## 2021
Annual Report of the PCC
**Didcot All Saints’ Church**
## Introduction
Open to God
## Open to Everyone
## Open to Change
This report provides a reflection of life at All Saints’ and outlines the wonderful activities that all its members undertake in order to sustain our life of faith, prayer and fellowship. We extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who makes All Saints’ a warm and welcoming community.
All Saints’ Parochial Church Council (PCC) has the responsibility for working with the incumbent, Revd Dr Andy Lord, in promoting the whole mission of the church: pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical. The PCC also has responsibility for maintaining the church of Didcot All Saints’, the churchyard and the Youth and Community Hall.
## Objectives and Activities
The PCC is committed to enabling as many people as possible to worship at our church and to become part of our parish community at All Saints’. The PCC maintains an overview of worship throughout the parish and, through our Mission Action Plan, aims to witness to the love of God within the local community and the wider world. Our services and worship put faith into practice through prayer and scripture, music and sacrament.
When planning our activities for the year, we have considered the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit and, in particular, the supplementary guidance on charities for the advancement of religion. In
particular, we try to enable everyone to live out their faith as part of our parish community through:
- Worship and prayer; learning about the gospel and encountering God.
- Provision of pastoral care for people living in the parish.
- Missionary and outreach work.
We have drawn inspiration from the window of Martha and Mary, who illustrate the need for us to pause in prayer to enable action in the world. All Saints’ seeks openness with Jesus in worship and mission, rooted in a welcoming place.
The Covid-19 pandemic continued to dominate church life during 2021 although we have gradually been able to meet again in the building as well as online. Rhythms of prayer/worship and mission/action have sustained us and enabled us to keep serving others. Our buildings have been open to more through our online services and remain places of welcome that draw us to God. Our All Saints’ Youth & Community Hall opened as soon as was possible, with varied restrictions over the year. It has been good to welcome back hirers and see small communities re-establish themselves.
All Saints’ has continued to be responsible for the legal overview of Great Western Park Church, which is designated as a Fresh Expression of Church. An annual report for the Great Western Park Church is given as an appendix to this report. The church became a Conventional District in January 2021 and is taking over various responsibilities from All Saints’.
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## Volunteers
We would like to thank all the volunteers who work so hard to ensure the smooth running of our church – its services, community outreach, the building itself, the hall and the churchyard.
In particular we would like to mention our churchwardens, Brenda Andrews and Tim Scane, who have helped steer us through this second pandemic year, providing wisdom and much practical help.
## Achievements and
## Performance
Throughout 2021, the church community continued to build on the vision set out in the Mission Action Plan, reflected in our PCC subgroups. The four areas of focus are:
- Worship, prayer and faith development
- Mission and outreach
- Sustaining the work of the church
- Maintenance and development of the church buildings and environment
## Worship, prayer and faith development
There were periods when the coronavirus pandemic prevented occasional offices being held in in church. Nevertheless, we were able to celebrate 14 baptisms (7 infants and 7 of children aged 1-4) and 12 weddings. In addition, we provided 19 funerals of which 13 were held in church and six at a crematorium.
The Electoral Roll, as presented to the 2021 Annual Parochial Church Meeting, contained 69 members.
## Music
We are extremely grateful to Paul Hedley, our Director of Music, for all he has done to sustain the musical life of the church through challenging times. He writes:
After the challenges of 2020, the choir were rather more ready for what 2021 brought, which thankfully included rather more in-person music-making, at least in the second half of the year. It is a tribute to the dedication and musicianship of all of the singers that the choir continued to contribute to the worship at All Saints week by week, whatever the restrictions placed upon it.
Collective singing is such an important part of our services, and we greatly look forward to the time when unmasked voices can ring out together again, once it is safe, and infection levels have dropped. It is our privilege to lead in this way, and we aim to continue to develop and enrich the musical side of the worship at All Saints in any way we can.
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## Prayer
Lottie and Peter Sumner continue to lead Quiet Space, giving an opportunity to a small group of people drawn from a number of churches in the town to gather for contemplative prayer. While lockdown restrictions were in place, the group made us of e-mailed reflections. There was much joy when meetings once more tool place in the church building.
The Healing Group, which is coordinated by Stuart Roberts, started the year still meeting by e-mail. Since September it has been lovely to meet and pray in the Hall again. The group meets once a month to pray for those on the intercession list and for others who have asked for confidential prayer. Please let Andy or Stuart know if you would like our prayers.
## Faith development
Several members of the congregation along with a member of SS Peter and Paul Wantage took part in an online _Life on the Frontline_ course led by Revd. Debbie Lord.
Through Advent, Revd. Sasha Reeves gave a weekly on-line reflection drawing on the book _The Grace of Waiting_ by Margaret Whipp.
## Fellowship groups
By the time the lockdown rules permitted face to face meetings again, Monday evenings no longer worked for the majority of the group. A muchdepleted group had a one-off meeting on a Thursday in September, at which we enjoyed tea, coffee or water (!) and some rather yummy biscuits. As we used to, we talked about things in
general but it became clear that we couldn’t carry on as before unless a few more people joined us. For now, at least, the group is in abeyance.
The Natter Knitters are glad to be back knitting again and enjoying each other’s company. The restart saw an increase in numbers attending and many items for the Baby unit at the J R have already been produced. They are still knitting hats and gloves for the Shoe Box appeal and more poppies for a revamped display for Remembrance Sunday, so they are being very productive and would be delighted to welcome anyone to knit for these projects.
For many months, the Young at Heart group had kept in touch with one another by telephone, so it was with much joy when, in September, we were able to resume our monthly meetings. It was so good to be able to share concerns and to laugh together once again. In November, we met, together with some of his friends, to remember Philip Shipman, a founder member of Young at Heart. In December we were to be found enjoying a delicious Christmas lunch. We look forward to continuing to meet to share and to laugh together.
## Sunday School
We were only able to run one session of Sunday School during 2021: we had planned for one session in October, but no Young People attended, probably due to a combination of hesitancy and awareness. In November, we were able to run a session, and three young people participated.
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We need to attract more Leaders, as we will be unable to run sessions, due to Safeguarding concerns.
## Mission and
## outreach
Over the year, the Mission and Outreach Sub-committee developed it focus on:
- Mission in the community.
- Mission exploring faith.
- Mission in the world.
