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← The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of St Sebastian, Wokingham

2024-12-31-accounts

The Parish of Wokingham St Sebastian’s

2024 ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS For the year ended 31[st] December 2024

The Parochial Church Council of The Parish of Wokingham St Sebastian’s Annual Report for 2024

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Numbers
1.0 LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS 2
2.0 TRUSTEES REPORT 2
2.1 Aims and Purposes 2
2.2 Objectives and Activities 3
2.3 Achievements and Performance 3
•
Parish Review		 3
•
Ministry Activities		 4
•
Governance And Finance		 7
•
Parish Attendance		 8
•
Other Parish Reports		 9

Churchwarden’s Report		 9

Safeguarding		 10

The Base		 11

Communication		 12

Prayer Team		 13

Home Groups		 13

Friday Night Live		 13

Little Angels		 14

Cancer Support Group		 14

Bereavement Pastoral Support		 14

Music and Worship Report		 15

Sandwich Men		 15

Sound and Vision Report		 15
2.4 Sonning Area Dean Report 15
2.5 Other Churches and Community 16
2.6 Financial Review 19
2.7 Structure, Governance and Management 21
2.8 Parochial Church Council / Annual Parochial Church Meetings 21
2.9 Parish Statistics 21
3.0 INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNTS 23
4.0 BALANCE SHEET 25
5.0 NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS 26
6.0 INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT 33

St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

1.0 LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS

Full Parochial Name: Parish of Wokingham St Sebastian’s The Incumbent: The Reverend Rickey Simpson-Gray BA (Hons), FCMA, Dip (HE) Parish address: Parish Office, Nine Mile Ride, Wokingham Berkshire RG40 3AT Tel: 01344 761050 E-mail: office@stsebastians.org.uk www.stsebschurch.org.uk Bankers to the PCC: CAF Bank Limited, 25 King’s Hill Avenue, King’s Hill, ME19 4JQ Barclays Bank UK PLC Leicester, LE87 2BB

Independent Examiner : Mr Michael Young FCA

The following schools are associated with the Parish of Wokingham St Sebastian’s:

The Parish of Wokingham St Sebastian’s is situated in Wokingham Without. It is part of the Sonning Deanery, Archdeaconry of Berkshire, Diocese of Oxford within the Church of England.

Correspondence address: Parish Office, Nine Mile Ride, Wokingham, Berkshire RG40 3AT.

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is a body corporate (PCC Powers Measure 1956, as amended, Church Representation Rules 2022), and a registered charity of The Charity Commission for England and Wales.

Charity Registration Number: 1139933

2.0 TRUSTEES REPORT

2.1 Aims and purposes

To promote the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.

The Parish of Wokingham St Sebastian’s Parochial Church Council (PCC) has the responsibility of cooperating with the Incumbent, The Reverend Rickey Simpson-Gray, in promoting in the ecclesiastical Parish, the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

The PCC is also specifically responsible for the maintenance of the following buildings:

Nine Mile Ride Wokingham Berkshire RG40 3AT

2.2 Objectives and Activities

The PCC is committed to enabling as many people as possible to worship at our churches and to become part of our Parish community of Wokingham Without. The PCC maintains an overview of worship throughout the Parish and makes suggestions on how our services can involve the many groups that live within our Parish. Our services and worship put faith into practice through prayer and scripture, music and sacrament.

When planning our activities for the year, we have considered the Right Reverend Dr Steven Croft’s (Bishop of Oxford) Common Vision of being called to be Christ-like ( Contemplative, Compassionate and Courageous ) for the benefit of our Parishioners, local residents and visitors. This also includes supplementary guidance from The Charities Commission (England and Wales) for the advancement of religion for the public benefit.

With the Parish Interim Mission Action Plan of “a beacon of Christ loving God and serving others”, we enable ordinary people to live out their faith in response to us loving God and others through:

2.3 Achievements and Performance

"The history of missions is the history of answered prayer", according to Samuel Zwemer (18671952). These words supported the heart of Parish ministry in Wokingham St Sebastian’s during 2024.

I shared in my first 2023 sermon the priority to mend fences and remove encumbrances for the Word of God, ministries and Gospel proclamation to be conveyed unfettered, unbound and without constraint. The works continued during 2024 with God’s help and navigated the Bible mandate below from 33[rd] chapter of Exodus:

“Then Moses said, “If you don’t personally go with us, don’t make us leave this place. How will anyone know that you look favourably on me — on me and on your people — if you

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

don’t go with us? For your presence among us sets your people and me apart from all other people on the earth.”

The Lord replied to Moses, “I will indeed do what you have asked, for I look favourably on you, and I know you by name.”

We report on the achievements of Parish ministry, challenges and what the future holds for us during 2025.

• Ministry activities

We held 144 (132) Parish church events in 2024 (2023) covering Sunday Worship, All Age and Communion Services, Worship and the Word, The Base, Wednesday Communion and 5[th] Sunday Healing and Prayer. Included in this total were the following services: Easter and Christmas, Maundy Thursday, Three Hour by the Cross, Christmas Tree Festival, Christingle, Carols Service, Crib Service and Midnight Communion.

An additional 34 (27) services were held for All Souls and Remembrance Day, Life Events (baptisms, weddings and funerals), Harvest Festival and School services. We have also held monthly communion services at Buckler’s Lodge Care Home.

Work continued throughout the year on building on the good safeguarding work undertaken by our leaders: Helen Thompson, Mark Lee, Suman Shrestha and Murray Foulds. Lay and Team Leaders have made great efforts to stay up to date with their training supplemented, particularly, against the background of heightened safeguarding awareness across the Diocese and Church of England. We want our Parish ministries to flourish for all Christians and safe safeguarding practices remain at the heart of all that we do.

I am grateful for the volunteers of Little Angels ministry, the Parent and Toddler group, which meets in St Sebastian’s Church Hall fortnightly Fridays. We have noted increases in attendance following greater social media notices, recommendations and recent Parish magazine leaflet drop in local homes within Parish boundary. With greater family engagement, we look forward to future prospects of ministry pathways into church.

We maintained the Parish Youth Ministry with Sally Alexander until October 2024 following the departure of our previous Youth Worker. Friday Night Live held fortnightly friendly and safe spaces for teenagers with support from Eve Bull, Dave Metson, Mary Unwin and John Hills. Opportunities were taken to communicate the love of Christ through the range of appropriate activities offered. We look forward to growing ministry opportunities as we explore during 2025 a Family Worker resource.

We had 11 (14) Life events during 2024 (2023): 2 (2) wedding / wedding blessing, 3 (1) baptisms / blessings and 6 (11) funerals. We hope to build on this year’s success during 2025 in social media, announcements and publicity for missional opportunities. Life events remain a good indicator of local community engagement.

The Parish remains blessed with the support of our Local Lay Ministers (LLMs) Russell Shipton and Wendy Wickens. They graciously contributed to leading services and supporting my Incumbency during 2024, particularly, Pastoral Care, 4[th] Sunday Worship and 6pm Praise and Worship services. I remain grateful for their ongoing support.

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

I engaged with St Sebastian’s Church of England School Headteacher, Martin Gater, up to end of school term beyond the school events of Easter, Summer End of Term, Harvest, Remembrance Day and Christmas. The Parish and I bid farewell to Martin in July and welcomed the new Head of School,, Mrs Sarah Cohen, from September. I also had the pleasure of joining other School events, which also saw a few children joining our Christmas seasonal services.

Closer collaboration with Head of School meetings at St Sebastian’s Church of England School has led to invited sessions to develop children’s prayers as well as monthly Collective Worship at St Sebastian’s Church. The school continues to be supported by Foundational Governors out of St Sebastian’s and nearby local churches. Together, they have contributed to the effective governance and the support of Head of School, Teachers, Staff and Parent support. We continue to hold everyone in our prayers for their continued flourishing during 2025.

