## **Annual Report 2025** ## **Annual Church Meeting 26[th] April 2026** ## **St Mary’s Church** _Attached – Examined accounts and Report from the chair of the PCC as required by the Charities Act 2011_ ## **Contents** |Agendas for the Annual Meeting of Parishioners|| |---|---| |and Annual Parochial Church Meeting|1| |Clergy report|2| |Churchwardens’ report|5| |Bradfield Deanery Synod|6| |Prayer Life: Report on Prayer and Healing Team|7| |Children’s Work|8| |-
Bumps, Babies & Toddler Group|9| |-
Youth Club|10| |Creation Matters|12| |Outreach: Churches Together in Burghfield,|| |Sulhamstead and Mortimer|13| |Outreach: Outward giving|13| |Outreach: Burghfield Parish Support Group for|| |The Children’s Society|14| |Fund Raising Report|15| |Burghfield St Mary Primary School|16| |Buildings: Fabric report|17| |Buildings: Parish Centre report|18| # **The Annual Meeting of Parishioners and Annual Parochial Church Meeting** # **AGENDA** ## Opening Prayers Apologies ## **ANNUAL MEETING OF PARISHIONERS** Minutes of the Annual Meeting of Parishioners held on 27[th] April 2025 Election of Churchwardens ## **ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING** 1. Minutes of the APCM held on 27[th] April 2025 2. Matters arising from the minutes. 3. Presentation of the Updated Electoral Roll 4. Presentation of the Annual Report 5. Report from Churchwardens 6. Report from Deanery Synod 7. Annual Report Statement by Treasurer 8. Matters arising from the Annual Reports. 9. Appointment of Independent Examiner 10. Report on Safeguarding 11. Election of Members to serve on the PCC - a. Election of PCC Members - b. Election of Deanery Synod Representatives 12. Appointment of PCC Secretary 13. Vision for the Future – Revd Glynn Lautenbach 14. Any Other Business – _only items which have been notified in advance will be taken_ 15. Closing Prayer 1 ## **Clergy Report** 2025 was a wonderful year of consolidating the several areas of outreach we began in 2024. Firstly our Bumps, Babies and Toddler group which began in January 2024, which has proved to be a wonderful outreach to local families (and some further afield). The Sunday@6 service begun in June 2024 continues with a usual congregation of around 10 people where we worship, learn, and pray together in an informal setting. Later in the year we celebrated another first anniversary of an outreach we began in September 2024, the new Youth Club for young people in Years 6-8. It has only been possible through the Youth Club Team volunteers, who have resourced the Youth Club, under the leadership of our ordinand in training Connor Heath. Connor continues his part time studies at Cuddesdon, with his third and final year begun in September 2025. 2025 was also a year of sabbatical for me which only comes along every 10 years in our diocese, so I really enjoyed the 3 full months sabbatical leave, as well as my normal annual leave. Clergy from the deanery took our services and my particular thanks to the Revd Juliet Straw who covered the majority of services through my sabbatical. My sabbatical began with an 8-day silent retreat at St Beuno’s Retreat Centre in North Wales (above). My husband and I then enjoyed a week in the lake district, as well as 5.5 weeks in Australia with our family. All in all, it was a good time of prayer, rest, recovery and enjoying so much of God’s beautiful creation in several different places. Thirlmere (Lake District) Right- Sunshine Coast (Australia) 2 Our Churchwardens, PCC and congregation held the fort wonderfully, along with Jo Dore our administrator who continues to be a great support to me and to our parish. I am conscious of the wonderful outworking of our vision statement- _Welcoming all, growing faith, serving others_ , in so many avenues of our church life. We have ‘ _welcomed all’_ , to our services which have continued throughout the year, including the Sunday@6 informal evening service begun in 2024, which continues with a small congregation of around 10 people, and the occasional Taizé and Healing Services. Our worship leaders Gill and Don Sinclair, lead Sunday worship with a wonderful range of traditional and modern hymns and Brian and Eileen Thatcher choose the hymns and operate the hymnal machine on Sundays when Gill and Don are away. At our annual Community Remembrance Sunday Service, we welcomed all our community, as we gathered around the war memorial in a poignant service of remembering the sacrifice of so many in the past as well as present years. Other special services of welcome included our ‘All Souls’, Christingle and Climate Sunday services along with the various highlights of the church calendar, including Easter and Christmas. We continue to _‘grow in faith together’,_ as we learn through those who along with the clergy, are ‘authorised to preach’, Alison Eves, Don Sinclair and Connor Heath. It is always good to hear different voices preaching and teaching, along with the guest speakers we have occasionally invited to our Sunday services. Our Emmaus Group continues to be led by Margaret Thomas, and Don Sinclair was part of our joint Alpha Course with Mortimer Methodist Church and Mortimer West End Chapel. Our very committed Prayer Team, support those coming for prayer in the chancel on Sunday mornings, and along with members of our prayer chain, pray persistently and faithfully for all the prayer requests we receive. It is a real blessing when we see and hear of answers to prayer. As I consider ‘ _serving others’_ , I want to thank all who serve in so many and varied ways. From PCC members to those on various committees such as Worship and Discipleship, Creation Matters, Fabric, Fund Raising and Children’s Society . So much is accomplished by our small though faithful congregation who do so individually, on committees, informal groups and often behind the scenes to keep it all going so smoothly. I would like to thank each and every one of you. 3 Our services could not take place without the dedication and service of our sacristan, server, sides people, readers, those leading prayers, and those providing coffee after the service. Our grateful thanks to them all. I would particularly like to mention the wonderful Flower team ladies who create the beautiful flower arrangements during the year. We are so grateful to Margaret Towle who has led the team for many years now and having reached a special milestone birthday towards the end of the year, felt the time was right to step back from leading the team. I’m pleased to say she will still be part of the team going forward. We also want to thank Ann Cooper and Penny Cooper who have also