OpenCharities

This text was generated using OCR and may contain errors. Check the original PDF to see the document submitted to the regulator. This document is also available as Markdown.

← The Methodist Church, Hatfield Road, St Albans

2023-08-31-accounts

==> picture [222 x 36] intentionally omitted <==

Hatfield Road Methodist Church, St Albans

Serving Christ and the Local Community

==> picture [505 x 305] intentionally omitted <==

Annual Report 2023-2024

Presented to the Annual General Church Meeting, Sunday 19[th] May 2024

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

This report has been compiled and edited by Peter Wallace, Church Council Secretary. Thank you to all who have contributed to this report and to the life of this church.

Any details of web links may be found at the end of the report using ‘end note’ links[i, ii, iii… like this] ..

If you would like a hardcopy or large print of this Annual Report, please contact the Minister or one of the Church Stewards

Front Cover Watercolour Illustration of the Church by Maureen Carveley (~2012)

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 2 of 28 HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824 Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Contents

Contents
Introduction 5
Our Calling 5
Our Obligations as a Registered Charity 5
Our Presbyter’s Message 6
Church Stewards’Report - Tomáš Cvrček (Senior Steward) 7
Church Council 9
Our Stewardship of Money and Property 10
Church Treasurer’s Report–Eric Bridgstock 10
Property–Eric Bridgstock (Chair of Finance & Property Group) 13
Work of God
HRMC as Part of St Albans Section		 15
Cornerstone Project - Deacon Nigel Perrott 15
Anna Chaplaincy Management Group - Louise Mullins 17
Anna Chaplaincy Lead Maggie Dodd 17
Holiday@Home - Denise Willingham 19
Work of God
Hatfield Road Methodist Church		 20
Pastoral Secretary–Jackie Vivian 20
Prayer Ministry–Roy Vivian 20
Music Group–Leader, Joanna Rose 21
Cradle Roll (Baptismal Roll) - Adelita Serwaa-Bonau 21
Sunday Club - Caroline Tough, Sunday Club Coordinator 21
Create & Celebrate–Ros Hancock 22
Junior Mission for All (JMA)–Ruth Wallace, JMA Treasurer 22
Safeguarding–Joanna Rose, Church Safeguarding Officer 23
Warm Welcome Café–Christine Ford, Coordinator 23
Babies and Toddlers–Chris Hancock 24
Day Care Group–Sue Davey, Leader 24
Creativity in Fellowship - Maggie Dodd 24
Church Walks–Eric Bridgstock 25
133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX
Page 3 of 28		 HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx
District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824 Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

House Groups–Johanna Mason, Coordinator 25
Social, Events, Outreach (SEO)–Joanna Rose, Coordinator 26
Single Friendly Churches Initiative–Angela Spriggs 26
Church Council Members 27
Current Membership 27thFebruary 2024 27
End Notes 28
Table 1 Income & expenditure against budget 01Sep23-29Feb24 11

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 4 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Introduction

Our Calling

The Methodist Church, Hatfield Road, St Albans is part of the St Albans and Welwyn Methodist Circuit in the Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Essex District of the Methodist Church in Britain

The Calling of The Methodist Church in Britain is to respond to the gospel of God's love in Christ and to live out its discipleship in worship and mission. It does this through:

WORSHIP

By increasing awareness of God's presence and celebrating God's love

LEARNING & CARING

By helping people grow and learn as Christians, through mutual support and care

SERVICE

By being a good neighbour to people in need and challenging injustice

EVANGELISM

By making more followers of Jesus Christ

The calling of Hatfield Road Methodist Church, as agreed by its Church Council, includes the commitment to:

‘Serve Christ and the Local Community’

Our Obligations as a Registered Charity

Each Methodist Church is a charity as part of the Methodist Connexion administered by the Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes (TMCP[i] ). This local church is also registered directly with the Charity Commission[ii] as ‘The Methodist Church, Hatfield Road, St Albans (1173147)’.

As a registered charity, our annual report must explain what its charitable purposes are and what it has done during the year to carry out those purposes[iii] and also contain the year’s accounts for the charity, which must be submitted to the Charity Commission no later than 10 months after the end of their financial year (31[st] August for Methodist Churches). These charitable purposes are summarized within each annual Statement of Financial Accounts.

All Church Council members must be eligible and willing to become Trustees.

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 5 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Our Presbyter’s Message

Rev J Daniel Yovan, Minister with Pastoral Charge

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

Greetings in the name of our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ who promised His presence with us till the end of the age. It is my great joy to be part of what God is doing through the ministry of the Methodist churches in this part of the circuit. Our family has settled down very well and is enjoying life here in St Albans and the support you give through prayers and care is very much appreciated. My family is enjoying the fellowship and worship here at HRMC.

Friends, our calling to this Christian community is for service

==> picture [181 x 202] intentionally omitted <==

and mutual support. Worshipping God and bearing each other’s burdens are the characteristics of active followers of Christ. By doing so we spread the love of God through Jesus in the community we are part of. We are a living and active church of Jesus Christ.

There are several functioning groups within the church reaching out to the people in the community: House groups; Warm welcome café; Babies and toddlers; Church walks; Sunday Club and Youth Fellowship; Friday Day Care group; Prayer groups (in person, online and by social media); the Creative Fellowship Art group; and the work of Anna Chaplaincy led by Maggie Dodd in various care homes and other churches, including the listening ear at Morrisons. All these activities will not happen without the willing volunteers from our churches and community. There are various social outreach events that have been planned throughout the year to engage with those who are loosely connected with the church and those in the community. Our new Single Friendly Church initiative is being championed by Angela Spriggs. I am ever so grateful to God for raising faithful people to lead the various groups to spread the love of Jesus.

Moreover we, as the St Albans section within our circuit, are also blessed to have the Cornerstone project led by Deacon Nigel Perrott, and to celebrate the commissioning of Maggie Dodd as St Albans Anna Chaplaincy Lead at Marlborough Road Methodist Church (MRMC) in October 2023. Several young families now attend the monthly Create and Celebrate service, another sign of God’s work in this place. Well done and thank you to all those who work so hard to make this happen. We have also now started a monthly ‘Club Saturday’ all age activity at MRMC to reach out to those who are not able to come on Sunday mornings.

The circuit vision day has ignited a conversation in all the churches about the purpose of their existence. The circuit prayer on every Saturday is very well attended. I would encourage you to join whenever you can. During Christmas and Lent season all the churches have used the liturgy that was recommended by Rev David Jebb. We also enjoyed the circuit wide bible study during Lent (loving your neighbour) and hosted the Monday evening sessions.

Ecumenical

I am beginning to get involved in ecumenical affairs. City churches’ Clergy meets bi monthly for breakfast and prayers. We at HRMC hosted the Churches together in St Albans’ Annual General Meeting last month. I am a volunteer chaplain once a month at the Cathedral and have offered to lead the ecumenical service during November 2024.

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 6 of 28 HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824 Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Interfaith

I am passionate about getting involved in interfaith conversations. I plan to reach out to the leaders or other faith groups in the coming months.

Children’s, Families and Youth work

It is our responsibility as the church to nourish and strengthen the faith of our young people. Recently we have confirmed four of them and another four are getting ready to be confirmed at MRMC on Sunday 14[th] July 2024. Their preparation for confirmation has happened through the Youth Alpha we have held at HRMC. To continue the youth work we have started, we have planned to engage with them in faith conversations through watching the Chosen film series on a monthly basis. I would like to thank all our Sunday Club and Youth leaders in supporting the work of God in this vital mission of the church. We also celebrated the confirmation (as adults) of Hannah Brown and Sally Newton 21[st] April 2024. We are already planning to celebrate more baptisms and ‘transfers in’ over the summer.

