2025-08-31-accounts

Hatfield Road Methodist Church, St Albans Serving Christ and the Local Community

Annual Report 2025-2026

Presented to the Annual General Church Meeting of Sunday 17[th] May 2026 [Paper 6]

Revision r2 17[th] May 2026 [Minor amendments in blue since r1 of 12[th] May 2026]

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 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

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 30 HRMC Annual Report 2025-26 r2 260517.docx District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824

Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

Contents

Contents
Introduction		5
Our Calling		5
Our Obligations as a Registered Charity		5
Our Presbyter’s Message		6
Church Stewards’ Report – Ruth Wallace (Senior Steward)		8
Church Council		12
Our Stewardship of Money and Property		13
Church Treasurer’s Report – Eric Bridgstock		13
Property – Eric Bridgstock (Chair of Finance & Property Group)		17
Work of God HRMC as Part of St Albans Section		18
Cornerstone Project - Deacon Nigel Perrott		18
Cornerstone Project – Superintendent’s Update to the Circuit Meeting	of 16thMarch 2026	19
Anna Chaplaincy Management Group - Louise Mullins		20
Anna Chaplaincy Lead Maggie Dodd		20
Holiday@Home - Denise Willingham		21
Work of God Hatfield Road Methodist Church		22
Pastoral Secretary – Jackie Vivian		22
Prayer Ministry – Chris Hancock and Roy Vivian		22
Music Group – Leader, Joanna Rose		23
Cradle Roll (Baptismal Roll) –Position Vacant (report by Caroline Tough)		23
Sunday Club Caroline Tough, Sunday Club Coordinator		23
Create & Celebrate – Ros Hancock		24
Junior Mission for All (JMA) – Gurmeet Chauhan (Hannah), JMA Lead		24
Safeguarding – Joanna Rose, Church Safeguarding Officer		25
Tuesday Cuppa – Christine Ford, Coordinator		25
Babies and Toddlers – Chris Hancock		25
Day Care Group – Sue Davey, Leader		26
Creativity in Fellowship - Maggie Dodd		26
House Groups – Johanna Mason, Coordinator		26
Social & Outreach Events (SOE) Group – Joanna Rose, Coordinator		27
EcoChurch – Ros Hancock, Coordinator		27
133B Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JX Page 3 of 30
HRMC Annual Report 2025-26 r2 260517.docx
District 34 Bedfordshire, Essex & Hertfordshire, Circuit 13 St Albans & Welwyn, Church Id 25824	Charity Registration Number	1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

Single Friendly Church (SFC) Initiative – Angela Spriggs, SFC Champion	28
Church Council Members (and Managing Trustees)	29
Current Membership 3rdFebruary 2026	29
End Notes	30
Table 1 Income & expenditure against budget, Half Year, 2025-26, 01Sep25-28Feb26	15

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Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

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 Standard Form of Accounts.

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

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Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

Our Presbyter’s Message

Rev J Daniel Yovan, Minister with Pastoral Charge

Dear Friends,

Greetings to you all in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. As we meet for our AGCM this year, we give thanks and praise to God for his faithfulness in everything that have happened in the life of the church. As we look forward, I pray that God will enable us to understand the depth, height and the width of the love of Jesus for us. May God reveal himself to us all through the power of the Holy Spirit so that our eyes and our hearts may be enlightened (Ephesians 1: 15 – 23). Let our hearts not be troubled by whatever is going on in the world at the moment. Let us keep our eyes focused on Jesus who is the author and perfector of our faith, in whom we find our refuge and strength. May the Lord Lead us in the coming year.

Work with Young People

Our Alpha Youth series in preparation for Baptism and confirmation on the 5[th] of April was a success by the help of the Holy Spirit. I am ever so grateful for all those who have helped (throughout the Alpha) in various ways and the full immersion baptism. Please continue to pray for all those who took the commitment to follow Jesus, so that they will be strengthened in their faith as they navigate through their lives. Our next Baptism/confirmation will be on the 16[th] August 2026.

I am also co-ordinating the leaders from each church in the circuit, with the help of the circuit staff and Heather Moir from Shenley, to develop the work among young people. This work has already began in the last year and we will continue by God’s grace. The purpose of this piece of work is to bring our young people from the circuit together once a quarter for some activities and build up a moment towards 3 Generate each year. Heather is co-ordinating/ leading the booking for 3Generate and will visit churches in the coming weeks.

My heartfelt thanks to all the Sunday club leaders (our Sunday club is playing a great role) in encouraging our children and young people in their walk with God. Congratulations to all our JMA collectors too.

Mission in the St Albans Methodist Churches – Hatfield Road and Marlborough Road

We met, as St Albans Methodist Churches, Angela Turner at 2pm on 28[th] of March at Homewood Road United Reformed Church for an open conversation with each other, to find a way to journey together towards the future. I am sorry that this meeting did not go very well. Going forward, while both churches are planning their own mission plan separately, I still think, that we do need to talk about the future of Methodism in St Albans with some seriousness in the coming years. We cannot sit and do nothing (I am still praying about it). Please keep this in your prayers.

The Anna Chaplaincy Management Group is trying to find a way to continue the work of Anna Chaplaincy by extending the appointment of Maggie further (Maggie’s current contract comes to an end in August 2027). Please see separate detailed reports from Louise Mullins and Maggie Dodd.

We have formed two Lay Worker Groups: one for Anna Chaplaincy and the other for a Children and Family worker for both churches. We have regular meetings to find a way forward in terms of identifying

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Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

the mission and shaping a ‘job description’. I am thankful for those who are willing to take responsibilities within those groups to see the work progress.

Mission and Outreach at HRMC

I am thrilled to note that all that we do to make contact with the local residents and those who walk through the door. The prayer groups both in person and on WhatsApp, Tuesday Cuppa, Babies and Toddlers and Day care are very beneficial for people in various ways. Our regular outreach events organised by the Social and Outreach Events is beginning to take some momentum. Saturday Family Time is attracting some families. The upcoming events are the Christian Aid Hunger Lunch and the regional ArtServe Event. Thank you all for your support to make this church to bear witness.

Joint Worship

Our joint worship with MRMC included the October memorial service for recently bereaved families, Carols and Praise (at the end of December) - a time to get together and enjoy fellowship. Maundy Thursday was not well-attended 2[nd] April 2026 but there were good numbers at HRMC on Good Friday. However, coming together for united worship needs more encouragement for both churches. The next event will be Praise in the Park on Bank Holiday Sunday 23[rd] August 2026. Please mark the date in your diary. I am in conversation with other local churches to encourage them to take part in the service.

Worship at HRMC

The Stewards are finding a way forward to enrich the worship experience of those who attend. On the first Sundays of the month, we have united 9am Holy Communion service, Create and Celebrate, and evening Praise and Prayer led by Chris Hancock (thank you Chris). We need to encourage people to attend and support these services. A big thank you to all those who are part of the Music Group that plays a vital role in the life of the church.

Work with Schools

I have not done many sessions with STEP in schools recently, apart from leading a couple of reflections (contemplative prayers) for their staff training day. I will be attending in March a cultural day in one of the schools in Harpenden. I am supervising other ministers through the district and doing spiritual direction through St Albans diocese. I am also volunteering as a chaplain at the Cathedral once a month.

