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← Great Harwood Christian Fellowship

2024-03-31-accounts

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Great Harwood Christan Fellowship Annual Report 2024 – (Covering Financial Year April 2023 March 2024) Charity Registraton Number: 1174952 Date of Annual General Meeting : Thursday 9[th] May 2024

Aim and Purposes

The aim and purposes of the Church are:

The advancement of the Christian faith in accordance with the Basis of Faith primarily but not exclusively within Great Harwood and the surrounding neighbourhood; and such other charitable purposes as shall, in the opinion of the charity trustees, put into practice the Christian faith in accordance with the Basis of Faith, including but not limited to: the prevention and relief of need, hardship and sickness; the advancement of education; and the provision of facilities in the interests of social welfare for recreation or other leisure time occupation of individuals who have need of such facilities by reason of their youth, age infirmity or disability, financial hardship or social circumstances with the object of improving their conditions of life; Provided that the advancement of such purposes must be undertaken in a manner that is consistent with the Doctrinal Distinctives and Ethical Statements as may be adopted and amended by the Church from time to time in accordance with the provisions of the Church Handbook.

Objectves and Actvites

GHCF promotes the Christian faith by providing a weekly programme of events which are open to everyone and provided free of charge. In particular, we try and support people in their Christian faith by providing:

Times of Worship and Prayer where the gospel message is clearly shared and believers are built up and strengthened in their faith.

Pastoral care for those who need support.

Information about Missionary and Outreach work – sharing the Christian gospel with others, both at home and overseas.

Mercy ministries – helping to provide for those in need.

In order to provide these services, it is important that we maintain our property on commercial Road, Great Harwood in accordance with all appropriate guidelines.

Pastor’s Report May 2024

Francois Van Staden

Introduction

Dear Brothers and sisters in Christ, grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. As we gather for our Annual Members Meeting here at Great Harwood Christian Fellowship, I am reminded of the apostle Paul’s words to the Ephesian church: "Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called" (Ephesians 4:1).

This meeting is a significant occasion in the life of our church, a time when we gather to reflect on the blessings and challenges of the past year and to prayerfully set our course for the future. It is a time to affirm our commitment to the Lord and to one another, ensuring that our fellowship remains steadfast in its mission to glorify God and to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As members of this body of Christ, each of you plays a vital role in the shaping and steering of our church’s direction. Your insights, prayers, and participation are crucial as we review our ministries, financial stewardship, and strategic goals. Let us come together with humble hearts and a unified spirit, ready to listen, to learn, and to lead as the Lord guides us.

The Church

1.1 The Mission of the Church

The mission of the New Testament church is to glorify God through the proclamation of the Gospel and the making of disciples in all nations. Rooted in the Great Commission, Jesus commands us, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:19-20). This mission encompasses evangelism and education, spreading the good news of Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection, which offers salvation to all who believe. Furthermore, the church is called to be a community of love and service, reflecting the character of Christ through acts of kindness, mercy, and justice. As we embody the fruits of the Spirit, we are to love our neighbours as ourselves, demonstrating the transformative power of Christ's love in our lives.

Ultimately, the New Testament church exists to worship God in spirit and truth (John 4:24),

encourage and equip believers for godly living, and serve as a beacon of hope to a broken world, all for the glory of God and the advancement of His Kingdom.

1.2 Vision for 2024

A Visible Church

In 2024, the Great Harwood Christian Fellowship (GHCF) will stand as a beacon of hope and a testament to God’s love in our communities. As Christ's ambassadors, we are called to be visible in our testimony and unwavering in our commitment to the Gospel. "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). This divine truth compels us to reach out, not only within Great Harwood but also to the neighbouring areas of Rishton, Clayton-Le-Moors, Accrington, Clitheroe, and Blackburn, showing the light of Christ in every action and interaction.

