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Our Annual Review for 2010 with details of all our worship, activities and finances for the year
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St Mary’s Church Woodford
Annual Review for 2010
including the
Annual Report and Accounts for 2010
www.stmaryswoodford.org.uk
1
Welcome to the St Mary’s Annual Review for 2010. The formal annual report with the
accounts and all the information we have to provide by law are in the middle section.
The rest of the review tells the continuing story of St Mary’s as we follow in the footsteps
of the faithful worship, witness and service of hundred of years in this place. It is a story of
our ongoing life, of changing circumstances, of farewells, fond memories and welcomes.
Individual reports pay tribute to some of our members who have died during the year and
whose memory we will always cherish, and also to those who have moved away but with
whom we will always remain firm friends.
In the summer we were delighted that the Revd Annie McTighe joined us as our new
Curate; we enjoyed welcoming Annie and her son Simeon at a special parish lunch.
And to all who have joined us during the year - wherever you are on your Christian
journey, you are most welcome.
The reports tell a story of continuing and growing work with our children and young
people; of engagement with sister churches and other faiths to develop partnership and
mutual understanding; of outreach to the community ranging from Easter gifts to
welcoming visitors to the church at local and national events such as the Woodford
Festival and the Big Draw. Our Home groups continue to nurture friendship and spiritual
understanding within the church community, while a new church based midweek course:
”Just Looking” attracted a growing and enthusiastic membership.
We supported mission and charity partners in the UK and abroad through the annual
bazaar and special collections. A parish trip brought back welcome news about the growth
of our partnership with the Church of the Good Shepherd in Muchunguri. Kenya.
During the year, a number of PCC working groups looked in depth at many aspects of
church life; various changes already made and in the pipeline will help ensure that St
Mary’s continues to serve its members, and develops its Christian witness and service
through many more years.
Viveca Dutt PCC Secretary
The PCC set up working groups to review our long-term financial investments, and also to
look at opportunities afforded by the Olympic games. A PCC Away Day in May set up
further groups to review four specific areas of our church life: worship; children and young
people; teaching and discussion; and outreach.
Each of these researched and discussed their designated aspect of our life together, and
then brought proposals to the PCC. Among the proposals accepted were -
On Sunday worship: that we have two morning choral Eucharists, four non-Eucharistic
main morning services, and four evening services in Taizé style in the following year.
On children and young people: that we relocate the children’s carpet in the church; that
St Mary’s Guides play a big part in our church life. The cover picture shows the Guides af-
ter they had helped make the candles we gave away on Easter Saturday as part of our
witness and outreach to the people of Woodford.
Developing our witness, worship and church life to respond to life in the 21st century was
important this year and Ian Tarrant tells us about the work of various PCC Working
Groups.
2
we manage better the timing of the children’s entry to morning service; that we create a
new group for older teenagers; and that we employ a part-time youth worker.
On teaching and discussion: that there should be occasional midweek opportunities for
members of the whole congregation to learn about and discuss a particular topic; and that
we should have a series of Sundays when preachers are available to discuss their sermons
with those members of the congregation who wish to.
On outreach: that members of the congregation should be encouraged to strengthen and
augment their links with the wider community, so as to share God’s love; that board games
be introduced after the Friday lunches; and that some specific events be organised to attract
local people.
Midweek worship
At 9am most Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, there is a service in church,
usually of Holy Communion. These are not well-attended, but valued by those who do come.
More popular is the 10.30am service on Wednesdays, with around a dozen participants on
average, many of whom stay on for refreshments. The 7.30pm service on Wednesdays
provides an opportunity for those who are busy during the daytime. A monthly Thursday
evening service, with prayers for the sick, was also provided.
Special midweek services were also held for major festivals. On Monday, Tuesday and
Wednesday of Holy Week, thought-provoking dramas were performed, followed by said
Compline.
The Church continues to remain open on Saturday mornings for anyone who wants to come
and enjoy some quiet time and prayer. Thank you to those who are making this happen.
Ian Tarrant
Contemplative Prayer
We meet every third Wednesday of the month and follow a
watchword or theme. These have included 'the Vine and the
branches, 'Blessed are the poor in spirit' and 'The Lighthouse'.
Although following a simple theme and format; over the year,
the Contemplative prayer group, in its varied and lively
leadership, has given a rich, thematic, depth and tapestry of
prayer; renewing us and unifying us in the Spirit; and also
strengthening our intercessory prayer.
Janet Roberts
Quiet Times
Fifteen people took part in a quiet day in June, held at Pleshey
and led by the Rector, based on a book by the (then future)
Bishop of Chelmsford: The things he said. A quiet morning in Advent looked at the fruit s of
the Spirit.
But we never forget that the heart of our life is worship and growth with God. Our regular
Sunday services are the centre piece of that worship but we have many other
opportunities for Communion and quiet times with God.
3
St Mary’s is also a place for learning and exploring for adults and children
Just Looking
A series of Tuesday morning sessions was held in the
autumn, intended to present the Christian faith to those
new to the church, or just curious about the faith.
9.30am was thought to be a good time for parents who
had left their children at school or playgroup, but none
of these came in! However, a few inquiring minds did
show up, and were welcomed by a friendly team of old
hands. All appreciated the opportunity to discuss some of the basics of faith, in the first
six sessions; and then some thorny issues in three extra sessions after half-term.
A summer holiday club for children aged 5 to 12 was held on four mornings, and
welcomed a total of 27 children, some of
whom we see on Sundays, and some not.
