## **RUGBY METHODIST CHURCH CENTRE** ## **ANNUAL REPORT** ## **CONTENTS** Minutes of Church Council Meeting 10[th] July 2024 p 2 - 6 REPORTS FROM CHURCH ORGANISATIONS Church Council and Leadership Team p 7 Our Calling – Worship p 7 - 9 Our Calling – Learning and Caring p 9 - 11 Our Calling – Mission and Service p 12 - 14 Property p 14 - 15 Finance p 16 - 21 ## **RUGBY METHODIST CHURCH CENTRE** ## **RUGBY METHODIST CHURCH CENTRE | CHURCH COUNCIL MINUTES WEDNESDAY 10[TH] JULY 2024** ## **WELCOME** Revd Nathan welcomed everyone to the meeting and Dorn agreed to take the Minutes for this Church Council. ## **OPENING DEVOTIONS** Revd Nathan led devotions based on Exodus 3 and the burning bush, recognising that God calls each of us. God says ‘I will be with you, you are not alone’. ## **ATTENDANCE:** Rev Nathan, Linda Sore, Stuart Sore, Stephen Arthur, Howard Binns, Mike Margetts, Dorn Margetts, Susan Heinink, Ruth Bemrose, Colin Bemrose, Peter Richard, Jane Richard, Sue Beckett, Jan Hinds, Andrew Peck. ## **APOLOGIES:** Ruth Henderson, Mike Fielding, Regina Owusu. ## **MINUTES FROM MEETING HELD ON SATURDAY 3[RD] FEBRUARY 2024** Amendment: The situation regarding keys and internal doors was clarified. All key holders have a master key. User key holders do not. ## **MATTERS ARISING** *There are still copies of the book on the church history available. The book needs to be publicised wider. It was suggested they are taken to Circuit Meeting ACTION: Nathan to advertise *The need for a named Circuit Steward to attend our meetings has been flagged up at Circuit Leadership Team. *Bleed Control sets. Sue McQuire has stepped back so ACTION: Andrew Peck will investigate acquiring a Bleed Control kit ## **CORRESPONDENCE received & to be sent** *No correspondence received for meeting. *Brian Baker has received a note of thanks for his years of service as organist. *Cards of thanks to be sent to: Marie Thomas for her role as Meeting Secretary Rachel Binns for her role as Council Rep. Ruth Henderson as she moves from her role as Lay Community Chaplain to one with Coventry Cathedral. ACTION: Dorn to send out cards ## **NOTICE OF ANY OTHER BUSINESS** None received ## **WHERE IS GOD AT WORK AT RMCC** Church Mission Plan: There was some discussion and clarification. The plan looks good on paper, but we need to make it happen. 2 Priorities need to be set at all levels (District, Circuit, here at RMCC). We have several house groups, and morning prayers, we should raise the profile of these. We should consider are we heading in the right direction? Tiny tots is a good example of out reach. ACTION: Each Church Council meeting we should ask how we are progressing. Some points from the Action Plan should be in the Newsletter each month (action - Nathan) Breakfast Church to be introduced from September (when it is a 5[th] Sunday), congregation to be consulted about what the best time is. An evening of Prayer & Praise to be introduced once a month, congregation are to be consulted about what is the best evening. Worship Leaders should be aware of JDS (Justice Dignity Solidarity) calendar. Inclusion Plan *We are a dementia friendly church, there has been training in the past. We should consider refresher training. *Torch Trust (Blind & partially sighted) we have a partnership with them. We have a notice to that effect. The Trust says we should ask an individual what it is we can do for them. Discussion around possible need for braille, but Torch Touch has indicated braille is not used a lot *The plan as presented is based on the Methodist one. There was some conversation around the plan and its purpose. We acknowledge the following points: -This is not just buzz words but shows a true intent. -The plan is not just for us but for ‘comers’ those who are seeking joining a church where they feel included. *A number of the roles in the Inclusion plan stated the name of a female, it was acknowledged the roles have frequently been held by women, it was felt that it was only necessary to state that roles were held not to name individuals. *Clarity around the wording of ‘no bars’ for people with disability of all sorts was sought, as it was recognised there have been concerns in the past about disruption. *The meeting was asked ‘Is it right that we join the Inclusive Church Network?’ There was unanimous agreement to join, and the following resolution was adopted: **The Trustees of Rugby Methodist Church Centre supports the Inclusive Church statement of belief: We believe in inclusive Church – a church which celebrates and affirms every person and does not discriminate. We will continue to challenge the church where it continues to discriminate against people on the grounds of disability, economic power, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, learning disability, mental health, neurodiversity, or sexuality. We believe in Church which welcomes and serves all people in the name of Jesus Christ; which is scripturally faithful; which seeks to proclaim the Gospel afresh for each generation; and which, in the power of the Holy Spirit, allows all people to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Jesus Christ. ACTION: Our membership of the Inclusive Church network will be put in Newsletter once confirmed (Nathan) ## **CIRCUIT MATTERS** *Andrew Farrington’s leaving service is on Sunday 21[st] July 4pm at Rothwell *Deacon Georgina Brooks is not seeking a re-invitation, so will leave Circuit in the summer of 