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2022-12-31-accounts

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ELEPHANT & CASTLE PARISH
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THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF CELESTIAL CHURCH OF CHRIST, ELEPHANT AND CASTLE PARISH

Sunday, 23rd July 2023 187 GLENGALL ROAD, LONDON SE15 6RS

AGENDA

1. OPENING PRAYER

2. INTRODUCTION OF THE EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE PAROCHIAL COMMITTEE

3. THE PRESENTATION:

4. THE FINANCIAL REPORTS

“Upon the proper presentation of the accounts for the year ending the 31st of December 2021, by the accountants, we the members of the Elephant and Castle Parish of the Celestial Church of Christ accept the accounts as presented.”

5. APPOINTMENT OF THE AUDITOR FOR THE COMING YEAR

“The Executive Committee of the Parochial Committee, having consulted with Turpin Barker & Armstrong, would like to recommend the said firm of Chartered Accountants and Auditors as the Parish Accountants and Auditors.”

6. RESOLUTIONS

“The trustees should be increased from 4 to 7, to include both Deputy Chairpersons plus a nominee [agreed by the Executive Committee] to ensure an odd number of trustees for voting purposes.”

7. ANY OTHER BUSINESS

8. ADJOURNMENT

9. CLOSING PRAYER

The Shepherd’s Address

I welcome all members of our great Parish to the 2022 Annual General Meeting (AGM).

First and foremost, I give thanks to God for fully seeing us through the Covid-19 Pandemic, which is now becoming a distant memory. Following years of uncertainty - and a global pandemic that has proven to be one of the most challenging events in history - we forged on, prepared to tackle what lay ahead. 2022 was a year to remember. After the tumultuous pandemic years of 2020-2021, many hoped that things would calm down a bit in 2022. There has been war in Europe, energy crises, record inflation, cost of living crisis, a royal Jubilee and a royal funeral, heatwaves, cold snaps, and strikes with no less than three prime ministers in Number 10!

Within our parish there had also been ups and downs. We lost a number of prominent members, including personal friends of mine. However, in all things we need to remember that God is God. God offers wisdom in the saying, “There is a time for everything . . . and a season for every activity under the heavens.” God is sovereign. Our activity in this world is meaningful when we rely on His wisdom, His timing, and His goodness. We cannot question the things He does, or challenge to ask why He does them. During the past year, we also celebrated many notable birthdays, marriages and christenings. All in all, we thank God for continuing to stand by us and guiding us. Whichever season you’re in, remember that God is making everything beautiful in its time.

I want to say thanks to the new Parochial Committee, led by Superior Senior Evangelist Gbenga Akande. I am impressed by the open debate and discussions which take place and ask each and every member of the Committee to continue to keep up the good work. “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not

give up” (Galatians 6:9). Every challenge we face in life is like a fork in the road. We have the choice to choose which way to go – backward, forward, breakdown or breakthrough. It is only by working together and challenging each other that we can achieve our breakthrough.

As our membership continues to grow, so does the financial income to the church. 15 percent of everything Christ said relates to the topic of money and possessions, more than His teachings on heaven and hell combined. Why did Jesus put such an emphasis on money and possessions? Because there’s a fundamental connection between our spiritual lives and how we think about and handle money. So, at this point I must commend Assistant Venerable Superior Evangelist Kupoluyi and all the treasury team for their efforts in managing our finances. It is not easy to satisfy people, but they are doing an excellent job to ensure that our money is spent wisely and prudently. Part of wise money management is investing for the future, and I am pleased that we have set up an Investment Board under the leadership of Superior senior Evangelist Odunlami.

I must also extend my gratitude to the Secretariat, ably led by Superior Senior Leader Ogunsami. Elephant and Castle Parish is one of the largest

parishes outside Nigeria and it is a huge job to manage the records, meetings, announcement and other activities that go with running an efficient office. Most of his team have young families, so please bear with them when you want letters produced, or other secretarial support. The Welfare Ministry is another key group that I must mention. Every week they handle requests for support from members who are in need. Many people like being recognized for their efforts. Matthew 6:1 says, “Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise, you have no reward from your Father in heaven.” They work behind the scenes, looking after the pastoral care of our members.

Tomorrow, 24th July, marks exactly three years since our former Shepherd, Assistant Venerable Superior Evangelist Julius Oladipo Shebioba, who was a foundation member of this parish and our Shepherd for 37 years, was laid to rest after passing away in March 2020. His service is commemorated by the Annual Baba She Bible Quiz, which concluded next Saturday, 29[th] July. and I encourage all members to support this event.

