**Charity Registration No. 1173537** 

# **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS** 

**FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 




## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION** 

**Trustees** Bishop B Mathew Reverend S Kuriakose Mr X Abraham Reverend A C James Reverend M Pinakkattu Mrs A Jackson Appointed December 2023 **Charity number** 1173537 **Principal address** St Alphonsa Cathedral St Ignatuis Presbytery St Ignatius Square Preston PR1 1TT **Website** www.eparchyofgreatbritain.org **Auditor** MHA Moore and Smalley Richard House 9 Winckley Square Preston PR1 3HP 



## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **CONTENTS** 

||**Page**|
|---|---|
|Trustees' report|1 - 14|
|Independent auditor's report|15 - 17|
|Statement of financial activities|18|
|Balance sheet|19|
|Statement of cash flows|20|
|Notes to the financial statements|21 - 31|





## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

The trustees present their report and audited financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2023. 

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102), the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102), the Charities Act 2011 and UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice 

The name of the Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) is Catholic Syro-Malabar Eparchy of Great Britain. For its day-to-day activities, the CIO is widely known as Syro- Malabar Eparchy. Its Charity Registration No. is 1173537. 

## **Objectives and activities** 

The constitution of the CIO specifies that the money and property received by the Trustees for the general purposes of the Trust shall be held to apply, both the capital and the income of the Trust Fund, to its objectives. The basis for setting out this constitution is the advancement of Catholic Faith, Christian moral and social principles (beliefs) for the benefit of the public in accordance with the statement of beliefs of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church in particular, and that of the Universal Catholic Church in general. 

The detailed objectives and scope of the CIO set out in its constitution can be summarised as follows: 

- The organisation of the celebration of sacraments and other religious services, prayer meetings and similar events, 

- The provision of accommodation and other support for clergy (including in retirement) and other individuals engaged in the advancement of the CIO objectives, 

- The advancement of education in accordance with the teaching of the Catholic Church and the training of individuals and groups and the production and distribution of literature and the broadcasting information using modern media to enlighten others about the Catholic Faith, 

- The relief of poverty and suffering and other such charitable purposes for the benefit of the public are consistent with the doctrines of the Catholic Church, 

- The acquisition, provision, and maintenance of land and buildings to be used primarily for the above purposes, and also to be available for hire or use by other community groups, 

- Any other related activities which support the promotion of Christian beliefs in the UK or overseas, 

- Any other activities which are requisite for the achievement of the objectives of the Syro-Malabar Eparchy of Great Britain. 

The parishes, missions and proposed missions along with Catholic Organisations of the faithful are contributing significantly to the achievement of the objectives. A documented plan is in place to reach out to the faithful in an effective manner. 

In all of the activities undertaken by the Syro-Malabar Eparchy, the trustees continue to be very grateful for the help provided by so many people, both Clergy and volunteers. The trustees also take the opportunity to thank the members of the many Religious Orders who assist in parishes, missions and proposed missions. Without the help of so many people, the Eparchy would not be able to carry out all the important work that it currently does. 

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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT  (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **Public Benefit** 

The guiding principle of the Charity is, as Jesus said, “you shall love your neighbour as yourself”. Our parishes, missions and proposed missions reach out beyond the Syro-Malabar faithful. Our priests offer chaplaincy services to hospitals, prisons and schools. Our nuns are rendering opportunities for spiritual sharing and guidance and provide support for family empowerment programmes. Our volunteers who are predominantly from the healthcare sector - nurses and doctors, render their services to assist the disabled, in visiting the sick at home and hospital. Special collections are taken to support the needy and vulnerable locally, nationally, and internationally. The charity forms part of the wider Catholic Church throughout the world and as such participates in the charitable activities of the Universal Church. The trustees believe that they have complied with the duty in Section 17 of the 2011 Charities Act to give due regard to the various guidance notes published by the Commission with regards to Public Benefit. 

## **Achievements and performance** 

## **First five-year plan** 

To achieve the objectives of the Charity in a time bound manner, the Trustees prepared the first five-year plan in November 2017 after consulting with the Custodians (the community leaders), Curia members, Pastoral Consultors, Clergy, Religious and lay faithful representing parishes, missions and proposed missions. This plan identified 5 key focus areas for each year commencing from the 1st Sunday of Advent 2017. The first five-year plan ended on 26 November 2022, being the last Sunday of the liturgical year. 

1. The first year was declared as Year of Children, during which priority was given to the moral and faith formation of the children. 

2. The second year was the Year of Youth, focusing on the reconnection and renewal of a new generation of young people in the life of the Church. 

3. The third year was The Year of Couples, where the focal point was on family support. Through different events and activities, the year of Couples empowered the couples to face the challenges and difficulties of family life. 

4. The fourth year focused on Families for renewal and strengthening through the establishment of smaller groups of families called Family Units ( _Kudumbakootayma_ ), to grow together in faith and fellowship. Seminars and workshops were arranged in our missions, proposed missions and parishes under the leadership of priests in charge and the voluntary workers so that family units shall become the active link that connects each family to the parish, and thus to the Holy Church, thereby enabling its members to foster the love and sharing and unity of the Early Christians. Through this, the trustees aim towards the sanctification of families, training of children and ecclesial experience of life and instilling the deep-rooted catholic faith and sacramental life among the parishioners. Moreover, these family units will work to develop the spiritual, social, cultural, and physical abilities and skills of the parishioners and uphold harmony and goodwill among them. 

5. The parish is the Eucharistic community and the heart of the liturgical life of Christian families; it is a privileged place for the catechesis of children and parents (CCC 2226). The fifth year, which concluded on 26th November 2022, was focused on strengthening our parish communities. During this year the trustees visited our parishes, missions, and proposed missions to understand the difficulties faced by local communities in their parish formation and to support them in achieving this goal.  More parish/missions were formed and all the church activities and events were resumed with zeal and enthusiasm. By availing the service of 68 Syro-Malabar priests and four nuns in the Eparchy, the trustees made it possible to have regular Sunday Holy Mass, Catechism classes for children, family units' meetings and other active apostolates related to the Eparchial Commissions throughout the Eparchy. 

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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT  (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

The First five-year pastoral plan was executed over five liturgical years commencing on the liturgical season of ‘Annunciation’ of 2017 and concluding at the season of ‘Dedication of the Church’ of 2022. Along with a specific focus group and activities specific to that year, and ongoing ministries of our parishes/ missions, the Charity has achieved its basic structure for the Eparchy for pastoral care, spiritual support, financial stability and a welcoming environment through community engagements, outreach programmes & technology integration for communication. 

## **Second five-year plan** 

The trustees organised the second Eparchial gathering in May 2022 – “Holy to the Holy Ones”,  to launch the second five-year pastoral plan.  This gathering was intended to listen and discern the pastoral care for the next five years (2022-2027) focusing on the salient features of the Syro Malabar church - liturgy, spirituality, theology, discipline, and culture. The Pastoral Plan is implemented through five phases, with each phase having five goals and nine action plans. 

- The first year began on 27th November 2022 (the first Sunday of the Advent) and concluded on the feast day of Christ the King (26th November 2023). The year was dedicated to providing in-depth knowledge of the Syro-Malabar Liturgy. Various seminars, teaching sessions on and liturgical quiz competitions were organised at parish/ mission/ proposed mission levels, which then progressively rolled up to regional and national (eparchial) levels. 

- The second year which commenced on the 2nd December 2023 is focusing on the Theology of the Syro Malabar Church, and it will conclude on the last Sunday of the Liturgical Year. Thrust would be given to cultivate a profound interest to learn and reflect more about the ‘Mar Thoma Margam’ (The St Thomas Way). 

