Christ Church Baptist The Nap, Kings Langley, Herts, WD4 8ET www.christchurchbaptist.co.uk
2024 ANNUAL REPORT
CHRIST CHURCH BAPTIST KINGS LANGLEY – ANNUAL REPORT
CONTENTS
| Page | |
|---|---|
| Secretary’s Report | 3 - 4 |
| Children and Youth Ministry | 5 - 8 |
| Coffee Shop and Bookshop | 9 - 10 |
| Friendship Café | 11 |
| Nomads House Group | 12 |
| Christian Aid | 13 - 15 |
| Social Activities | 16 |
| Fabric | 17 |
| Treasurer’s Report | 18 -19 |
| Financial Statements | 20 – 26 |
| Independent Examiner’s Report | 27 - 28 |
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CHRIST CHURCH BAPTIST KINGS LANGLEY – ANNUAL REPORT
SECRETARY’S REPORT
Administrative Information
| Minister: | Vacant |
|---|---|
| Moderator | Revd Garry Jenkins |
| Administrator: | Glenda Turner (resigned 31 March 2024) |
| Bookshop and | |
| Coffee Shop Co-Ordinator: | Helen Bluff |
| Lettings Manager | Helena Johnson (appointed 1 January 2025) |
| New members: | Simon Carver |
| Catriona Carver | |
| Margaret Hooker | |
| Diana Addy | |
| Baptisms: | James Knight |
| Member deaths: | Jeanette Hayter |
| Tony Parker | |
| Secretary: | Roy Farrant (re-appointed 24 March 2024) |
| Treasurer: | 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 24 March 2024) | |
| Diaconate vacancies: | Two |
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SECRETARY’S REPORT (continued)
Church Progress
The normal cycle of church life continued this year. There have been ups and there have been downs.
Still being without a minister, we have welcomed many different preachers to our Sunday services: They come with different styles and in different shapes and sizes, but they all bring God’s word to us. Several of our own members have helped in leading on a Sunday and we are grateful to them. Our musicians, all drawn from our congregation, willingly lead our sung worship week by week.
The deacons have continued to search for a new minister during the year. One potential pastor came to preach with a view, but the members didn’t have the overwhelming sense we were seeking that this was God’s choice and so the search continues. It is a long, slow process, not helped by the fact that there are twice as many church vacancies in the Baptist Union as there are ministers seeking places. Throughout this process we continue to wait on our Lord, learning to accept that His timing is not always our timing.
We were delighted when our baptistry was filled this year for James Knight’s baptism, which was a real encouragement to us all.
Two of our number were called home during 2024. We were sad to lose them and yet so grateful for their contribution to church life whilst they were with us. At another point on the cycle, though, we were delighted to welcome four new members.
Our administrator of very many years, Glenda Turner, finally decided to retire from the job in March. Very many thanks are due to her for all the years of hard work, surely over and above the terms of the job description. Others stepped in to make sure the various tasks continue to be done and we are grateful to them.
Just after the end of the year, we were pleased to appoint Helena Johnson as our new Lettings Manager, and we are so thankful to Will Sime for carrying out the task following Glenda’s resignation.
Life for those that volunteer, in all sorts of ways, remains busy. Despite the overall small increase in membership, the feeling remains that the body of people making up this church is getting older: our weekly newssheet always has several names of those in need of special prayer. Yet, as we prepare to celebrate 150 years of Christ Church in March 2025, we know that God has us in His hands, and we remain sure and stedfast in our love for Him and His love for us. The Lord is our shepherd; we shall not want.
Roy Farrant Church Secretary
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CHILDREN’S & YOUTH MINISTRY
Sunday mornings
Unfortunately, the number of children attending on a Sunday morning has declined over the past year due to one child moving away, illness and sporting commitments. Although attendance can be sporadic, the parents are very appreciative that we still provide a children’s group and really value being able to join when they can.
Due to the wide variety of ages and needs of the children we have not been following a Bible series this year but instead adapt each session depending on which children are present. A typical session usually consists of active games, a Bible story, prayer/song, making a craft to take home or playing with toys such as Duplo.
