The Annual Parochial Report for the Parish of St Cyprian Clarence Gate within the Diocese of London for the year ending 31[st] December 2025
St Cyprian’s Church, Glentworth Street London NW1 6AX
<X,X,? ST CYPRIAN'S CLARENCE GATE
| Contents | |
|---|---|
| A. Reference and Administrative Information | 4 |
| B. Clergy Report | 6 |
| C. Reports | 9 |
| Churchwardens’ Report – Fabric, goods and ornaments | |
| Music Report | |
| Finance Report | |
| Bookings Report | |
| D. PCC and Governance | 16 |
| Electoral Roll | |
| Deanery Synod Report | |
| E. Meeting of Parishioners and APCM – 19th April 2026 | 18 |
| Agenda | |
| Minutes of 2025 Meeting | |
| Appendix: Annual Accounts | 22 |
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A. Reference and Administrative Information
The Parish of St Cyprian, Clarence Gate, Glentworth Street, London NW1 6AX is in the Diocese of London.
The Parochial Church Council of St Cyprian is a charity registered with the Charity Commission (no. 1176918). The Parish code is 230078.
PCC members who served during 2025 were:
Clergy : Reverend Prebendary Clare Dowding (Priest) Reverend Rachel Sheppard Church Wardens : Mr William Nye Mrs Sarah Daniels (Parish Safeguarding Officer)
Members : Ms Mary Ashwin Mr Robert Gwynne Mr Eric Emms Treasurer Ms Sarah Johnson Secretary Mrs Chan Mayor Electoral Roll Officer Mr Wilf Weston (From 1[st] June 2025) Mr Julian Collings (In attendance) Director of Music Mrs Helena Maitland (In attendance) Parish Administrator
Structure, Governance and Management
The Parish is governed by the Priest-in-Charge working with the Parochial Church Council (PCC). All church attendees are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll of the Parish, and the PCC is elected by the Electoral Roll members. The Church Wardens, who are elected at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting by Electoral Roll members and residents of the parish, are members of the PCC.
Trustees are recruited based upon their skills, sector knowledge and experience. The Trustees confirm that they have had regard for the Charity Commission guidance on public benefit when reviewing and planning activities in 2025 and for future years.
Objectives and Activities
The objective of St Cyprian’s Clarence Gate is to provide a community to enable people to worship God, to develop their faith and to build up a sense of community within the parish of St Cyprian’s.
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To this end, it provides:
Worship – a Sunday Parish Mass, monthly Choral Evensong, Thursday Low Mass and Mass on major feasts of the church; Pastoral support from clergy and laity; other activities such as Bible studies, occasional lectures, and occasional other social events.
It is continually looking for new ways, within its capacity and resources, to build up its parish life.
In addition, to finance these activities of St Cyprian’s as a worshipping community, St Cyprian’s makes use of its main asset, its church building, to provide a space for community groups and others to use, for concerts, for rehearsals, for exhibitions, for classes and for other purposes.
In addition, the church is used for worship, prayer and community activities by the London City Korean Church. A Licence under Faculty has been in place since 2024. Francis Holland Church of England Girls’ School uses the church for worship and for rehearsals, art exhibitions, concerts, form meetings and staff meetings.
To maintain its ability to support both parish activities and letting of the church building for other community uses, the parish undertakes work to maintain and, where possible, enhance the church building and its facilities.
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B. Clergy Reports Priest in Charge – Rev’d Preb Clare Dowding
There is much to be thankful for as we look back over the past year. In our worship we have known Christ’s presence in the sacraments and in prayer; in our fellowship and care for one another we have made visible the love of God; in welcoming the visitor and stranger we have welcomed Christ among us. The worship, music and fellowship at St Cyprian’s gives glory to God. It also serves as a unique opportunity to welcome people into the life and worship of the church and to encounter the love of God in Jesus Christ.
Our worshipping life has continued to flourish and it was exciting to see considerable growth in numbers during our Advent and Christmas services. We have seen slower but steady growth among newcomers attending church for worship and for music events – which has sometimes led to attendance at worship. Each of us can play a part in inviting and welcoming people to church. Data shows that the most effective form of evangelism and church growth comes through invitation from friends, neighbours, family or colleagues.
It was encouraging to engage with the Church Development Tool, led by our Churchwarden, William Nye. The response from the congregation was good, with 45 people completing the questionnaire. The responses about discipleship and Christian commitment were particularly interesting and encouraging. In terms of discipleship, 60% of respondents felt that God was active in their life and over 70% expressed that their faith connects with everyday life. In terms of Christian commitment and service, 50% said that giving financially is part of how they express their faith and 40% stated that volunteering in a church or community project is an important part of their faith. Encouragingly, over 50% said that they engage in private prayer on a daily or weekly basis. Many people spoke of being able to talk about their faith, a third of respondents had invited someone who is not Christian to a church service, and 55% had spoken about their faith to someone who is not a Christian. We can be encouraged by these responses – and we can be confident and ambitious in inviting people to come along to St Cyprian’s to experience for themselves the love of God that we have found in Jesus Christ.