Many of the initiatives arising from consideration of mission in the community are discussed in the community outreach report. In addition, it was recognised that the continued streaming of online services and, in particular, the Wednesday Zoom gatherings are valuable for people who are unable to join in services in the church building.
The Life on the Frontline course grew out of consideration of mission exploring faith. The sub-committee recognised that All Saints’ should be comfortable in its tradition, whilst acknowledging a breadth of approaches within the congregation.
There were two highlights in 2021. First, was the joint celebration of Pentecost with St Peter’s, which was led by Bishop Gavin. Secondly, we were delighted to join Revd. Josie Midwinter in celebrating the 50[th] anniversary of her being commissioned into the Church Army.
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In addressing mission in the world, we had to live with the reality of the financial challenges facing All Saints’. We continued to provide financial support to the TRAIN youth work project. This year the money given in our Christmas collections were donated to the Didcot Youth Trust and Asylum welcome. Throughout the year we supported many missions and charities in prayer. We had a speaker from the Leprosy Mission in the Autumn. Two members of the congregation maintained our links with the HFT community and Revd. Andy Lord acted as a link to those supporting Afghan refugees living locally.
The sub-committee would be delighted to welcome new members willing to engage with the work it does.
## Schools
Unfortunately, thanks to the pandemic, our Schools’ Ministry was profoundly curtailed in 2021. We were unable to run any assemblies at Stephen Freeman School and Andy and Debbie were only able to deliver a virtual Harvest Festival, at Manor School. The Carol Services planned for Years 5 & 6 was also cancelled. Our planned Prayer Space session in the Autumn, was similarly affected and has been deferred to the Summer of 2022.
However, we were able to run two outdoor ‘Hot Chocolate’ events in the run up to Christmas, which were well received.
## Bell Ringing
No report has been received on bellringing.
## Didcot Garden Town
Over the last year, Didcot Garden Town, as part of the South Oxfordshire and Vale District Councils, has continued its Advisory Board and Sounding Boards to encourage local participation. Revd. Andy Lord, as Bishops’ Advisor for Didcot Garden Town, took part in a couple of the residents sounding boards, with Ali Adams enabling discussions. These have helped bring more local community issues to the fore alongside the wider building and infrastructure projects. Environmental issues have been particularly highlighted.
The Willowbrook and Nobel Park housing estates have been started this last year, north of Ladygrove. The Valley Park development has been delayed but should now start in 2023 with the Alma Lodge care home having opened this year. The road infrastructure projects continue through their processes before work starts on these.
We have been blessed with Sasha Reeves joining us as curate, based at All Saints’ but with time for new housing estates. In her first year this is more about learning from the experience of others in the area. The Laing’s charity are generously funding her housing.
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The Greater Didcot Group chaired by Associate Archdeacon David Tyler has continued through this year, encouraging clergy to reflect together on specific areas of mission. This has been appreciated in encouraging support and partnership, particularly through the time of pandemic.
In the deanery, Andy has been devoting time to reviewing the “structures and finance” of the churches across Greater Didcot, with a presentation undertaken at a Deanery Conference in October 2021. This work, which will continue into 2022 with a final report due by the end of March, is part of Andy’s Bishops’ Advisor role. The report will recognise the great opportunities we have to reach out in new and existing housing estates, whilst being realistic about the financial challenges all churches face.
## Sustaining the work of All Saints’
## All Saints’ Church
Total receipts on unrestricted funds were £86,194.91 of which £43,731.33 was unrestricted planned voluntary donations, and a further £10,147.20 was from Gift Aid. Of the donations and gift aid, £2,675 related to the fundraising which arose from Josie’s celebration of her 50 years of Ministry. There was £16,605 of abnormal income relating to the acquisition of a rental property for the curate, which was offset by expenditure. There was a deficit for the year of £3,211.25 before the transfer of £4,000 to the Churchyard Fund, making a total deficit of £7,211.25. This was an improvement on the deficits from last two years, which were £27,640 and £21,834.76. The planned giving through the Parish Giving Scheme, Envelopes and banker's orders increased by 10.76% from the low point of the previous year, following a positive stewardship campaign, but has yet to reach back to the levels of 2018.
£89,406.16 was spent from unrestricted funds to provide the Christian ministry from All Saints’ Church. Excluding the £16,605 expenditure in relation to the curates house, general expenditure was a 3.93% down on 2020, almost all of which related to the decrease in Parish Share of £2,131. Maintenance, Running costs and Upkeep of Services were slightly down on the previous year.
During the year, the total fund balances decreased from £105,713.58 to
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£96,509.48 of which £87,169.39 is unrestricted.
The Independent Examiner is Haines and Co. of Wallingford. The PCC’s bank accounts are held with the Barclays and NatWest Banks. The PCC is a charity registered with the Charity Commission.
## The Youth and Community
## Hall
The running of the hall was again disrupted by COVID during the first half of 2021.
Income improved from the £8,011.52 being received in fees in 2020 to £11,062.50 in 2021, but still down when compared to £25,705 in 2019. However, we continued to qualify for the Government’s Business Rate Grant for Community Halls, administered by the district council, which provided a further £16,583. The expenditure again decreased from £16,037.85 to £14,125.28, but many of the costs still remained even though the hall wasn’t being used, including servicing and maintenance. However, this did mean that there was still an operating surplus of £13,526.04 prior to depreciation, and for the first time a surplus of £3,006.21 after depreciation. This would not have been the case without the government support.
## Reserves Policy
It is PCC policy to try to maintain a balance on free reserves (net current assets) to smooth out fluctuations in cash flow and to meet emergencies. The balance of the free reserves at the year end was £87,169.39, which was again lower than the previous year.
The balance of £9,340.09 in the restricted funds is principally retained towards maintaining the building and meeting the upkeep of the churchyard. In addition, there is a restricted fund, held for Great Western Park Church, which had a year-end balance of £83,553.44.
It is our policy to invest the short-term investment fund balances with the CCLA Church of England Deposit Fund.
It should be noted that whilst there remains a surplus of assets over liability, we need to build up reserves for any major expenditure, especially as there remains significant cracking of the walls which remain under investigation and could be expensive to fix.
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## Maintaining and developing the church building and
## churchyard
The Maintenance and Development Committee continues to look after the fabric of the church building and churchyards.
