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2023-12-31-accounts

CHURCH OF ST. PAUL, MILL HILL

Meeting of the Parishioners for the purpose of electing Churchwardens

and

Annual Parochial Church Meeting

Sunday 26[th] May 2024

CHURCH OF ST. PAUL, MILL HILL

Meeting of the Parishioners for the purpose of electing Churchwardens, 26[th] May 2024

Agenda

  1. Appointment of Clerk

  2. Minutes: To approve the Minutes of the Meeting of 14th May 2023

  3. Churchwardens 2023 – 2024

  4. Churchwardens 2024 – 2025

Annual Parochial Church Meeting 26[th] May 2024

Agenda

  1. Appointment of Clerk

  2. To give notice of Any Other Business of parochial or general church interest

  3. Minutes: To approve the Minutes of the Meeting of 14th May 2023

  4. Reports

  5. 4.1. Electoral Roll Report (page 17)

  6. 4.2 Annual Report and Financial Statements (starting at page 7)

  7. 4.3 Fabric, Goods and Ornaments (page 18)

  8. 4.4 West Barnet Deanery Synod (page 19)

  9. 4.5 Churches Together in Mill Hill (page 19)

  10. 4.6 Men’s Breakfast (page 20)

  11. 4.7 Ladies Tuesday Group (page 20)

  12. 4.8 Churchyard Working Group (page 20)

  13. Budget for 2024 - presentation and discussion (page 16)

  14. Appointment of Independent Examiner for the ensuing year

  15. Election of Lay Representatives to serve on the Parochial Church Council

  16. Election of Sidesmen

  17. Date of first meeting of the new Parochial Church Council

  18. Vicar’s Report

  19. Any Other Business of Parochial or General Church Interest

  20. Prayers

2 .

MEETING OF THE PARISHIONERS FOR THE PURPOSE OF ELECTING CHURCHWARDENS

Minutes of the Meeting of the Parishioners for the purpose of electing Churchwardens held in The Wilberforce Centre, St. Paul’s Church, The Ridgeway, Mill Hill NW7 on 14[th] May 2023

Present: The Revd J. James, Revd R. Venn-Dunn and 25 members of the laity.

The Vicar welcomed everyone and opened the meeting with prayers.

Apologies were received from Mrs Lee Downes, Mrs Elaine Brown and Mr Simone Brown, Mrs Barbara Bailey, Ms Sue Evans, Mr Bill Taylor.

1. Appointment of Clerk

Proposed by The Vicar and seconded by Miss J. Shelbourn, by a show of hands Mrs K. Thompson was appointed to act as Clerk of the meeting.

2. Minutes

The minutes of the meeting held on 8[th] May 2022 had been circulated in advance of the meeting. Proposed by Mrs P Pescod and seconded by Miss J. Shelbourn, by a show of hands the minutes were approved.

3. Churchwardens 2022/2023

Churchwardens for the previous year had been Ms Jane Shelbourn and Mr John Lee. Revd J. James expressed her grateful thanks for all the hard work done by the wardens and for their support and wisdom during the year.

4. Churchwardens 2023/2024

Nominations had been received for Ms Jane Shelbourn (Mrs B. Bailey and seconded by Mrs Jill Clarke) and Mr John Lee (proposed by Mr D. Edgerton, seconded by Mr R. Pace). By a show of hands Ms Shelbourn and Mr Lee were duly elected by the parishioners. The Vicar noted that it was Mr Lee’s last year of tenure, and it would be a good idea to appoint a deputy to support and shadow him with a view to taking on the role.

The meeting closed.

_______________

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

Minutes of the Annual Parochial Church Council Meeting held in The Wilberforce Centre, St. Paul’s Church, The Ridgeway, Mill Hill NW7 on 14[th] May 2023

Present: The Revd J. James, Revd R. Venn-Dunn and 25 members of the laity.

Apologies were received from Mr Alan Roberts, Mr Peter Neal, Mrs Jane Ferguson, Mrs Julia Haynes & Mr John Haynes, Mrs Ide Adelaja, Mrs Jenny Crane & Mr Martin Crane, Mrs Lee Downes, Mrs Jill Clarke, Mrs Sue Evans & Mr Jim McGeever.

