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2022-12-31-accounts

Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul, West Mersea

Annual Meet ng

Sunday 28th May 2023

11.30am

AGENDA for the ANNUAL MEETING

To be held on Sunday 28th May 2023 @ 11.30 am in the Church Hall,

  1. Attendance

  2. Welcome

  3. Appointment of Clerk to the meeting

  4. Apologies for absence

MEETING OF PARISHIONERS

  1. Minutes of the 2022 meeting

  2. Matters arising

  3. Election of Churchwardens

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING, 2023

  1. Minutes of 2022 meeting

  2. Matters Arising.

  3. To accept:

  4. 3.1 Copy of the new 2023 Electoral Roll

  5. 3.2 Annual report on the proceedings of the PCC in 2022

  6. 3.3 Deanery Synod report

  7. 3.4 The independently examined accounts and statements of funds and property for the year ended 31st December 2022.

  8. 3.5 Fabric report

  9. 3.6 Pastoral Care Report

  10. 3.7 Reports of Children’s activities/Families Worker

  11. 3.8 Music Report

  12. 3.9 Gift Aid Report

  13. 3.10 Chairman’s Report

4. ELECTIONS

BACKGROUND

St Peter and St Paul's PCC has the responsibility of co-operating with incumbent, (during the vacancy with the Churchwardens) in promoting in the parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. It also has the maintenance responsibilities for the Church complex in West Mersea.

Membership The Members of the PCC are either ex-officio or elected by the Annual Parish and Parochial Meetings in accordance with the Church Representational Rules.

During the year the following served on the PCC:

Incumbent: Rev. Jude Bevan Assistant Priest: Rev. John Pantry Curate: Rev. Terry Walker Evangelist: Mr Stephen Rice Wardens: Mr Peter Easy and Mrs Barbara Peter Health & Safety Officer: Mrs Cathy Roberts Safeguarding Officer: Mrs Cathy Roberts Families Worker: Mrs Heather King Treasurer: Mr Roland Gardener Representatives on the Deanery Synod: Mr Christopher Parkinson Elected Members Mrs Emma Cornwell Mrs Cathy Roberts Mr Peter Easy Mrs Pauline Low Mrs Frances Hart Mr Christopher Parkinson Co-opted Mrs Pauline Sanderson Elected at APCM 2022: Jamie Nightingale Helen Nightingale Number of meetings of PCC during the year 6

3.3 DEANERY SYNOD REPORT – Christopher Parkinson

Report on the meeting of Witham Deanery Synod on the evening of 14th June at All Saints’ Terling

The meeting began at 8 pm with a welcome and prayer from Simon.

Minutes of the previous meeting held on 24th February 2022 were agreed. Simon briefly mentioned the consultation process currently being carried out by members of the Deanery Standing Committee with wardens and clergy in parishes. This was to help draw up a Deanery plan which truly reflected the needs and desires of all parishes in the deanery. The next agenda item was introduced by Simon, a Community Arts Project for 2023. This arose from discussions between Simon, Gillian and Jake Lever (www.leverarts.com). The couple, practicing Christians and artists have carried out several community projects, most recently at Birmingham Cathedral where a template of a model boat was sent to interested parishes. The contents of the boats were filled with stories of people’s experiences from their personal lives and journeys. The boats were then hung from the ceiling of the Cathedral. Simon wished for parishes in our deanery to carry out something similar but not identical next year, which may involve a template. A ten-minute video between Jake and Stephen was then shown where Jake explained how the Birmingham project, named Soul Boats, came about and was carried out, Jake additionally gave his full commitment and practical support for our deanery project. Members of Synod gave their full support for the project with the desire for the wider community to be involved. Simon said that details had been sent to the clergy and he envisaged a small group of interested people to be formed by July 2023. While not all parishes will be involved, a common thread would run through the participating parishes. All those and parishes interested were asked to contact Simon. Finance Report. The Deanery Treasurer had given apologies for their absence before the meeting. Details of the amount of Parish Share paid so for were circulated before the meeting. The next agenda item was “Caring for Creation – the path to net-zero?” presented by the Revd Ruth Hatchett. Ruth began by reminding us of the Church of England’s desire to attain nett carbon neutrality by 2030, but acknowledged the difficulties presented by Covid, Ukraine and increased cost of living have put environmental issues on the “back burner”. However, climate and energy concerns have not gone away and if successfully confronted, it will be a win-win scenario for reduced deanery costs and the climate. Being part of the Tiptree and Winstree group of parishes, Ruth described how she and her colleagues, after a difficult start, have followed the Church of England’s check list and list of milestones on the route to becoming eco-churches. By working together and supporting each other and using many resources available via the internet, one of the group’s churches is ready for a Bronze Award. The Diocesan Heating Advisor was present at this Synod, he urged parishes to contact him through the DAC after which he would be happy to visit individual churches to offer practical advice. It was also noted that September was the month of creation in the church calendar and would be a suitable time for parishes to revisit this topic. Synod members were asked to bring to this meeting questions for Bishop Guli’s who will be at the Witham Synod Meeting on 19 October 2022. One question was given as to her views on the future of MMU’s under her leadership. Simon urged members to discuss further questions in their parishes and pass on to him. Deanery Notices. Parishes were asked to hold he forthcoming interviews for a Team vicar at Tiptree in their prayers. Simon again mentioned the many positive outcomes of the Community Arts Project discussed earlier and encouraged parishes to think about what they could contribute. The meeting concluded with prayers and the saying of the Grace.

