2021-12-31-accounts - The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of St Mary Hadleigh

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PARISH CHURCH OF ST MARY, HADLEIGH ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

Saturday 14 May 2022 at 10am

In St Mary’s Church

PARISH CHURCH OF ST MARY, HADLEIGH

THE ANNUAL MEETING OF PARISHIONERS TO BE HELD ON 14 MAY 2022 IN ST MARY’S CHURCH, HADLEIGH

AGENDA

Minutes of the previous Annual Meeting held on 24 April 2021
Election of Churchwardens

IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE MEETING OF PARISHIONERS

AGENDA

Apologies
Minutes of the previous Annual Parochial Church Meeting held
on 24 April 2021
Matters arising
Presentation and Revision of the Electoral Roll
Presentation of Annual Accounts
Appointment of the Independent Examiner
To receive the review of the year 2021(page 15)
To receive 2021 Parish Reports (page 17 onwards)
Review of Safeguarding Policy
Election of Representatives to the Parochial Church Council
Election of Sidesmen / welcomers
Any other business (which should be notified to the chairman prior to the start of the meeting)

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE ANNUAL MEETING

AGENDA

Minutes of the previous meeting of 31 March 2022 ( previously circulated)
Matters arising of an urgent nature only
Election of Officers:

i) Secretary

ii) Treasurer

iii) Lay Chairperson

iv) Deputy Churchwardens

4. Election of the Standing Committee

Any other business (which should be notified by Thursday 12 May)

FUNCTION & MEMBERSHIP OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (PCC)

The Synodical Government Measure 1969 states clearly the purpose of the PCC:

It shall be the duty of the incumbent and the Parochial Church Council to consult together on matters of general concern and importance in the parish.

It then goes on to set out a number of functions of the PCC, of which perhaps the most important - and certainly the widest - is:

co-operation with the incumbent in promoting in the parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.

The incumbent and the PCC each have their own particular rights and responsibilities in the life of the church but the important theme here is partnership and co-operation.

More specifically, the PCC is responsible for the maintenance of the church buildings and churchyard, and, with the incumbent, for deciding how the church's money is to be spent. The PCC has the right to be consulted about major changes to the forms of worship used in the parish and about the appointment of a new incumbent. It is also consulted about any pastoral scheme affecting the parish.

The PCC will have on it members of the Deanery Synod, who have an important role in linking the parish into the wider structures of the church. Lay Readers are ex officio members.

Given its wide responsibilities (pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical), the PCC should provide strategic direction. Membership of the PCC also provides active hands-on work for everyone.

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. MARY, HADLEIGH

Minutes of the annual meeting of parishioners held on 24 April 2021

The meeting commenced at 10am with prayer. The meetings were chaired by the Very Revd Jo Delfgou, Rector.

The minutes of the meeting of parishioners held on 10 October 2020 were approved unanimously.
Election of Churchwardens:

The following nominations had been received:

Jessica Janas Proposed: Graham Brook Seconded: Jackie Cork James Wilding Proposed: Lesley Turner Seconded: Alison Crockett There were no other nominations, so both were elected unanimously.

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

Apologies: apologies were received from:

Jane Baston Jill Bloomfield Graham Brook Sandra Brook Gloria Harris John Harris John Hart Andrew Janas Maude Parry-Williams Joan Rudman Jeffrey Rudman Mary Rye Stella Scanlon Sheila Webb Rev Joyce Willis

2. Minutes: The minutes of the previous Annual Parochial Church Meeting held on 10 October 2020 were approved unanimously and signed.

3. Matters Arising: No matters arising.

4. Presentation of the Electoral Roll: There were 127 names on the roll after its annual revision, complete at the end of March. A copy was available for members to see and is displayed in church. The meeting accepted the electoral roll.

5. Annual Accounts: There was a small correction to the report on page 15 in the APCM booklet; the first paragraph should read ‘…but this was offset by a decrease in loose plate collections…’

Walter Wright accountants had seen and approved the accounts.

Jon Woods proposed that we should accept the accounts, seconded by Trish Pitt and agreed unanimously. John Perry was thanked for all his work during a challenging year.

6. Appointment of the Independent Examiner:

It was proposed by Bill Martin and seconded by John Parry-Williams that Walter Wright be appointed the independent examiner for 2021.

The meeting agreed unanimously.

7. Incumbent’s Annual Report:

The Review of the Year appeared on page 14, and was received by the meeting.

8. Parish Reports:

The reports appeared on pages 16-28 of the booklet.

Jo ran through them briefly, and thanked all who had contributed reports. It had been a challenging year for all groups, most of whom has not been able to continue their normal activities, but all had shown imagination, creativity and resilience.

Finance: Jo reminded the meeting that we had needed to borrow from the proceeds of the sale of the painting in order to pay our parish share last year, and that we are now praying that – but at the expense of paying this year’s share, which is by no means ideal. A Stewardship campaign is planned for the summer, when we will consider how we can become more effective ‘stewards’. It was agreed that we should consider all possible approaches as part of the campaign.

Churchwardens’ Report: Jo expressed his ongoing thanks to the wardens for all that they do.

Café Church: there will be a meeting on 28 May to discuss how we might recreate Café Church.

Music: Jo thanked all who are involved with music-making, and Brian Richardson proposed a special vote of thanks to Jon and the other musicians who worked so hard to provide music within the pandemic restrictions.

Home groups: we hope to expand and develop home groups in the coming year.

Mothers’ Union: Jo particularly thanked the MU for keeping people connected.

Jo thanked all those stepping down from roles; Andy and Chrissie Scott were taking a step back for a number of reasons, and were thanked for all that they had contributed. Jackie Cork is stepping down from leading the Café Church team, and Ann Smith has decided that the time is right for her to relinquish her role of organising coffee on Sunday mornings. There were both thanked for their time, energy and commitment, and Jo hoped that others would step in and fulfil their roles.

Jackie will also be standing down as a Lay Elder, and Hilary Griffin and Olive Martin as Lay Readers; there will be an opportunity to thank them properly later in the year.

9. Review of Safeguarding Policy:

This is required by law to be checked every year. Our policy was completely reviewed in 2019, and is currently in use throughout the Benefice as required by the Diocese. There have been no changes, and it is posted on the notice-board, and on the church website. There is a link from the front page of the website to basic information and contacts, and to the policy itself.

Jo thanked Trish Pitt and Gloria Powell for their work in the roles they fulfil.

10. Election of Representatives to the Parochial Church Council:

Jo detailed the list of ex officio , Deanery Synod and elected members.

Andy Scott had decided to stand down, and he and Chrissie were thanked for their significant contributions to the PCC in recent years. Glenys Morris had completed her 3 year term, and was also thanked for her contribution.

2 nominations had been received:

Stella Scanlon Proposed: Claire Woods Seconded: Jess Janas Jonathan Woods Proposed: Hilary Ferry Seconded: Jess Janas

The meeting agreed unanimously to elect them for a period of 3 years.

Andy Scott’s resignation also created a Deanery Synod vacancy:

Claire Woods was proposed by Jess Janas, seconded by Sid Cleaver and elected unanimously.

All Lay Readers are automatically ex officio members of the PCC.

PCC minutes are available to the public, with the exception of any confidential matters. PCC meetings are open to the public but only PCC members can vote.

As the total annual turnover of the church now exceeds £100,000 the church has to be, by law, a registered charity. PCC members are the trustees of the charity.

11. Election of Sidesmen:

Claire Woods had prepared a list of welcomers/sidesmen. It was proposed by Jess Janas and seconded by John Parry-Williams that these be re-elected en bloc . The meeting agreed.

Jane Baston Maureen Bell Jill Bloomfield Sid Cleaver Rosemary Cleaver Ian Dinwiddie Andy Janas Roger Kennell Ned Long Gloria Powell Brian Richardson Ann Smith Linda Sulit Barbara Tryon Lesley Turner Rose Welham (Baptisms)

13. Any Other Business:

Jo explained the current proposals for the re-ordering project.

