**APCM 2026** ## St Luke’s Church ## **Annual Parochial Church Meeting 2026** ## **3[rd ] May 2026** ## **Table of Contents** MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE PARISHIONERS page 2 MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING page 3 PCC LEGAL AND ADMINSTRATIVE INFORMATION page 6 VICAR’S REPORT PATRICK W page 7 MINISTRY ASSISTANT’S REPORT ALICE P page 8 CHURCHWARDENS’ REPORT TERRY H & LINDA P page 10 PASTORAL CARE MARION B page 11 CARE HOMES ERNIE H page 11 MISSION PARTNERS RICHARD & ANNIE F-J page 12 ELECTORAL ROLL CATHERINE M page 13 SAFEGUARDING CATHERINE M page 13 FLOWER BUNCH CATHERINE B page 13 DEANERY SYNOD PETER B page 14 REVIEW OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES JONATHAN C page 15 ANNUAL PCC REPORT COLLEEN P page 16 ST LUKE’S CHURCH HALL SIMON B page 17 Appendix 1: ST LUKE’S CHURCH ACCOUNTS page 18 Appendix 1: ST LUKE’S CHURCH HALL ACCOUNTS page 26 Page 1 ## **Minutes of the MEETING OF THE PARISHIONERS** ## **Held at St. Luke’s Church on Sunday 6[th ] April 2025 at 11:20 am** Chaired by Revd. Patrick Wheaton (PW) who opened the meeting in prayer. ## **Apologies for absence** Chis S, Anthony W, Peter R, Linda R, Louise W, Al B ## **Approval of the Minutes of the meeting held on 21[th ] April 2024** Upon a proposal by Gary C (seconded by Terry H), the minutes were approved on a show of hands without opposition. Two abstentions Robert B and Victoria B. **Matters arising** None ## **Election ofOfficers** Thanks of appreciation from PW for Ben H and his contribution as a churchwarden position at St Luke’s. Terry H nomination was (proposed by Glyn P and seconded by Hazel B). Terry was unanimously elected as Churchwarden upon a show of hands with none against. Linda P approved to continue in her role as Churchwarden. ## **Report of Trustees – St Luke and St John Ecclesiastical Charity (St Luke’s Church Hall)** A written report dated 31 December 2024 had been submitted by Simon B on behalf of the Trustees with its customary care and thoroughness upon which PW invited questions. There being none, the report was approved without objection upon a proposal by Andy H (seconded by Linda P) by a show of hands. ## **Any Other Business** None Page 2 ## **Minutes of the ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING** ## **Held at St. Luke’s Church on Sunday 6[th ] April 2025 (following the Meeting of the Parishioners)** Chaired by Revd. Patrick Wheaton (PW) who opened the meeting in prayer. ## **Apologies for absence** Chis S, Anthony W, Peter R, Linda R, Peter R, Linda R, Louise W, Al B ## **Approval of the Minutes of the meeting held on 21[th ] April 2024** Upon a proposal by Robert B, (seconded by Victoria B), the minutes were approved on a show of hands without opposition. ## **Matters arising** None **Elections** Deanery Synod N/A this year ## PCC Klye H, Peter R, Richard F, Giles W are stepping down from PCC. PW gave his appreciation for their participation on St Luke’s PCC and the hard work they have given. This leaves 4 vacancies to which there were 4 nominations, namely Glyn Pl (proposed by Johnathan C, seconded by Barbara H), Richard Cartlidge (proposed by Meg R, seconded by Eddie V), Sonia Creaton (proposed by Valerie Nl, seconded by Elizabeth C) and Johnathan C (proposed by Hazel B, seconded by Robert B). With no other nominations, all were elected unanimously. These representatives are elected for a 3-year term. April 2025-2028 ## Independent Examiner The meeting approved Sally Colbourne continuation as the independent examiner, proposed by Robert B and seconded by Giles W. ## **Reports** The collection of variousreports were received and unanimously accepted by themeeting following a proposal from the chair. ## **Summary of APCM reports of 2024-2025** In the Vicar’s Report, Patrick Wheaton reflected on the historical development and current state of St Luke’s Church, emphasizing the importance of both "trellis work" (structures to support growth) and "vine work" (introducing people to Jesus and serving them), he highlights the church's current financial stability, the need for patient discipleship, and the progress in prayer and community engagement. He praised the work of Peter B, Alice, 3 Ernie H, Andy H, Marion B and Giles W. Alice P, our Ministry Assistant tasked with overseeing the discipleship of children and young people at St Luke’s, reported progress on various programs, including Sunday morning provisions for teenagers (Roots) and children (Acorns), monthly evening events (Second Saturday), and one-on-one discipleship. Alice also highlights the church's strong relationship with Saint John’s School, where they engage students through collective worship, Faithful sessions, and other activities. The Churchwarden’s report pointed out the steady attendance at weekly services and the success of outdoor services. It mentions the encouragement drawn from attending the Cotswold Bible Festival and the opening of a new commercial coffee van (Tan’s Coffee) operation on site. The health of the church building has been well maintained, with new office space, additional toilet facilities, and ongoing maintenance work. The Pastoral section, under Marion B, emphasizes "Loving One Another" and the reintroduction of personal prayer after monthly communion services and regular opportunities for fellowship, teaching, and prayer. This care shall extend to local residential care homes through monthly communion services and home communions, keeping in contact with church members through the seasons. St Luke’s seven mission partners received an equal share of £16,100 from 2024 giving, and Richard and Ann F-J have kindly taken on the role of auditor and facilitator of distribution **.