Thatcham Methodist Church
Church Family Reports – 2019
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
Our mission is to share the Good News of Jesu Christ through our witness, our worship and by our practical expression of His love within the community and the world I which we serve.
We seek to fulfil this mission through:
Minister’s Introduction
I begin with an invitation to the General Church Meeting which will begin at 4.00pm on Saturday 11th May and will be followed by a bring and share tea. I hope you will be able to join us. Everyone is welcome you do not need to be a church member as we share together and pray about the year ahead.
I commend this report to you. I want to thank all who have contributed to it and Helen and Alan Johnson for collating it. Behind the words there is a great deal of hard work, some obvious, some less so, but all very much appreciated. I want to thank everyone for your dedicated service, continuing support and encouragement during the year.
No one knows who coined the phrase ‘the ties that bind’ but it certainly appears in the writing of Anne Bronte and Charles Dickens. It has been uses in popular culture in the title of novels, films and songs. What are the ties that bind God’s people together as Thatcham Methodist Church? What is it that means you feel part of something that matters, which gives you a sense of belonging? How strong are those ties? Are they strong enough to withstand the strains of being together and the pull of many competing tensions? If we are to be a community what is the comm(on)-unity we share?
Here are some verses from the Book of Colossians, a book we will be thinking about together during the forthcoming Bible Month series. They suggest the love we receive from God and share is what will hold us together as we seek to live out the way of Jesus in peace and forgiveness.
’Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.’ Col 3: 13-15.
I want to encourage you to take these verses as our inspiration and guidance in the coming year. So let’s commit to think about them deeply and apply them faithfully. Let’s ask God to help us know what they mean for Thatcham Methodist Church.
Every blessing
Peter Bennett
Pastoral Development Worker:- Karen Frost
It’s been ten months since I came into post – where has the time gone and what have I been doing?! Here’s a flavour of what my role has entailed so far.
Stewards:- Mary Armstrong
In this, my first annual report as lead steward, I would like to thank Lesley, June, David, Alan and Howard for their dedication and hard work, and Peter for his unstinting support. Lesley in particular, with her experience of being lead steward for two years has been very helpful and supportive in sharing the experience and insights gained during her time in the role.
Thanks to all who contributed to some important services, including Harvest when we welcomed Glyn Evans from the Farming Community Network, the Accessibility team service, Remembrance service, Carol and Christmas Day services, the Worship Consultation service and the recent MHA service. These were appreciated and enjoyed by all who attended. We are fortunate to have a dedicated team of worship leaders, which is particularly important given the increasing need for ‘Local Arrangements’.
I must also mention the work of the Accessibility Team who have made us all aware of the many and varied ways in which the church can and continues to become a more inclusive, safe and welcoming environment. Of particular note has been the successful relocation of the Sunday after-service refreshments to the rear hall. Thanks are due to all members of the congregation for their support and participation in the consultation exercise.
I would also like to thank the property team who work hard looking after our building both inside and out, keeping it a safe, accessible, pleasant, welcoming and increasingly ‘greener’ environment. The recent improvements especially the new front and rear doors and improved toilet facilities not only look good, but also bring many benefits, both for church members and the many visitors and outside groups who use our premises.
The last eight months or so have seen the whole church take part in fundraising for these and other renovation projects, culminating in our Silent Auction and coffee morning on Saturday 9 February. Once again members’ support and generosity (and match funding by The Good Exchange) produced a great result as we met our target of around £24,000. Also, the coffee morning itself was such a lovely time for conversation and fellowship that following feedback from those who attended the stewards are going to look into how we can make this a regular event.
We are grateful to Carol Hoyle who has volunteered to take over the important task of maintaining our refreshments stocks. Similarly, we thank Chris Belcher for agreeing to look after our Cradle Roll, and of course many thanks to Elaine Fletcher who has diligently and efficiently carried out these jobs over a number of years.
Finally, it has come home to me, especially since becoming lead steward, just how much we all owe to the many ‘unsung heroes’ in the life of the church who operate quietly and efficiently behind the scenes. You really do make a difference, ensuring that as far as possible the church meets the needs and expectations of all who come here and that it continues to be an inclusive, welcoming and safe space.
Safeguarding Report:- Janice Schofield
On behalf of the church council I continue to make sure that all DBS checks and policies are kept up-to-date.
Five members of church attended the Advanced Module Safeguarding Training Day this year. The training reminded us all of the importance of creating safe spaces for all.
The words of the following prayer written by Vivien Almond encapsulate what needs to be done:
Lord of light, we remember that you came into the world to banish the darkness. We hold before you those whose lives have been overshadowed by abuse.
Lord, open our ears to hear the truth, open our eyes to truly see what is happening in front of us, open our minds that we may acknowledge and understand the damage abuse, in all its forms can do. Open our hearts to find ways to make a safe space for all people.
Creator God, in love you created us in your own image and taught that all people should be treated equally and with dignity. You call your Church to be a safe place, where people can grow to know more of your gift of grace, love and everlasting peace. We strive to honour this through the roles you call us to and the authority you lay upon us. Amen
Please remember safeguarding is the responsibility of us all. If you are concerned about someone or a situation please talk to me.
Saturday Shift:- Karen Frost
Another busy year of fun, food and most importantly, worship - enthusiastically enjoyed by all who attend. There’s a real sense of community and it’s great to build relationships with those who come. Our friends Wendy & Ewan (and Matthew) have ably led us in music, with Peter and Karen sharing the leader of worship role.
Last May we finished our “Jesus said, “I am..” themes with “I am the door (or gate)”. Roy Kirkham made us a fantastic opening door, which the children walked and crawled through right on cue as Peter told the story. A wonderful God given moment indeed.
In July we were “Running the Race”. We enjoyed a mini sports session – hula hooping, skipping, skittles, and the most enjoyable sport of all: can you get the sweets out of the green jelly without touching the jelly with your fingers? – messy fun! (Photographic evidence is available!)
Since September we’ve been thinking about the seasons of the year: Autumn, Winter and Spring. Tree collages, bug hotels, bird feeders and cotton wool lambs are just a few of the activities in which we have shared.