A range of activities was organised for
them by a team of helpers almost as
large. We greatly appreciated the
assistance of Simon Lloyd from Woodford
Methodist Church, who was recruited at
the last minute to play the piano for us -
and also participated in other ways. The
theme of the club was "Exile in Egypt -
the story of Joseph", and we saw how
God can bring good things out of bad.
Ian Tarrant
Another year has flown by as the choir - adults and juniors - have continued to make a
notable contribution to leading the worship from Sunday mornings to plainsong at
Compline and contemporary music and Taize style services.
Choir Farewells
St Mary’s choir has seen a number of farewells in 2010; firstly one of our choral scholars,
Matthew Light, who has gone to York University. We are thankful to him for his
contribution to our choir over the last year. Matthew has certainly gained a great deal
from his time with us and is thankful for the opportunity of discovering a whole new area
of music and the church that he had not previously encountered.
Our music is integral to our worship. We are grateful to Martin Seymour for all he has
done to support and develop our musical life and wish him well in his new role. Martin
tells us about the adult choir and Linda Wiskin reports on the thriving junior choir.
All action at the Holiday Club
4
We also said farewell to a
long-standing member of
the bass section - Geoff
Jones who has moved to
West Mersea. The back row
has been deprived of a
larger than life character
and a useful voice. I would
like to thank Geoff for his
many years singing and
dedication and wish Geoff
and Jill many happy years in
East Anglia. We hope to see
them on regular visits.
Finally, James Bishop, one
of our tenors also moved
onto pastures new. James
will be much missed and
I would like to thank him for his superb skills in the tenor section. Welcome to his
replacement, Bob Ponds
Choir Visits
The year saw two visits to sing in Cathedrals, the first being Southwark in January and by
far the highest profile so far, Westminster Abbey, on August bank holiday. They were
super occasions for the choir and congregation. Our numbers were boosted by extra
singers and friends of mine which make all the difference at occasions such as these.
The choir CD has continued to sell after the initial influx of orders after its release in
2009, and this has helped to cover some of the cost that the choir paid out for their new
cassocks. Copies are still available from the parish office.
Thanks
The junior choir has continued to grow in confidence and make a valuable contribution
to our worship. You will see the separate report from Linda Wiskin regarding this group
and our thanks go to Linda for her continued work with the juniors.
Thanks also to Graham Dixon and John Bradley for their accompanying help throughout
the year as well as all the choir members and extras for their commitment to continuing
the good work of the group and music within St Mary’s.
And Finally
Lastly I am leaving St Mary’s to take up a post as the Director of Music at All Saints’
Church, Marlow. This was not an easy decision but a new challenge awaits at a church
with men and boy choristers a separate girls’ choir and an adult choir. Overall, I have
had a very happy time at St Mary’s and would like to thank you all for your kindness and
commitment over the last seven years, how time seems to fly by!
Martin Seymour
St Mary’s Choir and friends at Westminster Abbey
5
Junior Choir
During the year, the junior choir took part in the all age services, singing anthems by
themselves and with the adults. Emma Pamplin, Hannah Smith and Laura Walker also
sang at an evensong with the senior choir, and at a wedding. Another member joined us
during the year, and one left. We took a major part in the Christmas festivities singing at
Christingle - those of us who could get there - the nine lessons and carols service, and at
Christmas Eve. Our repertoire is now well established and all the choir members are
developing well as individuals as well as a blended choir.
It has been increasingly difficult for teenagers to be available on Friday nights for
rehearsals and so in order to continue as a group, a decision was made to rehearse on
two Sundays a month after the morning service. It is early days for this format, but we
hope to continue and then hopefully, with the appointment of a suitable new organist,
to start growing again.
Deanery Synod
There were new appointments to the Deanery Synod in 2010: Paul Harcourt of All
Saints is the new Area Dean; Jonathan Evens, Stephen Pugh and our own Rector are the
Assistant Area Deans.
Much of this year has been devoted to the cluster groups into which the Deanery is
divided and reports from some of those clusters. St Mary’s is in the cluster group with
St Barnabas’ and St Paul’s Woodford Bridge, and we united last year in a Songs of Praise
service in February and a quiz night in September.
The November Synod meeting on Religious Education was a topic requested by St
Mary’s and Deborah Weston, the Associate Adviser for Religious Education in Redbridge
gave a lively description of the philosophy underlying the Locally Agreed Syllabus for
Religious Education with an insight of what takes place in the Borough’s schools. The
Syllabus is entitled, “Exploration and Response”, starting in the lower years with ideas
of what is done in the various faith communities.
Religious Education is a subject that has been transformed since the 1988 Education Act,
and has grown in popularity with an increasing number of people choosing to take it at
“A” level.
In contrast to past years, Redbridge had only paid 93% of its commitment to the
Common Purse in November. Nor have all parishes responded the request for a
contribution to the salary of the Youth Officer after 2011.
Our horizons are broadened by working with our local churches, other denominations
and faiths. Rowena Rudkin reports on Deanery Synod meetings, One World Week and
the Three Faiths Forum.
And Mark Lewis reports on a stimulating year for the Faith and Image Group
6
One World Week
St Mary’s has hosted the One World event for the past two years. Unfortunately, this
year no other church felt able to undertake this. In recent years there has also been a
lack of activity at HQ,; they seem to be more interested in asking for ideas than giving
them.
These two trends have meant limited activity in Woodford although there does seem to
have been some in universities.
This year, the Rector came to the rescue suggesting an evening event in the context of
a Taize service on the evening of United Nations Day; this was attended by members of
all local churches. A retiring collection of £140 was sent to Christian Aid.