I had the privilege to lead and preach at the Harvest Service in Oaklands Junior School in October followed by Collective Worship in the following month. The School teachers’ reception and children’s enthusiasm were most welcoming. Out of that engagement, agreement was reached to provide termly Collective Worship, which is gaining traction. We look forward to building on this foundation across 2025.

Russell Shipton LLM and I supported monthly Holy Communion services at Buckler’s Lodge Care Home with around 14 residents. We had an additional 60 family, friends and guests joining us at the Christmas Service to hear St Sebastian’s Brass Band and choir singers from St Sebastian’s. It was wonderful. One resident has begun regularly visiting our Sunday Worship and Communion Service. I am pleased to see how this missional opportunity is growing.

I would like to acknowledge the warm hospitality of the Buckler’s Lodge Care Home Business Support Manager, Anne Burroughs, Debbie Rapson and Aimee Hallcup. We also share our deepest thanks to the local residents who attend each service, their acceptance of our service books and the Holy Communion. We look forward to more collaborations and a flourishing relationship throughout 2025 following bookings for all months up to December.

We maintained Prayer ministry within the shared helpful team leadership of Jill Gardener, Alexis Clarke, Lay Licensed Ministers Wendy Wickens and Russell Shipton, and Anne Andrews. All met with members from church community weekly to intercede and respond to requested prayers.

Prayer Group met weekly, via Zoom and occasionally in person. The team provided ministry during Communion and other services. Prayer connections were also available at fortnightly services of the Base. We look forward to seeing the Lord’s ministry direction during 2025 to better support our parishioners and Church.

Home groups met at regular intervals for parishioners’ pastoral support. I repeat recognition to the groups of Russell and Angela Shipton, Paul and Claire Morrison, Sally and John Congram, Anne and Mark Andrews, Murray and Joy Foulds and others who will have occasionally met on the margins. We had a successful series of Lent Bible Studies (Come and See) and online Alpha via Mark and Anne Andrews, both of which we hope to repeat in 2025. Many thanks for all the efforts expended.

There is also another aspect to the Home Groups ministry. Paul and Claire Morrison (and other church members) have been frequently providing practical help, transport and food to vulnerable parishioners of our church community during this year and in times before. An area of work that can be easily taken for granted. In 2025, we shall be exploring connections and pathways between Prayer Ministry and Pastoral Care Home Groups for our parishioners’ spiritual well-being.

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

The Parish and I thanked Anne Bone, Helen Ormerod and Jean Pounce for their work running the Cancer Support ministry at St Sebastian’s Parish for 32 years. They decided to bring the group to a close during October. The Parish and I remain grateful for this legacy of work and contribution to Parish ministry since 1992.

St Sebastian’s Church is a member of Churches Together Crowthorne (CTC). CTC is an association of local churches from Crowthorne and Finchampstead, who come together to serve and bless our area and its people in the name of Jesus Christ including church communities: St John the Baptist, St James in Finchampstead, the local Baptists, Methodists, Roman Catholic and Vineyard Church groups. We are fortunate that CTC Chair, Janet Rogers, is a member of our local Parish community. I am thankful for all the work Janet has put into this ecumenical ministry during 2024.

CTC Leaders and I met frequently during 2024. Members of our church and I took part in the organised summer event at the Morgan Recreation Grounds and Christmas late night shopping event on Crowthorne High Street outside the local Baptist Church. I look forward to increased collaborations during 2025.

I was pleased to invite the Age UK Berkshire Dementia Club charity to use our Church Hall and they’re still us providing an essential community support. What a blessing! This community service is growing and we are looking forward to building further engagement during 2025.

I am grateful for the continued existence of this Men’s Sandwich Club ministry, the vision of parishioner and former Licensed Lay Minister, Ian Mackenzie. It remains a welcome space for senior men to meet each month in the Parish Centre. With deepest thanks to Ian Mackenzie for his continued running of this ministry.

I would like to offer my appreciation to John Woodburn ACIB, Region 7 Treasurer and Branch Support for the “GOOD NEWS for Everyone!” UK Charity (formerly The Gideon’s Society). We were blessed with the free supply of A4 magazines, which the church and I hand delivered to residential homes within the Parish during November and early December into 2,200 homes. The was part of our missional re-set and raising awareness in the local community. We have seen some fruits from the efforts and look forward to seeing more during 2025.

The Parish website impact is growing with the helpful work of the Parish Communication Team (Chris Bull, David Smart, Suman Shrestha and Paula Mason). Functionality has recently been enhanced by the addition of recorded Church events and greater information / notices about Parish events.

Our Facebook social medial membership has grown. We are seeing increased requests, followers of Parish accounts and occasional prayer requests. Content comprised of Parish notices, Vicar Letters, Bible readings, prayers, reflective Christian quotes and occasional images, which have seen increased viewings.

I would like to thank all volunteers who have worked so hard to maintain our Church and Parish buildings during 2024 beginning with Churchwardens, Chris Bull and Peter Thompson. Peter stepped down in September and was succeeded by Nigel Wickens. Chris and Nigel were supported by Nigel Birch, David Metson and Paul Morrison during 2024. All have helped other volunteers involved in flower arranging, vergering, polishing, cleaning, refreshments, baking cakes, Sound and Vision desk and modest repairs. You are all too numerous to be named but you know who you are, and I am deeply grateful. Thank you for all your efforts.

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

Separate mention and deepest thanks are reserved for Head of Music and Worship, Jill Metson, who has ensured rotas have been in place for all Sunday Services. I hope you would join me in offering thanks for Jill’s work as well as all musicians involved providing music support including St Sebastian’s Brass Band. Similarly, we extend our thanks to Office Manager, Kirsty Milam, for effectively running the Parish Office and coordinating the various activities across the Parish Estate.

•

Governance and Finance

The Parish would not be able to function as a registered Charity (England and Wales) were it not for the efforts of Parochial Church Council (PCC) members who as legal trustees, met every two months under my Chair to exercise governance decision-making.

The work of the PCC was effectively supported by Parish Treasurer, John Congram, who heroically steered Parish financial decisions within relevant financial controls and measures in 2024. The PCC and I offer our thanks. Similarly, the support of PCC Secretary, Mary Unwin, has helped the Parish to stay on top of key governance decisions and commitments undertaken. We also offer our gratitude for Mary’s work. Mary steps down from this role in May 2025.

Parish Treasury

The 2024 (2023) Parish Share of £81,554 (£82,622) was met in full. We praise the Lord for all donations, stewardship and other giving to meet our share of Diocese of Oxford’s costs.

The Parish donated total gifts of £7,153 (£3,794) in 2024 to the charities below 2024 (2023):

UK Charities Overseas Charities
Yeldall Manor 1,200
£		 Mitiyana 1,200
£
JAC 600
£		 Open Doors 1,200
£
Soulscape 600
£		 Univida 1,200
£
Connect CounsellingService 300
£		 Tear FundQuiz 753
£
Harvest Collection Crowthorne Foodbank 50
£
Harvest Collection Yeldall 50
£
Totals 2,800
£		 4,353
£
UK and Overseas Charities' Total 7,153
£

