The Parish of St. Mary The Blessed Virgin Spen Lane. Gomersal THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND Diocese of Leed- STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES For the yEar endlng 31° December 2025 Independent Examlner Mr B J Wilcox FCMA 18 Latham Court Gomersal BD19 4DE Incumbent The Revd EmltyTNlball St Marf5 Vkar Blrkenshwj BDII 2EF Bank•fS Yorkshlrn Bank PLC 12 Bradford Ro•d aeckheaton BD19 31U THE CkiJR(H
The Parish of 5t Mary the Blessed Virgin. Gomers31 STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIE5 FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2025 INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions gNen by the Charity Commission under section 43171 Ibl of the Act to be found in the 8uidance from the CBF. That exarnination Includes a review of the accountin8 records kept by the PCC and a comparison of the accounts with those records. It a150 includes considering any unusual Items or disclosures in the accounts and seeking explanation5 from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently I do not express an audit opinlon on the view glven by the accounts. In connectlon with my examlnation no matter has come to my attention. 11} Which gives me reasonable cause to believe that In any material respect the requirements to keep accounting record in accordance wlth sertlon 41 of the act and to prepare accounts which accord wlth the accounting records and to comply wrth requirements of the Art, as also contained In the Church accounting Regulations 1997 have not been met. 121 To which in my opinion, attentions should be drawn in orderto enable a proper Understanding of the accounts to be reached. G J Wilcox FCMA 3 February 2026
PARISH OF ST MAR Y GOMER5AL STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES ENERAL 2025 of t1 PCC of 51 Mary's fjomeful awe presented on • elP1S aNJ p•ymenfs b•sis All lunds shovm unrestrkt•d unle Otnoted A in on the accounts For K£ounti1 purpx>5es, receipts are recorded when rectrved. Cash receipts I weekty as reter4ed on Sundays ank uetlrts are recorded rnonthly 05 shown on bank 5tJtements. Cdits •re not considered dLbe untA payment is received. For accounti purposes. payments are recorded when theques are issutd or cath is made. C2sh payments are weekiy as made each &Jndav aank debrts a ftcorded monthty as shown on bank ststemeftts. Debts are not considered due until payment Is made.
PARISII QF ST MARY TrIE BLESSED Vlli(ilN GOMELSLI MMAR_Y 2025 In the yeRr2ir25 the a¢¢ounts show deficit of £4247. K¢eipts Th¢ amount rt4elvtyJ firjm the covcnanting of both gift4 And re8ui8r giving adds a substanthl amount to your incom¢. Givin8 decr¢a&ed in 2025 by IOYO ncarly £3.568. Receipts ftrjm fund Taising efforts dd slithtty in 2025. witho the c(Krtinuous sllprt frrxn everyone involved in moncy raising ¢ffort5 knitand Natter81 Mothers Union oame just two. This year ¢eiV#1 a massive £74.684.52 frorn the mobTle phone m8st. This was mainly due to our Church Warden aftera diseus5É0n with the mobile mast t¢am realising thattheir electric metre was included wtth ours attd we bad becn paying for theirelectricity all this time and we gota refund of £60,594, Ill 2026 we should 111 Trccive the usual £14.0(J) &$ this goes a long towards our budg¢L Fffs ir¢(w frem fun¢r8ls and wedding's increased by 72% although this is bcyolld our¢ontrol. Inttt¢tt nyeivtd on all bAnk Ounts incre on 2024. The fi&Ing activitie8 80 a longwqy tovrnrds k¢epin8 oUr¢hUh going. Payffjts F4eo8¢8•lld w have sli8hty inrttased ou 2. Chureb costs overall