Our worship is beautifully enriched by the skill, passion and commitment of our Director of Music, Julian Collings, and Assistant Director of Music, Peter Jaekel. St Cyprian’s Choir bring beauty, joy and depth to the worshipping life of the church, and we are grateful to those who sing in our choir, giving of their time, skill and energy to enhance our worship each week. Our monthly Chamber Music Series has grown in attendance this past year. We are grateful for Julian’s leadership of this creative programme and to the musicians who support the series. In connection to our worship and music traditions, the coming year presents a unique opportunity. In 2026 we will launch a project to restore and rebuild our historic organ, to repair the plasterwork on the internal walls of the church, and to undertake essential repairs on
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the roof. With our unique offering of sacramental worship, world-class music, and recognised architectural heritage, this project presents St Cyprian’s with an incredible opportunity shape the future of the church. The organ project will take considerable energy and work. The Organ Committee and PCC will work closely with our Church Architect and the Diocesan Advisory Committee, to plan, fundraise and execute this project. The PCC seek your encouragement, your prayers and your financial support as we undertake this exciting work.
The day-to-day life of the church, in ministry, liturgy, administration and pastoral care, could not happen so smoothly without the commitment, skill and wisdom of our staff team. It was a joy to welcome Helena Maitland as our Parish Administrator and Church Manager at the beginning of the year. We have been greatly blessed by Helena’s diligence, care, dedication and welcoming approach to her role, and as is evident in the increase in bookings and the efficiency of the office, we have much to be grateful for. Over the past year, it has been exciting to work with Helena, the Churchwardens and the PCC, to develop our vision as a place of welcome and hospitality, in particular to work with Charlotte Anderson of Connective Vision to develop a strategy for increasing sustainability and financial viability, extending our reach as we seek to welcome newcomers, and developing our website to have a more lively and functional system for bookings, hire and hospitality. It is exciting to envisage the possibilities for growth and sustainability as we undertake this work. I was grateful for the hospitality shown by St Cyprian’s to our neighbouring church, St Mary’s London, in September 2025, when they were affected by severe flooding in the church. St Cyprian’s Church and Francis Holland School hosted a number of events and services for St Mary’s Church. St Mary’s PCC spoke warmly of the hospitality, kindness and generosity they experienced and their gratitude for this act of Christian love and friendship within St Marylebone Deanery.
I am grateful to our Churchwardens, William Nye and Sarah Daniels, who give generously of their time to support the life of the church, sharing in shaping the vision, mission and ministry of St Cyprian’s. I am extremely grateful for the wisdom and encouragement they bring to the life of the church. Members of the PCC, including our secretary Sarah Johnson, and treasurer, Eric Emms, and Electoral Roll Officer, Chan Mayor, and Safeguarding Officer, Sarah Daniels, also give generously of their time, supporting the worship, fellowship, mission and ministry of the church. The vital work of cleaning the church has been undertaken for many years by Stoyanka Vasileva. Sadly, in early 2026, Stoyanka retired from her role. Thank you for your generous donations towards the leaving gift for Stoyanka. Thank you to Helena and all in the Church Polishing Group who stepped in to assist with this vital work until a new cleaner starts in the spring.
The worshipping life of the church is beautified by those who give of their time as servers, sidespersons, readers and intercessors. This past year, we gave thanks for the dedication of Roger Gwynne who stepped down as Server after many years of dutiful service. We are grateful for Robert’s continued help on a weekly basis in preparing the church for worship, for his continued support as sidesperson, and as an encourager to those learning to serve at the Mass. We are also very grateful to Sophie who continues to serve on a regular basis and for her support to those
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learning how to serve. This year we have been glad to welcome Dinesh and Jovan as servers and we encourage those who would like to share in serving or assisting with worship. Thank you to all who read or lead intercessions each week, to the team of people who wash the church linens, polish and clean the church on a monthly basis, and to all who offer hospitality and bake delicious cakes for refreshments after Mass.
Looking back over the past year, there are moments of significance to recall. Firstly, at the beginning of the year we gave thanks for the ministry of Fr Michael Fuller, with a Mass of Thanksgiving on Sunday 12th January, followed by a farewell reception after the service. Thank you to all who gave so generously towards Fr Michael’s farewell gift offering substantial support for his ministry in Colombia. The clergy, Churchwardens and members of the PCC, joined together in giving heartfelt thanks for Fr Michael’s ministry at St Cyprian’s, particularly for his pastoral care during the Covid 19 Pandemic.
On a more sombre note, we were saddened by the passing of our dear friend, Vera Franklin, on 23rd December. Vera was a beloved member of St Cyprian’s and a dear friend to members of the church. Vera was often the first member of the
congregation to arrive on Sunday mornings, spending time sitting quietly to listen to the choir rehearsing and then taking time to set up the refreshments and ensure that there was always enough cake for everyone! It was a huge privilege to gather with Vera’s family for her funeral service here at St Cyprian’s in January 2026. The family passed on their gratitude to the congregation for the heartfelt and moving celebration and commemoration of Vera’s life, and for the comfort they received from knowing that Vera had such a strong and loving community at St Cyprian’s. We were also saddened by the untimely passing of our dear friend and Duty Officer, Paul Roadnight, on the 27th September 2025. Paul worked behind the scenes at St Cyprian’s, setting up for groups, clearing away and securing the church building, and was well-loved by many of our regular hirers. Paul also shared in the worshipping life of the church, often bringing friends along to enjoy the music and worship. Members of St Cyprian’s joined together with the congregation and community of St Paul, St Marylebone, to give thanks for Paul’s life and commend him to God.