Ruth and I take it in turns to lead the sessions and we are very grateful to Annette, Gillian and Pam B who help each week on a rota basis.
We have a WhatsApp group to keep in touch with all the parents and post a reminder every Saturday to join us on Sunday and highlight any upcoming church events.
Please pray that all the children who come on Sunday mornings will know God’s love and that seeds sown now will bear fruit in the future.
Midweek groups
- First Steps is our pre-school group for children and their parents/carers, meeting on a Thursday morning during term time. We have had contact with over 40 families this past year, fortunately not all in one morning!
This past term we’ve welcomed between 10-18 families each week so on average 25-30+ people in the Upper Hall. We see it as a part of our church’s mission outreach to our village as we welcome non church families into our sessions and offer a happy, safe space for all.
It’s a lively morning with lots of fun for the children, playing and learning to share with each other. Plenty of chat for their parents/carers, making friendships and deepening relationships week by week. We don’t just offer a fun time, we offer parents a listening ear and occasionally a shoulder to cry on and a chance to share the highs and lows of parenting small children and supporting them in this.
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CHILDREN’S & YOUTH MINISTRY (continued)
We regularly pray for them and offer an opportunity for them to share their thoughts and ask us for prayer too, and, when the opportunity arises, to share our faith.
Half way through the morning we stop for a chance for the children that are able to sit round the table for refreshments and parents are offered a cuppa and biscuit too. We end the morning after clearing away the toys with a happy, noisy song time accompanied by musical instruments.
We are grateful for our small team of regular helpers from the church and past connections with First Steps who serve on our refreshment rota. A group this size relies on teamwork for it to run successfully and to give us leaders time to chat to get to know the parents and their concerns. So thank you for those who have helped in the past year in this way. We’d be grateful for any more offers of help to join the refreshment team or help to run the group on a regular basis. Now Glenda and Judith have become grandparents they need to be available to offer their own families help and support when they need it. Thank you also to Gillian Spencer for her supportive help and friendliness week by week when she’s available: we’re so grateful.
Above all we are thankful for your prayers for this group week by week as we seek to serve our Lord.
Ephesians ch 3 v 20-21
Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever. Amen
Judith Hutchinson and Glenda Turner First Steps Leaders
- 7Up. This group for 8 to 11 year olds is held every Friday at 7pm (term time only) and is also an important outreach in the village. We currently have 16 children on the register with 12 to 14 attending each week. Sessions are based around a weekly episode of “Friends and Heroes” which includes an animated Bible story. Activities include cooking, crafts, puzzles and team games.
Jan Farrant, Joy Cooper and Neil Cooper attend every week and take turns to lead the Bible talk, craft or games. At the moment, due to Safeguarding rules, if one or two children haven’t finished their craft/cooking the rest can’t go upstairs for games because there must always be at least 2 adults with each group of children. We are really praying that more helpers will come forward so we can have 4 adults on the rota each week. Please consider prayerfully if this is something God could be leading you to help with. We are also very open to having teenagers helping as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award,
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CHILDREN’S & YOUTH MINISTRY (continued)
so if you know of anyone who needs to do some volunteering in the community please encourage them to get in touch.
Joy Cooper 7Up Leader
- Ultim8 is for children of Secondary School age and meets at 8pm on Friday evenings. There are currently 10 children on the register, most attending weekly. Caroline Oxer leads the group each week supported by Mick Hayter and either Gill Smith or Chris Riddick. Gillian Spencer also helps out when an extra person is needed for cooking etc.
Each week the children are encouraged to complete a craft or cooking activity. More adventurous sessions have included making string art pictures (thank you to those who provided hammers!) and making tzatziki from scratch! The children then take part in a short discussion time on a topic from “The Ideas factory” by Martin Saunders, which is linked to a Bible passage. Finally, the children head upstairs to play games such as basketball, spikeball and air hockey, although some just prefer to sit and chat.
Following a suggestion from one of our church members we hope to encourage the older children to get involved with our village events in the future, such as the carnival stall and the Christmas Lights Festival. We will also invite them to participate in the Youth Across Hemel event coming to CCB in March (more details below).