Ired this 15 matity to th¢ ityurase of ryir works to the church. In totsl pAymtots bav¢ itiGreued by I I 1% as pvioUSlY ststed thts is mainIy dueto esxnti41 repairwork5 can?ed out ID th¢ church. I would ooce again liketo say a very big thank you for the generosity of everyone involved Thith St Mary's Parish Church. whether it is ftr the fithd raisi donation5 or the giving. The common fid for 2026 for the first lime sinc¢ I became tssurer has decreased by £l.838. With th¢ belp of all donations etc we mana8¢d to pay ow parish share in fi1 in 2025 and Itopefully we e8n man4e to do the sarne in 2026. Oncc a8aln 2026 w1 be a very difficultyear &s there are more repairs due to starL l am sure with yourc4jntind supF¥Jrt we will conw through in th¢ end. On behalf of the PCC. I would like to thank you ill foryour continued suppoit Cotnmitinent and stewdshtp, which arc the main factors behind our continued fiwKial stsbility. Joyce J8ckwll PCC Tr¢asuter
RECEIPT3 207A 1. DIRECT GMNG En% 21,270.(KI 2.106.3B 23.724.eo 2,229.89 7D5.39 BJplMMedd'51FUrwa C¢weant Recoveries Totsl L•¢t Gl¥ 571. -18% 7.283 SJ 8.224 50 1.745.37 1.343 30 2.BOB.65 3JU67 OTHER RECEIPTS 3.74&69 2.173.LYJ 912.19 72% Spedal Cethtion o. 520.40 497.15 Ch 234.10 375.84 .38% 2.W28.32 Fabrc * int•e5t [elrt n FurKI Inl8r05t ReceNed 468.16 4787% o.D) 394 76 1133.71 110$ 05 1% Chlkjre 6B7.01 -1% DM•d0M 1.7Cffj.TT 1.538.79 11% -1S% 19.788.50 12.19 24.89 1% 11,J29.27 30,TT5.9) Knrt & Nitt•r 0% n Fund 819.36 1.S34.(h) 2.358 ( 188.C6 Cond 120.01 675.45 104. 0% 74,884.52 14.fM.74 0% Chthken Ij Y¢yJth Work o.IA) 0% 8¥nef&# Trugl Grnnt o.ty) 718.50 491.D) Hiro crf Hall 1(Xl.th) 0% Donatson &tr¥l Instriptk)n DOn8n Ckx 1.37 0% 1253JQ. 57.9x96 118%
PAYiwrs 2028 EXPENSES WAGES CrgY Wo 2024 1.gf2. 2.470.(K) 920.32 2.512.00 2322 310% 34 6. CILIRCH COS73 15.W.21 11.4VJ.29 5,387.72 10.711.08 737.10 1.470.48 31% IrurarK• 5.W.68 eAI.078.73 1.eiJ7.07 ICQ6.40 481% Churchyard Upk Totsl chUh ¢ts 14397.IKI .709A7 184% 1.283.78 1.3&5.48 4% 4% 7. DKKESAN GOSTS 36,753.OJ 25.. 47% P¥rah Qtth loJtsltir¥J¥vJl (Tal nJ.ty) 26.000 1.10J.30 4VA 0% rDtsI GM 9. OThÉR PAYVENTS Mission & Hoty Wa 1Crtl.50 o. 1.t30.Q) I] Club 180.tsj 126.Q) Chtobjn Inucriptbjns TrnrA to Orq¥n alc st 515.09 o. 29.488.19 1.312.14 R1 0% 6LV.OQ 0% 8ank C Tots Prai o. 0% 725.26 3.014.( 464.61 3.428.00 0.00 0% 0% 0% Mara Roof Rer4ir¥ 90.34 10.350.00 0% Olhers 104.Q) 0% 0% 0% Wln(ki 0.00 Total Oth•rPynw 3W.i$ 16.16726 128% TOTAL PAYMEi¥rs 163.135.63 TI.1TrAO 111%
FRCAI 3111ZQ5 41.338.12 74.488.19 45,L)0.OO Inttyvsl
¢ 25 vQLVNrY GIVI 29. L61 coTrt•d ¢Tkn9 .225 t4x htund 15.4361 Plryd¥•d Olvlng 2,230 Cull•¢eLoTh••rdln4ty E MIM15TAY JDaCleryy OZtIE CJllX¢ert SaVi(¥S 1S.056 5,569 60.019 577 5. Jbl lrturathC 9IZ Coll•rtLoThi-Sp•¢a41 1.3 1.539 DDn•tlDn• 30.776 L•••cy O R•n•Y•l RVtr• ORDIXAR¥ IkfC4lf TIO Cl•dnL 710 O Tax Rffjrd 14, 091 717 typ4•ty Qt J•rvlc•i 1.712 OrynL•tiChotrlMwL¢ 4r o S¢hooL G[t gVtslSlPmlVlTIts 9K•• O IOO Ci¥b Q Grint 47,J•4aaiL8urAtl•• IMZ DIryI ??,QQO •rl•h Shar• 31.7SJ ¢16 Lott•ry Chlldz•n• A¢EITIty 437 1•trq1trnt5 mmlA¢?IVniZa COJTI 11 T•l• 29> 191 th•r• tynlc LIL? 21.100 Oik•r Ittort tEwr•r Iwcc s,141•1 Sundzy Incr INCC14T fRCII IJlVfS¥NT O Int•r••t-¢urr•nr Gp•mi8ilEPfaT CO3ts 9 5t K4fy'• JchDDI-IAbi• Ylty ¢LOSUkE fRtr8T ACCGV 044 ColLKtLoTh*-D•slyut•d fj40 thurcts Ald RQUIIDTNG DlTnPlkfEg totAL o tsirrEprns fLV2AL txpEMoLMt 76.580 IPMSY£R RtsttitCYltylW¥Ii¥ATEP IVJDS 9 116.9431 Fibrlc fiJnkt I,DU5 17 9•B Otb• PLLT5/lTIClts &1 Z5.46
