The Diocese of London
The Parish of The Holy Cross Greenford Magna
----- 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 2024
and
Agenda
for the
ANNUAL MEETING OF PARISHIONERS
and
ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING
Holy Cross Old Church Sunday 18 May 2025 at 11.00am
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 2024 |
7 |
| The Parochial Church Council: Parish activities | 9 |
| Ealing Deanery Synod | 9 |
| Safeguarding report | 9 |
| Buildings Report | 9 |
| Churchwardens’ Report | 10 |
| Edward Betham Governors | 11 |
| Happy Choo Choo Nursery | 12 |
| Greenford Parochial Charities (Reg. Charity No.212726) | 12 |
| Betham Charity (Reg. Charity No. 1002075) | 12 |
| 9th Greenford Scout group report | 13 |
| Events | 13 |
| Christmas Market | 13 |
| Panto Report | 14 |
| Worship and Ministry | 14 |
| Baptism | 14 |
| Servers Report | 14 |
| In Thanksgiving | 15 |
| Ray Allen | 15 |
| Accounts for the Year ended | 16 |
| 31 December 2024 |
Holy Cross Church, Greenford
2
Rector’s Introduction
Welcome to our Annual Report for 2024
Welcome to our celebration of 2024. This Report reflects something of our life together at Holy Cross as we seek to respond to God’s call to be his people in this place.
The story is told of an elderly Anglican nun being asked What is the Church for?
Her response – the fruit of many years of prayer and reflection – was to say that the task of the church is the praise of God, to enter into the pain of the world and to seek the repentance of the church.
Every Sunday we gather to offer thanks and praise to God and many of our festivals and family occasions are celebrated with wonder and joy.
The pain of the world is all around us – the violent conflicts in the Middle East, Ukraine, Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. And on the streets of our city, including the anti-immigrant riots last summer.
In the midst of all this we seek to know and love and serve God, and to pray and work for true peace – the establishment of right relationship and justice amongst all peoples.
Throughout the Gospels Jesus goes ahead and invites his disciples to follow. After his Resurrection he goes before them to Galilee . God is always inviting us into the new. At the end of 2024 I announced that I would be moving to be vicar of Holy Trinity, Eltham. I go with deep thanksgiving for all I have received and confident that t he One who calls is faithful (1 Thessalonians 5.24)
Lord God, you have called your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
So too the need for repentance and renewal within the church, so painfully aware of safeguarding failures.
The Revd Graham Miller Rector
Annual Report 2024
3
Agenda and Minutes
Annual Parochial Church Meeting
held on
Sunday 26th May 2024 at 11am Old Church
Annual Parochial Church Meeting
held on
Sunday 26th May 2024 at 11:15am Old Church
Meeting of Parishioners (for election of Church Wardens)
1. Apologies Received:
Dawn Petit-John, Sarah Newman, Patricia Boateng, Natalie Putros, Becky Ofosu, Richard Hilburn, John Bennett, Christine Sawyer, Pauline Avery, Linda Pope, Brian Radville
2. Adoption of Minutes from 26th March 2023
These minutes were adopted as a true record. Proposed by Peter Hounsell and seconded by Jacky Mitchell.
3. Matters Arising
None.
4. Election of Churchwardens
There were two nominations for Churchwardens:
Mathew Collins Proposed Annabel Radville Seconded Marilyn Scantlebury
Marilyn Scantlebury Proposed Michelle Stanton Seconded Tony Nayager
Marilyn Scantlebury and Matthew Collins were duly elected as Churchwardens.
We note our enormous thanks to both of them for all that they do and all they shoulder to help our community as well as the tasks and responsibilities that they oversee.
1. Apologies Received:
Dawn Petit-John, Sarah Newman, Patricia Boateng, Natalie Putros, Becky Ofosu, Richard Hilburn, John Bennett, Christine Sawyer, Pauline Avery, Linda Pope, Brian Radville
2. Adoption of Minutes from 26th March 2023
Members of the PCC previously adopted these minutes as a true record of the meeting.
3. Matters Arising
None.
4. Church Electoral Roll
There are 201 names on the roll as of the day of the meeting. Jacky Mitchell advised that in 2025 the roll will be renewed.
5. Deanery Synod Report
Frances Hounsell advised that anyone is able to attend Deanery Synod meetings they do not have to be a Synod Representative. It is a good way to learn what is happening with other churches in the Ealing area.
