J,Po CHRIST >< CHURCH KENSINGTON 2023 Annual Report
CONTENTS SECTION 1: OUR VISION CENTRED ON CHRIST LOVING ONE ANOTHER SERVING KENSINGTON 10 SECTION 2: KEY ACTIVITIES IN 2023 12 CONNECTING 14 GATHERING BUILDING UP 18 EQUIPPING PARTNERING 20 22 SECTION 3: BEHIND THE SCENES 24
WELCOME Christ Church is a Church of England parish ehurch An Lhe Diocese ofLondon. 'I'his reporL summarise.s who we. are. and h()w we. ai"e. doing we. look back an 202.5, Sec'li(Trn I c)uLlines our vi.%ion'. where it comes Iri)m and how it shape.s ()ur key acliviLies. Se.(:li(Trn 2 describes tho,se. key aclivitie.s in 2n23, noting sLrengths and we.akne.sses. S(:('li()n 3 c.()nside.rs whaL happe.ns'behind Lhe sr.(:ne8' Lo e.nable Lhis mini%Lr.y lo happen. We invite you Lo read all ol'ihis report critically, Lhanklully and prayerfully. We have alsi) provided i)ppnrlunilies to talk about il with oihers. We. discussed il aL'Any QuesLi()ns ()n Sunday.1 Decembe.r. We. prayed Lhr()uEh il aL nur praye.r me.e.ting nn We.dnc)8da.y 61)ecembe.r. We will formally receive it al the Annual l)aroc.hial Chureh Mee(ing on Sunday 7 January, 12 nnon (with a.se.cond mee.ting on our finali%ed linancial accounts late.r in Lhe. ye.ar). Brian F.Ilic.k, on behall'ol'Lhe. PCC
SECTION 1 Our Vision
To understand Christ Church, we need to start with God and three
things that he is doing in this world.
First, God is gathering people to himself through Lhe Lord Jesus
ChrisL. This is why Jesus came into the world: to se.ek and to save.
the l()st (Luke 19.10). As he does so, he gathers them into Lhurches,
all centred on the Lord Jesus Christ and what he has done for
the.m. Christ Church is one such c.hurch. Therefore, the. firsi part
ol'our visi()n As Ln be. L'c>ntrc)d i)n ChrisL
Secondly, God is now knitLing toqether the people in these
c.hui'('hc'.% in l()vc'. Cc)d wanL.s his pc'.()ple., (In('.c'. sav('d. L() gTri)w a
di%cii)los ol. J()su.s by repenLiiig ancl helieving morc) and mol'e
aiid we. c.annoL do Lhal wiLlioul each oihei's he.lp. More
pri)I'oun(11.y, he lan[S his penple Lc) Qri)w Li)kfeLher a% one. bi)d.y
(l-;i)h('.%i¢ins 4'.15- 1()). I'he.re. l()re., Lhe. .%e.(:()nd parl ()I' ()u r vi%i()n 1% L()
love. one. an()the.r.
Finally, God has a purpose for hls churches to serve others. God
senL Jesus bec'iiuse he s() l()ved Lhe w()rld, and we C
CENTRED ON CHRIST Jesus shows us a God who is amazing: gracious. generous. patient. self-sacrificial. fair and wise. He is entirely worthy of our trust. love and obedience- and to know him personally is the meaning of life. 'I'he Ll-agedy ofhumanity is ihaL none of us insLincLively do LrusL, love or obey God and wha( we dese.rve as a result As to die an eternal death of condemnation and se.P¢if¢iLii)n I r()m h im: hriiken, d is('.ardc:d and lar Irom h()me.. 13ui here is what Jesus has done: he lived the perfeci life thal we should have lived and then he died on Lhe. cross Ic) face. thai deaih we deserve, in our plac.e. Al'ier three day4 he r()se again, defv.ating death £inally iind Lonlirm1n Lc) us th(IL every prumise God make.s li) us will c()mL) Lru£) All this is far from what we. dc.serve.' it is God s free gift ofgracc to us in Christ. So we, wanl lo be, ce.nLred i)n him. We. wanL Ic) c,()nnec.L him Lo every aspe.cl of ()ur lives.. our work. our friendships, our families; how we speak. how we handle money; how we respond to Lriumph and Li"agedy alike. We wanL to give ourselve.s in worship Lo ihe one. who loved us and gave himsell" for us (Romans 12'.1-2). SECTION 1
HOW DO WE REMAIN CENTRED? THE BIBLE AND PRAYER The Bible is God's key tool for proclaiming to us this good news. As the13ibEe is taught taithfully, CJod speaks to us.. his word is like. lood for the journey, honey for our soul, a lighL Lo our feeL, a sword Lhal cuts to Lhe he.arL (Ifus and a hamme.r ihaL shalLers our pride. The bigge.%L (hing je.sus wanLs ol'us is to IAsLen well (Luke 10.42). We put ihe reading and preaching of God's word at the cen(re of our Sundi2.y gaLh(!rings. We. w()I'k ihr()ugh passages so we can see for oui'se.Ives whaL it says. Oui. pi"eache.i's aim Lo leach everything ihe ljible says and nothing iidoes not. But we also multiply occasions oulside Sundays for people to read and hear his word. All our meetings/activities have the g()al of. authentic, context-appropriate proclamation of the gospel. applied to people's real lives. We want to enable each other to hear God's word (eg by offering bahysillers) and eqLliP eac.h oihe.r to Le.ac.h it. Prayer is the primary waywe respond to this good news. Having listened Lo ()ur F'ather, we lalk Lo him. 'I'his is ihe. mnsl ha%ic praLLAr.al expre%sion ol'ldith (Luke 18.1-8). We wanl Lo nurture people in iheir private prayer, helping Lheir prayers Lo become more joyful, consistent, subsLantial and inlormed. But we also pray iogeiher and we want lo help everyone enjoy Lhese times. We see our monthly prayer meeting as the clearest indicator of our church's spiritual health. OUR VISION
LOVING ONE ANOTHER Jesus said, 'Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one anotherf Uohn 13.34). So, even as we all struggle with question5, fears, hurts and temptations, we are committed to forgiving. bearing with, praying for and encouraging one another. God s will for us is ihat we become more. like Jesus in ei'ery respec( and his Spirit is aL work wiLhin us Lc) help us. We know ihai l()r us ihi% will iniyolve. man.y chanQes. and Ih()se c.hange.s will ()Ilf:n make life. hai-dei. and more. cc)mpli(:aLe.d loi. us in the. shoi't lerm. Flul we embi'ace such change. and. bec.ause we love one another. we are committed to walking wilh one another thi'ough it. Pr¢l(:ti(:ally Lhis mv.an% Lhat we L¢ilk ah(iut i'ep(Jnt¢inL'e. and l¢iith. We h()pe Lhat any visilor c.an quic.kly discern Ihat, whe.n we. do so, we are. lalking first ol. all io ourselves. IL also means we are commitLe.d (o becoming more. personal with one anc)Lhe.r. Mn8L ol. us are. insLinc.liv(..ly privaL('. and individualisLir.. Flul CJl)d is dil'le.re.nL- he. vie.w% wlgdom as corpnrate, he has a baslc di.stru5t ol'sec.recy, and he. sets a high premium on genuine reconcillalion (Lphesians 4.'1-6, Jf..8-20). S(), we wanl (11 he.lp ()ne an()Lher volujilarily. and al a pa('.e. we e.ach ch()()%p. tr) bpgin Lo dismanile ihe barriers we put up around ourselves. One way (his ofLen happens is through our various smaller gi'oups. SECTION 1
MATTHEW'S STORY This year has been a year of big change for me. I completed my Master s in Meehanieal Engineering at Imperial in June, and Lhen afLer a break - inc.luding a Irip L() Hong K()ng i() say g()()dbye. to a frie.nd wh()'d mi)ve.d back there. - I sLarled w()rking in the City in renewables in Se.pLembe.r. AILhou%h I've expe.rienced 81gnific.ant chanEes in Circ.umsLanS in the la41 l£)w mc)nths, G()d has b£)LJn Lhdnging my LhinkRnLF ()ver Lhe. cnurse or Lhe .ye.ar in wa.ys LhaL have pi'epai-ed nie lor en(ering Lhe wc)rld ()I' work. Reading Mark's Gospel with 'l'ristan was really good. Ideas like 'evil th()ughis come from wiihin, sL()()d ()ul: il s noi jusl my ihoughts ihaL are sinful. buL even deeper Lhan thal! It's a liLtle bit scary but has helped me appreciaLe how amazing (he gospel is. I've also become more and more secure in myself because of Jesus, because I understand that he has chosen mc and loved me and saved me. Il's given me. thc confidence to go into work and noL b(.. afraid to he who l am. I'hat inc.lud(.'s telling pe.ople. I go Lo church. and hopel'ully evenLually telling ihem aboutJesus. IL wasn t like thaL when I wenL lo uni. it's the first new place I ve been able to settle into wiLh this se.c.ure. InundaLinn in c.hrist. God's also been changing my Lhinking about work ilseif. I can be te.mpted to think: I do work, and it's a necessary thing thal I wouldn't b()Lher wlth il. I cc)uld he.lp IL. I didn'l really kn()w hi)w IL was enabling me. t() svrve. je.sus apari Ir()m giving me cc?Ileague.4 l L()uld talk ah()uL him with. Which is a good thing! Bul weve also had sermons this yeai. thinking about how we can serve God in the work we do by doing our jobs well and by loving Ihose around us. If we're working for God, even the mosl mundane things can be done in his service. OUR VISION
