2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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St. Michaels Church, Galmington.
St Michael’s – bringing the presence of Christ to all. The Parochial Church Council of St Michael’s, Galmington, Taunton
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2024
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ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT
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Year Ended 31 December 2023
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Charity Number 1137270
St Michael’s Church, Galmington,
Taunton TA1 4TP
2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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St. Michaels
Church,
Galmington.
----- End of picture text -----
Legal Objects
St Michael the Archangel is part of the Diocese of Bath and Wells within the Church of England. The correspondence address is Pitts Close, Galmington, Taunton, TA1 4TP. The PCC is a body corporate (PCC Powers Measure 1956, Church Representation Rules 2011) and a charity currently registered with the Charity Commission.
St Michael’s is a registered charity and observes the Church Representational Rules 2020.
Strategic Report
Aims and Objectives
St. Michaels Parochial Church Council (PCC) has the responsibility of cooperating with the Church Wardens (incumbent when not in vacancy), in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish, the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. The PCC is also specifically responsible for the maintenance of the Church of St. Michael the Archangel, Pitts Close, Galmington, Taunton. TA1 4TP.
The PCC is committed to enabling as many people as possible to worship at our church and to become part of our parish community at St Michael’s. Our services and worship put faith into practice through prayer and scripture, music and sacrament.
Through other activities we aim to reach the needs of other groups in the community to fulfil our mission statement and bring others into the presence of Christ. Our outreach has continued to be restricted by the impact of covid, particularly in terms of School liaison, however this has led to new ways of engaging with the wider student body and community on things such as the window nativities and continued zoom worship.
Mission and Evangelism
We have many links with mission at home and overseas including:
-
Bishop Henderson Chaplaincy
-
Open Door
-
Children’s Society
-
Children’s Hospice SW
-
A Rocha
-
Royal British Legion
-
Food Bank
-
Water Aid
-
Christian Aid
-
Mind
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2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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St. Michaels
Church,
Galmington.
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Vicar’s Report
At the tail end of 2023, I set myself a challenge of converting a bright blue, Ex British Gas Van, into an Off Grid Camper. Off Grid, not because I’m trying to be cool; but because part of my challenge was that it needed to be relatively inexpensive. I bought the van in November, having sold a car in September. There was no intention to buy it, but it just came up. There was always an intention to convert another van, just not yet. But there it was. Sometimes that is just how things work. They just turn up. When you are not looking.
Then there was a hiatus. Momentum stopped. Yes, winter set in, it was warmer inside. But more importantly. I took myself, down wrong path. A friend suggested I bought some materials for soundproofing the van, from Temu , she thought they were excellent.
I knew what I wanted to get, but I succumbed to pressure.
They were not good.
I knew what I wanted, but to encourage a friend, I left my path. And that was the beginning of the end, until April 10th. (Even though, Michelle had bought me the bits I was looking for, for Christmas.
I learned in this, courage of convictions, don’t be swayed by the confident pitch from someone who doesn’t have to do the thing that you are doing!
So I stripped the van and on April 10, laid the first bits of sound proofing. Now it’s nearly finished, with, a bit of a plana nd a lot of grit, the help of friends and family, a couple of ‘People of peace’, those who have no reason nor obligation to support a venture, but do anyway. I will employ the expertise of David Garrod, before I formally lay this project to rest; but onwards and Upwards, Summer is coming and the van is ready for the road.
Although that really became my 2024 project, we at an annual meeting have the privilege of reflecting on projects occurring in 2023, though we know that all tears genuinely overlap.
So, What in 2023, turned up?
What waylaid us?
Who are our people of peace?
and are we ready for the road?
What turned up?
2023, started with a bang, and we had our first Burn’s Night Bash. A Ceilidh, supported by some of our hall users (now friends to St Micheal’s Beverly and Roger Tapper). They volunteered their time and enegies as, su chef and dance caller, and help sorted out a band. Here are some People of Peace.
2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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St. Michaels Church, Galmington.
We had a blast (literally, as Marcus piped in the Haggis), although the food ran out (an issue rectified this year). Linda from Open Table Addressed the Haggis.
It was an important event, as it felt like different aspects of church and community were gathering in one place. And this in many ways has continued. With different folks taking on different roles in activities run by the church.
In a way, we started 2023 as we meant to go on, our life at St Michael’s has continued to be enriched by our wider network of friends and community, alongside various Church Members.
The year, in a way, began to progress, but in a way, normally. As such, as I write this, I grappled with the idea, that we, like me with the van, may have just stopped. But I know that not to be true. We forget (well, I forget) until forced to recall, that it was only a month before Burn’s Night, that we had had our first (since lockdown of 2020) school nativity services.
