CHARITY COMMISSION ANNUAL REPORT CONNECTED LIFE CHURCH 2024
2024 marked the second anniversary of the newly named Connected Life Church, a church with roots in both England and Romania, and a church in which both cultures are celebrated within the context of the unity found in Jesus Christ, the head of the Church.
Connected Life Church is a multi-cultural church which is blessed with members linked to a variety of nations throughout the world.
This year we studied the gospel of Mark in our sermons and care groups, where we reflected on the importance of a persons’ heart before God.
Throughout the year we have received visitors and guest speakers from different nations, and were pleased to be joined for our anniversary celebrations in June by a guest speaker from Romania.
On the Saturday of our anniversary weekend, we had a seminar entitled ‘Servants in the Church’ which addressed the subject of dealing with conflict. There was also a dedicated evening meeting for the youth. On the Sunday we celebrated with a joint worship meeting of both English and Romanian-speaking congregations followed by a shared meal. The anniversary message was on the biblical perspective of remembrance and reflection on God’s goodness to us.
The anniversary events were well received for their instruction, encouragement and direction.
Regular groups continued at the church, including Parents & Toddlers’, Youth, Care, and Prayer groups. Church rooms were also used by various community groups, including an Eritrean church who have a connection with us going back several years.
A Food bank operated from the church premises, and was supported by church members as well as other members of the community.
As a church we have continued to support the Erdington Street Pastors team which meets regularly for prayer for the community and to walk the High Street during the day, offering support to people and a listening ear.
Our Christmas celebrations included a concert where our children and young people warmed us all with their musical talents.
In his Christmas message our pastor reflected on the King of kings stepping into our broken world, not as a distant ruler but as a Saviour who has come near to heal, restore and dwell with His people.
May God continue to keep us serving him in the community where he has placed us.
CONNECTED LIFE CHURCH FINANCIAL STATEMENT 1 January 2024 to 31 December 2024
| General Account | 2024 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|
| Receipts | £ | £ |
| Weekly Offering | 149,731 * | 152,809 * |
| Other Income (inc donations) | 176,824 | 12,005 |
| Gift Aid | 17,984 | 11,812 |
| Bank Interest for HEBA account | 254 | 318 |
| Total | 344,793 | 176,944 |
| Payments | ||
| Ministry | 63,167 | 62,591 |
| Church Equipment | 4,242 | 30,383 |
| Upkeep of Church Premises | 30,133 | 30,395 |
| Administration | 9,909 | 6,107 |
| Missionary Giving | 12,521 | 12,845 |
| Youth Work | 2,051 | 4,019 |
| Other Expenditure | - | 37 |
| Total | 122,022 | 146,377 |
| Surplus | 222,770 | 30,567 |
| Bank Balance as at 1st January | 260,299 | 229,733 |
| Bank Balance as at 31st December | 483,070 | 260,300 |
| *Excludes special project monies. | ||
| Special Project Funds | ||
| Bank Balance as at 31st December 2024 | 32,447 | 32,447 |
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF CONNECTED LIFE CHURCH (Reg charity number 1139836.) I report on the accounts of the Trust for the year ending 31st December 2024, which have been set before me. Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner The charity's trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144121 of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibility to: examine the accounts under section 145 of the 2011 Act; to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 14515llSbl of the 2011 Act,. and to State whether particular matters have come to my attention. Basis of independent examiner's report My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking expla nations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a 'true and fair view, and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below. Independent exominer's statement In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention.. {11 which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements: to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act; and to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act have not been met,. or 121 to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Pa ul Allen 4 Swan Road Draycott In The Clay Ashbourne DE6 5GW Date: 25 October 2025