Their focus is the ‘to do’ list created by the quinquennial report of 2018. Many of the identified smaller jobs are completed by the committee themselves. Other work is sometimes completed by a handyman.
A large number of small repairs have been identified that require a specialist builder to work with lime mortar. Waiting times for such a builder are substantial and the work is very weather dependent. We are currently sourcing suitable specialists to work on this and work required on the roof. Small cracks in the building that have been identified are being monitored.
There are always regular maintenance tasks such as clearing galleys, drains and guttering which are completed by the churchyard working party / committee.
The frame of the Lych Gate is leaning towards the east (it is now more a parallelogram) and needs specialist attention to straighten it. You may have noticed the very wonky looking gates. The committee are also devising a plan to prevent rainwater from dripping onto the support struts to prevent further rotting.
The memorial gates to the new churchyard need attention as they don’t open easily and we are looking at solutions.
In terms of development, we continue to keep the east bank of the New Churchyard as clear as possible in readiness for our new cremations memorial area. Having considered many options for providing sufficient space for a high volume of cremation memorials we now have a plan to pursue. Planning permission and a faculty are the next stages to take us forward. We currently have space for only a few more cremations at present and so this project is urgent.
We have the opportunity to replace two rotten benches in the new churchyard and are looking to incorporate these into the plans that are in process for a new cremation area. If you would like to purchase or sponsor a bench in memory of a loved one then please let the committee or working party know.
## Churchyard
A small team of dedicated and friendly volunteers have continued to work regularly, once or twice a month, to maintain the churchyard. A few have been able to help a little less regularly as they juggle work commitments or health issues but it’s good to see them when they are able to come and gives us a chance to have a catch up with each other.
We’ve been concentrating on mowing and tidying and worked hard to ensure the field is in good condition when there have been events held on it.
In spring we weed-kill extensively in and around the edges of graves in the
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older churchyards. This time is well spent as it greatly reduces the amount of hours spent strimming throughout the year.
When extra ‘man-power’ is available we continue to establish level grass over the graves to make mowing easier and less treacherous to walk on, although we have spent less time on this that we had hoped.
There are a number of graves in the new churchyard that do not comply with the Diocesan churchyard regulations and these cause us considerable problems in terms of health and safety (loose stones, chippings, glass or ceramic vases) or extra strimming work. Those where edging stones or timbers have been added often prevent lawn mowers from squeezing between rows of graves. This means that due to our limited volunteer time we can’t get to all the graves. All graves should have grass over and up to the headstone to enable the machines to mow with ease in full rows and we urge people to comply with the rules displayed on the noticeboards.
We were able to hold our annual Big Tidy Up in July this year which enabled us to tackle some of the bigger jobs such as hedge trimming, especially the laurel and beech that we have in the churchyards and all the boundary hedges adjacent to the public footpaths. The bin store has been repaired after damage from falling tree branches and made a little more robust.
It was a conversation during the Big Tidy Up that led Andrew and Steve to start the process of reinstalling the tap in the new churchyard (which had been vandalised many years ago and
removed). By the end of 2021, work was well underway, to be completed in 2022. This will be a huge help to visitors who need water for graveside flowers.
In December we planted a good number of daffodils and narcissus in the front churchyard, donated by the working party and congregation. We didn’t get them all in as there were over 300 but plan to plant the rest in the new year. Hopefully we will get a really good display in the spring which will increase each year. Something to look forward to!
We keep our spending to an absolute minimum and quite a few volunteers use their own tools. The one unavoidable expense is the servicing and repair of the petrol mowers. With the number of machines we have this is costly. The terrain and stone obstacles are harsh and the machines get quite a battering. The churchyard fund is diminishing and may not cover the cost of new equipment as and when we may need it which we need to be aware of.
Year on year, the average age of the group is creeping evermore upwards and more younger volunteers are urgently needed to help us keep our churchyards tidy, safe and welcoming. Do please think about whether this is something you can help us with, if not regularly, then perhaps a few times a year. It’s amazing how much we can get done when there are a few more of us to help.
A significant development during 2021, was the application for partial closure of the churchyard. The application covers the older parts of the churchyard; everything except the new churchyard
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on the Rectory side of the footpath. Once the process is complete, expected in early 2022, responsibility for maintenance of the closed parts of the churchyard will be taken over by the District Council.
## Tree works
This year we were able to complete all the tree works we had planned after a detailed inspection in the previous year. Planning permissions were granted by SODC for the main tree stock and also a special one for the Ancient Yew which has a tree preservation order. The Diocese also granted a faculty for these works, which included various crown lifting and some tree removal. These works are for the health and safety of people attending site, as some trees had split branches, and also for the long-term health of the trees. We have hoped that the crown reduction on the ancient yew would help preserve this specimen but unfortunately it suffered some more wind damage in February 2022 after storm Eunice came through. Some lower limbs tore away from the main trunk which were tidied up.
A lone Leylandii conifer on the east boundary with our neighbours, leaning over their fenceline, was removed. This was a poor specimen and non-native and was removed also to allow for the development of this part of the cemetery for the extended cremated remains area.
It should be noted that the work on the trees cost the church £3,144.
We had to remove several diseased Rowan trees in the field and are looking at replanting in the future, possibly as part of the Platinum Jubilee Queen’s
Canopy project. We already have two trees that have been donated by the Rotary Club as part of their celebrations for 2022.
## Bell Tower Ladder
We have commissioned a bespoke replacement ladder for the bell tower, as the current wooden ladder does not meet with health and safety regulations. We have the relevant permissions from the Diocese and Allenfields in Didcot is completing this work for us. The ladder parts are being powder-coated to match the adjoining oak beams and are due to be installed in March 2022. There will be a locked cover at its base to prevent unauthorised access. Once installed, this will prove to be a safe and easy access for those who have to use the bell tower for maintenance.
We have also removed some of the loose and flaking plaster at the base of the bell tower and this has allowed the wall to dry out. We will review if this area is painted in the future or left to breathe.
## Ongoing repairs
This spring we have replaced and repaired the missing coping stones along the church boundary wall aside the public footpath.
We are currently infilling a gap on the wooden structure on the pulpit to restrict young children’s unnecessary access.
We have installed a stairgate at the base of the rood loft stairs as a health and safety requirement.