Throughout the year we were glad to support parishioners with Occasional Offices, including baptism, marriage and funerals, and to welcome couples for the reading of Banns. This important role of the parish church offers us a unique opportunity to give pastoral support to our community, particularly in times of celebration and grief. These life events can also serve as missional opportunities as we welcome newcomers into the church and provide a warm and hospitable space within which people might encounter the love of God in Jesus Christ.
Over the past year we continue to be richly blessed by the ministry of our Assistant Curate, Revd Rachel Sheppard, and give thanks for the pastoral warmth, wisdom and joy that Rachel brings to our fellowship. I am also grateful to the Clergy and Licensed Lay Ministers who have shared in the worshipping life of the church, presiding at Mass or preaching. Among our own church family, I am grateful for the priestly ministry of Fr Desmond Tillyer and Fr Alan Walker, and for the Licensed Lay Ministry of Martin Carr, who give generously of their ministry. I am also thankful to those who have
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offered clergy cover during the year, including Revd Stephen Pugh who led worship over the Triduum, Revd Jeff Lake, Canon Philip Banks, Fr Ellis Blackmore, Fr Simon Cuff, Fr Gary Eaborn, Fr Anders Bergquist, Fr Stephen Hearn, Ven Luke Miller and Revd Janet Allan.
During 2025 we advertised the appointment of School Chaplain and (House for Duty) Associate Priest, in partnership with Francis Holland School. After a couple of unsuccessful rounds of interviews, we were delighted to interview and offer the post to Revd Kristina Andréasson in January 2026. We welcome Revd Kristina to the team in April 2026.
It is exciting to see the how God is at work as we connect with those living, working and studying in the parish, especially in our deepening links with Francis Holland School, through this new role of School Chaplain. Throughout the year we welcomed pupils and staff from Francis Holland School for termly services, such as Harvest, Advent, Ash Wednesday, Easter, End of Year; as well as school concerts, art exhibitions, theatre workshops, and movement and dance. One striking memory is the Ash Wednesday service, where from among the 550 girls who were present for the Mass, over 250 came forward to receive the Imposition of Ashes, and over 200 to receive communion or a blessing. We have also been blessed by the relationship with Christ Church Bentinck CE Primary School (the church school for St Paul’s Church, and the nominated church school for our parish). Children from the school have spent time in St Cyprian’s learning about the Christian faith, taking part in Stained Glass workshops during Advent, looking at the images of the nativity in the windows of the Lady Chapel; and two days of Experience Easter workshops, where children followed prayer stations to learn and reflect on the journey from Palm Sunday to Easter Day.
It is a great joy and a huge privilege to offer priestly ministry within the life and worship of St Cyprian’s Church and to share with the Churchwardens, PCC and staff team in leading the worship, mission and ministry of the parish. Having served as Priest-in-Charge since May 2023, I was grateful for the Bishop of London’s invitation, in discussion with the PCC, to be appointed Vicar of St Cyprian’s in October 2025, under the Bishop’s Pastoral Order, to be held in plurality with my role of Rector of St Paul, St Marylebone. I was also touched by the kind invitation of the Bishop of London and Dean of St Paul’s to become a Prebendary of St Paul’s Cathedral, occupying the stall of St Pancratius. Thank you to those of the congregation who shared in the joyful service of installation at St Paul’s Cathedral on the Feast of Candlemas.
As we reflect and give thanks for this past year, I look forward with eager anticipation and in hope for all that God will do in our midst. ‘The One who calls you is faithful’ (1 Thessalonians 5.24)
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C. Reports
Churchwardens’ Report – Fabric, goods and ornaments
During the past year, much-needed works were made to the external area outside the church office - made possible through the receipt of a grant from the London Diocese Area Grants and Loans Fund. This funding enabled the removal of rubbish, and the stripping-out and sanitisation of the external toilet which had become a nesting place for rats. The grant also enabled us to clear and clean out the redundant coal sheds located beneath the pavement. The removal of debris and the cleaning up of this area has significantly improved the condition and hygiene of this part of the Church, making it a far more welcoming entrance to the church office and crypt area.
During 2025, we began work to plan and fund-raise for the much-needed restoration of the organ. One of the items highlighted in the quinquennial inspection report of 2024 was the need to prioritise the repair to the plasterwork and paintwork of the internal church walls. Our inspecting architect has since recommended that these works could be carried out during the organ refurbishment whilst the organ is offsite, as the dust created by any future repairs to the crumbling plaster could damage the refurbished organ. The PCC has agreed that this is sensible approach and so further structural investigations will be carried out to price these works in order for them to be included within the refurbishment project funding plan.