Future mission

It is a great joy to hear the testimonies of the work of God through the Cornerstone project and Anna Chaplaincy (see also separate reports from Nigel and Maggie). Working with Nigel and Maggie, we, as Churches in St Albans, will be able to strengthen the bond between both churches and contribute to the life of the local community. To carry out this vital mission of the church we also need new stewards and church council members so please put yourself forward if you are able.

While we focus on the mission of the church in terms of reaching out, we should also remember the vital pastoral work that is being carried out daily by our wonderful pastoral visitors. I am ever so thankful for all those who worked to make the name of Christ known in St Albans through various ways. I would like to encourage all of you to continue the work of Christ until He returns.

O give thanks to the Lord, call on his name, make known his deeds among the peoples. Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wonderful works (Psalm 105: 1-2).

Church Stewards’ Report - Tomáš Cvrček (Senior Steward)

This was my second and penultimate year as Senior Steward at our church. The roster of stewards includes three other church members: Noelene Browning, Anne Wall and Ruth Wallace. For Anne and Ruth, this was their first year of stewarding. I am happy to report that they learned the stewarding routine quickly and immediately became full-fledged members of the team. In our work, we also rely on the contribution of our group of Sunday Assistants, currently consisting of Evangeline Selverajan, Jan Kitchin, Angela Spriggs and Sue Davey. Their commitment and hard work, too, have been exemplary throughout the year. It is thanks to the dedication of all the stewards and assistants that we have been able to successfully staff all the Sunday services as well as various weekday and special-occasion services, such as over Christmas and Easter. Apart from the regular Sunday services, the stewards have also led, or contributed to, organizing the Youth Alpha courses for our class of four confirmands January to March 2024 and hosting the Monday evening Circuit Lenten Study, put updates on our Church website, and are currently active in undertaking a Risk Assessment, which is due for the Church Council meeting 26[th] June 2024. We also maintain a close and productive cooperation with the stewards from the Marlborough Road Methodist Church, with whom we hold joint steward meetings every other month of the year.

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 7 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Overall, I would describe the operation of the steward team as smooth and effective. I believe that we managed the transition of ministers from Rev Andrew Prout to Rev Daniel Yovan without any major problem. At the same time, a few instances in past year have highlighted the need for efficient communication, especially when it comes to resolving potential scheduling conflicts in our liturgical calendar, for example, when our Covenant Service in January fell on the first Sunday of the month, which is reserved for the much-beloved and well-attended Create & Celebrate service.

The following graph summarizes the average attendance at our main, 10:30am Sunday service over the last year, by month:

==> picture [351 x 216] intentionally omitted <==

----- Start of picture text -----
Average attendance of the 10:30 Sunday service (2023 - 2024)
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
July August September October November December January February March April
----- End of picture text -----

The overall average also includes about 8 children & youth. Over the same period, the 9:00am Holy Communion service on the first Sunday of the month served an average of 18-19 communicants. Our best attended services over the last year were Sunday 2[nd] July 2023 (97 attendees), the Easter Sunday 31[st] March 2024 (96 attendees) and 16[th] July 2023 (93 attendees).

Going forward, both I and the rest of the stewards feel strongly the need to expand our ranks . While we have managed as a four-member team this past year, we did face challenges at particular times, such as during the summer when I was away for all of August or during January and February when Noelene was away. But if any one of us were suddenly unable to continue in the role, for example, for health reasons, then our ability to serve effectively would be jeopardized. Increasing our number to 5 or 6 stewards would greatly increase our scheduling flexibility while also making the stewarding duty less intense for each member. In line with this need, the stewards have approached at least 12 church members, inquiring whether they would be willing to start a three-year term as church stewards - all declined. However, I am delighted to report that Napoleon Yorke-Andrews and Sally Newton have agreed to become Steward Assistant.

While the thin ranks of the stewarding team continue to be a source of concern, looking into the future, I am cautiously confident that we will be able to continue to serve the church as we have in the past. In contrast to the high demands of minister transition last year, I expect this coming year to be somewhat more predictable and quieter, although I believe that, with God’s guidance, we are ready for whatever challenges may come our way.

I am grateful for the contributions of all who are in positions of responsibility in the church, which includes not only the stewards but also the finance team, the sound & projection team, the catering &

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 8 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

refreshments team, the music group and everybody else. May we all continue to faithfully answer God’s call to service in whatever role we are needed.

Church Council

The Church Council is responsible for the affairs of our church and usually meets three times a year. Members, who may normally serve for up to 6 years, are appointed automatically because of their role, such as Ministers and Church Stewards, or elected each year as representatives of the Annual General Church Meeting (AGCM), or appointed by the Council itself to ensure that all areas of the church’s life are adequately represented.

Church Council meetings are open to any church member although only Church Council members may vote. Non Council members may speak with the permission of the meeting and the prior knowledge of the Minister with Pastoral Charge or Church Council Secretary. Meetings are publicized in church notices and papers about the meetings can be found on the notice board opposite the kitchen and on the church website.

Since the last AGCM in May 2023 the Church Council has met three times for routine business on 28[th] June 2023, 6[th] November 2023, and 27[th] February 2024. The next meeting is planned for 26[th] June 2024.

The Church Council of 28[th] February 2023, last year, confirmed the church would support the following specific charities, to be reviewed after two to three years:

Local The Living Room[iv] which works locally to support people through addiction

National Alzheimer’s Society[v] which works national to support people with Alzheimer’s

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 9 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Our Stewardship of Money and Property

Church Treasurer’s Report – Eric Bridgstock

Accounts for Year Ending 31[st] August 2023

The 2022-23 Accounts were examined by an Independent Examiner, John Robinson, and fully signed off on 28[th] February 2024.

[ Note: The 2022-23 Statement of Financial Accounts for year ending 31[st] August 2023 will be uploaded to the Charity Commission website separately. Its preamble includes a summary of church purposes].

Review of Current Year Ending 31[st] August 2024 – 01Sep23-29Feb24

Giving during the first six months of the current Methodist Year (Sep 23 to Feb 24), is markedly higher than the same period last year. We continue to benefit from high (5%-6%) interest rates on our deposit account (Methodist Central Finance Board – CFB), yielding over £800 interest each month.

The Anna Chaplain project continues in good financial health. Expenses are higher than planned but we are granted Employment Allowance, which means we do not pay the employer’s National Insurance contribution. We receive annual grants from District and Connexion, as well as donations from other churches and some organizations visited by Maggie, plus about £100 a month from ongoing member pledges.

Financial responsibility for administration of Cornerstone funds on behalf of the Circuit has been transferred smoothly from MRMC to HRMC. Funding is provided by the Circuit.

Energy costs remain a significant expenditure, much the same as a year ago, but within budget. The gas supplier changed bank at the start of 2024, leading to an unexpected Direct Debit holiday, but billing since February is now back on track.

Income from church groups and activities (such as Babies & Toddlers and the Warm Welcome Café) and from external lettings, are on budget and beginning to approach pre-COVID levels.

Our CollecTin[vii] card machine has been used for about three months and is proving particularly popular with Babies & Toddlers as most subs are paid by this method. We are also routinely taking payments during Sunday services and the Warm Welcome Café.

Our Gift Aid claim is normally submitted around Christmas, with the resulting monies arriving in our CFB account in April/May. This year, the submission was still being prepared in April but we should get the payout by August.

Charities : £660 was raised for Methodist World Mission through Junior Mission for All (JMA); £870 for Hatfield Housing (Perrott Appeal); and £285 for Herts Young Homeless - all funds disbursed. £901 has been raised (Quorum concert and Pancake Party) for our Church's Chosen Charities (see Church Council section) and £488 (Christmas and Curry Night) for All We Can. We continue to hold £589 on behalf of a Gambian charity, collected during a 2015-16 World Missions event, pending resolution of a charity lawcompliant means of passing it to the beneficiary.

A detailed review of income and expenditure against budget, for the first six months of Methodist Year 2023-24 (year ending 31[st] August 2024), is presented in Table 1 overleaf.