Unfortunately, some of the current helpers at Ultim8 will not be able to help as regularly after Easter. Please speak to Caroline if you are willing to help, even if it’s only once a month, so that this group can continue.
Caroline Oxer Ultim8 Leader
Schools
We remain in close contact with Youth Across Hemel, who now run two lunchtime groups at Kings Langley Secondary School. They would welcome help from anyone at Christ Church who could attend weekly and is willing to be DBS checked and trained to assist with these groups.
Youth Across Hemel have recently asked to use our premises for their termly event: “The Mix” which is aimed at bringing church youth and school groups together for a time of fun and learning about God. This will take place on the afternoon of Sunday 9[th] March 2025 for children aged 11 to 18. Please pray that children from Ultim8 and those who attend the lunchtime group at the school will come and experience God’s love in our building.
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CHILDREN’S & YOUTH MINISTRY (continued)
Community Events
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Carnival. At the Kings Langley Carnival for the second year running we put out the mini climbing-frame and other toddler toys to draw families into our refreshment stall and we also put up posters advertising adult and children’s groups that take place in the week. The stall was very busy and we had at least one new child start 7Up directly as a result of this.
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Christmas Lights. Once again we gave out “Family Advent Gift Bags” to families attending the Village Lights event. As the weather was extremely wet many people came into the church to dry off and get a warm drink; as a result we gave our Advent Gift Bags to over 40 families and had some meaningful conversations. We pray that the message of God’s love coming into the world will stay with these families throughout the New Year.
Conclusion
So, there is a lot to be thankful for and a lot we need to pray for. Despite our small teams we are still reaching a large number of families in the village but we urgently need more helpers to support those leaders running groups every week.
Thank you to everyone who supports the Children and Youth Work either through prayer or action, it really makes a difference. Please do contact me if you have any suggestions or are able to help in any way.
Joy Cooper
Children and Youth Work Co-ordinator
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COFFEE SHOP AND BOOKSHOP
Here we are again after another year and I must say I feel so proud to be involved in this wonderful outreach to our village and am humbled to work with so many dedicated and caring individuals from our church and also from the wider community. We have continued to be open on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday mornings as well as hosting one off events such as the Christian Aid coffee morning and providing for the Lent course.
Anne Armstrong and Kate Sime, despite having technically retired long ago, continue to be supportive in practical and encouraging ways and this year of course, is Helen Bluff’s first full year as our part time worker: she has quickly become part of the family and such an important part of our offering.
Something has certainly gone right this year with a 19% increase in bookshop revenue and 17% increase in coffee shop revenue, meaning that the Christian message has spread not only by our actions, but also by the written word too. Part of this increase has undoubtedly been from the visits from The Waterside Centre, that have become fairly commonplace this year: I have personally enjoyed getting to know some of those characters and look forward to getting to know more of them this coming year.
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.
Twelve months on, we are still without a minister and we look forward to the changes we will see as and when that appointment is made. 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
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COFFEE SHOP AND BOOKSHOP (continued)
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.
Cameron Varley
Coffee Shop and Bookshop Leader
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FRIENDSHIP CAFÉ
I am not sure that I am the right person to be writing this report since my ongoing studies have meant that I am not able to attend very often. However, I am so happy when I do manage to get there that things seem to be moving from strength to strength. There is even now a very strong male contingent benefiting from the Christ Church brand of Christian hospitality.
Again this year, we have welcomed new people and we have lost touch with some although we keep them in our prayers. Two very warm friends of the church, Lee and Sam, keep the drinks and jigsaws in good supply and Lee brings in biscuits and even supplied a Christmas banquet for us this year. It’s so lovely to say that Lee herself made our acquaintance through this ministry and I do recommend giving it a try yourselves if you have never been.
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.
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 – it is only a brief message, say four or five minutes long and is a blessing to be part of.
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.”
Cameron Varley Friendship Café Leader
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NOMADS HOUSE GROUP
The Nomads House Group meets every Thursday at 8pm in the homes of a number of its members. 2024 has been another encouraging year for us, and since joining us, Simon Carver has taken over responsibility for leadership of the group. In total there are twelve of us, though not all can make it every week. Average attendance is more like eight.
