2024-12-31-accounts

Annual Report and Financial Statements of the Parochial Church Council of St Michael and All Angels Church Pelsall Charity registration no. 1170860 st For the year ended 31 December 2024 Page I

Trustees, Annual Re ort 2024 St. Michael and All An els Church Pelsall l. Reference and Administrative Details Charity Name: The Parochial Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Pelsall. Registered Charity number {in..England and Wales) 1170860 Administrative Address: From March 2022: 32 Chestnut Road, Leamore, Walsall WS3 IBD P.C.C. Members: ALLABARTON BETHELL BRIGGS CHANTLER CUMPSTON (Secretary) FOXALL HORTON LEGG LLOYD 2023 MAYE MCCULLUM MORRIS MORRIS MYA David William (Mr) Doreen {Mrs) Timothy (Mr) Andy (Mr) Gillian Denise from September 2020 until April 2024 from May 2021 re-elected April 2024 from April 2018 {Lay Chair) Church Warden Officer of the PCC Sally (Mrs) Anetta Rebecca (Mrs) Susan Carol (Mrs) from April 2019 re-elected April 2023 from April 2022 from September 2020 re-elected April 2024 from September 2020 re-elected April John (Mr) Stephen Alison (Rev) Sarah (Mrs) Alison (Mrs) Deanery Synod Rep re-elected April 2024 from April 2023 Minister in Charge Church Warden Reader from September 2017 Deanery Synod Rep from May 2024 Officer of the PCC (Treasurer) from September 2020 Re-elected April 2024 from April 2022 NEWPORT READ WELCH Anne (Mrs) Michael (Mr) Susan (Mrs) Bankers: Santander UK plc, Bridle Road, Bootle, Merseyside, L30 4GB. Page 2

CCLA Investment Management Ltd. The CBF Church of England Funds, One Angel Lane, London, EC4R 3AB. The Independent Examiner is Lichfield Diocese Board of Finance, St Mary's House, The Close, Lichfield WS13 7LD. th Priest in Charge: Rev. Alison M. Morris was licensed and inducted on 20 March 2022 CONTEXTUAL BACKGROUND This report reflerts the changing contextual conditions in which St. Michael's ministry has blossomed andflourished. It also recognizes that the church has been on a journey of courage advocacy as it works out what it is to be a church in an ever changing landscape within the Church of England and Lichfield diocese. The national church is rapidly responding to both external and internalfactors that have impacted upon the life of the nation, our individual parish and this church community. Figures within the Church of England indicate a downward trend in attendance and lack of interest in faith, belief and tradition. Secularisation is an emerging trend within our country. Generally. this imparts adversely upon the state of our national church. Quite clearly the church has had to respond to a culture change to survive and moveforward. Throughout this time this church has been a safe and secure environment. The congregation of St. Michael's has remained steadfast andfaithful to the Lord. Resilience and patience in theface of adversity has been exceptional. The congregation has been united in their endeavour to maintain the mission of the church and to support each other on theirjourney together in a rapidly changing environment. This church has been consolidating a period of stability and strength from which discipleship has grown, mission encouraged, evangelism spread and community engagement has rapidly increased. Our statistics show that St. Michael'5 church is 'bucking' the national trends with an upward trend in attendance, greater interest in faith and belief, exciting community engagement and increasedfinancial stability. Key emphasisfor 2024 continued to be the embedding of both prayer and vocation to hear what is God's willfor thi5 parish,. to See and understand God's work in the parish and to discern what He may be calling us to do in His namefor the kingdom of God in thefuture. Two key significantfactors have influenced and imparted upon the PCC role and the life of the church.. Celebration of the 180 anniversary (1844-2024) of St. Michuel's Church. Preparation for new deployment of clergyfor thefuture. th Page 3

th Firstly. St. Michaels & All Angels Church Pelsall celebrated its 180 anniversary throughout 2024. Pelsall Parish Church building was erected in 1844 on the edge of Pelsall Common. For over 180 years this church building has been at the centre of the spiritual and religious heart of the village community. It has maintained a Christian presence in our community. Its aim has always been to reach out to the Pelsall community and the surrounding area enabling all ages to develop a closer relationship with God. It has been and continues to be a sanctuaryAor prayer and worship for all. So, there were many reasons to celebrate.. Firstly, the many congregations who have remained steadfast andfaithful to the Lord. It has served its people and shared thefaith. Secondly* the congregation has been united in their endeavour to maintain the mission of the church and to support each other and the peoples of Pelsall in joy and in sorrow. Lastly• It still remains stable and strongfrom which discipleship has grown, mission has been encouraged, evangelism spread and community engagement has rapidly increased. All this comes together in this historic year as the church provided many opportunitiesfor all to join in the celebrations. Our slogan for the year was." Come - Celebrate - Cherish Come celebrate, remember. reflect and give thanks to Godfor St. Michael's Church and its 180 years in Pelsalll Consequently, there was a yearlong programme of events, services and artivities organised. The aim was to reach out to the various age ranges within the parish, to promote the gospel effectively and to establish further community engagement. These celebrations will be referenced throughout the report. Secondly• the preparation for new deployment of clergyfor the future. In March 2022 Rev Alison Morris was inducted and licensed as the Interim Ministerfor three years. This appointment will end in March 2025. Therebyi the Parish Wardens and PCC have been engaged in the discussion with the diocese on this matterfor most of the year. Eventually• it was confirmed that the post would be made a permanent position at 0.7 with the title of 'Incumbent- Vicar,. Preparation of paperwork, such as the Job description, Person Specification and Statement of Needs were all prepared under the Section 11 meeting and Section 34. Interviews were held in December 2024, an appointment was offered and accepted by Rev. Alison Morris. This appointment and length of time provides a strong buse on which to love people into the Kingdom of God and to ultimately grow God's Kingdom in this parish of Pelsall. It is against this contextual background that this report Is written............. Page 4

1. Aim and Pur "The Parochial Church Council is a corporate body established by the Church of England. The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure." The PCC has the responsibility of co-operating with the incumbent in promoting the ecclesiastical parish, the whole mission of the churchi pastoral, missional, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. It also has the responsibility for the maintenance of the Church, Churchyard and Church Hall. oses Public Benefit The trustees of the Charity are aware of the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit in The Advancement of Religion for the Public Benefit and have had regard to it in their administration of the Charity. The trustees believe that, by promoting the work of the Church of England in the Ecclesiastical Parish of St Michael and All Angels, Pelsall, it helps to promote the whole mission of the Church (pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical) more effectively. within the Ecclesiastical Parish, and that in doing so it provides a benefit to the public by: Providing facilities for public worship, pastoral care and spiritual, moral and intellectual development, both for its members and for anyone who wishes to benefit from what the Church offers; and Promoting Christian values and service by members of the Church in and to their communities, to the benefit of individuals and society as a whole.
2. Ob"ectives and Activities The Parish Church of St Michael and All Angels is situated on the edge of Pelsall Common. For nearly 180 years it has been at the spiritual, religious and social heart of the village community. The aim of the church is to reach out to the community of Pelsall and the surrounding area enabling all ages to develop a closer relationship with God. St. Michaels Church is maintaining a Christian presence in our community, serving its people, sharing thefaith and offering a sunctuaryfor prayer and worship. Page 5

MISSION AcfioN PLAN Fundamental and vital to the future of St. Michael's Church is the need to purposefully make growth in our vision which is relative to the 'missional' context and the vision of Lichfield Diocese. The MAP continues to act as a tool to help the church to grow: to grow spiritually. numerically and to grow its presence and witness in the community. It was also to help to prayerf ully journey forward and be effective in Living God's Love. Our aim is to love people into the kingdom of God. This Mission Action Plan {MAP) which was presented in 2023 has the blueprint for what we believe God wants St. Michael's to become. The MAP used 6 big sweeping themes:. A Worshipping & Praying Community A Welcoming Community A Discipleship & Vocational Community A Caring Community A Located Community An interactive & Communicative Community These 6 big statements were interwoven with the themes of prayer, discipleship and vocation, to develop a vision for this parish. Working together as the church family on certain priorities, with God's help and provision, it was the intention to encourage the church congregation to pray and continue to see God's kingdom grow in and through St Michael's in future years. In particular, the congregation was asked to be in that journey as disciples of God and to be on that process of discernment. Periodically. the PCC reviews this document to see the incremental progress being made. There has been substantial progress achieved with further development in other areas during 2025. As the church moves forward, it remains committed to building on lessons learnt, relationships made and networks formed, seeking new ways to engage with and serve our community and to share God's love in authentic and relevant ways. In a world of change, the Church must change too. What people want from their church is shifting - and, at St. Michael's we want to engage with the local community- and the wider world- in a way that is useful for them. The church wishes to be a spiritual resource for people as they find their way on the Journey of Life. St. Michael's church is an inclusive church that welcomes everyone regardless of age, race, disability• colour, creed or sexuality. It is registered as a Fair-Trade church and is recognised as a Sight Loss Friendly Church. It also strives to safeguard the integrity of creation and sustain and renew the life of the earth. Following the church registration with AROCHA UK the church achieved the 'Eco Church Bronze Award, which was quickly Page 6

followed with the'Eco Church SilverAward.' Throughout the year we continued to maintain the Church of England Digital Charter for social media which recognizes that we will comply with standards as set by the Church of England when using social media platforms. The church continues to be a signed member of the pledge for the Walsallfor All initiative. Their vision is to create integrated, empowered and inclusive communities where people from all backgrounds come together to celebrate what they have in common. It aims to provide a place where our residents are safe and valued and everyone has fair opportunities to fulfil their potential and contribute to the growth of Walsall. This is an ongoing commitment by the church and with Walsall for All initiative. Working close with Walsall Council the church also became a partner in the campaign of Walsallfor One. In 2024 the church has also aligned with the Walsall Borough 2040 strategic plan - 1Ne are Walsall 2040,. a shared vision for a thriving, inclusive and sustainable borough by 2040. The church will be able to compliment the vision and assist delivery of specific themes within this plan. For example, the inter- generational oral history project in June was an excellent example of this aligning and being delivered within our locality. As such the PCC are committed to the following: The PCC is committed in promoting the Church's mission through the diocesan direction of travel- 'Follow Christ in the Footsteps of St. Chad's., It also aims to implement the Lichfield diocesan priorities of developing discipleship• encouraging vocation and inspiring evangelism. The priorities are a way of focussing together on what it means to grow into 'Christlikeness', to invite others to join us on that journey and to help one another flourish in the abundant life God gives us. The PCC is also committed to the Diocesan 'Shapingfor Mission. paper from which the Strategic Framework emerged. This sets out context and has 9 goals for the period between 2024-2030. The framework is also intended to be understood and embraced by the diocesan schools, chaplaincies, parishes, cathedral and other expressions. It is also intended to contribute to the well- being of all aspects of the church. The PCC is committed to offer a range of services during the week. Over the course of the year, we offer services that our community find both beneficial and spiritually fulfilling. The church attempts to cater to all people, enabling people to become part of our parish community at St. Michael's. Page 7