A Praying Church

As commanded by our Lord Jesus, prayer is the lifeblood of our fellowship. "Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up" (Luke 18:1). In 2024, GHCF will deepen its commitment to prayer, fostering a robust prayer life that undergirds every ministry and mission we undertake. Through continuous, fervent prayer, we will seek God's guidance and strength, ensuring that we remain aligned with His will and purposes. A praying church is a fortified church, equipped to face challenges and embrace opportunities with divine wisdom and insight.

A Serving Church

Following the Scripture’s call to "outdo one another in showing honor" (Romans 12:10) and to "love your neighbour as yourself" (Mark 12:31), our mission extends beyond words into tangible acts of kindness and service. In

2024, GHCF will expand its outreach and service initiatives, actively seeking ways to demonstrate the fruits of the Spirit: "love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control" (Galatians 5:22-23). Whether it's through community support programs, aiding those in need, or partnering with local organizations, our actions will speak of our love and commitment to those around us.

Ambassadors of the Kingdom

GHCF is not just a gathering of believers; we are an embassy of the Kingdom of God, representing Christ in a world that yearns for hope and salvation. As ambassadors, we are tasked with a high and holy calling—to witness to the dying world around us. "Therefore, we are

ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God" (2 Corinthians 5:20). In every endeavor, our goal is to reflect the character of Christ, inviting all to come to know Him as Lord and Saviour.

Conclusion

In 2024, Great Harwood Christian Fellowship will strive to be a visible, praying, and serving church, embodying the love and grace of Jesus Christ. As we reach out to our immediate communities and those further afield, we will remain steadfast in our mission to glorify God and make disciples. By living out our faith openly, praying without ceasing, and serving with joy, we will effectively communicate the life-changing message of the Gospel and fulfill our role as faithful stewards of the mysteries of God(1 Corinthians 4:1). Together, as a church united in purpose and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we will step into 2024 with anticipation, ready to embrace all that God has planned for us as we seek to advance His Kingdom on Earth.

2. 1689 Second London Baptist Confession of Faith

In January 2024 the Elders sent out a letter to update the members of certain developments in the church as the AGM was still over three months away.

The first of which is the adoption of the 1689 Second London Baptist Confession of Faith. As we navigate through times where societal norms increasingly depart from biblical teachings, the need for a clear and robust declaration of our faith becomes ever more crucial. In light of this, after prayerful consideration and discussion, the elders of GHCF have resolved that our church would be well served by adopting a more comprehensive Statement of Faith. We are thus proposing the adoption of the 1689 Second London Baptist Confession of Faith to serve as our Statement of Faith. This historic document is renowned for its thorough treatment of doctrinal truths, rooted in the infallibility and sufficiency of the Holy Scriptures as outlined in 2 Timothy 3:15–17, Isaiah 8:20, Luke 16:29, 31; and Ephesians 2:20. One of the paramount reasons for this adoption is the need for unequivocal clarity on the Biblical definition of marriage as a covenant between one man and one woman (Genesis 2:24; Malachi 2:15; Matthew 19:5, 6), especially as the foundational principles of family and God’s ordained order face increasing challenges in our society. We believe that the current statement, though true, lacks the depth and clarity needed to defend the gospel that was once for all delivered to the saints. We encourage every member of GHCF to diligently read the1689 Second London Baptist Confession of Faith. We welcome your questions or concerns regarding this important document. Please bring them to the attention of the elders at your earliest convenience but no later than the end of April 2024. Should there be any issues that require further discussion, the eldership is more than willing to meet with individual members to provide clarification and address any questions. Please understand that the adoption of the 1689 Confession is intended to enhance our doctrinal clarity and not to alter the primary theology or beliefs of our church. Our commitment to the gospel and the teachings of Jesus Christ remains steadfast. We look forward to engaging with you on this matter and are praying for God’s wisdom and guidance as we seek to uphold His truth in our fellowship and beyond.