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

Parish Attendance Data 2024 Events 2024 Events 2023 Events 2023 Events 2023-2024
Movement		 2023-2024
Movement
Services Average
Attendance		 Services Average
Attendance		 Services Average
Attendance
Weekly Services
8am HolyCommunion Services 43 4 33 5 10 -1
10am All Age Communion 11 51 11 43 - 8
10am Worshipand the Word 21 48 24 40 -3 8
10am HolyCommunion 10 92 15 56 -5 35
10am HolyCommunion(Wednesdays) 12 5 16 2 -4 3
6pm Praise and Worship 8 21 3 27 5 -7
5th SundayHealingService 3 49 3 35 - 14
10am The Base 12 38 17 20 -5 18
Weekly Services' Total 120
307		 122
229		 -2
78
Seasonal Services
Lent
Ash Wednesday 2 16 - 0 2 16
Lent Bible Studies 10 16 - 0 10 16
Easter
Easter - MaundyThursday 1 18 1 18 - 0
Easter - Vigil 1 8 - 0 1 8
Easter - 3 Hour bythe Cross 1 44 1 44 - 0
Christmas
Christmas Tree Festival 1 22 1 26 - -4
Christmas Special Concert(Life and Mission) 1 110 1 0 - 110
Christmas Christingle 2 40 1 43 1 -4
Christmas Carols 1 115 1 106 - 9
Christmas Crib Service 1 48 1 71 - -23
Christmas Cubs 1 20 1 34 - -14
Christmas Midnight Communion 1 28 1 27 - 1
Christmas Day 1 52 1 98 - -46
Seasonal Services Total 24
536		 10
467		 14
69
Special Services / Life Events
Commemorative
All Souls 1 28 1 28 - 0
Remembrance Day 1 107 1 107 - 0
Life
Baptism / Blessing 3 27 1 83 2 -56
Wedding/ Blessing 2 25 2 25 - 0
Funeral Services 6 119 11 63 -5 56
Schools
Oaklands Junior School 2 209 1 240 1 -32
St Sebastian's School 6 141 6 156 - -15
Care Home
Buckler's Lodge HolyCommunion 13 18 3 13 10 5
RSG Installation - - 1 104 -1 -104
Special Services / Life Events' Total 34
673		 27
819		 7
-146
OVERALL TOTAL 178 1516 159 1515 19
1

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

In the words of Richard Halverson, “We may not know the way God leads but we know God leads! We do not know the way...but we know the Guide!” The Parish of Wokingham St Sebastian’s and I trust God’s direction of travel and leadership for Parish ministry in 2025 with the help of prayer and spiritual discernment through the Holy Spirit.

We remain encouraged that the Lord is with us.

Peace be with you

The Reverend Rickey Simpson-Gray Parish of Wokingham St Sebastian’s Diocese of Oxford | Church of England

Churchwarden’s Report

2024 A Year of Transition

The Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) saw the two Churchwardens Chris Bull and Peter Thompson being orated for another term. Due to ill health Peter Thompson had to stand down in September with Nigel Wickens taking his place and being duly elected in September. Thank you, Peter, for your help in getting things established with Reverend Rickey’s first year.

The Churchwardens are ably supported by three deputy wardens for the management of services, David Metson, Nigel Birch and Paul Morrison. We would like to thank them all for their dedication and service to this responsibility. Thank you as well to Jane Addison, who stood down, and after many years of being a Churchwarden and then helping as a deputy.

This was also a year where our Family and Youth workers, Amy and Marvin Vogel, left to move to a new parish in Warwick. Again, a big thank you to them for their ministry to St Sebastian’s.

We are grateful for the positive outcome of the Deanery inspection of our governance systems, with special thanks to Kirsty Milam, Office Manager.

Fabric Report

We have been engaged in many different items sorting out issues that occur running the fabric of any church and related buildings. The most significant issue was Amy and Marvin leaving the Parish Centre Flat in February and the tenant in the lodge deciding to leave in May. As a result of this we had the chance to overhaul the Parish Centre flat for commercial let which required a significant refurbishment due to the lack of investment over several years.

Church

We have not had to carry out any major works in the church this year. Many thanks to the team that keep it beautifully clean and tidy throughout the year.

Church Hall

We have been investigating the sound issue in the hall with an expert but with no current progress on a solution. One major addition to the hall this year is the provision of a new fire emergency system installation.

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

Parish Centre and Flat

Major maintenance was carried out on the Parish Centre roof with about 1 ton of moss and leaves being removed. 12 tiles were replaced, and the lead flashing was repaired. This was causing major dampness within the flat. We carried out a major overhaul of the flat replacing the plumbing and boiler, fully updating the electrics and refitting out the kitchen. This allowed us to carry out a commercial let to new tenants who moved in, in October.

Lodge

After the tenant moved out of the Lodge in May, we were left with a very untidy building which needed a major clean. A replacement boiler and some plumbing were required before we could consider reletting for commercial let. Works were carried out in the garden to remove bushes and trim the trees to allow more light into the premises. New tenants moved in, in November. New gates and fence posts have been fitted to the entrance. (Thanks to Nigel Wickens).

Car Park

We have carried out some patching in the car park, but this is only a temporary solution to a much bigger problem. We have also undertaken a general clear up and removal of trees, bushes and leaves ongoing with weekend clearing up days. We put together a video on the flooding in the car park so that we could launch a repair project to install a soak away to solve this problem. So far, we have exceeded the amount required and we hope to start the project in April 2025.

Major Projects

The main church roof on the north side of the building will need the rafters refitting at a cost of £40,000 at some stage in the near future. There is still the overhaul of the car park surface to be completed once we have fitted the new soak away in April 2025. We are in discussion with Keys Academy Trust on behalf of St Sebastian’s School for resolving this issue. Redevelopment of the church hall remains a future consideration to provide more services into the community.

Church Hall users

Finally, we remain grateful to regular users of our Church Hall, which brings much needed income to our Parish: Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Age UK Berkshire.

Thanks to Fabric Team: Murray Foulds, David Metson, Paul Morrison, and Nigel Wickens for all their help. More members welcome!!

Carbon Net Zero 2030

We are hoping to start a Carbon Net Zero team in 2025 to see what we can do to try and achieve CNZ by 2030, watch this space.

Safeguarding

The PCC continues to regard Safeguarding as one of its most important responsibilities. Understanding that Safeguarding extends to all, the PCC agreed a renewed Safeguarding Policy at the APCM in May 2024. Key points are as follows:

Our church is committed to:

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

young people and vulnerable adults within the church.

2024 saw a continued focus on updating safeguarding training for many of St Sebastian's congregation in accordance with roles/responsibilities as per Diocesan guidance/ requirements. Approximately 50-60 persons have completed/updated their safeguarding training at Basic Awareness &/or Foundation &/or Leadership Levels during 2024/2025.

The PCC approved a ‘Recruitment of Ex-Offenders Policy’ in September 2024, and more recently (January 2025) a ‘Code of Safer Working Practice’ was circulated to 48 persons in the congregation. The Diocese recently issued this ‘Code’ which sets out principles and guidance in relation to safeguarding matters. The Code of Safer Working Practice expresses our commitment to demonstrating God’s love by placing the highest priority on the safety of those to whom we minister.

November 2024 saw ‘Safeguarding Sunday’ at St Sebastian’s - an opportunity for all to reflect on safeguarding. Safeguarding presentations took place in the main church and at The Base - including an additional ‘child-centred-style’ presentation for those aged 2yrs-18yrs. Mode of delivery was to try to achieve a relaxed, informal presentation style without being too ‘heavy’, but yet still to address important issues, frequency of safeguarding incidents, routes of referral, church family safeguarding responsibilities and personal responsibilities as Christians to ensure all at St Sebs are able to attend and participate in worship freely and safely.

Work has continued on the Diocesan Safeguarding Dashboard. This compliance tool monitors, collates and reports on safeguarding matters. It has 2 sections:

Murray Foulds - Safeguarding Lead to PCC

The Base

This last year started as a challenging year for us as we said Goodbye to the Vogel’s and were unsure of the future of the Base. We have gone from a team of people who were trying to ensure the survival of an element of the church and family mission to a team of leaders, building faith for our families.

There has been the introduction of joint refreshments drawing the congregations together. Since September we have had a higher presence within the St Sebs community. We have led family appropriate services such as Christingle and our start of term ‘All Together Services’ (often including youth group members), these also serving to bring the arms of the church together.

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

Over the Summer we took part in Crowthorne Churches Together Summer of Fun Days where we served our community offering craft activities. We met with so many families and had the privilege of spreading God’s word. We also have a display in the hall showing an element of our church to all the hall users who may not ordinarily attend.

