**Annual Report 2020** **May 2021** **St. Luke’s Church, Ramsgate** **1** ## Contents |**1**|**Introduction ........................................................................................................3**| |---|---| |**2**|**Aims and Purposes ..............................................................................................4**| |**3**|**Objectives and Activities .....................................................................................4**| |**4**|**Achievements and Performance ..........................................................................8**| |**5**|**Moving Forward ..................................................................................................9**| ||**5.1** **Prayer – Care – Share ......................................................................................9**| ||**5.2** **Growth Communities .................................................................................... 10**| |**6**|**Structure, governance and management ........................................................... 11**| ||**6.1** **Electoral Roll Report ..................................................................................... 11**| ||**6.2** **PCC Membership .......................................................................................... 11**| ||**6.3** **PCC Policies ................................................................................................... 12**| ||**6.4** **PCC Report .................................................................................................... 12**| ||**6.5** **Staffing ......................................................................................................... 13**| ||**6.6** **Church Fabric Report .................................................................................... 13**| ||**6.7** **Thanet Deanery Synod Report ...................................................................... 15**| ||**6.8** **Minutes of Annual Parochial Church Meeting – Thursday 1st October 2020 .. 16**| |**7**|**Administrative Information ............................................................................... 21**| |**8**|**Financial Review ............................................................................................... 22**| ||**8.1** **Financial Review 2020 ................................................................................... 22**| ||**8.2** **Independent Examiner’s Report .................................................................... 25**| ||**8.3** **General R and P ............................................................................................ 26**| ||**8.4** **Fund Totals ................................................................................................... 28**| ||**............................................................................................................................. 30**| ||**8.5** **Income and Expense Analysis ....................................................................... 31**| ||**8.6** **Statement of Assets and Liabilities ............................................................... 32**| **2** ## **1 Introduction** 2020 was perhaps the oddest year that St. Luke’s has faced since World War II. This led to a number of firsts. Negatively, it was the first time the church building was closed for Sunday Services since the early 1940s. In fact, many of our normal activities stopped when lockdown came in March of that year (see section 3 of this report for a full summary of the impact on St. Luke’s and our response). Positively, it was the first time our services went online. These were pre-recorded and put on to YouTube from the first Sunday of lockdown and there has been one for every Sunday since! What St. Luke’s did particularly well was to keep a sense of community. Right from the start we had different members of the congregation videoing themselves and sending in contributions to the service. So just like our normal services, the online services were a team effort practically demonstrating the ministry of all believers (1 Peter 2:9). The other good thing about this was that parts of our service were now coming from people’s homes and occasionally workplaces or the back of taxis. This reminds us that church is not about what we do in one building on a Sunday but is about the whole of our lives (Colossians 3:17). Another positive about the online services is that people who were not able to come to the church building could access them (we sent DVDs of the service to those who could not access them online). It also meant it was easier to share church with family members and friends by simply sending them a link – wherever they were in the world (cf. Acts 1:8). I know that this has resulted in some ‘joining’ us that would otherwise not have done so. Indeed, over the year people donated towards equipment to enable us to have an ongoing online presence through livestreaming when more normal services are allowed. We did manage to livestream the Annual Meeting in October and a couple of Christmas services. There were one or two issues with sound, but we hope these have now been fixed and that we will be able to livestream our services regularly and effectively from the end of June 2021. There was of course more to the life of church than online services. In the initial lockdown we set up a system to try and ensure all members were phoned and checked on. This faded out after a while but is something we have tried to re-engage with in 2021 through a ‘Reconnect Team.’ Also, each week a church email (or letter for those who cannot receive emails) has been sent out to keep people up to date with developments. Some of our small groups also managed to make the switch to online with two of the Growth Teams meeting on Zoom. When restrictions allowed, we did open the church up for a limited return to services in the building. Although these involved mask-wearing, social distancing and no singing. The Pandemic has impacted all of us in different ways. Few would say it has been an easy time. St. Luke’s has also been impacted massively, but God has helped us to respond in new and creative ways to keep our engagement going and to prepare us for the day when we will be able to gather with no limitations and to sing his praises! “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1) **3** ## 2 Aims and Purposes St Luke’s Church PCC has the responsibility of co-operating with the incumbent, the Revd. Paul Worledge, in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. It also has responsibilities for the maintenance of the St. Luke’s church building and church hall. The hall is situated next to the church building in St. Luke’s Avenue, Ramsgate. ## 3 Objectives and Activities The Pandemic and associated restrictions and lockdowns meant that many of our normal activities ceased to operate, whilst a few were able to operate online or in a limited way. The table below shows how St. Luke’s was affected by the Pandemic. The first column gives a brief description of the activities that were operating as normal in the first months of 2020, whilst the second column summarizes what happened after. **Activity – Before Lockdown Activity – After Lockdown Main Sunday Service: Main Sunday Service:** This was held at 10:30am each Sunday and This became a pre-recorded online service placed on welcomed people of all ages. The service was led by YouTube from 6:00am each Sunday. the vicar or one of a small team of lay service leaders. A member of the congregation would lead the The service elements were pre-recorded with prayers and another would read the Bible passage. It leading and sermon mainly from the vicar, but was usually the vicar who preached. openers, prayers, affirmation of faith and readings led by church members videoing themselves at There was a singing group that would lead the music home and sending their videos in. using recorded midi files as backing tracks. Each song was initially led by one individual who There were three ‘Host Teams’ (see below) who videoed themselves singing along to a backing track. offered a number of supporting roles to the services Words were then added to the video so people could on a 3-week rota. sing along. A number of children took up the challenge and were videoed leading the children’s There was also a large amount of children and youth songs. This developed into a virtual choir that work (see below) running during the service. recorded one new song each week. Restricted in-person services returned at 10:30am from July. We risked assessed the church and introduced social distancing measures. Masks had to be worn from August and no singing was allowed. In September and October, we had two services to enable more to come: 9:30am and 11:00am. **4** |**Host Teams:**
Each team had a leader, and different people to
cover key roles: opening up, welcoming, operating
the sound desk, operating the projector, providing
after service refreshments, counting the collection
and closing up.|**Host Teams:**
With online services none of this was needed or
possible. When there was a limited return of in-
person services we organized an ad hoc team to
cover the following roles: opening up, welcoming,
registering (for track and trace), operating the sound
desk, operating the projector and closing up.