SERVING KENSINGTON Jesus has given churche5 the task of making disciples of those who do not currently know or trust in him (Matthew 28.16-20). As a church we want to give ourselves to this mission to all. We. wanL Ln be ac'.c'ps%ible. l() all: a ch urch whe.re anyo)ne. can find a warm we,Ic.()me. and a vision loi. lile le.d by God. 'I'he communily around us is dive.rse., including tudenls, .young families and pei)ple Irom ovL)rseas, and we wanl our services to conne.c.I wilh all ol'the.m. We want to he servants to all: lo serve our neigshbours in practical and unglamorous roles where the.y are - whether on our street, in our pla of work, at the sporls club ()r at ()ur L.h ildrp.n s 5(:h()()I, ()r thr()ugh Lhe many v(IlunL<lry {)rC1n1%¢IlA()n5 ¢ir()und u.%. Above all, we want Lo be. me.ssengers lo all: shai.ing a message thal mosl people have not yeL Er&8pe.d. We hnpe. lo give pe()ple a% many npp()rluniLie.s as p()ssible, in way Lhey will enjoy, lo be.gin (o enc.ounLe.rJesus realiiy and beauLy. SECTION 1
OUR LIFEBOAT MISSION The Jesus of the Gospels constantly spoke in terms of salvation: lost and found, hell and heaven. death and life {Luke 13.22-30). We may find this language unsettling but there is no other Jesus than this one. Irwe Lake Jesus al his word, then ihe church has an urgent mission.. we are nol so much a cruise ship as a lifeboal. On a cruise ship, Ihe passengers are ihere mostly for the pleasure of the journey. The service must always be good. The capiain always steers away from Irouble. And the. ship is notaiming to pic.k up more people. But on a lifeboat. almost everyone becomes crew. They are there to serve the needs of others and embrace hard work, risk and dirriculties Inr Lhe. sak(. ol'se.('.ing more pe.()ple. re.sc.ue.d. We see ourselves as a lifeboal. LIFE BOAT CRUISE SHIP OUR VISION
SECTION 2 Key Activities in 2023
VICAR'S REPORT The page.s thal Eollow desc.ribe something ot" God s gracious dealings with us ove.r the past year. I'hey also represenl the prayerl'ul hard work ol. many people. In a healLhy c:hurc.h I:ver.y helievt:r is a gi)%p('.I mini,%Ler and we di) ()ur b('.sl w()i'k in L('.ams. .%0 l am enc.()urage.d by Lhe way LhaL nui" minislry Leams have grown in .si/,e., commiLmenL and maLuriLy over the coui'se of2023. Inevi L(Ihl.y, ou r 81.a17' and M in i%LI'y 'l'rainee4 pl¢l.y a ke..y i'()le. i n e.nabl i Lhe m in i4Lry ()r Lhe resL ()I' us.14v.J'e we la(:e ¢1 Lhallv.nge.. hel,.en us, we d() noL Lfive en()ugsh m()ne.y to enable all Lheir roles to conLinue. We need to resolve ihis income deficil, one way or anoiher, in ihe firsL quarter oI'2021. This ye.ar it als() bec.ame. apparenL that we must grapple. wiLh a c.nuple. nf signifi('.ant building challenges. F'irsl. Lhe t()wer ne.eds repairing. In 2()2,5 we have bolslere.d oui. reserves in view ol. large. uncerlainlics relaLing to these cosL% and in 2024 we will he working wiLh ihe Communily 'I'ru8t lo rai.se ihe remaining lunds. Sec,ondly, Ihe nave. needs re-(Irdei'ing L() provide much-np(Jde.d minisliy space. In 2023 we %ci)pe.d nui ihe project; in 2024 we will wanl to flnalise plans. Finally, Christ Church s minislry all hclppens wilhin Lhe widoi. c.nnlext of Lhe. Church of E;ngland and. in parlicular, its acLive consideralion off. changes lo iLs doctrine. The PCC were so concei.ned about this in 2023 that we paused any linanelal contribulions Lo Lhe Diocese. As the situation continues lo develop, 2024 As likely to re.quire furiher Lhinking and planning ()n our parL. KEY ACTIVITIES IN 2023
CONNECTING with those around us IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CCCT new email slgn-ups 135 Summer bazaar Opera event Garden party ONE-OFF EVENTS Easter trail A Love Supreme: jazz concert Christianity Explored course 'Can we trust the Gospels?, with Dr Peter Williams x3 Babies ,Ind Tots King s Coronation screening REGULAR EVENTS x39 Dumpling-making workshop CCK concerts x4 Darkness and light party x20 (qi) vr Community coffee mornings Wreath-making evening Christmas jazz & cocktails SECTION 2
We've made progress: A wider variety of events More people inviting friends to things Wednesday coffee mornings now routinely including content that gets people thinking We've got further to go: A slil I wiclcr vai'iely ofei'e.nLs Morc) capaciLy - currently greaily limite.d by the. pe,ws uestions we're asking: Fl()w d() we conne.cL 1[h non-religious people. as we.ll as religious pe.ciple? Flow can we run premium events where gospel conLent genuinely enhance.5 people's enjoymenL'P 20 24 Opportunities for next year: A majoi. guest event every month W()rking cl()sc,ly wilh the community to raise the sub,slantial funds re.quir(:d l()r repairs lo Lhe tnwe.r Praise God for: A gre.al message. ahi)uLJe,sus which is Lhe key Lo every human heai'L New leade.rs traine.d for Chi-istianiLy F,xploi'e.d Please pray for: membp.rs ol'C:ht'is( Church (() develi)p mc)re relaLionships whv.re we are speaking ofjesus naturally People who eome to an event lo have their eyes opened tojesus KEY ACTIVITIES IN 2023
GATHERING under God's word AVERAGE ATTENDANCE ELECTORAL ROLL 2022-23 2022 2023 224 ts-- 157* io(I loo 80 80 ()1'1 January 2024 VOLUNTEERING adiill 6(1 611 40 411 20 20 (inr A V) 18 11AM 25 'vl(Yime (.%idesprrs0n, 5PM 38 Rcadiiig, prci.yiiiQ, Pl-I'-Ill'hing Law 10 I'vacliin children and 12 Iini Songs we sing BIBLE GENRES PREACHED 11am 76 Gospels Spni 70 SECTION 2
We've made progress: Some PCC approved plans implemented.. services reliably run for an hour. aim to reflect the priorities and balance of the Book of Common Prayer, and are generally easier to undersiand Serviee sheets redesigned to iniprove our welcome t(} newcomers More of the 11am choir now members of Christ Church A new we.e.kly all-dg() t('.a('hing %l()t M()re people staying aftei- seiwices and mixing with others I'lie Llectoi'al Roll a mol'e accurate retleetion of those who attend services We've got further to go: Th(: fjpm r('.p('.i't(iir('. ti) in(:lud('. d wid('.J' £?mi)tii)ndl ran&f(? ()f %i)nLSs More people.'up front, M()I'e. on4aEement wiLh the. se.rmon's Lalkino pi)inls M()rI balanc'.() a('r()ss hibl i('al &F()nrc>s in %(Trmi)n% Questions we're asking: What c.an we do to be.eome mol'e ac.c.c.s.sible to lamilies? Would li b(.. he.Iplul t() Irain more i)('.()ple. l() pri.'ai:h and l('.ad s(!rvic.es? And i li hL.Ipl ul lor Lhe c.lergy to wear distinclive clothing. 14ow Lan we irive Lhe 11am congregation the oppvrtunily to questions ab()ut the %e.rm()n? 20 24 Opportunities for next year: A whc)l('. I:hui'ch w('.(..k(.'nd awdy ()n 1-3 N()v(:mh(:r Praise God for: A year of God's word f(lithfully being pJ'ULlaimed (Ind working among u5 More people leeling excited to invite friends Please pray for: The church prayer meeling increasingly Lo fe.el unmissable lor all who r.an make it Our Sundays Lo be rieh Limps of buildinge.ach oiher up with God's word KEY ACTIVITIES IN 2023
BUILDING one another up Tuesday Friday Small Groups Mixed rniip 96 gi'oup Wednesday people Thursday Mixc'LI groui) stude.nt truup% .%iude.nL- group wome.n s grvups gi'oup 27. a (63 £10 66 p('.i)i)l('. in I:1 Bibl(,. 4tudic'.s p(>{)pl(> {)n ddyS (Iway cuuplvs in mai-riiigc. prcp hi)nk gri)up discussions CHILDREN AND YOUTH GROUPS (*NEW) 4-7s 1amk, 8-10s 11-14s' 0-3s 5pm 4-11s 45 avi'ragL' attendance 14-18s' SATURDAY TEACHING MORNINGS Biblc Ovcrvie.w, Titus lJnwrapped, How can we best lovc: Lh().se whn are %ame-sex aLLracLed? SECTION 2