He began by thanking Martin Thrower, who began the process – which has since evolved and developed many time and in various ways.

The roof, floor and heating are all in urgent need of replacement, and can only really be properly fixed simultaneously. We also desperately need to facilitate greater accessibility. Our toilet and kitchen facilities are both woefully inadequate, and while we have a fantastic main space in the church, we have no smaller spaces for meetings.

Our priorities are to maintain the building first and foremost as a place of worship, and to avoid sacrificing the large main nave space – whilst providing all the improvements listed above. He then detailed the ways we might achieve this, with a new extension (connected by a glass atrium so as not lose any light) providing a plant room (for heating etc), toilets, a kitchen, and a flexible meeting space. The font and the organ would also be moved to more appropriate places; the font to near the door, as a reminder of our spiritual journey, and the organ to a gallery at the west end.

Accessibility and flexibility will be key, as will being as close to carbon-neutral as possible.

The next steps include a planning meeting with the council, and gaining formal approval from the Diocesan Advisory Committee, and there would need to be an archaeological dig. We would also need to consider appointing a project manager, who would focus on obtaining funding. We don’t know the full details yet about costs or how long it might all take. It’s very important that we get it right, and that we fully engage the community, so timing will be crucial.

The meeting closed at 11.10am

Signed………………………………………………………………………

Date……………………………………………………………….

PARISH CHURCH OF ST MARY HADLEIGH PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

Minutes of the Meeting held following the Annual Parochial Church Meeting on 24 April 2021

Present: Jo Delfgou, Hilary Ferry, Jess Janas, Aileen Ker, John Parry-Williams, John Perry, Trish Pitt, Gloria Powell, Brian Richardson, Jim Wilding, Claire Woods, Jonathan Woods

Apologies had been received from Graham Brook and Stella Scanlon

1. Minutes of the previous Meeting: The minutes of the meeting held on 25 February 2021 had been previously circulated and were received; they will be formally approved at the next full PCC meeting in May.

2. Matters arising of an urgent nature only: There were none that could not wait until the next meeting

3. Election of Officers: The following were unanimously agreed:

i. Secretary – Claire Woods was proposed by Jess Janas and seconded by John Parry-Williams
ii. Treasurer – John Perry was proposed by John Parry-Williams and seconded by Trish Pitt
iii. Lay Chair – Jim Wilding was proposed by Brian Richardson and seconded by Hilary Ferry
iv. Deputy Churchwardens – Aileen Ker and John Parry Williams were proposed by Claire Woods and seconded by Jim Wilding; both were agreed unanimously.

4. Election of the Standing Committee: It was agreed that, as previously, this should comprise the Rector, Churchwardens, Treasurer and Secretary, together with one additional elected representative. This was then deferred until the next meeting.

5. Any Other Business – There was one item relating to the works arising from the Quinquennial inspection. We have received 3 quotations for the roof repairs, all from companies recommended by Freeland Rees Roberts, varying from £118K +VAT to £128K + VAT. Punch (the company who provided the lowest quote) were FRR’s recommendation, and it was agreed that we should use this quote unless there were good reasons not to. We should clarify the scaffolding aspect of the quote, but otherwise it was agreed in principle. The costs of the work will be met by the renewal fund. These are essential works which will not be made

obsolete by any future development of the building. Brian Richardson proposed that we should proceed, seconded by Jess Janas, and it was agreed that if for some reason the Punch quote does not prove acceptable, we will proceed as advised by FRR.

The meeting closed with the grace at 11.30am

Signed…………………………………………………………

Date………………………………………

St. Mary's Church, Hadleigh

Annual Report

and

Financial Statements

of the

Parochial Church Council

for the year ended 31st December 2021

Rector: Very Rev Jo Delfgou

Bank:

TSB High Street Hadleigh

Independent Examiner:

Walter Wright High Street Hadleigh

Administrative Information

St. Mary's Church is situated in Church Street, Hadleigh. It is part of the Diocese of St. Edmundsbury & Ipswich within the Church of England. The correspondence address is The Deanery, Hadleigh, Suffolk, IP7 5DT.

Ministry Team: Rector: Rev Jo Delfgou

Readers: Elders: Mr Graham Brook Mrs Trish Pitt Mr Brian Hempstead Mrs Christine Coe

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is a charity registered with the Charity Commission.

PCC members are: Rector: The Very Revd Jo Delfgou Wardens: Mrs Jess Janas Mr James Wilding

Representatives on the Deanery Synod:

Mr Jeff Delves Elected 2020 for 3 years Mrs Jess Janas Elected 2020 for 3 years Mrs Claire Woods Elected 2021 for 3 years

Elected Members: Mrs Claire Woods (elected 2021: PCC Secretary) Mr John Perry (elected 2021: Treasurer) Miss Aileen Ker ( ex officio , Deputy Churchwarden) Mr John Parry-Williams ( ex officio , Deputy Churchwarden) Mrs Trish Pitt (elected 2019) Mrs Gloria Powell (elected 2019) Mrs Sue Wells (elected 2019) Mrs Hilary Ferry (elected 2020) Mrs Sarah Nicholson (elected 2020) Mrs Stella Scanlon (elected 2021) Mr Jonathan Woods (elected 2021) Mr Graham Brook ( ex officio ) Mr Brian Hempstead ( ex officio ) Mr Brian Richardson (elected 2019) resigned in December 2021

Structure, Governance and Management

The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. All Church attendees are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC.

Churchwardens are elected/re-elected yearly.

Deanery Synod members are elected to serve for three years.

PCC members are elected to serve for three years and under our current agreement, are encouraged to have one year's break before being re-elected.

: Standing Committee This is the only committee required by law. It has power to transact the business of the PCC between meetings, subject to any directions given by the Council.

Objectives and Activities

St. Mary's PCC has the responsibility of cooperating with the incumbent, in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church, worship, pastoral, evangelistic, social, and ecumenical. It also has responsibilities for St Mary's Church, Hadleigh. There is also the Churchyard surrounding the Parish Church though this is closed and maintained by the Town Council.

Church Attendance

There are 125 parishioners on the Church Electoral Roll in March 2022 (compared to 127 at the 2021 APCM), six of whom are not resident within the parish. Two names were removed during the year through death, two people left the church and two people moved away; four new names were added.

The average Sunday attendance (for all services) based on typical Sundays in October 2021 was 74.

On Easter Day 2021, 134 people attended services, and there were 106 communicants. The Christmas Crib Service was attended by 52 adults and 15 children. At Midnight Mass 68 attended, and on Christmas Day there were 66 people.

On average 10 people attended the Friday morning Eucharist.

Between January and December 2021 there were 7 baptisms and 2 weddings. In the same period there were 27 funerals which took place either at St. Mary's Church or at a crematorium.

REVIEW OF THE YEAR 2021

2021 began with more uncertainty and more lockdowns, although, thankfully, the church was able to remain open. Our Sunday worship began again in February and we saw a growth in the numbers who have attended our worship. By Lent our pattern was returning with Holy Week and Easter being celebrated ‘in person’ and the ‘email pattern’ finally ended. Many thanks are offered to all those who kept us together especially Aileen Ker with her delivery service and Joyce Willis and the Mothers’ Union for their many phone calls.

FROGS and our other children’s work took some time to come back but we thank Trish Pitt and the team for their creativity and care in fostering the children who attend. Likewise our connections with the Church School and Hadleigh Primary School have seen the church used again and members of our congregation playing a role in their worship and governance.

Our regular worship has seen a gentle growth in confidence and number culminating in a very busy Christmas season. Many thanks to those who have played a part, from reading to coffee-making, to preaching, to singing, to playing, to leading prayers or worship.

Many thanks to John Druce, Joyce Willis, Janice White and David Atkins for their priestly support, to Graham Brook and Brian Hempstead in the role of Reader, and Trish Pitt and Cris Coe as our Elders. Likewise many thanks to Sandra Brook and Bob Smith for their support in playing for services. However special thanks to Jon Woods and Marylou Delfgou for their constant creativity and support in playing each week.

