King’s Baptist Church
ANNUAL REPORT 2020
Published April 2021
Proclaiming Jesus Christ in Today’s World!
Message from the Elders
Well, what a year 2020 was! Who would have been able to predict the changes we would have to make as individuals, a Church, a nation and the world? 12 months ago, we thought Zoom was how you made the image larger on your camera, Covid sounded like a covert operation and furlough was a term only used in farming.
Covid-19 has had a dramatic effect on everyone’s lives and we at KBC have and still are, being affected in many ways – both personally and as a fellowship.
As we said in last year’s report – Church life continues as “normal” albeit in many different ways, so it is appropriate and as important as ever, to start with a big thank you. On behalf of the Elders, Deacons and Trustees, we would like to say a big thank you to all the membership and fellowship for your continued support, prayers and encouragement throughout the year.
As ever, there has been an army of people within the fellowship who have made the wheels of Church life continue to turn efficiently – one phrase that has been used time and time again through the year is “Team KBC!” – we have had many activities which have required the teamwork of many to make them happen. The Christmas Carol service, the fellowship ploughman’s meal that followed it, Accelerate on Zoom, Pop up Easter, the outreach articles on Facebook and the Light Stall to name a few, demonstrates that the “team” continue to be as creative and hard at work as ever. There are others we could mention and apologies that space does not allow.
Fellowship during the Coffee & Chat Zoom sessions, the time before and after the Sunday
services all continue to be a great opportunity to learn more about each other – and indeed ourselves. There have been some interesting conversations about people’s lives and their history – it is fascinating what you can learn – what is the saying? “Every day is a school day!” These discoveries about each other sit neatly with the previous words of knowledge about our relationships with each other and also with Him.
We have become adept at having meetings over Zoom and whether we like or loath it as a medium for Church life, it is here to stay in some shape or form for some time to come. As a Church we are extremely fortunate to have been able to upgrade the technology within Church to enhance what we have – this is to allow us to provide good and high-quality streaming of Services from Church. We are now in the latter phases of testing and the efforts of the people involved are evident – some of the initial teething problems are becoming less and less week by week and this future proofs our technology for years to come.
We also recognise the hard work and dedication of the “Return to Church” team (Theo, Joel, Vicky & Matt) who have been looking at how we can safely return to Church once restrictions are eased – we are blessed to have a diligent team whose primary focus is for the safety of our fellowship and following (the ever changing) rules and regulations to allow us to use the Church building as soon as practicable.
The Trustees are very conscious of the desire to be able to meet in Church as soon as possible, but they also have the responsibility to ensure it is safe and legal to do so. It is a difficult balance in discerning what is the best way to accommodate the use of the building, the requirement to be able to still use Zoom for those who are unable to attend Church
(for whatever reason) and have the increased resources required to facilitate all of this. With all these factors comes the additional requirement of being able to provide the relevant support and training – please continue to pray that as we appear to be moving into the next phase of the restrictions being lifted, that the decisions made are robust and honouring to God and that members will volunteer to help share some of the workload.
Our God is a faithful God, and we constantly see His hand on people’s lives. The blessings continue as we see how people are maturing in their walk and their faith in God as He does wonderful things in their lives. We pray for their and our continued growth through these unprecedented times.
Moving forward, we plan for the reopening of Church, to provide strong and challenging teaching sessions, to grow the relationships with each other, develop, support and grow the fellowship to take the Lord into the community. Please pray as we continue to seek God’s face in all that we do in His name that His presence is felt amongst us.
We pray that as we continue to do God’s will for His Church and Community, we remain focussed on serving Him in the Love of Jesus Christ. We still seek His revelation of the new Minister to serve at KBC and we give thanks that through the review of the profiles that we have received, the search team remain unanimous in terms of the decisions that have been made and the qualities of the person they believe God wants to bring into our fellowship.
We give thanks to God for how He has faithfully carried us through the last 12 months and may we take comfort from the words from Galatians 6:9, “Let us not become weary in doing good,
for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” We are in this together, we are team KBC, the harvest is not for our benefit but for the Kingdom of God. Be encouraged that every prayer and act of witness counts. Every person in the fellowship is a silent witness and ambassador for Christ.
Finally, as you will remember, the terms of office for some of the Elders and Deacons were due to come to an end last year (2020) and they all agreed to serve for an additional year due to Covid. Please pray for the positions that come vacant this year and for those who will be nominated and elected at the AGM in April – please pray and support them as they grow into their positions and settle into their responsibilities to serve the Church.
Bless you all for your servant and serving hearts. May God walk close with you today and every day.
Ian Tyler, Keith Turner, Jonny Whitmill and Theo Clark The Elders
Membership Report
During 2020 we received resignations of church Membership from Sharon Cumberbatch and Paul Coombs. Our membership total is now 63. If you are not currently a Church Member but are interested in taking this next step of formal commitment to a local church, please talk to one of the Elders.
Alison Down Church Secretary and Trustee
Pastoral & Ministry
Team Report
Who would have known when we entered 2020, what a year it was going to be as the UK battled
increasing numbers of Covid-19 cases and the whole country went in and out of lockdowns and various tier restrictions in order to safeguard the NHS from becoming overwhelmed. Several church members were working on the front line in various capacities and we thank God for their service.
We give thanks for all on the WhatsApp Prayer Chain. It has become an important source of communication and support as we have not been able to meet one another in person. We now have 44 participants.
A big thank you also goes out to those who have offered Pastoral Support in any form – phone calls made, socially distanced doorstep visits, coffee meet ups and walks, meals and cakes made, lifts to hospital appointments, emergency overnight stays. You know who you are (!) and we all give thanks for you.
As the pandemic developed, we became increasingly thankful for the words of Psalm 91 and also the opportunity to sing the Numbers 6 blessing (‘UK Blessing version’) over one another was very powerful. We do not take Father God’s protection over us for granted, and continue to pray for one another.
In 2020, several friends and loved ones passed away. January 2020 saw us celebrating the life of Barry Grant, Lorna’s husband, who had died in December. Hugh Avery, previously a deacon also died in January. In the Spring, Kevin Roberts’ mother died. In the summer Vicky Tyler said ‘Goodbye’ to her step-mother, Sally, and Difa to her mother. Olwyn Salter lost her brother, and Laura Wheatley her grandad. Clare Kilby’s sister died in the Autumn, as did Heather Lombard’s nan. Jane O’Flanagan also lost her nephew. In December, we were sad to hear of the death of a previous Church Secretary, Brian Lee and also Angela Brown’s nan.
In the Summer, we rejoiced with Jane and Declan O’Flanagan as they celebrated their Silver Wedding Anniversary. Alongside this, over the course of the year, several church members celebrated significant birthdays.
New life always brings celebration. Theo and Angie Clark, Ian and Vicky Tyler, Bob and Hazel King, Geoff and Lesley Fabron and Jane and Christopher Baker all celebrated the birth of new grandchildren in 2020.
Further afield, we were able to bless 200 staff in the ICU at the Lister hospital with goody bags of toiletries, etc. Thank you, Ceri Deards and her team, for organising this.
Please remember in your prayers several church members who are fighting serious illnesses, some life-limiting, and others are becoming increasingly frail.
In line with Data Protection Regulations, personal details in this report have been limited to major life events for the year 2020.
May His favour be upon you, and a thousand generations, and your family and your children and their children, and their children. May His presence go before you, and behind you, and beside you. All around you, and within you He is with you, He is with you In the morning, in the evening. In your coming, and your going In your weeping, and rejoicing He is for you, He is for you. Amen
(Taken from The UK Blessing)
Angie Clark Pastoral Care Deacon
Central Baptist
Association
We have received continued support from the Central Baptist Association (CBA) during the interregnum, initially from Geoff Colmer and more recently from Stephen Copson. As the Church has considered names of possible candidates for a new minister, they have monitored our progress, taken feedback and advised the Settlement Team. We thank them for their support.
