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2023-12-31-accounts

The Parochial Church Council of St John the Evangelist, Burgess Hill

THE ANNUAL REPORT and

ACCOUNTS

2023

Refurbished clock faces

Aims & Purposes

The Parochial Church Council of St John the Evangelist, Burgess Hill (the PCC) has as its primary objective the promotion of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, according to the doctrines and practices of the Church of England. The PCC has the responsibility of cooperating with the Incumbent, Fr David Charles, in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish the whole mission of the Church: pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. We aim to know Jesus better – and make Him better known.

Objectives and Activities Fr David Charles, on behalf of the PCC

The PCC is committed to enabling as many people as possible to worship at our church and to become part of our parish community at St John’s. When planning our activities for the year, the Incumbent and the PCC have considered the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit and, in particular, the specific guidance on ‘charities for the advancement of religion’. The PCC has complied with the duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016, fully recognising its duty to have due regard to House of Bishops’ guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.

2023 was a very full year for us here at St John’s – a number of major projects associated with the fabric of the church were instigated and will be properly covered in the subsequent Churchwardens’ and Fabric Manager’s reports. It has, however, been particularly pleasing to see that the full restoration of the organ is now underway; we are so grateful to all of those who have donated to enable this to happen, over a long

period of fundraising; an initiative which will not only be of benefit to our committed congregation, but also to the wider town – thinking of the facilities and resources we can offer: for community concerts, recitals, and other local events. Relatedly, it has already been wonderful to see a more expansive programme of concerts reinstated following the disruptive years of Covid – and to see many people coming through our doors, who might not otherwise experience the beauty of the building, the solace of the sanctuary, and the wonderful welcome at St John’s.

The additional community facility that St John’s is best known for is its Spire Café. Our thanks to all who have volunteered to ensure that this has been able to reopen much more extensively than previously. In the New Year, it is hoped that grant applications can be made, with the aim of undertaking a full and professional refurbishment.

A particular highlight of 2023 was our 160[th] celebrations – marking the consecration of St John’s as a church in 1863. Several events were arranged over a week of festivities – a particularly meaningful event was having the Bishop of Lewes come for a special Confirmation service at our church, when 8 children and 6 adults were confirmed. That total of 14 confirmands is the highest St John’s has had in over two decades.

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Regarding the wider lay ministry, it has been great to see new people joining the team of servers, and we hope to train and licence four new Lay Ministers of Communion in 2024.

Conscious that we are living in a much more digital age, concerted efforts have been made this year to improve our online presence – through Facebook, our website, and our already existing channels that strive to promote online giving. The Stewardship campaign that ran in Lent was particularly successful, and the PCC thanks the congregation for their sacrificial and great generosity – especially in times that are tough for us all.

We kept – and expanded – our usual programme of liturgical and social events. The Walsingham Pilgrimage at the end of July saw over 25 pilgrims attending and was a valued opportunity for refreshment and renewal.

The parish had a good number of attendees at the Diocesan Walsingham Festival Day in Brighton in October. Gifts donated at Harvest Festival and at the Toy Service were thankfully received by Family Support Work, to help disadvantaged families across both East and West Sussex.

Our Remembering Service, held at All Souls, proves to be an increasingly popular way of reaching out to the bereaved, as we seek to continue pastoral care, beyond just the point of the funeral. Also, towards the end of the year, it was a pleasure and privilege to welcome the Ven Angela Martin, Archdeacon of Horsham, to preach at a Deanery Combined Choirs Evensong – a service for which our Director of Music, Paul Simpson, pulled out all the stops (albeit on the keyboard!). There were some celebratory refreshments following, and it is great that we have had several other social occasions throughout the year, helping our people enjoy the shared faith, friendship and fellowship that our church seeks to further.

Our ongoing working relationship with the Town Council continues to be consolidated and strengthened. The Vicar was involved with the inauguration of Burgess Hill’s first Holocaust Memorial Day service, and this is now set to be annual fixture. We worked collaboratively for the usual Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday services – additional celebrations were arranged to mark our new King’s coronation. Additionally in 2024, plans are in hand to join for the observance of the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

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The Vicar has enjoyed the opportunity to be interviewed on Mid Sussex Radio and has given a talk for a local bereavement group, and – following approaches – has this year been able to see the headteachers of three of our local schools. In addition to being able to welcome these – and others – to our church for school visits, it has also been a pleasure and privilege to visit the classes; we hope there will be more opportunities for working together more closely.

The Vicar continues to serve as Chaplain to all three of our Bishops in the Diocese – providing support for Licensings, Confirmations, and other special services. He continues to serve on the Diocesan ‘Council for the Common Good’, and has this year been elected to the Diocesan Synod and appointed by the Bishop to be the Deanery Surrogate for Marriages.

Looking forward, the formulation of a new Mission Action Plan (MAP) will certainly be key for 2024. While the initial stages of progressing, this initiative were scheduled for 2023, sadly the sudden and tragic loss of Liz Hayward, a serving Churchwarden, entailed an inevitable postponement. Thank you to those who have taken on some of the roles that Liz used to fulfil – though of course Liz is still very much missed by so many of us. The MAP project will this year be drawing together the results of the various congregational consultations, to ensure that any future plans can be owned by the entire church family.

As detailed below, church attendance has been steadily increasing over the last two years – the MAP process is focused on ensuring that this growth doesn’t plateau, but rather looks to further (yet realistic) opportunities for expanding our vision and mission.

Achievements & Performance

Services Statistics Fr David Charles

The growth in attendance that we saw in 2022 has continued through 2023 – which is evidenced in the graph following. It has been fantastic to welcome new disciples to St John’s, in addition to those who have returned to regular services and worship. We have seen an increase of 15% regarding regular Sunday attendance over the past year, building on the substantial growth witnessed in 2022. The Wednesday midweek service has a large and committed congregation, sometimes approaching 40 in number.

Attendance at Christmas and Easter services continues to flourish – particularly regarding one-off and more informal services, though those who have actually become embedded within the regular congregation seem to have been attracted mainly via the more traditional forms of worship. St John’s is committed to offering a full range of services that will hopefully appeal to all sectors of our community.

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At Easter, the attendance was 195, of which 153 were communicants – an 8 am service on Easter Day was additionally offered this year, and the Easter Vigil service was restored – the total figures demonstrate an increase of 80% over 2022. At Christmas, 450 people attended our church on Christmas Eve/Day, of whom 129 were communicants – there was a large increase in attendance at the Crib Service. Additionally, the Parish Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols saw a huge leap in numbers.

There were 4 baptisms during the year, and 3 weddings. 19 funerals were conducted, of which 14 were held in church; there were 2 burials of ashes. That the number of church funerals is well over double that for 2022 sadly reflects the fact that we have lost several stalwart and muchloved members over the year now past.

There are a number of home communicants – some who receive the sacrament during times of sickness or immobility, while those long-term housebound are generally visited by Dcn Stephen.

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Churchwarden’s Report Colin Squires and Graham Zimmermann (Churchwardens)

Our first full year without all the COVID restrictions and with Fr David as our vicar life at St John’s was looking full of promise. However, this was shattered in early May by the very sad and sudden death of Liz Hayward, Colin’s Co-Warden for the last 3 years. Liz had worked so hard for St John’s taking on so many roles. She is still greatly missed but Colin is very grateful that Graham Zimmermann agreed to stand as his co-Warden from early July when they were both sworn in by The Archdeacon at St. Peter’s, Henfield.