The Renewal Committee had some interesting meetings during the year, creating a new version of our Statement of Needs and slowly drawing in a wider group of members. It is hoped that this last year has provided a very firm foundation from which to build (pun intended).

The building took on the task of housing the thousands of jabs and booster jabs in the Hadleigh Health Centres excellent efforts to vaccinate the people of Hadleigh and beyond. This, along with the emerging list of events, has seen how flexible and community focussed our worship space can be.

The Lockdown Exhibition and the Hidden Gardens put the church very much at the centre and it was so good to see so many people’s creativity and enjoyment.

At the beginning of the summer saw us joined by Rev Tom Mumford on a short placement and we enjoyed his ministry and our part in offering him space to

reflect and then prepare for his next post. We continue to wish him well at St Mary-le-Tower in Ipswich. He reflected so very positively on our benefice and all the welcomes he received.

The Row Chapel, which comes under the care of the Grand Feoffment Charity, reopened too and we are very aware of the care that Monica and Barry Hardy give to the building and Graham Brook offers in worship. There is a vibrant group of worshippers who have now come readily back.

Financially we must thank John Perry for keeping us in order to the extent of us paying our portion of the benefice (and deanery) share in full. 2022 will be a year to look carefully and our incomings, outgoings and our giving. We will also be looking further afield to the community for their assistance.

2021 saw the bittersweet death of some of our very dear church and parish community as well as the arrival of others. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with those who have lost those who were very dear to them.

On a personal level, I have found 2021 a tiring year. Beginning with a bout of COVID (from which Marylou is still recovering) and being asked to take on the role of Rural Dean, through the constant readjustments, changes and developments, charitable trusts, towers and diocesan commitments, I must confess to being, at times quite exhausted and low. I am ever thankful of my support at home and I would truly like to thank our wardens, Jess Janas and Jim Wilding, along with our dedicated administrator, Claire Woods, for their thoughtfulness, commitment and kindness.

I have been profoundly moved by these traits not just in them but in each one of you. I am sure that together we have entered 2022 with a drive and determination to follow our gracious and loving God as we serve the people of this parish and benefice.

Very Rev Jo Delfgou - Rector

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT

FINANCIAL REVIEW 2021

Total receipts on unrestricted funds totalled £86,910, which was a massive increase of £17,843 over the comparable figure for 2020 of £69,067. There were minor increases in planned giving through banker’s standing orders, envelopes and loose plate collections. The major change in 2021 came in the other voluntary income heading: increasing by £14,352 over 2020. This came from donations, helped by the new contactless receipts machine (£3,129), and a legacy (£5,000). There were also increases in income from church activities (i.e. weddings, funerals, cards, magazines votive candles, lettings, cafe church etc.) of £1,287 and from fund raising events of £684.

The contribution to the diocesan share that mainly provides the stipends and housing for the clergy totalled £49,807 and was fully paid for the year. The intention was to repay the loan of £21,000 from Designated Funds made in 2020 but this has not been possible.

Payments on unrestricted funds totalled £86,194 and this was a decrease of £2,741 over the comparable figure for 2020 of £88,935. The increase in insurance premiums of £1,371 was offset by reductions in most of the other headings, given the reduced activity in the church for much of the year.

Given the above, the net result for the year was a small excess of payments over receipts of £716 on unrestricted funds, and the balance carried forward at 31st December 2021 increased to £7,123.

The Unrestricted Designated Fund has been created for the income from the sale of the Marieschi painting. Total receipts for the year were £8,119 and expenditure in respect of maintenance and Deanery Tower alterations was £115,098. The balance in hand at 31st December 2020 was £176,296

Restricted Funds totalled £11,631 at 31st December, 2021 and this was an increase of £696 over the corresponding figure for 2020.

RESERVES POLICY

It is the PCC policy to try and maintain a balance on unrestricted funds of at least £5,000 to cover emergency situations that may arise from time to time. This position is proving increasingly difficult to achieve on an ongoing basis but it was as at 31 December 2021. It is the policy to invest our fund balances with CBF Church of England Deposit Fund.

John Perry (Treasurer) Treasurer

PCC SECRETARY'S REPORT

The PCC met 6 times during 2021, including the APCM, and the average attendance was around 74%. Up to 4 members will need to be elected at the APCM. There is a list of current PCC members on page 13 of this report.

Claire Woods, PCC Secretary

CHURCHWARDENS' REPORT

Maybe not quite as strange as 2020 but maybe, in some ways, stranger as we suffered our way through a second and third national lockdown, but work carried on in St Mary’s. Things were always going to be a little more difficult to arrange with tradesmen shielding, or isolating and materials going up in price – partly due to Covid, partly to do with Brexit but we found ways around obstacles and remained positive, enthusiastic and proved that, in difficult times, you can still get things done.

Due to Fr Jo’s family succumbing to Covid at the start of the year, we were closed until the end of January then slowly re-opened with stewarded threehour sessions for private prayer, moving on to restricted services and, later, moving on to what we considered more normal (but not quite).

In February, roof leadwork patching repairs continued to try and stem the everpresent leaks and our annual full electrical inspection and PAT testing took place. All the usual, required checks, inspections and servicing took place as per the Maintenance Plan throughout the year and many minor repairs took place. In July, up went the scaffolding and the 2020 Quinquennial works started in earnest. These continued for the rest of 2021 and a huge amount of work was done to the leadwork, stone work, the parapets, the windows and, most significant of all, for the first time in its history, a rainwater gutter was erected around the base of the spire. This will stop water ingress and further damage to the stonework. This huge undertaking, costing us some £160k., was paid for from the sale of the Marieschi painting. There is a two-meter section of the parapet above the clerestory windows on the south side of church which had a rather ominous bulge in it, which was examined, dismantled and realigned. After further inspection by a structural engineer we now know that the whole length of parapet will need to be dismantled and repositioned over the main wall at some point in the future. We have the Friends of St Mary’s to thank for considerable assistance with funding for repairs and maintenance.

In October the 200-year old diseased lime tree next to the Deanery Tower was felled but happily the church is able to make use of a section from the base of the trunk showing its growth rings, linking these to events that occurred in Hadleigh over its lifetime. A project to benefit the whole community and worked

on in collaboration with Hadleigh Town Council (from whom we were lucky enough to receive a grant and valuable support), the High School and the Hadleigh Society which is due to come to fruition in 2022. We also hope to be able to have some carvings made from sections of the tree.

Work has been done on installing new windows in the Sacristy and Vestry and decorative security bars are under construction for all four windows. The Sacristy bars will mirror the parclose screens and the Vestry bars will depict various Hadleigh trades and the musical connection, with the Vestry having been the robing room when Hadleigh had its own large choir and choirboys regularly ran up and down the spiral staircase. Safety rails and a gate are also under construction for the top of the spiral. Since the Vestry’s refurbishment and redecoration, we have set up a full historical filing archive and plan to use the room as an educational and display platform. We are delighted to be able to tell you that we also now have the church silver back in our care and have commissioned a specially designed, security display cabinet in which to house it. This will be located in the Vestry. Our Registers are all in order and our Log Book and Inventory have all been updated and are now fully current – we are confidently ready for the Archdeacon’s inspection early next tear !

At the end of October and through to the beginning of December, St Mary’s teamed up with our wonderful Health Centre to offer the Covid booster vaccinations to over 6,000 people. A massive undertaking that would not have been possible at any other venue in the town and one we were hugely proud to have been associated with.

Alongside all the works, plans for re-ordering the church continues apace. Constructive conversations have taken place with both our Architects and the DAC as we continue to refine plans and explore all the angles and possibilities to ensure we get the permissions we need to bring to fruition the plans that are so vital to keeping the church alive in the community and fit for the twenty first century and far beyond. There are no quick fixes and no short cuts. It is often frustrating but we are determined to do what is needed to see this through. Watch this space !

Most importantly we want to thank everyone at St Mary’s for the incredible support offered to both of us throughout 2021 and your unfailing encouragement through what has been a rather strange year. Part of a churchwarden’s role is to have care of the priest and we could not do this without your care of us. Thank you all.