Theo and Angie Clark have continued to be involved with the CBA’s Safeguarding Group, led by Stephen Copson. The CBA’s Safeguarding Officer, Joy Cheang, is also part of this group and has been a useful reference point when needed.
With the Covid-19 restrictions, all face-to-face Baptist Union safeguarding training had to cease in March. As a result, no Level 2 (all who work with people who may be at risk) and Level 3 (for leaders, Ministers and Safeguarding leads) accredited training has taken place since March.
The Annual General Meeting took place by Zoom on Saturday 27 June 2020. Theo Clark represented the Church. Geoff Colmer has been elected, and is now President elect of the Baptist Union from the Annual General Meeting in 2021. The Church continues to contribute to the Home Mission Fund, which provides funding for the Baptist Union and for new church developments across the country. The CBA makes decisions about funding local developments, which currently includes Letchworth Community Church, Jackson’s Estate, Letchworth.
Theo Clark Elder and Safeguarding Trustee
Treasurer’s Report
What a year we’ve had in 2020. To create a budget for 2021 I have to go back through the year to help me make informed decisions to identify where we are likely to spend money. I also look at how well I did in predicting the previous budget. Based on a bountiful previous year I expected a slight drop in income and budgeted on a regular giving income of £78,000 plus £11,800 from the Manse giving a total of £89,800 income. Our unratified actual regular giving income for 2020 was £63,285. Only 81% of what we (I) had budgeted. Of course, some of this was because we were unable to meet from the first lockdown. Based on the previous year’s income Loose giving was down 78%. Envelope giving down 40% and Standing Orders down 16%. Although we did get a little more than budgeted from the Manse because my prediction was wrong and we didn’t lose that income in September.
Despite the low income we have made full use of the funds received. As a result of Covid restrictions our use of the church building diminished. This allowed for a number of improvements & repairs to be implemented. We spent over £26,000 on building expenditure (Church & Manse) and around £6,000 on computer equipment. Expenses such as Copyright Licensing and Health and Safety increased as we started to prepare for meeting post outbreak of the pandemic.
Even with the lower than budgeted income and the large expenses the books show that we had a surplus of about £8,144. We have maintained our commitment to mission. Our mission giving was £14,136 which equates to 17.9% of our income. During the Pastoral Vacancy we have been able to increase the funds in the Deposit Account to be about 1 year’s expense budget. However, the note of caution is that should we employ a minister and thus lose the income from the manse there
would be a net difference of about £50,000 (£35K additional expense and £15K loss of income).
Creating a budget is, I believe, one of the hardest parts of being a treasurer. It requires you to consider what the future might hold. As we have seen over the year things can change very quickly and we need to be prepared to change as God prompts us. To make the changes we need to review where we are and where we think God is taking us. As I write this, I am aware that some of you may well be filling in Tax Returns and reviewing your finances over the last year. As you do so I would encourage you to check your Gift Aid status to ensure that you don’t need to change it. (I did have a call from someone during 2020 who realised they were in danger of exceeding their ability to Gift Aid. Thankfully we were able to change their Gift Aid status before they did.) Each April, at the start of the tax year, I take the time to review my personal giving as I complete my tax return for the previous year. Circumstances change often and it’s good to do a review of our own finances at least annually. I encourage you to do the same. Don’t forget to notify the Treasurer of any changes, especially if they involve a change in Gift Aid status.
As I have grown in the treasurer role, I have become increasingly aware of the fact that there is a risk in only one person understanding the day-to-day processes. I was also aware that the Treasurer role could be restrictive to the conscientious Treasurer as they would have to find a replacement before they moved on. It was with this in mind that God prompted me in January 2020 to announce that I would only commit to being treasurer until April 2021. Later in the year I also recommended the creation of a post of assistant treasurer such that if for whatever reason the treasurer became
incapacitated someone could temporarily carry the baton. As I reflect back over the year, I am aware that whilst God had the plan, I was ignorant to it. Little did I know back in January 2020 what lay ahead of me for 2020 and the beginning of 2021. My personal circumstances have changed such that I need to pass on the baton to a new treasurer. I have found the role of treasurer both challenging, enlightening and somewhat satisfying. It doesn’t take an accountant to do it. It takes someone who can interpret accountant speak and then translate it to the language many others can understand. I want to thank those who have encouraged me and given me their support whilst I have held on to the baton. I pray that whoever takes it from me gets your full support and encouragement. I wish you all God’s peace and blessings.
Keith Turner Elder & Treasurer
Sunday Service Themes and the Preaching Rota
We started the year with a short series on Spiritual Warfare before launching into the challenge behind King Solomon's words in 1 Kings 8:27 'Will God really dwell on the earth?' We looked at the Garden, the Tabernacle, the Temple, and Jesus himself before considering the work of God in our hearts today as He dwells in us. In the summer we looked at what it takes to Step out of the Boat and this gave some an opportunity who don't normally preach the chance to do so.
We then went Digging Deep for the treasure that is found when we pray and reflect on God's Word and worship Him. In the autumn we started a series that took us into 2021, with a look at the book of Hebrews, how it helps
us to stand firm on what we believe and not to allow opposition to take us out of the race.
We are very grateful for all who have taken part in our services in 2020. My personal thanks go to Ian Tyler and Jonny Whitmill with whom I have met on occasions to discuss and share with each other the way forward with the subjects we cover on Sunday mornings. We are very blessed with the number of speakers we have from within our own membership, thank you for your help at this time.
To God we give thanks, praise His Name!
Patricia How Outreach Deacon
Worship
So, in last year’s AGM report I finished off by saying 2020 was the year we were going to go digital, however by digital I didn’t mean Zoom and not being able to use the church building, but I guess we have achieved it nonetheless. We have had to very quickly adapt the way we bring worship to all events at KBC in 2020 but as a church we have all come together and shared different experiences which has been great to see. People have recorded stuff themselves, we have had to understand the rules around using worship songs online and towards the end of the year we started coming back into church and doing worship without the congregation. Although a lot had to stop, it has been a very busy time for the worship team as a whole, with new people leading worship on Sunday mornings and lots of new equipment being purchased to help us get back to church. So, what has happened behind the scenes, well a lot really, we have a new PC which is capable of running Zoom, words and YouTube, a new high spec mixing desk, a new amp, too many display screens to count and of course our fancy new cameras
which we are grateful for. Although it has taken some time towards the end of the year, we are finally getting the hang of a larger and revamped PA corner and some shiny new iPads so we can finally start going digital. I would also like to say a special thank you to Matt Wheatley, Ian Tyler and Jonny Whitmill for all the time they have spent in getting the new equipment installed, tested and retested again. Without their help none of this would have been possible and would have taken a lot longer to sort out. I am sure 2021 will still be an odd year for the worship team and church as a whole, however it is great to start getting back into church and seeing how things will progress. We have so many things to look forward to and we will wait with great expectation.
Joel Mitchell
Worship Deacon
King’s Kids
In the last year children's work has been difficult as we haven't been able to meet in person, and Zoom doesn't work so well with really little people!
Helen Backhouse stepped back to take a break for family reasons, and I took on the role in the summer holidays.
In September, together with Ceri and Doug, we have got XLR8 up and running weekly on Zoom. We now have 8 children regularly attending and are planning the spring sessions. We aim to build faith and develop relationships through reading the Bible, worship, praying and talks, plus lots of games and jokes. Lillian has just taken on a youth leader role in the group.
I am aiming to support parents with raising faith in their own children while living under the restrictions, until we are able to meet at church again. To this end
I have distributed Veggie Tales DVDs and pre-school Christian music CDs to parents with little ones, leaflets about 'talking faith' at the dinner table and devotional advent calendars. I am trying to speak to parents regularly and offer support where I can.
Tricia and I gave out activity packs/tracts to young families outside church at Halloween. The remaining packs were given to our church families.
Lillian wrote her own Covid nativity show which we acted out in costume at XLR8, then tweaked and used with adults for the church Zoom nativity service. It was great fun! Please pray for our young people and families. Thank you.