Departure of Deacon Nigel Perrott

We will miss Nigel and Jane and their ministry among us. We wish them God’s blessings on their new adventure as they prepare to move. Please see a separate paper from the superintendent about the reason for Nigel’s curtailment. The Circuit Leadership Team (CLT) is exploring the way forward for Cornerstone (see a separate paper to the Circuit Meeting of 16[th] March 2026). From now on the responsibility for Cornerstone’s management lies at the hand of CLT/Cornerstone Management Group.

---

My family and I are doing well by God’s grace but I am trying not to take on more and more responsibilities within both churches and in the circuit. However, it is not always possible to say no to things that have deadlines. I am in regular conversation with the staff team to find a way forward for both churches without burning myself out. I have never before felt a pressure like this in the last seven years of my ministry. Please keep me and the family in your prayers.

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Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

I would like to thank all the pastoral visitors, stewards, Sunday assistants and those who are helping out with various services, musicians and those who are looking after the property and finance. Please continue to look after one another in love and pray for those who need our prayers in our churches and the nations around the world. would like to thank everyone who has played some role in the life of the church. Your contributions are invaluable to the keeping up of the Church community.

May God would bless you and your family with the joy unspeakable and the peace that endures. I and my family are grateful for all the prayers and support we have received from you so far. May the Lord continue to build His Church.

Amen.

Church Stewards’ Report – Ruth Wallace (Senior Steward)

Our Ministers

Daniel returned from his Sabbatical in July 2025 and is now in his third year with us.

Nigel curtailed his appointment a year early and will finish in July 2026. Since his curtailment he has been invited to be involved in several aspects of the churches life but his engagement has been very limited.

Our Circuit representative is now Senior Circuit Steward, Stuart Johnson.

Steward Team

Our current stewards until 30[th] June 2026 are Ruth Wallace, Tomáš Cvrček, Anne Wall, Denise Willingham and Napoleon Yorke-Andrews:

• Ruth has now been senior steward for a year and anticipates another year in the role

• Denise has rejoined the steward team

• Tomas will be stepping down in the summer after seven years including two years as Senior Steward and one extra year to support handover

• Noelene Browning has left the stewards team but remains a Church Council Trustee for banking purposes

We are grateful to our Sunday Assistants Sue Davey, Sally Newton, Evangeline Selvarajan (9.00am) and Angela Spriggs. Jan Kitchin is not currently able to assist and will be unable to rejoin the Sunday Assistant team for the foreseeable future

We have urgent vacancies for two Stewards and two Sunday assistants – please consider if you would be able to join (or rejoin) one of these teams.

Worship and Services

We have held a variety of services in addition to our usual offering.

Praise in the Park on Sunday 24[th] August 2025 was a new initiative by Daniel in which HRMC and MRMC were joined by the Salvation Army and Church of the God of Prophecy for a service in Clarence Park. About 112 attended from the different churches and a number of other churches have indicated their interest in joining us for another Praise in the park service due 23[rd] August 2026.

Peter Wallace led our first ever Blessing of the school Bags service on 31[st] August 2025. Children and young people, and adults working in education were invited to bring in their school bags and share a

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Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

little about their school life. It was particularly moving that Cooper was able to take part and for the congregation to hear about his school.

We have welcomed several visiting preachers including former ministers Rev Sarah Lowe ( World Church ) and Rev Michael Giles ( Church Anniversary ). Matt Henderson from Leprosy Mission led a very thoughtprovoking service and it is good that the Leprosy Mission will be one of our new chosen charities to support from 1[st] September 2026.

A highlight of the Advent and Christmas services this year was the Nativity service led by the children and young people which has now had over 100 viewings on the church Youtube site. Gifts from the service were gratefully received by the SAHWR (Women’s Refuge) . The Christingle service was not well attended with only 5 children from 3 families, so the stewards will ensure it is better publicised next year.

The reflective Good Friday service led by Chris Hancock was much appreciated by those who attended, however attendance at the Maundy Thursday service joint with, and at MRMC, was very poor.

Our Easter day service 5[th] April 2026 included the baptism of four and confirmation five of our young people. One of the young people requested she be baptised by full immersion and, once this was arranged, all the baptismal candidates also chose to be baptised by full immersion. It was a logistical challenge. However with thorough preparation, it all went ahead as planned and without incident.

The stewards have also had discussions about how the role of the worship leader can be enhanced within the church.

Attendance and Membership

In 2025 our overall average attendance on a Sunday morning dipped below 60 for the first time, with the biggest drop off on the first Sunday with the 9.00am at 13.5 (down from 16.8 in 2024) and Create and Celebrate at 47 (from 56 in 2024).

Since January 2026, the average attendance for all Sundays has increased slightly back to 63 - similar to 2024. Numbers have remained the same for the 9.00am service but have increased by an average of two for Create and Celebrate, though not back up to 2024 levels.

We have welcomed five people into the church by Baptism and six into membership by confirmation or transfer. (See pastoral report)

Sunday Club numbers remain fairly steady with some families attending more, and some less regularly. A small group attended 3Generate (see Sunday Club report).

Church Council Activities

The stewards have discussed and raised a number of issues to Church council.

The Financial Management policies has been reviewed and updated. New practices are now in place for the handling of cash in particular.

In the light of the lower attendance figures on the first Sunday of the month, the stewards produced a survey questionnaire to explore what factors might be contributing to lower attendance. We are grateful to the congregation for their very high response rate. A report has now been produced which is due to be discussed by Worship Consultation on Tuesday 12[th] May 2026 and our AGCM on Sunday 17[th] May 2026.

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Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

The Church Council of 3[rd] February 2026 balloted a selection of charities nominated by the church congregation. The three new charities selected from 1[st] September 2026 until 31[st] August 2029 are:

Local Herts Welcomes Refugees[iv] which works in partnership with the Refugee Council[v] supports their work championing the rights of refugees.

National The Brain Tumour Charity[vi] is the world’s leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally [including the UK].

International Leprosy Mission[vii] Great Britain is a global Christian organisation leading the fight against leprosy.

These charities will share from occasional fundraising events organized or sponsored by the church (for example, Quorum Concerts). Our existing charities will benefit until 31[st] August 2026: The Living Room; the Alzheimer’s Society; and Christian Aid. This is in addition to our support of Charities Sponsored by the Methodist Church and events arranged to support particular charities.

Church Groups and Church Council Appointments

The stewards have updated the list of church groups and appointments made on behalf of Church Council. We have the following vacancies ( please consider if you could help ):

• Cradle Roll Secretary Sunday Club Coordinator Caroline Tough is covering the role and appreciated Zuzanna Cvrčková’s assistance with the Easter Day baptisms. However, it would be good to have someone more permanent for this role

• JMA Hannah and Jacob will be stepping down in the summer

• • GDPR currently covered by Daniel

• Gift Aid Secretary Nerys Bint has stepped down

• Tuesday Cuppa Christine Ford is finishing this summer and Ros Hancock will be coordinating a rota of helpers to run it each week

• Chair of Finance Eric Bridgstock is proposing to step down due to conflict of and Property interests with his other role as Treasurer

With the exception of the Chair of the Finance and Property committee, none of these roles are particularly onerous so if you would like to help, or to find out more please contact a steward.

We thank Claire Debnam for joint leadership of the Babies and Toddlers Group with Chris Hancock, as Louise Bourton from Shenley Methodist Church has moved to Cheltenham.

Please also see the reports from individual groups below.