Also, at the end of July Sue Helm, our cleaner, retired after 23 years of service to St. John’s and a small party took place to wish her well and to say a big thank you.

Fabric issues continued in early January with Heatcraft still finishing work on the boilers and Helme & Hallet putting up fencing round the wall that was damaged in November 2022 and the rebuilding took place in November 2023. The leak in the south transept roof where it joins the Lady Chapel had a small repair, but we are waiting to have a proper job done in the New Year. The narthex roof is still giving us concern, but we will need quite a lot of money to do a permanent repair. Some good news was that the Spire roof was repaired – many thanks to The Highmead Christian Foundation for their generous grant, which enabled this to be carried out. All the bulbs in the church were replaced with LEDs thanks to all who sponsored a bulb and to Kevin Bates for fitting them. Work on the town clock in the Spire commenced in mid-October and although the faces were back in situ before Christmas, there was an issue with setting the hands, so it was not running ’til the New Year. Our grateful thanks to Burgess Hill Town Council for paying for this work to be done.

Early in the New Year Paul Simpson took on the role of Acting Director of Music, our grateful thanks to Paul for stepping up and taking this on; thanks also to the various organists who have also helped during the year.

The long-awaited refurbishment of the organ began in mid-June, and Alistair Curtis is doing a fantastic job, and it is hoped that it will be playable by mid-2024 (see the Fabric report for more details). The piano had to be moved to the back of church for this work to be carried out – many thanks to the choir for all their help and understanding, singing from the baptistry.

At the end of the year, it was lovely to have London Meed School back in for their carol service – always standing room only for that service! The lighting of the Christmas tree again attracted a good crowd – many thanks to P & S Gallagher for providing the refreshments and Mid Sussex Brass Band for playing. Also, thanks to Tates of Sussex Garden Centre at South Downs Nurseries for donating the fabulous Christmas tree that was showcased in the sanctuary.

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A successful Stewardship campaign was run during Lent and with Gift Aid and a total of approx. £10,000 per annum was pledged. A fantastic result. Thank you to everyone who responded. However, even with this extra income we are still falling short on our Parish Share Contribution, paying less than 50% of what the diocese would like.

Regular bookings in the Spire Café and the Upper room have brought in much needed income, plus the occasional party or meeting.

We had the following concerts at St John’s:

The concerts take lot of arranging so thanks to Amelia in the office for doing organising. Also thank you to the volunteers who help on the day with set up, serving the bar and then clearing up and getting the church ready for Sunday services. If you want to help in this way for 2024, then please let Colin or Graham know.

We also hosted an artist exhibition in November, and it was great to welcome over 100 people to the church during the day.

Felicity has been running her stall at the back of church on most Saturday’s and outside when the weather is good (see Felicity’s report on page 11). Thank you, Felicity.

The Spire Café has been offering tea, coffee and cakes on Wednesdays and Thursdays when the IT helpers are in, and since mid-year Panini’s, jacket potatoes and sandwiches have been available. Very many thanks to all the volunteers who week by week keep the café open. However, the offer of more people to help to spread the load would be most welcome. (see Spire Café report on page 10).

Thanks also to all the duty wardens and sides people who are the welcoming face of St John’s and are the first people newcomers meet, it is a valuable ministry.

Also, a final thank you to all those who help clean the silver, tidy the notice boards, take rubbish out to the bins and generally make St John’s a clean and welcoming church.

Electoral Roll Ginny Nicholls (Electoral Roll Officer)

At the beginning of January 2023, we had 162 people on the St John the Evangelist Church Electoral Roll. We were pleased to welcome an additional 19 people onto our Electoral Roll during 2023 after attending the church for more than 6 months.

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Sadly, we had 7 church members who died in the year. One church member moved away. This totalled 8 people being removed from the Electoral Roll.

This means at the end of 2023; we had 173 people on the Electoral Roll.

The 2023 Electoral Roll can be broken down as follows:

The figures do not include anyone under the age of 16, or those who come to church regularly but for various reasons have not joined the Electoral Roll.

The total comprises those who come regularly to the main Parish Mass plus people who attend the 8.00 am Sunday Mass or the 10.30 am Wednesday morning Mass.

How do I join the Electoral Roll?

It is possible to go on the Electoral Roll at any time of the year and application forms are available from Father David, the churchwardens (Colin and Graham), the Parish Office or from the Electoral Roll Officer (Ginny Nicholls).

You will need to be over 16, been baptised and not a member of the clergy (e.g. a lay person). Also, you need to live within the parish of St John the Evangelist, if you live outside the area, then you will need to have attended St John the Evangelist for at least 6 months.

A reminder that if you are on the Electoral Roll, and your details change e.g. move house, or email/phone number change, then please inform Ginny.

Why be on the Electoral Roll?

Being on the Electoral Roll allows you to be contacted by the clergy in times of illness, emergency, general support or bereavement.

It also allows you to attend the APCM (Annual Parochial Church Meeting), where you can raise questions, and hear what is happening in the church. You can also join the PCC (Parochial Church Council) which is a committee of church members and clergy, who make decisions on behalf of the church members and looks to support the local community in outreach projects. The PCC meet about 6 times a year.

Fabric

Graham Todd (Fabric Manager)

Organ restoration

Much of this year has been devoted to organising the practical aspects of this work. We are changing the functioning system by using electromagnets to open and close the pipe airways electrically when a key is pressed. We employed a very capable organ contractor from Wadhurst and by the end of 2023 Alistair has completed about 60% or the work.

Picture – The new electromagnets that open and close to allow the air to each of the pipes

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Much of the original structure and workings have been removed and new sections made specifically for our instrument. Financially, we have most of the funding in place, but further donations are welcome to complete the restoration of the whole organ.

Spire Clock

I had previously approached the Town Council to suggest that the four clock faces ought to be refurbished as they were very discoloured.

Subsequently the Council sought quotations for that work, as the clock belongs to the people of Burgess Hill and not the church.

One of the dirty faces and on the right, the four refurbished ones below

The work was completed by Christmas and after a few adjustments, the clock is working again and looking smart.

Boundary wall

In November 2022 the west boundary wall was again badly damaged by an unknown driver. The wall has been rebuilt for the fourth time, in my experience. Sadly, our insurers had to fund the rebuild, rather than the unknown driver.

Lightning Conductor

Every 5 years the conductor must be tested, and arrangements were made in December for this to be carried out in January. (the test was successful)

Heating Contract

We decided not to renew Heatcraft’s service contract due to their poor quality of service. After considerable research and discussion, we awarded the new contract to PDP in Burgess Hill as they are local and had the appropriate experience.

Working Parties

Two working parties were held during the year. These necessary gardening mornings are essential to do the trimming and weeding jobs that the grass cutting contractors are not contracted to do. A new MSDC grass cutting contractor is likely to be responsible for 2024 so we shall have to build up new relationships next year.

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New amplifier

Because the sound system kept cutting out one set of large loudspeakers, we had to organise a replacement amplifier – cost £1100. We managed to encourage a local church Trust to give us a grant to cover the cost.

Spire hall roof

For many years the roof over the hall and the flat roof over the kitchen had deteriorated and leaks were getting worse. During the year we arranged to have the south face of the hall roof overhauled and the tiling re-laid. The flat roof was cleaned of moss and dirt and minor repairs made.

Picture shows the broken and mis-aligned tiles on the hall roof

The Spire Cafe

Kate Rhodes

The Spire Café had been closed for two years so a vast amount of cleaning had to be done before opening (thank you Jean MacCarthy and Colin Squires). Sue McCabe, Jean MacCarthy and I got together in June to work out menus and prices. We agreed the menu to offer a range of sandwiches, panini’s, soup, jacket potatoes, cakes and scones.