Fran Rolfe, acting as Children’s Ministry Deacon
Accelerate
In March 2020 we decided that we could no longer meet at Church for Accelerate. This was a disappointment for us all but a very necessary course of action to keep everyone safe. Our Youngsters have been inventive and courageous throughout these uncertain times.
For some time, Doug and Ceri had been asking God for another Leader to help us. In September Father God answered our prayers and sent Fran and her family to come alongside and so XLR8 ZOOM was launched!
In March 2020 we were learning about the whole armour of God. When we resumed, we continued to study this practical part of the Bible in Ephesians 6 to equip the Youngsters to stand secure in Jesus. We had several guest speakers who either made videos or made guest appearances. Declan O’Flanagan came, Ian Palmer, Emma Mitchell and Jonny aka A.J. with their dog Zion our star canine. Lillian is now a Junior
Leader and certainly blessed us with her topical and beautifully written Nativity play which we all enjoyed being part of.
Our numbers have increased as the Youngsters have no need to travel to and from Church but can log in in the comfort of their own homes. This has resulted in a wondrous mixture of ages. It is beautiful to see the older members encouraging the younger ones whilst we all grow together as part of the family of God in this place. We stand in amazement as we watch the Youngsters acting as Co-Hosts, sharing their screens, designing graphics, quizzes, brilliantly invented games and of course choosing worship sets, reading from the Bible and leading us all in prayer. We missed seeing everyone at Pancakes and Games but again we still went ahead in our own homes eating pancakes and playing games which the Youngsters had planned and thought-out.
We thank our Father God for His favour on this season of XLR8. We value your prayers for all the Youngsters as they navigate through all the changing pressures they are experiencing. We pray that they will know the strong arms of our Faithful God holding them safe.
Doug and Ceri Deards Fran Rolfe and Lillian Rolfe
Church Premises
We have made the most of the church building not being open over the last year and have got on with updating and refreshing the building for when we can start using it again. Some of the big jobs that have been carried out include:
Rewriting the main church lighting and installing LED lighting throughout. Installing emergency lights, replacing carpets.
Rebuilding the entire PA desk to
enlarge it for the new equipment needed, including cameras and stage alterations. The Foyer has been decorated with new wipe clean notice boards.
The Main office has been reconfigured and tidied up as well as decorated. There is now a data rack in the corner to keep the server and backups all safe.
The metal spire has had some temporary repairs.
I would like to thank everyone for their help with these jobs.
Matt Wheatley Property Deacon
Youth
Over the last year very little has happened with the youth group. We have one youth that is still active in helping other groups that we keep in contact with. We have tried to keep in contact with the other few but get very little response back from them.
Emma Mitchell & Matt Wheatley.
Works of Heart
Our usual craft group has had an interesting year. It has changed and deepened our friendships and helped people open up more. You could say, instead of crafts that are making 'things,' we have been crafting relationships. Due to no meetings in the hall, we put our feelers to see if a Zoom session once a month appealed. The clear answer was a resounding yes. Since then, we have had some great sessions, more chat and supportive moments have occurred. The crafts have been done in a relaxed way and we now have a good element of 'show and tell,' that is both great for inspiration and conversation.
We also have a prayer at the end of each session which everyone seems to welcome. In the midst
of all life is throwing at the moment, God is still leading the way and helping us as a group to keep positive. 'Praise God from whom all Blessings Flow'
Vicky Tyler Welcome & Hospitality Deacon
Arise & Shine
We started 2020 with every intention of continuing Arise and Shine as we had done previously. However, with only January and February meetings done we decided it would be best to stop them in the light of the pandemic.
We very much miss the fellowship all our guests enjoy each month and we hope to resume them as soon as we are able to.
Helen Wightwick, & Patricia How.
Over 50s’
Luncheon Club
The over 50s’ luncheon club met on the second Thursday of each month at The Five Bells, Henlow at 12.15pm for a 12.30pm meal until the dreaded lockdown and then we were not able to meet at all.
When we were able to meet around 15-20 of us gathered together and it was a great time with church members, husbands and friends enjoying each other’s company in an informal setting. It provided an opportunity for Christians and non-Christians to meet together in a way which allows Jesus to be shared over a meal in much the same way He shared with his friends.
We hope that in the near future we will be able to resume this meeting, but until then we wait for God to provide the opportunity for us to meet as we did before.
Many thanks to all of you, who have attended and made it such a special time.
Doug Deards
Men’s Ministry
In February 2020 we enjoyed a curry and film night (The Martian starring Matt Damon was shown – thanks to Ian) and we really appreciated Vicky’s catering!
In early 2020 we also continued with the regular prayer breakfasts at church. However, because of the first lockdown, from April we moved to Zoom breakfasts which have proved popular, with an average of eight to ten attending, and including a short time of worship, a ‘thought for the day’ followed by a meaningful prayer time.
Apart from individual prayer needs there has been a rightful focus on prayers for the nation, those struggling with unemployment or reduced incomes, those with mental health challenges plus wisdom for our leaders and government.
It has been good to have a variety of people involved in leading these events, normally on the third Saturday of the month. We also feel that despite only seeing each other ’on screen’ the sense of caring and sharing has deepened. We do miss our previous regulars and look forward to sharing a meal soon.
Kevin How & Matt Wheatley.
Ladies’ Breakfasts:
Daughters of the King
At the start of 2020 we were meeting as usual in the church building once a month, normally the first Saturday from 08:30 until around 10:00.
Since the Covid-19 lockdown in March we have been meeting via Zoom. I am delighted to report that the group has slowly gathered a wider following and we have steadily grown in number, attracting participants from members and non-members.
We have a time of worship and then open in prayer to pray as we feel led. If you would like to join us anytime, please do let me know. It will be interesting to see where God leads us when we can meet back in the building at some point in the future.
I am grateful for all the ladies who have come along and helped to make this group as special as it is, thank you!
Patricia How Outreach Deacon
Churches Together Stotfold
In March 2020 our Churches Together Stotfold Representatives encouraged the new Chair, Rev Graham Claydon Knights, to convene a special meeting to discuss what the churches could do to help the local community cope with lockdown. We decided, very quickly, that providing a shopping service for those isolated without family support would be useful, and this was up and running by April. It was used quite a lot during the first lockdown and several customers continued to use it as the year progressed, until we decided to pass the responsibility back to Stotfold Good Neighbours at the end of the year. It was a really good example of moving cooperation between the churches to a new level, and we are waiting on God to see what He wants us to do together next.
The challenge facing the Open the Book team, of which Patricia is a member, was to record the drama and then create a video to send
to the schools. We have been doing this now for the remainder of 2020, sending six different videos per term to St. Mary’s, Roecroft and both Fairfield Schools.
Following this trail-blazing video work, the OTB team were asked to consider if they could create a Holiday Club using Facebook. We chose a theme of The Five Senses and created a 15-20 minute video for each of the five days. We created a team consisting of Steve Hardman and Graham Clarke, both from St. Mary’s, along with Fran Rolfe, Lillian Rolfe, Nathan Rolfe, Pauline Wade with Patricia How in the role of co-ordinator. The videos were then uploaded to a closed Facebook page in August where the children and parents could watch them at a time to suit them. We received very favourable comments following this.
Helen Wightwick & Patricia How Churches Together Stotfold Representatives.
Balancing the Yoke
A very unique year for us all, our BTY Balancing the Yoke was no exception!
Thanks to tech savvy members we continued to meet via Zoom on a monthly basis throughout the year, with a few off us that were not shielding having some social distanced get together over the summer months between lockdowns. We have continued to Share, Declare, Pray and support one another in each of our unique situations, struggles and victories, mountain tops and Valleys. Our private members group WhatsApp has been a great immediate way of lifting our shields of prayer over each other, our husbands and our families, with incredible results, instant in some cases. We have learnt to step into the God given authority of Christ and his
faithful promises to us. We have been so encouraged by our church family support and prayers and a new member who recently joined us within our fellowship. We thank God for 2020-2021 and all his faithfulness, protection and wisdom and trust Him in the year ahead to strengthen us in Standing in the Gap for our husbands and family members, asking him to Preserve their lives and Reveal himself in Power.