As previous Annual Reports will attest, gas usage costs continue to be a significant burden on our finances and so, together with St Paul’s St Marylebone, when our energy contracts came up for renewal again in 2025, we switched our electricity and gas accounts to a cheaper contract with Total Energies. In addition, towards the end of the year, a new timer was installed to the gas controller as the existing timer was failing. The new timer allows for a more effective management of the gas boiler, enabling it to be reliably operated and should go some way to helping to improve heating costs and operation in the church.
We were able to greatly improve the WIFI connectivity within the church with a new network and receivers as a result of the receipt of a £2,000 grant from the Grosvenor Estate. Not only will this allow us to remotely control the boiler controls but it will also assist in our strategy to improve our hire income as poor connectivity has been a significant factor in our failure to attract higher-end hirers.
Finally, we were able to refurbish the small office in the crypt with donated soundproofing materials and furniture to create a multi-functional room - suitable for private counselling, small group meetings or as a soloist’s green room.
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Music Report – Julian Collings
2025 has been an excellent year for music at St Cyprian’s. The appointment of Peter Jaekel to the role of Assistant Director of Music in January added some welcome stability to the music programme after several rounds of unsuccessful auditions throughout 2024.
Choir membership has remained strong with a steady influx of new singers over the course of the year. We continue to target recruitment at university graduates moving to London as well as those already singing in London looking for a high standard choir without the excessive commitment of most similar groups. It is also most gratifying to see the number of singers that now approach us of their own accord - a clear sign that the choir continues to build a strong reputation.
Monthly choral evensong has continued to be a much-appreciated part of worship at St Cyprian’s for those who attend. Numbers have greatly fluctuated but it has not been unusual for the choir to outnumber the congregation which is a great shame. Since the appointment of Helena Maitland as administrator, more advertising has been done and I am hopeful that we can continue to promote this service to the wider community in 2026. Attendance numbers at the 2025 Christmas carols services was the largest I can remember since becoming Director of Music.
The monthly Chamber Music Series has continued to grow and frequently attracts audiences of between 20 and 60 people - many of whom have become regular attendees. The series continues to more than pay for itself under the current ‘retiring collection’ model and an exciting season is planned for 2026. Many thanks to all the volunteers who help with the organisation of these concerts - I am most grateful!
The state of the organ continues to be a major concern but the PCC’s Organ Subcommittee have now obtained quotes and are moving plans forward in conjunction with the church architect. A fundraising campaign will hopefully be launched in 2026.
Outside of St Cyprian's, the choir continues to develop its reputation, singing services at Beverley Minster in July 2025.
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Financial Report – Eric Emms/Helena Maitland
We ended 2025 with approximately £5,000 in our NatWest accounts (our operations account), and approximately £91,600 in CCLA reserves (our investment account). However, our accounts show that the year ended with a deficit of just over £4,000. This can be explained by the fact that shares worth £10,000 from the CCLA reserves were sold during the year and transferred to our operations account in order to appoint a Church lettings strategist, Connective Vision. In addition, the value of the shares decreased from £23.1227 per share to £22.1983 per share, resulting in a net unrealised loss of £4,034.17 during the financial year.
The Parish Giving Scheme (PGS) continues to be our main congregational stewardship tool but we saw a decrease in planned giving from 2024, mainly due to the departure of a number of our congregation. We are thankful to all of you who contribute, whether in giving your time or through tithing. We are deeply grateful for your continued generosity and faithful giving to the church. Your support allows us to carry out our mission and serve our community.
Can I encourage all church members who are not currently signed up with PGS to do so as it is a highly efficient way of recovering Gift Aid and ensures anonymity of gifts. A more robust policy of gift aid recovery for direct debits has seen a proportionately large increase in receipts from HMRC. It is also worth noting that the Gift Aid Small Donations Scheme allows the church to claim a 25% top up from HMRC on ‘anonymous’ small cash and contactless donations of £30 or less. Recovery of these amounts for 2025 is in the process of being made and recovered sums will be accounted for at the end of the 2026 financial year.
Church lettings income actually increased from 2024 despite the loss of income from the early departure of Millennium Performing Arts (MPA) for weekday daytime use of the building. We have improved the invoicing and debt collection processes and, with the approval of the PCC, are gradually increasing the hire fees for our regular hirers. Other points to note were:
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Reduced church running costs – we have reviewed our range of suppliers and were able to shave costs in various areas such as in the IT areas, liturgical supplies and energy. We were also able to reduce our insurance premium. Gas costs remain a significant proportion of the church expenditure.
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Staffing costs increased by just over a third with the appointment of the parish administrator at the beginning of the year.
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The projected income from MPA did not materialise in 2025. They left at Easter to occupy alternate space in breach of contract without having paid any of their accrued fees for 2025. We were able to agree a repayment schedule for the outstanding amount of £20,000 to be paid over a 2-year period and they have so far adhered to the repayment plan of £1,000 per month.
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The full figures for the year are to be found at the end of this annual report. I am grateful for the collaboration of our Independent Examiner, Christina Shiatis of MASY Associates, to finalise these.