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! More often than not, we then sing a couple of songs using You Tube as musical support. That’s followed by Bible Study, and we end with a time of prayer. Occasionally if numbers are low (especially on the first Thursday of every month when two of the group are absent due to attendance at deacons’ meetings) the evening is less structured and is a time of prayer and sharing.
At the beginning of the year we completed a study, started in 2023, on the book of Daniel. This was followed by a study using the DVD entitled “The Chosen”. As this took several weeks we took time out to look at a study on “The Prodigal God” by Tim Keller, and to share our thoughts on the sermon from the previous week. This we entitled: “Did he/she really say that?”
We have yet to get back to inviting visiting speakers to share their Christian work and experiences as was the case pre Covid, but hope to be able to start this again in 2025.
Individual members continued to support outreach events throughout 2024, 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. meals together and BBQs have all played their part in helping us support and encourage each other in our Christian journey.
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 of the members of Nomads.
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CHRISTIAN AID
This year, many individuals, families, and communities around the world have faced significant brokenness in their lives. Conflicts have devastated numerous communities, leaving behind harrowing images of suffering that pierce our hearts. However, this is not the end of the story. Christian Aid, alongside its partners, has remained in very difficult situations, working to bring hope, comfort, and long-term support. The activities highlighted in this report re6lect the collective efforts of many who have contributed to this work.We are immensely grateful to you all for the total amount raised of £13,786.
Village Quiz: 9 February 2024
The Village Quiz is always a delightful event, bringing together friends from across the community while challenging our minds and memories! This year, we had 13 teams, totalling 78 participants. Congratulations to the Library Team for their victory, though everyone had a fun evening. Our thanks go to all who organised the event, donated raf6le prizes, and to the Services Club for generously providing their venue free of charge. We raised £821.
Christian AidWeek: 14 to 20 May 2024 House-to-House Collection
Christian AidWeek is central to our annual activities. The ‘House-to-House’ collection brings together many from our churches and the wider community to deliver and collect envelopes. It is always inspiring to witness the faithful support from volunteers renewing connections with friends and neighbours. This year, we raised £4,086.
CoffeeMorning: Christ Church Baptist: 11May
We are very thankful to the Bookshop for hosting our Coffee Morning once again. We enjoyed a good time, sharing together and eating some delicious cakes, raising a total of £217.
United Service at Christ Church Baptist: 12 May 2024.
It was a joy to gather with churches from our village at Christ Church to worship together. We extend our gratitude to David Blackmore, a Christian Aid volunteer speaker from Aylesbury, for leading our reflections. He shared the story of Aline from Burundi, the focus of Christian Aid Week's publicity, highlighting the challenges she faces due to the rising cost of living and climate change. Fortunately, help arrived through a CA partner organisation that provided her with a three-day community workshop. There, she learned how to establish a steady income and make long-term plans. As a result, she has launched a small grocery business that not only secures a home for her and her children but also provides food, clothing, and essential healthcare
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CHRISTIAN AID (continued)
Fundraising Meal: La Banq, Abbots Langley: 18 November 2024
Seventy-six people from Kings and Abbots Langley and beyond gathered for our first event at La Banq restaurant. It was a very enjoyable evening as we met together with old friends and made new ones. Attendees spoke highly of the lively atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent service. In total, £1,053 was raised through ticket sales, raf6le, and donations.
Long-Service Awards
While at La Banq we also took the opportunity to present a Long-Service Award to Harold Taylor, who dedicated 36 years to the Committee, including 10 as chairperson. In his acceptance speech, he spoke passionately about Christian Aid’s mission and his personal commitment to it.
Recently, Paul was pleased to present a long service award to Jean Osborne, another faithful committee member.
All Saints Christmas Tree Festival. 13 to 15 December 2024.
The Christmas tree festival hosted annually by All Saints Church showcases community groups decorating trees that represent their work this year. Christian Aid’s tree beautifully adorned by Lindsay Jepsen and Sue Castle-Henry was entitled “Comfort and Joy” and focused on the story of Shede in South Sudan, who, like many others, is battling hunger and malnutrition in the Wedwell Refugee Settlement. The programme notes emphasised the vital support provided by Christian Aid and its partner Smile Again Africa Development Organisation, which offers a lifeline for families in need. Although not a fundraiser, £33 was generously donated.