Three Faiths Forum
The year opened dramatically with Rabbi Hulbert
tramping round in the January snow to tell as
many people as possible of a “scratch meeting”,
because there were in the area two ladies, an
Israeli and a Palestinian, both of whom had lost a
loved one in the conflict between their peoples,
and who belong to an association seeking to
provide mutual comfort and support across the
divide. It was a well attended and most moving
meeting.
The Reverend Robert Hampson arranged a visit
to Oberammegau, an event in which many
people participated either in that party or
another. The group included our local Iman, Dr Mohamed Fahim whose presence gave
great pleasure to his host; they could not recall an Iman attending previously. At a
subsequent meeting the pilgrims described their impressions of the visit.
The themes of other meetings have included one at the Barking Mosque at which our
Bishop promoted the pre-election “Hope not Hate” campaign, asceticism at the
Newbury Park Synagogue, and weddings at the Ilford Mosque.
In the autumn a second Three Faith Trip to Israel took place. Unfortunately, perhaps
because of late notice, few Christians went. Photos of this trip were shown at the
Christmas Social.
Faith and Image
Working on the basis that ‘less is more’, Faith & Image has had an interesting year. We
have now tried to establish a pattern of talks, followed where appropriate, by a visit to
London exhibition or relevant venue. Faith and Image is now operating as fellowship
rather than a membership and events are truly open to all. Highlights of the year
included talks on Van Gogh, followed by a visit to the Royal Academy Exhibition, a look
at drawing as a spiritual activity and a journey into early medieval art. We also enjoyed
stimulating visits to the Lambeth Palace Library 400th Anniversary exhibition in July.
Israel and Palestine—a bridge to peace
7
During October we facilitated a hugely
successful Big Draw event in the Church –
perhaps our busiest yet! A more recent
development has been the design and
initiation of a website for Faith and Image
which will offer information on our events
(with a link to St Mary’s website), other
related activities in London and hopefully,
selected transcripts of talks. This is still in
the development stages but will be live in
early March 2011.
The biggest challenge for Faith & Image is
publicising our events to a wider
audience. The present committee have
many demands on their time and we need some new blood to help promote our activities.
So here is a plea! We would be delighted to hear from anyone who would be willing to join
our happy band and help with publicity, perhaps liaising with churches and the local press.
The 2010 annual Charity Bazaar went off successfully again and seemed as popular as ever,
particularly the delicious lunches that Lesley and her team of helpers served up. All the
favourite regular stalls attracted plenty of interest, and some big spenders too with several
stalls selling out well before the finish. No Father Christmas this year, but we did have our
own Pearly Queen Valerie Geller offering her button count to paying guessers. Visitor
numbers were up on last year thanks to better weather; thankfully receipts were up too.
Plenty of volunteers kindly gave up their Friday again to help set up and dress the stalls,
while ladies that bake spent the day producing lovely cakes to sell and puddings for lunch.
The scene was set for another exciting Saturday; our traditional style bazaar always seems
to hit the mark.
A big thank you to all the congregation members, families and friends that help make this
the successful pinnacle of our social events calendar. Having organised this for the second
year running I’m obviously still relying on Bob for crucial tips, but I’m also amazed at how
efficient and reliable the many people involved prove to be with little or no input from me;
for all the worry it does strangely seem to run itself. For weeks, even months beforehand
preparatory work happens behind the scenes by our own ‘special ones’, an essential pre-
requisite to a successful day; gallons of marmalade to be made, toys to be cleaned, CDs to
be sorted, knits to be witted, bottles to be numbered, and advertising to be booked. Then
on the day there’s dozens of tea cups that get filled, then washed, programmes sold, raffle
Too busy too pose. All generations at the Big Draw.
Our links with the community take many forms. Richard Walker tells us about our ever
popular Bazaar.
8
tickets folded, books straightened, bric-a-brac
sold onto new owners, Rainbows painted, gifts
gifted, jewellery persuaded to be bought, and
finally pennies counted while an efficient mass
tidy everything away again for another year. A
horde of helpers sharing the load in admirable
fashion.
Lastly, but not least, a special thank you to
dear Dierdre for the loan of her garage to
store everything in when there’s no other
room at the inn.
Congrats to you all; as the saying goes, ‘You all
know who you are’.
Mission
We have had our usual varied and interesting year. The enjoyable annual quiz evening
provided funds for Hospital Teule at Muheza in Tanzania which is supported by both
USPG and Medicines for Muheza. We continue to support our CMS Link Mission Partner
Dr Ruth Huelser managing a Health Centre in Tabora, Tanzania
Mission Visitors
We welcomed Frances Johnson from Sightsavers in June who gave us an insight into life
without sight in the developing world. In November Revd Martin Davies from The
Leprosy Mission (TLM) was a speaker when he gave us an excellent and informative
update on its work.
We supported a range of charities
We supported the Bishops Lent Appeal 2010: ‘Growing learning living’. The appeal
helped work to improve the communities in South India, the Amazon and Kenya,
including IT equipment at St Andrew’s College at Kabare in one of our link dioceses in
Kenya. We have supported the library there for a number of years.
We welcomed Bishop Moses Nthukah Bishop of Mbeere Diocese Kenya (our Link
Diocese) as preacher in November when he came to the UK for the installation of
Bishop Stephen Cottrell.
Special Collections
The Committee arranged coffee mornings in aid of the Bazaar Fund and the Manna
Centre, while special collections were taken for the earthquake victims in Haiti, the
floods in Pakistan, and at Harvest for Christian Aid.
Puddings are always popular
Bazaar takings are distributed by the Mission Committee. Wendy Littlejohns tells us
about their work and the annual Lent Lunches which also support charity.