The PCC is also committed to the provision of pastoral care for people living in the parish, offering support to individuals, care homes and other institutions in the parish, the church also continues to support community activities including the Thursday morning group. Pastoral care is given a high priority in the church's ministry and proves fruitful in providing a link with the sick and housebound. 4. Structure Governance and Mana How Trustees are appointed: All members of the PCC are Trustees. PCC members, and therefore Trustees, are either appointed at the Annual Parochial Church by nomination. (and vote if necessary) in accordance with the Church Representation Rules or they are ex-officio or co-opted. Elected members can serve for a three- year period, after which if the PCC allow they may stand for a further term of office. ement How we induct and train new Trustees: New members of the PCC (Trustees) are formally welcomed at the first PCC meeting after the A.G.M. They are made welcome and continue to be supported by the other PCC members. Some training or induction can be provided. For example, an evening called Yhe ABC of Pcc'for new and older members can take place along with a tour of the church explaining tradition, history and legacy. Training is encouraged throughout the year and is a regular agenda item on the PCC. Trustees are encouraged to attend both deanery and diocesan training. The Safeguarding Officer provides opportunity for PCC to complete safeguarding modules such as Safer Recruitment as stipulated by the diocese. Sub-committees: Standing Committee - Transacts the business of the PCC between its meetings, subject to any directions given by the PCC Pastoral Committee - Attends to pastoral care, mainly of the sick and the bereaved. Finance Committee - Attends to financial decisions when required. Social & Fundraising Group- Set up to discuss/organize social and fund- raising activities. Cemetery Working Party- Attends to maintenance and upkeep of the cemetery including the financial income and budget review of its planning. Health and Safety Group - Attends to health and safety issues and completes site walks if and when appropriate. Maintenance Group: Attends to general maintenance on a monthly basis in Church, Church Hall and Churchyard. Page 8

Risk management: This has been completed for the Church and Church Hall, and no major risks to the Charity have been identified. It will be reviewed annually. Policies and Procedures: St. Michael's has a set of policies which enables the PCC as a corporate body to fulfil their responsibility to cooperate with the incumbent so that aims and objectives are achieved for this ecclesiastical parish. It also forms the legal foundation upon which the PCC operates. All policies and procedures across the life of the church continue to be reviewed on an annual basis, if and when appropriate. In specific areas new policies and structures continue to be implemented for the first time. This means the church is legally compliant in several areas of the work of the Charity Commission. When necessary new policies continue to be put in place when new Safeguarding recommendations are advised. The Safeguarding Policy continues to be reviewed annually. Introduction of the diocesan of a Dashboard for Safeguarding has been kickstarted by our parish. This is an excellent tool to monitor and evaluate the progress of our Safeguarding provision at St. Michael's. It provides pointers for key action. The PCC regularly reviews the policies and procedures to changing legislation from the national perspective of both the Lichfield Diocese and the Church of England. For example, during 2024 the PCC began to review pastoral care arrangements across the parish and within the congregation. As such this was to ensure compliance of Safeguarding within these differing pastoral contexts. As a result, a Pastoral Care policy was written and approved with action being fully implemented in 2025. Policy guidelines for Pelsall cemetery and churchyard were also reviewed in line with the diocesan instructions. A new procedure introduced means that all applications made to intern ashes or to bury bodies will include additional paperwork. Families are now asked and instructed to read the documentation, sign. accept and support the guidelines as laid down in both the diocesan policy and the Pelsall churchyard policy. This has been very beneficial for all parties concerned. 5. Achievements and Performance Worshi and Pra The PCC is still keen to offer a range of services during the week which our community may find both beneficial, age appropriate, spiritually fulfilling and meets the needs of our growing congregation. In ideal contexts the church attempts to cater to all age groups and their preferred worship styles. Worship has remained flexible to accommodate the changing nature of the needs of the congregation. For example, the increased numbers of families and children attending worship has influenced worship provision. Use of thematic services or special services have helped to cater for a wider group of worshippers. Greater involvement of the Lay Reader in leading and preaching at services continues to have a er Page 9

positive impact upon their own ministerial development. It has also impacted significantly well upon worship in general. Re-introduction of a new welcome team rota which includes young and old has been beneficial to the hospitality offered as both young and old enter church for worship. Our usual pattern of worship during 2024 was: Monthly Worship Pattern Sunday 10am Holy Communion,. 4pm Baptisms monthly (or as if and when required) Service Special as appropriate on Sunday evenings (see later explanation) The Sunday Holy Communion service has become the pivotal service in the cycle of worship. There has been an attempt to explore and implement a lighter tone and child friendly service booklet for Holy Communion once a month. This has worked well and will be used more frequently in the future. Midweek services (Holy Communion) have continued on alternate Wednesdays at 10am. Numbers have stabilised with this more contemplative and quieter service. Figures vary from 8-25. Morning Prayer on alternate Tuesdays at 9am has a devoted small number attending. Taking into consideration people's sensitivities the PCC still offers to the congregation several options for receiving Holy Communion. They can still receive the host and chalice; intinction (the action of dipping the bread in the wine at a Eucharist so that a communicant receives both together) or a blessing. Chalice administrators operate weekly but there is a need to have more participating in the future. Dedicated servers continue to perform a range of specific duties. Washing of linen is carried by another committed lay person. Prayers of intercessions and readings are led by both clergy with an increased number of laity involvement. This is an upward trend. Music performed by a dedicated organist and pianist has been maintained. At times CDS and playing of musical instruments such as the recorder have been used to offer a wider range of music provision. Congregation continue to sing the rnusical setting using a wider choice of hymns. Children contribute to music with their songs at appropriate times within the service. This has proven both successful and beneficial in many ways. At specific times the singing group have sung during some Holy Communion services and other special services such as, The Service of Nine Lessons and Carols, Deanery Confirmation, Candles of Page 10

Remembrance & Lament, Harvest and Candlemas. Worship has been enhanced by their direction and musical input. Special services have been very successful in terms of outreach, mission and attendance. Throughout the year when and where possible, these additional services have been held, including the following: The Nine Lessons and Carols, Harvest Festival, Deanery Lady Day th Service, Candles of Remembrance and Lament, Christingle, St. Michael's 180 Anniversary Patronal Festival, Toy Service, St. Francis Pet Service, Teddy Bears, Picnic, Blessings of the Back Pack and Christmas Crib Service and Remembrance Sunday. This year has seen St. Michael's act as host for several Deanery services. In July the Deanery Summer Eucharist took place whilst one of two Deanery Confirmation Services took place in September. Both services were very well attended and brought together church members from across the Deanery and across churchman-ships or church traditions. th This year saw the church celebrate its 180 anniversary which was a remarkable historic th achievement. St. Michael's Patronal Festival and 180 anniversary in September brought the church and community together in Sunday worship. Local councillors, local MP and the Mr. Paul Davis, the Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands attended the special service along with other representatives from the community and the church congregation. This galvanised the church, community and Pelsall residents with a positive and affirming spiritual experience. It was an exceptionally well attended service for both young and old. Visit by the Bishop of Lichfield, The Right Rev. Michael Ipgrave and his Chaplain Rev. Treena Larkin during Lent began at Ash Wednesday and Holy Week leading to Easter Sunday. Each year the Bishop chooses a church to visit and worship with during this time. Bishop led the morning service on Ash Wednesday• Palm Sunday, MaundyThursday and dawn service for Easter day. At other times he and the clergy shared the lead of worship. Use of Church of England Liturgical Themes have been interwoven woven into the church calendar for Sunday worship. For example, Creationtide Season followed from I th September to 4 October, which was dedicated to God as Creator and Sustainer of all life. The artual theme for the Season of Creation 2024 was To hope and act with creation., In the letter of Paul the Apostle to the Romans, the biblical image pictures the Earth as a Mother, groaning as in childbirth (Rom 8.22). Resources explored with people about caring for the Earth as a gift from our Creator, rather than using it as a resource to be exploited. And yet, resources also suggested there is hope and the expectation for a better future. st Page 11

Harvest Festival provided time and space to give thanks for all God's gifts to us and bringing our own gifts. North Walsall Food Bank and Water Aid were our supported charities. Other thematic examples were Rogation-tide theme during Mayj Remembrance tide during November. Vocation Sunday and Safeguarding Sunday were the focused themes at the end of November. At Christmas the church used the 'Follow the Star." Calm and Bright, resources. The book was a meditation for the Twelve Days of Christmas. Each day there was a short reading from the Bible to read and meditate on; a reflection to help to see the Christmas story afresh; a challenge inviting us to consider what being calm and bright means within the story of our own lives today and finally a prayer as we treasure this story in our hearts and seek to shine as alight in the worlds around us. Congregation members found this very useful and helpful in their prayer life. Attendance Patterns have changed greatly. The increase in attendance from 2023 has been maintained and built upon during 2024. Figures show that in the last 2 years average weekly adult attendance has grown from 60 to 75 on average while young people attendance stands at 12. This is attributed to the increase in attendance by families and children. Upward trend is also reflected in the worshipping community figures which shows increases in specific age ranges. For example, the age range of 18-69 within the worshipping community has increased in membership. Figures show an increase of 15 adults (5 increase aged 70+ & 11 increased aged from 18-69). This is a very significant and positive move as compared with other years where figures indicate that higher numbers are usually in the 70+ age range. This has been the dominant age group in the church for many years. New people are attracted to our services and events to explore faith for the first time. This led to several adult baptism which has impacted upon the vision and ministry of the church. It now purposefully seeks to cater for the needs of newcomers, of all ages and for families with young children. The Ark is open for children; the Diddy Boxes are in place and a small table and chairs are at the back of the church for use with smaller children. Regularly published information on children's service and events is shared to encourage families and children to engage with the church community. Children's ministry has its own magazine page dedicated to the 'Diddy Disciples.. These actions had led to continued higher attendance. Specific services and events are planned throughout the church to allow families to access worship. Examples such as Pancake Parties, Teddy Bears, Picnic Service, Blessings of the Back Packs, St. Francis Pet Service, Toy Service, Bonfire Party, and the Crib Service. This has led to a consolidation of numbers. Families and children have a greater sense of belonging• Page 12

identity and believing. Further new initiatives in 2025 will aim to embed further our missional shaped church. This is an exciting development. Bell Ministry is led by a very dedicated Captain of the Bell Tower with a loyal team of bell ringers. On the National Bell Sunday, the team participated in the peal and also ring on other significant times throughout the church year. A campaign to attract more bell ringers has been highly successful so that bell practice now takes place over 2 evenings a week. St. Michael's also attracts other bell teams from around the country. The impact of the bell's ministry upon our identity and presence within the village is highly significant. Prayer life remains an integral part of our worshipping community. Over the last 2 years there have been some exciting and creative initiatives. The aim was to introduce prayer to newcomers and to start having conversation on the topic of prayer which would broaden people's understanding. Evening of Prayer and Pimms continued into 2024. People were encouraged and invited to attend an informal evening about prayer. The aim was to explore prayer in an imaginative. creative and informal way that would capture people's imagination. A 'cafe style, approach led to fellowship, conversation and fun. Intervals during the evening allowed attendees to enjoy snack food and Pimms whilst hearing about the various ways to pray. This was very successful with high numbers attending including the Confirmation candidates. However, interest slightly waned during the year but the purpose of the event was successful. Both interest and awareness of prayer had been raised. Further developments are in hand for 2025 as we seek to interweave prayer through our Mission Action Plan. Parish Prayer walk was held at the weekend of Pentecost. The aim was to have prayer stops around the village asking the Holy Spirit to work within the parish. It was successful but low numbers attended. Embedding of the Church Prayer diary continued through the year. The aim of the church prayer diary was to encourage people to pray at home using the daily pointers. It was intended to show that praying using this format would allow our MAP vision to be drenched in prayer and our actions led by the Holy Spirit. The Prayer Board has continued to encourage more prayer requests. Both new-style prayer cards and a contemporary board attracts newcomers whilst reminding others on how to use the board. Significant numbers using the prayer board have increased. Prayers on the board are always generally referred to in our intercession during worship. Page 13