Worship and hospitality are central to Saturday Shift, with the food always having some connection to the theme. In our quiet time we use creative ways to enable prayer and reflection.
A small team meets regularly to plan and prepare all aspects Saturday Shift. As always, we appreciate the help volunteers give before, during and after the worship – thank you.
If you’ve not yet experienced Saturday Shift, or haven’t been along for a while, then please come and join us. Even better, invite someone who doesn’t usually “do” church – Saturday Shift is a safe, accessible space for us all.
Next Saturday Shifts at 5pm:
18 May – “Summer”
13 July - “Celebration” (The whole church family comes together to celebrate our Church Anniversary with our friends from the Brazilian Church.)
Above all, please pray for Saturday Shift.
West Berks Foodbank:- Marilyn Britt
A HUGE THANK YOU to you all for supporting the West Berks Foodbank during the last year. It really does make a big difference to the people we see at the Distribution Centres throughout West Berkshire. Apart from our local one at Thatcham Baptist Church (open Monday and Thursday afternoons), there are distribution centres in Newbury (Tuesday and Friday afternoons), Hungerford on Wednesday afternoons and Lambourn on Monday afternoons. Another Foodbank has joined the West Berks group at Burghfield and Mortimer. Although the Foodbank is open one afternoon a week, it also provides a delivery service as it is a rural area.
Currently the warehouse is well stocked with most items. We do appreciate the donations of food listed in the urgently required or low in stock lists and these items very quickly come in. There is a request from the warehouse of please no pasta, beans or soup. We would also like to receive more tinned vegetables rather than just the kidney beans and chick peas. Please don’t provide baby food, nappies or sanitary items (unless they are on the urgently required list) as they take up too much room in storage. We do give them out when required but at the moment we have plenty. I will put any shortages in the weekly newsheet or monthly newsletter as I become aware of them. We give out specific items to clients – the list has been put together by a nutritionist so that a balanced diet can be eaten. Quantities vary depending on the number of people to be fed.
We support clients who may be on their own, or part of a large family. During the last year (April 18 – 31 March 19), the Foodbank has fed 4,840 people which includes 1,670 children. This is an increase from the previous year. If the need is there then we can help with food but as important as this is, we signpost them to others who may be able to help them out of their crisis. Changes in benefit and debt are some of the biggest issues of crisis. The Foodbank also supports Loose Ends, Two Saints, Children First in West Berkshire and the Soup Kitchen.
I visited Pied Piper when they celebrated Harvest in the Autumn and talked to the children about how some people go hungry in Thatcham. We looked at the donations and thought about the sort of meals we could make. The Pre-School are now collectors in their own right and you may see their own crate in the back of the church. I am delighted that the Pre-school children (as well as parents and staff) recognise the poverty that does exist in this area.
We do appreciate your generosity in your donations of food. We also value your prayers.
Pilgrims :- Marilyn Britt
Pilgrims has been meeting regularly on Tuesday mornings at 10 a.m. Every meeting starts with prayer, and either listening to a hymn/song or appropriate music on CD or sometimes the singing of a hymn.
Our September meeting opened with Dot Peaple telling us about her upbringing, her interests, and events which have happened to her. She told us of her love of all things Welsh including rugby, some Welsh singers and entertainers. Dot had chosen some of her favourite hymns and music to share together too.
The first week of October is the U3A holiday, but we still meet and shared ‘Thoughts about Harvest’. We met weekly and from then until mid-November we learnt more about the first 5 Ten Commandments. Our first session was putting them into context and then discovering more about each one, what it means, other references to each commandment and how they affect our lives in the 21st century.
In mid-November (perhaps a bit early) we started reading our Advent Book ‘Real God in the Real World’ by Owain Trystan Hughes. This is a very readable book – we read a short chapter a day which includes a bible reading at home and then discuss the readings and how relevant it is today the following week. The book continues to Epiphany but because we don’t meet for 2 weeks in December, we do continue to mid-January. It was the second time some of us had read and discussed this book in Pilgrims but we always discover parts we missed the previous time.
We all had a lovely morning on 5th February when our own friend Pat Bridge was on the sofa telling us about herself, where she was born (Plymouth) and how she arrived in Thatcham just 3 years ago. We heard about the moves she made, her family, and her interests. She married David who was moved around by his company initially, and then having being called by God into the ministry – kept moving again as part of the Methodist stationing process. Some of Pat’s favourite hymns we also sang together.
During Lent we have been looking at the rest of the Ten Commandments. Our meeting in Holy Week will be thinking more of the events in Jerusalem leading up to Good Friday.
During the summer months, we meet on the 1st Tuesday of the month – dates and topics are on the notice boards, newsletters and weekly news sheets.
Pilgrims is a time of fellowship, learning and sharing and everyone is very welcome.
BIFBOF Report:- Alan Johnson
Boys In Fellowship Badminton On Fridays. It is hard to believe that I have been a member of this group for thirty years. I do believe it because my brain is thirty years younger than my body’s ability to keep up with it. Guile and luck are the weapons of today. Thankfully my colleagues are happy to put up with me so I am happy to be a playing member for as long as I can. After all what else can one do on Friday evenings? Any new ‘Boys’ are of course always welcome.
Gift Aid Report:- Pete Sharpe - Gift Aid Secretary
The Gift Aid Scheme allows charities such as our Church to reclaim tax at a rate of 25% on all donations, no matter how large or small, from eligible UK taxpayers. This facility provides vital funds for our Church, both to support day to day running costs and to boost donations made by members towards major projects such as the recent kitchen refurbishments. At the time of writing, I am estimating that the amount generated through Gift Aid in 2018/19 will be around £4,715. This represents an increase of some £400 compared to last year, largely due to donations from members towards the various refurbishment projects.
Since 2013, the scheme has been extended to include the Small Donation Scheme which allows us also to reclaim tax on non-Gift Aided donations too – as long as the individual donations are small (less than £20 each) and made in cash. This scheme continues to help us enormously, normally contributing an average of around £1,100 per year, though the previous year (2017/18) was boosted to £1,175 due to the success of our Toilet Twinning campaign. 2018/19 looks like reverting to the average at £1,105. The total amount claimed for 2018/19 through both parts of the scheme is therefore likely to be some £5,820. Admin fees will reduce this to approx. £5,750, which represents a welcome £365 increase over last year’s net total of £5,385.
