2023-12-31-accounts

The Diocese of London The Parish of The Holy Cross Greenford Magna

==> picture [70 x 69] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
S
R
O
D
S
O
R
F
C
M
C H
N A
Y U
E G
L
E
R
N
O
R
C
A
H H
G
| |
----- End of picture text -----

Holy Cross Church, Greenford

Annual Report for the year ending 31 December 2023

and

Agenda

for the

ANNUAL MEETING OF PARISHIONERS

and

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING Holy Cross Old Church Sunday 26 May 2024 11.00am

==> picture [303 x 237] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [114 x 121] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [173 x 211] intentionally omitted <==

Contents

Rector’s Introduction	3
Agenda and Minutes	4
Annual Meeting of Parishioners (for the Election of Church Wardens)
Annual Report and Accounts of the Parochial Church Council for the year ended 31 December 2023	8
The Parochial Church Council: Parish activities	10
Ealing Deanery Synod	10
Safeguarding report	11
Report on the Fabric of the Church	11
Churchwardens’ Report	12
Edward Betham Governors	16
Happy Choo Choo Nursery	16
Greenford Parochial Charities (Reg. Charity No.212726)	16
Betham Charity (Reg. Charity No. 1002075)	17
9th Greenford Scout group report	18
Rainbows Report 2023	19
Worship and Ministry	20
All Age Masses	20
Servers Report	21
Weddings	21
Confrmation	21
Carol Singing	22
Christmas Eve Nativity	22
Midnight Mass	23
On Placement at Holy Cross	24
Refections from Jeanny Wang
Events and Refections	25
BBQ	25
Greetings from Chiddingfold (near Godalming in Surrey)	25
Quiz	25
Report of Black History Walk	26
Christmas Market.	27
The Holy Cross Players Panto report	29
In Thanksgiving	30
Undene Scantlebury (1942-2023)	30
Accounts for the Year ended	32
31 December 2023

Holy Cross Church, Greenford

2

Rector’s Introduction

Welcome to our Annual Report for 2023

A Glass of Blessings

Prayer the church’s banquet, angel’s age, God’s breath in man returning to his birth, The soul in paraphrase, heart in pilgrimage, The Christian plummet sounding heav’n and earth Engine against th’ Almighty, sinner’s tow’r, Reversed thunder, Christ-side-piercing spear, The six-days world transposing in an hour, A kind of tune, which all things hear and fear; Softness, and peace, and joy, and love, and bliss, Exalted manna, gladness of the best, Heaven in ordinary, man well drest, The milky way, the bird of Paradise, Church-bells beyond the stars heard, the soul’s blood, The land of spices; something understood.

The poet George Herbert (1593-1633) in his poem The Pulley pictures God at the beginning of Creation with a glass of blessings to pour upon the lives of men and women.

In this Annual Report for 2023 you will read about some of the many ways the members of the congregation and wider parish community at Holy Cross Greenford Magna have received and savoured these blessings.

In this season of elections, I call to mind the phrase attributed to former New York Governor Mario Cuomo, ‘You campaign in poetry, and govern in prose’. The day-today functioning of the church community is rooted in God’s love for us but supported by the scaffolding of practical tasks and chores – of heating systems and invoices and cleaning. This Report, by naming some of the prose of church life, seeks to celebrate it all, including those who are so generous with their time and skills and financial support.

The Revd Graham Miller Rector

==> picture [254 x 254] intentionally omitted <==

During the early months of 2024 I have enjoyed a period of sabbatical leave which has given me time for pilgrimage, retreat and study. I am grateful to all those who have shouldered additional responsibilities and tasks to make this possible, among them our Church Administrator Jill Marsh, who has collated this Annual Report.

I am glad that during the past year at Holy Cross poetry and prose have been woven together and that there is space in an Annual Report for reflections on worship and holiness, and the things of which George Herbert speaks in his poem Prayer (I).

Annual Report 2023

3

Agenda and Minutes

Annual Meeting of Parishioners

(for the Election of Church Wardens)

Agenda

Minutes of the Annual Meeting of Parishioners

held on Sunday 26th March 2023 at 11am in Holy Cross Old Church

1. Apologies for absence received

2. Adoption of the Minutes of the meeting held on 26 March 2023

3. Matters arising from the Minutes

4. Election of Churchwardens

Attendance is recorded for our archived Minutes.

Annual Parochial Church Meeting

Agenda

1. Apologies for absence received

2. Minutes of the meeting held on 26 March 2023

• (Adopted by the PCC on 20 May 2024)

3. Matters arising from the Minutes

4. Church Electoral Roll

5. Deanery Synod Report

6. Safeguarding Report

7. Churchwardens’ Report Break for discussion and Celebration Slide-show

8. Reports from Church activities

9. Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023

10. Elections

a) a) Parochial Church Council: 4 members for 3 years and 1 member for 2 years

• b) Betham Trust: 4 members for 4 years

• c) Greenford Parochial Charities: 2 members for 4 years

1. Apologies Received:

Alan Kingsbury, Annabelle Radville, Brain Radville, Terry Slyvia, Jill Marsh, Lorna Churn, Georgie Calver, Jenny Quick, Christine Sawyer, Pauline Avery, Cynthia Brown and Linda Pope

2. Adoption of Minutes from 3rd April 2022

The minutes were adopted as a true reflection of the meeting. Proposed by Richard Hillburn and seconded by Marilyn Scantlebury. .

3. Matters Arising

There were no matters arising

4. Election of Churchwardens

There were two nominations for Churchwardens:

Mathew Collins:

Proposed – Marilyn Scantlebury Seconded – Dawn Petit-John

Marilyn Scantlebury

Proposed – Dawn-Petit John Seconded – Rebecca Ofusu

Marilyn Scantlebury and Matthew Collins were duly elected.

The meeting thanked Marilyn and Matthew for the work they have already done, and the work they will continue to do as Churchwardens.

Meeting of Parishioners closed at 11:15

.

11. Appointment of an Independent Examiner

12. AOB

The APCM is followed by a meeting of the PCC to appoint officers.

Holy Cross Church, Greenford

4

Minutes of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting

held on Sunday 26th March 2023 at 11:16am in Holy Cross Old Church

1. Apologies Received:

Alan Kingsbury, Annabelle Radville, Brain Radville, Terry Slyvia, Jill Marsh, Lorna Churn, Georgie Calver, Jenny Quick, Christine Sawyer, Pauline Avery, Cynthia Brown and Linda Pope

2. Adoption of Minutes from 3rd April 2022

PCC adopted the minutes as a true record from the meeting.

3. Matters Arising

There were no matters arising

4. Church Electoral Roll

The Church Electoral Roll is renewed throughout the year and currently 203 people are on the Electoral Roll.

5. Deanery Synod Report

Frances Hounsell presented the Deanery Synod report. Thanks to Frances, Jacky Mitchell and Engi Seifu were recorded for their work with the Deanery Synod.

6. Safeguarding Report

Mandy Fitzmaurice, Safeguarding Officer, advised that the key priority areas are policy and resources. The diocese has set up an online dashboard to assist with this. All members of the PCC will continue to undergo DBS checks and complete safeguarding training provided by the diocese.

7. Churchwarden’s Report

It was a year of significant Royal events namely the Queens Platinum Jubilee which were celebrated with a bring and share lunch in June. We joined the nation in mourning the death of Queen Elizabeth

in September with condolences books in both churches. The old church was open for silent prayers.

Events during the year include the parish BBQ, Black history month and a fundraising Quiz night.

Buildings –Andrew Vigor has continued to coordinate repairs and maintenance to the churches. Prior to the start of the new pre-school the parish room was refreshed with the help of a small dedicated team. Preparations are under way for the upcoming Quinquinenial inspection later in the year. Thanks were extended to Andrew and all who gave up their time to work on the church throughout the year.

Lettings – For those who were not already aware, the Holy Cross Under 5s group closed last year, and despite it being sad to lose – it did in turn create a new opportunity to continue to build our relationships within our community and surrounding areas. Happy ChooChoo Nursery shall now be using that parish room and will be starting in April when the Summer term begins after the Easter break. Marilyn said that it will be nice to have some life back in the church throughout the week.

MLSS – Marilyn spoke with those in attendance about what MLSS do and how their Friday feed has helped provide meals for those who need them. Mairlyn informed everyone that they usually average around 50 meals a week, however last week they served 104 meals, highlighting how important and needed this service is. Their original plan was to use our kitchen to cook in however they have connected with local restaurants who are supplying them food on a rota basis, but they still store some supplies in the church and will still occasionally use the kitchen.

Annual Report 2023

5

Holiday Camp – The sports holiday camp that has been sponsored by the borough ran for 4 days between the hours of 10-2. Marilyn informed everyone they will also be hosting another camp over the Easter Holiday.

Uniform groups – Of all the Uniformed groups only Rainbows remain at the church, as there is no longer a Brownie or Guides group.

Events – The quiz in October raised nearly £1,000 and we wish to express our thanks to Rosemary and the team of people who helped her to ensure the quiz and the catering was such a success. The next quiz is currently planned to take place on 22nd April. There are a handful of events currently in the pipeline and being planned with there being plans to have a coronation lunch, a summer BBQ as well as a Christmas team. The suggestion of creating an Events team to plan was given, and people were informed to share any feedback they had in regards to any events as it would be greatly appreciated.

8. Reports from Church Activities

Childrens Champion – Dawn Petit-John shared a reflection on how our young people were growing in their confidence helping to lead and share ideas within our services. Dawn expressed that our young people are a great asset to our church and our wider community. By encouraging them to find opportunities to show Gods love

to their friends and family we can help them continue to grow here at Holy Cross Church.

Betham’s Trust – Peter Hounsell reported that the Betham Trust is a small but important aspect of the life of the church and it helps to retain financial legacy for benefit of the school, and continue to maintain a relationship between the church and Edward Betham school. Peter informed everyone that there are currently 8 trustees but there are also currently 2 vacancies. He asked anyone who is interested to please get in touch with him. Betham Trust has 3 meetings a year, one taking place during each school term.

9. Accounts for the year ended 31st December 2022

Barry Fitzmaurice presented the Accounts for 2022, sharing some graphs which highlighted our yearly income as well as our expenditure.

Barry is hopeful that the lettings income will increase as we expect to have new lettings within the next year. This should also allow us to manage our investments better.

Barry advised that the PCC receive regular financial updates and actively engage in financial discussions. Barry offered thanks to John Quinn for taking on the role as Independent Examiner.

We would like to note thanks to Barry for preparing the accounts.

The accounts were proposed by Barry Fitzmaurice and seconded by Peter Hounsell and were agreed by all in attendance.