3. Church Officers:

3.1 Elders

Francois van Staden - Pastor/Teaching Elder

NC - Elder

J W - Elder

DR - Elder in Training

We are pleased to announce that DR has been nominated and has graciously accepted the offer to spend the upcoming year in a role we are designating as 'elder in training.' This period of service is essential in discerning

the call to eldership. It is not an automatic ascension to the role of an elder but a time for both the individual and the church to affirm this calling through service, growth,

prayer and mutual evaluation. The eldership is committed to raising up leaders from within our congregation at Great Harwood Christian Fellowship. This vision is central to ensuring that we have a continuous line of faithful and capable men to lead our church into the future. By investing in those who have shown potential and a heart for service, we are preparing for the health and vitality of our fellowship for years to come.

3.2 Deacons

MMcC CMcC SCC GSR

JB

PI – P has tendered his resignation as a deacon as he feels that having served as a deacon he realizes that he is gifted to serve in other areas of the church.

P continues to serve in the church as the team leader for Epic Youth. We want to thank P for his efforts over the last year as a deacon.

4. Church Growth

4.1 Young Families

We are deeply grateful to the Lord for the blessing of young families that He has brought to our church over the past year. Among these blessings are the newest additions: baby G to the McC family and baby S to the W family. It is truly a joy to hear the sounds of babies in our services—a reminder of life and growth, especially when some congregations lack these blessed noises. We continue to pray that God will graciously bring more young families into our church community.

4.2 New People

We are profoundly thankful for each individual the Lord has brought to our church over the past year, not just the young families but people from all walks of life. Our journey of discipleship is flourishing, with courses such as Discipleship Explored that build on the foundations laid in Christianity Explored. We praise the Lord for the growth and engagement we’ve seen in these programs. As we move forward, we remain committed to investing in and discipling believers of all ages, nurturing their faith and helping them grow deeper in their relationship with Christ.

5. Church Ministries:

5.1 Past

5.2 New:

5.3 Teams still needed:

6. Church Meetings

6.1 Sunday Services

a.Morning

We are grateful to the Lord for the consistent attendance of 70-85 people at our morning services, where so many gather to hear the Word of God faithfully preached. Over the past year, we have had the privilege of delving deeply into the books of Hebrews and Philippians, as well as exploring the Covenants of God. In the coming weeks, we are excited to begin a new sermon series through the book of Romans.

b. Evening

In line with our commitment to the edification of the body through the Word, Great Harwood Christian Fellowship reinstated Sunday evening services, from the first Sunday evening in February 2024.

The services are held at 6pm and conclude at 7pm every week. This enables everyone to attend ensuring that both young and old can get home and prepare for Monday morning school and work. Those who want to fellowship a bit longer of course do so.

We encourage everyone to attend both services. This decision is motivated by our recognition that there are currently no other churches in the local area offering evening services. Thus, we are presented with a unique opportunity to minister to those within our community who are seeking additional times of worship and teaching. This development is not merely about increasing the number of services we offer; it is about deepening the spiritual nourishment available to our congregation and extending our reach within the community. As we grow in the number of capable, Spirit-led preachers, we anticipate a richer tapestry of biblical exposition that will benefit all who attend. Please join us for this new chapter in our church's life, for the preparation and delivery of these additional services, and for the spiritual growth of our congregation as we delve deeper into God's Word together.

6.2 Prayer Meeting

I am writing to share the wonderful news of God’s faithfulness in responding to our collective prayers during our Tuesday evening prayer meetings. Over the past year, we have seen consistent participation, with attendance ranging from 13 to 28 faithful souls each week. It is a profound testament to the power of prayer and the gracious hand of God moving among us, as many prayers have indeed been answered by our Lord. In light of the blessings we have witnessed and the challenges we face as a church and a community, I want to extend a heartfelt invitation to each of you to join us for this vital prayer gathering. We meet every Tuesday evening, a time set aside for us to come before God with our praises, petitions, and thanksgivings.