- The third year of the Pastoral Plan will be concentrating on the Syro Malabar Spirituality (Mar Thoma Nazarani Spirituality). In this year, the clergy, the religious, and the faithful of the Eparchy would familiarise themselves with the traditional elements of the Mar Thoma Nazrani Spirituality, which conforms to the Liturgy and liturgical seasons. 

- The fourth year of the Pastoral Plan will be for practicing the Syro Malabar Discipline (the Mar Thoma Nazrani Discipline), particularly by familiarising with the general Code of Canons and the Particular Law. 

- The fifth year will be aiming to promote the Syro Malabar Culture (Mar Thoma Nazrani Culture). The Mar Thoma Nazrani culture demonstrates the uniqueness of Mar Thoma Margam. The year would be focusing on putting the Marthoma Margam as a catechetical vehicle for the next generation by witnessing Values in the religious-cultural identity of Great Britain. 

The Eparchial Curia under the leadership of the Bishop, supports, co-ordinates and regulates all activities of the Charity in accordance with its objectives. It supports the activities of the clergy and faithful in the parishes as well as providing financial support for various activities relating to pastoral care and help such as children and youth formation activities, religious education, formation of catechists, marriage guidance, family empowerment etc. It maintains the Bishop’s House and Office, Eparchial Finance Office, Eparchial Tribunal and the Minor Seminary. 

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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT  (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **Priests' Formation and Training** 

## a. **Immaculate Conception Seminary** 

Trustees have identified that shortage of clergies in the Syro-Malabar rite is one of the ongoing major risks. The Immaculate Conception Seminary, which was inaugurated in November 2017, was the first major step towards addressing this risk. Rev. Fr. Vargheese Thomas was appointed as the Rector and in-charge of the seminary in September 2018. The commission for Vocation Promotion of the Eparchy, organises a three-day Vocation discernment guidance programme "CALL", every year to promote the call to priesthood. 

## b. **Clergy Retreats & Formation Programmes** 

Annual Retreat for serving priests & religious was conducted from the 13th to the 16th of February 2023. Eminent theologians and preachers from the UK and abroad covered various topics relevant to the spiritual well-being and societal life of the clergy/religious of the Eparchy. Additionally, an ongoing training programme for the priests is held regularly. 

## **Evangelisation Programmes** 

Evangelisation is an ongoing process. The Evangelisation commission was established to streamline the evangelisation efforts of the Eparchy. The motto of our bishop, - "to do the work of an evangelist,”, calls every faithful to become a missionary and is the key driver for the works of the Evangelisation commission. In order to radiate deep faith and promote joyful desire to share the Gospel   with others, both within and outside their respective parishes/missions, the Evangelisation Commission promotes and sponsors retreats, Bible conventions, prayer meetings and spiritual guidance throughout the year. These initiatives are targeted towards people for deepening of their faith, as well as towards individuals who have been away from their faith, for whatever reasons. 

To spread the message of the Holy Gospel and promulgate its deeper knowledge to the faithful and enable them to live more in faith, hope and love, the Evangelisation commission organised  Bible conventions and retreats during Lent(Grand Mission 2022 retreats from 28th February to 10th April 2022)  Advent , and on important feast days, in all regions during the last year. Eminent preachers from different countries led the Grand Mission retreats. Entrance to these programmes were free of charge and was open to all, including other faith/religion believers and non-believers. 

## **Pastoral Council** 

The Eparchial Pastoral Council serves as a collaborative body, offering diverse perspectives and insights to guide the spiritual and practical direction of the Eparchy, ensuring its activities align with the needs of the faithful. The Pastoral council assists in discerning and implementing pastoral plans, fostering communication, and nurturing the spiritual growth of the Eparchy. To equip members of the pastoral council with the necessary knowledge and skills, to serve the Eparchy and the church effectively, the Trustees organised five ongoing formation classes and training sessions during the year. 

## **Formation of the Laity** 

The Lay faithful, have a unique and indispensable role to play in accomplishing the goals of the charity by engaging in temporal affairs and spiritual affairs according to the plan of God. To realise this, the trustees initiated programmes for lay formation to equip them to play their role in the Church and society. To prepare lay leaders, with firm pastoral and spiritual training, the trustees organised a three-day residential retreat for the Custodians, Headteachers and pastoral council members from 10th to 12th of February 2023,  apart from various online training programmes. 

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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT  (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **Children’s Ministry and Catechesis** 

For the Catholic Church, Catechesis is the strong foundation for faith formation and for a value-oriented lifestyle based on the Gospel principles. Having that in mind, Trustees have always encouraged to start structured catechesis in every parish, mission and proposed mission. To coordinate all the tasks, the Trustees have established a Catechesis Commission. The scope of this Commission is to formulate and articulate the curriculum and other pedagogical activities including arranging resources like textbooks, teaching aids, online tools, webinars etc. and identifying and recruiting resource personnel amongst Clergy, Religious, Laity and their training. The Charity has successfully implemented this vision and now almost 97% of the communities under the Charity’s jurisdiction have their own catechesis programme. This model was often praised by other Dioceses in the UK, and, faithful from their communities also showed their interest to join the same. 

The Catechesis Department worked tirelessly to provide Catechetical formation to youngsters throughout the year through Catechism classes. The Department has provided basic catechesis training to all the catechists and has completed advanced Catechetical training for 75 Catechists. To reinforce the Word of God amongst young children and adults, the department organised Online Quiz programmes such as the “Suvara Bible Quiz” for children and adults. 

## **Bible Kalotsavam** 

The Commission for Bible Apostolate has organised Bible Kalotsavams (Bible Art Festivals) at Regional and Eparchy levels to proclaim and celebrate the Word of God through various art forms. The aim is to promote creativity and expression, and to glorify God using artistic talent and personal expression. As we are all created in the image of the creator, the Bible Kalotsavam was a living example that evidenced that we are all called upon to be creative. More than 5000 members across the Eparchy have actively participated in the Regional and Eparchy level Kalotsavams (19th November 2022). The Bible Kalotsavam is the celebration of faith and helps to foster the spirit of Christian charity, sharing, enthusiasm, interaction, building social cohesion and a sense of belongingness among the people. 

## **SMYM and Youth Ministry** 

The Trustees initiated to arrange a platform for the youth beneficiaries of the Eparchy, which resulted in the formation of SMYM (Syro-Malabar Youth Movement). Its objective is to empower our younger generation to embrace the teachings of Jesus Christ as the foundation for building their life strategies and to preserve and pass on our treasured heritage whilst adapting to the call of the contemporary world. All programmes for the youth are coordinated under SMYM. Thrust was given to reach out to the Syro-Malabar youth Eparchy wide and nurture them on religious, moral and social values, to enable them to be an asset to the wider society and   to become model citizens in the future, with a clear outlook for the upliftment of vulnerable and marginalised in the society. This was organised locally as the youth wing at the Parish/ Mission level. It is a platform for teenagers and young adults above 16 years to gather together and have their own time under the guidance of the priest in charge and animators in-charge, appointed by the priest. They have their own committee to coordinate their discussions and conduct different skills enhancement programmes. They are very active in the catechetical formation at the parish/mission level. Many units conducted one day excursions and pilgrimages with the help of parent groups and other elders. In general, the youth are encouraged to nurture their social values and community living, in the very footing of Catholic teachings. 

Centralised training programmes were arranged to train the resource people to conduct the seminars and workshops. As a result, the target group, with the help of their parents are made aware of the difficulties and issues of the vulnerable and marginalised around them and by having a strong Christian faith in the background, the need for extending a helping hand to the upliftment of the same. To achieve this objective, the Trustees instigated parish level and Eparchy level youth gatherings every month. 