The Base has gone from strength to strength and seeing the community thrive and grow has been a blessing. Our young people are engaging fully in their faith through readings, prayers, craft and contributions. The Base has a session of breakout where the adults discuss the theme and the children go and do a related craft. We still have a large gap for our youth with no opportunity to allow a breakout for them – Carolyn does wonders with craft that is age appropriate but there is a big difference between primary school age and upper secondary school age. We did put out a request for help but alas, we will keep praying.

The Base has become a well-oiled machine with no one person being crucial, every single person plays their role and it will be difficult to single people out to say thank you for their efforts. Mark and Suman continue to support in the leadership team, discussing new ideas and ways forward and I am very grateful to know they are by my side. We are looking to continue to find ways to join the arms of the church going forward, however are also full of joy at how we have maintained and enhanced the family worship at St Sebastian’s.

To finish on I wanted to share two photographs that encapsulate the Base as a fun, multi-generational place to worship. God bless. Tracey Clark, Suman Shrestha and Mark Portsmouth

Communication

We were established to facilitate coordination and management of information and messages to our church communication as well as our broader community across the Parish.

Our primary goal is to facilitate effective communication within the church, ensuring that announcements, events, sermons, and other relevant information are delivered clearly and consistently through various channels, such as newsletters, social media, websites, and in-person interactions. This team may include roles like communication directors, writers, graphic designers, and social media coordinators who work to enhance the church's outreach and engagement.

We considered the following communication themes:

We met twice in 2024.

Chris Bull, Paula Morris, David Smart and Suman Shrestha

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

Prayer Team

Prayer ministry is offered during our twice monthly Sunday Communion service and at other times by request to Revd Rickey, Alexis or Jill. We currently have 12 people on the Prayer Ministry team and are hoping to recruit more members.

Prayer and Healing services have been held on most 5th Sundays in the month, with a different prayer focus each time. A weekly prayer meeting is held on Zoom each Monday at 7.30 pm with a regular attendance of 13 (Zoom link on website).

In September 2024, Waymakers started, this is a monthly in- person time of prayer, worship and listening to the Lord and replaces Zoom prayers on 2[nd] Monday of the month. The Prayer Circle WhatsApp group has 39 members and receives regular requests for prayer, we have many encouraging answers to our prayers.

In 2025, Anne Andrews and Wendy Wickens are planning and hosting prayer stations in church as the start of a new initiative of regular prayers events. Jill Gardener and Alexis Clarke

Home Groups

There are six mid-week groups currently running. Three groups meet in homes: One (Community Bible Study Group) meets in the Parish Centre; One meets on zoom; and one communicates regularly as a ‘WhatsApp’ group. In total over 60 folks are regular members of one of the groups.

During Lent, we ran the Come and See course from the Oxford Diocese, on Wednesdays in church. It ran as two big open groups; one in the daytime and the other in the evening. In September we ran a zoom Alpha course; the on-line format allowing additional people to join. This then became the basis of a zoom midweek group.

These groups combine a great mix of fun, fellowship, exploration of all sorts of aspects of the Christian life, and prayer,… together with (except over zoom/WhatsApp!) coffee, nice biscuits, and sometimes more. So ask Mark and Anne Andrews, or Russell if you think you might like to join one. There is a space for You. Mark and Anne Andrews and Russell Shipton

Friday Night Live

Following on from Marvin’s departure in January, Friday Night Live continued on a twice a month basis led by Sally Alexander, David Metson, Eve Bull, Mary Unwin, Peter Thompson and Nicki Simpson-Gray. We also had one evening when John Hills came and talked to the youth which was amazing.

This year, we have worked hard on equipping the hall with more resources for the young people. This includes a table tennis table, a new pool table, and many new board games. We have introduced a craft table with activities like bracelet making, fabric painting on t shirts, and big picture painting using spray paint. The highlight of the evening is the discussion time where everyone comes together on bean bags, with hot chocolate. Each week a different topic is discussed with a Christian message, from Barbie (self-esteem and not having to be perfect), to money, to prayer. This has been a fantastic time for the youth to discuss, listen to each other and pray together.

We have had some great socials over the year. This has included: bowling, Jump In (trampoline place), and Golfplex. We also had the young people round Sally’s house for a fantastic pizza and games night.

One of the highlights of the year, was taking part in the youth service in March on the theme of Oceans – going deeper with God. The youth took round refreshments, led the congregation in a questionand-answer session, took part in the talk, made up part of the worship team and helped prepare the

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

prayer activity. Two big murals had been painted at Friday Night Live before the service to depict oceans and deep water.

There are about 17 youth on the register, and the youth often bring their friends along. The team have worked hard to make Friday Night Live a place they can go, be themselves and feel safe. All the leaders have worked hard building relationships, (this often happens around the table tennis table!) Sally Alexander – October 2025

There was a short pause in October and the group restarted on 29 November.

It now takes place twice a month and is team led by Eve Bull, John Hills, David Metson, Nicki SimpsonGray and Mary Unwin supported by other members of the Group.

Please do pray for the Youth, some of them are growing in leadership and others who are not churched take part in the discussions. Eve, John, David, Nicky and Mary

Little Angels

During term time, Little Angels meets fortnightly on Friday mornings in the Church Hall. It provides a warm, safe place for pre-school children and their carers. As well as Mums, we have Dads, Grandparents and Child Minders who all say how they appreciate the welcoming atmosphere.

There is a fabulous group of volunteers who set up the hall, clear everything away, bake cakes for grownups and make healthy snacks for the little ones. They also provide a listening ear for anyone who needs to chat.

At the end of the session, everyone enjoys singing fun songs and choosing birthday socks on special occasions. Eve Bull

Cancer Support Group

It was with a heavy heart that I met with Revd Rickey in the Autumn to say that the three of us, who have been dedicated to running the Group for over 30 years, felt the time had come to disband. We are now a lot older. Jean, who started the Group, is now 93, Helen is well into her seventies and I am almost 84. Due to health and other issues we all found keeping regular meetings going had become stressful.

Rickey kindly presented us with flowers as a ‘thank you’ from the Church for the long time the Group had been running. This acknowledgement was very much appreciated.

I plan to meet with past members and helpers from time to time over a cup of coffee as I think it is important to keep in contact. Helen and I will always be available to meet and talk with anyone who would find it helpful. Anne Bone

Bereavement Pastoral Support

During 2024 Sarah and Angela were able to support bereaved families following funerals by sending cards and also offering phone calls or visits. Further contact would be offered according to the individual’s wishes. We also looked to support members of the congregation who were bereaved. Angela Shipton and Sarah Fuller

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

Music and Worship Report

‘Let everything that has breath, praise the Lord!’ Psalm 150

Our sung worship here at St Sebastian’s is at the heart of church life. We are truly blessed to have live music in our worship throughout the year. Special thanks must go to those who regularly lead our sung worship on a Sunday – Janice, Eve, Lucy, Suman, Jon, Emma and members of St Sebastian’s Band. Thank you, too, to the many others who participate instrumentally and vocally.

During the past year our relatively new 6pm monthly service has continued to be an opportunity for more informal and extended worship. Another notable development has been the musical collaboration across our different church groups for our termly ‘Altogether’ services.

A Christmas music event at Buckler’s Lodge Care Home, as well as the Carol Singing at Holme Grange Craft Village proved to be great ways in which to ‘take the church into the community’. We hope to extend these opportunities even further.

Thank you, again, to all who have contributed to our worship. Jill Metson

Sandwich Men 2024

This small group for men continued to meet on the 4th Friday of the month between 12 and 1pm in the Parish Rooms to discuss a variety of topics for friendship and fellowship.