9
The collection at the memorial
service for the recently bereaved
went to the Royal British Legion
and Haven House, while the
retiring collections at Christmas
were shared between the Church
Army homeless centre in
Marylebone and the orphanage at
Makutano.
Our Christmas appeal for Send A
Cow continues to be a popular way
for members of the church to greet
each other while supporting
African farmers to grow enough
food to feed their families.
The Committee recommends to the
PCC the distribution of the charitable funds raised by the Bazaar and other events to
many different charities balancing the needs of local, national and overseas bodies.
The list of charities we supported in 2010 and information about the special collections
we made during the year are on the back page of the review.
Lent Lunches
We joined once more with our friends from St Anne Line to serve simple lunches on
Fridays in Lent. Though the numbers were down on 2009 we were able to send £470 to
Jubilee Lodge.
The boys of Makutano
Supported by the Christmas appeal
Talking of Food
Our regular monthly Lunch Club continued to
attract visitors for food and fellowship while we
were pleased to arrange a Parish lunch to help
welcome Annie McTighe to the Parish. Bridget
Webb tells us about this happy occasion:
About 120 of us sat down to a magnificent feast.
Special thanks are due to the Blackers for all the
home made cooking and to Sue Baxter and her
team of girls who made treats for the large group
of children who came.
The lovely sunny weather allowed the youngsters to enjoy the garden with games and
puzzles; table quizzes were organised by Kay Pamplin and Valerie Howard-Gibbon.
A large team of muscular Christians, led by the Sainsbury family, had given up their
Saturday morning to set up the back hall and soften its appearance. Table and wall
decorations completed the transformation.
Thanks to all who helped make this a truly memorable parish occasion.
The Hall transformed
St Mary with St Philip and St James
High Road South Woodford E18 2PA Registered Charity No: 1127596
www.stmaryswoodford.org.uk
PCC and Clergy Report for 2010
The PCC meets every other month; the Standing Committee meets in the alternate
months to transact business subject to any direction given by the Council. The Standing
Committee membership is made up of the Rector, Wardens and Deputy Wardens,
Secretary and Treasurer. The PCC also receives periodic reports from the Mission,
Fellowship, Communication and Fabric Committees, Trustees of the Memorial Hall and
Deanery Synod members. The major risks to which we are exposed have been fully
reviewed and systems established to mitigate these risks. This included: continuing our
child protection policy: ongoing discussion about the issues relating to church finances
and investments. This included discussion about how to meet annual running costs in
the current economic climate.
We were delighted to welcome the Revd Annie McTighe to St Mary’s as our new Curate.
During the year the PCC set up a number of working groups to discuss ways to develop
and enhance our work in the areas of: worship, teaching and learning, young people’s
work, outreach, the opportunities afforded by the Olympics 2012 and appropriate
investments of funds. These groups all sought the views of the congregation in various
ways and made recommendations to PCC meetings. A number of changes have already
been made to the format of our worship and the way children interact with the main
Sunday services; these will be developed further in 2011 along with proposals on
enhancing our outreach and developing the teaching Ministry within the church.,
These activities build on the ways we have already developed our outreach and
fellowship through regular events such as the Bazaar, The Big Draw, the Holiday Club
for children, the Easter Eve giving of candles to the people of South Woodford, and
keeping the church open on Saturday mornings.
We were delighted to be once again the focal point for the opening of the Woodford
Festival and hosted a highly successful afternoon Jazzathon as part of the Festival.
The PCC continued to support our partnership with other churches and faiths. We
supported events with our Deanery Cluster Churches including hosting a joint Songs of
Praise event, and taking part in a Cluster quiz.. We hosted a One World Week service,
attended Three Faiths Forum events and continued to support Rowena Rudkin as a
representative on the LB of Redbridge children’s service subcommittee.
The PCC also supported proposals to improve the fabric of the church through
improvement to the crèche which will make it suitable for small meetings, endorsed
proposals for a new internal notice board and supported work on repairing and
improving 33 Elmhurst Drive.
Treasurer’s Report 2010 has been a year which improved as it went along. As a result of two special
appeals and an increase in commitment to the Church Maintenance Fund (CMF),
including 13 new members, our General Fund income was £12,000 higher than 2009.
We have also benefitted from a most generous legacy of £60,000 from the estate of
Helen Muspratt, £12,000 of which has been earmarked for the Clergy House Fund for
use in connection with 33 Elmhurst Drive.
A PCC decision was made to invest £100,000 in CBF Fixed Interest Securities Fund
Income Shares as deposit interest rates were very low. At the year end this investment
had a market value £2,229 below cost and an annual income yield of 5.64%. Excluding
the legacy monies the General Fund Reserve covers approximately 2.5 months
expenditure.
My thanks to the wardens who assist in the management and authorisation of
expenditure, to Clive and Hazel Mears who so efficiently administer the planned giving
and tax recovery work and to Michael Lovejoy for banking services throughout the
year.