Jess Janas and James Wilding, Churchwardens

DEANERY SYNOD REPORT

There were only two Deanery Synod meetings in 2021 on 24 June in St Mary’s, Hadleigh and 11 November at St Mary’s, Kersey.

Rev Jo continued to provide weekly online services, printed newsletters, service sheets and magazines which were emailed and hand delivered in Hadleigh until restrictions were lifted sufficiently for most people to choose to return to church. By the end of the year, most churches in the Deanery had returned to some form of normality.

Following APCMs, Synod has welcomed new members, both lay and clergy.

Speakers

June: The Diocesan Synod and Cathedral Chapter passed a Resolution, following General Synod’s lead, to act to achieve net carbon zero by 2030. The June meeting hosted Rev Richard Stainer who gave a talk on this, emphasising The Crisis for God’s Creation and the fundamental injustices that result. Churches are being encouraged to join Eco Church - a Christian based, conservation, cross-cultural, community initiative. It involves a 40-minute online survey which is then updated as relevant. A church is then awarded points which lead to being considered for a bronze/silver/gold award. All benefices are being encouraged to highlight the climate crisis which, as Christians, we have a duty to be concerned about and to do whatever we can. Churches should appoint an Environmental lead and St Mary’s is represented by Jimmy Wilding.

November: We had the benefit of two speakers. The first was Rev Jackson Crompton-Battersby who spoke about the Kersey Shrine , destroyed during the civil war era. The growth of interest in pilgrimage encouraged its resurrection and, despite opposition from some villagers to a shrine in a CofE church, it was re-hallowed by Bishop Martin in March 2020 in front of a packed church with choirs singing from the Kersey Splash right up to the church. Since this event, he said that thousands of people have visited, 3,500 prayers have been placed in the Shrine – which changes approximately every Quarter Day – and the regular congregation has grown from 4 to +80.

The second talk was from Rev Tiffer Robinson about Lightwave : the rural, Growing God in the Countryside project. This initiative is not mandatory – it is simply there to assist if required. The Lightwave Community (Fresh Expressions) is for new small congregations reaching out to those who were not previously regular church attenders, especially the young. Lightwave gives legal, financial and safeguarding support. 23 new groups have been formed with 16 more in the pipeline. There are some 200 new disciples, especially in the Red Lodge area. Archdeacon Sally Gaze heads up Rural Mission which covers groups like doorstep carols, Suffolk in Prayer (Facebook group), Thank You Harvest etc. Rural Chaplains also work directly with farmers / farmers’ markets etc. 24 groups have been established.

Treasury

Parish Share 2021: £292,922. 2021 has been a tough year as some parishes have had to pull funds out of reserves to cover their portion and varying Covid restrictions remained in place for longer than anticipated. The Hadleigh benefice is proud to have paid 100% of its share.

Parish Share 2022: £295,226 – a very small uplift of 0.79%.

The levy of 40p per head (agreed in November 2017) on the Electoral Role has remained unchanged for 2020 and 2021.

At year end, there was an amount of £255 available for youth projects.

After over 20 years as Deanery Organiser & Treasurer, Jeff Delves is looking to stand down as soon as a successor is found. Any suggestions/volunteers would be most welcome.

Diocesan Synod

Mrs Barbara Rowe was appointed, as a Lay Member, to the Diocesan Synod. Meetings have been held on Zoom and Minutes are available on the Diocesan website.

Notices

Rural Dean’s Inspections have taken place: Stoke by Nayland in October, Kersey in November and Bildeston will take place in January. The Archdeacon will perform the Hadleigh benefice’s inspection in March 2022

Archdeacon’s Visitation: 8 June 2022 at Stratford St Mary for the Swearing in of Church Wardens.

GS2222, concerning the closure of rural churches, was clarified. Much of the concern has been taken out of context: only the final hoop will be quicker: before that, all usual hoops remain.

Parishes’ News

Sadly, both Aldham and Raydon’s Parish Treasurers died in 2021.
Rev Stephane Javelle was Licenced to the Stoke by Nayland benefice on 18 November, bringing, finally, a full complement of clergy to the Deanery.
The Benefice of Bildeston with Wattisham, Whatfield with Semer, Nedging and Naughton and Lindsey is now known as The Brett Valley Benefice.
St Mary’s Hadleigh proudly joined with the Hadleigh & Boxford Health Centre to host Covid-19 booster vaccinations, delivering some 6,000 jabs to its community in a safe and efficient manner.

Jess Janas (Deanery Synod Representative)

OTHER REPORTS OF PAROCHIAL INTEREST

BELLRINGERS’ TOWER REPORT

Covid has determined that we have again had a mixed year, although on reflection we have had considerable successes despite the restrictions.

Once we were allowed to ring again, we restarted tower bell ringing for both Sunday services and our own Wednesday evening practices, which we alternate with Boxford. These have all been extremely well attended and we have often found ourselves with more ringers than bell ropes on a Sunday morning which has necessitated a couple of shorter pieces of ringing so that everyone is able to take a turn. We are very fortunate to have so many active ringers at the moment and many bell towers across the country would dream of being in our position – it certainly makes my life easier as Tower Captain as I have not had to worry if we are going to have enough to ring.

We have a new learner at the moment under the wing of Richard Finch and she is making good progress and will soon be at the stage of joining us on a Sunday.

The big success this year has been with the handbells. Hadleigh has for a long time had a set of 17 handbells which have not been used and have gathered dust in the ringing chamber. Once Covid restrictions allowed, we gathered outside and started to ring the handbells again. This was from April onwards but the only music we had were Christmas carols, which did sound a little odd in the warm Spring sunshine! None the less, we persevered and by November has reached the stage where we had progressed enough to think it would be good to offer a series of visits to parishioners either in care or in their own homes to bring some Christmas cheer. A couple of visits had been arranged, when once again Covid spiked and the visits had to be cancelled. A great shame, but hopefully we will be able to offer the same again this year. A further benefit of getting the handbells back into use is that it has kept the core of the bell ringers together during times where normal tower ringing activity was not permitted.

We were able to bring back the annual bell ringing tour and this took place on Saturday 2nd October. 15 or so hardy souls braved the autumnal weather on the Hadleigh Community minibus and towers at Thurston, Wetherden, Cotton (an unusual tower where ringing effectively takes place outside!), Gislingham and Preston St Mary were visited. The restoration of the tour was another sign that things were slowly getting back to normal.

Kevin Ward (Tower Captain)

BENEFICE OFFICE

2021 has been a period of relative stability in the Benefice Office, and has in a sense been a chance to assimilate, with a gradual return to comparative normality in my now established new office space. Izarra the cat is happily still a regular visitor, and I am even getting used to be being stared at by visitors through the door!

My job description was reviewed during the year, ensuring that it better reflects what I really do. The role, of course, often changes and evolves in all sorts of ways, but its main purpose continues to be assuring Jo of the practical and administrative support he needs.

As always, I’m very grateful for the support and commitment of the small number of volunteers – and most particularly to Aileen – who do so much behind the scenes and contribute to the smooth running of the office.

Claire Woods (Benefice Administrator)

BEREAVEMENT FRIENDS

Our regular monthly coffee mornings last year were limited not only because of covid, but also because of the temporary closure during refurbishment of Battlebury's / The King’s Head , but we are pleased to report that we are now back there on the 1st Monday of the month, unless it's a bank holiday, and we are extremely grateful to the new staff because they open early specially for us so that we can still meet at 10 as before.

We are also looking for ideas for occasional lunches together for those who are interested, or anything else you might like to do, but we now have fewer people driving regularly so transport could be more of a challenge . Please do talk to us if you have any ideas we could think about.

Lesley Turner Jane Harrison

CAFÉ CHURCH

Huge thanks must go to the indefatigable volunteer team, without whom none of it would be possible. Thanks too to our wonderful guests, visitors and regular café church-ers – you all make it worthwhile.

