£lmLfon Church Sharing the Love of Christ Annual report for 2025 www.elmdonchurch.org www.facebook.com/elmdonchurch @elmdonchurch Produced by the Parochial Church Council for the Annual Parochlal Church Meetin9, to be held on Tuesday 28° April 2026, 7.30pm at Elmdon Church.
Church Information Address Elmdon Church. Church Lane. Elmdon ParK Sollhull B92 9EJ Rector Llcensed Readers Churchwardens Revd Bekah Clark Robert Dean. Richard Huss, Karen Matthews Cheryl Doyl< Sue Kimber The business of the Church is carried out through the Parochial Church Council (PCO. Thls met seven times in person during 2025: six regular meetings, and one rneeting immediately after the APCM to appoint 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 co-operating with the Rector in promoting the mlsslon of the church: pastoral, evangelistic. social and ecumenlcal. PCC members Revd Bekah Clark Chalr Churchwardens: Cheryl Doyle (from May 20251 Sue Kimber ex officlo member ex officlo member Reader appolnled by the APCM: Karen Matthews Deanery synod member5. to serrfe until APCM In 2026: Chrlstlne Arnsby Cheryl Doyle Vacancy ex officlo member ex officio member Elected Member5 durlng 2025: To seThe unill APCM in 2025: Anne Mllne (untll May 2025) To serve until APCM In 2026: Sarah Leckie Ireslgned January 2026) Vacancy Vacancy To see untll APCM in 2027: Lesley Huss Lynda Bird Richard Salt Ifrom May 2025, reslgned March 20261 To serve until APCM in 2028: Alan Doyle Martin Hewings (resigned January 20261 Ann Davis (from May 2025) co.opted to Serve untll APCM in 2026". Jean Davies (from July 20251 Officers appointed by the PCC. 2025 - 2026 Safeguarding PCC Treasurer PCC Secretary Lay Vice-chair Parlsh Identify Verifier Electoral Roll Officer Lesley Huss Alan Doyle Christine Amsby Sue Kimber Lesley Huss Richard Huss
PCC and Diocese Rector's Introduction At the end of the book of Habakkuk - the sermon series with which we began 202 5 the prophet prays, tyet I will rejoice in the Lord. I will be joyful in God my Saviour'13.18). These words feel to rne a fitting summary of the life and witness of Elmdon Church durlng the past year. The serles was entitled 'Falth in Troubled Times, and whllst 2025 was not without challenges. it feels to me that we became more deeply rooted both in prayer and the Joy of the Lord. Despite ongoing building-related needs. financial pressures and a continuing sense that 'the harrfest is plentiful, but the workers are few. (Matthew 9.371. we were nevertheless able to build on the previous year's progress and develop our ministry and mission. Following Habakkuk, our Sunday preaching explored a range of themes.. rest (The Rest is Worship), 'You will be my Wiinesses... in all Judea and Samaria, IActs 1-6.7), 'Onty Jesus, (Luke 91, 'You will be my Witnesses. in Jerusalem. (Acts 6.8-13.31, Contending for the Faith Uudel and 'The Church, (Family SeNices). Both our Sunday seNice and 'Tuesdays at 2, welcomed newcomers and visitors throughout the year, with signs of gentle growth in average Sunday attendance. Our Christmas services were especially well attended. whlch was a great encouragement to us, and we hope and pray, a blessing to all who came. Our first 'Relaxed Carols, for those wilh additional needs - was attended by over 60 people from local day centres, and our Christmas Eve Carol Service was attended by 127 adults and l O children. We once again held an Easter event and Light Party for familles, and an Annual Memorial Service to which we invited the loved ones of those for whom we'd taken a funeral or burial of ashe5 Service during the past 12 months. We also welcomed children from Damson Wood and Valley schoo15 to church to participate in our 'Encounter Christmas, trail. Additionally. Damson Wood Year 2 came for an Easter workshop. which was a great success and looks set to become a regular feature in the school and church calendar5. On 8th May, the beacon was lit to mark the 80th Anniversary of VE Day and we were pleased to be able to host a civic service beforehand. It was exciting to be featured on ITV Central'5 coverage of the eveni. where I was intebvlewed alongside the Mayor of Solihull. In June, it was a joy to once again welcome the Fisherman's Mission to Elmdon Church for a time of fellowship and worship as part of their biennial conference, held at a hotel within our parish. In September, we ran the 321 Course for the first time. offering space to explore questions of life and faith. Following parricipation in the 321 course, one person was confirmed and one person has been baptised. with others considering confirniaiion in the future. September also saw the introduction of Zoom Morning Prayer on a Monday morning for 20 minutes. with around 6 of us gathering to pray each week. This has become a valued rhythm, allowing us to pray intentionally for the week ahead, and it ha5 been a particular encouragement to see prayers answered, for which we can give thanks.
