Christ Church Baptist The Nap, Kings Langley, Herts, WD4 8ET www.christchurchbaptist.co.uk
ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2023
March 2024
Annual General Meeting
SECRETARY’S REPORT
The bare facts:
Minister: Vacant Moderator Revd Garry Jenkins (appointed 26 January 2023) Administrator: Glenda Turner (appointed July 2006) Bookshop and Coffee Shop Co-Ordinator: Hannah Tse (resigned 30 October 2023) Helen Bluff (appointed 27 November 2023) New members: None Baptisms: None Member deaths: None Secretary: Roy Farrant (re-appointed October 2021 for three years) Treasurer: Paul Hutchinson (resigned 30 March 2023) Cameron Varley (appointed 30 March 2023) Other Deacons: Mark Allchorn (appointed 30 March 2023) Phil Carpenter (appointed 13 March 2022) Joy Cooper (appointed 26 May 2022) Kate Sime (appointed 30 March 2023) Will Sime (resigned 30 March 2023) Diaconate vacancies: Two
Church Progress:
On the face of it, nothing much happened at Christ Church during 2023. There were no new members; no leaving members; no baptisms.
These bare facts do not tell the story, though. Much has been going on and you can read about lots of that elsewhere in this report.
We have been blessed with many different people filling our pulpit Sunday by Sunday. (Special thanks are due to Phil Carpenter for liaising week by week with all these different speakers.) The pattern of Sunday worship has, in some ways, been quite different from what we were used to: different faces; different styles; different messages. Yet all have been warmly welcomed and all have brought God’s word.
More of our own folk have stepped up to help with various bits and pieces of Sunday morning leadership, with prayers or readings or managing the service or bringing God’s word. We still miss not having a permanent keyboard player, but we are so grateful for the musical leadership that we do have.
Paul Hutchinson stepped down as treasurer after several years’ hard work, for which we are hugely grateful. Cameron Varley has stepped into Paul’s shoes and we know the finances are safe in his hands.
Towards the end of the year, we appointed a new co-ordinator for our bookshop and coffee shop: Helen Bluff is so warmly welcomed and welcoming.
During the year we have been searching for a new minister. Early in the year our Church Profile was published on the BU list where prospective ministers can view it and then apply. The deacons asked a sub-group of three to review applications as they are received and refer those that may fit to the diaconate. During the year the sub-group saw profiles from five ministers and two of these subsequently met the diaconate. One was invited to come and preach. Yet we have not felt it right to call any to be our minister. So, the search continues and, whilst the seemingly long time this process takes is frustrating, we must acknowledge that there are far more churches with vacancies than there are ministers searching and so inevitably it will take time.
In the meantime, I am hugely grateful for all the help and hard work that goes on behind the scenes. We continue to wait on the Lord, knowing that He is preparing the right minister for us and knowing that He holds us in His hands on the journey. As the words of Psalm 111:7 put it:
The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy.
Roy Farrant Secretary February 2024
PASTORAL CARE & PRAYER MINISTRY
As referred to in my previous report, Pastoral Care is something we are all a part of, and it has been said of us here, by those both inside and outside of the church that it is something that we do extremely well. My role as co-ordinator is a tiny part of what each of us carry out on a day-to-day basis as we look out for the needs of others and provide support and comfort where we can.
As I mentioned last year, I am so grateful for the support of my fellow deacons during this busy time for all of us as we share pastoral concerns as a key part of our monthly deacons’ meetings. Also, as before, a huge thanks to Glenda for the diligent way that she circulates prayer requests and information. Finally, to Will and Kate in making their phone number available as prayer contact point.
Additionally, this year we have been blessed by the services of Anne Armstrong who takes time out of her busy week on Bookshop duties to send cards and messages of support to those who require this most.
Blessings Phil
CHRISTIAN AID REPORT
We give thanks for raising £11,460.03
We are very grateful to all who have supported Christian Aid in any way during 2023 and helping to raise £11,460.23 (including Gift Aid). Thank you for your giving, organising, prayers, encouragement, and interest. You helped to bring hope to many suffering the effects of wars, poverty, and so-called natural disasters.
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- Our full annual report is available in the church or at: https://www.kings langley churches.org.uk/Christian%20Aid.html#AR2023
Christian Aid Week: 14th to 20th May
This is a key part of the year and particularly the ‘House-to House’ collection. Many from our local churches, and wider community, deliver and collect envelopes from residents within the Village. A number have been helping with this for several years and we thank you for your faithfulness.
At our United Service (14th May) we met with our friends from the Methodist Church and our guest speaker was Revd. Dr. Lord Leslie Griffiths (a previous president of the Methodist Conference). He spoke of how Christian Aid helps individuals (this year illustrating the support given to Esther in Malawi) but also how it addresses injustice at a structural level. After the service there was a lively question-and- answer session followed by a simple meal. Our thanks go to all who helped with the Coffee Morning on 13th May at Christ Church. Many from the local churches baked cakes and we shared together in enjoying the fruits of their labours!