Finally, I would like to thank all donors for their continuing support, and encourage anyone wishing to join the Gift Aid scheme to speak to me in confidence.
Café Church Report:- Elaine Fletcher and Jane Head
We meet once a month on the second Friday of the month, from 9.30am to about 11am. We serve coffee/tea and cakes and at about 10.15am we have a speaker for about 20-30 minutes. The subjects of the talks are very varied – spiritual, travelogues of faraway places, experiences and/or interests of our speakers and so on – so there is something for everyone – and everyone is welcome.
Since the last ACM, we have had a useful talk by Neighbourhood Watch organiser, Angela Money, who gave us information on personal safety and avoiding scams. Our own Roy Kirkham gave us an insight into the life of a dental technician, complete with samples! Another ‘home-grown’ speaker was Jane who gave a fascinating presentation in June of her trip to the Alhambra in Spain, with some beautiful photos.
Jane Sutton and Christa came in July to tell us about the history of ‘Shoemakers’, and its current structure. We were pleased to be able to give them a donation of £40 for which we received a letter of thanks from Christa. To end the Connexional year in August Elaine shared a selection of “Favourite Prayers” from people of all walks of life – children, prisoners, footballers, Rabbis, whippet enthusiast, barristers, to name but a few.
In September we had another useful talk, from Gillian Comley of Village Agents, a charity which helps the elderly or those recently discharged from hospital with everyday tasks, such as shopping or walking the dog. Jane Ayres from BBOWT gave us a lively presentation on how the Memory Café at the Discovery Centre helps people who are elderly, particularly those with dementia, and we were pleased to give her a donation of £30 towards the Memory Café.
2018 was the centenary of the end of the First World War and Elaine and Jane commemorated this anniversary with poems and readings, and by showing photos of ‘GP90’, a pilgrimage to the battle fields of France and Belgium by 2000+ members of the Royal British Legion, two of whom came from the Thatcham Branch.
True to tradition, we had our normal ‘in-house’ Christmas celebration in December, with Helen Cook playing for some carol singing, and some seasonal poems. And of course we were delighted as usual by the Pied Piper’s interpretation of The Nativity!
We started 2019 with an excellent presentation by Jane of the Mercy Ships organisation. Her talk and the video were so moving our members donated £101 to the charity. In February Stuart and Mary took us on a journey through Europe by InterRail – they were quite the ‘recycled teenagers’, and we enjoyed the beautiful photos (especially the selfies!) and the tales of their trip.
Erica Gassor from Newbury came in March and spoke about the assistance her charity provides for the homeless in Newbury. Again, our members were so moved by her inspirational talk, they donated £106 which was being doubled by the Good Exchange. Most recently, Elizabeth Oxbury from Glendale Thatcham Church (Green Lane) gave us a thoughtful message of Easter by telling us of the Passover meal, with the significance of the various dishes, and linking it to Bible passages from the Old and New Testaments.
At the time of writing we are looking forward to talks by Jane Sutton from Newbury, Ian Borland on the history of Greenham Common air base and a speaker from a charity called Remap Berkshire.
In addition to the donations mentioned above, during the period April 2018 to March 2019, the members of Café Church have contributed to the transport of shoeboxes at Christmas, Church coffee stocks, £100 to the Good Exchange towards the Church refurbishment, and 2 coffee pots for our Sunday coffee – a grand total of £477.54! As our average membership each month is about 18-20, this is extremely generous, and we thank all our members for their contributions.
We thank too all our speakers for the time they put into making their talks interesting and informative. We also thank all those members who set up the chairs and tables, make the coffee, provide the cakes and do the washing up afterwards – and all those who attend, normally whatever the weather!
Action for Children:- Howard Fletcher
Thank you to all of our Church members who continue to support this Methodist charity so generously in spite of all the other fundraising demands placed upon us. The charity’s work supports disadvantaged children and young people who then benefit from improved mental health, protection from domestic violence and employment and further education or training opportunities.
Since October 2018 we have raised £1561.45.
This is made up from:-
The Home Collecting Boxes - many members of our congregation choose to have a box at home so that they can donate ‘as and when’ during the year, perhaps small amounts of loose change which build up over the year. These are then collected annually and sent to the charity. Together this year we raised £900.00
If you do not have a Collecting Box at home and would like to contribute in this way please let me know and it can be quickly arranged.
Over the Christmas period the purchase of Christmas cards and the loose collections made at our Carol services raised a total of £661.45
Don’t forget our Bookstall in the front hall, there are many interesting books on its shelves – it is always available for everyone to browse and choose a book or books and make a donation. The books do not have to be returned but if you think that others may enjoy them then please return them. There is no fixed charge and all donations go to Action for Children to add to our overall giving.
Here4Me, provides volunteers who are Independent Visitors and Advocates for children and young people in care and Mentors for identified children in need. It is based locally in Park Lane and when we can we specify that Here4me should benefit directly from our donations.
A note for your diary:
Our annual Action for Children Sunday this year – the 150th Anniversary - will be held on Sunday 3rd November and is being led again by Karen Frost and supported by the members of Pastoral Group 1. Lily Haig our local Area Fundraiser from Action for Children is also returning to talk to us and bring us up to date with some of the charity’s current activities.
Your continuing generous support for Action for Children is greatly appreciated and helps the charity to change young people’s lives for the better.
Pastoral:- Jane Head – Pastoral Secretary
The pastoral groups continue to support each other with caring and fellowship and by meeting together, sharing fun activities. We are so fortunate to be encouraged and cared for by our Pastoral Coordinators, who keep a watchful eye over their members, offering a listening ear and a kind word when needed.
Some Pastoral Coordinators have recently attended training sessions on our behalf to enable them to be more aware of problems that face us as we get older. We thank them for their dedication to their task.
Some of our church members continue to benefit from a personal pastoral visitor, we thank those who take up this duty of care.