During the year we met 9 times and topics included a talk by Nigel Birch on Windmills. We also had a visit from the Vicar and discussed Church and international matters from a Christian viewpoint. Two members also visited the Men's Saturday morning breakfast at Crowthorne Baptist Church. Why not in the future do this at St Sebastian's?! Ian Mackenzie, Group Leader

Sound and Vision Report 2024

New livestreaming cameras installed into the church and have been used for a few key services. Thanks to everyone who helps with the sound and vision in the church. More members are welcome. Chris Bull – Churchwarden

2.4 Sonning Deanery Synod Report for 2024

It’s certainly been a year of significant change in Sonning Deanery.

In July 2024, Revd Richard Lamey moved on, after serving for as Area Dean for six years (and five years before that as Associate Area Dean). We continue to give thanks for how generously and fairly Richard served all the churches in our Deanery. He was warmly thanked and given a gift at his final Synod meeting in June 24.

The Bishop of Reading asked Revd Julian Bidgood (Barkham) to serve as Deanery Co-ordinator from July 24 and he has been working alongside John Sutton, Leigh Welham, and Lynne Paine (who thankfully continued in their posts as Lay Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer respectively). Revd Jane Kraft, Anna Pearce, Revd Laura Wheatley-Downes, Revd Andy Kearns, and David Horrocks have also continued to serve as members of the Deanery Standing Committee and Mission and Pastoral Committee.

It’s also been a year of change in many of our churches. At the time of 2024 APCMs, there were incumbent vacancies in five of our then twelve (now thirteen) benefices: Arborfield and Barkham, All Saints Wokingham, Finchampstead and California, Hurst, Ruscombe and Twyford, and Winnersh and Bearwood. Revd Laura Wheatley-Downes (St John’s Crowthorne) was also on maternity leave from April 24-January 25. Since then, we have also said farewell to Revd John Cook (who retired as Rector of Wargrave and Knowl Hill in June), Revd Richard Lamey (who also moved on from his role at St

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

Paul’s and Woosehill in July), and Revd Catherine Vaughan (who moved on from Owlsmoor in September).

But it hasn’t all been farewells! We are glad to have welcomed Revd Hannah Higginson into her new role as Rector of all Saints Wokingham (July), Revd Andy Kearns into his new role as Rector of Arborfield and Barkham (October), Revd Mark Gould as Vicar of Ruscombe and Twyford (September), Revd Patrick Mukholi as Vicar of Winnersh and Bearwood (February), Revd Hugh Thomas as Vicar (House for Duty) of Hurst (March), and Revd Gemma Donnell as Rector of Finchampstead and California (April). So, we end the year with just three incumbent vacancies, at St Paul’s and Woosehill, Wargrave and Knowl Hill, and Owlsmoor (see below). It’s possible that there may be further news on some of these posts before the time of the APCMs.

With so many changes taking place, there has understandably been a limit to the amount that the Deanery has been able to do over this last year.

One particular focus has been the future of Owlsmoor . A small group from the Mission and Pastoral Committee worked closely with the Wardens, the PCC and the Diocese, to look at possible options for the future staffing of that church family following Catherine’s departure. This work continues and the vacancy there has now been suspended for five years to enable further consideration of these options.

We have also spent time considering our churches and other local ministry among Children and Young People (following Bishop Stephen’s lead), Parish Share (as we continue to implement the new ways of calculating what different benefices should pay), and environmental matters (with the Standing Committee agreeing a number of grants to churches who have applied to the increasingly used Deanery Green Fund). In September 24, we were also joined by Revd Liz Jackson (Associate Archdeacon) who led a very thought-provoking session on ‘Welcoming the Stranger’ (informed particularly by her significant experience in leading and helping churches in welcoming and supporting refugees, including from Hong Kong and Ukraine).

In November 24, we took note of the (inevitably limited) progress that we had made on our 2024 Deanery Plan . We agreed to continue with this same plan in 2025, as well as continuing the ongoing work on the Plan for Children and Young People and (for obvious reasons) focusing on settling new clergy into the Deanery. The Standing Committee will also begin to consider what might be included in a potentially more ambitious plan for subsequent years, and will be seeking suggestions from PCCs about this too.

In summary, it’s been an interesting year. We give thanks to the Lord for the way he has grown relationships across the Deanery and between our churches through so many changes. And we look forward to a little more stability in 2025.

Julian Bidgood (Sonning Deanery Coordinator)

2.5 Other Churches and Community

Churches together in Crowthorne and Finchampstead (CTC)

CTC is an association of local churches from Crowthorne and Finchampstead, who come together to serve and bless our area and its people in the name of Jesus Christ.

We continue you to refer to our Purpose Statement , when considering our activities:

Churches Together in Crowthorne aims to support and promote unity among the churches actively sharing our Christian faith and values in our community in an authentic, loving, serving and inclusive manner by:

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

We have worked hard over recent years to ‘earn the right’ to engage powerfully within the Crowthorne ‘public space’ – our work with the Christmas Lights, support of Late-Night Shopping and the Crowthorne Summer Activities in particularly well supported by the Community.

We loved sharing our Knitted Angels (thank you to Jo Golding and her band of knitters!) and singing carols at different venues – invited back again to the Prince and Crowthorne Inn Pubs for a second year. [Maybe we’ll add the new pub at Buckler’s Park in 2025?]. Crowthorne Summer Activities attracted 773 children plus parents / grandparents over four Fridays in July and August for fun activities and prominent prayer and scripture-based craft activities. (Thank you to those from St Sebastian’s who helped with this.)

Marjorie Simmons, the original inspiration behind the knitted angels passed away in August, which made the angels particularly special at Christmas.

In June, members of churches from both Crowthorne and Sandhurst joined together to perform “Captain Noah and his Floating Zoo”. We were particularly delighted to be joined by several children from the St Sebastian’s school choir.

It is amazing to see how the churches work together in such creative ways to organise these events and many others – support for the Good Friday Service and Walk of Witness (surprising the shoppers at the CPC Market outside the library enroute), World Day of Prayer, contributing to the Crowthorne Parish Council D Day event, Christian Aid Week, Week of Prayer for Christian Unity as well as continuing support the Crowthorne Foodbank and HopeZone activities with young people and more.

We would love to see more St Sebastian’s people join us – we need a representative to be part of the steering committee that meets four times a year and help us engage more within St Sebs. We also have a lot of fun working together – the best ideas usually emerge from conversations around the Christmas events and Summer Activities! Janet Rogers, Chair CTC (and St Sebastian’s Rep)

Wokingham Without Parish Council

Wokingham Without Parish Council serves 3,000 households - including the majority of the (Ecclesiastical) Parish of St Sebastian’s Wokingham Without: excluding Buckler’s Park which is in the (Civil) Parish of Crowthorne and notably extending up to the Waterloo Railway Line in the north (All Saints Parish) where c4,000 houses are planned to be built.

The Parish Council has ten councillors (with two current vacancies), chaired by Cllr Lesley Foxwell. Cllr Foxwell will be stepping down as Chairman in May, although remaining as a councillor and we will miss her encyclopaedic knowledge of the Pinewood Centre as well as much else. You will know Cllr Kevin Whitehead and Cllr Janet Rogers, both members of St Sebastian’s! We are a “non-political” council which means that councillors do not represent a ‘political’ party on the Council, all sharing a desire to work to improve our local community.

Council Meetings: Members of the public are invited to attend any of our full council meetings (usually the first Monday of each month in the Howard Palmer Room (St Sebastian’s Memorial Hall).

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

What we do: The Parish Council is responsible for managing the Pinewood Centre, situated along Old Wokingham Road. It is home to a variety of Clubs & Societies and boasts a large adventure playground, pond, woodland walks and fitness trail.

The Parish Council also hires out the St Sebastian’s Memorial Hall for a variety of community activities and with Crowthorne Parish Council jointly manages the Walter Recreation Ground and Circle Hill sites, situated on the boundary between Crowthorne Parish and Wokingham Without Parish. In January 2025, we planted a ‘local origin’ native hornbeam in memory of the late Cllr Doreen Dye an indefatigable champion of all things trees and conservation in and beyond the parish.