Activities throughout the year
We were pleased to be able to go back to the Services Club for our annual quiz on 3rd February when 13 teams joined together for a fun evening. Well done to the ‘Good neighbours’ team for winning and we celebrated everyone’s contribution.
We had an enjoyable evening at the Abbots Tandoori on 6 November with good food and company.
In December we decorated a tree at the ‘All Saints Christmas Tree Festival’ (8th-10th) and on 15th we had a lovely day singing carols in the Marlowes with Nash Mills and Divine Saviour Schools. The children were a delight and brought joy to many who passed by. On 16[th] December we organised carol singing in the Village Garden for around 100 people.
Special appeals and campaigning
We launched special appeals for those suffering from the earthquakes in southern Turkey, and through the Red Cross for Morocco. Emergency relief was provided, and Christian Aid will be there in the long-term helping vulnerable people rebuild their lives.
In December, a special appeal was launched to help those affected by trauma following the hostage taking in Israel and those suffering from the bombings and violence in Gaza. Partners provided: psychological support, mattresses, medicines, and emergency food.
Campaigning
As well as fund raising, campaigning to influence the actions of our Government are an important part of what we do. Throughout the year we wrote to our MP, Sir Mike Penning, about the cuts to Overseas Aid, the worsening situation in South Sudan and climate change. In the year of COP 28 in Dubai we urged the Government to maintain its commitment to the activities necessary to reduce carbon emissions so limiting the rise in global temperatures to no more than 1.5 degrees centigrade.
Prayer
Each week a short prayer, or subject for prayer, is included on our service sheet. Thank you to all who include this in the prayers of intercessions in our services and also in their private devotions.
Paul Tucker February 2024
HOUSE GROUPS
NOMADS HOUSE GROUP
At the start of 2023 there were 9 of us meeting regularly on Thursday evenings. Chris Riddick joined the group on his return to the UK, and following their retirement and a move to Watford, we were greatly blessed when Simon and Catriona became regular members. All three have been very active and have led many bible studies.
If anyone would like to join us you would be welcomed with open arms. We meet every week on a Thursday at 8pm rotating between various members homes but. Our time together starts by sharing what has been going on in our lives over the past week over coffee and excellent home-made cake!!! That’s followed by Bible Study and we end with a time of prayer.
At the beginning of the year we completed a study started in 2022 entitled ‘What if we knew what God knows about us.’ This was both challenging and inspiring. This was followed by a series where members chose a number referred to in the Bible and spoke about. The last few weeks we have been studying the book of Daniel which we will complete in 2024 and this is to be followed by a study using the DVD called ‘The Chosen’.
We have yet to get back to inviting visiting speakers to share their Christian work and experiences as was the case pre COVD, but hope to be able to start this again in 2024.
Individual members have supported outreach events through 2022, while many are involved in visiting those who are housebound or living in care homes.
Of course, no review of Nomads would be complete without mentioning our social life. Parties and BBQs have all played their part in helping us support and encourage each other in our Christian journey. We wish we had been able to do more in 2023 but various members struggled with ill health, but thanks to the many prayers most are back to normal. That said we had a very pleasant meal together to celebrate Christmas.
For all of us, meeting together every week gives us the opportunity to share our hopes and fears, and provides us with the chance to support each other as we journey through life together.
If anyone is thinking of joining a house group you would be very welcome at Nomads.
Will Sime on behalf the members of Nomad.
BIBLE STUDY GROUP
For the most of 2023, the bible study group moved from zoom and into an in person bible study in the lower hall of the church. The format remained just the same, but with a cup of tea to go with it.
We covered several Old Testament books including Ruth and Esther and finally closed with Romans.
As with a few things I have been involved with this year, I had to pull away from this in October and due to circumstances with other group members, the decision was taken to wrap up this group for the moment.
I would encourage anyone that might wish to start up a similar group in the future to do so. I have benefited greatly from the fellowship I have received in being a part of this group and I’m sure the other members feel the same.
Isaiah 55:11
so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.
CHILDREN’S & YOUTH MINISTRY
Although I have said this before, I think it’s worth reiterating, my priorities in taking over coordination of the Youth and Children’s work (albeit temporarily!) have always been threefold;
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1) Ensure there is appropriate Bible teaching for the children available every Sunday to build consistency in both provision and, hopefully, attendance.
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2) To build back up our bank of volunteers, they are our most important resource.
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3) To continue to engage with children and youth in the wider community of Kings Langley.
