£lmLton Church
Sharing the Love of Christ
Annual report
for 2023
www.elmdonchurch.org
www.facebook.com/elmdonchurch
@elmdonchurch
Produced by the Parochial Church Council for the Annual Parochial Churth Meeting.
to be held on Tuesday 21" May 2024, 7.30pm at Elmdon Church.

Church Information
Address
Elmdon churc￿ Church Lan¢ Elmdon ParK Solihull B92 9EJ
Rector
Revd Bekah Clark (from March 2023)
Licensed Readers
Robert Dean. Rkhard Huss Karen Matthews
Churchwarden
Carol Janes
The business of the Church is carried out through the Parochial Church Council
(PCQ. This met eight times in person during 2023: six regular meetings, one PCC
vlsion day, and one meeting immediately after the APCM to appotnt PCC officers.
Further decisions were taken by email, in accordance with the provisions of the
Church Representation Rules. The role of the PCC remains one of c￿Operating with
the Rector in promoting the mission of the church: pastoral. evangelistic. social and
ecumenical.
PCC members
Revd 8ekah Clark {from March 2023)
Chalr
Carol Janes
Churthwarden, ex offlclo member
Karen Matthews
Reader, appointed by the 2022 APCM
Christine Arnsby
Cheryl Doyle
Jamie Oldham
Deanery Synod, ex offlclo member
Deanery Synod, ex offlcio member
Deanery Synod. ex officlo member
Elected Members to serve untll APCM in:
2024
Lesley Huss
Graham Smye
Sue Kimber
2025
Alan Doyle
Martin Hewings
Arbne Milne
2026
Sarah Leckie
David Maguire
Vacancy
Officers appolnted by ihe PCQ 2023 - 2024
Safeguarding
PCC Treasurer
PCC Secretary
Lay Vice-chair
Parlsh Identify Verifier
Elecroral Roll Officer
Lesley Huss
Alan Doyle
Christine Arns
Graham Smye
Lesley Huss
Jamie Oldham

PCC and Diocese
Rector's Introduction
At the joyful occasion of my licensing as Rector of Elmdon (& Vicar of St Mary's,
Hobs Moat. held in plurality) in March 2023. 1 spoke of h(M I was looking fonvard to
pannering and also 'partying' with the PCCS and congregations of both churches In
the work of the Gospel. It 15
.good news that will cause great joy for all the
people...
(Luke 2.1 O. NIV) that is the heart of the Christian faith. What folli)ws is an
oveNlew of some of the ways in which Elmdon Church has been seeking to live out
that 'good news, over the last year. made possible ￿ our partnership in the Gospel
all the volunteers who so geneTOU51y enable ministry and mission and the
encouragement of sustaining rhythms of prayer, worship and fellowship -
reminding us that in the joys and the challenges, 'the joy of the Lord is lourl
strength, (Nehemiah 8.101.
Sunday sermons usualty foll(Y•V a series, with sernions in 2023 on 'The Chlldhood of
Christ.. 'Giving It Up,, 'A Life of Jry. (Philippians). 'Journeying withjesus,, 'True
Friendship.. 'Inside the Christmas Story. and 'Saying Yes to God. (Family Services).
Average Sunday attendance is around 50. with all generations represented most
weeks. We have begun exploring ways in which we can be more truty
intergenerational, enabling all ages to be able to fully participate in worship. The
Tuesday Service welcomed newcomers and vlsitors throughout 2023 and its gentle
and relaxed forniat makes it especially accessible for those for who would prefer a
quieter. less busy setting in which to connect with God and others.
In Ottober, the first joint monthly prayer with St Mary's, Hobs Moat was held. Open
to everyone, lasting for an hour. and beginning and ending with a song. we pray for
the needs of the world, our local communities and our wio churches as we seek to
work in complementary ways to be as effecrive as possible in ministry and mission.
Attendance is usually around 12-15 and those who join this meeting are blessed by
the opportunity to take tirne out together with God in the middle of our weeks.
A new addition to the Elmdon Church calendar was our first 'Light Party. on 31"
October. inviting primary-school age children and their parents or carers to
celebrate All Hallows. Eve (Halloween) by focusing on Jesus the Light of the World.
The teatime event induded crafts, activities, a Bible talk, outdoor light trail and
party tea. Lots of fun was had by all who attended and by the team. This is set to be
a fimi flxiure In the Elmdon calendar.
Elmdon Church has a particular ministry in caring for the bereaved with regular
burials and burials of ashes taking place in the churchyard. The relntroductlon of an
Annual Memorial Serrfice in November was well received, with the loved ones of
those for whom we've taken a seNlce Sn the prevlous 12 month5 recelvlng a letter
of invitation. Attended by over 50 people and followed by refreshments, the serrfice
was an opportunity for reflection, comfort and to hear the hope of the Gospel.
Much of 2023 was. for me. spent making connections and getting to know the local
community, including our local schools. Half-iernily a55emblies took place at
Damson Wood Infant and Nursery school and we a150 accepted an invitatlon to have
a stall at their Summer Fair, where we provided a craft aaivity. Members of Elmdon
Church and friends at St Mary's, Hobs Moat crocheted and knitted an impressive