Carol singing in the Marlows Hemel Hempstead, Nash Mills, and Divine Saviour Schools. 13 December.
Children from two local schools brought joy to shoppers in the Marlowes, Hemel Hempstead, on 13 December, with their delightful carol singing. Nash Mills Church of England Primary School performed in the morning, followed by The Divine Saviour Catholic Primary School. Abbotts Langley in the afternoon, mixing traditional carols with modern songs. Many shoppers expressed their appreciation and the children clearly enjoyed performing. A total of £625 was raised for Christian Aid’s Christmas appeal.
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CHRISTIAN AID (continued)
Carols in the village garden 21 December 2024.
The clouds parted and the rain stopped and about 100 of us gathered in the beautiful setting of the Village Garden, expertly led by the Hemel Hempstead Brass Band for which we are very grateful. We sang a selection of traditional carols and heard the story of the first Christmas. Our thanks go to everyone who attended and generously contributed £205 to Christian Aid’s Christmas appeal, as well as to Dallng’s for their kind donation of mince pies.
Emergency appeals.
In October, we collaborated with other charities in the Disasters Emergency Committee, (DEC) to support an appeal for the Middle East, particularly Gaza and Lebanon. At that time it was estimated that 90% of the population was displaced, with many lacking sufficient food and 42,000 lives lost. 3 million people across Gaza and Lebanon require humanitarian aid. Donations were collected in our churches, resulting in a total of £616 raised.
With grateful thanks and in loving memory.
This year we mourned the loss of our dear friend Jeanette Hayter, who served on the committee for fifty years from 1973 to 2023 and helped organise many events. Her absence is deeply felt. In her memory, the family requested donations be made to Christian Aid, which raised a magnificent total of £4,263 and they are very grateful for this.
And finally, does it really make any difference supporting? Shede and others in South Sudan.
This question is often posed: Where does the money raised go and does it really make a difference? Christian aid collaborates with local partners who are best placed to determine the most effective use of funds. These resources are allocated for both emergency relief and long term development, irrespective of nationality, religion, gender or sexuality. At the Wedwell Refugees Settlement, Christian Aid works alongside its partner. Smile Again Africa Development Organisation, to provide essential financial assistance to families like Shede in South Sudan (mentioned in the notes above about the All Saints Christmas tree festival). To date, they have supported 4550 individuals in the settlement, offering small cash grants that significantly impact their lives. These funds enable families to purchase vital items such as nutritious food, medicine, blankets and clothing.
Our team is led by Paul Tucker, the secretary is Eric Martin and the Treasurer, Chris Pettit. Keith Gower and Sue Castle-Henry represent All Saints; Pat Macomb, Christ Church; and Kevin Cassidy, Our Lady RC Chipperfield.
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SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
I am pleased to report that the social life of the church in 2024 has, once again, been packed with a variety of events aimed at old and young alike.
The year started with the ever popular New Year Party. Held on 6 January and hosted by Jan and Roy Farrant. This was a great evening of fun and games and was enjoyed by a number of folk.
Another ever popular event was the quiz night. Although planned for 9 March, this had to be postponed until 11 May. Despite the delay this was well attended, and included an excellent ploughman’s supper. The event made a profit and this was donated to the Church’s Charity of the Year.
A first this year was a “Holiday at Home”. Intended for those who would otherwise be unlikely to go on holiday, this proved a real success, especially with older folk. A total of twenty two attended for some or all of the activities which Kate Sime and Margaret Parsons had planned over three days in July. Everything from a performance by the local Ukulele Band, to armchair exercises, and a film about the village in the past. A lovely cooked lunch was provided on two of those days and a cream tea on the third.
The annual fun day was held on 10 August in the grounds of Chipperfield School, and included a treasure hunt, which was won by a team consisting of James Turner, Glenda Turner, Joy Cooper and Caroline Oxer. The afternoon concluded with an excellent BBQ. Like the Quiz Night this event was supported by folk from within the fellowship and a number from outside. A great way of showing to the outside world we’re human after all!