1. Appointment of Clerk

Proposed by The Vicar and seconded by Mrs A. Cheasty, by a show of hands Mrs K. Thompson was appointed to act as Clerk of the meeting.

2. To give notice of Any Other Business of parochial or general church interest

The Vicar announced that the Bishop of Edmonton, Rob Wickham, was stepping down in the next couple of months and would be moving to work as the director of the Church Urban Fund. In the interim, the Bishop of Fulham would have oversight of the Edmonton area. This had been met with some consternation by some of the female clergy, as all the churches not in favour of women priests came under his authority. He had, however, released a statement saying that he would be licensing any women who would be priested or made incumbents in the Edmonton area during this time, so a lot of fears had been allayed. Also, an ordained woman on the Edmonton Area Leadership Team had said she had found that he was very respectful of her role. There was no other notice of Any Other Business.

3. Minutes of the Meeting of 8[th] May 2022

These minutes had been circulated in advance of the meeting. Approval of the minutes was proposed by Mrs F. Reynoldson, seconded by Mr D. Edgerton and, by a show of hands, carried.

4. Reports

4.1 Electoral Roll

The Vicar spoke to this, as the Electoral Roll office’s position was vacant. The revised roll stood at 151 names, which was a reduction of 2 names on the previous year. There were currently at least 20 people who should be on the roll. The Vicar asked that members of the congregation consider becoming Electoral Roll Officer.

4.2 Annual Report and Financial Statements

These, comprising The Independent Examiner’s Report, The Annual Report of the PCC and Review of the Year, The Financial Review, and Accounts and Statements of Funds and Property for year ending 31[st] December 2022 had been distributed prior to the meeting.

Mr Martin Crane queried the Common Fund amount. Mrs Carol Reid explained the process of deciding this amount and that the Diocese would inform the PCC how much the amount should be. It was noted that the coming year’s amount would probably drop, since the retirement of Rev Jan Lowe. The make-up of the reserve funds was also outlined by Mrs Reid.

Adoption of the Annual Report and Accounts was proposed by Mrs P. Pescod, seconded by Mrs A. Cheasty, and by a show of hands, carried.

4.3 Fabric. Goods & Ornaments

The Vicar invited questions on this report – there were none.

Adoption of the Fabric, Goods and Ornaments Report was proposed by Rev R. Venn-Dunn, seconded by Mr. D. Edgerton, and by a show of hands, carried.

Other reports purely for information:

4.4 West Barnet Deanery Synod 4.5 Churches Together in Mill Hill

4.6 Men’s Breakfast 4.7 Ladies’ Tuesday Group

  1. Budget for 2023 – Presentation and Discussion

The Vicar asked if there were any questions on the budget - there were no questions.

Adoption of the Budget was proposed by Mr J. Lee, seconded by Rev R. Venn-Dunn and, by a show of hands, carried.

6. Appointment of the Independent Examiner for the Ensuing Year

Martyn Atkinson at Ivan Sopher had agreed to continue as examiner. Appointment of this was proposed by Mrs Reid, seconded by Mr A. Roberts and, by a show of hands, carried.

This meeting marked the end of Mrs Reid’s tenure as Treasurer of St. Paul’s Church. The Vicar expressed her thanks for all the years of hard work put in by Mrs Reid and went through the attributes required to be a treasurer. Mrs Reid was presented with gifts, and prayers were said for her. Mrs Reid noted that she would be continuing on the PCC in the role of Eco Church representative.

The Vicar asked the congregation to consider if they were prepared to take on the role of Treasurer.

  1. Election of Lay Representatives to serve on the Parochial Church Council

The Vicar thanked those coming to the end of their term on the PCC for their service: Mrs Ide Adelaja, Mrs Anita Cheasty and Mrs Lisa Padaruth.

There being no other nominations and after being proposed en bloc by Miss J. Shelbourn and seconded by Mrs C. Reid, the following were, by a show of hands, elected: Mr Bill Taylor and Ms Nadia Williams.

8. Election of Lay Representatives to serve on the Deanery Synod

Nominations were Mrs Fiona Reynoldson and Miss Jane Shelbourn.