We've made progress: More small groups on more days Children s groups led by more regular leaders, who Can get to know the children better New groups for 11-14s and 14_ISs on Sundays We've got further to go: Sm¢ill groups lo become more accessible so th¢il increasing numbers of the church famils, al'e in one An appre.ntiee. culture. in nur small groups Questlons we're asking: Ilow can we help 11-l/iS from aci-oss the congi'e.kSations mee.t toQether'P I Ii)w d() we mak() small qri)ups o()nd r()r un ho.l iovv.rs we.1 l as holio.vers? 20 Opportunltles for next year: t)(..dicat(.d Leachin& ddys for mari'ied Loui)les and parents Praise God for: An inci'easing love lor one an(Ithvr and an interest in each oiher s l jiie.s People offei'ing to babysil so that more parents can be in small group% t()gLJthc'r Please pray for: ('liuri,h i() h(: b(JttL'r al e.nabling p('.()plcb ti) find thLir way into quality friendships A maturc,. ciiupl(' ti) t(ik(' ()n i)iir mai-ri(Ig('. pi-c'.p KEY ACTIVITIES IN 2023
EQUIPPING each other to serve GIVING £200,000 20 £150,000 11am £100,000 li: 10 £50,000 5pm £0 Amount given in 2023 (Jan-Dec) PRAYER DIARY 62 1460 BOOKSTALL users 60 23 tiLI£)% riir sale. Iii-ay(:r PL)ints I'.()pie.s %()Id WEEKLY EMAIL PASTORAL LEADERSHIP INTERVIEWS WEBSITE +139% -700 clicks L.di1s MINISTRY TRAINEES 2022: 21 2023: 38 LEADE.RS' TRAINING {2nd vear) (2nd }'ear) traiiiing sessions (nom,. i-eLui-ned (Istyear) LO Hung Kong) Iooii Group SECTION 2 20
We've made progress: Roles increasingly bein£ fit Lo people, rather than people Lo needs (e.g. Lhe 'Opportunities to see booklet) Belter communication through the 'eeklY email and website More people giving at 5pm Bookstall now open each 'eek We've got further to go: GivinLF to increase substantially in order to maintaTrn our curi'ent levels of ministry Mi)r(' ('.ng(Ig(>m('nt with th(. pr(iJ'('.r d iclry Questions we're asking: I l()w c.an wp. ki)ep rec.ruiLino ancl xr()winff ministr.y Traine.e..s? H()w c'.an w(> hu ild ('.Iia('h i no i nl() al l ()u r L()ams? 20 24 Opportunities for next year: 'Re.ady to serve courses tor new le.aders A l('ade.rs' day in Se.pLÉ'.mb('.r WebsiLe hils tracked Praise God for: (Jl)d 4.%pirit raising lip many servant-h('arted l('a(Ii'i G()d's .1)1. bc'ing %ullici(:nt L() ('.quip us l()r ('.vc'iry gi)i)d w()L-k Please pray for: FN'('.ry p('.r%i)n (it C.hri%t C.huirh ti) hilV('. a i'isii)n fi)r h()w th('y (¥in S(.(. CJ(Kl in 21)24 Growing financial generosity aci'055 the whole churc.h. and confide.nce that money will be stewai-ded well KEY ACTIVITIES IN 2023
PARTNERING with other gospel work PARTNER ORGANISATIONS ReNew THEPROCLAMATIONTRUST LONOON GOSPEL PAR TNERSH I P MISSION PARTNERS st Helen's North Konslngton The Crossing Churcli chris and Ting Prekoi) Local c.hristian Un ii)ns (L.540) Hope Church Johannesbiir J8ffle5 and Lucy Buchanon St Ilelen s North K('n.singtnn CHRISTIAN HOLIDAYS CHRISTIAN UNIONS 14 0 talks at LU evenls supporting Imperial CU F.i'ents W('.ek Hope. churc.h Johannesburg leadvi's )'oung people SECTION 2 22
We've made progress: A eoherenL vision for partnership developed by the Mission & Partnerships subcommittee Some otherwesi London churches included in our prayers CollaboraLion with other 11.'est LK)ndon ehurches to provide a Thursday evening youth group We've got further to go". A gi'eater numberof long-term mission partners Thc church to fee.l mi)re c.i)nnected with our mission partners and th(.. pr()('.('.,%s ()f ('hi)()sing Lh()m M()r() ()r()ur yi)unLY i)(i()pl('. til att()nd (:hristian h()liddyS Questlons we're asking: As Lh(b (:h ur('h ()I' r,nLsliind walks away fri)m Lhc,. hisLI)ric: fcii ch i)I' I he gl()hcil c.hurc..h. whal levc.I c)I' parLnL)I'shii) Lan we have with ou r di>anery, diocese and denomination? 20 24 Opportunities for next year: A new grani for triiinin&F courses such as C()rnhill, which members of the church family can apply for Pralse God for: Whai G()d 1.% d()ing ar()und the '{)r1d t() t><ll'(.' PL'()pl('., and i)ur ()pp()rtunity ti) wi)rk with him Tjrian s week in Singapore teaching the Crnssing Church. and Chris Pl'ekop's riTrturn visit ti) u Please pray for: A growing spirit. of intei-dependenc.e and Qenerosity towards other gospel worke.rs 23 KEY ACTIVITIES IN 2023
SECTION 3 Behind the Scenes
INTRODUCTION
In this document the. parish is re.ferred to as Christ Church and the lJaroe.hial Church
counc.il as the PCC.. Christ churc.h fnrms part ()rthe. Ke.nsington D(>anery in thc, Episeopal
Area of Kensington, within the Diocese of London. The PCC is a body corporate
L'stdbli%hL.d by thL. Church i)r Lngland. ThL' P(:C ()pi:raLL'S undÉ.'r thL. Par()(:hial ('hur(:h
(J()un('.i I P(l.(,.r% M('.<1sur('. Th(; P(;C is d rv.gistv.rp.d ('.hari(y hj(i('.t tu thv. Chdri(i(J% A('.l 2011
(registe.re.d numb('r 11731141).
M('.mb('.r%hip ()r thi. P(:C is d(.'L('rmin(..d hy thc. Churi'.Ii Rc'pi-I'..sc'ntati()n Rul(.. -
Jan uai-y 2Q2l 11) tlic. ddtc. ()f dPPI-i)I'al (if ihis i-('.port. the P("C mL'mbt'rs, who act as ti'ustec
(Il. the. re.gist('.r(,.d i..harity, ari: ist(,d h(.l()w.
Since I
Clerty membep
Ili'idn F:IliLk (InL'umbenl and Lhairman), Rich Pc)well (Assi)eiaLL) Vicar)
C.hiir(.hwar(l('ns
And1'eI l)imond (from May 2023)., Gordon Iloff. Vice.-chair of the l)LC (frc)m ma.y 2021);
l(In J(Ili ns1)n. C()-Vil'.L-Llidll' uf LhL PLL (unLil M(iy 2021),. S<ll'ali I'L'II, Lo-VlLL-Lhiill' ul. LliL'
PCC (unlil May 2023)
r,le¢ted lay member.s
G('.i)i'g.y Ai'miLdLs('. (li-()m May 2023). Matthv.w Bduoh, I liinniih Th()ppur
Elecled by KensInon Deanery Synod to IA)Iidon Diocesan Synod (2021-2024) Sarah Te.It The PCC 15 SUPPOrted by five subcommittees. At the end of 2023, they were constituted as follows.. Standing: Andrew Dimond, Gordon Hoff. Caroline Mccabe. Rich Powell and Tom Ravalde Buildings & Fabri(:: Andrew Dimond, C.l¢iire Dimi)nd, R()s(:Ilc' Fox, JLnnife.r Frec'man, Winnie Ip and Rowena Winkler rinancL.' Ru.4(..11(.. r()x, C¢iri)lin(.. M('.C.cibf:, Imi)gLin Spi-(u:kling dnd J().%(.'phinc' Te.11 Mission & Pilltncrships: Felipe Gdllii Skinner, Nathan Hall, PippaJdmes dnd Rich Pu,ell I lumiin R(:si)ure.('.s.' Ri(..hard I l(..ftn('.i', CJ()i'di)n Fl()ft', CJre.g()r M('Kinl(:y, Vdn('%.8a R()m(:ir() A8 vicar, Ilrian r,Irick 18 an o.x I))c.1 m()mho.r Df all siih('.ommittp.o.s. 'I'he PCL has a risk register dnd risk mitlLYdtion li'amework (avdilable on request), cove.rinL Gc)v('rn(Ini'.c': skills and ( xp('rie.n(.'e.. I'()mpcJten('e, pi-cic'i',S%V.S Lind ()rg(in is(Ili()n of Lhe. PLL, etc.. ()pLJr(ILions.' child pi'c)LL'(:Liun. hL)alih & %al£'Ly. plant & L'q uipmenL, phy5iLal %alety. elc. F'i nanciiil.. income slabi l ilj., reseives, cash110,, inve%(ments. fraud, e.ic. F.xle.rnal.. c'.ci)n()mic si Lualiun, i)ubli('. i)i)li('.y, i)ubl ic. hi'alih, cli'.mi)graphi('. Lhangc',s, elc. Ilegu latory: of)ve.rnment reqti irements/repoi'tinE, disabi lity discrimi nation, etc. Lach iLemised risk has a coi'responding miligation measure and specific individuals and groups whu kL) rc)spc)nsibility lor this. SECTION 3 26
pcc
TOM RAVALDE
In 2023 th(,. PC.C met six limc's and ihL' SLanding CommitLc'c' livc, Limes. This yc'ar we als()
hLQ(In (i) sc'.h(..dul('. r('.guldr %ubc'.IimmiLtITe mc'.Ll.ing c'i.'{)nings t() Li)(Ird inatc,. with Lh(' Pl:(;.
PC.C. minut('.% are. availahl(' ()n re.que.8t.
()nc'. drc'a i)f f()('.us this yc'iif Wds hi)w thc. P(;(, shi)uld rL'%. p()nd t() thc. bi%hi)p% pr()mi)tic)n ()f
Prc7y(',rs ol. I,uve ¢ind Fill th, whiL.h wi. SLe as r('pi-csenLing a c.hange in d()('.ti-inc' in c'ssc'ntial
matt('.r%. We. re.snlvi,.d iinanim()usly to withh()Id temp()rii rily our v()lunt£lry e.()ntributii)n t
tho tJince.se.'8 (:ommon fund p()ndino further <:lari fic.ati()n fri.)m Ge.nL)ral S.yni)d and thL>
I-louse of Bishops.
As a nalui'(il c)uLw()rking ()I' oui. c.(Im pli)mEJnt(Irian ("i)nvic"Lii)ns. in April we a%kc.d fi)r and
re.I'eivc.d Lhf.. pa%L()ral ovc.I'sight of thc. lji %h(Ip i)fF,bbsfl('e.l.
We akfreed. wiLh thv. ljishup ul'K(Insingivn appi'oval. to synchrunise. Idord s Suppers dcrus?
the two Sunday se,rvices and lo slighily reduc.e their frequenc,y, and to allow anyone on Lhe
ElecL()ral Roll t(1 assist with di%lribution.
Wc. initidt(..d Li Strc'amlining ()f p()liL'I(:s and L'nh
STAFF AND
MINISTRY TRAINEES
BRIAN ELFICK
Christ Church is ble%s(:d t() havL' a tc'am of staff mL'mbL'rs ancl Mini%try TrainL'es whu are
all gift(:d, g()dly and hard-wDrking.