Events and Outreach

District Discipleship Enabler Angela Turner led a meeting of both Hatfield Road and Marlborough Road churches on Saturday 28[th] March 2026 at Homewood Road URC to discuss the Future Vision for Methodists in St Albans . The meeting was very well attended by both HRMC and MRMC. However the brief was not followed, so the meeting was very disappointing and there was no real outcome, or closer alignment between the visions of the two churches. The Stewards will continue to meet bi-monthly with MRMC Stewards but there are no plans to meet as whole churches again for now.

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Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

The Church was accredited as Single Friendly , and several lunches for the congregation have taken place. On 18[th] April a new social group Friendship Connect , for single people over 35’s was launched, headed by Angela Spriggs. This is an area with real opportunities for growth which I hope we can build on.

Daniel led Alpha Youth during the spring term 2026 which was attended by six of our own youth plus several young people and an adult from the circuit. Following this all six were confirmed and/or baptised on Easter Sunday.

Family fun time , led by Tomáš Cvrček continues to go well, the next event will be held at 1500 on Saturday 23[rd] May 2026.

On 9[th] May 2026, HRMC hosted the regional Artserve event coordinated by Jo Rose. A dozen or so attended from HRMC and were able to take part in a creative worship session and various creative workshops, as well as learn more about the organisation.

Anne Wall organised a Christian Aid Hunger Lunch after church 10[th] May 2026.

The Social & Outreach Events group has arranged and coordinated several events including a very successful Jackets and Japes evening on 24[th] January. Future events planned include a Garden Tea Party (with Rev Andrew Prout) on Saturday 13[th] June 2026 as part of our Church Anniversary celebrations, Quorum Concert 11[th] July 2026, Family Fun time 17[th] July 2026, and Holiday@Home 10-14[th] August 2026

Property and Practical Issues

Saturday cleaning has become a regular fixture. Thank you to all who volunteer.

The Quinquennial inspection took place on 2[nd] October 2025 with no major surprises.

The Small hall refurbishment has been completed with several regular lettings now using the space. The exterior of the church has been decorated and the front door, now blue, is easier to see from the road. The screens in the sanctuary/Aldersgate lounge have been refurbished. See more details below.

The stewards have tidied and reorganised the vestry and plans are afoot for other areas in the church in due course.

Ongoing Activities

Lay workers A team of members are actively involved in securing funding to enable the Anna Chaplaincy role to continue when the current funding runs out in August 2027. Another team are exploring the possibility of a Children and Families worker .

Part of the grant process will require submission of a new church mission statement and plan which the stewards will take forwards.

I am grateful to all who contribute so much to the life of this church.

Thank you.

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Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

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 of 16[th] March 2025 the Church Council has met three times for routine business on 25[th] June 2025, 1[st] October 2025, and 3[rd] February 2026. The next meeting is planned for 10[th] June 2026.

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Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

Our Stewardship of Money and Property

Church Treasurer’s Report – Eric Bridgstock

Banking

In June last year, CAF Bank (our main account) rolled out a new system, which made the online experience considerably more cumbersome to use – for example, creating a payment takes about twice as long as previously. It has improved slightly, but the search functions are still slow and unreliable, and some functions are ‘hidden’ in their menu system – far from ideal.

In September, the Methodist Central Finance Branch (CFB), which holds our deposit account, underwent a similar ‘upgrade’ with much the same outcome. What were simple tasks to review transactions, or move money between CFB and CAF, have become obfuscated by terminology and user interface.

Performance against Budget

A detailed review of income and expenditure against budget, for the first six months of Methodist Year 2025-26, is presented separately. It shows a deficit of £25k against a budgeted loss of £16.5k; but Gift Aid and Lay Worker grants (totalling around £20k) are scheduled for the second half of the year.

Property matters have incurred higher than budgeted costs – partitions, external painting, and the gas and electrics work triggered by the Quinquennial.

£1,200 of lettings income in March means that the £7,000 budget has already been exceeded. Small Hall income since the start of Methodist Year is now more than the income from Large Hall lettings.

Layworkers

Anna Chaplaincy

Maggie Dodd joined in April 2021 on a five year contract. For her first four months, she worked halftime, then went full-time until Feb 2025, when it was agreed that, for family reasons, her weekly hours would be reduced by half (to 17½), and the contract would run for an extra year, with the end date extended to 23 April 2027. Subsequently, from 3 Nov 2025, it was agreed that weekly hours would increase to 20, while retaining the April 2027 end of contract date. Grant bodies (Connexion and District) both agreed to maintain the total grant and spread the final payments over the two ‘half-time’ years. Additionally, as those bodies operate on Methodist Years, they have stipulated that Maggie must be contracted to Aug 2027.

A working group, meeting monthly, has been formed to look at how the Anna Chaplaincy can be continued beyond that date, specifically finding sources of funding and ensuring the appropriate management is in place to support anticipated growth. Funding from other local and national sources (for example, St Albans churches and charitable organisations) are being investigated. Congregational funding (pledges) will probably also be sought again.

Children & Families Worker (CFW)

Emma Williams (née Haggis) was recruited as a CFW in 2020 on a three-year contract but left after 22 months in May 2022. A group is looking into the possibility of engaging someone to operate in the CFW role. This includes the need to provide funding.

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Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

Lay Workers Funding status

An accounting error has been found in the annual process of trueing up the Lay Worker costs and grants with MRMC, created by HRMC Treasurer and not detected by the MRMC Treasurer. It has yet to be fully resolved and may mean HRMC owes MRMC over £25k. It was identified when the reserves for this project in the two churches were significantly different, and explains why HRMC reserves appeared unduly healthy. It will get sorted during our trueing up exercise with MRMC in July 2026.

Energy

Energy costs remain a significant expenditure but both have been changed in the last year, which shields us from some of the effects of the Middle East conflict.

Our electricity contract with British Gas (!) was renewed in August 2025.

Our gas contract is with SSE and we switched to Green Gas at the start of this year. However, their incompetence has meant that they have been billing (and taking Direct Debit charges) using a [much higher] Variable Business Rate. Our broker, who has been very helpful over the past few years, is on the case and is confident that it will get resolved. I have also had direct contact with SSE.

CHARITIES

Since the 2025 AGCM, over £4,000 has been raised for charities.

• World Mission: £340 (Sarah Lowe service) and £966 (JMA)

• All We Can: £500 (Harvest and Christmas)

• Christian Aid: £286 (Service) and £606 (Hunger Lunch)

• Chosen Charities: £209 (Easter Tea), £312 (January Japes)

• The Leprosy Mission: £487 (Service)

• Women’s refuge: £260 (Christmas)

• Herts Young Homeless: £235 (Christmas)

A detailed review of income and expenditure against budget, for the first six months of Methodist Year 2025-26, is presented separately.

Standard Form of Accounts (SFoA) for Year Ending 31[st] August 2025

See separate paper 7. The SFoA has been independently examined, reviewed and signed off by all necessary parties (treasurer, presbyter and independent examiner John Scott) with the approval of the Church Council of 3[rd] February 2026. The SFoA will be submitted to the Charity Commissioners with this Annual Report and as part of our annual return to the Connexion.

Review of Current Year Ending 31[st] August 2026 – Half Year September 2025 to February 2026

See overleaf.

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Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

Table 1 Income & expenditure against budget, Half Year, 2025-26, 01Sep25-28Feb26

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Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

Supporting Notes for Table 1:

• We continue to benefit from over £150,000 in the deposit account @3.5% interest

• Partitions and external painting were main building expenditure; the Quinquennial inspection identified electrical and gas works.