** A full review of the Electoral Roll was conducted and approved, resulting in 112 applications, with 92 names from the previous roll and 20 new names. Our commitment to safeguarding includes continued diligence in refreshing the Parish Safeguarding Dashboard. Additionally, we are seeking to implement new software for improved efficiency and data protection. Reviewing finances during 2024. Regular giving and donations increased by 15%, and tax reclaimed under Gift Aid amounted to £28,387. Income from assets increased by 34%, and legacies totalled £23,587. Expenditure included Parish Share, running costs, mission giving, and charitable contributions. The church recorded a surplus in operating profit, and funds are being reserved for future major repairs. The Deanery Synod Report reveals a proposed new formula for Parish Share, which is compared to the banding system of Council Tax. This year we will maintain our current contribution whilst examining for the future the effect of the burden of the central structure on this parish. The Church Hall celebrates an increase of income, and we thank it for its grants to fund Alices Theology studies and St John’s School’s use of The Rock facility. The trustees, boosted by Margaret B’s significant donation in 2023, are exploring further options to reduce the carbon footprint of the hall building At the meeting, Giles W (treasurer) summarized the church accounts which were included in the reports. He outlined the overall financial position of the church from the information provided. All accounts are in good standing and paid as of 31 December 2024. Rooms of the church are still being updated with the intent of letting out spaces/offices. Grants for these expenditures are in process. Simon B asked what services will be available for letting out of the church rooms. The answer given is that requests will be reviewed case by case. The treasurer outlined the potential for grant applications to support church expenditure and encouraged people to put themselves forward if this was an area they could help with. Giles W noted the assets available across the PCC and Church Hall Trust and the opportunity to consider how combined projects might serve the vision of St Luke’s. It was noted that St Luke’s has benefited from congregation members who have experience in construction, as building 4 repairs have increased considerably. This has been enormously valuable. Giles W gave particular thanks to Gary C and Peter R in this regard. He also thanked Mary C (invoicing), Linda R (Gift Aid) and Jonathan C (general support) for their assistance with the Treasurer duties. In his spoken report, Reverend Patrick Wheaton reminded the church of our vision to be rooted in Jesus and flourishing under God’s love. He then gave thanks to members of the congregation who have been involved in particular areas, notably Giles W as he steps down as Treasurer, and Catherine Martin for the work she does as PSO. PW continued by noting that Rachel Smith will be aiding Catherine M in her Safeguarding role, and also that Richard & Annie Fenton-Jones will be stepping forward as Mission Partner Co-Ordinators. Patrick outlined that our rootedness in Christ is our personal faith, expressed when we gather in worship. This obviously includes services (and PW gave thanks to Miriam L for her work in organizing the rota for these), as well as prayer together. Connect Prayer has been one of the highlights of the last 12 months with a good number attending on Saturday morning. We have also seen Personal Prayer established after the 10am Communion service. PW highlighted the wide variety of midweek groups that St Luke’s sustains. Although it can be tempting to draw our identity from these smaller groups, they should be considered additions to when we meet together centrally. Through flourishing, PW explained that we hope everyone who connects with St Luke’s will experience the abundance of God’s love, and this will lead them to a relationship with God, rooted in Jesus. Improvements to our building and site make this a centre for the flourishing aspect of our vision. This has been seen in outdoor services, Saint John’s School, Tan’s Van, Rachel Smith Counselling and occasional external users. The potential for development is great here. We are exploring use of the building by a local Ghanaian Pentecostal Church, and also recruiting a Ministry Trainee to assist with different areas of ministry and practical help with the building. **Any Other Business** None. Closing prayer – blessing all people of St Luke’s. Thank you for all you do for us. The meeting ended at 12:45pm 5 GL53 7HX ## **Parochial Church Council Annual Report 2025** ## **Legal and Administrative Information** ## **Name: Parochial Church Council of St. Luke and** **St. John, Cheltenham Location:** St. Luke’s Road, Cheltenham (Address for correspondence) St. Luke’s Church St. Luke’s Road Cheltenham **Members:** Members who served during the year were as follows: Revd. Patrick Wheaton (ex officio) Mr. Terry Howard (Churchwarden, ex officio) Mrs. Linda Pitchford (Churchwarden, ex officio) Mr. Matthew Andrews (elected, April 2024 