6

Holy Cross Church, Greenford

10. Elections

Deanery Synod Reps:

Rebecca Ofosu: Proposed – Dawn PetitJohn Seconded – Lisa Stewart

Frances Hounsell: Proposed - John Bennett Seconded – Peter Abernethy

Jacky Mitchell: Proposed – Frances Hounsell Seconded – Dawn Petit-John

The above were elected Deanery Synod reps.

PCC

Dawn Petit-John: Proposed – Marilyn Scantlebury Seconded – Matthew Collins

Richard Hilburn: Proposed – Dawn PetitJohn Seconded – Peter Hounsell

Barry Fitzmaurice: Proposed – Jennifer Quick Seconded – Raymond Quick

Engidaye Seifu: Proposed – Malcolm Ede Seconded – Karina Vogt

The above were elected PCC members.

Betham Trust

There were no Betham Trustees nominations.

Greenford Parochial Charities

Peter Hounsell was appointed as a trustee

11. Appointment of an Independent Examiner

John Quinn was proposed by Barry Fitzmaurice and seconded by Matthew Collins and agreed by all present.

12. Any Other Business

There was no other business.

APCM ended at 12:10

==> picture [298 x 310] intentionally omitted <==

Annual Report 2023

7

The Parish of Greenford Magna Holy Cross Church

Registered Charity No: 1155128 (England & Wales)

Ferrymead Gardens, Greenford, Middlesex, UB6 9NJ

Annual Report and Accounts of the

Parochial Church Council

for the year ended 31 December 2023

==> picture [284 x 313] intentionally omitted <==

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) presents its Annual Report and Independently Examined Accounts for the year ended 31st December 2023.

Holy Cross Church, Greenford is a parish within the Willesden Episcopal area of the Diocese of London. Day to day management is provided by the Rector and PCC in accordance with the Church Representation Rules 2022 and the Charities Acts of 2011 and 2022.

In addition to developing our mission in accordance with the doctrines and practices of the Church of England the PCC has the responsibility to oversee the management of the Buildings, Finances and Safeguarding.

The PCC members and wardens work together as part of a team to share the leadership roles and responsibilities. They have the responsibility for safeguarding, church buildings and finances. With the Rector they aim to build relationships; communicating with the congregation and the local community.

The primary role of the PCC, as guided by the Rector, is to implement our mission in accordance with the doctrines and practices of the Church of England. As charity trustees PCC members are required to carry out the following six key duties:

1. Ensure the charity is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit

2. Comply with the charity’s governing document and the law

3. Act in the charity’s best interests

4. Manage the charity’s resources responsibly

8

Holy Cross Church, Greenford

1. Act with reasonable skill and care

2. Ensure the charity is accountable

PCC members who served during the year to 31st December 2023 were:

Ex. Officio members Incumbent:

The Revd Graham Miller* – Chair

Wardens:

Marilyn Scantlebury – Joint Vice Chair Matthew Collins – Joint Vice Chair

Deanery Synod Representatives (3)

Frances Hounsell Jacqueline Mitchell Rebecca Ofusu Engidaye Seiu until April 2023

Elected Members:

Andrew Vigor Barry Fitzmaurice – Treasurer Dawn Petit-John David Chung Dennis Ishimishere John Bennett Natalie Putros Patricia Boateng Rebecca Mitchell* – Secretary Richard Hilburn Sarah Newman

Safeguarding Officer - Amanda Fitzmaurice DBS Checker – Christine Sawyer Childrens’ Champion – Dawn Petit-John

Gift Aid Officer – Andrew Vigor

Treasurer – Barry Fitzmaurice

Jill Marsh – Church Administrator

Independent Financial Examiner:

John Quinn 56 Cleveland Road, West Ealing London, W13 8AJ

Bank:

HSBC Bank Holborn Circus, 31 High Holborn, London, EC1N 2HR

Architect:

Ian Angus Dip Arch RIBA AABC Carden and Godfrey 33 Clerkenwell Close, London WC1R 0AU

Electoral Roll

On 31 December 2023 the Church Electoral Roll of adult members stood at 203.

Jacky Mitchell Electoral Roll Officer

*Member of Standing Committee

Appointed Officers:

Deputy Wardens - Andrew Vigor, Dawn Petit-John, Richard Hilburn, Jacky Mitchell, Rebecca Mitchell

Electoral Roll Officer – Jacky Mitchell

Secretary - Rebecca Mitchell

Annual Report 2023

9

The Parochial Church Council:

Parish activities

Ealing Deanery Synod

The first Synod meeting of 2023 was held at St Dunstan’s, East Acton on Wednesday 8th February. Frances Hounsell attended.

Revd. John Westall, vicar, welcomed us and outlined some of the church’s mission activities including:

• Kidzone – a Monday after school service for primary children & parents: Pain Exchange – help for long term pain suffers and an asylum seeker drop-in. A short act of worship followed.

• Sara Black from the Diocese Safeguarding Team gave a presentation on the Parish Safeguarding Dashboard and how to use it.

• Penny Roberts, Director of Education at the London Diocesan Board of schools spoke about the purpose and vision of the LDBS and about church schools.

• Emma Harniman, Chair of Governors of Ada Lovelace School spoke about being a governor. She also spoke on behalf of Val Drake, Head Clerk to the Twyford CofE Academies Trust.

This was the last meeting of the triennium (three-year term) for this Deanery Synod and so some Deanery Synod members would be standing down. The Area Dean expressed his thanks to everyone who has attended meetings of the Deanery Synod in the past three years.

Frances Hounsell, Jackie Mitchell and Becky Ofuso.

The July meeting was held at St George’s, Southall on Wednesday 12th July. No -one from Holy Cross was able to attend.

After the election of officers and annual statement of accounts there were presentations from those bidding for the Mission Fund grants. All applications were approved.

The final meeting of the year was held at St John’s, West Ealing on Thursday 19th October. Marilyn and Frances attended.

The meeting began with a short act of worship and election of 3 school governors.

Bishop Lusa then led the roadshow with presentations and discussions. How churches were responding to the aims of Confident Disciples, Compassionate Communities and Creative Growth of Capital Vision 2030 was reviewed and we were asked to look for ways to take this work into the future. Bishop Lusa also spoke about the three priorities of Growing Younger, Safer Churches and Striving for Justice.

Marilyn and I had the opportunity to speak with Bishop Lusa after the meeting and we discussed how the diocese could help increase the links between the laity of neighbouring parishes.

At Holy Cross APCM 3 Synod representatives were elected for the next 3 year term –

Frances Hounsell (Synod member)

10 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

Safeguarding report

The purpose of safeguarding at the Holy Cross is to promote the welfare and Champion the well-being of vulnerable groups: children and adults with care and support.

Members of the safeguarding team have met throughout 2023 to review and update procedures. We have continued to update the safeguarding dashboard. Mandy has started to attend drop-in safeguarding sessions with the Willesden safeguarding team, for advice and to keep up to date with changes.

Well done to all members of the PCC for getting their DBS checks done and for those who have done the basic and foundation safeguarding training from the diocese. Safeguarding is a standing agenda item for all PCC meetings.

The parish safeguarding Policy statement is on display in both churches and the Parish website, along with useful telephone numbers and information about how to respond to safeguarding concerns.

Each year the PCC reviews and adopts the policy for safeguarding in the Diocese of London and has complied with the duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016, in relation to having due regard to the House of Bishops’ guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.

We are grateful to all those who work to ensure we maintain good safeguarding practice, always remembering, safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

Mandy Fitzmaurice Church Safeguarding Office

Report on the Fabric of the Church

We had great support on the Parish Room project, both from PCC members and members of the wider parish. The interior walls were cleaned down and re-painted. The store room has been cleared and swept through. Unwanted furniture, toys and other items have been removed. The timber doors and pillars cleaned and brought back to a lovely finish. Furthermore, the play area was cleaned and tidied and the soft play surface jet washed. The whole resource looks so much better. We managed to be ready for the Happy Choo Choo Under 5’s group to move in in April. This was a great team effort. I won’t mention names here but you know who you are!

We had a persistent mouse problem in the New Church, Kitchen and Parish Room. We have appointed a contractor who is inspecting regularly and at present we appear to be clear of mice. Nonetheless food storage in the kitchen needs to be to a minimum and any necessary food items stored in sealed containers and out of reach in the wall cupboards.

Gas safety tests and servicing have been carried out on the Old Church Heaters, Parish Room Boiler and the Cookers in the kitchen. The New Church Heaters will be serviced and certified in April 2024.

There has been a big tidy up in the New Church. Our thanks to everyone involved. Ealing Council have removed the graffiti on the East Wall. Headstones in the graveyard have been professionally checked.

Annual Report 2023

11

Throughout 2023 we regularly had to pump out the boiler room basement when the old pump failed. (Our thanks to Michael who installed a new pump and cleaned out the basement in early 2024.) Quinquennial Inspections of both Churches took place in 2023. Ian Angus, the architect was then asked to make a return visit to explain and discuss work needed. In particular (but by no means exhaustive!): New Church; The Flat Roofs and associated guttering especially over the kitchen need professional attention to stop water ingress, Roof tiles and condition of

the brickwork also need attention. Gutters and ground gullies have now been cleared. Old Church; The roof needs to be surveyed professionally, especially on the south side where there is an issue with slipping tiles.

In 2024 gutters need to be repaired, especially at corners around the bays of the New Church. One down pipe needs clearing. We need to put anti roosting spikes up around the Old Church. Flat roofs on bays, especially over the kitchen, need to be repaired.

Andrew Vigor Deputy Churchwarden

Churchwardens’ Report

Overview

We are a group of people who choose to come together on a Sunday morning to worship together, as the Bible tells us to. The first time you enter a church you may not know anyone else inside but you know we all have something in common, Christianity, The Church of England, you like the building, its close to home. For each of us there may be many reasons why you to come to Holy Cross the first time. The important thing is, you came! From that very first visit we start to form a congregation, a community of people who chose to worship together. As Churchwardens we have made a decision to serve our church community and take legal responsibility for a number of administrative tasks to ensure our church is able to function as the Charity Commission, The Diocese, our Bishops and Church management need us to. We look after the buildings, mend leaking roofs, oil squeaky doors whatever else is needed to ensure that we can all meet safely on a Sunday morning and worship together. We do this with the help of the Parochial Church Council or PCC. The people who make up the PCC have also made a decision to serve our community. We work together as a team and carry out our ‘tasks’ to the best of our ability and personal circumstances. Without the team Sunday mornings would be very different so we say thank you to all PCC members for all that you have done and will continue to do. Your contribution is greatly appreciated.