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## All Saints’ Youth and Community Hall
Life at the Hall during 2021 was dominated by the Covid pandemic. The Hall was closed at the start of the year and was gradually re-opened in line with the government’s easing of restrictions on certain types of groups during spring and summer, culminating in unrestricted opening on 19th July.
Paul Smith has been retained as the 'handyman' and continues to take care of the small jobs around the hall. Although decorating had usually been done on a two-yearly cycle, this was skipped in both 2020 and 2021 due to there being wear and tear because of the reduced usage.
In 2020, Price and Myers quoted for preparing an Invitation to Tender document for stabilising the wall cracks but made it clear they would be unable to undertake project management. ,The process has been put on hold following another year where the seasonal movement of the cracks was thankfully substantially less than in previous years.
sender unit was mounted outside, heavily disguised. When the heating system maintenance visit fell due we discovered that the company who had provide this service for the last few years now had no suitably qualified staff and so at the end of 2021 we were still trying to identify a suitable company to carry out the work.
Finances were obviously impacted by the Covid-19 enforced closure but this was offset by a second Small Business Grant of £8,000 from SODC, for which we are very grateful to the Treasurer for working through the application process. Full finance details are presented elsewhere in this report.
The Office saw only minor works this year, but in 2022 we expect to have to replace the access system for the Guest wi-fi as the original supplier is no longer in business, although the equipment is still working. Occasional updating of the Terms and Conditions continued during 2021. On the staff side, Anne Philips remains as Hall Administrator and we are grateful for her commitment during a very difficult 2021.
Nicky Tarling is still employed as the cleaner but was placed on the Government furlough scheme for the periods when the Hall was closed due to Covid-19 related restrictions.
As usual, I would like to thank all the members of the committee for all their hard work and support throughout this difficult year.
The network link constructed in 2020 to allow Internet access from the church was modified so that the Hall end
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## Community Outreach
Revd. Debbie Lord has provided a report on community outreach in 2021.
Throughout 2020 and the first lockdowns we prayed and sought new ways to connect with those in the neighbourhood around All Saints’ Church. This is in keeping with the thought from John 1 - ‘ _The Word became flesh and blood and moved into the neighbourhood.’_ As we journeyed into 2021, this exploration continued and it is precious to remember the many conversations and interactions despite the frequently changing covid restrictions.
In the early months of 2021, we became even more aware of families who were struggling during relentless weeks of isolation. It was acutely difficult for those having to work at home whilst home schooling their children. So, for Lent we put together activity bags to give out on the walkway by church. These were themed ‘Share the Feast’ and contained seeds to grow, baking and craft activities, story and song words around the Feeding of the 5000. Some were also delivered to families that we heard about from church members. Altogether Andy, Karen Palmer-Prickett, Tim Scane and I gave away 30 bags and there was an online activity (74 views). The feedback from families and others was full of gratitude, and so we set up more activity bags and
online sessions for Holy Week and Easter (224 viewings), with activities at Pentecost too. I would like to offer my grateful thanks especially to Anne for her help with the publicity, and Etta and Margaret with other practicalities. I found it a hugely rewarding experience to have so many doorstep conversations, it was great to meet people in this informal way and get to know them better.
Moving into the summer months, the decision to hold picnics with percussion, parachute and other fun activities was taken. It is wonderful to have a church field! The first picnic on July 11th coincided happily with the Sunday we welcomed Sasha and Matt Reeves at the start of Sasha’s curacy, and you may recall the happy sounds as Jenga bricks came tumbling down, ducks were hooked, and adults as well as children joining in the parachute games and percussion activities! Most of the families that came were drawn to the physicality of this, and we have taken this and other observations into
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our conversations and prayer about the road ahead.
For many local people the idea of exploring the Christian faith is probably a bit strange, but the thought that they can join in with something does really appeal. This is partly due to special needs arising from the pandemic, such as loneliness, fear about the future, the challenges of simply keeping going when life is arduous. But it also arises because many more people have prayed during these strange times than in previous years, and with that begun to think more about personal key questions such as ‘what is my life really for?’, ‘what is it worth?’, and ‘who do we belong with?’
We prepared for and publicised several more picnics over the summer holidays, a couple of which people did come for. And at the one on October 3[rd] at Harvest we held a Treasure Hunt which was really good fun. Special thanks to Karen, Tim, Sandra Pickworth, Sasha and Matt for all that they contributed to these happy get-togethers, providing activities, chatting and praying.
As Autumn progressed, a number of us continued to pray and think about how to connect with others, and with that came the realisation that we would need at some point to move from having ‘small events’ to a more regular gathering. We had learned from our various activities and conversations that a range of activities appealed to children and adults. Many people had enjoyed creative and musical activities as well as lively games, and time for some sort of food and drink! This new monthly gathering would be an alternative style to the 10 am service.
Through the late Autumn, following on from prayer and conversations the decision to experiment with something new in February 2022 was taken.
At the end of the school term, we gave away Hot Chocolate to many on the school run. Tim provided flasks and cups, and with myself, Andy, Sandra and Karen made the most of opportunities to listen and chat as people warmed up! A week later, in response to a special request from our neighbours we held a wonderful ‘Christmas Songs and Carols’ event on the church field on December 18[th] . The beautiful backdrop, gazebos and decorations were provided by Jen and Dann Turner, Dawn and Rob Jackson. With them and others such as Robin Loynes we had an enjoyable time getting ready through the day. We want to send a huge thankyou to them for their generosity and kindness in all they did. Big thanks also to Julia Buckel and the gardening team for preparing the site beforehand, and for twinkly lights.
It was cold by the time we gathered to sing- you might remember that! In all about 100 people came including the much-appreciated team in the kitchen:
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Madeleine, Etta, Margaret, Clare, Pat and Daphne who worked so hard making drinks and serving. Eleanor and Nick Hards delivered a huge amount of publicity to homes. They helped to steward the site with others, including the route inside church while people went to collect refreshments. Thanks to all, to church family who gave generously and prayed, and to Manor School for decorations in church. It was a very well received lively Christmas celebration.
As I look back over 2021, the key themes in Community Outreach here have been listening and praying, imagination, shared giving and having fun. Let us continue to pray and thank God for all the ways He continues to work through us, and ask for His guidance and fruitfulness in the year ahead.