On the staff, Sam Ilai'ber has done a stellai. job of evolving our services. Roselle l'ox is
ini..1.(a5ingIY masL(prinLf h(Trr bri(:l- d% Mini%lry .SLÈPPI)rt (:i)(ii'dinali)r. Br(Tranna M()naLihan
w(11-k n(Trw ('.xL('nd% h('y()nd I'.hi Idr('n ti) in(.'liidc' m(11-('. g('n('r(Il P
DEANERY SYNOD BRIAN ELFICK Kensington Deanery Synod mel four times in 2023. In February Synod heard from Jill Dodd, th(.. C()nipilSSi()nate C()mmunities DLvc.l(IpmLnt Worker,. in June had ti summer drinks party; in September were joined bs, Richard Carter, Associate Vicar for Mission at St Mai'tin-in-thL-fi(:Ids. t() L()nsid(:r thL. thL'mcJ ()[ 'Cc)nfidL¥nt Disc.iplp%'; and in N()vo.mbLr mc't to discuss the priority of'Growing Younger. In March (:hrist (:hure.h hoste.d a lunc.h for loc.al c.lergy, to mo.e.t Dur new Are.a Ilishnp. r.mma Ine.si)n. BUILDINGS & FABRIC ANDREW & CLAIRE DIMOND Overall, the. buildino is in good repair and we have continued io imple.ment recommendations from quinquennial inspections, including removing the yew tree and commissioningy repair of ihe veslibulc) st()nc)10rk. The mnst significant item from the la.st inspe.('tion was the ne.ed for stonework repairs t() thL' ti)w(:r Cind %pir('.. In May we app()intL.d ARTAri..hit('.(:Ls t(} OVL'r%L'(.' the. pr()jL'L't and ()n their advice, as a safety measure. we have c105ed the gdl'den until nelting is installe.d vn th(., t()w(',r. A qu(intity %urv('.y()r ('.%, timat(.d £7.sok r()i- r('.pairs: ¢ilthi)ugh high(:I' than ('.xp('.cted. we. c.()uld ri,.duc.('. thc,. pri)jc'c.t to th(.. mi)st urgc'nt r('.pairs if ne.c.e.ssary. Thi.. (:hrist churc.h Cnmmunity Trust j.5 hc..Iping with fundraising and c(Ive.ring c.()%t% of the. initial stages, and we are investigating available grants. In 2023 wc,. hav(p al.s() t>xpI()r(,.d a majiir pr(i)t¢.L (I I rsL agr{(,d by i.ht' P(;(: i n 2Q19) 1.() ri'.pld('.(b pews in the nave. with chairs. We surveyed c.hui"ch members in June and a majority (across both eongregalions) favoured remoi.'ing all the pews and installing stone flooring. In Oc.Lober we. appointed Archangel Ai'chitects Lo del'elop the projec.t and prepare initial design>, which include suggestions for underfloor he.aling and accessibility improvements. With their assistance we are seeking DAC adw'ice on the proposals. 29 BEHIND THE SCENES
FINANCIAL REVIEW CAROLINE MCCABE Note: this is ¢in intc'rim r(:p()rt, to be. L'ntirLly rL'pliiC.E:d bj. a fulle.r ()nc' ()nce wc. have auditL.d rigures for 2023. There is a surplus of c. £21k for tlie 10 months ended 31 October 2025 and the expectation 1% r.hat w(: wil I I'.nd th(.. y('.ar in Surplus. Thi.% impi'i)K'('.m('.nt ()vi:i' thi,. FY23 budg(IL, whi(,.h pr(ijo.('.t(,.d ¢i dc,fieit. i.8 driiion hy tho do.c.i.8inn tn paiise. our (:i)mmDn Fund ei)ntrihutions. are e.xpectinq to end the year well 1th] n our reserves polic.y level. l)('..s1)itc' (hi% pi)siLiv('. ncJws, Lh()r(.' 1,5 dn i)ngiiinkf c'.hall(JnLSc' Lhdl i)ur ('.i)nLir('.LJal.i()n411 kSiVi n (ev( n %uppi)rlcJd hy inc()m(. fr()m hi ri ng I'.hurc,h pr('mi81'% t() thi rd p(IrLic'.%) ]% nc)I surri('.i('nt to c.over the curre.nt mini.stry expenditure. which is predominantly comprised of staff and clergy costs. PILiasL pray frjr inci'ea%e.d giving across the (".(JngrL)&Salions over LhL comino monlhs. RESERVES POLICY It is PCC policy lo try to maintain a balance on free reserves (free cash) which cquates to at Icast three months unrestricted paymcnls. It is he.ld to smooth out Iluc.Luali()ns in C¢7sh Ilow and Ln meet e.merge.nc.ie.s. This rc.81'.rve.s pnlic.y has nnL be.e.n bre.ache.d Lo dale (at poinL of puhlicatinn) in 2023 and IL 1% not exper.Le.d Lo be. breac.he.d aL any point in the remaining part ot'2025. SECTION 3 30
FURTHER INFORMATION Addre.ss Christ Church KenSIntOn Vic'toria Ruad, KL'nsing(i)n, Lond()n W8 5RQ Banki)rs National Westminster Bank ple R()}'<il Gcll-d(:n Ili-(IllLh, .Sff) K(.'Iisinglun I ligh Str('.c'L lJondun W8 57.G Indepe.nde.nt fxamlner Mai-k l)liil lon, Tax Assist Accountants i R()so'munL Rd. I,c)ndi)n Nll'.S (iNG Ar(.hll('('Is Charles S'heppard, FJA I)ipArch RIBA %hL'ppar(J Arc:hiL(JLL%. 54 Wai'i'ingllf)n R(J. Harrow HAI ISY Alc'x Veal PhD RIBA AABC ARI'Architects l.td, Unit.I7, Spectrum House. 12-.34 Gordon Ili)use Road, G()si)c.l Oak, L()iidon NW,fj ILP Nigi,.I Walt(Trr PhD, fRIBA. fRSA Archangel Ltd, 31)octor s Close. Impington, Cambridge LE324 gND Sollc'.it()rs B(It('.%, W(:] 1.% Braitliwaite. 10 Que.en St Pl, Inndon r,L4R IBF, Edward Connor Solicitors io The. Point, Markci Hai'borough I,F.16 7QlJ BEHIND THE SCENES
".1 ••
REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1173041
Report of the Trustees and
Unaudited Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
for
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
TaxAssist Accountants 1 Rosemont Road London NW36NG
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Contents of the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
| Page | |
|---|---|
| Reference and Administrative Details | 1 |
| Report of the Trustees | 2 to 4 |
| Independent Examiner's Report | 5 |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 6 |
| Balance Sheet | 7 |
| Notes to the Financial Statements | 8 to 18 |
| Detailed Statement of Financial Activities | 19 |
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Reference and Administrative Details for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
| Trustees | B Elfick (Incumbent and Chairman) |
|---|---|
| R Powell (Associate Vicar) | |
| A Dimond (from 21/5/23) | |
| G Hoff (Vice Chair of PCC from 21/5/23) | |
| I Johnson (until 21/5/23) (Co-vice-chair of the PCC until 21/5/23) | |
| S Tett (Co-vice-chair of the PCC until 21/5/23) | |
| G Armitage (from 21/5/23) | |
| M Baugh | |
| H Thoppuram (from 21/5/23) | |
| C Dimond (until 21/5/23) | |
| F Gana Skinner (from 21/5/23) | |
| R Heffner | |
| W Ip (from 21/5/23) | |
| B Jenkins (until 21/5/23) | |
| A Lebedev (until 21/5/23) | |
| I Lu (from 21/5/23) | |
| C McCabe (Hon. Treasurer) | |
| A Ravalde (until 21/5/23) (Safeguarding Officer) | |
| T Ravalde (Secretary and Electoral Roll Officer) | |
| I Sprackling (from 21/5/23) | |
| J Teo | |
| R Winkler (until 21/5/23) | |
| Principal address | Victoria Rd, |
| Kensington | |
| London | |
| W8 5RQ | |
| Registered charity number | 1173041 |
| Independent examiner | TaxAssist Accountants |
| 1 Rosemont Road | |
| London | |
| NW36NG |
Page 1
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
The trustees present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2023. The trustees have adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019).
Aims and purposes
The PCC’s aim is to co-operate with the Vicar in promoting the whole mission of the church, pastoral, evangelistic and ecumenical. It also has maintenance responsibilities for the church building. PCC members are made aware of their trustee responsibilities. Training in matters such as health and safety, food safety, and safeguarding is undertaken by role holders with particular responsibility for the matter in question.
Objectives and activities
Objectives
When planning our activities for the year, the PCC has considered the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit and the supplementary guidance on charities established for the advancement of religion.
The church's objectives are
-
Regular public worship open to all.
-
The provision of sacred space for personal prayer and contemplation.
-
Pastoral work, including visiting the sick and the bereaved.
-
Teaching of Christianity through sermons, courses and small groups.
-
Taking of religious assemblies in schools.
-
The provision of a youth club with a Christian ethos.
-
Promotion of Christianity through the staging of events.
Achievement and performance
Review of Activities, Achievements and Performance
In 2023, to help us connect with those around us we hosted 20 Community Coffee Mornings, 4 Classical Music Concerts, 39 Bumps, Babies and Tots mornings, 14 special events and 3 Christianity Explored Courses.
In our Sunday services we looked predominantly at Genesis, Mark and Romans. We had 96 people meeting in regular Small Group Bible Studies, ran 6 different Children’s and Youth Groups and held 45 topical discussions.
We ran 25 different training sessions for various ministry teams and were encouraged to see these teams grow in size, commitment and maturity.
We supported the local University Christian Unions, sent 14 leaders on Summer Camps and built relationships with our key mission partners in Johannesburg, Singapore and North Kensington.