I thought that maybe early 2023 was a hiatus, in momentum. I truly believe that we were just working out what next.
Our Church community was continuing to change and grow, we were beginning to see some old faces return. Newer members from the previous year, began to share their skills and talents and time, and that is evident in many ways, both on rotas and in gatherings. I thank all those who serve at the refreshment hatch, our welcomers and sidespersons, our prayer team, Bible Readers, Prayer ministers, those on the sound deak. And I thank Gill for keeping those rota’s going for us.
Ann, as we know from her sermon last week, continues to keep our preaching rota going. We know that we are blessed here by both Ann and Marcus, as our Readers. They bring such different things, and I am grateful for the knowledge that they impart.
Pam Garrod too, as she has ably enabled and supported our Thursday Communion.
Marcus too, for that which he does with the children on Sundays; and also significantly with our toddler group. Ably supported by Liz in the Kitchen and until Christina, another person of peace.
Our kitchen team for Mikey’s and other events has grown, with both members of St Michaels and friends from outside partaking. We thank Heather for her co-ordination of Mikey’s and her team for all they do, acknowledging that she was conscious to the end of Martin’s imminent Operation, and all that might come with that. We give thanks also for Ann and her team for seeing another year of coffee mornings through.
Pat and John (supported by Juliet) have maintained a Wednesday Hub throughout 2023. This became The Warm Hub in November, Its membership, is now regularly 19 or so people.
In December we began a Community meal. This was attended regularly by between 20 and 30 people. And was run by Anne Brennan, a friend from the community and member of St George’s Roman Catholic Church. And catered for by Ann, Mollie Floyd, Susan, Pat and myself. Along side this Martha, Nick and Isla (year 10’s from Castle), helped cook and serve food and entertain the children! These too, People of Peace.
These two ventures and indeed many others were aided by an EDF grant.
2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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----- Start of picture text -----
St. Michaels
Church,
Galmington.
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And Warm Space funding.
Those who get on and maintain our building. Not getting distracted by immaterial stuff. David and Merv; Pam, Roger, Janice, Margaret as they clean regularly, Chris, Martin, Roger, Nick, Merv and John as they continue to mow the lawn. And all those who maintain the garden, Barbara, you too. Thank you for creating for us a lush environment.
Open Table continues, as an alternative worship; led by members of St Mike’s and others. We have folk gathering for this act of worship, regularly from Yeovil. Some have travelled from Exeter, Bristol, and even Plymouth, to join with us. (We hold before God, at this time Zahari who leads our worship and has been in hospital, just home last week since December).
This, along with St Thomas, Orthodox church, who gather now on the second Saturday of each month.
And Cornerstone Church, who meet on Sunday Afternoons.
Many of our much older members, who are still at home, are supported on a regular basis through members of the church. Today we remember: Hannah, Sue, Headly, Gloria, Roy, Ann, Betty.
We continue to work with Comeytrowe Under Fives, Parkfield, Bishops Henderson, and have considered during the year how we may further work with these groups. Including an attempt at creating a Student Chaplain Team, this didn’t work quite as planned. But it’s time to try again.
Pam and Rog, as ever have enabled joy and growth through so many seasonal displays. Conversation has flowed and the community been enlivened.
And we have a new Homegroup.
Susan, has continued to keep an office running, despite our frequent printer issues throwing us off track.
She also keeps our accounts in order. Something we need to be mindful of. Thank you Susan.
Linda and Carol support her with banking tasks and Christian giving scheme.
And again Clive Raisey, requires thanks as our auditor.
Then to our wardens; Bob and Pat. They again have been stalwarts.
Pat has been conscientious and present, throughout the week, but also diligent of support of those troubled and in need in this place. If someone needs an ear. She is there.
2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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St. Michaels
Church,
Galmington.
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Bob, has been diligent in paper work, legal admin, managing stuff, and keeping the vicar topped up with whisky. This he has done now for 8 years, and that is too much for anyone.
He worked with Colin, through testing times and vacancy, during covid. And he has requested now that he relinquish this mantle.
He will stay on as Safeguarding Officer, a roll, I am grateful for his wisdom and compassion in.
But as for the rest it is time to stop.
We are grateful, and we hope you enjoy a little less worry this coming year. We have a wee gift to say thank you… Also to replenish the stocks that the vicar drank!
Pat and Bob have been supported by Juliet and John (as deputies). This year John too will step down. We thank him particularly for notices and prayers during Pat’s period of incapacitation.
We haven’t filled the second roll of Warden.