One man chatting with Andy had been on his way to the pub and came to join the singing. As he left he called out ‘God bless you all, you’ve made my Christmas!’ Ruth Bennie (guitar and vocals), Hannah Lord (vocals), Simeon (saxophone) and I had a lot of fun playing and leading the songs, and Rob Armitage did us proud reading that delightful poem ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’! We remember the joy of all that, the fact that many people outside of the church family were involved, and that singing songs about Jesus as well as Santa has brought us closer together.
Lastly, we might remember our online Crib Service on Christmas Eve. Due to sudden covid changes we had to rapidly adapt from what had been anticipated. So thanks to Adam, Esther, Sue, Tim and Katharine Scane, Karen, Sandra, Peter, Hannah and Simeon for all your willingness to help retell the best Christmas story! Over 200 viewings were registered; we praise God that many people made use of the opportunity to think about Jesus coming to be one with us.
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## Vicar’s Report
The last year has stretched us as we have gone through different forms of lockdown and Covid-19 regulations – with at least 5 different Covid Risk Assessments having to be formulated! For many of us, not being able to get out as we wanted and spend time with others has been a huge challenge. The impact of all this is still felt, even as we move out of the worst of the pandemic, thankful for the vaccines and starting to be able to plan more for the future. I am so grateful for all the energy and hard work put in by people at All Saints’ to enable us to continue in worship of God and the service of others.
I have been struck by the image Jesus uses of the church as a vine (John 15) which is nurtured by love to flourish for the good of all. We are to abide in the Lord’s Presence of love, in our worship and prayer, and through this know the joy that we can share in a world in which there are many difficulties. There is Jesus’ comment about us being pruned back and thus the need for us to be honest about our challenges whilst encouraged by God’s faithfulness. The Holy Spirit is sent to keep us with Jesus, listening to God’s wisdom and sent out to help others. Whilst we are not perfect, this vision does seem full of realism and hope as we look forwards.
It has been great to welcome Sasha as curate at All Saints’ in June – she and Matt are a valued part of our community and we appreciate their loving, thoughtful character and care for us all.
The need for further medical treatment has been a challenge, with Sasha gradually coming back online while isolating. We look forward to their fuller involvement in the life of the church, and in Sasha’s involvement with new housing. She is taking over from Josie in leading the monthly ecumenical prayer group as we seek to grow in mission across our town.
Last year I noted that we had started a vision process when I arrived which was interrupted by the pandemic. Whilst we need to revisit this, the following diagram summarises where we got to:
I am so grateful to all who have enabled our worship to continue at All Saints’ – our Church Wardens (Brenda and Tim),
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PCC, Music Director (Paul), Choir, organists, sidespeople, those involved in refreshments and welcome. For part of our year, we were only able to offer online worship or with only limited numbers in the building. At most of our festival times (eg Easter and Christmas) we provided shorter online events for families, which were viewed by a good number of people in the community. Our Pentecost and Carol services in the field were a great success and way of connecting with people we had not been with for some time and with those locally who joined in. We also enjoyed celebrating Josie’s 50 years of ministry which continues to inspire us.
We have become familiar with the hybrid of in-person and online worship and are grateful for the Diocesan grant and local gifts that have enabled us to update our computer equipment and provide services appreciated by many. Alastair’s work on the WiFi has also been invaluable. It is important this continues as a way of supporting those unable to come into the building and in reaching out to new people. A number have joined us who are new or have not been so regular in recent years and others watch our services without comment but speak of how valuable it is. All Saints’ continues as a place of welcome, if adapting as we go.
We have struggled to maintain our Sunday School, given the pressures on our leaders, but have been grateful to all those involved in reaching out to families through the activity bags and online events. It has been good to experiment as we seek to reach out in mission in the community. Debbie has taken a lead, with others, to enable us
to share good news and meet local people not otherwise involved in the life of All Saints’. In a culture where church involvement is not on the agenda this is a prayerful commitment to relationship building, drawing people into activities that represent the next steps of faith. We are grateful for the new people coming to our 10am worship and continue to seek other patterns that help draw others in (notably a 2[nd] Sunday afternoon event during 2022). It has been lovely to see our Young at Heart and Natter Knitters groups starting up again, providing support and care for people and welcoming new people in.
Although it has not been possible to restart the Fellowship Group as yet, it has been great to see people attending our online courses for _Faith on the Frontline_ and _Prayer Course_ with thanks to Debbie’s leadership in these. The monthly _Quiet Space_ and the _Healing Group_ have also been vital in our prayer and care for one another. It is important we deepen our lives of faith and this has been reinforced through a time where it has been harder to build in patterns of prayer, Bible study and worship. I am deeply grateful to all those involved in preparing and giving sermons – Tim, Sasha, Debbie, Peter S & Peter B. It has also been good to welcome placement students from Ripon College, Cuddesdon as they train for ordination and come alongside us here.
I want to express my grateful thanks to all who responded to our series on Generosity in the autumn. Given the challenging financial situation that we all face and the significant shortfall at All Saints’, it has been amazing to see our
17
deficit reduced from an estimated £15,000 to about £3,000. Prayer and practical responses have come together in this and I appreciate all that Sue as Treasurer has given to keep us on track. We will continue to face challenges in this area and it will take time to restart our social and fundraising activities.
Our churchyard continues to serve many in the community and the Churchyard Working Group have been stretched but done a great work over the year. More volunteers always welcome! The process for closing the old parts of the churchyard has continued slowly through the year and should be completed in 2022.
## We remember those
who have died, particularly Robin Rees, who contributed so much to our choir, John Steele, Martin
Harbor and others whose lives have enriched our own.
Personally, thank you for your care, support and encouragement for our family as we have adapted and sought to serve through the pandemic. We are grateful for the way you look out for us and continue to pray. May we know more of the grace of Christ in the coming year.
## Curate’s Report
## Revd. Sasha Reeves writes:
It has been great to join you all at All Saints’ Church this year. There have been many highlights since becoming Curate and there have, of course, been unexpected obstacles to face too, not least the pandemic and health limitations. That’s the very real part of ministry and life together, isn’t it? Despite what comes our way, we can be assured that Christ remains with us throughout it and that learning and growing is often the fruit of challenging times. I don’t think that it was lost on God that during shielding I was putting together a sermon series on ‘The Grace of Waiting’ by Margaret Whipp.