During August a number of walks were organised and these proved popular with the more spritely among us.
On 7 October another regular and ever popular event was the canal trip organised by Jan Farrant. Around 30 of our more senior folk enjoyed a very pleasant couple of hours travelling along “the cut”, with a wonderful fish and chips lunch on board. (Sausage and Chips for the non-fish eaters!)
The past year shows that Christians can enjoy fun and fellowship together. This year we lost Lizzie North as a member of the committee organising these events, but I’m pleased to say Ruth Clarke joined the group (Jan Farrant, Joy Cooper, Kate Sime, Martin Brett and Tim Price) during the year. Organising such events is a lot of work, and I want to thank them for giving up their time in planning and executing such a varied social programme throughout the year.
Will Sime
Chair of Social Committee
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FABRIC
The main improvements during 2024 were:
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Replacement of five old metal Crittall windows in the Minnows room and general toilets with new upvc double glazed units. One lintel iin the lounge was replaced and outside brickwork was refurbished. Existing upvc windows in the Lounge also benefited with the addition of trickle vents and replacement of a faulty fixed pane.
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Replacement flat roofs to Minnows, Lounge, Upper Hall stairwell and Upper Hall boiler room. These are now properly insulated and water drains away, rahter than pooling.
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In the Lounge, sections of both outside walls were replastered prior to room decoration in early 2025. New blinds installed.
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Fire Risk Assessment is ongoing to ensure the whole building is safe for all users.
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In the Spring, all windows throughout the church were cleaned by a contractor.
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Routine annual inspections and servicing of appliances were carried out as necessary.
Hedley Edwards Property Steward
Mark Allcorn Deacon for Property
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TREASURER’S REPORT
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
2024 was another full year without a minister and although we are praying for the future and for the right person to come along, the church has largely remained strong as a fellowship with new initiatives and care for one another and the surrounding village. We continue to take the decision to wait to prioritise the replacement of our minister, postponing any decision to re-hire a children’s worker until that individual could give their direction to the task.
In 2024 the total income reduced by £16,370 to £130,319. This is almost entirely due to a drop in the weekly offering of £14,479. This may well be due to the current difficulties we are facing as a country in general with the increased cost of living, but it would be remiss of me not to point out this possible concern for the future financial stability of the church. I appreciate that we are currently very cash rich, which may colour our attitude to giving, but would like to document this cautionary message that could become more significant in the future.
Gift Aid receipts this year were £13,597, dropping in line with the reduction in giving last year, albeit the previous year had seen a large growth.
On a positive note, the Bookshop and Coffee Shop are reporting in excess of 20% growth in their receipts this year (£19,781) and this, as well as the Friendship Café on Thursdays, remains a much valued resource for the village and an excellent point of contact between the church and the rest of our local community.
Receipts from children’s groups have also grown healthily to £2,252, underlining our commitment to keep this worthwhile ministry going, although help is always needed.
Without a minister we have continued to let out the manse which has brought in over £13,000 in rent, which is less than the previous year due to a period when the manse was vacant as we waited for the church meeting concerning a potential minister, ultimately decided against.
Turning to the expenses of the church, there has been an overall reduction in expenditure this year of £30,373 but this is entirely due to the exceptional capital expenditure in the previous year. We do have a programme for capital improvements for the church but this year the spending on the upkeep of the church was £33,500. Accordingly the church’s liquid assets have increased to £241,945.
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CHRIST CHURCH BAPTIST KINGS LANGLEY – ANNUAL REPORT
TREASURER’S REPORT (continued)
Concerning external causes, the church has given £4,530 to CBA and £4,530 to BMS World Mission. The nominated “Charity of the Year” for 2024 was Release International and a total of £2,045 was collected and donated to that cause. Total giving to external causes amounted to 11.9% of our tithed income for the year which for clarity consists of offering, gift aid, bank interest and income from our bookshop and coffee shop. This was higher than the agreed 10%, since 2023 had been a little below this. We have yet to agree on the Charity of the Year for 2025.