We were stopped abruptly, yet more hiatus, to mourn the deaths of a number of our members and some people in our community, in 2023. But also energised and invigorated by the tales of their lives and the memory they left for us.
We remember now:
-
Tony Evans
-
Gill Schouler
-
Ray Yorke
-
Dave Bryant
-
Margaret Shattock
-
Chris Hudson
-
Sue Collins
-
Hilary Smith
-
Rachael Blundell
-
Joy Jenner
-
Terry Willis
-
Daisy Board
It’s an APCM, as such we aren’t allowed to talk about the future. It’s Trinity today, as such we reflect on the Icon of Rublev’s. On the screen. Remember The Three.
Here is the 4[th] wall. Here we sit.
They have their staffs, ready for the road.
St. Michaels 2020 Report and Accounts for the Church, Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington Galmington.
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The van is ready for a journey, not quite and entirely sorted, but ready for the road, all the same.
We too are ready as a church, for the next part of our journey. Whatever befalls us. Not quite sorted, but ready for the road, all the same. We can walk over that hill, past the tower, around the next bend, knowing that we walk in the company of the three.
Their company, our company, will sustain us, and all who find their way here, again, another year.
Many thanks.
Financial Review
The audited 2023 St Michael’s accounts show similiar incoming resources compared to 2022.
| 2022. | ||
|---|---|---|
| Incoming Resources | 2023 | 2022 |
| 84,871 | 84,380 |
However, it should be noted that a Warm Spaces grant of £7900 was received at the end of the year with little expenditure against it.
Expenses fell in 2023 compared to 2022
| Resources Expended | 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| 81,597 | 93,251 |
The fall in expenditure is largely due to the £9.8K being spent on roof repairs in the previous year.
The PCC is aware of the financial challenges facing St Michael’s Church over the medium term. Although there was a £3.8K fall in voluntary income, an additional ££2.8K was raised by activities to generate funds.
The overall balance carried forward was £68,729 compared to £65,455 in 2020.
Reserves Policy
It Is the PCC policy to maintain a balance of unrestricted funds that equates to 4 months of day-to-day running costs. This equates to £28,000 and is covered by the balance in Kingdom Bank.
Money on deposit with the Lloyds account is sufficient to cover fluctuations in the average monthly spending.
2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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St. Michaels
Church,
Galmington.
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Structure, Governance and Management
St Michael’s Church appoints Parochial Church Council (PCC) members in accordance with the Church Representational Rules. The PCC is chaired by our Vicar, and attended by the Church Wardens, the Lay Readers, and the Church Administrator in addition to the PCC representatives elected by the membership. All those who attend our services are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll.
The PCC members are responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern to the parish, including how the funds of the PCC are to be spent. The PCC met six times during the year.
The PCC has identified areas of responsibility to several sub-groups, and considers the groups’ advice when making decisions:
-
Church Management Team (CMT): This group is convened under the Church Representational Rules as a standing committee of the PCC. This groups meets more frequently than the full PCC and has delegated authority to make day-to-day decisions concerning the church building and activities.
-
Building Utilisation Group (BUG): The PCC appointed this group to oversee building issues, particularly the need for work on the roof and the heating system.
-
The Ministry Action Team (MAT): This group maintains an oversight of worship throughout the parish and ensures that our services put faith into practice through prayer, scripture, music and sacrament.
-
Pastoral Care Team (PCT): This group addresses the special and individual needs of the parish.
-
Social Activities: The PCC appoints members throughout the year to organise social and fund-raising activities.
Trustees’ Responsibilities
The elected members of the PCC are the Trustees of St Michael’s Church. They are responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern and importance to the parish including deciding on how the funds of the PCC are to be spent. The full PCC meets six times during the year. Given its wide responsibilities the PCC from time to time will appoint sub-groups or action teams with defined levels of decision making. All of these groups are responsible to the PCC and report back at each PCC meeting with minutes of any decisions taken, and recommendations for the PCC to act on areas outside the specific remit of the appointed group.
Administrative Details
St Michael’s Church is situated in Pitts Close, Galmington, TA1 4TP. It is part of the Diocese of Bath and Wells within the Church of England. The correspondence address is Pitts Close, Galmington, Taunton, TA1 4TP. The PCC is a body corporate (PCC Powers Measure 1956, Church Representation Rules 2011) and a charity currently registered with the Charity Commission.
Current PCC members are:
2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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St. Michaels
Church,
Galmington.
