Minister’s Report
As we approach the end of my fourth year as your minister and I look back at the last year in particular, I see it as a year where there has been further development of the green shoots of growth begun over recent years. We are moving on and forward little by little!!
Cafe Church and mid-week monthly communion continue to be a source of fellowship and inspiration, and the Well under our new supervisor Lisa is as busy as ever.
Our growing link with Alice Bye Court has strengthened as I now lead a monthly communion service there as well as our “worship team” leading a monthly Songs of Praise.
The BeAt has been very well served by our team of volunteers, though as I write Paul the leader is unwell and so the meetings until the end of the school year will be held together by the rest of the volunteers. This is very challenging work so prayers and words of encouragement would be appreciated. Some of the young people came to help at the very successful Big Brew, and a couple have also come along to help at Saturday Shift.
Saturday Shifts have been great fun with various themes and activities, although attendance has not been as high as we might have hoped for. It is not “cringingly” embarrassing, the quality of what we do is good; the atmosphere is relaxed and fun - but it gives us an opportunity to welcome people who would not necessarily come to church, to befriend them and enable them to access contemporary worship and hear a Bible story. This is coming to the end of the first year of a two year trial, and I would ask every member of the congregation to seriously think about someone – neighbour, friend, family; they could bring along.
In our Sunday worship we have welcomed new faces, and have recently set up a pastoral card follow up, to remind them of God’s care for them.
When we look across the life of our church it has many facets of outreach and service, and yet I am conscious how draining this can be. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all who have served the church in whatever capacity, in stewardship, pastorally, hospitality, in worship and music, children and young people’s activities, communication and property and finance, but most of all I thank God for His love revealed in Christ which is the foundation of all our activities.
To enable the green shoots to continue to grow and flourish, they need to be watered with prayer: spoken prayer; sung prayer; written prayer; drawn prayer; internal prayer; expressive prayer - however we pray, genuine prayer is acceptable to God. Prayer is something everyone can do in their own way- but please whether you come to Thursday weekly prayers, or pray on Monday at 1pm at home or work, continue to water God’s garden otherwise it will become dry and be unfruitful.
Every blessing
Maree Farrimond
Steward’s Report
How quickly time flies! I guess it’s probably age related as it seems only yesterday that we were having an Annual Church Meeting last year.
Well when you add things up I think we have during the last twelve months been a particularly busy Church. And I thank not only our Minister and fellow Stewards and Officers of the Church but all those involved in our activities which include the following:
Yours in Christ
Alan Johnson
Pastoral Care Groups
The Pastoral Care Co-ordinators have met four times since the 2013 AGM to share pastoral issues and to support each other.
Our main concern has been the disbanding of group 11 and finding the best way to support these families. It was decided to share the families between the remaining groups and we pray this will be beneficial to all. The hope is that the families will be cared for by the designated group and join in any of their activities they are able to, thereby making closer ties and understanding within the group.
We greatly appreciate the care provided by Sunday School and the fun trips organised by Sandra and Dorcas, which fills a large pastoral input into our young families’ church life.
Anyone wishing to join a group; move to another group; or have a personal pastoral carer; please contact me.
Jane Head
Sunday School
We have ten children on the Sunday School Register and the age range is from 3 years to 16 years. Unfortunately Dorcas had a nasty accident and was not able to be at Sunday School for three months. My daughter Jenny kindly helped me out and we were able to continue without any disruption. We are very pleased to say that Dorcas is back with us – much to the delight of the children.
The attendance varies from week to week depending on school holidays. We talk to the children about the things they have done in the week as part of our pastoral care for them and we like to teach them to be loving, kind and helpful.
In the last year we have covered stories from the old and the new testaments as well as Harvest, Advent, Christmas, Lent, Palm Sunday, Easter Pentecost and of course, as always, we had a pancake feast for Passover. We have talked about Praying and have made Prayer boxes as well as books to write our private thoughts to God in. We really enjoyed acting out our Nativity Play telling the story through the animals in the stable.
We had a family outing in December Leap Frog Ceramics where the children painted pottery animals which was a great success. On Saturday 12th July we are going to Finkley Down Farm in Andover.
We have to remember that these days there are lots of activities for children on Sunday mornings outside the Church, so we have to make Sunday School a place the children want to come to – it has to be fun and a happy place to learn.
We would like to thank the Church for their continued support and hope that everyone will continue to pray for us.
Sandra Ley and Dorcas Arnold
The Thursday Prayer Group
Praying Together and Prayer meetings 2014
We do hope all of you are enjoying the weekly time of prayer as we pray together wherever we are on Mondays. The 4 or 5 of us who spend time together on Thursdays mornings find it a time of great blessing – and is a wonderful start of being together in fellowship with each other and with God before the busyness of the day. Any requests for prayer are shared on Thursday mornings and in the silences we can pray individually for those who are troubled but don’t want to share with the Church fellowship. The mission and outreach of our Church is supported by our prayers, and we do see the fruits: the two services a month at Alice Bye Court and new families who have started coming to Saturday Shift and newcomers to our Sunday morning worship too.
During our half hour of time together with God, not only do we pray, but also read God’s word to us and listen (and sometimes join in) a suitable hymn. We find the Methodist Prayer Handbook invaluable but do not use it every time.
We meet every Thursday at 9.30 for half an hour and we would love it if more joined us. God welcomes all.
Stephanie Evans & Marilyn Britt.
The Bible Study Discussion Group
Over this year we have ranged quite widely - from looking at biblical theology - two sessions on the person of Christ, to two sessions studying one of the most difficult and yet interesting books in the New Testament - the book of Hebrews, the authorship of which still remains a very debateable point. We will conclude this year's studies on the 21st July when we will begin to study the Revelation of St John and with it millennarianism in general. The subjects chosen for study are chosen by the group, so that we do seek to respond to a wide range of interests.
We have been forced to miss a couple of sessions this year because of Peter's illness but our numbers remain very consistent - with one member coming from the URG and another from the Church of England.
We use the same educational format - an introduction by Peter and a wide ranging discussion. The studies are not dominated by faith but by seeking to understand what the bible is actually saying and this allows for a very open discussion. At the end of each session, group members are provided with extensive notes so that they can pursue their reading if they so desire.