As we look across the table at PCC meetings, we see a group of individuals who have left their normal routines behind and immerse themselves in the administrative requirements of the church for the 2-3 hours that the meeting lasts. We then go away and consider how we will integrate whatever time commitments we have just made into our daily lives. In recent years these lives seem to have become more complex, or is

12 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

it that we have become more aware of the challenges that we all face? Some may be having difficulties at work, trouble sleeping, challenging relationships, caring for others, concerns about their own health and/or their nearest and dearest and let’s not forget money worries. The increased cost of living in the UK in the last few years will have an impact on us all. Living during the pandemic was traumatic but we braced ourselves and did what we had to do to get through it. We got used to staying at home and not socialising; we acknowledged the lives lost that we were not able to celebrate due to the restrictions. We got through i! Life after the pandemic seems to be more challenging as we expected to go back to ‘normal’ but so many things have changed what is the new ‘normal’?

We also look at our community on a Sunday morning and we see the same changes in them as well. As fewer people come to church every week our pattern of worship has changed. This leads us to realise that as a church community we also have to accept these changes and create a new normal for ourselves. The wardens and PCC are here to serve our church family as best we can and we will continue to do so. However, we recognise that with everything we do we also need to prioritise our own and the wellbeing of those around us. With busy lives its very easy to overlook this. So, let’s look out for each other and remember It’s Good to Talk!

Each Sunday, It’s as lovely to see old faces that we haven’t seen in a while as it is to see those who are with us every week. We also delight in seeing new faces join our congregation and do our best to make them feel welcome. It’s a double delight to see those new faces come back again! Thank you for being in the ‘Holy Cross’ family and supporting us in our endeavours. We do it all for you!

Lettings

April 2023 saw the arrival of Happy Choo Choo Nursery in the parish room. They already have an established pre-school in Hanwell and Holy Cross is their second setting. It has taken time for them to build up their business in Greenford. Fortunately, the recent changes to government funding seems to have had a very positive impact and things are now going very well for them.

We carried out a refresh of the parish room before the new pre-school started and we would like to extend our appreciation and thanks to everyone involved in creating a great environment for the children.

We continue to have the holiday sports camp in the parish room during the end of term holidays. They have also seen an increase in their numbers and we hope that this trend continues.

Early in the pandemic Kumon Tutors came to us as a twice a week let. Due to changes in their operaions they gave us notice In December 2023 and moved to new premises in mid-January. We wish them continuing success in their endeavours.

Lettings are a very important aspect of our life at Holy Cross not just because of the income it generates but it helps to cement our place in the local community. Since the pandemic we have lost 2 of the 3 uniformed groups and now Kumon. This has created available slots in the parish room on each weekday evening and weekends as well. We are receiving enquiries for casual lets at weekends which is helpful but they are also labour intensive and can be hard to manage. We will continue to explore opportunities to fill these slots and increase our regular income over time.

Annual Report 2023

13

Buildings

Andrew Vigor continues to do a sterling job of managing the repairs and maintenance of both churches and the parish room. In the current enviomnent of high energy costs this continues to be a challenge but we are doing our best to manage the costs. Details of work carried out during the year are included in the Buildings report prepared by Andrew.

A quinquennial inspection was carried out in 2023 and this has identified some urgent work which needs to be carried out in both churches. These projects are currently being planned and costed and more details will be available soon. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Andrew and his team for all they have done and will do. Thanks Andrew!

Can you help?

Do you have a few hours to spare each week to help Andrew with the very valuable work he does? You don’t have to be very skilled to change lightbulbs or lubricate locks or bolts, but your help would be welcomed. Maybe you have a friend or neighbour who would like to keep active and work at the church? If you are able to help, please speak to one or the wardens or Andrew.

PCC Developments

We are fortunate to have an established PCC team who have been working together for the last 2-3 years and fully understand what is expected of them. This is more than just attending PCC meetings regularly but also undertaking a variety of tasks either in Church each week or behind the scenes. We have tried to lead by example to serve our congregation and enrich our worship experience each Sunday morning. Throughout the year we have all renewed our DBS registrations and carried out Safeguarding training as required by the diocese. We have lively discussions at PCC

meetings allowing everyone an opportunity to express their views before we reach a consensus. This approach has been especially helpful when making decisions about our finances. We have also continued to share our personal reflections of church activities as well as review the Worship Changes Lives book. This helps us keep grounded and builds teamwork. The work of the wardens would be almost impossible without the support of all members and we thank you for all that you do and look forward to continuing this in the future.

People

Over the years we have been very fortunate to have had a large team of people with time to donate to the church. Their generosity created an environment where things got done almost without us noticing. Unfortunately, people get older and cannot continue to do what they used to. Some have passed away and others have moved away from Greenford to be closer to family. We are very grateful to every member of our church family for all that they do to contribute to our environment.

Peter and Rosemary Abernethy are a couple who have been members of the ‘family’ for many years, making an exceptional contritution to our church life before they moved away in the summer to be nearer to their family. Peter was a Churchwarden for many years and Rosemary managed the church flowers including organising a number of flower festivals. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Peter and Rosemary for all that they have done at Holy Cross and wish them happiness in their new home and community.

In the springtime we were advised that Maggie Bannister had passed away. Maggie and her family were very much part of the the Holy Cross family for many years before they moved away. She was one of the founding members of the Wednesday lunch club and

14 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

was heavily involved with the ‘Access project’ which provided disabled access to the New Church as well as numerous other pojects. Maggies’s son Michael became the Director of Music at 15 and successfully managed the choir until he went off to university!

Sadly, we also had to say a final farewell to Undene Scantlebury who succumbed to dementia in December. Undene and her husband Ken were very much a part of the Holy Cross family for many years. Since Ken passed in 2006 Undene could be seen most Sunday mornings in her regular spot in her brightly coloured outfits and a big smile on her face. She has struggled with poor health in recent years and was not always able to make it to church but would be at as many social events as possible, especially if dancing was involved. She will be missed.

Events

During the year we saw the return of some social events which were enjoyed by many.

In May we celebrated the Coronation of King Charles with a bring and share Coronation lunch. Once again, the weather was not on our side but everyone who attended had a wonderful time inside the church and enjoyed a variety of very tasty food which was served.

The Parish BBQ was held July to celebrate the end of term. Everyone came together to enjoy good food, fun and games in the Rectory Garden. It was lovely to see some old faces and the children had a great time.

During the year there were two quiz nights, in April and again in October, both of which were attended by many of the ‘quiz regulars’ who are not members of the congregation. Thanks to the quiz masters for testing everyones brain to the max. The church also raised some much needed funds. Thank you to all who attended and a special thank you

to Rosemary Abernethy for organising and catering the events.

Greenford Salvation Army booked the church for a fundraising concert in November. The band members came together for the occasion from all over the country. The music was good and enjoyed by all who attended. It was lovely to have the sound of a brass band in the Church.

The Christmas Market returned in December for the first time since the pandemic. This is a very large event to organise and coordinate and a huge thank you goes to Frances Hounsell for taking it on. Everyone who attended was able to buy Christmas gifts from the stallholders and enjoy some wonderful food prepared by Mandy Fitzmaurice and her team. Thanks also go out to the PCC and others who supported on the day.

We would like to thank every single person who have helped out in and around the church during the year. We know there are many of you who prepare the rota and help with the refreshments, bake cakes and sausage rolls, prepare the children for All-Age Mass presentations, servers, put the bins out and many many more routine tasks too numerous to mention here. You know who you and so do we. Thank You!

Marilyn Scantlebury and Matthew Collins (Churchwardens)

Annual Report 2023

15

Edward Betham Governors

Yet another year has passed, and The Edward Betham Governors have been hard at work. We have continued to attend our full governing board meetings, and committee meetings to ensure that the school budget is spent wisely, our pupils achieve their best and school rules are followed through our policies. We have carried out singular as well as group monitoring visits and have seen firsthand how the school continues to do well and make our pupils flourish.

The governor’s contribution to the school maintenance has included the refurbishments of the reception outdoor area and we recently raised money to buy a new software which measures the progress of pupils on the SEN register.

In the last academic year, we have seen the departure of two valued foundation governors, Muke Furguson and Sudha Agrawal. Sudha was a key player in helping the school achieve our Excellent SIAMS grading. We continue to seek new appointments for their position.

This academic year we welcome Olli Martin, who is a PCC appointed governor and Marco Ravelo who is a Betham Trust appointed governor. Two governors have had their appointments renewed by the PCC, Silva Hilburn and Andrew Vigor. The governing board has also re appointed Alicja Ulrewich and Lianne Lambourne as parent governors.

The governing board’s work does not end, but the reward is always seeing how our children grow and flourish in our community.

We look forward to another successful year and our Church parishioners could be part of our team.

Silva Hilburn Co-Chair of Governors

Happy Choo Choo Nursery

Happy Choo Choo Nursery, based in the Holy Cross Church provides care for children aged 2-5 years old. We offer 27 places daily, (including free funded places of 15 and 30 hours for eligible families).

We’ve opened our gates in April 2023 and now we have 9 lovely children on board.

Each day of the nursery starts with Good morning Song, which we sing to welcome everyone and to get ready to start a new adventure. During circle time we introduce the aim of the day so children are aware of what we are going to learn that day. For most of the time in the nursery, children enjoy activities initiated by them and provided by teachers, inside the hall and outside in the garden.

During the week, children also have the opportunity to take part in afternoon additional activities like cooking, dancing, ring games, experiments and relaxation.

The summer and autumn terms were quite challenging for us. However, we finished the year with lots of positive feedback from our parents received during the parents meetings. We also have a very successful ‘Christmas Play and Christmas Party’ with children and parents. We are so proud of our children and we look forward to see more children joining us in 2024.

Magdalena Sarzalska

Greenford Parochial Charities (Reg. Charity No.212726)

The Greenford Parochial Charities comprise the Charities of William Marnham the Elder, William Marnham the Younger and George Smith; and, the Great Greenford Fuel Allotment or Land Charity. These charitable gifts were made between 1649 and 1856 and

16 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

were combined into the Greenford Parochial Charities in 1919. The Charity’s funds once held in land are now invested in low-risk funds managed by fund manager CCLA. The trustees cannot sell the shares, and the charity’s income is derived from dividends on these shares and interest on the deposit account.

Six trustees manage the Charity: the rector and the two churchwardens are ex officio; the remaining three are elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting for a term of four years. The elected trustees during 2023 were Sarah Reilly and Anjali Maldonado-Ontiveros (resigned October 2023). Peter Hounsell was re-elected to fill a vacancy at the APCM in March 2023. He also acts as Clerk/Treasurer to the Trustees

The trustees usually meet once or twice a year and their main activity is to review the financial position and to agree the disbursement of the charity’s income as gifts at Christmas.