• Lay Worker project: Maggie now on 20hr/week. Error detected in annual trueing up with MRMC - we will settle with them (c £26k?) in Q4

• The bank balances held at 30[th] November 2025 were £169,264. This includes £23,098 Restricted (Bequests and Gifts), £33,564 ring-fenced for the Anna Chaplaincy (adjusted down for trueing up), and £3,375 for Cornerstone.

• The Church's reserves policy is to hold a sum equal to 6 months' expenditure, which was £62,463 during 2024-25.

• Donations to charities

• £501 All We Can (Harvest & Christmas)

• £894 World Mission (JMA)

• £260 Womens Refuge

• £235 Herts Young Homeless

• £487 The Leprosy Mission £312 Chosen Charities

To be disbursed in Q3

• £589 for a Gambian charity from 2015-16 World Missions collection remains to be resolved.

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

Buildings

Small Hall Refurbishment

Refurbishment was undertaken between May and September. Snags with the fire bell and powered door were resolved during October. The room is equipped with tables and chairs, and the kitchenette drawers are full of cutlery, crockery, etc. It is providing a space for our young people (air-hockey and football tables). Al Anon held their Christmas party there in December.

The damp in the boundary wall remains an issue, and addressing it will need the cooperation of the landlord of No 2 Glenferrie Road. In August, we arranged repair of the fence between our two properties, with the expectation that goodwill will be forthcoming.

Smaller Jobs

Items damaged during the break-in during April have been repaired or replaced. The desk is yet to be assembled, pending its likely role in the Vestry.

The WiFi in the Sanctuary has been boosted and is now permanently on (not just when the A/V system is being used).

Incandescent and fluorescent lighting in the corridors, Vestry, Upper Room, and back lobby have been replaced by low energy units.

Both sets of kitchen taps have been replaced, as have the WC seats.

Infestations of carpet moths have been dealt with.

Waste and Recycling

During a webinar, BIFFA explained legislation changes that will mean we will have four bins from March 2027:

• general waste

• food waste

• card, paper, metal & plastic

• glass

Legal Matter

We have had various exchanges with our neighbour at 135A, including a meeting in December. To help resolve the issue (lack of clarity in the Land Registry regarding ownership of the northern end of the boundary) some new drawings/sketches are being prepared, which will facilitate engaging TMCP - Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes – who are ultimately responsible for all Methodist property.

---

Finally, as always, grateful thanks to those who:

• undertake the cleaning of our church premises

• tend the gardens

• maintain and repair the buildings and fixtures

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Cornerstone Project - Deacon Nigel Perrott

As I prepare to move on from the circuit at the end of July 2026, life at Cornerstone goes on with Faith Talk evenings, coffee mornings, and kids club continuing to thrive. It's encouraging to see residents connecting and sharing life together. Joanna Rose and Ros Hancock now join our weekly coffee morning and are getting to know everyone. The Circuit Leadership Team (CLT) is actively discussing the house's future, and I am sure that in due course they will be able to bring further information to the churches.

Deacon Nigel Perrott’s request to curtail his appointment a year early (31[st] July 2026) was approved in September 2025 (See letter from the Superintendent below).

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The following section provides an update on the future of the Cornerstone Project.

Cornerstone Project – Superintendent’s Update to the Circuit Meeting of 16[th] March 2026

Following the Circuit Meeting on 16[th] September 2025 the Circuit Leadership Team established the ‘Cornerstone Working Group’ (CWG) to undertake a review of the options for Cornerstone from September 2026. The CWG comprises the CLT members plus Joanna Rose (safeguarding officer for Cornerstone) and Ros Hancock (member of the existing support group).

At the same time, the oversight of Cornerstone activities reverted to the circuit, rather than the St Albans churches, and a new Management Team was formed of Revd David Jebb, Revd Rosemary Mutopo, Val Parker, Ros Hancock and Joanna Rose.

The role of the CWG is to look at the longer term options for the mission work at Cornerstone and the use of the property, and the role of the Management Team is to work with Nigel Perrott and focus on the activities of Cornerstone until July/August 2026.

The CWG has met on 5 occasions to work through three basic scenarios which were initially identified

1. Keep the Cornerstone activities running but without anyone appointed or living at the property

2. Re-start the project with someone living at Cornerstone

3. Closure of project

Option 1 would be possible, but depends on volunteers from the circuit hosting and running activities in the community space at Cornerstone

Option 2 may be possible, with arrangements in place from September/October, or at a later date if it takes a longer time to find a suitable ordained or lay appointment.

Option 3 remains a possibility, though we would wish to fully explore and exhaust the other options before settling on this option.

Other variations of these three options may be possible too.

In reviewing option 2, we have held three meetings with the Welwyn Hatfield group of Young Life International (https://welwynhatfield.ylinternational.org/ ) to consider a joint project based at Cornerstone, which could include two Young Life staff members, married couple Justin & Emma, living in the property and being part of the Cornerstone mission. Discussions are ongoing, no decisions or commitments have been given or agreed, and we expect to bring an update on the discussions to the June 2026 circuit meeting.

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Anna Chaplaincy Management Group - Louise Mullins

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). Our last meeting was held on 29th April 2026.

Maggie is now coming to the end of her fifth year in her role, and whilst she continues in her own position as ecumenical Anna Chaplain (AC) she remains AC coordinator for the AC and Anna Friends (AF) team. Maggie is now working 20 hours per week, which provides an effective work life balance. This is enabling the final year’s funding to be spread over two years rather than one.

Following discussion at the Church Council in February it was requested that a group should be formed to scope possibilities with a view to taking forward Maggie’s post at the end of her contract, which is the wish of both HRMC and MRMC members. We have now formed an Anna Chaplaincy Extension (ACE) group. The group first met in March and are meeting monthly. Eric Bridgstock is meeting with us, and this is proving invaluable as HRMC treasurer and with his knowledge and perspective on the initial establishment of Maggie’s role.

Maggie and her team continue to have an impact on the lives of many in our community. We are grateful to God for Maggie’s deep spirituality, pastoral commitment, creativity and enthusiasm. She continues to sustain established projects as well as innovating new and creative ideas and bringing them to fruition.

Anna Chaplaincy Lead Maggie Dodd

As I enter my sixth year with HRMC and MRMC as Anna Chaplain, I remain thankful for all the amazing opportunities and encounters I have in my role.

This past year has included working alongside Samuel Ryder Academy again, on a digital portrait project which resulted in myself and their Art Department hosting a stand at St Albans Spring Festival last May. The same month I was thrilled to welcome Denise to the Anna Chaplaincy team as an Anna Friend . She has been such a great support, offering home communions, taking on the rota and organising Chance to Chat , our weekly community outreach group at Morrisons and helping with services, including the popular Messy Vintage style service (one of which we held in January this year at Fosse House, which was very well-received).

In August, HRMC and MRMC hosted the amazing Holiday@Home , which was a great success as ever, huge thanks to Denise and Idy for organising the event, and the fantastic volunteers from both churches who prepared delicious food, entertained guests with music, crafts, conversation and contributed to such a warm-hearted gathering.

I’m in the process of preparing the fifth Seniors’ Guide to events, groups and services in churches across St Albans. The sponsorship for the back page of the booklet reduces the overheads of production a huge amount (I print 2,000 copies). The latest version will be distributed to churches, community and healthcare contacts. The booklet continues to be well-received and is a great way of people finding out about church events and what Anna Chaplaincy is all about.