Jane Fone
Church Contact Details Rector: The Revd Canon Ian Tarrant Curate: Revd Annie McTighe
The Rectory 33 Elmhurst Road
Chelmsford Road South Woodford
South Woodford, E18 2PL E18
020 8504 7981 020 8530 7217
Assistant Clergy: Revd Alison Clarke
Parish Office: St Mary’s Church
` 207 High Road
E18 2PA
020 8505 3000
Lay Readers : Sally Barton, Mark Lewis, Rowena Rudkin
PCC Secretary: Viveca Dutt Treasurer: Jane Fone
37 Beechwood Park 11 Broad Oak
London Woodford Green
E18 2EH IG8 0LH
Independent
Examiner:
Mr Yusuf Dedat FCA
Suite D
The Business Centre
Faringdon Avenue
Romford Essex RM3 8EN
Bankers:
HSBC
George Lane
London
E18 2LX
ST MARY WITH ST PHILIP AND ST JAMES WOODFORD
Signed: Ian Tarrant Rector
Jane Fone Treasurer
3 March 2011
Balance Sheet at 31 December 2010
Note 2010 2009
£ £
FIXED ASSETS
Tangible 4a 179793 179793
Investments 4b 97771
TOTAL FIXED ASSETS 277564 179793
CURRENT ASSETS
Sundry Debtors 5 1,233 1,420
CBF Deposit 201397 235484
Bank Balance 4403 9241
207033 246145
LIABILITIES
Amounts falling due within one year 6 3929 4581
NET CURRENT ASSETS 203104 241564
NET ASSETS 480668 421357
FUNDS
Unrestricted:
General Purpose 8 417793 367801
Earmarked 53213 44299
Total Unrestricted Funds 471006 412100
Restricted Funds 9662 9257
TOTAL FUNDS 480668 421357
ST MARY WITH ST PHILIP AND ST JAMES
WOODFORD
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
For the year ended 31 December 2010
Note
2009
2010
Earmarked
Unrestricted
Restricted
2010
2009
GP Fund
TOTAL
TOTAL
£
£
£
£
£
£
£
INCOMING RESOURCES
2
From Donors
106981
113075
113075
80
113155
107298
Other Voluntary Income
16012
76229
76229
4654
80883
20299
Income From Charitable Actviities
985
1317
1317
1317
985
Other Ordinary Income
8631
6778
6778
6778
8631
Investment Income
2923
2223
204
2427
30
2457
3623
TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES
135532
199622
204
199826
4764
204590
140836
RESOURCES USED
3
Grants
4300
4300
5300
Activities Directly related to the Work of the Church
122103
124235
5290
129525
59
129584
124644
Fundraising and publicity
28
43
43
43
28
Church Management and Administration
8728
9123
9123
9123
8728
TOTAL RESOURCES USED
130859
133401
5290
138691
4359
143050
138700
NET INCOMING/OUTGOING RESOURCES
4673
66221
-5086
61135
405
61540
2136
Interfund Transfers
-3000
-14000
14000
Loss on Investment Revaluation
-2229
-2229
-2229
NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS
1673
49992
8914
58906
405
59311
2136
BALANCES BROUGHT FORWARD AT 1 JANUARY
366128
367801
44299
412100
9257
421357
419221
BALANCES CARRIED FORWARD
367801
417793
53213
471006
9662
480668
421357
ST MARY WITH ST PHILIP AND ST JAMES
WOODFORD
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 1. Accounting Policies The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 1997 and 2000 together with applicable accounting standards and the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except that the Curate's House is stated at insurance valuation. Funds Unrestricted funds represent the funds of the PCC which are not subject to any legal restrictions regarding their use and are available for application to the general purposes of the PCC. This category includes both the General Purposes Fund and funds earmarked for a particular purpose by the PCC. Restricted funds are those funds which may only be used for the restricted purpose for which they were given or otherwise obtained. The accounts include all transactions assets and liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe their main affiliation to another body nor those that are informal gatherings of church members. Incoming resources Income from donors and other voluntary income. Planned giving is recognised only when received. Collections are recognised when received by or on behalf of the PCC. Income tax recoverable on gift aid donations is recognised when received as the effort required to estimate it prior to receipt is considered to be disproportionate to the information gain. Grants and legacies to the PCC are accounted for as soon as the PCC is notified of its legal entitlement and the amount due. Funds raised by the Charity bazaar and other events are accounted for gross unless related expenses are immaterial in amount. Charitable trading Fees for weddings are included in this caption and are accounted for when due.
Income from investments Interest on deposits is accounted for when receivable and any related tax recoverable is recognised at the same time. Resources used Grants Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over or when awarded if that award creates a binding obligation on the PCC. Activities directly related to the work of the church The diocesan quota is accounted for when payable. Fixed assets Consecrated land and buildings and movable church furnishings Consecrated and beneficed property is excluded from the accounts by s.96(2)(a) of the Charities Act 1993. No value is placed on movable church furnishings held by the churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal since the PCC considers this to be inalienable property. All expenditure incurred during the year on consecrated or beneficed buildings and movable church furnishings whether maintenance or improvement is written off as expenditure in the Statement of Financial Activities and separately disclosed. Other land and buildings held for use in the work of the church. The curate's house is included under this caption. It is stated at insurance valuation. Equipment Equipment used within the church premises is depreciated on a straight-line basis over four years. Individual items of equipment with a purchase price of £1000 or less are written off when the asset is acquired. Current assets Amounts owing to the PCC at 31 December in respect of fees rents or other income are shown as debtors less provision for any amounts that may prove to be uncollectable.
