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2025-03-31-accounts

AFMIM (UK) Slough Assembly

Apostolic Faith Mission International Ministries (AFMIM) Slough Assembly Calvary Fellowship

Registered Charity 1153480

Trustee’s Annual Report & Statement of Accounts April 2024 to March 2025

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AFMIM (UK) Slough Assembly

Charity Name Apostolic Faith Mission International Apostolic Faith Mission International
Ministries Slough
Working Name Calvary Fellowship
Registered Charity No 1153480
Meeting Address Westgate School, Cippenham Ln, Slough,
Berkshire SL1 5AH
Independent Examiner
Dashwoods
Chartered
Certified
Accountants.
31 Dashwood Avenue
High Wycombe
Buckinghamshire
HP12 3DZ
01494 521687
www.dashwoods.co.uk

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AFMIM (UK) Slough Assembly

Introduction

The Trustees present their annual report together with the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2025 . This report incorporates key governance decisions, activities, and financial matters arising from the Annual General Meeting held in November 2025 , as well as relevant updates that occurred after the financial year-end. These additional details are included to provide a complete and up-to-date picture of the church’s work, governance, and financial stewardship.

During the reporting period, AFMIM Slough Assembly recorded an income of £86,065 , an increase from £71,445 in the previous year. This report outlines the activities carried out during the 2024/25 financial year and highlights significant developments that took place afterwards, up to the date of submission.

The Trustees extend their sincere gratitude to all members, volunteers, and partners for their continued commitment, financial contributions, and dedicated service to the work of the church.

Our Objectives

The charity’s objects remain unchanged and are:

Activities for Achieving Objectives

The Church provides public worship services every Sunday from 9 am to 12:30pm. The Church also achieves its objectives by promoting evangelism through the outreach programme, organising workshops, teaching programmes.

These objectives continued to be achieved through:

Achievements and Performance (2024/25)

Financial Review and Governance Summary

Governing Document

The Church operates as a registered charity and is governed in accordance with its constitution. The Board of Trustees is responsible for ensuring that the charity is managed effectively, complies with all legal and regulatory requirements, and continues to pursue its charitable objectives.

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AFMIM (UK) Slough Assembly

Income

The charity’s income has increased significantly compared to the previous financial year. This improvement is primarily due to higher levels of general donations and tithes, as well as the successful implementation of Gift Aid claims. These developments have strengthened the charity’s financial position and supported the continuation of our core activities.

Expenditure

Overall expenditure has decreased following the relocation of our place of worship from Langley College to Westgate School, resulting in reduced venue-hire costs. Despite this reduction, the pastor’s salary and pastoral care remain the charity’s largest area of expenditure, consistent with the nature of our charitable activities.

Governance Matters

Related Party Disclosures & Remuneration The charity employs a full-time Pastor. The Board is committed to transparent governance; however, the scheduled 2024/25 contractual salary review was deferred to the 2026 cycle as the Pastor did not participate in the review process. This has been formally documented by the Board to ensure transparency.

Objectives and Activities for the Public Benefit

The objects of the charity are to advance the Christian faith for the benefit of the public. The Trustees confirm they have referred to the Charity Commission’s general guidance on Public Benefit when reviewing aims and planning future activities.

Core Activities:

During 2024/25 Charity had approximately 103 members of the church. The average weekly attendance is 65. We have consistently met every Sunday for the main church services, Tuesdays and Fridays for men’s and women’s prayer groups respectively, and at the end of each month for all-night prayer services.

As well as our regular services, we enable the local community to celebrate and thank God by inviting the public to our Church Service.

Through offering baptism services, we thank God for the gift of life. We offer support to our grieving members who have lost their loved ones through funeral services. We strongly believe in mourning with those who have suffered the death of a loved one and we offer our support both emotionally and materially.

We take pride and celebrate dedications, baptisms and weddings.

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AFMIM (UK) Slough Assembly

Church Activities Summary

Achievements and Performance

The 2024/25 year was a period of relocation and revitalization:

The 2024/25 year was marked by significant spiritual growth, strengthened governance, and vibrant ministry activity across all departments of the church. The Trustees are encouraged by the renewed energy, commitment, and unity demonstrated throughout the year, which has positively enhanced both the internal life of the church and its witness within the wider community.

1. Men’s Fellowship

The Men’s Ministry entered a season of renewed purpose and revitalisation following the appointment of a new leadership board. A range of engaging activities were delivered, including social fellowship events such as bowling outings , attendance at the Regional Men’s Conference , and a well-received Men’s Barbecue Fellowship . Importantly, the ministry created a safe and supportive space to discuss men’s mental health, well-being, and contemporary challenges , fostering openness, accountability, and brotherhood among members .