In the past year St Albans Anna Chaplaincy has continued, with the help of Peter Curtis, to lead regular services at seven care homes and two retirement flat complexes , I thoroughly enjoy leading the monthly Wednesday Worship service with craft activity at HRMC which is a highlight of my month, and continue to meet in the Wesley Room twice a month for Creativity in Fellowship . Do consider joining us if you like

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to craft/paint and enjoy a chat. We meet every 2nd and 4th Friday morning of the month from 10.30 until midday.

Anna Chaplaincy locally continues to make a difference – we currently have Hilary is in her second year as Anna Chaplain in Harpenden, Kate in Hatfield, Caroline in Welwyn and Sue in Bedford, and Peter, Denise and myself working together in St Albans. I have spoken at a meeting of St Albans Diocese Vocations Advisers recently, who were enthusiastic about the Diocese offering Anna Chaplaincy as a vocational pathway, so watch this space.

The past year myself and Peter have hosted an Anna Chaplaincy stand at an Older People’s Community Event at Greenwood Park Community Centre and at St Albans Cathedral Community Showcase. I am working with Age Friendly Hertfordshire on the launch of ‘comfort spaces’ in the city centre and will be on their stand at this year’s Spring Festival.

Collaboration with churches across St Albans continues, this year I’ve been involved with facilitating the Dementia training lead at Caring Homes (the company behind The Orchard in St Albans), to offer workshops at St Peter’s and St Paul’s churches.

I am currently planning a St Francis themed inter-generational project with the Catholic church . This collaboration was at the request of the national Anna Chaplaincy Network who are seeking to forge stronger links with the Catholic Church and have asked me to pilot a project. The event in June will be attended by Debbie Ducille, Anna Chaplaincy national lead, Bishop Paul McAleenan, and members of Caritas Diocese of Westminster,so the pressure is on! The project involves a local Catholic primary school and care home, and it should be great if everything comes together – fingers crossed.

Towards the end of 2025 I organised the annual Sending Love to Care Homes project, and what a response! Kind crafters lovingly made over 1,300 mini Christmas stockings which went out to residents in 25 care homes from Radlett to Redbourn, and everywhere in between. I am so grateful to everyone who gets involved to make the lovely little hand-made gifts. They are always really appreciated. I have no idea how I’m going to top last year’s project this year – pray for me!

I am now in my 6th year with you as your Anna Chaplain and an Anna Chaplaincy Extension (ACE) group has been set up to look at ways of continuing this work beyond the current contract period (extended recently to August 2027). We need to find ways of funding the next few years, possibly setting new targets for my role, and how that might look. Do contact Denise or Eric if you have any thoughts and suggestions.

Thank you everyone at HRMC for your continued support for what I do. I am incredibly grateful for your kindness and prayers. I look forward with excitement to what lies ahead and where God is leading me and our local Anna Chaplaincy.

Holiday@Home - Denise Willingham

In one week in August, for four days, older people are welcomed from the local community and from both of the St Albans Methodist churches to Holiday@Home. The idea is to provide fun and companionship for those who may not be able to go away for a holiday.

2025 was the busiest since the venture’s inception in 2016, with nearly 50 guests attending for some or all of the four days. The event is held for two days at each church. Each year this is made possible by over thirty enthusiastic volunteers from HRMC, MRMC, St Peter’s and the URC. Helpers provide a warm welcome, chat to guests, assist with lifts, join in board games, provide craft activities, create quizzes and produce delicious home cooked lunches and cakes. Musical entertainment and opportunities for community singing are always popular and were once again provided by Katie’s Jumping Fleas Ukelele

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Band and HRMC’s Music Group. The latter this year presented a forty five minute singalong version of the Sound of Music.

As always great fun was had by all, guests and helpers alike.

Work of God Hatfield Road Methodist Church

Pastoral Secretary – Jackie Vivian

The role of Pastoral Secretary together with the support of the Pastoral Visitors and House Group Leaders is an important activity in the life of the Church.

Everyone has an allocated visitor and they are there for their members during the year. I also feel that we are, as a Church, are good at supporting each other.

We meet as a group twice a year with Daniel. This gives us an opportunity to talk together.

We welcomed the transfer of membership of Ann Rogers on Easter Day 21[st] April 2025.

There has been one infant baptised since the last AGCM 16[th] March 2025, Solomon Samuel Waiz on Sunday 17[th] August 2025, the son of Duaa Robin and Danish Waiz.

Our membership as of 31[st] December 2025 was 113.

We had a very happy occasion on Easter Sunday 5[th] April 2026 when we welcomed into our Church by baptism, Esther, Jack, Helen and Rebecca by full immersion. Afterwards Daisy, Lisa, Esther, Helen and Jack were confirmed into our Church membership. It was a joyous occasion seeing so many young people making their commitments together in a packed Church.

Since the last AGCM of 16[th] March 2025 (ahead of Rev Daniel Yovan’s Sabbatical), there have been no deaths of church members to report. However, we remember with sadness and thanksgiving:

• Circuit Local Preacher Graham Phillips who died 3rd August 2025, aged 83. Graham was a member of St John’s, Potters Bar.

• Circuit Supernumerary, Reverend Peter Hudson, who died at the age of 91 on 8[th] September 2025. He had lived locally with his wife Celia and they worshipped at Marlborough Road.

• Joe Kinchenton, a past member and a Steward who died 20[th] March 2026 at the age of 75. Joe had lived with his wife, Deacon Linda Kinchenton, at Cornerstone House until 2022.

Prayer Ministry – Chris Hancock and Roy Vivian

At Roy’s request I have taken over responsibility for arranging a rota for a team to pray after Sunday morning services. This will enable us to pray with any members of the congregation who wish to have prayers said with them. We are in the process of re-launching these prayers, currently, only after the 10.30 Communion Service on the third Sunday of the month. However, we do not have sufficient people in the team to ensure this is always possible. Our aspiration is to extend the prayer teams’ availability so that this can take place every week but until we can recruit more members for the team this will remain aspirational.

To this end it is my intention to both request additional volunteers and offer a short training session should any volunteer feel that they require this.

The weekly publication of the Prayer Diary has continued and is 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.

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For many years, Ros Hancock has led a prayer group 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 meeting originally introduced in 2009 by Graham Smith and Chris Hancock continues to function. Chris leads each session at Church between 7.00am and 8.00am on Tuesdays. As part of this prayer time, the prayers which have been hung on the tree of prayers, located in the foyer, are prayed for. We pray for these items for five weeks and then they are removed from the tree.

The weekly Circuit Prayer Meeting which our Superintendent, the Rev. David Jebb introduced in 2023, continues to take place at 9.00am on Saturday mornings via Zoom.

The Prayer Tree circulates 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.

Music Group – Leader, Joanna Rose

The Music Group meets to rehearse at church each Thursday evening at 8pm, preparing to support worship on Sunday mornings and at the monthly Praise & Worship evening 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 260 hymns performed by the Music Group available for use from our website.