We have said a sad farewell to dear Peter Jarvis, a lovely man who touched all our lives. Our thoughts and prayers have been with Maureen and her family as they go forward.
Another recent farewell was to our church member Agnes Muttram, whom Maureen visited regularly over the years as her Pastoral Visitor.
We continue to hold those of our Church family who have health problems in our prayers.
Congratulations to Elizabeth and Eric have recently celebrated their 90th birthdays and we look forward to celebrating Beryl’s 90th birthday in July.
Please advise me if anyone in your group needs support in any way so that I can make Peter aware of their needs.
Fund Raising and Property:- Mike Schofield
We reached and exceeded our fund raising target of nearly £24,000 by over £1,000. Well done to everyone and a big thank you to Circuit, the charities and trust organisations that contributed to our fund raising effort.
In consequence we have been able to undertake the following property improvements:
Treasurer’s Report:- Stuart Armstrong
TMC ACCOUNTS
The accounts for 2017/18 show a deficit of £1,659 and a consequent reduction in year end reserves to £26,396.
The budget for 2018/19 was agreed by Church Council in June 2018 and amended with the agreement of Church Council in February 2019 to include a provision of £2,000 for purchasing a dishwasher for the rear kitchen. The budget as amended projects a deficit of £2,872, which would reduce reserves by the year end to £23,524. Under the reserves policy agreed by Church Council in February 2019 we are aiming to retain where possible a contingency amount of £24,300.
Seven months into the year we are more or less in line with the budget as amended.
CAPITAL PROJECTS
The above figures do not take account of any receipts or payments relating to the current scheme of church renovation aka ‘capital projects’. This is being undertaken only insofar as it can be funded by a combination of donations from church members – many thanks to all for their support and generosity - and outside grants, uplifted where applicable by match funding through The Good Exchange and Gift Aid. From a cash flow perspective, receipts and payments in relation to this work, which is ongoing, have been as follows.
In 2017/18 Receipts £ 4,320 Payments £ 1,705
In 2018/19 to date Receipts £16,986 Payments £15,552
Cumulative to date Receipts £21,306 Payments £17,257
My thanks go to all those who contribute, with their competence, efficiency and good humour, to the church’s financial management and governance. They know who they are and the parts they play as members of the wider finance team. In particular this year I would like to thank my co-signatories Alan and Ray in helping to ease the transition from Natwest to Barclays where good humour, though tested somewhat from time to time, was always forthcoming
Christian Aid Report:- Helen Cook
The committee have continued to organise a range of meetings during the year with fund-raising in mind.
We did not carol sing this last year, but did collect outside Tesco Express on the A4 on a Friday morning and we raised £220∙30.
We had sent £3946.33 to Christian Aid by September 2018 with moneys raised from the House to House Collection, a Beetle Drive, Lent Lunches and coffee mornings. Donations for Christmas Cards and a collection for the Cyclone Appeal, which was match funded by government, meant that we increased this to well over the £4000 mark by the end of December. Our Collectors for the House to House are dwindling so we will still ask people if they are willing to help but primarily ask the churches to hand out envelopes to their congregations at the beginning of the week and then we will collect them at the end.
We would like to thank CTIT for organising the Lent lunches and the Methodist Church for providing the venue. It is a good ecumenical event and those attending come from a good mix of churches so the gain is more than financial. This year we have had 20 or more attending most Fridays. At the time of going to print I know that we have raised over £534 but do not know the final total collected – look to church notices.
Fund raising events:
The Well:- Nadine Summers
Another steady year. With many familiar faces mainly childminders.
I have steadily been able to change over old and broken toys when I had a clear out of the cupboard. I sourced new or replacement toys from facebay etc. I am hoping to get some second hand children’s tills, shopping trollies along with empty boxes of food. So I can set up a little shop area on some sessions.
Crafts remain popular. The Christmas party and Easter egg hunt were very successful and popular.
We are now looking forward to warmer weather and use of garden leading up to the summer holidays.
Pied Piper:- Eva Hughes - Manager
Similarly to last year, we had a very quiet autumn term but the number of children has grown over the academic year again. The summer term is set to be a busy one and we look forward making full use of the garden.
The preschool had some financial concerns in the autumn term when the number of children was low but with the new children starting the committee are less concerned and we hope to finish the year in a better financial position. Our current committee have worked hard to support the preschool and have been very successful in their fundraising over the last two terms.
Last term we made the decision to move from sessional care to full days – this is something that parents have been requesting for some time so we are hoping that this will mean our sessions are busier in the coming autumn term. It will be a challenge for us to make such a big change but I’m confident that the staff will embrace it and ensure that we continue to provide a positive experience for parents and children attending our preschool.
It has now been 6 years since our last Ofsted inspection – so I’m assuming that we will get a visit from them soon!
Church Family Reports – 2019
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
Our mission is to share the Good News of Jesu Christ through our witness, our worship and by our practical expression of His love within the community and the world I which we serve.
We seek to fulfil this mission through:
- Various expression of worship open to our community – alongside traditional styles of worship we offer alternative forms, such as bi monthly, family centred mix of worship, music and craft activities (Saturday Shift) and a monthly gathering of a more social nature involving guest speakers (Café Church);
- Learning and Caring, through small group meetings for Bible Study, prayer, social events and discussion.
- Service, by being a viable presence in our community, supporting people of all ages including young families and young people by providing them a safe place for them to grow through our Carer and Toddler Group (The Well).
- Evangelism, through working out our faith in our daily lives and supporting the outreach and social projects of this Church, Churches Together in Thatcham and the Circuit.
Minister’s Introduction
I begin with an invitation to the General Church Meeting which will begin at 4.00pm on Saturday 11th May and will be followed by a bring and share tea. I hope you will be able to join us. Everyone is welcome you do not need to be a church member as we share together and pray about the year ahead.
I commend this report to you. I want to thank all who have contributed to it and Helen and Alan Johnson for collating it. Behind the words there is a great deal of hard work, some obvious, some less so, but all very much appreciated. I want to thank everyone for your dedicated service, continuing support and encouragement during the year.