Thank you, dear family, for standing with us all in Prayer & Love.
Jane O’Flanagan & Heather Chalmers
Fair Trade
King’s Baptist Church made the commitment to being a Fairtrade registered Church many years ago now, during the time when Philip Amos was the Minister. One of the implications of this registration is that the Church promised to only use fairly traded products where possible but specifically tea, coffee and sugar.
During the last year we have been unable to meet in person in the Church building to share refreshments. However, the principles of Fairtrade are very much applicable to individuals and families, not just the Church. Many products are freely available in all the major supermarkets. Just this week, I bought some Easter flowers for a friend and they were fairly traded. Look out for the familiar logo.
Please talk to me if you would like to know more, or would be willing to assist me with promoting Fairtrade. When livelihoods and lives have been affected and
stricken world-wide during the Corona virus pandemic, it is even more important that we support Fairtrade where possible.
Thank you.
Jane Baker
CIS Report
When last year’s report on the ministry of Christian Initiative to Schools (CIS) was written, the Covid-19 Pandemic was still in it’s infancy. We were at that point still involved in running regular lunch-time clubs each week and also taking assemblies. A month later and the country was in Lockdown.
With schools only open for the children of key workers and those who were vulnerable, the work that CIS was involved in went on hold, including the cancellation of the Easter and Christmas Journeys at St. Paul’s. When would we be able to return to working with children and young people in assemblies, lessons, lunchtime clubs and within the area of pastoral care and chaplaincy, as well as supporting staff? Obviously, there were a lot of unknowns, so for that first part of Lockdown I found myself finally completing the SPACE Mat Resource, a resource that CIS had borrowed from the St. Albans Education Project, better known as STEP, a number of times in previous years. This hands-on resource enables pupils to look at the relationship they have in 4 specific areas; relationship with themselves, their community, the world and with God. Guided via audio tracks (there is no teacher/leader input at all), pupils have an opportunity to take some space to think about these areas of their lives.
Here are some responses from pupils who have taken part from Etonbury Academy:
‘SPACE made me realise how lucky I am. The identity zone made me think about who I am.’ ‘SPACE made me feel relaxed and comfortable. The spirit station was my favourite because I could relate to it in many ways and it wasn’t just thinking but doing stuff as well.’
‘SPACE made me feel a bit more chilled out. The God station was my favourite because it told me I could be forgiven.’
‘SPACE made me think about God and how he influences people in the world. It made me so grateful for what I have and made me think people wanted me! The spirit zone was my favourite area because the plasma balls made a good example for God.’
We’re looking forward to rolling this out in schools as soon as restrictions are finally lifted. After the completion of SPACE, it was a case of asking, what now? At that point not all pupils were back within the school environment. Home schooling continued to be the norm for most pupils.
The Summer term is normally the It’s Your Move term, but this year CIS were only able to deliver the books to the schools. Unfortunately, we were unable to do any presentations in any of the Junior Schools with Year 6 pupils, which was a big disappointment.
The Summer break arrived with many uncertainties concerning what would happen in September. Would schools reopen as normal and would visitors be able to return to work in them? September arrives and the answer from most schools was ‘No.’ Visitors were still unable to go in. However, recorded or virtual assemblies would be appreciated. I then went on a steep learning curve on how to film and edit assemblies. Having recorded a sermon for New Life
Church in Letchworth during August and edited it, I began the process of learning these new skills. Although it takes longer to do it has meant that CIS now has a library of recorded assemblies to send to schools on various themes. One of the first ones created was around the theme of Accepting of our Differences/Tolerance for Etonbury Academy which was very positively received by staff and pupils, as were the ones on Remembrance and Christmas.
Other schools use the Zoom or Microsoft Teams platforms. Although it means the assembly is ‘live’ and pupils’ faces are visible on the screen at the beginning, it is very hard to gauge how they’re responding, particularly when your screen is being shared and the only image is that of the person speaking. However, assemblies are going out in whatever format and the Good News of Jesus is still being proclaimed. Amidst all the restrictions that are in place I have been able to maintain good relationships with schools that CIS has regular involvement in. As a ministry we are longing for the day when we can once more be physically present in them and to be the witness to Jesus that we are called to be. Thank you for your continued prayerful and practical support for the work of Christian Initiative in Schools.
Christopher Baker Schools Worker Christian Initiative to Schools
The Need Project
Another amazing unexpected all together bizarre year for the Project. How did we do? Well, due to lockdown our staffing was a major issue limiting numbers and distancing and all the other things that came along with the virus, it
made it very difficult to operate but it was also necessary for us to be safe. The team did and are still doing an amazing job just keeping up with demand and an increase in further demand of our service every month. We continue to get great support from many sources for example schools, supermarkets, churches, temples other Foodbanks and so so many individual people whose kindness and support truly humbles me.
We started a best before give away session at the centre in Stotfold which has been so successful and made it possible for us to reach out to the community and help those who are struggling a little and get to know and become friends with them at this time of uncertainty.
Sometimes it’s nice just to chat outside the centre masked up at a distance because people need to and want to chat.
Lockdown this year has been so difficult, so frustrating and frankly at times I’ve found it mind numbing but we have to be safe and I do thank all the people who gave guidance and advise on working and Covid safe practices. We have been doing parcels and Christmas hampers for well over 12 years now but this Christmas it was off the scale!!
Christmas is always very busy and every year we learn a bit more and tweak how we do things. It has changed a little each year but this year we had to start again, which I have to say pushed me beyond normal and I genuinely had to seek spiritual guidance for my frustrations from an outside source and spent time locked in prayer...
BUT....THANKFULLY...
It worked out brilliantly and my attitude was changed and I would love to say we breezed it but we didn’t. We had so many issues to deal with but God was front and centre and got us through it.
Our figures for December speak for themselves:
Normal food parcels for December = 196. Christmas hampers = 907.
Christmas gifts with a value of between £5 and £40: Over £2,400.
Supermarket food vouchers: £2,400. Funding parties and presents at two Women’s Refuges in our area. Truly unbelievable. THANK YOU JESUS!
Two years ago we averaged 117 parcels a month. In 2020 it was 297 and rising. If I wasn’t totally confident in God’s favour on this project, I would be so much more fearful of the future. To say I’m not worried would be untrue but this I do know: God has blessed us in so many ways and continues to show us favour beyond question and for that I will praise Him at all times.
Please pray as we seek guidance for our future. It is a very exciting time to be in a servant ministry. As we seek to serve, He will bring to us those who we are to serve, we just need to be available.
Praise God always.
Gordon Hamilton Project Leader
Welcome &
Hospitality
As I write this report, I have a heart filled with love and admiration. My usual tasks have been made 'redundant' for now but that's fine. This unusual season has brought out love and care in an expressive way from our fellowship, that has shown a whole new Hospitable heart. As a result, people from the community and church 'family' have been blessed. Cakes have been baked in vast quantities. Flowers have been given. Hearts, conversations and even tears have been shared. Angels have
walked the streets, literally and metaphorically :-) Shopping and errands galore. Food, gifts and so much more have been donated and distributed for so many. Even our Christmas Meal was a triumph over circumstances and made a Special event even more Special. The ploughman's meal 'take away' was wonderful. Finally, Thank-you is such an inadequate word but I pray all who have done anything BIG or SMALL that you will receive my heartfelt thanks. May we move forward in the 'full assurance' of Faith and keep showing our 'Heart Lights,' clear and bright.
Vicky Tyler Welcome & Hospitality Deacon
Outreach Report
I felt like a rabbit caught in the headlights when the Covid-19 lockdown stopped everything I was working on! It took me a while to catch my breath before thinking and praying as to how we could reach out at this strange time. On a personal note, I started delivering for The Need Project, taking leftover perishables out into the community and to our local care home. Other avenues opened up with Churches Together, see the separate report covering this.