3.4 ACCOUNTS – Roland Gardener – Treasurer (atached as separate document)

3.5 FABRIC REPORT FOR APCM 2023 - Barbara Peter (Chair of the Fabric Commitee)

The Fabric Committee meets approximately 6 times each year to discuss and put forward recommendations to keep our church, church hall and churchyard in good condition. This year the following items have been on the agenda.

The Churchyard

• The trees have been of great concern. The churchyard is maintained by West Mersea Town Council and they commissioned a tree survey which, unfortunately, found some trees were in such poor condition that they had to be felled. We are reusing some of the logs etc in the churchyard as seats. We are planting new trees as replacements.

The Hall and Upper Rooms

• This room has been cleared and redecorated so it can be used for a variety of reasons, i.e. Tell The Story, meetings etc. This has meant that the items previously stored here have had to be relocated.

The Tower

The Church

Other

This was carried out in the summer of 2022. It reports that the church and the site are in

good condition. There are no matters of concern in the recommendations, in fact, many of them are part of our annual maintenance strategy anyway. The Future

Our gratitude must go to the members of the Fabric Committee: Pete Easy, Roland Gardener, Alan Brook, Pete Rudlin and Geoff Sexton. We must also thank the Friends of West Mersea Parish Church for their generous help in funding maintenance of the church, the Lay Weeders for keeping the churchyard neat and tidy, the volunteers working on the wild parts of the churchyard and other people who carry out tasks for us, such as Aaron Cornwall who helped with clearing gutters and painting Smart Water. Many people do little, unseen jobs for us – changing light bulbs, fixing broken fittings, tidying. Thank you to them all.

CHURCH BELLS ANNUAL REPORT 2023 – John Talbot

In this last year, the bells were “rung” a number of times, additional to Services and Weddings etc. At the passing of our late Queen in September, church bells across the land were ‘tolled’,

which included our own church Number 4 Bell.

With the official proclamation – by the Mayor of Mersea – of King Charles III in the garden of the church, a full ring of the bells sounded.

At Christmas (as in 2021) carols were sung in the garden just outside the East end of the church where carols and Bible readings were enjoyed by over 300 people - preceded by the bells ringing in carols.

The church is most fortunate and grateful that there are a number of Campanologists able and willing to chime the bells as needed.

Thank you all very much.

Carpenter Andy Bacon has made a new wooden backing board for the bell ringing cupboard and Annie Moscrop agreed to sign write a new bell ringing chart to be fixed on the new board.

There will shortly be a tidy up session on the bell ringing level of the tower.

CHURCH CLOCK REPORT 2023 – Peter Rudlin

The clock seems to be keeping reasonable time and is running well. Adjustments are generally made regularly due to changes in outside temperature. I aim to keep it accurate within two minutes.

TOWER FLAG AND HALYARD 2023 – Peter Rudlin

Periodically the flag post nuts are checked for tightness and all seems secure.

In April 2023 a new St George flag was purchased from Piggotts of Witham and Ben Peter kindly fitted the new fittings on the cords.

New Led lights were fitted on the top of the tower before Christmas.

3.6 PASTORAL CARE REPORT 2023 – Val Bocking

In the past year many more people have been joining with us in our services and this has extended the role of pastoral care.

A survey carried out before Christmas showed that everyone who is part of our church family is known to one of our team.

Pauline Low began a bereavement drop-in group meeting in the hall for coffee and a cake, on the first Saturday of each month and this has definitely met a need and has been a blessing to many.

It is important that we all look out for each other and that needs are shared and met. Home communion and visits are available and prayer support is much appreciated. We must continue to care for our church family as we wait for our new shepherd to be appointed.