No one knows who coined the phrase ‘the ties that bind’ but it certainly appears in the writing of Anne Bronte and Charles Dickens. It has been uses in popular culture in the title of novels, films and songs. What are the ties that bind God’s people together as Thatcham Methodist Church? What is it that means you feel part of something that matters, which gives you a sense of belonging? How strong are those ties? Are they strong enough to withstand the strains of being together and the pull of many competing tensions? If we are to be a community what is the comm(on)-unity we share?
Here are some verses from the Book of Colossians, a book we will be thinking about together during the forthcoming Bible Month series. They suggest the love we receive from God and share is what will hold us together as we seek to live out the way of Jesus in peace and forgiveness.
’Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.’ Col 3: 13-15.
I want to encourage you to take these verses as our inspiration and guidance in the coming year. So let’s commit to think about them deeply and apply them faithfully. Let’s ask God to help us know what they mean for Thatcham Methodist Church.
Every blessing
Peter Bennett
Pastoral Development Worker:- Karen Frost
It’s been ten months since I came into post – where has the time gone and what have I been doing?! Here’s a flavour of what my role has entailed so far.
- Networked – meeting with statutory services and voluntary organisations to learn what they do and to get my role known within the local area.
- Worshipped - in the four churches I serve and attended their groups for seniors to start to build relationships.
- Talked - at various local groups/meetings and have particularly enjoyed using reminiscence as a vehicle for conversation.
- Researched - activities already available to older people in their communities to see where there are gaps and whether there is an opportunity for the local Methodist church to either start an activity/service or support one that is already in place.
- Compered – Hungerford Christmas Day Community Lunch
- Enabled – the three Lambourn churches and East Garston Quakers to work together on the first ecumenical Holiday at Home event in Lambourn in August 2019.
- Started – Evergreen Fellowship at Newbury Methodist Church – a fortnightly group for older people.
- Signposted – pastoral carers/visitors and individuals to local support.
- Facilitated – workshops for the pastoral carers/visitors in the four churches on Dementia Friends, Mental Health and Financial Abuse of Older People.
- Trained – gained the Certificate in Ministry Among Older People and Emergency First Aid at Work.
- Championed – Domestic Abuse (DA) awareness as I continued in my role as a West Berkshire DA Champion and delivered three training days to professionals.
- Enthused – to professionals and voluntary organisations about what the Methodist church can offer the local community and how it can work in partnership.
- Ensured - older people with whom I come into contact are valued, respected and treated with dignity and can continue to serve God.
Stewards:- Mary Armstrong
In this, my first annual report as lead steward, I would like to thank Lesley, June, David, Alan and Howard for their dedication and hard work, and Peter for his unstinting support. Lesley in particular, with her experience of being lead steward for two years has been very helpful and supportive in sharing the experience and insights gained during her time in the role.
Thanks to all who contributed to some important services, including Harvest when we welcomed Glyn Evans from the Farming Community Network, the Accessibility team service, Remembrance service, Carol and Christmas Day services, the Worship Consultation service and the recent MHA service. These were appreciated and enjoyed by all who attended. We are fortunate to have a dedicated team of worship leaders, which is particularly important given the increasing need for ‘Local Arrangements’.
I must also mention the work of the Accessibility Team who have made us all aware of the many and varied ways in which the church can and continues to become a more inclusive, safe and welcoming environment. Of particular note has been the successful relocation of the Sunday after-service refreshments to the rear hall. Thanks are due to all members of the congregation for their support and participation in the consultation exercise.
I would also like to thank the property team who work hard looking after our building both inside and out, keeping it a safe, accessible, pleasant, welcoming and increasingly ‘greener’ environment. The recent improvements especially the new front and rear doors and improved toilet facilities not only look good, but also bring many benefits, both for church members and the many visitors and outside groups who use our premises.
The last eight months or so have seen the whole church take part in fundraising for these and other renovation projects, culminating in our Silent Auction and coffee morning on Saturday 9 February. Once again members’ support and generosity (and match funding by The Good Exchange) produced a great result as we met our target of around £24,000. Also, the coffee morning itself was such a lovely time for conversation and fellowship that following feedback from those who attended the stewards are going to look into how we can make this a regular event.
We are grateful to Carol Hoyle who has volunteered to take over the important task of maintaining our refreshments stocks. Similarly, we thank Chris Belcher for agreeing to look after our Cradle Roll, and of course many thanks to Elaine Fletcher who has diligently and efficiently carried out these jobs over a number of years.
Finally, it has come home to me, especially since becoming lead steward, just how much we all owe to the many ‘unsung heroes’ in the life of the church who operate quietly and efficiently behind the scenes. You really do make a difference, ensuring that as far as possible the church meets the needs and expectations of all who come here and that it continues to be an inclusive, welcoming and safe space.
Safeguarding Report:- Janice Schofield
On behalf of the church council I continue to make sure that all DBS checks and policies are kept up-to-date.
Five members of church attended the Advanced Module Safeguarding Training Day this year. The training reminded us all of the importance of creating safe spaces for all.
The words of the following prayer written by Vivien Almond encapsulate what needs to be done:
Lord of light, we remember that you came into the world to banish the darkness. We hold before you those whose lives have been overshadowed by abuse.
Lord, open our ears to hear the truth, open our eyes to truly see what is happening in front of us, open our minds that we may acknowledge and understand the damage abuse, in all its forms can do. Open our hearts to find ways to make a safe space for all people.
Creator God, in love you created us in your own image and taught that all people should be treated equally and with dignity. You call your Church to be a safe place, where people can grow to know more of your gift of grace, love and everlasting peace. We strive to honour this through the roles you call us to and the authority you lay upon us. Amen
Please remember safeguarding is the responsibility of us all. If you are concerned about someone or a situation please talk to me.
Saturday Shift:- Karen Frost
Another busy year of fun, food and most importantly, worship - enthusiastically enjoyed by all who attend. There’s a real sense of community and it’s great to build relationships with those who come. Our friends Wendy & Ewan (and Matthew) have ably led us in music, with Peter and Karen sharing the leader of worship role.
Last May we finished our “Jesus said, “I am..” themes with “I am the door (or gate)”. Roy Kirkham made us a fantastic opening door, which the children walked and crawled through right on cue as Peter told the story. A wonderful God given moment indeed.