The trust’s income in 2023 was just over £1,200. From this, donations are made to organisations which are working to meet a variety of needs in the Greenford area.

In December 2023 donations totalling £1,200 were made to:

• The Salvation Army (working particularly with older people and families)

• Age UK, Ealing (working with older people through its Greenford centre)

• Homestart Ealing (offering support for families)

• Greenford Baptist Church (as the Greenford centre of Ealing Foodbank, and one of the venues of the Ealing Churches Winter Night Shelter).

P.Hounsell (Clerk/Treasurer to the Trustees)

Betham Charity (Reg. Charity No. 1002075)

The Betham Charity exists to manage the financial endowment that Edward Betham made when he founded the school in 1780. This money is invested (in the same way as the Greenford Parochial Charities) and only the income can be spent by the Trustees. It is used to fund particular projects and improvements in the school.

==> picture [175 x 206] intentionally omitted <==

There are eight trustees: the Rector (ex-officio) and seven others elected for a term of 4 years at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting. Trustees during 2023 were Sarah Reilly, Peter Hounsell, Andrew Vigor, Jacky Mitchell, and Emily Marsh. There are currently two vacancies which were not filled at the APCM in March 2023.

The trustees usually hold meetings in each of the three school terms. The Headteacher attends trustee meetings, reports on the work of the school and makes suggestions for projects that the Trustees might support.

The income that the Trust receives has been modest in recent years, about £3,000 per annum but the Trust has built up reserves in its Deposit Account that has allowed it to make grants exceeding that amount in the last few years. During 2023 the school asked the Trustees for a contribution towards shelving for book corners in the infant department classrooms (£1,062) and for every pupil to receive a coin celebrating the Coronation of King Charles III (£1,268). A contribution to the cost of refurbishment of the Reception classes’ outdoor area (£4,000) which took place during the summer holidays was invoiced at the end of 2023, but actually paid in early 2024.

The Betham Trustees are also able to appoint two governors to the Edward Betham School Governing Board. It has recently appointed Marcos Ravelo, who is a parent of two children at the school.

Peter Hounsell (Clerk/Treasurer to the Trustees)

Annual Report 2023

17

9th Greenford Scout group report

Since the last Church Report, we held our Group Camp at Southall Activity Centre during the May Half Term (Tuesday to Saturday). This was an event for the Cubs and Scouts with the Beavers joining us from Tuesday morning until Wednesday afternoon. During the camp, the young people took part in climbing, abseiling, air rifle shooting, archery, kayaking and cooking on an open fire. The Cubs and Scouts also had a day out at Greenwich where we visited the Royal Navy Museum and the Royal Observatory.

We had a Group Social BBQ in June where 100 parents, family members and children attended.

As a Group, we also attended the Royal British Legion Remembrance Day Parade in November.

To the right is a list of the events, competitions and activities that the sections have undertaken in the past year.

Beavers

==> picture [208 x 110] intentionally omitted <==

Some of the things we have undertaken in the last year are; a visit to the Coston Nature Reserve in May 2023, first aid skills (slings and bandages), Christmas card making (so much glitter!), we’ve been to Southall Activity Centre for archery, air rifles and bouldering plus games.

Cubs

==> picture [208 x 125] intentionally omitted <==

Our numbers have steadily increased, and now running at capacity.

The Cubs have been working hard towards various challenge badges over the year, with 4 gaining their Chief Scout Silver award, and lots more very close to obtaining this top award. We went on a Christmas trip to Gulliver’s World with Cub packs from around the District, and more recently the Cubs have completed the challenge of making a model Dragon for Chinese New Year.

18 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

Scouts

In the past year we have; took part in the District Fire Lighting and Evil Brew Competitions, made Guys for Bonfire Night and burned them on a Bonfire (along with marshmallows - yummy), we had a Movie night sleepover for Christmas and made some stop motion mini movies using Lego. Some of the older Scouts undertook an Exploration in London in March so that they could gain their Chief Scout Gold Awards

==> picture [205 x 205] intentionally omitted <==

Rainbows Report 2023

Rainbows is a Girlguiding group for girls aged 4 to 7 years old. We run a programme of learning, through games and activities. We run on Monday Evenings, Term time only from 6 pm – 7 pm

We have had a full year of activities and fun. We currently have 8 girls attending.

We are undertaking and completing badge work and having fun playing games. We have been able to use the outside area with the Parish Room, which has helped a great deal.

We attended a District Circus Skills Event which was good fun.

In November, we joined the Remembrance Parade, the girls marched with everyone. The girls were very respectful and we able to see the ceremony in the front row.

At Christmas, we went to Panto, to see Jack and the Beanstalk at Greenford Hall. We all had lots of fun, girls had a good time shouting when the ghosts came on.

Over the year our numbers have decreased to 8 girls. Girlguiding has now opened our register to take girls who are 4 years old. We only have 2 on our waiting list who will be attending after Easter.

We would like more girls to register, please go to the girlguiding website. You can register your daughter’s name at any age to be on the waiting list.www.girlguiding.org.uk

I would like to say a very big thank you to my helpers Sarah, Marie, Anita, and Emily who support the programme, girls, and myself. I appreciated all they do.

Thank you to all the families that support us over the year.

Alexandra Marconi, Rainbow Leader

Annual Report 2023

19

Worship and Ministry

All Age Masses

As usual, our worship has been enhanced by the monthly participation of our confident and talented younger members. In October, at our Harvest Mass, we heard the story of two farmers who reminded us of the importance of sharing all God has provided us with others. In November the Scouts gave us a wonderful presentation of the history of scouting, along with an insight on what goes on in the Scout Hut each week. In December, Father Graham reflected on Jesus as the light of the world. In February, the theme of light continued, as the young people presented a short play on how only Jesus can banish darkness from the world.

As ever, we are grateful to all involved from the commitment and service at these masses. Both those who stand up and speak, and those who work behind the scenes - your hard work is very much appreciated.

St Ignatius Loyola (Spain) – Gaizka – Gave us another reflection on the life and work of our saint St Ignatius Loyola who was known for his missionary, educational and charitable works.

St Francis of Assisi (Italy) – Christeen and Katrice gave a beautiful insight of the life of St Francis by giving us two different accounts of the work that he was so passionate about especially his love and care for our animals, birds, and the natural environment. He was also known for his ministry to the poor and underprivileged. San Franscisco in California USA is named after St Francis of Assisi.

There were mentions of Franciscan and Jesuit men and women in the reflections of our saints who currently reside in London, also churches that resemble the ones in India and Iraq. Saints from all arounds are part of the life of our city.

Richard Hilburn

Our All-Saints service was a wonderful mass which focused on all our saints around the world who gave their lives in helping people. Members of our congregation gave short reflections about a particular saint of their choice to research and read about.

After all the reflections myself and Katrice read a prayer called Canticle of the Creatures, which had words such as Brother Sun, Sister Moon, Brothers Wind and Air, Sister Water, Brother Fire and Mother Earth. This was such a powerful prayer giving thanks and praising our most high honouring and giving blessings for all that we have.

The Saints were -

St Isaac of Nineveh (Iraq) – Atour and Olivia gave a great reflection and insight on the work of St Isaac who was an established writer, he fulfilled the role that God had chosen him to pass on the blessings that would extend to all nations by sharing his wealth.

St Thomas (India) – Francesca and Tebsy also presented their own reflection on St Thomas the patron saint of Judges and architects because of his building work in India. He built lots of places and distributed the money he had earned to the poor.

Then we all lit candles giving blessings of thanks to all our saints.

Our Cubs and Scouts took the lead of reading the psalms and led our prayers which they did so well.

Dawn Petit-John

==> picture [15 x 103] intentionally omitted <==

20 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

==> picture [218 x 161] intentionally omitted <==

Servers Report

Another busy year for our servers who have been extremely well rehearsed and have coped brilliantly swapping from New Church to Old Church and back again. Many thanks to the parents for getting all the children and young people to the church in plenty of time for the services. Again my thanks go to Andrew, Jackie and Rebecca for supporting me all through the year. We could do with a few more adults to become servers to take some of the pressure off we four. Training is given – we don’t throw servers in at the deep end! Please speak to me if you would like to join the team.

Annabel Radville

Weddings

My husband Alan and I were profoundly grateful for the beautiful memories that were created within Holy Cross Church. From the moment we walked through the doors, we felt welcomed and embraced by the congregation. The guidance and assistance provided throughout the planning process were invaluable, and we are thankful for the care and attention to detail that went into every aspect of our ceremony. Holy Cross holds a special place in our hearts, and we were honoured to have exchanged our vows surrounded by the love and blessings of our family, friends, and faith community.

Alan and Cherelle

Confirmation

The confirmation service and classes held in 2023 were very enlightening, not only for Francesca but for us as her parents. We learned alot about the importance of accepting Jesus is our lives. This is an important part of Francesca’s journey in life, something she will always remember.

Tebsy Varkey

Both the celebrants and their families had a wonderful day at the service. With a diverse crowd packed inside the church, witnessing the confirmands make their vows was deeply moving. The sermon delivered by the presiding minister was fitting for the occasion at hand. It was all worthwhile to prepare for the big day. I have no recollection of seeing anyone that day without a smile on their face.

Becky Ofuso

==> picture [163 x 163] intentionally omitted <==

Annual Report 2023

21

Carol Singing

Carol singing at Christmas is a wonderful tradition that brings joy and warmth to both the carollers and community alike. Holy Cross Choir, together with St Barnabas Church were invited to sing at bustling Greenford Station on two separate December dates to fundraise for charity.

Equipped with Santa hats, Christmas lights, flashing festive glasses, bells and Celebration chocolates for the littlest commuters, our small group set up to sing just near the exit barriers at the station. As soon as we heard a tube pull in and hundreds of hurried footsteps tread the escalators we were in full voice expertly guided by Peter Hounsell. It did not take long to start spreading the peace and joy of the Christmas season. Folk were, in the main, surprised and charmed. Some were drunk and sort of adopted us. More ignored us in bah humbug fashion. But the majority broke into wide smiles and dipped into their pockets to donate. And quite a few stayed a while taking a moment’s respite to fill their busy hearts with some cheerful positivity and to maybe sing along for a short while. Success!

Holy Cross Choir also volunteered to sing at two residential homes locally. Many nursing homes organise special events or invite local choirs, school groups, or volunteers to come and sing carols during the holiday season and we were fortunate enough to attend two such dates.

For the residents, especially those who might be feeling lonely or missing their families during this time, carol singing can be incredibly uplifting. It not only brings back cherished memories but also creates a sense of community and connection within the

nursing home. Moreover, for the staff who work tirelessly to care for the residents, these festive activities can provide a welcome break and boost morale. It was really heartening to see everyone come together to spread cheer and celebrate the spirit of Christmas.