Counting money was done occasionally during the
week and we also introduced a contactless donation
system.| |---|---| |**Children and Youth Work on Sundays:**
St. Luke’s would regularly have between 20 and 40
under 16s attending a normal service. These were
taught in a number of different groups with a leader
and helper in each group during the service:
-
Sparklers (0-3s), with parents in attendance
-
Scramblers (pre-school to School Year 1)
-
Climbers (School Years 2 to 5)
-
Fusion on Sunday (two groups – School Year
6 upwards – Previously this was Explorers
and Pathfinders)|**Children and Youth Work on Sundays:**
All of these groups have ceased since lockdown,
which is a great loss.
The online services, however, always include a
children’s talk and two children’s songs, usually led
by children. We also provide a children’s activity
sheet on the website linked with the children’s talk
for parents to download and use.
These activity sheets were available for children to
use with families sitting at tables when they came to
in-person church.| |**Other Sunday Services:**
We had a regular weekly, 6:30pm service called
‘Going Deeper’. This had all the elements of the
morning service, but a longer and more in-depth
sermon. Attendance was normally between 10 and
15 including some people who did not attend in the
morning.
There was also a BCP said communion service on the
first Sunday of each month at 9am.|**Other Services:**
Both services have stopped since Lockdown.| |**Growth Teams:**
These are small groups that meet in people’s homes
during the week to study the Bible, pray and
encourage one another. Before lockdown there were
five Growth Teams:
-
Monday Evening
-
Wednesday Morning
-
Wednesday Afternoon
-
Thursday Morning
-
Thursday Evening|**Growth Teams:**
Two of the Growth Teams (Monday evening and
Thursday evening) managed to switch to meeting on
Zoom. The Thursday evening one even gained
people from Clacton.
The other teams have not managed to meet, but
members have stayed in touch with one another
through phone calls etc.| **5** |The aim was also to set up Christianity Explored
courses that would eventually become Growth
Teams.|Christianity Explored was offered as a course on
Zoom. However, there was no take up in 2020
(although a couple of small courses have run in
2021).| |---|---| |**Tuesday Friendship Club**
This group met to offer a hot drink, biscuit and a chat
for mainly elderly members. There were activities
organized and occasional speakers. It met in the hall
each Tuesday afternoon.|**Tuesday Friendship Club:**
This group has not met since lockdown.| |**Men’s Film ‘n’ Chippy**
This group for men only met on the first Thursday of
the month in church in the evening for fish and chips
followed by watching a film together, then having a
short discussion afterwards.|**Men’s Film ‘n’ Chippy**
This group has not met since lockdown.| |**Play and Praise:**
This was a group for babies and pre-school children
and their parents or carers to attend. Most weeks
there was a craft activity, singing, a short and simple
Bible story or talk and refreshments for adults and
children.|**Play and Praise:**
This group has not met since lockdown.| |**Fusion:**
This was a group on Friday evenings for youngsters
from school Year 6 upwards. The evenings usually
had three sections:
-
Hanging out: with activities available such as
table tennis, pool, Wii, board games, football
and tuck shop.
-
Christian input: this involved short talks and
interactive games, discussions and activities
for about 30 minutes.
-
Big Game: the evening would usually finish
with a big game, such as dodge ball.
Fusion was popular, but the behavioral challenges
were becoming harder to manage at the start of
2020.
The team of leaders would meet beforehand for a
meal, Bible study and preparation.|**Fusion:**
This group has not met since lockdown.| ||| **6** ## **Pastoral Services:** Baptisms: This would normally involve baptism preparation in the parent’s home followed by a baptism as part of our service. There were a couple of baptism services before Lockdown. Weddings: Not long before the lockdown we had our annual marriage preparation for couples planning to get married during the year and just before the lockdown we had a wedding in March. Funerals: These continued as normal before lockdown, with the vicar taking services in church, at the cemetery or at the crematorium. ## **World Mission Links:** The mission societies and partners that we support are: - Church Pastoral Aid Society - Compassion - - Tear Fund - Dick and Caroline Seed - Church Mission Society ## **Pastoral Services:** Baptisms: Numbers at a baptism service were limited because of social distancing. However, we did have one baptism service in October. Weddings: Of the other two couples planning to marry in 2020. One postponed, whilst the other were able to marry in July, with limited numbers in attendance. Funerals: These continued, but numbers were restricted to close family members. Sadly, we had the funeral services of two church members: Vera Kenney and Rev. Gordon Warren. ## **World Mission Links:** Although we were able to share some news through emails and as part of the video services and to collect a little bit through online giving, we have not been able to raise as much or connect as much with these links as normal. - Greg and Sylvia Venables ## **Staffing:** James Patterson started as church administrator on 1[st] January 2020, taking over from Nicky Shakeshaft. The administrator’s weekly role included preparing the Powerpoint and notice sheet for services as well as other administrative work that varied through the year and working in the church office in the hall. The role is 8 hours a week. The maintenance worker and gardener’s job is to ensure the grounds and buildings are kept in good condition. He works 6 hours a week, usually on Tuesday. The cleaner worked 11 hours a week mainly cleaning the hall, but also the church. ## **Staffing:** The administrator moved to mainly ‘at home’ working and took on a lot of the video editing and organization behind the pre-recorded online services working closely with the vicar. The notice sheet was replaced by a weekly email, which had already started to be sent out in 2019. The maintenance worker and gardener continued in his role throughout the pandemic as it was lone working and the gardening still needed doing and he was able to make progress on needed maintenance work. As the hall was no longer being used during full lockdown, the cleaner was furloughed full-time. When a small number of groups were able to return to the hall, the cleaner was furloughed part-time and brought back to do some cleaning. **7** **Church Hall: Church