Matthew and I have been grateful for the welcome we received by the congregation, from meals delivered upon our arrival, to your welcome gifts and asking how we’re settling into Didcot. We feel we have much more to learn about Didcot as an area and in getting to know the community, but I am grateful too for my time doing ministry whilst shielding. It was a challenging, but fruitful time learning how to minister in fullness from a distance and to view it not as ‘less’ of ministry, but one shared with many members of the congregation who were also shielding.
Since being back at work face to face it’s been a joy to be involved in baptisms and funerals, attend Wednesday Church, engage in further leading and preaching, and most importantly, fellowship with you all on Sunday mornings. There are many more groups and activities that I’m looking forward to joining in with over the coming months and developing a
18
fuller sense of life at All Saints’ throughout the year. As you know, my curacy extends into also engaging with the new housing developments. The ‘Ecumenical prayer group’ that I coordinate feeds into this. Together with Christians across Didcot, we gather to pray for God’s mission across the district and wider afield. It has been such an encouragement to see the involvement and prayers of many, even on a very blustery prayer walk around the new Ladygrove estates.
There is much more that I could say, but I’m looking forward to the year ahead, being Ordained Priest and celebrating the Eucharist for the first time along with taking Weddings. I’m pleased that All Saints’ are the community in which all these events will take place.
## Structure, Governance and
## Management
The Parochial Church Council is a corporate body established by the Church of England. The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure. The PCC is a Registered Charity.
The method of appointment of PCC members is set out in the Church Representation Rules. At All Saints’, the membership of the PCC consists of the incumbent, the curate, licensed lay ministers, churchwardens, Deanery Synod representatives and members elected by those members of the congregation who are on the Electoral Roll. All those who are members of the congregation are encouraged to register on the Electoral Roll and stand for election to the PCC.
The PCC members are responsible for making decisions on all matters of general concern and importance to the parish including deciding on how the funds of the PCC are to be spent. New members receive initial training into the workings of the PCC.
Given its wide responsibilities, the PCC has a number of sub-committees each dealing with a particular aspect of parish life. These committees, which include worship and faith development, mission and outreach, fundraising, building development and the Youth and Community Hall management committee, are all responsible to the PCC and report back to it. Apart from the Standing Committee, which is the only committee required by law and has
19
power to transact the business of the PCC between its meetings as directed by the PCC, the sub-committees are advisory and do not have executive powers.
The PCC met for six scheduled meetings through the year. Continuing the response to the coronavirus pandemic introduced in 2020, the meetings were held via Zoom. In November, the PCC also met for an _adhoc_ meeting focusing on providing its input to the Greater Didcot Review. Annual Parochial Church Meetings are normally held just before or just after Easter. However, the Diocese permitted much-needed flexibility by extending the deadline for holding APCMs. All Saints’ held its 2021 APCM on 18[th] July.
## The Ladygrove Church
The Ladygrove Church, which is an Anglican/Baptist Local Ecumenical Partnership, is a parish in its own right. It is still, however, a part of the All Saints’ benefice.
## Deanery Synod
The Deanery Synod provides PCCs with an important link between the parish and the wider structures of of the Diocese of Oxford and the Church of England. The Deanery Synod is jointly chaired by an Area Dean and a Lay Chair. The Revd David Rice is the Area Dean and Mr Gordon Gill is Lay Chair. The Wallingford Deanery includes St Peter’s Didcot, All Saints’ and Ladygrove Didcot, Great Western Park, Harwell, Chilton, Cholsey, Moulsford, Hagbourne, Blewbury, Upton, South & North Moreton, Aston Tirrold & Aston
Upthorpe, Wallingford, Crowmarsh Gifford and Brightwell-cum-Sotwell.
Meetings of the Deanery Synod in 2021 were once again impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Consequently, only two Deanery Synod meetings were held and four meetings of the Deanery Synod standing committee. In addition, a 24 hour deanery conference was held to progress the Mission Action Plan (MAP).
The first Deanery Synod meeting in March 2021 focused on ‘unlocking’ children, youth and family ministry’. The guest speaker was Yvonne Morris, who has worked for many years as the Diocesan Children and Family Ministry Advisor. She spoke about the report “Disciples Together” which was published in 2020 by Oxford Diocese.
The purpose of the conference, which was held in October 2020, was to bring together a number of clergy and lay people across the deanery to work out how to move the MAP forward. The MAP, which had been approved at the end of 2019 by the Dorchester Mission and Pastoral committee, has four key focus areas:
1. **Development of ministry to children, young people & families**
**2. Developing our outreach to new & settled communities**
**3. Development of appropriate patterns of worship**
4. **Development of the Ministry in the Greater Didcot Garden Town area, both financially & structurally** ,
There were a number of key speakers at the conference, including Bishop
20
Gavin and Associate Archdeacon David Tyler as well as Yvonne Morris and Revd Charles Chadwick, Parish Development Adviser. In addition to further exploring the MAP, we spent some time thinking about the future of the Deanery and its sustainability. Some key points emerged from the conference, these being: relationship building, networking (cross-fertilisation of ideas, sharing experiences, working together), welcoming, hospitality, follow-through and the fact that parish boundaries are not important to people, especially the young.
There was a great deal of talk and support for online church, not just to deliver services to those at home but also for meetings, house groups, Bible and alpha courses, prayer meetings etc. However, it was felt there was a general problem getting children and teenagers back. And it was felt that children’s ministry had been hard-hit since the start of the Covid situation.
The conference was generally seen as refreshing and stimulating and the chance for clergy and lay reps from all over the deanery to meet and reflect on the shared nature of mission was very valuable. It highlighted the benefit of exchanging ideas and identified how collaboration and networking within the Deanery structure would support and facilitate this.
2021, one being between Wallingford and Cholsey, attended by Bishop Gavin, and the other being at Blewbury. It is anticipated that a full program of walks will be launched in 2022.