been part of the flower team for many years and who feel the time is now right to step back. We are so appreciative of all the team’s efforts and their long time commitment to this ministry. We have also served others through our invitation to join us in caring for God’s amazing creation through our terracycling, annual Climate Sunday and Eco Festival; in our efforts to raise awareness of the climate crisis and the opportunities to play our part as stewards of the earth. Of special note was the theme of our annual Christmas Tree Festival - _Silver._ The _Silver_ was firstly celebrating 25 years since the blessing and opening of the parish centre and the many groups, events and services which have taken place in all that time. Secondly, we celebrated achieving our Silver Eco Church Award, neither of which would have been possible without all the hard work and dedication of our current and past members of the church. As I look back over all that took place in 2025, I am so aware of and thankful for God’s faithfulness to us, his encouragement, provision and guidance in all we undertook as his disciples here at St Mary’s Burghfield. And for every single one who has played their part in the life, ministry, mission and maintenance of our parish, I want to thank you. _Revd Glynn Lautenbach_ 4 ## **Churchwardens’ Report** 2025 has been another busy and productive year in the life of the family of St Mary’s Burghfield. We as Churchwardens, with the much-valued support of all the PCC, have worked, with our dedicated clergy, to continue to try to serve Christ and witness to his love for everyone in our Parish. This is through events and service inside our walls, through outreach into the community, and through prayer. We were very grateful to Rev. Glynn for organising seamless clergy support for our Services during her Sabbatical (March-May 2025), and for putting all manner of other arrangements in place to ensure the life of the parish continued smoothly. We were particularly blessed that Rev Juliet Straw was able to take so many Services and thank her and the other clergy who kept our worship going. Colin Thompson took on a role of Deputy Warden for this year, and we are especially grateful for his ongoing and invaluable support. We are grateful to all who support our ministry to young people—leaders, volunteers, parents, and the wider congregation whose prayers sustain this work. The Youth Group, Bumps Babies and Toddlers and Crafty Church have all been areas where our activity has been sustained and faithful, and the relationships which are growing as a result are wonderful to see. Towards the end of the year the PCC enjoyed a presentation from the Lighthouse Holiday Club organisation. We are now actively exploring whether we, working with other local churches and the community, are able to offer such a club in the Burghfield, Mortimer and Sulhamstead area. Something to hopefully look forward to in next year’s report! Throughout the year, we have worked to lead the church where God is guiding us all, in both the practical and spiritual aspects of parish life. Our Parish Wish List discussions helped us discern priorities for the fabric of the church and grounds for the future, although always with an eye to stewarding our resources wisely and prayerfully. We are thankful for the ongoing work of those who care for our church buildings and churchyard. The Fabric Committee, under Brian’s leadership, has continued to ensure that our spaces remain safe, welcoming, and fitting for worship. This included progressing a List B faculty proposal for a replacement bench—small acts of care that speak of our commitment to hospitality and remembrance. Nicky and Lesley, our Parish Safeguarding Officers have continued their vital ministries, helping us maintain a church environment where all can feel protected and valued. We are deeply grateful for their diligence and quiet service. 5 The PCC has also reflected on our responsibility for God’s creation, with regular updates on environmental initiatives. These discussions remind us that caring for the earth is part of our Christian calling to love our neighbours and honour the Creator. The Eco Festival remains our main opportunity to showcase some local environmental work and speakers- please see the Creation Matters report. Finance has been another steady thread through the year, and we thank Ollie and Colin for their careful stewardship. Their work enables our ministry to flourish and ensures that we remain accountable and transparent in all we do. The seeming tireless work of the fundraising team has also been vital, both in providing essential funds for our mission. and in giving us opportunities for fellowship and outreach- all the work by so many is very much appreciated, Finally, we give heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed to the life of the parish—those who lead, those who volunteer, those who pray, and those who quietly serve behind the scenes. Your faithfulness is a blessing to our community and a witness to Christ’s love. As we look ahead to the coming year, may we continue to walk together in faith, hope, and service, trusting in God’s guidance for all that lies before us. _Alison Eves and Michael Wood, Churchwardens_ ## **Bradfield Deanery Synod** Deanery Synod representatives serve for up to three years. Elections will be held in 2026. There are ongoing discussions as to the role of deanery synods but no proposals for change are currently on the table. Synod met three times in 2025, in March, July and November. We have still not been able to fill the post of lay chair. The next meeting will be on 27[th] March 2026. As for the past few years parish share occupied much of the time, but progress was made in resolving issues within the Deanery and the Diocese appears to be softening its approach although more needs to be done. Apart from finance other discussions included diocesan plans for youth workers and accounts of progress being made by various parishes in improving outreach to families. An application to receive a grant for youth work was unsuccessful but various parishes (including ours) are trying hard to increase outreach to children and young people. The Spiritual Development group arranged three excellent talks at Bradfield College. _Colin Thompson & Carol Jackson-Doerge_ 6 ## **Report on Prayer Coordination & Prayer and Healing Team** During the past year, the Prayer and Healing Ministry has continued to play an important role in the spiritual life of our church. The Prayer Chain has remained active and responsive, offering prompt and compassionate