We understand the evenings can be dark and travel may be a concern for some. Please do not let this deter you. We are more than willing to arrange transportation to ensure that everyone who desires to join can do so without hesitation. If you need a ride to the prayer meeting, simply let us

know, and we will take care of the rest.

The imperative for GHCF to be a praying church cannot be overstated. Considering the state of our church, our country, the economy, government, and societal norms, as well as ungodly ideologies that seek to infiltrate our schools and the very fabric of our lives, it is crucial that we stand vigilant in prayer. The Scripture reminds us, "The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective" (James 5:16). As the church, we must be constantly on our knees, for this is when we wield the greatest power— through Jesus Christ, our Redeemer. Please, consider making our Tuesday prayer meetings a regular part of your spiritual discipline. Together, as a congregation united in prayer, we can expect to see God work mightily among us and through us.

Looking forward to seeing many more join this vital time of fellowship and prayer.

6.3 Equipping the Saints (Training)

As your pastor and brother in the Lord, I find it imperative to address the profound necessity for each of us to grow and mature in our faith. This spiritual maturity is not merely an option but a crucial aspect of our walk with Christ. The Apostle Peter urges us, "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 3:18). Growth in grace is inseparable from growth in knowledge; the two go hand in hand as we deepen our understanding of who God is and what He has done for us. It is essential for believers not only to read the Bible and pray but also to diligently study the doctrines we hold dear. These doctrines form the backbone of our faith—they guide our understanding of Scripture, inform our worldviews, and equip us for every good work. In a culture increasingly detached from biblical truth, it is more important than ever that we know what we believe and why we believe it, and that we are prepared "to make a defence to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you" (1 Peter 3:15). To aid in this essential aspect of Christian growth, we have initiated "Equipping the Saints" every Wednesday at 2 pm. This program is specially designed to delve into the doctrines that anchor our faith. Under the capable leadership of FVS and DT, who bring a wealth of biblical knowledge and a passion for teaching, these sessions are an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their theological understanding and spiritual fortitude.

This is not merely an academic exercise but a spiritual imperative. As society drifts further from God's Word as the standard of truth, the clarity and conviction with which we hold and express our beliefs must shine all the brighter. We must be a people who not only know our God but can articulate the truth of His Word with confidence and grace to a world in desperate need.

I strongly encourage each of you to make it a priority to attend these Wednesday sessions. Whether you are a new believer or a seasoned saint, there is much to gain from dedicating time to the study of God’s truth. Let us commit together to being a church not only filled with believers but equipped disciples, ready and able to carry the truth of the Gospel into our families, workplaces, and communities. Looking forward to seeing many of you there as we grow together in the wisdom and knowledge of our Lord.

7. KiEL

After much consideration and prayer, we have decided to withdraw from hosting the Keswick in East Lancashire (KiEL) conference at our church premises. This decision was not made lightly, and we want to ensure that the congregation understands the reasons behind it. The eldership of GHCF firmly believes in the responsibility of overseeing the teaching that is imparted from our pulpit. This stewardship extends to all who attend our services, whether regular members or visitors. Recently, we have observed a decline in attendance and had some concerns regarding the teachings of the last two speakers invited by the KiEL conference. We presented our questions and suggestions to the KiEL board; however, the responses we received were not wholly receptive.

8. GHCF Events

8.1 Road to the Gospel - Engaging with Islam

On Saturday, May 18th, we will host a training day entitled "Road to the Gospel - Engaging with Islam." This event is free of charge and designed to equip you to navigate through the ten most common objections to Christianity and lead directly to the sharing of the Gospel.

Our primary aim in engaging with Muslims, Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons, and unbelievers is to communicate the Gospel clearly and effectively. We seek to avoid circular reasoning and focus on proclaiming the Gospel, for it is "the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes" (Romans1:16). Join us as we learn to uphold the truth of Scripture and extend the hope of Christ to all.