We remain grateful to Linda and John for hosting up at each meeting. New Members are welcome at any time
Peter Jarvis
Pilgrims
Everyone is welcome at Pilgrims who started off the year in September by taking a day trip to Westminster Central Hall. NAFAS had arranged a flower festival to celebrate Central Hall’s centenary with not just scriptural displays but arrangements depicting the life of the Church in the last 100 years. These included some filming of Calendar Girls, the first performance of Joseph and his Amazing Colour Dream Coat, the theft of the Jules Rimet Trophy in 1966 (World Cup), its use as a Conference Centre, and the Bloody Sunday Inquiry.
In October we started meeting weekly and studied Paul – the Man and the Mission – giving us a greater insight into Paul, his life and his journeys. We prepared for the busy Christmas season in Advent – setting aside time to consider the real reasons for celebrations – by following the Advent book “Preparing the Way”. We looked at how God arranged historical events for Christ’s coming, what was happening on the world’s stage at the time of the Saviour’s birth and how people in the Bible were impacted by it.
We had a very short break before starting our Lent studies which this year was ‘Centred on Christ’ by Michael Baughen. To give you a flavour of our discussions the chapters were headed Servants of Christ, Affection of Christ, Living is Christ, Mindset of Christ, Knowing Christ and Rejoicing in Christ. Lent provided us with the opportunity to reflect on our relationship with Christ and used examples from Paul’s letter to the Philippians which encourages and challenges us to centre our lives fully on Christ. On Maundy Thursday we joined with Alice Bye for Holy Communion.
In June we thought of Pentecost and used readings from the Old Testament to give some understanding to the New Testament readings. In July we will all be bringing a favourite hymn or poem, or similar to share with each other.
One of the important parts of Pilgrims is the fellowship we share with each other and plans for the autumn are already in place – but probably changing to Tuesday mornings at 10 a.m. This is to be confirmed.
Marilyn Britt
Safeguarding Children, Young People and Vulnerable Adults
‘There is a growing understanding that protecting children, young people and vulnerable adults is at the core of our faith. Safeguarding is about creating churches that are a safe space for everyone: a space where children can flourish and adults can live up to their potential. It is about enabling everyone to come to Jesus without stumbling blocks of abuse, ignorance, fear, compassion fatigue or the failure to recognise the experiences that so many carry within our communities.’ – Elizabeth Hall, Safeguarding Advisor, Methodist Church in Britain
At the last Church Council Meeting the safeguarding policy was updated – as were the safeguarding guidelines. It was agreed that all members of the church should have a copy of the guidelines. The pastoral coordinators were tasked with ensuring that this happened. If you did not receive a copy of the safeguarding guidelines please let me know and I will make sure that you get a copy.
If you have any concerns about safeguarding please contact me on 01635 200255.
Janice Schofield
Café Church
We are pleased to say our numbers have remained pretty constant at about 20-22 over the year, although we don’t have as many members from other Churches at the moment; this is due mainly to ill health and people moving out of the area.
Rev Ken Franklin from the Baptist Church started our year in September with a very open account of his life so far, stressing how God had seen him through. Rev Maree told us about Celtic Christianity and her sabbatical in October and in November Karen gave us details of the Foodbank – how it is organised and the problems people who use it face in their daily lives.
In December we had our usual ‘in-house’ festive meeting, with two Christmas quizzes, Helen playing for carol singing, Jane reading a story of Mary’s donkey and of course the always delightful Pied Piper Nativity. Jane again produced some more beautiful bookmarks for everyone showing 2014 Café Church dates.
Marilyn started the New Year by ‘unpacking a carol’ which was well received. Because of the horrendous weather conditions, our speaker for February was unable to travel from Dorset and so we had a hastily compiled meeting on Valentines – their origin and some Christian Valentine poems, together with some heart-shaped sweets!
Jane brought some ‘sunshine’ from Australia to our March meeting with an account of her recent visit ‘down under’ and in April Deacon Shirley gave a very interesting presentation on the visit she and Bob made to Kenya.
In May we were very impressed with a talk by Patsy Stone on ‘Children 1st West Berkshire’ a local charity which cares for young people who have to leave the care system at the age of 18; it provides a house in Newbury, under supervision, and the youngsters have to undertake budget management as well as a basic cooking course, enabling them to fend for themselves in the outside world. Our members made very generous donations totalling £69, which Patsy has told us was more than doubled to £154 by ‘Find me a Grant’.
In June, Rev Pat Jones from St Barnabas gave us a very interesting insight into “A typical week in the life of a Community Priest” and in July Will will be returning to tell us of the next stage of his progress. We will finish the year with a talk by Rev John Froggatt on Canal Ministry, which promises to be very interesting.
We are going to extend our coffee morning to 11.30am from September to give members more time to chat with friends. We open at 9.30am and will stop for a ‘thought for the day’ at about 10.30am. It is very informal and everyone is welcome.
We would like to thank all our speakers of course, but also the members who make the coffee, bring the cakes and do the washing up afterwards – and all those who attend whatever the weather! We have also been able to make a donation of £100 to Church funds again this year due to the generosity of the members who attend – so thank you to them too.
We are now looking ahead to the next Connexional year and already have some interesting speakers booked in for the autumn.
Elaine Fletcher and Jane Head
West Berks Foodbank Report
399.1 – kg food, Jan 2014
Many, many thanks to you all for the generous contributions and for your ongoing support for the West Berks Foodbank.
Recently the WB Foodbank held its annual meeting and some statistics were provided as follows.
Food collected since commencement: 40,076 tonnes
Crisis food help:- Number of vouchers fulfilled: 1,378. Number of people fed: 2,988.
Longer term food distributed: 4,827 tonnes – sufficient for ~40,000 meals.
There are currently 115 active volunteers working at the 3 distribution centres, helping at Supermarket collections, the warehouse, and at the admin centre.
There is plenty of training of offer for volunteers and have included listening skills, ‘dealing with homelessness, addictions and challenging behaviour’ and an overview understanding of the benefits system. It is also an opportunity for the volunteers to meet each other, share experiences and get to know each other better. Within the distribution centres, we offer refreshments to the clients, provide the food required for the number of people involved and sit and listen to what they have to say to us. We encourage them to follow up the signposting we offer and to pray if they so wish.