Mary Finucane

Christmas Eve Nativity

This Christmas Eve Nativity was amazing. I was so grateful to all the children and adults for their time and skills. We had limited rehearsal time, but that didn’t stop the children’s performance from being outstanding. The space was set with lights, the younger children acted while the older children narrated, bringing together this beautiful story. The singing this year by both children and adults was great, I especially enjoyed our finale ‘go tell it on the mountain’

Thank you to all the adults and children who helped during the rehearsals, costumes, practising lines at home, refreshments, lighting and music. I hope this tradition will continue for many years to come.

Mandy Fitzmaurice, Liana Lambourne and Emily Fitzmaurice

==> picture [247 x 228] intentionally omitted <==

22 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

Midnight Mass

Midnight mass in the Holy Cross Church is for me one of life’s most enriching experiences. Perhaps it is the late hour, the excitement of the day yet to come, the choir, the candelight or the fact that you can finally sit down because all your work is done and the day has nearly ended. Whatever it is, it comes together beautifully to create the most holy of nights, filled with a sense of wonder, reverence, and a strong spiritual connection.

As you step into this sanctuary the first sense stimulated is that of smell - the air is imbued with the scent of burning candles, mingling with the faint aroma of evergreen from the decorated Christmas tree. The next sense stimulated is sight. I have often had the good fortune to be sat in the galleries above looking down on the scene below. The soft glow of candlelight dancing across the walls, the seats filled with parishioners, the warm light cocooning all in peace and harmony and lifting hearts and minds in anticipation of the celebration of the birth of Christ. It is the most breathtaking canvas to gaze upon and truly take in.

As traditional Christmas hymns are sung to the gentle notes of the piano, Fr Graham

recounts the timeless story of the nativity. I’m always struck by beauty of the flickering candles and how they appear to take on a life of their own, symbolizing the light of Christ shining in the darkness of the world. Each word spoken carries a weight of significance, drawing us deeper into the mystery and wonder of the Incarnation.

Throughout the service, the candlelight serves as a reminder of the hope and joy that Christ’s birth brings to humanity. It illuminates the faces of the faithful, reflecting their innermost prayers and

aspirations as they gather to celebrate this holy night.

And as the midnight hour approaches, there is a palpable sense of anticipation, a moment of quiet reverence as the congregation prepares to welcome the newborn King into their hearts once again. In that hushed moment, surrounded by the soft glow of candlelight, the true meaning of Christmas is felt in its fullest measure: love, peace, and the promise of redemption for all mankind. I would not miss it for the whole world.

Mary Finucane

Annual Report 2023

23

On Placement at Holy Cross

Jeanny Wang was on placement at Holy Cross during October 2023 as part of her ordination training at St Augustine’s College. She will be ordained at St Paul’s Cathedral on Saturday 29 June. As part of her placement, she explored the use of sacramental signs and symbols in worship and trained as a thurifer (a server who carries the burning incense). Below is her reflection of the use of incense and how it coveys in ways beyond words something of the mystery and holiness of God and the invitation into prayer.

A picture of prayer

Incense symbolises worship in three specific ways. It is a symbol of prayer, arguably it is prayer. It is a sign of offering. The ascending smoke indicates our prayers rising up to God and its perfumed smell awakens a sense of God’s presence- like the picture in Psalm 141, ‘Let my prayer rise before you like incense’.

Censing as ‘body-work.’

It is body-work in many ways, as the thurifer, I noticed being more attentive and aware of the rhythm of the service within my body. Unexpectedly, this created a ‘closer’ sense of personal worship. Rituals are performed for their symbolic value. For example, when to cense and what to cense as one moved through the liturgy.

Censing drama

After the sermon, anticipating another rhythm of holiness, we moved to cense the altar again for the Eucharist. Censing the altar table draws attention to God’s sacrifice, the act of anamnesis (remembering and making present) can be triggered.

Censing as experience

Handling the steel thurible, preparing and lighting coals for the incense was thoroughly absorbing and enjoyable. It appealed to my kinesthetic and sensory nature.

The ordinary points to the extraordinary

The thurifer works as part of the liturgy to enhance and facilitate worship to God for the congregation. The use of ordinary matter like coal signifies the extraordinary, the holy. The bodily movements in the anticipated flow of the liturgy for worship and physical handling of the thurible and all its parts facilitated a new metaphysical experience which allowed an unforeseen deeper sense of worship.

Openness across time and tradition

This whole encounter opened up mystery to another level. First, by enabling personal worship through this evocative engagement of the senses and the physicality of bodily movement and anticipation. Second, regardless of how I felt or what the weekly servers felt (or priests and all who serve), we are visible living signs that point to God which can aid corporate worship.

Third, this ‘ever ancient ever new’ liturgical action taken by servers like the thurifer assisted priests in the temple in Israel. Embracing alienity weirdly brought strong connection to the ancient past. Incense opened a new way of unknown prayer. The thurifer is a clear way of ‘embodied’ worship, which invites the mystery of worshipping an unseen God.

Jeanny Wang

24 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

Events and Reflections

BBQ

Once again the Summer Barbecue was a highlight of the social activities at Holy Cross. We were blessed with good weather, and fantastic team of volunteers both before, during and after the event. On the day itself, the congregation were able to participate in a quiz, and number of sports and games, as well as enjoying delicious food. Fr Graham showed of his skills with a cricket bat, and there is a still ball lost somewhere in the rectory garden undergrowth! I think it is fair to say, a good time was had by all!

Richard Hilburn

Greetings from Chiddingfold (near Godalming in Surrey)

On the last Sunday in July we were given a wonderful send off with prayers, a blessing, gifts and cards. Moving away after 35 years at Holy Cross was a major decision and one not taken lightly, but the time had come and we now live just a few minutes away from our daughter, son-in-law and granddaughters.

We are fortunate to have been warmly welcomed by the congregation of St. Mary’s, Chiddingfold and that has provided many introductions to the seemingly bottomless coffee pot of local groups and organisations not to mention annual festivals and fetes.

We had to do a lot of work on the new house at first so that slowed us down but to date Peter has joined the churchyard working party and the men’s walking (to a pub lunch) group while Rosemary has joined the WI and has (been) volunteered to help launder church linen. We’re resisting any committees though!

Needless to say, we miss all our friends at Holy Cross but we intend to stay in touch as much as possible. After all, Chiddingfold is only an hour away.

Rosemary and Peter Abernethy

Quiz

This is an account of the Holy Cross Quiz Night held on Saturday evening, October 14th 2023. There were over 70 participating guests, forming ten teams, and the two-hour extravaganza event was hosted by our superb quizmaster, Richard Edwards, whose questions both bamboozled and delighted our participants of all ages. Our thanks to Richard for preparing the questions and hosting.

==> picture [123 x 123] intentionally omitted <==

The atmosphere during the evening was typical of the church’s quiz nights - vibrant, fun and informal. The vast majority of attendees were our regulars, who were a diverse mix of participants spanning various age groups, with a slight leaning towards younger adults.

Our quiz raffle prizes offered an assortment of wines, perfumes, and house decorations this time. Brian deserves our thanks for hosting the raffle, which raised just over £130 on the night.

The evening’s culinary offering featured a hot meal of sausages in a bun and chips, which received overwhelmingly positive feedback. Our special thanks to Jenny, Peter, Kath, and Cynthia for their planning and preparations in the kitchen.

After deducting expenses, the church impressively raised over £500 for its funds. We extend our thanks to everyone who participated and helped during the evening.

In conclusion, the Holy Cross Church Quiz Night was a well-attended and successful event. It showcased a strong sense of community, making it memorable and enjoyable for all participants.

David Chung

Annual Report 2023

25

Report of Black History Walk Racial Justice Pilgrimage with Bishop Lusa - a Journey of Lament and Praise

On Monday the 16 October 2023 three of us from Holy Cross Church journey to Waterloo Station beside the Windrush Statue to meet other members from the Anglican Church fraternity in London.

The walk was led by The Right Revd Lusa Nsenga-Ngoy, Bishop of Willesden; our journey started from 9.30 where prayers were said, and we journey along first stop was at the Statue of Mary Seacole we then carried on our walk passing many of the famous landmarks in Central London such as Big Ben and Parliament. Our Second stop was at St Margaret’s Church, Westminster we spend some time there where we reflected on Olaudah Equiano who became a Londoner in the mid-1750s as the enslaved servant of Michael Pascal a British sea Captain. In 1759, Olaudah was baptized at St Margaret’s Church. Olaudah died in 1797, ten years before the abolition of the slave trade in the British Empire.

Our next stop was at the former Business place of Ignatius Sancho on King Charles Street Westminster. Ignatius Sancho was born enslaved on a transatlantic slave ship in 1729. He became a Londoner in the early 1730s and as an infant he grew up working in a household in Greenwich. Sancho Married a Caribbean woman Anne Osbourne in December 1758 at St Margaret Church. He also composed music, with several worked being published, and he was the first person

of African heritage to vote in the British General elections in 1774 and 1780.

Ottobah Cugoano came to London in 1772 with his enslaver Alexander Campbelle. Cugoano was baptised in St James’ Church in Piccadilly on 20th August 1773. In 1786 Cugoano became involved in the politics of Slavery and Race in London. He was an active member of the Sons of Africa with his friend Olaudah Equiano.

Before we set off for Nothing Hill, we read a statement about Cugoano, Equiano and Sancho. Many men and women followed in their footsteps before the major migration of Caribbean people to Britain after the second world war. We visited Nothing Hill where many of those Caribbean migrants settled into slum housing, paying high rent to unscrupulous landlords and trying to find work with any employers who ignored racial prejudice.

We then visited the site where Kelso Cochrane was murdered; after that we left and visited the Mangrove Restaurant, All Saint Road which was owned by Frank Crichlow, he was a famous Trinidadian who lived in Notting Hill. He arrived in London in 1953 and after working with British Railway then left and was playing in a successful band. A riot ensued in 1970 which ended at the high court. The judge in this case stated that the events had regrettably shown evidence of racial hatred on both sides. This was the first time that anyone in authority in Britain had stated that there was a problem of racism in the police force.

26 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

Our next stop was Ladbrook Grove where we visited the blue plaques of Claudia Jones and Rhaune Laslett joint Godmothers of Nothing Hill Carnival. Claudia Jones was one of the organizers of a burial committee that raised funds for Kelso funeral. Claudia was the owner of the West Indian Gazette. She launched the Caribbean Carnival Committee in November 1958 this was to show the positive contributions West Indians could bring to the British society. Today the Nothing Hill Carnival is the biggest Carnival in Europe.