Sunday mornings
Since September I have been planning the Sunday morning sessions using topics and resources from the ‘Energise’ website which has a wealth of material for all ages. We have completed series’ on ‘Children Jesus met’ and ‘Adults Jesus met’ and recently we have been learning about the ‘Fruits of the Spirit’. A typical session usually consists of an active game or two to burn off energy, an activity or video to introduce the topic, a Bible story, a discussion or activity to consider how this applies to us, prayer/song, making a craft to take home.
Ruth and I take it in turns to lead the sessions and there are 5 other volunteers who help each week on a rota basis.
There are 11 children who have attended over the past year (not counting visitors), usually there are only a few each week but it varies. In order to encourage families to come along, we have a WhatsApp group for all the parents and at the start of each weekend I ‘advertise’ the theme for the coming Sunday and highlight any exciting activities.
Midweek groups
First Steps: This group for pre-school children and their parents/carers continues to be a major part of our outreach in the village and has had contact with well over 50 families since this time last year. About half of these families left at the end of the summer term to start nursery or school in September. Currently there are 13-16 non church families attending on Thursday mornings which means approximately 30-40 people in the upstairs hall, which makes for a fun and busy morning. There is a smaller group of regular parents but more grandparents are coming along with their grandchildren now. The group continues to be faithfully run by Judith and Glenda, ably assisted by Gillian Spencer and a good group of regulars who help to set the hall up.
There is also a good team of refreshment helpers who we are very grateful for but, for various reasons, may soon struggle to continue, so we would welcome help from anyone who can give a couple of hours on a Thursday morning twice a term (no school holidays). Although, since Matthew and Ben left, the parents have not received a specific ‘message’ at Christmas or Easter, both Judith and Glenda have developed amazing relationships with the parents and carers and regularly pray for the families that come along. They work hard to
make the morning a valuable, happy, safe space to share their faith when the opportunity arises and take the opportunity to invite them to church events.
7up: This group for 8-11yr olds is also an important outreach in the village, although our numbers dropped significantly at the end of the summer with 10 children moving up to Secondary School and another 10 leaving to join Scouts or focus on school studies. This meant the Autumn term was fairly quiet with an average of 8-10 children attending, we put out an advert on our church Facebook page but this was met with little response. However, our current parents have been spreading the word and in February 5 new children joined so we now have 16 on the register.
Jan, Joy and Neil lead/help every week and Tania also helps out when she is available. There are a few others who step in if someone is away on holiday but we could really do with one or two regular helpers so that we can have 4 adults on the rota each week, particularly as our Safeguarding rules dictate that there must always be 2 adults with any group of children and they can’t be a married couple! So please consider prayerfully if this is something God could be leading you to help with.
Ultim8: We were very excited to finally get this group for Secondary School pupils aged 10/11yrs off the ground in September. We have 14 children on the register with 8-10 attending each week and 5 regular leaders with 3 on the rota each week. The children, who are all in school Year 7, are very enthusiastic and the parents are very grateful that we provide ‘safe space’ in the village for this age group. However, it has not all been plainsailing, as many of you will be aware, we have struggled with having enough helpers for various reasons and whilst we are very grateful for the ‘occasional’ volunteers who stepped in, it has been difficult to establish routines and behavioural expectations with different leaders each week. Nonetheless, things are more settled now and the children are beginning to collaborate more as a group and show greater respect for the leaders.
A huge ‘thank-you’ to Caroline Oxer who has been instrumental in getting this group going and attends almost every week, thanks also to the rest of the leaders; Dave, Lore, Chris R & Chantelle who give up their time to run this group. We are still keen to have one or two more people on the rota so please speak to myself or Caroline if you’re interested.
Schools
Our links with the local Kings Langley schools have continued throughout the year. In the Autumn term we were approached by ‘Youth Across Hemel’ to ask if we had any volunteers who would be willing to be trained by them to lead the weekly lunchtime group ‘Summit’ at Kings Langley Secondary school alongside Father James from All Saints. This was shared with the membership but as there was no response and we are short of helpers for our own activities, we have said that at the moment we are unable to help but we hope that this may change in the future.
Community Events
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1) Carnival At the Kings Langley Carnival in 2023 we decided not to have any adult-led children’s activities as we were short of helpers. Instead, we put out the mini climbing-frame and other toddler toys which were very successful in drawing families to the stall and allowing us to engage them in conversation.
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2) Christmas Lights This year, as the Christmas Lights festival fell on the first Saturday in December, we decided to trial giving out ‘Family Advent Gift Bags’. A team of volunteers filled 50 bags with Bible based crafts and games. The promise of a gift bag encouraged families from First Steps, 7up and Ultim8 to come into the church as well as others and was so successful that we ran out! Our prayer was that as families took home the message of God’s love they would have a better understanding of the true meaning of Christmas.