6. Safeguarding Report
Mandy Fitzmaurice, Safeguarding officer, advised that the PCC have been receiving safeguarding training as required by the diocese. The safeguarding policy and action plan is adopted by the PCC each
Meeting of Parishioners closed at 11:11.
4 Holy Cross Church, Greenford
year. The action plan highlighted the need to ensure that any visiting musicians complied with the current safeguarding checks. Work is also being done to update the notice boards in both churches to set out how any concerns can be reported.
We would like to note our thanks to Mandy for her work with this developing role and undertaking the Leadership training.
7. Churchwarden’s Report
Fabric of the Church
Andrew Vigor reported that the parish room had been refurbished last summer. It was a great team effort and was appreceiated by the new nursery. A big thank you to everyone who helped with that. The heating in the new church has been serviced and is now working well.
Andrew would like thank Michael Connolly for fitting the brand-new pump system in the basement as well as cleaning out the whole area.
Looking forward, there is still quite a long list of things that need to be done including work on the roof of both churches. The old church will need a professional survey to be undertaken first. There has not been any progress with the boundary wall but the diocese are now dealing directly with Ealing council.
We note our thanks to Andrew for his work.
The wardens started by acknowledging the work of the congregation to ensure we can worship each week, that everything is safe and goes to plan or helps to support the daily life of the church, from servers, setting up the church, parish breakfast, music and more. The social events this past year have been fun and although the preparation can be hard, the event itself
has always been lovely and a good way to develop our sense of community and help the church to feel alive.
Lettings – Marilyn shared that Happy Choo Choo Nursery are now well established and settled in well, and the sports camp shall be returning in the summer. However, we do have some slots available for lettings so if anyone knows of groups or singular events who are looking for a venue, please do get in touch with Marilyn.
Marilyn advised that this is her 6th year as a warden and she would need to stand down next year. She has enjoyed her time as warden and has also learnt a lot about herself. Marilyn thanked everyone who has helped her, both personally, and within the life of the church to keep everything running.
We also share our thanks to Father Graham for all that he does to help us, inspire us, keep spirits high and lead us in our worship.
8. Reports from Church Activities
There was a slideshow of pictures from the last year reflecting on our wonderful and diverse community and events.
Betham Charity – Peter Hounsell advised that they have been carrying 2 vacancies for the last year and asked people to consider becoming a Betham trustee. The trust meets 3 times a year,during term time and considers funding for school projects.
There is a correction to be made on page 22 of the report, the section on Carol singing currently implies it was organised by us however, it was organised by St Barnabas Church, and we were invited to join in with them.
Annual Report 2024
5
9. Accounts for the year ended 31st December 2023
Barry Fitzmaurice, Treasurer, presented the accounts for the year. He noted that our income from the congregation has gone down by 8% in 2023, but income from regular lettings has gone up. Barry advised that our common fund contribution for the year was less than the previous yearas as we try to manage our funds responsibly maintaining a sensible reserve fund and policy.
We note thanks to Barry for all he does to put the accounts together, but also thanks to Andrew, Marilyn, Matthew and Jill Marsh for their assistance with administrative tasks within finance.
10. Elections
We began with a note of thanks to those who are standing again and for those who are being elected for the first time.
PCC
Patricia Boateng Proposed Dennis Ishimishere Seconded Ella Muswere
Betham Trustees
Emily Marsh Proposed Peter Hounsell Seconded Caroline ‘Anjela’ Jeffrey.
Greenford Parochial Charity
Jill Marsh Proposed Emily Marsh Seconded Marilyn Scantlebury.
11. Appointment of an Independent Examiner
John Quinn has been elected as our independent examiner and we note our thanks to him for all he has already done, and all he will continue to do. Proposed by Barry Fitzmaurice and seconded by Marilyn Scantlebury. This was then agreed by all 19 people in attendance.
12. AOB
No other business.
Father Graham shared a final note of thanks to everyone who has helped to prepare for the meeting today and for everyone present for participating.
APCM ended at 12:04
Rebecca Mitchell Proposed Matthew Collins Seconded Barry Fitzmaurice
Dennis Ishimishere Proposed David Chung Seconded Rebecca Ofusu
6
Holy Cross Church, Greenford
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 2024
The Parochial Church Council (PCC) presents its Annual Report and Independently Examined Accounts for the year ended 31st December 2024.
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.
