunday school. My thanks go to all who have helped over the past year and we look forward to the year ahead with hope and expectation Parith Lknnlanl |2DZ2 G￿ra1 Jldrq a Z022 Totsl Year1021 I￿L¥TI￿ RewJjTc￿Rff￿￿ 39.W 65 1.1fj47 1.3￿00 1.4WOO 4.SSI 01 39,667 65 1,29Q 79 23,186 66 1,400 00 64,568 92 *,S29 94 867 75 3,260 20 200 QO 8,618 03 455 75 |Loose Cdkxtb)rn |DonalK |For1115W £xRefirté, VAT Reknd 1Q32 2.43&LYJ 19,393.66 59.W.91 |G￿s |Legacyqifts reCer￿d 5,000 00 2,500 00 6,364 16 3,288 01 11,9Th 00 |Gr 167,479.34 3,7&.00 167,479 34 10,018 00 2,020 00 12,749 72 118,148 25 Gena4led Ir￿￿ 6.T￿ 00 1.03100 12.72173 |Fe8s [w&din￿ & F￿eR￿)& GY oo lrnystmert Irp))me 5.57 338.148.25 Isak of Ir￿￿5trr￿rts TrnfisÈr trcffl EmErgerLy F￿d otf*r Incorn￿¥ Res￿￿e5 Trlal kncorTing Rex*MEe￿RWtr 1￿00 1.355 5.597 QO 1,360 00 4.941.14 s92￿.73 Swrt knr Panth SM Parott￿l E)penyes of C￿r ot￿r SwpDrt Ma￿ternr￿ ofSeThhxs 34.722 93 34,722.93 0.00 44,102.B1 912.44 27 8227 136.64 2.670 40 6.2S9 34 18.7&199 1.824 64 1.4%99 2,670.40 6,475.34 27,310.99 1,824.65 584,569.70 1,847.80 4,200 53 17,613 26 4,360 00 14,176.25 197 25 70.00 Gerora E￿r￿e$ ma￿￿er￿￿r￿ ofChxthes+ Chya Mdffliernrtt ofotherpropoty E￿p￿)rnI oyrdrtwe 216.00 ChwchPro 8.550 fAI 583,M.71 Grarts ard FIMr(*l Sutpor Par6h H01￿1w0r 524 19 524.19 0.00 othEr Res0￿￿ Eyrded"CWal PaY￿rts. Other 601 14 3.101 fAI 3,783.14 0.00 Cost of Uon 745 00 Trarslwsto ot￿1 AttO￿ts Tr*AI Re￿￿EX[mA￿P￿yny￿ts 11.6M .71 Nei in Fw*J$ I 9,$￿ 02 4,157 72 -1Q 300.82 Tthl trmYJMf(•wrd 8.831 74 29.48548 ,725 07 97,045 29 107,346 11 Td¥l Fwth¢*n￿lf￿rtl 10 1&.70 22 T7622 68264.09 I,a)3.01 The Parish Of Llansamlet $L*em￿t of Assets and Liats"lities as at 31 Oecanbw 2022 Total 2022 T¢)tal X121 Cash Cash Balar￿eS |B¥k Ojrrerl Acc, Par(xhia Buildrg ￿ EmerFr Churctyard 0.00 76.352.67 2,074.12 22.776 22 101,203.01 000 7.%0.601 59.725 07J 29 402 48 96.488.151 t￿p￿rt Acco ottsr m￿tary Assets Late RereiFIs Par￿h1￿ Buil¢Jrg a)J Emerger Churctyard 0.00 S57 14 0.00 owl 0.00 o.tK) | 0.00 97,045.29 | 0.00 otL) | 0.00 o.tK) | 0.00 o.ml 101.203.01 97.045.29 | a￿1111 urro￿ Items Par￿h1￿ Buildiru aKJ EMer￿[￿Y | Churctyard Represrled ty Accunulaed FUKI a 1 Jan[￿ry Par(rhi Buildrg ￿ Emerger ChurEtyard 8.834.74 SS.725.07 .485.48 9.456.73 74.￿9.22 23.￿).16 97.045.29 107.346.11 Del￿11 fi Par(xhia Buildrvj ¥K1 EmerGe￿Y Churc ard 1.327. -621. 9.539.02 -15. 874.15 | 6,709.26 6,195. Accunlated FUKI at 31 Decffnber 101.203.01 97.045.29 NOTES Swar6ea aTrY Br￿on Trust martar61 n￿51mer￿S on bets t￿ Parish Pansh owrB tIE pr(pertie5 ktKMn as 20 H￿1 Y CEWn a￿] 306 Llys Sant loan NB church buldiryJs, rts contents arKI IfE Chlrctyard are vested in ItE Reprtsentali* Bojy of Cmrh n waes a)J do fcffli Fert ol the ,a%sests of Parsh