resigning May 2026) Ms. Victoria Beevers (elected, April 2024 for 3 years) Mr. Richard Cathlidge (elected, April 2025 for 3 years) Mrs. Sonia Creaton (elected, April 2025, resigned Nov. 2025) Mr. Glyn Powell (elected, April 2025 for 3 years) Mrs. Rachel Smith (elected, April 2023 for 3 years) Ms. Carla Thraves (Deanery Synod rep, ex officio) Mr. Jonathan Chestney (elected, April 2025 for 1 years – elected Treasurer) Mrs. Sarah Wingfield (elected, April 2023 for 3 years) Mr. Rod Woodward-Court (Deanery Synod rep, ex officio) Mr Peter Burke Reverend Andy Hall **Secretary:** Mrs. Colleen Powell ## **Related Charity:** St. Luke and St. John Ecclesiastical Charity (St. Luke’s Church Hall) The trustees are made up from the Chair of the PCC (clergy), Churchwardens and two representatives elected by the PCC. ## **Independent examiner:** Sally Colbourne Chartered Accountant 125, Meadow Road Malvern **Bankers:** National Westminster Bank plc, 31, Promenade, Cheltenham, GL50 1LH Colleen Powell PCC Secretary (April 2026) ## **VICAR’S REPORT PATRICK W** I have been asked twice recently about what is giving me encouragement at St Luke’s. It is a great question because it focuses my mind to see and then name and give thanks for what God is doing amongst us. Human nature often draws us to see obstacles and desires rather than encouragements. Looking back on the last 6 year at St Luke’s I am encouraged by faithfulness and trust. God is faithful. 2025 began with us worshipping in the Church Hall as the long awaited work was completed on the dais. Funding, qualified craftsmen and even in the end, suitable carpet, all show the faithfulness of God to provide in respect of this project. Indeed, across the life of St Luke’s we can see how God has faithfully met all of our financial needs. God is also faithful in maintaining our ministry across a variety of areas. Personally, I feel this most often in respect of our work amongst children and families. Sometimes I am concerned that critical mass is lacking or certain endeavours might not be viable. Then God is faithful in bringing a new family to join, or more people turn up than expected. God’s faithfulness is seen regularly across Acorns and Seedlings in this regard. When plans don’t work out, God often shows his faithfulness in revealing another one. For much of 2025 we were working on offering our space to another church for their worship. I thought this was a great project to encourage others, and be encouraged ourselves. Then they withdrew. Just a few weeks later we were approached by a recovery support group to use the building twice weekly. I believe God is also faithful in honouring our efforts. For both our Christmas ‘donkey service’ and recent Easter outdoor celebration I have suggested we maybe take a different approach. Both times I have been persuaded by others to continue. And on both occasions we have received more visitors and attendees than previous years. God is faithful, and so are his people at St Luke’s. It encourages me to look across our church community and see the faithfulness of God’s people. For some, that is expressed in the effort of attending worship regularly. For others, it is the level of volunteering and support. For yet more, it is clinging to God in faith amidst the hard things of life. God’s faithfulness reflects in the life of our church. God entrusts people to us, and there is trust in one another at St Luke’s. It has long been the conviction of Louise and I that God often brings to St Luke’s those who are feeling a little jaded, worn down or in need of healing and rest. I hope no one would take offence to see that in themselves at times. I find this deeply encouraging that God would entrust to us those who are vulnerable. In the simplest terms, people often speak of St Luke’s as a place where they are known, spoken to, noticed, and valued. There is something real and earthy about us. I love that. My son commented to me that what he loved about the teenagers group at St Luke’s is that it is free of the social games of school or even sports clubs. Generally, we trust each other, and are able to entrust ourselves to each other. For a number of years the Women’s Bible Study has met consistently on a Friday morning. I hear tale of relationships forged, life shared with honesty, whilst the Bible is discussed and prayer needs shared. We also now have a Men’s Bible Study since January. Our two Growth Groups meet fortnightly. Somebody spoke of their Growth Group as a place they could ask questions without feeling stupid for doing so. I also know birthdays are often honoured and life shared amongst us at St Luke’s. Outside of our immediate church community, it is a delight that God has trusted Alice at Saint John’s with a group of children enquiring about the Christian faith at Faithfuel. Most do not come from Christian homes. I am encouraged by faithfulness and trust at St Luke’s. God’s faithfulness to us, and the faithfulness of our community to God and each other. I am encouraged by trust at St Luke’s. That God would trust us with his precious sheep to offer them food and pasture, and that there are strong bonds of trust between us. My prayer is that God would continue to be faithful and entrust us with more. 7 ## **MINISTRY ASSISTANT’S REPORT ALICE P.