2025 *The Welcome Service for Rev Nathan as Superintendent and Rev Brian Hutton as Minister of Daventry, Broadwell, and Lutterworth will be held on Thursday 29[th] August 7pm @ Daventry. *District Welcome Service for Rev Dr Sonia Hicks is on Saturday 3[rd] August 2:30pm @ Park Avenue Methodist Church Northampton 3 ## **WORSHIP** Worship group report accepted. ## **LEARNING & CARING** Pastoral Matters *Candidates for Confirmation and Membership _None at the time of the meeting_ *Reception of Christians from other Communions into Membership of Methodist Church Jeremy Butt Sarah Butt Hilda Gilbert *Transfers in Sylvester Tomety (Methodist Church in Ghana) following communication from Minister in Ghana *Transfers out Cathy Harrison Should anybody else seek membership before the next Church Council it was agreed to delegate responsibly to the Leadership Team. It was noted that on Easter Day Naomi Lenoir-Evans and Mia Gilbert were baptised and confirmed but concern was expressed that we have not seen them since. ACTION: Ruth Henderson to be asked if she knows how they are (maybe going through exams etc) ## **Safeguarding** Nothing to report ## **Justice, Dignity, Solidarity** (Regina/Jan) No report ## **MISSION & SERVICE/ EVANGELISM** Leadership Team Report accepted *Faith Development should now be known as Breakthrough and healing. This group arose post covid because of Facebook/online connections. Some people from Rugby Elim are looking to join the group. It is a space for folk to come as individuals, a space for things to happen. There needs to be thought around issues of safeguarding and theological differences. Jan is aware and working on concerns. ## **Mission& Outreach** Rugby Pride. It was really good to be involved in Rugby Pride The banner was a very helpful and drew lots of positive attention. ## **Rugby Community Hub.** The Hub had an impromptu Environmental Health Inspection, and we await the report. Currently Hub open 3 days a week 10am -12pm Jane covers every Thursday There is a need to have meeting to discuss what is happening (Hub Committee) ACTION; Plan meeting Users are asking ‘When will you be doing meals” The concern is they will go elsewhere. ## **SUPPORT GROUPS** Administration 4 Website – There is a need for a webmaster. Naomi Ensor could be asked to help us to update it as a one-off but we need someone who can regularly ensure that all the information is current Facebook - Revd Nathan is endeavouring to be added as an administrator ACTION: Jan to ask Revd Jane for the password Church Council Secretary – ACTION We all need to think about who we feel is suitable for this role. Property Report accepted Boiler Service - A new contract is being sought Eco Initiative - Phil Helmsley’s advice is being sought re: solar panels Finance Stephen talked us through his report. The budget was accepted Rugby Benevolent Fund need to be made aware that we don’t currently have a Lay Community Chaplain – we may need to return funds from June onwards (£500) It was agreed that a donation of £150 be sent to Inclusive Church, an amount equivalent approx. to £1 per member. Stuart confirmed that the Annual report has been submitted to Charity Commission and reminded the meeting that we need to have reserves to pay for 6 months expenditure. Appointments The following were re-appointed en-bloc: _Worship_ Co-ordinator (LT) Regina Owusu Worship Leaders Sue Beckett, Colin Bemrose, Sarah Currie, Mike Fielding, Regina Owusu Communion Stewards Chris Fryer & Corina Fryer _Pastoral_ Secretary (LT) Linda Sore Pastoral visitors Ophelia Acheampong, Sue Beckett, Howard Binns, Rachel Binns, Sarah Currie, Maame Damoah, Ruth Henderson, Janet Hinds, Mike Fielding, Corina Fryer, Jan Gee-Russell, Vasanthy Karunakaran, Dorn Margetts, Regina Owusu, Kenneth Ridley, Jennie Rutte, Chris Sidley, Linda Sore, Sarah Stanley, Marie Thomas, Heide Wells, Robert Wilson, Christine Wyatt Cradle Roll Stephanie Gray Faith Development (LT) Jan Hinds _Finance & Property_ Treasurer (LT) Stephen Arthur Independent Examiner Doug Wells Property Steward (LT) Peter Richard _Administration_ Church Council Secretary _Vacant*_ Safeguarding Officers (LT) Jane Richard and Linda Sore Howard as rep for Eco Church Circuit Committee 5 Representatives to the Circuit Meeting: Mike Margetts (Church Steward), Stephen Arthur (Church Treasurer), Susan Heinink Any Other Business None received Closing Prayer Revd Nathan closed the meeting in prayer at 9.20pm ## **Next Church Council Meeting – Wednesday 16[th] October** 6 ## **REPORTS FROM CHURCH ORGANISATIONS** ## **2023 - 2024** ## **CHURCH COUNCIL and LEADERSHIP TEAM** **Church Council** has met termly during the past year. We have continued to review the activities of the church under the four Our Calling headings – Worship, Learning and Caring, Mission and service, and Evangelism. There is always something in each section for which we can give thanks to God. Matters raised by the supporting groups, especially Property and Finance also receive due attention. We do not currently have a Church Council Secretary and are hoping someone will come forward to take on this role. Significant topics of discussion and decision have been: - Church Mission Plan - Inclusion Plan – RMCC is now part of the Inclusive Church Network - Rugby Community Hub - Church Website and Communication - Defibrillator - Policy updates - Safeguarding and GDPR - Church membership - The need for more Stewards The **Leadership Team** have