200 angels and SLVS to be given to each chlld at Damson Wood Infant and Nursery
School to share the joy of Christmas. December also saw us welcome to church
Receptlon and Year 2 from Valley Primary School. to participate In our 'Encounter
Christmas, trail beautifully prepared lry members of Elmdon Church and givtng the
children and thelr teachers the opportunity to experience the Christmas story as a
journey.
We also opened the church to the community as part of the 'Oaks and Shires, event
in Elmdon Park and the PCC approved the use of the church building for English
Classes, as we seek to be a place of v￿lCome for newly arrlved communities.
Alongside the 'events' highllghted here. much of our ministry and mlssion happens
in Individual conversations and unseen acts of kindness, as church members care
infomially for one another. Connect Groups are an especially valuable place of
support and encouragement.
Vthether gathered together for seThices. events and activitles. or 'scattered', at
home, at work and out and about in our community, there is much to give thanks
for and celebrate in the life and witness of Elmdon Church.
There are, of course. challenges too, in particular the maintenance of buildings and
the pressure on our resources, both our finances and our volunteers. In all things
we seek first to be led byjesus and in September the PCC spent a morning together
to begin the process of disceming direction and renewing our vision. asking what
God is calling us to as a church community at this time. in the 'up' {worship), 'in'
(fellowship and discipleship) and 'out' (mission and evangelism) dimensions of the
life of Elmdon Church. A S￿￿eY sought the vlews of the wider congregation and the
PCC have Since agreed new mlssion. vision and values statements to incfease our
unity in the Gospel and set priorities as we look to the future.
Rooted in the Bible and fenewed by the Holy Spirit. our vlslon is to be a thriving
Jesus-centered community playing our part in giving every person the opportunity
to encounter. belong and grow in the love of Chri5L
We want to be all about Sharin9 the Love of Chrlst (our mission statement) and to
do thls in ways that are real, generous and joyful (OUT values).
Beknh Clark

Wardens, Report
My thanks go to everyone for all their help over the past year. It would have been
harder without people stepping in where needed.
Sadly, the church was broken Into one evening with a small amount of damage and
mess. This was repaired and ne•V security measures put in place, with additional
locks on all three entrances. Anne Milne did a great job with the Insurance claim so
that things got ba(* to nomial very qulckly.
The flat roof over the modem extension to the church is in a very poor condltlon,
and it is time for it to be replaced. Preliminary work is being carried out to decide
how this is to be done. It will take time as it is not just a question of appointing a
builder, but there are mary procedures to be followed.
The churchyard maintenance team have contlnued to keep the churchyard looking
very attractlve and get much appreciation from those who vlsit and who enjoy the
peaceful surroundings.
All regular maintenance was carried out during the year. and the cleaning teams
make sure that the building Is clean and tidy each week.
CaroIJan￿, Churchwarden
PCC Secretary's Report
Under the Church Representation Rules. we are entitled to nlne eleaed PCC
members. In addition. our Rector, Churchwardens. three Deanery Synod members,
any Readers appointed by the APCM. and any CO￿pted members seNe on the PCC.
On 20th March 2023 Revd. Rebekah 'Bekah' Clark was instituted as Rector of Elmdon
and Vicar of St. Mary'5 Church, Hobs Moat at St. Mary's Church. She led her first
service at Elmdon on the follthving Sunday.
In May 2024, three elected members come to the end of thelr term and we carried
over one vacancy. At the APCM we therefore intend to elect up to four members to
pcc.
Every year the PCC appoints a Standing Committee. which meets as necessary and
repons to the next meeting of the PCC. Its membership since the 2022 APCM were
Graham Smye (Lay Vice Chair), Carol Janes (Churchwarden). Sarah Leckie
(Churchwarden), Christine Arnslry (Secretary). Alan Doyle ffreasurer) and Revd.
Bekah Clark (Rector, from April 2023).
The member5 of the PCC are aware of the Charfty Commission guidance on public
benefits in 'the Advancement of Religion for the Public Benefit. and have had regard
to it in their admlnistration of the PCC. The PCC believes that by promotlng the
work of the Church of England in the parish of Elmdon it provides a benefit to the
public by:
providing a faclllty for publlc W￿rshIp and pastoral care both for Its members
and for anyone who wishes to benefit frorn what the Church Gin offer" and