Li oe pie KF Wea RF Saa? o> har As well as managing the land and building that we are directly SS OE si Mas ct ie Fg 2, 5 responsible for, the Parish Council is a statutory consultee for all Planning applications in the parish. This also extends to eh EE = me A representation on the stakeholder groups of nearby developments such as Buckler’s Park and the Broadmoor Hospital redevelopment. We are closely monitoring the planned “South Wokingham Major Development” and now Prior’s Farm extension and playing a key role in the planned community infrastructure (for example the Community Hall).

A large part of our work is improving the environment of Wokingham Without for our residents – we employ a part time litter picker and organise Community Litter picks (next one during Big Green Week in June 2025 date tbc). We regularly highlight problems to Wokingham BC and Bracknell FC highways concerning road works / road closures and flooding/drainage issues, which continue to afflict the parish!

Community and Grants :

With Crowthorne Parish Council we held an awards ceremony (November 2024, next one in 2026) to promote and celebrate the invaluable contribution that volunteers make to our community. The St Sebs “Surviving the Breakup” group was recognised some time ago, but I would be please to assist in the nomination of any individuals or groups that you feel should be recognised in this way.

In December, the council was pleased to approve more than £12,250 in grant funding for local organisations who provide valuable services to Wokingham Without residents.

One of the grant recipients included the local Men’s Shed who have brought back into use the pavilion on Bigshotte Field, behind Hatch Ride School. As well as providing a space for men to meet,

‘shedders’ have been busy repairing local community items. (The large Connect4 game that we use at Summer Activities been upgraded with wheels!)

We always welcome contributions from our residents and are delighted with the growing relationship developing with St

Sebastian’s Church. Please do talk to me or Kevin if you would like to know more about any of our activities (which space precludes me from including) or are interested in filling one of our vacant councillor positions! Cllr Janet Rogers (a parish councillor since 2014)

2.6 Financial Review

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

The accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024 are presented on pages 24 to 34 and are in accordance with the PCC Accountability guidance, 5th edition, 2017 issued by the Finance Division of the Archbishops’ Council.

Review of the Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024

In 2024 total Income £206,948 exceeded total Expenditure £187,061 resulting in a net Surplus of £19,887 (before gains or losses on investments) compared with the net Surplus in 2023 of £1,230.

Income

Total income was £206,948 (2023: £176,380). (Note 2 of the financial statements provides further details.)

Our main income source is “Voluntary income” or congregational giving (plus associated HMRC tax recovery) and we are grateful to the many faithful and generous givers (some over many years) who contribute, and without whom the Church would not be able to run its programme of activities. This year total donations and legacy income has increased to £182,680 from £145,060 in 2023. Within these totals the Regular Monthly Gifts increased to £114,644 from £110,286 (2023), and One-Off Donations totalled £43,896 (£30,508 in 2023).

The total of £43,896 included £23,781 donated to the Car Park Repair Fund. We are particularly grateful for the members of the congregation who generously made these donations. Also included is a legacy of £20,000 from former long term church member, Mrs Janet Collins.

Non-Gift Aided Donations includes goodwill payments from Total Energy of £6,067 to compensate for their failures over several years, to invoice our gas usage correctly.

Activities for generating funds, arising from the letting of the Church’s premises, provided £18,728 (2023: £24,456). The income from the letting of St Sebastian’s Lodge amounted to £10,500 down from £18,640 in 2023 because of a void period of over five months because the existing tenant vacated the premises suddenly mid contract, leaving furniture and possessions. The Lodge was relet in mid - November.

The Parish Centre flat became vacant in February, and after refurbishment was let from the beginning of November. Church Hall rent was £5,309 compared to £5,816 in 2023 following the loss of one regular hirer.

Expenditure

Total expenditure in the year was £187,061 (2023 £175,150). (Note 3 of the financial statements provides further details.)

The largest single item of expenditure remains the diocesan parish share of £81,449 (2023: £82,517). The parish share is set by the Diocese and Deanery according to pre-determined formulae. We pay our parish share via a 12 monthly direct debit which provides us with a 1% discount.

The Church is committed to give at least 10% of its unrestricted voluntary income to support the work of charities and reach out to those in need across the world and in the UK. However, in view of our financial situation, in July 2023, the PCC decided reluctantly that we should concentrate our resources on our own local mission objectives. Further, rather than stopping our giving to existing mission partners, the PCC approved the move from monthly donations to six monthly gifts in January and July. This policy was continued through 2024. The PCC plans to review our Charitable Giving policy in 2025.

For the majority of 2024, we employed 2 staff members compared with 5 employees during 2023. This reduction in staffing was reflected in salary costs falling from £50,690 (2023) to £28,816. However, this saving was offset by property costs rising from £30,036 (2023) to £57,116. This increase was due to repair costs rising from £9,189 (2023) to £35,800. The £35,800 total included the refurbishment of the Parish Centre Flat and St Sebastian’s Lodge ready for letting costing £16,585 and £8,202 respectively. Further it included £11,582 for the upgrading of the electrical systems in the

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

Church, Church Hall & Parish Centre, and the installation of an automatic Fire Alarm system in the Church Hall.

We are grateful for the volunteers who generously provide their time and skills for the benefit of the Church and thus make a substantial saving on our running costs.

Net Current Assets

At the end of the year, the net current assets totalled £87,428 (2023 £63,304) made up of cash balances of £88,925, investments £0, Debtors £7,633 less Creditors of £9,130. The Barclays Shares that represented the investments at 31 December 2023 valued at £18,646 were sold in 2024, adding £4,235 to the reserves.

Reserves policy

It has been PCC policy, where practicable, to maintain a minimum balance of free reserves (net current assets) equating to approximately two month’s general fund payments or £30,000. It is held to smooth out fluctuations in cash flow and to meet emergencies. Following a transfer from the Major Maintenance Reserve, the balance on the General Fund at 31st December 2024 was £25,173.

The PCC has designated four other funds:

Church Roof Repair Fund, - The PCC has resolved that the £20,000 legacy received in 2024, should be reserved to contribute the cost of repairing the church roof. The need for repair was identified in the quinquennial survey. "Major Maintenance Fund” - setup in January 2012 to cover large repair and maintenance items relating to the church and buildings. This Fund has a balance of £10,000 at 31 December 2024, following the transfer to the General Fund to cover the unexpectedly large cost of the refurbishment of the Parish Centre Flat.

“Jubilee Club Fund,” relating to this church group. “Legacy Fund” – during 2019, the PCC received a legacy of £5,000 from the estate of Mike Page a much-loved member of the congregation. The PCC has designated these funds whilst considering options to invest funds in a way that would honour Mike’s memory. In 2021 the PCC received gifts in memory of the wonderful servant of the church Eric Fudge and these have been similarly designated.

The Financial Position and the Outlook for 2025

As was reported in the 2023 Financial Statements, the charity faces the urgent needs to repair the Car Park (estimated cost £25,000) and to repair the Church Roof (estimated cost £35,000).

In the last quarter of 2024, the PCC launched an appeal for funds for our share of the Car Park repairs and to solve the flooding problem in the car park. The PCC is very grateful to all those who have contributed to this restricted fund which totalled £23,781 at 31st December 2024. The £20,000 legacy from Janet Collin’s estate was received in December. Largely because of these two major receipts late in the year, the charity’s reserves in total have risen by £24,122 in 2024, despite the unexpectedly high expenditure needed to bring the church buildings into a better state of repair.

The PCC agreed that it was appropriate to transfer £10,000 to General Reserves from the Major Maintenance Reserve to help finance the refurbishment costs of the Parish Centre Flat. Thus, despite the negative fluctuations in the General Reserve during 2024, the General Reserve balance of £25,173 at 31st December 2024 is in line with the charity’s reserves policy.