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 10 of 28 HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824 Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

ACTUALS 2022-23
1/9/22 - 31/8/23		 ACTUALS 2022-23
1/9/22 - 31/8/23		 BUDGET
1/9/23 -		 2023-24
31/8/24		 ACTUALS 2023-24
1/9/23 - 29/2/24		 ACTUALS 2023-24
1/9/23 - 29/2/24		 Proportion of
budget
Comment
RECEIPTS £60,000
£12,000
£3,000
£5,000
£2,000
£350
£1,000
£1,500
£1,000
Collections £59,130 £38,409 64%
Gift Aid £15,243 £0 0% GA expected May 24
Interest & Endowment Income £5,403 £4,863 162% CFB Deposit rate remains over 5% (interest averaging £800pm)
Lettings £4,439 £3,915 78% includes £1200 for Circuit Office
Donations for Church £2,838 £265 13%
Sunday Coffee £384 £269 77%
Café £949 £508 51%
Babies & Toddlers (Net of costs) £1,752 £752 50%
Sundry £1,212 £92 9%
Cornerstone NONE £2,000 £4,182
209%
Funds received from Circuit
Lay Workers £34,913 £30,000 £2,413
8%
Grants of £18.7k scheduled for Q3. £500 received from St Paul's in Oct
TOTAL £126,263 £117,850 £55,668 47%
£91,350 £87,850 £53,255 61%
if Anna & Cornerstone excluded
PAYMENTS
Circuit Assessment £52,800 £52,800 £26,400 50%
Repairs & Renewals £6,345 £80,000 £2,786 3% Small Hall planned for this Methodist Year
Gas £7,741 £7,000 £1,601 23%
Electricity £2,564 £2,500 £1,005 40%
Water Rates £303 £380 £179 47%
Utilities £10,608 £9,880 £2,785 28%
Insurance £2,640 £2,800 £2,695 96% Buildings and Contents Ins fully paid in Q1
Cleaning & supplies £417 £500 £122 24%
Staff costs (not Lay Workers) £1,573 £1,200 £644 54%
Licences and Subscriptions £774 £800 £607 76% One Licence will renew in Q3
Biffa Waste Disposal £1,030 £2,000 £0 0% Still in credit from BIFFA invoicing error
Youth/Sunday Club £391 £500 £263 53%
Stationery/copying (net) £756 £500 £197 39% Not invoiced by Circuit yet
Bible notes (net) £65 £0 -£100 More income than expenditure
Organists & Music £207 £100 £0 0%
Donations £0 £500 £0 0%
Benevolence Fund £47 £250 £0 0%
Equipment & Furniture £1,045 £1,000
£1,000
£200
£500		 £666 67% Chair Trolley and CollecTin
Sundry £893 £222 22%
Catering -£64 £121 61%
Evangelism & Outreach £912 £277 55%
Cornerstone
Lay Workers		 £31,308 £2,000
£34,200		 £1,256
63%
Soft Play Area
£17,391
51%
TOTAL £111,747 £190,730 £56,332 30% Distorted by Lay Workers and delays to Small Hall
£80,439 £154,530 £37,685 24% if Anna & Cornerstone excluded
SURPLUS/DEFICIT £14,516 -£72,880 -£664
£10,911 -£66,680 £15,570 if Anna & Cornerstone excluded

Table 1 Income & expenditure against budget 01Sep23-29Feb24

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 11 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Supporting Notes for Table 1

Income from collections is healthy - monthly giving exceeding £5500 We continue to benefit from large reserves and high interest rates on deposit account. Income from Lettings, Café, Babies & Toddlers are all on budget or better Energy costs look like remaining well within budget. Major expenditure planned for refurbishment of Small Hall was delayed - builders expect to start in April Lay Worker project: The relief from Employer NI and additional donations (from other churches) mean within budget Monthly expenditure (excluding LW & Cornerstone) has averaged £5,976 over the period, amounting to £56 per member per month (106 members) The bank balances held at 29/2/2024 were £200,363. This includes £82,001 Restricted (Bequests and Gifts), and £59,176 ring-fenced for the Lay Workers project. The Church's reserves policy is to hold a sum equal to 6 months' expenditure, which was £55,481 in Methodist Year 22-23. Charities: £1,825 raised for World Mission (JMA), Hatfield Housing (Perrott) and Herts Young Homeless - all disbursed. £901 has been raised for our Church's Chosen Charities, and £488 for All We Can. £589 for a Gambian charity from 2015-16 World Missions collection remains unresolved. Eric Bridgstock, Treasurer, 25/3/2024

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 12 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Property – Eric Bridgstock (Chair of Finance & Property Group)

Buildings

Small Hall Refurbishment

The Property Review & Oversight of Development (PROD) group has continued with plans to make the Small Hall a more attractive, usable and accessible space leading to an agreed solution that improves integration with the rest of the church, while meeting accessibility and other requirements, simplifying approvals and consents, and keeping the cost down. The design limits any external changes to the appearance of the building to new doors to the car park and replacement windows, thus avoiding the need for Planning Permission and its associated costs and possible delays. It also reduces cost and risk associated with significant changes to the footprint of the building. The project was endorsed by Church Council 27[th] February 2024, and signed off by the District in March 2024. Since then, we have had meetings with the builder and the architect and expect work to begin in May 2024.

Other Issues

The old gas boiler in the back storage area became troublesome – not igniting. Thanks to Peter Wallace who sourced a replacement circuit board and arranged its fitment. As a precursor to a possible replacement, Peter has been monitoring the performance of that old boiler and the new main heating system installed three years ago.

Two generous donations facilitated the replacement of the projector and screen with a large TV monitor, at no cost to the church. Problems with reflections off the new monitor resulted in the supplier Creative Audio-Visual Solutions acknowledging that they had supplied an unsuitable monitor and replaced it, again at no cost to the church. The old projector and screen have been retained for possible use in the Large Hall or Small Hall.

The WiFi system has been upgraded (a Circuit responsibility). Thanks to Chris Hancock for fortitude and patience when dealing with the supplier and also with Royal Mail, who did not recognise 133B Hatfield Road as a valid delivery address!

Smaller Jobs

Other

A review of plans and photographs concluded that there is no reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) in the church buildings.

As noted last year, it is recognised that parts of the entrance to the church (eg the rails on the steps and the canopy) are in need of repainting. The main windows to the Sanctuary need treatment, and this will be included in this refurbishment. This will be progressed this year.

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 13 of 28 HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824 Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Ruth Wallace is now the Steward attending the Property & Finance Committee.

Update on the break-in during the night of Friday 26[th] April 2024

The need for police forensics to investigate caused the postponement of the Cleaning & Maintenance morning planned for Saturday 27[th] April. The only item thought to be missing is a recently purchased ‘sound box’ for the Music Group corner. Damage included: a smashed window; damage during the forced opening of the door to the Epworth Room and several metal filing cabinets and cupboards. Replacement of those items will cost a few thousand pounds. Methodist Insurance was informed 28[th] April 2024.

Environment

Ros Hancock is our ‘eco-champion’ and is guiding us through the ‘A Rocha UK’ eco-church questionnaire. A Rocha operates a scheme of bronze, silver and gold awards and, based on our responses to the Buildings and Land sections, we achieved Bronze in June 2023 - the plaque is displayed in the Foyer. We continue to replace incandescent and fluorescent lighting with low energy Light Emitting Diode (LED) units as part of routine maintenance, and look for other ways to improve our ‘eco’ footprint.

Our ‘mixed dry recycling’ bin is getting well used, reducing the material going into the general waste bin.

A Legal Matter

The formal agreement regarding the boundary between the church and our neighbour at 135A, and the discrepancy in the Land Registry, has not progressed and will be prioritised in the coming months. Finally, as always, huge thanks to those who:

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 14 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Work of God HRMC as Part of St Albans Section

Cornerstone Project - Deacon Nigel Perrott

I am not sure where the time has gone since my last annual report to Hatfield Road!