The charity organised a three-day Residential youth camp ‘ _Margam 2022’_ on 24th June 2022 for unmarried young men and women over the age of 18 in the Eparchy. More than 200 young adults from all parts of the nation, participated in the three day program. Margam 2022 was intended towards redefining the _Margam_ (“the Way”) of our ancestors, to nurture friendships, to promote communal harmony and to explore & embrace Syro-Malabar identity. This was a platform where the youth could think together, share their views and unique experiences and form harmonious and sustaining fellowships. 

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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT  (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **Marriage Preparation Programmes** 

The Trustees believe that to achieve the charity’s objectives, promoting family values in contemporary society is essential. With that in mind, Eparchy level marriage preparation course was established, as an ongoing programme. Young adults, who wish to have a married life and to form a family, are given a deeper insight to core values in society, a strong foundation for a loving, lifelong union based on mutual respect, and a commitment to their faith from a Catholic point of view. Simultaneously, they are introduced to the challenges prevailing in the society, especially in the socio-economic situations of the wider society they live. Trustees have conducted four online marriage preparation courses and 3 three-day residential programme during the fiscal year. Since its inception, around 24 courses were conducted benefitting around 800 young adults. 

## **Migrant’s Support** 

To offer helping hand and guidance to new people arriving in the UK, especially the Syro-Malabar faithful in Great Britain, the trustees created a helpdesk directed by the Eparchial Commission for Migrants, thereby allowing them to have a welcoming atmosphere as they arrive. To achieve this aim, the trustees have set up parish/ mission level teams for supporting the new migrants and organised online meetings. The migrants commission organised online migrant University students' gatherings to connect, equip and empower Catholic university students across the Eparchy so that they will become missionary disciples, leaving higher education with a deeper awareness of God's call on their life and going on to be leaders in the Church. 

## **Pilgrimages** 

To foster a sense of community and strengthen their bonds through a shared spiritual journey among faithful, the Curia had conducted pilgrimages to various shrines in the UK and abroad. The trustees arranged  Eparchial level pilgrimages to Medjugorje (18th to 21st April 2022) to Ayelsford (28th May 2022) and Walsingham (16th July 2022). 

Besides the Eparchial pilgrimages, various parishes and missions conducted pilgrimages to many Holy places. These pilgrimages facilitated the faithful to experience fellowship in worshiping and togetherness in sharing their God Experience. 

## **Women Empowerment** 

The Trustees, by recognising the principle that ‘Mother is the first teacher of every human being’, formulated a comprehensive plan which enhances the role of women in the society, especially in the SyroMalabar community. Women’s forum units were established at parish/mission level and they are given a very important role in the administration and all other activities. Various seminars and retreats were arranged at parish/mission level and Eparchy level for the enhancement of their skills in various fields, like parenting, employment level, and administrative level and to bring together women around common interests so they can help each other to grow spiritually. In the field of faith formation, their contribution is invaluable. Often, women’s forum acts as a platform for the women in their units to come together to share the conflicts they are facing due to the different roles they have to play in their life, so that they can support each other spiritually and practically when someone has a need. Women’s Forum at various regions organises day outs, pilgrimages, and community gatherings to improve their mutual bonding, which will be beneficial for the oneness in the communities and thereby for the Eparchy. They are the backbone of many of Eparchy’s charitable programmes. The Eparchial annual gathering of the Women’s Forum “Tota Pulchra 2022” was celebrated on 3rd December 2022, in the most august manner. The gathering was aimed at realising the total beauty of their lives with total trust in the Lord. Trustees are very grateful to the Women’s Forum for their contribution to achieving the objectives of the charity. The Women’s’ forum initiated a Renal dialysis fundraising, to provide free dialysis for the poor in remotest parts of south India, to ensure that essential healthcare services are accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial circumstances. 

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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT  (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **Sacred Liturgy** 

Commission for Sacred Liturgy helps the people of God to lead a liturgical spirituality according to the guidelines given by the Eparchial Bishop. As per the Second Five Year Pastoral plan, the first year is dedicated to learning more about the East Syrian Liturgy. Through this, the trustees intended to provide a general awareness regarding the Sacred Liturgy of Syro-Malabar Church to the faithful. Under the guidance of this commission, Altar servers’ training programmes were conducted in all 12 regions. The commission published a Liturgical calendar that reminds the faithful of the Liturgical seasons, main feast days and Scripture readings. 

## **Family Apostolate** 

The Family Apostolate Commission of the Eparchy aims to nurture and strengthen families as the fundamental unit of the Church and society, by supporting them in living out their faith and facing life's challenges within a supportive Catholic community. To provide spiritual guidance and emotional support to families, addressing their needs within the framework of Catholic teachings, the Family Apostolate Commission organised Parish/ Mission level and eparchy level retreats and seminars on parenting for the families. They resource to help families to navigate through challenges while staying true to their faith. 

## **Commission for Choir** 

The Commission for Choir meets every month on the last Wednesday. There are two representatives from each region. The Commission offered their services for most of the Eparchy level events like Aylesford Pilgrimage, Walsingham Pilgrimage, Blessing of Holy Oil ceremony and Womens’ Forum Annual Gathering. The Commission arranges practice for choir members wherever needed. The Commission promotes liturgical singing in Syriac language too along with Malayalam, English, Latin and other languages. Separate Choir groups were formed and practice sessions were arranged for Youth and children, along with adults, in most of the Missions and Parishes. 

## **Data Protection** 

The Catholic Syro-Malabar Eparchy of Great Britain (CSMEGB), through its Trustees, takes the role of a Data Controller and consequently process all Personal Data (including Special Categories of Personal Data and Personal Sensitive Data) about Data Subjects in compliance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR), the Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA 2018) and any other relevant data protection legislation, domestic or otherwise.   It maintains a roll-on registration with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) in the UK as a data controller and has an appointed Data Protection Officer in line with UK GDPR requirements. To demonstrate Syro-Malabar eparchy’s on-going compliance, it also maintains a suit of Data Protection/IT Security policies for staff/volunteers to follow. 

## **Safeguarding** 

The Eparchy follow the Policies and procedures of the Catholic Church of England and Wales.  It is functioning as part of the Catholic Safeguarding Standard agency (CSSA). The policies and procedures are found in the www.catholicsafeguarding.org.uk which includes policy statement, structure and roles, key principles and values, legislative frame work, responding to allegation and concerns, information sharing and data protection, safer recruitment process and safer working practices and creating safer environment. 

The Eparchy organised several programmes and meetings for the wellbeing of the members of the Eparchy and the trustees, as well as to keep key stakeholders informed. It also formulated a Sub-committee in August 2021 in accordance with the regulation of the CSSA. The sub-committee meetings were held periodically during the year to evaluate the functioning and progress. 

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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT  (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **Fundraising** 

Syro–Malabar Eparchy of Great Britain (the charity) is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the charity and its beneficiaries. The fundraising policy aims to promote a culture of honesty, openness and respect among the donors, beneficiaries and the general public. The Charity does not use external fundraisers, unless otherwise decided by the trustees, allowing for all the faithful to donate, secure in the knowledge that their contributions will be used to enable the parishes/ missions/ proposed missions to continue playing a major role in their communities, encompassing buildings, worship, prayer, catechesis and pastoral care. 

The Syro-Malabar Eparchy conduct fundraising activities at parish/mission level, regional level and eparchial level. Any fundraising activity is adhered to the objectives set out in the constitution of the charity, the fundraising policy and the regulating legislations of Great Britain. The Eparchy and parishes undertook various initiatives to support people who suffer from poverty, illness, war and natural disasters. Furthermore, the costs incurred for the events, activities and daily operational needs of the Charity are met by the voluntary monthly contribution by the parishes/ missions/ proposed missions. 