prayer support whenever requests have been received. It is a privilege to uphold individuals and situations before God, and we are grateful for the trust placed in us by those who share their concerns. Members of the congregation are warmly encouraged to contact Revd Glynn or any member of the Prayer and Healing Team (details in the Church Directory) whenever prayer support would be helpful. The Monthly Prayer Diary continues to be made available both in printed form at the back of church and through a link on our website. The people, places and situations included in the Diary help shape our Sunday intercessions and invite the whole church family to pray regularly for our community and beyond. Each week during the Eucharist, members of the Prayer and Healing Team offer individual prayer in the Chancel for anyone who wishes to receive it. The team also prays faithfully over the requests written in the Prayer Request Book, found near the candle stand by the font. In 2025 we saw a significant increase in the number of written requests, from both visitors and regular worshippers. We give thanks that people feel able to share their concerns so openly and trustingly. This year has also brought challenges. A number of team members have faced personal illness or have been caring for unwell family members. At times this has meant the team has been stretched, but we remain deeply grateful for the mutual support within the team and for God’s sustaining grace throughout these months. Despite these challenges, there have been many blessings. We were able to lead three Healing Services in February, June and October, and to support the All Souls Service in November. At this poignant service, members of the team read aloud the names of those who have died, offered private prayer in the chancel, and spent time after the service listening to and supporting those who were grieving over a cup of tea in the Parish Centre. We are pleased to report that Linda Wood has kindly taken on responsibility for coordinating the Sunday rota for the Prayer and Healing Team. We have also begun using new technology to streamline communication and planning, which we hope will make the ministry more sustainable moving forward. As we look back with gratitude and ahead with hope, we give thanks for all whom we have been privileged to pray with and pray for. We remain committed to offering a gentle, confidential and compassionate ministry of healing and prayer in the year to come. _Nicky South-Klein_ 7 ## **Children’s Work** In the last year I feel, as Children’s Ministry Leader, as a team we have grown and I also feel we have connected with lots of families and young people in the community through these events, with new families and young people attending these events as well as regular families and young people. ## _**Film Nights**_ In 2025 our termly film nights were still strongly attended by families and young people in the community. Everyone really enjoys taking part in the pre-show activities of quizzes, word searches and fun colouring sheets. At the end of the evening everyone likes to interact with going through the answers to the quiz. As always, we have a theme for each film night and for 2025 we had a Christmas theme for January showing Santa Paws, an Easter and all things cats' theme in April showing The Lion King and an Eco theme in October showing Ice Age. As always at the end of the children’s quiz sheet I ask for film suggestions. ## _**Crafty Church**_ In 2025 we had 3 Crafty Church sessions with high numbers of families attending and I have noticed the age of these sessions range in the younger years. The themes for this year were Easter, Summer and Advent/Christmas. Activities this year included plant pot Easter Gardens, bubble wrap Easter eggs, edible Easter nests, coloured sand pictures, fig tree pictures, waiting for Jesus Advent stockings and Christmas stencil paintings. In 2025 we experimented with a new routine for Crafty Church. Once everyone had arrived, we started with a talk and story that coincided with the theme of the session and a worship song. Then everyone goes to take part in the activities provided and just before the end everyone gathers to talk about the activities and go through any notices before ending with a the Grace. On Sunday mornings I have continued to make and give out activity bags to children as they arrive for the service, and I have also continued to leave the younger children’s toy box at the back of church for when we need it. Towards 8 the end of the year, we started to introduce Roots worksheets for children to have access to during the service as well as the activity bags. On Easter Sunday I again ran an Easter Egg Hunt after the service and all the children that took part had lots of fun finding the eggs in the grass area outside of church. As a yearly tradition we were again at the Burghfield May Fayre providing free fun activities for families to take part in. Over Advent and Christmas, we ran an Advent window trail around Burghfield for families to find pictures on house windows and the theme for this year was Animals. Also, during Christmas time, we had a lot of families who attended our regular Christingle and Christmas Day services. I would just like to end with a really big thank you to everyone who has supported me through this year of fun activities for families and young people in our community. I have such a good and supportive team behind me and without them none of this would be possible. I am looking forward to another fantastic year next year with more fun activities planned for the community we serve. Please continue to pray for myself and our team as we continue to provide activities for the community. If you feel a calling to be a part of this team, then please feel free to contact me. _Amy Legg_ ## **Bumps, Babies & Toddler Group** As 2025 began, we were delighted to celebrate our first anniversary of the Bumps, Babies and Toddler group which began in January 2024 during term time. It has proved to be a wonderful outreach to local families (and some further afield) for adults, children and our wonderful team who resource it. Each session we have free play from 9.30-10.30am, along with the option to join in a craft, where socialising for children (and adults), can take place in a relaxing, welcoming environment. Our snack time follows, as we gather at the front of church. Everyone loves sitting on the warm floor during the cold months of the year! We then regroup for our song time, which the children really enjoy with actions and/or musical instruments and our session