** The first part of 2025 was marked by the completion of my theological studies at St Mellitus alongside my ministry at St Luke’s. Studying theology in the midst of parish life has been a particular gift. Reading deeply and thinking carefully about the nature of the Church, discipleship and worship has not felt removed from everyday ministry but sharpened by it. Far from competing, theology and practice have informed one another. The life of St Luke’s has continually grounded and tested what I was learning, while my studies have given greater clarity and confidence in serving at St Luke’s. Moving to being full-time in September has therefore not felt like stepping away from theology, but like continuing to live it out more fully within the shared life of this parish. ## **Sunday provision of Children & Youth Work** If one word marks this year in Sunday provision, it is consistency. Both Acorns (young children) and Roots (teenagers) have run week by week, with steady attendance and growing familiarity. In a culture that often prizes novelty, there is something quietly countercultural about faithful repetition. The discipleship of children and young people is rarely shaped by single moments but by repeated exposure to Scripture, prayer and Christian community. We have seen the team expand, with the need to know have two adults serve in each group. This doubling of volunteers is no small undertaking. It’s success reflects the servant hearted commitment of many in our church family, including those for whom children’s or youth ministry may not be their natural first preference. Their faithfulness is deeply appreciated. Much of this work is unseen, but it is foundational. We continue to trust that seeds planted week by week will bear fruit in God’s time. ## **Seedlings** Seedlings has been marked by steady relational growth. Numbers have evened into a consistent core group, strengthened by invitational events such as the Light Party and ‘Donkey Sunday’. For some families, Seedlings has been the first point of contact with St Luke’s. The joy here has not simply been in attendance but in trust. There are meaningful relationships, which have led to deeper conversations and openness to faith discussion. A particular thanks to Patrick, Hazel B, Rachel W, Lindsay S and Catherine M for their time each Thursday morning. ## **Youth Ministry** Our young people have met month for fellowship and discipleship. This is an important space that has develop more deeply into topics in the Bible together. We recognise and celebrate Richard and Sarah C who serve each month at this gathering. Alongside this, we were able to host a youth trip away – a first for St Luke’s. Going away together created space for deeper conversation, shared worship and a strengthening of relationships. I am grateful to Patrick for investing in teaching and sharing in the life of the group throughout our time away. We also had a small number of socials for the young people during the year. ## **Students & Young adults** Occasional student socials were held as those away at university returned during term time breaks. From June onwards a women’s Young Adults Bible study meet fortnightly looking at Mark’s Gospel together, concluding with a winter social at the end of the year. 8 ## **Saint John’s School** Our relationship with Saint John’s school remains and significant and valued part of parish life. Patrick continues to lead Collective Worship each week with creativity and clarity. It is a great privilege for us as a church to be able to plant seeds of faith through Bible truths in young hearts and minds each week. A particularly encouraging development at Faithfuel, our Wednesday lunchtime club, has been pupils being willing to pray out loud. We continue to uphold in prayer these children who choose to investigate the Christian faith, asking that these truths will move from observation to participation. Throughout the year we welcomed Saint John’s into the church building for school services, Experience Easter and a Key Stage 2 RE day exploring the overarching narrative of Scripture. It has been a joy not only to see pupils engaging thoughtfully with Christian truth, but also to witness members of St Luke’s offering their time to lead breakout sessions and host activities. A small prayer group has begun to uphold the school and our partnership. Others would be very welcome to join. We are grateful for Victoria B’s ongoing support in our relationship with school, recognising how invaluable the missional opportunity is. ## **Media & Communications.** Consistency has been key across communications this year. The updated website continues to serve as an important point of connect. Newcomers have shared that they found St Luke’s by searching for churches in Cheltenham and exploring our website. Social media has maintained a regular rhythm, supporting events and reinforcing Sunday teaching. I am grateful to those who have participated in video campaigns. 9 ## **CHURCHWARDENS’ REPORT LINDA P & TERRY H.** We have seen steady numbers at all three weekly services (Wednesday 11.00am and Sunday morning 8.00 & 10.00am) this year - and it has been particularly encouraging to see more new faces, beginning to come to worship on a regular basis. The church ‘Invitation’ services continues to be successful in terms of engaging with our community. The Christmas services were all well attended – with over 150 at Community Carols - and higher numbers overall than in 2024. The development of the church building, highlighted in last year’s Warden’s report, is beginning to bear fruit as St Luke’s is hosting increasing numbers of both occasional events and regular groups. It is expected that this will continue in 2026. Following the encouragement drawn from the Cotswold Bible Festival we have decided to hold a church Away Day at Harnhill Christian Centre in October. 