Last October, there was a tremendous boost to the Foodbank’s stock, as we celebrated harvest and there were many generous gifts for the Foodbank particularly arriving at the first Saturday Shift and the traditional service that followed on the Sunday. Many other churches, schools, places of employment also made big contributions and it was a very busy time for those involved in the collections and the warehouse.
In our Church, we regularly provide bags of food for the warehouse, pray for those who receive the food and also the volunteers who work in the distribution centres, warehouse and admin centre. Thank you all for reading information in the newsletters and listening when I ask you to respond to the new shopping lists. Up to January 2014 our church had collected 399.1kg of food. This is the latest figure available at the moment. It really does make a difference.
Marilyn Britt
Fairtrade
We are a Fairtrade Church. To be a Fairtrade Church, everyone using the premises has to use Fairtrade for refreshments and ingredients whenever possible. The Church certainly serves Fairtrade tea and coffee at all events on Sundays and during the week and occasionally we have Fairtrade biscuits.
Earlier this year we held our coffee morning (Big Brew) to raise awareness of the Fairtrade label, the Fairtrade Foundation and Traidcraft and for what it all stands for. Thatcham is a Fairtrade town and the Town Council supported us again this year by purchasing some of the refreshments and attending the event. The event was well supported by the community and particular thanks must be given to the BeAt who provided the waiting service. Thank you too to all others who helped and supported this event.
This year the theme was Bananas. Supermarkets had been using Fairtrade bananas as loss leaders but this had a detrimental effect on farmers. Foncho, a Columbian banana farmer came to Britain in Fairtrade Fortnight to speak to government ministers, and supermarket chiefs about how much the Fairtrade premium is essential to the communities and so help provide the opportunities for better water, education, and healthcare. At the Fairtrade service, Maree spoke about the injustices and Judge Richard (Frost), Banana Farmer Foncho (aka Jeff) and Supermarket chief, E X Ploiter (aka Karen) spoke up about the case after which the congregation voted.
Although we have been a Fairtrade church for a number of years, the injustices of trade are still with us. Although we raised £182.75 at the Big Brew, (shared between The Fairtrade Foundation and Traidcraft) it is still important that we think about what we buy and encourage others to support Fairtrade too.
Marilyn Britt
Pied Piper Pre School
Pied Piper Pre-School have had another busy again this year and have covered various topics since last September. We started with Fairy Stories followed by the Bookstart Rhyme Time Challenge and Minibeasts where the children have been digging around the garden looking for their own little creatures! We are also growing our own butterflies which the children were fascinated with.
We have also enjoyed some outings along the way - we visited Rushall Farm in Bradfield as usual to see the lambs, Thatcham Discovery Centre for a sponsored Toddle Waddle to raise funds for the Pre-School and are shortly to have our summer outing to Child Beale Park in Pangbourne.
We have also welcomed visitors into the Pre-School such as Little Kickers to show us some football skills, Helen Read to put us through our paces in dance, Disco Duck giving us some physical fun and we are about to have Zoolab in with some large minibeasts!!
The committee, children and parents have continued to help raise funds not only for the Pre-School but also for the Comic Relief and Children in Need.
The Pre-School continues to have a good reputation and we have had some lovely comments over the year. We continue to grow from strength to strength and are already looking forward to another successful year ahead.
Mandy Cole, Manager
Assisted by:
Sara Waters, Ann Lynch, Fiona Chareun, Sandra Howes and Julie Downing
Drop In at The Well
I have had a great first few months running “The Well”. I have met some lovely new friends, both young and old, and have been welcomed so warmly – so thank you to everyone.
ATTENDANCE
We have been very busy over the last few months. I am pleased to say that there have been a few new faces join us, but the majority of the people coming are regulars. Most weeks we have around 10-15 adults attending, with approximately15-25 children attending. The half term holidays have also been a great success, although quieter, I would still say that we can have up to 10 adults attending with around 15 children.
People staying for lunch has dropped slightly with a change in pre-school pickup/drop offs. We do however still have people staying with their lunch, but this changes from week to week.
ACTIVITIES
The children have had great fun taking part in the art activities that I have planned every week. There is a new wall display, filled with the children’s art work, which is brightening up the hall. We have also made, fish, snakes, sheep, flowers, cress planting, potato painting, necklace making, pirate swords and sun glasses (to name a few). I have recently purchased a few readymade art activities to ensure there are a few activities for the older children.
The children had a lovely time taking part in an Easter egg hunt, which took place just before the school holidays. The eggs were all found in record time and I think eaten in also a very quick time!
We have managed to run around 4 sessions outside now, which has been lovely. The children have really enjoyed using the outdoor toys. I am hoping to run a lot more sessions outside during the summer months.
TAKINGS
January £20.18
February £22.20
March £20.80
April £27.40
May £16.50 (still to be banked)
EXPENDITURE
My float when I started was £12.12. Up to 28 May 2014, I had spent £9.62 (all on refreshments) (receipts to be given 4/6/14). I have been given a further £50.00 on 14 May 2014, so now my float is £52.50. The balance of our savings account as of today (29/5/14) stands at £225.31.
LOOKING AHEAD
A few plans for the next few months:
POSSIBLE PROMOTIONS
Lisa Parker
Fund-Raising
This has been another excellent year for our fund-raising efforts, both for our church and for other worthwhile causes. As you will see from the following list, over £2,800 has been raised for external groups, and more than £1,575 for the church. Many thanks for all you do in supporting all the positive work done in our name in this church, our community and the wider world.
For External Causes
Action for Children.......................................... £789.53
Big Brew (Fair Trade)...................................... £182.75
Christian Aid (Lent lunches & Coffee morning.. £425.00
Loose Ends....................................................... £170.55
JMA.................................................................. £229.75
Benevolent Fund............................................... £301.89
Methodist Homes.............................................. £410.00
Food Bank......................................................... £116.50
Alex's Jamboree Appeal.................................... £220.00
For Our Church
Family Fun Day................................................. £290.50
125..................................................................... £83.01
Festival of Arts Stall.......................................... £116.00
Pie & Mash Meal............................................... £138.00
Church/Pied Piper Christmas Fayre.................. £322.90
Broadway Lights Stall....................................... £318.00
Gift Day............................................................. £307.00
Maureen Jarvis
The BeAt
Since the last ACM there have been changes at The BeAt. Our youth leader Ally resigned at the end of September. Paul Bullock agreed to become the main leader provided that the meetings are held fortnightly. This has been working well and meant that the helpers are not called upon as often to help.