ST MARYS GOMERSAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL BALANCE SHEET AS AT 3111212025 2025 BALANCE SHEET Note Ref 2028 CURRENT ASSETS 46,047 YCkS Bank-currenl Alc 23.617 Organ Fund 17,721 Deposit No.2 AJ O CAF Cash Gold Alc O Cash o stock-Tr8ldGraft O Debtors to P.C.C. O Prepayments by P.C.C, 41,800 23,969 46,858 87,385 112,627 87.385 Less CURRENT LIABILITIES 112,627 O Credltors of P.C.C. O Recelpts Advance TOTAL NET ASSETS 112627 Repre$&nt•d by ACCUMULATED FUNDS 2,646 P.C.C (General Fund) B.F. 16 316 Surplu81lDefKitl foryear 44.772 44,772 14.2471 40,525 Re$lrfcl8dlDeslgnated Funds 105 Kneeler8 O Creche O Charltable Glvlng 1,000 Servlce Worshlp 23,617 Organ Fund O Youth Club O Comunlty Centre 17.721 Fabric 170 p.p.C. Projects 105 1,000 23,969 42,613 48,858 170 72,102 112627
PARISH MARYTHE BLESSEDMAGIN BUDGET FOR 2026 WEEKLY PARISH StAFGF AND 14VORKING Costs 7153 or8ani5t etLI CHURCH HOUSEKEEPING Iheats"n& 1nstsran. runni(( rep•1 5er¥i¢t requirnents etLI 82311 PARL5H SHARE PAR15H SHARE OUTSTANfHNG OLnwARD GIVING Ourthvrch'5 to mi551on and Ch•ryt¥ble oyynisabon 34915 671 FABRICACCOUNF 19 TOTAL EXPENDITURE PER WEEK £2450 wolected hKome fry 2016 From the cdleckn plate Icèth) [EnVek.I 8¥nkefs stand1%d5) 21270 TaK redakwl on Glft d, Cmnants eto 7284 140 Fundratsin8 FrL*)) Moblle Ph 74685 1436 TOTALIIKOME £2081 5hrrtfall of £369
The Parish of St. Mary The Blessed Virgin Spen Lane, Gomersal THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND Diocese of Leeds Reports from church organisations For the year ending December 2025 Prle•l In Charg• The Revd Emily TKlball 6 Vicarage Gardens BD112EF
St Mory The Blessed Vlrqln Parlsh Church, Gomersal Vl¢ar'• annual report I'd Iikp In M. IhAnkii)R ri-f n Iw)rli' v'l)¢) IIAg 411 prTr ihrir time Ic) maintAln An¢1 (} I he life nf thr rhiirrh Ilin)I Iql)Tll If Il) j< i rAr. Yiiiir i IlTilril)utir)n 18 Vlt81 ti) thp wllheing Ihe church And miirl? Ai)i)rri'inlrtl Thi8 I'eAr M'pN.e hftd 7 hAI)ti8m A Tl(l N'r i-r Rln c h9nrrI lifyw wv hAptigm prrp8fAtlfJn. 80 IhAI fAmil?f 8 mtyi iiytlier Iii I liiir¢'li t¢) IAkr i)sirt iri i fpw diffrrrnt Activities wh sr.h rxplnre the meAnii)g of l)Ai)tim. v-ill r-nntiTiile li) drvf If>P rhr prfK.r88 for hApr.18ms during 2026. {lur InI i-ourv for 202.5 N'aq based nn Pele (JreiR'8 )k. W tci pr8y' whir.h helr.d us lo remcrnixlr ihAt 8ni-one can prai, Aniu'here. and that there arr differrnt ways of praiing. In the autumn H'e rAn the Siart. coursc at si Paul's as an intrr)dur.tion trj fajth, panicularli" for th08e exploring bAPtism. For Pentecost, lyn a new partnership with other local churches in order to launch Immerse. contemFKJrary worship services. These quarterly services tour locally and include opwJrtuniN. for longer times of sung worship as well as Lqlks by visits.ng SFtaker3 M"hich included Environment Champion Debby Plumber and St Hild'3 College Ixcturer Jo Logan. In the surnmer the PCCS and other members of the leadership team from St Marv"'s and St Paul's sFnt a day Iking at the history of the church in Gomersai and Birkenshaw and starnng to think alx)ut our values and vision (or the future. We stated that our value$ include.. Being part of family Fellow'ship Friendship Welcome - acce$sible to newcomers Re-ordered church Litur and building Shared expyrience Gospel8 Involvement Communication Children's work- community Everything Pilgnmage R(M)tednv¥t4 Diffrrent laycry i)f Lommuiiilylfiimily Mubjc Betng part o( the bigger PiL".l ure in Ihe di(x'esr G(Ml and wor¥hip dl thv i.'enirr The vision for 2029 Lompri¥ed.. Still have Emily dnd plans have develuwl Numbers have increased Better community link¥ Two church buildings Two complimentary congregations