Explore Spring Prayer cards in a display box were introduced into church life. People do take away prayer cards for themselves and others. The Explore prayer cards, with their thought provoking images, offer simple but profound words to help all to express their feelings or needs and to find comfort, strength and hope. For examplei prayers on themes such as Looking for God; Being Thankful and Feeling Sad or Anxious are just some of the prayer topics available. This has proved extremely popular and has impacted upon prayer life within the congregation. The Church of England's Lent theme for 2024 was Watch and Pray: Wisdom and hope for Lent and life. This Lent people were encouraged to wait expectantly for God to meet us and sustain us through the storms and trials we all face. Watch and Pray invited us to seek God in both familiar and unfamiliar places last Lent: in darkness and in quiet; in movement and migration; in the healing and transforming work of the Spirit; in the weeping of Holy Week and in the joy of Easter morning.. The Sunday prayer intercession group continues to pray for our church, the congregation and the parish with their prayer cycle. Group members continue to pray the prayer requests at home throughout the week. This complied with GDPR regulations. This has continued to be received well. It is interesting to note that the number of prayer requests has dramatically increased. Prayer becomes the bedrock of our church community as people begin to see the purpose, importance and understanding of prayer in their lives. th The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 18th - 25 January 2024 took place as usual. The theme was 'Go and Do Likewise.. The Parable of the Good Samaritan is one of the best- known passages of Scripturep yet one that never seems to lose its power to challenge indifference to suffering and to inspire solidarity. It is a story about crossing boundaries that calls our attention to the bonds that unite the whole human family. Over the week congregations from St. Michael's & Pelsall Methodist Chapel were encouraged to use the resources. Both congregations came together at Pelsall Chapel for an ecumenical service. st The Women's World Day of Prayer on March I took place in March at St. Michael's & All Angels Church Pelsall. The Women's World Day of Prayer is an annual ecumenical Christian event that brings together women from around the world to pray for women and children. The theme was "l Beg You... Bear with One Another in Love which comes from Ephesians 4 v 1-3. The theme was written by Palestinian Christian women who wanted to inspire other women to bear with one another in love during difficult times. The service was symbolized by the olive tree and its branches, which represent everlasting life and reconciliation. The service invited people to pray for peacel justice, and freedom of religion and movement. Very well attended. Page 14

rd Once again, the church participated in National Day of Reflection on 3 March. This was the second anniversary of the first lock down. Organised by Marie Curie on behalf of the government, it aimed to have several purposes. Firstly, to ref lect upon collective loss, support those bereaved and hope for a brighter future. Bells at St. Michael's church rang at 12 noon following a minute silence in conjunction with the nationwide peal of bells. There was a gathering of local councillors, clergy and people at the Pelsall Memorial Clock for prayers, reflection and readings. Both clergy and councillors were interviewed for the BCC Midlands News which was televised later in the day. In May between Ascension Day and Pentecost the church followed Thy Kingdom Come in Prayer is a worldwide prayer movement that happens every year between Ascension Day and Pentecost Sunday. Free resources based on Novena- focused on verses from Acts about when Jesus spoke to his disciples before ascending to which he promised.. 'But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you; and you will be my witnesses to the end of the earth,, ( Acts 1.8) The resources encourages people to set these days apart to pray, individually and together, for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit. They also invited to choose five people and pray for them each day. The Prayer Journal; explores a variety of ways to pray from across different denominations and traditions. Face book, digital resources and a series of reflections were used to promote this to both young and old. Use of Cheeky Pandas was to encourage youngsters to learn about the bible. These were very well received. Church Cluster arrangements are consolidating. Relationships, communication and mutual support are good for both clergy and laity. Openness, transparency and honesty permeate all communication and correspondence. Meetings with Parish Wardens have taken place. Clergy within the cluster have supported each other in their ministry. A series of cluster services across the year foster a sense of collegialityi shared spirituality• worship and fellowship. For example, in January St. Michael's held the cluster Candlemas service where the Chaplain form Manor Hospital preached. In May St. John's Church, Walsall Wood held the Ascension Day service while St. Michael's Archangel, Rushall celebrated the Feast of the Assumption. Preaching and celebrant is often shared between the clergy. Pastoral Offices - weddin tisms funerals As well as our regular services we enable our community to celebrate and thank God at the milestones of the journey through life. The church has enhanced their engagement with the many people who bring children to baptism through improved hospitality and administration, baptism preparation, goody bags, anniversary cards. Through baptism we thank God for the gift of life and in marriage public vows are exchanged with God's blessings. The reviewed baptism policy and pack with a more user- friendly baptism Page 15

preparation continued to be very effective in preparing families for the baptism. A database of baptisms with contact information has been productive to enable easier contart with families for promotion and publicity of services and events. Once again this has impacted upon the growth in attendance of families belonging to church and attending too. A designated and dedicated member of the congregation acts as administrator, 'welcome and point of reference for all enquiries with baptism families. This works exceptionally well and has a lasting impact. Baptism service has continued to take place on Sunday at 4pm. Feedback from baptism families has been very positive. Generallyp families felt valued and welcomed within a quieteri personal and more dignified service. Relationships between the church and baptism families have vastly improved thereby creating a much better understanding of the meaning and purpose of baptism as a Holy Sacrament. Baptism preparation and practical rehearsal with face-to-face contact has continued on Monday evenings during the summer months and Saturday rnornings during the winter. There is a dedicated team of laity that assists with the baptism on a Sunday afternoon. There have been 38 baptisms- 12 adults and 26 children {6 Infants under 1; 17 children between 1-4 years; 3 children between 5-10; O young people 11-17 years.) This is an increase of 7 baptisms. Enquiries for baptisms vastly increased in number and forecasts suggest that this trend will continue into 2025. Generallyj the impact of baptismal provision has led to baptism families continuing to attend church and to get involved in church life. Wedding ministry has increased. There have been 4 weddings across the year as the church competes with secular venues. The church communicated with use of high-quality materials called 'JustAsk' with wedding couples. Beautiful wedding folders produced by the Church of England are presented to any couple asking about marriage. This year has seen an upward trend in blessings of rings and renewal of vows which have taken place usually in Sunday Holy Communion Services. Wedding preparation has used face to face. Both formats have provided opportunity to meet the wedding couple and to establish a good relationship with their local church and clergy. Once again there has been a number of divorcees wishing to be married at St. Michael's. Using the document, Marriage in church after divorce. specific protocols have been followed. The clergy ha5 applied to the Rural Dean for permission of divorcees to marry. Figures already suggest reasonable numbers for 2025. A database of wedding couples with contact information has been produced according to GDPR regulations. Its Page 16

sole purpose is to maintain contact and to publicise events, church activities and services. A designated member of the congregation acts as administrator, 'welcomerf and point of reference for all enquiries with wedding couples. This works incredibly well in a positive th way. Between 19-20 October a special wedding weekend was held over 2 days. On 19 th October the church held a very successful Wedding Fayre and on 20th October a special wedding celebration service was held. Couples who had married at St. Michael's were invited back to celebrate marriage and to renew their vows if requested. This was a wonderful service of music. prayer, readings and specific interviews of wedding couples. The Blind Date Couple led the interviews. Over two hundred people attended this highly imaginative, emotional and spiritual service as families came together. Since then, there has been an increased interest and request for weddings to be held at St. Michael's. Funeral ministry continues to be very strong within the church ministry. Figures remain quite high although slighter lower as illustrated. However. there is an upward trend in the number of crematorium funerals. Analysis of figures show this is significant as the church has worked hard to counteract the strong trend of celebrants within the locality. st st From l January until 31 December 2024 21 funerals in church 17 burials of ashes 10 funerals in the crematorium Face to face meetings takes place in church with home visiting, with zoom, phone calls and email where appropriate. This hybrid approach has proved successful in reaching funeral families. After the funeral service has taken place pastoral care continued where appropriate. Contact with families is maintained, they are contacted by phone before and after the service, and 6 weeks, six months and twelve months thereafter if requested to. These contarts are carried out by clergy and the Pastoral Group. On the first anniversary of the death, the family receive a prayer card from the church. Services of Candles of Remembrance and Lament were held in November to accommodate the bereaved families. Services were very well attended. One of our key aims is the purposeful act of reaching out pastorally and spiritually to families who only had internment of ashes in the cemetery. Many families had chosen a celebrant to lead the funeral service or used a more contemporary idea to process direct cremation. Paradoxically families felt the need to have a priest or lay minister to intern ashes. An invitation was sent to them to attend the Candles of Remembrance and Lament service in November. This was once again highly successful in offering pastoral support within a Christian setting. Feedback from those who attended was very positive and Page17

affirming towards the church who had provided the solace and comfort which had been missed at such funerals. The church outsources a local grave digger who works across the diocese. To assist in preparation for weddings and funerals there now is a team of three vergers who operate a rota system. Both changes have proved extremely effective. Mission Evan elism Disci leshi and Vocation The aim of the church must not be self-serving but to seek to share God's love and to work for the kingdom. Helping those in need is a demonstration of our faith. The Church supports several charities including Water Aid at Harvest time, Children's Society and Christian Aid throughout the year. This year a special Christian Aid Breakfast and Sponsored Walk was organised by Ladiesdotcom in May. This creative ecumenical approach was very successful with many people attending either for breakfast or mid- morning coffee. Both events raised a great deal of money and encouraged fellowship. Locally the church family supports the Walsall North Food Bank. The Church donates IOYO of its direct giving to overseas and local mission. Clergy introduced the principle that at least one chosen charity must be chosen from human, animal and environmental charities. Suggestions were submitted for the Mission group to make the decision to be ratified by the PCC. Those organisations supported in 2024 included: Home Mission Centrepoint 500 (Human) World Vision UK 500 (Human) Acorns Children Hospice 500 {Human) The Children's Village 500 (Human) Over Seas Mission Tree Aid 500 (Environment) Child Sponsorship 216 (Human) World Animal Protection 197 { Animal) School Leavers books 273 (Human) Christmas books for children 32 (Human) Parish Mission /Follow the Star 60 (Human Donations were also made to The Children's Society of £127. this is in respect of the Christingle service held in December 2024 and also to DEC Middle East Humanitarian Appeal £120. this is in respect of the Post Box appeal. At specific times during the church year there have been retiring collections such as, Macmillan Cancer Support during September and Make a Mother's Day (Motherfs Union) in March. Page 18