In November, it was announced that the decision had been taken to bring the plurality with St Mary's Hobs Moat to an end, with my remaining as Rector of Elmdon, bui no longer the Vicar of Hobs Moat. In the face of this significant news and change, prayer and trust in God's purposes have been our posture as we've adjusted, and I give thanks to God for how we have navigated this transition. Earlier In the year, I had invited Bishop Esther, Suffragan Bishop of Aston. to preach at the end of November, and her visit felt like another moment of us leaning into the 'joy of the Lord,. Towards the end of the year, we connected with the co-chair of Christians @JLR, whlch was an answer to prayer. We are looking forward to developing this partnership as we seek to share the love of Christ across our parish, Includlng with the 9,000-12,000 people who work atJLR Sollhull. As I reflect on 2025, It is clear that whllst there were thing5 we had hoped to achieve but dld not quite manage, we have achieved a great deal corporately and collectlvely and there is much for which to give thanks. We've reached a lirtle further with the love of Chrlst. and to return to Habakkuk. it feels like there are indeed buds on the fig tree and grapes on the vine13.17). If Habakkuk teaches us to rejoice when everything appears to be failing, how much more should we rejoice when there are signs of new frult? I've hlghlighted some specific 'events' In thls Introduction, but so much of our ministry and mission happens In individual conversatlons. hldden acts of klndness, and faithful servlce unseen by many. One of my greatest sources of Joy is sharing In leadership and mlnistry with others. But the greatest joy of my life is knowing Jesus, the Lord of Ilfe. That joy leads me to thanksgiving for the privilege of mlnistering alongside the people of Elmdon Church within the parish of Elmdon, and above all to God, 'for his Indescribable gift!, (2 Corinthians 9.15 'Thls seNlce that you perform is not only supplylng the needs of the Lord's people but Is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the servlce by whlch you have proved yourselves. others will pralse God for the obedience that accompanies your confesslon of the gospel of Christ, and for your generoslty In sharln9 With them and with everyone else. And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you. because of the surpassing grace God has given you. Thanks be to God for his indescribable glft!, 12 Corinthians 9.12-15) Bekah Clark
PCC Secretary's Report Under the Church Representation Rules. we are entitled to nine elected PCC rnember5. In addition, our Rector, Churchwardens, three Deanery Synod member5 any Readers appointed by the APCM, and any co-opred members serve on the PCC. In April 2026, no current elected PCC members come to the end of their term of office. At last year's APCM we carried over two vacancie5, and during the year three elected PCC members resigned. At the APCM we therefore intend to elect five PCC members. One member was co-opted to the PCC during the year, to seNe up to the 2026 APCM. In 2026 all Birmlngham Diocese Deanery Synod members must be elected. We therefore also intend to elect three Deanery Synod members for a new three-year term of office. Every year the PCC appoints a Standing Committee, which meets as necessary and reports to the next meeting of the PCC. Its membership since 2025 PCM were Cheryl Doyle Ichurchwarden), Sue Kimber (Churthwarden and Lay Vice Chair), Revd. Bekah Clark (Rectorl, Alan Doyle (freasurer) and Christlne Arnsby (Secretary). The members of the PCC are aware of the Charity Commission guidance on publlc benefits in 'the Advancement of Religion for the Public Benefit, and have had regard to it in their administration of the PCC. The PCC believes that by promoting the work of the Church of England in the parish of Elmdon it provides a benefit to the publlc by: providin9 a facility for publlc worship and pastoral care both for its members and for anyone who wishes to benefit from what the Church can offer; and promoting Christian values and services by rnembers of the Church and to thelr communltles, to the benefit of individuals and soclety as a whole Chrlstlne Arnsby, PCC Secretary Electoral Roll Following this year's revision. there are now 62 names on the church electoral roll. Of these, 27 live within and 35 outside the parish boundary. Thi5 compares to 58 names on the roll this time last year. Since the 2025 APCM, one member of the roll sadly died, and ftve names have been added to the roll. Richard Huss. Elecioral Roll Officer
Safe uardin The PCC has adopted and complies with the House of Bishops, Safeguarding Policy, Promoting a Safer Church (2017), and the practice guidance issued by the Church of England and Birmingham Diocese. Elmdon Church Is committed to: Promoting a safer envlronment and culture Safely recrulting and supporting those wlth any responslbillty for the under 18s and vulnerable adults withln the church Respondlng promptly to every safeguarding concern or allegatlon Carlng pastorally for victims/suNivors of abuse and other affected persons Caring pastorally for those who are the subject of concerns or allegations of abuse and other affected persons Responding to those tha( may pose a present rlsk to others Tralnlng We currently have thlrty volunteers serling in a variety of minlstrles wlthin the church, all of whom have completed the level of safeguarding training approprlate to thelr role. Refresher training is undertaken by all volunteers every three years. Domestlc Abuse Contact Sarah Leckie resigned as Domestic Abuse Contact In late 2025, and the work and care Sarah has given to seNing In this role over the last two years has been greatly appreclated. We are In the process of appolntlng a new person to the role. Governance The PCC complies fully wlih its duty to have due regard to the House of Bishop's guldance In relation to safeguarding. The PCC provides pollcies on Safeguarding and Domestic Abuse, which are available on the Elmdon Church website and are displayed on the church noticeboard. Safeguarding Is a standlng Item at every PCC meeting. Safeguardlng Is everyone's responsibility Safeguarding is the responsibility of the whole church famity. If you have a concern about anything. please contact the Parish Safeguardlng Co-ordinator. even if you are not sure whether it is a safeguarding issue or not. Lesley Huss, Parish Safeguarding Coordinaror sa uardin @elmdo hur