50 people have already indicated they will attend. We pray that this will be a blessing to our whole church. Tan’s Coffee Van has operating through its second winter. Sadly, due to rising costs, Tan has decided, with great regret, to close down. Tan has been a real blessing to St Luke’s and we wish her well for the future. There have been several new initiatives this year. The ‘Ageing Gracefully’ course has attracted over 30 sign ups and it is to be hoped that this and other courses can be offered to the church and our community in the months ahead. The summer church brunches provided Fellowship after the 10.00am service and will continue – as will the Lent lunches. 2 new Groups have been established this year – Men’s Bible Study (on Tuesday` mornings) and Early Morning Prayer (on Thursday mornings) These are well-attended and are a source of encouragement for the members. Prayer is so vital to the life of any church and so it is good to see Prayer after church and that CONNECT numbers continue to gently grow. We have seen new CONNECT leaders this year and this will be extended over the next 12 months. Please keep Patrick and Louise W – and their family - in our prayers as they negotiate the increasing demands of parish life and manage the commitments of a busy home. Life at St Luke’s relies on the dedication and hard work of many volunteers. We thank them for their service as they serve God, our church and this community. Finally, we remind you that churchwardens are most effective when they can represent the views of the congregation and offer advice to the vicar. Please continue to share your views! 10 ## **PASTORAL CARE MARION B** – **PASTORAL CARE COORDINATOR** Pastoral Care at St Luke’s comes under our value of Loving One Another and is shown in many ways by many people across our congregation in different settings. For example, it may be focussed on an individual who needs support through illness, bereavement or is having a hard time for whatever reason; or through opportunities for fellowship and getting to know one another better; or through celebrating special occasions in the Church’s year or for individuals. There are many other expressions of loving care to be found in our congregation - e.g. through the offer of Personal Prayer after monthly communion services - and beyond to our local community, such as taking communion to our local care homes, Oakhaven and Thirlestaine Park. Pastoral Team Patrick, Ernie, Andy, Alice, Pete and I have met regularly approximately every two months to share concerns and raise awareness of those in particular need, as well as looking out for any newer members and keeping track of upcoming events. I am in regular contact with Catherine M should any safeguarding concerns arise and with Sarah H for updates to the weekly prayer requests sent by email. Activities Particular highlights from last year were: - Our summer trip to Burford, where a group of us enjoyed a guided tour of St John’s Church with tea and cakes in the café in the Warwick Hall, conveniently located just opposite - Knitting Easter eggs and Christmas stars (which were displayed in church on Advent Sunday) for delivery to Cheltenham’s care homes by the local Anna Chaplaincy group - Christmas “Puds and Pies” social in early December. We now have a Pastoral Visitor agreement which has been approved by the PCC for anyone who would like to consider visiting on behalf of St Luke’s. This spring we have run the “Ageing Gracefully” course, which looks at later life from a Christian perspective. It was great to have its creator, Dr Ian Donald, to lead the majority of the sessions. Future My time as Pastoral Care Co-ordinator for St Luke’s will come to an end in December this year, as I was appointed in 2021 for five years after my pastoral training by the Diocese. I have given some thought to the development of this role during my time in it and have identified a number of distinct areas of activity, which could be shared amongst a small team to maintain and grow pastoral care within our church family and into the wider community. Do have a chat with me if you are interested in finding out more of what’s involved, Thanks I remain as ever grateful to those who visit and keep in touch with others and provide practical help, lifts and cakes on request, as well as those who support me personally and in practical ways, especially our Pastoral Team and my Prayer Group. ## **CARE HOMES ERNIE H** Monthly communion is taken into the two care homes in the parish (Oakhaven & Thirlestaine Park) along with some of the residents of Cedar Court (the independent apartments next door to Thirlestaine Park) joining the residents from the care home. It has also been helpful to have Marion B & Ann F-J joining the communion at Thirlestaine Park as and when they are available. From my personal view it continues to be a privilege to strengthen relations also with members of staff from both care homes and to serve St Lukes in this way. 11 ## **MISSION PARTNERS RICHARD and ANNIE F-J** - **MISSIONS COORDINATORS** Upon our appointment as Mission Partner Co-Ordinators for St Luke’s we were asked to review the