Mission and discipleship have been a priority within the congregation. Two areas for development did continue to be embedded, namely, prayer and vocation. Furthermore, th the 180 Anniversary of the church galvanised opportunities for mission, discipleship• prayer and vocation. Vocation was explored further during the time of placements for both observational and discernments students. Over 10 weeks the discernment student who was considering permanent diaconate explored the tradition of our churchman-ship. Meanwhile the observation student focussed on Holy Week and Easter as an opportunity to see and understand the traditions and practises of this time in the church calendar. Another student has also been mentored by the clergy as preparation of the discernment by the diocese. All of this generated awareness of vocation, raised questions and provided an atmosphere for discovery, teaching and understanding. National Volunteer Week -3rd June - 10th June - the church utilised this campaign with the congregation to encourage them to volunteer with the running of the church. Firstly, it was an opportunity to thank the volunteers who keep the church going. Such people give freely of their time• gifts and talents which enables this church to blossom and flourish for the kingdom of God. Secondly, the aim was to increase the volunteer base at St. Michael's. Lastlyi it allowed an opportunity to discuss 'vocation' as a calling. Forms (See below) were distributed to the congregation with several headings and also requesting people with specific skills to come forward. It was a very good response. Please tick the relevant box if you can help Cleaning Maintenance Group elcome Team Pastoral Care Team Bell Ringing ocial Committee Intercessor History Group Confirmation Training Server Open the Book General Administration inging Group Coffee Rota Sunday Reader Baptism Preparation Children's Work Gardening Our parish magazine continues to be a very successful and substantial part of the overall evangelistic strategy. Feedback from the community still remains positive. People without access to social media appreciate the publication. For five years the format and high- quality graphic design has kept it an attractive publication. Local businesses are still eager to advertise in the magazine. Quality items covering both church and community issues are informative, inspiring and keeps parishioners up to date. Specific articles aim to develop knowledge of Christianity and the mission of the church. Magazines are published four times per year and are available at several outlets in the village. A review of the Page 19

advertising costs is necessary in early 2025 as prices have remained the same for the last 5 years. Invitation to promote church services and events are also included in 'The Grapevine and The Pioneerf. Use of The Grapevine is no cost to the church. Productive and purposeful relationships now exist between the church and other publishing companies which is beneficial to all parties. Social media platforms have continued to develop to encourage mission and evangelism. Both the church Face book page and website does engage and connect with people. Communication continues to improve within the parish and the wider community but this is under continual review. St. Michael's Church Face book is very effective for promotion and rep.orting upon church services and events. Through creative imagery, graphics and symbolism it is highly successful reaching a broader base of people through differing engagements. However, the church website does need further development in the future. This continues to be a top priority to avoid hacking of the site. Publication of the 'What's On, poster periodically throughout the year provides up to date information on church services and events. Responses from the general public indicate appreciation by the local people and businesses. Services and visits to the local nursing home have been spasmodic due to specific logistics. It is important to note that our link with Pelsall Hall has been affected by their staffing and illness. However, a pattern of Home Communions was resumed by the dedicated. committed and experienced Lay Reader. Pelsall Hall residents had a short Christmas carol service led by the Lay Reader and supported by the Singing Group. This was appreciated by the residents. Housebound provision was strengthened in many ways during 2024. Home Communions were provided and Pastoral Care visiting took place on a regular basis. Christmas cards were produced and distributed by the church to the house bound. At Easter the housebound received an Easter bag of goodies. This included Easter cards, prayer diaries. Palm Cross, Prayer Retreat for Holy Week with Easter reflertion materials plus an Easter egg! This was added to by St. Michael's church school pupils who also made cards. They were received well. Home Communion has taken place if and when appropriate to the housebound by both clergy and Lay Reader. Several members of this group have sadly passed away which has reduced our housebound number. Links and positive relationships continue to be developed and embedded with the three village schools, namely, St. Michael's CE Primary, Pelsall Village and Ryders Hayes School. Page 20

Clergyj lay minister's and the Open the Book Team involvement has increased in a range of ways. Clergy have consistently visited schools. Together the church and schools have worked hard to foster and encourage partnership between and amongst the school and church communities. Clergy regularly lead worship in schoolp particularly St. Michaels and occasionally in Pelsall Village School. Engagement with parents at St. Michael's Church School has increased which is beneficial. This is proving fruitful and beneficial. Our link with our local church school has strengthened and deepened. For example, the church school in Pelsall introduced a Holy Communion service in school for Key Stage l and Key Stage 2 which has been purposeful. Over the year it has been very well received by both pupils, staff and also parents. Parents were given the opportunity to attend the service both in school and church. Once again, the traditional 'Clipping Service, encouraged the reception class and their parents to attend the church. Parental numbers increased from the previous year. Feedback indicates that parents are beginning to feel more confident in attending church due to a warm and embracing welcome. This was reflected in the attendance at the Mothering Service held in church for Key Stagel and EYFS. Link with the school also includes attending meeting new Reception Parents and Reception th Graduation. To coincide with the Special Wedding weekend and 180 anniversary, celebrations in October pupils f rom EYFS came into church for a 'Mock Wedding and Celebration,. Ryders Hayes and Pelsall Village have invited clergy to attend their annual Remembrance service, Carol Concert and Awards Evening. Clergy have also pastorally supported this school community during the death of two pupils at the school and at the memorial service. Visits to the church by schools have taken place for different reasons. During our 180 anniversary there have been further and creative opportunities to engage with the church. Pupils from Pelsall Village, St. Michael's School and Ryders Hayes visited during the year to explore the history of the church. Pupils booklets were produced by a congregation member to assist the learning process. This was highly successful and was very well received by pupils of all ages who found this a positive learning experience. th St. Michael's led a new venture based on an oral history project during the church's 180 th celebrations. The intergenerational project, church's celebrations and Walsall Borough 2040 strategic plan all came together in this project to highlight what a wonderful place Pelsall is to live. The overall aim was to celebrate St. Michael's 180 years but also to celebrate the history• heritage and legacy of the local community. Using a creative approach this history project was an attempt to help young and old be proud of their borough and to build on our heritage and identity within the Black Country and celebrate Page 21

our shared stories of legacy before lost in time. Opportunity was provided for pupils to interview congregation members about their local church, its history, their life and their Christian journey. Pupils presented their findings to congregation members who visited the school weeks later. It was also an opportunity to enable the Pelsall community to celebrate their diversity and traditions in an inclusive and creative way. All of which aligns with the Walsall borough aims 'We are proud of our borough, and another strand of 'Celebrating our Culture & Heritage. It was an excellent inter- generational activity which was reported on several media channels and local newspapers such as Express & Star. It was an excellent inter- generational activity which will take place again in the future. th To celebrate the 180 anniversary the church held an 'Art Competition, based around the church. Pupils from the three schools were invited to produce a piece of art using a range of medium to cover the brief, 'St. Michael's during the Seasons,. Prizes were donated by a local business "Maunds" Entries were judged by local artists and awards were presented at the annual Toy Service in December. In 2024 there was no Church School Confirmation. No candidates came forward. It is hoped that there will be candidates for 2025. In July clergy were able to attend the year 6 leaverfs ceremony at both Pelsall Village and St. Michael's school. Books purchased by the church were distributed to pupils. The annual community Christingle service had a large attendance with pupils, parents and community. Each of the three schools participated in the service through prayers, readings and music. Community engagement was purposeful but this service needs refreshing with a more imaginative approach. In December the clergy were invited to the Carol Service at Ryders Hayes, Pelsall Village and St. Michael's Primary School. Pupils from St. Michael's Church school in Reception, Key Stage l and Key Stage 2 had their own Christmas service with age specific content. Clergy visited the nursery for their age- appropriate service. Open the Book has continued with their excellent input into St. Michael's CE Primary School. Enthusiasm and commitment by members of the congregation makes this very successful in mission and engagement. It is a valuable asset to the mission of the church. In 2024 the OTB team launched into provision at Pelsall Village and has also delivered one session during the sermon slot at the Annual Toy Service in December. School governance continues to be a strength through which evangelism can be fostered through debate, witness and discussion between our church school and church. Relationships between the schools are excellent. The Foundation Governor at St. Michael's Page 22

school is a member of the laity whilst the clergy is an ex-officio member. Both are involved in appointment of staff, exclusions and Headteacher's Appraisal. Both governors art as Link Governors to several subjects. Clergy have been involved in the Vision and Values Working Group at the church school. The aim of the review was to refresh and develop a new school vision based upon Biblical text and theological understanding. Clergy is also a member of the governing body of the Pelsall Village School acting as Vice Chair of the governing body and Chair of the Curriculum Committee. Community engagement has developed well throughout the year with the many organisations, agencies and associations as the church reaches out to engage and make a difference to this locality. Several are outlined here in this report: Walsall North Foodbank (part of the Black Country Foodbank) which is based at Pelsall Methodist Chapel is well supported by St. Michael's congregation. The number of donations by congregation has been adversely impacted by the economic situation. This was noticeable at the reduced collection of produce from the church school at Harvest time. Members of the congregation actively work with the project. Broader links have developed with the POPRS (Preserve Our Pelsall Remembrance Service). Clergy led the service at Pelsall Cenotaph for the annual Remembrance Service in November where the community comes together to participate in the National th Remembrance Service. In June, clergy were asked to lead a service for the 80 anniversary of the historic D-Day landings. This was to commemorate and to remember the great efforts and sacrifices made by military to fight for freedom. POPRS also commissioned a poppy display to be installed on the church tower of St. Michael's. Congregation and community worked together to knit thousands of poppies for the structure. Clergy are also invited to several functions, for example. the Big Switch of the Lights in early November. Open the Door Days- two'open the Door, events were organised by our own church th history group. This group was specially formed for the 180 anniversary. Very dedicated members of this group met regularly to co-ordinate these days. A history book of the church, book marks and a designated pop- up banner all promoted the celebration. Each 'Open the Doorf day was different. The first one was opened by the High Sheriff of the West Midlands. Douglas Wright. The day included exhibitions, tours and guides, register searches, display of artefarts and vestments, bell tower tours along with a performance from Pelsall Ladies Choir and delicious refreshments. Our second day was similar and was opened by the Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Harris along with our local councillors and MP. On this occasion St. Michael's Church school band performed during the lunchtime. Both days were very enjoyable. It brought our church Page 23