More shared mission and ministry Alternating euch8ri81 Use of leadership team Growth in childrenlyouth worklmen's group House group8 wor8hip other than Sunday morniTig8 variety in Df wor8hiplservice8 aecess to buildings impr()ved acce8S to cler. outreach During 2026 we do some more work to define our Purse and vision to help us to plan for the future. Financial viability needs to be one of our priorities for the next few s'ears, to ensure that we can not only maintain the church but invest in mission and planning for the future. Revd Emil!. A. Thdball, Prie5t-in-charge March 2026 PCC R¢ rt for 2025 BAekground St M8Th s Parlsh Churth Council 18 r¢8pon8ible for eTrOF¢rattng with the resident vic, indudllig the Church Warden8. The PCC alw have maintenance respon8ibilitse8 for the Churdj and its Churchyard. Memb¢r•blp of th¢ PCC. MetrLber5 of the PCC are either ex(0 or elected by the Annual P0¢hIal Church Meeting IAKMI in accordance with the Church Representation Rules, elected members 8erve for 3 ye8, also Deanery Synod Member8 serv¢ for 3 years. Word¢ns and Deanery SJTrod members Serve on the PCC as ex•officio. Durin the %r8r, the lollowin 8¢rved a8 memb¢r8 of the PCC.. Commlffe¢s.' ndifv8 Conbith¢. It Fthver lo tr&>wl busin¢ss of the PCC tween its mediii85, subiea dirtctions 8iv¢n ty the PCC. MemEa5". Viw, Trfc Vice ¢hir, Warden5. T[SUr. Secretary. Linda Mumford. The stsndingcixhmitre 5 limes durin8 2025. Rev Emily fidball Linda Mumford Brenda Swinton Worden5.' ex•ffido Thefesia Fewster (served from May 20241 Andrew Wardman Iserved from May 20251 Mrs JOY Jackson Mrs Christir Milsom Mr Paul Wilkinson Eleited Membe Christine Milsom Gill Greaves 5usie Bell Prortor Helen Nicholl Frances Wilkin50n Rupinder Khaira Jenrfer Hoyle Pennyworthingtom May 2023 ex-offido May 2024 ex4)ffido May 2024 ex officio YeurElerteé May 2023 May 2023 May 2023 May 2023 May 2023 May 2024 May 2024 May 2025
•AI i Parish S¢aiistTrcs ?0:4 20?5 1944 47 Cornmunicants Horne Communicants 7474 j $90 t-1943 MaTriao¢s Burials Burials of ashes Funerals ConfiThations Huddcrsfi¢ld Parish Church The PCC have met 5 times during 2025. The ¥tandin8 committee have 8180 met 5 times. A big thanks to all the member8 of the PCC for 8Jl work done at St M8ry'8 during this period. 5 members and l ex-officio hal'e completed their tenn and ejigible for re-election. Thank you to these members for you work during your term. Over the past y, the KC has overseen a period of si]fiCant acttvity and planning for future Worship and churth life have remained central, with well-attended s¢ason818ervice3 and the courses Shared, baptism support initiatives, and new opportumties for f8ith exploration have helped ryth some oWth. Work has begun on a shared vision framework- 'Gather, Grow, Give, - to guide the church'8 future diredion. Financially, the church rein& gtablc but ha8 fac 8ub8tanti8J expenditure on e88cntial rep8irs. The PCC ha8 continued to meet it8 PlSh Share commitment while managing co8t8 carefully. Ineotlle has been supported by grant$, fundr8ising. VAT recovery, and a SAlficant telecoms 8ettlement, helpÉng to offset major works. A major focus has en the fabric of the building, with ongoing repairs to window8. pla8terwork, roof e&s, and the church Clock, 8Jong8ide improvements Such a8 lighting, security, and plan8 for audio-visual equipment. The ¢hur¢hyard ha8 al80 been enhanced through tree pl8nting and volunteer effort6. The church succe8Stu]ly engaged with the °Give to Go Green. initiative, securing