Fabric & Buildings There have been no major work5 done to the church fabrlc during 2025. However we have had several roof repairs to contend WiEh leaks. Monitoring these 15 unfortunately ongoing until the roof can be replaced. We are continulng to dlalogue with the diocese over this but. it seems they are unhappy with a pitched roof so we are investigating replacing the flat roof covering and upgrading guttering and insulatlon along with the plan to relay slabs and improve drainage around the front of the church. There have been some minor works to the sound system including the replacement of the headsets. A movement sensor light has been put in the boiler room and a delay switch to the car park lights reinstated. The usual setvicing of the heating boiler. roof alarm and fire extingulshers plus PAT testing was carried out but the organ seNicing has been delayed until 2026 as it was serviced late in 2024.we also had the 5 yearty electrical conditions report done where everything was found to be in good order. A Defibrlllator has been installed in collaboration with Elmdon Park Support Group. Fund raising for the maintenance of this is organised by EPSG and is ongoing. The graveyard paths were cleared of moss and algae. The graveyard itself is kept. strimmed, weeded and tidied by a small group of volunteers. Research has been staried for new notice boards either side of the old church door and top and bottom of the graveyard near the entrances. Being mindful of the need to maintain our buildings and grounds we regularly refer to the Qulnquennlal report to keep on track wlth this. Finance and fabrlc matters are discussed In the Flnance and Fabrlc Group whlch meets regularly and reports to the PCC. Our grateful thanks go to all those who help with the ongoing routlne Jobs such as leaning teams, refreshment teams, the display team. the gardening team, regular leaf blowing. oversight and upkeep of graveyard plot allocations and records. attending to alarm call outs and meeting contractors etc. Also managing rotas and necessary admin. All your work makes a real dlfference and our burden lighter. Cheryl Doyle and Sue Kimber, Churchwardens Deanery Synod Elmdon Lay Representatives: Christine Arnsby, Cheryl Doyle. Our electoral roll total qualifies us for three seats until our APCM in Spring 2029. 3" June 2025 - Christ Church, Burney Lane. Matt Vaughan. Interserve and Mission Enabler. said he worked with his wife Andrea for Inter5erve in Pakistan from 2011 to 2019 where he was able to speak the language. His visa was then denied so he worked in Malaysia for a time until his visa was again denied and the family moved back to
England. Three of their children were born in Pakistan, the fourth in England. They are fully funded through Interserve but work in Birmingham Diocese with Christ Church, a parish known as 'ethnically diverse,, with 83% of the parish population claiming Muslim faith. Matt said mission in an ethnically diverse area was not simply competition but leant itself naturally to religious collaboration as people of other faiths were just as concerned and keen to resolve issues like knife crime and violence. Working together was beneficial as it also helped with understanding between faith groups generally. Matt said that as he and Andrea were noi funded by the Deanery or Dlocese they were a resource to be used and would love to support other churche5 In outreach to Muslims. They had some courses available and were happy to preach and go anywhere. They could also help with resources that are someti mes difficult to obtain like Bibles and resources in ethnical ly appropriate languages. 7th October 2025 - St. Margaref s Church, Olton PRESENTATION: Bishop Esther - the Diocesan Bid Bishop Esther sald the Diocese had not shaped a vision to attract funding but had shaped the funding application around the Dlocese, summarised by the four pillars: Sustalnabllity. Difxesan reserves, used to cover the shortfall between income from parishes and expenses, were nearly gone. To reduce costs the Diocese would have had to reduce staffing which would have reduced the ability for outreach and growth. The Diocese needed to find a sustainable future together. The successful bid would be a bridge for building a way forward, stimulating growth by allowing for increased staffing and funding for specific projetts, the details for which were still being finalised. Leadership. Flourishing churches need flourishing leaders. The Diocese were seeking applicants for new posts, including more curacies. to reflect the people it served. Church / Parish Growth. Yes, we want churches to grow: it was Important that they grew in numbers, vitality, depth, etc. "Sowing Seeds Funding" would be available for local missional initiatives, being a resource for local lrna9ination. Church Plantlng / Revltalisation. Bishop Esther quoted: "Some are ready to give: others are ready to receive. several times and shared a recent example of a new initiative about to start. Conclusion. The national church recognised that Birmingham had a vision and the successful bid would influence the work and pace of change.
12" February 2026 - Elmdon Church Canon Dr. Andrew Smith: "How to be an authentlc Chrlstlan in a multi- cultural and religiously diverse society-. Andrew spoke of some very visible changes in our Deanery, including increased religious diversity in Solihull area: the rise of Christian Nationalism. increased polarisation around immigration, flags being hung on lampposts, congregation members. immigration status becoming more precarious, local elections in May 2026 where all Birmingham Councillors must be elected every 3 years with the likelihood of Councillors being elected with views from the far right perspective. Where many people were tending to panic and forecast society's demise, he had been struck by the possibilities.. What an opportunity to show Christ-like light as a contrast to most people's gloomy response- to be positive and speak God's goodness into our communities. With God's strength we could do something different. "This might be", he said, "the most exciting time to be a Christian." Andrew added that when we talked to people of other faith5, it was not to do with the country, it was about Jesus and what we believe in Him. He said some believed the opposite of commonality was divlsion. It was not. The opposite of commonality was diversity and difference. The Church needed to recognise that fact and actively look for diversity which made our lives and worship so much richer. We were surrounded, he said, by people who were entrenched in their own views when what we needed was dialogue. Andrew spoke from 2 Kings S of the slave girl who didn't hold back in pointing her foreign master Naaman, to God by suggesting he should visit the prophet in Israel who would heal him of his leprosy. She wasn't to know that not only would Naaman listen to her and go, but that God would work in Naaman's life and raise up his faith in the true God of15rael, rather than the man-made gods of Naaman's master. the king of Aram. "We should expect God to do stuff,, he said. Perhaps as we repeat the graciou5 words Elisha spoke to Naaman, to the people of other faiths that we meet, "Go In peace" God will do amazing things. Our next meeting will be held on 3° June 2026 in St. Helen's Church, Solihull.