The Spire Café was opened for a ‘taster day’ on Wednesday 19[th] July after the church service. The new venture was well received, and the opening times were decided on as Wednesdays and Thursdays between 10.00 am and 1.00 pm.

Thank you to all the volunteers who help run the Café – Sue McCabe, Jean MacCarthy, Maureen Holt, Jackie Knowles, Carol Smethurst, Marc and for Carol and Colin Monery who make the wonderful cakes.

If you want to join our friendly team, then please do get in touch with me.

Charity Giving Di Tipler (Charity Co-ordinator)

With the generous support of the congregations at the 8.00am, 10am and 10.30am services we have collected and sent off cheques for the following amounts during 2023.

WINTER COLLECTION – The Pantry Burgess Hill £250.01 SPRING COLLECTION (no collection due to the launch of the Stewardship Campaign) SUMMER COLLECTION – The Stroke Association £400 AUTUMN COLLECTION – Operation Smile £265.50

We are always open for future charity suggestions from the congregation and then these would be taken back to the PCC for discussion – if you have any then please speak to Di Tipler or John Carter with as much information as possible regarding your charity choice.

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Music Paul Simpson (Director of Music)

It’s been a joy and privilege to be back as Director of Music after an 11-year absence, although 2023 has been a year of two halves for music at St John’s. The work on renovating the organ began round the mid-point of the year, which necessitated the transport of the piano from the front of the church to the back, and the choir leaving the choirstalls for seats beside the piano.

The spring saw us prepare special music for Candlemas, Lent, Holy Week and Easter, and I’m grateful for the help from our team of freelance organists across the year – David CurtisBrignell, Philip White-Jones, Nic Robinson, Philip Sear and Carol Matthews – who covered evening services and others I couldn’t manage.

The move to the west end was the catalyst for the re-creation of the Music Group, which has existed on and off for nearly 25 years; the quartet has accompanied the family services monthly, as well as being involved with other special services in the latter part of 2023.

These included a massed Choral Evensong mid-November, to which members of choirs I’ve been involved with across my musical career were invited. A number of former St John’s choristers returned for this, some of whom also joined us for the 9 Lessons and Carols service in December, alongside members of the congregation.

Our regular numbers have grown slightly, with Cherry Greveson returning in the spring and Martha Sadler joining us mid-year, but we had to say goodbye at Christmas to Rachel Staplehurst after 17 years as she moved out of the area. We very much welcome new members – have a word with me or Gill Squires after a service!

My thanks to all the choristers and other musicians for their hard work, good humour and patience, especially to Gill for all she does as Choir Secretary, and to Fr David for all the encouragement he has given to the musical life of St John’s since his arrival. We are all looking forward to the organ’s unveiling and the opportunities this will bring!

Community Outreach Felicity Fernee (Market stall and outreach)

In January, the church was opened every Saturday morning to offer refreshments – tea/coffee and cake.

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Then from March, we had a monthly stall open on the Saturday set up outside church for people to purchase a variety of homemade marmalade and jams, cakes and second-hand items as to invite them into the church for refreshments. Many thanks to all the volunteers who give up their time allow the church to be open. This gives a social space for people to talk, ask for guidance and prayer. Last year over £2,500 was made from the items sold on the stalls and from refreshments.

Deacon’s Report

Deacon Stephen MacCarthy

Perhaps the greatest effect of the changing threat of the Covid 19 Pandemic was the recovery of our public worship and ministry, which grew toward the levels we had taken for granted previously. Indeed, it was good to be able to celebrate the ‘Rites of Passage’ in individuals family lives in an open and inclusive manner after the restrictions of the previous years. It was a privilege to preside at the wedding of Sam and Melissa Boyer-Frost, regular members of our church family.

Alongside the regular services and opportunities to minister at St Johns I am grateful to Fr David for his generous support, and that I may support him in the life of the parish alongside our other ‘Honorary’ clergy, Fr Clay, and Fr John. A particular privilege in 2023 was sharing their faith journey with our adult confirmation group, which included my granddaughter, Amy.

I was also able to continue in the role of making home visits and sharing home communion with those parishioners now unable to attend our services, and those temporarily absent through injury or illness. This included our regular monthly service for residents at Clayton Court, which we hope to replicate elsewhere in the coming year, having begun with a Carol Service at Edward House a few days before Christmas.

The other thing I want to recall is the Pilgrimage to Walsingham, which took place at the end of July. With the Shrine still quieter than in pre-covid times this was a time for worship, retreat, and reflection with a group of 25. The group include previous pilgrims as well as those who had not experienced this before. New friendships began, and our faith was renewed in this place known as ‘England’s Nazareth’. We now look forward to the 2024 pilgrimage with a group numbering 35 at present.

As we look to the Year of The New Testament in our Diocesan life let us remember one another in prayer as we give thanks for love of God that we seek to share in our parish and community.

EcoChurch

Ginny Nicholls

On 14[th ] February 2023 we were awarded the Bronze Award from EcoChurch.

EcoChurch’s vision is for churches of all denominations to care for creation as an integral part of loving their neighbours and following God faithfully.

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They offer 3 levels of award – bronze, silver and gold and their survey cover 5 areas of church life: 1) Worship and Teaching 2) Buildings 3) Land 4) Community and Global Engagement 5) Lifestyle.

We completed their survey and was able to get the bronze award. We now hope to move towards the silver award over the coming years. Please check out the EcoChurch notice board which gives ideas on how to make small changes in your home to make our world better.

I endeavour to change the notice board every few months, to give the congregation new ideas for improving our planet. Below is the Christmas noticeboard display.

Family Support Work Felicity Fernee (Hurst Deanery Committee Member)

Family Support Work (FSW) is a Chichester Diocese organisation supporting families in need throughout West Sussex. We now have 20 practitioners working across the county giving personal support and contact to families whatever their need.

St John’s support during the year has been through the wonderful collection of food and toiletries at the Harvest Festival, and toys and gifts at the Advent Toy Service. Many thanks to all who have contributed so generously.

On a very gloomy, foggy day the sponsored walk over the South Downs to Alfriston took place, despite getting lost, the walk was enjoyable. We managed to raise £460.00 for FSW.

Flower Arrangers Carol Matthews (Flower Team Co-ordinator)

Throughout the year, the small team of flower arrangers have maintained keeping flowers in the church on a weekly basis with the exception of the Lenten and advent seasons. My thanks go to Jackie Knowles Jacquie Bowers Frost and to Felicity for their help and support over the year. Many people have commented how nice it is to see the flowers in church and how hard we have to work to maintain this,

At the Easter morning service in 2023, you witnessed the creation of the Living Cross during the service In order for this to happen, all the congregation were asked to bring a flower to church on Easter morning, the finished effect looked wonderful, this was something that Fr David had done in other parishes and is something that will be repeated at St. John’s in 2024.

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Lastly, I would like to thank the members of congregation who give generously at Easter and Christmas to help with the cost of purchasing flowers and to those individuals who sponsor the flowers on a specific week to commemorate a loved one, or to celebrate a special date.

If anyone feels able to help in anyway with either arranging flowers or providing sponsorship for a specific date, please do contact me.