It's interesting to think about this retrospectively as there became a strong link between outreach and pastoral care. We all seemed to be keen to look out for each other as we were looking out for those in our community; a natural outreach if you like. This is much the best way to share the good news!
The encouragement continues, but on a practical note I started to work out how to make videos! My first real attempt was for our Pentecost Praise at the end of May in which over twenty people contributed recordings from which I made a video to show at our morning service on 31 May. We included cake ingredients in order to 'share' a church Cake and we
also shared our opinions of the Holy Spirit. Not quite what I was expecting when I booked The Green for a 2020 outreach event, but I know God won't waste anything. A big thank you to all involved!
We did a Halloween give-away in October and this resulted in some timely conversations outside church. Thanks to Fran and Lillian we were able to give away several goodie bags and share some love.
Fran, Lillian and Nathan were super kind and supportive when they offered to prayer walk with me during my ‘Christmas Blessings’ walk around Stotfold dressed as an angel. I had several conversations, looks of amazement, a bit of heckling too but a lot of laughter and smiles. It was important to let people know that we wanted to bless them and remind them that Christmas is a time to remember God's love come down to us.
Outreach is both individual and corporate. 2020 has been a bit low on the corporate outreach but I feel sure that our individual contributions will bear fruit at some point in the future.
Patricia How Outreach Deacon
Safeguarding Report
At the Church Meeting in January we announced that there would be Safeguarding training, which took place on Monday 9 March. However, we were not to know that within days, a new disease, a coronavirus called Covid-19, would affect society in such a dramatic way!
As a result, all the normal Church activities planned for 2020 had to be drastically changed, with Zoom being used as the online media used for Sunday services, Prayer Meetings, Weeks of Prayer, children’s activities, leaders’ meetings, Church Meetings and
other events. We moved from lockdown, school shutdowns, “catch it, kill it, bin it,” food boxes for those isolating (“Boris boxes”), loosening of restrictions to wearing masks to Tiers and again a lockdown and school closures. Gone were meetings with family and friends, hugs, handshakes and touch in any form and in came social distancing and restrictions on the numbers of people able to meet and where they could do so.
The Baptist Union trainers have not been able to provide face to face training sessions during the Covid-19 period mid-March to December 2020, although an online version will be available in 2021.
Only one situation has been brought to our attention during 2020, This did not require further action.
Safeguarding issues did not go away. It may have changed and become hidden behind closed doors and some types of abuse reduced because of lack of opportunity. However, in other areas the risks have seriously increased, particularly online and within the home.
Theo Clark Safeguarding Trustee Angie Clark Designated Person
AGM Reports for 2020
Published April 2021
01462 730521
office@kingsbaptistchurch.co.uk kingsbaptistchurch.co.uk charity number 1136519 King’s Baptist Church
Stotfold
SG5 4AN
King's Baptist Church
The Green, Stotfold
Registered Charity number: 1136519
Accounts for the Year Ended 31[st] December 2020
King's Baptist Church
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Contents and Church Information
| Contents | Page | |
|---|---|---|
| Report of the Trustees | 1 and 2 | |
| Independent Examiner's Report | 3 | |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 4 | |
| Balance Sheet | 5 | |
| Notes to the Accounts | 6 to 12 | |
| Trustees | Theo Clark | |
| Alison Down | ||
| Ian Tyler | ||
| Keith Turner | ||
| Jonathan Whitmill | ||
| Minister | Vacancy | |
| Address | The Green | |
| Stotfold | ||
| SG5 4AN | ||
| Charity Registration Number | 1136519 | |
| Independent Examiner | Geoff Mann FCIE | |
| Geoff Mann Limited | ||
| Dee House | ||
| Highworth Avenue | ||
| Cambridge | ||
| CB4 2BQ | ||
| Bankers | Barclays | |
| Custodian Trustee | Baptist Union Corporation Ltd |
Page 1
King's Baptist Church
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Report of the Trustees
The trustees present their report and the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020.
The accounts comply with 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 (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)
Statement of Trustees' Responsibilities
Charity law requires the trustees to prepare accounts for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Church and of the surplus or deficit of the Church for that year.
In preparing those accounts, the trustees are required to:
-
(i) Select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently.
-
(ii) Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent.
-
(iii) Prepare the accounts on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Church will continue in business.
-
(iv) Observe the methods and principals of the Charities SORP.
The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time, the financial position of the Church and to enable them to ensure that the accounts comply with the Charities Act 2011.
They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Church and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
The trustees confirm that they have referred to the guidance contained in the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit when reviewing the charity's aims and objectives and in planning future activities.
Structure, Governance and Management
Governing document
The Church's governing document is a constitution adopted on 29 April 2010. It was registered as a charity on 22 June 2010.
Appointment of trustees
New trustees are appointed by the membership and require 66% of eligible voters present.
Page 2
King's Baptist Church
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Report of the Trustees
Trustee induction and training
The trustees are currently reviewing the procedures in place for trustee induction and training by reference to guidance published by the Charity Commission.
Organisational structure
The trustees set out the general policy of the Church. The day to day affairs of the charity are run by the minister (or in the absence of a minister the trustees).
Objects and Activities
The principal purpose of the Church is the advancement of the Christian faith according to the principles of the Baptist denomination. The Church may also advance education and carry out other charitable purposes in the United Kingdom and/or other parts of the world.
Achievements and Performance, Financial Review and Future Developments
These are covered by the Church's Annual Report.
This report was approved by the trustees on 08 April 2021 and signed on their behalf.
Keith Turner Trustee
King's Baptist Church
Page 3
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Independent Examiner's Report
To the Trustees of King's Baptist Church
I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Church for the year ended 31 December 2020, which are set out on pages 4 to 11.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the Church'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 Church'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
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me any cause to believe that in any material respect:
-
accounting records were not kept in respect of the Church as required by section 130 of the Act; or
-
the accounts do not accord with those records; or
-
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.
Geoff Mann FCIE Geoff Mann Limited Dee House Highworth Avenue Cambridge CB4 2BQ
Page 4
King's Baptist Church
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Statement of Financial Activities
| 2020 | 2019 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General | Designated | Restricted | Endowment | Total | Total | ||
| Funds | Funds | Funds | Funds | Funds | Funds | ||
| Notes | £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Income | |||||||
| Giving by Church Members and Visitors | 51,197 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 51,197 | 66,622 | |
| Gift Aid Tax Recoverable | 12,089 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 12,089 | 15,159 | |
| Investment Income | 159 | 0 | 0 | 66 | 225 | 572 | |
| Manse Rent Receivable | 15,600 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 15,600 | 15,600 | |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ||
| Total Income | 1 | 79,045 | 0 | 0 | 66 | 79,111 | 97,953 |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ||
| Expenditure | |||||||
| Charitable Expenditure | |||||||
| Ministry Costs | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| Church running costs | 53,166 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 53,166 | 46,753 | |
| Outreach | 1,722 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1,722 | 1,051 | |
| Pastoral and training | 1,902 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1,902 | 7,389 | |
| Grants to Missionary Organisations | 3 | 0 | 14,136 | 0 | 0 | 14,136 | 15,486 |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ||
| Total Expenditure | 2 | 56,790 | 14,136 | 0 | 0 | 70,926 | 70,679 |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ||
| Net Income/(Expenditure) | 22,255 | -14,136 | 0 | 66 | 8,185 | 27,274 | |
| Transfers Between Funds | -14,111 | 14,136 | -25 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ||
| Net Movement in Funds for the Year | 8,144 | 0 | -25 | 66 | 8,185 | 27,274 | |
| Reconciliation of Funds | |||||||
| Total Funds Brought Forward | 131,690 | 0 | 470 | 710,082 | 842,242 | 814,968 | |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ||
| Total Funds Carried Forward | 139,834 | 0 | 445 | 710,148 | 850,427 | 842,242 | |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- |
Statement of Total Recognised Gains and Losses
There were no recognised gains or losses for 2020 or 2019 other than those included in the Statement of Financial Activities
King's Baptist Church
Page 5
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Balance Sheet
| 2020 | 2019 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Notes | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Fixed Assets | |||||
| Tangible assets | 5 | 709,718 | 702,929 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Total Fixed Assets | 709,718 | 702,929 | |||
| Current Assets | |||||
| Debtors | 6 | 13,670 | 17,115 | ||
| Cash at bank and in hand | 128,040 | 123,205 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Total Current Assets | 141,710 | 140,320 | |||
| Liabilities | |||||
| Creditors: amounts falling due | |||||
| within one year | 7 | 1,001 | 1,007 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Net Current Assets | 140,709 | 139,313 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Net Assets | 850,427 | 842,242 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| The Funds of the Church | |||||
| General Funds | 139,834 | 131,690 | |||
| Designated Funds | 8 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Restricted Funds | 9 | 445 | 470 | ||
| Endowment Funds | 10 | 710,148 | 710,082 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Total Charity Funds | 850,427 | 842,242 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- |
The accounts were approved by the trustees on 08 April 2021 and signed on their behalf.