Life at Elmdon Church Kids in Christ Kids In Chrlst continue to meet on the first and thirdsundays in the month. We have three leaders. six helpers and eight children on the register. Jean Davies was welcomed to the group In 202S, bringing us her gultar skills. A reward chart has been given to each child. The children, on completing three sessions, can choose a book about Jesus. A bible wlll be awarded and presented to them in church when they have te7Ve stickers on their chart. We have also introduced a prayer tree for the children. During a quiet time of prayer. the children can add a leaf to the tree with the name of someone or Something they wish to pray for. We would like to help more children to learn about Jesus and pray that our small friendty group will grow bigger in time. L ynda Blrd, Klds In Christ Leader Music "Slng to the Lord a new songi for he has done marvellous thlngs" Psalm 98.1 Muslc Is $0 important to church life, and I'm really 9rateful to those who help to lead our sung worship at church, and who select the music for each service. Our alm is always to plck songs that are slngable by our congregation and that will help us all to expre55 our falth and our praise of God joyfully and musically. filling with the theme of the service and Bible reading, whilst keeplng the church familiar wlth a core repertoire of music In a varlety of styles. People keep on writlng new songs (Including, In 202 5, one written here!), whlch Is good and in keeping with the instruction in Psalm 98. Yet this is a150 a challenge as we can't possibly learn all the suirable new song5 that are comlng out! There are currently around 320 50ngs in our repertoire, which is probably a blt too many for a church of our slze and musical resources, A task for 2026 wlll be to try to get a handle on our existing repertoire, alongside I(king for manageable numbers of new songs to try out. In 2025 we were able to use live muslc In church almost every Sunday. and to use our band on a monthly basi5. On those Sundays when use recorded music, thls Is normally because our musicians are required io be serving elsewhere instead. Everyone involved with the music also serve5 on other teams within the church. Please do get in touch if you'd be interested in finding out more about how you can help with our muslc and what would be involved in joining us. Richard Huss
Connect Groups Connect groups are small groups which meet durin9 the week for fellowship, prayer and Bible study. There were 3 Connect groups during the year with around 20 members, two on Zoom and one face to face {currently taking a break). There wa5 an opportunity to meet both in the evenin9 and the daytime. Connect groups are a place to share life's ups and downs with other Christians in a deeper way than Is possible on a Sunday and to be 5UPPOrted and encouraged as a disciple of Jesus. Being a member is one of rhe best ways to feel part of the church family and current members recommend it as an opportunity to share news, ask hard questions and pray in a safe space. Each group follows ils own programme and in 2025/6 Bible Studies covered included Isaiah, Jude, Matthew, Mark, Psalms as well as looking at Sunday's teachin9 in more depth. New members are always welcome so please speak to Sue or Bekah If you would Ilke to try out a group. Tuesdays at Two During 2025 'Tuesdays at Two, continued wlth a varlable attendance of 6.7 people each week. The group discussion relating to the Bible reading and sermon from the previous Sunday 15 appreciated by all who attend. We usually start with a welcome followed by a hymn chosen by someone present, an opening prayer and reading of the scriptuie to be discussed. The discussion leads into a time of prayer when members can bring their concerns for themselves. family, f riends or any other issues they may have. We also include requests on the Prayer Tree which is reviewed periodically. Any requests with no further relevance being removed and burnt. Gatherlng our prayers together with the Lord's Prayer, we conclude with a final hymn and the words of The Grace. followed by refreshments. Musical accompaniment to the hymns continues to be provided by two members. We continue to offer hospitality to any who may come into the church hall where we meet. During the year a group of family and friends came in followlng an internment of ashes in the churchyard. Early in 2026 we are aiming to find another venue with a view to taking the church out into the community within the boundaries of the Parish. Margaret Thomas, Léoder of Tuesdays at Two li