Servers’ Report Colin Squires (Server and Sacristan)

The serving team has been very stable during 2023, we have been able to put on a full team for all major services throughout 2023. I am very grateful to all the servers who carry out their duties week by week, especially at the extra services over Easter and Christmas. We have a strong team with lots of experience but are always happy to have others join us. It would be great if any young people wished to join as boat boy or girl, as now Thomas has moved away, we only have Ethan as boat boy. We all consider it a privilege to serve at the altar and to assist the priests in whatever way we can. So, if you feel you have a calling to become part of the team, please do not hesitate to speak to me after any service.

From the Belfry Doug Stewart (Tower Captain)

Another year of struggle to keep the bells ringing. Sometimes we are down to 3 ringers only on Sundays. Usually, 5or 6 and in this connection, I must mention Jo and Joan who regularly come to us from Twineham.

I am pleased to say we have 3 learners, who will join us as full band members later this year. However, we still require more volunteers. Unfortunately for the ringers, there was not many weddings in 2023 to use their skills. We did however ring out on Coronation Day. If you know of anyone wanting to learn, please send them along.

Children’s Church and Youth Group Claire Elliot (Children’s Church Leader)

Leadership Team:

St John's Children's Church remains an important and active part of the life of St John's, particularly within the Sunday services. However, the issues of a diminishing team of leaders and helpers is ever more evident. At the end of the year, one of our regular leaders moved away from the parish and another stepped down, due to other family commitments. I would like to take this opportunity to thank these two leaders for their hard work and support over the years and also all those involved with children's church.

Fr David has arranged cover so that he has been able to join the Sunday group teaching team. For Children's Church to have more groups based on age, and to be able to meet more frequently, we must recruit more helpers and leaders. If you are interested in this part of church ministry, please talk with Claire Elliot.

Sunday morning teaching sessions:

We continue to offer children's church once a month on the 3rd Sunday. We run groups for two age groups from toddler - 9 years and 10 -16 years. There are a larger proportion of children in the age range 0 - 9 years, and we would love to offer several groups within this age span. When we return to the service, we are invited to share the children's work with the congregation. This helps raise the profile of the children's church, celebrates the hard work the children and young people have done and hopefully builds their confidence within the church community.

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Mothering Sunday, 19th March:

The children worked on a craft activity, at the back of the church, which they then gave to their Mums and grandmothers at the end of the service.

Palm Sunday, 2nd April:

After the procession from the band stand with their palm crosses, the children stayed in church to help illustrate the Passion reading by bringing forward items to place on the altar. We had good feedback from members of the congregation on this visual element.

Good Friday, 7th April:

We held a Children's Church/all age Stations of the cross at 10.00am followed by hot cross buns in The Spire. We used the Station of the Cross Eggs to help illustrate the themes and involve the young people, as we move around the church.

Easter Saturday, 8th April:

The children did an amazing job at transforming the Lenten Garden into a beautiful colourful and vibrant Easter Garden. They also decorated a cross with yellow and white flowers to be placed at the altar on Easter day.

Easter Sunday, 9th April:

The Alleluia Banner was resurrected and processed by the children, along with the flower cross, to the altar. Many keen volunteers were involved with this.

160th Anniversary activities:

In April and May Children's' Church focussed on creating some art projects to celebrate the 160th Anniversary of St John's. They went on display the weekend of 10 and 11th June.

On the notice board in the Welcome area is a large image of the church which was created using 160 bricks with a global, local or St John's event

written on them, one for each of the 160 years. The children painted lots of stones in vibrant colours which sit along the Rood screen. These will be distributed amongst the congregation at Pentecost, at the end of the 160th year.

Confirmation, 7th June:

Eight young people from St John's. This process began with an information meeting held on the 5th of March when the young people and parents could ask questions. Father David and Claire then ran six sessions the "Faith Confirmed – preparing for confirmation" resources.

Harvest Thanksgiving Festival, 1st October:

We used the decorated boxes to hold the

harvest donations, which add colour to the altar. Although all the families on our data base were invited to the service, there were only a small number of children at church for Harvest. However, there were still a good number of donations for Family Support Work, FSM.

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Remembrance Sunday, 12th November:

The children and young people went out to lay poppies on the war graves in the churchyard and spent time learning about the Armistice and why we wear poppies.

Advent:

During Advent in November and December, we held rehearsals for the Nativity Crib service. We performed the Animals Nativity, which was written by our Music director, Paul Simpson, back in 2007. This is a highlight of the year for the Children's Church and also involves visiting children, who join in on the day.

Christmas parties:

We held two parties just before Christmas on 9th December. One party was for children up year 5 and a second one for year 6 and above. The parties were well attended by both regular attenders and other children who are on our database.

Other initiatives:

Claire has developed some activity worksheets for visiting school pupils to help them learn about the church. A worksheet for students with learning disabilities is currently being developed.

Deanery Synod

Deacon Stephen MacCarthy and Jean MacCarthy (Hurst Deanery Synod Representatives)

The Hurst Deanery Synod met three times during the year, with an additional joint meeting with Cuckfield Deanery Synod in October 2023. Each meeting began with an act of worship, most usually Evening Prayer. The format usually includes a Finance Report, a substantive subject for the evening, often with an invited speaker, and matters arising in the Deanery together with any advertised events to be publicised.

The initial meeting: 2nd February 2023 at St John the Evangelist, Burgess Hill.

A presentation was given by Emma Arbuthnot, Senior Church Buildings and Pastoral Reorganisation Officer and Revd P Doick, as Chair of the Diocesan Advisory Committee, was focused on the Faculty Process.

There had been many changes to Church buildings regulations over the last few years and the Diocesan Advisory team were there to support parishes and ensure that things ran legally. Emma stressed that the DAC only gave advice. The Chancellor made the decisions.

For any work there are three Levels of Permission.

As well as these three, there are also ‘Minor Matters’ directions. These are items that aren’t on List A&B but are considered urgent and don’t require a full faculty.

2nd meeting: 23rd May 2023 in the Church of the Transfiguration, Pyecombe.

Initially there was a welcome for the new Rural Dean Revd Rachel Cornish from ASC&T parish, and thanks were given to the retiring Rural Dean Revd Paul Doick from Henfield parish. The presentation was given by Steve Argent (Assistant Warden for Lay Ministry in Horsham Archdeaconry). He began with the job description for a parish priest, concluding that it was an impossible challenge and consisted of unfair and unreasonable expectations. He stressed that the Parish needs to care for the clergy, who need lay support.

pg. - 17 -

Congregations need to be engaged and not just think of themselves as an audience. Teams need to be built which are diverse and not comprised of people who are all the same. He pointed out that Jesus’ disciples were a very diverse group.

3[rd] meeting: 22nd November 2023 in the Emmanuel Chapel, Ditchling.

The Rural Dean gave a presentation on Eco Church Rewards and the Deanery Mission Plan.

Revd Debbie Beer, the Diocesan Environmental Officer spoke about The Parish Environmental Support Network. The network encouraged mutual support on environmental action in the parishes. It was aiming to encourage churches to be more aware of climate change and environmental issues. The Diocesan group persuaded Diocesan Synod to adopt the Net Zero initiative, although at the present time the Diocese was concentrating on clergy property and schools.

The group are working towards the environmental goals (which are within Hurst Deanery Mission Action Plan) to:

Cuckfield and Hurst deaneries held a joint autumn meeting St Andrew’s Church Burgess Hill on 19th October 2023

The Archdeacon of Horsham, Angela Martin, and Gabrielle Higgins (Chichester Diocesan Secretary) were present to lead a Finance discussion.