In July we were “Running the Race”. We enjoyed a mini sports session – hula hooping, skipping, skittles, and the most enjoyable sport of all: can you get the sweets out of the green jelly without touching the jelly with your fingers? – messy fun! (Photographic evidence is available!)
Since September we’ve been thinking about the seasons of the year: Autumn, Winter and Spring. Tree collages, bug hotels, bird feeders and cotton wool lambs are just a few of the activities in which we have shared.
Worship and hospitality are central to Saturday Shift, with the food always having some connection to the theme. In our quiet time we use creative ways to enable prayer and reflection.
A small team meets regularly to plan and prepare all aspects Saturday Shift. As always, we appreciate the help volunteers give before, during and after the worship – thank you.
If you’ve not yet experienced Saturday Shift, or haven’t been along for a while, then please come and join us. Even better, invite someone who doesn’t usually “do” church – Saturday Shift is a safe, accessible space for us all.
Next Saturday Shifts at 5pm:
18 May – “Summer”
13 July - “Celebration” (The whole church family comes together to celebrate our Church Anniversary with our friends from the Brazilian Church.)
Above all, please pray for Saturday Shift.
West Berks Foodbank:- Marilyn Britt
A HUGE THANK YOU to you all for supporting the West Berks Foodbank during the last year. It really does make a big difference to the people we see at the Distribution Centres throughout West Berkshire. Apart from our local one at Thatcham Baptist Church (open Monday and Thursday afternoons), there are distribution centres in Newbury (Tuesday and Friday afternoons), Hungerford on Wednesday afternoons and Lambourn on Monday afternoons. Another Foodbank has joined the West Berks group at Burghfield and Mortimer. Although the Foodbank is open one afternoon a week, it also provides a delivery service as it is a rural area.
Currently the warehouse is well stocked with most items. We do appreciate the donations of food listed in the urgently required or low in stock lists and these items very quickly come in. There is a request from the warehouse of please no pasta, beans or soup. We would also like to receive more tinned vegetables rather than just the kidney beans and chick peas. Please don’t provide baby food, nappies or sanitary items (unless they are on the urgently required list) as they take up too much room in storage. We do give them out when required but at the moment we have plenty. I will put any shortages in the weekly newsheet or monthly newsletter as I become aware of them. We give out specific items to clients – the list has been put together by a nutritionist so that a balanced diet can be eaten. Quantities vary depending on the number of people to be fed.
We support clients who may be on their own, or part of a large family. During the last year (April 18 – 31 March 19), the Foodbank has fed 4,840 people which includes 1,670 children. This is an increase from the previous year. If the need is there then we can help with food but as important as this is, we signpost them to others who may be able to help them out of their crisis. Changes in benefit and debt are some of the biggest issues of crisis. The Foodbank also supports Loose Ends, Two Saints, Children First in West Berkshire and the Soup Kitchen.
I visited Pied Piper when they celebrated Harvest in the Autumn and talked to the children about how some people go hungry in Thatcham. We looked at the donations and thought about the sort of meals we could make. The Pre-School are now collectors in their own right and you may see their own crate in the back of the church. I am delighted that the Pre-school children (as well as parents and staff) recognise the poverty that does exist in this area.
We do appreciate your generosity in your donations of food. We also value your prayers.
Pilgrims :- Marilyn Britt
Pilgrims has been meeting regularly on Tuesday mornings at 10 a.m. Every meeting starts with prayer, and either listening to a hymn/song or appropriate music on CD or sometimes the singing of a hymn.
Our September meeting opened with Dot Peaple telling us about her upbringing, her interests, and events which have happened to her. She told us of her love of all things Welsh including rugby, some Welsh singers and entertainers. Dot had chosen some of her favourite hymns and music to share together too.
The first week of October is the U3A holiday, but we still meet and shared ‘Thoughts about Harvest’. We met weekly and from then until mid-November we learnt more about the first 5 Ten Commandments. Our first session was putting them into context and then discovering more about each one, what it means, other references to each commandment and how they affect our lives in the 21st century.
In mid-November (perhaps a bit early) we started reading our Advent Book ‘Real God in the Real World’ by Owain Trystan Hughes. This is a very readable book – we read a short chapter a day which includes a bible reading at home and then discuss the readings and how relevant it is today the following week. The book continues to Epiphany but because we don’t meet for 2 weeks in December, we do continue to mid-January. It was the second time some of us had read and discussed this book in Pilgrims but we always discover parts we missed the previous time.
We all had a lovely morning on 5th February when our own friend Pat Bridge was on the sofa telling us about herself, where she was born (Plymouth) and how she arrived in Thatcham just 3 years ago. We heard about the moves she made, her family, and her interests. She married David who was moved around by his company initially, and then having being called by God into the ministry – kept moving again as part of the Methodist stationing process. Some of Pat’s favourite hymns we also sang together.
During Lent we have been looking at the rest of the Ten Commandments. Our meeting in Holy Week will be thinking more of the events in Jerusalem leading up to Good Friday.
During the summer months, we meet on the 1st Tuesday of the month – dates and topics are on the notice boards, newsletters and weekly news sheets.
Pilgrims is a time of fellowship, learning and sharing and everyone is very welcome.
BIFBOF Report:- Alan Johnson
Boys In Fellowship Badminton On Fridays. It is hard to believe that I have been a member of this group for thirty years. I do believe it because my brain is thirty years younger than my body’s ability to keep up with it. Guile and luck are the weapons of today. Thankfully my colleagues are happy to put up with me so I am happy to be a playing member for as long as I can. After all what else can one do on Friday evenings? Any new ‘Boys’ are of course always welcome.
Gift Aid Report:- Pete Sharpe - Gift Aid Secretary
The Gift Aid Scheme allows charities such as our Church to reclaim tax at a rate of 25% on all donations, no matter how large or small, from eligible UK taxpayers. This facility provides vital funds for our Church, both to support day to day running costs and to boost donations made by members towards major projects such as the recent kitchen refurbishments. At the time of writing, I am estimating that the amount generated through Gift Aid in 2018/19 will be around £4,715. This represents an increase of some £400 compared to last year, largely due to donations from members towards the various refurbishment projects.