Open Church The church is open every Sunday afternoon between 2 and 3.30pm In the winter time to coincide with the council's closing of the Park gates and 2 till 4pm in the summertime. We are open to anyone for refreshments, facilities or just to look around. It provides a welcoming atmosphere for regulars as well as those attending for training, to see our Vicar, or for small meetings. The occasional event might be taking place in the main part of the church but refreshments etc are always available to that. Numbers of visitors varies from a handful to a couple of dozen. We make no charge but rely on voluntary donations only to enable all who come to have a cup of tea and a chat. The kitchen is manned by a dedicated few without whom this ministry would not be able to continue. Cheryl Doyle Mission Support Group Crossllnks - Rodrlgo Salas Crosslinks is an Anglican mi5slonary society whlch enables partnershlps with all churches, denominatlons and neThvorks which share its convictions. Crosslinks also supports and enables the trainlng of pastor/teachers and evangelists In less well-off countries, through their BEST (Bursaries Enabling Strateglc Training) programme. Our support of Eml and Tore Fernandez having been completed. our current contact under the BEST programme is Rodri90 Salas of Santiago, Chile who is studying the Bachelor in Theology course at the Centre for Pastoral Studies. Santlago. Following his graduation in December 2027 he will use his theological and ministry tralning in pastoral care. 8ible training, dlsclpleship and church leadership in a local parish of the Anglican Church of Chile. Please upllft Rodrigo, his wife. In9rid, and son, Elias. in prayer. Wycliffe Blble Translators - Glft and Kathryn Asiku We also partner wlth Gift and Kathryn Aslku. working for Wycliffe Blble translator5 in Uganda. Glft seNes as Language Prograrnmes Coordinator and Kathryn as Literacy Coordinator. 5UPPOrting Wycliffe's vision through overseeing and facilitating Bible translation and literacy activities in local languages. They send us regular prayer and news updates, and in turn they pray for us as a church here In Elmdon. 12
Highlights of 2025 include: Old Testament translatlon projects completed translatlon of several books Gift and Kathryn were able to attend two Scripture dedication events, the translation projects for which Gift was responsible - the launch of the reprinted Lugwere New Testament plus some Old Testament books: and some books of the Old Testament in Lunyole. Under the literacy project Lees Read Together. enty new children's reading groups were started, 9iving around 300 more children the opponunity to learn to read in their mother tongue and empowering them to read the Bible in their own language. New volunteers were trained to run the reading groups. assisted by existing group leaders who were enthusla5tic about reading and the benefits of the project. Kathryn has been supeNising an Intern who is leading on Scrlpture Engagement, promoting access to and engagement with the Scripture5 In communities where translation work 15 going on. His internship is for two years. Ripple Effect Ripple Effect work5 alongside small farmers In rural Africa. The charlty15 creatlng a ripple effect of positive change in rural Africa. It stans with bringing farmers together to learn new skills and share knowledge, so they can improve their livelihoods and thrive. As a church we have raised many thousands of pounds over the years wo have been involved wilh the charity. by collecting small change and from occasional donations. Thank you to all who have given so faiihfully and who coniinue to do so. For those new to Elmdon Church, there Is a basket in the Wllberforce Hall where you can leave your small change. For further information. please speak to Eli Malkin. Also vislt vAwi.rippleeffect.org where you can find some uplifting Stories about the farmers who have benefited from their association with Ripple Effect. Helplng Hands Renewal Helping Hands. based at Renewal Church Centre. has a ministry of glvlng food. toiletries and other essentials to the m05t vulnerable in Solihull and nelghbourlng areas of Birmlngham. Their Community Officer Rachel 5ay5 that ihey are currently providing around eight deliveries each day to individuals in need who are referred to them through local agencies. This equates to approximately 45 deliveries each week and an average of 80 deliveries per month. Recently, Ihey have seen an Increase In repeat referrals. In response, they are looklng to work more closely alongside other support agencies to ensure that individuals receive a wider package of support. recognising that a food parcel alone cannot fully address the challenges people may be facing. They are very grateful for our regular giving, which enables them to continue meeting the demand for referrals and supporting some of the most vulnerable members of our community.
Occasional donations On the recommendation of the Mission Support Group. the PCC made a donation of £2 $0 to Resource. an organisation supporting local churches in spiritual renewal. with a particular focus on "little. local. ordinary" churches and their leaders. Richard & Lesley Huss. Eli Malkin and Rob Dean. Mission Support Group 14