concludes at 11.00am. It has proved a wonderful ministry, where not just the families attending find enjoyment, but also the volunteers who resource the group. We are always 9 looking for more volunteers the join the team, so if you are interested please speak to Glynn about the requirements. **Craft Time** **Song Time** _Revd Glynn_ ## **Youth Club** We are delighted to share a positive update on how our new church Youth Club is developing. Since launching, the Youth Club has been going very well. We are steadily increasing in numbers, which is a real encouragement. Even more importantly, we are seeing growth in relationships, not only among the young people themselves, but also between families and the wider church community. It has been particularly encouraging to notice that many of the young people, along with their families, are now attending other church activities and services more regularly. This sense of connection beyond Youth Club evenings is a wonderful sign that something meaningful is taking root. Over the year, we have enjoyed a range of activities together, including: Pizza cooking evenings, A murder mystery night, Quizzes and team challenges, Group discussions and creative sessions Alongside the fun and fellowship, we have also been creating space for thoughtful conversation. We have explored topics such as: What the Bible says about caring for the environment, The power and importance of the words we use, and how faith connects with everyday life 10 **Summer activities, June 2025** It has been especially encouraging to see a growing desire among the young people to go deeper in their faith. Many are asking thoughtful questions and expressing interest in exploring Christianity in a more intentional way. In response to this, we are prayerfully considering how we might introduce an Alpha-style section, creating a safe, welcoming space for open discussion, questions, and deeper exploration of faith. We are very grateful for your prayers and support. It is clear that God is at work among our young people, and we are excited to see how this ministry continues to grow and develop in the months ahead. We are currently exploring how the youth club transitions when Connor leaves for Curacy. If you feel you might be able to help, whether regularly or occasionally, please do speak to us. This is an exciting and formative time in the life of our young people, and your involvement could have a lasting impact. Please do continue to pray for the young people, their families, and the leadership team as we seek to serve them well. **November 2025** **Painting a snowman for the Englefield Snowman Trail** _Connor Heath_ 11 ## **Creation Matters** The Creation Matters Committee has continued to play an active role in supporting the parish’s environmental mission over the past year. Our work has focused on practical sustainability initiatives, community engagement, and strengthening our Eco-Church commitments. ## **Recycling and Environmental Initiatives** We have updated our Terracycling provision as the items that can be accepted change over time; our most recent addition was to offer candle recycling. A significant effort this year went into promoting our national Parliamentary Petition on recycling pill blister packs, set up by Margaret, although sadly we gained insufficient signatures for it to be debated. ## **Eco Festival 2025** The Eco Festival remains our major annual outreach event. Planning began early in the year, with a strong line-up of speakers including experts on wildlife, rights of way, and waterways. We expanded our stallholder list, strengthened children’s activities, and involved local schools, community groups, and artisan makers. Café B once again provided excellent catering. A photo competition was introduced and well received. Following the October 2025 festival, a full review has shaped plans for 2026, including revised talk timings, improved use of space, and enhanced audio-visual support. ## **Eco-Church** We were delighted to achieve the **Eco-Church Silver Award** this year and proudly display our plaque in the Church porch. Work now continues to deepen engagement across the congregation, such as including monthly A Rocha UK eco-ideas in our Newsletter. While a Gold Award may be challenging overall, we aim to strengthen individual areas wherever possible. ## **Seasonal and Community Activities** The committee has supported wider parish events, including exploring more sustainable materials for our Advent wreath workshop. ## **Looking Ahead** Plans are already underway for the 2026 Eco Festival, further development of recycling initiatives, and continued collaboration with local schools, community groups, and environmental organisations. We remain committed to helping the parish live out its calling to care for God’s creation in practical, meaningful ways. _Michael Wood_ 12 ## **Outreach** Outreach is very much a part of our mission at St Mary’s and through the year we have been involved in various activities as previously mentioned in this booklet. Our congregation faithfully continue to support our local foodbank and we remain a collection point for donations of food, hygiene and cleaning products. Sadly the need seems to increase year on year, though our congregation and community continue to give supplies generously during the year, as well as supporting the Lent, Harvest and Advent special appeals. This year for the first time in many, we changed our approach to our annual ‘Toy Sunday Service’. We joined in with a local charity ‘The Cowshed- Tree of Hope’ and offered gift tags on our own ‘Tree of Hope’ during Advent, for members of the church and community to take one or more and return the gifts described, unwrapped for collection. The response was extraordinary! We took over 120 gifts to The Cowshed for wrapping and delivering and were able to glimpse some of their immense operation. We all felt truly blessed by our involvement and plan to do so again in 2026. ## **Outward giving** For some years now we have donated a percentage of the Church’s income to charities and mission agencies in accordance with the PCC decision made a few years ago to commit 10% of the church’s planned giving income. In choosing the charities to receive monies from us, the PCC has striven to maintain a balance between small and medium charities, and domestic and overseas charities. We also favour charities where we have personal knowledge of the good that their work does. In line with our Eco-Church focus, we have made sure to include charities whose focus is the environment and providing assistance to people facing the challenges of the climate crisis. At PCC on Monday 19[th] January 2026, we voted to make the following Outside Giving donations from our 2025 income: 13 |**Name**|**Local/Int **|**For **|**Size **|**Donation **| |---|---|---|---|---| |Yeldall Manor|Local|Addiction