There being no other nominations and after being proposed en bloc by Mr D. Edgerton and seconded by Mrs C. Reid, the following were, by a show of hands, elected

9. Election of Sidesmen

Miss J. Shelbourn read out the list of those to be elected:

Elaine Brown Carol Reid Simon Brown Liz Sykes Jill Clarke Bill Taylor Derrick Edgerton Kim Thompson Sue Evans Gillian Tompsett Jim McGeever Nadia Williams Pauline Pescod

Proposed en bloc by Mr J. Lee, seconded by Miss J. Shelbourn, by a show of hands elected.

10. Date of the First Meeting of the New PCC

This was to be held immediately following the APCM, in church. The next meeting would be on Thursday 25[th] May – 7.45 for an 8.00pm start – Communion would be shared.

11. Vicar’s Report

Looking back, the Vicar was hugely thankful for the way that God had walked with and guided the church over the past year. There was a consensus among clergy colleagues that COVID was still negatively affecting church attendance, and so a highlight had been a good number of new people who joined the congregation during and after the pandemic. Some of the new members were new to faith and were seeking and enquiring, and some were mature in faith, but all were keen to join in and feel part of the church family. It was not always easy to welcome new people into a family, but there had been some meals shared and this had helped to open the way for communication. New friendships were growing, and this was lovely to see.

It was not often that testimonies were heard in church, but the Vicar was privileged to share in how God was working in our lives in her work - baptism and wedding planning, funeral preparations, or chatting over coffee, she was frequently encouraged and often amazed to hear how faithfully God is at work in our lives.

Many new members were with their children downstairs, and the Vicar was particularly grateful to June, Ide, Meredith, Louise, Raf, Pete and Ryan – they were the reason that we have children and family sessions at St. Paul’s. Together with Ryan and Pete, these parents had taken on a great deal of responsibility for leading our children’s work. There was currently and advertisement out for a children and families pastor to grow this work that is being rooted in.

In different ways there is a growing and deepening faith and fellowship at St. Paul’s, and the Vicar wanted to thank everyone for being part of the congregation and bringing their worship, prayers, time and energy helping in different roles on Sundays and during the week. It was a reminder that the church was one body made up of many and different parts, each precious to God.

The Vicar thanked the PCC Secretary for the time spent on church activities and also the wardens for all that they did. Rev Jan Lowe was still around despite her retirement, and it was good to have had Ryan VennDunn on side over nearly three years – he was leaving to start a new post as chaplain at Mill Hill School. St. Paul’s was growing, and growth could mean adapting and change, give and take. This can sometimes mean looking back, but uncomfortable as change might be, the opposite of growth was decay and wilting. Growth gives the opportunity to deepen faith as we trust in Jesus – God was unfailing and unchanging in an unpredictable world.

The Mission Action Plan (MAP) had been produced by the PCC and the Vicar hoped to move forward with its contents. Represented by the picture of a tree, it was a good way of helping to see what was being done at St. Paul’s.

In order to grow and flourish, our roots need to be deep in nourishing soil, which for Christians meant discipleship and spending time with Jesus as we read and the Bible.

There would be a prayer room in the church hall in June with prayer stations and activities – local schools would be invited to participate as well as the congregation and the local community.

Bible Study Groups – it would be good to start a new group, so if anyone was interested in joining or leading a new group, please could they let her know.

The Vicar was currently meeting with adults and parents to talk about baptism. Some children were receiving Communion before Confirmation, as they had experienced this at a previous church. This had been discussed with the PCC and would be discussed more widely in the coming months, so everyone fully understood the process, and had opportunities to question and discuss children at Communion.

Caring for our trees meant feeding and watering and given enough sunlight – for St. Paul’s it was important to be environmentally healthy, caring for land and building inside and out. It was important to fill the currently vacant roles – Electoral Roll Officer, Safeguarding Officer and Treasurer. Part of the responsibility in stewardship of what God has given us was to step in and keep the life going. Giving generously of our time always reaps blessings in our own lives.

Church families should be a place of support and friendship – as Christians we have fellowship, which is richer. Fellowship was shown in the Lent groups, where coffee and lunch were shared, as well as Communion and Bible study.