I would like us to remember one of his key phrases, often used when he was delivering a sermon, “Live today as if there is no tomorrow.” This is not a prayer for anyone to die, but for each and every one of us to reflect on the sort of life we are living, the sort of words we are speaking and our mindset. Everything we do must be geared towards our final destination in heaven. Proverbs 27:1 supports this by saying, “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth”. Do what you need to do today. Don’t put off doing the will of God.

One of the innovations of our previous Shepherd was the different ministries set up two decades ago. This has helped all aspects of church life to be better managed and coordinated. A good example is our Youth Ministry, who have just returned from a Weekend Retreat as part of their 20[th] Youth Impact festival. Our Christian Education Ministry celebrated their first international graduation, with several students graduating in Nigeria. The Prophetic Ministry went to recharge themselves spiritually at their retreat last October. The Women Ministry continues to be a key pillar financially and materially in the life of our Parish. The Sunday school are doing a fantastic job to ensure that our children are

brought up well and taught Christian value. I offer thanks for the recently concluded Children’s Harvest, which was a resounding success.

I cannot forget our Choir, who are going from strength to strength (and not just in numbers!) and who work tirelessly for the parish, attending rehearsal week-in week-out. Similarly, the sidesmen and women, who prepare the church building for our services and ensure that everything is done in an orderly fashion. I remember the Multimedia team, who work behind the scenes to make sure our technology, streaming and online presence helps project the parish is a positive way. The Ushering Ministry are revamping their approach to engaging visitors and new members. The Prayer Ministry should not be forgotten. They have recently organised the resumption of weekly prayers on Thursdays. Our Evangelical Ministry had an innovative outdoor event in support of our Adult Harvest last year and recently held our 19[th] Berachah Interdenominational Crusade.

I also want to thank the entire membership for the love you continue to show our parish through your contributions. Whether you are an elder, supporting members with their spiritual needs, or someone who stays behind late to help clean and tidy the church building, or if you donate regularly through tithes or collections, God sees all your efforts, which will not go in vain. That’s why Paul tells the Corinthians to “be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58).

Make sure you are in the right direction and also doing the right things with utmost dedication. No matter how long it takes, you will be rewarded for it all as we see in C.C.C. Hymn 429 “Ma sise lo, ma se wa isimi” (Translated “Labour ye on, and seek ye no repose” ). When we work by the Lord’s strength and for his purposes, then it is not in vain. And our labour is not in vain in the Lord. Whatever it might be, is not meaningless or worthless because God gives it meaning and worth.

Venerable Superior Senior Evangelist Samuel O. Idowu Shepherd, C.C.C. Elephant and Castle Parish

The Chairman’s Address

greet all members of Celestial Church of Christ, Elephant and Castle Parish, in the name of our ILord Jesus Christ, and I thank God for being with us thus far.

This is the first full year of the new administration, and we are all aware of the situation in the country and across the world, from the time of the pandemic to now the cost-of-living crisis which has refused to go away, has affected a lot of families. The cost of feeding and keeping a roof over our heads is without a doubt at its highest in recent times, but in all, our God has been faithful. We are confident in the word of God which says, ”For His anger is but for a moment, His favour is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning which I will change to be “Cost of living crisis may endure for a night but abundance in all things comes in the morning”. (Psalms 30:5). I am confident that the good times will return to our land.

multicultural, liberal England, it is a challenge to balance the traditions and cultural norms that pertain in West Africa, where the majority of our membership come from. The key word here is tolerance – we must learn to tolerate one another and work together to move our parish forward.

Change is something we tend to fear and become anxious about because we do not feel in control of life. I commend our Youth Ministry, who will celebrate their 20[th] Youth Impact Festival next week. They set the standard when they were established over two decades ago. Since then, they have influenced the direction of our parish for the better. In due course, we will hand over the reigns of leadership and management to them, so we must ensure that they are encouraged to build the strongest possible foundation. We now have quarterly Youth Services and a number of youths represented in various ministries of our Parish, as well as within the Parochial Committee.

Bittersweet is the phrase that comes to mind when we reflect on 2022, a year when we lost some long standing elders of our Parish, most notably, Superior Senior Evangelist Ogunyale and our Grand Matron, Mother Celestial Soremekun. It was also the year that saw the investiture of our Shepherd by the Pastor of the Celestial Church of Christ worldwide.

The good news is that God has a plan for your life that includes hope, future, and prosperity. We need to learn to trust in God and allow the change to grow us to become more like Jesus Christ. God is walking this change journey with us - His presence is always with us, guiding us. Deuteronomy 31:6 says, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Our role as the older generation is to listen to the youth and guide them to be morally upright, truthful, principled, standing for what is right and maintaining high standards in all aspects.