As charity trustees PCC members are required to carry out the following six key duties:
-
Ensure the charity is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit
-
Comply with the charity’s governing document and the law
-
Act in the charity’s best interests
-
Manage the charity’s resources responsibly
-
Act with reasonable skill and care
-
Ensure the charity is accountable
PCC members who served during the year to 31st December 2024 were:
Ex. Officio members Incumbent:
The Revd Graham Miller* – Chair
Wardens:
Marilyn Scantlebury – Joint Vice Chair Matthew Collins – Joint Vice Chair
Annual Report 2024
7
Deanery Synod Representatives (3)
Frances Hounsell Jacqueline Mitchell Rebecca Ofusu
Elected Members:
Andrew Vigor Barry Fitzmaurice Dawn Petit-John - until 17 September 2024 David Chung Dennis Ishimishere - until 17 August 2024 John Bennett Natalie Putros – until 3 June 2024 Patricia Boateng Rebecca Mitchell* Richard Hilburn Sarah Newman - until 26 May 2024 Amanda Fitzmaurice – co-opted 17 June 2024 Tebsy Varkey – Co-opted 9 September 2024
*Member of Standing Committee
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
Church Electoral Roll
At the 31 December 2024 the Church Electoral Roll stood at 182. The Roll will be renewed in 2025
Jacky Mitchell, Electoral roll Officer
Appointed Officers:
Electoral Roll Officer – Jacky Mitchell
Secretary - Rebecca Mitchell
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
8
Holy Cross Church, Greenford
The Parochial Church Council:
Parish activities
Ealing Deanery Synod
The February meeting was held on Monday 5th at 7.30pm in St. Mellitus Church, Hanwell.
There was a short presentation on the work of the Ministry Experience Scheme by two of the participants. This sponsors a placement in a parish for those between 18 & 30 to explore the work of the church and their own faith.
The main focus of the meeting was a demonstration of Godly Play by Jeanny Wang who had a placement at Holy Cross.
The July meeting was held on 2nd at St Barnabas, Northolt Park. Requests were made for volunteers to stand as school governors for Edward Betham and William Perkin Schools and for trustees to the Betham Trust. Applications for the Mission Funds were heard and agreed.
No-one from Holy Cross was able to attend the October meeting.
Reps were asked to vote in a by-election to the General Synod. Phillip Rice was elected standing on his experience in financial matters on support for the Parish model of ministry.
Frances Hounsell
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 2024 to review and update procedures. We have continued to update the safeguarding dashboard. Mandy continues to attend drop-in safeguarding sessions with the Willesden safeguarding team, for advice and to keep up to date with changes.
All members of the PCC are DBS checked and many have completed 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.
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 Officer
Buildings report for 2024
Happy Choo Choo Nursery have settled in well to the Parish Room which we decorated in 2023.
We have renewed our contract with a contractor who is inspecting regularly for rodents in the New Church. At present we appear to be clear of mice since they assisted us in dealing with the infestation last year. Ongoing 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 2025.
Throughout 2023 we regularly had to pump out the boiler room basement when the old pump failed. Our thanks to Michael Connolly who installed a new pump and thoroughly cleaned out the basement in 2024.
Annual Report 2024
9
Some of the work arising from the 2023 Quinquennial Inspections still remains to be done, in particular:
New Church; The Flat Roofs and associated guttering especially over the kitchen need professional attention to stop water ingress, a builder has been appointed for the kitchen Flat Roof and we are waiting for him to start. It is still proving difficult to find builders who are not already very busy. Roof tiles and condition of the brickwork also need further attention. Gutters and ground gullies have now been cleared but the gullies need a spring clean.
Old Church; The roof needs to be surveyed professionally, especially on the south side where there is an issue with slipping tiles. Work is going to be needed when funds allow.
Gullies were cleared in 2024 but need a spring clean. We’ve had a big clear out of the Play area to the right of the concrete garage. The fences will need repair this year.
Help is always welcome especially with cleaning and tidying up – inside and out. My thanks to everyone who helped in 2024 – no names but you know who you are!
Andrew Vigor
Churchwardens’ Report 2024
We started the year with Fr Graham was on a sababaitcal for the first four months. During this period, we welomed visiting clergy every Sunday and while this was a bit stressful at first, we soon became used to seeing different people each week and this enriched our worship. Happily, some of these clergy have now become regulars at Holy Cross. Thank you to everyone who took on additional responsibilities during this time.