Hall:** This was well used by our own groups: All groups stopped for full lockdown and only the - Tuesday Friendship Club slimming groups returned in a limited way when - Play and Praise restrictions were eased. - Fusion - Sunday Club Kent Social Services also decided to stop using the As well as other groups: hall on a permanent basis. - Three different slimming groups* - Kent Social Services* As such the hall has lost a significant amount of - Rainbows income. However, we were able to make some - Thanet Winter Shelter (up until March) savings to offset this – decreased utility bills, It was also regularly booked on Saturdays mainly for suspension of refuge collection and the furloughing children’s parties. These and the starred* groups of the cleaner. above generated a significant income for the hall. ## **PCC:** ## **PCC:** The Parochial Church Council acts as the trustees for The PCC has continued to carry out most of its St. Luke’s as a charitable organization. As such they functions, but most meetings have been on Zoom. have oversight of the finances, the maintenance of One meeting in September was in-person socially the buildings, church policies and the overall vision distanced in the hall and on Zoom. and strategy of the church. They also appoint officers including the PCC secretary and Treasurer. The church annual meeting was postponed from May to October. This was also held in-person and on The PCC normally meets six times a year. Zoom. ## 4 Achievements and Performance As was explained under ‘Objectives and Activities’ many activities were closed, including our services in church from the lockdown in March until July and again in November. However, there was an encouraging uptake of people watching our services online. The chart below shows the pattern of ‘attendance’ through the year. The orange bars are the number of adults who actually attended in church and the grey bars are the number of children. These are accurate counted figures. The blue bars are an estimate of who was watching online. These were calculated by taking the number of views on YouTube for the week, then reducing that to the number of views that had watched the service the whole way through (usually between 50-70% of views stop in the first few minutes), then multiplying that by two, because on average there are two people watching each view. **8** ## 5 Moving Forward ## 5.1 Prayer – Care – Share The Pandemic has provided opportunities for reflection. One way that we have reflected as a church is to reexpress what we are about in a simpler way with the words: prayer, care and share. We have also re-designed our logo to suit. **Prayer:** Includes all our communication with God. As those brought into a living and life-giving relationship with God through the saving work of Jesus Christ it is central to what we are about and expresses our dependance on God in all our activities. It includes praise and thanksgiving in song and word as well as confession and presenting our requests to God. Our services are basically gatherings where we come together to pray. **Care:** Jesus tells us to love one another and to love our neighbours. We are called to be a community or Christian family, where we support and look out for one another in practical and emotional ways. Yet, we also want to show this care to the wider world, through initiatives to support those in need. This will involve people offering their time and energy as well as their financial resources to support the work of the community. **Share:** We believe that God speaks to us and has acted in history through his Son, Jesus Christ. These truths are most clearly expressed and communicated in a trustworthy way by God in the Bible. So, we value the Bible and want to share its teaching with one another so that we grow into effective followers of Christ. We also need to **9** share the good news of what God has done through Jesus with the world around, so that they can know the blessing and joy of being Christians too. ## 5.2 Growth Communities Prayer, care and share. Doing these things keeps us dependent on and following God. These are the activities that help us to grow in our faith and as a community. They are activities for everyone at St. Luke’s to engage in as individuals and with others. However, we also need to organize our life so that we can work effectively as a church. One new idea that we first started considering before lockdown and have been developing during lockdown is the idea of Growth Communities. St. Luke’s is not a massive church, but it is large enough for it to be difficult for busy people to know everyone else who attends. So, the idea is to split the church up into three smaller communities, with the aim that everyone in each of the communities will at least know the name of everyone else in their community. The hope is also to empower and enable leadership within the church by organizing the life of the church around the communities. At the heart of each community will be: - One or two Growth Teams, which are all about meeting together for prayer, care and share. Not everyone will want to or be able to attend a Growth Team, but the plan is to assign every member to on of the three Growth Communities. These communities can also be built up through: - A couple of people in each community, making sure everyone else in the communities is contacted at least once a term and acting as a communication link for prayer needs and other issues. So far in 2021 we have set up a team of six to try and keep connecting with people at St. Luke’s. - A small team organizing two or three social events a year for their Growth Community. - Occasional special courses for community members, including Christianity Explored. But each community will also take responsibility to serve the wider church: - A Host Team made up of community members – for serving once every three weeks on Sunday. - Once a year organizing a social event for the whole church. Finally, each community will have its own distinctive focus in terms of supporting world missions or the church. The three areas of service that we are presently considering are: - Compassion - Creativity - Children and Youth In 2021 a ‘Reimagine and Reignite Team’ has been set up for each of these areas to consider how we can move forward in each of these areas as we come out of the pandemic. There are some exciting developments as a result. **10** ## 6 Structure, governance and management ## 6.1 Electoral Roll Report This year we removed 9 names from the electoral roll (people who had moved away or changed churches) and added 6 new names of those who had applied to join the electoral roll this year. The new roll has thus decreased from 97 to 94. Of