## **Consideration of Vulnerable Persons** 

All fundraisers must take all reasonable steps with respect and due diligence while seeking donations from persons in vulnerable circumstances. In addition to the above, the following principles have been established: 

- All reasonable steps and extra care need to be taken to support a vulnerable person to make informed decisions. 

- A fundraiser must not exploit the trust, lack of knowledge, apparent need for care and support or vulnerable circumstance of any donor at any time. 

- If a fundraiser knows or has a reason to believe that a person is in a vulnerable circumstance and that person lacks the capacity to make an informed decision, no donation must be taken from such person. If a donor who is in such circumstance make a donation, that donation must be returned. 

- All fundraisers must take all reasonable steps to avoid asking regular donations from anyone aged under 18. 

## **Complaints Procedure** 

All complaints and concerns in connection to the fundraising are dealt with the Complaints Handling Policy of the Syro-Malabar Eparchy. 

## **Financial review** 

Total income for the period was £2,247,206 (2022: £1,999,593). 

Expenditure for the period £1,709,480 (2022 £1,371,649). 

The net movement in funds is £537,726 (2022 surplus £627,944). 

As at 31 March 2023, the charity had total funds of  £3,739,355 (2022 £3,201,629).  Of these £1,300,000 were endowment funds and £nil were restricted. 

Free reserves at the end of the period were £1,332,089. 

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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT  (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **Principal Risks and Uncertainties** 

The Trustees have a formal risk management process to assess risks and implement risk management strategies. This involves the identification of the types of risk faced by the charity, assessing the likelihood and potential impact of occurrence and identifying means of mitigation. Risks have been categorised under five broad headings: Governance, Operational, Financial, External and Compliance. These were then assessed as to the likelihood of their occurring and the severity of the effects of the risk leading to a potential overall impact calculation in order to ascertain a scale of relative importance/urgency to each one. 

The implementation of legislation in the areas of Data Protection and Safeguarding are identified as potential risks. To mitigate these risks, Trustees have included expert professional volunteers in the Data protection commission and Safeguarding commission. Trustees have facilitated training programmes across the Eparchy to appoint representatives at regional level and in parishes, missions and proposed missions. All the activities are monitored for legal compliance through these representatives and remedial measures have been taken accordingly. 

The current highest overall adverse impact risks identified are; 

- Slow progress in the establishment of parishes and missions; 

- Smaller number of available clergy who are expected to undertake more pastoral and administrative responsibilities. 

These were identified in the previous years’ report, but still continues, though significant progress has been made. 

The Trustees have taken steps to mitigate these risks, by recruiting more priests from overseas, arranging more priests’ formation programmes and encouraging collaboration where it is in the best interest of the community the parish/mission serves. It plans to upscale the scope of its internal    audit procedures to further mitigate risks. 

## **Plans for the Future** 

The Charity is striving to meet the objectives outlined above, in addition to ensuring that the charity continues to meet its statutory obligations. The effort is continuing on the formulation of a comprehensive Eparchial Pastoral Plan to ensure that resources are focused on the main themes which have been identified under the Five-Year plan. The target groups have been identified and plans and procedures have been drawn for the overall progress in the areas of Evangelisation, Formation, Worship and Sacramental Life, Charity and Social Outreach. These plans have been presented to Clergy and lay leaders to develop discussions with religious and lay faithful in Parishes, Missions and Proposed Missions, and to involve as many people as possible in the process of identifying and delivering the Charity’s objectives in future years. In the previous years, Trustees had identified the need for a centralised physical infrastructure - a pastoral centre, for the efficient administration of the CIO. Trustees are still in search of a suitable property for the same. 

As part of the strategy to increase funding streams for the Charity, for capital and charitable purposes, further work is planned to increase the use of online giving, and to continue to identify projects for government-initiated grant funding. The Trustees believe that the right approach is undertaken by balancing the needs to support the vulnerable, against growth targets. 

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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT  (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **Reserves Policy** 

The free reserves held by the Charity are those funds that are freely available to be spent in pursuing the Charity’s purpose. Restricted Funds, Designated Funds, Permanent Endowment Funds and Tangible Fixed Assets are not included in free reserves. 

Total funds as at 31 March 2023 were £3,739,355. Of this total £1,300,000 related to the endowment fund, £Nil to designated funds and £1,309,857 to fixed assets. The remaining free reserves were £1,332,089. The Trustees carefully monitor the level of free reserves of the Charity as part of their long-term financial planning which includes its primary objective of ongoing Evangelisation programmes for the spiritual, mental and social wellbeing of the faithful and the general public. The Trustees consider that the holding of reserves is necessary to provide a buffer against short term fluctuations in income and expenditure and to provide sufficient resources to implement long term projects which are by their nature uncertain in their financial effect. The Finance Office, on behalf of the Trustees, review cash position on a day to day basis to ensure liquid funds are available for routine expenditure. 

## **Structure, governance and management** 

## **Organisational structure** 

Catholic Syro-Malabar Eparchy of Great Britain is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) constituted by Declaration of a Foundation CIO dated 25 May 2017. The certificate issued by the Charity Commission dated 22 June 2017, the Catholic Syro-Malabar Eparchy is registered as a body corporate known as Catholic Syro-Malabar Eparchy of Great Britain. All property and assets are vested in the name of the body corporate. 

The primary ways of conveyance of the charity’s objectives are the parishes, missions and proposed missions within the Eparchy. The Eparchy works collaboratively with other Dioceses in England and Wales and other Eparchies of Syro-Malabar church worldwide. The Eparchial Curia and Bishop’s office supports carrying out the objectives by co-ordination of Eparchy-wide programmes and ensures a consistent approach to the administration of the Eparchy to effectively support the parishes, missions and proposed missions, especially in property management and governance. 

For the efficient management of the eparchy and its pastoral activities, initially, the Eparchy was geographically divided into 8 regions that covers whole of England, Wales and Scotland. As the number of new migrant faithful increased recently within the Eparchy, forming more regions could effectively meet the spiritual, pastoral, and administrative needs of its growing communities. On that account, these regions were regrouped at the beginning of 2023 into 12 regions, namely: 

1. Birmingham 

2. Bristol-Cardiff, 

3. Cambridge, 

4. Canterbury 

5. Leeds 

6. Leicester 

7. London, 

8. Manchester 

9. Oxford 

10. Preston 

11. Scotland 

12. Southampton. 

- 10 - 



## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT  (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **Parishes, Missions and Proposed Missions** 

Each region comprises parishes, missions and proposed missions which are headed by Priests and supported by elected lay representatives. The basis for setting out this structure is the advancement of Catholic Faith and Christian beliefs for the benefit of the public by the statement of beliefs   of the SyroMalabar Catholic Church in particular and that of the Universal Catholic Church in general. 

Parishes are centers where the Eparchy owns a building and the celebration of Holy Mass and administering of sacraments are arranged on a regular basis. Missions and proposed missions are aimed towards this structured organisation, where missions are more structured with wider participation than proposed ones, but unlike parishes, both of them do not own a building. There are approximately 50,000 people who identify as Syro-Malabar faithful within the Eparchy. There are 4 parishes, 52 missions and 32 proposed missions spreading across 12 Regions.. This structure facilitates local collaboration and provides a collegiate environment. There are 68 priests actively rendering their service to the eparchy. The priest fulfils the central role in the parish/ Mission by administering sacraments, leading worship and supporting the faithful and the community at large. 26 commissions were established to facilitate various training, formation and empowerment programmes. 