met monthly where possible. The team brings proposals to Church Council for discussion and takes forward decisions made by Church Council, so helping the life of the Church to move on between Council meetings. Discussion has focussed on how to respond to issues and needs within the church, so we can continue to serve God and the local community, to grow and extend the reach of ministry. We must be open to change and support one another. Jane Richard ## **OUR CALLING - WORSHIP** ## **WORSHIP GROUP** The Worship Group has met 3 times since the last report, mostly to discuss and plan the pattern of Worship on Sundays and at other times during the week, especially during the Advent, Christmas and Lent and Easter seasons. Rev Nathan has led several successful evening Inclusive Services during the year. We were sorry to say goodbye to Mike Fielding as he moved to Scotland and now have only 4 Worship Leaders – Rev Nathan is planning to hold some evening training at RMCC for anyone interested in learning more about what is involved. Could this be you? A replacement large print Lectern Bible was discussed by the group and taken to Church Council, but the large cost involved was deemed an unnecessary expense at this time. Jane Richard ## **CHURCH STEWARDS** The work of the Stewards is mostly about ensuring that Church services and some other events at Church run smoothly. It is mainly routine and straightforward, but nonetheless very necessary. There are presently three Stewards who are willing to serve for a further year. The Church would benefit from more people getting involved. As already mentioned, it is not a difficult job, but the more Stewards there are, the less onerous it becomes. There is also scope for flexibility; people can assist without necessarily becoming full Stewards. For example, there is a real need for people to help with 7 arranging the seating for Sunday services. While full stewards have a leadership role, those willing to assist in various functions wouldn’t have to take on that too. I wish to thank two people in particular for the assistance they have given the stewards over the past year: Sue Smith for operating the PA at Sunday services, and Allen Chan for stewarding at some of the other events at Church. Please consider either becoming a Steward or assisting. Then, if you feel that you can help in any way, or would like to know more, please talk to one of the Stewards. The same applies to the AV Team: more people are needed to help with this work, (which is done using SongPro software on the Church laptop) so if you think you could do it, or would like to learn, please talk to Peter Richard or Steve Sirman. Howard Binns – Senior Church Steward ## **PRAYER** ## **Resources** Various resources are available to enable both private and corporate prayer. Each member has a copy of the church’s annual prayer list which gives some ideas and texts to help with individual prayers. For each day of the month it also suggests a particular part of the church and the names of a few of the church’s members so that all are covered in the course of each month. The District Prayer Diary is made available online and also some printed copies to enable different parts of the District’s mission to be remembered. Some members subscribe to the annual Methodist Prayer Handbook which helps with prayer for the worldwide Methodist Church. The prayer room within the church is available for private prayer and is now used as the church vestry as well as monthly services of Holy Communion and for some small meetings. ## **Prayer chain** The so-called prayer chain has over 40 members who receive prayer requests and messages on-line. The prayer chain continues to be used extensively enabling people to keep up to date with ongoing situations as well as new, and often urgent, requests for prayer. A dwindling few members receive these on-line messages by phone. The prayer chain is seen as a valuable vehicle for mobilising individual prayer on a rapid basis There is an ongoing opportunity for more people to be involved in this prayer ministry which is a vital part of the church’s response to needs of many sorts. If you are not currently involved then do ask one or other of the people named below who will be delighted to add your name to the list. There is no obligation other than to include the relevant matter in your private prayers as you are able. For the email list the contacts are Colin Bemrose (colin@crbemrose.co.uk or 01788 810978) or Sue Beckett (nic7laura@virginmedia.com or 01788 336648). Requests for prayer (with the permission of the person involved) can be made to either of those named or to the minister, Rev Nathan Falla. ## **Morning Prayer** From 8.30 to 9.00 am each weekday morning a small group of people meet on Zoom for morning prayers. The format also enables individuals to join by telephone. There is a core attendance of 7 or 8 people and some who come less frequently. This time normally opens and closes with a very short part of a morning liturgy from the Northumbrian Celtic Community. Prior to a time of prayer there are two bible passages and commentary published on the Methodist “Word in Time” series leading to a short discussion of suggested points to ponder. Prayer follows using the three resources listed above as a basis for prayer along with specific prayers as appropriate. Each session is normally led by one of the group on an informal rota basis. The short time set aside