Keith Turner Trustee
King's Baptist Church
Page 6
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Notes to the Accounts
1 Accounting Policies
(a) Basis of Preparation of Accounts
The accounts have been prepared in accordance with 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 (FRS 102) (Effective 1 January 2019) - (Charities SORP (FRS 102)), the financial reporting standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011.
King's Baptist Church meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy note(s).
The trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the charity's ability to continue as a going concern.
The trustees do not consider that there are any sources of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next reporting period.
(b) Income
Giving by Church Members and Visitors and Gift Aid Tax Recoverable are accounted for when receivable.
Investment income is included in the accounts in the year in which it becomes payable.
(c) Expenditure
Includes all expenditure incurred in pursuing the charity's objectives, other than that which has been capitalised.
(d) Fixed Assets
Freehold land and buildings
The Manse and the Church building are included in the accounts at trustees' valuations which are reviewed annually.
Furniture and fittings, storage equipment and electronic equipment
Prior to January 2009 all assets were written off on purchase. The policy since then is to only capitalise those items with a value over £1,000
King's Baptist Church
Page 7
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Notes to the Accounts
(e) Depreciation
Freehold land and buildings
No provision has been made as the assets are included at a valuation which is reviewed annually.
Furniture, fittings and storage equipment 10% straight line basis Electronic equipment 20% straight line basis
(f) Debtors
Trade debtors and other debtors are recognised at their settlement amount due after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discount due.
(g) Creditors and Provisions
Creditors and provisions are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due.
(h) Fund Accounting
Unrestricted funds are available to spend on activities that further any of the purposes of the charity. Designated funds are unrestricted funds of the charity which the trustees have decided at their discretion to set aside to use for a specific purpose. Restricted funds are donations which the donor has specified are to be solely used for particular areas of the charity's work or for specific projects being undertaken by the charity. Endowment funds exist where there is a capital fund with no power to convert the capital into income.
(i) Going Concern
The trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern.
The trustees do not consider that there are any sources of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next reporting period.
Page 8
King's Baptist Church
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Notes to the Accounts
| 2 | Expenditure | Notes | 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | ||||
| Ministry Costs | Gross salaries | 0 | 0 | ||
| Pension costs | 0 | 0 | |||
| Other | 0 | 0 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| 0 | 0 | ||||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Church Running Costs | Building maintenance | 26,654 | 32,082 | ||
| Computer hardware and software | 5,987 | 1,462 | |||
| Depreciation | 2,803 | 2,549 | |||
| Equipment (below £1,000) | 831 | 35 | |||
| Gas, electricity and water | 3,591 | 2,630 | |||
| Independent examination | 540 | 528 | |||
| Insurance | 2,246 | 2,171 | |||
| Membership, health and safety | 5,202 | 586 | |||
| Miscellaneous running costs | 1,783 | 2,053 | |||
| Printing, postage and stationery | 2,567 | 1,870 | |||
| Telephone and internet | 962 | 737 | |||
| Travel | 0 | 50 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| 53,166 | 46,753 | ||||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Outreach | 1,722 | 1,051 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Pastoral and training | 1,902 | 7,389 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Grants to Missionary Organisations | 3 | 14,136 | 15,486 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Total Expenditure | 70,926 | 70,679 |
King's Baptist Church
Page 9
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Notes to the Accounts
| 3 | Grants to Missionary Organisations | 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |||
| Institution | Purpose | |||
| Air Ambulance | 0 | 100 | ||
| Baptist Union Home Mission | Church Support in the UK | 2,748 | 2,748 | |
| Bible Bookshop | 600 | 900 | ||
| BF Harvest Gift | 0 | 0 | ||
| BMS World Mission | World Evangelism | 2,748 | 2,748 | |
| Christian Aid | 700 | 0 | ||
| Christian Initiative to Schools | North Herts Christian | |||
| Education in Schools | 2,900 | 2,400 | ||
| Christian Institute | 180 | 180 | ||
| Compassion | 0 | 500 | ||
| KCC | 0 | 1,000 | ||
| Matthew Dear | China | 0 | 500 | |
| Need Project (separate charity in 2017) | 4,200 | 4,200 | ||
| Tear Fund | 0 | 150 | ||
| UCB | 60 | 60 | ||
| ----------- |
----------- | |||
| 14,136 | 15,486 | |||
| ----------- |
----------- |
4 Staff Costs
None of the trustees received any remuneration in respect of their role as a trustee, nor did they receive any expenses.
| The staff costs were: | 2020 | 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Wages and salaries | 0 | 0 |
| Other pension costs | 0 | 0 |
| ----------- |
----------- | |
| 0 | 0 | |
| ----------- |
----------- |
The average weekly number of staff employed by the charity during the year was 0 (2019 - 0)
Page 10
King's Baptist Church
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Notes to the Accounts
| 5 | Fixed Assets | Freehold land | Furniture | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| and buildings | etc | ||||
| £ | £ | £ | |||
| Cost | Balance at 01.01.20 | 690,000 | 21,585 | 711,585 | |
| Additions | 0 | 9,592 | 9,592 | ||
| Disposals | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |||
| Balance at 31.12.20 | 690,000 | 31,177 | 721,177 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |||
| Depreciation | Balance at 01.01.20 | 0 | 8,656 | 8,656 | |
| Depeciation | 0 | 2,803 | 2,803 | ||
| Disposals | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |||
| Balance at 31.12.20 | 0 | 11,459 | 11,459 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |||
| Net Book Value | At 31.12.20 | 690,000 | 19,718 | 709,718 | |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |||
| At 01.01.20 | 690,000 | 12,929 | 702,929 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |||
| 6 | Debtors: Due within one year | 2020 | 2019 | ||
| £ | £ | ||||
| Income tax recoverable | 11,863 | 15,915 | |||
| Prepayments | 1,807 | 1,200 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| 13,670 | 17,115 | ||||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| 7 | Creditors: Due within one year | 2020 | 2019 | ||
| £ | £ | ||||
| Accruals | 1,001 | 1,007 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| 1,001 | 1,007 | ||||
| ----------- | ----------- |
King's Baptist Church
Page 11
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Notes to the Accounts
| 8 | Designated Funds | Brought | Income | Expenditure | Transfers | Carried |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forward | Forward | |||||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | ||
| Mission | 0 | 0 | 14,136 | 14,136 | 0 | |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ||
| 0 | 0 | 14,136 | 14,136 | 0 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ||
| Mission | The Church sets aside a | minimum of | 10% of its General | |||
| Fund receipts for mission purposes. The Church makes | ||||||
| grants to other organisations whose charitable objectives | ||||||
| complement its work. |
| Restricted Funds | Brought | Income | Expenditure | Transfers | Carried |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forward | Forward | ||||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| New Building | 400 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 400 |
| Pre-school | 45 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 45 |
| College | 25 | 0 | 0 | -25 | 0 |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |
| 470 | 0 | 0 | -25 | 445 | |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |
| New Building | Provision of | a larger church building | |||
| Pre-school | Pre-school club | ||||
| College | Provision of | ministry training |
9 Restricted Funds
10
Endowment Funds
Manse Church
| Brought | Income | Expenditure | Transfers | Carried |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forward | Forward | |||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ |
| 310,082 | 66 | 0 | 0 | 310,148 |
| 400,000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 400,000 |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- |
| 710,082 | 66 | 0 | 0 | 710,148 |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- |
Manse Provision of accommodation for minister Church Place of worship
King's Baptist Church
Page 12
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Notes to the Accounts
11 Analysis of Net Assets Between Funds
| General | Designated | Restricted | Endowment | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Funds | Funds | Funds | Funds | Funds | |
| £ | £ | £ | |||
| Tangible assets | 19,718 | 0 | 0 | 690,000 | 709,718 |
| Net current assets | 120,116 | 0 | 445 | 20,148 | 140,709 |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |
| Net assets | 139,834 | 0 | 445 | 710,148 | 850,427 |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- |
King's Baptist Church
The Green, Stotfold
Registered Charity number: 1136519
Accounts for the Year Ended 31[st] December 2020
King's Baptist Church
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Contents and Church Information
| Contents | Page | |
|---|---|---|
| Report of the Trustees | 1 and 2 | |
| Independent Examiner's Report | 3 | |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 4 | |
| Balance Sheet | 5 | |
| Notes to the Accounts | 6 to 12 | |
| Trustees | Theo Clark | |
| Alison Down | ||
| Ian Tyler | ||
| Keith Turner | ||
| Jonathan Whitmill | ||
| Minister | Vacancy | |
| Address | The Green | |
| Stotfold | ||
| SG5 4AN | ||
| Charity Registration Number | 1136519 | |
| Independent Examiner | Geoff Mann FCIE | |
| Geoff Mann Limited | ||
| Dee House | ||
| Highworth Avenue | ||
| Cambridge | ||
| CB4 2BQ | ||
| Bankers | Barclays | |
| Custodian Trustee | Baptist Union Corporation Ltd |
Page 1
King's Baptist Church
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Report of the Trustees
The trustees present their report and the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020.