I took up the mantle of leadership of the administrative arm of this Church on Sunday 31[st] of July 2022, from my able leader and mentor Superior Senior Evangelist Benjamin Ade Aina, with a promise to be a bridge between the older generation and the younger. Secondly, to keep the administrative boat of our parish steady, by maintaining the level of transparency that kept our finances afloat. Thirdly, guarding jealously the level of justice, equity, peace and fairness that we have all been enjoying in this parish.

Bridging The Generations

In my introductory article in last year’s Harvest edition of Christ castle magazine, entitled “Equality, Continuity and Cohesion” , I said “All labourers, young and old, foundation and new in the vineyard of Elephant & Castle Parish will be equally acknowledged, rewarded, honoured, respected, listened to, cared for and loved.” In

Financial Transparency

The Treasurer will report on our accounts. I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Treasury team and to all ministries that submitted budgets and cooperated with us during 2022. I

must also express my appreciation to all members who have continued financially towards the development of our parish, whether through tithes, collections or other donations. Given the significant financial constraints within which the parish now operates because of the increase in energy costs and the costs of running our parish, we will have to tighten our belts further during this year and into the future.

There have been increased calls for welfare support and we will continue to do whatever we can to help those genuinely in need. Our parish has a Welfare Policy, and this will be more strictly enforced in future, to make sure we manage our finances and treat all members more equally. The Welfare and Pastoral Ministry has been working tirelessly to support our over 70s and those in need of financial help. As a token of our appreciation for your dedication to the Church, they were able to give out a Christmas package to all registered families in the congregation. This type of effort will continue, as long as we have funds which can be prioritised for charitable deeds.

I praise the Welfare and Pastoral Ministry for triaging all requests, so that we can prioritise those we help. We have always adopted an approach of being our ‘brother’s keeper’ and we will continue being financially prudent, transparent, entrepreneurial yet charitable, innovative yet proudly celestial, a parish to be emulated. The Treasury team ensure that our bills are paid and scrutinise our expenditure and cash flow. It is important that we are open and transparent regarding our finances, because you have appointed us to be good stewards and we also need to meet the requirements of the Charity Commission.

The Elephant Way

Whether you are a founding member or recently joined us over the past couple of years, you will know that there is a culture within our parish and set of standards which we must maintain. In a few years’ time, we will be celebrating our 50[th] Anniversary, but from day 1, we have built a reputation for justice, equity, peace and fairness. It is my intention that these are maintained. Please feel free to approach me or any member of the Executive Committee if you have ideas or suggestions about improving our parish. We are open to constructive and positive criticism and will act where necessary in response to your feedback.

We also ask all members to actively participate in any of the many ministries that operate within our parish. The Parable of the Talents teaches us that we should not bury our gifts or skills, rather we should use them to progress the work of God. Please ask the secretariat if you want more information about any of our ministries.

Internet and Website

The Church internet facility was upgraded to meet our demands and data requirements. I am sure we can all testify to this upgrade. However, it will not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of Senior Leader Tope Ogunade, Brother Dayo Fafiolu, Brother James Ogunyale and Brother Joshua Akande. This improved internet connection has also been extended to the vicarage benefitting our Sunday school. The upgrade works were also extended to the church website overseen by Sister Kuforiji, Sister Niniola Shittu, Sister Toyosi Sosanya, Brother James Ogunyale, Brother Tobi Adedokun and Senior Leader Emmanuel Fakorede. The Church is very grateful for your service and commitment to God’s work.

Building Projects

A year ago, when we took over, we were at the stage of commencing the Bexley project in order not to let the planning permission lapse and with the help of God, we were able to commence with the demolition and the excavation of the foundation. However, we were advised by our team of consultants to increase the number of flats from 4 to 5 to make it worthwhile because of the cost/benefit impact of the delays. Very soon, I hope to have good news for the church on the recommencement of the project.

As recommended by my predecessor for accounting purposes (Church assets), a valuation of the Church building and its premises was commissioned. The valuation report showed that the Church building is valued at £3m while the vicarage was valued at £1m. Hence, the total value of our premises is worth £4m.

Marriage Seminars

There is considerable evidence that many marriages in the world and, in our parish, are troubled. Couples seek help to improve their marriages. Others seek guidance in choosing a companion to marry or preparing for marriage. It is important today that spouses and parents know the teaching of the Bible on marriage and family in order to make their positive contributions to

society and the church. That is why the parish established a series of marriage seminars on the second Sunday of each month, and we have also contracted out to a marriage guidance organisation (Essex Counselling Services) for anyone who requires counselling. The parish has agreed to pay for a maximum of two sessions per couple, in order to help address the trends of failing marriages.