When the world turned on its head in 2020, along with everything else, Café Church had to close. It wasn’t until July 2021 that we cautiously opened up again. But not quite as we knew it. Tables and seating were socially distanced. Masks were required unless seated and everything was throw-away. Everything we could source that was recyclable, we did. We had disposable wooden stirrers, disposable cups/mugs and individually wrapped sugars and

biscuits. None of that came cheaply but we were determined to get going again – whatever that looked like. So we did… and how!

From that strange beginning, we slowly and carefully, as restrictions eased and confidence grew, returned to an increasingly normal offering, though we wouldn’t resume cooking until March 2022.

Nevertheless, in the six months of 2021 that we were operational, we managed to raise £222.49 for charity: £131.59 for Marie Curie and £90.90 for the Friends of St Mary’s. In addition to this, I am delighted to tell you (and really quite surprised) that we raised an additional profit of £1,385 for our wonderful church. So, here’s to the next cuppa (and that first bacon roll!). Cheers!

Jess Janas and the Café Church Team

CARD SALES

£450 was raised from the sale of cards in 2021. Many thanks to everyone who supports this ongoing fundraising effort.

Jane Baston and Jane Harrison

CARE HOMES

Residential Care Homes: Canterbury House, Hadleigh Nursing Home, Magdalen House, Waterfield House, Sydney Brown Court.

Janice has been going in to Hadleigh Hall, and Brian and Trish have visited Sydney Brown Court. Jill Bloomfield telephones Canterbury House every Sunday, and Joyce managed to visit Waterfield House to take a service in November - only for everything to go on hold again. Last Easter 2021 every care home resident was given a small bunch of daffodils organised by Joyce’s home group. Hopefully the newly formed pastoral care team will now take on role of co-ordinating care home services to ensure that residents receive regular visits.

Rev Joyce Willis

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

FROGS (Friends of God)

In the summer we ran a holiday club for primary aged children each Monday morning called Champions! This was reasonably well attended with children from Hadleigh, further afield and even some on holiday in the area. Over 20 in total, although they didn’t all turn up together.

Each day we told stories, sang songs, played games and did craft activities. We even had some mini Lego Olympic competitions. We displayed our activities and prayers on the board at the back of church.

Following on from this we re-started FROGS on a Friday after school doing much the same kind of activities. During the autumn term we looked at the Lords’ Prayer line by line and then stories about Jesus from a different perspective using the book Animal Tales by Nick Butterworth and Mick Inkpen.

Unfortunately, due to Covid number we were unable to have our Christmas party in December but overall, we have been pleased with the number of children attending each week. Good relationships are being formed between the children themselves as well as with the leaders, and we are having interesting discussions as they learn about Jesus and have fun.

Sarah Nicholson, Trish Pitt and Alison Crockett

Open the Book

Due to Covid the Open the Book Team has continued recording stories to be used in the local schools rather than visiting in person and performing in assembles. We have filmed inside St Mary’s and the URC, as well as outside in the Deanery gardens and in Nigel and Hilary Crisp’s garden when the weather has allowed.

Nigel has become extremely proficient at filming, editing and adding special effects, including a burning bush for the story of Moses. We also recorded other stories about Moses and David as well as some parables. Stories with sheep in have also been a regular feature this year, especially once we found a story about a slightly naughty sheep called Brian!

Brian has continued to find songs each month which perfectly fit the theme and we have been joined on screen on occasion by Philip adding the narration.

It is a joy for us to work together across the churches on this and our stories are now seen by pupils at St Mary’s as well as Hadleigh Community Primary.

You can find our videos on You Tube if you search for “OTB Hadleigh”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CxQLVDOuEOM

The ‘Open the Book’ Team

INSPIRE

We were regretfully unable to run any INSPIRE sessions last year, due to a combination of pandemic restrictions and staffing challenges.

Claire Woods

CHURCH MUSIC

2021 was a very different year to 2020 for music at St Mary's, chiefly in that we actually had some! Even so, it wasn't until June that we were allowed to sing without masks. It turns out that it is hard to accompany people you can't hear very well.

The musical highlight of the year for the church community was the St Mary's Musicians' Concert in August. This drew in lots of people, and it was fantastic to see friends making music for everyone to enjoy. This is definitely something we'll do again before long. Special mention to Patsy for her rendition of "Memory", with words adapted for St Mary's with comic effect!

We were pleased to welcome Hadleigh Choral Society in November and December, making up for their pandemic-cancelled Spring concert. Suffolk Villages Festival gave us two concerts in May and August. Still in August (clearly we were doing some catching-up) Hadleigh Community Choir led a singalong in the Deanery garden, and buskers rounded off the Lockdown Exhibition with impromptu performances in the evening of that event.

Sarah Gallop, a leading local soprano, gave a recital in November, when the church was bitterly cold - I hope she has thawed out by now. We would love to welcome her back, in warmer times, to once again make the best of our fantastic acoustic.

And Hadleigh Orchestra rounded off the concert season with a concert on 12 December.

Finally, thanks to everyone who contributed to the music at services and church events throughout the year, especially the choir led by Sandra and aided by the welcome return of Margaret, and Marylou for her musical flute-playing.

Jonathan Woods (Organist)

CHURCHES TOGETHER IN HADLEIGH (CTiH)

2021 has been a quiet period for CTiH as it has for many groups who are now beginning to meet again in person. At each of our monthly meetings we have shared how each church has been living with the “New Abnormal”.

We did manage to gather at the Co-op just before Christmas and share 3 services in the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in January. In February and March we were able to complete the Lent course we started a year earlier.

In this past year the Methodist Church in Elmsett have left the fellowship in order to strengthen their links with the Elmsett Benefice. After 8 years, on medical advice, I am standing down as Moderator.

David Atkins – erstwhile Moderator CTiH

HADLEIGH RANGERS, GUIDES, BROWNIES AND RAINBOWS

It was a joy to all Leaders and girls when we were at last able to meet together face to face. Rainbows, Brownies and Guides made up for lost time and embraced the programme and other activities with enthusiasm. Although we were not able to do Pack Holidays and Camps day activities were done instead and all Sections enjoyed days at Boxford Spinney.

With the pandemic we did lose girls through reluctance to come back and mix with girls from other bubbles. Our numbers are now increasing, and this is pleasing.

Rainbow and Brownies have been busy catching up on completing Skill Builders and badges – some gaining their Bronze Awards.

In 2020 two Guides, Chloe Bannister and Katy Davis, completed the Gold Award by using some of the achievement from the previous programme together with the some of the new – well done girls for deciding to go this was with your final Challenge in the Guide Section. They are now enjoying being part of our Ranger Unit.

In December 2020 we held a presentation evening in the Church all the Guides received badges and awards gained over the year. It was a pleasure to present Emily Pearce with her Gold Award she worked with dedication to achieve this during lockdown. Emily is the first Guide in the Unit to gain this Award entirely doing all the Challenges that the new programme sets.

Well done to all the Leaders for going the extra miles to make it safe and fun for the girls since we have been able to meet during 2021.

A short report this year, but the activities and awards the girls have achieved are something to be proud of.

Gloria Powell - District Administrator to Hadleigh Guiding.

LEARNING & GROWING

The L&G planning group has been enlarged so that it now has representatives from all the churches in the benefice and this has been a stimulating development.

The first activity the group was able to initiate after lock-down was a Quiet Day led by the curate Tom Mumford in late summer, which was well received.

The first engagement for the group itself was to study the Church of England’s 5 session course on “Living in Love and Faith’ (LLF). This course came out of the General Synod declining to take note of a Bishops report on ‘Marriage and Same Sex Relationships’. Shortly after that in a joint letter the Archbishops of Canterbury and York stated that ‘we need a radical new Christian inclusion in the Church. This must be founded in Scripture, in reason, in tradition, in theology and the Christian faith as the Church of England has received it; it

must be based on good healthy, flourishing relationships, and in a proper twenty-first century understanding of being human and being sexual’. The LLF course aimed to help us think more deeply about what it means to be human and how to live in love and faith. The welcome to the course posed the question:’ All around us we see changing understanding of human identity, changing patterns in relationships and families, changing sexual attitudes and activity. What does it mean for followers of Jesus to walk in love, faith and holiness today?’