community together to organise and to engage with the Pelsall community. It was a unique historical celebration of great joyi pride and love for this church. A Defibrillator machine was privately purchased by congregation members. It was installed on the church wall along Hall Lane to make this accessible to the community. Our aim was to reach out to the community to make a Christian difference to the locality. Our machine is linked to the National Defibrillator Network which is supported by several agencies including the British Heart Foundation. The link system called Yhe Circuit, keeps regular contact with the Parish Office informing when the machine has been used or simply opened for use but was not needed at the scene of the incident. Regular status checks take place to ensure that the machine is monitored regularly and that accurate data exists on the defibrillator. Training for the machine has been provided for church members and some community partners who use the church hall: The machine has been requested to assist on several occasions. This new venture has been a positive experience of making a difference to the community. RISE UP Campaign Against Domestic Abuse is our campaign to raise awareness about domestic abuse across the Britain and Ireland movement. The letters of RISE UP stand for Respond, Inform. Support, Empower, Unite and Pray. Domestic abuse can happen to anyone from any walk of life. The Mothers, Union members and churches have worked together to be a part of the change. Bronze, silver and gold awards are available for branches and churches who take part and complete various actions, as we work together to raise critical awareness and take action against domestic abuse, in whatever form it takes. Local network meetings with ASDA Foundation acting as co-ordinator are still active. Meetings are held at Pelsall Community Association on a monthly basis. Clergy attend if, and when possible, which included a Christmas Meal Spectacular where networks came together. Community engagement with local businesses is developing well. From February onwards the church began to promote a wedding weekend. Using BBC West Midlands Radio, the clergy invited past wedding couples to come forward to share their memories of their wedding day in Pelsall. This created excitement and motivation for the project. Planning took place throughout the summer leading to a wedding fayre in Ottober. The Wedding Fayre brought together local businesses from the wedding industry to have stalls. Opened by the Blind Date couple, who were married at St. Michael's over 30 years ago the event galvanised the community to be involved in so many ways. A post box topper of a vicar plus bride and groom was made by a local lady. Four main businesses dressed their Shop window fronts to promote and advertise their local Wedding Fayre. Both the BCC news Page 24

channel and BBC West Midlands Radio plus several national newspapers reported upon the event. Express & Star also interviewed the owners for a special featured in the newspaper. Gifts and raffle prizes were donated in large number from community businesses for the church raffle. These partnerships need to be consolidated in the next year with the possible growth of more links across the business world. Pelsall Community Association (PCA) and the church have sound and productive relationships. Clergy have attended several times to give talks to their various local groups. Regular invitations are made to clergy and church community to their events. PCA took the opportunity to have a wedding stall to promote their venue. Working with Brownhills Community Association our branch of Motherfs Union Pelsall launched a new project called Mary's Samaritans. Together, they continue to organize support for local families in need of household items such as kitchenware, bed wear, cutlery and crockery through our network of support organizations. The project has experienced highs and lows since it started. Issues at the start have been resolved as the project focused upon needs of the schools. During the year Mary's Samaritans have responded if and when required by the schools. Partnership with the church and our local councillors continues to make a difference to the locality. Working together, a Toy Service was organized to provide toys for children through Walsall Council for 'Looked After Children (LAC) across the borough. Our response was due to a tragedy with a burnt -out minibus filled with over £4k of toys. This year the church also decided to support a project, called COSY COMFORTS UK. The local councillors and CEO from Kids Village attended the service. People from the community and congregation were asked to attend and donate brand new toys. Response was tremendous and exceeded our expectations. This was very successful showing substantial community engagement between church and parish. Such partnerships can and do make a difference to the locality. Well established groups such as Men's Fellowship, Motherfs Union, Ladiesdotcom, Baptism & Wedding Preparation and Thursday Morning Group all continue to funrtion regularly. Each group contributes to the 'building blocks, of the church community. Study and learning has had a high priority but with a changed focus. Individual response rather than organised sessions during Lent was explored. People were provided with resources so that they could study in their own horne. Watch & Pray booklet was the Church of England's Lent campaign for 2024. The booklet offered daily Bible readings, short reflections, prayers and practical ideas to help people Page 25

make sense of life's challenges and draw closer to God during Lent. Each congregation member or family were given a free booklet for study and reflection while our church children were given an alternative children's booklet on the same theme. Teaching materials have been placed on the church website. Such materials are always under review to meet the needs of the congregation. Materials associated with the church lectionary are provided for both adults and children if and when necessary. On a Wednesday the church uses 'Wednesday Word, which is a weekly feature based on the Sunday gospel. During Holy Week a booklet was on line to follow Christ's journey towards Easter Sunday. This included - Worship at home from Palm Sunday to Easter Stations of the Cross Work Booklets for Children Special edition of Wednesday Word for children During Lent the church provided once a week a lunchtime meditative time called 'Holding the Silence, which was an opportunity to spend time in silence. Each week there was a focus with reflection based on 'The Beatitudes,. A small devoted number attended each week. For three days in Holy Week a service of reflection and social action with themes titled 'Called to Action, Called to Forgive, Called to Trust, This was a reflective worship which brought lived experiences into God's transforming presence. During Holy Week the congregation had opportunity to participate in A Retreat in Daily life -Do not be afraid I will call you by name, you are mine. It was for all those who find it hard to get away on retreat, when life is just too busyy when there are too many responsibilities and constraints; they were invited to make this their own retreat and experience a glimpse of lona or Taize in church. People could opt in to suit their own availability, either at home or by coming to church. In each booklet there was a simple liturgy, reflection for each day, a prayer, a passage of scripture and a focus for your own thoughts and prayers. Each housebound received this package in their Easter bag. "Do not be afraid" are the words that Jesus said so often, especially to those who were feeling lonely, excluded or vulnerable. The week explores some of what makes people fearful and anxious. "Do not be afraid, is about a journey of discovery as we dare to step out of the ordinary patterns of our lives and set out on a different path. Through Holy Week we walk with Jesus as he deals with loneliness, isolation, rejection, conflict, and Page 26

betrayal. Each of these will take us into the heart of the Passion and will resonate with our own experience. This was well received and even further development will continue in 2025. Confirmation Study Group proved fruitful and rewarding. Five candidates were confirmed at the Walsall Deanery Confirmation service which was held at St. Michael's Pelsall. Candidates attended church regularly and followed 'The Pilgrim Course, over several months. Use of excellent materials assisted the candidates in their understanding. Pilgrim is a major teaching and discipleship resource from the Church of England. It aims to help every local church create a place where people can explore the Christian faith together and see how it can be lived out each day. Pilgrim takes a different approach to other Christian programmes. It approaches the great issues of faith not through persuasion, but participation in a pattern of contemplation and discussion with a group of fellow travellers. Candidates followed the following stages: Pilgrim is comprised of two initial stages: the Follow stage for those very new to faith. It introduces the Christian faith for newcomers or those exploring confirmation or affirming their faith. Grow stage for those who want to go further to develop a deeper level of discipleship. Each stage contains four short six-session courses which focus on a major theme of Christian life. Increased enquiries for Confirmation appear to continue into 2025. Pastoral Care at St Michael's has always been and continues to be a priority, supporting our congregation and bereaved families in the Parish. Contact by telephone is initially made with bereaved families, followed with a visit if they so wish. A card is sent to the families on the first anniversary of their bereavement. The Pastoral Team Leader meets with clergy periodically to review the situation and also provides a monthly report. Clergy are available for advice and guidance especially where there may be difficult visits. During 2024 visiting has taken place with those needing our support in their homes, care homes and hospital in the usual way. Although. normally telephone calls prior to visits take place to ascertain the latest situation as virus and Covid can still be a concern. In addition to visits, contact is made by telephone, cards, texts, and email. A priority will be to increase the number of Pastoral Care visitors in the near future. The PCC reviewed pastoral care arrangements across the parish and within the congregation. As such this was to ensure compliance of Safeguarding within these differing pastoral contexts. As a result, a Pastoral Care policy was written and approved with action being fully implemented in 2025. Page 27

Part of the Pastoral Care role is to review and update the 'Years' Mind Book'and produce the monthly list for prayers for those who have passed away. The team have a supportive network within the congregation and are very grateful and appreciative of the love, care and support given by Clergy and all who show their continued commitment to our Pastoral Mission. Clergy offered once again 'Congregations, Coffee and Conversations,. Time was offered with the clergy within the week for anyone who wished to have a talk about how they are, how they are feeling, how their faith has been challenged. strengthened or has flat bottomed out during most challenging circumstances. Numbers taking up this opportunity has increased especially with newcomers to the church. Such meetings have continued to be fruitful and beneficial for all parties especially with new members of the congregation. Deane The role of the Deanery is to bring together the views of the parishes of the Deanery on common problems and to discuss and formulate policies on those problems, to foster a sense of community and interdependence amongst those parishes, and generally to promote in the Deanery the whole mission of the church - pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. There have been seven Synod meeting held during the year and St Michael's has been represented at all Synod meetings. St Michael's had the pleasure of hosting the summer Eucharist which was very well attended and there were many comments about how warmly welcomed everyone was. The Deanery has refocused on Shaping for Mission and it remains very much a part of the strategic framework for the diocese and impacting new appointments. The Deanery review was shared and was an extensive piece of work that documented what was happening in our deanery at the time of compilation. The synod had the opportunity to look through the deanery review and in small groups, there was the opportunity to consider what a deanery plan for outreach and evangelism might look like. There have been various guest speakers invited to talk over the period which were both interesting and informative. St Michael's is represented at Synod by John Maye who is the Deanery Lay Chair, Rev. Alison Morris and Alison Myatt will also represent St Michaels at deanery synod moving forward. St Michael's has and continues to pay for three synod representatives at £30 per Page 28

representative so there is still room for one more representative moving forward and we will actively try to fill this role from the congregation. St Michael's remains one of the best supported and growing churches in the Deanery with figures showing that it continues to go from strength to strength and is held in high esteem by the deanery. Social And Fundraisin Social and fundraising events are part of life at St Michael's Pelsall. During 2024, we have held several large events: A May bank holiday fun day where we opened our doors to the communityfree of charge so that families could take part in various activities- we had local classic car clubs in attendance and hundreds of people from the community enjoyed the day. We held a wedding fayre using both the church hall and the church, again attended by large numbers from the local community. Two concerts were held in the church, one in the summer and one at Christmas. We held an afternoon tea in the church hall. Our annual Christmas market was held in November and we finished off the year with a New Year's Eve party. The hall has been hired out for 25 children's parties. Four charities have benefited from free use of our facilities these are: Macmillan Cancer Support, Christian Aid, the Samaritans and Tiny Tots children's charity. Ecumenical Relationshi Ecumenical relationships had continued to strengthen and develop with Pelsall Methodist Church. Clergy from both churches met regularly to forward plan and to support each other in their ministry. Both clergy and lay ministers are invited to attend their Thursday afternoon fellowship group. In January the two congregations gathered for the 'Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, at Pelsall Methodist. In May during the Christian Aid Week the congregations met to worship at the Holy Communion service at St. Michael's. However, the Methodist minister left in the summer which impacted upon the link during the latter part of the year. Page 29