As a natural outworking of our complementarian convictions, the PCC asked for and received the pastoral oversight of the Bishop of Ebbsfleet. We initiated a streamlining of policies and enhanced processes for training, as part of our risk management. And we set up two designated funds for the repair of the tower and the re-ordering of seating in the nave.
Page 2
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
Financial review
Financial position
The financial position of Christ Church ended the year with a positive cash reserves balance (above our reserves policy level). This is despite ending the year with a deficit of £9165 on our unrestricted funds and deficit of £10,610 in the designated funds.
The income generated by Christ Church continued to be primarily derived from congregational giving and hiring of church premises by non-affiliated organisations. For 2023, our total unrestricted income was £321,340 compared to £585,392 in 2022.
From February 2023, we paused our monthly Common Fund donations in response to concerns around developments in the House of Bishops and the Bishops’ response to Living in Love and Faith. In October 2023, the PCC agreed (1) to limit the build up of these funds to a rolling twelve-month period for as long as the situation with the diocese remains unresolved, and (2) to earmark the first year of funds to build back reserves following deficit years, particularly in view of large uncertainties relating to the tower.
Giving (Donations & Legacies)
Our overall Donations and Legacies Income for unrestricted funds in 2023 was £218,008 compared to £483,617 in 2022.
Other Trading Activities (including income from rentals)
The total trading activities income of the church (which are primarily unrestricted) increased, with the 2023 income being £97,538.87 rather than £84,669 in 2022.
Resources expended
Total resources expended in 2023 of unrestricted funds were £330,505 and a further £17,845 of expenditure within designated funds.
Our unrestricted expenditure of £330,505 can be split into two main categories. The first is expenditure on charitable activities, which covers our Common Fund contribution, staffing, direct mission and ministry costs and supporting our mission partners, which was £532,409 in 2022 and decreased to £238,031 in 2023. The PCC had reviewed the way that staff roles were funded and from 2023 asked that donations from external trusts should come through Christ Church, so that the church accounts include the full cost of the staff team. This is reflected in the increased figures for 2023.
The second category of expenditure is other expenditure (for example professional fees, utilities, cleaning and gardening), which is £92,473 and is £29,700 more than 2022.
Balance sheet
The total net assets for Christ Church at 31 December 2023 were £850,022 compared to £869,798 in 2021. Of this amount, £333,308 are fixed assets including building and improvements, particularly related to the east end building works added in 2017. The assets include a total cash balance of £528,795, which includes £253,976 of unrestricted funds cash.
Reserves policy
It is PCC policy to try to maintain a balance on free reserves (free cash) which equates to at least three months' unrestricted payment. This is equivalent to £87,087 (25% of the whole year's running costs). It is held to smooth out fluctuations in cash flow and to meet emergencies. The balance of the free reserves at the year end was £343,006 which is higher than this target. The balance of £850,023 is made up of £259,178 in the restricted fund is retained for specific initiatives of the PCC and a designated fund of £228,199 towards clergy accommodation & PCC initiatives.
Plans for the future
The PCC intends to continue its main aim of promoting the whole mission of the church.
Page 3
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
Structure, governance and management Governing document
The PCC is a body corporate established by the Church of England. It is controlled by its governing documents, the Parochial Church Councils (Powers) Measure 1956 and the Church Representation rules, both as amended. The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules.
In addition to the statutory Standing Committee, the PCC has additional subcommittees that draw on the expertise of the wider church family and on which the vicar is entitled to be an ex officio member. In 2023 these consisted of the Finance subcommittee, Buildings and Fabric subcommittee, HR subcommittee and Mission and Partnerships subcommittee.
The electoral roll is completely reviewed and revised every six years. This last took place in 2019. At the end of 2023, the electoral roll stood at 157.
Risk Management and Safeguarding
In March 2023 the PCC revised its risk register and risk mitigation framework. Risk categories covered include:
-Governance: skills and experience, competence, processes and organisation of the PCC, etc.
-
-Operations: child protection, health & safety, plant & equipment, physical safety, etc.
-
-Financial: income stability, reserves, cashflow, investments, fraud, etc.
-
-External: economic situation, public policy, public health, demographic changes, etc.
-Regulatory: government requirements / reporting, disability discrimination, etc.
While this register cannot provide absolute assurance, the steps taken should enable the PCC and the church to achieve its objectives. Each itemised risk has a corresponding mitigation measure and specific individuals and groups who take responsibility for this.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding is an integral part of our ongoing work to protect children and vulnerable adults from harm, and we follow the diocesan regulations to ensure the highest level of safeguarding in our church. Safeguarding responsibilities are shared between the vicar and the Parish Safeguarding Officer. All staff, officials and small group leaders have been recruited safely.
Administrative Information
Christ Church forms part of the Kensington Deanery in the Episcopal Area of Kensington, within the Diocese of London. The PCC is a body corporate established by the Church of England. The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure. The PCC is a registered charity subject to the Charities Act 2011 (registered number 1173041).
For details of Trustees, Principal address and Independent Examiner please refer page 1 of report.
Approved by order of the board of trustees on: ............................................. and signed on its behalf by: 1 May 2024
.......................................................................... B Elfick – Chair of Trustees
Page 4
Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Independent examiner's report to the trustees of The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington (the Trust) for the year ended 31 December 2023.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the charity trustees of the Trust you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 ('the Act').
I report in respect of my examination of the Trust's accounts carried out under Section 145 of the Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
Independent examiner's statement
Since your charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a listed body. I can confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, which is one of the listed bodies.
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:
-
accounting records were not kept in respect of the Trust as required by Section 130 of the Act; or
-
the accounts do not accord with those records; or
-
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 no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
TaxAssist Accountants
The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales
TaxAssist Accountants 1 Rosemont Road London NW36NG 01/05/2024 Date: .............................................
Page 5
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
| Unrestricted Restricted Endowment fund fund fund Notes £ £ £ Income and endowments from Donations and legacies 218,008 - 200 Charitable activities 5 Sales within charitable activity 2,495 - - Other trading activities 3 97,539 - - Investment income 4 3,298 - 7,035 Total 321,340 - 7,235 Expenditure on Raising funds Other trading activities 6 238,030 - - 238,030 - - Other 7 92,475 - 17,845 Total 330,505 - 17,845 NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) (9,165) - (10,610) Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward 371,811 259,178 238,809 Total funds carried forward 362,646 259,178 228,199 |
2023 Total funds £ 218,208 2,495 97,539 10,333 328,575 238,030 238,030 110,320 348,350 (19,775) 869,798 850,023 |
2022 Total funds £ 486,142 16,686 84,669 3,269 590,766 547,178 547,178 65,415 612,593 (21,827) 891,625 869,798 |
|---|---|---|
Continuing operations
All income and expenditure has arisen from continuing activities.
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 6
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Balance Sheet 31 December 2023
| Notes Fixed assets Tangible assets 11 Current assets Debtors 12 Cash at bank Creditors Amounts falling due within one year 13 Net current assets Total assets less current liabilities NET ASSETS Funds 16 Unrestricted funds: General fund Restricted funds: Restricted Fund Endowment funds: Endowment Total funds |
2023 £ 333,309 84,604 533,220 617,824 (101,110) 516,714 850,023 850,023 362,646 259,178 228,199 850,023 |
2022 £ 338,155 100,575 519,027 619,602 (87,959) 531,643 869,798 869,798 371,811 259,178 238,809 869,798 |
|---|---|---|
The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on ............................................. and 1 May 2024 were signed on its behalf by:
............................................. B Elfick – Chair of Trustees
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 7
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
1. Accounting policies
Accounting convention
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities Act 2011 and Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)î (as amended for accounting periods commencing from 1 January 2016). The church is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.
The church has taken advantage of the provisions in the SORP for charities applying FRS 102 Update Bulletin 1 not to prepare a Statement of Cash Flows.
The financial statements have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a true and fair view. This departure has involved following the Statement of Recommended Practice for charities applying FRS 102 rather than the version of the Statement of Recommended Practice which is referred to in the Regulations but which has since been withdrawn.
The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the church. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, modified to include the revaluation of freehold properties and to include investment properties and certain financial instruments at fair value. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.
Incoming resources
Income is recognised when the church is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.
Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the church has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.
Legacies are recognised on receipt or otherwise if the church has been notified of an impending distribution, the amount is known, and receipt is expected. If the amount is not known, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset.
Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable and represents amounts receivable for goods and services provided in the normal course of business, net of discounts, VAT and other sales related taxes.
Expenditure
Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.
Tangible fixed assets
Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life.
- Freehold property - not provided
continued...
Page 8
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
1. Accounting policies - continued
Tangible fixed assets
Fixtures and fittings - 10% on cost Computer equipment - 33% on cost
Property, plant and equipment are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.
The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in net income/(expenditure) for the year.
Taxation
The charity is exempt from tax on its charitable activities.
Fund accounting
Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees.
Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.
See below further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund.
Unrestricted funds : money that may be expended on the day-to-day mission and ministry of Christ Church.
Restricted funds : money donated on the basis that they may only be expended on specific restricted projects. Usually this is for building projects, but not exclusively. This category included Designated Funds, which the PCC is free to re-designate as circumstances may require.
- Restricted - AV : This fund is specifically for the raising funds towards our AV upgrade, and associated expenditure. - Ministry Trainees : This fund is specifically for raising funds to support ministry trainees, and for associated expenditure.
Endowment Fund : Exactly which funds are included in this category are defined by the Charities Statement for Recommended Practise, for Christ Church the money in this fund can only be used in relation to Pipe Organ costs or the purchase of clergy accommodation.
-
Designated Fund : This fund only gathers interest on the income received on the historic sale of a property.
-
Designated Organ Fund : This fund is specifically for the upkeep of the pipe Organ, and the raising of funds towards a new pipe organ.
Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits
The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charity's pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate.
continued...