We studied the 5 sessions on ’Learning Together’, ‘Identity’, ‘Relationships’, ‘Sex’ and ‘Life Together’. This was an exploratory process. There were some illuminating parts to the course and other parts we found to be less helpful. The group has yet to meet to decide on a response to the Bishop’s appeal to join them in discerning the way forward. However, one emphasis that came from the meetings was that it is through closer connection with those around us that we will be able to move on. From this came the proposal to have a Benefice Day on ‘Where Is the Love?’.

The ’Where is the Love?’ meeting took place on 16[th] October at St Mary’s; it was well attended and participants worked in groups. Our commitments to each other were agreed, there was a getting to know each other exercise, then each person spoke about how they had experienced/given love in the time of Covid and lastly there was discussion of ’Where do we see love in the Church’ and ‘How do we show love as a Church’ and feed-back. Jo summarised the three main emphases from the feed-back as the need for the church to be welcoming, caring and active. He thought the nature of welcoming by the church could be an important future topic for a similar meeting as this in 2022.

In December the L&G group led 3 weekly Advent Night Prayer meetings based on three of the seven Antiphons: Wisdom, Dayspring and Emmanuel. At each of these there was a reflection and a time of silence, ending with the Magnificat and Lord’s Prayer.

John Parry-Williams for the L&G planning group

MOTHERS’ UNION

We were able to meet a bit more during this year and had some very interesting speakers including Christine Ward informing us about Modern Day Slavery and the ways in which organisations in Suffolk are tackling this, Philip Mann told us all about his childhood and the beginning to his career, and Hilary Griffin gave us an interesting insight into her time leading and organising Mothers’ Union.

We also had a Wave of Prayer Service in the summer and a very enjoyable card making session in November where we made 48 cards to be sent to prisoners for Christmas, as well as some for ourselves.

Throughout the year we sent and made several donations. 5 large boxes of creative materials went to The Lighthouse, £113 was raised for the Summer of Hope Appeal, we sent 28 hats for seamen and 4 small blankets. A large bag of underwear was also sent to Ipswich Hospital for patients who could not have visitors to bring things in for them. We collected £100 for the Clewer Initiative when Christine Ward came to speak to us. The spirit of Mothers’ Union held up extremely well as we got through another difficult year, with a lot of mutual support and encouragement.

Our thanks go to Sandra Smithson and Ann Smith for their sterling work over many years. They have our grateful thanks as they take a step down. We welcome Jo Ellis and Jackie Cork to the committee.

Thanks everyone!

Alison Crockett (Branch Secretary)

ROW CHAPEL

Not much to report due to the pandemic. Services were restarted toward the end of the year with David Atkins leading all of the communion services on the first Tuesday of each month, while I led the Matins services on the other Tuesdays, unfortunately due to the pandemic we couldn’t enjoy our usual nine lessons and carols but hopefully this will resume for 2022.

Congregation numbers were down a little compared with pre pandemic levels but were still higher than some churches have for Sunday services, showing that the services at the Row Chapel are still needed and enjoyed.

Graham Brook (Lay Reader)

SILENT PRAYER MEETINGS

During 2021, as the Salvation Army remained closed, we moved to meeting at St Mary’s in the chancel every Tuesday at 4.30pm for 25 minutes silent contemplation. Our thanks to Jo for giving us refuge, for providing the CD player (as we start and end with music) and joining us. We usually number 6-7 people. We are open to anyone of faith or no faith who is seeking to be open to the presence of the Divine in ourselves, in the world and in our actions.

John Parry-Williams

ST MARY’S C of E PRIMARY SCHOOL

Our Christian Vision: “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” John 13:34

Following the challenges of 2020, we began 2021 full of hope for some ‘normality’. Having had no live audiences to Nativity plays and many pupils

learning from home, we looked forward to seeing everyone in school, able to access learning and enjoy the social side of school life.

More School Closures

Well, it didn’t quite go as we had hoped, but despite a further period of partial lockdowns in the spring term, our school remained open and able to welcome even more children into school - albeit having to remain in bubbles. For those children not coming into school, staff worked hard to again provide access to learning at home and continued supportive phone calls.

As our use of technology expanded, we kept in touch with the children at home through an online learning platform, telephone calls and ‘Zoom’ meetings. We also continued to put our Christian vision into action: care packages and food vouchers were distributed, with home visits to deliver these where needed for our families eligible for free school meals.

Although not able to invite parents, the children were able to gather to enjoy a Sports Day in 2021, with all children participating to gain points for their house team. In particular, they had fun with the animals each team now has as their mascot. All classes enjoyed a visit to somewhere off the school site – something missed greatly in 2020.

As we came to the end of the school year, we ensured that our leavers were able to celebrate the end of primary school, with a day of fun activities at Boxford Spinney and an evening gathering. Year 6 happily shared a musical performance on line to their audience. Whilst our Leavers’ assembly on the school field was a true moment of joy, with the whole school able to wish Year 6 good luck as well as being entertained by our Head Teacher having a hair cut for charity. This was a real highlight for the children as well as another example of our school’s strong Christian ethos.

Staffing

During 2021, we said goodbye to Miss Pimm, who had joined us as a newly qualified teacher (NQT) and stayed for a few years! We then welcomed Miss Brinkley, also a new member of the profession – although now known as an ‘Early Career Teacher’ (ECT). We also welcomed two new midday supervisors into our St Mary’s family.

A new initiative introduced in 2021 was for our school to take up the ‘Thrive’ programme. This is intended to further strengthen our resolve to support the whole child to fulfil their potential by helping them to self-regulate their emotions and engage socially with their peers. We welcomed Mrs Johnson as a full-time Thrive practitioner and Miss Rupp took on the role of a part-time practitioner.

Otherwise our staffing remained stable and largely unchanged, the team coped amazingly well with the many challenges of 2021. In particular, everyone was incredibly flexible – stepping up to cover for colleagues and sometimes taking

on new roles to ensure our children were well cared for and their education continued.

Our Headteacher, Mr Frolish, was approached to support another school, in September 2021. This has meant that I have stepped up from the Deputy Headteacher role to Head of School on the days when he has not been at St Mary’s. Whilst the school community have very much felt the absence of Mr Frolish, we recognise the value of supporting a school in our Multi-Academy Trust, developing further professional links. We have also once again benefitted from the depth of experience and commitment from the staff at St Mary’s in adjusting to this temporary arrangement.

Church Links

Although we were unable to visit the church during 2021, we were delighted to have continued input from Father Jo with his much-enjoyed stories. Throughout the year we continued to celebrate the children’s demonstration of their Christian Values shown in their behaviour, awarding weekly certificates in our celebration assemblies.

Although we sadly had to cancel our Christmas service in the church, we did welcome Father Jo into school, to visit classrooms and share some of the excitement of the season.

We look forward to our school and church communities restoring their health and connections to ensure our children thrive in every respect of their emotional, social and academic lives.