Finance Treasurer's Report The PCC is responsible 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 Most of our Income usually comes through stewardship, primarily ihe Parish Gtving Scheme but a150 Standing orders, bank interest on our reseNe funds and donations. Other sources of income have typically been wedding and funeral fees plus occasional legacie5. social events and hire fees for use of rhe Church hall. Although our bank balance is now quite heaithy largely owing to the sale of our Gaydon Road site there are a number of maintenance and improvement projects at our parish church that need to be undenaken and we must therefore plan and budgei for a continued increase in giving in the years ahead. The 202 5 accounts show only a minor deficit for the year owin9 largely to the interest recelved on our cash reserves, this will of course reduce as the required improvement work is carried out and paid for. To Ènsure our ongolng flnancial viability we need to be cognlsant of the need to increase giving from our existing generous members bur perhaps more importantly look for ways to increase membership numbers. Our long teTm aim is to keep our current Church up to date and fully functloning to attract new members whose generosity and prayers will help us to maintain our presence in the community and help others who may be In need. A °Giving Siation" devicels installed in rhe Church allowing donations to be made by card and information about all the methods of supporting the church are available at church and on our website. Fees pald for church work In 202 5 the church paid an organlst's fee for weddings and funerals at whlch the organ was played. Where requlred a verger received a fee for duties carried out at these Services. A sexton was also pald a fee for digging plots for the Interment of ashes. Financial Reserve5 Policy The Charlty endeavours to maintain finances at an appropriate level to facilitate day-io-day aciivities and also to finance upkeep of our bulldings. Alan Doyle. Treasurer
Page 16 Annual Report of the Elmdon Parochial Church Councll for 2025 INDEPENDElff EXAMINER'S REPORT TO ELMD014 PAROCMAL CHURCH COLV4CIL (ThE PCC) I report to the Charity trustees on my eXan814)n of of fv tharity for the year erklgd 31 Decemb8T 2025 which are set on pw 17 to 25. I1•pbIII1IM bMl• As lh¢ charitys trustees yw ar¢ for Fweparthn d the accthnts In acwrdanc• wth tho reqreMentS ol the Chaiitl85 Acl 2011(1 ACVI. I report Sn respect ol my fjxamination ol the Charity's a015 carri•J cwjl uNJer Sect 145 of the Act atvJ in carryiro out my examination I have lolowed all thg app8 Directw)Th8 gbven by the Charity Commission uThJer seclkjn 145(5}Ibl of the Ad. IPondl •x•mlnrf• •tat•m I have completed my examir4qbon. I cmfirm thai tK) material matters have 1¢ to my att8nYon In o)nrrttlon 4lh the exarrination givirJ mo causo to boleve th91 in any material r&S.. atxountirKJ record5 wer¢ resFd ol tr dwbty as Nu11 by section 130 of the Aci; 2. thè accounts do not vlith those rgcryds. I have no concefns and hav• ct)me auoss Th) oth8r mattefs In Cannecbon vrith the gxamlnalion lo whlch attentlon shoukl te dM¥n in Ihis r8Fh)rt in der enatAe a (ryer urthrstsrdiNJ ot the accounts to t• reached Jeremy lfjtson FCA Prirne Chartered A¢¢JnIants Cornef Oak 1 Homor Iload Solihull B91 Date.. 0110512026
Page 17 ELMDON PAIIOCHIAL CtrKIRCH COUNCIL RECEIPTS AND PAY11[s ACCOUNT- GENERAL FUND YEAR ENDED 31 DECEIABER 2025 2024 Recelpts Volunlary Receipts Planned GIn9 Loan received Colkntions and Dmatio 5 42.750 41,982 50,116 Sundry Ir 120 120 Receipts from Churc ALXM"i Grants We(kliw Furfr F¢¢$ 6.374 14,278 Inv¢slment Irwme Total receiFIs 77.422 88.100 ym•ntg Church Activ8$ rtionment PJJildlng repairs Charithgs Church gxper Church aThY Churchyard Loan repayrnents Printing, postage a1 statwy Large DispLay Screen SurKlry Exp$5 VCC plaMirvJ lees 7 50220 7.267 2.355 9 9.()s 13.208 1,370 1,257 1.066 5.565 10 9ts2 79.821 86.479 Governance Gosts Accountancy Total payTrgnts 82.011 88,579 Transfers to i {out ofj general lu1 -479 Bank Ba 1 January Bank 31 Decerrthr
Page 18 ELMOOM PAIIOCTrIAL CHURCH COUNCIL RECEIPTS AND PAY&EPWS Accoumf. RESTRICTED FUI YEAR ENOED 31 DECEMBER %)25 R¢c•lpl• Voluntary Aeipts Coll8ctiorLs aTrJ Cnall0 1.171 )lry IrKorn• WadthJ and Funeral Fees Total re¢eiOS 6,774 Church Actiwlles Churth runThro eyn$6s Erolish Class Grant Total payments 2,329 9,410 Trnnsler from getNryral lunds Bank Balanrm 1 Jarnw
Page 19 EUItK)M PAROCTrIAL CHURCH COUNCIL RECEiirrs AND PAYMENTS ACCOUNT. DESIGNATED ACCOUNT - FABRIC Fula) YEAR EIIDED 31 DECEMBER 2025 2024 R•c•lpt8 Volunlary Recws Planned GiviNJ Tran$l¢r Fur4Js 545 SuThJry inctlnè Inter•si on CBF Awals FUNJ Total rewpls 710 612 ym•nt• Church Acfvvllles Transter befvffjen lunds Mus¢ FuThJ SuThJry Expense8 Bar4( ¢harge Weddir4 lees costs 265 71 41 Total payments ID•fi¢ltYSurplu¥ of r•¢•1Plo¥•VPYTr Ba Balartes 1 January Ba BalaS 31 D8certer
Page 20 ELuLK PAROC1 C•IURCH COUIKIL CONSOLIDATED RECEIPTS Atr PAYMEKfs ACCOUI YEAA EMDED 31 DECEMBEFI 2025 Planned Givin9 CdloctK)rs & Donatvy Teas Sunth Iorn W&JJkn9 & FUfi• F••8 Irw•stm¢nl kn¢om• VAT r•fundwln8ufart• d•ms Intere61 and DiwdwKIJ ¢8KI0 8oc4(ir ML8cellan•ous Rents Fult Qrants & OM41ty11 42.7SO 43.250 5.838 41,982 9,305 2299 6219 IM74 2,549 10,171 1,074 3,gS2 12,551 1,114 19,371 19,431 Total Rec•W• PymMi• IFVOrtwmii Charfti85 Chureh Runnlr4J E¥p•rffj•8 Church & CPoJrchyanJ Printirg, POage & Slalth Sundry Expenses unlar Buibjlrp MairrtwwK• & R•F4Ys Bank char9•S Low r¢paym•nts I&H••t Watfjr Irwra TelBphona fd Largo Scrwi Engksh CAass Grant VCC plannlr*J f••s 20 2JS5 50,320 52,$84 2,355 2,132 2,6SS 3,B56 1,257 5,565 2.100 6,848 iJ70 9,023 2.1 1.370 71 2,1 7,287 3226 815 3,226 815 3,657 673 3,367 26S 1.066 7,081 Tow PAym•nls