promoting Christian values and seNices by members of the Church and to
their communities. to the benefit of individuals and society as a whole
Electoral Roll
The Electoral Roll stands at 66, which is a sllght decrease on last year.
Jamie Oldham. Electoral Roll Officer
Safe
uardin
The PCC has adopted and complie5 with the House of Bishop's Safeguarding
Policy. Promoting a Safer Church 12017), and the practice guidance issued by the
Church of England and Birmingham Diocese.
Elmdon Church Is committed t¢x
Promoting a saftr envlronmerrt and culture
Safety recruiting and supporting those with any responsibility for the under
185 and vulnerable adults within the church
Responding promptly to every safeguarding concern or allegatlon
Caring pastorally for victims/survivors of abuse and other affected persons
Caring pastoralty for those who are the subjett of concerns or allegations
of abuse and other afferted persons
Respondlng to those that may pose a present rlsk to others
Policles
During 2023 we revised our Ralsing Concern5 (Yhistleblowingl Pollcy to make it
clearer what the procedure is here in Elmdon, as well as carrying out the annual
review of our Safeguarding Policy. These are available on the church website and on
the notlceboard in the church corridor.
Training
All volunteers now complete the appropriate mandatory safeguarding training on
taking up their role, and refresh their training every three years. Thls is normally
done through the Church of England's website.
Those unable to do the trainlng online are instead supponed to complete it by the
Safeguardlng C(kordinator.
DomestSc Abuse Contact
The PCC has appointed Sarah Leckle as our Domestic Abuse Contact, a role which
invofves signposting to relevant services. receiving any concerns, and helplng the
church to be informed around dofflestic abuse issues.
Natlonal Safeguarding Standards
The Church of England has launched five safeguardlng standards. showing how our
safeguarding activities fit into the bigger picture and helping parishes to identify
their safeguarding strengths and weaknesses. They cover creating healthy cultures
and leadership, prevention of abuse, recognising and managing risk, respondlng
well to victims/survivors, and ensuring all volunteers receive appropriate
safeguarding tralnlng and supporL

For more information. see
htt
www.churchofen
land.or
safe
uar
national-safe
uardin
-stand
Lesley Huss. Parish Safeguarding Co-ordinator
5a
uardin
@elmdonchurch.or
Fabric & Buildings
We currently have responsibillty for Iwo properties, one of which is now c105ed. Our
maln church building is in the middle of Elmdon Park. and is the venue for our
Sunday service, as well as all baptisms. weddings, and funerals.
As mentioned elsewhere, the Gaydon Road hall site was 501d during the year. The
site of the Coppice Road hall remains vested in the Birmingham Diocesan Board of
Trustees who hold property on behalf of (and actlng in the interests ofj Parochial
Church Councils in the diocese. The Elmdon Parochial Church Council owns the
building itself, and are the Managing Trustees.
A small finance team. comprislng Bekah Clark. Alan Doyle. Martln Hewlngs and
Richard Huss, has included in Its work progressing potential projects on the fabric
of the church bulldlng. of whith the most important and urgent is the roof of the
1970$ church extension. The PCC has now commissioned Derek Bate MRICS to
progress plans for a replacement roof. following a feasibillty report giving a variety
of options.
Deanery Synod
Elmdon Lay Representatives: Christine Arnsby, Cheryl Doyle, Jamie Oldham. Our
electoral roll total qualifies us for 3 seats until Spring 2026.
6a June 2023 - Christ churc￿ Sparkbrook
We met as a newly elected Deanery for the first time 50 we eletted officers,
including Lay Chair. Secretary and Treasurer. Barston put forward a proposal which
was held over to the next meeting due to its obvious need for wider dlscusslon. The
meeting topic that day was Yell: To pr(Klaim the Good News of the Kingdom.. one
of the marks of mission for the Diocese based on a quote by Jesus from John 20:21
"As the Father ha5 sent me, l am sending you."
Suzette Maguire, Ploneer Minlster for Solihull Parish and a Church Army Officer. told
how she started meeting as a group of 2 people in a cafe in the parish. to what had
become 24 members meeting twice weekly in a pub for friendship and chatting over
meals. walks, board games and more. Some came from local churches, but many
came with no regular church background. It was drawing people into Bible study
and events in the church. She sald, This type of event should not be seen as
church. but by building relationships it can feed into thurch life. The ministry is for
the long term. for God to use as He sees fit."
Caroline Mara, Deanery Chlldren and Family Mission Enabler, said her alm was to
help the church family. leaders and volunteers faith amongst families, children
and young people. Two questions she asked were does it matter to me
personally that the church grow5 youngery and 3Vhat Possibilities have we to do
sof Her main point was to emphasise the imponance of creating a bridge bemieen
Church, home and school for 'telllng' about Jesus and growing faith amongst