Planning meetings have been arranged each term and many varied activities have been organised. Bibles have been purchased for the young people to access following the interest shown in the church bible and comments that some of the young people did not have a bible at home.
Six leaders attended the Young Leader Training at the Baptist Church in November and found some useful tips. Some of the young people helped out at Big Brew – their help was greatly appreciated.
As I write this Paul has had to step back from leading the BeAt for the moment as he awaits an operation – we wish him a successful outcome and a speedy recovery. Thank you to the other leaders who have stepped in to cover the meetings this term.
Thank you to all who are involved in the BeAt in whatever capacity, we cannot manage without your support.
Janice Schofield
Property Report
To date we have spent over approximately £7,000.00 in maintenance costs, the bulk of which was £6,000.00 to replace the gas boiler in the rear kitchen
We must keep in mind that the Gas Boiler at the front of the Church is of a similar age to that that has just failed and additional emergency expenditure may be required to replace it. We are currently attempting to arrange a survey of the building to assess any damage that was caused in the February high winds and rain, Jon Page is assisting in this.
At the last Church Council meeting the property team were tasked with obtaining quotations for a new kitchen at the rear of the building. Unfortunately this has been delayed waiting for a specific schedule to be prepared so that an acceptable plan could be discussed with any supplier. It has been decided that the two local Thatcham kitchen suppliers will be contacted A.S.A.P. so a reasonable measure of cost can be established.
Property Update as of 1 July 2014:
As previously reported we have been forced to replace the gas boiler at the rear of the Church and make modifications to the gas pipework. A survey of the external wall at the front of the Church came to the probable conclusion that owing to the severity of the February storms water ingress was through the brickwork itself and work is being carried out to hopefully rectify this. Promisingly, after recent severe rain storms no further water ingress has been seen at the front of the Church even though further sealing coats have yet to be applied. At the same time additional maintenance work has been carried out on the Church roofs
With other maintenance costs and annual inspections the total spent to date is approximately £8,500.00
Outstanding Actions to be carried out this Connexional Year.
Outstanding items marked ** will require assistance from volunteers.
Alan Johnson & Anthony Reeves
Lettings Report
The current position is broadly as it was last year. So far we have received £762.50 and expect as last year the final total to just exceed £1,000.00. Pied Piper receipts for the connexional year 2013/2014 will be £7,920.00 reflecting an increase of £20.00 per month from last year. I do not propose an increase for the next Connexional year in their rent or the hourly rates for the front and rear halls, these to remain at £9.00/hr and £11.00/hr respectively
We have a potential for additional regular rental revenue.
Through our Church website we have received a request from the ‘Church Presbiteriana Renovada’ for them to worship in our Church each Sunday evening and use the Church on Saturday evening for a couple of hours (when available) for their music group to practise. This has been agreed in principle and subject to getting all the relevant paperwork in place a three month trial period could commence on the 1st of June.
Lettings Update as of 1st July 2014:
My earlier report indicated that we had been approached by a group of Brazilian Christians the’ Church Presbiteriana Renovada’ who were currently worshipping in their homes. Maree and I met with their Pastor and representatives of their Church at the beginning of May and agreed in principle they could use our Church for them to worship on Sunday evenings and also on Saturday evenings their Music Group could use our premises for practise. This was subject to them being able to provide evidence of a suitable Third Party Insurance Certificate. I am pleased to report that the preliminaries have been completed and the group began using our premises on the 8th June. They have been given a set of front door keys and are being charged the nominal amount of £140.00 per month and have signed a specific rental agreement.
Alan Johnson
Financial Report
Overall positive year – increasing our reserves by over £6,500.00, an improvement on previous year results by more than £5,000.
However we should remain cautious over the coming years – our income this year is down by almost £2,800.00, from £43,000 to £40,000 in round numbers.
The expenditure was reduced by almost £8,000 from £42,000 to £34,000 again in round numbers.
The majority of this saving was due to the fall in the Circuit Assessment of £6,500 due in part to the staffing reduction but mostly from the change in payment from quarterly to monthly resulting in the last months only paying 1 month as opposed to 3 months. This will be a once only saving and with staffing increasing in coming years we shall not have this benefit again.
This financial year we are in now (2013/2014) we have replaced the boiler in the back hall at a net cost of £5,000 (£6,000 cost less grant of £1,000) and now incurring repairs to the roof and damp proofing at a cost of £1,600.
The results of this necessary expenditure will probably be a ‘break even’ end to this current financial year (August 14) and may even have a small reduction to our reserves
Finally I would like to thank everyone who contributes to the running of this church – the counters of the collection after each service too numerous to mention everyone /Pete for ably administering the Gift Aid receipts / Alan for organising the lettings (someone has to lock/unlock the premises) / Peggy for her contribution to the benevolent Fund / Maureen for her fund raising efforts especially those many hours collecting items for Christmas and Fun Day events. If I have missed anyone then thank you to those too.
Also special mention to the organisers / auditors of our internal accounts: Drop in at the Well / BeAt Youth Club / Midweek Communion and Café Church
In addition I would nominate Gordon West of Newbury Methodist Church to continue in his capacity as Auditor of our Church Accounts.
I am happy to continue in this capacity with the church’s support
Ray Hoyle
As we approach the end of my fourth year as your minister and I look back at the last year in particular, I see it as a year where there has been further development of the green shoots of growth begun over recent years. We are moving on and forward little by little!!
Cafe Church and mid-week monthly communion continue to be a source of fellowship and inspiration, and the Well under our new supervisor Lisa is as busy as ever.
Our growing link with Alice Bye Court has strengthened as I now lead a monthly communion service there as well as our “worship team” leading a monthly Songs of Praise.