It is difficult not to notice a huge tree that we walk past, and a large healthy tree that bears fruit is appealing to everyone. Jesus asks us to reach out, to be fruit in our local communities, to share his love in a number of different ways. Outreach is the last strand on the MAP and we are thankful for the way we can access local schools and the role of children and families pastor will be key for the ongoing growth of family work. The church hall could be a space that could really bless our local community – as soon as there is more to say on this, it will be made known.

12. Any Other Business of Parochial or General Church Interest

Peter James wished to thank the Vicar who works tirelessly and stewarding the church through some quite challenging times. There was warm applause.

Mrs Pauline Pescod wished to thank Mr Peter James for his musical contributions to our church.

  1. The meeting closed with prayers and the Grace

_____________

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PAUL'S MILL HILL

CONTENTS

CONTENTS CONTENTS
_______________
Page
Reference and Administrative Details of the Charity, its Trustees and Advisers 8
Members' Report 8-10
Independent Examiner's Report 11
Statement of Financial Activities 12-13
Notes to the Financial Statements 14-15

ST. PAUL’S CHURCH, MILL HILL ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31[st] DECEMBER 2023

St. Paul’s Church The Ridgeway, Mill Hill NW7 1QU Incumbent Reverend Joanna James Bank HSBC, 103 Station Road Edgware, HA8 7JJ Independent Examiner Roger Seaton, 23 Greenhill Park, Barnet, Herts EN5 1HQ

Administrative Information

St. Paul’s Church is situated on The Ridgeway, Mill Hill, north west London. It is part of the West Barnet Deanery within the Diocese of London. The correspondence address is St. Paul’s Church Parish Office, The Ridgeway, Mill Hill, London NW7 1QU.

The following have served on the PCC during 2023

Clergy Reverend J. James
Reverend R. Venn-Dunn (until August 2023)
Churchwardens Mr John Lee
Ms Jane Shelbourn
Deanery Synod Mrs F. Reynoldson
Ms J. Shelbourn
Elected members Mrs I. Adelaja (until APCM 2023)
Mrs A. Cheasty (until APCM 2023)
Mrs P. Dean (until December 2023)
Mr D. Edgerton
Ms S. Evans
Mrs L. Grainger
Ms C. Ip (from September 2023)
Mr R. Kitauchi
Mr A. Roberts
Mrs C. Reid Treasurer (until APCM 2023)
Mr W. Taylor (from APCM 2023)
Mrs K. Thompson Secretary
Ms N. Williams (from APCM 2023)

Structure, Governance and Management

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is a corporate body established by the Church of England. The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure. The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in Church Representation Rules. All church attendees are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC. The PCC has ultimate responsibility for a wide range of matters affecting the parish, including compliance with health & safety, disability discrimination legislation, data protection, safeguarding and child protection, and to this end participates in appropriate training procedures including Deanery Training Days attended by a PCC representative who reports back to the PCC. There is a stated policy of preferring not to have more than one member of the same family serving on the Council concurrently.

Objectives and Activities

St. Paul’s PCC is responsible, in co-operation with the clergy and Churchwardens, for promoting the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical, both within the parish and further afield.

The church continues to flourish and is thankful for an increase in attendees over the year Consideration has been given to the Commission’s guidance on public benefit, particularly the advancement of religion. This includes:

There is also the opportunity for all to participate in:

The full PCC met 6 times during the year, with an average attendance of 72%. the management Committee met between PCC meetings and minutes of their deliberations were received by the full PCC and discussed where necessary.

The PCC operates through two committees and various working groups. The Standing Committee, the only committee required by law, has the authority to transact the business of the PCC, subject to any directions from the Council. It meets only when required. The Management Committee is a small committee that meets between the full meetings of the PCC, to which it submits a written report. It is responsible for the finances of the church and church hall buildings, the churchyard and the house at 46 Shakespeare Road. The Stewardship Committee comes under the aegis of the Management Committee.

Working Groups operate as and when required, reporting directly to the PCC. The current working groups are Family Worship and Mission.