each morning is found to be a fitting start to the day’s activities. If you would like to participate in this cycle of prayer, please ask Rev Nathan or the writer for the Zoom code. Colin Bemrose 8 ## **FLOWER ARRANGING** My appreciation to the ladies who have ably provided assistance during the past twelve months with the fortnightly flower arranging roster. Some ladies assist on a regular basis whilst others participate occasionally and thereby we keep the church supplied with flowers. The involvement of a range of people has enabled us to have formal pedestal displays, attractive vase arrangements and a variety of artificial flower arrangements over the past twelve months. Some arrangers kindly pay for their own flowers for which I thank you, but money is available should arrangers require payment. Please do ask. We also remain happy to do a pedestal arrangement for a specific date or event, and to use flowers or colours if we are given about three weeks’ notice. Though we do have a group of ladies who help with the arrangements should any ladies or gentlemen (some of the top arrangers at NAFAS are gentlemen) wish to participate please add your name to the roster found on the table at the back of the church. The task involves purchasing your flowers (alstromeria, chrysanthemums and carnations are particularly long lasting), then doing the arrangement and afterwards keeping the water topped up or oasis damp for the two-weeks between arrangements. If you require additional information, please speak to me. My appreciation once more. Josephine Royle ## **OUR CALLING - LEARNING AND CARING** ## **Pastoral Report** RMCC’s membership stands at 111. Since the last annual report Sarah and Jeremy Butt, Hilda Gilbert and Ron Bevan have been welcomed into membership. Lesley Sturman and Sylvester Tomety have transferred their membership to RMCC. Sadly, 8 members have passed away.; Mac Mkandawire, Andrew Peck, Olive Partington, Roger Beckett, Robert Wilson, Jeff Stafford, Roma Stafford and Philip Carter. In January Rebaz Hassan was baptised. Pauline Lilley has transferred her membership out. All church members have a Pastoral Visitor to support them with prayer and practical care, if needed. If you know of anyone who is unwell or needs support but you do not know who their Pastoral Visitor is, please contact me. Equally, if anyone wishes to know more about becoming a member of the church, please speak to Rev Nathan Falla. Part of my role is to keep an accurate record of members' contact details, so if anyone moves house, changes their phone number or email, please do let me know. Be assured this information is not shared except with Rev Nathan and the relevant Pastoral Visitor. Linda Sore Pastoral Secretary ## **SAFEGUARDING** ## **Safeguarding Report** Safeguarding of children, young people and vulnerable adults is treated with great importance in the Methodist Church. RMCC has a Safeguarding Policy, which is reviewed and updated annually by Church Council, in line with the Methodist Church's guidelines. By the end of May each year, we are also required to update the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) checklist, ensuring we have all guidelines up to date. This has been done. Copies of the RMCC Policy Statement are displayed in several places around the building giving details of who to contact if anyone has a concern over a potential safeguarding issue. Our full policy is displayed on the lounge noticeboard. We also advise that children should be supervised at all times while on the premises, including in the toilets. 9 Everyone who is paid to work with or volunteers to work with children, young people or vulnerable adults is asked to complete a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check and to attend a safeguarding awareness course. (Creating Safer Spaces). All Local Preachers and Worship Leaders, plus paid workers and Church Safeguarding representatives are required to complete the Advanced Safeguarding course. Each of these courses should be renewed every 4 years. Outside groups who use the premises are asked to sign that they agree to abide by our policy, if they do not already have one of their own. Safeguarding of children, young people and vulnerable adults is everyone's concern **.** If you have a concern, please speak to one of us or to Rev. Nathan Falla. Jane Richard and Linda Sore Church Safeguarding Representatives ## **FELLOWSHIP GROUPS** ## **WORDSWORTH FELLOWSHIP** ## **Annual Report** Apart from some holiday weeks, Wordsworth Fellowship has continued to meet each week for the past year. There has been a regular attendance of 10 or 11 people meeting on a Tuesday evening in one of four different homes. Usually the evening is led by the host but this is not necessary. The group is greatly blessed by having a wide range of experience and views which can lead to helpful debates and insight. Discussions can serious or light-hearted, but almost without fail subsequent discussions over tea and biscuits are lively and extensive! Since completing a long series of studies in St John’s gospel, a variety of ad hoc topics relevant to Christian living in the 21[st] century has been covered. This has been supplemented by some studies in a series called “Good Soil” produced within the East Mercia Circuit on a fortnightly basis. Currently a new series of studies is being sought. In the summer an outdoor social evening with drinks and nibbles was hosted one member