6.Financial Review Treasurerfs report for the accounts: Total receipts for the year were £99,934 (£111,271) of which £37,474 (£41,313) was voluntary giving and donations. A further £7,588 {£7.792) was received from Gift Aid and GASDS and a sum of £5,105 (£7,650) was received from grants. The planned giving together with collections at services totalled £35.259 (£35,781), a decrease of 1% on the previous year. Total income including tax recovered was £99,934 (£111,272) a decrease of IO% on last year. A total of £38,241 (£25,642) was spent from designated and restricted funds during the year. an increase of 490A. The net result for the year was an excess of income over expenditure of £12,737. There was also an increase in the value of the shares of £2,099. The total value of the Church now stands at £507,976 {£493,141). Reserves Policy: Reserve Funds are held for the bells (Beiinower Fund), the organ {Organ/Music Fund), the upkeep and maintenance of the Church (Fabric/Restoration Fund), the upkeep and maintenance of the Church Hall {Repair/Renewal Fund) and the graveyard (Graveyard Fund). Balances on the Graveyard Fund are used to maintain the graveyard (cost this year £15,979), and the balances on the other funds are used to cover repairs, maintenance and emergencies. There is an unrestrirted reserves policy of holding 3 months expenditure. On 2024 figures this would be £12,239 (2023 £11,390) and unrestricted reserves at 31.12.2024 are actually £98,043 (2023 £96,112) which is substantially above this target. The PCC are happy to hold this excess as it provides a cushion in these uncertain times. There are also designated reserves of £395,681 (2023 £379,692). There are no overdrawn reserves. Fabric Re ort All annual servicing has been carried out throughout the year. Due dates are monitored and servicing performed in a timely manner The church building is maintained and updated. The quinquennial report is used as a guide. 2024 has seen repairs to brickwork in the north transept - all mortar has been replaced in the verges of the Church centre. A new floor has been laid in the west door entrance and a leak addressed in the Church centre roof. A structural repair has been done to rotten wood work in the Church centre. The toilet block in the centre has been refurbished. The graveyard around the church is maintained by a contractor. Page 30

Tne remote cemetery is maintained by a volunteer. During tne year, we nave paid to hav= hedges cut and the removal of six diseased and dangerous poplar trees. The church hall inierior has been repainted, faulry plumbing in tne toilet block has been repaired and several heaters have been replacod. ointment of the inde endent Examiner This takes place at the A.G.M. It was agreed that the services of the Diocese of Lichfield would be used to examine the financial affaArs of the Darish. Safe uardin The PCC believe they haije fulfilled their duty under section 5 of the Safeguarding and Clergy Discipline Measure 201i> (duty to hava due regard to House of Bishops, guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adulLS). This year has seen the review of the new safeguarding policy and its provision within tne church communiiy. (See policy section for more details). The church is now compliant with safeguarding policies and procedures. In 14ovember the Safeguarding iundaytook place which provided literature and information to the congregation for their information and records. Presentation of this was organi?ed by our designated and commiKted Safeguarding person who effectively contributes to ensure that the thurch is legally compliant. Approved by the PCC on..:k'. , 2025 and signed on its behalf by Ichair) (Secretary) Page 51

Independent Examiner's report to the trustees/members of The PCC of Pelsall Registered charity number.. 1170860 I report on the accounts for the year ended 31, December 2024 which are Set out on the following pages. Res ective res onsibllities of the Trustees and Inde endent Examiner The charity's trustees a re responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under Section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (the Charities Act} and that an independent examination is needed. It is rny respon5ibilitv to examine the accounts under Section 145 of the Cha rities Act, to follow the procedures laid down in the Genera l Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145{5llbl of the Charities Act, and to state whether particular matters have come to my attention. Basis of Inde endent Examiner's Statement My examination wa5 carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from the trustees concerning any such matters. The procedure5 undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the account5 present a "true and fairf, view and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below. Inde endent Examiner's Statement In connection with my examination, no material matters have come to my attention which gives me ca use to believe that in a ny material respect.. accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Charitie5 Act or the account5 do not accord with the with the accounting records the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination. I have come across no other matters in con nection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. 2210412025 Signed.. Jonathan Hill FCMA CGMA Lichfield Diocesan Board of Finance, St Marfs House, The Close, Lichfield. WS13 7LD Date: .......... Page 32

The Parochial Church Council of St Michael & All Angels, Pelsall st Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2024 Accounting Policies The PCC is a public benefit entity within the meaning of FRS 102. The financial statements have been prepared under the Charities Act 2011 and in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 governing the individual accounts of PCCS, and with the Regulations true and fair view" provisions. They have also been prepared in accordance with the Charities SORP (FRS 102). The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant notes to these accounts. The financial Statements include all transactions, assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe their main affiliation to another body nor those that are informal gatherings of Church members. 'There may be minor discrepancies in the totals as the pence are not being shown. Cashflow Statement The Charity has taken advantage of the exemption in FRS102 from the requirement to produce a Cash flow Statement on the grounds that the income does not exceed £500,000. Going Concern There are no material uncertainties related to events or conditions that cast significant doubt on the charity's ability to continue as a going concern. Accounting Estimates and Prior Year Errors No changes to accounting estimates have occurred in the reporting period. No material prior year errors have been identified in the reporting period. Description of Funds Unrestrirted funds are income funds of the PCC that are available for spending on the general purposes of the PCC, including amounts designated bythe PCC for fixed assets for its own use or for spending on a future project and which are therefore not included in its 'free reserves as disclosed in the trustees, annual report. Restricted funds comprise of two elements: a) income from trusts or endowment5 which may be expended only on those restricted objects provided in the terms of the trust or bequest b) donations or grants received for a specific object or invited by the PCC for a specific object. The funds may only be expended on the specific object for which they were given. Any balance remaining unspent at the end of each year must be carried forward as a balance on that fund. The PCC does not usually invest separately for each fund. Where there is no separate investment, interest is apportioned to individual funds on an average balance basis. Endowment funds are restritted funds that must be retained as trust capital either permanently or subject to a discretionary power to spend capital as income, and where the use of any income or other benefit derived from the capital may be restricted or unrestricted. Full details of all their restrictions are shown in the notes to the accounts. Page 33

Income Planned giving, collections and donations are recognised when received or when the PCC becomes entitled to the resource and the monetary value can be measured with sufficient reliability. Tax refunds are recognised when the incoming resource to which they relate is received, Grants and Legacies are accounted for when the PCC is legally entitled to the amounts due and the monetary value can be measured with sufficient reliability. Dividends are accounted for when receivable, interest is accrued. All other income is recognised when it is receivable. All incoming resources are accounted for gross. Expenditure Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that award creates a binding or constructive obligation on the PCC. The diocesan parish share is accounted for when due. Amounts received specifically for mission are dealt with as restricted funds. All other expenditure is generally recognised when it is incurred and is accounted for gross. Governance and Support Costs Support costs should be allocated between governance costs and other support. Governance costs comprise all costs involving public accountability of the PCC and its compliance with regulation and good practice. Support costs include central functions and have been allocated to activity cost categories on a basis consistent with the use of resources eg by allocating staff costs by time spent and other costs by their usage. Fixed Assets Consecrated and benefice property is not included in the accounts by s.10(2)(al&(C} of the Charities Act 2011. Moveable church furnishings held by the Vicar and Churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal are inalienable property, listed in the Church's inventory, which can be inspected (at any reasonable time). For anything acquired prior to 2000 there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the financial statements. No depreciation is provided on buildings as the currently estimated residual value of the properties is not less than their carrying value and the remaining useful life of these assets exceeds 50 years, so that any depreciation charges would be immaterial. Other tangible fixed assets are valued at cost. Investment5 Investments in quoted shares, traded bonds and similar investments are valued initially at cost and subsequently at market value at the year end. Investment5 held for re-sale are treated as current asset investments. Debtor5 Debtors are measured on initial recognition at settlement amount. Subsequently they are measured at cash expected to be received. Creditors and Accruals Creditors are measured at settlement amounts less any trade discounts. Accruals are measured on best estimate of the amount required to settle the obligation at the reporting date. Page 34

PCC of Pe15all St. Michael & All Angels Statement of Financial Activities for the year ended 31 December 2024 Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowment funds funds funds funds Total Prior year fund5 total funds Recelpts Incoming resources from generated funds Voluntary income Activities for generatin6 funds Investment Income Incoming resources from charitable activities Other incoming resourte5 Total income 1181 207 17.122 1181 53.807 21,868 8,875 15,401 48,376 4.746 8,87S 7,369 5,225 61,514 21,914 7.660 19,450 734 111,272 8,132 iiooi 69.366 2S,443 5,125 99.934 Payments Cost of generating fLtnds Cost of generatin8 voluntary income Charitable activities Governance costs Total expenditure 1,369 47,376 210 48.955 1.369 85,618 210 87,197 919 70.109 174 71.202 28,g14 9.427 28,814 9,427 Net income I lexpènditurel resources belore transfer 20,411 13A711 14.3021 12.737 40,070 Trans￿r5 Gross transfers between funds- in Gross transfers between funds- out OtheT recognised gain5 1 losses Gains / losses on investment assets Net movement In funds 24,022 14,6611 1,219 25.240 125,2401 23.626 123,6261 120,5791 2,099 1.930 2.099 14,836 7,884 47.954 15.989 13.0841 Total funds brought forward 96.112 379,692 17,336 493.141 445.187 Totsl funds carrled ton¥aTd 98,043 395,681 14.252 507.976 493,141 Represented by Unrestrlcted General fund 98.043 98,043 96,112 Deslgnated Bar and Social Fund Bell Tower Fund Buildin85- Fixed Asset Fund CHURCH HALLRUNNING FUND Cake Fund Children's Minlstry Fund Church Centre Renovation Fund Church Elertricity Church Hall Elettricity Church Hall RepairlRenewal Fund Graveyard Fund Legacy Fund Organ/Music Fund Parish Common Fund Warm Weleome Fund 4,404 1,668 268.171 17,747 136 180 4.404 1,668 268,171 17.747 136 180 7,336 1.382 268.171 10,758 60 150 656 45 240 1.413 26,512 11,502 10,115 40,672 li li 1.413 17,959 11,502 11.075 61,415 1,413 17,959 11,502 11,075 61,415 Restrlcted Advanced weddin8 fees Agency collection Bridgeman Education Fund Fabric/Re5toration Fund Flower Fund Graveyard Donation Fund Interior Decoratin8 5¢heme Fund lightin8 Fund 500 13801 9,447 500 13801 9,447 600 13801 9,492 2,459 31 480 4,625 30 31 31 4,625 30 4.625 30 Page 35