Achievements and Performance

Worship and Prayer

St. Paul’s seeks to offer a variety of services throughout the year, catering for quiet contemplation, family worship and more formal worship. Bible study, prayer, music and craft activities were enjoyed by parents, carers and children alike each Sunday morning.

Church Attendance

All are welcome to attend our regular services. There were 179 parishioners on the Church Electoral Roll.

The Church Buildings

St. Paul’s buildings provide a source of interest and delight to visitors. The buildings would be open as much as possible, providing visitors with a tour given by informed parishioners.

Deanery Synod

Currently there are two members of the PCC who sit on the deanery synod. This provides the PCC with a valuable link between the parish and its neighbours in the deanery, helping to give reference points and a broader overview of common issues. The deanery synod members report to the PCC on speakers and discussions, enabling St. Paul’s to gain insight and share the thoughts of other parishes.

Mission

St. Paul’s has been faithful in its commitment to help those in need as a tangible demonstration of our Christian faith. The Mission Committee advises the PCC in its giving and ensures that funds are purposefully targeted both home and overseas where it was felt they would be put to good use.

Mission

St. Paul’s has been faithful in its commitment to help those in need as a tangible demonstration of our Christian faith. The Mission Committee advises the PCC in its giving and ensures that funds are purposefully targeted both home and overseas where it was felt they would be put to good use.

Our weekly Church Family Update, emailed and posted to those not on email, has kept people up to date with general notices, planned worship events and any other important news items, to enable all members to remain in touch with church life as much as possible.

Review of the Year

2023 was a year of increase. There was an increase in the number of new young families joining the congregation, an increase in the number of people retuning to the congregation and an increase in the number of adults and children being baptised.

A new Alpha course began in January and in March a welcome lunch was held for new church members who had joined over the past five years. Lent groups met and lunched together, and at Easter, chocolate eggs and leaflets were given out on The Broadway. The Men’s Breakfast has gone from strength to strength, and Tuesday Group continued to gather for fellowship, adding more members and enjoying a variety of activities. At the APCM, Mrs Carol Reid stood down as Treasurer after many years of service and we are grateful to her for all her work. After much searching and prayer, Carmen Ip came forward to take on the role, much to the relief of the management team. Mr Thomas Gardner stepped up to be Electoral Roll Officer, Ms Nadia Williams took over as Safeguarding Officer and Mrs Louise Grainger became Children’s Champion. There was also the happy announcement at the end of the year that a new curate and her family would be joining St. Paul’s in summer 2024.

Services during the year spent time looking more deeply at the words of the Creeds, statements of faith we say together and why baptism and communion are essential parts of our faith. The PCC had been working on a Mission Action Plan for some time, since it was finalised, it has been informing the Council’s thinking. Plans for the church hall’s future were considered, a Church Hall Development Committee was formed and began formal meetings to formulate a way forward. A new payment machine was installed for members of the congregation and visitors to make donations by card. A new website was created by Mr Raf Kitauchi and, while it is still being developed, it is a great improvement, for which we are grateful.

In May, the Coronation of King Charles III was celebrated at St. Paul’s and members of the congregation joined a community picnic held in Mill Hill Park.

On 9[th] June, Rev Ryan Venn-Dunn was licensed by the Bishop as Chaplain to the Mill Hill School Foundation and his last service at St. Paul’s was on 6[th] August. We said goodbye to Ryan at a farewell lunch in July, and we wish him the very best in his new role.

St. Paul’s hosted various visiting speakers including Ron Cross from Open Doors, Chris and Hannah Scutt from Malawi and Mel Hamilton from the Bible Society.

November saw the Annual Memorial Service and the appointment of Mr Thomas Gardner as our new Children and Families Pastor. We had been praying all year for this role to be filled, and we were delighted that this work could move forward.

Christmas at St. Paul’s is always a joy, and the church was filled with the various church and school services. The all-age choir led the singing at the Carol Service as they had at the Easter Sunday Service. Chocolate angels and leaflets were distributed in The Broadway and Christmas Cheer gave out coffee, mince pies and other goodies at Mill Hill East Station.

2023 saw the sad passing of Mr Malcolm Fleming, Mrs Elizabeth Graves and Mr John Quigley. There were no weddings or confirmations; four adults and five children were baptised. Clergy officiated at seven funerals, (one burial) and there were six interments of ashes.