The PCC met regularily during the year to conduct church business as well as
reflecting on our worship. During these reflections we found that individually each one of us were moved by different aspects of our celebrations such as All-age masses, Pentecost, Easter and Christmas. During the year we saw a reduction in the number of PCC members as some people had to stand down in order to focus on more pressing family matters. I would like to thank everyone who has been on the PCC durring the year for their support, both physical and spiritual during the year.
We have welcomed a number of new faces in the congregation on Sunday mornings which has been very encouraging, as are the increease in numbers attending. The pattern of using the Old church for the 9.30 service duing the winter months has worked well along with August being in the Chruchyard. This has become our new normal. We have also welcomed a number of new families into the church for baptism of their children.
Our Social events have continued with quiz nights, the parish BBQ and Christmas market, all of which have been well attended and enjoyed by all who attended. They have also generated much needed additional funds for the church. A huge thank you to all involved in making these events happen. A group from the church also attended the beautiful candle lit Advent Service at St Pauls Cathedral.
We have also welcomed Edward Betham C of E Pimary School for their school masses in the new church throughout the year. The presentations by the children based on the seasons of the church ae always very well written and beautifully delivered. Personally, I am always moved by their beautiful singing!
At the end of November Fr Graham announced that he was leaving Holy Cross and moving to Holy Trinity Church, Eltham in the Dicoese of Southwark. This was a
10 Holy Cross Church, Greenford
shock! I have been a warden for the last six years and during that time have developed a meaningful working relationship with Graham. At this time, I was reminded that as change is a constant in our lives we should make an adjustment and carry on. The time between the announcement and Graham’s last day went very quickly. We reflected on the 11 years Graham was at Holy Cross, and how he steered the parish through the challenges we faced, especially during Covid when the church was closed. However, the legacy of Graham’s ministry will continue. His last service was on Sunday 9 March 2025. It was a wonderful celebraion of his time in the parish and thanksgiving for his ministry. We would also like to wish him much success as he continues his journey in faith at Holy Trinity, Eltham and hold him in our prayers. He will be missed!
As a parish we now face the challenge of looking to the future and finding ourselves a new Rector. The Diocese have a process in place for parishes to follow when managing a vacancy and recruiting a new vicar. They have met with the Wardens and PCC and advised us of the keys steps and we are working through that process. During a vacancy the responsibility for running the parish lies with the Wardens and PCC. We will continue to work as a team and be guided by God to do our best for our pariish.
My thanks to everyone for your help in and around the church throughout the year. Your support and assistance is very much appreciated. We hope you are able to continue to support your church during the current vacancy and recruitment of a new vicar. If you’re able to offer help, please speak with the wardens or a PCC member. Thank you.
Edward Betham Governors
The governing board consists of 16 governors; currently we are 13, and still seeking three foundation governors. Although, we are short on governors, we have managed to remain committed to our 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 first-hand how the school continues to do well and make our pupils flourish. The governors were able to raise money for new software (Connecting steps) which measures the progress of pupil on the SEND register, this has been proven to be a valuable resource for teachers, pupils and their families.
In May 2024, we had an ungraded Ofsted visit. The school remains good. The governors and staff worked tirelessly to maintain our standard. The school community worked together and demonstrated our school’s Christian vision, with faith, hope and love we can achieve our goal.
But that is not the end; our work continues as we will have another SIAMS inspection in the next academic year.
Silva Hilburn, Chair of governors
Marilyn Scantlebury (Churchwarden)
Annual Report 2024
11
Happy Choo Choo Nursery
It’s been a fantastic year at Happy Choo Choo Nursery in Greenford. Our teachers have been caring for up to 18 children aged 2-4 years old. We started 2024 by learning about different occupations in life. We tried our hands at being a hairdresser, astronaut, postman, and vet. Next, we celebrated World Book Day by talking about our favourite stories, and we wore costumes based on characters from the books.
In the summer term, we took care of 5 little caterpillars, which transformed into butterflies after 6 weeks. We also said goodbye to 5 children who were ready to start new adventures in big school.
During the autumn term, we explored space, planets, light and dark, and also discovered the power of our Earth.
We ended 2024 with a fantastic Christmas show, “The Littlest Christmas Tree,” and a Christmas party with a special guest (Santa).
It has been a year full of learning opportunities and fun!