THE BEREAVEMENT DROP IN REPORT– Pauline Low

The Bereavement Drop In began in June last year and meets on the 1[st] Saturday of each month (apart from August) to provide a friendly welcoming space for those who have lost loved ones. The committed team involved completed an online Care for the Family Bereavement Care Awareness Course beforehand to equip us more fully. We have been encouraged by the number of folk attending, and the way it has proved helpful to them with the opportunity for understanding conversations. Supportive friendships are being made between the guests themselves, which is what we’d hoped, and the delicious homemade cakes have been much appreciated. My thanks to all in the team who have run with the vision so enthusiastically and faithfully.

We have paused this month for the Coronation but the Drop In will return June 3[rd] .

3.7 FAMILIES’ WORKER REPORT 2023– Heather King

2022 has been another busy year with lots of baptisms as usual. Jude and l did the welcoming meetings and bookings together and it was such a pleasure as always to welcome families into our church, many couples having been married or even baptised here themselves. It’s a joy to see and hear the connection they feel to us and the church.

Sunbeams took a little while to rebuild after lockdown but we now have a thriving group with both tiny babies and toddlers. Many friendships have been formed there and it’s lovely to see the children’s confidence and abilities blossoming. The year ended with our annual Christmas party and Malcolm Peter as our Santa as always.

I restarted messy Church at Jude’s request and that also is growing nicely we had 29 children and 18 adults at the Easter Session. We have a brilliant team of helpers and had the pleasure of adding Andrew French and Jenny Hughes to our team of story leaders in church.

I love the first week of the school summer holidays as l get to spend it registering and welcoming children and families to Beach Club it’s nice to be working alongside the free church and the children have such a great time.

Along with the members of the CCTV committee l helped to organise the flower festival in the church to celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee, the community and holiday makers flooded in, it was a great success and really enjoyed by everyone.

I continue to source items, support and visit families in the community, help along with others with the purchasing and delivery of food for the porch pantry. Beacon House is as always grateful for any donations of trainers, jeans, new socks and underwear, tents and sleeping bags.

I will continue to work to strengthen links within our community, to assist and support mums and carers to build friendships and to carry a welcome to our church into our community.

ACTIVITIES REPORT 2023

BEACH CLUB – Steven Gaunt, (ex) Hon Treasurer, Beach Club Steering Group

Beach Club is an event supported by all churches on Mersea and a “Centenary” Event was held from 25 to 29 July in 2022. This followed a two-year gap due to Covid restrictions and the week took as its theme the story of Joseph, from the Old Testament, linking to the life of Jesus in the New. We were blessed with good weather through the week and our vicar, Rev Jude, led the daily dramatization of the stories with Andrew French appearing as Joseph, from his coat of many colours through his time in prison and finally to his being Prime Minister in Egypt. For the statisticians it is interesting to note that whilst we were delighted to welcome 186 individual children to Beach Club across the week, only 20 were there for all five days. 85 visited for just one day, 35 for 2 days, 23 came for 2 days, 23 for 3 days and 23 for 4 days.

Beach Club takes quite a lot of work to organise and it is good that most churches are represented on the Steering Group. Andrew French has stepped down after the 2022 event, having had many years of involvement, as have Sue Hammond and Steven Gaunt. Cindy Rudlin now represents our church on the Steering Group and it would be good for another person from our church to join so that the workload is well spread. Please have a chat with Cindy if you feel you could be that person. Beach Club is all set to appear in its second century of activity on the beach opposite the end of Empress Avenue, in the first week of the summer holidays in 2023.

OPEN THE BOOK - Margaret Gaunt, OtB Team Leader

We are pleased to report that in 2022 we were back to “normal” service at Mersea School. A group of would-be thespians from our church community acts out Bible stories for assemblies of Key Stage 1 students at the School on Thursday afternoon each week, using the Lion Storyteller Bible, working with the programme produced by The Bible Society. During the year the children have become more responsive and now interact with the stories quite freely, and vocally! We are also thrilled to have been invited by Jude and Terry to present a story once a month first thing on a Friday morning at Fingringhoe Church to the whole of Fingringhoe School. It is a wonderful venue and despite its formal setting the children listen intently, being quite at home there as they normally have their Friday assembly in the church.

MERSEA LIGHTS UP – Margaret Gaunt

This local event continues to present our church with a wonderful missional opportunity. A small group of women from our church worked through the autumn and again made stars in various media, on painted silk, clay, patterned card, felt and cross-stitch. We then distributed these, as we have done before, during the event outside the church gates from a wooden stand formed as a Christmas tree. Each star bears a message inviting people to join our Christmas services; we thus reached out to our community with a gift from the church. It’s a great opportunity to meet our neighbours and engage in conversation. Hot chocolate was served in the afternoon from the churchyard and two brief, but well attended, carol singing sessions were conducted by Rev Jude in the churchyard during the afternoon.