As ever, new members are always welcome. Colin Bemrose On behalf of the group. ## **ACCESS FELLOWSHIP** Access is a small bi-weekly fellowship group. We meet on the 2nd, 4th, 5th Wednesday each month at 8pm. We rotate around each other’s homes, and take turns to lead the meeting, but understand some prefer not to host or lead. Recently we have been using the circuit bible study ‘Good Soil’. We like to invite visiting speakers sometimes. Should you feel you have something interesting to share please let us know, we are good listeners, and questioners! We would be delighted to have to put out more chairs, so if you would like to join us please contact Dorn. We understand work & family commitments mean not everyone can make it always. Please let me know if you would like to know more. Dorn Margetts (dornmargetts@aol.com) 10 ## **PUBLICITY** ## **RMCC NEWS Annual Report** The present format of RMCC News has now reached 25 monthly issues. The editors aim to include not only items of specific relevance to RMCC but also items of wider interest from the Circuit, the District and the Methodist Connexion, and ecumenical matters locally and nationally. The aim is to produce RMCC News for the first Sunday in the month. Each issue starts with a pastoral letter from the minister, Rev Nathan Falla, and also includes details of forthcoming services for the ensuing month along with the names of those particularly involved with that worship. In this respect, RMCC News seeks to occupy the space formerly filled by weekly notice sheets. RMCC News cannot continue without regular information from all parts of the church and relies on this basic flow of information including diary dates and forthcoming activities. It continues to be difficult to obtain timely information for each issue. Items of family news (with the subject’s consent) are always welcome. As well as items specifically sent for inclusion in News each month, a variety of sources are used. These include the weekly Methodist News service. The church also has a subscription to “Parish Pump” which offers a wide variety of illustrations, articles, anecdotes, cartoons and children’s items. Each month News is circulated electronically to those people on the church’s email list. Around 50 A5 booklets are printed each month and are available to all around the church. Please do not be shy to share it widely with those who come to the church for any reason. A number of larger print copies are also available. There is an additional email circulation list of around 15 people who used to be at the church or who have an interest in the church. The editors plead again for more feedback about content and presentation. What is helpful? What would you like to see more of? Or less? Do let us know. Without feedback we cannot know whether the publication is meeting a need or not. ## **Colin Bemrose Sue Heinink Editors** ## **POSTERS** We have continued to display a variety of posters on the main notice board fronting Russelsheim Way recognising the festivals of Christmas, Easter and Pentecost and generally offering a welcome to our church for all. A smaller selection of posters has been used at the notice board at the entrance to the car park and it is likely this will be used more by the Hub in future as it expands its activities. John Over 11 ## **OUR CALLING – MISSION AND SERVICE** ## **YOUTH AND FAMILY** ## **TINY TOTS** Tiny Tots meet every Thursday 9:30-11:00 during term time. We have a mixed group of carers, parents, grandparents, childminders, women & men. (Granddads are very popular and often have a number of children around them) As many of you are aware our toddler group has been here since RMCC opened, which makes it over 40 years old. It is because of the commitment of church members it has lasted this long. We now need more support, or it might become too much for too few. Could you help set up (9am for 20mins) Join in the fun: Give a warm welcome and chat with the carers & children (9:30 -11:00) Help tidy up (10:30-11:00) We would be grateful if you could help with one or all of the above. Or if you just want to pop in and say hello one week we would love to see you. Dorn Margetts (Tiny Tots Co-ordinator) ## **RUGBY COMMUNITY HUB** The first steps have been taken to serving lunch at the Hub Cafe by extending our opening hours to 2pm for one day per week, for the day for which there is the most demand. It is thought that Wednesday lunches would be popular, and would be an option for those who attend monthly midweek Holy Communion services. It is estimated that 2 extra volunteers are needed to open the cafe for an additional 2 hours on Wednesdays. To attract volunteers from DPH, it is planned to offer - free return transport from DPH to RMCC - compensation if a meal is missed at DPH, because they are volunteering at RMCC. - access to the RMCC Friday ESOL class (5:00pm to 6:00pm) and free return transport to attend - subject to agreement of the volunteer teacher - access to childcare during Friday ESOL class, Kids Club (4:30pm to 6.00pm) ## The Hub Committee ## **ENGLISH CLASS FOR SPEAKERS OF FOREIGN LANGUAGES (ESOL)** We were previously awarded a small grant by Warwickshire County Council’s Migrant Communities Grant Fund, which is a grant aimed at community and voluntary sector organisations which support asylum seeker, refugee, and migrant communities. The Fund is to support small-scale projects across Warwickshire that support the following outcomes: ## _**People fleeing conflict and persecution can rebuild their lives in Warwickshire, fulfil their aspirations and contribute to the social, economic and cultural life of the communities they live in.