Sarah Dowling (Head of School)

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INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE MEMBERsrrRUSTEES OF ST MARY'S CHURCH, HADLEIGH, PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL I report on the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2021. wfiich are set oul cn pages 1 to Respectlve responsibilities of the PCC and the examiner The members of the PCC are responsible for the preparation d the accounts. They consider that an audil is not required for this year (under Se(ln 144{2) (rf the Ch8ribes AGt 2011 {the 2011 Act1} and that an indepenéenl examinathx is needed. It Is my responsI"11ty to.. xamine the accounts under secbon 145 of the 2011 kt.. -to follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commi$s#)n {under Section 14515I1bl of the 2011 Act). and -to stale whether particular matter5 have come to my attent. Basls of Independent examlne¢s report My exarninalion was carried oul in accordance wilh the General Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the xcounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts Fwntea with thoso records. It also includes consideration of any unusual rtems or disclo$ures in the accounts, and seeking expL8nalions from you as twslees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken thj not provKle all the evidence that would be required in an audit ana CSequentty no opinion given as lo whether the accounls esenl a 'true and fail view and the report is to those matters sel out in tre next statemenL Independent examinerfs slatement In connection with my examinalton. matter has me to my attenlk)n'. which gives me reasonable cause to belEve that in any material resp#1 the requirements to keep accounting records in accLfilance with S"on 130 of the 2011 and to prepare 8c¢wnts. which oceMI with thesè acrA)unbng rècords have nol an met,. or 121 lo which, in my opinion, attention shoukl LE drawn in order lo enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. P R Garrard Walter Wright Chartered AOUntantS 89 High Street Hadleigh, Ipswich Suffolk IP7 SEA Dated qtrL 2022

PARISH CHURCH OF ST MARY, HADLEIGH ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

Saturday 14 May 2022 at 10am

In St Mary’s Church

PARISH CHURCH OF ST MARY, HADLEIGH

THE ANNUAL MEETING OF PARISHIONERS TO BE HELD ON 14 MAY 2022 IN ST MARY’S CHURCH, HADLEIGH

AGENDA

Minutes of the previous Annual Meeting held on 24 April 2021
Election of Churchwardens

IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE MEETING OF PARISHIONERS

AGENDA

Apologies
Minutes of the previous Annual Parochial Church Meeting held
on 24 April 2021
Matters arising
Presentation and Revision of the Electoral Roll
Presentation of Annual Accounts
Appointment of the Independent Examiner
To receive the review of the year 2021(page 15)
To receive 2021 Parish Reports (page 17 onwards)
Review of Safeguarding Policy
Election of Representatives to the Parochial Church Council
Election of Sidesmen / welcomers
Any other business (which should be notified to the chairman prior to the start of the meeting)

THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL MEETING TO BE HELD IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE ANNUAL MEETING

AGENDA

Minutes of the previous meeting of 31 March 2022 ( previously circulated)
Matters arising of an urgent nature only
Election of Officers:

i) Secretary

ii) Treasurer

iii) Lay Chairperson

iv) Deputy Churchwardens

4. Election of the Standing Committee

Any other business (which should be notified by Thursday 12 May)

FUNCTION & MEMBERSHIP OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (PCC)

The Synodical Government Measure 1969 states clearly the purpose of the PCC:

It shall be the duty of the incumbent and the Parochial Church Council to consult together on matters of general concern and importance in the parish.

It then goes on to set out a number of functions of the PCC, of which perhaps the most important - and certainly the widest - is:

co-operation with the incumbent in promoting in the parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical.

The incumbent and the PCC each have their own particular rights and responsibilities in the life of the church but the important theme here is partnership and co-operation.

The PCC will have on it members of the Deanery Synod, who have an important role in linking the parish into the wider structures of the church. Lay Readers are ex officio members.

Given its wide responsibilities (pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical), the PCC should provide strategic direction. Membership of the PCC also provides active hands-on work for everyone.

PARISH CHURCH OF ST. MARY, HADLEIGH

Minutes of the annual meeting of parishioners held on 24 April 2021

The meeting commenced at 10am with prayer. The meetings were chaired by the Very Revd Jo Delfgou, Rector.

The minutes of the meeting of parishioners held on 10 October 2020 were approved unanimously.
Election of Churchwardens:

The following nominations had been received:

Jessica Janas Proposed: Graham Brook Seconded: Jackie Cork James Wilding Proposed: Lesley Turner Seconded: Alison Crockett There were no other nominations, so both were elected unanimously.

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING

Apologies: apologies were received from:

2. Minutes: The minutes of the previous Annual Parochial Church Meeting held on 10 October 2020 were approved unanimously and signed.

3. Matters Arising: No matters arising.

Walter Wright accountants had seen and approved the accounts.

Jon Woods proposed that we should accept the accounts, seconded by Trish Pitt and agreed unanimously. John Perry was thanked for all his work during a challenging year.

6. Appointment of the Independent Examiner:

It was proposed by Bill Martin and seconded by John Parry-Williams that Walter Wright be appointed the independent examiner for 2021.

The meeting agreed unanimously.

7. Incumbent’s Annual Report:

The Review of the Year appeared on page 14, and was received by the meeting.

8. Parish Reports:

The reports appeared on pages 16-28 of the booklet.

Churchwardens’ Report: Jo expressed his ongoing thanks to the wardens for all that they do.

Café Church: there will be a meeting on 28 May to discuss how we might recreate Café Church.

Home groups: we hope to expand and develop home groups in the coming year.

Mothers’ Union: Jo particularly thanked the MU for keeping people connected.

Jackie will also be standing down as a Lay Elder, and Hilary Griffin and Olive Martin as Lay Readers; there will be an opportunity to thank them properly later in the year.

9. Review of Safeguarding Policy:

Jo thanked Trish Pitt and Gloria Powell for their work in the roles they fulfil.

10. Election of Representatives to the Parochial Church Council:

Jo detailed the list of ex officio , Deanery Synod and elected members.

2 nominations had been received:

Stella Scanlon Proposed: Claire Woods Seconded: Jess Janas Jonathan Woods Proposed: Hilary Ferry Seconded: Jess Janas

The meeting agreed unanimously to elect them for a period of 3 years.

Andy Scott’s resignation also created a Deanery Synod vacancy:

Claire Woods was proposed by Jess Janas, seconded by Sid Cleaver and elected unanimously.

All Lay Readers are automatically ex officio members of the PCC.

PCC minutes are available to the public, with the exception of any confidential matters. PCC meetings are open to the public but only PCC members can vote.

As the total annual turnover of the church now exceeds £100,000 the church has to be, by law, a registered charity. PCC members are the trustees of the charity.

11. Election of Sidesmen:

Claire Woods had prepared a list of welcomers/sidesmen. It was proposed by Jess Janas and seconded by John Parry-Williams that these be re-elected en bloc . The meeting agreed.

13. Any Other Business:

Jo explained the current proposals for the re-ordering project.

He began by thanking Martin Thrower, who began the process – which has since evolved and developed many time and in various ways.

Accessibility and flexibility will be key, as will being as close to carbon-neutral as possible.

The meeting closed at 11.10am

Signed………………………………………………………………………

Date……………………………………………………………….

PARISH CHURCH OF ST MARY HADLEIGH PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL

Minutes of the Meeting held following the Annual Parochial Church Meeting on 24 April 2021

Present: Jo Delfgou, Hilary Ferry, Jess Janas, Aileen Ker, John Parry-Williams, John Perry, Trish Pitt, Gloria Powell, Brian Richardson, Jim Wilding, Claire Woods, Jonathan Woods

Apologies had been received from Graham Brook and Stella Scanlon

2. Matters arising of an urgent nature only: There were none that could not wait until the next meeting

3. Election of Officers: The following were unanimously agreed:

i. Secretary – Claire Woods was proposed by Jess Janas and seconded by John Parry-Williams
ii. Treasurer – John Perry was proposed by John Parry-Williams and seconded by Trish Pitt
iii. Lay Chair – Jim Wilding was proposed by Brian Richardson and seconded by Hilary Ferry
iv. Deputy Churchwardens – Aileen Ker and John Parry Williams were proposed by Claire Woods and seconded by Jim Wilding; both were agreed unanimously.

The meeting closed with the grace at 11.30am

Signed…………………………………………………………

Date………………………………………

St. Mary's Church, Hadleigh

Annual Report

and

Financial Statements

of the

Parochial Church Council

for the year ended 31st December 2021

Rector: Very Rev Jo Delfgou

Bank:

TSB High Street Hadleigh

Independent Examiner:

Walter Wright High Street Hadleigh

Administrative Information

Ministry Team: Rector: Rev Jo Delfgou

Readers: Elders: Mr Graham Brook Mrs Trish Pitt Mr Brian Hempstead Mrs Christine Coe

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is a charity registered with the Charity Commission.