## **Trustees** 

The trustees who served during the year and up to the date of signature of the financial statements were: 

Bishop B Mathew Reverend S Kuriakose Mr X Abraham Reverend A C James Reverend M Pinakkattu Mrs A Jackson Appointed December 2023 

The affairs of the charity are governed by the trustees of the CIO. Mr X Abraham and Reverend A C James were reappointed on 18th November 2022 and 23rd December 2022 respectively after serving their initial term of 3 years. Mrs A Jackson was appointed as a Trustee on 14th December 2023. These were unanimously agreed   by all trustees during the meetings held on, 8th November 2022, 23rd November 2022 and 14th December 2023. 

The trustees hold meetings on a regular basis to conduct the operations of the charity, to review the matters arising from various Eparchial Commissions and to drive the core purpose and objectives of the charity, as well as to agree on policy and compliance requirements. Other ad hoc meetings are held if required. The Trustees are committed to dealing with all statutory requirements including any concerns raised by the Charity Commission, local authorities etc. New trustee was introduced to their role and responsibilities by the Eparchial Finance Officer, at which, relevant Charity Commission literature is issued together with copies of the constitution of the CIO and the latest financial information available. As and when required, trustees attend formal and informal training sessions. 

The trustees regulate their functioning in accordance with the Charity Governance Code published by the Charity Commission in July 2017 as updated. 

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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT  (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **Eparchial Commissions** 

There are a number of commissions established focusing on various areas, as outlined below: 

1. The Finance Council meets on a regular basis to consider and take major decisions on financial matters. It deals with a multitude of financial and administrative aspects of the work of the Eparchy. 

2. The Bible Apostolate regularly meets to consider and take major decisions on matters relating to promotion of Biblical studies. 

3. The Catechesis Commission usually meets twice a year to discuss and take major decisions on faith formation. 

4. The Evangelisation Commission usually meets once a month to consider and take major decisions on the evangelisation programmes of the Eparchy. 

5. Women’s Forum meets twice in a month to discuss about organising events and activities for the integral growth of the women and family. 

6. Family Apostolate usually meets once in a month to reflect on matters concerning family empowerment. 

7. Vocation promotion commission promote the youth for identifying and encouraging Vocations to priesthood and religious life. 

8. The Data Protection (information Governess) Commission oversees the handling of personal data on the basis of the law of the land and the Data Protection policy of the Eparchy. 

9. The Safeguarding Commission is constituted as per the law of the land requires and under the guidance of CSAS. 

10. The Media Commission promotes the activities and teachings of the Church using all forms of media, including the diocesan website, and social & print media. 

11. The Property Commission works with the Eparchial Curia and individual parishes, missions and proposed missions, to deal with all property-related issues including acquiring new property for the use of communal worshipping etc. 

12. The Health & Safety Commission comprises individuals with relevant expertise and a commitment to maintaining a safe environment and making efforts to integrate health and safety principles seamlessly into the Eparchy’s activities. 

Apart from the above, the Trustees have established a few other commissions catering into certain niche categories in the eparchy, namely : Altar servers, Christian Unity, Faith & Justice, Church Choir, Doctors’ Forum, Family Units, Liturgy, Mission League, Migrants, Savio Friends, Spiritual Guidance, Youth Apostolate and IT Forum. 

These forums gather on a monthly or quarterly basis to discuss about pastoral and administrative matters, community engagement, collaboration and communication. They also address challenges or issues facing the Eparchy and find solutions collectively. 

The pastoral oversight of the charity is conducted by the Bishop in regular consultation with the Bishop’s Council (Eparchial Curia). This body assists the Bishop in all decisions affecting the life of the Eparchy. The Bishop also undertakes parish/mission/proposed mission visitations and presides over Eparchial events such as the Annual Eparchy Day etc. 

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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT  (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

The Chief Vicar General (Protosyncellus) is responsible for matters relating to the clergy in the Eparchy. Appointments to parishes, missions, proposed missions and other diocesan offices are made by the Bishop in consultation with the Bishop’s Council. 

The day-to-day legal and financial affairs of the charity are administered, (known within the Eparchy as the “Curial Office”) by the Eparchial Chancellor and Finance Officer respectively. They are assisted by paid staff and volunteers in the Finance, Property, Human Resources, Communications, Fundraising, Legal and Planning functions. 

Eparchial Finance Office is based at the Registered Office. The Eparchial Finance Office is functioning in concurrence with the Finance Council for the execution of the policies laid down by the Finance Council. The Finance Office co-ordinates the central finances and budgets of the Eparchy and supervise & collate accounting procedures of all parishes/missions/proposed missions and deals with all aspects of Gift Aided donations and salaries & allowances. 

The Eparchial Tribunal deals with marriage annulment petitions and the office of the Chancellor deals with other Canonical matters. 

There is also the Council of Priests called the College of Eparchial Consultors, which meets twice per year with the Bishop to discuss and give advice on a wide range of issues. 

At the Parish, Mission and Proposed Mission level, the priest in charge is responsible for all aspects of running his unit. Each unit is required to have a committee which meets regularly to support and advise the priest, particularly in the areas of pastoral and finance matters. A comprehensive “Financial and Administration Guidelines” are issued by the Eparchy. These guidelines are updated regularly and are the basis for internal audits. Pastoral Letters, circulars and letters are issued by the Bishop regularly through which policies are communicated to priests covering both liturgical/pastoral and, when required, financial and administrative matters. Further support is also available from the regional directors and the Eparchial Curia. 

## **Key management personnel and remuneration** 

The trustees consider that the Trustees of the CIO, the Vicar Generals, the Chancellor, the Finance Officer, together with the Finance Secretary are the key management personnel of the charity in charge of directing, controlling and running of the charity on a day to day basis. None of them are employees of the CIO, except the Finance Secretary. The trustees, except Mr Xavier Abraham and  Mrs A Jackson, are also functioning clergies of the Eparchy and are entrusted with pastoral services. They receive an allowance as providers of pastoral services. Their role as trustees are voluntary and do not receive any financial benefit of any kind to conduct their responsibilities as trustees of the CIO. Mr. Xavier Abraham and Mrs A Jackson are also rendering their services voluntarily as  Trustees, and do not receive any financial benefit of any kind. 

Details of trustees’& key management personnel’s remuneration; and related party transactions are disclosed in Note 23 to the accounts. Trustees are required to disclose all relevant interests and register them with the Finance Officer, and in accordance with the CIO’s policy, need to withdraw from decisions where a conflict of interest arises. 

- 13 - 



## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **TRUSTEES' REPORT  (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **Statement of trustees' responsibilities** 

The trustees are responsible for preparing the Trustees' Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). 

The law applicable to charities in England and Wales requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charity and of the incoming resources and application of resources of the charity for that year. 

In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to: 

- select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently; 

- observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP FRS102; 

- make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent; 

- state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements; and 

- prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in operation. 

The trustees are responsible for keeping sufficient accounting records that disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2011, the Charity (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 and the provisions of the trust deed. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. 

## **Going Concern** 

The CIO’s activities, together with the factors likely to affect its future development principal risks and uncertainties facing the CIO and its availability of unencumbered cash reserves are set out within the Trustees’ Report. Its financial position in terms of the year’s results, its assets and liabilities and movement in cash are set out in the primary financial statements. The current cash flow through donations of the faithful and benefactors is a strong basis for its future progress. The Trustees believe that, there are no material uncertainties about the CIO’s ability to continue as a going concern and that it is well placed to manage the potential risks. The Trustees therefore have a reasonable expectation that the CIO has adequate resources to continue its operations for the foreseeable future. Accordingly, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the annual report and accounts. 