children. youth and families: In the last 6 months she had been training four
teenagers to lead worship and provided taktraway discipleship questions.
Matt Vaughan. Interserrfe Mission Partner. said "Don't forget Musllms!" Having
worked in Pakistan he moved about before taking up hi5 present job in Ward End -
part of the Diocese with the most Muslims. so probably having a parity in number5
with Christians. Matt said ministers had a remit of cure of the souls for the whole
parish, not just the Christians. Outreach was more awkward as people want to
engage but do not know how, despite most Muslims being open. friendly and
chatty. No.one has refused him the offer to pray for them. Muslims being in Britain
was no accident for God - He had a purpose In it all but we should ask for wlsdom
in what It was and what our response should be.
Revd. Steve Johnson (Assoc. Vicar. Knwle) conduded the talks ty speaking of his
experience using CPAS resources to create a Leaming Hub. He said it was all about
culture, not courses. Some of the initiatives were- Praying for 5- Evangelism prayer-
Sharing faith stories and Resetting expectations.
20th July 2023 - SL Swlthln's Hous< Barston
Nlck Parkerfs time as Area Dean was celebrated as he had become Priest in Charge
(Rector Designate) of Sollhull Parish and after a 'brlng and share, supper together he
was presented with a cake and gift before more mobile members went walking and
chatting together, leaving the others in the garden sunshine.
I P October 2023 - SL Alphege Junlor School Hall. Solihull
The Ven. Gordon Steele, a retired archdeacon assisting Archdeacon Jenny as
Auxiliary Archdeacon" until a new Archdeacon of Aston was appointed, introduced
himself and indicated that Archdeacon Jenny had asked him to convene Deanery
Chapter and share with the Lay Chair in chairing Deanery Synod until a new Area
Dean was appointed. The Ven. Gordon Steele explained that as It was the first
meettng of the new triennium, and that Deanery Officers and Standing Committee
needed to be elected. Mark Johnson proposed adopting those lay members eletted
too early at the last meeting 'as a slate.. whlch was seconded lyrf Jamie Oldham and
approved unanimously.
The meetlng continued with discussion on the proposal by Barston for "urgent
discussion with the bishop and diocesan synod and other stakeholders as to how
parochial wor}hip may be adequately spiritually and sacramentally enriched and
resourced and by whom these services may be led.. The proposal was brought
about as a result of how they perceived parishes were struggling to cope with
limited Clergy and insufficient people licensed to give Holy Communion. Tlme was
allowed for everyone to share their viewpoint before a secret vote resulted in the
proposal being forwarded to the Bishop for discussion. Bishop Anne ha5 since
requested more clarity which 15 being drawn up between the Auxiliary Archdeacon.
Barston PCC. Deanery staff and their minister, Re¥d. Stuart Dimes.
6th February 2023 - SL Margaret's Church. Olton
ransform - the 4th Mark of Mission". Fred Rattley. Community Regeneration, said
that too often churches talk about social action and di5mi55 IL although it is at the
hearr of the gospel. There is only one gospel and its message is about helping the
poor, oppressed and marginallsed. Thrive Together Birmingham. was a movement
of people rather than organisation5 and a call to people in churches to come
alongside those in p(werty in their local nelghbourtM)ods' not employing

organisation to do it for us but supporting Christian activities that alleviate poverty
and disadvantage. In Bimiingham. 300.000 out of l M people and 50% of ch+ldren
lived in poverty. Solihull was no exception with a poverty profile that exactly
matched England as a whole. according to research.
The simplest way to engage the local community and take the ftrst step in
alleviating suffering was to host local community coffee mornings as isolation was
recognized as a major social problem. It was not only those with mobility problems
who felt isolated, but also immigrants and refugees. Nlhen they arrive in a busy city,
where do they start to make friends and fit in? How are churches you know
responding to the challenges of poverry?
New Area (>ean. Sunday. 3rt March. an announcement was made that Revd. Tony
Rindl had been appointed vicar of St Leonard's, Marston Green and Area Dean of
Yardley and Solihull. Our Deanery boundaries are also being redrawn to include
Marston Green. He will take up his role in July and we await news of his collation
and induction before he takes up the mantle as our Area Dean.

Life at Elmdon Church
Kids in Christ
Kids in Christ is our Sunday morning group for children under I l. meeting on the
I" and 3td Sundays of each month. Kids in Christ is an invaluable part of our Sunday
worship, giving children the opportunity to learn about being a follower of Jesus
and to explore the Bible and pray in an age-approprlate way, often involving craft!
Sessions usually follthv a similar theme to the Sunday sermon series and the group
runs from after the first song untll the end of the intercessions. when we come back
together as all ages for Communion.
At Elmdon Church we are passionate about every person having the opportunity to
encounter, belong and grow in the love of Christ. Recent researchl suggests around
75% of practicing Christians come to follow Jesus for themselves under the age of
18. Please do be praying for Klds in Christ. and for the wonderful team of helper5
and leaders, and please do speak to Bekah if you would like to flnd out more about
how you might be able to support our children's ministry.
Music
We were pleased in 2023 to be able to use lfve music in church most Sundays, and
to use our band on a monthly basis. A huge "thank you" to all involved in this
ministry.
Under the new church mission and vision. Joyful" is one of our values. and we are
keen to play our part in enabling this Within our church life. We are keen to use
songs that are con9regationally slngable and that help us all to expre55 our faith
and our praise musically and joyfully. We have continued to introduce nL4ver songs
periodically. aiming to select 50ng5 that have biblicalty-faithful lyrics and slngable
melodies.
Music is chosen, on a rota, by rnembers of the band. aiming to pick hymns and
songs that fit with the theme of the service and Bible reading, whilst keeping the
church familiar with a core repertoire of music in a variety of styles.
On Sundays when we are stlll slnging along to recorded muslc. this is norrnally
because our muslclans are requlred to be servlng elsewhere Instead: everyone
involved with the music also serrfes on other teams within the church. To help us
out. you don't acrually need to be able to sing, or play an instrument - volunteering
n another area would really help too, by easlng pressure on other rotas.
t)0 get in touch if you'd be interested in finding out more about h(w you can help
and what would be tnvofved in joining us.
Richard Huss
' 2022 Talki￿ Jews Report
io