The accounts comply with 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 (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019)
Statement of Trustees' Responsibilities
Charity law requires the trustees to prepare accounts for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Church and of the surplus or deficit of the Church for that year.
In preparing those accounts, the trustees are required to:
-
(i) Select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently.
-
(ii) Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent.
-
(iii) Prepare the accounts on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Church will continue in business.
-
(iv) Observe the methods and principals of the Charities SORP.
The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time, the financial position of the Church and to enable them to ensure that the accounts comply with the Charities Act 2011.
They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Church and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
The trustees confirm that they have referred to the guidance contained in the Charity Commission's general guidance on public benefit when reviewing the charity's aims and objectives and in planning future activities.
Structure, Governance and Management
Governing document
The Church's governing document is a constitution adopted on 29 April 2010. It was registered as a charity on 22 June 2010.
Appointment of trustees
New trustees are appointed by the membership and require 66% of eligible voters present.
Page 2
King's Baptist Church
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Report of the Trustees
Trustee induction and training
The trustees are currently reviewing the procedures in place for trustee induction and training by reference to guidance published by the Charity Commission.
Organisational structure
The trustees set out the general policy of the Church. The day to day affairs of the charity are run by the minister (or in the absence of a minister the trustees).
Objects and Activities
The principal purpose of the Church is the advancement of the Christian faith according to the principles of the Baptist denomination. The Church may also advance education and carry out other charitable purposes in the United Kingdom and/or other parts of the world.
Achievements and Performance, Financial Review and Future Developments
These are covered by the Church's Annual Report.
This report was approved by the trustees on 08 April 2021 and signed on their behalf.
Keith Turner Trustee
King's Baptist Church
Page 3
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Independent Examiner's Report
To the Trustees of King's Baptist Church
I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Church for the year ended 31 December 2020, which are set out on pages 4 to 11.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the Church'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 Church'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
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me any cause to believe that in any material respect:
-
accounting records were not kept in respect of the Church as required by section 130 of the Act; or
-
the accounts do not accord with those records; or
-
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.
Geoff Mann FCIE Geoff Mann Limited Dee House Highworth Avenue Cambridge CB4 2BQ
Page 4
King's Baptist Church
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Statement of Financial Activities
| 2020 | 2019 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| General | Designated | Restricted | Endowment | Total | Total | ||
| Funds | Funds | Funds | Funds | Funds | Funds | ||
| Notes | £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Income | |||||||
| Giving by Church Members and Visitors | 51,197 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 51,197 | 66,622 | |
| Gift Aid Tax Recoverable | 12,089 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 12,089 | 15,159 | |
| Investment Income | 159 | 0 | 0 | 66 | 225 | 572 | |
| Manse Rent Receivable | 15,600 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 15,600 | 15,600 | |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ||
| Total Income | 1 | 79,045 | 0 | 0 | 66 | 79,111 | 97,953 |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ||
| Expenditure | |||||||
| Charitable Expenditure | |||||||
| Ministry Costs | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| Church running costs | 53,166 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 53,166 | 46,753 | |
| Outreach | 1,722 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1,722 | 1,051 | |
| Pastoral and training | 1,902 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1,902 | 7,389 | |
| Grants to Missionary Organisations | 3 | 0 | 14,136 | 0 | 0 | 14,136 | 15,486 |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ||
| Total Expenditure | 2 | 56,790 | 14,136 | 0 | 0 | 70,926 | 70,679 |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ||
| Net Income/(Expenditure) | 22,255 | -14,136 | 0 | 66 | 8,185 | 27,274 | |
| Transfers Between Funds | -14,111 | 14,136 | -25 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ||
| Net Movement in Funds for the Year | 8,144 | 0 | -25 | 66 | 8,185 | 27,274 | |
| Reconciliation of Funds | |||||||
| Total Funds Brought Forward | 131,690 | 0 | 470 | 710,082 | 842,242 | 814,968 | |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ||
| Total Funds Carried Forward | 139,834 | 0 | 445 | 710,148 | 850,427 | 842,242 | |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- |
Statement of Total Recognised Gains and Losses
There were no recognised gains or losses for 2020 or 2019 other than those included in the Statement of Financial Activities
King's Baptist Church
Page 5
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Balance Sheet
| 2020 | 2019 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Notes | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Fixed Assets | |||||
| Tangible assets | 5 | 709,718 | 702,929 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Total Fixed Assets | 709,718 | 702,929 | |||
| Current Assets | |||||
| Debtors | 6 | 13,670 | 17,115 | ||
| Cash at bank and in hand | 128,040 | 123,205 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Total Current Assets | 141,710 | 140,320 | |||
| Liabilities | |||||
| Creditors: amounts falling due | |||||
| within one year | 7 | 1,001 | 1,007 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Net Current Assets | 140,709 | 139,313 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Net Assets | 850,427 | 842,242 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| The Funds of the Church | |||||
| General Funds | 139,834 | 131,690 | |||
| Designated Funds | 8 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Restricted Funds | 9 | 445 | 470 | ||
| Endowment Funds | 10 | 710,148 | 710,082 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Total Charity Funds | 850,427 | 842,242 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- |
The accounts were approved by the trustees on 08 April 2021 and signed on their behalf.
Keith Turner Trustee
King's Baptist Church
Page 6
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Notes to the Accounts
1 Accounting Policies
(a) Basis of Preparation of Accounts
The accounts have been prepared in accordance with 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 (FRS 102) (Effective 1 January 2019) - (Charities SORP (FRS 102)), the financial reporting standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) and the Charities Act 2011.
King's Baptist Church meets the definition of a public benefit entity under FRS 102. Assets and liabilities are initially recognised at historical cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant accounting policy note(s).
The trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the charity's ability to continue as a going concern.