Since 2013, the scheme has been extended to include the Small Donation Scheme which allows us also to reclaim tax on non-Gift Aided donations too – as long as the individual donations are small (less than £20 each) and made in cash. This scheme continues to help us enormously, normally contributing an average of around £1,100 per year, though the previous year (2017/18) was boosted to £1,175 due to the success of our Toilet Twinning campaign. 2018/19 looks like reverting to the average at £1,105. The total amount claimed for 2018/19 through both parts of the scheme is therefore likely to be some £5,820. Admin fees will reduce this to approx. £5,750, which represents a welcome £365 increase over last year’s net total of £5,385.
Finally, I would like to thank all donors for their continuing support, and encourage anyone wishing to join the Gift Aid scheme to speak to me in confidence.
Café Church Report:- Elaine Fletcher and Jane Head
We meet once a month on the second Friday of the month, from 9.30am to about 11am. We serve coffee/tea and cakes and at about 10.15am we have a speaker for about 20-30 minutes. The subjects of the talks are very varied – spiritual, travelogues of faraway places, experiences and/or interests of our speakers and so on – so there is something for everyone – and everyone is welcome.
Since the last ACM, we have had a useful talk by Neighbourhood Watch organiser, Angela Money, who gave us information on personal safety and avoiding scams. Our own Roy Kirkham gave us an insight into the life of a dental technician, complete with samples! Another ‘home-grown’ speaker was Jane who gave a fascinating presentation in June of her trip to the Alhambra in Spain, with some beautiful photos.
Jane Sutton and Christa came in July to tell us about the history of ‘Shoemakers’, and its current structure. We were pleased to be able to give them a donation of £40 for which we received a letter of thanks from Christa. To end the Connexional year in August Elaine shared a selection of “Favourite Prayers” from people of all walks of life – children, prisoners, footballers, Rabbis, whippet enthusiast, barristers, to name but a few.
In September we had another useful talk, from Gillian Comley of Village Agents, a charity which helps the elderly or those recently discharged from hospital with everyday tasks, such as shopping or walking the dog. Jane Ayres from BBOWT gave us a lively presentation on how the Memory Café at the Discovery Centre helps people who are elderly, particularly those with dementia, and we were pleased to give her a donation of £30 towards the Memory Café.
2018 was the centenary of the end of the First World War and Elaine and Jane commemorated this anniversary with poems and readings, and by showing photos of ‘GP90’, a pilgrimage to the battle fields of France and Belgium by 2000+ members of the Royal British Legion, two of whom came from the Thatcham Branch.
True to tradition, we had our normal ‘in-house’ Christmas celebration in December, with Helen Cook playing for some carol singing, and some seasonal poems. And of course we were delighted as usual by the Pied Piper’s interpretation of The Nativity!
We started 2019 with an excellent presentation by Jane of the Mercy Ships organisation. Her talk and the video were so moving our members donated £101 to the charity. In February Stuart and Mary took us on a journey through Europe by InterRail – they were quite the ‘recycled teenagers’, and we enjoyed the beautiful photos (especially the selfies!) and the tales of their trip.
Erica Gassor from Newbury came in March and spoke about the assistance her charity provides for the homeless in Newbury. Again, our members were so moved by her inspirational talk, they donated £106 which was being doubled by the Good Exchange. Most recently, Elizabeth Oxbury from Glendale Thatcham Church (Green Lane) gave us a thoughtful message of Easter by telling us of the Passover meal, with the significance of the various dishes, and linking it to Bible passages from the Old and New Testaments.
At the time of writing we are looking forward to talks by Jane Sutton from Newbury, Ian Borland on the history of Greenham Common air base and a speaker from a charity called Remap Berkshire.
In addition to the donations mentioned above, during the period April 2018 to March 2019, the members of Café Church have contributed to the transport of shoeboxes at Christmas, Church coffee stocks, £100 to the Good Exchange towards the Church refurbishment, and 2 coffee pots for our Sunday coffee – a grand total of £477.54! As our average membership each month is about 18-20, this is extremely generous, and we thank all our members for their contributions.
We thank too all our speakers for the time they put into making their talks interesting and informative. We also thank all those members who set up the chairs and tables, make the coffee, provide the cakes and do the washing up afterwards – and all those who attend, normally whatever the weather!
Action for Children:- Howard Fletcher
Thank you to all of our Church members who continue to support this Methodist charity so generously in spite of all the other fundraising demands placed upon us. The charity’s work supports disadvantaged children and young people who then benefit from improved mental health, protection from domestic violence and employment and further education or training opportunities.
Since October 2018 we have raised £1561.45.
This is made up from:-
The Home Collecting Boxes - many members of our congregation choose to have a box at home so that they can donate ‘as and when’ during the year, perhaps small amounts of loose change which build up over the year. These are then collected annually and sent to the charity. Together this year we raised £900.00
If you do not have a Collecting Box at home and would like to contribute in this way please let me know and it can be quickly arranged.
Over the Christmas period the purchase of Christmas cards and the loose collections made at our Carol services raised a total of £661.45
Don’t forget our Bookstall in the front hall, there are many interesting books on its shelves – it is always available for everyone to browse and choose a book or books and make a donation. The books do not have to be returned but if you think that others may enjoy them then please return them. There is no fixed charge and all donations go to Action for Children to add to our overall giving.
Here4Me, provides volunteers who are Independent Visitors and Advocates for children and young people in care and Mentors for identified children in need. It is based locally in Park Lane and when we can we specify that Here4me should benefit directly from our donations.
A note for your diary:
Our annual Action for Children Sunday this year – the 150th Anniversary - will be held on Sunday 3rd November and is being led again by Karen Frost and supported by the members of Pastoral Group 1. Lily Haig our local Area Fundraiser from Action for Children is also returning to talk to us and bring us up to date with some of the charity’s current activities.
Your continuing generous support for Action for Children is greatly appreciated and helps the charity to change young people’s lives for the better.