Recovery|S|£500| |Home Start|Local|Children/Families|S|£500| |Health Help Int|Int. (UK
Based)|Medical Relief|S|£500| |Burghfield United
Charities|Local|Education|S|£400| |West Berks Food
Bank|Local|Families|M|£400| |Spotlight UK|Local|Children|S|£400| |A Rocha UK|Int /
National|Environment|M|£400| |Toybox|Int. (UK
Based)|Children|M|£400| |Hope Counselling
Service|Local|Counselling|S|£400| |Thrive|Local|Gardening therapy
for disabled or ill
people|S|£400| ## _Revd Glynn_ ## **Burghfield Support Group for The Children’s Society** The group consists of Anne Burtenshaw, Hilary James, Pat Glover (our Treasurer), Janet Reed, Nicky SouthKlein, Sheila Langston-Hopgood and Colin Thompson. In the last year we have been pleased to welcome Linda Wood to our ranks, but have sadly lost Janet, one of our longest serving members, as a result of relocation. She was a prominent member for many years and will be greatly missed. New members are always welcome and if you would like to join our little group please speak to any of its members. We only met twice in the year , in April and October. We held our usual cake stalls on Mothering Sunday and at the Toy service raising £155 & £165 respectively. We made £136 from the sale of Christmas 14 cards. The two Christingle services in Church raised £462.90 and the Church also agreed that the collection from Carols on the Hatch (£178) would be given to the Society. Our planned quiz evenings were well supported raising £491 in March and £270 in October. Revenue from Boxes was up at £221.99. The pleasing total of more than £2078 represents a fractional increase on last year. _Colin Thompson_ ## **Fund Raising Report** 2025 has been a quieter year for the Fundraising Team. Despite this, we have organised events and raised a wonderful £3000.06 for Church Funds. Thank you to everyone who has helped, supported and joined in with our Fundraising events; which have included very successful Whist Afternoons, Craft Evenings, a Cake and Cuppa Afternoon, a collection of old unwanted currencies (coins and paper), a Summer Soiree, Harvest Supper, Eco Tombola and a Music Words Wine and Canapes evening held in Church amongst the lovely Christmas Tree Festival trees. We have also continued to raise funds via Easyfundraising Online shopping. As well as our Church Family enjoying a chance to socialise together, many of our Fundraising events also bring people from the wider community into our Church Whist Drive Craft Evening Music/Word & Harvest Supper Canapés Evening _Anne Pocock on behalf of the Fundraising Committee_ 15 Burghfield St Mary’s Church of England Primary School is committed to creating a caring Christian learning environment that inspires every member of its community to fulfil their unique potential and to become responsible, compassionate and active participants in God’s world. Founded in 1836, with a Trust Deed dated 1843, the school is a voluntary controlled Church of England school. This means that the Diocese appoints two of the Governors — known as Foundation Governors (currently Deborah Marsden, with one vacancy) — while staff are employed by the Local Authority. Foundation Governors meet termly with the Head Teacher to discuss Religious Education provision, collective worship, and ways to strengthen the partnership between school and church. There are strong and positive links between the school and the church. Weekly Thursday morning collective worship (assemblies) continues to be led by Revd Glynn, Connor (Ordinand in Training), or a member of the congregation. Pupils also visit the church termly as part of their collective worship cycle. The Year 6 ‘Reflection Day’ — an afternoon held in church — ran for its second year and was very well received by both staff and pupils, with attendance from the Foundation Governor. Under the leadership of Head Teacher Mrs Carmichael and Deputy Head Teacher Mr Lappin, the school maintains a culture of high expectations in which pupils are encouraged to flourish. A range of exciting initiatives has been introduced, including a broad extra-curricular programme featuring Spanish, hockey, archery, computing, magic and Lego clubs. In addition, the Diocese-led mental health and wellbeing programme _Space Makers_ has been established within the school. Delivered to a few different year groups, the programme will continue to be embedded across the school in future terms, supported by staff from the diocese. _Deborah Marsden (Foundation Governor)_ _Second Foundation Governor Post – Vacancy during 2025_ 16 ## **- Buildings Fabric Report** **Fabric Report to the APCM 2026** - During the past year the Fabric Committee has continued to oversee the care, maintenance, and improvement of the Church, Parish Centre and Churchyard. The Quinquennial Inspection (QI) Report 2024 formed the basis of much of the Committee’s work, alongside ongoing maintenance needs and several emerging issues. **Church** - The Committee members have cleared the low-level moss, cleared out the belfry (again) and redecorated the boot scrapers and Lych Gate. At the time of writing, ongoing tasks are to replace the rainwater butt and complete redecorating the porch and its external doors. The DAC (Diocesan Advisory Committee) guidance indicates that work on the organ chamber roof, parapet, and south wall requires our Architect to produce a specification and oversee our appointed contractors. The initial (specification) stage is likely to cost £4,400 + VAT. We are investigating whether grant support can be found. Internally we have replaced several of the floodlights. The boilers have been serviced, with minor repairs completed, and the lightning conductor has been tested. **Parish Centre** - Investigation revealed significant rot in the main frame and supporting timbers of the downstairs part of the main window. A quotation of £9,300 + VAT has been received for replacement of the lower frame section. Movement in the large upstairs window frame raised safety concerns. A 4-metre metal safety rail has now been installed and painted to blend with the existing woodwork. The Parish Centre gutters are again leaking at the joints. The Fabric Team intends to use the Church Tower scaffold to access and repair them in spring, weather permitting. **Churchyard** - Potholes in the large car park were filled with road stone