PCC of Pelsall St. Michael & All Angels 8alan.- Sheet as at 31 t>ecember 2024 Total fund5 Prior year funds Mxedassets Tangi￿2 assets 361357 361.957 359.858 359.858 Current assets CAsh atbaDkand in hand 149.078 149.078 135588 135.588 Uabditie5 Ctedltork-Atnounts fajllng due in one year 3.059 3,059 2.306 2306 Netcurrentass2ts less ¢urrent118billtles 146.019 133.283 Youl assets less wrrentliabilities S07,976 493.141 Tol42t5Éts425sJ$8bllJt(4S 507,976 493,1 Represented by Unrestrltted 95.Q43 96.112 Designated Bar4nd5vcial Fund Church Hall REp4irlRettewal Fund Ll2ri¥h Cernrnon Wann Welcome Fund ell TowtT Fund OrganlMuSiC Ftsnd 4,4Q4 1.413 7,336 L413 40,672 680 1.382 u),11s 2G.5L? 1.668 11.075 17.95Q M5ssi¢n Giving Fund Legacy Fund auildings- Fixed AsserFund Cake Fund Church Centre Renovatlon Fund CHURCH HALL FUNNING FUND Children's MinistryFund Churth Church 685 Church Hall Wettritsty 11.502 268.171 136 11.502 268.171 656 10.758 150 45 17,747 180 li 240 77esirlrto¢J Advanced weddlng fees Admlnistratlon GTrnt Fund Bridgeman EducatSDn Fund 600 9.447 9.492 Interior De￿[all￿g Stheme Fund F3brirlRestorabon Fund FlowerFuDd ¥htiJzK Fund Agency collerttoft 4.6Z5 4.625 2,459 31 30 13801 31 30 13801 Fund5 of the thuTth 507376 493J41 Approved by the PCC on....-.......-. 025 bv .n p&_ Page 36

PCC of Pelsall St. Michael & All Angels Statement of Assets and Liabilities as at 31 December 2024 General Designated Restricted Endowment This year Last year Flxed assets-TznKible assets Church Hall- CBF Shares- 268.171 268,171 93,786 361,957 268.171 91,687 359,858 93,786 93.786 Totals 268.171 Current assets. Cash at bank and In hand Santander current account- CCLA ICBFI deposit account- Interior Decorating Scheme- 5,CX)O 24.299 105,376 11251 9.902 4,625 14,402 29,174 115,279 4,62S 149.078 23.266 107.697 4,625 135,588 Totals 5.000 129.676 Liabllitles- Agency accounts Agency collections- 150 150 150 150 Totsls Liabilitiès- Credltors: Amounts falllng due in oriè year Creditors Due in one year- 743 743 2.166 2,166 2,909 2,909 2,306 2,306 Totals Grand total 98,043 39S,681 14.252 507.976 493.141 Statement of Assets and Liabilities - 2023 Class and nominal code General Designated Restricted Endowment Total Last year Fixed Asset- Investments 6431.. CBF Shares 91,687 91,687 91.687 91,687 83,803 83.803 Total Fixed Asset- Tangible Assets 6430: Church Hall 268,171 268,171 268,171 268.171 268,171 268.171 Total Current Asset- Cash At Bank And In Hand 6501= Santander current account 6510= CCLA ICBFI deposit account 6595: Interior Decorating Scheme 4,387 633 19,297 93,936 14181 13,129 4,625 17.336 23,266 107,697 4,625 135.588 19,623 68,959 4,625 93.207 Total 5.020 113,232 Liability- Agenry Accounts 6699: Agency collections 161 Totsl Llability- Creditors: Amounts Falllng Due In One Year 6602: Creditors Due in one year 595 595 1,711 1,711 2,306 2,306 Total Net total assets 96,112 379,692 17,336 493,141 445,187 Page 37

PCC of Pelsall St. Michael & All Angels Fund movement by type - 2024 Opening Incoming Outgolng Transfers Gainsllosses Closlng AWFees- Advanced weddlng fee Restricted 6(M) 61 iiooi liool s(xJ 500 Sub-total forAWFees Admin Gran. Administration Grant Restricted 5.105 5,105 6.324 6,324 1,219 1.219 Sub.totsl for Admin Gran Agency-Agency Restricted 13801 13801 13801 13801 Sub-total for Adrnin Gran Bar- Bar and Social Fund Designated 7,336 7,336 2.244 2.244 515 515 14,6611 14.6611 4.404 4,404 Sub-total for Bar 8urldings- Buildings- Fjxed As Designated 268,171 268.171 268.171 268.171 Sub-total for Buildings Cake Fund- Cake Fund Designated 60 60 loo loo 24 24 136 136 Sub-total for Cake Fund Ch-cen Ren- Church Centr* Rènova Desi8nated 656 656 656 656 Sub-totsl for Ch-cen Ren Ch-HALL- CHURCH HALL RUNNING Desi8nated 10,758 10.758 14,878 14.878 7.890 7,890 17.747 17.747 Sub-totsl for Ch-HALL Children's. Children's Ministry Designated 150 Iso 30 30 180 180 Sub-total for Chlldren's Church-EL- Church Electricity Desi8nated 45 45 33 33 li li Sub-total for ChuTch.EL Church.Gas- Church Gas Designated Sub-totsl for Church-Gas Education- Bridgeman Education Restricted 9,492 9,492 50 50 9.447 9,447 Sub-total for Education Grave.Don- Graveyard Donatlon F Restricted 480 480 480 sul￿tOtal for Grave-oon HALL-ELEC- Church Hall Electrlc Deslgnated 240 240 240 240 Sub-total ft>r HALL-ELEC Hall-Rep- Church Hall RepairlR Designated 1,413 IA13 1,413 1.413 sU￿tOtal for Hall-Rep IntDecorat- Interior Decorating Restrirted 4,625 4.625 4.625 4.625 sU￿tOtal for IntDecorat Page 38

Parish Com- Parish Common Fund Designated 40,672 40.672 20.743 20.743 61,415 61,415 Sub-total for Parish Com Warm Welco- Wami Welcome Fund Designated 680 680 Sub-total for Warm Welco 680 General- General fund Unrestricted 96,112 96.112 69,366 69,366 48,955 48,955 120,S791 120,5791 2,099 2,099 98.043 98,043 Sub-total for General Tower- Bell Tower Fund Designated 1.382 1.382 286 286 1,668 1,668 Sulptotsl forTower Organ- Organlmusic Fund Designated 10,115 10.115 960 960 11.075 11,075 sU￿tOtal for Organ Graveyard- Graveyard Fund Designated 26.512 26.512 6.945 6,945 15.499 15,499 17.959 17,959 Sub-total for Graveyard Mission. Mission Giving Fund Oesignated 3,279 3,279 3,279 3,279 sub.total for Mission Legacy- Legacy Fund Designated 11.502 11.502 11.502 11.502 Sub-totsl for Legacy Fabric- FzbriclRestoration F Restricted 2,459 2.459 115 115 2.574 2,574 Sub-totsl for Fabrlc Flower- Flower Fund Restrieted 31 31 31 31 Sub-total for Flower Lighting. Lighting Fund Restricted 30 30 30 30 Sub-total for Llghtln8 Grand totsl 493,141 99,934 87.197 2.099 507.976 Fund movement by type- 2023 Fund Opening Incoming Outgoing Transfers GainslLosses Journals Closing Admin Grant Restricted 6,500 6.500 6,500 6.500 Sub-totals AWFees Restrltted 400 400 300 300 iiooi iiooi 600 600 Sub.tota15 Bar Designated 4,101 4.101 3.305 3.305 70 70 7,336 7,336 Sub-totals Buildings Designated 268,171 268,171 268.171 268.171 Sub-tota15 Page 39

Cake Fund Designated 60 60 60 60 Sub-totals Ch-cen Ren Designated 2,535 2,535 1,879 1,879 656 656 Sub-totals Ch-HALL Designated 7,841 7,841 13,347 13,347 10,429 10,429 10,758 10,758 sub.totals Children's Min Designated 150 150 150 150 sU￿tOtal$ Church-EL Designated 266 266 245 245 466 466 45 45 SU￿tOtal$ Church-Gas Designated 527 527 527 527 Sub-totals Education Restricted 9,642 9,642 150 150 9,492 9.492 Sub-totals Grave-Don Restricted 480 480 480 Sub-totals HALL-ELEC Designated 489 489 249 249 240 240 Sub-totals Hall-Rep Designated 1,413 IA13 1.413 1,413 Sub-tota15 IntDecorat Restricted 4,625 4.625 4,625 4,625 Sub-totals Parlsh Common Designated 20,336 20,336 20,336 20,336 40,672 40,672 sub.totals Warm Welcome Designated 700 700 20 20 680 Sub-totals General Unrestricted 88,785 88.785 68,428 68.428 45,560 45,560 123,4261 123.4261 7,884 7,884 96,112 96.112 Sub-totals Tower Designated 1,247 1,247 135 135 1,382 1,382 Sub-totals Organ Page 40

Designated 7,860 7.860 2,255 2.255 10,115 10.115 Sub-totals Graveyard Designated 17,906 17,906 10,467 10,467 1,861 1,861 26,512 26,512 Sub-totals Misslon Designated 3,190 3,190 3,190 3,190 Sub-totals Legacv Designated 10,502 10.502 1,000 1.000 11,502 11,502 s￿￿tOtal$ Fabric Restricted 704 2,031 2,031 276 276 2,459 2,459 sub.totals 704 Flower Restricted 31 31 25 25 25 25 31 31 Sub-totals Lighting Restricted 30 30 30 30 Sub-totals Agency Restricted 13801 13801 13801 13801 Sub-tota15 Totals 445.187 111,272 71,202 7,884 493,141 Designated Funds Bar & Social Fund-money received from St. Michaeys Social Club and used for upkeeplexpenses of Soclal Club. Church Hall Running Fund-money received from lettings of Hall and used for general upkeep and running costs of the Church Hall. Bell Tower Fund-fund5 received from weddingslfunerals and donations and used for the upkeep of the bells. Graveyard Fund-fundsldonations received from fvnerals and used for maintenanee of the graveyard. Or8an/Music Fund-lunds ￿[eIved from weddings/funera15 and used for upkeep of organ and music requirements. Legacy Fund-money received from various legacies and used at the discretion of the Vicar and Church Wardens for the Beneral upkeep of the Church. Mission Giving Fund-funds transfer￿￿ monthly from giving and used for local and over5e35 mi55ion. Church Hall RepairlRenewal Fund-money transferred from Church Hall Running Fund and used for upkeep of the Church Hall. Church Gas Fund-donations received for payment of Church gas utility bills. Church Electric Fund-donations received for payment of Churth electritity utility bills. Church Hall Electric Fund-donations/fund5 transferred form Church Hall Running Fund for payment of elertricity utility bills. Parish Cornmon Fund-proportion of Common Fund held at parish level following special agreement with LDBF. Donations/transfÈrs made from other fund5. Warm Welcome Fund-grantslfunds received to 35$15t with 'Warm Welcome" initiative Set up in the Church November 2022. Cake Fund-donations received for baking of cakes. Church Centre Renovation Fund-donations reeeivÈd for renovation of Churth Centre. Childrèn's Minrstry Fund-donation5 received for Children's ministry. Restricted Funds Advanced Weddin8 Fees Fund-payments received for forthcoming weddings. Bridgeman Education Fund-monies received from the Sale of unit trusts to be used at the discretion of the Vicar and Church Wardens for education and children In the Church. Fabric/Restoration Fund-monles received from boxes and donations used forthe upkeep of the Church. Flower Fund-monie5 received from donations for flowers in the Church. Graveyard Donation Fund-donations received and used for rnaintenance of the graveyard. Interior Decorating Fund-fund5 held for decorationlupkeep of the vicarage. Li8hting Fund-monies received from donatlons and used for lighting in the Church. Administratlon Grant Fund-8rant received from LDBF to aS515t with the cpsts of admini5tratioTr in the Church. Page 41