Connect Groups
Connect Groups are Small groups which meet during the week for fellowship. prayer
and Bible study. Currentty there are 3 Connect Groups and 17 church members
belong to a group. The groups all meet on different days. with 2 meeting in the
evening and I during the daytime. and 2 meeting via Zoom and I In person.
Connect Groups are a place to share life's ups and downs wlth other Chrlstians In a
deeper way than is possible on a Sunday. and to be supported and encouraged as a
disciple of Jesus. Being a member of a Connert Group is one of the best ways to feel
part of the church family and current members would highly recommend being in a
Connect Group to all church members.
Each group foll(Ms its own programme and in 2023 groups studied the 'Fruits of
the Spirit.. Luke's Gospel. 'Meeting the Spirit., the Pastoral Epistles, Ruth, Jonah,
Colossians and the Psalms.
In 202 3, Graham Smye stepped back from c￿OrdInatIng Connert Group5. We are
thankful for Graham's oversight of this area of ministry durfng the Vacanc¥ and for
the energy he brought to the role. l am delighted to be able to share in this report
that Sue Kimber has agreed to take on the role of Connect Group Co-ordinator.
Please do speak to Sue or Bekah if you would like to try out a Connect Group.
Tuesday Service
The Tuesday aftemoon service started at the church In Coppice Road for people
unable to attend the main Elmdon Sunday worship service.
After Covid and the closure of the fornier Coppice building. Tuesday afternoon
moved to Elmdon church to enable worship for those unable or uneasy to worship
in the main Sunday serrfice.
th the absence of Covid restrlctlons and falling a￿endance the service 15 n￿1
under review.
Open Church
We have continued to open the church every Sunday afternoon. from 2 till
3.30pm in the winter and 2 till 4pm in the summer, to welcome people in
and to have some refreshment. This is offered free of charge as an example
of the church'5 hospitality. although donations freely offered are welcome.
Many have come in at different time5; families out walking in the park,
rambling groups, those visiting graves. church members and friends. We
have got to know some regulars too. Some come and like to sit quietly and
th5nk, some ask questions about the history, some just want some company.
There is also an opportunity to increase the use of the building for other
things at the same time and take advantage of a drink and a cake; such as
help with required training, conversations with bereaved families following
interment of ashes, wedding couples and baptism enquiries with Bekah.
li

small meetings and setting up equipment or putting up decorations. Some
have a game of draughts and sometimes the piano is played.
All are welcome.
Cheryl Doyle
Churchyard
The Churchyard team were hard at it from April to the end of October 202 3. They
spllt the days befyveen Tuesdays and Wednesdays and made sure there was a
minimum of two people at all times. They have access to the Church for the
facllities. which wlll need to continue.
Lots of interaction was made betsveen the team and people visiting the Churthyard,.
everyone, without exceptlon, was thrilled with h(¥w the Churchyard was looked
after.
This will continue throughout Summer 2024 and into the Autumn.
Sarah Leckie
Mission Support Group
Crossllnks - Marla "Emi" Fernandez
Crosslinks is an Anglican mlsslonary society which enables partnershlps wlth all
churches. denominations and networks which share its convictions. Crosslinks also
supports and enables the training of pastor/teachers and evangelists in less well-off
countrie5, through thelr BEST (Bursaries Enabling Strateglc Training) programme.
Under thls programme we support Maria-Emi" Fernandez. who is studying at The
Centre for Pastoral Studies (CEP), Santiago. Chlle. Our commitment is to 5UPPOrt
Emi in her studies, through prayer and financial giving, in the amount of £600 per
annum, for three year5.
We continue to receive updates and prayer requests from Crosslinks and Emi.
Wycliffe 8ible Trnnslators - Glft and Kathryn Asiku
We also partner with Gift and Kathryn Aslku. working for Wycliffe Bible translators In
Uganda. Gift serve5 as Language Programme5 Coordinator and Kathryn as Literary
Coordlnator. sUPPOrting Wicliffe's vision through overseeing and facilltating Bible
translation and literacy activities In local languages. The family send us regular
prayer and news updates which are handed out with our church prayer sheeL and in
turn they pray for us as a church here in Elmdon.
Highlights of 2023 Include:
Gift attended the joyful celebraiion io launch nine portions of the Old
Testament in Aringa
Gift and James travelled with colleagues to westem Uganda for the Ilvely
launch of four Old Testament books in Lutmisi. With all churth
denominations collaborating to organise the event.