  1. Honorary Evangelist Adekanmbi

  2. Superior Senior Leader Ogunsami

  3. Senior Leader Fakorede

  4. Senior Leader Ogunade

  5. Woleader Jinodu

  6. Leader Akinfala

  7. Leader Adewumi

  8. Assistant Leader Anoba

  9. Brother James Ogunyale

  10. Mother Celestial Ojelade

Fountain Children Centre

Our Fountain Children Centre under the leadership of Venerable Superior Evangelist Osho had their fair share of challenges arising from the rising cost of living. They have seen their revenue reduce drastically and that in turn affected the amount of rent they could pay the parish, although since the last AGM of the nursery, they have increased the number of the children, but it has not translated into increased revenue for the Church.

  1. Mother Celestial Adegbemisoye

  2. Mother Celestial Bada-Oteh

  3. Mother Celestial Apelogun

  4. Lace Superior Senior Elder Sister Osiguwa

  5. Lace Superior Senior Elder Sister Adenuga

  6. Lace Superior Senior Elder Sister Akinkuolie

  7. Senior Elder Sister Benjamin

  8. Prophetess Coker

  9. Elder Sister Giwa

  10. Sister Arowoselu

Conclusion

Thanks

I want to end by thanking all member of this great parish for your continued efforts to uphold our name and reputation. May God bless you all. Also, to our Shepherd, Venerable Superior Evangelist Samuel O. Idowu for his leadership and direction and all elders, male and female for your spiritual support. I also thanks the heads of all the various ministries for your hard work and dedication. Finally, to my Executive Committee and all members of the Parochial Committee. Our heated debates and discussions are a result of the zeal we all have for progressing the parish. The current Parochial Committee membership is:

  1. Venerable Superior Evangelist Idowu (Shepherd)

  2. Venerable Superior Evangelist Osho

  3. Assistant Venerable Superior Senior Evangelist Job

  4. Assistant Venerable Superior Senior Evangelist Okechukwu

  5. Assistant Superior Senior Evangelist Kupoluyi 6. Superior Senior Evangelist Nejo

  6. Superior Senior Evangelist Owokoniran

  7. Senior Evangelist Soda

  8. Superior Senior Evangelist Olaluwoye

  9. Superior Senior Evangelist Aina

  10. Superior Senior Evangelist Akande

  11. Assistant Superior Senior Evangelist Olumuyiwa

C.C.C. Elephant and castle Parish is not the personal property of any individual. It was founded on love and that love has remained despite all the changes that have occurred over the past 47 years. I will leave you with words from the ‘love’ chapter in 1[st] Corinthians 13:8-11 (Message Bible):

3-7 “If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don’t love, I’ve gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I’m bankrupt without love.

Love never gives up. Love cares more for others than for self. Love doesn’t want what it doesn’t have. Love doesn’t strut, Doesn’t have a swelled head, Doesn’t force itself on others, Isn’t always “me first,” Doesn’t fly off the handle, Doesn’t keep score of the sins of others, Doesn’t revel when others grovel, Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth, Puts up with anything, Trusts God always, Always looks for the best, Never looks back, But keeps going to the end.”

May God continue to be with His church. Amen

  1. Senior Evangelist Wayas

  2. Honorary Senior Evangelist Shebioba

  3. Honorary Senior Evangelist Lawal

Superior Senior Evangelist Olugbenga Akande Chairman, Parochial Committee

The Secretary’s Address

n behalf of the Secretariat team, greetings to you in the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ, the Obeginning and the end of all things. He who has been our rock and fortress.

Over the last two years, it has been an awesome privilege to serve this great parish and its wonderful people. Before I proceed, permit to thank the Shepherd of this great parish, for his love, support, and guidance. Words cannot express our gratitude to our fathers, precious mothers, and the entire members of this parish for your observations, correction, feedback, and words of encouragement. Whatever we have been able to deliver in the last two years, couldn’t have been possible without God and you. From the bottom of our hearts, we say thank you.

It is with immense honour; I present you with the Secretariat Report covering the parish’s activities from August 2022 to July 2023.

The month of August 2023 kicked off with the Youth Impact Festival 2022, tagged “I Am Fearless”, with activities running from August 1[st] to Sunday, August 7[th] . On August 24[th] , the Sunday School children and their friends and families visited Thorpe Park for their annual summer trip. Our children indeed had a great time.

On August 29[th] , the parish hosted members’ family and friends during the Annual Family Fun Day. Once again, the Women Ministry raised the bar with a wonderfully executed programme. As the month was rounding up, the Shepherd of our great parish was elevated to the rank of Venerable Superior Evangelist and Superior Senior Evangelist Osho was elevated to the rank of Assistant Venerable Superior Evangelist, in a wonderful service graced by the Head of the Celestial Church of Christ Worldwide, Reverend Pastor Emmanuel Mobiyina Friday Oshoffa.