The Archdeacon thanked all the parishes for their pledges last year and explained that as we are a family of faith the Diocesan Board of Finance relies on the parishes to pay for clergy and clergy housing, as well as the other items. Parish Ministry Costs are calculated by averaging the total costs across all the parishes across the Diocese. The Diocese does not present the figure as an invoice. Some parishes would find it difficult to pay the average cost and it is helpful when more affluent parishes assist them.

Given the cost-of-living crisis and inflation, it is extremely unlikely that the Diocese will be able to sustain present commitments into the future as an extra £1.5million would be needed in 2024. Therefore, 2024 would be a transitory year. The work of God would continue but there would be re-adjustments to the Diocesan expenditure, so that the Diocese would be in a stronger position in 2025.

Gabrielle Higgins (Diocesan Secretary) took over the presentation and again thanked the parishes for their hard work and sacrifices. Last year a very generous £13.7m had been raised in parish share but the forecast outcome for 2023 was a deficit of £1m considering increased costs and a decrease in pledges. For 2024 the Diocese was budgeting for a deficit of £1.6m, with half of the shortfall coming from restricted funds. Although the Diocese was expecting to evolve, maintaining the parish ministry system was still its priority.

pg. - 18 -

Gabrielle further mentioned:

Treasurer’s Report Geoff Burton (Treasurer)

2023 saw our overall total income improve due to the Stewardship Campaign which ran in the Spring – highlighting to the congregation different ways they can give to the church and how much it costs to run. The Stewardship Campaign and a variety of other special appeals throughout the year brought in £26,000 more than last year. Regular giving, including Gift Aid owed by HMRC has improved from last year.

Total costs have increased by £22,000, mostly due to major repairs to the Organ, which are still on-going. Excluding these costs gives an increase of expenses this year was caused by a big jump in energy prices. The church further reduced its planned Parish Contribution by £7,400, and as a result has been able to increase General Funds slightly. Regular giving this year has covered 70% of our costs, compared with 72% last year. If we include the maintenance cost this percentage drops to 61%.

In 2023 it cost £82,000 to run the church. This is the minimum cost. Maintenance, charitable donations, concerts and the Spire Cafe costs are in addition to this figure. This is £1,577 per week. £16.60 per week per person regularly attending this church. Every week, even if you don't come every week.

If the church paid full Parish Contribution, this would rise to £120,000 per annum, or £2,308 per week (£24.30 pp per week). The Diocese will not be able to continue this situation for long as most churches are currently not paying the full amount.

The decoration to the vicarage were only carried out due to a generous loan from a member of the congregation. This loan will need to be repaid at some stage.

The PCC has been active in reducing some of the costs, particularly printing and we are looking at other areas where reductions can be made, but we have built up some arrears on stonework maintenance which cannot be put off much longer.

The listed building status of the church means we often have to pay more for repairs, particularly external repairs.

General Funds have risen to £7,000. However, the church should try to maintain a General Reserve of £20,000, otherwise necessary repairs have to be delayed or subject to a special appeal.

All other funds (mostly Organ Fund) have to be kept for the specific use of those funds and they cannot be used to keep the church open. Clearly, we all need to re-consider our giving.

pg. - 19 -

Safeguarding Dr Vince Elliot (Parish Safeguarding Officer)

Our Church is committed to maintaining a safe environment for all children, young people and vulnerable adults, while remaining open and inclusive, to all worshipers.

We have adopted and implemented the House of Bishops Safeguarding Policy, ensuring that all those who work with children and young people are safely recruited and appropriately trained.

There have been no significant safeguarding issues since the last APCM.

As already stated, we continue to ensure that all those who work with children and vulnerable adults, and who require a DBS check, are up to date with their checks. The review date is now every three years and several will require renewal this year. The DBS application process has been simplified with digital identity checks, which makes the process much quicker and easier for the applicant, though this is dependent on the applicant having the necessary hardware and suitable documentation.

We continue to implement safeguarding training, with those who have responsibilities for children and vulnerable adults, encouraged to engage in the various training courses, the level of training being dependant on the level of responsibility.

All those, of whom I am aware, require to complete the Basic Awareness Training, have been informed and given details for how to access the course. However, this course is available to anyone in the congregation, irrespective of whether they have safeguarding responsibilities. It is an Internet based course and takes about 1 ½ hours and I would encourage anyone who has is interested in increasing their knowledge regarding the care and well-being of children and vulnerable adults, to consider this course. If anyone would like further information, please do contact me and I shall provide details of how to access the course.

The higher-level courses, the Foundation course and the Leadership course are required for those who have greater responsibilities. There have been some changes in the requirements and all those who require these specific levels of training, will be informed and the appropriate training arranged.

Finally, if anyone has any concerns or questions regarding the safety or wellbeing of any child, or vulnerable adult, no matter how minor or trivial they may seem - please come and talk to me about it. Anything you say will be treated in the utmost confidence.

I am in Church every Sunday and my contact details are on the notice board in the Narthex and in the Spire Café.

Structure, Governance and Management Ginny Nicholls (PCC Secretary)

The PCC is a charity (Charity number: 1165166) registered with the Charity Commission. Its governing document is the Parochial Church Councils (Powers) Measure 1956.

The PCC and Churchwardens are elected under the terms of the Church Representation Rules 2006 (Schedule 3 to the Synodical Government Measure 1969 as amended by Statutory Instrument 2004 No 1889).

pg. - 20 -

The Vicar serves under licence from the Bishop; Churchwardens and Deanery (and, whenever applicable) Diocesan Synod delegates are the subject of separate elections to their posts. All these then serve on the PCC ex officio.

Churchwardens are elected annually, four lay members of the Deanery Synod for a threeyear term, and a maximum of twelve members of the church are elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting, for a three-year term, on a rolling cycle. The electorate comprises those persons on the Electoral Roll.

All those who attend our services / members of the congregation are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll; members are warmly encouraged to stand for election to the PCC and we try to ensure a balance of skills and experience where possible.

The PCC members are responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern and importance to the parish, including deciding on how the funds of the PCC are to be spent; a Financial Procedures Policy is in place. A Grievance Procedure and Disciplinary Procedure have both been adopted in respect of church employees.

The Standing Committee (SC) of the PCC transacts PCC business between PCC meetings – either because the matter is urgent, or, on the other hand, because the issue is sufficiently routine that waiting for a full PCC discussion would be unnecessary. The Committee consists of the Vicar, Churchwardens, Treasurer, Secretary and one other elected PCC member.

In 2023, the PCC was comprised of the following members, after the March 2023 APCM:

Name Appointment (expiry)
Fr DavidCharles Incumbent: ChairofthePCC, Standing Committee
JohnCarter PCC (2026), Standing Committee
ClaireElliot Deanery Synod(2026), Standing Committee
VinceElliot PCC (2026),ParishSafeguarding Officer
LizGriffiths PCC (2026)
RoyHorn PCC (2025)
Jean MacCarthy Deanery Synod(2026)
SueMcCabe PCC (2025)
GinnyNicholls PCC (2025),ElectoralOfficer,PCC Secretary, Standing Committee
ColinSquires Churchwarden, Standing Committee
Doug Stewart PCC (2026)
DianaTipler PCC (2026)
Graham Todd Deanery Synod(2026), Standing Committee
Averil West PCC (2024)
Graham Zimmerman Churchwarden (started in July, filling the vacancy from Liz
Hayward’sdeath in May), Standing Committee
GeoffreyBurton Treasurer, Standing Committee, Co-opted
Deacon Stephen
MacCarthy		 Co-opted

The PCC held 6 meetings during 2023 on the following dates:

pg. - 21 -

It was agreed at the October PCC meeting that a short summary of the PCC minutes would be posted on the church notice board. This allows visitors and members of the congregation to have an overview of what is being discussed at PCC meetings.