NOTE 2 INCOMING RESOURCES
General Earmarked Unrestricted Restricted 2010 2009
Fund Funds Total Funds
£ £ £ £ £ £
From Donors
CMF + Regular Donations 76893 76893 76893 72189
Income Tax recovered 21756 21756 21756 20336
Loose Collections 7545 7545 7545 6473
Sundry Donations 6881 6881 6881 5733
Donations Earmarked 0 0 80 80 2567
113075 113075 80 113155 107298
Other Voluntary Income
Fund raising income 4525 4525 4525 3628
Churchyard Income 1530 1530 1530 1530
Floodlighting Income 467 467 467 375
Appeals 9707 9707 9707 1979
Appeals/Bazaar 0 0 4654 4654 4287
Legacies 60000 60000 60000 8500
76229 76229 4654 80883 20299
Income from Charitable Activities
Fees - weddings etc 1317 1317 1317 985
1317 1317 1317 985
Other Income
Rent - Curate's House 6778 6778 6778 8631
6778 6778 6778 8631
Investment Income
Interest Received 2223 204 2427 30 2457
2223 204 2427 30 2457 3623
TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES 199622 204 199826 4764 204590 140836
NOTE 3 RESOURCES USED
General Earmarked Unrestricted Restricted TOTAL TOTAL
Fund Funds Total Funds Funds 2010 2009
Grants £ £ £ £ £
Missionary societies 2200 2200 2800
Church societies 1350 1350 1300
Charities e.g. Night Shelter 750 750 1200
4300 4300 5300
Activities directly related to church work
Ministry: Diocesan Quota 88008 88008 88008 80802
Rector's Expenses 1487 1487 1487 306
Clergy Expenses 566 566 566 313
Music, Organ and Choir 6074 6074 6074 6727
Service Expenses 1074 1074 1074 767
Vestments 0 0 59 59 3180
97209 97209 59 97268 92095
Premises Heating/Light/Water 4145 4145 4145 4091
Cleaning 5016 5016 5016 5005
Routine Maintenance 1526 1526 1526 1655
Memorial/Lift Expenses 297 297 297 492
Clergy House Expenses 4522 4894 9416 9416 4857
Churchyard Expenses 1543 1543 1543 1504
Insurances 2415 2415 2415 2359
19167 5191 24358 0 24358 19963
Other Link/Seekers/Quest 333 333 333 479
Lay Training 7 7 7 590
Memorial Hall Contributions 4164 4164 4164 3952
Altar Carpet 0 0 0 2250
Printing and stationery 1112 1112 1112 1012
Stacking Chairs 0 0 0 2360
Sundries/interregnum 400 400 400 229
Fabric Expenditure 0 99 99 99 -868
Outreach expenses 1843 1843 1843 2582
7859 99 7958 7958 12586
Total directly related to Church work 124235 5290 129525 59 129584 124644
Fund Raising and Publicity
Stewardship Expenses 43 43 43 28
43 43 43 28
Church Management and Admin
Parish Office and Telephone 7865 7865 7865 7840
Treasurers/Secretary Expenses 59 59 59 67
Audit Fee 1199 1199 1199 821
9123 9123 0 9123 8728
TOTAL RESOURCES USED 133401 5290 138691 4359 143050 138700
NOTE 4 FIXED ASSETS FOR USE BY THE PCC
Note 4a Freehold land and buildings
comprise the “Curate’s House” at 33 Elmhurst Drive. The gross book value is based on the
insurance valuation at 05.01.06 and is considered to be a fair estimate of the value of the
property. Revaluation is normally considered at five year intervals or as circumstances
dictate. Valuation at 1.1.10 and 31.12.10: £179793
Note 4b Investments
2010
£
CBF Fixed Interest Securities Fund Income Shares
Purchased During Year Cost 100,000 Market Value at 31/12/10 97771
Loss on Revaluation 2229
NOTE 5 DEBTORS 2010 2009
£` £
Prepayments 1233 878
Other Debtors 0 542
1233 1420
NOTE 6 LIABILITIES 2010 2009
£ £
Other Accruals 3929 4581
3929 4581
NOTE 7 RETIRING COLLECTIONS
Restricted retiring collections for which the PCC acted solely as a post-box amounted to £6269
(2009 £4914)
NOTE 8 ANALYSIS OF FUNDS AND NET ASSETS
Fixed Assets Current Assets Liabilities FUND BALANCES
£ £ £ £
General Purpose Fund 277564 144158 3929 417793
Earmarked Funds
Fabric Fund 40838 40838
Clergy House Fund 11485 11485
Lift, Kitchen, Office 890 890
TOTAL UNRESTRICTED FUNDS 277564 197371 3929 471006
RESTRICTED FUNDS
Choir Fund 2191 21,91
Organ Fund 2157 2157
Vestments Fund 232 232
Service, Hymn Fund 216 216
Pinney Fund (a) 200 200
Mission Fund 4666 4666
TOTAL RESTRICTED FUNDS 9662 9662
TOTAL FUNDS 277564 207033 3929 480668
(a) The Pinney Fund is restricted to maintaining a War Memorial Plaque on the North Wall
Note 9 STAFF COSTS
2010 2009
Salaries 11495 11297
Social Security 186 187
TOTALS 11681 11484
During the year the PCC employed an organist and secretary. Employment costs
are included in the respective expenditure heads.
No present member of the PCC received remuneration or expenses.
SUMMARY STATEMENT OF FUNDS
For the year ended 31st December 2010
Fund Name
Fund balances
Incoming
Outgoing Transfers
Gains
Fund balances
brought forward resources resources
and Losses
carried forward
£
£
£
£
£
£
General Fund
188008
199622
133401
-14000
-2229
238000
General Fund Property
179793
179793
Fabric Fund
38742
195
99
2000
40838
Clergy House Fund
4370
9
4894
12000
11485
Lift/Kitchen/Office
1187
297
890
Choir Fund
2100
91
2191
Organ Fund
2146
11
2157
Vestm
ents Fund
291
59
232
Service and Hymn Book Fund
215
1
216
Pinney M
emorial
200
200
Missionary Giving Fund
4305
4661
4300
4666
TOTALS
421357
204590
143050
0
-2229
480668
Independent Examiner's Report to the PCC of St Mary's, Woodford
I report on the accounts of the PCC for the year ended 31 December 2010, which
comprise the Balance Sheet, Statement of Financial Activities and related notes.
Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner.
The PCC's members are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The
PCC's members consider that an audit is not required for this year (under section
43(2) of the Charities Act 1993 (the 1993 Act)) and that an independent
examination is needed.
It is my responsibility to:
• examine the accounts (under section 43(3)(a) of the 1993 Act);
• to follow procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity
Commission (under section 43(7)(b) of the 1993 Act); and
• to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.
Basis of independent examiner's report
My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by
the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting
records kept by the PCC and a comparison of the accounts presented with those
records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the
accounts, and seeking explanations from you as members concerning any such
matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be
required in an audit, and consequently I do not express an audit opinion on the
view given by the accounts.
Independent examiner's statement
In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:
(1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the
requirements
• to keep accounting records in accordance with section 41 of the 1993 Act, and
• to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with
the accounting requirements of the 1993 Act.
have not been met: or
(2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper
understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Mr Yusuf Dedat FCA
Clay Ratnage Strevens and Hills
Suite D,
The Business Centre
Faringdon Avenue
Romford
Essex RM3 8EN
Secretary’s Report The PCC supports the Rector and Clergy in their Parish
Ministry and has certain legal responsibilities for the Church. Members of the
PCC are either ex officio or elected by the Annual Meeting of the Church in
accordance with the Church Representation rules. During 2010 the following
served as members of the PCC:
Rector: Revd Canon Ian Tarrant
Clergy: Revd Annie McTighe from June 2010
Lay Readers: Sally Barton, Mark Lewis, Rowena Rudkin
Church Wardens: Wendy Littlejohns, Jill Jones
Deputy Wardens to April 2010 Mark Spencer-Ellis
Peter Webb,
from April 2010 Anne Jones
PCC To 2010 Rebecca Rollinson
To 2011 Janet Benson
Chris Bradshaw
Geoff Jones
John Sainsbury
To 2012 David Nunn
Richard Walker
Linda Wiskin
To 2013 Bob Pamplin
Philip Swallow
Deanery Synod To 2011 Chris Meikle, Jean Morgans, Jane O’Regan,
Rowena Rudkin, Jean Russell
Treasurer: Jane Fone
Secretary: Viveca Dutt
Resigned from the PCC during 2010
Church attendance. In April 2010 there were 286 names on the electoral roll of
which 157 are resident in the Parish and 129 non resident. This compares with
281 in 2009.
The average number of communicants at 10.00am Sunday Services at St Mary’s
was 122 compared with 118 in 2009. The average number of communicants at
the 8.00am service on Sundays was 8.
Viveca Dutt PCC
Secretary
13
Our regular activities continue faithfully through the year
Woodford Wives
Our ladies group is open to all women; we meet monthly in the Gwinnell Room every
second Wednesday . We also have monthly coffee mornings every fourth Wednesday in
private houses – just to chat and put the world to rights.
We have speakers most months, last year included ‘A Film Night’ with the Woodford Cine
Club which was very entertaining and a talk on the YMCA which was very informative on
their activities and the help they give to the under privileged.
In January we intended to hold a fun evening including a raffle and bring and buy. This
had to be postponed because of the snow, although we finally made £85 for our charity
the ‘Chigwell Riding Trust’, and in the year sent a total of £160 . We had a meal out for
everyone; this year at The Station House Hotel in Chingford – a very enjoyable evening.
In December the Scouts cooked and waited on us for our Christmas meal. We had a
relaxing evening with a lovely meal so thank you to them.
So why not join us each month for great fellowship, we would love to see you.
Joan Ware
Fellowship
Our monthly ‘Friday Lunches’ are greatly appreciated
although with slightly lower numbers in 2010. We
mostly have salads in the summer but try to have some
hot meals in the winter, sometimes with soup. In
December this became a special Christmas lunch which
was well attended with great fellowship. Lunches are on
the first Friday in every month except during Lent when
we become the Lent Lunches.
We helped with the Big Breakfast and in March with the
newcomers supper. Seventy people came and it really
brought new and old church members together.
Our Mini market and Race Evening day in February
made a really good fellowship day and raised over
£1,000 for the Church.
The May Day event with a meandering quiz and lunch
led to a great day for all.
We ran the coffee and tea stall together with cakes and scones at the Food and Fun Day
– another well attended day. In September we organised a shared harvest lunch which
led to great fellowship. We were also pleased to do the refreshments for Lee Noble &
Chris Whitfield’s Wedding in October which was really lovely.
Joan Ware
The Newcomers Supper -
good fellowship
14
The flower arrangers have had another busy
year. We have been very fortunate to have
had many kind donors making our floral
creations possible. We are a small group but
are fortunate to be able to call upon others
to help us on festal occasions. Should
anyone be interested in helping please
make yourselves known to us.
Hazel Lovejoy
Social Transport
It would seem that either the congregation is healthier than in other years, or more
have their own transport, as there have been very few calls on the transport service.
However, we have been able to fulfil the calls that have been made.
Many thanks to the several drivers who give lifts to others week after week.
Heather Harston
Keeping Church buildings going is a never ending task. Peter Webb reports on the work
of the Fabric Committee and Ian Tarrant tells us about the Memorial Hall
Church Fabric
This has been a busy year with work inside and outside the church and in the clergy
houses. Generally we are working on the recommendations from a comprehensive risk
assessment for all parts of the church; specific work has been undertaken on parts of
the church:
Foyer
The design for the new noticeboard has been improved and the process of approval
and construction has begun.