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Ex-officio
Rev Justine Richards, Vicar of Galmington Mr Bob Nicholls, (CW) Mrs Pat Vittery (CW)
Licensed Lay Reader
Mrs Ann Goddard
Deanery Synod Representatives
Mr Andy George Mr John Vittery
Treasurer and Secretary: Mrs Susan Kaufman
Elected Representatives
| cte | d Representatives | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Mr. Roger Bailey | 2022-2025 |
| 2. | Ms. Rachel Reeder | 2020-2023 |
| 3. | Mrs. Mollie Floyd | 2021-2024 |
| 4. | Mrs. Christine Lindsay | 2021-2024 |
| 5. | Mrs. Fran Bromley | 2021-2024 |
| 6. | Chris George | 2022-2025 |
| 7. | Marcus Jones | 2023-2026 |
Church Management Team
Rev Justine Richards, Mr Bob Nicholls, Mrs Pat Vittery (retired Feb 2023), Mrs Susan Kaufman, Mrs Ann Goddard (retired Feb 2023)
Sides people:
Juliet Willey Wendy Webber Ann Watson Jenny Moore Gill Bryan Fran Bromley Rachel Reeder Christine Musgrave Pauline Meakin Jan Horton Sue Silcox
Ministry Action Team (MAT)
Ann Goddard, Pam Garrod, Grace Mainstone, Marcus Jones.
Pastoral Care
Pam Bailey, Ann Goddard, Kay George, Christine Barnes, Rev Justine Richards, Janice Hewton, Pat Whitworth, Heather Bray (Coordinator).
2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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St. Michaels
Church,
Galmington.
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Building Utilisation Group (BUG)
Roger Bailey, Pam Bailey, Bob Nicholls, Nick Blundell, David Garrod, John Vittery.
Electoral Roll Officer Ms. Rachel Reeder.
Signed on behalf of the PCC,
Rev Justine Richards Vicar of Galmington
Parochial Church Council of St Michael's, Galmington, Taunton
Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31st December 2023
| Notes INCOMING RESOURCES Voluntary income 2(a) Activities for generating funds 2(b) Income from investments 2( c) Church activities 2 (d) TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES RESOURCES EXPENDED Charitable activities 3(a) Cost of generating voluntary income 3(b) TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED NET INCOMING RESOURCES NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS BALANCES B/FWD 1stJANUARY BALANCES C/FWD 31stDECEMBER |
2023 Unrestricted Restricted Total Funds Funds |
2022 Total |
|---|---|---|
| 45672 8871 54543 15689 15689 412 412 14227 14227 |
50425 12882 34 21039 |
|
| 76000 8871 84871 |
84380 | |
| 80336 1089 81425 172 172 |
93251 0 |
|
| 80508 1089 81597 |
93251 | |
| -4508 7782 3274 -4508 7782 3274 |
-8871 -8871 |
|
| 64461 994 65455 59953 8776 68729 |
74326 65455 |
page 1
Parochial Church Council of St Michael's, Galmington, Taunton
Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2023
| Notes FIXED ASSETS Tangible 5 CURRENT ASSETS Debtors 6 Cash at bank and in hand LIABILITIES Current Liabilities Amounts falling due within one year 7 NET CURRENT ASSETS TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES TOTAL NET ASSETS PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL FUNDS Unrestricted 8 Restricted 8 |
2023 Unrestricted Restricted Total Funds Funds Funds |
2022 Total Funds |
|---|---|---|
| 0 0 |
0 | |
| 8964 8964 50807 8776 59583 |
18457 47174 |
|
| 59771 8776 68547 |
65631 | |
| 322 322 |
205 | |
| 322 322 59449 8776 68225 |
205 65456 |
|
| 59449 8776 68225 |
65456 | |
| 59449 8776 68225 |
65456 | |
| 59953 59953 8776 8776 |
64461 994 |
|
| 59953 8776 68729 |
65455 |
Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 2024 and signed on its behalf by
, (Chair)
The notes on pages 3 to 6 form part of these accounts.