PCC members are: Rector: The Very Revd Jo Delfgou Wardens: Mrs Jess Janas Mr James Wilding

Representatives on the Deanery Synod:

Mr Jeff Delves Elected 2020 for 3 years Mrs Jess Janas Elected 2020 for 3 years Mrs Claire Woods Elected 2021 for 3 years

Structure, Governance and Management

The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. All Church attendees are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC.

Churchwardens are elected/re-elected yearly.

Deanery Synod members are elected to serve for three years.

PCC members are elected to serve for three years and under our current agreement, are encouraged to have one year's break before being re-elected.

: Standing Committee This is the only committee required by law. It has power to transact the business of the PCC between meetings, subject to any directions given by the Council.

Objectives and Activities

Church Attendance

The average Sunday attendance (for all services) based on typical Sundays in October 2021 was 74.

On average 10 people attended the Friday morning Eucharist.

Between January and December 2021 there were 7 baptisms and 2 weddings. In the same period there were 27 funerals which took place either at St. Mary's Church or at a crematorium.

REVIEW OF THE YEAR 2021

The Lockdown Exhibition and the Hidden Gardens put the church very much at the centre and it was so good to see so many people’s creativity and enjoyment.

At the beginning of the summer saw us joined by Rev Tom Mumford on a short placement and we enjoyed his ministry and our part in offering him space to

reflect and then prepare for his next post. We continue to wish him well at St Mary-le-Tower in Ipswich. He reflected so very positively on our benefice and all the welcomes he received.

Very Rev Jo Delfgou - Rector

TRUSTEES’ ANNUAL REPORT

FINANCIAL REVIEW 2021

Given the above, the net result for the year was a small excess of payments over receipts of £716 on unrestricted funds, and the balance carried forward at 31st December 2021 increased to £7,123.

Restricted Funds totalled £11,631 at 31st December, 2021 and this was an increase of £696 over the corresponding figure for 2020.

RESERVES POLICY

John Perry (Treasurer) Treasurer

PCC SECRETARY'S REPORT

Claire Woods, PCC Secretary

CHURCHWARDENS' REPORT

Jess Janas and James Wilding, Churchwardens

DEANERY SYNOD REPORT

There were only two Deanery Synod meetings in 2021 on 24 June in St Mary’s, Hadleigh and 11 November at St Mary’s, Kersey.

Following APCMs, Synod has welcomed new members, both lay and clergy.

Speakers

Treasury

Parish Share 2022: £295,226 – a very small uplift of 0.79%.

The levy of 40p per head (agreed in November 2017) on the Electoral Role has remained unchanged for 2020 and 2021.

At year end, there was an amount of £255 available for youth projects.

After over 20 years as Deanery Organiser & Treasurer, Jeff Delves is looking to stand down as soon as a successor is found. Any suggestions/volunteers would be most welcome.

Diocesan Synod

Mrs Barbara Rowe was appointed, as a Lay Member, to the Diocesan Synod. Meetings have been held on Zoom and Minutes are available on the Diocesan website.

Notices

Archdeacon’s Visitation: 8 June 2022 at Stratford St Mary for the Swearing in of Church Wardens.

GS2222, concerning the closure of rural churches, was clarified. Much of the concern has been taken out of context: only the final hoop will be quicker: before that, all usual hoops remain.

Parishes’ News

Sadly, both Aldham and Raydon’s Parish Treasurers died in 2021.
Rev Stephane Javelle was Licenced to the Stoke by Nayland benefice on 18 November, bringing, finally, a full complement of clergy to the Deanery.
The Benefice of Bildeston with Wattisham, Whatfield with Semer, Nedging and Naughton and Lindsey is now known as The Brett Valley Benefice.
St Mary’s Hadleigh proudly joined with the Hadleigh & Boxford Health Centre to host Covid-19 booster vaccinations, delivering some 6,000 jabs to its community in a safe and efficient manner.

Jess Janas (Deanery Synod Representative)

OTHER REPORTS OF PAROCHIAL INTEREST

BELLRINGERS’ TOWER REPORT

Covid has determined that we have again had a mixed year, although on reflection we have had considerable successes despite the restrictions.

We have a new learner at the moment under the wing of Richard Finch and she is making good progress and will soon be at the stage of joining us on a Sunday.

Kevin Ward (Tower Captain)

BENEFICE OFFICE

Claire Woods (Benefice Administrator)

BEREAVEMENT FRIENDS

Lesley Turner Jane Harrison

CAFÉ CHURCH

biscuits. None of that came cheaply but we were determined to get going again – whatever that looked like. So we did… and how!

From that strange beginning, we slowly and carefully, as restrictions eased and confidence grew, returned to an increasingly normal offering, though we wouldn’t resume cooking until March 2022.

Jess Janas and the Café Church Team

CARD SALES

£450 was raised from the sale of cards in 2021. Many thanks to everyone who supports this ongoing fundraising effort.

Jane Baston and Jane Harrison

CARE HOMES

Residential Care Homes: Canterbury House, Hadleigh Nursing Home, Magdalen House, Waterfield House, Sydney Brown Court.

Rev Joyce Willis

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

FROGS (Friends of God)

Sarah Nicholson, Trish Pitt and Alison Crockett

Open the Book

Brian has continued to find songs each month which perfectly fit the theme and we have been joined on screen on occasion by Philip adding the narration.

It is a joy for us to work together across the churches on this and our stories are now seen by pupils at St Mary’s as well as Hadleigh Community Primary.

You can find our videos on You Tube if you search for “OTB Hadleigh”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CxQLVDOuEOM

The ‘Open the Book’ Team

INSPIRE

We were regretfully unable to run any INSPIRE sessions last year, due to a combination of pandemic restrictions and staffing challenges.

Claire Woods

CHURCH MUSIC

And Hadleigh Orchestra rounded off the concert season with a concert on 12 December.

Jonathan Woods (Organist)

CHURCHES TOGETHER IN HADLEIGH (CTiH)

David Atkins – erstwhile Moderator CTiH

HADLEIGH RANGERS, GUIDES, BROWNIES AND RAINBOWS

With the pandemic we did lose girls through reluctance to come back and mix with girls from other bubbles. Our numbers are now increasing, and this is pleasing.

Rainbow and Brownies have been busy catching up on completing Skill Builders and badges – some gaining their Bronze Awards.

Well done to all the Leaders for going the extra miles to make it safe and fun for the girls since we have been able to meet during 2021.

A short report this year, but the activities and awards the girls have achieved are something to be proud of.

Gloria Powell - District Administrator to Hadleigh Guiding.

LEARNING & GROWING

The L&G planning group has been enlarged so that it now has representatives from all the churches in the benefice and this has been a stimulating development.

The first activity the group was able to initiate after lock-down was a Quiet Day led by the curate Tom Mumford in late summer, which was well received.

John Parry-Williams for the L&G planning group

MOTHERS’ UNION

We also had a Wave of Prayer Service in the summer and a very enjoyable card making session in November where we made 48 cards to be sent to prisoners for Christmas, as well as some for ourselves.

Our thanks go to Sandra Smithson and Ann Smith for their sterling work over many years. They have our grateful thanks as they take a step down. We welcome Jo Ellis and Jackie Cork to the committee.

Thanks everyone!

Alison Crockett (Branch Secretary)

ROW CHAPEL

Graham Brook (Lay Reader)

SILENT PRAYER MEETINGS

John Parry-Williams

ST MARY’S C of E PRIMARY SCHOOL

Our Christian Vision: “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” John 13:34

Following the challenges of 2020, we began 2021 full of hope for some ‘normality’. Having had no live audiences to Nativity plays and many pupils

learning from home, we looked forward to seeing everyone in school, able to access learning and enjoy the social side of school life.

More School Closures

Staffing

on new roles to ensure our children were well cared for and their education continued.

Church Links

Although we sadly had to cancel our Christmas service in the church, we did welcome Father Jo into school, to visit classrooms and share some of the excitement of the season.

We look forward to our school and church communities restoring their health and connections to ensure our children thrive in every respect of their emotional, social and academic lives.

Sarah Dowling (Head of School)