and compacted. Gate movement issues were resolved by levelling the ground Potholes in the small car park were repaired with cold-roll tarmac. A new drainage solution for the small car park (concrete dished water channels) has been identified and will be installed by the Fabric Team in 2026 A new high-level external floodlight on the Tower has been installed to illuminate the Church path; press the timer button in the porch to use it. The path drainage has been improved but further work is needed to cope with heavy rain. Churchyard work parties have helped maintain its condition; look out for the chance to join one and do your bit in 2026. _Brian Thatcher, Chair Fabric Committee_ 17 ## **Parish Centre** We have had another steady year with a good amount of adhoc bookings spread through the year including Children’s birthday parties, Fundraising events such as Whist Drives, Craft evenings, the Children’s Society Fish & Chip supper with Quiz Nights culminating as always in an extremely busy ## November/December. We held our 2[nd] Christmas Craft Market in the Parish Centre over the same weekend as the Christmas Tree Festival and welcomed 18 craft/food stalls, it was a great success and was supported by our community who enjoyed some Christmas shopping and a catch up with friends over a cuppa Thanks to Café B and then various concerts & gatherings being held jointly in the Church and Parish Centre gave our venue a real lively buzz in the run up to Christmas. We have managed to maintain our core long term bookings in the Parish Centre which include 3 x different Yoga groups, 2 x Pilates groups, Burghfield Dance Club, Weight Watchers & Mini Oaks Preschool and all continue to be a real asset to the community. We have welcomed Burghfield & Mortimer Photo Club who hold a fortnightly session in the lower room. We help advertise these groups via our monthly newsletter and posters on our noticeboard in the centre. Our hire charges for the parish centre have remained the same as last year and are £14.65 weekdays up to 6pm & £17.40 weekdays after 6pm and weekends. _Jo Dore, Parish Administrator The PCC of St Mary’s the Virgin Burghfield is a Register ed Ch arity No.1167639_ 18 ## **Parochial Church Council of St Mary the Virgin, Burghfield** Annual Report and Financial Statements For the year ended 31 December 2025 1 Parochial Church Council of St Mary the Virgin, Burghfield ## Trustees’ Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2025 ## **Reference and administrative details** The Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin is in the village and parish of Burghfield in the county of Berkshire. All correspondence regarding the church should be addressed to: The Parish Office, St Mary’s Church, Church Lane, Burghfield, RG30 3TG. ## **Structure, governance and management** The Parochial Church Council (PCC) is a corporate body established by the Church of England. The PCC is responsible for safeguarding the assets of the church operating under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure. This involves working with the Revd Glynn Lautenbach the Rector, in promoting in the ecclesiastical parish, the whole mission of the Church pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. The PCC is also responsible for the Parish Centre. The PCC is a charity Registered with the Charity Commission of England & Wales and our number is: 1167639. Furthermore, the PCC of St Mary the Virgin has complied with the duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 2016, as amended by the Safeguarding (Code of Practice) measure 2021, (duty to have due regard to House of Bishop’s guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults). ## **Membership of the PCC** Members of the PCC are either elected by the Parochial Church Meeting or are ex-officio in accordance with the Church Representation rules. All church attendees are encouraged to register on the electoral roll and may stand for election to the PCC. As a resolution was made and accepted at APCM on 13[th] June 2020, there are no longer any limits on the number of terms of office for any office bearers for the PCC. During the year 2025 the following people served as members of the PCC. ## **Ex Officio Members** ## **Clergy:** Revd Glynn Lautenbach ## **Wardens:** Michael Wood Alison Eves PCC members as a result of Deanery Synod Membership Colin Thompson and Carol Jackson-Doerge were re-elected to Deanery Synod at the APCM on 15[th] May 2023 for a 3 year term of office till 2026. ## **PCC Secretary** Brian Thatcher ## **PCC Treasurer** Michael Wood 3 ## **Elected Members of the PCC** |**Name**|**Elected at APCM**|**Serve Until**| |---|---|---| |Brian Thatcher|2025|2028| |Amy Legg|2025|2028| |Oliver Dillon|2023|2026| |Marjorie McClure|2023|2026| |Clive Eatwell|2023|2026| |Anne Pocock|2023|2026| |Lesley Brigden|2024|2027| |Iain Buchanan|2024|2027| There was one vacancy following the APCM, which has not been filled. ## **Foundation Governors** The following have been appointed to serve on the school governing body of the church school as Foundation Governors from September 2024 – September 2028: ## Mrs Deborah Marsden-Kwan There was a vacancy for a second Foundation Governor during 2025, however this post has been filled in early 2026. 4 2 Parochial Church Council of St Mary the Virgin, Burghfield ## Structure, governance and management ## **Committees and Groups** The sub-committees of the PCC which continued through 2025 were the ‘Finance Committee’ dealing with parish share, accounts and general finances of the parish, the ‘Fabric Committee’ for care of the Fabric of the buildings and grounds, the ‘Worship and Discipleship Committee’ for matters relating to worship and discipleship and the ‘Creation Matters Committee’, focused on Eco Church, climate and environmental matters. In addition, we have a Fundraising Committee who provide fundraising events and opportunities to help address our financial challenges. The Standing Committee comprising the Rector, Church wardens, PCC Secretary and PCC Treasurer, met regularly for decision making, support and Agenda planning. ## **PCC Vision Statement** Our vision statement for the church created in 2020 is as follows: _Welcoming all, growing faith, serving others_ All aspects of the life, mission and ministry of our parish will be discerned and assessed in line with these three areas. During the year we reviewed and updated our Mission Action Plan (MAP) In addition, we continue to work in accordance with the Diocesan ‘Common Vision’, to be a _‘A more Christ-like church for the sake of God’s world’_ becoming a more _Contemplative, Compassionate and Courageous_ Church. 