Magdalena Sarzalska
Greenford Parochial Charities (Reg. Charity No.212726)
The Greenford Parochial Charities amalgamates a series of charitable gifts made between 1649 and 1856 and has been in its present form since 1919. The Charity’s endowment is invested in low-risk funds. The trustees cannot sell the shares, and the charity’s disposable income is derived from the dividends on these shares.
The charity has six trustees: the rector and the two churchwardens are ex officio; the remaining three are elected at the APCM for a term of four years. The elected trustees during 2024 were Sarah Reilly (until the APCM), Jill Marsh (from the APCM) and
Peter Hounsell who also acts as Clerk and Treasurer. There is one vacancy.
The trustees meet in November to review the financial position and to agree the disbursement of the charity’s income.
The trust’s income in 2024 was about £1,200. Donations totalling £1,500 were made to
-
The Salvation Army (working with older people and families)
-
Age UK, Ealing (working with older people)
-
Homestart Ealing (supporting local families)
-
Greenford Baptist Church (the local centre of Ealing Foodbank, and a venue of the Ealing Churches Winter Night Shelter).
Peter Hounsell (Clerk/Treasurer to the Trustees)
Betham Charity (Reg. Charity No. 1002075)
The Betham Charity manages the financial legacy of Edward Betham. This money is invested in managed funds similar to those of Greenford Parochial Charities and only the income can be spent. It is used to fund particular projects and improvements in the school.
There are eight trustees: the Rector (exofficio) and seven elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting. Trustees during 2024 were Sarah Reilly (until APCM), Andrew Vigor, Jacky Mitchell, Emily Marsh and Peter Hounsell. Christeen George has been coopted to one of the vacancies.
The trustees hold a meeting in each of the three school terms. The Headteacher attends meetings, reports on the work of the school and makes suggestions for projects that the Trustees might support.
12 Holy Cross Church, Greenford
The charity receives an income of about £3,000 per annum but has built up reserves that has allowed it to make grants exceeding that amount if required. During 2024 the Charity paid £4,376 to the school which included a contribution to the cost of refurbishment of the Reception classes’ outdoor area (which took place in 2023) and support for a Year 2 visit to the floating classroom.
The Betham Trustees also appoint two governors to the Edward Betham School Governing Board.
Peter Hounsell (Clerk/Treasurer to the Trustees)
9th Greenford Scout group report
2024 was an action packed year for 9th Greenford (Holy Cross) Scout Group. As well as the busy weekly section nights where the young people work towards badges, there were a number of weekend activities; including a wide game on the tube in
London, the group BBQ, sports days, Church parades and a trip to the Docklands.
The group participated in 2 camps in 2024, a group camp in May and a larger District camp in September. Both gave the young people chances to experience new activities and enjoy the great outdoors!
We raised over £275 for the Church by catering for their Christmas fair (and passing the profits back to the Church). Continuing in the Festive spirit, each section made Christmas cards for the elderly residents of the Neem Tree Care Center, which were greatly received.
2 Section leaders left this year to move onto new endeavours and we have been joined by one new Leader and one new Trustee. You may have seen that the area to the left of the hut has been cleared and we laid a base for a new shed and once the weather improves, this will be finished.
Events
Christmas Market
After months of planning Holy Cross Christmas Market took place on Saturday 23rd November and the general concensus seems to be that it was successful. The earlier date seems to have been beneficial and our visitor numbers were up. Stallholders commented that they particularly enjoyed the friendly atmosphere and several asked that they be notified of future events. It was particularly pleasing that we were able
to fulfill the PCC’s wish that the Market would have a community focus with the participation of AGE UK, the WI, the Litten Nature Reserve, London Borough of Ealing community engagement team and Springhallow School.
The Scouts offered to cater the hot food and they did a brilliant job including a spotless clear up.
Frances Hounsell
Annual Report 2024
13
Panto report
Holy Cross Players 2025 pantomime was Space Wars, featuring details from some well-known space shows; Dr Who, Star Wars and Star Trek. It was performed 9-11th January 2025 in the Royal British Legion Club, Greenford.
We had smaller cast than in previous years who started rehearsals in September and dedicated their Sunday afternoons to making Space Wars come to life to deliver a great performance. Between the commitment of the cast and the help from our backstage crew, the performances themselves went very smoothly. Ticket sales were slower than in normal, but we still had some
performances that sold out. We received great audience feedback, included a standing ovation!
The profits every year are donated to charity and this year, we chose to raise money for Bowel Cancer UK in memory of Ray Allen who passed suddenly last year to this disease. Ray had been a member of our cast for years and still returned for a cameo role after he moved away. We miss him.