Page 9
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
1. Accounting policies - continued
GOING CONCERN
At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the church has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.
IMPAIRMENT OF NON-CURRENT ASSETS
At each reporting end date, the church reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The church has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 Basic Financial Instruments and Section 12 other 'Financial Instruments Issues' of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.
Financial instruments are recognised in the church's balance sheet when the church becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
BASIC FINANCIAL ASSETS
Basic financial assets, which include trade and other receivables and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.
BASIC FINANCIAL LIABILITIES
Basic financial liabilities, including trade and other payables and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.
Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.
Trade payables are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade payables are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
DERECOGNITION OF FINANCIAL LIABILITIES
continued...
Page 10
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
1. Accounting policies - continued
Financial liabilities are derecognised when the church’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.
Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the church is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.
2. Critical accounting judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty
In the application of the church’s accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.
3. Other trading activities
4.
| Fundraising events Investment income Interest receivable - trading |
2023 £ 97,539 2023 £ 10,333 |
2022 £ 84,669 |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 £ 3,269 |
continued...
Page 11
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
| 5. Income from charitable activities Activity Sales within charitable activity 6. Other trading activities Purchases Staff costs Bad debts Depreciation 7. Other Other Expenditure |
2023 £ 2,495 2023 £ 79,969 153,216 - 4,845 238,030 2023 £ 110,320 |
2022 £ 16,686 2022 £ 163,807 377,588 938 4,845 |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 547,178 | |||
| 2022 £ 65,415 |
8. Trustees' remuneration and benefits
Five trustees (or any persons connected with them) received remuneration or benefits from the church during the year.
Trustees' expenses
There were no trustees' expenses paid for the year ended 31 December 2023 nor for the year ended 31 December 2022.
9. Staff costs
| Wages and salaries Other pension costs |
2023 £ 129,834 23,382 153,216 |
2022 £ 354,931 22,657 |
|---|---|---|
| 377,588 |
continued...
Page 12
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
9. Staff costs - continued
The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:
| 2023 Employees 3 Clergy 2 5 No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000. Comparatives for the statement of financial activities Unrestricted Restricted Endowment fund fund fund £ £ £ Income and endowments from Donations and legacies 483,618 125 2,399 Charitable activities Sales within charitable activity 16,686 - - Other trading activities 84,669 - - Investment income 419 - 2,850 Total 585,392 125 5,249 Expenditure on Raising funds Other trading activities 533,347 2,130 11,701 533,347 2,130 11,701 Other 62,773 2,642 - Total 596,120 4,772 11,701 NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) (10,728) (4,647) (6,452) Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward 382,539 263,825 245,261 Total funds carried forward 371,811 259,178 238,809 |
2022 5 4 9 Total funds £ 486,142 16,686 84,669 3,269 590,766 547,178 547,178 65,415 612,593 (21,827) 891,625 869,798 |
|---|---|
10. Comparatives for the statement of financial activities
continued...
Page 13
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
11. Tangible fixed assets
| Cost At 1 January 2023 and 31 December 2023 Depreciation At 1 January 2023 Charge for year At 31 December 2023 Net book value At 31 December 2023 At 31 December 2022 Debtors: amounts falling due within one year Trade debtors Other debtors Amounts owing between funds Prepayments and accrued income Prepayments |
Freehold property £ 320,125 - - - 320,125 320,125 |
Fixtures and Computer fittings equipment £ £ 48,454 2,623 30,424 2,623 4,846 - 35,270 2,623 13,184 - 18,030 - 2023 £ 14,421 (200) 83,306 (15,000) 2,077 84,604 |
Totals £ 371,202 33,047 4,846 37,893 333,309 338,155 2022 £ 8,680 (200) 83,306 (9,486) 18,275 100,575 |
|---|---|---|---|
12. Debtors: amounts falling due within one year
continued...
Page 14
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
| 13. Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 2023 £ Bank loans and overdrafts (see note 14) 4,403 Trade creditors 8,519 Other creditors 88,188 101,110 14. Loans An analysis of the maturity of loans is given below: 2023 £ Amounts falling due within one year on demand: Bank overdrafts 4,403 15. Analysis of net assets between funds 2023 Unrestricted Restricted Endowment Total fund fund fund funds £ £ £ £ Fixed assets 13,184 320,125 - 333,309 Current assets 343,006 24,667 250,151 617,824 Current liabilities 6,456 (85,614) (21,952) (101,110) 362,646 259,178 228,199 850,023 16. Movement in funds Net movement At 1/1/23 in funds £ £ Unrestricted funds General fund 371,811 (9,165) Restricted funds Restricted Fund 259,178 - Endowment funds Endowment 238,809 (10,610) TOTAL FUNDS 869,798 (19,775) |
2022 £ - 4,653 83,306 87,959 2022 £ - 2022 Total funds £ 338,155 619,602 (87,959) 869,798 At 31/12/23 £ 362,646 259,178 228,199 850,023 |
|---|---|
continued...
Page 15
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
16. Movement in funds - continued
Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
| Unrestricted funds General fund Endowment funds Endowment TOTAL FUNDS Comparatives for movement in funds Unrestricted funds General fund Restricted funds Restricted Fund Endowment funds Endowment TOTAL FUNDS |
Incoming Resources Movement resources expended in funds £ £ £ 321,340 (330,505) (9,165) 7,235 (17,845) (10,610) 328,575 (348,350) (19,775) Net movement At At 1/1/22 in funds 31/12/22 £ £ £ 382,539 (10,728) 371,811 263,825 (4,647) 259,178 245,261 (6,452) 238,809 891,625 (21,827) 869,798 |
|---|---|
continued...
Page 16
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
16. Movement in funds - continued
Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
| Unrestricted funds General fund Restricted funds Restricted Fund Endowment funds Endowment TOTAL FUNDS |
Incoming Resources Movement resources expended in funds £ £ £ 585,392 (596,120) (10,728) 125 (4,772) (4,647) 5,249 (11,701) (6,452) 590,766 (612,593) (21,827) |
|---|---|
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined position is as follows:
| Unrestricted funds General fund Restricted funds Restricted Fund Endowment funds Endowment TOTAL FUNDS |
Net movement At 1/1/22 in funds £ £ 382,539 (19,893) 263,825 (4,647) 245,261 (17,062) 891,625 (41,602) |
At 31/12/23 £ 362,646 259,178 228,199 850,023 |
|---|---|---|
continued...
Page 17
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
16. Movement in funds - continued
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
| Unrestricted funds General fund Restricted funds Restricted Fund Endowment funds Endowment TOTAL FUNDS 17. Related party disclosures |
Incoming Resources Movement resources expended in funds £ £ £ 906,732 (926,625) (19,893) 125 (4,772) (4,647) 12,484 (29,546) (17,062) 919,341 (960,943) (41,602) |
|---|---|
There were no related party transactions for the year ended 31 December 2023.
| 18. | Financial instruments | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 2021 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Carrying amount of financial assets | |||
| Debt instruments measured at amortised cost | (806) | 3.838 | |
| Carrying amount of financial liabilities | |||
| Measured at amortised cost | 4,615 | 4,900 |
Page 18
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Detailed Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
| Income and endowments Donations and legacies Non gift aid donation & Grants Donations Collection at Services Donated services and facilities Other trading activities Fundraising events Investment income Interest receivable - trading Charitable activities Sales within charitable activity Total incoming resources Expenditure Other trading activities Charitable Expenditure Wages Pensions Bad debts Depreciation of tangible fixed assets Other Other Expenditure Total resources expended Net expenditure |
2023 £ 40,741 124,173 20,996 32,298 218,208 97,539 10,333 2,495 328,575 79,969 129,834 23,382 - 4,845 238,030 110,320 348,350 (19,775) |
2022 £ 268,399 139,858 32,661 45,224 486,142 84,669 3,269 16,686 590,766 163,807 354,931 22,657 938 4,845 547,178 65,415 612,593 (21,827) |
|---|---|---|
This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements
Page 19
REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1173041
Report of the Trustees and
Unaudited Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
for
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
TaxAssist Accountants 1 Rosemont Road London NW36NG
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Contents of the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
| Page | |
|---|---|
| Reference and Administrative Details | 1 |
| Report of the Trustees | 2 to 4 |
| Independent Examiner's Report | 5 |
| Statement of Financial Activities | 6 |
| Balance Sheet | 7 |
| Notes to the Financial Statements | 8 to 18 |
| Detailed Statement of Financial Activities | 19 |
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Reference and Administrative Details for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
| Trustees | B Elfick (Incumbent and Chairman) |
|---|---|
| R Powell (Associate Vicar) | |
| A Dimond (from 21/5/23) | |
| G Hoff (Vice Chair of PCC from 21/5/23) | |
| I Johnson (until 21/5/23) (Co-vice-chair of the PCC until 21/5/23) | |
| S Tett (Co-vice-chair of the PCC until 21/5/23) | |
| G Armitage (from 21/5/23) | |
| M Baugh | |
| H Thoppuram (from 21/5/23) | |
| C Dimond (until 21/5/23) | |
| F Gana Skinner (from 21/5/23) | |
| R Heffner | |
| W Ip (from 21/5/23) | |
| B Jenkins (until 21/5/23) | |
| A Lebedev (until 21/5/23) | |
| I Lu (from 21/5/23) | |
| C McCabe (Hon. Treasurer) | |
| A Ravalde (until 21/5/23) (Safeguarding Officer) | |
| T Ravalde (Secretary and Electoral Roll Officer) | |
| I Sprackling (from 21/5/23) | |
| J Teo | |
| R Winkler (until 21/5/23) | |
| Principal address | Victoria Rd, |
| Kensington | |
| London | |
| W8 5RQ | |
| Registered charity number | 1173041 |
| Independent examiner | TaxAssist Accountants |
| 1 Rosemont Road | |
| London | |
| NW36NG |
Page 1
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
The trustees present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2023. The trustees have adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019).