the 94 on the 2021 electoral roll 33 live in the parish. ## 6.2 PCC Membership The PCC is the Parochial Church Council of St. Luke's church. Members include the vicar and those elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting by those who are on the church electoral roll. It has responsibility to oversee the running of church life and the churches mission in collaboration with the vicar and has a legal responsibility to oversee the upkeep of the church buildings and the running of the church finances. At the Annual Meeting there were a number of new members elected to the PCC: _Incumbent (Vicar):_ Rev. Paul Worledge Chairman _Wardens_ Mr. Andrew McMillan (Until 1[st] October 2020) Mrs. Pauline Mackinney (Until 1[st] October 2020) Mr. Christopher Waldie (Elected 1[st] October 2020) _Representatives on the Deanery Synod:_ Mr. John Neden (Until 1[st] October 2020) Mr. Peter Shakeshaft (Re-elected on 1[st] October 2020) Mr. Andrew McMillan (Elected 1[st] October 2020, previously Church Warden) _Elected members:_ Ms. Kate Page (Until 1[st] October 2020) Mrs. Eleanor Dawson (Until 1[st] October, 2020) Mrs Pauline Emptage (Continuing in post, elected 2018) Mrs Audrey Tucker (Continuing in post, elected 2019) Mr. David Perkins (Re-elected 1[st] October 2020) Mr. John Neden (Elected 1[st] October 2020, previously Deanery Synod rep.) Mrs. Pauline Mackinney (Elected 1[st] October 2020, previously Church Warden) Mr. James Patterson (Elected 1[st] October 2020) Mrs. Willow Whybrow (Elected 1[st] October 2020) **11** Mr. Simon Williams (Elected 1[st] October 2020) Mr. Olamilekan Asa-Afariogun (Elected 1[st] October 2020) _Co-Opted Members_ (At PCC meeting 19[th] October 2020) Mrs. Nick Galer Treasurer Mrs. Brenda Walters-Erlam Secretary The PCC has a standing committee consisting of the Incumbent, Secretary, Treasurer and Wardens. This group can meet to make decisions on behalf of the PCC when decisions need to be made quickly. In addition, The PCC also appointed the following officers: Parish Safeguarding Coordinator: Pauline Emptage Electoral Roll Officer: James Patterson Parish Disclosure Officer: James Patterson Health and Safety Officers: David Perkins and Christopher Waldie Cheque Signatories: Nicky Galer, Peter Shakeshaft, Paul Worledge, Andrew McMillan, Pauline Mackinney Online authorization of payments: Nicky Galer and Peter Shakeshaft Hall Bookings Manager (Regular bookings): Pauline Emptage ## 6.3 PCC Policies As well as setting a budget each year, the PCC annually reviews a number of policies to ensure that we are meeting our legal responsibilities to care for the people who we work with. These include: - Parish Safeguarding Policy - Health and Safety Policy - Data Protection Policy - Financial Risk Assessment Policy - Volunteer Recruitment Policy - Recruitment of Ex-Offenders - These can be accessed online at: http://www.stlukesramsgate.org/policies.html ## 6.4 PCC Report 2020 has been a challenging year all around, with Covid-19 posing a threat for the health and livelihoods of the parishioners as well as creating problems for the way the church could operate. During the year, 8 PCC meetings took place, and all meetings were quorate except for a couple. In addition to that, several Standing Committee meetings also took place. The average number of members attending each PCC meeting was 8. The Pandemic has meant that for a few months during the first Lockdown the congregation could not meet in person. Similarly, PCC meetings had to take place via Zoom in most cases. The following items were discussed and approved at PCC Meetings in the year: - Some new PCC members were recruited to strengthen the team. - St Luke’s support for foodbanks was switched from Thanet Food Link to Ramsgate Salvation Army. **12** - Retirement of Nicky Shakeshaft as Administrator and James Patterson recruited to the role. - Refurbishment of the Church’s gas boiler. Spearheaded by Andrew MacMillan. - The launch of Royal Harbour Church on 1[st] March and the sad loss of Gordon Warren. - Investigation and implementation of Contactless payment facility. - Swift implementation of St Luke’s online Services on YouTube. - Fund raising for the purchase of live streaming equipment. - Retirement of old and co-option of new PCC secretary, - Introduction of planned Re-connect, Re-imagine, and Re-ignite groups to get us back on track after a year of Lockdown. - Continued dialogue with St Georges congregation about working together as Central Ramsgate Churches. As well as the above issues such as the church finance, health and safety and policy reviews were discussed at meetings. It has been a productive year for the PCC, and we look forward to new beginning after the lifting of the Lockdown. We give thanks to God for his many blessings and for getting us through an exceedingly difficult year. We also thank the Vicar, Paul Worledge and family for their continued support and enthusiasm. Finally, many thanks to the congregation for their contribution to the online services, adults, and children alike and for supporting our brothers and sisters in Christ throughout the year. Brenda Walters-Erlam PCC Secretary April 2021 ## 6.5 Staffing The PCC employs 3 part-time staff: - Cleaner for Hall and Church (11 hours a week): Caroline Perkins - Administrator (8 hours a week): James Patterson - Maintenance Worker and Gardener (6 hours a week): Christopher Tull ## 6.6 Church Fabric Report “One of the few benefits of the situation we find ourselves in is that we have managed to progress with a number of outstanding building repairs and additions whilst not having to make many remedial repairs due to over-use of equipment or wear and tear. Chris, as always has done a sterling job, keeping on top of the maintenance and carrying out a number of odd jobs as well as identifying areas for us to look at. For this, I thank him. I took over the role of Churchwarden in October and prior to this work was overseen by Andrew McMillan. He also did an amazing job and left the church in a better position. Thank you to Andrew as well. Below, is a list of jobs that were carried out throughout the year. I will expand on some whilst others are selfexplanatory. **13** ## **January 2020** Dyson hoover fixed. The hall floor was swept, washed and top-sealed. The EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) was carried out with a number of recommendations that were rated with Low, Medium and High impact assessments. Deep clean of the underneath of the heaters. ## **February 2020** A cable guard and safety gate were fitted in the hall. ## **March 2020** The taps in the hall were refurbished. ## **April 2020** The hall floor was triple resealed to protect it. ## **May 2020** The