**_ We help to sustain the capacity of volunteer English language provision in Rugby for any newly arrived communities, including refugees, asylum seekers and migrants. - Improve English language skills. - Enable learners to access some language provision throughout the academic year before they are able to enrol on the mainstream ESOL provision, which is usually in September or January - Provide classes that can reach learners who have barriers to accessing mainstream classes such as transport/ childcare issues/ lack of former formal learning. The English Class is attended by people from several nationalities. (Between 12-16 students each Friday afternoon). Chelsie, the volunteer tutor, plans a variety of activities to develop spoken language 12 skills and introduce many of the hundreds of idioms we use in everyday conversation. She is supported by a small number of volunteers who work with individuals or small groups under her direction, but we can always use more. If you are interested in helping in this way, please speak to Howard Binns or Marie Thomas. Howard Binns and Marie Thomas ## **CHARITIES WE SUPPORT** ## **Action for Children Report** The Methodist Church has been linked with the charity Action for Children over many decades. Their mission is to protect and support children, young people and families with practical and emotional care, making sure their voices are heard. We regularly support the charity via our Christmas Day service collection, which amounted to £269.30 at the 2024 service. There are several ways to support the charity, such as collection boxes, regular giving etc for anyone wishes to. If you would like to know more about Action for Children, details are on their website actionforchildren.org.uk or have a word with me. ## **Linda Sore** ## **Action for Children representative.** ## **CHRISTIAN AID** After due consideration as to how we could raise money this year for Christian Aid I approached Reverend Nathan and received permission to hold a lunch. The Royle household became a hive of activity as I decided to do as much preparation as possible prior to the event. Cottage pies and vegetables were prepared and members of the church kindly donated desserts. A number of people commented on the wonderful range of puddings. A timetable for the lunch was prepared and went nearly according to plan. Once more wonderful members of the church helped with the raffle and serving of the meal. We served 48 meals in total in quick succession with some coming back for seconds. Having fed the body we had a quiz to exercise the mind. There were many smiles and much laughter during the lunch and I hope I'm correct in saying a good time was had by all. My sincere appreciation to all who helped, we couldn't have done it without you. Jose Royle ## **EXTRA MILE** Extra mile has gone through some changes this year with the completion of the school building, the appointment of a new CEO and the initial celebration of the school’s foundation. As a result of the amazing work of one of our trustees, Mr. Brian Hoy we have managed to secure a grant that has been sufficient to complete the installation of the windows and guards, the tiling of the classrooms and corridors and steps as well as providing lighting and power to the school. With the help of the Rotary Club of Rugby, a careers programme has been planned for later this year to help our leavers to find places of work or study. Mr. Luke Talmage was appointed as the new CEO of the charity in January 2025. A primary headteacher with much experience, he has already visited Sierra Leone to attend the Founder’s Day celebrations and continues to lead the 13 charity into a new era. Our initial Founder’s Day was celebrated with a dancing and singing music parade through the streets of Goderich. The local community turned out to join in with the festivities. This was followed by a number of speeches from several notaries from the village as well as senior staff from the school. Mike Fielding, the previous CEO has now moved to Scotland but still keeps in touch with the charity and attends all its meetings. For a while, the fund-raising in Rugby will continue whilst Roz Brookhouse and Jan Gee-Russell helping to provide the jams, marmalade, rhubarb and assorted vegetables for sale at RMCC and at other local events. This means that alongside other fund-raising the charity can still provide daily breakfasts as well as free text books, exercise books as well as a free uniform and other resources for the pupils. The hard working group of ladies who meet regularly in the Hub at RMCC continue to make a supply of reuseable sanitary pad packs for our pupils and this is so vital for the dignity of our girls, thank you. For all those who have helped Extra Mile in any way at all we say a great big thank you for your amazing help and support once again. Mike Fielding ## **THE MITE SCHEME** The Mite Scheme, which was started in 1986 by the late Mr Roy Barnett MBE, raised funds to purchase Oral Rehydration Sachets through UNICEF to keep children around the world healthy and safe. For a child suffering from cholera or malnutrition, five sachets could mean the difference between life and death. RMCC had been supporting the Mite Scheme for many years. However, earlier