3.8 MUSIC REPORT 2023– Liz Willey

We are very grateful to everyone who contributes in any way to the music of the church.

Ray Bocking’s organ skills are frequently needed, not least in the regular 10am united service, which aims to provide a mix of traditional and modern songs and hymns. We were sad to bid farewell recently to Jamie and Helen Nightingale, who have led the worship team so ably for the past couple of years, but many thanks to fellow musicians and singers, Joan, Val, Pat, Claire, Michelle and Grace for their input, and to Lily and the Cornwell family for operating the projector week by week. If you have musical ability and feel that God may be calling you to serve with the worship team, please speak to one of the wardens.

Many thanks are also due to John Davies and the Mersea Island Choir for leading the monthly Evensong and various special services.

3.9 GIFT AID REPORT 2023– Alan Hammond

GIVING & GIFT AID DURING 2022

We are blessed here at West Mersea Parish Church (WMPC) in that so many of our regular supporters chose to support us via ‘non cash’ methods which does significantly help Gift Aid and other financial administration. A huge ‘THANK YOU’ to all who have continued their faithful donations during challenging times.

As per last year I thought it may be helpful to list and summarise some of the methods already available to support our church financially both for its immediate well-being and as potential for its future.

  1. The Parish Giving Scheme (PGS) is the most efficient way to make donations to our church. During 2022 donations totalling £41,848.50 (inc. £7,991.75 Gift Aid reclaim) were received from 33 regular donors. This scheme enables donations via Direct Debit and any associated Gift Aid reclaim is received locally within 10 working days. All costs of the Scheme are borne by the Diocese with no charge to WMPC.

During 2022 a new way to access and set up donations (single or regular) to WMPC via PGS was introduced. Alongside is a “QR” code which, if you point a smartphone camera at it should display a link to enable donations (single or regular) to this church via the PGS scheme. Why not give it a go?

There are, however, other ways in which you can set up a PGS Direct Debit to WMPC a) via paper 'Gift Form' – available from our Churchwardens or Treasurer

b) via the PGS telephone service on 0333 002 1271, Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm

c) via: https://www.parishgiving.org.uk/donors/find-your-parish/ quoting PGS

Parish Code: 080608478

  1. In-house Gift Aid scheme: Donations of £45,442.69 (inc. £11,360.68 Gift Aid reclaim) were received from 36 regular donors. The total sum also includes receipts from 17 ‘occasional’ donors AND the HMRC ‘small donation’ (cash) concession. The HMRC reclaim is processed by myself manually on a quarterly basis in arrears so not all may appear in the 2022 accounts. Note: The ‘traditional’ donations via cash, envelopes, cheques and/or Banker’s Order are still

available for 2023 and gratefully accepted. However, our Island bank (Barclays) now make significant handling charges for both cash and cheques that serve to reduce the value of donations made this way.

  1. Cashless donation device: this new device was installed near the main church entrance toward the end of 2022 with the financial support of the Friends and is available anytime to church members and visitors for donations via credit/ debit cards and smartphone Apple/ Google Pay.

  2. Legacies: from time to time our church has been blessed to receive legacy gifts. Our legacy policy is: “West Mersea Parish Church welcomes gifts in Wills, however large or small. We promise to use such gifts to make a difference to our church (e.g. by funding development projects, whether buildings, equipment or staff). However, since needs change over the years we encourage gifts for the general purposes of the parish rather than for a restricted use. We may consult with executors about the most appropriate use of the gift in light of current projects. We will respect a donor or executor’s request for PCC acknowledgement of a gift within existing parish policy or, equally, we can make sure that gifts remain anonymous if that is preferred.”

  3. “Friends of West Mersea Parish Church”: is a registered and non-religious charity “established as a group of interested people from the wider community who wish to support and maintain this wonderful Mersea ancient building, recognised as requiring a long-term sustainable commitment. In this way we will ensure that this generation hands the Church on in good order to the next, just as previous custodians have done.” More details are available on the website https://www.fwmpc.org/ or by post to: ‘Friends of West Mersea Parish Church,’ c/o Church of St Peter & St Paul, High Street, West Mersea, Essex, CO5 8QD.

  4. Direct Donations: of course, it is always possible to support the work of our church by direct bank transfer(s). If you favour this method, then bank details are below – thank you (and please let us know if donations can be Gift-Aided):

a) To the church directly = sort-code 20-22-67; account no. = 20935557; name = ‘West Mersea Parochial Church Council’

b) Or via the ‘Friends’ = sort-code 20-22-67; account no. = 43164136; name = ‘Friends of West Mersea Parish Church’

Last thoughts (for now!): … a) Gift Aid allows donations given to this church by ANY TAXPAYER (church members, or the wider public – and eligible taxes should not include VAT or Council Tax) to be increased by 25% via tax reclaim. The offerings may be made for any church purpose … and, b) it is now 34 years since I inherited the role which has become Gift Aid secretary for West Mersea Parish Church. It would be good for both myself and this church to discover a new member to undertake the role for the future and I would be happy to explain more to anyone expressing a genuine interest.