Kathryn organised story-writing workshops for the Lunyole and Lugwere
speaking communities, as part of the literacy project "Let's Read Together!.
The stories have been turned into colourful illustrated books for the new
children's reading groups at churches. promoting and teaching literacy to
young primary school children.
Ripple Effect
Rlpple Effect works with farniing families in six Afrlcan countries SO that they can
learn more. grow more and sell more. Rural Africa is rich with opportunity: Wlth
resourceful communities and land from which food and future5 can grow. But
families face poverty that is extreme, unjust. and worst of all, unnecessary. The
charity is creatlng a ripple effect of positive change in rural Africa. It starts with
bringing farmers together to learn new skills and share knowledge. so they can
improve their livelihoods and thrive. Each famier who works with Ripple Effect
promises to share what they and what they h￿fe wlth their families and
communities. which enables thousands to experience the benefits.
As a church we have raised many thousands of pounds over the years we have been
invotved with the charliy. by collecting small change and from occasional donations.
Thank you to all who harfe given so faithfully and continue to do so. For those new
to Elmdon Church, there Is a basket in the %￿Iberforce Hall where you can deposit
your small change.
Please also visit w￿￿.rippIeeffect.Org for further inforniation and uplifting stories
about farmers who have benefited from their association with Ripple Effect.
Helping Hands
We have been able to transport a significant amount of foodstuffs and other
required items to the Helping Hands food bank at the Renertal Church on Lode
Lane, Solihull. Of course we do not record the amounts of goods we give to them
but they seem very grateful for the regular giving we are able to give.
We are told by the volunteers that last year they supplied 2.000 boxes of food
regularly to around 35 families who rety on these supplies to enable them to be fed.
All the clients of the Food Bank are supplied, vetted and recommended by local
agencies.
We would like to thank all contributors to our basket in the Church and whole
heartedly encourage them to carry on this work, with God's encouragement and
Grace. We continue to keep the Helping Hands and its clients in our Prayers and
pray for a day when thls scheme will no longer be required.
Richard & Lesley Huss. Eli Malkin and Rob Dean

Hatchford Brook Churches Together
Member churches Include: Lyndon Methodist. Redeemed Christian Church of God
(RCCG); Si. Giles. Sheldon. SL Thomas Moore; Sheldon Community Church (SCQ
and St. Mary's Hobs Moat besldes ourselves. Other churches meet in the area but do
not participate in HBcf activities.
The aim of H8cf is to be a visibly united witness of faith in Christjesus to dlspel
myths and confusion among members and outsiders caused by our separateness
and differences in worship style. We seek to fulfil ChrisCs command In John 13-35
'By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another..
We support each other in prayer and other way5 in order to win people for ChrisL
With HB￿ still in 'limbo', there were no volunteers to chair the group and therefore
no annual meeting but that didn't stop us witnessing to Christ together. Roger
Hancock continued to act as Secretary, Christine Arn5￿ as Treasurer paid our
annual subscription to Churches Together from H8￿ funds, while Brian Atkins and
Roger liaised with minister5 and members to organise activities.
Carol singing by a group of about 20 Inslde the entrance to Tesco's on Lyndon Road
was well recelved a9ain last year. Although we were set off to one side of the
entrance this time, which proved more difficult to connect with the shoppers, some
not only stopped to enjoy our singing but also jolned in. AfteThvards we enjoyed
fellowship. sharing what each church was dolng.
During the Week of Prayer for Chrlstian Unlty we prayed for the other Churches In
the H8￿ are&
The Walk of Witness on Good Friday enabled us to join with congregation members
of St. Mary's Hobs Moat. to join believers in celebrating God's work In Jesus on our
behalf, meeting up outside Savers on the Coventry Road opposite the Wheatsheaf. It
was also a good opportunity for Bekah to meet other ministers in the Churches
Together are&
Rob Dean organised the SonRise SeNice by the beacon in Elmdon Park again this
year with help from HBCT members for musical accompanimenL readings etc.. from
a later start of 6.30 am due to clocks going forward that moming. Fellowshlp was
enjoyed over refreshments served in the Vtilberforce Hall afterwards, to warm us up.
representstlves for the year were Chrlstine Amsby and Elaine Malkin.
14

Finance
Treasurer's Report
The PCC is responslble for the church's finances, though it delegates management
of these to the PCC Treasurer. Alan Doyle who, also oversees a separate fabric fund
account.
Income
M05t of our income usually comes through stewardship, primarfly the Parlsh Giving
Scheme but also standing orders and donations. Other sources of income have
typically been wedding and funeral fees plus occasional legacies, social events and
hire fees for use of the Church hall. Two unusual events occurred during 2023, we
were very fortunate to receive a legacy a little In excess of £32.000 and we
cornpleted the project of obtaining planning permission and the sale of our site in
Gaydon Road. The site was sold for £500,000 which resulted in a net figure of
£420.000 when all fee5 and expenses were accounted for.
Although our finances are now much healthier there are a number of maintenance
and improvement projects that need to be undertaken and we must therefore plan
and budget for a continued increase in giving in the years ahead. This will ensure,
not only our own financial viability. but also that we can bless other churches In
more straightened situation5 and places. We pray for even more generosity from
existing church members and for many new people to join us as well. that they
might become sacrificial givers in their tum.
A "Gfving Station" devlce Is Installed in the Church allowlng donations to be made
by card and information about all the methods of supportlng the church are
available at church and on our website.
Fees paid for church work
In 202 3 the church paid an organisvs fee for weddings and funerals at which the
organ wa5 played. lsfvere required a verger received a fee for duties carried out at
these servlces. A sexton was also paid a fee for digging plots for the interment of
ashes and occasionally appropriate visiting clergy fees were also paid.
Financial Reserves Policy
The Charfty endeavours to maintsin finances at an appropriate level to facilitate
day-t(kday activities and also to finance upkeep of our buildings.