The BeAt has been very well served by our team of volunteers, though as I write Paul the leader is unwell and so the meetings until the end of the school year will be held together by the rest of the volunteers. This is very challenging work so prayers and words of encouragement would be appreciated. Some of the young people came to help at the very successful Big Brew, and a couple have also come along to help at Saturday Shift.
Saturday Shifts have been great fun with various themes and activities, although attendance has not been as high as we might have hoped for. It is not “cringingly” embarrassing, the quality of what we do is good; the atmosphere is relaxed and fun - but it gives us an opportunity to welcome people who would not necessarily come to church, to befriend them and enable them to access contemporary worship and hear a Bible story. This is coming to the end of the first year of a two year trial, and I would ask every member of the congregation to seriously think about someone – neighbour, friend, family; they could bring along.
In our Sunday worship we have welcomed new faces, and have recently set up a pastoral card follow up, to remind them of God’s care for them.
When we look across the life of our church it has many facets of outreach and service, and yet I am conscious how draining this can be. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all who have served the church in whatever capacity, in stewardship, pastorally, hospitality, in worship and music, children and young people’s activities, communication and property and finance, but most of all I thank God for His love revealed in Christ which is the foundation of all our activities.
To enable the green shoots to continue to grow and flourish, they need to be watered with prayer: spoken prayer; sung prayer; written prayer; drawn prayer; internal prayer; expressive prayer - however we pray, genuine prayer is acceptable to God. Prayer is something everyone can do in their own way- but please whether you come to Thursday weekly prayers, or pray on Monday at 1pm at home or work, continue to water God’s garden otherwise it will become dry and be unfruitful.
Every blessing
Maree Farrimond
Steward’s Report
How quickly time flies! I guess it’s probably age related as it seems only yesterday that we were having an Annual Church Meeting last year.
Well when you add things up I think we have during the last twelve months been a particularly busy Church. And I thank not only our Minister and fellow Stewards and Officers of the Church but all those involved in our activities which include the following:
- Making the Church a welcoming place not only for Sunday Worship but at all times.
- Sunday School.
- Mid-Week Communion.
- Café Church.
- Pilgrims.
- Worship Consultation.
- Pastoral Leaders.
- Safeguarding.
- Saturday Shift.
- Alice Bye.
- Fund Raising – for Church and Church based Charities.
- The Monthly Newsletter.
- The Well Drop In.
- The BeAt Youth Club.
- Pied Piper Pre-School.
Yours in Christ
Alan Johnson
Pastoral Care Groups
The Pastoral Care Co-ordinators have met four times since the 2013 AGM to share pastoral issues and to support each other.
Our main concern has been the disbanding of group 11 and finding the best way to support these families. It was decided to share the families between the remaining groups and we pray this will be beneficial to all. The hope is that the families will be cared for by the designated group and join in any of their activities they are able to, thereby making closer ties and understanding within the group.
We greatly appreciate the care provided by Sunday School and the fun trips organised by Sandra and Dorcas, which fills a large pastoral input into our young families’ church life.
Anyone wishing to join a group; move to another group; or have a personal pastoral carer; please contact me.
Jane Head
Sunday School
We have ten children on the Sunday School Register and the age range is from 3 years to 16 years. Unfortunately Dorcas had a nasty accident and was not able to be at Sunday School for three months. My daughter Jenny kindly helped me out and we were able to continue without any disruption. We are very pleased to say that Dorcas is back with us – much to the delight of the children.
The attendance varies from week to week depending on school holidays. We talk to the children about the things they have done in the week as part of our pastoral care for them and we like to teach them to be loving, kind and helpful.
In the last year we have covered stories from the old and the new testaments as well as Harvest, Advent, Christmas, Lent, Palm Sunday, Easter Pentecost and of course, as always, we had a pancake feast for Passover. We have talked about Praying and have made Prayer boxes as well as books to write our private thoughts to God in. We really enjoyed acting out our Nativity Play telling the story through the animals in the stable.
We had a family outing in December Leap Frog Ceramics where the children painted pottery animals which was a great success. On Saturday 12th July we are going to Finkley Down Farm in Andover.
We have to remember that these days there are lots of activities for children on Sunday mornings outside the Church, so we have to make Sunday School a place the children want to come to – it has to be fun and a happy place to learn.
We would like to thank the Church for their continued support and hope that everyone will continue to pray for us.
Sandra Ley and Dorcas Arnold
The Thursday Prayer Group
Praying Together and Prayer meetings 2014
We do hope all of you are enjoying the weekly time of prayer as we pray together wherever we are on Mondays. The 4 or 5 of us who spend time together on Thursdays mornings find it a time of great blessing – and is a wonderful start of being together in fellowship with each other and with God before the busyness of the day. Any requests for prayer are shared on Thursday mornings and in the silences we can pray individually for those who are troubled but don’t want to share with the Church fellowship. The mission and outreach of our Church is supported by our prayers, and we do see the fruits: the two services a month at Alice Bye Court and new families who have started coming to Saturday Shift and newcomers to our Sunday morning worship too.
During our half hour of time together with God, not only do we pray, but also read God’s word to us and listen (and sometimes join in) a suitable hymn. We find the Methodist Prayer Handbook invaluable but do not use it every time.
We meet every Thursday at 9.30 for half an hour and we would love it if more joined us. God welcomes all.
Stephanie Evans & Marilyn Britt.
The Bible Study Discussion Group
Over this year we have ranged quite widely - from looking at biblical theology - two sessions on the person of Christ, to two sessions studying one of the most difficult and yet interesting books in the New Testament - the book of Hebrews, the authorship of which still remains a very debateable point. We will conclude this year's studies on the 21st July when we will begin to study the Revelation of St John and with it millennarianism in general. The subjects chosen for study are chosen by the group, so that we do seek to respond to a wide range of interests.
We have been forced to miss a couple of sessions this year because of Peter's illness but our numbers remain very consistent - with one member coming from the URG and another from the Church of England.
We use the same educational format - an introduction by Peter and a wide ranging discussion. The studies are not dominated by faith but by seeking to understand what the bible is actually saying and this allows for a very open discussion. At the end of each session, group members are provided with extensive notes so that they can pursue their reading if they so desire.