match fundmg and raising fund8 to improve encoy efficiency and sustainability. Safeguarding and He8Jth & Safety remain a high priority, with continued training* Uated procedure8. and de8rer role8 to ensure a 881¢ and welcon]ing environment for all. Strong links with the local school gnd community eontinue, 8Jongside growing children, actiNryties such a8 Tot8 Praise. However, developing ongoing engagement younger age group8 remains an import8Jlt priority. Overall, the PCC ha8 focu8ed on maintsining the church building, StrenhenIng governance, 8nd laying foundation8 for growth, while continuing to Serve the congregation and wider community. Thank you to all members for your continued commitment. 8UPPOrt and hard work. Helen Nicholl, PCC Secretary, On behalf of the PCC. April 2026
Chur¢h FAbrlc R¢ 2025. Annual preventative mAinlenAnce u'f)rk hA4 en i'8rrir.d nut.. Thi8 include8 Imiiler 8enryce. lightning condiicti)r. chiirch inlrrnAI Ai)rl rf)iif Alarm8, fire extinwi8hers, gutters cleaned. We have had the S_!rorli- QuinqiieniiiAI re}rI And ingpeLlinn nf the Chri8tU8. The follov4ing d(ument4 havc trnyii rci"irM'rd. lilAIr<I And where nece48ary approved by Ihe Ifc.. Fire sAfeTh" ri8k A89Cgmenl. firr pnx"cdure, HlkS lIcY 8nd church inventory in prc¢e88. The first tv1 qundai. 9tn.ic e8 of 202.fi ere cancelled because of Snow and ice. During the l'ear the churrhM'arden8 had regular meeting8 Wlth Revd Emily. Emili. encouraged fhe IYC lo take part in Give To Go Green IG2GGI. where we had 6 w'ccks to raige A maximum of £10,0 to match-funded by the diocese. PIR lighty Nrre installed in b)th vestries. toilets. kitchen. lobby and wrch. Draught proofing was on the main dwr. cler&ry" i"ests)' door, inner choir vestry door, lobby door. The lobby dwry M'ere realled And so Th"as the clew vestry door. Three window lights behind the organ hai'e been repaired. The cl(rk. The clixk stoppxd in J8nuary, was repaired in June, but unfortunately another repair w.as needed on the chimes. This was duly seen to. Boundan" w'all. This collapsed in April, was repaired by KMC. They did a fantastic job. Chairs. The lay-out of chairs wa$ Changed from straight rows into today's pattern. There "as some scepticisrn but is now favourite as opposed to the old layvout. The chairs are ali nurntred to avoid leg Injuries at the end of each row and to make sure everyone ha8 a shelf for their attessories. Tree planting. 21 Trees were planted in the churchyard to replace 7 dead trees, which were tsken out by KMC. The churchyard gates were locked lor 24 hours on 26127 October. Thi8 IS to maintain Ihe churches oHtr3hiP over the right of way. Trees Fet4'ster and Andrew Wardman - Churchwarden8 22 Febnjary 2026 - Dee¢mber 21Y25 The Parish continues to use the Church of England Parish Dashknard at level 3 as advised by the D1ce which en8ures the PCC is up to date with Safeguarding requirement8. An Action Plan was pre8ented to PCC on 26. 11.25 which ensured that all requiremen(8 were fulfilled. The PCC also accepted the Service Agreement for the Safeguarding Hub in September 2025. In April 2025, the PCC di8CU88ed the document 'Promoting a Safer Church, which encourage8 consideration of the characteristlC8 of a healthy, safe and compassionate church culture. The PCC recogni8e8 that to keep people safe and respond well when abuse happens, healthy cultures and effective leadership are important. Reverend Emily, Linda Mumford and Jennifer Hoyle have completed a Eafer Recruitment and People Management. course during the year which will allow them to SUp)rt volunteers.