Pape 16
Annual Report of the Elmdon Parochlal Church Councll for 2023
INDEPENDEKf EXAWNER'S REPORT TO
reWYerrn￿ of Chw**s k* 2011 (Ihe W.
urmyer seraion 145(51{b) of
1 H(Nner Roxl
Solihull
8913aG
OlQ6.2Q24...............

Pag8 17
Volunftary
Planrth Givi
5 46242
.791
7.216
Investrnent
Total rec•lXs
56.010
7 97.049
16,
1.113
TepaKs
8 2.777
Churth Churthyard
9 14.889
11037
1.167
10 5,684
7.710
154.403
51.870
Told payments
156.413
Translars to l {¢xrt ofj fund
{18.IKM))

Page 18
6.107
Churth I￿nN¥j eyFen8es
VCC FAannirKJ fees
TO1￿ paymenls
IT35

Page 19
.1
Voluntary
Transfer Fur
1,015
Fund
w￿l￿¥J fe85 0)8ts
Totsl payments

YEAR ENOED 31 DECEMBER Z123
Plannwj (knrwJ
46242
4J48
46242 40.649
5.451
5.123
Teas
r￿ry Irwne
W•*lr¥J & Funwal Fo09
519m4
6079
522,034 2,200
11083
12,266
1.041
VAT l81und￿lnsur￿
3.490
313
313
1340
Fu￿￿
97.049
17n
&9)6
16.580
3,227
2.767
17TT
C￿rch RunnirvJ E>pn*i
Church & ￿rthyard
Pri￿b￿ P• & SXaOcfflwy
1,167
7,710
1010
1010
1.113
Lkht & Hè
WAtgr
531
1897
3.139
3.139
fu
VCC pkniky f•
24,888
9,786
Total

P*Je 21
AT 311)ECEII8ER 2rr23
Fund
Fund•
CBF fund
18.(KX)
23.079
11.851
2.724
449.578
419.￿1
CBF Share Portfolo
CBF F￿￿j Interest
Totsl
H•ll Lts
CBF (*poslt fund
2,724
2.r24

PradK• {PA)AP) arKI the Charit*s 2011.
Furn
rewke a for Its￿581.
the PCC.

Pag8 Z3
I DESIIYIATED FUNDS
Parbh Ctsjrth.
REIWNERATION
& PLANNED GMNG
Gfft aKI rocolX8
27244
5.432
12.
0th8r givli

Page 24
I￿A
PaKI otr￿t
& CHARMES
I*A
721

Page
.4rf
1.113
531
Water rates
Lwt
Insurar
Sur#lrns
3,139
7.420
2,897
3.170
Curate's How Rent
V*itity Clorgy
10. SUNDRY EXPENSES
Fots Ik)ats

MINUTES OF THE 2023
ANNUAL MEETINGS
Held 23rd May 2023
Attendance at the annual meetings of Parishioners and Church (24)
Revd. Bekah Clark. Rector
Christine Arnsby
Sarah Baldwin
Linda Bird
Ann Davis
Alan Doyle
Cheryl Doyle
Joan Hewings
Martin Hewings
Lesley Huss
Carol Janes
Rod Janes
Sue Kimber
Sarah Leckie
Elaine Malkin
Karen Matthews
Anne Milne
Jamie Oldham
James Rusher
Elizabeth Smye
Joyce Taylor
Margaret Thomas
John Tsipouras
Jean Wooding
MEEfiNG OF PARISHIONERS
Bekah welcomed everyone to the meeting and Invited all to join in a
hymn of celebration and thanks to God.
Apologles (5)
Graharn Smye (Lay Chairnianl, Val and Tony Shaw. Rob and Joy Dean.
Minutes of prevlous meeting of parishloners, Tuesday 24th May 2022
Sarah Leckie and Lesley Huss proposed the minutes be adopted. Motion
approved unanimously.
Election of Church Warden
Carol Janes was proposed by Christine Arnsby, seconded by Cheryl Doyle.
There were no other nominations. Carol agreed to Stand as Church Warden
for the coming year and TNas accepted unanimously.
Thanks were expressed to Carol and Sarah Leckie for their service as Wardens,
especially during an Interregnum p05t-lockd(wn.
ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING (APCM)
Blble reflection.
Bekah spoke from John 15.1-17, before opening the meeting in prayer.
Apologies (5)
Graham Smye, Lay Chairman. Val and Tony Shaw, Rob and Joy Dean.
Minutes of the previous APCM held 24th May 2022
Carol Janes and Jean Wooding proposed the minutes be adopted.
Motion approved unanimously.
26