The second edition of Baba Shebioba Memorial Bible Quiz competition took place on September 3[rd] , where over seventy Celestial parishes keenly contested for the trophy and a cash prize. The competition was won by C.C.C. Jehovah Parish, Otta, Ogun State.

On Sept 5[th] , the parish kicked off activities for our 46[th] Annual Adult Harvest which culminated with a glorious thanksgiving service on Sept 11[th] . The service

was well attended by members of the church from far and near to the extent that it was standing room only inside the church building.

In recognition of the great work being carried out by members of the Youth Ministry, Assistant Leader Dele Akinfala and Woleader Solomon Jinodu were nominated as members of the Pastor-In-Council Youth Development Committee by our father in Christ, Reverend Pastor Emmanuel Mobiyina Oshoffa. Elders’ training resumed on October 23[rd] , while members of the Prophetic Ministry proceeded on their annual retreat on Saturday October 29[th] . On November 6[th] , the Shepherd, senior members of the parish and some youth members welcomed members that are new to the parish, particularly overseas students who are new in the country. It is our prayer that in this land, God will answer all their heart desires and establish their feet. Amen.

On Dec 17[th] , Fountain Children Centre had its Annual General Meeting, where the management team, under the leadership of Assistant Venerable Superior Evangelist Osho gave account of their stewardship. The year was capped off with a Christmas Carol Service held on Sunday December 18[th] Where our Choir and Sunday did us proud.

As is our practice, 2023 kicked-off with our usual seven days prayer session, where we committed the year into God’s hands. On January 14[th] , Christ Castle Bible Institute had its graduation ceremony at Harris Academy, Peckham. However, this year’s event was different, in that it was the first international graduation where a video link connect London to Lagos, where some students in Nigeria also graduation. The month ended with the spiritual elevation of Assistant Venerable Superior Evangelists Ben Okechukwu and James Oteh.

February 14[th] to 16[th] was dedicated to the celebration of a great icon and our Grand Patron, Assistant Venerable Superior Senior Evangelist Job, who clocked the great age of 90 years. It is our prayer that the Lord will lengthen his days in good health. Amen. During February, the parish also kicked-off our online question and answer session, and our Shepherd took out time to engage new joiners and visitors. On

the 26[th] of February, the parish congregated to celebrate the 47[th] anniversary on 29[th] February 1976. It is our prayer that God will forever sustain the fountain of this great parish. Amen.

In March, the parish inaugurated an Investment Management Board, to look into investment opportunities available for the parish. March 19[th] couldn’t have been celebrated in a better way! It was indeed a special day for all our mothers and mothers to be, who were celebrated in a unique way. On April 2[nd] and 9[th] , we celebrated Palm Sunday and Easter Sundays respectively with great joy in our hearts. Whilst on April 19[th] , Shepherd met with our members aged over 70 years of age to discuss how to move our parish forward.

In recognition of his tremendous contribution to the parish, members were thrilled to great melodious music during the album launch of Honorary Senior Evangelist Damilare Falayi. Assistant Venerable Superior Evangelist Osho was also elevated to the rank of Venerable Superior Evangelist Osho.

On May 7[th] , the parish had its annual baptismal exercise, where a huge number of members, young and old, were baptised. This year’s annual Women Ministry Conference was held on May 20[th] , titled “Do Everything in Love”. It was indeed a great and impactful session. The month ended with the spiritual elevation of Assistant Venerable Superior Evangelists Segun Ayoade and Tobi King. June 4[th] was a glorious day for our children, who celebrated their Juvenile Thanksgiving Service. On this fateful day, we also had the pleasure of celebrating the birthday of the Head of Diocese, Most Superior Evangelist Amos Olabode Fatusin.

The year’s Father’s Day celebration was awesome. I must confess, this year’s gift was a positive huge departure from previous years. We say thank you to all our children and mothers. On July 14[th] , the parish held its Annual Berachah Interdenominational Outreach program titled “Perfect Connection”. Our Youth Ministry also embarked on a retreat as part of their 20[th] Anniversary Youth Impact Festival celebration, themed “Thy Works”, which has a grand finale in two weeks’ time.

Landmark Birthdays 40th Birthday

Brother Clement Idowu, Cape Elder Sister Joy Kolade, Cape Elder Sister Omowunmi Anjolaiya, Brother Michael Oyelakin, Sister Pearl Adanuvor, Sister Lesley Fynn-Thompson, Cape Elder Sister Adeola Benson-Adebesin, Cape Elder Sister Abimbola Olanrewaju, Sister Oluwajuwon Alade, Sister Oluwatoyin Jibodu, Sister Olaide Olanrewaju, Sister Ruth Ogunsami, Honorary Evangelist Ikenna Onwurah, Sister Funmi Akande, Brother Agboola Adenigba, and Sister Funmi Kupoluyi.