existing relationships and suggest how the Church might move forward be that to continue without change or make alternative proposals. Our first task was to canvass the church congregation and to personally visit all of the existing Mission Partners. A number of key points came to light: - Several of the congregation did not know who all our Mission Partners were and felt a greater level of engagement was needed - The majority felt that we had too many Mission Partners (7 as at April 2025) - The St Luke’s relationship was viewed differently by those Partners and was also valued differently, some were not even aware that they were one of our Mission Partners From the visits and feedback received we prayerfully made a proposal to the PCC to reduce the number of active Mission Partners to three, these being: 1. Worldshare – Providing an International focus Cheltenham YMCA – Mission support in our own Parish with opportunities for greater involvement should we wish 2. Mike & Barbara Workman – they have a special relationship with St Luke’s and many church members. We can support Barbara in Operation Mobilisation and Mike with The Asian Friendship centre in East London and his work in Bangladesh 3. Arising from this our financial contribution to each will increase significantly, we will have greater opportunities to create closer ties and to support each Partner in prayer in a deeper way. The proposal was accepted by the PCC and various initiatives have flowed from this, some completed and others that are in hand. ## Actions so far: - Andrew Yelland from Worldshare preached at St Luke’s on 17th August 2025 and a special appeal for their - work in Gaza resulted in a fabulous number of individual donations amounting to £1,950 • St Luke’s have now committed to support the YMCA Space to Thrive campaign as part of their 170 year anniversary for the next three years and will contribute from the church tythe £4,800 per year. This will go towards welcome hampers, food vouchers and wellbeing support for those in their temporary accommodation. - The church tythe for 2025 has been paid to The Workman’s (OM) and to Worldshare and this amounted to £5,500 to each of them - Mike Workman preached on 1st February 2026 - An invitation has been made to the whole St Luke’s congregation to sign-up as a “Mission Partner ‘Partner”. The hope being that more people will be committed to praying for those we support and that they will also talk to others and share any news or specific issues and that any opportunities for practical help may be taken up - Tim Welch from the YMCA preaching on 22nd March 2026 - We hope to hold a Mission Partners lunch or similar event and this is being planned for Sunday 14th June 2026 when all three Mission Partners will be invited on the same day to share with the wider St Luke’s congregation As a side note Barbara Workman has written: “Just for information, OM's larger ship, Logos Hope, will be in London this summer, from 18 June to 7 July. It will be a great opportunity to introduce young people (and older people too!) to missions, and maybe to combine this with a visit to the Asian Friendship Centre. To learn more https://www.gbaships.org/en/logoshope 12 ## **ELECTORAL ROLL CATHERINE M - ELECTORAL ROLL OFFICER** The annual review of the Electoral Roll has been conducted and the current roll, which has been approved by the PCC, reflects the church membership as closely as possible. The revised list is on display in the church. A total of 4 names were removed for reasons of death or notice of leaving St Luke’s, and applications for membership have been received from 3 new regular attenders, so there is a net decrease of 1 on the roll. The number on the roll is therefore now 111 compared with 112 in 2025 when there was a full review of the Electoral Roll, which is carried out every 6 years. ## **SAFEGUARDING CATHERINE M** - **PARISH SAFEGUARDING OFFICER** Safeguarding in the context of the Church, in the Church of England and other denominations, as many will be aware, continues to create headlines in the news, sadly for negative reasons. It is incumbent upon all of us who belong to the church to be alert to the risks of what can go wrong, and it is the responsibility of all church members, not just those in positions of oversight in the church, to maintain a duty of care to all our children, young people and the vulnerable among us. For that reason, anyone who has any concerns about possible abuse has a duty to report it, either to Patrick as the Incumbent for St Luke’s, to Catherine Martin as Parish Safeguarding Officer, or to anyone on the PCC. Failing all these, contact can be made directly with the Diocesan Safeguarding team, or in a case of real emergency with the relevant public authorities. We take all the steps we are required to make to ensure that all those who are involved with children’s and young people’s activities in the church, and those who perform pastoral ministry to elderly and vulnerable church members, are compliant with these, and over the year those who have needed to renew their Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificates and Safeguarding training have done so. This and various other measures we are required to fulfil are recorded via our Parish Safeguarding Dashboard, which has a healthy 96% completion score, with only a few actions currently remaining, although others will be due for regular updating. One of these