We will soon start working on our January 2026 show and if you would like to get involved, please get in touch via holycrosspanto@gmail.com or via our Instagram channel (@hcppantomime).
Worship and Ministry
Baptism
Taejah Dawn Drury - baptism age 4 months old.
We joyfully celebrated Taejah’s baptism day, a beautiful occasion filled with love, family, and faith. Surrounded by our church community, we witnessed her commitment to a life guided by Christ. As parents, we are proud to mark this day as the beginning of Taejah’s spiritual journey. Thank you to everyone who shared this special day with us.
Vicklyn Drury
My twin boys Joshua and Zachary were baptised on the 29th September 2024 at Holy Cross along with their cousin Juliet who was visiting from America.
The Baptism was part of the family service which was truly a heartwarming and joyous occasion. The church was filled with love and warmth and Father Graham’s words were touching, emphasising the importance of faith and the support of the church family. There is a real sense of family at Holy Cross and we have all experienced nothing but welcoming love whenever we go.
Servers Report 2024
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. Two of our teenagers have been training to be MC and Thurifer. Kojo already trained as Thurifer and is now taking on the role of MC and Scarlett is being trained as Thurifer now. They are both doing extremely well. Benji has also trained as Thurifer and will be taking on the role of MC shortly and David will start training to be an Acolyte. Again my thanks go to Andrew, Jackie and Rebecca for supporting me all through the year. If any adult or child would like to be a server, 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, it is a very rewarding experience
Annabel Radville
Jess Jones
14 Holy Cross Church, Greenford
In Thanksgiving
Ray Allen RIP
Ray Allen was known for his dedication, kindness, and endless enthusiasm. His faith and commitment to his community touched countless lives, leaving a lasting legacy of love and service.
Ray had early dreams of becoming a jockey but was refused due to his inability to swim! Instead, he took his first job on a farm, learning how to drive the tractor and look after the horses. At twenty-one, he became involved in youth work as a voluntary leader at the village Youth Club. Around the same time, he discovered amateur dramatics. His most memorable performance was at the Royal Albert Hall playing the part of a clown
In 1974, Ray attended the YMCA Training College in Walthamstow. He dedicated 31 years to the YMCA, and in 2005, he was honoured to be the President of the Association of Professional Staff of YMCAs. After retiring, he returned to Lincoln, continuing his work with the community.
I met Ray at Holy Cross Church where he was a church warden and at the heart of church life. He was a constant presence at services and events, enthusiastically taking part, helping and sometimes organising them. His passion for theatre remained strong, and he performed annually at the Holy Cross Players’ Panto. He later became Chairman of
the ACTion Community Theatre in Lincoln, fostering creativity in the community.
Ray’s love for quizzes led to an appearance on The Weakest Link and later saw him as part of a winning team on The Chase. He also dedicated himself to education as a foundation governor at Edward Betham Primary School, especially enjoying the school trips to the Isle of Wight.
Even after relocating to Lincoln, he visited often. We enjoyed trips to the Ideal Home Show, visits to the seaside and even a 70s weekend at Butlins! He was more than a friend—he was part of our family attending many life events of joy (and sometimes sadness).
Ray had an incredible gift for remembering people, never forgetting birthdays or anniversaries. His generosity, warmth, and steadfast Christian faith were constants in our lives.
Despite health challenges, Ray remained grateful and positive, never complaining, always appreciating those around him. He was a dear friend, a true gentleman, and a man who embraced life fully.