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PAUL’S MILL HILL

I report on the financial statements of the church for the year ended 31 December 2023.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As the charity’s trustees you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the Act’).

I report in respect of my examination of the charity’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.

Independent examiner’s statement

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:

  1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the charity as required by section 130 of the Act; or

  2. the accounts do not accord with those records

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL 0F ST PAUL'S MILL HILL FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS ACCOUNTS

RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS ACCOUNTS
Receipts
Voluntary receipts
Investment income
Income from church activities
Total receipts
Payments
Church activities
Total payments
Excess of receipts over payments
Cash at bank, 1 January 2023
Cash at bank, 31 December 2023		 Unrestricted Restricted Total funds Total funds
funds
£
funds
£
2023
£
2022
(restated)
£
133,193
600
133,793
160,953
30,237
30,237
23,318
24,701
24,701
18,896
188,131
600
188,731
203,167
190,840
190,840
202,962
190,840
190,840
202,962
(2,709)
600
(2,109)
205
368,692
82,061
450,753
450,548
365,983
82,661
448,644
450,753

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST PAUL'S MILL HILL STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND UABIUTIES AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023 unre￿ricted Restricted T¢)tal funds Totsl funds funds nds 2023 2022 (restated) Cash funds Bank turrent account 365,983 82.661 448.644 450,753 Other monetary assets Gift aid recoverable 4.931 4.931 S,184 Investmenl assets 73.580 73.580 67,408 Assets retalned for church use 628.981 628.981 635.897 Liabilities 12.323) 12.3231 124.775) Net a55ets 1.071.152 82.661 1.153.813 1,134.467 Approved by the PCC on 18 April 2024 and signed on its behalf by: v Joanna James 13.

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL 0F ST PAUL'S MILL HILL NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

  1. The financial statements of the PCC have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 using the Receipts and Payments basis. The comparative figures for 2022 have been restated on that basis.

2. Investment assets

These are holdings of Central Board of Finance of the Church of England Investment and Fixed Interest Units at their market value.

3. Assets retained for church use

These are the freehold property of £624,500 based on a valuation as at 31 December 2000 and the written down value of church equipment of £4,481 (2022 : £11,397)

4. Designated funds

Within the unrestricted funds are designated funds which have been set aside by the PCC as at 31 December 2023 as follows:

Building repairs
Mission
Hardship

70,000
15,000
15,000
100,000

5. Restricted funds

Restricted funds are funds that have to be applied for specific purposes as follows:

Hardship fund
Churchyard
Middlesex Regiment - upkeep of war memorial
and memorabilia		 £
600
67,103
14,958
82,661

6. Related party transactions

a) Organist fees of £4,745 were paid to Mr Peter James, husband of the vicar.

b) Income through planned giving includes £17,405 received from PCC members.

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL 0F ST PAUL'S MILL HILL NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2023

Receipts
Voluntary income
Planned giving
Collections at all services
Donations and appeals
Gift aid recovered
Investment income
Rent - temporary let on Shakespeare Rd
Deposit fund interest
Income from church activities
Church hall lettings
Wilberforce centre income
Fees from weddings and funerals
Insurance claim
Sundry income
Payments
Church activities
Mission and charitable
Diocesan parish share
Vicarage costs and vicars expenses
Assistant staff costs
Church utilities
Church running and maintenance
Cleaning
Church hall utilities
Church hall repairs and maintenance
Administrator salary and pension
Administration costs
Organist's fees
Fees paid to LDF		 Unrestricted Restricted Total funds Total funds
funds
funds
2023
2022
(restated)
£
£
£
£
108,104
108,104
99,540
80
80
306
1,150
600
1,750
35,801
23,859
23,859
25,306
133,193
600
133,793
160,953
20,196
20,196
19,066
10,041
10,041
4,252
30,237
30,237
23,318
5,550
5,550
15,087
183
183
553
4,878
4,878
2,994
14,006
14,006
84
84
262
24,701
24,701
18,896
2,907
2,907
11,250
81,000
81,000
80,000
2,128
2,128
4,874
16,623
16,623
30,001
20,490
20,490
10,533
20,121
20,121
32,642
6,577
6,577
4,463
3,246
3,246
3,383
4,068
4,068
5,367
16,638
16,638
9,798
7,612
7,612
4,343
5,535
5,535
5,792
3,895
3,895
516
190,840
190,840
202,962

Note: The figures above for 2023 may not be comparable with the restated figures showing for 2022.