page 2
Notes continued
| 2. INCOMING RESOURCES 2.(a) Voluntary Income Planned giving - Collections, donations and other giving Collections for Specific Funds Income tax recovered 2.(b)Activities for generating funds Events, coffee mornings Income from utilities 2.(c) Income from investments Bank Interest 2.(d) Income from church activities Hall lettings Fees Other income - legacies and grants Total incoming resources 3. RESOURCES EXPENDED 3. (a) Church activities Mission and evangelism Parish share Clergy expenses Church running expenses Major repairs Administration costs Cost of church activities Specific fund expenditure Publicity 3. (b) Cost of generating voluntary income Fund-raising costs TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED |
2023 Unrestricted Restricted Total Funds Funds Funds |
2022 Total Funds |
|---|---|---|
| 25990 25990 11924 11924 8871 8871 7758 7758 |
29066 11782 994 8583 |
|
| 45672 8871 54543 |
50425 | |
| 13051 13051 2638 2638 |
10303 2579 |
|
| 15689 15689 412 412 |
12882 34 |
|
| 10901 10901 1826 1826 1500 1500 |
13740 1691 5608 |
|
| 14227 14227 |
21039 | |
| 76000 8871 84871 |
84380 | |
| 194 194 51502 51502 2653 2653 8633 8633 12300 12300 4805 4805 1089 1089 249 249 |
3253 50497 2154 8936 9216 12166 3843 1990 341 |
|
| 80336 1089 81425 |
92396 | |
| 172 172 |
855 | |
| 80508 1089 81597 |
93251 |
page 4
4. STAFF COSTS
An administrator was employed, part-time, at a cost of £9608 (2022 £9270). No employee benefits were paid to key management personnel in this or the preceding year.
| 5. FIXED ASSETS Tangible At Cost Piano At 1st January 2023 3701 Additions - At 31st December 2023 3701 Depreciation At 1st January 2023 3701 Charge for the year - At 31st December 2023 3701 Net book value at 31 December 2023 0 Net book value at 31 December 2022 0 6. DEBTORS (UNRESTRICTED FUNDS) Tax recoverable Other debtors Payments in advance 7. Creditors Amounts falling due in one year Unrestricted funds |
Piano | Total |
|---|---|---|
| 3701 - |
3701 - |
|
| 3701 | 3701 | |
| 3701 - |
3701 | |
| 3701 | 3701 | |
| 0 | 0 | |
| 0 | 0 | |
| 2023 2022 |
||
| 7758 7232 7045 1206 4210 |
||
| 8964 18487 |
||
| 2023 2022 |
||
| 322 205 |
| 8. Movement of funds General funds Reserve fund Opening Balance Surpus/deficit for the year Emergencies fund Lighting fund Roof fund Total general funds |
Balance b/fwd Income Expenditure Balance c/fwd |
|---|---|
| 63695 4834 58861 0 0 766 766 326 326 |
|
| 64461 326 4834 59953 |
page 5
Movement of funds continued
| Restricted funds - home Warm spaces Open Door Childrens Society Childrens Hospice A Rocha Royal British Legion Food Bank Mind Restricted funds - overseas Water Aid Christian Aid Leprosy Earthquake appeal Total Restricted Funds Summary of all funds |
Balance b/fwd Income Expenditure Balance c/fwd |
|---|---|
| 0 7900 204 7696 109 115 109 115 109 109 0 137 137 0 108 115 108 115 204 132 204 132 0 70 70 109 114 223 |
|
| 776 8446 871 8351 0 115 115 109 109 0 109 115 109 115 0 195 195 |
|
| 218 425 218 425 |
|
| 994 8871 1089 8776 |
|
| 65455 9197 5923 68729 |
page 6
2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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St. Michaels Church, Galmington.
St Michael’s – bringing the presence of Christ to all. The Parochial Church Council of St Michael’s, Galmington, Taunton
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2024
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ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT
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Year Ended 31 December 2023
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Charity Number 1137270
St Michael’s Church, Galmington,
Taunton TA1 4TP
2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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----- Start of picture text -----
St. Michaels
Church,
Galmington.
----- End of picture text -----
Legal Objects
St Michael the Archangel is part of the Diocese of Bath and Wells within the Church of England. The correspondence address is Pitts Close, Galmington, Taunton, TA1 4TP. The PCC is a body corporate (PCC Powers Measure 1956, Church Representation Rules 2011) and a charity currently registered with the Charity Commission.
St Michael’s is a registered charity and observes the Church Representational Rules 2020.
Strategic Report
Aims and Objectives
St. Michaels Parochial Church Council (PCC) has the responsibility of cooperating with the Church Wardens (incumbent when not in vacancy), in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish, the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. The PCC is also specifically responsible for the maintenance of the Church of St. Michael the Archangel, Pitts Close, Galmington, Taunton. TA1 4TP.
The PCC is committed to enabling as many people as possible to worship at our church and to become part of our parish community at St Michael’s. Our services and worship put faith into practice through prayer and scripture, music and sacrament.
Through other activities we aim to reach the needs of other groups in the community to fulfil our mission statement and bring others into the presence of Christ. Our outreach has continued to be restricted by the impact of covid, particularly in terms of School liaison, however this has led to new ways of engaging with the wider student body and community on things such as the window nativities and continued zoom worship.