Accounts and Financial Statements
Alan Doyle, Treasurer. reported that Planned Giving had dropped
slightly but most other income had increased slightly. resulting in a 3%
rise in income overall. He then explained some of the challenges for the
parish during the past year as it pursued the sale of propenies on
Gaydon Road involving substantial expenditure and the proposed broad
plan for resolving the issues once the imminent sale wa5 complete.
There were no questions. Bekah expressed thanks to Alan, whose work
often went unnoticed.
Report on the revised Electoral Roll
Jamie Oldham reported that the revised roll. published 14" May 2023,
contained 67 names which wa5 up from 65 names last year.
PCC Reports
Comments We￿ made regarding the foll(w4ing reports:
6.1 Wardens, report
Sarah said that Open Church was continuing to be fruitful in unexpected
ways, including donations rising over previou5 years. Carol reported
that the Tuesday afternoon Service was also continuing to bear fruit
with occasional visitors 'dropping in,.
6.2 Safeguarding Coordinator
Thanks were expressed to Lesley for keeping the parish up to date with
best practice and working to maintain a safe environment for its
members in line with Church of England guidelines.
6.3 Klds In Chrlst
Thanks were expressed to Elizabeth Smye for the joyful work being
done in which Church members could join in and which was enabling
the whole church family to grow together.
6.4 Connect Groups
Several Members said they found their group encouraging and
enjoyable. Bekah thanked Graham for co-ordinating the groups and for
people to contact him if they wished to be a member.
6.5 Music Group
Thanks were expressed to the musicians but particularly to Richard
Huss for his contributions both to the worship music and technical
SUPPOrt of the group.
6.6 Mission Support Group
Eli explained that the parish only supported Emi Fernandez. Crosslinks,
as her husband was supported by other churches.
6.7 Fabric Report
Carol reported that there were jobs to be done and a priority list was
27

being followed. The flat roofs were currently being cleared and repaired.
Sarah said the churchyard needed continual maintenance but was very
enjoyable work. meeting many people who want to talk about the
church. and volunteers were always welcome.
6.8 Hatchford Brook Churches Together
Christine said the group was continuing in its present format, without a
Chairman. for the time being as one member had expressed a strong
preference for it to do so. The Secretary and Treasurer were happy to
continue in post but a new Chairman who could liaise with church
leaders and organise events, was needed.
Appointment of such Readers as wish to become PCC members
Members approved the motion that Karen Matthews, Parish Reader. be
accepted as member of the PCC.
Election of lay representatives to the PCC
Three vacancies were available for election to the PCC:
Sarah Leckie was proposed by Graham Smye. seconded by Carol Janes
and David Maguire was proposed by Martin Hewings. seconded by Eli
Malkin.
There were no further nominations and Sarah and David were duly
elected for three years. leaving one vacancy.
Election of representatives to Deanery Synod
The parish was eligible for three representatives to Deanery Synod.
Cheryl Doyle was proposed by Carol Janes. seconded by Sue Kimber,
Christine Arnsby was proposed by Carol Janes. seconded by Cheryl
Doyle, and
Jamie Oldham was proposed by Carol Janes, seconded by Elaine Malkin.
There were no further nominations and Cheryl, Christine and Jamie were
duly elected for three years.
l O Appointment of independent examiner
Alan Doyle proposed using the same accountants (Prime Chartered
Accountants) for the coming year. Martin Hewings seconded the motion,
which was approved unanimously with one abstention.
I l. Rectorfs Address
Bekah spoke of her inteNiew process saying how she had explained it
to a friend as a 'really fun day. as she felt part of a community of Jesus,
followers, and that the warmth of welcome, help and fellowship had
continued since her arrival. She viewed Elmdon as an authentic
community of Jesus with a big heart and felt very much at home. Bekah
then named various members of the many teams in the life of the
28

church and thanked them all for their contributions, along with those
fulfilling unofficial tasks. like being a listening ear. helping with lifts.
shopping, welcoming and much more.
Bekah encouraged us to." Abide in Jesus and remain in Him: to know Him
and be known by Him and His deep care for each of us; to Grow and
bear fruit that comes not from what we've done but from knowing who
we are and whose we are. She concluded with a short prayer for the
Church family in Elmdon.
Bekah presented a gift and card expressing our thanks to Sarah for her
2 years of devoted work to the Church family. Sarah thanked everyone
and said that after lockdown she had wanted to help people come
together again and was glad we were there for bigger and better things.
12. There was no other business. After a hymn of celebration, Bekah closed
the meeting by thanking everyone for their time before non-members
left the meeting, leaving the PCC to continue.

Agenda for the Meeting of
Parishioners and Annual Parochial
Church Meeting (APCM)
Tuesday 21° May 2024, 7.30pm at Elmdon Churth
Refreshments available from 7pm
Meeting of Parishioners
Apologies for absence
Minutes of the prevlous Meeting of l>arishioners. Tuesday 23" May 2023
Election of Churchwardens
Annual Parochlal Church Meetlng (APCM)
Bible reflection and opening prayer
Apologies for absence
Minutes of the previous Annual Parochial Church Meeting, Tuesday 2314 May
2023
Report on the revlsed Electoral Roll
Appointment of PCC Members
PCC Members (up to 4)
Reader represeniatlve
Receive APCM reports
Appointment of Independent examiner
Rector's Address
Any other buslness
l O. Closing prayer
First meeting of the new Parochial Church Council (PCQ
Eleaion of:
Lay Vice Chair
Secretary
Treasurer
Elettoral Roll Officer
Safeguarding Co-ordinator & Parish Identity Verifier
Domestlc Abuse Contact