5 3 Parochial Church Council of St Mary the Virgin, Burghfield ## Achievements and Performance ## **Church Attendance** The electoral roll was completely revised for 2025 and the number on the electoral roll recorded at the APCM was 50 (2024:59). There is a drop in the number on the new Electoral Roll, as the new Church of England Representation Rules (2020) were applied, and people who have not attended in over a year were removed. Weekly Attendance remained steady throughout the year and we continued to offer the opportunity to join in the 10.00am service via zoom, denoting our main service as a ‘Hybrid’ service. ## **Hybrid Services 2025** |**Hybrid Services 2025**||| |---|---|---| ||**Attendance**|**Communicants**| |10.00am Parish Communion||| |In Church|25|24| |On Zoom|3|-| These numbers include a few children, some of whom have been admitted to Holy Communion according to Canon B15A. The average weekly attendance figures for the services are reached having taken an average attendance over several Sundays spaced across the year, when there are no ‘special’ Sundays: ## **Sunday@6** The new informal monthly evening service has an average attendance of 10, some of whom do not attend the morning service. During 2025 we celebrated 4 baptisms (2024:4) but no weddings (2024:2). We also conducted 8 funerals (2024:8) of which 6 took place in Church, followed by 4 burials in Burghfield Parish Burial Ground. In addition, 2 Funeral services took place at a local crematorium, (2024:3). Through the year, 7 Interment of Ashes took place, either into existing graves or new plots took place, (2024:9). ## **Review of the year** A full report on the activities of the parish during 2025 is found in the Annual Report booklet accompanying this document. 6 4 Parochial Church Council of St Mary the Virgin, Burghfield ## Financial Review - 1) This year we achieved a small surplus. - 2) Voluntary income for General Expenditure, (excluding Gift Aid, Fundraising, Fees & Lettings), fell by 11% This was primarily due to 2024 including the £4,984 distribution from the closure of the Deanery Quinquennial Fund. Excluding this item still left a modest fall of 3%. Gift Aid rose 6%. Parish Centre lettings income increased by 13%. - 3) The Diocesan Quick Wins Grant of £2,060 was received. This was in respect of items expended in 2024 so much of the benefit shows as an offset against costs in 2025. The toilet refurbishment was completed. Further work was done to upgrade the lighting. There was no other major fabric expenditure in 2025. The Fabric Team undertook many minor maintenance tasks during the year which helped to keep down costs. - 4) Although we did not hold a flagship fundraising event in 2025, there were many events which were very community oriented that also generated some income including the Christmas Tree Festival with Christmas Market, Film Nights, Games Night, Pudding Club, Harvest Supper and Craft Evenings. Along with other fundraising events including tea parties, soup lunches, Whist Drives and many other activities, a total of £5.6k was raised. Congratulations and thanks are due to all involved. - 5) Fuel bills were slightly lower although this may be, in part, due to billing delays and estimates caused by a change of supplier. - 6) We paid the Parish Share agreed with the Deanery. - 7) We had an overall surplus on our Unrestricted Funds of £150. - 8) The following are some of the financial and ministerial matters relating to the church: - Committed monthly giving has continued to provide the bulk of the funds to run our parish. - Some one-off donations and fundraising have helped provide the monies for further reordering of our beautiful church. - Major fabric expenditures are expected to continue. There are some key Quinquennial repairs to undertake, the Parish Centre main window needs replacing and the septic tank will need replacing in the next few years. - We have received a substantial amount of income from the lettings of the Parish Centre. We are thankful for the work by past and present members of the congregation who had the insight and the commitment to provide this resource for us. Oliver Dillon Parish Accountant Michael Wood Alison Eves Churchwarden/Treasurer Churchwarden 7 5 Parochial Church Council of St Mary the Virgin, Burghfield _______________________________________________________________________________________________ ## Independent Examiners Report to the PCC of St Mary the Virgin Burghfield I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Parochial Church Council for the year ended 31st December 2025. ## **Responsibilities and Basis of the Report** As the charity trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”). I report in respect of my examination of the PCC’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed all the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act. ## **Independent Examiner’s Statement** I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect: - the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act; or - the accounts did not accord with the accounting records. I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Signed: ## 24/03/2026 Sarah Nurse 21, Dauntless rd. Burghfield Common, RG7 3NZ 8 6 Parochial Church Council of St Mary the Virgin, Burghfield ## Financial Statements 9 **We would like to record our grateful thanks to Mr Oliver Dillon for preparing these accounts and both recognise and appreciate all the work and commitment, which have gone in to doing so.** Rev'd Glynn Lautenbach Mr Michael Wood (Rector & PCC Chair) (PCC Treasurer) **Approved by the PCC on 16[th] March 2026 and signed on their behalf by Rev'd Glynn Lautenbach (PCC Chair) and Mr Michael Wood (PCC Treasurer)** 10 7 Parochial Church Council of St Mary the Virgin, Burghfield ## Notes to the Financial Statements The financial statements for the Parochial Church Council of St Mary the Virgin, Burghfield are prepared on a Receipt and Payments basis. 1. Gift Aid was from the Parish Giving scheme throughout the year together with direct claims for 2024 and some Gift Aid envelopes from 2025. 2. Other General Donations were down £6,500 from 2024. 2025 include £690 of donations regarding the Bumps, Babies and Toddlers group among other donations for General funds. Note that 2024 included £4984 from the redistribution of Deanery Quinquennial Fund and 2025 had fewer large Unrestricted donations. 3. The Fees Income is reported as the net amount payable to the PCC in accordance with C of E guidelines. Fees collected on behalf of the Diocese totalled £1,358. Transactions relating to payments for Bellringers, Vergers etc are also specifically excluded. 