50 Birthday

Sister Oluwaseyi Bukola Idowu, Sister Yemisi Igwubor, the Parochial Committee Chairman - Superior Senior Evangelist Olugbenga Akande, Sister Temidire Adeshina, Venerable Senior Evangelist Godwin Wayas and Brother Joseph Igwubor.

60 Birthday

Lace Superior Senior Elder Sister Remi Ogunyale, Mother Celestial Victoria Anjolaiya, Lace Superior Senior Elder Sister Kemi Buraimo, Lace Superior Senior Elder Sister Susan Osiguwa, Assistant Leader David Babalola, Lace Superior Senior Elder Sister Bimpe Sodiya and Brother Olusola Akinrinde.

70 Birthday

Lace Superior Senior Elder Sister Annette Ajayi, Most Senior Evangelist Moses Ayoade, Venerable Senior Evangelist Martin Lijoka, Venerable Senior Evangelist Kehinde Oguntona, Mother Celestial Kenny Agbaje, Mother Celestial Joy Efunnuga and Mother Celestial Olakunbi Oyewole.

80 Birthday

Superior Senior Evangelist Abayomi James and Mother Celestial Christine Olaleye

And not to forget the Grand Patron of the parish, Assistant Venerable Superior Senior Evangelist Job, who celebrated his 90[th] birthday. Our prayer is that God will uphold them all with good health, sound minds and lengthen their days.

Call to Glory

The Lord giveth and Lord taketh away, blessed be the name of the Lord. Amen.

Some of our highly esteemed members went to be with the Lord during the past 12 months, including Mother Celestial Omakinwa, our Grand Matron - Mother Celestial Ayinke Soremekun, Elder Chris Oduntan, Prophet Olatunji Matti, Superior Senior Evangelist Christopher Soyinka, Mother Celestial Justina Aduba and Lace Superior Senior Elder Sister Monica Akinfala. We pray that God grant their souls eternal rest and keep the family they left behind. Amen.

New Additions

A total of 19 new babies joined the parish, 10 girls and 9 boys. God will keep these new additions and they will grow to become mighty nations. Amen.

On a final note, once again thank you all for your support and trust.

The Lord bless us all. Amen.

The Treasurer’s Address

“Our lives improve only when we take chances. The first and most difficult risk we can take is to be honest with ourselves.”

Introduction

nce again, we give all the glory and adoration to God Almighty for keeping Ous to see another fruitful year in our Parish. We all enjoy the uncommon favour from God, our creator. May His name be glorified.

We welcome the following new members to the treasury team: - Mother Celestial Victoria Adegbemisoye - the first deputy Parochial Chairperson, Senior Elder Sister Margaret Benjamin, Sister Ayomide Jinodu and Sister Hannah Arowoselu.

In addition, we welcome back Lace Superior Senior Elder Sister Susan Osiguwa (Assistant Financial Secretary), Prophetess Victoria Tayo Coker (Assistant Treasurer), and Superior Senior Evangelist Samuel Olumuyiwa (Financial Secretary).

How we Operate

We have a built-in check into our system, no member of the team starts a process from the beginning and single handily complete the process; All funds collected during the week are banked by the following Monday. The Treasurer is not involved with counting or taking money to the bank.

The treasury team also keeps the following accounting records:

Bank Analysis Weekly Income Sheet Monthly Cash Analysis Sheet Monthly Expenditure Analysis Sheet Monthly Budget Monitoring Analysis Sheet Income and Expenditure Analysis Sheet

At the beginning of the year, the Parochial Committee sets a yearly budget for the parish, and this serves as the guidelines for the treasury team to follow for the whole year. As usual the treasury team started the year with high hopes

and great expectations to surpass previous years with the promise to do things differently to improve on our previous performance. Every month, we use the Income and Expenditure Analysis Sheet to provide a summary financial analysis from 01[st] January to 31[st] December showing our Bank Balances at the end of each month.

Summary of the 2022 Financial Report

The treasury team is happy to inform the congregation that our bank balance as of 31[st] December 2022 was £293,842, compared to £307,714 the previous year, which represents a reduction of £13,872 (4.51%).

Unlike the previous year, we did not receive the Job Retention Scheme from the government or Covid-19 grant from London Borough of Bexley. Please note we are also yet to claim our entitlements from HM Revenue and Customs Charities (Gift Aid) for the last two years.

The total incoming resources from charitable activities in the year 2022 was £438,942 compared to £416,198 the previous year, which represents an increase of £22,744 (5.46%). On the other hand, the total resources expended on charitable activities for the same period was £442,729 compared to £277,893 the previous year, an increase of £164,836 (59.32%).