Hatfield Road now has full oversight of the project, and Eric Bridgstock and Denise Willingham have joined the support group. Things continue to move on and we now feel very much part of the community here in Salisbury Village. I have learnt so much more about this community, some sad and some good.

We have seen quite a number of families who move here and six months later move on again. The very high rents are clearly a factor. That said, those who have remained have become friends. We are constantly looking at new ways to reach out and have certainly had some success. I think that as we approach the two year mark, Cornerstone has reached a plateau. This gives us time to build on the relationships already made and look ahead to what we can do more of moving forward.

Schools Work

After-School Club – “Cornerstone Kids”

We now have a regular 10 children who attend our after-school club. This has very much become a family of kids, and they look out for each other and they certainly keep us on our toes. The club always begins with food. They love to make their own pizzas. During this time, we chat about their week and hear their good and bad news. This is often followed by more baking! Chocolate Brownies and tray bakes are a firm favourite. There is always a craft activity too and, if the weather is good, some time in the garden is always appreciated. Some of the kids will move into year six in September 2024 and we are planning an extra day especially for them. We hope to help make the transition from primary into secondary school a less scary process.

School Chaplaincy

We have now had our first outing as ‘School Chaplains’. We have been joined with friends from St John’s Church of England in Hatfield. Onslow School has welcomed us and are very pleased that we can engage with parents and children at the end of a school day. We are present at the school gate as they leave and are joined by some of the staff. I will give some further updates on this work as we become more established.

Howe Dell School

I have now taken up my role as Governor. There are a number of meetings and I have the opportunity to meet staff and other parents. This is going to prove invaluable as we continue to forge relationships in the area. Jane has also been in the school along with Young Life International, who we continue to work closely with.

Young Life international.

Young Life International now use the community room for various meetings. Jane and I often join the leaders’ meetings for prayer and support. Over the May half-term they will run their three day club and some of our kids will be joining them.

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 15 of 28 HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824 Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Coffee Morning and Open house

We held an open day during the last February half-term and the house was filled. It is a joy when all those we have connected with all come together. It is slightly hectic but great fun. More recently The Vice President, Deacon Kerry Scarlett, visited and again we had a full house. Kerry spent some time with the kids and told them all about her role.

We also now have our baby soft play area up and running. We have had two new babies joining us with their mums. We continue to advertise this and hope more will come along.

Faith Talk

We continue to meet informally and enjoy a time of fellowship and discussion. At our last meeting we watched a film, “God’s not Dead”, a film about a student who was challenged by his tutor to prove the existence of God. We had a good discussion and will no doubt repeat this idea again.

Of course, we also have had the joy of seeing Hannah be confirmed and become a member of the church. Both and Hannah and Carol enjoy joining the monthly Create and celebrate services.

Future events.

Last year I had the joy of baptizing little Evelyn in a hot tub. How could I beat that! Well this summer, I will be doing a wedding blessing in a marquee in our neighbour’s garden. Pictures will no doubt follow!

Over the summer, we will be making a return visit to LEGOLAND - hopefully the weather will be drier this year. We actually needed a boat rather than a coach last year! We are also planning a trip to the seaside and a local farm. Some of the kids are planning to do a sponsored walk to help raise some funds for this. Look out in the weekly notices for more information.

Craft workshop.

Over the next couple of months we will be having a new craft workshop, catering for the older age group. It looks like this may be a large group and we are looking at using the local community hall for this - more information coming soon.

Sunset-to-sunrise prayer

Cornerstone is hosting an ecumenical prayer space. The community room will be open from sunrise on Friday 13[th] September until 4pm on Sunday the 15[th] . This will be an opportunity for small groups or individuals to come and pray for Hatfield. The idea is based on the 24/7 prayer idea. There is an online sign-up page available and I will advertise this in due course. We have met leaders from the other churches in Hatfield and the idea has been welcomed by all. The weekend will close with a time of worship on the green at the front of Cornerstone.

*

So finally, I hope you get a flavour of what is going on and, of course, a warm welcome is always waiting should you like to come and visit. It is always good to remember that Christianity is a relationship, we strive to build strong relationships that allow us to share the good news of Jesus.

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 16 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Anna Chaplaincy Management Group - Louise Mullins

As a management group we are so pleased to see how Maggie has developed the Anna Chaplaincy (AC) role and we are excited to see how the next stages develop in our combined Christian journey in St Albans. We believe we are very fortunate and blessed to have Maggie working with us at this time. She is an inspiration!

We meet quarterly, most recently 23[rd] April 2024. The members of the committee are Rev Daniel Yovan (chair), Catherine Meredith and Andrew Johnstone (MRMC) and Denise Willingham, Joanna Rose and Louise Mullins (line manager) (HRMC).

Maggie has now come to the end of her third year in her role and she is fulfilling her current Anna Chaplaincy (AC) role whilst acting as AC lead to other members of the team including Anna Friends (AF). In terms of succession planning, Maggie is completely on track with the 5-year plan given in her job description/contract. Maggie continues to demonstrate her developmental, creative, and entrepreneurial attributes in the new initiatives recently established - just read the next section! Maggie also continues to have very good working relationships with ecumenical colleagues across St Albans

Anna Chaplaincy Lead Maggie Dodd

The past year with you at HRMC has been a positive and busy one. Since our last AGCM, I was able to host a stand at the first St Albans Community Showcase event at the Cathedral in June 2023. I managed to update and publish ready for the event, the Seniors’ Guide to events, groups and services in churches across St Albans. This time 22 churches were included and now 7 GP surgeries’ Social Prescribers send them out to their patients and referrals.

After another wonderful Holiday at Home during the summer, I started to plan for the Commissioning Service for new Anna Chaplains and an Anna Friend (and recommissioning my own role too) held at MRMC 22[nd] October 2023. It was a super Commissioning Service and we were very fortunate to have Debbie Thrower, the Anna Chaplaincy Pioneer, preach for us - Debbie retired less than a month later. It was a really special event. Since then, two more people are exploring whether to become Anna Chaplains and I hope one will be commissioned in Hatfield, and one in Harpenden, within the coming months. Denise Willingham will also join me as an Anna Friend, which is very exciting. She has been a great help with a number of events in the past year and she will be a real asset. I continue to work alongside Peter Curtis and Rev Canon Dr Ruth Goatley, the Anna Chaplains here in St Albans. Peter shares many of the care home services I organize, and we hope to work on some larger projects together in the coming year.

Over the summer and early autumn, I led a Spiritual Care Course in Hitchin. It’s a new initiative by Anna Chaplaincy and comprises a series of eight two hour sessions. It was really rewarding, with us all sharing personal experiences of ministry and the challenges that effect the people we care for as they age. The course was attended by a Deacon, two care home Chaplains, two pastoral visitors, and Peter Curtis who was soon to become and Anna Chaplain alongside me in St Albans. I was able to share some of the material we had used at a morning session of the Pastoral Visitors Group at SS Albans and Stephen for a session on ‘How to be a good listener’ January this year.

Last Christmas saw the annual ‘ sending love to care homes’ project take off, with over 800 angels knitted, painted, crafted and stitched. It was an amazing response with so many examples of collaboration across church communities and with schools and uniformed organizations too. 17 care homes had gifts to give each resident, and I spoke about the incredible response on BBC 3 Counties

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 17 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Radio on Christmas Eve . There were also many wonderful care home services over the Christmas period , including members from a variety of different churches in St Albans, a really ecumenical effort.

The new year has started at a pace, with a new collaboration alongside the Salvation Army – New CAMEO meets once a month at the Salvation Army Hall and includes a light lunch followed by an activity (I have lined up speakers on health, and well-being, the Police, and some flower arranging and craft activities). We hope it’ll be a fruitful new collaboration and will replace the group I was running at MRMC which had only a very small number of attendees.