is for the PCC to consider how they can better promote a healthy and safe church culture, as they are required to review every 3 years. This does not imply we do not already a safe culture already in place, but to ensure it continues to be promoted and expanded upon where it can be. The PCC had this on the agenda for review at its March meeting, and actions arising will be taken forward in the coming year. Bishop Robert, Bishop of Tewkesbury was last year appointed as the Church of England’s Lead Bishop for Safeguarding. In his words “At the heart of all this, is my firm conviction that safeguarding should be received by the Church not as a burden, but as a joyful opportunity for service, to share life in all its fullness as we have received it in Jesus Christ.” May we at St Luke’s share fully in this service. ## **FLOWER BUNCH CATHERINE B** We have 11 members now. We have welcomed 2 new members Jill and Gwynne. One member had to step down. The Flower Bunch work very hard to make beautiful flower arrangements throughout the year except during Lent. We work in pairs on a rota and come to together as a group for the big festivals such as Christmas, Easter and Harvest. We very much appreciate Sylia L's decorations at Christmas. 13 ## **DEANERY SYNOD PETER B - DEANERY SYNOD REP** There were 3 meetings of the Deanery Synod (DS) in 2025. A curious year, during which time the Area Dean, Andrew Blyth, stood down prior to his move to a new job in another Diocese. Although Roger Widdicombe stood in as deputy, this is a temporary role as it has been agreed within the Diocese (although the Deanery was given no vote on this change) that the job of Area Dean should be taken over by an Operations Manager. The time scale for this is not certain. The Synod was addressed by the Diocesan Advisor on Stewardship and Giving about planned giving, fund raising and legacies. No new solutions were offered. Working out of the parish Share request and providing updates to the Deanery Strategic Plan have been spun off to sub groups who reported developments. No input was requested from or provided by the DS as a whole. To our astonishment, (and provided without any detail) the acting Area Dean reported (and this seemed to come a surprise to him too) that the Diocese had sold a parcel of land in Leckhampton which raised a very significant capital sum which (again, without the DS having any chance to consider, debate or vote on the subject) was to be used to supplement clergy stipends for 7 years and pay for an operations manager for each deanery (see above). There was an encouraging report from Ben Williams, Principal of All Saints Academy, about significant changes to what is now the largest Church of England School/Foundation in the Diocese. In the final meeting, there was an update as to progress (or lack of it) appointing an Operations Manager. There was a short update as to the work of Cornerstone. Finally, there was a report about the work of Gloucester Night Stop doing useful work to fill in the short term needs and housing “gaps” unavoidably left by the mainstream homeless charities and local government or social services departments. In closing, this will be my final year as DS rep and I commend the role to whoever shall succeed me. There are glimpses of life and hope amid the frustrations of the diverse beast that is the Anglican Church in Cheltenham. 14 ## **REVIEW OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES AND AFFAIRS JONATHAN C - PCC TREASURER** The PCC Treasurer is responsible for the management and reporting of PCC finances through the year, drafting the year-end accounts, and arranging for their independent examination. This review summarises the income and expenditure during 2025, noting any significant items and trends. ## Income - Regular Giving: the Parish Giving Scheme now represents over 80% of regular and casual giving, and remains the easiest way to support the church. Regular giving stayed level compared to 2024, but cash collections at services reduced by a third. - Donations: the church continues to receive generous gifts from members of the church family either instead of, or in addition to, regular giving. - Tax reclaimed under Gift Aid: much of our giving is tax-efficient, leading to a tax reclaim of nearly £25,000 through the year. - Grants: the PCC received generous grants from St Luke’s Church Hall, particularly in support of our Ministry Assistant. - Other: we continue to receive regular income from parking in the churchyard, and from use of the church building. ## Expenditure - Running Costs: these costs increased by some 20% in 2025, driven by increases in utility bills and general expenses reflecting the vibrant church activity through the year. - Major Maintenance and Development: the work to the chancel steps area in the transept is now - complete, and we are progressing steadily with a programme of works to the church stonework. • Parish Share: the PCC paid a Parish Share to the Diocese of £72,036 in 2025, in accordance with our commitment. - Mission Giving and Charitable Contributions: mission giving payments were made to 7 charities from 2024 income: Worldshare, Operation Mobilisation, Cheltenham YMCA, Cheltenham Youth for Christ, A Rocha UK, Wycliffe Mission, and The Rock Cheltenham. A further contribution was made to Worldshare of - £1,950 for their Gaza appeal in the year. £16,500 was allocated for our mission partners from 2025 