With both the Flat and Lodge let, and given the current levels of regular giving, the PCC anticipates a surplus of £14,000 in 2025. However, further fundraising will be required over the next eighteen months to fund the Church building roof repair.

Provision of information to independent examiners

Each of the members of the PCC at the time when this report is approved has confirmed that:

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

so far as he/she is aware, there is no relevant financial information of which the charity's independent Examiners are unaware, and

that he/she has taken all the steps that ought to have been taken as a trustee to be aware of any information needed by the independent examiners in connection with preparing his report and to establish that the independent examiner is aware of that information.

Independent Examiner

During the year the PCC approved the appointment of Michael Young FCA, a member of the congregation, to act as Independent Examiner

John Congram - Treasurer Date: March 2025

2.7 Structure, Governance and Management

The method of appointment of PCC (Parochial Church Council) members is set out in the 2022 Church Representation Rules.

In the Parish of Wokingham St Sebastian’s, the membership of the PCC consists of the Incumbent (our vicar), Churchwardens, and members elected by Electoral Roll members in the Parish. All those who attend our services / members of the congregation are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC. In addition, the following officers are also members of the PCC, Secretary – Mrs Mary Unwin, Treasurer and Stewardship – Mr John Congram.

The PCC members, who carry the legal status of Charity Trustees, are responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern and importance to the Parish of Wokingham St Sebastian’s. This also includes determining and prioritising how budgeted PCC funds are spent.

2.8 Parochial Church Council and Annual Parochial Council Meetings 2024

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

2.9 Parish Statistics

A new Electoral Roll was prepared, prior to the Annual Parochial Church Meeting on 11 May 2025, in accordance with Church Representation Rule (CRR) 7. There are 99 Parishioners on the roll as compared to 147 in 2024. There are 10 new names on the new electoral roll.

In accordance with CRR part 1, an electoral roll revision will occur next year. The next new roll preparation will be in 6 years time, 2031.

2025 electoral roll: 99 members (2024 – 147 members).

Mary Unwin, Electoral Roll Officer

PCC members who have served at any time between 1st January and 31[st] December 2024 are as follows:

Ex Officio members: Incumbent:

Incumbent: The Reverend Rickey Simpson-Gray (Chair) Churchwardens: Chris Bull Peter Thompson until September 2024 Nigel Wickens from September 2024 Deanery Synod members: Janet Rogers Mary Unwin There is one vacancy Diocesan Synod member Wendy Wickens PCC Members: Nigel Birch John Congram Murray Foulds David Metson Paul Morrison Suman Shrestha David Smart (Deputy Chair) Sue Thomas until April 2024 Ian Mackenzie from April 2024 Nigel Wickens (co-opted) from July to September 2024 PCC Secretary: Mary Unwin Treasurer: John Congram Planned Giving Officer: John Congram Parish Safeguarding Officer: Helen Thompson Deputy Parish Safeguarding Officer: Mark Lee Children’s Advocate: Suman Shrestha PCC Safeguarding Lead Murray Foulds

Approved by the PCC on: 19 March 2025

And signed on their behalf by:

The Reverend Rickey Simpson-Gray – PCC Chair

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St Sebastian’s Church Annual Report 2024

Parochial Church Council of St Sebastian’s Church Nine Mile Ride Wokingham Without

Diocese of Oxford

“A Beacon of Christ, Loving God and Serving Others” )

Financial statements of the Parochial Church Council For the Year ended 31 December 2024

1139933 Charity Number:

Contents

Independent Examiner’s Report Statement of Financial Activities Balance Sheet Notes to the Financial Statements

23

Financial statements For the year ending 31 December 2024

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

24

Financial statements For the year ending 31 December 2024

BALANCE SHEET FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 19 March 2024 and signed on its behalf by:

The Reverend. Rickey Simpson-Gray PCC Chair

John Congram PCC Treasurer

25

Financial statements For the year ending 31 December 2024

5.0 NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

The notes on pages 27 to 34 form part of these financial statements.

1. Accounting policies

Basis of Preparation

The financial statements have been prepared under the Charities Act 2011 and in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 governing the individual accounts of PCCs, and with the Regulations’ “true and fair view” provisions, they have been prepared under FRS102 (2016) as the applicable accounting standards and the 2016 version of the Statement of Recommended Practice, Accounting and Reporting by Charities (SORP(FRS102)).

The PCC is a public benefit entity within the meaning of FRS 102.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the valuation of investment assets and certain of the freehold properties which are at valuation as described in the notes.

The financial statements include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe their main affiliation to another body, nor those that are informal gatherings of church members.

Funds

Capital reserves (or permanent endowment funds) are funds, the capital of which must be maintained; only income arising from investment of the capital reserves may be used either as restricted or unrestricted funds depending on the purpose for which the capital reserve was established. The PCC has a single permanent endowment (capital reserves) established by trust in 1968 relating to the Upkeep of the Church and Churchyard.

Restricted funds represent income from trusts and endowments which may be expended only on those restricted objects provided in the terms of the trust or bequest, and donations or grants received for a specific object or invited by the PCC for a specific object. These funds may only be expended on the specific object for which they were given. Any balance remaining unspent at the end of each year must be carried forward as a balance on that fund.

Restricted funds include an upkeep of church and churchyard fund held under trust deed together with several other restricted funds, including the Car Park Repair Fund established in 2024.

Unrestricted funds are general funds that can be used to fund ongoing Church expenditure. These represent the remaining income funds of the PCC that are available for spending on the general purposes of the PCC, including amounts designated by the PCC for fixed assets for its own use or for spending on a future project and which are therefore not included in its ‘free reserves’ as disclosed in the trustees’ report.

Designated unrestricted funds are monies set aside by the PCC from unrestricted funds for specific purposes. That purpose is not binding on the PCC, though the PCC must be mindful of the intent when considering using the funds for other purposes. It is the simplest and most flexible way to ring fence money for special needs.

" Major Maintenance Fund ,” setup in January 2012 to cover large repair and maintenance items relating to the church and buildings.

“Jubilee Club Fund,” setup in September 2017 representing funds and expenditure relating to this church group.

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Financial statements For the year ending 31 December 2024

“Legacy Fund” (formally “Mike Page Legacy Fund”) – during 2019, the PCC received a legacy of £5,000 from the estate of Mike Page a much-loved member of the congregation. The PCC has designated these funds whilst considering options to invest funds in a way that would honour Mike’s memory. In 2021 the PCC received gifts in memory of the wonderful servant of the church Eric Fudge, and these have been similarly designated.

“Church Roof Repair Fund” formed from the legacy of £20,000 received from the estate of Mrs Janet Collins, a long-term faithful church member.

Income

Planned giving, collections and donations are recognised when received. Tax refunds are recognised when the incoming resources to which they relate is received. Grants and legacies are accounted for when the PCC is legally entitled to the amounts due. Rental income from the letting of the PCC property is recognised when the rental is due. Investment income is included in the accounts when receivable. Investment gains and losses include any gain or loss on the sale of investments and any gain or loss resulting from revaluing investments to market value at the end of the year. All other income is accounted for gross.

Expenditure

Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that reward creates a binding or constructive obligation of the PCC. The diocesan parish share is accounted for when due. Amounts received specifically for mission are dealt with as restricted funds. All other expenditure is generally recognised when it is incurred and is accounted for gross.

Fixed assets

As Consecrated and benefice property of any kind is excluded from the statutory definition of “charity” by Section 10(2) (a) and (c) of the Charities Act 2011 such assets are not capitalised in the financial statements.

Moveable church furnishings held by the vicar and churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal are inalienable property, listed in the church’s inventory, which can be inspected (at any reasonable time). No valued is placed on these assets in the financial statements. No individual item has cost more than £1,000 so all such expenditure has been written off when incurred.