Afternoon Worship at HRMC continues to be a lovely gathering, regularly have 12+ people attending, and a highlight of my month. I am advertising this more on the St Albans Anna Chaplaincy FaceBook (FB) page and hope we can reach more people beyond those who now regularly attend.

Care home services have continued to be well received and relationships grown with the various providers in St Albans. I have led two funerals in the past 6 months for residents from The Orchard, a care home I know well and whose staff and residents I have built a good relationship with. I am able to offer Messy Vintage services to some settings. Denise and I had planned for 4 in January and February but illness in the homes meant we only ran 2 in the end, though gratefully received.

As I approach this year’s AGM I have just published this year’s update to the Seniors’ booklet , which I hope will reach 2,000 local people when it goes out in April/May. I am also organizing a community art project with The Orchard, Hatfield Road Day Care Group, Sharing Stories at St Luke’s and Samuel Ryder Academy, culminating in an exhibition of some artwork at The Mayor’s Reception in May.

I have also recently started a project collaborating with Rev Peter Crumpler at St Paul’s church, it’s called ‘ a chance to chat’ and we have negotiated an area in Morrisons café every Monday morning for 2hrs (9.30-11.30am), for people to come and chat, and be with others. There is a rota of people from five different churches who listen and chat to anyone who fancies popping along. We hope to tackle loneliness and isolation, and offer a regular friendly presence at the store.

I’ve been fortunate to have been invited to speak at various events this past year. In October I went up to London to Methodist Central Hall with Debbie Ducille from the Anna Chaplaincy Network. We spoke at the London District Circuit Stewards Gathering about Anna Chaplaincy; it was a super evening. I also spoke at our National Anna Chaplaincy Gathering as (still) the only full-time salaried Anna Chaplain in the country. I led a Vision Morning in October for Wey Valley Methodist Circuit which was great fun, and will be speaking in May to a Deanery Synod in Windsor. Late last year, Ruth Goatley, Peter Curtis and I were interviewed by St Albans Diocese about our roles, and a News Story was published online in January. It was good to finally have something about Anna Chaplaincy in the Diocese on their website, I hope it will signpost us as positive examples of tailored ministry to older people.

Thank you to everyone at HRMC who continue to support what I do, out in the community, working with other churches, in care settings, and within our church community - wherever God takes me. I am incredibly grateful for your kindness and prayers. Do get in touch if you would like me to visit, or have any ideas or feedback on my role, I always like to hear from you.

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 18 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Holiday@Home - Denise Willingham

We had our best ever Holiday@Home last August 2023!

Running across four days and two venues, involving three churches (HRMC, MRMC and St Peter’s), we were able to entertain 50 guests with our band of 40 helpers. Guests and helpers came from the local community as well as the churches. There were crafts, games, musical entertainment and quizzes a plenty, as well as delicious lunches and teas.

This year we chose a different holiday theme for each day: A Day by the Sea; City Breaks; A Day in the Country; and, finally, A Day at the Seaside, complete with fish and chips for lunch and ice cream cones. A great time was had by all. Thank you to all the many helpers who made it all possible.

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 19 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Work of God Hatfield Road Methodist Church

Pastoral Secretary – Jackie Vivian

The Pastoral Care Team comprises the Rev. Daniel Yovan, Deacon Nigel Perrott, Anna Chaplain Maggie Dodd, the Church Stewards, me as Pastoral Secretary, 11 members of the Church who are Pastoral Visitors, four House Group Leaders, and Caroline Tough who maintains contact with our young families.

I took over late last year as Secretary from Gina Woodhead who for many years had been a wonderful Secretary, supporting the visitors and many families and individuals in the Church. She has been guiding me despite having had major surgery herself, and I am truly grateful to her for all her help.

The work of the Pastoral Care Team goes on throughout the year. We aim to meet twice a year to share concerns and receive guidance from our Minister. Every member of the Church, of whom there are 112 plus adherents, is assigned a visitor. At our last meeting it became very clear that we needed more visitors. If anyone feels that they would like to get involved in Pastoral Care or have concerns or suggestions, please speak to me or Daniel. It is so important that everyone looks out for each other and if you know someone who would welcome that extra contact, please let me know.

We acknowledge with thanksgiving those who have died in this past year, including two members, Pam Riddick and Jean Hewitt.

Four members have transferred out or ceased to meet: Mary Groves, Jenni Mullins, and Peter and Angela Ellam.

We welcome two members who have transferred in: Hannah and Jebisha Daniel.

We welcome six new members: Zuzana, Barbora and Magda Cvrčková; Goldy and Honor Asamoah; and Sally Newton (and Hannah Brown at Cornerstone).

Prayer Ministry – Roy Vivian

Pre-Covid, we were able to roster two members of the Prayer Team to offer to remain within the Sanctuary to pray with members of the congregation at the end of each 10.30 Service. We would like to re-introduce this service but need new recruits as only two of the original prayer team are still able to help.

The weekly publication of the Prayer Diary, which is overseen by Peggy Liffen, has continued to be included in Sunday’s Notices. In this way all the people and families who are listed can be remembered in our prayers during the following week.

For more than a decade Ros Hancock has led a prayer group to pray for the needs of our Church. The meetings take place on Tuesday mornings (via WhatsApp) and are supported by members of Ros’s house group and a few other Church members. Please contact Ros if you would like to join.

The early morning prayer initiative originally introduced in 2009 by Graham Smith and Chris Hancock has resumed post-Covid. Chris the session 07.00-08.00 at church on Tuesdays.

Following his appointment last year as our new Superintendent, the Rev. David Jebb introduced a weekly Circuit Prayer Meeting which continues to take place at 9.00am on Saturday mornings via Zoom.

The Prayer Tree cascades out urgent prayer requests and updates by email to a team of 30 volunteers. The knowledge that many people are offering prayers provides comfort and support to those who have requested them. Please contact Roy Vivian if you would like to join.

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 20 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Music Group – Leader, Joanna Rose

The Music Group meets to rehearse at church each Thursday evening at 20.00, preparing to support worship on Sunday mornings and at the monthly Praise & Worship service. The group enjoys making music together, singing and playing a variety of instruments. We sometimes select or recommend hymns for the preacher, and we like to spend time in our rehearsals looking out and learning new hymns or tunes that we will then introduce to the congregation in Sunday services. For special events such as the Christmas carol service, Harvest, or Easter we often put out an invitation for additional singers or players to join us. We continue to add to our library of recorded hymns which was started during the Covid lockdown – we now have over 250 hymns performed by the Music Group available for use from our website.

We also try to support circuit events where we join with musicians from other churches in our circuit to sing and play at special services during the year. In the past year we have supported circuit services for Rev Andrew Prout’s farewell and Rev Daniel Yovan’s welcome, and joined with the Music Group at St John’s, Potter’s Bar, to lead worship when the District Synod was held in St Albans in the autumn.

We welcome new members of any age from secondary school upwards. If you enjoy singing, or can play an instrument and would be interested in joining us for special events or on a regular basis, please speak to Joanna Rose. If you are a competent pianist and would be interested in playing the piano or organ for any services (monthly 09.00, weekly 10.30 or monthly 19.00 services), again please contact Joanna.

I would like to say a big thank you to all the members of the Music Group for their dedication in providing such wonderful support to the worship every week.

Cradle Roll (Baptismal Roll) - Adelita Serwaa-Bonau

The Cradle Roll is a register of all the children who have been welcomed into the church through Baptism or a Service of Thanksgiving. Their names are proudly displayed in the Children’s corner. The children remain on the Cradle Roll until they are three years old when they are promoted into the Sunday Club. There have been two new baptisms since our last AGCM. On the 27th of August 2023 we welcomed Everlyn Esther Dickinson to the Cradle Roll at Cornerstone to the delight of her mother Amy. We also welcomed Peony Rose Hall Smallhorne on the 2[nd] July 2023 to the delight of her parents James Smallhorne and Claudette Hall. There are now seven children on the Cradle Roll – Luca Kindrat, Julia and Evelyn Gomes, Charles Woodhead, Cobey Zac Johnson, Peony Rose Hall Smallthorne, and Everlyn Dickinson. Each child receives a card from the church on the anniversary of their baptism.

