a d ve n tu re • en c o un t e r • t o g eth er
14th November 2023
Message from the Pastor
As we reflect on the past year at Soulcity Church, we are struck by a tapestry of challenges and opportunities that have unfolded before us. The year commenced with an unexpected trial when we discovered our beloved church venue compromised, its ceiling perilously damaged. This incident set off a chain of events that eventually led us back to the cinema where our journey began.
In the face of adversity, it was nothing short of inspirational to witness our congregation's solidarity and resilience. Our community's commitment to supporting one another was a testament to our collective spirit. Moreover, it has been profoundly moving to observe the significant influence our church has had on individuals seeking solace and purpose during trying times.
I am immensely proud of our Leadership Team, whose dedication has touched numerous lives. Their unwavering efforts have been a cornerstone of our church's ability to make a lasting impact. I extend heartfelt gratitude to every member of our church family who has contributed their time and resources to our mission of guiding people to find and follow Jesus.
Looking forward, our vision for the next 12 months is to transition from a reactive stance to one that is decisively proactive and aligned with our core mission. We will start by revisiting and reinforcing our foundations, ensuring that we excel in the fundamentals. The year 2023-2024 is declared the 'Year of Roots,' marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in our story, with aspirations to plant new churches across Stockport.
Thank you for your unwavering partnership and belief in our mission. We are poised for a journey of growth and rediscovery, and we are delighted to have you join us in this endeavor.
Ben Jeffery
soulcity church web: soulcityhome.org Registered Charity: 1177699
Objectives and Activities
The purpose of soulcity church is for the public benefit the advancement of the Christian faith in the Stockport, Greater Manchester area, the United Kingdom and the World as the trustees may from time to time decide.
The trustees and spiritual leadership of soulcity church work hard to make the church a place where as many people as possible may come to grow in the Christian Faith.
Impact Overview
New Venue Challenges and Resolutions
In July 2022, Soulcity Church faced an unforeseen challenge when our venue became unsafe due to a collapsing ceiling. Despite the landlords’ reluctance to address the issue, our trustees engaged with the council, which confirmed the safety hazards. Committed to finding a nonlitigious resolution, we engaged in several months of negotiations with the mill owners. The outcome was favourable—Soulcity Church amicably parted ways with the mill and resumed services at the Light cinema in September. Although the cinema provides a temporary solution, it comes with its own set of challenges, including unavailable Sundays. Our trustees are actively seeking a stable, long-term location for Soulcity Church.
Refining Our Mission
Throughout this year, our leadership dedicated considerable effort to introspection on the mission of Soulcity Church—aiming to more effectively equip our congregation. Our mission is to act as a movement of faith, hope, and love, helping people to find and follow Jesus. We have created a comprehensive booklet and a training program to empower every church member to find their place and live out their calling.
Post-Pandemic Recovery Efforts
The long-reaching effects of the pandemic on our community’s capacity, energy, and mental health have necessitated significant support efforts. Soulcity Church has been instrumental in providing assistance to those facing profound social, economic, and emotional difficulties, helping our community to navigate through these trying times.
Leadership Expansion and Collaboration
Our Senior Pastor, Ben Jeffery, has transitioned to a part-time role at Soulcity Church to take on the national role of Head of Unity with the Evangelical Alliance. This position not only extends our church’s impact but also facilitates an exchange of wisdom and best practices with other churches in the alliance. Pastor Ben's vision and dedication are focused on fostering unity among city churches to collectively make the message and love of Jesus known.
soulcity church web: soulcityhome.org Registered Charity: 1177699
Financial Review
This year has been full of challenges for the church.
Income was at £58k and was balanced by £59k of spending. The three main areas of expenditure were rent (£19k); salaries (£8k); and general operating costs (£7k ). The expectation is that as we the congregation grows that the finances of the church will also expand. However, the rising cost of living and economic constraints will affect this.
Reserves policy
Our reserves policy was set at £8,000 for 2022/2023.
Structure, governance and management
The trustees met monthly throughout the year. Flexibility for adhoc meetings and decisions has been important and appreciated from all of the trustees. The trustees have worked hard to ensure that soulcity is a safe and healthy community for all who may decide to attend.
Trustees
The trustees who served from April 2022 to April 2023 are: Mr Phillip Rust Mrs Lucy Engels Mr Benjamin Jeffery Mr Christopher Clark
Approved by the trustees on 13th November 2023 and signed on their behalf by Ben Jeffery
soulcity church web: soulcityhome.org Registered Charity: 1177699
Financial Statement for the year ended 5 April 2023
| 5 April 2020 to 4 April 2021 | 5 April 2020 to 4 April 2021 |
|---|---|
| Income | |
| Building Expenses | - |
| External Hire | 525 |
| FirstFruits | - |
| General Giving | 49,300 |
| Gift Aid Reclaim | 5,821 |
| Grants | 434 |
| Offering | - |
| Refunds | 2246 |
| Gross Proft | 58,327 |
| Less Operating Expenses | |
| Around the Box | - |
| Bless fund out | 1,310 |
| Building Expenses | - |
| Expenses | 2,354 |
| Giving/Generosity | 3,060 |
| Meetings | - |
| Memberships | 200 |
| Offce equipment | 445 |
| Operating Costs | 7,083 |
| Outreach + Events | 1,885 |
| 600 | |
| Rent | 19,093 |
| Resources | 306 |
| Salaries | 7,800 |
| SoulKids | 454 |
| Subscriptions and software | 6,694 |
| Training | - |
| Utilities | 3,023 |
| worship equipment and pa | 4,501 |
| Total Operating Expenses | 59,197 |
| Net Proft | -870 |
Accounts:
Opening Balance 1st April 22: £14,919 Closing Balance 31st March 23: £13,810 Total £-1,109
Approved by the trustees on 13th November 2023 and signed on their behalf by Ben Jeffery
soulcity church web: soulcityhome.org Registered Charity: 1177699
Independent Examiner’s Report to the trustees/ members of soulcity Church
I report to the trustees on my examination of the accounts of the above charity (“the Trust”) for the year ended 04/04/2023.
As the charity trustees of the Trust, you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Charities Act 2011 (“the Act”).
I report in respect of my examination of the Trust’s accounts carried out under section 145 of the 2011 Act and in carrying out my examination, I have followed the applicable Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the Act.
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention
in connection with the examination which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:
-
accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act or
-
the accounts do not accord with the accounting records
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Joe Brady
Address: 6 longford Close, Oldham, OL9 7EA Date: 23/11/2023
soulcity church
web: soulcityhome.org Registered Charity: 1177699