MOTHERS' UNION ANNUAL REPORT 2023 - Branch Leader, Mersea Island Mothers’ Union

We started the year with 20 members, but ended with 19 having very sadly lost Beryl Balls. Beryl had been a member of Mothers’ Union for more than 25 years. However, 2 ladies have been joining us for meetings and will be enrolled very soon.

I am very pleased to report that we have monthly contact with Mary Trenter as she is still a member. She has continued her membership of our Branch of Mothers’ Union as an Indoor Member. This type of membership if for those who, for whatever reason, are unable to attend meetings. We have 6 such members in our Branch. I keep in regular contact with them, and they receive special letters, cards, prayers, etc from the Diocesan Indoor Members Officer.

We have been meeting monthly – on the 3[rd] Friday of each month – in the Parish Hall.

There are “special” months throughout the year:-

A New Year Party in January

A Lent Quiet Afternoon An outing to somewhere in May

A Garden Party in July A Christmas Celebration in December

After a break in August, our September meeting is held in the Church, and we are so grateful to the Revd. Keith Lovell who has led us in a traditional Evensong for many years.

Post Covid we have been able to restart serving Tea, Coffee and biscuits in the Parish Hall after the service on the 4[th] Wednesday of each month. It is truly wonderful to see up to 20 people chatting away – some very reluctant to go home! Fellowship at its best!

As Branch Leader, I receive lots of communication from our Central Office in London. Our Worldwide President and Diocesan President work very hard behind the scenes to keep our members here, and across the world, informed and provided with spiritual encouragement. I have also attended Diocesan Meetings and events via Zoom during the past year.

Mersea Island Mothers' Union co-ordinates the Mersea Island Churches “Annual World Day of Prayer Service”, always held, across the world, on the first Friday in March. Representatives from each of the 5 churches meet together in January to prepare and share responsibility for all involvement, and we take turns to host the Service. This year was the turn of the Catholic Church of St Cedd and St Gregory, and the service was prepared by the ladies of Taiwan.

Our meetings are open to all.

For more information, please contact me on 01206 383166

MISSION TO SEAFARERS 2023- Michael J. Berry

There have been many changes forced upon the Mission to Seafarers, due to the pandemic, and has concentrated their thinking and approach to the support and services they offer around the world. This has been a worthwhile exercise for them.

The generation of charitable contributions is now, quite rightly, concentrated on the very large shipping and freight forwarding companies around the world who use their facilities, and a highly targeted computerised data base of individuals who are contacted on a regular basis. The Mission no longer actively pursues collection box donations as it recognises it does not have the 'critical mass' appeal of certain charities, for example, the RSPCA, RNLI or those campaigning on behalf of serious illness. The pandemic has concentrated their marketing efforts, a good thing! In addition to concentrating their fund-raising efforts they have been forced to assess the services they offer at their missions and centres across the globe and many changes are planned.

We as a church have always supported our local Mission to Seafarers, which is based at Harwich (Felixstowe Dock). This facility is one of the busiest in the world, due to its capacity as the largest UK container port. The Mission facility at Felixstowe has also been subject to change and is now under the supervision of the QVSR (Queen Victoria's Seaman's Rest homes). Although the management of the facility remains the same, the centre, which has always been multi - faith based, is now run by the QVSR which is a Methodist charitable organisation. However, it still is part of the Mission to Seafarers and retains all the commitment of care expected of it. What does this mean to our continued church support?

1) We as Mersea Churches and churches in the surrounding parishes have made a tremendous contribution to the well-being of many a seaman taking refuge in the Mission at Felixstowe by the hand knitted hats produced by our 'wonderful ladies' around parishes. I cannot emphasise enough how well these are received and appreciated by the Mission and many a freezing sailor!!! The production and supply of these hats will be actively encouraged by me in the future.

2) I propose we also continue with our thoughts and prayers on Sea Sunday ( first Sunday in July) which is part of a Worldwide prayer day for Seafarers and which is organised by the Mission to Seafarers.

3) We discontinue any minor 'collection box' contributions in line with Mission policy.

4) I would like it put on record the great thanks and appreciation the management of the Mission to Seafarers give to our many 'knitters' who give so much time and effort in producing these vital bobble hats which ensure the well-being of many a young man from the Indian sub-continent, the Pacific rim, or China who have never experienced a Nor'easterly wind in the North Sea before!