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Bookings and Community – Helena Maitland
We continue to attract musicians, artists, authors and community groups to use our building, and improved WIFI and green room facilities make the space more desirable. We are one of only a few churches in central London who can provide not only excellent concert and rehearsal space but the facilities that go with it and not only one, but two pianos. One hirer came to us because they had heard about our harpsichord. And despite the issues with our organ, we received two bookings specifically to use the organ – as the condition of the organ deteriorates, we look forward to the refurbishment so that we can attract a greater number of concerts where the organ is a major draw.
We continue to host our 5 regular (weekly during term time) hirers and our ongoing relationship with them remains strong:
The English Baroque Choir, The Pinstripe Highlanders, and The Learning Orchestra use us weekly for rehearsals and one-off concerts, and various choirs and music groups including Camden Symphony Orchestra, the London Welsh Chorale, David Brain pianist and Philharmonia Britannica host concerts and recitals in our building. The Korean Church also provides a steady source of income as they use our church for their Sunday afternoon service and Wednesday evening bible study.
The relationship with Francis Holland School continues to be strong as they make use of our church for services and events. We hope that this usage will increase over 2026 with the appointment of Reverend Kristina Andréasson as School Chaplain. We have seen an encouraging increase in the number of organ scholars from the school who are using the organ to practice and to have lessons.
The flooding of St Mary’s Bryanston Square in October had some unintended, positive consequences for our church. Not only did we host (and recover hire fees) for their series of ‘Life Events’ dinners but we were able to hire their duty officer Magda. Magda has truly been a Godsend as we were struggling to find a replacement for Paul Roadnight, our Duty Officer, who recently passed away. We sorely miss Paul and the dedications and attendance by our hirers at his funeral bears witness to the years of helpful and reliable service he gave us and them.
As in previous years, there is much one-off use, and we have built up a body of loyal, repeat hirers. However, hire rates have been historically very low and so half-way through the year we appointed Charlotte Anderson of Creative Vision - her trackrecord included increasing the income at St Mary’s Bryanston Square by 500%. It was hugely encouraging to see her response to the church when she first visited it as she understood the sacral as well as potential commercial opportunities.
Charlotte has since updated our hire brochures, produced some beautiful photographs and floor plans, helped streamline the hiring process, created a new website and advised on increased hire rates with a move away from hourly rates to morning, afternoon and evening bookings. Whilst these changes take time to implement and yield results, we have already increased our income in 2025 using
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streamlined hiring process (eg resulting in speedier response times) and slightly increased hourly rates for our regular hirers. This, despite losing a major source of income in the MPA booking (see below).
As reported in last year’s Annual Report and referred to in the Financial Report above, we had entered into a yearly occupation agreement with MPA (Millenium Performing Arts) from September 2024. However, they proved to be erratic payers and whilst the relationship with them was co-operative on a day-to-day basis, they decided to leave early in April 2025 in breach of their agreement as they had found alternative space. We agreed a repayment plan for the outstanding sums but one positive aspect is that the hires which we could not accommodate during 2024/early 2025 is now be possible including increased use by Francis Holland School.
One lucrative booking during September was a London Fashion Week event which saw our church featured on the BBC News website. And whilst our desire is for the church to be featured in a more liturgical setting, promoting the use of the church to generate income will inevitably support the worship, mission and maintenance of the church. We therefore look forward to improvements to this vital income stream over 2026.
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D. PCC and Governance
Electoral Roll Update – Chan Mayor
The electoral roll stands at 65 with one removal and two additions.
Safeguarding report – Parish Safeguarding Officer, Sarah Daniels
Safeguarding is part of our core faith and an integral feature of our life at St Cyprian’s. Our church has due regard to the House of Bishops' Safeguarding Policy and Practice Guidance on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.
There were no safeguarding incidents to report in 2025.
E. Deanery Synod Report
The St Marylebone Deanery Synod is a formal meeting of representatives of the churches in the St Marylebone Deanery. Business items are discussed, including the appointment of school governors, and the meetings often include main items addressing mission and ministry in the area.
The Synod met three times during 2025 to discuss mission and ministry in the area.
On Wednesday 5th February, the Deanery Synod met at St Marylebone Parish Church. The Rector, The Revd Canon Dr Stephen Evans welcomed the Deanery and shared about the major refurbishment works at St Marylebone Parish Church. The Revd Stephen Hearn, School Chaplain and Associate Priest, then led the Deanery in a time of reflection and prayer. The main item was a discussion on the ministry of wholeness and healing in the Church. Revd Katy Hacker-Hughes, Priest Pastor, gave a theological overview of wholeness and healing in the Bible, looking at Sirach, Job, and the Acts of the Apostles, and reflected on Jesus’ own ministry of healing. She shared examples of healing ministry in the churches in the Deanery, in particular the Healing and Counselling Service at St Marylebone Parish Church. And encouraged churches to consider ways we could continue this healing ministry in our own churches. The Deanery then welcomed Claire Meaney, Two Cities Safeguarding Adviser, who explained the safeguarding parish dashboard and gave an update on the Diocesan Safeguarding Audit INEQUE to take place in September 2025. The business items of the meeting were addressed including appointment of School Governors and an update on Diocese of London elections, the redevelopment of St Mark’s Hamilton Terrace, and General Synod. The meeting closed in prayer.