Administrative Information

Church Address:

St John the Evangelist Church, Lower Church Road, Burgess Hill, RH15 9AA Administrative Address:

St John the Evangelist Church, Lower Church Road, Burgess Hill, RH15 9AA

Incumbent: Fr David Charles: 01444 244340 or vicar@stjohnschurchbh.org.uk Charitable status of the parish

The PCC is a charity registered with the Charity Commission: number 1165166. Name and address of Independent Examiner:

Helen Preece, Unit 1, Teknol House, Victoria Road, Burgess Hill, RH15 9LH

Copy of the previous APCM minutes is printed below:

The Parish of St John the Evangelist, Burgess Hill

Meeting of the Parishioners for the Election of Churchwardens

and

Annual Parochial Church Meeting

Sunday 26[th] March 2023 11.30am in Church

Chaired by Father David Charles

MINUTES

  1. Father David opened the meeting with prayer.

  2. Apologies had been received from Sue McCabe and John and Veronica Holden.

  3. Election of Churchwardens. Nominations had been received for:

Liz Hayward Proposed by Felicity Fernee and seconded by Colin Monnery Colin Squires Proposed by Vince Elliot and seconded by Richard Ellis

All were in favour and they were duly elected.

Father David took the opportunity to express his huge thanks to them both for not only the practical work they had undertaken in the last year but also the complementary skills they have brought to the role and their relationship with him. It has been a pleasure, privilege and joy to work with them and he looks forward to the coming year.

The Annual Parochial Church Meeting then followed:

  1. Acceptance of the minutes of the APCM 22[nd] May 2022

Proposed: Jean MacCarthy Seconded: John Carter All in favour that they are a true and accurate report of the meeting.

pg. - 22 -

2. There were no matters arising. Fr David signed the minutes.

  1. Acceptance of the Annual Report

Father David thanked Liz Hayward for producing the Annual Report booklet. There are a number of reasons why we should be proud of what it represents and what we have achieved in the last year. So many people have been involved in a number of different activities. The PCC has approved the Annual Report.

A question was asked about the attendance graph. The letters refer to the weeks of the month: week A is the first week etc. The graph shows a growth in attendance of 20+ during 2022. This was helped by restarting the 8am service and also a growth in numbers at the 10am Mass. It is important to remember that the report was written as at the 31[st] December and we already have many reasons to be thankful in 2023. There is much to look forward to including the Confirmation with Bishop Will and the Mission Action Plan after Easter.

Proposed: Graham Todd Seconded: Paul Simpson All in favour.

  1. Adoption of the Accounts

Geoff Burton reported that our income has held up reasonably well and we were able to host a couple of concerts last year which added much needed funds. Planned giving was the same in 2022 as in 2012. We have lost members of our congregation through moving away and some have died. The gas and electricity bills are a major concern. In 2019 we paid £2007 for the whole year but in Dec 2002 the bills were £2800 (reduced to £2300 after the Government subsidy). Our tariffs are fixed until the end of this year and may not go down even then. Other items such as hosts and candles have increased in cost.

We have currently pledged to pay less than half of what we should be paying of our Parish Share. We promised £37000 but Geoff predicts that it is unlikely that we will be able to pay more than £27000 this year.

Liz commented that the response to the Stewardship Campaign had been fantastic and that it was very encouraging that so many people were willing to increase their support of the Church at a time of such economic uncertainty. Perhaps our future isn’t so bleak.

Last year our expenses amounted to £105000 in total which included £14000 in repairs and £1000 in concert costs. In a normal year it costs £120000 to run the Church.

Geoff stated that he had been doing the job of Treasurer for us for 10 years and would be 75 next year so was giving notice that this would be his last year. He will do the end of year accounts and is willing to support his replacement in any way he can.

Geoff was asked how long we can “not pay” our share before we are penalised, for example by losing our incumbent. For example if we were only to pay £27000 what might be the penalties? In the long term the situation is unsustainable as the Diocese would become bankrupt if too many parishes were in this position.

Adoption of the accounts was proposed by Kate Rhodes and seconded by Alan Rhodes.

All were in favour.

pg. - 23 -

  1. The roll stands at 162. This is 6 more than at the last APCM. Ginny Nicholls (Electoral Roll Officer) referred us to page 7 of the Annual Report for a detailed breakdown of the Roll.

  2. Report on Goods and Ornaments: Colin Squires reported that there had been no changes to the terrier as at 31[st] December 2022

  3. Election of four Deanery Synod members - there were only four nominations so all were duly elected.

Claire Elliot Proposed: Jean MacCarthy Seconded: Rachel Staplehurst Liz Hayward Proposed: Diana Tipler Seconded: Graham Todd Jean MacCarthy Proposed: Jane Hatt Seconded: Averil West Graham Todd Proposed: Liz Hayward Seconded: Averil West

  1. Election of PCC members - there were only six nominations for nine places. Of these, four were members willing to stand for re-election. One further nomination was forthcoming at the meeting:

John Carter Proposed: Colin Squires Seconded: Averil West Vince Elliot Proposed: Colin Squires Seconded: Doug Stewart Liz Griffiths Proposed: Claire Elliot Seconded: Jean MacCarthy Virginia Nicholls Proposed: John Carter Seconded: Liz Griffiths Douglas Stewart Proposed: Richard Ellis Seconded: John Carter Diana Tipler Proposed: Liz Hayward Seconded: Graham Todd Graham Zimmerman Proposed: Liz Hayward Seconded: Colin Squires

Father David thanked Kate Rhodes who had decided not to stand for re-election. Her support and work, particularly with The Spire was greatly appreciated. Liz also thanked Kate on behalf of the Wardens and added that they are very pleased that she will be continuing in her role as volunteer co-ordinator.

  1. Appointment of an Independent Examiner: Helen Preece is prepared to continue.

Proposed: Graham Todd Seconded: Felicity Fernee

All were in favour.

pg. - 24 -

  1. Any Other Business.

Graham suggested it would be appropriate to update people on the progress of the organ restoration project.

Father David commented that the Public Notice was on the door and noticeboard and people have until Wednesday 29[th] March to notify the Diocesan Registrar of any objections. We are fortunate in that the DAC did not put any provisos on the faculty application so there is no reason why it will not go ahead. Graham had done a fantastic job in putting the application together for us. Paul Simpson does very well when playing the organ, but it is in an awful state. It is important that the project goes ahead and that the money which has so generously been donated over many years is put to good use. Each year this is delayed its value decreases.

It is hoped the Chancellor will grant the faculty in April or May and that Alistair Curtis, the organ builder, will be able to achieve a substantial amount of work during July and August. The total cost will be in the region of £80000 and at the moment there is £47000 in restricted funds. Graham has applied for a grant for £10000 and will pursue other grants. Dr Alan Thurlow is very supportive of the project which may help with further fund raising.

The question was asked about the roof was secure. To the best of our knowledge, it is - yes.

The most essential tranche of work will go ahead first with the hope that we will get the money to complete further stages (all of which are included in the one faculty).

The Annual Parochial Church Meeting ended at 12.15 pm.