Our next stop was at the Nothing Hill Methodist Church which was transformed in 1960 by a new approach to teamwork and social activism. The Reverend Bruce Kenrick along with other activists, formed the Nothing Hill Housing Trust. Their approach was to buy up property, renovate it to an acceptable standard and then rent it for a fair price.

We then went to the Grenfell Tower where we paid our respects to the 72 people who had lost their lives. We said prayers then went to St Clements Church where the act of commitment was said.

We then said our goodbyes and left for our respected homes.

Carol Jumpp-Graham

==> picture [172 x 172] intentionally omitted <==

Christmas Market.

On December 2nd 2023 The Holy Cross Church was truly delighted to welcome the return of the Christmas Arts and Crafts Fair last hosted in 2019. This event was ably run by Frances Hounsell with the support and help of her fellow PPC members. It aimed to showcase the talents of local artisans, provide a safe and friendly space for community engagement, and support the church’s fundraising goals. As a local community member and writer, I had the lovely opportunity to attend this happy event, enjoy the array of creativity and craftsmanship on display and get all my Christmas shopping done!

The Arts and Crafts Fair took place in the centre of the church itself and provided ample room for everyone to set up their stalls and for visitors to browse comfortably. It was organised with meticulous attention to detail. Banners adorned the entrance and volunteers were on hand to guide attendees to various sections. The fair featured a diverse range of artisans, each showcasing their unique talents and creations. From cakes to candles, soup to soaps, wreaths to wine (mulled of course) there was something to captivate everyone.

Among the highlights were:

1. Handcrafted Jewellery: Stall owners sold exquisite jewellery pieces, using beads, gemstones, metals, and recycled plastic! The intricate designs highlighted impressive skill and creativity.

2. Visual arts: Drawings, knitted toys, felt animals, handmade gift bags and cards (for all occasions not just Christmas) were all on offer

3. Wreaths & Flower arrangements: Adding a rustic Christmas charm to the event were gorgeous wreaths, wonderful floral table arrangements and Christmas decorations.

Annual Report 2023

27

1. Food, Glorious Food: lots of fabulous cakes and home baked treats were up for grabs and Mandy and her team provided a tasty lunch.

2. Charities - Represented on the day were Maggie’s Cancer Centre, Wildlife Trust and Ealing Age UK and we had the opportunity to learn more about the fantastic work they do.

For me it was uplifting to hear the choir from the local Edward Betham CofE school sing - their young voices carolling really added a lovely Christmassy feel to the whole event. Local MP James Murray and Aysha Raza Councillor took time out of their busy schedules and lent their support by coming along and doing their own bit of Christmas shopping. Even parents got a little rest and relaxation as their children were encouraged to have a go at crafting themselves on our craft tables supervised by volunteers from the local Girl Guides.

One of the most striking aspects of the Fair I thought was the sense of community it fostered. Attendees, including families, craft enthusiasts, and interested passersby, mingled with artisans, exchanging stories, and admiring their work. I spoke to lots of people who had never been to the Holy Cross Church before so that was certainly a bonus. The atmosphere was gentle and convivial, with laughter and conversation filling the air.

==> picture [229 x 230] intentionally omitted <==

The grand raffle took place at 3pm and created a flurry of excitement as winners collected their prizes. The tombola was pretty popular too. I came home armed with homemade cakes, candles, soaps, jewellery, floral arrangements and lovely handmade gift bags and can honestly say I was able to tick off my entire Christmas shopping list.

Beyond celebrating artistic expression, the Arts and Crafts Market served a philanthropic purpose. All the proceeds after set up costs, will go towards supporting the church’s fundraising programme which will include several community based events. This aspect for me always adds depth and significance to the event, highlighting the power of local talent to effect positive change in our society.

It was a resounding success, bringing together local artisans and the community in a celebration of creativity and friendship. The event not only showcased the rich artistic talent we have here in Greenford but also contributed to a worthy cause. It serves as a reminder of the profound impact that art and community collaboration can have on enriching lives and building a stronger, more connected society. And none of this would have been possible without the time and dedication of Frances and her team of wonderful volunteers.

Mary Finucane

28 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

==> picture [596 x 361] intentionally omitted <==

The Holy Cross Players Panto report

The latest production from the Holy Cross Players had an unfamiliar theme to our previous performances and different to standard panto’s, with a slight twist as it took characters from other established stories and merged them together in a clever and funny way.

we had some excellent feedback from our audiences saying how much they enjoyed our show and that there were some well thought out songs and dances. The cast also fed back that the new type of script was an enjoyable change to usual panto’s and their enjoyment was reflected in their performances.

Panto Mania was performed in

the first week of January in the Royal British Legion Club, Greenford, where we had excellent support from the staff of the club. We had a couple of new members join us on stage this year which took our cast numbers to 28 and as usual we were supported by a great crew.

Tickets for our 4 performances went on sale at the beginning of December and all sold out very quickly, so we reworked the seating and were able to increase seating numbers. Our audiences liked the unusual approach to type of Panto we delivered this year and

Holy Cross Players give our profits each year to a charity that is chosen by the cast and crew and team. This year’s chosen charity was CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young) who work on preventing young sudden cardiac deaths through awareness, screening and research, and supporting affected families; and we were pleased to raise £2,500 for this great cause.

The team have already started working on our next show, and we hope that you will be able to come and enjoy our next production which will be in January 2025.

Annual Report 2023

29

In Thanksgiving

Undene Scantlebury (1942-2023)

Undene Scantlebury arrived in England on Thursday 22nd February 1962 from Barbados. She was 19 years old. Compared to the sunshine and heat of Barbados, London was a cold and frosty place. She hated it and every day said she was going back home. She eventually got used to it but never ever liked the cold as anyone who visited her home would know. The thermostat was always set to high and it was always tropical temperatures inside.

Undene, or Dene, Sis, Nan, Auntie as she was known, was born in August 1942 in Boscobelle, St Peter in the north of Barbados, the eldest of six children. She was a loving and devoted daughter to her parents Arndol and Sylvia Johnson and siblings Maureen, Winston, Orville, Mac and Tony. As the eldest daughter, Undene was expected to help out at home, fetching water and wood for the stove as well as looking after her younger siblings so that her parents could work. She took this responsibility very seriously and was often seen taking her baby brothers to school with her. This was not unusual in Barbados at that time.

In the late fifties like so many of the Windrush Generation Undene’s father Arndol came to England to find regular work, sending money back to Barbados for the family. By the time her mum left a few years later Undene already had her girls Marilyn and Mavelyn. They were still very young when their dad Kenneth left for England leaving 18 year old Undene alone to look after her 3 brothers and her two children. She may have been young in years but she she loved and looked after her family with the fierceness of a lioness looking after her young cubs.

It nearly broke her heart when she had to leave her girls behind to join the rest of the family in England. She always said it was the hardest thing she had ever done in her life.

In September 1964 Undene married Kenneth at St Lukes Church, Earls Court, and the family was complete when their daughters Marilyn and Mavelyn joined them in 1966. After much scrimping and saving they managed to buy their own home and moved to Greenford in July 1970. This is still the Scantlebury family home today.

Undene continued to love

and nurture her family with a passion. As her siblings married and had children Auntie Dene and Uncle Ken were always there for her nieces and nephews on a regular basis. There were many visits from family and friends to Long Drive from near and far. Undene and Ken were very hospitable and loved to entertain. Family was important to Undene and she always felt blessed to see them. Her home was a place filled with laughter, music, the sounds of children playing, sometimes tears and sadness but always a sense of belonging and togetherness. And whatever the occasion, whether planned or impromptu, there was food. Like her father before her, it was important to Undene that she fed whoever came into her home. She always had very well stocked cupboards, fridge and freezers and could rustle up a meal at the drop of a hat. One of her brothers said she could ‘always kill a hunger quickly’. Her granddaughter Kirsty said ‘Nan will remain undefeated in the kitchen, no-one can challenge her! She was always cooking and feeding everyone, she really loved that everyone enjoyed her food!.’

30 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

Once settled in Greenford, the Scantlebury family started to attend Holy Cross Church on a regular basis for over 40 years. They celebrated weddings, baptisms, confirmations as well as funerals and memorials. Undene and Ken participated in parish activities, including the visits to and from Essen in Germany. They even performed in the pantomime on several occasions, thoroughly enjoying themselves. They were always happy to support the church in its fundraising activities including the Caribbean evening which was originally Ken’s idea. They both remained active members of the church throughout their lives. Until as recently as last summer, Undene was attending regularly before she became too unwell with dementia.

Undene would tell you that she had very little formal education, but those of us who knew her recognised that she graduated with honours from the University of Life. She had a very ‘no nonsense’ approach to life based on common sense. She could sew clothes and soft furnishings; she could crochet and knit by hand and with a knitting machine; she made and decorated beautiful celebration cakes. She thoroughly enjoyed being able to create things with her hands.

Friendships were cherished by Undene to such an extent that there is no distinction between friends and family. Everyone is family, experiencing the ups and downs of life like any other family with love being at the core of those relationships. Undene was a passionate person with a fiery character who didn’t suffer fools gladly. Those who knew

her know what it was like to get a ‘tongue lashing’ from her but she would then show the loving caring side of her character just as quickly.

When her granddaughter Rianna was doing a school project she looked up the name Undene and discovered it meant ‘Little Wave’. She thought about this, looked at Undene and said she was more like a ‘bloody tsunami’! So true.

Undene and Kenneth have shared details of their life struggles and successes with the next generations of their family. From their humble beginnings in Barbados, with the uncertainty of unemployment, they have created a secure and settled life for their family in London. Throughout her life Undene has never forgotten where she came from, but she never saw it as a reason to hold her back either. It was an opportunity to do the best she could as evidenced by her beautiful smile.

Undene Scantlebury was laid to rest on 12th January 2024, the 18th anniversary of the passing of her beloved Ken, Reunited at last! Her funeral was a wonderful celebration of a life well lived, attended by those who loved and cared for her and watched online by many across the world. She would have enjoyed seeing so many people who were dear to her together singing her favourite hymns. Let us remember her laughter and sparkle, not just the ones on her nails, but her wonderful personality. Farewell Undene, our own Little Wave. Gone but never forgotten.