On Thursday 10th July the Deanery Synod met at St John’s Wood Church and were joined by Revd Dr Cornelia Kulawik and members of the Parish and Deanery of Berlin-Dahlem who were visiting the Diocese of London as part of the LondonBerlin exchange. Revd Dr Anders Bergquist welcomed the Deanery and guests from
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Berlin. The Area Dean, Revd Preb Clare Dowding, and Revd Kristina Andreasson, Assistant Curate at St John’s Wood Church led the Deanery in Evening Prayer. The business matters were addressed, including an update on the Diocese of London Elections and the upcoming visit of the Bishop of London, Rt Revd & Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally, to St Marylebone Deanery on 26th November 2025. The Deanery were asked to pray for General Synod taking place the following week and an update was given on Deanery Synod membership details. The main agenda item focused on Life Events as Missional Opportunities. Revd Dr Cornelia Kulawik and Revd Dr Anders Bergquist led a conversation about the principles and background that underlie our use of life events as missional opportunities (baptism, marriage, funeral), comparing church engagement in London and Berlin. The Deanery were then invited to break into small groups with mixed representation from Berlin and London to reflect on the question of how the missional value of life-events is exploited in the particular circumstances of our parishes. The meeting was closed in prayer by the Area Dean of St Marylebone and Area Dean of Berlin-Dahlem. The Deanery were then invited to the vicarage garden to enjoy a summer party in glorious weather, by gracious invitation of Revd Anders Bergquist.
The final meeting of the year was held on Wednesday 26th November at St Marylebone Parish Church. The meeting was planned to coincide with Bishop Sarah’s visit to the Deanery. In the meantime, it had been announced that Bishop Sarah had been appointed as the next Archbishop of Canterbury, so some last minute changes were made to adapt the schedule to fit with changes to her diary. Bishop Sarah spent time with faith leaders (Jewish, Christian and Muslim) from across Marylebone Deanery and then met with the Deanery Synod. Bishop Sarah reflected on her time in London and her ministry, and its challenges, ahead. She thanked the Deanery for their support and took questions from those present. She was thanks for all the care, time and energy she had poured into the Diocese, for her graciousness, wisdom and understanding. The Area Dean offered a prayer for Bishop Sarah and she was presented with a gift of a hamper of ‘St Marylebone’ treats, from the churches of the Deanery. The meeting closed with refreshments.
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F. Meeting of Parishioners and APCM – 19[th] April 2026
AGENDA
Opening Prayer
Annual Parish Meeting
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(i) Apologies for absence
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(ii) Minutes of the previous Annual Parish Meeting
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(iii) Matters Arising
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(iv) Election of Churchwardens (v) Any other business
Annual Parochial Church Meeting
The reports
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(i) The Vicar’s Report
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(ii) The Electoral Roll
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(iii) Annual Report
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(iv) Financial Report
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(v) Annual Fabric Report
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(vi) Deanery Synod Report (vii) Safeguarding
The elections and appointments
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(i) Election of representative to Deanery Synod
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(ii) Election of PCC members
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(iii) Appoint independent examiner
Closing prayers
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Minutes of the Annual Parish Meeting and Annual Parochial Church Meeting 2025
Date: Sunday 1[st] June 2025 Venue: St Cyprian’s Church, Clarence Gate Time: 11.45 am following Parish Mass Chair: Rev’d Preb Clare Dowding Number in Attendance: 15
Opening Prayer: Rev’d Preb Clare Dowding offered an opening prayer
Annual Parish Meeting
1. Apologies for absence
Mary Ashwin Martin Carr
2. Minutes of the previous Annual Parish Meeting
The minutes of the Annual Parish Meeting 2024 were received as a correct record.
3. Matters Arising
There were no matters arising from the last meeting.
4. Election of Churchwardens
Two nominations were received for the existing churchwardens William Nye and Sarah Daniels.
No other candidates were presented.
William Nye and Sarah Daniels were unanimously elected as churchwardens for another term.
5. Any other business
No other business was raised.
Annual Parochial Church Meeting
1. The Reports
i. Clergy Report
Rev’d Preb Clare Dowding presented her report.
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She thanked Fr Michael Fuller for his years of service to the church and his great contribution to the life of St Cyprian’s before his retirement in January 2025.
She thanked Rev’d Donna McDowell for her ministry as Curate during 2024.
She welcomed Rev’d Rachel Sheppard, who has now joined St Cyprian’s as Curate.
She thanked Julian Collings for his wonderful contribution as Director of Music in 2024, which is hugely appreciated.
She also welcomed Helena Maitland, who has joined as Parish Administrator and has already made an extremely welcome contribution.
ii. The Electoral Roll
Helena Maitland presented the Electoral Roll report prepared by Chan Mayor.
The Electoral Roll stands at 64.
A full revision of the Electoral Roll had been conducted in 2025.