8.2 GHCF Annual Conferenc e

I am filled with great anticipation and joy as I extend this invitation to you for our upcoming annual GHCF Conference. This significant gathering is scheduled for Saturday, 21st September 2024, right here at Great Harwood Christian Fellowship. It promises to be a day rich in learning, fellowship, and spiritual growth.

We are profoundly blessed to have Dr. S R as our guest speaker for this year's conference. Dr. R is the lead pastor at Trinity Reformed Baptist Church in La Mirada, California.

Dr. R, a respected scholar and minister, brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for the Reformed Baptist heritage. His academic journey includes a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish Literature and Culture from the University of California, Irvine, an MDiv from Westminster Seminary California, and a Ph.D. from the Free University of Amsterdam. His dissertation, now published as From Shadow to Substance: The Federal Theology of English Particular Baptists (1642-1702) , alongside his other works like The Mystery of Christ, His Covenant, and His Kingdom , have contributed significantly to our understanding of Baptist covenant theology.

The conference will include four sessions, all led by Dr. R, focusing on themes that are central to our faith and practice. This is a unique opportunity to gain deeper insight into the riches of Scripture as expounded by a seasoned theologian.

Please note that attendance is limited to 150 seats, and the conference will operate on a registration basis. Registration will initially be open exclusively to GHCF members for the first three weeks, ensuring that you, our church family, have the first opportunity to join. Following this, registration will open to the Lancashire Reformed Baptist Fellowship and a select few other churches.

Details of the Conference:

Date : Saturday, 21st September 2024 Time : 09:00 to 17:00

Location : Great Harwood Christian Fellowship Registration : Open first to GHCF members for three weeks, then to wider fellowship We are also delighted to announce that Broken Warfe who are a distinctly confessional Baptist resource base in the UK consistent with the faith and life characterised by those churches affirming the Second London Baptist Confession of Faith will supply a range of theological books for the conference, transforming our small hall into a bookshop for the day. This will be a wonderful opportunity to enrich your personal libraries with sound theological resources. There will be ample time for tea, coffee, and fellowship, allowing you to connect and share with like-minded believers from our community and beyond.

We encourage you to mark your calendars and prepare your hearts for a day that we trust will be a milestone in our spiritual journey as a church family. Let us come together to be encouraged, edified, and equipped through the ministry of Dr. R. Looking forward to sharing this special day with each of you.

9. Training

9.1 Expository Preaching Academy

We are also excited to inform you that both D R and M McC will be undergoing homiletic training under the guidance of FVS. This training is in anticipation of adding both men to our preaching roster by mid-2024. Their development in this area is crucial, as preaching is a

significant part of shepherding the congregation. We ask you to support D and M in prayer as they undertake these responsibilities and training. May their service be a testament to their dedication to the Lord and His church. May the Lord bless this time of preparation and training, and may He continue to raise leaders who are after His own heart to guide His people.

9.2 Theology for ministry

Theology for Ministry is a theological discussion group tailored for the men of our church who are committed to deepening their understanding of theology. This group will reconvene in June. Our goal is to cultivate a steady and dedicated group of men who are eager to grow together in their grasp of theological doctrines and issues. This is an excellent opportunity for those serious about strengthening their theological foundation and enhancing their spiritual maturity.

10. Lancashire Reformed Baptist Fellowship

The Eldership would also like to provide an update on our association with the Lancashire Reformed Baptist Fellowship. Great Harwood Christian Fellowship is in loose affiliation with the Lancashire Reformed Baptist Fellowship (LRBF) as there is no formal membership. The LRBF is a collective of churches within the Lancashire area that share Reformed Baptist convictions. T F chairs this fellowship. Representatives from the member churches convene quarterly with a focus on intercessory prayer, specifically seeking revival in our nation. Another quarterly meeting is dedicated to Bible teaching, fellowship, and prayer, with the intent that through these gatherings, our churches will be fortified in faith and in mutual support. Below is the list of churches that are part of the Lancashire Reformed Baptist Fellowship:

  1. Peel Street Baptist Church, Accrington – www .peels t r e e t .o r g.uk 2. Aughton Park Baptist Church – www .aught onp arkb a p ti s t chur ch. o r g 3. Bethel Evangelical Church, Bolton – www .be thelbolt on. o r g 4. Radcliffe Road Baptist Church, Bury – www .rrbc - online. o r g 5. Chorley Evangelical Free Church – www . chorle y e v ang elic alfr eechur ch. o r g.uk 6. Free Grace Church, Lancaster – www .gr a c e b a p ti s tlanc a s t e r . chur ch 7. Bethany Evangelical Church, Leigh – www .be thany e v ang elic al . w eebly . c om 8. Parbold Evangelical Church – www.p arboldchur ch. o r g.uk 9. Ashton Baptist Church, Preston – www .asht onb a p ti s t .uk 10. North Preston Evangelical Church – www .npec. o r g.uk 11. Trinity Grace Church, Ramsbottom – www . trinitygr a c echur ch.ne t 4 12. Grace Baptist Church, Southport – www .gr a c e b a p ti s t .o r g.uk 13. Pemberton Free Grace Church, Wigan – www .pembert onfgc . o r g.uk 14. Great Harwood Christian Fellowship - www .ghcf . o r g.uk

We are encouraged by the unity and commitment displayed within this fellowship and are hopeful that our collective efforts will result in a strengthened body of believers, equipped to face the challenges of our times with steadfast faith and unwavering support for one another. We welcome any inquiries or comments regarding our involvement with the Lancashire Reformed Baptist Fellowship and encourage your active participation in the prayers and activities facilitated by this community of churches. In addition to the aforementioned updates, the elders would like to address the importance of Christian fellowship beyond the scope of our local church body. While Great Harwood Christian

Fellowship is an independent congregation, we firmly believe that no church is meant to stand in isolation. We are integrally connected to the universal church of God, which spans the globe and unites us all in the body of Christ. It is within this understanding that we emphasise the importance of fostering connections with like-minded churches in our local context. The elders hold to the conviction that our strength as a church is amplified when we stand in fellowship with believers from other congregations. Such relationships encourage mutual edification and collective witness to the truths of the gospel. In a time when secular ideologies pervade our culture, it is crucial that we, as the church, unite to affirm and spread the biblical doctrines that constitute our faith. By affiliating with the Lancashire Reformed Baptist Fellowship, we are not simply aligning ourselves with an organisation, but we are reinforcing the bonds that hold us together as followers of Christ. We believe that through this partnership, we will: • Strengthen our doctrinal foundations by learning from and supporting one another. • Increase our impact in the community through unified efforts and shared initiatives. • Provide a robust support network for our members, offering a broader community of faith to lean on. The scripture reminds us in Hebrews 10:24-25 to consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, but encouraging one another. This is the essence of why we seek to build and nurture relationships with fellow believers and congregations. 5 We welcome your thoughts and prayers as we pursue these connections, and we are excited to see how the Lord will work through these partnerships to strengthen His church.

11. Proposal for the vacant/derelict land next to the church.

GHCF has recently submitted a proposal for the currently vacant and derelict land adjacent to our church facilities. This document serves as a formal request for the adoption of the plot located at the intersection of Holgate Street and James Street, close to Great Harwood Christian Fellowship. In our initial discussions, including a productive meeting with Councillor SB who has shown robust support, we have outlined a vision that promises substantial community advantages.

Proposal Overview

Purpose and Usage of the Site

Our vision for the land is to develop a community 'peace' garden along with spaces for educational events, aiming to:

Foster community engagement and togetherness. Promote environmental sustainability. Enhance the well-being of local residents through accessible green spaces. Community Benefits

Adopting this land would offer:

A new communal area for recreation and social events. Improved local environmental practices with the introduction of a community-managed green space. Beautification of the area, enhancing local quality of life. Educational and skill-building opportunities for the community, particularly through volunteer projects and events. Educational partnerships with local primary schools for practical learning in growing fruit and vegetables. through: Grants, donations, and fundraising activities. Volunteer efforts from church members and the community. Possible partnerships with local businesses, Hyndburn Council, and Lancashire County Council. Next Steps

We are keen to discuss this proposal further with the Council to align on details and move forward cooperatively. For further information or to schedule a meeting, please contact me at 07944407434 or via email at communityoutreach@ghcf.org.uk.