PCC of Pelsall St. Michael & All Angels Analysis of income and expenditure for the year ended 31 December 2024 Total ear Unrestrlrted Desi nated Restricted Endowment This Last ear INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS Incoming resources from generated funds 1313 - Unpaid Cheque 1181 1181 1181 1181 Totsl Incoming resources from generated funds- Voluntary income 0101- Giving- Direct to Bank 780 0102- Giving Direct- Donations 17,778 0110- Giving- Envelopes 4.834 0301- Collections at services 9,393 0302- Collertions WeddingslFunerals 1.633 0303 Collections/Baptisms 841 0402 - Sundry Donations 1,550 0404- Other fund5 generated 3,549 0405 - Donations-church Centre Renovation 0410- Church boxes- Restoration 0501- One-off Gift Aid gifts 0550- Donations appeals etc 0601- Tax recovered on Gift Aid 0602- Tax recovered on GASDS 0701- Legacies 0802- Grant per LDBF 08AI- Non-recurring one-off grants 780 17,778 4,834 9,393 1,633 841 1,716 3,641 740 17,238 4,754 9,168 2,859 1,023 1,306 3,758 2,535 161 30 62 53 53 430 16 5,508 2,080 79 1,610 430 16 5,508 2,080 5,689 2,104 1,000 7,500 150 61,514 5,105 5,105 Total 48.376 207 5,225 53,807 Incoming resources from generated funds- Actlvities for generating funds 0903 - Magazine Income 735 0910 Fund Raising activities 3,171 1210- Greeting Card Sales 290 1240- Church hall hire 1241- Church Centre Hire 1270- Bar & Social Club Income 735 3,171 290 14,878 550 2,244 21,868 705 3,672 325 13,347 560 3,305 21,914 14.878 550 2,244 17,122 Total 4,746 Incoming resources from generated funds- Investment income 1001- Dividend5 from CBF Shares 2,545 1020- Bank and building society interest 6,330 1031- Sale of land or buildings 2,545 6,330 2,506 4,304 850 7.660 Total 8,875 8,875 Incoming resources from charitable activities 1101- Weddings and funerals PCC Fees 1103 - Wedding/Funeral Donations- Organ/Music 7,225 7,225 960 7,439 1,185 960 Page 42

1104- Wedding/Funeral donations- Tower 1105- Weddings Deposits 1106- Funerals donation-Graveyard Fund 1107- Baptism Fees PCC Fees 225 225 75 iiooi iiooi 6,947 300 10,451 6,947 144 7,369 144 15,401 Total 8,132 iiooi 19.450 Other incoming resources 1312 - Refunds 734 734 111.272 Total INCOME TOTAL 69,366 25,443 5,125 99,934 EXPENDITURE Cost of generating funds- Cost of generating voluntary income 1720- Costs of giving envelopes 82 1730- Costs of fetes & other events 166 1732 - Costs of magazine 1,121 1,369 82 166 1,121 1,369 172 747 919 Totsl Charitable activities 1801- Giving to Charities 1802 - Giving to other churches 1850 - Mission Giving- Home mission 1851 Mission Giving- Overseas mission 1852- Mission Giving- Child Sponsorship 1901- Subscriptions 1910- Common Fund 2050- Fees of parish secretary 2051- Fees of parish organist 2104- Associate Minister Expenses 2121- Associate Minister's Education 2201 Parish training and mission 2340- Upkeep of services 2341- Upkeep of Services/Hymn Books 2350- Upkeep of churchyard- Maintenance 2351- Upkeep of Churchyard - Water 2352 - Upkeep of Churchyard - Refuse 2360- Administratlon- General 2361- Administration- Photocopier 2362 - Administration - Telephone 2365 - Miscellaneous 2372- Gift to Clergvlcongregation 2373- Gift to Church 2402- Church running Electricity 2410- Church running- gas 2411- Church running Gas 2420- Church running- water 2430 - Church running- maintenance 2432 - Church Running- Flowers 2435- Church Running- Consumables 2440- Church running- Insurance 2441- Church Running-junior Church 442 20 442 700 2,471 500 216 937 31.115 5.904 1,445 1,434 255 418 698 248 680 2,471 500 216 240 1,838 1,040 216 945 30,505 5,359 1,375 1,366 648 31.115 50 5,904 1,445 1,434 255 358 698 60 506 521 13 794 14,382 480 14,862 140 977 140 977 85 1,440 657 io 84 606 1,201 1,258 178 253 272 134 916 97 1,987 552 85 1,020 657 io 52 606 1,168 1,258 178 253 272 420 32 173 33 1,176 637 720 233 962 25 55 3,133 384 3,250 64 384 3,250 Page 43

2442 - Church Running- Q l Report 2443 - Church Yard - Upkeep 2450- Church running- Conservation 2451- Church Running- 180th Celebratlon 2502- Warm Welcome Space Expense5 2520- Hall running- Consumables 2530- Hall running- electricity 2550 Hall running- insurance 2560- Hall running- maintenance 2580- Hall running- water 2591- Hall Running- Refuse 2701- Church major repairs- structure 2710- Church major repairs- installation 2730- Church Centre interior & exterior decora 870 1,040 96 1,210 1,210 495 24 519 20 260 3,261 897 138 233 675 262 5,497 812 515 253 721 345 656 262 5,497 812 515 253 721 1,613 1,961 1,268 1,306 7,093 Total 47,376 28,814 9,427 85,618 70,109 Governance costs 2601- Governance costs examination/audit fee 210 210 174 Total EXPENDITURE TOTAL 210 48,955 210 87.197 174 71,202 28.814 9,427 GRAND TOTAL 20,411 13,3711 14,3021 12.737 40,070 Page 44

PCC of Pelsall St Michael & All Angels Notes to the Accounts 31 December 2024 Allocation of Support Costs Support costs comprise Trustee Training and Governance Costs etc. Due to the nature of the financial activities of the PCC, these would be allocated across Charitable Expenditure which comprises the majority of its expenditure and as such are automatically charged there. Staff Costs 2024 2023 Wages & Salaries £8,559 £7,748 Average numberof employees During the year the PCC employed a parish secretary, organist and a gardener (all part-timel and no payments were large enough to attract social security costs. There were no employee benefits to key management personnel in the previous or current year. Trustees, Remuneration & Expenses l Trustee has been reimbursed £1,43412023 £1,366) for travel and phone expenses incurred during the year. Related Parties No other expenses were paid to any other PCC member, persons closely connected to them, or related partie5. Donations from related parties IPCC members) totalled £5,744 (10 people). 2023 - £10,726. Fees for the examination of the account5 2024 2023 Independent Examinerfs fees £210 £174 £210 £174 Page 45

Analysis of Transfer between Funds Unrestricted General Fund Designated Parish Common Fund Parish Common Fund Bar & Social Fund Restricted Total £ 116.0821 16,082 4,661 4,661 (4,6611 3,279 (4,661) General Fund General Fund Total {3,279) (1,218) Mission Giving Fund Admin Grant Fund 1,218 120,5791 19,361 1,218 Parish Common Fund- transfers made into this fund for Common Fund purposes and held at parish level. Mission Giving Fund- monthly transfers made between two funds to account for IO% of planned giving, which ultimately goes to local and overseas mission. Administration Grant Fund- costs of photocopier and salary of Administrator transferred to General Fund. Fixed Assets a. Tangible Fixed Assets Freehold Buildings Church Equipment Total Cost or Valuation As at I"Jan Additions in the year Disposal in the year Revaluation lif any) Value at 31" Dec £268,171 £268,171 £268,171 £268,171 Accumulated Depreciation As at I, Jan Charge for the year Disposals Value at 31 Dec st 5t Net Book Value at l Jan 2024 Net Book Value at 31 Dec 2024 £268,171 £268,171 5t £268,171 £268,171 The freehold buildings comprise of the Church Hall at Vicarage Road, Pelsall. The valuation is based on the insurance value. Page 46

Investment5 Change in market value At 31" Dec At I'jan Additions Disposals Transfers Unrestricted funds Investments £91,687 £2,099 £93,786 Total £91,687 £2,099 £93,786 The holding at 31" December 2024 was 4,056 shares in the CCLA Investment Fund. Current Assets Debtors 2024 2023 Gift aid recoverable Prepayments and accrued income Other debtors Total Liabilities a. Amounts falling due in one year 2024 2023 Accruals Common Fund Agencies (Funerals) 2,909 2,305 150 Total 3,059 2,305 b. Amountsfalling due after more than one year None Page 47

PCC of St Michael & All Angels, Pelsall SOFA for the year ended 31 December 2023 Unrestricted Designated Restricted Endowment funds funds funds funds Total Prlor year funds total funds Receipts Incoming resources from generated funds Voluntary income Activrties for generating funds Investment income Incoming resources from charitable activities Other incoming resources Total income 49,417 4,762 6,810 7,439 4,391 17,152 7,706 61,514 21,914 7,660 19,450 734 53,322 19,616 3,261 21,609 1421 97,765 850 300 11,711 734 33,988 68,428 8.856 111,272 Payment5 Cost of generating funds Cost of generating voluntary income . Fundraising trading cost of goods sold and other costs Investment management costs Charitable activities Governance costs Other resources used Total expenditure 919 919 1,436 44,466 174 18,692 6,951 70,109 174 59,552 150 45,560 18.692 6,951 71.202 61,138 Net income / {expenditurel resources before transfer 22.868 15,296 1,905 40,070 36.627 Transfers Gross transfers between funds - in Gross transfers between funds- out Other recognised gains I losses Gains/losses on investment as5et5 Gains on revaluation, fixed asset5, charity's own use Net movement in fund5 loo 123,5261 23,526 23,626 123,6261 24,703 124,7031 iiooi 7,884 7,884 111,7461 7,327 38,822 1.805 47,954 24,882 Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward 88,785 340,870 15.531 445.187 420,305 Total fund5 carried forward 96.112 379,692 17.336 493,141 445.187 Page 48