We remain grateful to Linda and John for hosting up at each meeting. New Members are welcome at any time
Peter Jarvis
Pilgrims
Everyone is welcome at Pilgrims who started off the year in September by taking a day trip to Westminster Central Hall. NAFAS had arranged a flower festival to celebrate Central Hall’s centenary with not just scriptural displays but arrangements depicting the life of the Church in the last 100 years. These included some filming of Calendar Girls, the first performance of Joseph and his Amazing Colour Dream Coat, the theft of the Jules Rimet Trophy in 1966 (World Cup), its use as a Conference Centre, and the Bloody Sunday Inquiry.
In October we started meeting weekly and studied Paul – the Man and the Mission – giving us a greater insight into Paul, his life and his journeys. We prepared for the busy Christmas season in Advent – setting aside time to consider the real reasons for celebrations – by following the Advent book “Preparing the Way”. We looked at how God arranged historical events for Christ’s coming, what was happening on the world’s stage at the time of the Saviour’s birth and how people in the Bible were impacted by it.
We had a very short break before starting our Lent studies which this year was ‘Centred on Christ’ by Michael Baughen. To give you a flavour of our discussions the chapters were headed Servants of Christ, Affection of Christ, Living is Christ, Mindset of Christ, Knowing Christ and Rejoicing in Christ. Lent provided us with the opportunity to reflect on our relationship with Christ and used examples from Paul’s letter to the Philippians which encourages and challenges us to centre our lives fully on Christ. On Maundy Thursday we joined with Alice Bye for Holy Communion.
In June we thought of Pentecost and used readings from the Old Testament to give some understanding to the New Testament readings. In July we will all be bringing a favourite hymn or poem, or similar to share with each other.
One of the important parts of Pilgrims is the fellowship we share with each other and plans for the autumn are already in place – but probably changing to Tuesday mornings at 10 a.m. This is to be confirmed.
Marilyn Britt
Safeguarding Children, Young People and Vulnerable Adults
‘There is a growing understanding that protecting children, young people and vulnerable adults is at the core of our faith. Safeguarding is about creating churches that are a safe space for everyone: a space where children can flourish and adults can live up to their potential. It is about enabling everyone to come to Jesus without stumbling blocks of abuse, ignorance, fear, compassion fatigue or the failure to recognise the experiences that so many carry within our communities.’ – Elizabeth Hall, Safeguarding Advisor, Methodist Church in Britain
At the last Church Council Meeting the safeguarding policy was updated – as were the safeguarding guidelines. It was agreed that all members of the church should have a copy of the guidelines. The pastoral coordinators were tasked with ensuring that this happened. If you did not receive a copy of the safeguarding guidelines please let me know and I will make sure that you get a copy.
If you have any concerns about safeguarding please contact me on 01635 200255.
Janice Schofield
Café Church
We are pleased to say our numbers have remained pretty constant at about 20-22 over the year, although we don’t have as many members from other Churches at the moment; this is due mainly to ill health and people moving out of the area.
Rev Ken Franklin from the Baptist Church started our year in September with a very open account of his life so far, stressing how God had seen him through. Rev Maree told us about Celtic Christianity and her sabbatical in October and in November Karen gave us details of the Foodbank – how it is organised and the problems people who use it face in their daily lives.
In December we had our usual ‘in-house’ festive meeting, with two Christmas quizzes, Helen playing for carol singing, Jane reading a story of Mary’s donkey and of course the always delightful Pied Piper Nativity. Jane again produced some more beautiful bookmarks for everyone showing 2014 Café Church dates.
Marilyn started the New Year by ‘unpacking a carol’ which was well received. Because of the horrendous weather conditions, our speaker for February was unable to travel from Dorset and so we had a hastily compiled meeting on Valentines – their origin and some Christian Valentine poems, together with some heart-shaped sweets!
Jane brought some ‘sunshine’ from Australia to our March meeting with an account of her recent visit ‘down under’ and in April Deacon Shirley gave a very interesting presentation on the visit she and Bob made to Kenya.
In May we were very impressed with a talk by Patsy Stone on ‘Children 1st West Berkshire’ a local charity which cares for young people who have to leave the care system at the age of 18; it provides a house in Newbury, under supervision, and the youngsters have to undertake budget management as well as a basic cooking course, enabling them to fend for themselves in the outside world. Our members made very generous donations totalling £69, which Patsy has told us was more than doubled to £154 by ‘Find me a Grant’.
In June, Rev Pat Jones from St Barnabas gave us a very interesting insight into “A typical week in the life of a Community Priest” and in July Will will be returning to tell us of the next stage of his progress. We will finish the year with a talk by Rev John Froggatt on Canal Ministry, which promises to be very interesting.
We are going to extend our coffee morning to 11.30am from September to give members more time to chat with friends. We open at 9.30am and will stop for a ‘thought for the day’ at about 10.30am. It is very informal and everyone is welcome.
We would like to thank all our speakers of course, but also the members who make the coffee, bring the cakes and do the washing up afterwards – and all those who attend whatever the weather! We have also been able to make a donation of £100 to Church funds again this year due to the generosity of the members who attend – so thank you to them too.
We are now looking ahead to the next Connexional year and already have some interesting speakers booked in for the autumn.
Elaine Fletcher and Jane Head
West Berks Foodbank Report
399.1 – kg food, Jan 2014
Many, many thanks to you all for the generous contributions and for your ongoing support for the West Berks Foodbank.
Recently the WB Foodbank held its annual meeting and some statistics were provided as follows.
Food collected since commencement: 40,076 tonnes
Crisis food help:- Number of vouchers fulfilled: 1,378. Number of people fed: 2,988.
Longer term food distributed: 4,827 tonnes – sufficient for ~40,000 meals.
There are currently 115 active volunteers working at the 3 distribution centres, helping at Supermarket collections, the warehouse, and at the admin centre.
There is plenty of training of offer for volunteers and have included listening skills, ‘dealing with homelessness, addictions and challenging behaviour’ and an overview understanding of the benefits system. It is also an opportunity for the volunteers to meet each other, share experiences and get to know each other better. Within the distribution centres, we offer refreshments to the clients, provide the food required for the number of people involved and sit and listen to what they have to say to us. We encourage them to follow up the signposting we offer and to pray if they so wish.