Aims and purposes
The PCC’s aim is to co-operate with the Vicar in promoting the whole mission of the church, pastoral, evangelistic and ecumenical. It also has maintenance responsibilities for the church building. PCC members are made aware of their trustee responsibilities. Training in matters such as health and safety, food safety, and safeguarding is undertaken by role holders with particular responsibility for the matter in question.
Objectives and activities
Objectives
When planning our activities for the year, the PCC has considered the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit and the supplementary guidance on charities established for the advancement of religion.
The church's objectives are
-
Regular public worship open to all.
-
The provision of sacred space for personal prayer and contemplation.
-
Pastoral work, including visiting the sick and the bereaved.
-
Teaching of Christianity through sermons, courses and small groups.
-
Taking of religious assemblies in schools.
-
The provision of a youth club with a Christian ethos.
-
Promotion of Christianity through the staging of events.
Achievement and performance
Review of Activities, Achievements and Performance
In 2023, to help us connect with those around us we hosted 20 Community Coffee Mornings, 4 Classical Music Concerts, 39 Bumps, Babies and Tots mornings, 14 special events and 3 Christianity Explored Courses.
In our Sunday services we looked predominantly at Genesis, Mark and Romans. We had 96 people meeting in regular Small Group Bible Studies, ran 6 different Children’s and Youth Groups and held 45 topical discussions.
We ran 25 different training sessions for various ministry teams and were encouraged to see these teams grow in size, commitment and maturity.
We supported the local University Christian Unions, sent 14 leaders on Summer Camps and built relationships with our key mission partners in Johannesburg, Singapore and North Kensington.
As a natural outworking of our complementarian convictions, the PCC asked for and received the pastoral oversight of the Bishop of Ebbsfleet. We initiated a streamlining of policies and enhanced processes for training, as part of our risk management. And we set up two designated funds for the repair of the tower and the re-ordering of seating in the nave.
Page 2
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
Financial review
Financial position
The financial position of Christ Church ended the year with a positive cash reserves balance (above our reserves policy level). This is despite ending the year with a deficit of £9165 on our unrestricted funds and deficit of £10,610 in the designated funds.
The income generated by Christ Church continued to be primarily derived from congregational giving and hiring of church premises by non-affiliated organisations. For 2023, our total unrestricted income was £321,340 compared to £585,392 in 2022.
From February 2023, we paused our monthly Common Fund donations in response to concerns around developments in the House of Bishops and the Bishops’ response to Living in Love and Faith. In October 2023, the PCC agreed (1) to limit the build up of these funds to a rolling twelve-month period for as long as the situation with the diocese remains unresolved, and (2) to earmark the first year of funds to build back reserves following deficit years, particularly in view of large uncertainties relating to the tower.
Giving (Donations & Legacies)
Our overall Donations and Legacies Income for unrestricted funds in 2023 was £218,008 compared to £483,617 in 2022.
Other Trading Activities (including income from rentals)
The total trading activities income of the church (which are primarily unrestricted) increased, with the 2023 income being £97,538.87 rather than £84,669 in 2022.
Resources expended
Total resources expended in 2023 of unrestricted funds were £330,505 and a further £17,845 of expenditure within designated funds.
Our unrestricted expenditure of £330,505 can be split into two main categories. The first is expenditure on charitable activities, which covers our Common Fund contribution, staffing, direct mission and ministry costs and supporting our mission partners, which was £532,409 in 2022 and decreased to £238,031 in 2023. The PCC had reviewed the way that staff roles were funded and from 2023 asked that donations from external trusts should come through Christ Church, so that the church accounts include the full cost of the staff team. This is reflected in the increased figures for 2023.
The second category of expenditure is other expenditure (for example professional fees, utilities, cleaning and gardening), which is £92,473 and is £29,700 more than 2022.
Balance sheet
The total net assets for Christ Church at 31 December 2023 were £850,022 compared to £869,798 in 2021. Of this amount, £333,308 are fixed assets including building and improvements, particularly related to the east end building works added in 2017. The assets include a total cash balance of £528,795, which includes £253,976 of unrestricted funds cash.
Reserves policy
It is PCC policy to try to maintain a balance on free reserves (free cash) which equates to at least three months' unrestricted payment. This is equivalent to £87,087 (25% of the whole year's running costs). It is held to smooth out fluctuations in cash flow and to meet emergencies. The balance of the free reserves at the year end was £343,006 which is higher than this target. The balance of £850,023 is made up of £259,178 in the restricted fund is retained for specific initiatives of the PCC and a designated fund of £228,199 towards clergy accommodation & PCC initiatives.
Plans for the future
The PCC intends to continue its main aim of promoting the whole mission of the church.
Page 3
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
Structure, governance and management Governing document
The PCC is a body corporate established by the Church of England. It is controlled by its governing documents, the Parochial Church Councils (Powers) Measure 1956 and the Church Representation rules, both as amended. The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules.
In addition to the statutory Standing Committee, the PCC has additional subcommittees that draw on the expertise of the wider church family and on which the vicar is entitled to be an ex officio member. In 2023 these consisted of the Finance subcommittee, Buildings and Fabric subcommittee, HR subcommittee and Mission and Partnerships subcommittee.
The electoral roll is completely reviewed and revised every six years. This last took place in 2019. At the end of 2023, the electoral roll stood at 157.
Risk Management and Safeguarding
In March 2023 the PCC revised its risk register and risk mitigation framework. Risk categories covered include:
-Governance: skills and experience, competence, processes and organisation of the PCC, etc.
-
-Operations: child protection, health & safety, plant & equipment, physical safety, etc.
-
-Financial: income stability, reserves, cashflow, investments, fraud, etc.
-
-External: economic situation, public policy, public health, demographic changes, etc.
-Regulatory: government requirements / reporting, disability discrimination, etc.
While this register cannot provide absolute assurance, the steps taken should enable the PCC and the church to achieve its objectives. Each itemised risk has a corresponding mitigation measure and specific individuals and groups who take responsibility for this.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding is an integral part of our ongoing work to protect children and vulnerable adults from harm, and we follow the diocesan regulations to ensure the highest level of safeguarding in our church. Safeguarding responsibilities are shared between the vicar and the Parish Safeguarding Officer. All staff, officials and small group leaders have been recruited safely.
Administrative Information
Christ Church forms part of the Kensington Deanery in the Episcopal Area of Kensington, within the Diocese of London. The PCC is a body corporate established by the Church of England. The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure. The PCC is a registered charity subject to the Charities Act 2011 (registered number 1173041).
For details of Trustees, Principal address and Independent Examiner please refer page 1 of report.
Approved by order of the board of trustees on: ............................................. and signed on its behalf by: 1 May 2024
.......................................................................... B Elfick – Chair of Trustees
Page 4
Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Independent examiner's report to the trustees of The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington (the Trust) for the year ended 31 December 2023.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the charity trustees of the Trust you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 ('the Act').
I report in respect of my examination of the Trust's accounts carried out under Section 145 of the Act and in carrying out my examination I have followed all applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
Independent examiner's statement
Since your charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a listed body. I can confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, which is one of the listed bodies.
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:
-
accounting records were not kept in respect of the Trust as required by Section 130 of the Act; or
-
the accounts do not accord with those records; or
-
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 no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
TaxAssist Accountants
The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales
TaxAssist Accountants 1 Rosemont Road London NW36NG 01/05/2024 Date: .............................................
Page 5
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
| Unrestricted Restricted Endowment fund fund fund Notes £ £ £ Income and endowments from Donations and legacies 218,008 - 200 Charitable activities 5 Sales within charitable activity 2,495 - - Other trading activities 3 97,539 - - Investment income 4 3,298 - 7,035 Total 321,340 - 7,235 Expenditure on Raising funds Other trading activities 6 238,030 - - 238,030 - - Other 7 92,475 - 17,845 Total 330,505 - 17,845 NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) (9,165) - (10,610) Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward 371,811 259,178 238,809 Total funds carried forward 362,646 259,178 228,199 |
2023 Total funds £ 218,208 2,495 97,539 10,333 328,575 238,030 238,030 110,320 348,350 (19,775) 869,798 850,023 |
2022 Total funds £ 486,142 16,686 84,669 3,269 590,766 547,178 547,178 65,415 612,593 (21,827) 891,625 869,798 |
|---|---|---|
Continuing operations
All income and expenditure has arisen from continuing activities.
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 6
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Balance Sheet 31 December 2023
| Notes Fixed assets Tangible assets 11 Current assets Debtors 12 Cash at bank Creditors Amounts falling due within one year 13 Net current assets Total assets less current liabilities NET ASSETS Funds 16 Unrestricted funds: General fund Restricted funds: Restricted Fund Endowment funds: Endowment Total funds |
2023 £ 333,309 84,604 533,220 617,824 (101,110) 516,714 850,023 850,023 362,646 259,178 228,199 850,023 |
2022 £ 338,155 100,575 519,027 619,602 (87,959) 531,643 869,798 869,798 371,811 259,178 238,809 869,798 |
|---|---|---|
The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue on ............................................. and 1 May 2024 were signed on its behalf by:
............................................. B Elfick – Chair of Trustees
The notes form part of these financial statements
Page 7
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
1. Accounting policies
Accounting convention
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Charities Act 2011 and Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)î (as amended for accounting periods commencing from 1 January 2016). The church is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102.
The church has taken advantage of the provisions in the SORP for charities applying FRS 102 Update Bulletin 1 not to prepare a Statement of Cash Flows.
The financial statements have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a true and fair view. This departure has involved following the Statement of Recommended Practice for charities applying FRS 102 rather than the version of the Statement of Recommended Practice which is referred to in the Regulations but which has since been withdrawn.
The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the church. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £.
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, modified to include the revaluation of freehold properties and to include investment properties and certain financial instruments at fair value. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.
Incoming resources
Income is recognised when the church is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received.
Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the church has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. Income tax recoverable in relation to donations received under Gift Aid or deeds of covenant is recognised at the time of the donation.