5) There are no financial matters to report. All activities are undertaken on a FOC basis and are encouraged so to do.

3.10 CHAIRMAN’S REPORT 2023 – Barbara Peter

There have been good things and not so good things happening in the last year. So let us dwell on the good things.

We have been able to have a complete resumption of our services as the threat of Coronavirus decreased. We no longer wearing masks and we are able to mix freely in the church and the hall. We can enjoy a sociable coffee after the 10 o’clock Sunday service and once a month after the Wednesday morning service. The end of semi-isolation has been of great comfort to many in the various congregations.

The Wednesday morning service, sometimes Holy Communion and sometimes Morning Prayer has a regular attendance of over twenty. We are pleased that Keith and Terry have been able to take the service in the past and we hope that they will soon back with us. Morning Prayer is led by the Churchwardens, Val Bocking or Alan Brook.

Sunday services attract a regular group of worshippers. The 8 o’clock numbers are in the teens and the 11 o’clock United Service usually has 45 - 50. For special services, such as a Baptism, there can be 80+ in church. We still offer a Zoom connection. However, we probably do not have as many in the two services as we did pre-Covid. Very pleasing is the fact that we now have Tell The Story; a session of a story and craft activities for 5-10 year olds during the 10 o’clock service. We hope and pray that this will grow. The Choral Evensong service held once a month attracts a congregation of 20-30 with a choir of 10 or so. It must be noted that most of the attendees do not come at other times to our church and we are pleased to welcome people from other churches on the island. In fact, we often have members of the Catholic Church reading lessons at this service.

Christmas last year was tremendous, back to the old routine of services, with the new tradition of Carols by Candlelight which attracted over 400 people into the churchyard for a service, Carol singing and, of course, donkeys. Thank you to all who worked so hard before, during and after this event. Bishop Roger was very impressed when we told him about it. The Friends of West Mersea Parish Church put on two concerts of Christmas music which were very well supported and great fun. Who will forget singing the Twelve Days of Christmas, with actions?

We are blessed with some amazing musicians who lead the music in our worship. We were sorry to say goodbye to Jamie and Helen Nightingale at Easter. They will be missed.

Our work with younger children was able to restart this past year as well. Heather, our wonderful Families’ Worker, was able to resume Messy Church and after a slow start, the expected numbers are 30 or more. This is due to Heather’s team gathering so we must give thanks to them. People spend a long time preparing craft activities and others prepare food. The children, and their parents/carers, have a great time whilst learning about the Christian faith and then have a lovely meal. Leaders of the service not only include our own clergy but Pete Easy, Margaret and Steven Gaunt, Andrew French and Jenny Hughes from the Free Church. There is also Sunbeams, for mothers/granny’s/carers of toddlers during term time. The regular group enjoy this hour or so of chat and coffee whilst the toddlers have space to run around and play alongside others.

Open the Book continues weekly at Mersea Island School. This is our only initiative that goes out to the children of Mersea so is vitally important.

Unfortunately, we are not able to offer much for teenagers. This is an area of outreach that needs a lot of prayer. We have approached Time For God, which places young adults in parishes specifically to work with teenagers. Host families are needed and one did come forward. This idea is on hold at the moment until a new incumbent is in place.

House groups have resumed and thank you to the hosts of these groups.

The Porch Pantry continues to offer a lifeline to those in need on the island. Emma and her team work incredibly hard to maintain it. Emma has been successful in gaining grants. In fact, she was so successful recently that she had to beg for storage space in people’s garages after a large, time limited grant. Mersea has taken the Porch Pantry to its heart, local people bring goods and other fund raise. Thank you Emma and your team.

2022 saw the Quinquennial Survey taking place and we are pleased to report that the architect considered the church was in good condition with nothing major to worry us.

The finances of the church are in a reasonable state at the moment, but costs are rising so they are being carefully monitored. Roland is an excellent treasurer and we must thank him profusely. A digital, contactless giving terminal has been installed in the church. It will be interesting to see how much extra income this generates.

The Friends organisation continues to give us tremendous financial backing. They have supported the new window in the Upper Room and the contactless giving terminal. Of course, their events are also great fun.

At the beginning of this report, bad things were mentioned. This was the devastating news that Jude would be leaving, which was announced earlier this year. She made a big difference to our church life, proved to be a wonderful preacher and became a good friend to us all. She will be sorely missed. Hopefully and prayerfully, next year’s Chairman’s report will highlight the works of a new incumbent.

Many people contribute to the life of this church and it is impossible to name them all. So if you are missing, many apologies.