lower section of Perry Room walls re-painted. ## **June 2020** Painting was carried out on the South side of church, lower part of wall painted to cover up markings and stains. In the hall toilets, lower sections of wall were re-painted. ## **July 2020** We removed the redundant, condemned gas heater from the Perry Room of the hall, panelled over air vent, boxed in end of gas pipe, and painted. Kitchen and all toilets between floor and wall painted grey. ## **August 2020** Hall Notice Board taken down, refurbished and re-located to new position and re-installed. Topsoil has been acquired and used to fill in holes. ## **September 2020** Pruned trees overhanging St. Luke's Avenue. To allow live streaming, a Wi-Fi cable was installed between Church and hall with tension wire fitted across from top of hall to top of vestry. We also had a major refurbishment of the church boiler system. This included a complete strip-down of both the left- and right-hand boilers and rebuild. The middle boiler was examined and some parts replaced. The report at the end found the boilers in good running order. They noted that a fan was squeaking but would perhaps settle once run for a time. This then had to be replaced in November. **October 2020** **14** Gas Appliances in Church Hall - annual service 31/10/20 and gas safe certification at a cost of £380. Boiler repair was carried out with a fan being replaced. Left Hand Boiler received a new fan with associated ancillary parts. ## **November 2020** Food Inspection Report: A remote food hygiene inspection took place as authorised by the Food Standards Agency during the coronavirus outbreak. Officer Comments: No issues or concerns from evidence - premises is low risk, an onsite inspection will not be required and the food hygiene rating will remain until the next intervention. ## **December 2020** Trees pruned in church garden and side gate released to allow access and space for the socially distanced carol concert. As always, the lawns were maintained and a number of small jobs were carried out as required. An ongoing task is the inventory. Photographs have been taken of anything of value in the church and a spreadsheet is being created. We are also in the process of security marking the higher value items and adding an insurance requested marking paint to our metalwork on the church building.” _Christopher Waldie, Churchwarden._ ## 6.7 Thanet Deanery Synod Report Due to Covid, the Deanery Synod only met once in 2020. This was on Zoom. Here is the report of that meeting from Peter Shakeshaft, one of our Deanery Synod representatives: ## **Thanet Deanery Synod 19/11/20** 43 Participants present on Zoom, Rev Paul Worledge and Peter Shakeshaft from St.Luke’s Started with prayer and a short lesson from 1 Samuel Ch6 12-23 -this passage describes renewal. The Ark returning to Jerusalem and David celebrating. The time is coming when we will be able to do the same! (Psalm 96 was then read which also celebrates the Ark returning. ## **Mission Statement 2020** This has partly come out of the 2012 plan and some thorough research. We want to work in 4 clusters as population in the Deanery is roughly split: - Margate 50K, B’stairs 25K, Ramsgate 40K, villages 20K. The document has the guiding principle: - A growing Deanery transformed by Hope It is hoped to achieve this by having this vision: Support one another, Enable growth and mission and Transform each other, our society and ourselves. During 2021 we will be developing more plans for mission , growth and transformation through hope. This Statement should be shared with PCC’s and congregations. **15** ## **Talk by Archdeacon Jo** Jo started by thanking everybody for all the meetings and ministry throughout the pandemic and she looks forward to ‘real’ meetings next year. Changed Lives – changing lives is the Diocese commitment to mission led by Bishop Rose (who has just celebrated her 1 year anniversary) She wants us to pray ‘with intention’ for vulnerable people and children especially. She wants to see leadership enriched- both clergy and laity. We should re-imagine ministry, everything is on the table. Listen to the Spirit. God calls us to mission so we need to be effective, sustainable also flourishing. Jo will be with the Deanery a lot in the coming year and she has spent a lot of time reading the 2016 Thanet Deanery Mission Plan. Jo pointed out that were some amazing things going on – feeding the hungry, looking after recently released prisoners just two examples. Jo thanked everyone for financial giving at this time, both parish share and other projects. She stated that we will need to have a lot of conversations if we are to pay the bills going forward. The Diocese will give support and help us in our efforts and provide consultants. ## **Questions** Parish share- work is underway to determine levels. The aim is to send out letters in a week or so. There is an 84% collection rate in the diocese and a commitment to try for a zero percent increase? Hall hire has had a huge impact on resources this year, but there have been some amazing stories about generosity making up for short falls. One church managed to increase its planned giving by 40%. Physical/on-line worship will have to be re-imagined going forward but again there have been some Wonderful things happening. We all talked about what might be possible for worship at Christmas, Jo asked us all to share ideas. The deanery subscription, normally £125 per Church would be suspended for this year. The meeting closed with prayer. ## 6.8 Minutes of Annual Parochial Church Meeting – Thursday 1[st] October 2020 **Present:** The vicar and 20 others attended. 10 members on Zoom and 10 in church. **1. Introduction and Bible Study:** The vicar, Paul Worledge, welcomed everyone to the meeting and thanked them for attending. Because of the Covid-19 situation some people attended in person and some on Zoom. ## **2. Pause for Prayer and reflection using Psalm 90** The vicar then said an opening prayer, followed by Psalm 90 which was said together by all in church. He then gave a reflection from Psalm 90. He stated that Psalm 90 was a powerful Psalm. Verse 13 asked “How long will **16** it be God?” A similar question that we are currently asking about Covid-19. The psalm reflects on our life, that our life is short, but God is Eternal, from everlasting to everlasting. It is a prayer - How long will it be? When we pray, do we grapple with God? Verse 16- Do we long to see God’s power? Do we reflect on what he has done for us? Verse 17- Establish the works of our hands, how we need God’s help, support, and his prayers to sustain us. Paul closed the reflection in prayer. ## **3. Preliminary Matter** - **2.1 Apologies:** Apologies for absence had been received from 4 people. These were Pauline & Douglas Mackinney, Rosemarie Ebelthite and Vanessa Shingles. - **2.2 Minutes of the previous APCM:** These were included in the Annual Report pages 2529. They were approved as a correct record of the meeting by all present. - **2.3 Matters Arising:** Discussions between St Luke’s and St Georges are currently on hold because of the Covid-19 crisis. ## **4. Looking Back Report and Review:** These reports are all included in the Annual Report and were all taken as read. **3.