Last October, there was a tremendous boost to the Foodbank’s stock, as we celebrated harvest and there were many generous gifts for the Foodbank particularly arriving at the first Saturday Shift and the traditional service that followed on the Sunday. Many other churches, schools, places of employment also made big contributions and it was a very busy time for those involved in the collections and the warehouse.
In our Church, we regularly provide bags of food for the warehouse, pray for those who receive the food and also the volunteers who work in the distribution centres, warehouse and admin centre. Thank you all for reading information in the newsletters and listening when I ask you to respond to the new shopping lists. Up to January 2014 our church had collected 399.1kg of food. This is the latest figure available at the moment. It really does make a difference.
Marilyn Britt
Fairtrade
We are a Fairtrade Church. To be a Fairtrade Church, everyone using the premises has to use Fairtrade for refreshments and ingredients whenever possible. The Church certainly serves Fairtrade tea and coffee at all events on Sundays and during the week and occasionally we have Fairtrade biscuits.
Earlier this year we held our coffee morning (Big Brew) to raise awareness of the Fairtrade label, the Fairtrade Foundation and Traidcraft and for what it all stands for. Thatcham is a Fairtrade town and the Town Council supported us again this year by purchasing some of the refreshments and attending the event. The event was well supported by the community and particular thanks must be given to the BeAt who provided the waiting service. Thank you too to all others who helped and supported this event.
This year the theme was Bananas. Supermarkets had been using Fairtrade bananas as loss leaders but this had a detrimental effect on farmers. Foncho, a Columbian banana farmer came to Britain in Fairtrade Fortnight to speak to government ministers, and supermarket chiefs about how much the Fairtrade premium is essential to the communities and so help provide the opportunities for better water, education, and healthcare. At the Fairtrade service, Maree spoke about the injustices and Judge Richard (Frost), Banana Farmer Foncho (aka Jeff) and Supermarket chief, E X Ploiter (aka Karen) spoke up about the case after which the congregation voted.
Although we have been a Fairtrade church for a number of years, the injustices of trade are still with us. Although we raised £182.75 at the Big Brew, (shared between The Fairtrade Foundation and Traidcraft) it is still important that we think about what we buy and encourage others to support Fairtrade too.
Marilyn Britt
Pied Piper Pre School
Pied Piper Pre-School have had another busy again this year and have covered various topics since last September. We started with Fairy Stories followed by the Bookstart Rhyme Time Challenge and Minibeasts where the children have been digging around the garden looking for their own little creatures! We are also growing our own butterflies which the children were fascinated with.
We have also enjoyed some outings along the way - we visited Rushall Farm in Bradfield as usual to see the lambs, Thatcham Discovery Centre for a sponsored Toddle Waddle to raise funds for the Pre-School and are shortly to have our summer outing to Child Beale Park in Pangbourne.
We have also welcomed visitors into the Pre-School such as Little Kickers to show us some football skills, Helen Read to put us through our paces in dance, Disco Duck giving us some physical fun and we are about to have Zoolab in with some large minibeasts!!
The committee, children and parents have continued to help raise funds not only for the Pre-School but also for the Comic Relief and Children in Need.
The Pre-School continues to have a good reputation and we have had some lovely comments over the year. We continue to grow from strength to strength and are already looking forward to another successful year ahead.
Mandy Cole, Manager
Assisted by:
Sara Waters, Ann Lynch, Fiona Chareun, Sandra Howes and Julie Downing
Drop In at The Well
I have had a great first few months running “The Well”. I have met some lovely new friends, both young and old, and have been welcomed so warmly – so thank you to everyone.
ATTENDANCE
We have been very busy over the last few months. I am pleased to say that there have been a few new faces join us, but the majority of the people coming are regulars. Most weeks we have around 10-15 adults attending, with approximately15-25 children attending. The half term holidays have also been a great success, although quieter, I would still say that we can have up to 10 adults attending with around 15 children.
People staying for lunch has dropped slightly with a change in pre-school pickup/drop offs. We do however still have people staying with their lunch, but this changes from week to week.
ACTIVITIES
The children have had great fun taking part in the art activities that I have planned every week. There is a new wall display, filled with the children’s art work, which is brightening up the hall. We have also made, fish, snakes, sheep, flowers, cress planting, potato painting, necklace making, pirate swords and sun glasses (to name a few). I have recently purchased a few readymade art activities to ensure there are a few activities for the older children.
The children had a lovely time taking part in an Easter egg hunt, which took place just before the school holidays. The eggs were all found in record time and I think eaten in also a very quick time!
We have managed to run around 4 sessions outside now, which has been lovely. The children have really enjoyed using the outdoor toys. I am hoping to run a lot more sessions outside during the summer months.
TAKINGS
January £20.18
February £22.20
March £20.80
April £27.40
May £16.50 (still to be banked)
EXPENDITURE
My float when I started was £12.12. Up to 28 May 2014, I had spent £9.62 (all on refreshments) (receipts to be given 4/6/14). I have been given a further £50.00 on 14 May 2014, so now my float is £52.50. The balance of our savings account as of today (29/5/14) stands at £225.31.
LOOKING AHEAD
A few plans for the next few months:
- Teddy Bears picnic
- Sports Day
- Beach Party
- Summer holiday opening: 30/7, 6/8, 13/8
- Update toy selection to include baby walker / construction toys / new pushchair
POSSIBLE PROMOTIONS
- Introduce a face book page to notify people of events / to inform people of the group
- Actively promote The Well by putting up posters/flyers, contacting other groups / Health Visitors
Lisa Parker
Fund-Raising
This has been another excellent year for our fund-raising efforts, both for our church and for other worthwhile causes. As you will see from the following list, over £2,800 has been raised for external groups, and more than £1,575 for the church. Many thanks for all you do in supporting all the positive work done in our name in this church, our community and the wider world.