Rev’d Preb Clare Dowding thanked Chan Mayor for serving as Electoral Roll Officer and Helena Maitland for her support in the revision of the Electoral Roll this year.
iii. Annual Report
The Annual Report was presented and individual reports were spoken to, including the Churchwardens’ Report – Fabric, goods and ornaments; Music Report; Financial Report and Bookings and Community Report.
William Nye presented a report on the use of the Church Development Tool in 2024 and it was agreed that this provided interesting and useful information that will help in the future planning of the church’s mission.
iv. Financial Report
Helena Maitland presented the Financial Report and Bookings and Community Report.
Rev’d Preb Clare Dowding welcomed Eric Emms as the new PCC Treasurer.
v. Annual Fabric Report
William Nye presented the Churchwardens’ Report noting the works undertaken in 2024.
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vi. Deanery Synod Report
Rev’d Preb Clare Dowding presented the Deanery Synod Report and asked congregation members to consider standing as Deanery Synod Representative.
vii. Safeguarding
Rev’d Preb Clare Dowding presented the Safeguarding Report and proposed that the church should adopt the House of Bishops Safeguarding Guidance and Code of Practice. This was agreed unanimously.
2. The elections and appointments
i. Election of representatives to Deanery Synod
No member of the congregation stood for election to the Deanery Synod.
ii. Election of PCC Members
Rev’d Preb Clare Dowding confirmed that there were currently two vacancies on the PCC and invited nominations from the floor for members of the PCC.
Wilf Weston agreed to stand as a member of the PCC and was elected unanimously.
The PCC were thanked for their ongoing service to the life of the church.
iii. Appointment of Independent Examiner
MASY Associates were reappointed as independent examiner.
Closing Prayers: Rev’d Preb Clare Dowding offered closing prayers.
Present:
Julian Collings Sarah Daniels Rev'd Preb Clare Dowding Eric Emms James Fox Vera Franklin Robert Gwynne Sarah Johnson
Helena Maitland Bruce Nobrega Katherine Nye Sophie Nye William Nye Julie Tsagas Wilf Weston
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Appendix: Annual Accounts
Parochial Church Council of St Cyprians Clarence Gate, Glentworth Street, London, NW16AX
31st December 2025
MASY Associates Ltd 23a Craven Terrace London W23QH
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Parochial Church Council of St Cyprians Clarence Gate
Independent Examiner's report to the member/trustees of St Cyprians Church, London NW1 6AX
I report on the accounts for the year ended 31st December 2025, which are set out on the following pages.
Respective responsibilities of the Trustees and Independent Examiner
Parochial Church Council of St Cyprians
The charity's trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year (under section 43(2) of the Charities
-
examine the accounts (under section 43(3) of the Act);
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follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners
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state whether particular matters have come to my attention
Basis of Independent Examiner’s Statement
My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity
Independent Examiner’s Statement
In connection with my examination, no matters have come to my attention
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which give me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements. a) to keep accounting records in accordance with s.41 of the Act; or
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b) to prepare accounts which accord with these accounting records have to been met; or
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to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper
Signed Dated 14th April 2026
MASY Associates Ltd 23a Craven Terrace London W2 3QH
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Financial Statements for the period 1 Jan to 31 December 2025
Receipts and Payments Accounts
| Note Receipts Voluntary Receipts: Planned Giving Collections at services SumUp Donations All other giving/voluntary receipts Restricted Gifts (Bishop Sarah) Gift Aid recovered TOTAL Activities for generating funds 4a Investment Income 4b Church Activities 4c Total Receipts Payments Church Activities: Parish Share Clergy and staffing costs 4d Church running costs 4e Mission giving 4f Mission expenses, hospitality Music Fund expenses 4g TOTAL Cost of generating funds Bank charges Total payments Excess of receipts over payments Investment CCLA dividends TOTAL excess of receipts over payments Cash at bank 01/01/25 Cash at bank 31/12/25 Sale of Shares (444.3121 @ £22.5067) Net Movement of funds |
Unrestricted Fund Unrestricted Designated Fund Restricted Fund Total 2025 Total 2024 £ £ £ £ £ 22,951.81 22,951.81 25,718.43 1,774.09 1,774.09 1,375.70 6,193.88 6,193.88 1,759.97 1,330.22 1,330.22 8,568.07 0.00 140.00 140.00 - 3,084.28 3,084.28 8,773.61 |
|---|---|
| 35,334.28 0.00 140.00 35,474.28 46,195.78 5,684.41 5,443.12 11,127.53 - 83.39 83.39 109.79 80,139.06 80,139.06 77,208.44 |
|
| 115,556.73 5,684.41 5,583.12 126,824.26 123,514.01 115,556.73 5,684.41 5,583.12 126,824.26 30,000.00 30,000.00 28,000.00 42,708.73 42,708.73 32,899.05 54,314.16 0.00 0.00 54,314.16 65,905.04 20.00 5,300.00 5,320.00 100.00 0.00 0.00 113.21 1,137.62 1,137.62 - |
|
| 128,180.51 0.00 5,300.00 133,480.51 127,017.30 0.00 0.00 225.24 225.24 171.98 |
|
| 128,405.75 0.00 5,300.00 133,705.75 127,189.28 -12,849.02 5,684.41 283.12 -6,881.49 3,675.27 - 2,825.64 2,825.64 2,831.50 |
|
| -4,055.85 843.77 - Current Acc Reserve Acc Investment A/C TOTAL 2,126.44 3.29 2,955.02 5084.75 4,383.18 5,255.00 1,390.72 11028.90 -10000.00 -4055.85 |
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| Statement of Assets and Liabilities Cash Funds Notes Bank Current Account Bank Reserve Account Investment Assets Investment deposit 2A Investment Fund Shares at market value @31/12/2025 2B |
Unrestricted Funds (£) Designated Funds (£) Restricted Funds (£) Total 2025 (£) Total 2024 (£) 4,383.18 4,383.18 2,126.44 21.88 5,233.12 5,255.00 3.29 |
|---|---|
| 4,405.06 0.00 5,233.12 9,638.18 2,129.73 |
|
| 1,390.72 1,390.72 2,955.02 5,543.76 75,525.60 9,233.72 90,303.08 104,337.25 |
|
| 6,934.48 75,525.60 9,233.72 91,693.80 107,292.27 |
Notes
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The financial statements of the PCC have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 using the Receipts & Payments basis.