## **Disclosure of information to auditor** 

Each of the trustees has confirmed that there is no information of which they are aware which is relevant to the audit, but of which the auditor is unaware. They have further confirmed that they have taken appropriate steps to identify such relevant information and to establish that the auditor is aware of such information. 

The trustees' report was approved by the Board of Trustees. 

.............................. 

## **Reverend A C James** 

Trustee 24/01/2024 Dated: ......................... 

- 14 - 



## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT** 

## **TO THE TRUSTEES OF CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **Opinion** 

We have audited the financial statements of Catholic Syro-Malabar Eparchy of Great Britain (the ‘charity’) for the year ended 31 March 2023 which comprise the statement of financial activities, the balance sheet, the statement of cash flows and the notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies. The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including FRS 102 _The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland_ (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). 

- In our opinion, the financial statements: 

- give a true and fair view of the state of the charity’s affairs as at 31 March 2023 and of its incoming resources and application of resources, for the year then ended; 

- have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and 

- have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011. 

## **Basis for opinion** 

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the _Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements_ section of our report. We are independent of the charity in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC’s Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. 

## **Conclusions relating to going concern** 

In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the trustees' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate. 

Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue. 

Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the trustees with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report. 

## **Other information** 

The other information comprises the information included in the annual report other than the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. The trustees are responsible for the other information contained within the annual report. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. 

We have nothing to report in this regard. 

- 15 - 



## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)** 

## **TO THE TRUSTEES OF CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **Matters on which we are required to report by exception** 

We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 require us to report to you if, in our opinion: 

- the information given in the financial statements is inconsistent in any material respect with the trustees' report; or 

- sufficient accounting records have not been kept; or 

- the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records; or 

- we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit. 

## **Responsibilities of trustees** 

As explained more fully in the statement of trustees' responsibilities, the trustees are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charity’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the trustees either intend to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. 

## **Auditor's responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements** 

We have been appointed as auditor under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 and report in accordance with the Act and relevant regulations made or having effect thereunder. 

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. 

Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud, is detailed below. 

- Enquiries with management about any known or suspected instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations; 

- Enquiries with management about any known or suspected instances of fraud; 

- Review minutes of meetings of those charged with governance; 

- Review of legal and professional expenditure to identify any evidence of ongoing litigation or enquiries. 

Owing to the inherent limitations of an audit, there is an unavoidable risk that some material misstatements in the financial statements may not be detected, even thought the audit is properly planned and performed in accordance with the ISAs (UK). For instance, the further removed the non-compliance is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, the less likely the audit is to become aware of it or to recognise the non compliance. 

A further description of our responsibilities is available on the Financial Reporting Council’s website at: https:// www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditor's report. 

- 16 - 



## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT (CONTINUED)** 

## **TO THE TRUSTEES OF CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

Your attention is drawn to the fact that the charity has prepared financial statements in accordance with "Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)" (as amended) in preference to the Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice issued on 1 April 2005 which is referred to in the extant regulations but has now been withdrawn. 

This has been done in order for the financial statements to provide a true and fair view in accordance with current Generally Accepted Accounting Practice. 

## **Use of our report** 

This report is made solely to the charity’s trustees, as a body, in accordance with part 4 of the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the charity's trustees those matters we are required to state to them in an auditors' report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charity and the charity’s trustees as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed. 


## **MHA Moore and Smalley** 

26/01/2024 ......................... 

**Chartered Accountants Statutory Auditor** 

Richard House 9 Winckley Square Preston PR1 3HP 

MHA Moore and Smalley is eligible for appointment as auditor of the charity by virtue of its eligibility for appointment as auditor of a company under of section 1212 of the Companies Act 2006. 

- 17 - 



## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES INCLUDING INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

|**Unrestricted**<br>**Restricted Endowment**<br>**funds**<br>**funds**<br>**funds**<br>**2023**<br>**2023**<br>**2023**<br>**Notes**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**Income and endowments from:**<br>Donations and legacies<br>**3**<br>2,068,423<br>-<br>-<br>Charitable activities<br>**4**<br>-<br>178,631<br>-<br>Other trading activities<br>**5**<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>Investments<br>**6**<br>152<br>-<br>-<br>Other income<br>**7**<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>**Total income and endowments**<br>2,068,575<br>178,631<br>-<br>**Expenditure on:**<br>Charitable activities<br>**8**<br>1,697,939<br>-<br>-<br>Other<br>**13**<br>11,541<br>-<br>-<br>**Total resources expended**<br>1,709,480<br>-<br>-<br>**Net income / (expenditure)**<br>359,095<br>178,631<br>-<br>Transfers between funds<br>178,631<br>(178,631)<br>-<br>**Net movement in funds**<br>537,726<br>-<br>-<br>Fund balances at 1 April 2022<br>1,901,629<br>-<br>1,300,000<br>**Fund balances at 31 March 2023**<br>2,439,355<br>-<br>1,300,000|**Total**<br>**2023**<br>**£**<br>2,068,423<br>178,631<br>-<br>152<br>-<br>2,247,206<br>1,697,939<br>11,541<br>1,709,480<br>537,726<br>-<br>537,726<br>3,201,629<br>3,739,355|Total<br>2022<br>**£**<br>1,718,849<br>273,027<br>6,707<br>-<br>1,010|
|---|---|---|
|||1,999,593|
|||1,367,470|
|||4,179|
|||1,371,649|
|||627,944<br>-|
|||627,944<br>2,573,685|
|||3,201,629|



The statement of financial activities includes all gains and losses recognised in the year. 

All income and expenditure derive from continuing activities. 

- 18 - 



## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **BALANCE SHEET** 

## **AS AT 31 MARCH 2023** 

|**Notes**<br>**Fixed assets**<br>Tangible assets<br>**14**<br>**Current assets**<br>Debtors<br>**15**<br>Cash at bank and in hand<br>**Creditors: amounts falling due within**<br>**one year**<br>**17**<br>Net current assets<br>**Total assets less current liabilities**<br>**Creditors: amounts falling due after**<br>**more than one year**<br>**18**<br>**Net assets**<br>**Funds of the Charity**<br>Endowment fund<br>**Income funds**<br>Unrestricted funds|**2023**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>2,609,857<br>19,045<br>1,519,500<br>1,538,545<br>(206,456)<br>1,332,089<br>3,941,946<br>(202,591)<br>3,739,355<br>1,300,000<br>2,439,355<br>3,739,355|**2022**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>2,512,063<br>190,963<br>1,006,858<br>1,197,821<br>(285,648)<br>912,173<br>3,424,236<br>(222,607)<br>3,201,629<br>1,300,000<br>1,901,629<br>3,201,629|
|---|---|---|



24/01/2024 

The financial statements were approved by the Trustees on ......................... 

.............................. Reverend A C James **Trustee** 

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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

|**Notes**<br>**Cash flows from operating activities**<br>Cash generated from operations<br>**23**<br>**Investing activities**<br>Purchase of tangible fixed assets<br>Investment income received<br>**Net cash used in investing activities**<br>**Financing activities**<br>Proceeds from borrowings<br>Repayment of borrowings<br>Proceeds of new bank loans<br>Repayment of bank loans<br>**Net cash generated from financing**<br>**activities**<br>**Net increase in cash and cash equivalents**<br>Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year<br>**Cash and cash equivalents at end of year**|**2023**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>589,511<br>(129,414)<br>152<br>(129,262)<br>114,542<br>(57,358)<br>-<br>(4,791)<br>52,393<br>512,642<br>1,006,858<br>1,519,500|**2022**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>724,491<br>(672,437)<br>-<br>(672,437)<br>42,951<br>(5,093)<br>210,000<br>(2,300)<br>245,558<br>297,612<br>709,246<br>1,006,858|
|---|---|---|



- 20 - 



## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **1 Accounting policies** 

## **Charity information** 

Catholic Syro-Malabar Eparchy of Great Britain is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation registered in England and Wales. The registered office is St Alphonsa Cathedral, St Ignatius Presbytery, St Ignatius Square, Preston, PR1 1TT. 