Thank you for your faithfulness over 2023 and Please continue to pray for our church and local community of Burgess Hill

pg. - 25 -

St John the Evangelist Accounts 2023 and Examiner’s Report

pg. - 26 -

Balance Sheet TokafFwbdsl Intan8iWp•55ets Tan8lNe asset5 Herita8e assets E￿oWed I￿￿￿tMEntS 1?.9 16407 Totsl frmed assets 17.YO 1&407 li Stocks Dèbtttrs 14 In¥e5tments Cb5h ai bank aTrJ In hand 61286 Total currerbt assets ns30 65.539 CrÈditors". AmDunts fallingdueithin One)ar 113.1061 f12.6581 Is Net current assetsorlliw￿lItlE5j 65A23 52.881 Total assets lesscurrelit1￿bll￿es 83J63 69.288 Creditors." Amounts fallin8dueafter morethan one year prov￿10￿5 for liabi1itie5 f4,1￿￿)1 Totsl neta5setsorllia*ljtie51 79J63 65.288 Thètund$ofthÈ Ehrity'. E￿0￿ment funds 17940 $3J84 14407 47.781 Re5trirted inrprne fvnd5 Unre5tricredfund5 7.939 LliXI Revaluarion reserve Total umestrfcted fund5 7.939 1.1 Total charftyfvnds 79J63 65.288

Notes to the financial report (continued) Analysis of income and endowments u￿r￿trIrted Totsl Fund5 ToiulFund5 Planned 8i¥in8 lexcl. tax refundsl Planned wvin8 Ino tax refundsl L(K)5e collection5 46.801 ￿6￿01 4&422 6,480 6621 Surnmerfete& Chrlstma5 bazaar Othe¢ Fund Rai*ngEvents Concert5 3,665 3,476 Othw Speclal appeals GrftAid recDverable 10.104 31628 42.732 &224 14,005 331 14IA37 15,245 Le8acie5 Giants 237 237 6,761 6.761 5.276 DDn4ts¢ThaTrd ￿tle BN52 £3IY59 £￿1￿11 E87,265 Fee5 forweddin85 &funerals 3.327 65 3392 1.172 th¥itable4thitye5 £3,117 É65 EJ392 1.172 CafWChurch Hall 5.504 Concerts 4,614 14 2,1 541e5 ofthe parish rn%aEine Rent frorn letbngof Parlsh house 8ible5tutynote5 Church cenrrehinn8fee5 Magazine adverrisernentfees 800￿￿11 3.164 3.164 othprtrnd1n80rty￿tyeS lJJ82 £lJ282 4. k & C6Fdep0511 Intere C8F investmÈnt fund dividÈnd 23 1.647 I￿70 574 492 492 491 Rent frorn letbngof invest￿ntProperty Investments £515 £1.617 £Z.l62 oth￿ Ye￿￿tS 32 611 Totsi INorne and enthrywrnents on all lunds £10520 £34.671 £139￿79 £￿.763

Notes to the financial report Icontinued) UnreKrfrted Re5trfcted Endo￿0 Totsi Fynd5 TotolFund5 202 Stavèidship costs Grantsc05ts InVest￿nt ￿nagernentcoSts Otherfundralsln8 COStS 977 977 560 Cortof rniiinsfunds £977 £977 £960 Chan￿￿eEra￿tsand dotbatitins Mission & evanidlsm costs DIOC￿￿ pailsh share Clergyandother PeOp￿Se%￿Se5 Salar￿5 and knorarla Ind Nl 585 82 38.766 98.766 45.834 8.673 8ffi73 IL773 Upkeep ofSer￿CeS Church wMin8 Costs Sunday sthfyy Church maintenance and repwr Upkeep of churchyard Upkeep of W￿ra8@ starb8e 105tsof d(￿ated 8olld5 MIS￿11a￿e0u5 11217 16.975 153 IL837 18.651 J4.349 10.544 Adfflini5tratsn a,E07 317 3.gZ4 3,360 8ank Ihat8È5 Deyeciadon Governance (osrof thafttaWea(￿51￿es £Y.685 £28.968 £123￿54 £103.649 Sumtnorfetolchristmas b3Laar(oM5 ConcertC05t5 172 935 Churih ientrE hirin8ca5ts 534 534 8ible 5tu* nDte5 parish magatine costs ooksts11 costs Storège costsof d￿ated goods 67 Cortofothertradlnsacti I706 El7[ EI.003 Totsl onall lunds £98.36E 2H,968 £127.337 105.612

Notes to the financial report (continued) Missionary and charitable gNing: li￿rirt￿d EndDwed Tutal Fund5 TotolFuryd5 Water￿d 28 245 TheChlldrer4Wety SL Pettf & SL S69 673 183 283 DEClJkrnine 734 DEC Tuthy tndVeteTGll5 493 453 542 139 23 339 Fumty￿lpWrt wo B78 401 Bur￿55 HilIPo￿try shup5 ikneiitintsry Fund R0ytsi&T￿ShLt￿o SCChilé¢eAirt pieeé 250 250 128 L21 5$ ss $34 m15Sk￿5/o[SEaffleM Jrge55hlillCoffNnUnltyFL￿kn1 Forget-rne.notLu ￿￿.5￿sSexOI￿erltreFSonSc0unc 126 126 ToyiNJx 8rikThtonHLkneless you￿1¥MIndS L31 7B6 S,￿5 Staff cgsts Aestrfcted Endowed Totsl Fund5 TDtoNFunds 2023 2032 Wu9g5Gnd501ariÈs EfflJty5rriG15ecwityt05ts EmJtypensiDnc05ts ￿￿73 73 11,773 73 4673 11.773 Govemance Total Furtds rrtolFw tptndenttxllmlno loo 2U¥ Tran5fer5 b￿ween fund5 EndDwtd Total Fuhds TOtolFund5

Notes to the financial report (continued) Flxed Assets Inve5tment5 Unre5trtcted Re5trkted Endowed Totsl Fund5 Market￿lue l January 2022 tk5posals at carryir* value Purthases * wst 16.407 16A07 Net8ain5 and revaluation 1,53a 1.533 MaikÈtvalue31 DÈ£èm￿r 2022 É17.940 £17,940 b Tangible fixed assets FreehDld land Audiovisual Offte Totdlfixed and me C05t orvaluatilin At ljanuary 2022 Addition5 5P05als Rew4luation At 31 Oetefftber2022 Charge forimpaivTherrt At ljanuary 2022 Addirons 5P05als Revaluatyon At 31 Dete￿i￿r2022 Nei b00kimr￿nts At 31 De£ember 2022 At31 DecernbEr2021

Notes to the financial report (continued) Analysis of net assets by fund Unrortricied Rertrict Entsod Tolal Funth TotolFund5 Fixed a552tsforchurch u5 Inve5tmÉntfixed a55ets 17,940 17.910 16.407 C￿￿ent355et5 (except Cash ai bankand on deppgt 28.901 46.807 75.708 6J.286 391 13.106 (13.6581 14.OCQI remi IlabiliDe5 £45.616 É47,191 17.940 £110.754 É61.035 Debtors Unrortrictod Rettlic￿d Totsl Funth Tot01Fu￿l5 Incorneiax reco¥erab 2.173 3.324 Prepayrnems andaccwed Incorne 317 317 929 Otherdebtus £2A90 £331 £2A22 £4.252 Creditors: amounts fallin8 due within one year unrestrfrted Re$￿ided Total Fuhds TotolFuts Deferred income 100 crbalsfof thlirfesand othercosts LO,71S 10.71S 7,th)1 ArLhdeatDll 51oan OthErcreditD 391 2391 5,557 £11.715 £391 £13.106 12.658 Creditors: amounts fallin8 due aftèr morè than onè yèar Unre5trfcted Re5ty1cted End￿ed Total FuTrd5 TotoJFund5 Oeferred income crua15fLY Utilbtiesand Oiherc05ts Archdexon sloan Oth￿rcreditorS £4 £4.tthJ £4.000