2024 Budget Headings Budget
2024
2023 Budget Headings
£		 Total funds
Total funds
2023
2022
(restated)
£
£
Receipts
Voluntary income
Church Planned Giving
Church Open Collection
Church Donations
Church Gift Aid		 102,000
Planned giving
80
Collections at all services
1,500
Donations and appeals
22,000
Gift aid recovered
125,580		 108,104
99,540
80
306
1,750
35,801
23,859
25,306
133,793
160,953
Investment income
Rent Shakespeare Road
Deposit Fund Interest		 19,000
Rent - temporary let on curates house
8,000
Deposit fund interest
27,000		 20,196
19,066
10,041
4,252
30,237
23,318
Income from church activities
Hall Lettings
Wilberforce Lettings
Ocassional Services
Insurance claim
Sundry income		 17,000
Church hall lettings
180
Wilberforce centre income
4,000
Fees from weddings and funerals
-
Insurance claim
80
Sundry income
21,260
173,840		 5,550
15,087
183
553
4,878
2,994
14,006
84
262
24,701
18,896
188,731
203,167
Payments
Church activities
Common Fund
Curate's House
Salary/Staff Cost
Salary/Staff Cost
Salary/Staff Cost
Clergy Expenses
Vicarage
Children and Families
Church Utilities
Church and Hall Insurance
Church Building Maintenance
Hall Utilities
Hall Building Maintenance
General Supplies
Worship Supplies
Payment to Diocese
Mission
Church Local Outreach
Hardship Fund		 91,300
Diocesan parish share
17,500
Assistant staff costs
Cleaning
Administrator salary and pension
Organist's fees
1,000
Vicarage costs and vicars expenses
1,500
500
20,500
Church utilities
7,000
Church running and maintenance
13,200
4,500
Church hall utilities
4,500
Church hall repairs and maintenance
5,000
Administration costs
3,000
3,120
Fees paid to LDF
15,000
Mission and charitable
Support of school
225,620
38,000		 81,000
80,000
16,623
30,001
6,577
4,463
16,638
9,798
5,535
5,792
2,128
4,874
20,490
10,533
20,121
32,642
3,246
3,383
4,068
5,367
7,612
4,343
3,895
516
675
11,250
2,232
190,840
202,962
Balance 51,780
-		 2,109
-
205
Designated Funds
Buildings
Mission/Local outreach
Hardship
Restricted
Hardship
Middlesex
Churchyard		 £70,000
£15,000
£15,000
£600
£14,958
£67,103

16..

Electoral Roll Report

The number of persons on the Roll presented to the 2023 Annual Parochial Church Meeting was 151.

A revised Roll has been prepared in accordance with the Church Representation Roles and was completed on 11[th] April 2024. This revision resulted in the loss of 3 names that were on the 2023 Roll and the gain of 31 names. This is a net gain of 28 names as compared with the 2023 Roll.

The revised Roll, containing 179 names, is currently available for inspection by prior request in the Parish Office, where it will remain.

Thomas Gardiner

Electoral Roll Officer

REPORT ON FABRICS, GOODS AND ORNAMENTS OF ST PAUL’S CHURCH, CHURCHYARD AND CHURCH HALL JANUARY to DECEMBER 2023

FABRIC

GOODS AND ORNAMENTS

WILBERFORCE CENTRE

CHURCHYARD

CHURCH HALL

PARISH OFFICE

VICARAGE

SHAKESPEARE ROAD

MIDDLESEX REGIMENT WAR MEMORIAL

John Lee and Jane Shelbourn, Church Wardens, January 2024

Reports from Church Groups

Report on the Churches Together in Mill Hill Activities in 2023

The year commenced with the United Service held at Trinity Church. Two churches hosted the Night Shelter run in conjunction with Homeless Action in Barnet and Together in Barnet with volunteers from all the churches assisting.