Page21 ELMDON PAFK)CHIAL CHURCH COIXIL COMSOLIDATED STATEMEKf OF ASSEfs AND UABILMES AT 31 DECEIABER W25 R•strlcted D•8lgnat•d Fund Funds Tot•1 FWKI Plon•tary A¥s•ts CBF dèposit fund Bank current aunts Bar thposit aLMY)urrts 437,558 6.961 412.955 89 t3.217 3.336 1.386 3,536 445.498 414,0¥6 26.553 4,922 Invesim•nts lat VaatiOn at year orJl CBF Share Portfol) CBF Fixed Intest 39,072 39.072 Oth•r Prop•rtlM v••l•d In th• BIrni1nw Olouw Oofyrd ol Tru8t•M on lhll ol th• PCC: Sl SlephetK8 Chjrch Centre ANALYSIS OF DESIG14ATED FVM>S V•1 Chureh St PAeph•n• C•ntr• Hall UMr# Fatrlc Fund Tot•1 C8F dewsll fuTrJ 8ank 1rrent account Bard( dep)sll account These Finartial SA8lemerts were SFvo¥ed Parh ChuTch CcAJrKII on .. a1 siJrtd on ljehaif of the c4al by:" halr Churthwafden ChurChWan
Page 22 IIOTES TO THE F14ANCIAL STATEMENTS YEAR ENDED 31 DECEIIBER 1125 1. ACCOUMTING POUCIES The linanaal statements ol the PCC have b8en wepared in actordance with the Church AccountirKJ Agwlations issued in 21K6 the ReLarts aTrJ PayNrts basis. th8 Statement ol Racommond9d Pract ISORPI and th8 charit 2011. Fub¥J• GeTh8ral furlts represent th8 lut)Js of the PCC that ar¢ nol s4ct lo any wal reslri&kn$ Togarth thlir uso aThJ are availab IixafvtiC to the general PLWPOSe5 01 the PCC. The accounts irdyje mmtary transact. assels aThJ l)llibes for the PCC can be hekj rg8pon5sle. T do includ& the ac¥>)unts of ¢)th•r Chufth 9roups that owe an affiliation lo arthar body, those thai arg irorr cl Chjrth membèr SleCt to th6 aboNw. arKI paym8rts inc4%ne as rg¢oNod vJ oxpgrKliture vthen irrevocabty paid. lrtom• Tu rgc¥)V•Tabb In respect ol the year to 31 Decwknr i8 Indud8d in lh• ro¢ept3 payThrls cOUrtts. Non-rn¢)netary thnations to tha PCC af¢ indLNtsJ in the re(¥lpts aThJ payments )unts. bec$& th•y are incapable ol beiTrJ rerpjrded ai deliimt8 amounts. Where material. f(•m$ ar9 referred lo In the Annual Roport Thg10l1)¥rwJ assets affj ree(¢risthJ as tirg uthr th? owrrsh¥i (# fv PCC but aro IrKhJded in Siatement ol Awts arKI Movabl8 thurch lumishiNJs by thè Wa w gpgcial trust tor the PCC arJ whiGh uire a facuty lor dsspwl. LaThJ and tyJikJing$ lld on bhall of fv PCC. Other fixtUT8S. ffttirwJs ¢)ffice eqiyryrt ¥thtwe ts PCC ts free to thsF4)s of such assgts withrKrt facuty. kny other o*irwJ 10 Ihg PCC hJl arhl in5uraThx clalms. LegacNgs Whe fcm)d Th)tificakn of enbtiement arwj ant has been rece at 31 cmber l>rf tho PCC. Incowe Tax fttoverat4e from HM Rthnug & CtOmS kn rew ol GMI I)11( recefved after 31 DeG8mber In th8 year. OFenirKJ arnl balaNx are $hwi in th8 receyts aThJ paymerts a0)nts.
P? 23 NOTES TO THE HNANCIAL sTATEME1s (CONTINUED) YEAA ENOED 31 DECEMBER 2025 2. OESIGMATED FUNDS The Fabric FuThJ is thonated li.e. to bè used so18ty1 for the of maintaiThr¥J and improviro the Parish Church. REMUNERATION No p8rson conn8¢ted v*ith the Parodval Clwrch Cwnol has been or is lo té paKI any iemuneration or other be1 fi¢)m Ihe FUts rj Ihe PCC. There have begn no materiab tranSadnS uTrlertaken in thé name cl or on tthall of CourKil In which any F4rson Connected with the Councl has a matwial inl&r8sl. J. PLANNED GIVING 2024 Gift aid re¢e4)ts Income recovered Other gIr 27.732 8,905 27.770
Page 24 ELMLK)N PAROCTrIAL CHIKM COUNCIL IIOTESTO THE RNANCIAL STATEMEMTS (CONTINUED) YEAR ElED 31 DECEMBER 2025 O. INVESTMENT INCOME 2024 C8F DepM' acc(wnl inlerosl C8F DwKlerK15 Inter8sI on ReseThw fu1 19 1,047 1,073 7. APPOAnoiaiEKr 2024 pth tlirect & CHARMES 2024 Christian RoNel, DtrVèkpi1 IwK*S Chjrches overseas m• MSswons 473 4,873
Page 25 ELMOON PAROCTrIAL CHIWI C<XINCIL NOTES TO THE FIIIAPKIAL STAT&IEKfs {COllllNUED} g. CHURCH AND CHURCHYARD EXPEIISES 2024 Maintenance rwrs Water rat88 Telephe ohl aThJ heat Insurance Sundries Curate's HoLKse Rent Consumer unil lesl & c•rtification Christian teratUr& Readers, Board Vysitiw Cbrgy 815 1.520 3.226 6n 3.657 3.367 221 10. SUNDRY EXPENSES 2024 Fete fh)ats Othèr Sundry EXF•
MINUTES OF THE 2025 ANNUAL MEETINGS Held 2(P May 2025 Artendance at the annual rneetings of Parishioners and Church125)- Revd. Bekah Clark. Rector Christine Arn5by Sarah Baldwin Lynda Bird Ann Davis Jean Davie5 Joy Dean Rob Dean Alan Doyle Cheryl Doyle Martln Hewlngs Richard Huss Pauline Jones Vera Jacques Rod Janes Sue Kirnber Sarah Leckie Elaine Malkin Karen Matthews Anne Milne Helen Salt Richard Salt Joyce Taylor Margaret Thomas June Wllllams MEETING OF PARISHIONERS Bekah welcomed everyone and Invlted us to slng To God be the glory.. Apologles (l ) Lesley Huss Mlnut¢s of prevlous me¢tlng of parlshlon¢r5, Tuesday 21 W May 2024 Martin Hewings and Anne Milne proposed the mlnutes be adopted. Motlon approved unanlmousfy with four absientions. Electlon of Church Warden Cheryl Doyle was proposed by Sue Klmber seconded by Chrlstlne Arnsby. Sue Klmber was proposed by Alan Doyle seconded by Martln Hewlngs. There were no other nominatlons. Cheryl and Sue agreed to Stand as Churchwardens for the coming year and were accepted unanlmouslv. Thanks were expressed to Sue Klmber for her seNlce as Churchwarden over the past year. ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEEllNG (APCM) Blble reflection Bekah read Arts I . 1.1 O. the topic of our recent sermon series 'Called, Equipped and Sent out.. before opening in prayer. Apologles {1 ) Lesley Huss Minute5 of the previous APCM held 21*1 May 2024 Rob Dean proposed and Lynda Bird seconded the motion that the mlnutes be accepied. Approved unanimously with four abstenlions. Report on the revlsed Electoral Roll Richard Huss reported that the revlsed roll, published 2 7th April 202 5, 26