Resources
Having purchased new children’s chairs last year, this year we have finally replaced the ancient grey/blue adult chairs with red plastic ones (thanks to Roy for organising) which are the same design as the blue plastic ones in the lower hall. This helps to brighten up the hall, although we eagerly await the renovation of the Upper Hall as better storage and kitchen facilities are badly needed, as well as a new heating system.
Conclusion
So, there is a lot to be thankful for and a lot we need to pray for, but we are not standing still!
Thank you to everyone who supports the Children and Youth work either through prayer or action, we really couldn’t do it without you! Please do contact me if you have any suggestions or are able to help in any way.
Joy Cooper
COFFEE SHOP AND BOOKSHOP
Last year was a successful year for our coffeeshop and bookshop, with sales growing more than 10% this year and as I type, we are preparing for the celebration of our 25 years anniversary! We should all be very proud of the service that we have provided for our village and I know that this small, quiet retreat is for some people such an important part of the week. It must once again mention Anne and Kate, who both of them, despite having technically retired long ago, continue to be supportive in practical and encouraging ways.
2023 was also a sad and happy year. Sad because we said goodbye to Hannah who had served us faithfully for many years herself but has decided that it is time for a new challenge. And happy, because we have been so fortunate to meet Helen, our new coordinator, who has been with us for just a short time but already feels like a piece of the furniture. May she find her working hours a blessing every day
Of course, we could not do any of this without our faithful bank of volunteers be they servers, cashiers, bakers, visitors, administrators, preparers, cleaners, dish washers or encouragers. I would like to join the church in personally thanking everyone of you and wish you God’s blessing for your sacrifice.
We remain in strange times, without a minister and with changes for our church to come. I do not propose to make any changes to what we are doing until we have a new minister so that he or she can be involved in any forward planning. Until then we will do our best to maintain what we have developed:
If you feel that you would like to be involved in this endeavour, in any capacity, please do come and have a chat with me. Given my own personal circumstances, I don’t have the time these days that I used to have and so would welcome any help.
Our coffee shop is not meant to be competition for the other businesses in the village but a place to come to enjoy good coffee and cake in a spiritual setting, this will continue. Unfortunately, Christian bookshops are few and far between these days and I’m so pleased that we are able to offer people the opportunity to purchase a greetings card with a Christian message or a bible or a book. We don’t seek to make a profit on our coffee, cakes and books, but I know that the Kingdom of God is richer with every sale we make.
Galatians 5:13 You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh ; rather, serve one another humbly in love.
FRIENDSHIP CAFE
This year has seen a name change from the wellbeing coffee morning to the friendship café. I am so pleased to report that this has become a continuing feature of the church calendar even after I have had to step away from them. We have welcomed new people and we have lost touch with some although we keep them in our prayers.
Church family are encouraged to support this in any way they can and we have had a wonderful response. We meet in the lower hall which is set up with tables in a very large circle which people can chat as a large group or on individual tables and indeed have done both over the last few weeks. Our Christian bookshop is also open at the same time.
One thing that would be really helpful for this activity would be a church member who could take overall responsibility for the morning since at the moment it is very much a fluid arrangement. It would be good for those that attend to have a point person that they could speak to with any concerns or queries. Do please come and have a chat with me if this might be of interest to you.
A special thanks go to Lee, a lady who had been a regular attender and has assumed the responsibility for serving drinks on the morning with help from Sam – also a regular attender.
We have been able to maintain our thought for the day slot – a two minute bible verse and message, which has been enthusiastically received. In my absence, we have set up a rota of volunteers who make a guest appearance to speak at 11am Thank you to all who have taken part in this. If you would like to be considered for the rota do please let me know.
Although I would like this group to be more widely advertised, I am reluctant to make any significant change until we have a new minister that can perhaps share in the direction that we might want this group to move in as a church.
Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
WEDNESDAY FELLOWSHIP GROUP
The origins of the ‘Wednesday Fellowship’ go back to the days when Audrey Clarke held a Wednesday afternoon meeting, and some of the loyal supporters wanted it to continue in some form. While Peter Clarke was still with us, he used to come from time to time to give an Epilogue, which was always appreciated. Hazel Harper was one of the early supporters for us to continue and only recently has been unable to come.
It is no longer a ‘Meeting’, but it remains as a friendly gathering where we make items for the Shoebox campaign and other charities. At present some are knitting little woollen hearts for the Watford Schools Trust who present them to the children after one of their Prayer Weeks. We have an interest in two Indian charities, one is the School and Home where Louise enjoyed care and an excellent education, the other is a Mother & Child Clinic whose Doctor was inspired by Mother Theresa. We have had visiting speakers from each of these projects. In fact, for some years, we have sponsored a child from the KolKata Clinic, now a thriving teenager! Louise personally sponsors a girl from her old school and brings letters from her to share with us.