Fli'c DB% V4'err ci)mpletrd di)riiiR Ihr irAr, ff)iir ()[ whi(.h wrrr rcnpwrfl. Thr DBS upxiate 9epiicr ig nq) InnRrr 11ged A thr di(rrxr rf(iuire.8 ihe Apprf)prisJtr. Ifvrl r)f check 18 condiicled. Training hA8 tKen An Im111 fpAliire nf 8AfpRIiArdinR 8%glD thig vear. Nrw PL C members hAI'c complelrd BAqI('. F()IiiidAlii)n And t)flTnf qtic Abiige rr)urqeg during the l'ear w'hill other mtmlyrq hAiY refrr8hrd FriiinilAlinn Rnil r)nme.81ic Abugr. cour8e8 complet(•d more ihAn ihrrc i-rAr 4imilArli. vi)liii)Irffg Al Ar.tivity Mf)rnin%8 and TfJt8 Praige have refreshed Fi)iindAlii)ii IrAinin% *'hen neceqgAry. The pan4h 18 fi)rliiiiAie li) IIAI-C Si) 11)Aiii' ii'l)11 Arr .11]1[) Ifi %ive (Jf Iheir time lo complete traininR to hei8hien 8M"Arene88 of saleguarding i8sue8. Grateful thRnk8 arr due to all M'ho have completed training. Jennifer Hoi'le April 2026 rt 2025 26 A neF4 Electoral Roll H'as prepared in 2025 80 Church members were invited to reapply. This happrns every six years so the next new roll will be prepared in 2031. In other ve8n the Electornl Roll is revi8ed in preparation for the Annual Parochial Church Meeung as il wiill be for May 2026. In April 2025 there were a total of 63 memr8 on the Electoral Roll. SLnce then I member has sadly passed away and 5 new members have been added. In Apnl 2026 there were a total 0166 meMr$ on the Electoral Roll. Ichristine Milsom Electoral Roll Officer Dem'sbury. and Birstall Deanery The Svnod met three times in 2025. These meetings include rewrts from Diocesan and Generaj Syn(MJs 80 these can rewjrted to parishes. The meetings ve the opportunit! to visit different Churche8 in the Deanery and for inforniation ab)ut what is happening in the pan6hes to be shared. Monday 28 th April 2025 at St Jame8 Church Hecknjondwike David Ashton sp)ke alx)ut the prctt88 of app)inting a new Diocesan Bishop. The Deanery wa6 researching how to adopt a tree at the Jo Cox Community Wood. Give to go Green and Net Trro Carbon funding were discus8ed. Thurbday 17th July 2025 ai St Luke8 Church, Cleckheaton Introduction and worship wa8 led by Revd. Helen Chamberlain. Vicar of Cleckheaton. There was a talk by Sue Sowden on her life a8 a prison chaplain in A category C prison, HMP We818tun, near Thorp Arch. There wa8 a reFK)rt on the progre8& to app)int Bi8hop Nick'8 Successor. There 1$ a web8ite to link people to 8Lhools who need governors and a new company to make recommendation8 aTrx)ut Net Zero. An oak trtt had Ixen decided on for the Jo Cox Wo(xl. Dedication was on 28th August. Wednesday 15th October 2025 at St John'8 Church, Upper Hopton As Team Rector of the Mirfield Team Parish Hugh Baker (Area Dean) explained that the host church St John's Upper Hopton is buili in the mock Gothic style having been
consci raled in 18.5.l. The pari81I N'R* jnii)ril wilh Mirfield And FA8thnrEr. in 20(J7 t() ff)rm the Mirfield Team PAri4h. The speaker wa8 gteve 14ndgwn nf the FITAnrh FM rHdin 8t8tinn in Dew8bury. Branch FM 18 a re'stered ch&ritt-. C hrigliAn mii8ir 18 predominAnily played but there 18 algo drama and divii48inn Niih f8etuAI cnnlent bri)pdrA8t fmm it8 twf) 8tudios. There WA8 A rryue81 fnr H lig1 of cler. H'hn cr)iild rnvrr diirinR Ahgenr.e nf a PAri8h prie8t. The New. Deaner%' Rtlired C-ler. ()fficrr. The Vrn. F.I17A11h gn()wden, 18 working on a new, list. There rrwrl on Bi8hi)i) Nii'k'q tIrrrnI And HpwTrintment of hi8 3ucce48or, Bishop TDbi' of BrAdford u'ill Ir Arlin% F4ig1)iip of Irr(1g. Joi'ce ilac.kgon. C.hn8tine Milgnm and Paul Wilkin8on OTHER REPORT8 ITI THE UFE OF THE CHURCH Gomer•AI 8t '• 8¢hool li conts.nues to be a priiilege to have this role. It ha8 proved to be a deeply interesting and varied one - I'm still very much learning on the job, a8 It werel As part of the Governor role I have attended regUr Standards & Effectiveness Committee meetings, Linda ha8 attended the Resources ones; as well a8 temly Full Governors meetings. The optM)rtunity to question / seek clarification in order to extend our understanding is alway5 welcomed by the School. whilst the schcx)I's reporting on k. issues le.g curriculum changes) is very valuable. Recently we have been spending time considering the implications of the new build and how to manage this process as positiveh" as wssible. The public inforn]ation Session was extremety worthwhile in term8 of opportunity to discuss issues with the different 3t8J(eholder8 involved. We have alpA) had the opwrtunity to attend a variety of training 8e89ions: EITective Governanace'_ a two-part course led by Kirklees Marnm's Law, training- organised