Sunday Club - Caroline Tough, Sunday Club Coordinator

Sunday Club meets on the second and third Sundays of each month. The children in the younger group (4-11 years old) meet in the Wesley Room and have been working through a series of Old Testament characters and have now moved on to learn about the miracles that Jesus performed. The sessions include stories, games, crafts and wordsearches prepared by a team of three leaders and two helpers. The older group of young people (11-18 years old) meet in the Upper Room for sessions that Tomas leads with Ruth and Alison assisting. The older group have prepared and led two services in the past year which were inspiring and demonstrated that we can share God’s message effectively at any age.

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 21 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

A Youth Alpha course took place between Christmas and Easter and was open to young people from Hatfield Road, Marlborough Road and Cornerstone and any other young people who wished to attend. It included watching short talks on the screen, discussions, time for questions and, of course, pizza! It was well attended and culminated in four of our young people being confirmed and made members on Easter Day 31[st] March 2024.

On the weeks when we do not have Sunday Club, there are plenty of activities to interest children and adults of all ages at the Create and Celebrate Services on the first Sunday of every month. On the fourth Sunday it is all age worship, a service designed to be accessible for children. In addition, there is the table at the back of the church which has a selection of activities suitable for younger children and some story bags which are available for any child who would like to use them. The activities out on the table and in the bags are changed regularly to reflect the church seasons.

There was a garden gathering open to all the families connected with our church in June 2023 blessed by dry weather, allowing us to play lots of outdoor games and enjoy the company.

We had a holiday fun morning in October half term where the theme was “God’s Treasure” and included making a fantastic treasure chest which then went onto the board in the foyer.

The December Create and Celebrate was a “pop up Nativity” where children came and decided which part they would like to play and chose costumes from the selection provided. It proved a great way to start the Christmas season and was followed later by the Christingle Service on 22[nd] December 2023.

Sunday Club is grateful for the prayer support offered to all the leaders, helpers and most especially for the children and young people as they explore the Bible and develop their Christian Faith.

Create & Celebrate – Ros Hancock

Our Create & Celebrate service continues to be held on the first Sunday of every month. The first hour in the hall 10.00-11.00 focuses on crafts and other activities, with a link to the theme for the day including: treasure hunts; quizzes; wordsearches; discussions; and games – all accompanied by refreshments. At 11.00 we move into the church for a short 30 minute celebration service when all the activities are admired, brought together and explained within their context of the story that week. We continue to get new families turning up and it seems to be enjoyed by all ages.

Junior Mission for All (JMA) – Ruth Wallace, JMA Treasurer

JMA (Junior Mission for All) is a network of children, supported by adults, who support and learn about the mission of the church all over the world. The JMA promise is to ‘Learn, pray and serve with the worldwide church of Jesus Christ’. 20% of money raised is allocated to the Methodist Mission in Britain Fund and 80% to the Methodist World Mission Fund.

At HRMC we currently have 3 collectors, Simon, Jacob and Joel. We are always keen to recruit new collectors. Just ask Ruth Wallace for more information and a collection pot.

The total raised for JMA for the year ending 31[st] August 2023 was £202.69.

The JMA Barbecue took place for the first time since Covid in September 2023 at Anne Wall’s beautiful garden and raised an additional £524.29.

Collections from September 2023 to date are £211.21.

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 22 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Having been the JMA secretary / treasurer for 10 years, Ruth would like to hand over the mantle to someone else. Job description:

Please talk to Ruth if you are interested.

Safeguarding – Joanna Rose, Church Safeguarding Officer

The Methodist Church takes safeguarding very seriously, and we follow the rules of ‘safer recruitment’, ensuring that all those working with children, young people or vulnerable adults within Hatfield Road Methodist Church are subject to appropriate Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks. All these people, and others in position of responsibility are also required to undertake the Methodist Church’s Creating Safer Spaces training every four years, with preachers and leaders trained to an advanced level. All those working with children, young people and vulnerable adults within the church should be able to identify signs of various types of abuse, know how to react, and who to inform of any concerns they may have.

We do all we can to create a safe space for everyone within Hatfield Road Methodist Church and for those with whom we have contact virtually, either online or by phone. If you ever have any concerns about something you see or hear in relation to children, young people or vulnerable adults at the church, however small that may be, you can speak in confidence to me, our Minister, or the circuit safeguarding officer. Full contact details can be found on the church noticeboard.

Warm Welcome Café – Christine Ford, Coordinator

The Café first opened its doors twelve years ago as the Aldersgate Café and, through the past year, we have opened every Tuesday morning from 09.30 until 11.30 as the Warm Welcome Café.

We have several very loyal and regular customers from both the local community, and our own Church community. The café continues to be a witness in Fleetville. There is no charge for tea, coffee and cake but donations are very welcome.

The Café is run by a group of dedicated volunteers. We are very grateful to the volunteers who regularly help with setting up and clearing away, they are a very important part of our team. Our cake-makers continue to produce and donate wonderful cakes. Thank you all, the café could not run without your help.

As always, we value your prayers and support. Please come along and enjoy your Café

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 23 of 28 HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824 Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Babies and Toddlers – Chris Hancock

Louise Bourton from Shenley continues to lead the team. Chris Hancock has recently become a coleader following the retirement of Freda Gray and Gina Woodhead from the leadership team with much thanks after many years of wonderful service. We look forward to the special occasions when Freda will be able to come to do painting with the children.

Wednesday morning sessions continue to be well attended and are valued by parents and carers. As well as toys and books, we continue to provide a craft activity each week, thanks to the hard work of Margaret Quinn and Mary Gotts. We close each session by sharing story time and singing, which is always great fun.

Needless to say, we are extremely grateful to the many folk who help with the setting up, serving tea and coffee, assisting during the session and in clearing and cleaning up afterwards.

Day Care Group – Sue Davey, Leader

This is a wonderful social and lunch group which will have been running for 36 Years in June 2024. It is set up to remove barriers that might otherwise deter vulnerable and frail elderly folk from leaving their homes, by providing transport, accessible space and practical care and support, so that they can enjoy some hot food, warm fellowship and fun. Visitors come from within our church and the wider local community. We have close links with St Paul’s church and the Fleetville Community Centre and are grateful for the volunteers and practical and financial support they provide.

At the present time, we have seven elderly ladies most weeks, having recently lost three people through bereavement or illness. However, we continue to have a very happy time each week.

There are nine helpers who come each week and four very willing ladies who share the job of transporting our visitors week by week. The wife of one of our helpers also collects our lunches from SS Alban & Stephen Primary School in Cavendish Road.

We try and entertain our visitors each week with quizzes, music from David Amos, much conversation, various items or craft work, and occasional flower arranging.

We also try and have a day out somewhere in the summer and, most years, also for Christmas lunch.

This is a very loveable group, loved by all of us.

Creativity in Fellowship - Maggie Dodd

This group meets 10.30-12.00 on the second and fourth Fridays of the month in the Wesley Room. We each bring along a craft or creative project, typically ranging from watercolours to collage to pastels. We enjoy a cup of tea and a good catch up together. We would be happy to welcome more members, so do come along, or contact Maggie (07462 586773) to find out more.