contained 58 names. since which a further three narnes had been added making a total of 61 . of whom 28 lived within and 33 outside the parish who mostly lived within I mile of the boundary. This was down five on the previous year. Three members had passed away in the previous year, and 12 people had joined the roll for the first time. or rejoined after a gap. Election of PCC members PCC13 year terni): Alan Doyle wa5 nominated by Lesley Huss and Martin Hewings, Martin Hewings was nominated by June Williams and Pauline Jones. Ann Davis was nominated by Cheryl Doyle and Karen Matthews. PCC (2 year tern)): Richard Salt was nominated by Kuen Matthews and Rob Dean Jean Davies had been nominated by Cheryl Doyle and Rob Dean. As she dld noi yer qualify due to her recently coming onto the Electoral Roll. it was agreed tharjean could be co-opted onto PCC at the second meeting of the new pcc. There were no further nominations and Alan. Martin. Ann and Rlchard were duly elected, leaving two vacancies for one year. Deanery Synod: There were no nomlnations to flll the vacancy. Christine Arnsby and Cheryl Doyle remained representatives until ihe APCM in 2026. Reader repre5entatlve Members approved the motion that Kawen Matthews. Parish Lay Reader. be accepted as member of the PCC. Recelve APCM Reports Comments were made regarding the followlng reports.. Warden's ReporL Bekah acknowledged Sue's hard work over the past year as the Church of England was not the mosi intuitive of set-UP5. Safeguarding. Bekah was asked how often volunteers were requlred to renew training. She replied that it was currently 3 years at the highest level but requirements often changed. The Church of England Dashboard portal was kept up to date by Lesley and it sent Bekah reminders when anyone's tralnlng needed renewing. Lesley had done an effertive job of ensuring we were all up to date. Domestic Abuse contacL" Sarah Leckie agreed to continue in ihe role. Some other groups were discussed and recommended over a time of celebration in how the Lord was w01ng in the life of the parlsh. Treasurer's Report and Accounts. Alan said figures for Planned Giving were up by 5% despite figures suggesting it was down. owing to delayed Gift Aid claims made during the previous year. A grant had been made available for 27
Jean N1$be5 English Classes. Our income had been raised by using the interest from monies received for the sale of Gaydon Road Hall but this would drop when repairs to the church were compleie. The meeting was happy to receive the accounts. Appointment of independent examSner Alan Doyle proposed using the same accountants (Prime Chartered Accountant51 for the coming year. Rob Dean seconded the motion, whlch was approved unanlmously wlth no absteniion5. Rector's Address 8ekah thanked by name those who over the past year had blessed Elmdon Church in over 30 different ministries that she had identified. She said that Revd. John Tslpouras had been asked by another church to come and help so he would be worshlpplng there now. She shared some statistlcs from a sur¥ey called "Quiet Revival 2020.2024. saylng the Church was moving to a younger demographic. with more young men than women. The Church was becoming more ethnically diverse and was shlftlng from individuallsm to community,. from passive to actively practicing faith; looking for a Church that was dlstinctive from the world with which they were so disillusioned and. as they have done so, becomlng less anxious wlth bet(er well belng. Bekah remlnded us of our currenr sermon series and Karen'5 talk on Sundav. that we were Called. Equlpped and Sent Out. She encouraged us to remember our calling in Jesus,. ask God to move in power: and to pray. seeking God's equipping for the work ahead. The Church could look very different In the future and we should be equipped for change. She said l in 3 people are walting for us to Invite them and encouraged us ro Invlte famlly and friends to church as it could be what people may be looklng for. Most people come to Jesus these day5 because of what we do on our front Ilnes, not some big event at Church. 12. Any Other Buslno$s There was no other business. After singing Forth and Tell. tO9ether, Bekah closed the meeting by thanklng everyone for their time before non-members left the meetlng. leavlng the PCC to continue.
Agenda for the Meeting of Parishioners and Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) Tuesday 28i¥ April 2026. 7.30pm at Elmdon Church Refreshments available from 7pm Meeting of Parishioners Apologies for absence Minutes of the previous Meeiing of Parishioners. Tuesday 20th May 202 5 Election of Churchwardens Annual Parochlal Church Meeilng (APCM) Blble reflection and opening prayer Apologies for absence Minutes of the previous Annual Parochlal Chufch Meeting, Tuesday 2011 May 2025 Report on the revised Electoral Roll Appolntment of PCC Members Deanery Synod Members13 places. for 3 years) PCC Members lup to 5= 3 places for 3 years. I for 2 years, I for l yearl Reader representative Recelve APCM repons Appointment of independent examiner Rector's Address Any other business l O. Closing prayer Flr5t meetSng of the new Parochlal Chuwch Count51 (PCQ Election of-. Lay Vice Chair Secretary Treasurer Electoral Roll Officer Safeguarding Co-ordinator & Parbsh Identity Verifier Dorne5fic Abuse Contact