** 1 **General Reports** - **3.1.1** Electoral Roll: (page 21) - **3.1.2** Deanery Synod Report: (page 24) There were no questions raised. - **3.1.3** PCC Secretary Report **:** (page 23 **)** - **3.2 Financial Reports** - **3.2.1** Financial results for the year 2019 (pages 33-44) Report was approved by everyone present. Proposed: Charlie Harley Seconded: Andrew McMillan - **3.2.2** Independent Examiner Report The Independent Examiner opinion was that the accounts and financial statement comply with the requirement of the Charity Act 2011. - **3.2.3** Election of the Independent Examiner - Peter Cottington has agreed to continue as the Independent Examiner. It was proposed to reappoint Peter as the Independent Examiner. Proposed: Christopher Waldie Seconded: Pauline Emptage - **3.2.4** Financial Update (2020 so far) - There has been an overall reduction in weekly collection so far of nearly £4,000. Current losses in the Hall stands at around £10,500. With a drop in income of around £5,000. The Vicar thanked those making regular monthly payment by standing orders. **17** This method of giving had held up during the Pandemic. He also went on to thank those people who has gave generously to cover last year’s shortfall. Contactless payment facility is now up and running in the church. A big thanks to Nicky Galer for organising it. ## **Prayer for the church’s finance was said by the Vicar.** - **3.3 Buildings and Fabric Report:** There were no questions, but thanks were extended to Andrew McMillan for all his hard work in arranging the recent renovation of the heating system in the church. - **3.3.1** Report (page 14) - **3.3.2** Health & Safety – There were no issues to report. ## **Pause for a poem, The Present, written and read by Audrey Tucker** - **3.4 The rest of the Annual Report** ## **3.5 Review of our response to the Pandemic and its effects** ## **The vicar posed the following questions to the meeting:** - **What have we done together** ? Grow spiritually Reach out to the community Befriending phone calls The Food Bank Weekly YouTube services Connecting by phone Regular emails Zoom meetings - **What is on pause?** Play and Praise – Parent and Toddler group Fusion – Youth group Friendship Club Men’s Film & Chippy Some Growth Teams Singing Group practice Refreshments Evening Services Singing in Church **18** At this point Paul Worledge presented a graph that showed the number of people that watched the Sunday Services on YouTube during the lockdown and the number of people attending in person and those continuing to watch the service on YouTube since the removal of the Lockdown. - **For those activities on pause, which do we want to restart?** Sunday Club Youth Group This could happen if leaders feel comfortable to resume their services. Tuesday Club – Farina Hatton reported that they have considered meeting together but have decided against it. ## **Prayer of Thanksgiving said by Brenda Walters-Erlam** ## **5. Looking Forward: Election and Vision** ## **4.1 Elections** - **4.1.1** Election of PCC Members There were 7 vacant PCC members positions. These were filled by: - **James Patterson** Proposed: Trevor Kenney Seconded: Christopher Waldie - **Simon Williams** Proposed: Terry Harrison Seconded: Peter Erlam - **Olamilekan Asa-Afariogun** Proposed: Trevor Kenny Seconded: Douglas Mackinney - **Willow Whybrow** Proposed: Pauline Emptage Seconded: Eve Knight - **David Perkins** Proposed: James Patterson Seconded: Delphine Hellings - **Pauline Mackinney** Proposed: Farina Hatton Seconded: Brenda Walters-Erlam - **John Neden** Proposed: Andrew McMillan Seconded: Peter Shakeshaft Pauline Emptage and Audrey Tucker remains on the PCC without the need For re-election. - **4.1.2** Election of 2 Deanery Synod Representatives There were 2 Deanery Synod position to be filled. All agreed that the roles as Deanery Synod Representatives should be filled by: - **Peter Shakeshaft** **19** Proposed: James Patterson Seconded: Christopher Waldie - **Andrew McMillan** Proposed: Christopher Waldie Seconded: Pauline Emptage - **4.1.3** Election of Church 2 Wardens Andrew McMillan had completed 6 1/2 years and must therefore step down from the role. The Vicar thanked Andrew for the sterling work that he has done over the years. With the work on the buildings and of late organising the overhaul of the church’s heating system. A presentation was made to Andrew on behalf of the PCC. Andrew stated that his 61/2 years was a pleasure and that he had greatly enjoyed it. Paul Worledge thanked Pauline Mackinney for the support and for the work she did as Churchwarden during the year. - **Christopher Waldie** was elected churchwarden. Because of the Pandemic the usual swearing-in that would have taken place at the Cathedral could not go ahead. Therefore, Christopher took his Oath during the APCM and the Vicar Paul Worledge admitted Christopher Waldie as Churchwarden for the Parish of St Luke’s Ramsgate. Proposed: Peter Shakeshaft Seconded: Andrew McMillan 1 Churchwarden vacancy remains ## **4.2 Moving through and beyond the Pandemic: Reconnect, Reimagine and Reignite** Paul Worledge outlined what he saw as our plans and vision for the coming year. **Acts 2:42** sets out our core value as a church, just as it did for the first church. “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayers. ## **St Luke’s Core Values** **Prayer** – The heartbeat of who we are. Bringing our praises to God. **Care** – Supporting each other. We need to work at this. We have a diverse congregation in terms of age, ethnicity, and social and economic demography. **Share** – Sharing the good news and having a living relationship with God and with each other. We need to be passionate about God’s words. - **Reconnect** As a church we bring people together, but the current situation does not allow this. The current restrictions because of the Pandemic is disconnecting. We need to reconnect with each other. We must try and keep in contact with each other. Paul envisages setting up small Pastoral teams that would keep in touch with everyone. This would consist of 3 or more people in each team and led by a