Freehold properties are either stated at cost when built by the Parish or stated at valuation when donated to the PCC.

Fixed asset investments are stated at cost.

Other Tangible fixed assets are capitalised if they can be used for more than one year, and cost at least £5,000. They are valued at cost or else, for gifts-in-kind, at a reasonable estimate of their open market value on receipt. Depreciation is calculated to write off the capitalized cost of fixed assets less their currently anticipated residual fair value over their estimated useful lives as follows: Land - Nil / Buildings* - Nil / Fixtures & Fittings - 20 years

*No depreciation is provided on buildings as the currently estimated residual value of the properties is not less than their carrying value.

Current assets

Current asset investments are stated at current market value.

27

Financial statements For the year ending 31 December 2024

2. Income and Endowments

Custom
INCOME
2(a) Donations and Legacies
Gift Aided Income
Planned Giving
Tax recoverable
One-Off Gifts
Tax recoverable		 General
Fund
Designated
Funds
2024
2024
93,475
21,169
9,687
2,883
Total
Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds
Total
Total
2024
2024
2024
2023
93,475
93,475
90,809
21,169
21,169
19,477
9,687 19,035
28,722
19,204
2,883 4,746
7,629
6,035
127,214
0
127,214
23,781
150,995
135,525
Other Donations non gift aid
Collections at Services
Nominated Gifts
Grant Received
Legacies
Sub-Total Donations and Legacies
2(b) Income Charitable activities
Charitable Activities - Fees
Charitable Activities - Other
Sub-Total Income Charitable activities
2(c) Income from Investments
Sykes Legacy Divds & Interest
Dividends Restricted Funds
Sub-Total Income from Investments
2(d) Income from Trading Activities
Church Hall Rental Income
Parish Centre Flat Rental Income
St Sebs Lodge Rental Income
Sub-Total Income from Trading Activities
TOTAL INCOME		 7,545
7,545
7,545
5,269
2,002
2,002
2,002
1,998
853
853
794
1,285
1,285
1,475
20,000
20,000
20,000
0
136,761
20,000
156,761
25,919
182,680
145,060
2,248
2,248
2,248
3,426
310
310
310
541
2,558
0
2,558
0
2,558
3,967
1,876
1,876
1,876
1,807
1,107
1,107
1,090
1,876
0
1,876
1,107
2,983
2,897
5,309
5,309
5,309
5,816
2,919
2,919
2,919
10,500
10,500
10,500
18,640
18,728
18,728
18,728
24,456
159,923
20,000
179,923
27,026
206,949
176,380

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Financial statements For the year ending 31 December 2024

3. Expenditure

4. Staff Costs

. 2024 2023
Salaries 23,558 49,892
Tax on Accommodation Benefit in Kind 4,858 0
Pension Contributions 400 798
Total Staff Costs 28,816 50,690

There were four employees on 1[st] January 2024, two employees left in January and February. For the rest of the year, there were two employees. The tax on Accommodation Benefit in Kind relates to occupation of the Parish Centre Flat by the Family and Children Workers over a number of years.

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Financial statements For the year ending 31 December 2024

5. Fixed assets

(a) Investments – at 31 December 2024

The CBF Investment funds represents permanent endowment (capital reserves) relating to the Upkeep of the Church and Churchyard restricted fund. The current value of the investments at 31[st] December 2024 was £40,788

(b) Tangible fixed assets - freehold land and buildings – at 31 December 2024

Freehold land and buildings comprise the church hall and the parish centre, both of which were built by the PCC and are stated at cost of £201,495, and St Sebastian’s Lodge which is stated at a valuation made in the year of donation to the PCC of £95,000. It is not considered that the current value of the freehold properties is lower than their stated cost and accordingly no depreciation has been provided. The PCC do not see any benefit in obtaining a current valuation of these properties.

6. Debtors

31 Dec 24
~~rs~~		 31 Dec 24
~~rs~~		 31 Dec 23
~~Yr~~		 31 Dec 23
~~Yr~~
£ £
Tax Recoverable 5,434 442
Other Debtor 2,018 146
Accounts Receivable 181 618
7,633 1,206

7a. Current Asset Investments

The investment in Barclays Ordinary Shares were sold at a profit of £4,325 against their book value at 31[st] December 2023 of £18,646.

7b. Designated Funds

Opening Balance (01/01/24)
Transfer to Parish Centre Flat Repairs
Legacy - Mrs Janet Collins
Closing Balance(31.12.24)		 Major
Maintenance
Fund		 Church Roof
Repair Fund		 Legacy Fund Jubilee
Club Fund		 Total
Designated
Funds
20,000 5,453 1,393 26,846
(10,000) 0 0 (10,000)
20,000 0 0 20,000
10,000 20,000 5,453 1,393 36,846

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Financial statements For the year ending 31 December 2024

8. Creditors - amounts falling due within one year

Creditor
Accounts Payable		 31 Dec 2024 31 Dec 2023
Accruals
Utilities Accrual
Rent in Advance
HMRC Payroll Creditor
Verger & AV Operator Fees
Parochial Fees
Peoples Pension Creditor		 5,278
306
1,939
394
0
200
129
884		 905
6,735
0
1,358
70
300
438
3,172
Accounts Payable
9,130
12,978

9. Restricted Funds

9.Restricted Funds 9,130 12,978 12,978 12,978 12,978
Total
Restricted
Funds		 Church
&
Ch.yard
Fund		 Car
Park
Repair
Fund		 Other Restricted Funds Specific
Charity
Collection
Family
Worker		 LED
Lighting
Grant		 Wokingham
United
Charity		 Youth
Friday
Nights
Opening Balances 1st January 2024 5,580 2,449 0 0 0 2,131 1000 0
Donations
Grant from Sonning Deanary		 24,634
885
400
0
1,107		 23,781 400 885 853
Grant from Wokinngham Without P. C.
Grant Archbishop's Council
Dividends
Total Income		 1,107
27,026 1,107 23,781 400 885 0 0 853
Salaries
LED Lighting
Hall Upgrade Expenditure
New Equipment
Charities
Total Expenditure		 400
1,770
2,131
293
853		 885 400 885 2,131 293 853
5,447 885 0 400 885 2,131 293 853
Closing Balances 31st December 2024 27,159 2,671 23,781 0 0 0 707 0

10. Disclosure of trustee and staff remuneration, related party, and other transactions

The wives of Nigel Birch (a PCC member) and Peter J. Thompson (a PCC member until September 2024) are trustees of The Mityana Charity. During the year the PCC made grants of £1,200 (2023 £700) to support The Mityana Charity.

No other payments or expenses were paid to any other member of the PCC or person closely connected to them or related parties, other than the re-imbursement of expenses incurred by PCC members in respect of Church activities.

PCC indemnity insurance cover is provided for all PCC members as part of the Ecclesiastical Parish Plus Insurance policy entered on annual basis. The annual premium for the combined church, parish centre and hall insurance, which also covers areas such as employer’s liability, property damage, consequential loss, and financial loss, is £4,282 for the year to 30 April 2025. The cost of the indemnity insurance cover is not separately identifiable.

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Financial statements For the year ending 31 December 2024

11. Fees payable to the Independent Examiner

The Independent Examiner, Michael Young, who is a member of the congregation did not charge a fee. He is not a person closely connected to any member of the PCC.

12. Charitable grants and special collections

During 2024, charitable grants were made to the following organisations:

Yeldall Christian Centre
Just Around The Corner (JAC)
Soulscape		 1,200
600
600		 2,700
3,600
853
Connect Counselling Service 300
Mitiyana Charity
Open Doors
Univida		 1,200
1,200
1,200
Harvest Collection - Crowthorne Foodbank
Harvest Collection - Yeldall
Quiz Night -Tearfund		 50
50
753
Total Gifts made in 2024 £7,153

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Financial statements For the year ending 31 December 2024 6.0 INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT

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