4. There were many Fundraising events of various sizes raising a total of £5,647 for General Funds. These included the Harvest Supper, Craft Evening and the Festival of Trees with Christmas Market. There were many smaller events such as Whist Drives and Tea Parties which all made a valued contribution. £280 was raised via the EasyFundraising platform. 5. The Parish Centre Lettings income showed improvement but was still 13% below the 2019 level. Approximately 64% is from the Nursery. 6. Interest Income on the J Harvey Thursby Memorial fund was allocated to defray costs incurred in maintaining the churchyard. 7. Movements on Restricted Accounts: Restricted Individual donations were received towards the Toilet refurbishment, Storage Shelving, Community Outreach and for a gift for Rev Straw. Income on the Restricted funds included Monthly 11 pledges of £780. BRA donated £774 towards the Kitchen Floor repairs and £2060 was received from the Diocesan Quick Wins Fund. 8. An £840 Invoice from 2024 was identified as ‘Should be from Restricted’ and corrected in 2025. 9. Parish Share was paid over 12 monthly instalments. 10. Our Outward Giving figure for 2025 is £4,300. This year’s beneficiaries are: Hope Counselling Service £400 Toybox £400 Thrive £400 Health Help International £500 Yeldall Manor £500 West Berks Foodbank £400 Home Start £500 Burghfield United Charities £400 A Rocha UK £400 Spotlight £400 11. A surplus of £150 is reported on the unrestricted funds statutory accounts. 12 **SARAH NURSE** Report to the PCC of Burghfield St Mary the Virgin, Burghfield - Independent Examination Financial Year End 31[st ] December 2025 Charity law requires charity trustees to prepare accounts for their charity. The trustees are responsible for the accounts of the charity. They are also responsible for appointing an independent examiner. The role of the independent examiner is to provide independent scrutiny of the accounts The examination is carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 in accordance with the Directions given by the Commission. The examination is based on the Guidance issued by the Charity Commission for Independent Examiners of charities. This is contained in a document, CC32. No matters have come to my attention that suggest that the accounting records have not been kept in accordance with Section 130 of the Charities Act 2011. No matters have come to my attention during the review that require attention to be drawn to them in the report to allow a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. Sarah Nurse 24/03/2026 **Sarah Nurse Independent Examination Charity** **Page 1** ## **Background Information** |Reference to CC32|Evidence|Conclusion| |---|---|---| |1. Is the charity eligible
to have an
independent
examination?|The turnover of the
charity is over £25 K
and thus requires
independent
examination. It is less
than £1Million which
would require an audit.
It is lower than £250K
which would give a
requirement for an
examiner with a certain
listedqualification.|The charity is eligible to
have an independent
examination| |2. Is there a conflict of
interest that prevents
the examiner
carrying out their
duties?|I have no connection to
the charity which would
cause a conflict of
interest with the charity|No conflict of interest| |3. The Independent
examiner must
record the details of
the examination|This document confirms
what steps I have taken.|The churchwardens and
incumbent have
confirmed my
appointment as
independent examiner.
This will be ratified by the
trustees as required by
CC32 at the next
Meeting of the PCC.
I have worked as a
chartered accountant for
the over40 years which
qualifies me for the role.| **Sarah Nurse Independent Examination Charity** **Page 2** ||4. Plan the independent
examination|Obtain background the
charity
Obtain the relevant
financial Records and
Accounts
Obtain the Annual report
to ensure that in line
with accounts
Obtain the record of the
trustee meetings to
evidence review of
financial information by
the trustees and
consideration of the
financial Going Concern
Review a sample of
expenditure back to the
supporting vouchers|Yes
Yes
The annual report is in line
with the underlying financial
records
The minutes of the PCC
were reviewed for the year.
There is clear financial
reporting and discussion.
In my opinion the reserves
policy could be clearer and
the consideration of going
concern is implicit rather
than explicit but is in place.
The expenditure reviewed
appeared to be in line with
expected expenses for a
church and parish centre
and had supporting
vouchers.| |---|---|---|---| **Sarah Nurse Independent Examination Charity** **Page 3** |5. Check that the
accounting records
are kept to the
required standard,
and that the financial
statements are
consistent with the
accounting records.|The accounting records
were clear and easy to
follow from the paper trail
that I was provided with.
The financial statements
showing a surplus of
£150 on the general fund
and total reserves of
£33,391 had been
correctly extracted from
the accounting records.
The Bank balances,
agreeing to the various
funds amounting to were
traced to Bank
statements.|

Nothing to report, all clear.
Nothing to report, all clear.
Nat west agrees to
28/11/2025 not 31/12/25.
Not a material difference
and the transactions
recorded between the
dates are reasonable.
Bank statement for
Reordering is to 11/25.
Difference is not material
and the transactions
between the dates look
reasonable.
Some of the accounts have
names of restricted funds
but are also holding
unrestricted funds. This is
all very clear but best
practice would suggest the
restricted funds should be
held separately.| |---|---|---| |6. Analytical review|The movement on the
figures in the year looks
reasonable.|No issues, there is
variation but it is
reasonable and explained
in the notes.| |7. Any concerns
discussed with
Trustees|None, The trustee
minutes show that the
finances are reviewed at
each meeting and PCC is
aware of the movement
on the different funds and
has a clear understanding
of the financial standing of
the charity.|
| **Sarah Nurse Independent Examination Charity** **Page 4** 8. Do any of the figures None reported to me in the accounts rely on estimates? If so how have these estimates been arrived at? Do they seem reasonable? 9. Are there any matters No which the external examiner considers should be reported to the Charities Commission? **Sarah Nurse Independent Examination Charity** **Page 5**