Marilyn Scantlebury

Annual Report 2023

31

Accounts for the Year ended

31 December 2023

==> picture [420 x 523] intentionally omitted <==

32 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

==> picture [191 x 559] intentionally omitted <==

Annual Report 2023 33

==> picture [451 x 602] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
5,889 93,542 (91,792) 1,750 7,639
£
Total Funds 2022
£ 7,639 109,696 (94,443) 15,253 22,892
2023
Total Funds
-
(1,256) (1,256) (1,256)
£
Capital Funds
£ 7,639 109,696 (93,187) 16,509 24,148
Funds
Operating
Financial Report of the the Parochial Church Council (PCC) of the Parish of Greenford Magna Financial Highlights for the Year Ended 31 December 2023 During the year ended 31 December 2023 Bank Balance as at 1 January 2023 Operating Receipts-Graph A-Holy Cross PCC-Total Receipts 2023 Operating Payments-Graph B-Holy Cross PCC-Total Payments 2023 Surplus/(Deficit) of Receipts over Payments during 2023 Bank Balance as at 31 December 2023 Common Fund (Diocesan parish contributions) The work of the church is financed through parishes. The vehicle used to collect the money is the Common Fund towards which every parish makes a contribution, and which is managed by the London Diocese. The Common Fund is used to manage current and future clergy related costs of Stipends, training and support. It is also used to help parishes which may need financial support. The Common Fund is referred to as the Diocese parish contributions in the accounts, and accounts for 44% of total payments during the year (Graph B-Holy Cross PCC-Total Payments 2023). The Church of England receives no money from the state for mission or ministry. Generous giving by congregations enables the London Diocese to live out our Vision 2030; for every Londoner to encounter the love of God in Christ. Regular Committed Giving and Gift Aid The PCC remains committed to (1) promoting the mission of the church (2) maintaining the infrastructure of the church buildings and environment (3) ensuring the church can operate safely and effectively. The PCC is very grateful for all of the monetary and non monetary contributions from the Holy Cross congregation. These contributions directly allow the parish to continue its work in the local community and as part of the London Diocese. The PCC will continue to monitor and manage the parish financial resources to ensure the parish is self sufficient, whilst continuing to meet its obligations. Regular committed giving is the most efficient form of financial contributions by the congregation, as this gives more certainty to the PCC receipts and is easier to administer. The PCC would encourage all donors and committed givers to make contributions in a tax efficient method. Gift Aid is available for contributions, subject to certain HMRC requirements. Future Developments Every five years, the PCC have a Quinquennial inspection, where church buildings and the environment are inspected by an architect or chartered building surveyor approved by the London Diocese, with the aim of identifying areas which may need maintenance or repair and recommendations for improvements . There was an inspection during May and June 2023 which identified a number matters, both short term (within 18 months) and long term (greater than 18 months).This included Fire Precautions/prevention works, and increased roof mainatenance and repairs, in both the old and new church. The PCC continues to review the recommended works, and other maintenance requirements, trying to be cost effective as the available funds are limited. Both churches are "listed buildings" and any works are generally specialized and expensive.
----- End of picture text -----

34 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

==> picture [418 x 639] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Mission and
donations, 310, 0%
receipts, 11,370, 10%
All other giving/voluntary
Collections at services, 9,721, 9%
Gift Aid recovered, 8,092, 8%
Planned Giving, 21,215, 19%
funds, 4,727, 4%
Activities for generating
Graph A-Holy Cross PCC -Total Receipts 2023-£109,696 Investment Income, 20,710, 19%
Church activities, 33,551, 31%
----- End of picture text -----

Annual Report 2023

35

==> picture [443 x 636] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
41,188, 44%
Diocesan parish contributions,
Capital Projects, 1,256, 1%
Graph B-Holy Cross PCC -Total Payments 2023-£94,443
funds, 1,518, 1%
Activities for generating
Mission and donations, 1,685, 2% 52%
Church running expenses, 48,796,
----- End of picture text -----

36

Holy Cross Church, Greenford

==> picture [456 x 677] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
- 866 150 -
23,180 8,565 3,842 5,273 40,860 1,012 14,660 21,144 15,000 52,682 93,542 52,629 28,538 10,475 91,792 1,750 5,889 1,750 7,639
£
2022
Total Funds
310 - -
21,215 9,721 11,370 8,092 50,708 4,727 33,551 20,710 58,988 109,696 41,188 48,796 1,518 1,685 1,256 94,443 15,253 7,639 15,253 22,892
£
2023
Total Funds
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
1,256 1,256 (1,256) (1,256) (1,256)
£
Capital Funds
310 - - -
21,215 9,721 11,370 8,092 50,708 4,727 33,551 20,710 58,988 109,696 41,188 48,796 1,518 1,685 93,187 16,509 7,639 16,509 24,148
£
Operating Funds
- - 310 - - - - 48 - 48 - - - -
1,000 1,310 1,358 1,685 1,685 (327)
Funds
Restricted
- - - -
21,215 9,721 10,370 8,092 49,398 4,727 33,551 20,662 58,940 108,339 41,188 48,796 1,518 1,256 92,758 15,581
£
Funds
Unrestricted
3 4 5 8 6 15 10 9 7 16 11 12 10 8 13
Note
Receipts and Payments Account for the Year Ended 31st December 2023 Type Voluntary Receipts Planned Giving Collections at services All other giving/voluntary receipts Mission and donations Gift Aid recovered Other Voluntary Receipts VAT reclaim Activities for generating funds Church activities Investment Income Sale of Investments Total Receipts Payments Diocesan parish contributions Church running expenses Activities for generating funds Mission and donations Capital Projects Total Payments Surplus/(Deficit) of Receipts over Payments Bank and Cash Balance as at 1st January Excess/(Deficit) of Receipts over Payments during period Bank and Cash Balance as at 31st December The attached notes form part of these Accounts
----- End of picture text -----

Annual Report 2023

37

==> picture [483 x 663] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
7,639 962 8,601 10,206 10,206 58,525 625,000 23,397 678,935 53,935
£
Total Funds 2022
22,891 311 23,202 6,580 6,580 64,032 625,000 2,709 716,105 91,105
£
Total Funds 2023
- - - - -
16,044 1,738 17,782 17,782
16,044
£
Restricted Funds Barry Fitzmaurice Barry Fitzmaurice Honorary PCC Treasurer
6,847 311 7,158 6,580 6,580 56,787 625,000 2,709 692,816 67,816
£
Funds
Unrestricted
14 14 15 16 17 18
Note
Statement of Assets and Liabilities as at 31 December 2023 Assets Cash Funds Bank and Cash Balances Cheques and cash unbanked at year end Other Monetary Assets Receivables Investment Assets Investment Funds Shares at Market Value Assets Retained for Church's own use Freehold Land & Buildings Liabilities Accruals and Other Creditors Accruals and Other Creditors Net Assets Free Reserves (Net Current Assets) The attached notes form part of these Accounts Approved by the Parochial Parish Council (PCC) on 11 March 2024 and signed on their behalf by; Graham Miller Rev. Graham Miller Rector and Chair PCC
----- End of picture text -----

38 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

==> picture [306 x 681] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
23,180 5,394 1,971 1,200 8,565
£ £
Total Funds 2022 Total Funds 2022
21,215 6,048 2,473 1,200 9,721
£ £
Total Funds 2023 Total Funds 2023
- - - - -
£ £
Restricted Funds Restricted Funds
21,215 6,048 2,473 1,200 9,721
£ £
Unrestricted Funds Unrestricted Funds
Notes to the Accounts for the Year Ended 31st December 2023 Basis of Accounts The Accounts have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 and the Charities Act 2011, using the Receipts and Payments basis. Church Furnishings Church furnishings are not separately valued in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities on the basis that their market value is uncertain. Planned Giving Standing Orders The Standing Orders of £23,180 are further analysed in Graph C and Graph D , which consider the number of committed givers and the average committment, and the value range of committments respectively. Graph E considers the quarterly value of Standing Orders for the period 2019 to 2023. Collections at services Cash and cheque Collections Contactless Giving Giving Envelopes and Gift Aided Envelopes
1 2 3 4
Notes
----- End of picture text -----

Annual Report 2023

39

==> picture [430 x 670] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
51 35
Total
48 35
Dec-23
51 34
Nov-23
£21,215
51 34
Oct-23
48 34
Sep-23
50 36
Aug-23
50 36
Jul-23
51 35
Jun-23
52 35
May-23
50 36
Apr-23
53 35
Mar-23
52 35
Feb-23
Graph C- Holy Cross PCC - Standing Orders Unrestricted Funds -Total 2023 53 34
Jan-23
60 50 40 30 20 10 0 Committed Givers Average Committed
----- End of picture text -----

40 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

==> picture [12 x 452] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Graph D-Holy Cross PCC-Standing Orders Unrestricted Funds-Total 2023 £21,215
----- End of picture text -----

==> picture [417 x 675] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
5 6 10 25 5
Total
4 6 10 23 5
Dec-23
4 6 11 25 5
Nov-23
4 7 10 25 5
Oct-23
4 6 10 23 5
Sep-23
£0-£10
5 6 11 23 5
Aug-23
£10-£25
5 6 11 23 5
Jul-23
£25-£50
5 6 11 24 5
Jun-23
£51-75
5 7 10 26 4
May-23 > £100
5 6 10 25 4
Apr-23
5 7 10 26 5
Mar-23
5 6 10 26 5
Feb-23
5 6 11 25 6
Jan-23
30 25 20 15 10 5 0 > £100 £51-75 £25-£50 £10-£25 £0-£10
----- End of picture text -----

Annual Report 2023

41

==> picture [439 x 603] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
5,142
5,206
5,406
5,463
5,618
5,672
5,899
5,993
6,233
6,468
6,849
6,977
7,113
7,338
7,363
7,729
Graph E-Holy Cross PCC-Standing Orders 2019 to 2023
7,864
7,860
7,851
7,747
Q1 2019Q2 2019Q3 2019Q4 2019Q1 2020Q2 2020Q3 2020Q4 2020Q1 2021Q2 2021Q3 2021Q4 2021Q1 2022Q2 2022Q3 2022Q4 2022Q1 2023Q2 2023Q3 2023Q4 2023
9,000 8,000 7,000 6,000 5,000 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 0
----- End of picture text -----

42 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

==> picture [406 x 671] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
201 -
1,000 2,641 3,842 5,273 2,184 18,960 21,144
£ £ £
Total Funds 2022 Total Funds 2022 Total Funds 2022
- -
10,370 1,000 11,370 8,092 1,750 18,960 20,710
£ £ £
Total Funds 2023 Total Funds 2023 Total Funds 2023
- - - - 48 - 48
1,000 1,000
£ £ £
Restricted Funds Restricted Funds Restricted Funds
- - -
10,370 10,370 8,092 1,702 18,960 20,662
£ £ £
Unrestricted Funds Unrestricted Funds Unrestricted Funds
Notes to the Accounts for the Year Ended 31st December 2023 All other giving/voluntary receipts Donations-Other Ealing Deanery Diocese of London Energy Audit Grant Diocese of London Utility grant During the year a grant of £1,0000 was received from the London Diocese to be used for energy audit purposes. During the year a donation of £8,000 was received from the Holy Cross Under 5's Pre School, who previously had a letting arrangement with the PCC. Gift Aid recovered Gift Aid recovered Gift Aid paid during the year included amounts in respect of periods to 31 December 2022 of £7,570. Gift aid reclaimable as at 31-12-2023 of £6,430 is expected to be paid during 2024, per Note 15. Investment Income Dividends on CCLA Investment Funds Rental Income on Freehold Asset The Miriam Turner Legacy, including income the legacy generates is restricted to aumbrey lamps and the garden of remembrance.
5 6 7
Notes
----- End of picture text -----