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2A. CCLA deposit fund CB3029663-001
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2B. CCLA investment fund CB3029664-001 - 4068.0179 shares
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444.3121 Shares worth £10,000 (£22.5067 per share) were sold during the year. The sales proceeds were transferred to the current account and used to appoint a Church lettings strategist.
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The value of the shares has gone down from £23.1227 per share to £22.1983 per share, resulting in a net unrealised loss of £4,034.17 during the financial year
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The movements in restricted and designated funds during 2025 were:
| Bal B/fwd | Receipts | Payments | Bal C/fwd | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RESTRICTED | ||||
| Bishop Sarah Gift collected on | ||||
| behalf of The Diocese of London | 0.00 | 140.00 | 0.00 | 140.00 |
| Organ Fund | 0.00 | 5,093.12 | 0.00 | 5,093.12 |
| Music | 9,233.72 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 9,233.72 |
| TOTAL | 9,233.72 | 5,233.12 | 0.00 | 14,466.84 |
| DESIGNATED | ||||
| Patrick Graham Fund | 75,525.60 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 75,525.60 |
| TOTAL | 84,759.32 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 89,992.44 |
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| 4 Further Analysis of Receipts and Payments Receipts a) Activities for generating funds: Fabric grants and projects Other b) Investment Income: Interest on CCL Investment Funds Bank Interest c) Church Activities: Fees for weddings and funerals Trading Income Church lettings Sundry Refunds Other Payments d) Clergy and staffing costs Salaries Tax and NI and pensions Staff expenses/costs e) Church running expenses: Organ and piano inspection/maintenance Costs of services Office costs Church building running expenses and insurance Church refurbishment, repairs & maintenance Professional fees Assigned fees to LDF Sundries (including refunds) f) Mission giving and donations: Miscellaneous (NB - Fr M Fuller Gift £5300) g) Music Fund Expenses |
Unrestricted General Fund Restricted Fund Total 2025 Total 2024 £ £ £ £ |
|---|---|
| 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 5,684.41 5,443.12 11,127.53 0.00 |
|
| 5,684.41 5,443.12 11,127.53 0.00 |
|
| 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 83.39 0.00 83.39 109.79 |
|
| 83.39 0.00 83.39 109.79 |
|
| 383.00 0.00 383.00 280.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 725.00 77,764.50 0.00 77,764.50 71,117.52 1,926.56 0.00 1,926.56 0.00 65.00 0.00 65.00 5,085.92 |
|
| 80,139.06 0.00 80,139.06 77,208.44 |
|
| 41,337.31 0.00 41,337.31 28,699.05 1,040.62 0.00 1,040.62 330.80 0.00 330.80 4,200.00 |
|
| 42,708.73 0.00 42,708.73 32,899.05 |
|
| 3,296.80 0.00 3,296.80 1,410.82 4,396.40 0.00 4,396.40 13,691.37 7,649.36 0.00 7,649.36 9,896.30 25,317.90 0.00 25,317.90 22,330.07 4,068.36 0.00 4,068.36 16,104.84 7,756.33 0.00 7,756.33 2,451.64 127.00 0.00 127.00 0.00 1,702.01 0.00 1,702.01 20.00 |
|
| 54,314.16 0.00 54,314.16 65,905.04 |
|
| 20.00 5,300.00 5,320.00 100.00 |
|
| 20.00 5,300.00 5,320.00 100.00 |
|
| 1,137.62 0.00 1,137.62 0.00 |
|
| 1,137.62 0.00 1,137.62 0.00 |
|
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Collect for St Cyprian, Feast Day 15[th] September
Holy God, who brought Cyprian to faith in Christ, made him a bishop in the Church, and crowned his witness with a martyr’s death; grant that, after his example, we may love the Church and her teachings, find your forgiveness within her fellowship and so come to share the heavenly banquet you have prepared for us; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.