Recently, one of our members has introduced a quiz book to keep our brains ticking over, and someone else will bring a ‘Thought for the Day’.
We meet fortnightly from 2.15 – 4.00 pm and start with tea & biscuits. Anyone is welcome to join us, no need to have knitting skills! Two requests come to mind: more wool, preferably ‘Double-knitting’, and left- over stamps which we trim for a charity, just hand them to Jackie, Louise or Pam Parren.
Our ‘calendar’ is usually available in the Church entrance, or in the Bookshop.
Thank you for the opportunity to use the Hall and facilities, we always find a warm welcome awaiting us!
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES REPORT
After a couple of years of isolation due to COVD restrictions, I am pleased to report that our social life at CCB returned to normal in 2023. The year saw a mixture of old and new events and all were well attended.
The year started with a bang with the ever popular, New Year Party. Held on 7[th] January and hosted by Jan and Roy this was a great evening of fun and games. Folk were amazed by the speed one 70+ year old got to in an attempt to win the final of the ‘pass the slipper’ race. He’s still hurting after losing in the final to Naythan though!!!!
Something new to the Church was a Valentines dinner for the ladies cooked by some of the men folk. Many commented on the standard of the food and all were taken by surprise when they were presented with a single red rose at the end of the evening. Some ladies I think hoped for a repeat of the evening in 2024 but the men need time to recover.
Another once in a life time event was a BBQ held to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III. Although held in the church car park, over 60 folk attended and it proved a great success.
The annual family picnic was held on 16[th] July in the grounds of Chipperfield School. Although not as many attended as in previous years there was a good spread of ages and a pleasant afternoon was shared by those that came. The school grounds were definitely worth considering for future events.
Although not the first, a return to an old favourite after many years was the Safari Supper. Held on the 30[th] September, 22 guests enjoyed a delicious 3 course dinner at the homes of 5 different hosts, with all finishing at the Church for coffee. Although it was not intended as a money making event, a small surplus was given to Dnipro Hope. A great chance to meet new folk in the comfort of member’s homes.
Most social activities are intended for both the gents and the ladies though we continue to hold occasional ones for either the ‘girls’ or the ‘fellows’.
The ladies met twice during the year. On the 16[th] May they enjoyed a social evening over coffee and cakes at the home of Joy Cooper. Later in the year on the 28[th] October they had a craft evening making Christmas Cards. Both events were well attended and all enjoyed considerable time in fellowship together.
The men also met twice. On 1[st] April James spoke over breakfast about his passion for motor bikes. This was both informative and entertaining as James took us through history and even brought one of his prized bikes with him. A much smaller number watched the Rugby World Cup Final at the home of Ricky Armstrong. Although just a few of us we enjoyed the fellowship even if the match didn’t live up to the quality of the semi-final.
The past year shows that Christians can enjoy fun and fellowship together and I’m grateful to the Committee (Jan, Joy, Kate, Lizzie, Martin and Tim), for their time and hard work in organising such a varied social programme throughout the year.
Will Sime, Chair
FABRIC
Following work has been completed during the year ending March 2024.
Swing doors to Foyer and Stairwell both have been single leaf motorised. Well received by all users after a few teething problems. Minor problems continue to occur with some of the push-pads but these were soon rectified by the installer. A local electricity supply failed in Feb24 which caused a malfunction of the doors but this was soon fixed by the installer once power was restored.
North and South completed installation of the Accessible Toilet but certain ancillary items, ie mirror, fixed soap dispenser, not included in the original specification, remain to be fitted. Need to improve pull-cord for heater above doorway as it’s unsatisfactory.
Various tree cutting and ground clearance was carried out, particularly in the area of the rear escape route.
North and South Carpentry repaired the front bay windows to the main entrance, fitted an additional grab rail in the Accessable toilet and repaired fire doors and frames and fitted a new fire door to the Upper Hall. Doorstep sill to be repaired.
The front and side exteriors of the church sanctuary were redecorated, together with repainting of all the fire doors and frames.
Alterations made to gas supply pipe on the Fisher Close side and escape route side of the building, moving it from the top of the parapet and refixing it on to the wall face.
Exterior repointing was carried out to the organ loft, the Lounge and Minnows rooms.
Missing and broken roof tiles were replaced on the Sanctuary building.
All the flat roofs above the Minnows, Lounge and Stairwell areas were stripped and new roofing material applied after the introduction of 100mm insulation.
Annual inspection and certification of all gas equipment, was completed. The annual fire alarm testing and replacement of time expired equipment was also completed.
A fire assessment was carried out in Autumn 2023 and a full report obtained, high-lighting numerous shortfalls throughout the building. Whilst these are all recommendations, the Property / Fabric Team will do their best to prioritise and implement these measures where appropriate. Much of the assessment report indicate measures relating to Health and Safety which is not the remit of this Team.