The Deanery Synod meeting in November 2021 focused on developing the next steps of the MAP. Each of the four focus areas now has a ‘champion’ who will help to drive it forward. These are:
1) **Development of Ministry to Children, Young People and Families** ; _Revd Kevin Beer, Vicar of Crowmarsh Gifford and Brightwell cum Sotwell_
2) **Development of Appropriate Patterns of Worship;** _Revd David Rice, Rector of Wallingford & Wallingford Area Dean_ 3) **Developing our Outreach to New and Settled Communities** ; _Revd Mark Bodeker, Vicar at GWP_ 4) **Development of Ministry in the Greater Didcot Garden Town area, both financially and structurally** ; _Revd Dr Andy Lord, Vicar of All Saints’ Didcot and also Bishop’s Adviser on Mission to the Designated Didcot Garden Town,_
Finally, the Parish Share for 2022 was negotiated; this highlighted that some parishes are struggling financially. For some parishes this is an ongoing problem, for others it is a direct result of the pandemic. A working party has been set up to look at Parish Share.
## Ecumenical relationships
One initiative emerging from the MAP was the creation of a program of Pilgrim Path walks across the deanery, to link parishes and benefices. This initiative had been started in 2020 but the walks were unable to go ahead as planned due to COVID-19. Fortunately, we were able to hold two of these walks in
The church is a member of Churches Together in Didcot and District (CTDD).
Owing to the Coronavirus "Lock-downs" no events were organised, but
21
information was circulated, on the online services available and techniques being offered by Churches.
Didcot and District Christian Aid Committee was only able to organise e- envelopes, for Christian Aid Week, owing to the Coronavirus "Lockdowns". With addition of Gift Aid, £1,090 was given through the e- envelopes via six Churches, with £342,941 given Nationally. £1,550 was raised by the Chilton Plant sale.
A Coronavirus secure version of the Christian Aid Sponsored Walk took place, on the Downs, in October with six walkers from All Saints', Great Western Park and the English Martyrs’ churches. With the addition of Gift Aid, this raised £715.
## Safeguarding
We seek to be a church that provides a safe and secure environment for the most vulnerable in our church and in the wider community and, therefore, place major importance on the implementation of all safeguarding policies to enable this. We are working towards a vision where every member of the church sees themselves as a part of providing this environment for the most vulnerable.
## DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service)
During the year the Church of England introduced a requirement that all members of Parochial Church Councils sponsoring activities for adults at risk or children have an Enhanced DBS clearance. At the time of writing, this has been carried out for all members of the PCC but one. Renewal is also now required for all DBS certificate holders after 3 years rather than 5, in line with
the general practice for registered charities. We are very grateful for the efficient work that Tim Scane has carried out as verifier (viewing applicants documents to confirm their identity) over a short timescale to make this happen.
A number of additional people received DBS clearance for work with children, young people and adults at risk. The clearance provider for the Diocese is Access Personal Checking Services Ltd. as recommended by the Church of England.
## Safeguarding Policies and Training
The recommendations in the Safeguarding Policy are adhered to in all activities relating to safeguarding and recruitment. The PCC has an ongoing Promoting a Safer Church Action Plan, which is reviewed annually, although during 2021 our usual activities were still being affected by the pandemic.
A copy of the Safeguarding Handbook is available in the Vicar's vestry and online. We follow its procedures for dealing with any safeguarding concern or allegation. We recognise the importance of being sensitive to any issues that may be raised and responding appropriately.
Training has continued on-line for those in the relevant roles; the highest level of training for each individual must be renewed after 3 years. There is a new requirement for all PCC members to undertake Domestic Abuse training. During the year, Eleanor Hards, the safeguarding officer, completed Leadership training and is due to renew Safer Recruitment and People Management training.
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The Church of England from time to time also provides Safeguarding learning reviews arising from serious situations elsewhere.
## Safeguarding issues
There were no major pastoral situations during 2021 that raised safeguarding issues.
During the year, the major safeguarding issue was still the Covid-19 pandemic and national and Church of England guidance was followed. Risk assessments were frequently updated, in relation to both the Church premises and the Youth and Community Hall. The approach was always to err on the side of caution.
## Health and Safety
The impact of Covid is still having a great effect of parish life. Even with restrictions easing we are still needing to consider the health, safety and wellbeing of the congregation. During the last year, we have had no major accidents or near misses reported to us and we are still reviewing the measures we have in place.
Our biggest challenge is ensuring we can return life to normal while maintaining the safety and well-being of our more at-risk members. We are looking forward with hope to 2022 and more normality.
## Administrative information
All Saints’ Church is situated in Lydalls Road, Didcot. It is part of the Dorchester Episcopal Area in the Diocese of Oxford within the Church of England. The correspondence address for the church is: The Administrator, All Saints’ Youth and Community Hall, Roman Place, Didcot, Oxon, OX11 7ER.
The website address is: www.didcotallsaints.org.uk
The Didcot All Saints’ Church Community Page can be found on Facebook.
PCC members who have served at any time during 2021 are:
## **Ex-Officio members:**
Incumbent: The Revd. Dr Andy Lord The Revd. Sasha Reeves (from July) Associate Minister, GWP Church: The Revd. Mark Bodeker Wardens: Miss Brenda Andrews Mr Alastair Adams (until July) Dr Tim Scane (from July) Licensed Lay Ministers: Dr Nick Hards Dr Tim Scane Deanery Synod Representative: Mrs. Alison Adams
## **Elected members:**
Mrs Clare Hamer Mrs Eleanor Hards Miss Anne Phillips Mr David Ralston
Mrs Sue Scane (Co-opted until July, Elected from July Treasurer) Dr Peter Sumner (Secretary) Mr Bertie Doy (from July) Mr Andrew Jones (from July)
23
## **Signed:**
**............................................................** Revd. Dr Andy Lord **Date: ............................................................**
24
**Great Western Park Church Annual Report (for the period ended 31[st] Dec. ’21)**
As I write this review, I note that it is two years to the day (23[rd] March 2020) since the first Lockdown began. Much has changed since then, however reflecting on the past year and before I am grateful that we have emerged pretty much intact. We are worshipping and meeting together physically enjoying the benefits that presence and direct fellowship provide. Our numbers have also rebuilt. As part of this re-emergence, we have settled back into our old building, grateful for the College’s welcome and a cupboard to store our equipment. We have moved a short distance from our original home in the UTC Café, now upstairs in their Sixth Form Learning Research Centre (LRC), enjoying greater flexibility and space in which to engage with our growing congregation.
As we get more comfortable in each other’s company we are slowly easing restrictions on face coverings and intentional separation. We remain mindful of those who still feel vulnerable with plenty of ventilation, continuing to broadcast our services on Zoom with a recording of talks shared on our church YouTube channel. We realise that some of our ‘old normal’ ways cannot be brought back, but with cutting back comes regrowth, and we are grateful that we have seen increasing numbers of people return to us for worship and fellowship. This is borne out with progressively increasing numbers of those attending with a not insignificant percentage of newcomers.