Unfortunately, the person who used to coordinate the events in Christian Aid week has stopped doing so, but all churches held events to raise funds during this time. At Easter, chocolate eggs were distributed on the Broadway with an explanatory leaflet about Easter. On Good Friday was the Walk of Witness.

In August the Retreat occurred and was well supported. Toward the end of this month Holiday at Home was held at The Eversfield Centre with support from members of all churches.

At Christmas, chocolate angels were handed out on the Broadway together with a leaflet explaining the meaning of Christmas. The Christmas Day lunch was delivered to 83 individuals by 43 drivers and was well received.

Throughout the year the Bereavement Listening meetings have been held and more volunteers have been trained. This essential service needs to be publicised more.

The above events are mainly organised by volunteers from the local churches, and more are needed.

Derrick Edgerton

Barnet Deanery Synod Report

The Barnet Deanery Synod consists of representatives, both clergy and laity, from every church in the deanery. It meets to share and discuss issues of concern to our parishes, to receive deanery news and deal with deanery business as it arises. At most meetings there is also a guest speaker or a presentation on a particular issue. There is normally a short act of worship as well. Synod met three times in 2023.

The first meeting was held here at St Paul’s in February. After worshipping together and dealing with Synod business, there was a presentation by the Borough of Barnet Fostering Team raising awareness of the need for more foster carers to meet escalating needs in the area. Team members presented a clear picture of the needs and of the support available to those who foster children in need of a family environment; and some foster carers also spoke of their experiences and the rewards of such work. This generated considerable interest and discussion of the needs and the training available and how churches might assist with recruitment. This was followed by breakout groups sharing what was newly happening in Churches and praying together.

The second meeting of the year was hosted by All Saints Church, Childs Hill in July. Deanery business was dealt with, and news of vacancies and new appointments shared. This was followed by a presentation introducing “Love Matters”, a report from the Archbishops Families and Households Commission. This is a substantial document looking into the experiences and condition of families, households and communities and the needs and relationships that exist both in and between them. It is hoped that “Love Matters” will be a springboard for many discussions concerning the needs of society and plans for Churches to offer help and support. This was an introduction to the report, and it is likely to feature in several future Deanery Synod Meetings.

The third meeting was held in November at St John’s Church, Friern Barnet. After a period of worship, Deanery business was dealt with and was followed by a further presentation of “Love Matters” and discussion and prayer in breakout groups.

Fiona Reynoldson

Men’s Breakfast

The Men’s Breakfast group meets in the Wilberforce Centre on Saturday mornings at 8.00am, usually once a month. A full English Breakfast is enjoyed, followed by croissants.

During the croissant stage there is an informal discussion on a topic introduced by a member of the group, and various wide-ranging subjects are covered. Average attendance is up to around 15 people.

Alan Roberts

Ladies’ Tuesday Group

On the second Tuesday of the month, except during Lent/Easter and August, the ladies of the Tuesday Group meet, usually in The Wilberforce Centre. Evenings are generally on a theme – quiz, social, games, book reviews – and there is also a walk and a couple of events away from church. At the end of 2023 there was a craft evening, which raised funds for a hospice, and the group arranged a Christmas food collection that was donated to the NW7Hub and gratefully received. Money was also raised from the Christmas social, which went to Crisis.

As a member of the group noted, it is good to know that some good can be done while enjoying each other’s company. We would love to welcome new members, and anyone wishing to know more should contact the parish office to be included in notifications.

Kim Thompson

Churchyard Working Group

The group of volunteers meets every Thursday morning to mow, strim and tidy the Churchyard. Our aims are to:

We are a group, mixed in demographics and ethnicity, who enjoy the physicality of the challenge of the aims. Most importantly we have a hot drinks and cake rota where our members strive to out-do each other in the provision of often home-made nutrition. As we have progressed over the years since our start-up in 2008, we have watched with delight the emergence of common and rare flowers originally buried under brambles (see photo)

Our challenge for the future is to recruit more members and to ensure the work continues and that the area does not revert to the state at the start of the century when most of the graves were invisible, covered as they were with foliage.

Robin Vicary