Christ Church continues to hold the majority of its reserves in a Baptist Union deposit account. Baptist churches are encouraged to do so as this provides funds to the Baptist Union which are used to make loans to finance the purchase of new church sites and manses, fund the construction of new churches and redevelopment and improvement projects.
The deacons have considered the financial position of the Church and believe that we will be able to pay all bills, invoices, charges and other liabilities as they fall due.
The work of the Treasurer is dependent on other supporting people. Particular thanks go to:
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all those who have given to the work of the church in 2023, either by way of regular monthly donations or in other ways. The weekly/monthly offering amounted to £56,109 for the full year;
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the offering counting team;
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Roy Farrant who has managed the payroll. The church currently has 2 individuals on payroll;
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Will Sime for managing the hiring of our premises. The church has received an income of £17,793 through hall-hire in the year.
Cameron Varley Treasurer
Annual Report 2024.docx / Page 19 of 28
CHRIST CHURCH BAPTIST KINGS LANGLEY – ANNUAL REPORT
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
| Consolidated CCB Receipts and Payment Account 2024 2023 Receipts |
Consolidated CCB Receipts and Payment Account 2024 2023 Receipts |
|
|---|---|---|
Receipts |
||
| 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 |
108,285 128,245 19,781 16,354 2,252 2,089 130,319 146,689 58,713 94,686 17,166 13,647 2,722 641 78,601 108,974 51,718 37,715 |
|
| General Fund- Receipts and Payments | ||
| Note | 2024 2023 |
|
| 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 |
56,109 68,154 1,845 10,863 13,597 16,031 3,804 3,731 13,147 15,238 17,793 14,107 1,990 122 108,285 128,245 12,635 13,232 12,062 9,315 32,376 65,876 1,639 6,264 58,713 94,686 49,573 33,560 |
Annual Report 2024.docx / Page 20 of 28
CHRIST CHURCH BAPTIST KINGS LANGLEY – ANNUAL REPORT
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 (continued)
| Kings Bookshop and Coffee Shop (KBCS) Fund- Receipts and Payments | Kings Bookshop and Coffee Shop (KBCS) Fund- Receipts and Payments | |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 2023 |
||
| Receipts Sale of books, cards, gifts etc Refreshments Donations Payments Bookshop worker gross salary |
6,912 5,362 12,869 10,992 0 0 19,781 16,354 9,306 7,043 |
|
| Employer pension costs | 0 164 |
|
| Purchase of books, cards, etc Refreshments Card Machine Charges Maintenance & Equipment Donation to Christian Aid Stationery & Postage Miscellaneous Surplus (deficit) for the year |
3,961 3,857 3,621 1,941 23 298 0 97 256 232 0 0 0 14 17,166 13,647 2,614 2,707 |
|
| Childrens' Groups- First Steps- Receipts and Payments | ||
| 2024 2023 |
||
| Receipts Subscriptions Payments Related Expenses Surplus (deficit) for the year |
1,040 984 1,040 984 435 435 435 435 605 549 |
Annual Report 2024.docx / Page 21 of 28
CHRIST CHURCH BAPTIST KINGS LANGLEY – ANNUAL REPORT
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 (continued)
| Childrens' Groups- 7Up & Ultim8- Receipts and Payments | Childrens' Groups- 7Up & Ultim8- Receipts and Payments | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | ||
| Receipts Subscriptions Payments Related Expenses Surplus (deficit) for the year |
1,212 1,212 2,286 2,286 -1,074 |
1,105 1,105 206 206 899 |
|
| Statement of Assets and Liabilities at 31 December 2024 | |||
| Assets 2024 |
2023 | ||
| Bank and other cash balances 9 241,945 Representing balances on the following funds General Fund 10 236,945 KCBS Fund 11 3,000 First Steps Fund 12 1,000 Revel8 and 7Up Fund 13 1,000 TOTAL 241,945 Non monetary assets held for the Church's own use 14 3,365,397 Total Assets 3,607,342 Liabilities Baptist Pension Scheme Liabilities 15 0 Total Debt 0 |
190,228 185,227 3,000 1,000 1,000 190,228 3,262,957 3,453,185 0 0 |
Annual Report 2024.docx / Page 22 of 28
CHRIST CHURCH BAPTIST KINGS LANGLEY – ANNUAL REPORT
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 (continued)