2. Ladies Union

The Women’s Ministry, led by the Pastor’s wife, grew in strength, influence, and spiritual depth during the year. The department hosted numerous programmes designed to empower women within the church and the wider community , while also prioritising spiritual formation. Activities included spiritual growth retreats , dedicated seasons of fasting and prayer , and fellowship events that strengthened unity and discipleship. The ministry continues to play a vital role in nurturing faith, leadership, and service among women.

3. Youth Ministry

The Youth Ministry recorded remarkable growth and transformation following the election of a new leadership board. Monthly youth-focused sessions were held after church services, addressing relevant and timely topics such as youth mental health , identity in Christ , and the challenges facing Christian youth in an ever-changing world . For older youth, targeted teaching was delivered on preparation for marriage , while married youth received guidance on navigating marital challenges . The ministry also promoted fellowship through summer barbecues and successfully hosted a well-attended end-of-year dinner , which served as a highlight of the youth calendar.

4. Children’s Ministry

The Children’s Ministry experienced a highly successful and impactful year , with notable achievements that contributed to the spiritual, social, and emotional development of the children. Highlights included a memorable Sunday School beach outing , which provided an opportunity for fellowship, recreation, and faith-building in a relaxed environment. The children also participated in the Sunday School Regional Conference , exposing them to

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AFMIM (UK) Slough Assembly

wider fellowship, teaching, and encouragement beyond the local assembly. These activities strengthened engagement, attendance, and enthusiasm among both children and parents.

5. Praise and Worship

Achievements

Successfully hosted engaging worship sessions that were well-received by the congregation.

Equipment Upgrade

With the move to the new venue, the Praise and Information Team secured much-needed new equipment, including cordless microphones.

This upgrade resolved previous challenges with wired microphones, which were prone to wiring issues and time-consuming to set up.

Funding and Stewardship

The improvements were made possible through pledges from church members, demonstrating strong community support.

After purchasing the equipment, the team retained £700, which will be available for future needs.

6. Ushers and Security

The Ushering and Security Ministry continued to grow in capacity, confidence, and effectiveness , reinforcing the church’s strong commitment to providing a safe, orderly, and welcoming worship environment . Improved coordination and visibility have enhanced the overall church experience for members and visitors alike

. 7. Couples Ministry

8. Media and Communications

During the year, the church successfully established a Media Team , addressing a previously unmet operational need. The team has since hit the ground running , delivering major improvements including the revitalisation of the church website , the launch of the church’s official YouTube channel , and the transition from audio-only recordings to full video coverage of services . These recordings are now widely shared through the church’s WhatsApp platform, significantly extending the church’s digital reach and engagement.

9. Data Management and Compliance

In line with best practice and data protection requirements, the church successfully migrated all member records to Church Suite , a secure church management system. This transition has strengthened compliance, data security, and stewardship of members’ personal information , while improving communication and administrative efficiency.

10. Community Outreach and Social Responsibility

As part of its commitment to practical Christian service, the church organised a community outreach initiative during the festive season, donating clothing and food items to a local housing shelter . This outreach was intentionally carried out ahead of Christmas , enabling the church to tangibly demonstrate the love, compassion, and generosity of Christ to those in need within the local community.

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AFMIM (UK) Slough Assembly

Congregation

During the 2024/25 reporting year, the Church continued to congregate at Langley College, Station Road, Slough, SL3 8BY. In the same period, we successfully secured a new venue at Westgate School, Cippenham Lane, Slough, SL1 5AH. This venue offers a larger space and provides the capacity to accommodate more people, positioning the Church to support future growth and any increase in membership.

Pastoral Care

AFMIM Slough Assembly continues to thrive under the leadership of Reverend Edward Mazando, who has been serving as the full-time Pastor since his appointment on 09 December 2018. Reverend Mazando has successfully overseen all church activities, providing spiritual guidance and administrative leadership. Supported by the elected Church Board, he continues to lead the congregation with a focus on growth, unity, and the spiritual well-being of all members.

Ecumenical Relationships

The AFMIM Slough Assembly, as a committed member of AFMIM UK International Ministries, actively participated in several significant events during the 2024/25 reporting period. The Assembly attended the combined national conferences for the second year since the move to the new venue in Wales, where all departments — women’s, men’s, youth, single ladies, and Sunday school — gathered under one roof for unified ministry and fellowship.

In addition to national engagements, the Assembly participated in two regional conferences organised and facilitated by The Central Regional Office of AFMIM UK International Ministries. Our church also took part in various regional activities hosted by other AFM congregations, further strengthening relationships, collaboration, and unity within the wider AFM community.

Volunteers

Most of our church workers are dedicated lay volunteers who selflessly administer the day-to-day activities of our church. These volunteers handle various essential tasks, including cleaning, sound engineering, serving refreshments after services, and decorating. It is through their invaluable efforts that AFMIM Slough Assembly can achieve its objectives and carry out its charitable activities within the community.