Mission and Evangelism
We have many links with mission at home and overseas including:
-
Bishop Henderson Chaplaincy
-
Open Door
-
Children’s Society
-
Children’s Hospice SW
-
A Rocha
-
Royal British Legion
-
Food Bank
-
Water Aid
-
Christian Aid
-
Mind
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2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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----- Start of picture text -----
St. Michaels
Church,
Galmington.
----- End of picture text -----
Vicar’s Report
At the tail end of 2023, I set myself a challenge of converting a bright blue, Ex British Gas Van, into an Off Grid Camper. Off Grid, not because I’m trying to be cool; but because part of my challenge was that it needed to be relatively inexpensive. I bought the van in November, having sold a car in September. There was no intention to buy it, but it just came up. There was always an intention to convert another van, just not yet. But there it was. Sometimes that is just how things work. They just turn up. When you are not looking.
Then there was a hiatus. Momentum stopped. Yes, winter set in, it was warmer inside. But more importantly. I took myself, down wrong path. A friend suggested I bought some materials for soundproofing the van, from Temu , she thought they were excellent.
I knew what I wanted to get, but I succumbed to pressure.
They were not good.
I knew what I wanted, but to encourage a friend, I left my path. And that was the beginning of the end, until April 10th. (Even though, Michelle had bought me the bits I was looking for, for Christmas.
I learned in this, courage of convictions, don’t be swayed by the confident pitch from someone who doesn’t have to do the thing that you are doing!
So I stripped the van and on April 10, laid the first bits of sound proofing. Now it’s nearly finished, with, a bit of a plana nd a lot of grit, the help of friends and family, a couple of ‘People of peace’, those who have no reason nor obligation to support a venture, but do anyway. I will employ the expertise of David Garrod, before I formally lay this project to rest; but onwards and Upwards, Summer is coming and the van is ready for the road.
Although that really became my 2024 project, we at an annual meeting have the privilege of reflecting on projects occurring in 2023, though we know that all tears genuinely overlap.
So, What in 2023, turned up?
What waylaid us?
Who are our people of peace?
and are we ready for the road?
What turned up?
2023, started with a bang, and we had our first Burn’s Night Bash. A Ceilidh, supported by some of our hall users (now friends to St Micheal’s Beverly and Roger Tapper). They volunteered their time and enegies as, su chef and dance caller, and help sorted out a band. Here are some People of Peace.
2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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St. Michaels Church, Galmington.
We had a blast (literally, as Marcus piped in the Haggis), although the food ran out (an issue rectified this year). Linda from Open Table Addressed the Haggis.
It was an important event, as it felt like different aspects of church and community were gathering in one place. And this in many ways has continued. With different folks taking on different roles in activities run by the church.
In a way, we started 2023 as we meant to go on, our life at St Michael’s has continued to be enriched by our wider network of friends and community, alongside various Church Members.
The year, in a way, began to progress, but in a way, normally. As such, as I write this, I grappled with the idea, that we, like me with the van, may have just stopped. But I know that not to be true. We forget (well, I forget) until forced to recall, that it was only a month before Burn’s Night, that we had had our first (since lockdown of 2020) school nativity services.
I thought that maybe early 2023 was a hiatus, in momentum. I truly believe that we were just working out what next.
Our Church community was continuing to change and grow, we were beginning to see some old faces return. Newer members from the previous year, began to share their skills and talents and time, and that is evident in many ways, both on rotas and in gatherings. I thank all those who serve at the refreshment hatch, our welcomers and sidespersons, our prayer team, Bible Readers, Prayer ministers, those on the sound deak. And I thank Gill for keeping those rota’s going for us.
Ann, as we know from her sermon last week, continues to keep our preaching rota going. We know that we are blessed here by both Ann and Marcus, as our Readers. They bring such different things, and I am grateful for the knowledge that they impart.
Pam Garrod too, as she has ably enabled and supported our Thursday Communion.
Marcus too, for that which he does with the children on Sundays; and also significantly with our toddler group. Ably supported by Liz in the Kitchen and until Christina, another person of peace.
Our kitchen team for Mikey’s and other events has grown, with both members of St Michaels and friends from outside partaking. We thank Heather for her co-ordination of Mikey’s and her team for all they do, acknowledging that she was conscious to the end of Martin’s imminent Operation, and all that might come with that. We give thanks also for Ann and her team for seeing another year of coffee mornings through.
Pat and John (supported by Juliet) have maintained a Wednesday Hub throughout 2023. This became The Warm Hub in November, Its membership, is now regularly 19 or so people.