Other Debtors - £70,552

This is the total amount owed/outstanding from Fountain Nursery (unchanged from previous year) because there was no payment made towards reducing this debt.

Creditors - Bank loans/ overdrafts - £17,776

The total bank loan owing on 31[st] December 2022 was £170,199; as per accounting standards

we have to split this between amounts due in less than one year and over one year:

Due under one year = £17,776 (12 x £1,481.33)

Due over more than one year = £152,423 (remainder)

Trade Creditors £13,087

This relates to cheques written before the end of December 2022 but not cleared by the bank account until January 2023 or later.

Accruals/deferred - £5,093

This relates to payment due to be arranged for the account’s preparation and payroll £4,025 plus accrued bank loan for the quarter to December 2022 of £1,068.

Social Security, etc - £17,274

This relates to amount of PAYE/NI owning to HMRC on staff wages.

The financial statements have been prepared, based on the historical cost basis. We believe that the value of our property (£1,021,584) has increased significantly and will be seeking an independent valuation to confirm market value.

Our external accountants have concluded that there are no material uncertainties about our church ability to continue as a going concern for the future.

Bexley Project

With regards to the Bexley Project, The Treasury suggests that we must be prudent in all our decisions. Having spent over £120,000 so far on this project, we had not started on the foundations as of 31[st] December 2022. Currently, we still have invoices that need to be paid regarding the alteration to the initial architectural drawings of £4,668.

There is no objection to our ambition of wanting to invest in properties outside of the four walls of this church, but the only people benefitting from the project are the builders and the architects. Therefore, we must think seriously about whether the project is actually feasible. Our priority is to look for the best interest of our members. Any decision regarding using the vicarage as collateral to develop Bexley should be well thought through.

We recently had 3D drawings on how the gallery could be extended and other areas within

the four walls of the church that could be more beneficial to our members. We are a church and not property developers!

Other Comments

We continue to support the welfare of our members throughout the year including the sum of £1,000 per month which are distributed to less privileged members within the parish. We also helped some individuals who approached the church for financial support, and we also supported the hospitality section in providing light snacks and drinks for our members on a regular basis.

The total amount we spent on Welfare and Charity was £42,209 in 2021 (the previous year) but £97,282 in 2022, an increase of over 130%, this suggests that we must change the way and manner we approve our welfare and pastoral gifts in the foreseeable future.

We appreciate all the efforts and dedication from the Multimedia Department, The Choir, the Sidesmen/women, the Ushers and the Secretariat for all the hard work involved to ensure everything went well. The Lord will reward you handsomely.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I sincerely thank all the members of the treasury team for their hard work over the years, for their trust, honesty and dedication. Our achievements have been a team effort and it wouldn’t have been possible if we did not commit ourselves wholeheartedly. I am very proud of the team and God will bless you and your entire households for looking after God’s assets and using your precious valuable time. Amen.

Finally, on behalf of the church, we appreciate all the help and dedications we received from Turpin Barker Armstrong Accountants, our external auditors for resolving all our queries from the HM Revenue and Customs and making themselves available to us whenever we require their professional advice.

We are all proud to be members of this great Celestial Church of Christ, Elephant and Castle Parish. Our God will continue to shower his blessings on us. Amen! Amen!! Amen!!!

Assistant Venerable Superior Evangelist Akin Kupoluyi Treasurer

Pastoral/Welfare Report 2023

he Pastoral Ministry started the year with full joy of the Lord and the promises of Tabundant blessings, but we need to be consistent in our worship and be ready to obey His commandments. The year has been full of challenges, but we thank God that His Holy Spirit has been leading us all the way.

We are committed to the primary aim of our Pastoral and Welfare duties of visiting the sick, widows, widowers, orphanage, those that are in need, and supporting other charitable organisations that may need our help from time to time.

Some of our achievements this year include:

  1. Providing Christmas gifts for all the members of the church

  2. Celebration of the King Charles III coronation

  3. Lunching our over 70 year olds adults

The over 70’s event took place in the Church in April 2023. This group has been on the list of our priorities for some time and the time had come to recognise their contribution to the work of God in our parish. We hope to continue this in the future. The Pastoral and Welfare Ministry has been growing from strength to strength, we thank God for His mercy on the parish and on this ministry.

The Pastoral and Welfare Ministry budget is larger than other ministries because supporting our membership and those in need is a primary way we execute the constitution and charitable aims of our parish. The Pastoral and Welfare Ministry budget is

probably the largest single areas of spending after special areas such as buildings and maintenance. Through the Pastoral and Welfare Ministry our parish is supporting our undergraduates with tokens every year. We also support members on special occasions like birthdays and bereavements.