Structure, Governance and Management

The charity is governed by the Board of Trustees, supported by the Church (Management) Board, elected in accordance with the church constitution. The Board oversees strategic direction, governance, and financial stewardship.

The Church (Management) Board is responsible for day-to-day administration and reports to the Trustees. Departmental committees continue to operate under delegated authority.

During the reporting period, the Church Administrator formally resigned from their position. To ensure continuity, stability, and effective administration, the Board appointed an Administrator from within its membership to serve in an interim (temporary) capacity .

This interim appointment will remain in place while the Board undertakes the appropriate governance process to identify, nominate, and confirm a permanent appointment , in line with the church constitution and good governance practice. The Trustees are satisfied that this arrangement provides adequate operational continuity and oversight during the transition period.

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AFMIM (UK) Slough Assembly

Governance arrangements were reaffirmed at the 2025 AGM, with reports adopted and no material governance weaknesses identified.

:

The Church (Management) Board handles the general and operational management of the charity, developing and implementing annual plans with the support and oversight of the Board of Trustees. The Church Board is responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern and importance to the church, while reporting and seeking approval from the Board of Trustees on high-risk matters. In the 2024/25 year, the Church Board met quarterly, every three months. The church's structure also includes various operational subcommittees that report to the Church (Management) Board. These subcommittees include:

All boards and committees serve a term of three years.

Financial Review

For the year ended 31 March 2025 , the charity reported total income of £86,065 and closing funds of £62,512 .

Subsequent financial reporting for the year ended 31 March 2025 shows:

In 2023, we established a church building fund , which successfully raised £21,366 in restricted funds by March. This fund is expected to grow as we continue our efforts toward acquiring a permanent building for the church.

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AFMIM (UK) Slough Assembly

Expenditure for the period totalled £66,873 , resulting in a deficit of £2,174 . This was primarily due to:

  1. Increased salaries following the recruitment of a full-time permanent Pastor.

  2. Higher rental and operational expenses related to the new role.

  3. Reduced contributions caused by some members relocating to other regions and the financial pressures many members face in the current economic climate, including inflation and increased living costs.

While the Statement of Financial Activities shows a technical deficit in certain unrestricted funds due to increased pastoral support costs, the charity’s overall cash position remains strong at £62,512 .

This year marked our thirteenth year of operation as a registered charity , during which we have seen consistent growth in finances and membership. Our long-term goal remains to secure a building of our own, and we continue to work toward this vision.

Unrestricted and Restricted Funds

Included within unrestricted funds was a ring-fenced amount of £20,000 , previously held as designated reserves.

Following a resolution passed by the Board on the 17[th] of December 2025, the Board approved the redesignation of the £20,000 ring-fenced amount to the Church Building Fund , thereby transferring it from unrestricted designated reserves into restricted funds .

The Board confirm that these funds are now restricted and may only be used for purposes relating to the acquisition or development of church premises. Any future release or reallocation of these funds will be subject to appropriate governance procedures and compliance with Charity Commission guidance.

Reserves Policy

The Trustees and the Church Board maintain a reserves policy to ensure that the charity can meet its financial obligations and continue its operations during periods of financial uncertainty, while also supporting the long-term strategic objectives of the church.

Following a Board decision taken in December 2025 , and in light of the charity’s financial position for the year ended 31 March 2025 , the Board resolved to undertake a formal review of the reserve’s framework. As part of this process, the Board will convene in April 2026 to agree a revised reserves target. This will be informed by advice from the Church Treasurer on the appropriate level of reserves required to support operational sustainability, risk management, and regulatory expectations. The proposed reserves level will then be submitted to the Trustees for formal approval .

This review was necessitated by the fact that the previous reserves level represented a legacy reserve , originally set aside in anticipation of acquiring a permanent church building. With the establishment and active growth of a restricted Church Building Fund , the Board determined that it was prudent and more transparent to transfer the legacy designated amount into the restricted building fund.

As a result of this strategic realignment, the Church Building Fund increased from £21,266 to £51,266 by the end of March 2025 , significantly strengthening the charity’s capacity to pursue its long-term objective of securing permanent premises.

Going forward, the reserves policy is guided by the following principles:

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AFMIM (UK) Slough Assembly

The Trustees will continue to review the reserves policy annually , ensuring it remains appropriate in light of the charity’s operational needs, financial position, and strategic priorities.

Risk Management

The Trustees actively assess financial and operational risks. Key risks include rising venue and operational costs and income volatility. Mitigating actions include cost management, improved financial oversight, and targeted fundraising initiatives.

Outlook

The leadership remains committed to regularly reviewing the church's financial position and implementing further cost-saving measures where necessary. We believe the actions taken provide a sustainable foundation for the church’s future and demonstrate our commitment to prudent financial stewardship.