- 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 | 2024 2023 |
|---|---|
| Donations / Contribution to overheads Legacies Other items 3 Investment income Bank interest 4 Raised for Other Causes Charity of the Year: Release International 5 Outgoing - Ministry Minister's (gross) stipend Pension Contribution Church Activities / Sunday services Jubilee Celebrations Visiting Speakers Subscriptions and Licences Manse Costs: Utilities (council tax, water, light & heat) Insurance Repairs / upkeep |
695 0 0 10,509 1,150 354 1,845 10,863 3,804 3,731 3,804 3,731 1,990 122 0 0 10 12 2,241 1,035 0 267 5,177 2,880 1,466 640 1,693 648 1,478 1,168 570 6,581 12,635 13,232 |
Annual Report 2024.docx / Page 23 of 28
CHRIST CHURCH BAPTIST KINGS LANGLEY – ANNUAL REPORT
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 (continued)
Notes to the Accounts (continued)
| 6 Outgoing - Mission | 2024 2023 |
|---|---|
| Given to BMS Given to CBA |
4,530 4,300 4,530 4,300 |
| Given to charity of the year Children & Youth work Outreach World Day of Prayer |
2,045 122 0 94 857 367 100 131 12,062 9,315 |
| 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 |
9,578 11,893 3,026 2,928 13,170 26,304 0 10,813 0 8,640 6,602 5,298 32,376 65,876 0 477 1,639 5,787 1,639 6,264 14,553 21,559 220,003 156,199 7,339 12,419 50 50 241,945 190,228 |
Annual Report 2024.docx / Page 24 of 28
CHRIST CHURCH BAPTIST KINGS LANGLEY – ANNUAL REPORT
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 (continued)
Notes to the Accounts (continued)
| 10 General Fund | 2024 2023 |
|---|---|
| Opening balance Net receipts/(payments) for the year Transferred from KCBS Fund Transferred from First Steps Fund Transferred from 7Up-Revel8 Fund Closing balance |
185,227 146,731 49,573 33,560 2,614 2,707 605 764 -1,074 1,466 236,945 185,227 |
| 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 from General Fund Closing balance |
3,000 3,000 2,614 2,707 -2,614 -2,707 3,000 3,000 1,000 1,215 605 549 0 0 -605 -764 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,567 -1,074 899 1,074 -1,466 1,000 1,000 |
Annual Report 2024.docx / Page 25 of 28
CHRIST CHURCH BAPTIST KINGS LANGLEY – ANNUAL REPORT
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024 (continued)
Notes to the Accounts (continued)
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 | |
| 2024 2023 |
|
| Church premises, insured value (The Nap, Kings Langley, Herts, WD4 8ES) Church manse, insured value (2 Belham Road, Kings Langley, Herts, WD4 8BY) |
2,620,942 2,532,284 598,547 589,701 |
| Church organ insured value (Note 3) | |
| The church also owns fixtures, furniture and equipment with an insured value of |
145,908 140,972 3,365,397 3,262,957 |
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 20 to 26 relating to the year ended 31 December 2024 are as approved by the deacons.
Cameron Varley Treasurer 13 March 2025
Annual Report 2024.docx / Page 26 of 28
CHRIST CHURCH BAPTIST KINGS LANGLEY – ANNUAL REPORT
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT
Report of the Independent Examiner to the Trustees of Christ Church Baptist, Kings Langley on the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2024
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:
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to examine the accounts under section 145 of the Charities Act,
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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
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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:
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accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Charities Act, or
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the accounts do not accord with the accounting records
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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.
Annual Report 2024.docx / Page 27 of 28
CHRIST CHURCH BAPTIST KINGS LANGLEY – ANNUAL REPORT
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT (continued)
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
_
13 March 2025
Tadeusz Woroniecki ACMA
1 Brickfield Cottages, St Marys Lane, Hertingfordbury, Hertford, SG14 2LF
Annual Report 2024.docx / Page 28 of 28