In December we began a Community meal. This was attended regularly by between 20 and 30 people. And was run by Anne Brennan, a friend from the community and member of St George’s Roman Catholic Church. And catered for by Ann, Mollie Floyd, Susan, Pat and myself. Along side this Martha, Nick and Isla (year 10’s from Castle), helped cook and serve food and entertain the children! These too, People of Peace.
These two ventures and indeed many others were aided by an EDF grant.
2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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St. Michaels
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Galmington.
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And Warm Space funding.
Those who get on and maintain our building. Not getting distracted by immaterial stuff. David and Merv; Pam, Roger, Janice, Margaret as they clean regularly, Chris, Martin, Roger, Nick, Merv and John as they continue to mow the lawn. And all those who maintain the garden, Barbara, you too. Thank you for creating for us a lush environment.
Open Table continues, as an alternative worship; led by members of St Mike’s and others. We have folk gathering for this act of worship, regularly from Yeovil. Some have travelled from Exeter, Bristol, and even Plymouth, to join with us. (We hold before God, at this time Zahari who leads our worship and has been in hospital, just home last week since December).
This, along with St Thomas, Orthodox church, who gather now on the second Saturday of each month.
And Cornerstone Church, who meet on Sunday Afternoons.
Many of our much older members, who are still at home, are supported on a regular basis through members of the church. Today we remember: Hannah, Sue, Headly, Gloria, Roy, Ann, Betty.
We continue to work with Comeytrowe Under Fives, Parkfield, Bishops Henderson, and have considered during the year how we may further work with these groups. Including an attempt at creating a Student Chaplain Team, this didn’t work quite as planned. But it’s time to try again.
Pam and Rog, as ever have enabled joy and growth through so many seasonal displays. Conversation has flowed and the community been enlivened.
And we have a new Homegroup.
Susan, has continued to keep an office running, despite our frequent printer issues throwing us off track.
She also keeps our accounts in order. Something we need to be mindful of. Thank you Susan.
Linda and Carol support her with banking tasks and Christian giving scheme.
And again Clive Raisey, requires thanks as our auditor.
Then to our wardens; Bob and Pat. They again have been stalwarts.
Pat has been conscientious and present, throughout the week, but also diligent of support of those troubled and in need in this place. If someone needs an ear. She is there.
2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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Bob, has been diligent in paper work, legal admin, managing stuff, and keeping the vicar topped up with whisky. This he has done now for 8 years, and that is too much for anyone.
He worked with Colin, through testing times and vacancy, during covid. And he has requested now that he relinquish this mantle.
He will stay on as Safeguarding Officer, a roll, I am grateful for his wisdom and compassion in.
But as for the rest it is time to stop.
We are grateful, and we hope you enjoy a little less worry this coming year. We have a wee gift to say thank you… Also to replenish the stocks that the vicar drank!
Pat and Bob have been supported by Juliet and John (as deputies). This year John too will step down. We thank him particularly for notices and prayers during Pat’s period of incapacitation.
We haven’t filled the second roll of Warden.
We were stopped abruptly, yet more hiatus, to mourn the deaths of a number of our members and some people in our community, in 2023. But also energised and invigorated by the tales of their lives and the memory they left for us.
We remember now:
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Tony Evans
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Gill Schouler
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Ray Yorke
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Dave Bryant
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Margaret Shattock
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Chris Hudson
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Sue Collins
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Hilary Smith
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Rachael Blundell
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Joy Jenner
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Terry Willis
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Daisy Board
It’s an APCM, as such we aren’t allowed to talk about the future. It’s Trinity today, as such we reflect on the Icon of Rublev’s. On the screen. Remember The Three.
Here is the 4[th] wall. Here we sit.
They have their staffs, ready for the road.
St. Michaels 2020 Report and Accounts for the Church, Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington Galmington.
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The van is ready for a journey, not quite and entirely sorted, but ready for the road, all the same.
We too are ready as a church, for the next part of our journey. Whatever befalls us. Not quite sorted, but ready for the road, all the same. We can walk over that hill, past the tower, around the next bend, knowing that we walk in the company of the three.
Their company, our company, will sustain us, and all who find their way here, again, another year.
Many thanks.
Financial Review
The audited 2023 St Michael’s accounts show similiar incoming resources compared to 2022.
| 2022. | ||
|---|---|---|
| Incoming Resources | 2023 | 2022 |
| 84,871 | 84,380 |
However, it should be noted that a Warm Spaces grant of £7900 was received at the end of the year with little expenditure against it.
Expenses fell in 2023 compared to 2022
| Resources Expended | 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| 81,597 | 93,251 |
The fall in expenditure is largely due to the £9.8K being spent on roof repairs in the previous year.