Pastoral:- Jane Head – Pastoral Secretary
The pastoral groups continue to support each other with caring and fellowship and by meeting together, sharing fun activities. We are so fortunate to be encouraged and cared for by our Pastoral Coordinators, who keep a watchful eye over their members, offering a listening ear and a kind word when needed.
Some Pastoral Coordinators have recently attended training sessions on our behalf to enable them to be more aware of problems that face us as we get older. We thank them for their dedication to their task.
Some of our church members continue to benefit from a personal pastoral visitor, we thank those who take up this duty of care.
We have said a sad farewell to dear Peter Jarvis, a lovely man who touched all our lives. Our thoughts and prayers have been with Maureen and her family as they go forward.
Another recent farewell was to our church member Agnes Muttram, whom Maureen visited regularly over the years as her Pastoral Visitor.
We continue to hold those of our Church family who have health problems in our prayers.
Congratulations to Elizabeth and Eric have recently celebrated their 90th birthdays and we look forward to celebrating Beryl’s 90th birthday in July.
Please advise me if anyone in your group needs support in any way so that I can make Peter aware of their needs.
Fund Raising and Property:- Mike Schofield
We reached and exceeded our fund raising target of nearly £24,000 by over £1,000. Well done to everyone and a big thank you to Circuit, the charities and trust organisations that contributed to our fund raising effort.
In consequence we have been able to undertake the following property improvements:
- Replace front and rear entrance doors (side doors are on order)
- Lay Karndean plank flooring in rear hallway
- Refurbish girls’ toilets at the rear of the premises – tiles/sinks/cubical doors and partitions
- Refurbishment of boys’ toilet is scheduled to take place this summer
- Insulation added to rear hall loft
- Step and hand rail added to sanctuary
Treasurer’s Report:- Stuart Armstrong
TMC ACCOUNTS
The accounts for 2017/18 show a deficit of £1,659 and a consequent reduction in year end reserves to £26,396.
The budget for 2018/19 was agreed by Church Council in June 2018 and amended with the agreement of Church Council in February 2019 to include a provision of £2,000 for purchasing a dishwasher for the rear kitchen. The budget as amended projects a deficit of £2,872, which would reduce reserves by the year end to £23,524. Under the reserves policy agreed by Church Council in February 2019 we are aiming to retain where possible a contingency amount of £24,300.
Seven months into the year we are more or less in line with the budget as amended.
CAPITAL PROJECTS
The above figures do not take account of any receipts or payments relating to the current scheme of church renovation aka ‘capital projects’. This is being undertaken only insofar as it can be funded by a combination of donations from church members – many thanks to all for their support and generosity - and outside grants, uplifted where applicable by match funding through The Good Exchange and Gift Aid. From a cash flow perspective, receipts and payments in relation to this work, which is ongoing, have been as follows.
In 2017/18 Receipts £ 4,320 Payments £ 1,705
In 2018/19 to date Receipts £16,986 Payments £15,552
Cumulative to date Receipts £21,306 Payments £17,257
My thanks go to all those who contribute, with their competence, efficiency and good humour, to the church’s financial management and governance. They know who they are and the parts they play as members of the wider finance team. In particular this year I would like to thank my co-signatories Alan and Ray in helping to ease the transition from Natwest to Barclays where good humour, though tested somewhat from time to time, was always forthcoming
Christian Aid Report:- Helen Cook
The committee have continued to organise a range of meetings during the year with fund-raising in mind.
We did not carol sing this last year, but did collect outside Tesco Express on the A4 on a Friday morning and we raised £220∙30.
We had sent £3946.33 to Christian Aid by September 2018 with moneys raised from the House to House Collection, a Beetle Drive, Lent Lunches and coffee mornings. Donations for Christmas Cards and a collection for the Cyclone Appeal, which was match funded by government, meant that we increased this to well over the £4000 mark by the end of December. Our Collectors for the House to House are dwindling so we will still ask people if they are willing to help but primarily ask the churches to hand out envelopes to their congregations at the beginning of the week and then we will collect them at the end.
We would like to thank CTIT for organising the Lent lunches and the Methodist Church for providing the venue. It is a good ecumenical event and those attending come from a good mix of churches so the gain is more than financial. This year we have had 20 or more attending most Fridays. At the time of going to print I know that we have raised over £534 but do not know the final total collected – look to church notices.
Fund raising events:
- We ran a repeat Beetle Drive this April at the URC raising £243∙40.
- Christian Aid Week – 12th to 18th May. We will be asking the clergy to promote awareness of the Christian Aid Work when visiting the schools in the previous few weeks. Anyone who can help with a house-to-house collection will be most welcomed. Heather D-D and I will be organising the coffee and selling cake after church at the start of the week.
- We are hoping to do another collection outside the London Road Tesco on a Friday afternoon later in the year.
- The Christian Aid AGM is planned for 10th October. We will be looking into providing refreshments and hope that people will come to hear about current work going on overseas. Venue is probably the URC.
The Well:- Nadine Summers
Another steady year. With many familiar faces mainly childminders.
I have steadily been able to change over old and broken toys when I had a clear out of the cupboard. I sourced new or replacement toys from facebay etc. I am hoping to get some second hand children’s tills, shopping trollies along with empty boxes of food. So I can set up a little shop area on some sessions.
Crafts remain popular. The Christmas party and Easter egg hunt were very successful and popular.
We are now looking forward to warmer weather and use of garden leading up to the summer holidays.
Pied Piper:- Eva Hughes - Manager
Similarly to last year, we had a very quiet autumn term but the number of children has grown over the academic year again. The summer term is set to be a busy one and we look forward making full use of the garden.
The preschool had some financial concerns in the autumn term when the number of children was low but with the new children starting the committee are less concerned and we hope to finish the year in a better financial position. Our current committee have worked hard to support the preschool and have been very successful in their fundraising over the last two terms.
Last term we made the decision to move from sessional care to full days – this is something that parents have been requesting for some time so we are hoping that this will mean our sessions are busier in the coming autumn term. It will be a challenge for us to make such a big change but I’m confident that the staff will embrace it and ensure that we continue to provide a positive experience for parents and children attending our preschool.
It has now been 6 years since our last Ofsted inspection – so I’m assuming that we will get a visit from them soon!