As such, we have much to be grateful for. We have learnt what it means to care for and look out for each other and I am particularly grateful for those committed folk in our Pastoral Care Teams who have kept in contact and visited those on the edge of our church community. I also give thanks to God for our Life Groups which are the bedrock of our faith community. Not only have they continued to meet throughout the past year, but have maintained the essential elements of teaching, study, prayer, hospitality, and welcome which we see described in the New Testament as the Church developed in the 1[st] century. It is so encouraging that all our groups have kept going this past year, growing, and developing. Thank you again to our LG leaders who give so much to this important work.
It has not all been study and meetings. We have managed to keep ourselves sane with online quiz’s and, when meeting up again, games evenings which have been lots of fun.
We have our first shared breakfast for this Mothering Sunday, inviting everyone to eat together and to welcome our newcomers.
We are also reintroducing community events which are so important to the life and purpose of our church (which is to be missional). Except for a very successful Carol service in early December, held outside UTC, we were unable to hold any other community invitational events during the year.
This is now changing. Looking ahead, we have planned events on Easter Saturday, joining with the GWP Community to celebrate the Queen’s 70[th] anniversary and are hosting Beyond the Boundary after a two-year delay.
We have also continued to celebrate with others their special life events. It was a real joy to celebrate with Amos Pepler at his Naming Ceremony in March.
We joined with several other families at All Saints’ Church leading Baptisms.
And, our very own wedding, joining with Hannah and Joel on their very special day, albeit celebrated someway away from Didcot!
Our new Bishop, Gavin Collins, joined us to lead a Confirmation service for Kath who witnessed her faith and service to God in a lovely service at UTC in January.
We also recognised another tenant of church life, that of prayer. I’m grateful to Fiona and Luke for agreeing to become our Prayer Co-ordinators. During this new year we will meet to discuss how might we involve others in developing regular communal prayer, perhaps reintroducing a monthly Pizza and Prayer evening. We will also consider how we might get together to ‘explore Christianity’, especially for those who have recently joined us.
Responding to changes in our church congregation demographics, which has seen a greater number of older folks joining our fellowship, we are keen to welcome them to our weekly services and Community Café. I am so very grateful to Sarah Russell for
managing the Café for us and doing such a great job in keeping our community informed of what is going on there.
As new care homes are built locally, we need to respond to residents coming to live in our neighbourhood. We are actively engaged with Alma Barn Lodge on Valley Park with opportunities to lead services and spend time with a growing number of residents. We also continue to build deep relationships with those living in Williams Place which has become a separate church community. Each week we offer a service of Holy Community to c. 10 regular attendees.
At the other end of the age spectrum, we are welcoming new-born babies born to our congregation. We have lived out these little children’s first weeks of life, helping where we can and being blessed by their presence with us. It is so very exciting that we will soon have more children born to new parents, joining those who regularly spend time in our creche area.
Claire continues to be instrumental in care for Families and Young people and I’m especially grateful to her for her creativity and flexibility in grappling with many challenges throughout this Covid period. As we see our young people move into adolescence, we recognise the need to provide more specific provision for them. Our new Didcot wide Youth work, Echo, will help here but we must recognise the unique challenge of caring for our young people and their engagement with faith.
Keen to explore other ways of worshipping together it has been wonderful to introduce a monthly evening service of Praise and Worship. I am grateful to Hannah for leading this, as well as our music which, along with dedicated band members, enriches our life together.
How do we do all this? Frankly I’m never quite sure. What I do know is that it couldn’t be done without the total dedication of a committed number of folks who give of themselves and their time so generously. Thank you to all of you who work so very hard. I do need to mention those staff members who work alongside me. To Claire whose energy is infectious and to the hard work of Deborah, we seem to get things done. But we are much more than just hard work. I must pay tribute to two of my closest colleagues, Kath and Andy, our two Church Wardens who have kept things going with me, and who support me in every way, such that we have continued to survive and flourish. I am so very grateful for all that you do. And to Pip who without her, little would get done. You are my biggest support and are always encouraging. Thank you.
Nothing is ever plain sailing, and we face a few significant headwinds. We have increasing Parish Share payments to make this year. Those who come to our church are amazingly generous. I am grateful to you for this. But the upward payment slope is steep, and we need to find innovative ways to generate more income to meet annual Share demands. We also face clergy reduction as the ability of others to meet their own Share declines. Currently there are vacancies (interregnums) in Harwell and Cholsey and I suspect growing pressure to restructure and reduce the number of paid clergy.
We must also recognise that fewer people are willing or able to volunteer for church work or community activities. This is perhaps a side effect of Covid, but will, inevitably, mean the church able to do less. If God is calling you to help, do come forward and talk to me.
In summary, I’m so grateful that we are back. I think that we are stronger somehow. I remain excited about what God is doing among us and expectant as we move into another year.
## **Mark Bodeker - March 2022**
## **CONSOLIDATED ALL SAINTS' DIDCOT PCC ACCOUNTS to 31.12.2021**
|Income
Church
Hall
Expenditure
Church
Hall
**Net Income & Expenditure**
**BALANCE SHEET**
Fixed Assets
Hall
Tangible Assets
Church
Hall
Liabilities
Church
Hall
**Total Asset**
**Represented by:**
Church - Reserves
Hall - Reserves|86,194.91
27,651.32
113,846.23
89,406.16
14,125.28
103,531.44
10,314.79
431,524.50
431,524.50
181,990.92
72,415.81
254,406.73
85,481.44
-
2,408.75
-
87,890.19
-
598,041.04
96,509.48
501,531.56
598,041.04
2021|54,019.68
19,550.52
73,570.20
71,660.28
16,037.85
87,698.13
-14,127.93
442,044.33
442,044.33
168,995.63
58,138.25
227,133.88
-63,282.05
-1,657.23
-64,939.28
604,238.93
105,713.58
498,525.35
604,238.93
2020|
|---|---|---|
||89,406.16
14,125.28||
||431,524.50||
||181,990.92
72,415.81||
||85,481.44
-
2,408.75
-||
||96,509.48
501,531.56||
||||
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