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WEST MERSEA

ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2022

Registered Charity Number 1142676

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WEST MERSEA Registered Charity Number 1142676

ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2022

2021
INCOMING RESOURCES
£
On Unrestricted Funds
Incoming Resources from Donors
4,860.77
General Collections
35,614.88
Parish Giving Scheme
35,010.50
Standing Orders( incl Family Worker donations)
2,008.37
Donations for General Fund
18,567.68
Gift Aided Tax Reclaim
-
GoodPlate Online Giving
-
Messy Church Donations
51.72
Carol Services
59.00
Midnight Mass & Christmas Day
2,555.23
Legacies
98,728.15
Other Voluntary Incoming Resources
-
Donations for Mary's Meals
-
Musical Instruments Donation
-
Laptop Donations
-
Terry Walker Thank You Donations
430.00
Christian Aid (in lieu of Lent Lunches)
105.00
Donations towards Flowers
-
Ukrainian Appeal
535.00
Income from Ancillary Trading
-
LPWS Grant
72.50
Beacon House Service Collection
4,813.00
Hall Hire
-
Tearfund Collection
309.26
Rev. Jude Bevan Installation Collection
80.00
Pianissimo Income (incl Weddings)
5,274.76
Ordinary Incoming Resources
-
Bank loyalty Reward
1,598.00
Interregnum Fees refunded by CDBF
17,086.33
Fees from Funerals & Weddings
-
Catering/ Refreshments
147.43
Benefice Team Ministry Expenses Reimbursed
18,831.76
2.76
Interest Received
123,372.43
Total Incoming Resources		 2022
£
6,423.98
35,085.35
35,907.00
650.43
19,621.03
88.91
145.40
30.00
207.10
-
98,159.20
366.51
3,000.00
600.00
367.50
995.00
-
395.90
5,724.91
6,253.40
-
4,945.00
620.00
-
-
11,818.40
45.54
-
16,498.95
200.75
1,026.49
17,771.73
69.76
133,544.00

1

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WEST MERSEA Registered Charity Number 1142676

ACCOUNTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2022

2021
OUTGOING RESOURCES
£
On Unrestricted Funds
Ministry
47,132.88
Diocesan Family Share
1,473.78
Team Ministry Expenses
48,606.66
Running Expenses
335.11
Water & Sewerage
2,136.08
Insurance
642.13
Heating Oil
1,639.61
Electricity
588.27
Altar Requisites
6,249.19
Parish Office
413.95
Office Machines & Equipment
1,818.05
Printing, Postage & Stationery
-
House Group Costs
3,982.16
Hall Costs
-
Catering Costs
461.72
Audio & Video Costs
480.00
Organists Fees
-
Musical Instruments
-
Messy Church Costs
3,583.24
General Running Repairs
490.57
Flowers/Oasis
234.61
Rectory Utility Costs
5,636.80
Families Worker Costs
461.45
Evangelism
65.50
Advertising (Christmas Leaflets & Vacancy)
6,189.34
Charities and Missions - see schedule
0.00
Mary's Meals Donation Made
5,689.80
Rectory Refurbishment
191.42
Bank & Audit Charges
-
Gift for Terry Walker ( retiring )
1,632.00
Interregnum Fees
11,471.32
Funeral & Wedding Fees Costs
216.00
Sunday School Sponsorship
48.00
Sunbeams
141.16
Refreshments for Installation Service
54,797.48
103,404.14
Total Outgoing Resources
30,094.84
Transferred to Fabric Fund
133,498.98
Total Resources Used
123,372.44
Total Incoming Resources
(10,126.54)
Net Change on Year
109,195.48
Balance at 1st January 2022
99,068.94
Balance at 31st December 2022		 2022
£
63,443.16
3,767.48
67,210.64
469.14
2,274.77
2,127.09
2,286.02
259.20
11,108.52
1,819.00
1,479.53
52.78
4,446.02
46.33
478.35
1,210.00
3,148.14
374.53
4,664.84
520.14
-
5,633.19
588.05
-
7,302.86
296.51
-
410.24
367.50
-
11,567.90
216.00
28.43
254.67
63,429.75
130,640.39
-
130,640.39
133,544.00
2,903.61
99,068.94
101,972.55

2

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WEST MERSEA Registered Charity Number 1142676

ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2022 RESTRICTED FUNDS

2021
£
BELL FUND
8,168.94
Balance at 1st January 2022
4.26
Interest Received
-
Repairs
8,173.20
Balance at 31st December 2022
FABRIC FUND
7,898.05
Balance at 1st January 2022
4.11
Interest Received
10,000.00
Donations from Friends for Tower Repairs
500.00
Donation for Clock Repairs
30,094.84
Transferred from General Fund for Tower Clock Repairs
-
Wheelchair Ramps
-
Good With Devices Station
(3,074.40)
Major Clock Repairs
(37,520.44)
Tower repairs (2022 Retention Fee)
7,902.16
Balance at 31st December 2022
COMMUNITY CHEST FUND
2,177.29
Balance at 1st January 2022
-
Transferred from General Fund
3,132.45
Donations Received
(727.79)
Good Causes
4,581.95
Balance at 31st December 2022
PORCH PANTRY FUND
9,931.38
Balance at 1st January 2022
-
Transferred from General Fund
7,188.52
Donations Received
(15,355.70)
Purchases
1,764.20
Balance at 31st December 2022
TITHE CHANCEL ENDOWMENT FUND
13,091.18
665.46 Shares held 1st January 2022
383.69
Dividends in the year (reinvested in 18.93 shares)
1,898.18
Shares re-valuation
15,373.05
675.39 Shares held 31st December 2022		 2022
£
8,173.20
107.50
-
8,280.70
7,902.16
103.92
-
-
-
(299.99)
(954.00)
-
(962.06)
5,790.03
4,581.95
-
670.00
(4,938.99)
312.96
1,764.20
-
10,387.23
(9,989.20)
2,162.23
15,373.05
407.79
(1,826.34)
13,954.50

3

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WEST MERSEA Registered Charity Number 1142676

ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2022 RESTRICTED FUNDS

2021
£
AUDIO VISUAL FUND
4,128.07
Balance at 1st January 2022
-
FWMPC donation towards new Sound System
-
Sound System Costs Including Installation
4,128.07
Balance as at 31st December 2022
CHURCH & COMMUNITY(CCTV) FUND
307.00
Balance at 1st January 2022
-
Jubilee Flower Festival Income
-
Jubilee Flower Festival Costs
307.00
Balance as at 31st December 2022		 2022
£
4,128.07
-
-
4,128.07
307.00
1,143.57
(213.41)
1,237.16

4

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WEST MERSEA

Registered Charity Number 1142676

BALANCE SHEET AS AT 31st DECEMBER 2022

2021 2022
£ £
CURRENT ASSETS
15,373.05 Central Board of Finance Investment Fund Units 13,954.50
109,242.86 Cash with Barclays Bank 102,639.28
21,379.54 Cash with Central Board of Finance of the Church of England 21,660.72
57.23 Cash in hand 57.23
2,669.60 Debtors and Prepayments 4,016.08
(7,423.71) Liabilities (4,489.61)
141,298.57 137,838.20
REPRESENTED BY:
Totals Restricted Unrestricted Totals
99,068.94 General Fund - 101,972.55 101,972.55
1,764.20 Porch Pantry Fund 2,162.23 2,162.23
8,173.20 Bell Fund 8,280.70 8,280.70
7,902.16 Fabric Fund 5,790.03 5,790.03
4,581.95 Community Chest Fund 312.96 312.96
4,128.07 Audio Visual Fund 4,128.07 4,128.07
307.00 Church & Community (CCTV) Fund 1,237.16 1,237.16
15,373.05 Tithe Chancel Trust- held by Diocese 13,954.50 13,954.50
141,298.57 35,865.65 101,972.55 137,838.20

5

PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL, WEST MERSEA Registered Charity Number 1142676

ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER 2022

SCHEDULE OF GIVING TO CHARITIES AND MISSIONS

2021
£
809.26
Essex Clergy Charity
500.00
Leprosy Mission
-
Mersea Beach Club
500.00
Mission to Seafarers
377.58
Royal British Legion Remembrance Day
500.00
Barnabus Fund
500.00
Colchester Beacon House
430.00
Christian Aid
-
Christian Aid Week
500.00
CYO
500.00
Fellowship Afloat
500.00
Childrens Society (Balance)
500.00
Colchester CAP
-
Tearfund
-
Colchester CAB
-
Ukranian Appeal
72.50
Beacon House ( Mersea Island Chorus )
-
Mary's Meals
5,689.34		 2022
£
500.00
500.00
500.00
500.00
189.06
500.00
500.00
862.00
133.00
500.00
500.00
40.00
500.00
620.00
500.00
388.80
-
70.00
7,302.86

6

Independent Examiner's Report to the Parochial Church Council of St. Peter

and St. Paul, West Mersea Registered Charity Number 1142676

I report to the members of the Parochial Church Council of St Peter and St Paul, West Mersea on my examination of the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2022.

Responsibilities and basis of report

As members of the P C C you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 ('the Act').

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

Independent examiner's statement

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

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

L C Tippett ACA

Chartered Accountant

West Mersea 15 March 2023

7