Notes to the flnanclal report (continued) Prioryur Stst•mgnt of Fin•nci•l ActivitlO5 cornpor¥tive figur0¥ for thi• ywr Unre5trirted Re5triited Endowed TtalFuthl$ Fund Fun Fund th)natsonsAnd14aties Chaihtable actsvltses 80.761 17,165 1,172 L172 Other tra¢In8adb￿eS Investments 4.6$0 4,650 498 567 1.065 Other ieceipts 611 611 Total Inc47rne S?￿92 7￿71 94,763 Ewenditule ￿-. 9fA) Chaihtable actyvlfjes 94.880 8.759 3,649 Other tiadiwac¥viOes Othèr Èxpenditure Total expendfturB NÈt 88inS lor ￿sseS1 on In¥stments Netirttotheorlrtetpertditwrl Transftts bÈtwenfunds 1.003 l.CrfJ3 96W3 759 105,611 IiOJ491 I1￿?5) 1100491 l>h¢rrerrynlsedylfft$ll105wiI.. GaiDOlbssesl on revèluètSDnoffiied ￿ets Othèr EainsllltsssÈsl RecondlluÉronDflunds.' 4etMwmettt in funds 12,1851 (2,1851 12,L8$1 18.592 iu,oasi TOt31 luTrd5 brouEhtfofwèrd Total fundSur￿dfoIWar1 10.374 49.357 I,iuJ 47,781 65,1 Statement of funds Tiarder tsther4ainS d10s￿S Baan blfv DI-A￿-13 Inco EKpendttL Ji.Do£.23 Church ChJdty É6.733 É9.674 629 7.36) 10,577 Total endow¢dl¥nJ5 £i$Ar7 1,$13 17.940 Otgan lund Charltyfund Bells Fund £44.410 34521 128,8881 50.043 £D É1.7d7 130 19)1 L797 Oth2r 5petlalAppÈ3ls Christmas ￿ght&fUnd £460 ÉL164 20 Total testlittedfimds £47.781 M671 &9681 S3.484 Generbl fund £110￿23} IL123 99.467 io, 1764 Deslgnatsd tunds Aevèluèbon r￿erve S.741 IL6891 (loj￿) 5.175 Total LI￿1 uwestrkt￿lunds ¥1 1943681 7.939 Totalfvnds £55308 E119,879 £(117,3371 £1,533 .363 139,879 127.337

balance tyaccount ty ledger codaccount Asset Fixed Asse F.207 Investments Revaluation Asset Fixed Asse F.207 Investments Asset Fixed Assets - Long T The Church Charity Asset Fixed Assets - Long T The Crundon Church Charty Asset Current As.,A.406 Gift Pending Asset Current As,.A.409 Prepayments & Accrued Income Asset Current As B.000 CCLA General Funds Asset Current As B.000 CCLA Organ Fund Asset Current As B.100 Cashlundeposited Receipts Asset Current As B.000 HSBC Asset Current As B.000 Nahvesl Bank Liability Supplier S.000 Clergy Locum Liability Supplier S.000 Supplier Accounts Payable Liability Liability- L.301 Accruals & Deferred Income Liability Liability- L.501 British Heart Foundab"on Liability Liability- L.501 Burgess Hill Food Bank Liability Liability- L.501 Operation Smile Liability Liability- L.501 Ronald Mac D Hospital Homes Liability Liability- Current Royal British Legion Liability Liability- L.501 Sl. Peter & Sl. James Hospice Liability Liability L.501 stroke Association Liabillty Liability- Current Syrian Familles Liability Liability- L.501 Receipts on Behalf of 3rd Parties Liability Funds Church Charity Liability Funds Crunden Church Charity Liability Funds Endowment Capital Funds Liability Funds Bells Fund Liability Funds Candle Tree Liability Funds Christmas Lights Liability Funds Organ Fund Liabillty Funds Resthcled Funds Liability Funds Childrens Church Liability Funds Hall Fund Liability Funds Legacies Fund Liability Funds Unrestricted Designated Funds Liability Funds General Fund Liability Funds Unrestricted General Funds Liability Liability- L.900 G A Todd Loan Liability Liability- L.900 Bank Loans & Overdrafts Liability Liability_ L.900 Bank Loans & Overdrafts 31 Dec 2023 amount 1532.91 6733.39 9673.58 2504.72 AIT 317 Al 431.32 B 46806.91 CCLAR 181.69 B 27785.82 B 502.12 B ACC -10715.05 ACC 42.83 CF 42.5 CF -332 CF -123 CF 8.7 CF 283.4 CF 10CF -113.08 CF -7362.5 CC -10577.38 CCC -1797.2 BF 460 CT -1183.85 CL -50043.16 OF -32.43 GF 4227.6 GF 70.81 GF 453.22 GF 4000 LTL

Examlners Re ort IndÈpendet)t Ex4mlDerfs Report tothe PCC of 5tJohn the Evan6ellst Churth, Burgess Hlll. I report on the accounts ol the PCC for theyear ended 3111212023 whlch are set out on pages to Ae5Pertl￿ r•spon51bllltlo oltru5tÈes and pxamlner. The members of the Church's Pccare responsible fr>r Ihe Prepafètion of the accounts. The member5 of the Church'5 PCCcon51derthat an audit 15 not required forthisyear (under sed￿n 144121 of the CharitlesAct 2011 Irhe 2011 Actll and that èn independenr examinatlon Is needed. It Is my responsibility to.. Examine the accounts under Section 145 of the 2011 Act.. To follow the procedure513Sd down in the General Oi¢eciionsgS¥en bythe Charity COMMI￿1¢neI$ (under seition 14515llbl ofthe 2011 Act.. and To statewhether particularmBtter5 havecome to my attention. Baslsof Independe*t examlnÈV5 report MyexaTnination was carried out In accordance w￿th the general directions given by thè Charity Cornmlssion. An exarninatlDn included a review of the accountin8 ￿CordS kept by the charity and a Iotnparison of the actounts presentÈd wilh those records. It also includes tonsideration of any unusual iteTns ordi5c105ure5 in the accounts, and 5eekill8explanatlOn5 frain you a5 trustees ioncernin8 any Such matter5. The procedures undertaken do not provide 311 the evidence that would be requlred in and audit and con5equeDtly no opinion 15 given a5 to whether the accounts present a'true and fairview, and the report is limited tothose m3tter5 set out in the st8temenr below. Indepen¢Jent examlnerf5 5t¥tement In connection with my exarninatiOTI, no mattèr has Come to my attentionwhl¢h glwes me cause io believe thai in, 3ny maierial respett.. The accounting record5 were not kept In accordance with Section 130of the CharitiP5Ad- or The accounts did noi accord with the accountin8 record5', or The account5 did noi comply wirh the applicable requirements concerning rhe form and content of accouDt5 Set out in the Chariiies lAc￿￿n￿ and Reportsl RegulaliDn$ 2008other than any requirernent thatthe accuuDt5Bive a'true and fairf viewwhich is not 3 matter considered a5 Part of an independent exafflination. I have come across no other matter5 in ionnedion With the e¥amlnation to which attention should be dTawn in this report in order to enable a pioper un¢lerstandin8 of the accounts to be reached. gned.. Name.. Helen Preece Dale.. 0910412024 Professional Quallfication.. ACMA, ACIB Address= Unlt l. Teknol House, Victoria Road. Burgess Hlll, West 5us5ex. RH15 9LH