leader. - **Re-imagine** **20** Do we want to do things the same way as before? or Do we want to somethings differently? - **Re-Ignite** We need to make things happen. For that we need people that will come forward and take the necessary action to get thing up and running. Some areas to consider: Children & Youth – Relaunch Sunday Club Creative - Develop the singing group Live streaming Redesign the website Compassion – The external Community The Food Bank Winter Shelter New initiatives Paul sees the Growth Teams as the heart of what we do at St Luke’s and envisage them to become the heart of the wider community. He went on to introduce the Rhythm Termly Programme which should connect the Growth Team leadership to Re-connect, Re-imagine, and Re-ignite. Prayer for the new PCC and St Luke’s future said by Andrew McMillan **6. Any other business –** There were none. The meeting closed with the saying of the Grace together. ## 7 Administrative Information St Luke’s Church is situated on the corner of Hollicondane Road and St Luke’s Avenue, Ramsgate. It is part of the Deanery of Thanet, in the Diocese of Canterbury, within the Church of England. The Parochial Church Council was registered with the Charity Commission on 25th October, 2010. Registration No: 1138535. **Church Office:** (10am-2pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays). St Luke’s Church Hall, St Luke’s Avenue, Ramsgate, CT11 7JX ## **Bankers:** **CAF Bank Ltd.** 25 Kings Hill Avenue, Kings Hill, West Malling, Kent, ME19 4JQ **CCLA Investment Management Ltd.** , The CBF Church of England Funds, 80 Cheapside, LONDON, EC2V 6DZ **Independent Examiner:** Mr. Peter Cottington, 81 Dane Crescent, Ramsgate CT11 7JS **21** ## 8 Financial Review ## 8.1 Financial Review 2020 ## **General Fund** This fund includes all transactions concerned with the day to day running of the church, church building, the cost of running services, outreach and both adult and child training. The largest commitment is the Parish Share, paid to Canterbury Diocese to cover the cost of our vicar and various other Diocesan expenses and initiatives. The Parochial Church Council (PCC) always knew that 2020 would be a challenging financial year with a predicted budget shortfall of £23,048. This was the amount needed from extra donations to make ends meet and ensure we could pay our Parish Share (£61,256). As at 31 December 2020, there was £15,311 outstanding for the parish share, it is hoped one more payment will be made in January 2021. Discussions will take place in February 2021 to ascertain what to do about the remaining £10,210 that will remain outstanding. Although, this is the first time we have had such a shortfall in parish share payments, we are encouraged and grateful to God that in the midst of such a difficult year so many people have continued to be so generous and been able to continue to support the church through faithful regular giving and generous one-off donations. Without this the shortfall would have been much worse. To increase giving to St Luke’s a commitment Sunday is held annually towards the end of the year. This is an opportunity for people to consider their support to the church in the coming year, both in action and financially. The response allows for an accurate budget to be prepared for the following year and is crucial for informing decisions made by the PCC. ## **Hall Fund** Due to the coronavirus restrictions the hall could not be used for a lot of the year, although it was still used by church groups and the wider community when permitted. Total income from rentals amounted to £8,225 which was a lot less than 2019, as well as the restrictions, this was also due to the Social Services group ending their contract with the hall. This year the Thanet Winter Shelter was also unable to use the hall (previously the hall was being used once a week over the winter period – it was provided free of charge to support the local multi church homeless project). We were however able to make a number of savings to mitigate the lost income on the hall fund, including furloughing our cleaner and suspending the refuse collection for the hall. The energy use of the hall was also much decreased. ## **Donations** As detailed on the page ‘Notes to Accounts 2020’, a large one-off donation was made by an individual towards the general running of the church in 2020. There were also one-off donations made towards the Audio-Visual **22** Fund for the recorded and live streamed services (totalling £921 including gift aid) and other one-off donations towards the cost of refurbishing one of the church boilers (totalling £5,751 including gift aid). ## **Reserves Policy** It is considered good practice to hold three months of general expenses as a reserve fund. Based on 2020 expenditure this would amount to around £15,500. The PCC endeavours to keep £5,000 in the hall fund to cover ongoing maintenance and agreed that £5,000 should be held in a Church Building Fund for one off essential repairs to the church building. At the end of 2020 the Hall Fund stood at a deficit of £1,594, however it should be noted that this was severely impacted by the coronavirus restrictions, although some money was saved by the reduced costs (heating, lighting, waste collections etc). The Church Building Fund stood at £5,000. ## **Charity Commission** The Parochial Church Council (PCC) of St Luke’s Ramsgate is a registered charity with the Charity Commission. There is a requirement to upload financial information with the Annual Report to the Charity Commission website each year. Our charity number is 1138535. ## **Finance Personnel** The PCC appoints its Treasurer at the first meeting after the Annual Church Parochial Meeting (APCM). The PCC Treasurer is Mrs Nicky Galer. The PCC has a Bank Mandate which confirms the signatories to the accounts and this stipulates that two signatures are required at all times. In addition, other personnel have been appointed to assist the smooth running of the finances. These include a Hall Manager; responsible for bookings and collection of rents for the church hall. A Utilities Manager; who oversees the utility bills. A Banker; who collects all money and pays it to the bank. A Second Authoriser; chosen from the PCC to check and confirm all electronic payments. Additionally, nominated people have been chosen to maintain the petty cash accounts that are held within the various church groups. ## **Financial Risk Assessment Policy** This policy was updated in 2019 and accepted by the PCC. It was reviewed in 2020 and agreed to remain the same. ## **2021** Having seen a good response to help with the financial needs from 2020 the PCC now look to the expected financial position