Going forward, the Pastoral and Welfare Ministry have plans and developments for our parish, including giving people a sense of belonging. We also help the parish fulfil our obligations to the Charity Commission by using some of their income to support those in need. We are still looking after the vulnerable groups in our parish that were either elderly, sick or unable to work, due to one thing or the other. The parish authorities have agreed to continue with such gestures, but to keep this under constant review.

The Pastoral and Welfare Ministry, the Women Ministry and the alms section of the parish has been assisting many charitable organisations and individuals both in United Kingdom and abroad.

Going forward, the Pastoral and Welfare Ministry have positive plans and developments for the Parish, including: 1. Working with the Josephine Akintoye Memorial (JAM) and the Women Ministry, the Pastoral and Welfare Ministry have sponsored more than 20 orphans in different part of the world.

  1. We are working towards establishing our own charitable organisation, which we hope will happens very soon.

  2. The Pastoral and Welfare Ministry with the Women Ministry (Young Mothers) are

planning to revamp the food bank to cater for members of our parish and the local community.

  1. We appeal to anyone in need or who know those genuinely in need to contact the Pastoral and Welfare Ministry officers, or the parish elders who may be able to find solution to such needs.

  2. There are many activities and benefits that are awaiting members of our parish, and members are welcome to access these through the Pastoral and Welfare Ministry.

  3. We advise or signpost members to where they may get help about planning for their future including writing of wills, insurance, power of attorney and bereavement plans.

  4. We advise members to be prudent in the way they deal with spending and to think about investment for the future.

MC A Adegboyega MC A Raji MC R Apelogun MC A Oteh MC O Soyinka LSSES B Adenuga Lace Pro. B Yapo Sister D Nlewedum (nee Soyemi)

May your names be written in the book of life IJN. Amen

Superior Senior Evangelist Samson Nejo (Pastoral and Welfare Ministry Chairman)

These plans are subject to God and approval from the parish authorities and will be run on a voluntary basis. For further information please contact any of the Pastoral and Welfare Ministry members listed below. Our parish is moving forward, and the Pastoral and Welfare Ministry are moving with it, and we implore other ministries and members to move with us. Remember, it does not cost anything to do good to others.

We thank the Lord, our able Shepherd, Parochial Committee Chairman and his team, and all the elders of the parish for their support in making our parish a proud place to worship. We appreciate your financial contributions. There is no church without you and the Pastoral and Welfare Ministry cannot function without your support. We also appreciate our Grand Patron for his fatherly advice and prayers. May the guiding spirit of God never depart from His Church. Amen.

Finally, I thank all the Pastoral/Welfare officers of the Church, starting from:

Shepherd – Ven. Sup. Evang. Samuel Segun Idowu (Head of Pastoral and Welfare Ministry) Sup. Snr. Evang. S Nejo Most Snr. Evang. Y Arowoselu Most Snr. Evang. G Olawuyi MC S Ojelade

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ELEPHANT & CASTLE PARISH
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REGISTERED CHARITY NUMER: 280611

REPORT OF THE TRUSTEES AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31ST DECEMEBER 2022

CONTENTS

Trustees' annual report Independent examiner's report to the trustees Statement of financial activities Statement of financial position Notes to the financial statements

Celestial Church of Christ Elephant & Castle Parish Trustees' Annual Report Year ended 31 December 2022

Celestial Church of Christ Elephant & Castle Parish Trustees' Annual Report (continued) Year ended 31 December 2022

Celestial Church of Christ Elephant & Castle Parish Independent Examiner's Report to the Trustees of Celestial Church of Christ Elephant & Castle Parish Year ended 31 December 2022

Celestial Church of Christ Elephant & Castle Parish Statement of Financial Activities Year ended 31 December 2022

Celestial Church of Christ Elephant & Castle Parish Statement of Financial Position 31 December 2022

Celestial Church of Christ Elephant & Castle Parish Notes to the Financial Statements Year ended 31 December 2022

Celestial Church of Christ Elephant & Castle Parish Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) Year ended 31 December 2022

Celestial Church of Christ Elephant & Castle Parish Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) Year ended 31 December 2022

Celestial Church of Christ Elephant & Castle Parish Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) Year ended 31 December 2022

Celestial Church of Christ Elephant & Castle Parish Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) Year ended 31 December 2022

Celestial Church of Christ Elephant & Castle Parish Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) Year ended 31 December 2022

Celestial Church of Christ Elephant & Castle Parish Notes to the Financial Statements (continued) Year ended 31 December 2022

CELESTIAL CHURCH OF CHRIST ELEPHANT & CASTLE PARISH

187 Glengall Road, London SE15 6RS Tel: 020 7635 5106 Website: www.cccec.church email: info@cccec.church