Estimates for replacing windows in the Minnows, general toilets and the kitchen were obtained but stalled on account of a Fire Assessment Report recommending a Fire Rated window in the kitchen. Go ahead has been given (Feb24) to WindowWise to replace all the above mentioned windows, except the kitchen window for which estimates will be obtained separately as a specialist fabricator is required.
The Fire Report has raised unexpected issues such as Fire Rating the ‘dumb waiter’ in both halls, subject to available funds and Membership approval. The subsequent effect of the
above has been to prolong the timescale for work such as essential General Toilet improvements and the eventual refurbishment of both Upper and Lower Halls. The existing Warm Air Units that serve the Halls, whilst still working, will need replacing as part of that refurbishment as there are now no spares available.
New lintel and bricks fitted above the widest Minnows window and all repointed.
Minor DIY repairs continue to be carried out by members of the Team and I’m most grateful to them for their practical help and support.
Much work remains to be done in the coming years but with God’s help, we are getting there!
Hedley Edwards (Property Steward) 01 Mar 24
TREASURER’S REPORT FOR THE YEAR END 2023
Again this year the Annual Accounts have been prepared in line with the Baptist Union's suggested format for churches with an income under £250k/year.
Headlines from the Accounts
In 2023 we have been adjusting to several changes at Christ Church. Having lost our children’s worker and minister in quick succession, we have spent this year both in search of a new minister and adapting to the challenges of providing pastoral care for one another. We took the decision to wait to prioritise the replacement of our minister and postponed any decision to rehire a children’s worker until that individual could give their direction to the task. This year also saw a change of personnel in our bookshop and coffeeshop with Hannah Tse deciding to leave us and Helen Bluff joining us in her place in December.
In 2023 the total income reduced by £7,250 to £146,689. The weekly offering reduced by just over 10% mainly due to several one off payments that were made in 2022 which led to the substantial lift in that year. In addition, the receipts from the bookshop and coffeeshop have increased by over 10% in the year We also received a legacy of £10,809 from Mrs Margaret Jakubiek.
In previous years, the childrens groups have been separately accounted for but since Covid19, this has mainly come back into central control with regular subs being given directly to the treasurer for banking and expenditure largely being reimbursed as incurred from the church account and hence the accounts this year do not include separate analysis.
We received just over £16,000 in Gift Aid in the year which reflects the higher offering in the previous year.
Without a minister we have been able to let out the manse which has brought in over £15,000 in rent and we have also taken the opportunity to make renovations to the manse and also to the church itself which you will note from the increased upkeep of the church premises.
Even after this increase, expenditure in total has reduced by more than £10,700 and we ended the year with a surplus of £37,715. Accordingly the church’s liquid assets have increased to £190,228.
Legacies received in the last three years total £63,659 and although none of these were restricted, this year saw the completion of the accessible toilets and we have a further £36,000 of capital projects planned for the coming year which we have designated from these gifts.
CCB Accounts 2023
Christ Church Baptist is a Registered Charity (number 1178514)
Page 1 of 10
CCB Accounts 2023
Christ Church Baptist is a Registered Charity (number 1178514)
Page 2 of 10
Christ Church Baptist Kings Langley
Financial Statement for Year Ended 31st December 2023
Consolidated CCB Receipts and Payment Account
| Receipts | 2023 | 2022 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Fund Kings Bookshop and Coffee Shop Fund Children's Groups Payments General Fund Kings Bookshop and Coffee Shop Fund Children's Groups Surplus (deficit) for the year |
128,245 16,354 2,089 146,689 94,686 13,647 641 108,974 37,715 |
136,851 14,844 2,244 153,939 106,615 12,183 885 119,683 34,255 |
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| General Fund- Receipts and Payments | |||
| Note | 2023 | 2022 | |
| Receipts Weekly Offering Donations and other income 2 Income tax received on gifts (Gift Aid) Investment income 3 Letting of Manse Rents & contributions for use of premises Raised for other causes 4 Payments Ministry 5 Mission 6 Upkeep of Church Premises 7 Administration 8 Surplus (deficit) for the year |
68,154 10,863 16,031 3,731 15,238 14,107 122 128,245 13,232 9,315 65,876 6,264 94,686 33,560 |
76,874 27,873 13,832 1,969 0 14,029 2,274 136,851 46,448 34,224 19,719 6,225 106,615 30,236 |
CCB Accounts 2023 Page 3 of 10