## **1.1 Accounting convention** 

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the charity's governing document,  the Charities Act 2011 and “Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)” (effective October 2019). The charity is a Public Benefit Entity as defined by FRS 102. 

The financial statements have departed from the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 only to the extent required to provide a true and fair view. This departure has involved following the Statement of Recommended Practice for charities applying FRS 102 rather than the version of the Statement of Recommended Practice which is referred to in the Regulations but which has since been withdrawn. 

The financial statements are prepared in sterling, which is the functional currency of the charity. Monetary amounts in these financial statements are rounded to the nearest £. 

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, modified to include the revaluation of freehold properties and to include investment properties and certain financial instruments at fair value. The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below. 

## **1.2 Going concern** 

The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis and the trustees believe that no material uncertainties exist.  The Trustees consider that the charity has sufficient reserves to meet liabilities as they fall due for at a period of at least twelve months from the date of signing the accounts and the accounts should therefore continue to be prepared on a going concern basis. 

## **1.3 Charitable funds** 

Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of their charitable objectives. 

Restricted funds are subject to specific conditions by donors as to how they may be used. The purposes and uses of the restricted funds are set out in the notes to the financial statements. 

Endowment funds are subject to specific conditions by donors that the capital must be maintained by the charity. 

## **1.4 Incoming resources** 

Income is recognised when the charity is legally entitled to it after any performance conditions have been met, the amounts can be measured reliably, and it is probable that income will be received. 

Cash donations are recognised on receipt. Other donations are recognised once the charity has been notified of the donation, unless performance conditions require deferral of the amount. 

Grants are recognised when the charity is entitled to the income. 

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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **1 Accounting policies** 

**(Continued)** 

## **1.5 Resources expended** 

Expenditure is recognised on an accruals basis.  Expenditure includes any VAT which cannot be fully recovered, and is reported as part of the expenditure to which it relates. 

Expenditure on charitable activities comprise the costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activities and services in the furtherance of its objects, including the making of grants and governance costs. 

## **1.6 Tangible fixed assets** 

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses. 

Depreciation is recognised so as to write off the cost or valuation of assets less their residual values over their useful lives on the following bases: 

Freehold land and buildings not depreciated Property improvements 2% p.a. straight line Fixtures and fittings 20% p.a. straight lline 

The gain or loss arising on the disposal of an asset is determined as the difference between the sale proceeds and the carrying value of the asset, and is recognised in net income/(expenditure) for the year. 

- **1.7 Impairment of fixed assets** 

At each reporting end date, the charity reviews the carrying amounts of its tangible assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated in order to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any). 

## **1.8 Cash and cash equivalents** 

Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. 

## **1.9 Financial instruments** 

The charity has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 ‘Basic Financial Instruments’ and Section 12 ‘Other Financial Instruments Issues’ of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments. 

Financial instruments are recognised in the charity's balance sheet when the charity becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument. 

Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously. 

## _**Basic financial assets**_ 

Basic financial assets, which include debtors and cash and bank balances, are initially measured at transaction price including transaction costs and are subsequently carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial assets classified as receivable within one year are not amortised. 

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**CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **1 Accounting policies** 

## **(Continued)** 

## _**Basic financial liabilities**_ 

Basic financial liabilities, including creditors and bank loans are initially recognised at transaction price unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest. Financial liabilities classified as payable within one year are not amortised. 

Debt instruments are subsequently carried at amortised cost, using the effective interest rate method. 

Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of operations from suppliers. Amounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are recognised initially at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. 

## _**Derecognition of financial liabilities**_ 

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the charity’s contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled. 

## **1.10 Employee benefits** 

The cost of any unused holiday entitlement is recognised in the period in which the employee’s services are received. 

Termination benefits are recognised immediately as an expense when the charity is demonstrably committed to terminate the employment of an employee or to provide termination benefits. 

## **1.11 Retirement benefits** 

Payments to defined contribution retirement benefit schemes are charged as an expense as they fall due. 

## **2 Critical accounting estimates and judgements** 

In the application of the charity’s accounting policies, the trustees are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amount of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates. 

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised where the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods where the revision affects both current and future periods. 

## **Key sources of estimation uncertainty** 

## **Valuation of land and buildings** 

The valuation of land and buildings is based on the estimated market value at the time of transfer.  It is not considered appropriate to depreciate the land and buildings donated to the Charity given the age and use of the buildings.  Property improvements are depreciated based on a estimate of their useful economic life. 

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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

|**3**<br>**Donations and legacies**<br>Donations and gifts<br>Legacies receivable<br>**4**<br>**Charitable activities**<br>Grant income<br>Historic England<br>Other grant<br>**5**<br>**Other trading activities**<br>Fundraising events<br>**6**<br>**Investments**<br>Interest receivable|**Unrestricted**<br>**funds**<br>**2023**<br>**£**<br>2,062,423<br>6,000<br>2,068,423|Total<br>2022<br>£<br>1,718,849<br>-|
|---|---|---|
|||1,718,849|
||||
||**Grant**<br>**income**<br>Grant income<br>**2023**<br>2022<br>**£**<br>£<br>178,631<br>273,027<br>152,881<br>223,496<br>25,750<br>49,531<br>178,631<br>273,027<br>**Total** Unrestricted<br>funds<br>**2023**<br>2022<br>**£**<br>£<br>-<br>6,707<br>**Unrestricted**<br>Total<br>**funds**<br>**2023**<br>2022<br>**£**<br>£<br>152<br>-||
|||Total<br>2022<br>£<br>-|



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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **7 Other income** 

||**Total**|Unrestricted|
|---|---|---|
|||funds|
||**2023**|2022|
||**£**|£|
|Rental income|-|1,010|



## **8 Charitable activities** 

|Staff costs<br>Depreciation and impairment<br>Bible convention and seminary<br>Special events<br>Motor and travel costs<br>Premises costs<br>General administrative costs<br>Clergy allowance<br>Clergy expenditure<br>Rent and rates<br>Pious expenditure<br>Liturgy/ Catechism costs<br>Professional services<br>Share of governance costs (see note 9)|**2023**<br>**£**<br>34,486<br>31,619<br>36,191<br>192,908<br>83,405<br>256,531<br>154,468<br>402,143<br>100,671<br>317,429<br>3,989<br>69,533<br>6,388<br>1,689,761<br>8,178<br>1,697,939|**2022**<br>**£**<br>30,625<br>38,305<br>32,501<br>145,820<br>42,096<br>237,498<br>46,346<br>381,140<br>49,237<br>230,021<br>57,028<br>62,043<br>9,230|
|---|---|---|
|||1,361,890<br>5,580|
|||1,367,470|



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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

|**9**<br>**Support costs**<br>**Support**<br>**costs**<br>**Governance**<br>**costs**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>Audit fees<br>-<br>6,628<br>Accountancy<br>-<br>1,550<br>-<br>8,178<br>Analysed between<br>Charitable activities<br>-<br>8,178<br>**10**<br>**Auditor's remuneration**<br>The analysis of auditor's remuneration is as follows:<br>**Fees payable to the charity's auditor and associates:**<br>Audit of the charity's annual accounts<br>**Non-audit services**<br>All other non-audit services|**2023**<br>Support<br>costs<br>Governance<br>costs<br>**£**<br>£<br>£<br>6,628<br>-<br>4,250<br>1,550<br>-<br>1,330<br>8,178<br>-<br>5,580<br>8,178<br>-<br>5,580<br>**2023**<br>**£**<br>6,628<br>1,550|2022<br>£<br>4,250<br>1,330|
|---|---|---|
|||5,580|
|||5,580|
|||**2022**<br>**£**<br>4,250|
||||
||||
|||2,520|



## **11 Trustees** 

None of the trustees (or any persons connected with them) received any remuneration or benefits from the charity during the year. No trustees were reimbursed for travel expenses during the year. 