funds, nearly 20% higher than the budget, reflecting the higher income received in the year. ## Summary 2025 was a reasonably good year in financial terms. Income was slightly lower than in the prior year, mainly due to a large legacy in 2024, but congregational giving is stable. We recognise that all giving is thanks to God’s provision and our trust remains in Him. Costs increased in 2025, mainly due to running costs, and also completion of the work in the transept around the chancel steps to enhance both our worship and the flexibility of the building. However, repair work costs were down by 60%. Our net assets increased by £20,133 to £216,354 allowing us to consider carefully how to apply these blessings in the furtherance of God’s Kingdom in 2026. In addition, we recognise that some ongoing maintenance work slowed in 2025 and this must be addressed going forward to secure our building for future mission. Further cost increases are expected in 2026, particularly with Parish Share, so we must continue to consider prayerfully how we can support the flourishing life and mission of our church. My personal thanks go to Linda who continues to cover all the Gift Aid activity, to Andrew who has taken some of the financial duties, to Terry and Linda for approvals, and especially to Giles for his continuing support as past treasurer. Thank you also to Sally, our independent examiner, who has confirmed her willingness to continue for another year and of course to you all for your prayerful support. 15 ## **Administrative** ## **Parochial Church Council Annual** ## **Report 2025 Legal and** Legal and administrative information, including details of the Parochial Church Council (PCC) members who served during the year is shown on a separate page. ## **Aims and Organisation** The main purpose of the PCC is defined in the Parochial Church Councils (Powers) Measure 1956 (as amended) as “to co operate with the minister in promoting in the parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical”. Inter alia, it is also to consider and discuss matters concerning the Church of England The PCC met five times during the year. There were no extraordinary meetings (EGM). The standing committee met informally. The PCC operated as part of the united benefice with St. Mary/The Minster with St. Matthew. ## **Review of Progress, Decisions and Achievements** In this year and in addition to the usual financial, structural (to the building), ministerial, safeguarding updates and development issues, there were a number of items for discussion including: - The Safeguarding continues to be updated according to recent developments this includes the Dashboard being reviewed and updated by Catherine Martin & Rachel Smith. Safer recruitment is included in its remit and the action plan it is approved. DBS and Safeguarding training requirements are in place. The PCC also approved a policy on the recruitment of ex-offenders. > � On completion of building improvements the PCC has new and ongoing users. Not all of these have become active, however protocols have been developed and established. > � Mission Partners have been discussed and reviewed in considerable depth. > � Current and future staffing needs were discussed and agreed upon. - Tan’s coffee box, a financially independent coffee hut has closed April 2026 > � Reports from the Pastoral Coordinator were received. Other topics for discussion are covered in more detail in other reports. Thanks is given to all who provided reports and information. Colleen Powell PCC Secretary (April 2026) 16 ## **ST LUKE’S CHURCH HALL SIMON B - HALL TREASURER** ## **Report on St Luke’s Church Hall for 2025 – For 2026 APCM** The Church Hall is managed separately from the church (as the St Luke & St John Ecclesiastical Charity, registered charity no. 1078441) and its report and accounts are formally presented to the Meeting of Parishioners that is held before the APCM. Please refer to those for more detail. ## The trustees were: - the Vicar and Wardens ex-officio; Revd Patrick W, and Linda P and nominees of the PCC: Lisa C (Chairman), Simon B (Treasurer) and Robert B. The trustees are very grateful to our dedicated part-time staff, Sylvia L the Bookings Manager and Lesley T the Facilities Manager. Income was £79,826. Income from room lettings (£61K) was up from 2024. Total expenditure was £80,534. This included a £15K loss on the FireTruck subsidiary. The trustees made grants totalling £13.6K. These included £4K to Alice P to allow her to finish her theology studies, £4.1K to Saint John’s School to fund their use of The Rock facility, and to support music in the school in various ways (including a school visit to the pantomime) and £5.5K to the PCC to help fund the Ministry Assistant post and to further hospitality & community engagement at St Luke’s – a project that has now ceased. An acoustic movable wall was installed in the small hall to create a soundproof partition, enhancing its use as two separate rooms when required. We were grateful to Jonathan C for an upgrade to the audio system in the main hall, including remote control of the volume via an app. We replaced the digital piano, which had been damaged. The Church Hall is well maintained and is a major asset to the community and to furthering the work of the church in the parish. The Hall website has a page (http://www.stlukes-hall.org.uk/hall-users/) that lists the many activities that go on there.