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 on a regular basis or just for special events, 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 9am, weekly 10:30 or monthly 7pm 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) – Position Vacant (report by Caroline Tough)

The Cradle Roll or Baptismal Roll is a register of all the children who have been welcomed into the church through baptism or thanksgiving services. Their names are displayed on the poster in the children’s corner. Each child receives a card from the church on the anniversary of their baptism.The children move up to Sunday Club once they are old enough (usually age three)- Peony Rose Hall Smallthorne and James Alfred John Woodhead are now both three. There has been one infant baptised since the last AGCM, Solomon Samuel Waiz on Sunday 17[th] August 2025. There have were also four baptisms of young people on Easter Day 2026, Helen Nyambura Errik, Jack Kamau Errick and Rebecca Errik (Children of Jane Muchai) and Esther Momoh. Helen, Jack and Esther were also confirmed as were Gladys Kamau’s daughters Daisy Wanjiru Parakuo and Lisa Syalo Parakuo.

Sunday Club Caroline Tough, Sunday Club Coordinator

We continue to have two Sunday Club groups at Hatfield Road - one for children aged 4 – 11 meeting in the Wesley Room and one for young people aged 11 -18 meeting in the Upper Room. Both groups are

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supported by a dedicated team of leaders and helpers. The younger group follow themed teaching and, at the moment, are working through the Parables that Jesus told. The older group does not follow a structured theme but Tomas is inspired to lead what is relevant for each particular week.

Sunday Club meets on the second and third Sunday of each month. In their groups the children and young people are encouraged to develop their faith through reading the Bible, craft activities, games and quizzes as well as more in- depth discussion. They often include refreshments!

There are plenty of ways for the children and young people to be involved on the other Sundays with Create and Celebrate services on the 1st Sunday having activities suitable for all ages and the 4[th] Sunday being an All- Age Worship service which encourages children and young people to be actively involved in the service. At all times there is a table at the back of the church which has a variety of books, colouring, jigsaws and puzzles suitable for very young children available for them to play happily (and usually quietly!) during a service. There are also story bags available for slightly older children to go and collect and bring back to their seats containing a Bible story and items to go with the story.

Children and young people are valued members of our church family and we encourage them to read or lead parts of the service whenever possible.

The Sunday Club performed a scripted nativity play at the beginning of December created by Tomas which involved 17 children. They practised their lines and the music for the service with dedication and it was a wonderful way to hear the Christmas Story.

Some of the young people attended an Alpha Youth course along with other young people from across the circuit. On Easter Day four of our young people were baptised and five confirmed which was a joyful occasion.

Sunday Club is grateful for all the prayer support offered to the leaders and helpers and for the children and young people.

Tomas has continued to run Saturday Family Time every couple of months and it has proved very popular with those who have attended. It is for children aged 7-14 to attend with their parents to enjoy fun activities together. We hope that this is something that the children feel they can invite their friends to come along to.

Daniel is also co-ordinating youth leaders to bring young people from the circuit together once a quarter for activities that build momentum towards the national Methodist youth event 3Generate during the first weekend of October each year at the NEC in Birmingham.

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.

Junior Mission for All (JMA) – Gurmeet Chauhan (Hannah), JMA Lead

Junior Mission for All (JMA) is a fun way of encouraging children and young people to engage with God’s mission in Britain and throughout the world. Annual resources help support JMA members including the Rainbow magazine which brings news and stories from Partner Churches around the world, plus games and activities. Members are also asked to pray for the people they read or hear about and to serve by collecting and raising money from friends at church and elsewhere. JMA is a network of children,

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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.

There are more than 11 collectors (including four adults who keep collecting boxes at home).

According to treasurer Eric Bridgstock, since 1[st] September 2025 JMA has already raised £966.29 with at least three months to go. Of this, £337.88 was raised at our annual JMA barbecue at the manse on Sunday 7[th] September 2025, and £628.41 by collectors.

This compares with £480.92 collected during Connexional Year beginning 1[st] September 2024.

We thank JMA Secretary, Gurmeet Chauhan (Hannah), and JMA Voluntary Treasurer, Jacob Masih Daniel, are stepping down from the role

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 noticeboards.

Tuesday Cuppa – Christine Ford, Coordinator

The Aldersgate Café opened in spring 2012. In September 2022 we reopened after the summer break as the Warm Welcome Café. Since then visitor numbers have remained fairly static. By July 2025 it was decided to have a more informal and less labour-intensive arrangement. After the summer break the Tuesday Cuppa opened in September 2025. There is no charge for the tea, coffee and cake or biscuit but donations are welcome.

We still have regular customers, from the local community and our own church, who enjoy meeting to have a chat. However, there has been no increase in the number of visitors.

At the end of July, I will step down both as co-ordinator and as a volunteer. I would like to thank everyone who has supported the café over the years by volunteering, making cakes, setting up and clearing away. You have all been a wonderful team.

Babies and Toddlers – Chris Hancock

I continue to have lead responsibility for Babies and Toddlers. Claire Debnam has taken over as coleader following Louise Bourton’s move away from the area.

Wednesday morning sessions continue to be well attended and are valued by parents and carers. We average around 30 children each week. Alongside the toys and books, we provide a craft activity each

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week - we are grateful to Margaret Quinn and Mary Gotts who continue to prepare these activities for the children. To close the session, we share story time and singing which is always great fun.

We have recently had some deaf families attending and Rev Daniel, with their help, has offered to arrange some basic sign language training for those of the team who would like to do this.

Needless to say we are extremely grateful to the many folk who help set up, serve tea and coffee, assist during the session, and clear and clean up afterwards.

We now set up the large hall for the session during the time café is meeting in the foyer from approximately 10:00 am on a Tuesday.

We are currently blessed with an ample number of helpers who do the practical things. However, it is always better to plan for the future. It would,therefore, be brilliant if anyone feels that they could offer an occasional Wednesday to help by chatting with the children and their carers. Alternatively, if anyone can spare an occasional Tuesday from 10:00am for around an hour for set up, or for a shorter period from 11.00 at the end of the Wednesday session to put away when one of the team is unavailable. The children and adults help clear up at 11:00 before the singing, so it is only packing away back into the cupboards on Wednesdays! Please contact Chris if you are able to help.

Day Care Group – Sue Davey, Leader

This is a wonderful social and lunch group which will have been running for 38 years in June 2026. 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 eleven wonderful elderly lady visitors who attend Daycare most Fridays, together with up to thirteen helpers. We are grateful for those who provide transport each week. One visitor has now moved into a care home and another has joined.

Fleetville School delivers main course meals to us each week, and volunteers from the Group and the church provide desserts.

We entertain our visitors each week with quizzes, music from David Amos and our own Music Group, painting and craft activities, flower arranging and playing board games. We usually enjoy a Christmas lunch at a local restaurant, and a canalboat trip each summer.

We would like to offer church members the opportunity to support Day Care by providing occasional desserts, organising an activity from time to time, or just chatting with our visitors. If you feel you can help in any way, please contact me – we would welcome your support for our really friendly group that means so much to us.

Creativity in Fellowship - Maggie Dodd

Our small friendly group meets on the second and fourth Fridays of the month between 10.30am and midday in the Wesley Room. Each of us bring along a craft or creative project, often watercolours and pastels. We enjoy a hot drink and a good catch up together. There are usually about four of us, and we would love to welcome more people to our group so do come along if you are free, or contact Maggie (07462 586773) to find out more.

House Groups – Johanna Mason, Coordinator

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There are currently four House Groups with 30 members, some of whom cannot attend regularly. Tony Moody, Peter Wallace, Ros Hancock and myself each lead a HG fortnightly, offering a choice of either day or evening meetings with breaks over the school holidays.