this year, UNICEF decided it would no longer focus funds on specific projects such as the Mite Fund and so the scheme has ceased. Our final donation amounted to £24.92 Thank you to all who have contributed over the years. Linda Sore ## **PROPERTY GROUP** The property group is responsible for looking after the fabric of the building, its systems and facilities. Some of the main work done this year is summarised below. **Plumbing work:** We have replaced the leaky toilet cistern in the vestry, removed the buddleia and organised the clearance of the blocked drain outside the toilet block, replaced the broken dishwasher in the kitchen with a Bosch model, fitted a second grab-rail in the disabled toilet, and replaced a faulty ball-cock valve in the loft. **Boiler work:** Following the retirement of our previous boiler engineer, Custom Heat have been engaged to service the boiler system, which was done in July 2024 for a cost of around £280. New thermocouples have been fitted, and although the third (standby) pump is still out of action and one of the programmers is a bit dodgy, the system continues to function remarkably well. **Fire Alarm System:** The alarm was triggered accidentally in April, and a new company (ISE Fire) was called in to fix the fault and service the system. They provided a full service for £210 and issued a certificate which is filed in the office. 14 **Roofing:** We have repaired the low-level roof verges, and a local roofer was engaged to deal with the high-level ridge and verge repair work identified in the last inspection. He is also due to fill and repaint the fleche (spire) in the next couple of weeks. **Railings:** Following the car crash into the front railings (again!) last November, an insurance claim was raised for the cost (around £2720) of replacing the railings like-for-like. The culpable driver was pursued through the courts and our excess was refunded as a result. **Eco initiatives:** the Eco Church Survey for silver award is being studied to see what needs to be done to qualify, and a meeting was held with representatives from Paddox Methodist Church to get local advice on the possibility of installing solar panels on the south side of the hall roof. This needs further investigation. Jose and her small gardening team continue to maintain the decorative plants and pots around the car park and front of church, and a scheme to catch and store rainwater for watering the plants is being considered. My thanks to Chris Fryer and Allen Chan for their help with various jobs, following the loss of Robert Wilson, Andrew Peck and Roger Beckett from the Property Group. Peter Richard, Chief Property Steward. ## **CHURCH BOOKINGS** All of our long-standing bookings have continued to hire the various rooms at RMCC for their meetings and activities – most of groups meet weekly in term time but Fitsteps and The Big Sing continue all through the year. The Church of Pentecost use the Church for Worship every Sunday afternoon and Saturday early evening. A large group of children have been using the hall on Saturday mornings and some afternoons to practise the 11+ under exam conditions. We also have a variety of one-off bookings including a church full of Primary School children taking part in a Singing Workshop organised by the Warwickshire Education Department, Boaters Christian Fellowship, Waterways Chaplains, Pawprints Dog Charity, the Ghanaian Society and successful concerts by Rugby Operatic and Musicals Society and the Scirocco Wind Band. Jane Richard ## **GARDENING** I do hope that you will agree that thanks to Roger, Robert, Anthony my gardener, Linda and myself that the garden and church front have looked well kept and attractive over the past twelve months. The pots have been kept in keeping with the seasons and the other gardens weeded regularly, a range of shrubs and plants added and will hopefully provide plenty of colour throughout the coming seasons. The large tree was lopped last Summer which helps in keeping the car park tidy. Thanks to Peter and Allen who slabbed the three beds by the church door. We now move into the Summer and any offers of assistance in keeping the garden tidy would be most gratefully received. Jose Royle 15 ## **Finance Group Report to RMCC AGM** The **Annual Accounts** for the year ended August 2024 accompany this report. The Accounts have been duly verified by Douglas Wells. **Notes on Annual Accounts - 2023/2024** ## **Opening and Closing Balances** The amounts carried forward from 2023/24 are as shown in the annual account. The restricted balance of £981 consists of the balances held for the Community Chaplain, Breakthrough and Benevolent fund. The unrestricted balance £108,630 was that of CFB, and General fund accounts. **Income** The offertory figure of £44,932 was lower than 2022/23. Lettings were £18,579 significantly lower than the previous year due to rent previously received from Community Hub. The Rugby Benevolent Group Fund paid £6,000 to support the work of Community Chaplain with the amount subsequently transferred to Circuit payroll. Member’s pledges for Community Chaplain and gift aid for the year was £2,275. An amount of £4,728 was received as interest from Central Finance Board account and tax recovered from gift aid amounted to £9,969. Other income of £3,254 consists of Migrant Fund, Tots, 40[th] Anniversary contribution, Benevolence and other miscellaneous. ## **Expenditure** As in the previous years, the