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 24 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Church Walks – Eric Bridgstock

Church walks have continued, led by Eric Bridgstock or Denise Willingham, usually on the morning of the fourth Saturday of the month, following both new and well-tried routes. Some months have been skipped due to bad weather, either on the day or during the run-up, or simply insufficient effort to prepare. We always need to ‘recce’ the route a few days before to check general accessibility. ‘Guest leaders’ are encouraged, as has been the case a couple of times this year. The walks planned are usually 5-6 miles and take about 2- 2½ hours to complete. Opportunities for coffee or lunch are sometimes available. With or without refreshments the walks provide ample time in which to share fellowship whilst enjoying the local countryside.

Looking ahead, we are looking at different styles of walk, including around parts of London.

House Groups – Johanna Mason, Coordinator

There are currently four House Groups (HG) with up to 32 members. Tony Moody, Peter Wallace, Ros Hancock and I lead fortnightly House Groups, offering a choice of either day or evening meetings with breaks for school holidays.

Tony's HG meet via Zoom (courtesy of Evangeline) on a Monday evening with six regular participants studying the Book of Isaiah. Unfortunately, one of the members has difficulty using Zoom and is unable to join the group at present.

Peter leads and hosts a HG on a Wednesday evening from 20.00-22.00. Six to nine attend from a group of 11 members. Written, video and internet study materials have included: the Bible Course; Connexional Advent Course 'History of the Early Church'; US Reformed Church studies 'Women in the Bible' and 'Let Justice Flow' a Lent course from the London District. Members are welcome to suggest and lead their own sessions and willing to cover when the leader is away. The group can meet via Zoom or as a hybrid. New members are always welcome.

Ros leads HG on a Friday morning at the home of Sarah Cox. There are normally four to five who meet regularly with one further participant who joins when possible, Members are able to join the group via Zoom if they are away and able to do so. The Methodist Lent course 'Woven' is the current study material.

I lead and host HG on a Thursday morning. We are also studying the Book of Isaiah. There are eight regular members and a further member who joins when possible. Members are able to join the group via Zoom when necessary. Whenever I am unable to host or transport is a problem, the group gathers at Church rather than miss a meeting.

Each HG can choose its own study material, having first asked every member for their choice of study which can sometimes run alongside specific church-run studies such as Advent and Lent.

At the moment, MRMC is short of HG Leaders so I have been in touch with the church inviting those interested to join one of our study groups. I am yet to hear back. When space is available, details re HG appear in the Notices. Information is also available on the Notice Board in church foyer.

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 25 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Social, Events, Outreach (SEO) – Joanna Rose, Coordinator

This Group has now reformed with several new members and has met to plan a series of events, which may be held in the coming months. It is not the role of the Group to organise the events, but to produce a schedule of recommended events which we feel people from the church, the circuit, or the community will enjoy, and to support others within the congregation to bring them to reality.

Earlier this year we held our first Pancake Party since 2020, which was enjoyed by adults and children alike. Numerous pancakes were fried to order and consumed with a variety of toppings! Future plans include a quiz night, afternoon tea, a barbecue, folk dancing, film nights and a board games evening – we hope there will be something for everyone!

If you have any ideas for events, or would be willing to organize or help run an event, please do let Joanna know.

Single Friendly Churches Initiative – Angela Spriggs

HRMC is looking into registering as a Single Friendly Church, with the charity of the same name[ viii] . In April 2024 we formed a group to explore how well we support single people of all ages within the Church. Those who are single include those who are never married, divorced, widowed and ‘single in church’. We will start by finding out the needs of those who are single, and will look at all aspects including the language used on the website, inclusivity in preaching, and the strength of the welcome given to those attending church on their own. We welcome views of all members of the congregation.

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 26 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2023- 2024

Church Council Members

Current Membership 27[th] February 2024

Position Name Date
appointed
Circuit Ministers Reverend David Jebb (Superintendent)ix
Reverend J Daniel Yovan (Minister in Pastoral Charge)x
Deacon Nigel Perrottxi		 Sep 2022
Sep 2023
Sep 2022
Layworker (observer) Maggie Dodd, Anna Chaplaincy Lead Nov 2021
Church Stewardsxii* (up to six) Tomáš Cvrček (Senior Church Steward)
Noelene Browning
Anne Wall
Ruth Wallace
[Vacancy x 2]		 May 2018
Oct 2019
May 2023
Jun 2023
Church Treasurerxiii Eric Bridgstock Jun 2018
Pastoral Committeexiv Jackie Vivian Sep 2023
Church Council Secretaryxv Peter Wallace Jun 2023
One Circuit Stewardon behalf of the
Circuit Stewardsxvi		 Guy Fenner Sep 2023
Members elected by the Annual
General Church Meetingxvii
(Not less than six representatives nor
more than fifteen elected) annually by
General Church Meeting		 Ros Hancock [Elected by ballot]
James Appiah		 May 2015
Jun 2021
Additional Members appointed by
Church Councilxviii:
Sunday Club and Youth Superintendent Caroline Tough Sep 2022
Property & Finance Committee Eric Bridgstock (Chair of Meeting) Jun 2019
Mission Secretaries Action Group
(Mission in Britain / World Missions /
JMA / Christian Aid / Justice & Peace)		 [Vacancy]
Worship Consultation Convenor Peter Wallace Sep 2015
Safeguarding Officer Joanna Rose May 2009
Other appointed by Church Council Freda Gray [Catering, Property, Cleaning]
Val Parker (lettings)
Denise Willingham (Extended Communion)
Angela Spriggs (Single-Friendly Churches)		 Aug 2017
Jun 2019
Sep 2023
Feb 2024
Elected to Circuit Meetingxix (up to five) Church Steward [Ex Officio]: Tomáš Cvrček
Church Treasurer [Ex Officio]: Eric Bridgstock
Joanna Rose		 Sep 2022
Sep 2015
Sep 2017

133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 27 of 28 District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

HRMC Annual Report 2023-24 r1 240509.docx Charity Registration Number 1173147

==> picture [89 x 68] intentionally omitted <==

==> picture [34 x 7] intentionally omitted <==

HATFIELD ROAD METHODIST CHURCH RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS ACCOUNTS

THE METHODIST CHURCH STANDARD FORM OF ACCOUNTS

HATFIELD ROAD METHODIST

Church

FOR THE YEAR ENDED

31 August 2023

St Albans & Welwyn Circuit Circuit no. 13 1173147

Registered Charity - Charity Registration number

If not a registered charity Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs Gift Aid number

(The HMRC number is equivalent to a registered charity number in terms of evidence of charitable status and may be used to give to donors or grant funders wishing to see evidence of the organisation's charitable status. Methodist charities in England and Wales that are not registered charities are excepted from registration under Statutory Instrument 2014 No.242)

Minister:

Rev Daniel Yovan

Church Stewards: Tomas Cvrcek Ruth Wallace

Noelene Browning Anne Wall

Treasurer:

Eric Bridgstock

HRMC Standard Form of Accounts 31AUG23 FINAL.xls

1 of 5

HATFIELD ROAD Church METHODIST

ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2023

SECTION A Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds		 Unrestricted
Funds
Restricted
Funds		 £
74,083
5,403
4,679
42,479
Totals this
year		 £
74,083
5,403
4,679
42,479
Totals this
year		 Totals last
year
£ £ £ £
a1 RECEIPTS Note
a2 Offerings and Tax recovered 70,083 4,000 74,083 71,286
a3 Bank and CFB interest and
Investment income		 3,283 2,120 5,403 605
a4 Lettings 4,679 4,679 3,604
a5 Other receipts 7,566 34,913 42,479 46,399
a6 TOTAL RECEIPTS 85,611 41,033 **126,644 ** (a7) 121,894
SECTION B 52,800
6,345
14,278
38,822
b1 PAYMENTS
b2 Circuit Assessment or Share 52,800 52,800 52,800
b3 Donations 300
b4 Repairs and Maintenance 6,345 6,345 14,941
b5 Utilities (Insurances, water
charges,heating& lighting)		 14,278 14,278 7,623
b6
b7 Otherpayments 7,514 31,308 38,822 66,791
b8 TOTAL PAYMENTS 80,937 31,308 **112,245 ** (b9) 142,455
14,398
SECTION C
c1 NET RECEIPTS/PAYMENTS
FOR THE YEAR
(a6-b8)		 4,674 9,724 14,398 (20,561)
c2 Total funds brought forward from
last year		 45,582 143,412 **188,994 ** (c6) 209,555
203,392
c3 (c1+c2)
Sub total		 50,256 153,136 203,392 188,994
c4 Transfers and adjustments (185) **(185) ** (c7)
c5 TOTAL FUNDS AT END OF YEAR
(c3+c4)		 50,071 153,136 **203,207 ** (c8) 188,994 (c6)
SECTION D
d £
£
FOR INFORMATION ONLY: MONEY RECEIVED AND PASSED ON TO EXTERNAL ORGANISATIONS
(these amounts are not to be included in total receipts/payments figures
d1 Balance brought forward from lastyear 589 589
d2 Offerings/Gifts - received for external organisations 4,710 4,531
d3 Offerings/Gifts -passed to external organisations 4,710 4,531
d4 BALANCE STILL TO BE PAID (d1+d2-d3) 589 589

2 of 5

HRMC Standard Form of Accounts 31AUG23 FINAL.xls

HATFIELD ROAD METHODIST

Church

SUMMARY OF CHURCH ACCOUNTS AND INTERNAL ORGANISATIONS REPORTING TO THE CHURCH COUNCIL

SECTION E Please follow the Guidance Notes to complete this page
Summary of the Church accounts for the year ended 31 August 2023 and Internal Organisations reporting to the Church Council/Church Meeting. Note that the funds of
an Internal Organisation would normally be Restricted funds unless it could be clearly shown that they could be used for any Methodist purpose. This section must be
completed to arrive at the gross income and expenditure totals of the Church. If gross income exceeds the Accruals threshold, then the Accruals method of accounting
AND A DIFFERENT FORM must be used to report the accounts (see Methodist website). Please refer to the guidance notes regarding transfers between the District
and connected District Organisations.
SECTION E Please follow the Guidance Notes to complete this page
Summary of the Church accounts for the year ended 31 August 2023 and Internal Organisations reporting to the Church Council/Church Meeting. Note that the funds of
an Internal Organisation would normally be Restricted funds unless it could be clearly shown that they could be used for any Methodist purpose. This section must be
completed to arrive at the gross income and expenditure totals of the Church. If gross income exceeds the Accruals threshold, then the Accruals method of accounting
AND A DIFFERENT FORM must be used to report the accounts (see Methodist website). Please refer to the guidance notes regarding transfers between the District
and connected District Organisations.
INTERNAL
ORGANISATIONS
e1
e2
e3
e4
e5
e6
e7
e8 Sub total of Internal
Organisations funds
e9 Church accounts (totals
brought forward from page
2 - totals column)
e10 TOTAL CASH FUNDS HELD
BY CHURCH

SECTION F

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

SECTION F
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
CHURCH - CASH FUNDS HELD at 31 August 2023
Central Finance Board
Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes
Other funds
Total funds held by Internal Organisations (the closing
balance total from above) (e12)
Bank Deposit Account
SUB TOTAL - Church accounts
TOTAL CASH FUNDS HELD BY CHURCH
Cash in hand
Bank Current Account		 OPENING
BALANCES
55,983
133,602
383
189,968
(c6)
(e11)
189,968
(x)		 CLOSING
BALANCES
f1 Cash in hand
f2 Bank Current Account 16,071
f3 Bank Deposit Account
f4 Central Finance Board 187,358
f5 Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes 367
f6 Other funds
f7 SUB TOTAL - Church accounts 203,796 (c8)
f8 Total funds held by Internal Organisations (the closing
balance total from above) (e12)		 (e12)
f9 TOTAL CASH FUNDS HELD BY CHURCH 203,796 (y)
SECTION G
OTHER ASSETS and LIABILITIES
Other Assets
Other Liabilities
Investments(include Endowments)
Land & Buildings(see notes re Insurance value)
Loan(s)- show amount outstandingatyear end		 At
1 September 2022
2,824,205
149,336		 At
31 August 2023
3,200,000
120,000
g1 Investments(include Endowments)
g2 Land & Buildings(see notes re Insurance value) 2,824,205 3,200,000
g3 Other Assets 149,336 120,000
g4 Loan(s)- show amount outstandingatyear end
g5 Other Liabilities

f4 Include only Funds held at the Central Finance Board

f5 Include only Funds held at Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes

g1 Include any other investments (not the cash element of TMCP trusts accounts this is included in line f5

3 of 5

HRMC Standard Form of Accounts 31AUG23 FINAL.xls

Name of Church ..HATFIELD ROAD METHODIST CHURCH............ ..34113..... Declarations and Scrutiny I confirm that these Receipl and PayTnent based accounts for the year to 31 August 2023 have been prepared from the records of the Church and that they indude all fvnds under the control of the Church tnjstees. Signature of treasurer . Name and address of treasu￿ r ........ERIC BFUDGSTOCK .16 Evans Grove. StAlbans................... P￿tCOde............AL49pJ...... Presentatlon to the Church trustees I confirm that the annual report and accounts for the year ended 31 August 2023 werey&" presented to the meeting of the Church tfuslees held on .2.7. Signature of the Chair of the meeting Name of the Chair of the meeting . Rev DANIEL YOV Independent Examinerfs Report to the Trustees of the Haffield Road Methodist Church Charity Number......1173147 Responslbllltles and basls of report I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the . for the year ended 31 August 2023 sel out on pages Lto .3. As the Church's trustees, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance vnth the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 1.the Acl')- I report in respect of my examination of the Church's accounts carried out under section 145 of the Act and. in carrwng out my examination. I have followed all the applicable Direct10115 given by the Charity Commission under section 14515llbl of the Act. delete or circle as appropriate 4of5

Name of Church ..HATFIELD ROAD METHODIST............ No 34113... Independent Examinerfs Statement I have completed my examinalion. I confimi Ihat no material matters have come to my attention in connection with Ihe examination (other than that disdosed below") which give me cause to believe that in. any material respect: the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act; or the accounts do not accord with the accounting ￿CordS. 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. I havelhi¥¥Haf obtsined independent verification of all investments with the Trustees for Melhodist Church Purposes or held in other trusts. bank balances and funds at the Central Finance Board of the Methodist Church which are individually in excess of £10,000 (ten thousand pounds) at the balance sheet date. Signature of independent examiner Name of independent examiner ..JOHN ROBINSON Relevant professional qualification of independent examiner Name of firm (where appropriate) Address ..Cedarwood. 5 Hanner Dell, Digswell, Welwyn Post Code ..AL60BE............ Date o& delete or circle as appropriate k*23 HRMC Standard Form of Acc(yJnts 31AUG23 FINAL.xls 5of5

Name of Church ..HATFIELD ROAD METHODIST............ No 34113... Independent Examinerfs Statement I have completed my examinalion. I confimi Ihat no material matters have come to my attention in connection with Ihe examination (other than that disdosed below") which give me cause to believe that in. any material respect: the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act; or the accounts do not accord with the accounting ￿CordS. I have no concems 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. I havelh2¥¢pcf obtained independent verification of all investments with the Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes or held in other trusts. bank balances and funds at the Central Finance Board of the Methodist Church which are individually in excess of £10,000 (ten thousand pounds) at the balance sheet date. Signature of independent examiner Name of independent examiner ..JOHN ROBINSON Relevant professional qualification of independent examiner Name of firm (where appropriate) Address ..Cedarwood, 5 Harnier Dell. Digswell, Welwyn Post Code ..AL6 OBE............ Date o& delete or circle as appropriate HRMC Standard Fomi of Accounts 31AUG23 FINAL.xls 5of5