for 2021. After preparation of a budget, it is anticipated that we are facing a deficit of £20,000- £25,000 for 2021, with £10,210 still outstanding from the 2020 Parish Share. The Parish Share has increased by 1.0 % to £61,869. This deficit needs to be covered through extra donations or increased regular giving. To reduce the deficit the PCC will continue to consider cost saving strategies and keep finances on the agenda at all PCC meetings. Whilst the PCC is keen to pay the Parish Share in full it acknowledges that it would not be good stewardship of money to deplete all funds which may be needed to keep the church building, working, safe and in good repair. For this reason, the PCC resolved in Feb 2020 to hold back the following reserves, even if it means not paying the Parish Share; £5,000 in the Hall Fund and £5,000 in the General Fund. Additionally, if the sum of the balance in the General Fund and the Hall fund would fall below £5,000 on payment of the Parish Share, then **23** payment of the Parish Share should be suspended, the Diocese informed and the PCC to monitor future payments. It is hoped that the refurbishment of the church boilers means that the replacement of the church heating system can be put off for some time, however at least one of the hall heaters will need to be replaced before the hall is rented again in the colder weather. Other items possibly required within 2021 are chairs for the hall, possible roof repairs and equipment to ensure effective sound system Livestreaming and in church (may be a consultant will be required to work out what is actually needed). It was agreed by the PCC to create a restricted Capital Fund that will only be used for capital works or projects and not on ongoing costs. E.g., it could be used to replace the heating system, but not used for maintenance works or gas bills. It was also agreed to have a policy where any legacies received, where no specific designation is given as to how it will be spent, will be added to the new Capital Fund. Please continue to pray about the financial needs of St Luke’s and our individual response to this need. If you are a tax payer, please remember to sign a Gift Aid Declaration and ensure that any gifts you make are identifiable by putting your name on the slip available with giving envelopes. Tax reclaims increase giving without further cost to donors. Donations can always be made via BACS, but please do advise the treasurer if the gift is for any other purpose than the General Fund. Please also remember to look at Give as you Live. This is a scheme where the church receives a donation when you make online purchases. Please look at their website or app and consider using this scheme when making purchases. If you have any questions about church finance, please do not hesitate to ask. Nicky Galer Treasurer to the PCC St Luke’s Church Ramsgate **These church accounts were approved by St. Luke’s PCC using email on Thursday 13[th] May 2021.** ## **Rev. Paul Worledge, PCC Chair** **24** 8.2 Independent Examiner's Report that the requlrtment UDdqr J•ctIo￿l+l (21 ofth• Charkhs 2011 tyM•pply Examln• th• An￿dI) utsder tttlloth 145 ufthè 2011 A ¢tlon 145{5)(b) 01th¢ 3011 Ati. **d i•port Indwdlwd rny •¢•t•wnc h¥ bwn pry•v¢d fDr•l c•tyforthècknrltys i l*)dy. t• to th•rn In •n Ind•p¢ThI￿t eJ*mlfvtrfs report *nd fDr oth•rpurpox*. To the efjent •••l• alihkn r•pvl dtsdwuns In the rta¢tm¢n¢J ira #¢ktr4w4ab•iiw frm you as trutt*e concern1￿1￿y9￿ ttffs. The undertaken do •ll theevlden¢*th* WO￿ld bt rtqulrod In •nd c¢4tytyY¢ntly I do T￿1 expreu 4udltO54nl(m wlth the Prese￿ • •¢rounllnir¢¢orf* In #¢ord*￿e Jxooty 130ofth• 2011 A¢ •nd tDprnp•r• fm•D¢W rt*t•m•rt whlch accord wlth thè*tcounikn¥r•t(Yth •¥bd complyT*Ith th• requIr￿￿ rfthe 2011 Aa have no¢ 7th bl*y2021 81. Dffie K•rt cni 7lS 25 8.3 General R and P Fr(MTr 01 J•wry Xl IM January XM9 To 31 DeceTrthr 20x1 31 Decembw 2Q19 ).87T.C(J 7.421 CY) 27.04SD) 9.403 298 .4835 3.3￿ 48 4873 S,W B4 20,114 CYJ 2.44967 10,757 65 2&79&74 0.4>).64 o) 1•78 6,aW24 9*08 7.￿4 CAI 97035 102.61 1231 7,269 rJ 1.rn 70 8,58927 9.089 9T 1.718(¢ 1.7raL 6V11.16 74J1234 310.26 31Q25 ).228 .22ac&• 4.97594 1.Lt34.S2 4.en8 J4 rJ17 6,010 56 5.672 08 26 To 31 De¢*￿￿j20 31 tietemt*r2019 7142 1.03882 28P 30 ¢15 00 2.￿& 32 2.61645 *X11 19 18907 188 10 5801 2.454 fj9 018 40 114(K) PAT 125 1.97 13443 9317 2.101 3B2 1.*1 77 11320 174.02 4,981 53 11,66147 61122.09 7TI71. 475.27 11WOJI 4.¢Y3D 30 27 8.4 Fund Totals Fund Owiino balance Closing bolonce ACTS-ACTS 179.99 179.99 AUDIOVIS. Au¢kni¥ual 4141 41A1 CHURHEAT. ClwJr¢h Iwlry (2.871 IZ871 CCWPAST. P4•tty• 22&7T CORONA. Il¥O•14p toccrfon•vkn• 250.00 HARBOUR. Rtyil Il•bthw (hrtr**ch 11080 Gener¥. Genernl bjnd 475 27 3.014 34 47&27 1014a4 28 Fund Owbing balance Ck>sing balance HALL- Hall 2.182.76 11.593.26) 1182.76 c￿J￿h&JII. Builth Fw 5.(lYJ.00 5.OCII.OD AISSKINS. IA•¥kffi-Gener 1.819 69 1800 1A19.69 CMS. Al•￿n. C￿j￿h Stt*tylSAMS CPAS. Pa*nl Socl•ty 1.18 1.421.80 601.18 1M21.80 SPONSOR. N*s•ion. s￿nI￿A CNhJ 147 491 P14451 147A91 121445 TEARFUIID. Il••kn. Tewfrjnd 2.169 62 9425 2,169.62 VEIiA8LES. lknl & Syfvia Ven 1.452.61 1110.00) 1852.61 1110.1 29 Fund Owthig balance Closfino balance Tue•*yFC. Tue**y Fthd•lo"p Cl 576 9) 226 50 57 22&50 Ca*h.yth.Y￿rth. pety cash 4482 82 Ca*h4•P. Play & Pww. pdty c 8911 8310 Bklo Calh-lthn. PIBn'• Gr￿p. Pety Ca 13.01 19.92 1101 19.92 188 49 1991 188A9 19.91 C*•h-Fk*•. FI0￿rn. e4•h 7454 7454 T4￿4 FIXED. Flx•d A•••¢•. I10.1￿ fy) 110.000 00 11OmO.(KI 110,000.LKI 0¥w￿l totals 128.176.11 120.296.98 30 8.5 Income and Expense Analysis 1101.FM5for*S*5 aThlfimgr* I225.￿ Trrir•y 1.71&CO 3,11482 .81118 lQty1225 13215*) 80.OJ24 10.MJ47 ID.010 47 1410.Ctywm•JC J,ICO82 11.19).47 1127047 3.4C012 51.Cf•lCVJ 51.LVJ( OJ2P3C(I )i.rbJc¢ 81.cei*ts) 03J3 4.97594 1.03462 4.ei801 1.03402 2317 010 o.orkc4 1701.Fotsp•J* 2C• 71.42 n47 Z071 70P24 1.9Jl 72 13540 2*XI 7210.Twty 175 74975 32&110 2MJ* ZQIO 45 IBB 16 gJ81 (Mo3J 5.75397 ffffj97 2.154XS 51840 2J34.PAT*ylry i.￿.57 1.￿45[ 125(Q 1.97 134.43 o) 134 43 117 101 >)) 2410.Cl•Jthnrwry.gas 1.tt7 17402 1.59177 113 174Q2 4.t41.53 8.817.Y 10,4>705 31 8.6 Statement of Assets and Liabilities Stat•m•nt of Assèts and Llabllhlès (by cod•l As at: 31 Decembew 2020 Cla** I￿1 eodt T¢iial La#ye Flxèd Tanglblè 110.IX4J.00 110.Wty) T+ 110.1￿.117 110.IOJ.C¥J I10,0￿. 418.46 14.225 231 825). 4,443.58 1S,732.3B 7.36S.3• 11.664.87) 7,654.63 10.163.O GOLD 243.SB 645.49 984 11 979. 242.29 242 29 376 70 2.444.61 3.406.74 7,473.26 13.324 81 272S2.11 1.￿1.3? 1073.37 I1,0￿.￿) TrAal 1,39137 2,073.37 11,0fy).C#) {4 00) I4.￿) 14280 36) 42W. 5.105.(KI 5.105.IJ) 20,076 Tftsl 824.64 42&J.36 s.iosi¥J 20,076 C¥J 3.014.34 3.406.74 113.875.YJ 1202*.98 128,176.11 32