major item of expenditure was the Circuit Assessment of £62,827. Expenditure on cleaning, repairs, and maintenance was £15,190 as compared to 2022/23 amount of £11,097. Utilities and insurance expenditure for the year was £9,053. Community Chaplain expenditure was £9,750 as compared to the previous year £20,368 was due to end of employment in March. Community Hub Manager expenditure for the three months was £2,064. Donations of £400 were made to The Bradby club and Hoskyn Community. ## **Budget for Year Ended August 2025** The budget for 2024/25 was presented at the Church Council in July 2024 for consideration and approval. ## **Position at End of August 2024** The balances in all accounts as of August 2024 were approximately £ 94,692 down from £109,611 at the end of August 2023. The restricted funds was £1,547. The overall deficit for the year was (£14,919) as compared with the previous year overall deficit of £10,879. Stephen Arthur- Treasurer 16 CHURCH RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS ACCOUNTS THE METHODIST CHURCH STANDARD FORM OF ACCOUNTS b Methodist Church Centre Church FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 August 2024 Circuit Circuit no. 23114 Registered Charity . Charity Registration number 1186270 If not a ￿giStered charty Hef Maiesly $ Revenue and Customs Gift Aid number lThe HMRC number is equivalent to a registered thanty number in terms of eviden￿ of charrlable status and may be used to give to donors or grant funders wshing to see ewdence of the organisatKJn's Charrtab￿ stalus. Methodist charrties in EnglarKI and Wales that are not registered Char￿eS are excepted from registralh)n under Statrrtory Instwmenl 2014 No.242) Minister. Rev. Nathan Falla Church Stewards" l&"chard Harris H¢)ward Bims Michael Margetts 'chard Rutte Treasurer.. Stephen Arthur P3)15Jls 1(*5 Accoiffifs F(Xi THE YEAR ENDED 31 AICAJST 2014 Rugby Methodist Church Centre Chwth SECTKXI A a1 RECEIPTS (JM" s ￿ Tax reco¥￿e￿ B￿k ￿ CFB irterttt Invesknent Ir￿ 53.561 1,340 S4.￿)7 55.173 a3 4728 18 579 18 579 23130 CAhet receiFIs TOTAL RECEPTS 1,2NJ 7& 11747 14087 13,977 92,184 18.869 la7) 5ECTKW B b1 PAYMENTS 827 59 365 4LiI 4LKJ If5 Manten3n UMth"es Ilwwces, w*er thaw. Wrrfj & IwJhtsTrJl 11097 9053 9053 9￿5 b7 5,427 91897 14,￿7 14207 19, 107,104 29,810 110.177 TOTAL PAYMENTS Ib91 SECTIJI C NE[ RECEJPTSIPAYkENts F(R THE YEAR c1 120 919 11).489 Sub total c1+c2 93 831 Tra1￿ ital knss. TOTAL FUNDS AT END OF YEAR 91145 1,547 94,692 Ic81 1Tr3,611 Ic61 SECTKXI D F(Mi IIFORMATK)N (*4LY: MONEY RECEIVEDANO PASSED ON TO EXTER￿ OR&4415ATIC*IS IIIMe •r￿U￿S are ￿110 be inclu(kd in total rtteW*ts fffjures ab(Nel d1 Bthce b ht frxwwdfr(￿ 716 sICAfts. teceNed frA extema o 2,051 B￿lCE STILL TO BE PAID Id1+d2-rf31 R by Metlwjdtst Church Centre SECnOME 1.115.07 1.210.73 004.34 Tlts é7 2.158 1.957 lan IX9191 109,611 94,692 BYCHURCH CLOSWO 109.511 94.692 31 738 1SWRwAP4b 3ty5 19 Nam• of Churth.. Rugby M•thodht Chur¢h ¢•ntr• Declarations and Scrutiny I wfimi that th•8e Rtt8ipt fjnd Payment based 8c¢>wnts forlhe year lo 31 August 2024 havo tw) prepwed th• rncords ofthe Church and th81 they Includ8 aH lund$ under lh8 conlrol of the Chwch InJs1￿. Sp3nobx• oftr•a&uw................... Name and address o[tr￿vrer........ 53 WindsorSITeei Rugty CV213NY Dats.. Ik-. ID-202* Stephen Arthur Prosent•llon to tho Church tru8tee• l ¢onfim IhBI Ihe annual report and aceounls for the year ended 31 Augusl 2024 were*AIFts' pr¢#w to the ma￿1n9 oflh• Church Iwstées hekl on ...l6* Signalutg of th8 Chairof the meeting Name of Chair ofthe meeting . Rev. Nathan Falla Dato16_10-2L Independent Examlner's Report to the Trn81ees of the Rugby Method18t Chur¢h Centr& Church Charlty Number. 1188270 Re3pon8lbllltle8 and ba81$ of rtrport I repon to the trustees on my examination ol Ihe acc(xJnl$ of thè Rugby Mathodist Church Contre. Church for the year ended 31 AugL*St 2024 set otst on pages P1 to P3. As the Chvreh's tnF3t•es, y>u are reSpk)nsIb￿ lor the preparatrjn of the ac¢ounls in accordance wrth the requtrom8nts of the Charits8 Aci 2011 I'tho Act'i. I report in respe¢t of my examinats'on of Ihe Chur¢h'$ accovnts ¢arrièd oul under ￿¢t￿n 145 01 Ihe Act and, in carrwng my exarnination. I have followed all the applKable Dirocth)ns given by tho Charity Commission un(lar section 14515llbl of Ihg Act. . delets OT clrclè as approprkate 2016¢M¥thR￿ pth 20 Name of Church Rugby Methodist Church Cenlre No 183 Independent Examiner's Statement I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination {other than that disclosed below") which give me cause to believe that in, any material respect: the accounting records were not kept in accordance with section 130 of the Act., or the accounts do not accord with the accounting records. Ithe [the I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection wilh the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. I havelhave not" obtained independenl verification of all investments with the Trustees for Methodist Church Purposes or held in other trust5, bank balances and funds at the Central Finance Board of the Methodist Church which are individually in excess of £10,000 (ten thousand pounds) at the balance sheet date. Signature of independent examiner Name of independent examiner VJ-ILS Relevant professional qualification of independent examiner Name of firm (where appropriate) Address l Q--n Post Code j,- Date delete or circle as appropriate Sep-23 2015 church R and P.￿$ 5of5