The trustees do not consider that there are any sources of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next reporting period.
(b) Income
Giving by Church Members and Visitors and Gift Aid Tax Recoverable are accounted for when receivable.
Investment income is included in the accounts in the year in which it becomes payable.
(c) Expenditure
Includes all expenditure incurred in pursuing the charity's objectives, other than that which has been capitalised.
(d) Fixed Assets
Freehold land and buildings
The Manse and the Church building are included in the accounts at trustees' valuations which are reviewed annually.
Furniture and fittings, storage equipment and electronic equipment
Prior to January 2009 all assets were written off on purchase. The policy since then is to only capitalise those items with a value over £1,000
King's Baptist Church
Page 7
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Notes to the Accounts
(e) Depreciation
Freehold land and buildings
No provision has been made as the assets are included at a valuation which is reviewed annually.
Furniture, fittings and storage equipment 10% straight line basis Electronic equipment 20% straight line basis
(f) Debtors
Trade debtors and other debtors are recognised at their settlement amount due after any trade discount offered. Prepayments are valued at the amount prepaid net of any trade discount due.
(g) Creditors and Provisions
Creditors and provisions are recognised where the charity has a present obligation resulting from a past event that will probably result in the transfer of funds to a third party and the amount due to settle the obligation can be measured or estimated reliably. Creditors and provisions are normally recognised at their settlement amount after allowing for any trade discounts due.
(h) Fund Accounting
Unrestricted funds are available to spend on activities that further any of the purposes of the charity. Designated funds are unrestricted funds of the charity which the trustees have decided at their discretion to set aside to use for a specific purpose. Restricted funds are donations which the donor has specified are to be solely used for particular areas of the charity's work or for specific projects being undertaken by the charity. Endowment funds exist where there is a capital fund with no power to convert the capital into income.
(i) Going Concern
The trustees consider that there are no material uncertainties about the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern.
The trustees do not consider that there are any sources of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next reporting period.
Page 8
King's Baptist Church
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Notes to the Accounts
| 2 | Expenditure | Notes | 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | ||||
| Ministry Costs | Gross salaries | 0 | 0 | ||
| Pension costs | 0 | 0 | |||
| Other | 0 | 0 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| 0 | 0 | ||||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Church Running Costs | Building maintenance | 26,654 | 32,082 | ||
| Computer hardware and software | 5,987 | 1,462 | |||
| Depreciation | 2,803 | 2,549 | |||
| Equipment (below £1,000) | 831 | 35 | |||
| Gas, electricity and water | 3,591 | 2,630 | |||
| Independent examination | 540 | 528 | |||
| Insurance | 2,246 | 2,171 | |||
| Membership, health and safety | 5,202 | 586 | |||
| Miscellaneous running costs | 1,783 | 2,053 | |||
| Printing, postage and stationery | 2,567 | 1,870 | |||
| Telephone and internet | 962 | 737 | |||
| Travel | 0 | 50 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| 53,166 | 46,753 | ||||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Outreach | 1,722 | 1,051 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Pastoral and training | 1,902 | 7,389 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Grants to Missionary Organisations | 3 | 14,136 | 15,486 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| Total Expenditure | 70,926 | 70,679 |
King's Baptist Church
Page 9
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Notes to the Accounts
| 3 | Grants to Missionary Organisations | 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |||
| Institution | Purpose | |||
| Air Ambulance | 0 | 100 | ||
| Baptist Union Home Mission | Church Support in the UK | 2,748 | 2,748 | |
| Bible Bookshop | 600 | 900 | ||
| BF Harvest Gift | 0 | 0 | ||
| BMS World Mission | World Evangelism | 2,748 | 2,748 | |
| Christian Aid | 700 | 0 | ||
| Christian Initiative to Schools | North Herts Christian | |||
| Education in Schools | 2,900 | 2,400 | ||
| Christian Institute | 180 | 180 | ||
| Compassion | 0 | 500 | ||
| KCC | 0 | 1,000 | ||
| Matthew Dear | China | 0 | 500 | |
| Need Project (separate charity in 2017) | 4,200 | 4,200 | ||
| Tear Fund | 0 | 150 | ||
| UCB | 60 | 60 | ||
| ----------- |
----------- | |||
| 14,136 | 15,486 | |||
| ----------- |
----------- |
4 Staff Costs
None of the trustees received any remuneration in respect of their role as a trustee, nor did they receive any expenses.
| The staff costs were: | 2020 | 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | |
| Wages and salaries | 0 | 0 |
| Other pension costs | 0 | 0 |
| ----------- |
----------- | |
| 0 | 0 | |
| ----------- |
----------- |
The average weekly number of staff employed by the charity during the year was 0 (2019 - 0)
Page 10
King's Baptist Church
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Notes to the Accounts
| 5 | Fixed Assets | Freehold land | Furniture | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| and buildings | etc | ||||
| £ | £ | £ | |||
| Cost | Balance at 01.01.20 | 690,000 | 21,585 | 711,585 | |
| Additions | 0 | 9,592 | 9,592 | ||
| Disposals | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |||
| Balance at 31.12.20 | 690,000 | 31,177 | 721,177 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |||
| Depreciation | Balance at 01.01.20 | 0 | 8,656 | 8,656 | |
| Depeciation | 0 | 2,803 | 2,803 | ||
| Disposals | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |||
| Balance at 31.12.20 | 0 | 11,459 | 11,459 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |||
| Net Book Value | At 31.12.20 | 690,000 | 19,718 | 709,718 | |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |||
| At 01.01.20 | 690,000 | 12,929 | 702,929 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |||
| 6 | Debtors: Due within one year | 2020 | 2019 | ||
| £ | £ | ||||
| Income tax recoverable | 11,863 | 15,915 | |||
| Prepayments | 1,807 | 1,200 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| 13,670 | 17,115 | ||||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| 7 | Creditors: Due within one year | 2020 | 2019 | ||
| £ | £ | ||||
| Accruals | 1,001 | 1,007 | |||
| ----------- | ----------- | ||||
| 1,001 | 1,007 | ||||
| ----------- | ----------- |
King's Baptist Church
Page 11
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Notes to the Accounts
| 8 | Designated Funds | Brought | Income | Expenditure | Transfers | Carried |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forward | Forward | |||||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | ||
| Mission | 0 | 0 | 14,136 | 14,136 | 0 | |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ||
| 0 | 0 | 14,136 | 14,136 | 0 | ||
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ||
| Mission | The Church sets aside a | minimum of | 10% of its General | |||
| Fund receipts for mission purposes. The Church makes | ||||||
| grants to other organisations whose charitable objectives | ||||||
| complement its work. |
| Restricted Funds | Brought | Income | Expenditure | Transfers | Carried |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forward | Forward | ||||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| New Building | 400 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 400 |
| Pre-school | 45 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 45 |
| College | 25 | 0 | 0 | -25 | 0 |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |
| 470 | 0 | 0 | -25 | 445 | |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |
| New Building | Provision of | a larger church building | |||
| Pre-school | Pre-school club | ||||
| College | Provision of | ministry training |
9 Restricted Funds
10
Endowment Funds
Manse Church
| Brought | Income | Expenditure | Transfers | Carried |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forward | Forward | |||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ |
| 310,082 | 66 | 0 | 0 | 310,148 |
| 400,000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 400,000 |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- |
| 710,082 | 66 | 0 | 0 | 710,148 |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- |
Manse Provision of accommodation for minister Church Place of worship
King's Baptist Church
Page 12
Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020
Notes to the Accounts
11 Analysis of Net Assets Between Funds
| General | Designated | Restricted | Endowment | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Funds | Funds | Funds | Funds | Funds | |
| £ | £ | £ | |||
| Tangible assets | 19,718 | 0 | 0 | 690,000 | 709,718 |
| Net current assets | 120,116 | 0 | 445 | 20,148 | 140,709 |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | |
| Net assets | 139,834 | 0 | 445 | 710,148 | 850,427 |
| ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- | ----------- |