Legacies are recognised on receipt or otherwise if the church has been notified of an impending distribution, the amount is known, and receipt is expected. If the amount is not known, the legacy is treated as a contingent asset.
Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable and represents amounts receivable for goods and services provided in the normal course of business, net of discounts, VAT and other sales related taxes.
Expenditure
Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources.
Tangible fixed assets
Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life.
- Freehold property - not provided
continued...
Page 8
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
1. Accounting policies - continued
Tangible fixed assets
Fixtures and fittings - 10% on cost Computer equipment - 33% on cost
Property, plant and equipment are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses.
The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in net income/(expenditure) for the year.
Taxation
The charity is exempt from tax on its charitable activities.
Fund accounting
Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees.
Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.
See below further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund.
Unrestricted funds : money that may be expended on the day-to-day mission and ministry of Christ Church.
Restricted funds : money donated on the basis that they may only be expended on specific restricted projects. Usually this is for building projects, but not exclusively. This category included Designated Funds, which the PCC is free to re-designate as circumstances may require.
- Restricted - AV : This fund is specifically for the raising funds towards our AV upgrade, and associated expenditure. - Ministry Trainees : This fund is specifically for raising funds to support ministry trainees, and for associated expenditure.
Endowment Fund : Exactly which funds are included in this category are defined by the Charities Statement for Recommended Practise, for Christ Church the money in this fund can only be used in relation to Pipe Organ costs or the purchase of clergy accommodation.
-
Designated Fund : This fund only gathers interest on the income received on the historic sale of a property.
-
Designated Organ Fund : This fund is specifically for the upkeep of the pipe Organ, and the raising of funds towards a new pipe organ.
Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits
The charity operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charity's pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate.
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Page 9
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
1. Accounting policies - continued
GOING CONCERN
At the time of approving the financial statements, the trustees have a reasonable expectation that the church has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus the trustees continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.
IMPAIRMENT OF NON-CURRENT ASSETS
At each reporting end date, the church reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within borrowings in current liabilities.
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The church has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 Basic Financial Instruments and Section 12 other 'Financial Instruments Issues' of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.
Financial instruments are recognised in the church's balance sheet when the church becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
BASIC FINANCIAL ASSETS
Basic financial assets, which include trade and other receivables and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised.
BASIC FINANCIAL LIABILITIES
Basic financial liabilities, including trade and other payables and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised.
Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method.
Trade payables are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade payables are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
DERECOGNITION OF FINANCIAL LIABILITIES
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Page 10
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
1. Accounting policies - continued
Financial liabilities are derecognised when the church’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received.
Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the church is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits.
2. Critical accounting judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty
In the application of the church’s accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods.
3. Other trading activities
4.
| Fundraising events Investment income Interest receivable - trading |
2023 £ 97,539 2023 £ 10,333 |
2022 £ 84,669 |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 £ 3,269 |
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The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
| 5. Income from charitable activities Activity Sales within charitable activity 6. Other trading activities Purchases Staff costs Bad debts Depreciation 7. Other Other Expenditure |
2023 £ 2,495 2023 £ 79,969 153,216 - 4,845 238,030 2023 £ 110,320 |
2022 £ 16,686 2022 £ 163,807 377,588 938 4,845 |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 547,178 | |||
| 2022 £ 65,415 |
8. Trustees' remuneration and benefits
Five trustees (or any persons connected with them) received remuneration or benefits from the church during the year.
Trustees' expenses
There were no trustees' expenses paid for the year ended 31 December 2023 nor for the year ended 31 December 2022.
9. Staff costs
| Wages and salaries Other pension costs |
2023 £ 129,834 23,382 153,216 |
2022 £ 354,931 22,657 |
|---|---|---|
| 377,588 |
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Page 12
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
9. Staff costs - continued
The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:
| 2023 Employees 3 Clergy 2 5 No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000. Comparatives for the statement of financial activities Unrestricted Restricted Endowment fund fund fund £ £ £ Income and endowments from Donations and legacies 483,618 125 2,399 Charitable activities Sales within charitable activity 16,686 - - Other trading activities 84,669 - - Investment income 419 - 2,850 Total 585,392 125 5,249 Expenditure on Raising funds Other trading activities 533,347 2,130 11,701 533,347 2,130 11,701 Other 62,773 2,642 - Total 596,120 4,772 11,701 NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE) (10,728) (4,647) (6,452) Reconciliation of funds Total funds brought forward 382,539 263,825 245,261 Total funds carried forward 371,811 259,178 238,809 |
2022 5 4 9 Total funds £ 486,142 16,686 84,669 3,269 590,766 547,178 547,178 65,415 612,593 (21,827) 891,625 869,798 |
|---|---|
10. Comparatives for the statement of financial activities
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The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
11. Tangible fixed assets
| Cost At 1 January 2023 and 31 December 2023 Depreciation At 1 January 2023 Charge for year At 31 December 2023 Net book value At 31 December 2023 At 31 December 2022 Debtors: amounts falling due within one year Trade debtors Other debtors Amounts owing between funds Prepayments and accrued income Prepayments |
Freehold property £ 320,125 - - - 320,125 320,125 |
Fixtures and Computer fittings equipment £ £ 48,454 2,623 30,424 2,623 4,846 - 35,270 2,623 13,184 - 18,030 - 2023 £ 14,421 (200) 83,306 (15,000) 2,077 84,604 |
Totals £ 371,202 33,047 4,846 37,893 333,309 338,155 2022 £ 8,680 (200) 83,306 (9,486) 18,275 100,575 |
|---|---|---|---|
12. Debtors: amounts falling due within one year
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The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
| 13. Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 2023 £ Bank loans and overdrafts (see note 14) 4,403 Trade creditors 8,519 Other creditors 88,188 101,110 14. Loans An analysis of the maturity of loans is given below: 2023 £ Amounts falling due within one year on demand: Bank overdrafts 4,403 15. Analysis of net assets between funds 2023 Unrestricted Restricted Endowment Total fund fund fund funds £ £ £ £ Fixed assets 13,184 320,125 - 333,309 Current assets 343,006 24,667 250,151 617,824 Current liabilities 6,456 (85,614) (21,952) (101,110) 362,646 259,178 228,199 850,023 16. Movement in funds Net movement At 1/1/23 in funds £ £ Unrestricted funds General fund 371,811 (9,165) Restricted funds Restricted Fund 259,178 - Endowment funds Endowment 238,809 (10,610) TOTAL FUNDS 869,798 (19,775) |
2022 £ - 4,653 83,306 87,959 2022 £ - 2022 Total funds £ 338,155 619,602 (87,959) 869,798 At 31/12/23 £ 362,646 259,178 228,199 850,023 |
|---|---|
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The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
16. Movement in funds - continued
Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
| Unrestricted funds General fund Endowment funds Endowment TOTAL FUNDS Comparatives for movement in funds Unrestricted funds General fund Restricted funds Restricted Fund Endowment funds Endowment TOTAL FUNDS |
Incoming Resources Movement resources expended in funds £ £ £ 321,340 (330,505) (9,165) 7,235 (17,845) (10,610) 328,575 (348,350) (19,775) Net movement At At 1/1/22 in funds 31/12/22 £ £ £ 382,539 (10,728) 371,811 263,825 (4,647) 259,178 245,261 (6,452) 238,809 891,625 (21,827) 869,798 |
|---|---|
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The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
16. Movement in funds - continued
Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
| Unrestricted funds General fund Restricted funds Restricted Fund Endowment funds Endowment TOTAL FUNDS |
Incoming Resources Movement resources expended in funds £ £ £ 585,392 (596,120) (10,728) 125 (4,772) (4,647) 5,249 (11,701) (6,452) 590,766 (612,593) (21,827) |
|---|---|
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined position is as follows:
| Unrestricted funds General fund Restricted funds Restricted Fund Endowment funds Endowment TOTAL FUNDS |
Net movement At 1/1/22 in funds £ £ 382,539 (19,893) 263,825 (4,647) 245,261 (17,062) 891,625 (41,602) |
At 31/12/23 £ 362,646 259,178 228,199 850,023 |
|---|---|---|
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Page 17
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Notes to the Financial Statements - continued for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
16. Movement in funds - continued
A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows:
| Unrestricted funds General fund Restricted funds Restricted Fund Endowment funds Endowment TOTAL FUNDS 17. Related party disclosures |
Incoming Resources Movement resources expended in funds £ £ £ 906,732 (926,625) (19,893) 125 (4,772) (4,647) 12,484 (29,546) (17,062) 919,341 (960,943) (41,602) |
|---|---|
There were no related party transactions for the year ended 31 December 2023.
| 18. | Financial instruments | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 2021 | ||
| £ | £ | ||
| Carrying amount of financial assets | |||
| Debt instruments measured at amortised cost | (806) | 3.838 | |
| Carrying amount of financial liabilities | |||
| Measured at amortised cost | 4,615 | 4,900 |
Page 18
The Parochial Church Council Of The Ecclesiastical Parish Of Christ Church, Kensington
Detailed Statement of Financial Activities for the Year Ended 31 December 2023
| Income and endowments Donations and legacies Non gift aid donation & Grants Donations Collection at Services Donated services and facilities Other trading activities Fundraising events Investment income Interest receivable - trading Charitable activities Sales within charitable activity Total incoming resources Expenditure Other trading activities Charitable Expenditure Wages Pensions Bad debts Depreciation of tangible fixed assets Other Other Expenditure Total resources expended Net expenditure |
2023 £ 40,741 124,173 20,996 32,298 218,208 97,539 10,333 2,495 328,575 79,969 129,834 23,382 - 4,845 238,030 110,320 348,350 (19,775) |
2022 £ 268,399 139,858 32,661 45,224 486,142 84,669 3,269 16,686 590,766 163,807 354,931 22,657 938 4,845 547,178 65,415 612,593 (21,827) |
|---|---|---|
This page does not form part of the statutory financial statements
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