Tony leads and hosts a HG via Zoom (courtesy of Evangeline) on a Monday evening with eight regular participants. Following a lengthy Lifebuilder study book on 'Isaiah:Trusting God in Troubled Times', the current study material is 'Luke for Everyone', a study that was continued over the Lenten period. Over the summer Tony and Carolyn held their annual Garden Party for the HG members together with their 'other halves'.

Peter leads and hosts a HG on a Wednesday evening with a varying number of between six and nine members. Over the summer months and with a view to contemporary events, the group watched and discussed a film called 'The Children's Act'. The Circuit Lent Course 'Who is the Christ' was the chosen Lent material. New material for the rest of the year is yet to be decided.

Ros leads HG on a Friday morning at the home of Sarah Cox with between four and five regular participants. Members are able to join the group via Zoom if they are away and unable to attend. The current study material is 'Luke for Everyone' by Tom Wright with a break in studies over the Lenten period to study 'Meeting God in John' by David Ford.

My HG meets at my house on a Thursday morning with eight regular members. Occasionally when I cannot host or if transport is a problem, we gather at church rather than miss a meeting. Following on from 'Isaiah: Trusting God in Troubled Times', the group is currently looking at 'Luke for Everyone' by Tom Wright. Over the Lenten period the challenging 'Meeting God in John' was studied.

When possible, details of HG are included in The Notices. Information is also available on the Church Notice Board in the Foyer.

Social & Outreach Events (SOE) Group – Joanna Rose, Coordinator

This Group meets occasionally to plan a series of social events which may be aimed at our own congregation, additional churches in the circuit, or the wider community. 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.

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

EcoChurch – Ros Hancock, Coordinator

As a church we continue to commit to Eco Church and having attained our status with a Bronze award, we are now working towards the silver award.

A Rocha, who run the scheme, updated their survey questions early last year and it is now quite a lot harder to fulfil the requirements for each award. There are 5 categories of questions that we need to engage with: Worship and teaching, Buildings and energy, Land and Nature, Community and global engagement, and Lifestyle. Obviously, this by necessity means we all need to get involved.

The recycling bin in the back lobby is emptied as needed and a list of items we recycle are taken to the Greenhouse above Jeffersons, the refill and Eco store in London Road. I’m finding that it is not very well used at present – it would be helpful to know if this is because people are ‘doing it themselves’ or

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Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

whether it needs better advertising. I do feel that it is rather out of the way in the back lobby and certainly Autumn, the Circuit Administrator had not noticed it until I mentioned it in the Circuit Eco forum which has recently been set up by our Senior Circuit Steward Stuart Johnson. Both Autumn and I also regularly attend the District Eco forum with Angela Turner.

Maybe the Stewards could discuss a better place to put out the recycling so it can be seen more easily and show those who come in that we are doing out bit for the environment? Marlborough Road have the advantage of a windowsill in their long corridor.

Single Friendly Church (SFC) Initiative – Angela Spriggs, SFC Champion

Single Friendly Church continues to be embedded into the workings of the Church. In the last few months we have held two Sunday lunches for church members in a local pub. We will continue to hold informal social gatherings within the church community. In April we extended our reach beyond our immediate church to foster a wider social community for single people in St Albans and beyond. We launched a new social group for singles aged 35+, Friendship Connect. We held our first meet-up in the Beech House in St Albans, where we had 9 people attending and sharing lively conversation and pizza. We have another few events lined up over the next few months. Within our church we continue to work on ensuring services, messaging and other church activities are inclusive to all.

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Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

Church Council Members (and Managing Trustees)

Current Membership 3[rd] February 2026

Position	Name	Date appointed
Circuit Ministers	Reverend David Jebb (Superintendent Minister)viii Reverend J Daniel Yovan (Presbyter in Pastoral Charge)ix Deacon Nigel Perrottx(Minister)	Sep 2022 Sep 2023 Sep 2022
Layworker (observer)	Maggie Dodd, Anna Chaplaincy Lead	Nov 2021
Church Stewardsxi (up to six) with effect from 1stJuly 2025	Ruth Wallace (Senior Church Steward) Tomáš Cvrček (until June 2026) Anne Wall Napoleon Yorke-Andrews Denise Willingham [Vacancy x 1]	Jun 2023 May 2018 May 2023 Jul 2025 Feb 2026
Church Treasurerxii	Eric Bridgstock	Jun 2018*
Pastoral Committeexiii	Jackie Vivian	Sep 2023
Church Council Secretaryxiv	Peter Wallace	Jun 2023
One Circuit Stewardon behalf of the Circuit Stewardsxv	Stuart Johnson	Sep 2025
Members elected by the Annual General Church Meetingxvi (Not less than six representatives nor more than fifteen elected) annually by General Church Meeting	Ros Hancock (Justice & Peace/ EcoChurch) [Elected by ballot] James Appiah Angela Spriggs (Single-Friendly Church)	May 2015 Jun 2021 May 2024
Additional Members appointed by Church Councilxvii:
Sunday Club and Youth Superintendent	Caroline Tough	Sep 2022
Finance & Property Committee	Eric Bridgstock (Chair of Meeting until June 2026)	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 Coordination, Property, Cleaning] Val Parker (lettings) Noelene Browning (paying cash into church bank)	Aug 2017 Jun 2019 Sep 2025
Elected to Circuit Meetingxviii (up to five)	Church Steward [Ex Officio]: Ruth Wallace Church Treasurer [Ex Officio]: Eric Bridgstock* Joanna Rose Ros Hancock Denise Willingham	Jul 2025 Jun 2018* Sep 2017 Sep 2022 Sep 2022

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Charity Registration Number 1173147

Hatfield Road Methodist Church Annual Report 2025-2026 [AGCM17May26 Paper 6]

See end notes for references to standing orders of the Methodist Church.

Church Stewards appointments normally take effect on 1 July each year. In practice, all have started at different times to reflect their own availability and to support church needs. The stewards elect the Senior Steward from among their number.

• Extended by ballot (75% majority).

End Notes

i https://www.tmcp.org.uk/

ii - - https://my charity account.charitycommission.gov.uk/

iii https://howcharitieswork.com/transparency-and-accountability/annualreports/#:~:text=A%20charity's%20annual%20report%20must,assessment%20of%20what%20they%20achieved iv https://www.hertswelcomes.org.uk/ v https://www.refugeecouncil.org.uk/who-we-are/what-we-do/

vi https://www.thebraintumourcharity.org/ vii https://www.leprosymission.org.uk/about/ viii Constitutional Practice and Discipline of the Methodist Church (CPD), Volume 2, Standing Order (SO) 610 (1) (i) - https://www.methodist.org.uk/for churches/governance/cpd/ ix CPD Vol 2 SO 610 (1) (i) x CPD Vol 2 SO 610 (1) (iv) xi CPD Vol 2 SO 610 (1) (vi) xii CPD Vol 2 SO 610 (1) (vii) xiii CPD Vol 2 SO 610 (1) (viii) xiv CPD Vol 2 SO 610 (1) (ix) xv CPD Vol 2 SO 610 (1) (xii) xvi CPD Vol 2 SO 610 (1) (x) xvii Up to 15 additional persons appointed by the Church Council to ensure that all areas of the church’s life are adequately represented and in particular that, wherever possible, young people are included in its membership SO 610 (1) (xi) as follows: 5 & 6

xviii (Ex Officio Officers) SO 510 (1) (vii) (plus 3 others) SO 510 (1) (viii)