The adoption of this land represents a significant opportunity to enhance our community's social and environmental landscape. We are excited about the potential to collaborate with the Council to realize this vision, contributing positively to our

community's development and sustainability.

Thank you for considering our proposal. We eagerly anticipate the possibility of working together to transform this space into a vibrant community asset.

Lease and Management

We propose that Great Harwood Christian Fellowship oversees the management of this land, under a peppercorn rent agreement, to ensure:

Clear accountability and management of the site. Effective handling of legal liabilities and insurance for public use. Lease Duration

We seek a long-term lease to ensure sustained benefits to the community and stability for ongoing and future projects.

Funding and Maintenance

The development and maintenance will be supported.

Conclusion

In closing, we stand on the threshold of exciting times for GHCF. The introduction of a comprehensive Statement of Faith, the launch of our own conference, our affiliation with likeminded churches, and the nurturing of future leaders signal a season of growth and deepening faith. As we reinstate evening services, let us embrace this opportunity to further the reach of God's Word in our lives and community. We warmly invite you to journey with us, with prayerful hearts and united spirits, as we faithfully step into what God has prepared for us. May His grace abound in us all.

Public Beneft Statement

When planning our activities for the year, the Trustees have considered the Commission’s guidance on public benefit and, in particular, the specific guidance on charities for the advancement of religion.

We aim to enable people to live out their faith as part of our community through worship and prayer; learning about the Gospel and developing their knowledge and trust in Jesus.

Provision of pastoral care and Missionary and Outreach work.

Structure, governance and management

Great Harwood Christian Fellowship is an Independent Church and a Charitable Incorporated Organisation. The Fellowship adopts the 1689 Second London Baptist Confession of Faith. Its governing document (Constitution) and its Church Handbook for members, were approved at an Annual General Meeting of the membership on 9[th] May 2017.

The Deacons meet on a monthly basis to discuss finance, administration and building maintenance matters relating to the running of the Fellowship. The Elders meet with the Pastor on a monthly basis to discuss the Spiritual life of the Fellowship: direction of worship, teaching, Bible Study meetings, Outreach etc. The full board of Trustees (Elders and Deacons) meet together on 4 occasions during the year, as required by our constitution document.

Policy Documents

In addition to the Constitution Document, Great Harwood Christian Fellowship has the following policies in place to ensure the health, safety and protection of church members:

Fire, Health and Safety Management

Data Protection

Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults

Serious Incident reporting

Internal Risk Management

Social Media

Financial Reserves

The church undertakes regular reviews of each of these policies and carries out audits and training as required by named individuals.

Administratve Informaton

The principal address of the charity is 91 St Huberts Road, Great Harwood BB6 7AF.

The Trustees are as follows:

Francois Van Staden – Pastor

Neil Collier – Elder

Justin Willis - Elder

Gil Ratcliffe, Deacon, Treasurer

Shirley Collier – Deacon, Secretary

Jennifer Blackmore – Deacon

Paul Iddon – Deacon (Resigned 9.5.24)

Michael McCormick - Deacon

Policy on Reserves

The Fellowship holds a sum of money in a Reserve Account for use in exceptional circumstances. The current level of these funds (at 31[st] March 2024 is £14,930) The funds are not restricted or specifically designated for certain uses. The Trustees authorise any use of these funds when requested by the Treasurer.