For External Causes
Action for Children.......................................... £789.53
Big Brew (Fair Trade)...................................... £182.75
Christian Aid (Lent lunches & Coffee morning.. £425.00
Loose Ends....................................................... £170.55
JMA.................................................................. £229.75
Benevolent Fund............................................... £301.89
Methodist Homes.............................................. £410.00
Food Bank......................................................... £116.50
Alex's Jamboree Appeal.................................... £220.00
For Our Church
Family Fun Day................................................. £290.50
125..................................................................... £83.01
Festival of Arts Stall.......................................... £116.00
Pie & Mash Meal............................................... £138.00
Church/Pied Piper Christmas Fayre.................. £322.90
Broadway Lights Stall....................................... £318.00
Gift Day............................................................. £307.00
Maureen Jarvis
The BeAt
Since the last ACM there have been changes at The BeAt. Our youth leader Ally resigned at the end of September. Paul Bullock agreed to become the main leader provided that the meetings are held fortnightly. This has been working well and meant that the helpers are not called upon as often to help.
Planning meetings have been arranged each term and many varied activities have been organised. Bibles have been purchased for the young people to access following the interest shown in the church bible and comments that some of the young people did not have a bible at home.
Six leaders attended the Young Leader Training at the Baptist Church in November and found some useful tips. Some of the young people helped out at Big Brew – their help was greatly appreciated.
As I write this Paul has had to step back from leading the BeAt for the moment as he awaits an operation – we wish him a successful outcome and a speedy recovery. Thank you to the other leaders who have stepped in to cover the meetings this term.
Thank you to all who are involved in the BeAt in whatever capacity, we cannot manage without your support.
Janice Schofield
Property Report
To date we have spent over approximately £7,000.00 in maintenance costs, the bulk of which was £6,000.00 to replace the gas boiler in the rear kitchen
We must keep in mind that the Gas Boiler at the front of the Church is of a similar age to that that has just failed and additional emergency expenditure may be required to replace it. We are currently attempting to arrange a survey of the building to assess any damage that was caused in the February high winds and rain, Jon Page is assisting in this.
At the last Church Council meeting the property team were tasked with obtaining quotations for a new kitchen at the rear of the building. Unfortunately this has been delayed waiting for a specific schedule to be prepared so that an acceptable plan could be discussed with any supplier. It has been decided that the two local Thatcham kitchen suppliers will be contacted A.S.A.P. so a reasonable measure of cost can be established.
Property Update as of 1 July 2014:
As previously reported we have been forced to replace the gas boiler at the rear of the Church and make modifications to the gas pipework. A survey of the external wall at the front of the Church came to the probable conclusion that owing to the severity of the February storms water ingress was through the brickwork itself and work is being carried out to hopefully rectify this. Promisingly, after recent severe rain storms no further water ingress has been seen at the front of the Church even though further sealing coats have yet to be applied. At the same time additional maintenance work has been carried out on the Church roofs
With other maintenance costs and annual inspections the total spent to date is approximately £8,500.00
Outstanding Actions to be carried out this Connexional Year.
- To obtain guide price quotations to replace the back kitchen.
- To clear out all the unwanted items that clutter up the first floor room of the front cottage. **
- To hire a semi-industrial carpet cleaner to clean the Church Sanctuary and Front Foyer carpets. **
- Arrange a 5 year inspection of the Church wiring.
- During the month of August carry out a general housekeeping exercise of the hedge and weeds that grow around the Church premises and repaint the areas where water damage has occurred from the February storms. **
Outstanding items marked ** will require assistance from volunteers.
Alan Johnson & Anthony Reeves
Lettings Report
The current position is broadly as it was last year. So far we have received £762.50 and expect as last year the final total to just exceed £1,000.00. Pied Piper receipts for the connexional year 2013/2014 will be £7,920.00 reflecting an increase of £20.00 per month from last year. I do not propose an increase for the next Connexional year in their rent or the hourly rates for the front and rear halls, these to remain at £9.00/hr and £11.00/hr respectively
We have a potential for additional regular rental revenue.
Through our Church website we have received a request from the ‘Church Presbiteriana Renovada’ for them to worship in our Church each Sunday evening and use the Church on Saturday evening for a couple of hours (when available) for their music group to practise. This has been agreed in principle and subject to getting all the relevant paperwork in place a three month trial period could commence on the 1st of June.
Lettings Update as of 1st July 2014:
My earlier report indicated that we had been approached by a group of Brazilian Christians the’ Church Presbiteriana Renovada’ who were currently worshipping in their homes. Maree and I met with their Pastor and representatives of their Church at the beginning of May and agreed in principle they could use our Church for them to worship on Sunday evenings and also on Saturday evenings their Music Group could use our premises for practise. This was subject to them being able to provide evidence of a suitable Third Party Insurance Certificate. I am pleased to report that the preliminaries have been completed and the group began using our premises on the 8th June. They have been given a set of front door keys and are being charged the nominal amount of £140.00 per month and have signed a specific rental agreement.
Alan Johnson
Financial Report
Overall positive year – increasing our reserves by over £6,500.00, an improvement on previous year results by more than £5,000.
However we should remain cautious over the coming years – our income this year is down by almost £2,800.00, from £43,000 to £40,000 in round numbers.
The expenditure was reduced by almost £8,000 from £42,000 to £34,000 again in round numbers.
The majority of this saving was due to the fall in the Circuit Assessment of £6,500 due in part to the staffing reduction but mostly from the change in payment from quarterly to monthly resulting in the last months only paying 1 month as opposed to 3 months. This will be a once only saving and with staffing increasing in coming years we shall not have this benefit again.
This financial year we are in now (2013/2014) we have replaced the boiler in the back hall at a net cost of £5,000 (£6,000 cost less grant of £1,000) and now incurring repairs to the roof and damp proofing at a cost of £1,600.
The results of this necessary expenditure will probably be a ‘break even’ end to this current financial year (August 14) and may even have a small reduction to our reserves
Finally I would like to thank everyone who contributes to the running of this church – the counters of the collection after each service too numerous to mention everyone /Pete for ably administering the Gift Aid receipts / Alan for organising the lettings (someone has to lock/unlock the premises) / Peggy for her contribution to the benevolent Fund / Maureen for her fund raising efforts especially those many hours collecting items for Christmas and Fun Day events. If I have missed anyone then thank you to those too.
Also special mention to the organisers / auditors of our internal accounts: Drop in at the Well / BeAt Youth Club / Midweek Communion and Café Church
In addition I would nominate Gordon West of Newbury Methodist Church to continue in his capacity as Auditor of our Church Accounts.
I am happy to continue in this capacity with the church’s support
Ray Hoyle