Going Concern Statement

The Trustees have reviewed the charity’s financial position and are satisfied that the charity remains a going concern. Measures implemented to manage costs and strengthen income streams provide reasonable assurance that the charity will continue to meet its obligations for the foreseeable future.

Trustees’ Responsibilities

The Trustees are responsible for preparing the annual report and financial statements in accordance with applicable law and Charity Commission guidance.

Approved by the Board of Trustees

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AFMIM (UK) Slough Assembly

AFMIM Slough Assembly Financial Report for the Year ended 31 March 2025

Apostolic Faith Mission International Ministries Slough Assembly

Statement of Financial Activities

1 April 2024 - 31 March 2025

1 April 2024 - 31 March 2025
Category
Incoming Resources from
generated Funds
Building Fund Donations
Donations and Legacies
Other Income
Notes Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds(£)
2025
(£)
2024
(£)
1
1
2
-
63,199
1,500
21,366 21,366
63,199
1,500
10,951
58,584
1,910
Total Income 64,699 21,366 86,065 71,445
Resources expended
Church Premises Hire
Pastoral Support Costs
Church Network Activities
Other Church Running Support
costs
3
4
23,976
36,419
4,674
-
-
-
23,976
36,419
4,674
22,310
35,278
8,689
5 1,804 - 1,804 2,605
Total resources expended 66,873 - 66,873 68,883
Net Incoming (Outgoing) resources
Less 2024 restricted funds
(2,174) 21,366 19,192 2,562
0 0 0 (10,951)
Net movement in funds (2,174) 21,366 19,192 (8,389)
Reconciliation of Funds
Total Funds brought forward
Total funds carried forward
32,370 10,951 43,321 40,759
30,195 32,317 62,512 43,321

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AFMIM (UK) Slough Assembly

Statement of Financial Position

As of March 31, 2025

Notes 2025 2024
CASH AT BANK
HSBC Bank 45,553 13,997
Lloyds Bank 16,959 29,324
Total Cash at bank 6 62,512 43,321
NET CURRENT ASSETS 62,512 43,321
CHARITY FUNDS
Unrestricted Funds 30,195 32,370
Restricted funds 32,317 10,951
Total Charity funds 62,512 43,321
Breakdown of Charity Funds 62,512 43,321
Building Fund: Restricted 32,317 10,951
Ladies Union 1,130 520
Men's Fellowship 3,409 1,910
Ringfenced Amount 20,000 20,000
Amounts for church operations 5,656 9,940

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 March 2025

1. Incoming Resources from generated 2025 2024
Funds (£) (£)
Offering collections 14,899 11,804
Tithe Collections 42,239 34,206
Partnership Pledges 6,060 -
Gift Aid - 12,573
Building Fund 21,366 10,951
84,565 69,535

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AFMIM (UK) Slough Assembly

2. Other Income
2025 (£)
2024 (£)
Ladies’ union
890
1,390
Men's Fellowship
610
520
1,500
1,910
3. Pastoral Support Costs
2025 (£)
2024 (£)
Pastor's Salary
16,694
15,385
Pension Contributions
19,100
18,450
Pastor's Rent
625
1,443
36,419
35,278
4. Church Network Related
2025 (£)
2024 (£)
AFMIM Regional Expenses
1,685
5,570
Conference expenses
2,332
2,169
Honorarium
657
950
4,674
8,689
5. Other Church Running Support costs
2025 (£) 2024 (£)
Other expenses
531
892
Insurance
374
341
Accounting
312
708
Bank Charges
176
210
Sum up Charges
412
455
1,804
2,605
2025 (£)
2024 (£)
890
1,390
610
520
2025 (£)
2024 (£)
890
1,390
610
520
1,500
1,910
6. Amounts in Bank relating to other 2025 2024
departments (£) (£)
Ladies Union 2,279 1,390
Men's Fellowship 1,130 520

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AFMIM (UK) Slough Assembly

6. Amounts in Bank relating to other
departments
Total
2025
(£)
2024
(£)
3,409
1,910

I report on the accounts of the Apostolic Faith Mission (UK) Slough Assembly for the year ended 31 March 2025.

Responsibilities of Trustees and Examiners

As the church trustees you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. You consider the audit requirements of section 43(2) of the Charities Act 1993 (the Act) as amended by s.28 of the Charities Act 2006 does not apply. It is my responsibility to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.

Basis of Independent Examiner's Report

My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission.

An examination includes a review of accounting records kept by the church and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanation from trustees concerning such matters.

The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently I do not express an audit opinion on the view given in the accounts.

Independent Examiners Statement

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:

Which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respects the requirements to keep accounting records in accordance with section 41 of the Act, as amended; to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and to comply with the accounting requirement of the Act; have not been met or:

  1. To which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

  2. Philip Rackstraw FCCA

Date…06/01/2026…………………………

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