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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **12 Employees** 

## **Number of employees** 

The average monthly number of employees during the year was: 

||**2023**|**2022**|
|---|---|---|
||**Number**|**Number**|
||2|2|
|**Employment costs**|**2023**|**2022**|
||**£**|**£**|
|Wages and salaries|31,246|27,984|
|Social security costs|2,614|2,105|
|Other pension costs|626|536|
||34,486|30,625|



There were no employees whose annual remuneration was £60,000 or more. 

## **13 Other** 

|**Unrestricted**<br>**funds**<br>**2023**<br>Loan interest<br>11,541<br>11,541|Total<br>2022<br>£<br>4,179|
|---|---|
||4,179|



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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

|**14**<br>**Tangible fixed assets**<br>**Freehold land**<br>**and buildings**<br>**Property**<br>**improvements**<br>**Fixtures and**<br>**fittings**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**Cost**<br>At 1 April 2022<br>1,600,000<br>960,450<br>32,502<br>Additions<br>-<br>98,883<br>30,531<br>At 31 March 2023<br>1,600,000<br>1,059,333<br>63,033<br>**Depreciation and impairment**<br>At 1 April 2022<br>-<br>65,002<br>15,889<br>Depreciation charged in the year<br>-<br>20,744<br>10,874<br>At 31 March 2023<br>-<br>85,746<br>26,763<br>**Carrying amount**<br>At 31 March 2023<br>1,600,000<br>973,587<br>36,270<br>At 31 March 2022<br>1,600,000<br>895,450<br>16,613<br>**15**<br>**Debtors**<br>**2023**<br>**Amounts falling due within one year:**<br>**£**<br>Other debtors<br>10,185<br>Prepayments and accrued income<br>8,860<br>19,045<br>**16**<br>**Loans and overdrafts**<br>**2023**<br>**£**<br>Bank loans<br>202,909<br>Other loans<br>120,042<br>322,951<br>Payable within one year<br>120,360<br>Payable after one year<br>202,591|**Total**<br>**£**<br>2,592,952<br>129,414|
|---|---|
||2,722,366|
||80,891<br>31,618|
||112,509|
||2,609,857|
||2,512,063|
||**2022**<br>**£**<br>154,021<br>36,942|
||190,963|
||**2022**<br>**£**<br>207,700<br>62,858|
||270,558|
||47,951<br>222,607|



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## **CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)** 

## **FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **17 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year** 

|**Notes**<br>Bank loans<br>**16**<br>Other borrowings<br>Other creditors<br>Accruals and deferred income<br>**18**<br>**Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one**<br>**year**<br>**Notes**<br>Bank loans<br>**16**<br>Other borrowings|**2023**<br>**£**<br>5,318<br>115,042<br>36,839<br>49,257<br>206,456<br>**2023**<br>**£**<br>197,591<br>5,000<br>202,591|**2022**<br>**£**<br>5,093<br>42,858<br>5,249<br>232,448|
|---|---|---|
|||285,648|
|||**2022**<br>**£**<br>202,607<br>20,000|
|||222,607|



## **19 Restricted funds** 

The income funds of the charity include restricted funds comprising the following unexpended balances of donations and grants held on trust for specific purposes: 

||**Movement in funds**|**Movement in funds**||**Movement in funds**|**Movement in funds**||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
||**Incoming**|**Transfers**|**Balance at**|**Incoming**|**Transfers**|**Balance at**|
||**resources**||**1 April 2022**|**resources**|**31**|**March 2023**|
||**£**|**£**|**£**|**£**|**£**|**£**|
|Other|23,871|(23,871)|-|-|-|-|
|Historical England|223,406|(223,406)|-|152,881|(152,881)|-|
|Jesuit grant re seminary|25,750|(25,750)|-|25,750|(25,750)|-|
||273,027|(273,027)|-|178,631|(178,631)|-|



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## 

||Total||2022|£||||2,512,063|912,173|(222,607)|3,201,629|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||||||||||
||Endowment|funds|2022|£||||1,300,000|-|-|1,300,000|
|||||||||||||
||Restricted|funds|2022|£||||-|-|-|-|
||Unrestricted|funds|2022|£||||1,212,063|912,173|(222,607)|1,901,629|
||**Total**||**2023**|**£**||||2,609,857|1,332,089|(202,591)|3,739,355|
||**Restricted**<br>**Endowment**|**funds**<br>**funds**|**2023**<br>**2023**|**£**<br>**£**||||-<br>1,300,000|-<br>-|-<br>-|-<br>1,300,000|
||**Unrestricted**|**funds**|**2023**|**£**||||1,309,857|1,332,089|(202,591)|2,439,355|
|**Analysis of net assets between funds**|||||Fund balances at 31 March 2023 are represented||by:|Tangible assets|Current assets/(liabilities)|Long term liabilities||
|**20**||||||||||||





**CATHOLIC SYRO-MALABAR EPARCHY OF GREAT BRITAIN** 

## **NOTES TO THE  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2023** 

## **21 Operating lease commitments** 

At the reporting end date the charity had outstanding commitments for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases, which fall due as follows: 

|Within one year<br>Between two and five years<br>In over five years|**2023**<br>**£**<br>30,569<br>101,700<br>6,250<br>138,519|**2022**<br>**£**<br>5,250<br>-<br>-|
|---|---|---|
|||5,250|



## **22 Related party transactions** 

There were no disclosable related party transactions during the year (2022 - none). 

All Trustees, other than Mr X Abraham and Mrs A Jackson are practising clergies of the Diocese and receive an allowance for their pastoral services.   The Trustees do not receive remuneration for their work as Trustees. 

|**23**<br>**Cash generated from operations**<br>Surplus for the year<br>Adjustments for:<br>Investment income recognised in statement of financial activities<br>Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets<br>Movements in working capital:<br>Decrease/(increase) in debtors<br>(Decrease)/increase in creditors<br>**Cash generated from operations**<br>24<br>**Analysis of changes in net funds**<br>**At 1 April 2022**<br>**£**<br>Cash at bank and in hand<br>1,006,858<br>Loans falling due within one year<br>(47,951)<br>Loans falling due after more than one year<br>(222,607)<br>736,300|**2023**<br>**2022**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>537,726<br>627,944<br>(152)<br>-<br>31,619<br>38,305<br>171,919<br>(81,571)<br>(151,601)<br>139,813<br>589,511<br>724,491<br>**Cash flowsAcquisitions and**<br>**disposals**<br>**At 31 March 2023**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>**£**<br>512,642<br>-<br>1,519,500<br>42,133<br>(114,542)<br>(120,360)<br>20,016<br>-<br>(202,591)<br>574,791<br>(114,542)<br>1,196,549|**2022**<br>**£**<br>627,944<br>-<br>38,305<br>(81,571)<br>139,813|
|---|---|---|
|||724,491|
|||1,196,549|



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