The PCC is aware of the financial challenges facing St Michael’s Church over the medium term. Although there was a £3.8K fall in voluntary income, an additional ££2.8K was raised by activities to generate funds.
The overall balance carried forward was £68,729 compared to £65,455 in 2020.
Reserves Policy
It Is the PCC policy to maintain a balance of unrestricted funds that equates to 4 months of day-to-day running costs. This equates to £28,000 and is covered by the balance in Kingdom Bank.
Money on deposit with the Lloyds account is sufficient to cover fluctuations in the average monthly spending.
2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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St. Michaels
Church,
Galmington.
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Structure, Governance and Management
St Michael’s Church appoints Parochial Church Council (PCC) members in accordance with the Church Representational Rules. The PCC is chaired by our Vicar, and attended by the Church Wardens, the Lay Readers, and the Church Administrator in addition to the PCC representatives elected by the membership. All those who attend our services are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll.
The PCC members are responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern to the parish, including how the funds of the PCC are to be spent. The PCC met six times during the year.
The PCC has identified areas of responsibility to several sub-groups, and considers the groups’ advice when making decisions:
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Church Management Team (CMT): This group is convened under the Church Representational Rules as a standing committee of the PCC. This groups meets more frequently than the full PCC and has delegated authority to make day-to-day decisions concerning the church building and activities.
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Building Utilisation Group (BUG): The PCC appointed this group to oversee building issues, particularly the need for work on the roof and the heating system.
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The Ministry Action Team (MAT): This group maintains an oversight of worship throughout the parish and ensures that our services put faith into practice through prayer, scripture, music and sacrament.
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Pastoral Care Team (PCT): This group addresses the special and individual needs of the parish.
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Social Activities: The PCC appoints members throughout the year to organise social and fund-raising activities.
Trustees’ Responsibilities
The elected members of the PCC are the Trustees of St Michael’s Church. They are responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern and importance to the parish including deciding on how the funds of the PCC are to be spent. The full PCC meets six times during the year. Given its wide responsibilities the PCC from time to time will appoint sub-groups or action teams with defined levels of decision making. All of these groups are responsible to the PCC and report back at each PCC meeting with minutes of any decisions taken, and recommendations for the PCC to act on areas outside the specific remit of the appointed group.
Administrative Details
St Michael’s Church is situated in Pitts Close, Galmington, TA1 4TP. It is part of the Diocese of Bath and Wells within the Church of England. The correspondence address is Pitts Close, Galmington, Taunton, TA1 4TP. The PCC is a body corporate (PCC Powers Measure 1956, Church Representation Rules 2011) and a charity currently registered with the Charity Commission.
Current PCC members are:
2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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St. Michaels
Church,
Galmington.
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Ex-officio
Rev Justine Richards, Vicar of Galmington Mr Bob Nicholls, (CW) Mrs Pat Vittery (CW)
Licensed Lay Reader
Mrs Ann Goddard
Deanery Synod Representatives
Mr Andy George Mr John Vittery
Treasurer and Secretary: Mrs Susan Kaufman
Elected Representatives
| cte | d Representatives | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Mr. Roger Bailey | 2022-2025 |
| 2. | Ms. Rachel Reeder | 2020-2023 |
| 3. | Mrs. Mollie Floyd | 2021-2024 |
| 4. | Mrs. Christine Lindsay | 2021-2024 |
| 5. | Mrs. Fran Bromley | 2021-2024 |
| 6. | Chris George | 2022-2025 |
| 7. | Marcus Jones | 2023-2026 |
Church Management Team
Rev Justine Richards, Mr Bob Nicholls, Mrs Pat Vittery (retired Feb 2023), Mrs Susan Kaufman, Mrs Ann Goddard (retired Feb 2023)
Sides people:
Juliet Willey Wendy Webber Ann Watson Jenny Moore Gill Bryan Fran Bromley Rachel Reeder Christine Musgrave Pauline Meakin Jan Horton Sue Silcox
Ministry Action Team (MAT)
Ann Goddard, Pam Garrod, Grace Mainstone, Marcus Jones.
Pastoral Care
Pam Bailey, Ann Goddard, Kay George, Christine Barnes, Rev Justine Richards, Janice Hewton, Pat Whitworth, Heather Bray (Coordinator).
2020 Report and Accounts for the Parochial Church Council of St Michaels Church, Galmington
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St. Michaels
Church,
Galmington.
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Building Utilisation Group (BUG)
Roger Bailey, Pam Bailey, Bob Nicholls, Nick Blundell, David Garrod, John Vittery.
Electoral Roll Officer Ms. Rachel Reeder.
Signed on behalf of the PCC,
Rev Justine Richards Vicar of Galmington