Christ Church Baptist is a Registered Charity (number 1178514)
Christ Church Baptist Kings Langley
Financial Statement for Year Ended 31st December 2023
| Kings Bookshop and Coffee Shop (KBCS) Fund- Receipts and Payments | Kings Bookshop and Coffee Shop (KBCS) Fund- Receipts and Payments | Kings Bookshop and Coffee Shop (KBCS) Fund- Receipts and Payments | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | ||
| Receipts Sale of books, cards, gifts etc Refreshments Donations Payments Bookshop worker gross salary |
5,362 10,992 0 16,354 7,043 |
6,112 8,576 156 14,844 6,158 |
|
| Employer pension costs | 164 | 197 | |
| Purchase of books, cards, etc Refreshments Card Machine Charges Maintenance & Equipment Donation to Christian Aid Stationery & Postage Miscellaneous Surplus (deficit) for the year |
3,857 1,941 298 97 232 0 14 13,647 2,707 |
3,796 1,606 258 55 0 12 101 12,183 2,661 |
|
| Childrens Groups- First Steps- Receipts and Payments | |||
| 2023 | 2022 | ||
| Receipts Subscriptions Payments Related Expenses Surplus (deficit) for the year |
984 984 435 435 549 |
1,227 1,227 164 164 1,063 |
CCB Accounts 2023 Page 4 of 10
Christ Church Baptist is a Registered Charity (number 1178514)
Christ Church Baptist Kings Langley
Financial Statement for Year Ended 31st December 2023
| Childrens Groups-7Up- Revel8- Receipts and Payments | Childrens Groups-7Up- Revel8- Receipts and Payments | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | ||
| Receipts Subscriptions Payments Related Expenses Surplus (deficit) for the year |
1,105 1,105 206 206 899 |
1,017 1,017 721 721 296 |
|
| Statement of Assets and Liabilities at 31 December 2023 | |||
| Assets 2023 |
2022 | ||
| Bank and other cash balances 9 190,228 Representing balances on the following funds General Fund 10 185,227 KCBS Fund 11 3,000 First Steps Fund 12 1,000 Revel8 and 7Up Fund 13 1,000 TOTAL 190,228 Non monetary assets held for the Church's own use 14 3,262,957 Total Assets 3,453,185 Liabilities Baptist Pension Scheme Liabilities 15 0 Total Debt 0 |
152,513 146,731 3,000 1,215 1,567 152,513 3,059,745 3,212,258 0 0 |
CCB Accounts 2023 Page 5 of 10
Christ Church Baptist is a Registered Charity (number 1178514)
Christ Church Baptist Kings Langley
Financial Statement for Year Ended 31st December 2023
1 Notes to the Accounts
Basis of accounts: These accounts have been prepared on a ‘receipts and payments’ basis and accord with Section 133 Charities Act 2011
| 2 Donations and other income | 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Donations / Contribution to overheads Legacies Grants Received Other items 3 Investment income Bank interest 4 Raised for Other Causes |
0 10,509 0 354 10,863 3,731 3,731 |
281 20,000 4,750 2,842 27,873 1,969 1,969 |
| Charity of the Year: | ||
| Dnipro Hope Mission 5 Outgoing - Ministry Minister's (gross) stipend Employer's NI costs Pension Contribution(Note 1) Minister's travel & Pulpit supplies Church Activities / Sunday services Jubilee Celebrations Visiting Speakers Subscriptions and Licences Gift for Matthew & Charlotte Cooper |
122 0 0 12 0 1,035 267 2,880 640 0 |
2,274 25,068 521 8,287 98 1,730 965 581 1,579 1,707 |
| Manse Costs: | ||
| Utilities (council tax, water, light & heat) 648 4,794 Insurance 1,168 689 Repairs / upkeep 6,581 430 13,232 46,448 Note 1: The church's contribution in 2023 to reduce the Baptist Pension Scheme deficit is included here. |
||
CCB Accounts 2023 Page 6 of 10
Christ Church Baptist is a Registered Charity (number 1178514)
Christ Church Baptist Kings Langley
Financial Statement for Year Ended 31st December 2023
| 6 Outgoing - Mission | 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Given to BMS / CBA | 8,600 | 9,895 |
| Given to charity of the year Children & Youth work Children & Family Worker gross salary Employer's NI & Pension costs Outreach World Day of Prayer Gift for Ben & Helen Ansell In memory of Suzie Hinton-Taylor Other (Op Christmas Child boxes) |
122 94 0 0 367 131 0 0 0 9,315 |
2,366 692 19,145 1,038 369 0 595 90 33 34,224 |
| 7 Outgoing - Upkeep of Church Premises | ||
| Utilities (light & heat) Insurance Repairs and Maintenance Accessible Toilet Fitted Automatic Doors Installed Cleaner's salary 8 Outgoing - Administration Printing and stationery Administrator's salary 9 Bank and other cash balances Barclays CCB CIO General Account Baptist Union Deposit Account Barclays KBCS CIO Account Cash(Note 2) Note 2: £40 KBCS £10 First Steps |
11,893 2,928 26,304 10,813 8,640 5,298 65,876 477 5,787 6,264 21,559 156,199 12,419 50 190,228 |
5,635 2,926 6,295 0 0 4,863 19,719 913 5,311 6,225 6,671 137,468 8,324 50 152,513 |
CCB Accounts 2023 Page 7 of 10
Christ Church Baptist is a Registered Charity (number 1178514)
Christ Church Baptist Kings Langley
Financial Statement for Year Ended 31st December 2023
| 10 General Fund | 2023 | 2022 |
|---|---|---|
| Opening balance Net receipts/(payments) for the year Transferred from KCBS Fund Transferred from First Steps Fund Transferred from 7Up-Revel8 Fund Closing balance |