Annual Report 2023

43

==> picture [506 x 644] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
- - - - - - - 268 - -
1,000 2,641 3,641 11,413 2,979 14,660
£ £
Total Funds 2022 Total Funds 2022
310 1,000 - - 1,310 (488) (310) (260) (627) (1,685) 540 29,103 2,590 1,284 34 33,551
£ £
Total Funds 2023 Total Funds 2023
310 1,000 - - 1,310 (488) (310) (260) (627) (1,685) - - - - - -
£ £
Restricted Funds Restricted Funds
- - - - - - - - - - 540 34
29,103 2,590 1,284 33,551
£ £
Unrestricted Unrestricted
Notes to the Accounts for the Year Ended 31st December 2023 Mission and donations Receipts Mozambique Conflict Trauma Support Diocese of London Energy Audit Grant Ealing Deanery Diocese of London Utility grant Payments Mothers Union Mozambique Conflict Trauma Support Messy Church Event Other Missions are specific appeals where funds are collected by the PCC are then paid onto the appeal body. Messy Church and Mothers Union both have funds held by the PCC on their behalf. The balances held as at the year end 31 December 2023 are detailed in note 20. Church activities Church Lettings-Ad Hoc Church Lettings-Regular Fees for funerals Fees for weddings Other Fees The London Diocese issues an annual fee structure for weddings and funeral which are adhered to by the PCC. There is no fee for a Baptism. Regular church lettings are to (1) uniformed groups, including Scouts, Cubs, Brownies, Rainbows and Guides (2) Happy Choo Choo Under Fives pre school (3) A local musical band group and (4) Kumon Tutors. During 2023 Kumon Tutors decided to terminate their lettings agreement.
8 9
Notes
----- End of picture text -----

44 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

==> picture [390 x 643] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
1,012 - - - - 1,012 (150) - - - - (150) 862 - - - - 862
£
Total Funds 2022
1,596 1,617 1,264 250 - 4,727 (194) (510) (632) - (182) (1,518) 1,402 1,107 632 250 (182) 3,209
£
Total Funds 2023
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
£
Restricted Funds
1,596 1,617 1,264 250 - 4,727 (194) (510) (632) - (182) (1,518) 1,402 1,107 632 250 (182) 3,209
£
Unrestricted
Notes to the Accounts for the Year Ended 31st December 2023 Activities for generating funds Quiz Night(s) Xmas Market 2023 Xmas Lunches 2023 and 2022 Sale of Books 2023 Parish BBQ 2023 Gross Income Quiz Night(s) Xmas Market 2023 Xmas Lunches 2023 and 2022 Sale of Books 2023 Parish BBQ 2023 Expenses Incurred Quiz Night(s) Xmas Market 2023 Xmas Lunches 2023 and 2022 Sale of Books 2023 Parish BBQ 2023 Net Income Certain activities for generating funds can be designated for specific purposes.
10
Notes
----- End of picture text -----

Annual Report 2023

45

==> picture [484 x 571] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
564 52,065 52,629 16,679 2,529 7,184 1,119 204 2,230 29,945 4,267 4,345 6,103 489 463 1,012 16,679
£ £ £
2022 2022
94 41,094 41,188 28,683 2,769 7,715 1,773 4,054 3,802 48,796
£ £
2023 2023
- - - - - - - - - -
£ £
Restricted Funds Restricted Funds
94 41,094 41,188 28,683 2,769 7,715 1,773 4,054 3,802 48,796 4,508 5,478 14,677 1,258 582 2,179 28,683
£ £ £
Funds Funds
Unrestricted Unrestricted
Notes to the Accounts for the Year Ended 31st December 2023 Diocesan parish contributions Church Schools Levy Common Fund Common Fund is money given by congregations in every parish in the Diocese of London. It is collected from rich and poor parishes, to provide and support clergy, and to further our work in every parish, across London. That is why our contributions are called the ‘Common Fund’; they are made by everyone, for everyone. Common Fund payments during 2023 included a catch up payment of £10,412 for amounts committed but not paid during 2022. As at 31-12-2023 there were no historic unpaid Common Fund commmittments. Church running expenses Church building running expenses Education and outreach Liturgy costs Printing and stationary Wedding/Funeral/Other Fees (Diocese of London) Miscellaneous admin costs Church building running expenses include the ongoing costs of maintaining the church buildings including insurance, cleaning, refuse collection and utility costs. Church building running expenses Insurance Cleaning Utilities Waste Collection Internet Other
11 12
Notes
----- End of picture text -----

46 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

==> picture [457 x 671] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
- 9,480 995 - 995 7,639 - 7,639 - 962 962 1,806 400 8,000 10,206
£ £ £
Total Cost 2022
Total Funds 2022 Total Funds 2022
- - 751 505 1,256 22,891 - 22,891 - 311 311 - 150 6,430 6,580
£ £ £
Total Cost 2023
Total Funds 2023 Total Funds 2023
Notes to the Accounts for the Year Ended 31st December 2023 Capital Projects Church Roof Repairs Church Drain Repairs Electrical Remedial Works Roof Repairs-Freehold Property Bank and Cash Balances HSBC-Number 1 Account HSBC-Number 2 Account Unbanked Cheques and cash as at year end Cheques Cash Receivables Reclaimable VAT-Listed Place of Worship scheme Other Gift Aid Gift aid reclaimable as at 31-12-2023 of £6,430 is expected to be paid during 2024.
13 14 15
Notes
----- End of picture text -----

Annual Report 2023

47

==> picture [438 x 674] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
68,373 12,789 81,163 5,581 86,744 -15,000 11,482 83,226 -15,000 -9,700 58,525 5,507 64,032
£
Market Value
4,234 4,234 4,234 -680 3,554 -721 2,833 2,833
Total Shares
1,834 1,834 1,834 1,834 1,834 1,834 625,000
£
Unrestricted
Total Funds 2022
The Paul Hewish Legacy
77 77 77 77 77 77 625,000
£
Legacy
Restricted
The Miriam Turner Total Funds 2023
854 854 854 854 854 854
The Beth
Morris Legacy Unrestricted
1,469 1,469 1,469 -680 789 -721 68 68
Fund
PCC Church Unrestricted
The Holy Cross Improvements
Notes to the Accounts for the Year Ended 31st December 2023 Investment Funds Shares at Market Value CBF Church of England Investment Fund-Income Shares Number of Shares as at 31st December 2018 Market movement in valuation Number of Shares as at 31st December 2019 Market movement in valuation Number of Shares as at 31st December 2020 Sold During the year Market movement in valuation Number of Shares as at 31st December 2021 Sold During the year Market movement in valuation Number of Shares as at 31st December 2022 Sold During the year Market movement in valuation Number of Shares as at 31st December 2023 Investments are held with CCLA (https://www.ccla.co.uk/about-ccla) CCLA are one of the UK's largest charity fund managers, they manage investments for charities, religious organisations and the public sector. Freehold Land & Buildings Freehold Land & Buildings The PCC manage a freehold property in Greenford. During 2022 the PCC adjusted the market valuation for the property based on a high level review of the local market. The PCC consider the freehold property is owned by the Diocese of London, with the PCC acting as manging agents and receiving rental income.
16 17
Notes
----- End of picture text -----

48 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

==> picture [430 x 681] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
647 321 - - -
5,429 10,412 7,556 23,397 13,027 1,786 1,000 1,000 17,782
£ £
C/Fwd
31-Dec-23
Total Funds 2022
2,459 - 250 2,709 - - 150 - - - - 150
£ £
Total Funds 2023 Market Valuation
- - - - -
(260) (488) (2,641) (627) (4,016)
£
Payments
48
- - - - - - -
1,000 1,048
£
Receipts
907 321 488 - 627
13,027 1,589 1,000 2,641 20,600
£
B/Fwd
01-Jan-23
Notes to the Accounts for the Year Ended 31st December 2023 Accruals and Other Creditors Diocese of London Church Fees Diocesan of London Parish Contributions Other Creditors The Diocese of London Parish Contributions represented two months of the 2022 Common Fund commitments, this amount was paid during 2023. Restricted Funds Pamela Ingram Legacy-young people Messy Church Grant Miriam Turner Legacy-Investment Diocese Mothers Union Ealing Deanery London Diocese Utility Fund London DioceseEnergy Audit Fund Other Restricted funds are those which the PCC must use for a specified purpose, whereas unrestricted funds can be utilised at the discretion of the PCC. Funds can also be considered designated and non-designated, although these are both considered as unrestricted funds.
18 19
Notes
----- End of picture text -----

Annual Report 2023 49

==> picture [389 x 683] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
200 500 500 13,523 10,000 250 410
£
Total Funds
Restricted Unrestricted Unrestricted Unrestricted Restricted Unrestricted Unrestricted Unrestricted
Year 2017 2017 2017 2018 2019 2021 2021
Notes to the Accounts for the Year Ended 31st December 2023 Legacies Received in the period 2017-2023 Cyril Poole Bequest Other Isabella Cruickshansk Pamela Ingram legacy-restricted-youth Doreen Castle Legacy Anstics Bequest Gift in memory Gillian Forster A charitable legacy is a gift of money, property or an item left to an organisation in a will. This type of giving to charity is commonly referred to as gifts in wills. Gifts in wills can be left to parish churches and are exempt from inheritance tax. Each year around 4,000 people leave a gift in their will to their church, funding mission projects, maintaining beautiful church buildings and growing faithful communities. For many people, leaving a gift in their will is a final opportunity to make a lasting gift to God. Reserves Policy Whislt the PCC does not have a formal reserves policy as at 31-12-2023, they consider the level of financial reserves as at 31-12-2023 are satisfactory. The PCC reviews the level of financial resources available to the church regularly during the year, when considering the current and future needs of the church.
20 21
Notes
----- End of picture text -----

50 Holy Cross Church, Greenford

Parish of Greenford Magna

Holy Cross Church, Ferrymead Gardens, Greenford

May 2024