Ray, you will be deeply missed. Rest in peace. XX
Jill Marsh
Annual Report 2024
15
Accounts for the Year ended 31 December 2024
16
Holy Cross Church, Greenford
Annual Report 2024
17
----- Start of picture text -----
75 128 - 649 - - -
£ 29,543 5,814 13,144 48,704 10,313 20,670 31,632 80,336 61,283 26,989 1,095 89,367 (9,031) 16,967 (9,031) 7,936
2020
Total Funds
- - 550 - -
£ 26,525 6,661 2,803 5,055 41,044 16,510 21,476 15,000 53,536 94,580 63,001 26,184 7,442 96,627 (2,047) 7,936 (2,047) 5,889
2021
Total Funds
- 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
- -
£ 21,215 9,721 10,370 1,310 8,092 50,708 4,727 33,551 20,710 58,988 109,696 41,188 48,797 1,518 1,685 1,256 94,444 15,252 7,639 15,252 22,891
2023
Total Funds
375 44 - - 401 -
£ 20,307 9,276 4,659 34,661 3,288 31,014 21,697 55,999 90,660 32,216 38,583 3,787 74,987 15,673 22,891 15,673 38,564
2024
Total Funds
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
£ 3,787 3,787 (3,787) (3,787) (3,787)
2024
Capital Funds
£ 20,307 9,276 375 44 4,659 34,661 - 3,288 31,014 21,697 - 55,999 90,660 32,216 38,583 401 - - 71,200 19,460 22,891 19,460 42,351
Operating Funds 2024
- - - 44 - 44 - - - 48 - 48 92 - - - - - - 92
Restricted Funds 2024
375 - - - 401 -
£ 20,307 9,276 4,659 34,617 3,288 31,014 21,649 55,951 90,568 32,216 38,583 3,787 74,987 15,581
Unrestricted Funds 2024
1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Note
Receipts and Payments Account for the Year Ended 31st December 2024 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 -----
18 Holy Cross Church, Greenford
----- Start of picture text -----
£ 7,936 1,866 9,802 11,369 11,369 86,744 475,000 2,800 580,115 105,115
2020
Total Funds
£ 5,889 1,489 7,378 8,462 8,462 83,226 475,000 5,741 568,325 93,325
2021
Total Funds
£ 7,639 962 8,601 10,206 10,206 58,525 625,000 23,397 678,935 53,935
2022
Total Funds
£ 22,891 311 23,202 6,580 6,580 64,032 625,000 2,709 716,105 91,105
2023
Total Funds
£ 38,564 283 38,847 7,849 7,849 65,497 625,000 5,607 731,586 106,586
2024
Total Funds
- - - - -
16,531 16,531 1,779 18,310 18,310
£
Restricted Funds 2024
Barry Fitzmaurice Barry Fitzmaurice Honorary PCC Treasurer
22,033 283 22,316 7,849 7,849 63,718 625,000 5,607 713,276 88,276
£
Unrestricted Funds 2024
5 9 10 11
Note
Statement of Assets and Liabilities as at 31 December 2024 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 10 February 2025 and signed on their behalf by; Graham Miller Rev. Graham Miller Rector and Chair PCC
----- End of picture text -----
Annual Report 2024
19
----- Start of picture text -----
- 510 11 - 300 -
29,543 4,208 1,606 5,814 1,115 8,677 10,313 2,430 18,240 20,670 10,500 10,800
£ £
Total Funds 2020 Total Funds 2020
650 958 - -
26,525 5,054 6,661 6,038 6,205 3,056 1,211 16,510 2,516 18,960 21,476 1,268 7,194 8,462
£ £
Total Funds 2021 Total Funds 2021
268 - - 400
23,180 5,394 1,971 1,200 8,565 11,413 2,979 14,660 2,184 18,960 21,144 1,806 8,000 10,206
£ £
Total Funds 2022 Total Funds 2022
540 34 - 150
21,215 6,048 2,473 1,200 9,721 29,103 2,590 1,284 33,551 1,750 18,960 20,710 6,430 6,580
£ £
Total Funds 2023 Total Funds 2023
900 265 821 54 500 -
20,307 4,456 3,920 9,276 29,374 31,014 1,777 19,920 21,697 2,849 5,000 7,849
£ £
Total Funds 2024 Total Funds 2024
- - - - - - - - - - - 48 - 48
£
Restricted Funds 2024
20,307 4,456 3,920 900 9,276 265 29,374 821 54 500 31,014 1,729 19,920 21,649
£
2024
Unrestricted Funds
Notes to the Accounts for the Year Ended 31st December 2024 Planned Giving Collections at services Cash and cheque Collections Contactless Giving Giving Envelopes and Gift Aided Envelopes 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. 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. Receivables Reclaimable VAT-Listed Place of Worship scheme Other Gift Aid
1 2 3 4 5
Notes
----- End of picture text -----
20 Holy Cross Church, Greenford