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Charity Registration Number 1173147

CHURCH RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS ACCOUNTS

THE METHODIST CHURCH STANDARD FORM OF ACCOUNTS

Hatfield Road Methodist

Church

FOR THE YEAR ENDED

31 August 2025

St Albans & Welwyn Circuit Circuit no. 13 Registered Charity - Charity Registration number 1173147

If not a registered charity His 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 J Daniel Yovan

Church Stewards: Ruth Wallace Anne Wall Noelene Browning Napoleon Yorke-Andrews Tomas Cvrcek Treasurer: Eric Bridgstock

HRMC Standard Form of Accounts 31AUG25 FINAL for CC

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Hatfield Road Church Methodist

ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 AUGUST 2025

	SECTION A			Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds	Unrestricted Funds Restricted Funds	£ 73,662 7,510 7,584 38,527 Totals this year	£ 73,662 7,510 7,584 38,527 Totals this year	Totals last year
				£	£	£		£
a1	RECEIPTS		Note
a2	Offerings and Tax recovered			73,662		73,662		80,923
a3	Bank and CFB interest and Investment income			7,510		7,510		9,426
a4	Lettings			7,584		7,584		6,791
a5	Other receipts			11,105	27,422	38,527		68,531
a6	TOTAL RECEIPTS			99,861	27,422	**127,283 **	(a7)	165,671
	SECTION B					58,500 286 15,073 12,636 39,520
b1	PAYMENTS
b2	Circuit Assessment or Share			58,500		58,500		53,275
b3	Donations			286		286
b4	Repairs and Maintenance			15,073		15,073		65,586
b5	Utilities (Insurances, water charges,heating& lighting)			12,636		12,636		12,361
b6
b7	Otherpayments			9,678	29,842	39,520		47,472
b8	TOTAL PAYMENTS			96,173	29,842	**126,015 **	(b9)	178,694
						1,268
	SECTION C
c1	NET RECEIPTS/PAYMENTS FOR THE YEAR (a6-b8)			3,688	(2,420)	1,268		(13,023)
c2	Total funds brought forward from last year			39,165	151,019	**190,184 **	(c6)	203,207
						191,452
c3	(c1+c2) Sub total			42,853	148,599	191,452		190,184
c4	Transfers and adjustments			42,708	(42,729)	**(21) **	(c7)
c5	TOTAL FUNDS AT END OF YEAR (c3+c4)			85,561	105,870	**191,431 **	(c8)	190,184	(c6)

	SECTION D
d	£ (these amounts are not to be included in total receipts/payments figures above) FOR INFORMATION ONLY: MONEY RECEIVED AND PASSED ON TO EXTERNAL ORGANISATIONS				£
d1	Balance brought forward from lastyear		589		589
d2	Offerings/Gifts - received for external organisations		3,682		4,760
d3	Offerings/Gifts -passed to external organisations		3,682		4,760
d4	BALANCE STILL TO BE PAID (d1+d2-d3)		589		589

HRMC Standard Form of Accounts 31AUG25 FINAL for CC

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 2025 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.

	SUMMARY OF CHURCH AC
	SECTION E
	Summary of the Church accounts for the year ended 31 August 2025 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 2025 Cash in hand Bank Current Account Bank Deposit Account SUB TOTAL - Church accounts TOTAL CASH FUNDS HELD BY CHURCH Central Finance Board Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes Other funds Total funds held by Internal Organisations (the closing balance total from above) (e12)	OPENING BALANCES 29,293 161,113 395 190,801 (c6) (e11) 190,801 (x)	CLOSING BALANCES
f1	Cash in hand
f2	Bank Current Account		15,699
f3	Bank Deposit Account
f4	Central Finance Board		175,920
f5	Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes		401
f6	Other funds
f7	SUB TOTAL - Church accounts		192,020	(c8)
f8	Total funds held by Internal Organisations (the closing balance total from above) (e12)			(e12)
f9	TOTAL CASH FUNDS HELD BY CHURCH		192,020	(y)
	SECTION G	At	At
	SECTION G
	OTHER ASSETS and LIABILITIES Other Assets Land &Buildings (seenotesreInsurancevalue) Loan(s)-showamountoutstanding atyearend Other Liabilities Investments (includeEndowments)	1 September 2024 3,357,964 125,923	31 August 2025 3,357,964 125,923
g1	Investments (includeEndowments)
g2	Land &Buildings (seenotesreInsurancevalue)	3,357,964	3,357,964
g3	Other Assets	125,923	125,923
g4	Loan(s)-showamountoutstanding atyearend
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

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HRMC Standard Form of Accounts 31AUG25 FINAL for CC

Nam8 ofChurch......Haffidd ftogd IAthodi•l................................. No......34113..... Declarations and Scrutiny I conflmi that these Rec￿p¢ and PayThnt based accounts for the to 31 August 2025 havo boon Prepared Irom of thg Church and that they indud• all fund¥ uTrJor control of th• Churth Jstees. Slgnature of troasurer........ Name and address of treasurer.................... ERIC BRWTO¢K 11 E￿fi• Gro¥•, StAbaTh•. H•rt¥........................................... Post CcJe AL4 9PJ...... Pr•8•ntatlon to the Church tN•l••• I confirm that tho annual report and accyjunts f( to thè meotirKJ of the ChiJr¢h trustg8s h&ld on ? r end￿1 31 August 2025 pre8entwJ Signature of the Chair of th• r￿tIr￿a .. Name ofts Chalr of tho rno8tiThJ ... J.. Independent Examiner's R•port to the Trustees of the HATFIELD ROAD IAETHODIST CHURCH Charlty Numbor . 1173147 Responslbllltlm and ba81s of r•port I I I rgpOrttot￿IDJstseS0n myexamlnatK￿ oftheacciwntsoftho................................... .... Churchfor the year ended 31 AwJust 2025 s8t out on pages ..1 to&. As the Church's trL&Stees, you are responsiblg for the pfyparalion of the accounts in accordance %biih the wulrgmgnts of the Chariliès Act 20111'the '). I report In re8k)8Ct of my exami￿￿10￿ of th8 Chur('s acC￿nIS (rried ￿1 und6r sectkn 145 ofth8 Act and, in earrwng OLrt my examination. I have fdlowed all thè applicable Dlrections given by the Charity Commission undor Section 14515Xbl of thg A ' delete OT rArde as approprlat8 ANL. 4of5

Name ofchurch .......HATFIELD ROAD METHODIST CHURCH........ No ......34113....... Independent Examlnerfs Statemènt I have Completed my examination. I confinn that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination (other than that disdosed below'l which give me cause to believe that in, any material respect= the accounting records wor8 not k8pt in ac￿rdanCe with section 130 of Ihe Act: or the accounts do not accord with the accounting rewrds. I have no concem$ and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attenlion should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be ￿ached. fftave not" obtained independgnl verification of all investments wtlh the Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes or held in othor trusts, bank balances and funds al Ihe Central Finance Board of the Methodist Church which are individually in excess of £10,000 (ten thousand pounds) at the balance sheet date. Signatur8 of independent examiner Name of independent examiner ..JOHN SCO Relevant professional qualification of independent examlnér Nome of firm (where appropriate) Address 34P Date delet8 or cirde a$ appropriate Fl 5rAS