by school. relating to the Terrorism act 2025 'Prevent' ainIng- led by the DFE Plus x6 Governor inducuon training mfyaule8, including key areas such as ' The Strate¢ Role of Governance,. We were also fortunate enough to be invited to attend the Spirituality CPD in school, led by Helen l£ver from the Diocese. It was enlightening to see how this key aspect of life is p18JJned for and promoted within the curriculum and wider school life at St Mary's and it certainly made u8 proud to hear how Helen L£ver valued the way the school taught this. We had the ch8nce to 8ee how pupi18 engagc with 80me of the8e deeper Spiritual question8 during the school's Pau8e Day. I vi8lted each cla88 and it was intriguing to see how the pupilts, experiences and que8tioning develo through the year group3. The skill the staff showed in emwjwering children to question and ponder was lovely to experience. Simildrly, the Anne FrBnk exhibition, which Linda, Brenda and l attended and was led by Y6 was a deeply thoughtful experience which felt very relevant to today's global issue8. The whole 8chool 8ervice8 at St Mary's church are always a joyous experience. I suspect Ie g8ined a reputation for getling a little teary at times during thesel The respect and care which the children display towards each other, adults and the church is lovely to see; whilst their understanding of the kry a8lXCt8 of the church celebration 18 always impressive. It also provides d great opportunity too to meet the parents, carers and
families who make up our c'nmmiinity. 80 for wr'vr experienced FIArve8t. Candlemas, Christmas and Easter 8ervice* this year- I'm letting the tI88ues ready for the next onel During March I worked alaiig.8ide the Lhair of CTovernors to redraft and update the Governorn, Action Plan. Our aim .3 In brin% it in line with the School Development Plan, to ensure a cohesive Appn)Ach. We Algo c'reated feedback Sheets with prompts, .hich Governors can use durinR vigilA if Ihry wigh. Thi8 has been presented to Governors - all feedback gratefully received. On a 'e¢kIl basis l attend the Tue8day Cotree Mornings after 'meeting and greeting, at the gates. This is a reall!- enjoN"able time in which I c8n get to know individual parents more closelN and develop community link8, whilst hopefully breaking down a few barriers at the 8ame time. Joanne and l also supwrted the sch1 during Parents Evenings by encouraging parent8 to fill in the school questionnaire. This was a great opportunity to chat to parents and to SUPFM)rt them in the proce88, where necessary. I'm looking forward to exploring the RE curriculum next, as well a3 8UPPOrting School during SATS. Being a Governor is really rewarding and wetre Iking fonvard to the rest of the school l.ear and all the experiences it offers. Jeanette Vaines on behalf of Foundation Governor8 This year's Advent 8md Easter activity mornings have taken place, with many thanks to Jennifer Hoyle who does a sterllng job of ensuring we are all up to date with the required training. It continues to be a blessing at St Mary's that so many volunteers from the congregation and friends are willing to take on thi$ requirement, and I can safely say your volunteering is all very much appreciated. Rev Emily is a welcome support. Our teajn has grown and grown. Regulars and new faces. without whom this event wouldnt take place. Again thank you team for your commitment to the children and families who attend these events. There is always an atmosphere of welcome 8nd fellow8hip. The mornings Buzz by. Many thanks also to those who volunteer behind the scenes who, print, cut out, prep activities and advertise, either on Facebook page, word of mouth etc. For, Providers of chocolate 8nd items for the much loved Tombjla stall, and especially all your prayers for the children and families who come to enjoy the morning. Thanks also to Gomersal St Mary's Primary school, who advertise, promote and remind their pupils and families of the event. Numbers do fluctuate. with Easter being the most popular, possibly due to Christmas being more of a busy time for families. However, we are able to give more individual time to children tsking part if a little quieter. There is always a mixture of regular attendees and those being here on their fir8t visit. All crafts and activities are related to the season being celebrated in some wayi te it bracelet making, biscuit, wreath or cross decorating etc. Activity wise, there continues to be a mixture of new and well-loved ideas. The programme is changing and developing at each event.