146,731 33,560 2,707 764 1,466 185,227 |
113,298 30,236 2,697 500 0 146,731 |
| 11 KCBS Fund | ||
| Opening balance Net receipts/(payments) for the year Transferred to General Fund Closing balance 12 First Steps Fund Opening balance Net receipts/(payments) for the year Transferred to 7Up Fund Transferred to General Fund Closing balance 13 Childrens Groups - 7Up Revel8 Opening balance Net receipts/(payments) for the year Transferred to General Fund Closing balance |
3,000 2,707 -2,707 3,000 1,215 549 0 -764 1,000 1,567 899 -1,466 1,000 |
3,036 2,661 -2,697 3,000 652 1,063 0 -500 1,215 1,272 295 0 1,567 |
CCB Accounts 2023 Page 8 of 10
Christ Church Baptist is a Registered Charity (number 1178514)
Christ Church Baptist Kings Langley
Financial Statement for Year Ended 31st December 2023
14 Non monetary assets held for the Church's own use
| 14 Non monetary assets held for the Church's own use | 14 Non monetary assets held for the Church's own use | 14 Non monetary assets held for the Church's own use |
|---|---|---|
| The church is the beneficial owner (subject to the relevant trusts) of the following assets, the | ||
| 2023 | 2022 | |
| Church premises, insured value (The Nap, Kings Langley, Herts, WD4 8ES) Church manse, insured value (2 Belham Road, Kings Langley, Herts, WD4 8BY) |
2,532,284 589,701 |
2,425,000 499,745 |
| Church organ insured value (Note 3) | ||
| The church also owns fixtures, furniture and equipment with an insured value of |
140,972 3,262,957 |
135,000 3,059,745 |
Note 3: Baptist Insurance have clarified that the organ insured value is included in the total figure for Church premises insured value.
15 Baptist Pension Scheme Liabilities
The Pension and BUGB Trustees sent a joint communication to participating churches including Christ Church Baptist Kings Langley at the end of July 2022 regarding the recent Buy In with Just. As a result of that announcement no further employer debt estimate reports will be published for the time being, although this will continue to be kept under review. Effectively there is no shortfall debt at the present time. However, there will be an administrative cost of £1,000 to process any employers leaving the Scheme. Since Christ Church Baptist Kings Langley is in a Period of Grace which commenced after 30 June 2022, the administrative cost noted above would be payable should the church wish to end the Period of Grace before a new Minister is appointed.
The accounts and statement of assets and liabilities set out on pages 3 – 9 relating to the year ending 31 December 2023 are as approved by the deacons.
Signed:
Cameron Varley, Treasurer Christ Church Baptist Kings Langley
Date: 2024
CCB Accounts 2023 Page 9 of 10
Christ Church Baptist is a Registered Charity (number 1178514)
Christ Church Baptist Kings Langley
Financial Statement for Year Ended 31st December 2023
Independent Examiners Report
Report of the Independent Examiner to the Trustees of Christ Church Baptist, Kings Langley on the accounts for the year ended 31[st] December 2023
Respective responsibilities of Trustees and Examiner
The Church’s Trustees are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The church’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144 of the Charities Act 2011 (the Charities Act) and that an independent examination is needed.
It is my responsibility to:
-
examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act,
-
to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission (under section 145(5)(b) of the Charities Act, and
-
to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
Basis of independent examiner’s statement
My examination was carried out in accordance with general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the church and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from the trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit, and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair’ view and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.
Independent examiner's statement
In connection with my examination, no material matters have come to my attention which gives me cause to believe that in, any material respect:
-
accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act or
-
the accounts do not accord with the accounting records
-
the accounts do not comply with the applicable requirements concerning the form and content of accounts set out in the Charities (Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 other than any requirement that the accounts give a ‘true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination.
I 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.
Signed by or on behalf of the Examiner _ Date 22[nd] August 2024
Tadeusz Woroniecki
Relevant Professional Qualification(s) or body (if any)
ACMA
Address 1 Brickfield Cottages, St Marys Lane, Hertingfordbury, Hertford, SG14 2LF
CCB Accounts 2023 Page 10 of 10
Christ Church Baptist is a Registered Charity (number 1178514)