----- Start of picture text -----
564 60,719 61,283 18,863 1,067 2,547 1,458 1,062 1,992 26,989 4,026 3,824 5,647 1,023 252 4,091 18,863 - - 936 - 159 - - - 1,095
£ £ £
2020
Total Costs
Total Cost 2020
517 468 256 - - - - -
62,484 63,001 18,767 1,356 2,346 1,017 2,230 26,184 4,056 4,772 6,013 1,196 2,474 18,767 1,200 4,280 1,962 7,442
£ £ £
2021
Total Costs
Total Cost 2021
564 52,065 52,629 16,679 2,529 7,184 1,119 204 823 28,538 4,267 4,345 6,103 489 463 1,012 16,679 - - - 9,480 995 - - - 10,475
£ £ £
2022
Total Costs
Total Cost 2022
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 - - - - 751 - 505 - 1,256
£ £ £
2023
Total Costs
Total Cost 2023
- 32,216 32,216 25,891 3,090 6,725 1,275 351 1,253 38,585 4,648 8,481 10,656 - 635 1,471 25,891 1,500 1,359 - - 588 - - 340 3,787
£ £ £
2024
Total Costs
Total Cost 2024
- - - - - - - - - -
£
Restricted Funds 2024
- 351
32,216 32,216 25,891 3,090 6,725 1,275 1,253 38,585
£
Unrestricted Funds 2024
Notes to the Accounts for the Year Ended 31st December 2024 Diocesan parish contributions Church Schools Levy Common Fund 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 Capital Projects Parish Room Boiler New Church New Chairs Church Roof Repairs Church Drain Repairs Electrical Remedial Works Security - Harrow Fencing Roofing repairs 177 Costons Lane Plumbing repairs 177 Costons Lane
6 7 8
Notes
----- End of picture text -----
Annual Report 2024
21
----- 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 1,465 65,497 475,000
£ £
Market Value
Total Funds 2021
4,234 4,234 4,234 (680) 3,554 (721) 2,833 2,833 2,833 475,000
£
Total Shares
Total Funds 2021
1,834 1,834 1,834 1,834 1,834 1,834 1,834 625,000
£
Legacy
Unrestricted
The Paul Hewish Total Funds 2022
77 77 77 77 77 77 77 625,000
£
Legacy
Restricted
Total Funds 2023
The Miriam Turner
854 854 854 854 854 854 854 625,000
£
Legacy
Unrestricted
The Beth Morris Total Funds 2024
1,469 1,469 1,469 (680) 789 (721) 68 68 68
Fund
Church
Unrestricted
Improvements
The Holy Cross PCC
Notes to the Accounts for the Year Ended 31st December 2024 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 Sold During the year Market movement in valuation Number of Shares as at 31st December 2024 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.
9 10
Notes
----- End of picture text -----
22 Holy Cross Church, Greenford
----- Start of picture text -----
600 - 1,000 1,200 2,800 13,227 1,107 1,576 305 - 488 - - 627 17,330
£ £
2021 C/Fwd
Total Funds 31-Dec-20
3,995 - - 1,746 5,741 13,227 1,107 1,801 351 2,000 488 - - 627 19,601
£ £
2021 C/Fwd
Total Funds 31-Dec-21
5,429 10,412 - 7,556 23,397 13,027 907 1,589 397 321 488 1,000 2,641 627 20,997
£ £
2022 C/Fwd
Total Funds 31-Dec-22
- - 250 647 493 321 - 44
2,459 2,709 13,027 1,779 1,000 1,000 18,310
£ £
2023 C/Fwd
Total Funds 31-Dec-24
- - - - 40 - - - - - - 40
3,091 2,516 5,607
£ £
Market Valuation
Total Funds 2024
- - - - - - - - - -
£
Payments
- - - 48 - - - - - 48
£
Receipts
647 444 321 - 44
13,027 1,739 1,000 1,000 18,222
£
B/Fwd
01-Jan-24
Notes to the Accounts for the Year Ended 31st December 2024 Accruals and Other Creditors Diocese of London Church Fees Diocesan of London Parish Contributions DBR Leadwork Limited (Roof Project Builder) Other Creditors Restricted Funds Pamela Ingram Legacy-young people Messy Church Grant Miriam Turner Legacy-Investment Miriam Turner Legacy-Dividends Diocese Mothers Union Ealing Deanery London DioceseEnergy Audit Fund Lent Appeal 2024-Christian Aid 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. Reserves Policy Whislt the PCC does not have a formal reserves policy as at 31-12-2024, they consider the level of financial reserves as at 31-12-2024 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.
11 12 13
Notes
----- End of picture text -----
Annual Report 2024
23
Parish of Greenford Magna
Holy Cross Church, Ferrymead Gardens, Greenford
April 2025