The event is free of charge, Lhildreii must be fiCLC)mpanied l)y un tidult, und with a sincere hope, that no one feel% unllblc t() tAkc part in the ActivitlC8 Ihat are based around the true meaning of tlic 8ea4nii, tind e.very()ne feel8 camfnrtuble, 8nd at home and welcome here at St Mtlry'8, Frances Wilkinson Tot8 Pral Tots Praise continue8 to be well allended by fiomerNal St Mary's Nur$ery and Stepping Stones Dav Nursery. There arc upwards of 25 childrcn attending fortnightly, term time. We have not liad lo caiicel any servicc8 during Ihi8 period due to weather or major work being done in the churcli wliicli is pleasing tu us and thc nurscries. The children are ea8er to come to church and indeed look forward to the time Spent With us. It does feel a pleasure and a blessing to be part of the young people's experiences, seeing them groTh' in confidence and participation. We have eager volunteer8 to take a role in action stories, even dressing up for 80me of the parts. A highlight for u8 recently, 'as having children remember, what the friends of Jesus were called, this after a 3 week break from attending Tot8 praisc. They didn't need a clue either for it, (begins with the letter °D".I Then, theN" Thyent on and remembered 4 of the Disciples names. Great for 3-4year olds. We open with the lighting of the Easter candle, Itknt is an exception of candle lightin8) and the following prayer:_ Jesus vou are light, Jesus vou are LA)ve, fill us your light, flll us with your LL)ve. Amen. Followed by Song, Bible Story, Craft, which highlights the story and enable8 them to re- tell to others the story* when they get home, Songlaction Rhyme, again replicating the story, Refreshments, picnic Style in the back room and prayer. Time allowing each nursery alter snack, leads one of their favourite songs and they all chip in with parts of the Thank you Prayer to close with. Wonderful. Many thanks go to the multi-talented Tots Praise Team. Paul Wilkinson, Brenda Swinton, Jennifer Hoyle, Christine Milsom, Dianna Brook, Joan Oddy, Joyce Jackson. With a welcome drop in from Linda Mumford when she can manage time of work. Story telling slot seems to without warning land on her lap. To which she valiantly responds. Everyone gives so generously of their time, ener, enthusia8m, dedication and commitment throughout the year in so many ways. Frances Wilkinson The Mother'• Unk•n This p)pular and growing group is still attracting new members and thi$ year we have ended the year with a total of 23. Two new members joined this year and we already have 4 additional members for next year 2026 - 3 re-joining and one new member. The group is run by a committee of 7 and works hard to raise funds for this worldwide organisation and also for our church here in Gomersal. Other MU branches usually have a branch leader, but not here. This model has been in place for four years and is still working well attracting members and non-members to our monthly meetings. The committee puts together an annual programme of activity for each calendar year, tying to keep th¢ interest of our members along the way. Most meetings are well attended 8nd
provide a lively fellowship group ftsr thiq pari8h. In additinn tn rBi8ing MU funds we also support our speakers charitie8 ton. Each 8aker nominate8 their cho8en charity in exchange for their pre8entAtion. In the pa8t we hA ve rai8ed money for 'Guide Dogs for the blind" Red Hou8e Inc.F41 hi8tary Rrr)iip, BrAinkind, and 8180 Make a Mothers Day a MU nationwide fund raiger - just to menlii)n A few. Our Monthly activitie8 in 2025 inc.luded & very well attended quiz, a talk by the Yorkshire Air Ambulance, An annual and a ChritJtma8 lunch, and a very interesting overvie of the Mothers Union by Treeg Few8ter for interegted new member8. We were very fortunate in August tn h08t the Mary 8umner Day service. for the Hudder8field Episcopal areF4. Our two new members Rev Emily and Penny Worthington were made members of the MU at this service and the whole proceeding8 were pre8ided over by Archdeacon Bill Braviner. A wonderful occa8ion attended by 42 members. The vern popiilar MU Afternoon Tea continueg to flouri8h each September, our biggest fund raising eiient of the vear supporting both our church and the wider MU. Gill Greaves MU Secretary St MaTr's Church GOMERSAL The Chlldren'• 8o¢let The people of St Mary's Parish have once again been generou8 with their donation8 to the Children's Society during 2025. The total for the Children's Society Collection Boxe8 for 2025 k8 £164.73 ,hich will go toward valuable work of the Children's Society. The amount from Christingle Services thi8 Ye is £375.12. The amount from Christingle candle8 totalled £112.77. Thank you once again for all your donation8. The Children'8 Society doe8 an enormous amount for children who desperately need help and whose lives are in danger of being irreparable dwiaged. It is by generous donation 8uch as these frnm St Mary's that this kind of help can continue. Thth you again from Joyce Jackson