Cash in bank 31.3.23
Cash in Reserve account 31.3.23
(A)
Receipts
Donatons
Bookstall
Church service ofertories
Oferings via Bank
Other Income
Reserve Account interest
Tithe income
(B)
Payments
Bookstall
Church maintenance
Church running costs
Donatons to Missions/Tithes
Other payments
Wages and expenses
Worship, SS, Mission resources
(C)
(A plus B minus C =)		 Receipts and
Payments 2023-24
£832
£17,985
£18,817
£3,384
£151
£10,679
£29,448
£9,446
£235
£4,459
£57,802
£190
£8,593
£14,628
£4,329
£706
£28,525
£4,267
£61,238
£15,381
*		 2022-23
£2,482
£18,152
£20,634
2022-23
£274
£214
£7,306
£27,394
£6,984
£33
£3,794
£45,999
2022-23
£174
£3,125
£8,789
£3,969
£0
£30,460
£1,299
£47,816
£18,817
Restricted Funds
Hardship Fund 31.3.23
Income
Total
Payments
Remaining 31.3.24		 2023-24
£312
£400
£712
£408
£304
WLTDO Grant 31.3.23
Income
Total
Payments
Remaining 31.3.24		 £0
£1,200
£1,200
£114
£1,086
Cash in bank 31.3.24
Cash in Reserve account 31.3.24		 £451
+
£14,930
£15,381
*		 £1,390
(Hardship +
WLTDO)
£16,771

Great Harwood Christian Fellowship Tithes 2023-24

Blackburn C.A.P. £550.00
Billy Graham £250.00
Charlie Preece £900.00
Outreach UK £700.00
Platform 67 £500.00
Samaritan's Purse £150.00
SASRA £250.00
Scriptural Knowledge £360.00

Slavic Gospel Association £115.00 Uma Sharma (Nepal church) £353.80 United Beach Missions £200.00 £4,328.80

CHARITY COMMISSION FOR ENGiAND AND WALES Recelpts and payments accounts CC16a Forth4 To 01ffj4r2023 31103P2024 Section A RÈcÈipts and payments Unre6trIctgd fund9 endowment fund¥ fund9 Lastyear toth•ntsTMt£ A1 R•c•l A￿ID¢ni￿n￿ 364 churchs0￿0￿rtO r￿￿￿.￿n5￿￿sO& FF 1079 2SMt Tthe IrrJ)m¢ Hd5h WLTOOGrJnl 44$9 4M59 1,2JO Sub totdlGmss m¢om8 for Rl ts7,￿2 1,eoo A2 Assetand inv•trn•nt ak)¥, s••tabll. Sub lolal 5T,802 5>002 A3Pa ¢nls BOok￿￿lÈ￿rt￿r• Churchman￿￿n ¢hur¢hRunnin9 Éwwns 140 14.125 32 W•$&Èrymné wLyEh￿.sUn￿￿￿sCh￿l&MÉ RO￿1¢ &hp Fu WLTuOts￿￿t 28J15 4367 401 406 Sub total 61.TlQ A4 Assètnd Invetrn•rrt pu￿h￿Se1. (see iAbl+l Sub tOf81 612J 523 NetolFK8ip151(paymgntsJ A5 Trnn$lor9 fv￿• AO Cash lund$ le9tyè*r Ènd ash IhIs￿re￿￿ 2,358 RI ISSI 1W12024

Section B Statement of assèts and liabilities at the end of the period RÈstriclèd frjnds rundB Bl Cash funds 4$1 %.Jg Total ¢•sh fund8 1S.JBQ 1.3gD 11 lJrff•¥trKtod tuhdl ÉndoknTMnt tun lund Fuhdtowhkh cox1lopu￿￿ 83 Ir$v￿lMOrta$¥gI FundttshlÉh B4 A888ts rntslnod fw lh• ¢harlty'8 own u81 Apnounl¢bJe Wknd B5 Llablllll•¥ S¥n8d byone DrMoVugt••Bon holtol#ii lhètrL￿s s￿n￿lUr• Ogta of tDval CCXX P2o¢¢ouThtslSSI 1510412024

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