Sound System
Throughout the year, various faults in the sound system have been remedied, including
a re-routing of wiring round the dais, and provision of wearable microphones for the
clergy. We have a good sound system, but speakers still need to be able to use the
15
microphones properly and to speak forcefully, clearly and slowly. The introduction
of pew runners or cushions will help improve the acoustics of the church as well as
produce more fundamental comfort.
Crèche
Refurbishment is almost complete, with new carpeting, lighting , cupboards and
chairs about to come together to provide a lighter and more pleasant space which
will be adaptable to a wider range of uses.
Outside
We have suffered two thefts of some of the lead skirting on the plinth at the base
of the walls; the damaged plinth will be repaired with a good lime mortar. Vandals
also destroyed one of the doors to the tower, and a much stronger door has been
made to replace it.
Garden
A dedicated team of gardeners, including the
late and sadly missed Anne Snowdon, put in a
large amount of work to keep the churchyard a
joy to look at, and free of unwanted ivy, acacia
and superannuated shrubs. The hedges on the
Memorial Hall side have been trimmed and
partly lowered. After repeated requests by the
fabric committee, the conservation
department of Redbridge Council has still not
been able to act on its promise to restore one
of the damaged tombs at the side of the church
steps.
Housing
The curate's house has benefited from some improvements, including new double
glazing in the front rooms, a loft access ladder, painting of the hallway, new garage
doors, removal of an old tree, and a new lawn mower was purchased. A generous
sum of money has been set aside for future maintenance work on the house.
A small team of garden enthusiasts has undertaken to upgrade the rectory garden.
Memorial Hall
The Memorial Hall had a good year with slightly increased income from bookings
than in the previous year, despite the state of the national economy, and this
reflects the hard work and high standards of all the staff.
The rear kitchen was refurbished, using a grant from the Council, applied for by the
Pre-School Playgroup, which uses the rear Hall five mornings and two afternoons
each week.
The Hall Handyman, Barry Mingay, made an excellent job of refurbishing the
middle kitchen, recycling some of the hardware from the rear kitchen. Barry has
done significant work in other parts of the building, also to a professional standard.
Long term maintenance issues have been a concern of the Trustees for some time,
Spring flowers brighten up our
front garden
16
and it has been decided to hold an
appeal in 2011, to raise funds to
replace the original floor in the
front Hall, and at the same time, to
improve the toilet facilities at the
front of the building. A series of
special events will take place, and
approaches will be made to grant-
making trusts.
This year’s Annual Lecture, given
by Peter Lawrence, as part of the
programme of the Woodford
Festival, was attended by over 100
people, and much appreciated.
Both Jill Jones and Edmund Booth
left the Trustees on moving away
from the parish. Each will be missed for their wisdom and commitment; but Edmund will
be particularly missed for his technical expertise. Gerald Curtis and Gerry Everett have
joined the Trustees, each bringing different talents.
Debbie Kelly has become Clerk to the Trustees, with the main responsibility of taking
minutes at meetings.
Parish Magazine
Our normal rhythm was interrupted this year, when
Geoff Jones our editor for many years moved away. We
will miss his enthusiasm, commitment to getting
contributions and meticulous proof reading—no flying
apostrophe ever slipped past his eagle eye! We had to
put the Christmas edition on hold but look forward to
reappearing in 2011.
Web Site
We hope the web site continues to be a useful tool for the church community and beyond.
We have experimented this year with online ticket booking and more interactive
publications and are developing a way to make it easier for more people to add new
content without compromising the design.
The Memorial Hall—a valuable resource for many years
Communication of all sorts is critical. Viveca Dutt reports on the Parish magazine and
website and Wendy Littlejohns tells us about the work of the Communications Group.
Thank you Geoff
17
Communications Committee
For the second year running we gave away
Easter Candles in George Lane on Easter Eve
and supported the showing of Mr Darwin’s
Tree in May.
The Jazzathon, held as part of the Woodford
Festival was hugely popular, and it was good
to see folk enjoying the jazz and vocalists in
the church and the excellent food. Some
excellent dancing was on display, enjoyed by
participants and onlookers.
We continue to co-ordinate the publicity of
St Mary’s through the internal and external
notice boards, the website, magazine,
monthly diary and weekly notice-sheet.
In August a parish group from St Mary’s
spent a week visiting our link parish, The
Church of the Good Shepherd, Muchunguri,
in Mbeere Diocese. There we saw the
progress of the dispensary. which is now
open. We keep in contact by sending the
parish magazine, and exchanging emails, text
messages and phone calls, and with yet
another new Vicar, Revd Geoffrey Ndwiga.
We also visited the Orphanage at Makutano
and saw for ourselves how our support is
enabling the boys to continue with their
education. Two are now boarders at
secondary school where one child lost all his
belongings when arson destroyed his
dormitory. We were glad to be able to help
replace some of the lost items. Sadly one of
the older primary school boys died from
meningitis less than a week after our visit.
A new dormitory is currently being built at
Makutano with money from the Bishop’s
Lent Appeal.
Easter Gifts for Woodford
Our partnerships go far afield. Wendy Littlejohns describes how our partnership with
Kenya continues to prosper.
Ian with the Revd Geoffrey Ndwiga at the
Church of the Good Shepherd
The new Makutano dormitory
18
Mums and Tods
We have adjusted to the younger
intake age of children at
Churchfields Infants School. The
age of the children attending the
group is now noticeably younger
with only one or two children over
three.
More parents are coming to the
group now and we have some
families attending the monthly
communion and our weekly
worship session in the chapel
Parents are more discerning as to
what they want from the group
and how they use the facilities the
group offers. Some adults see it as
quality time for themselves, enjoying a cup of coffee with a friend and a chat while the
children play happily in a safe environment. Other adults welcome the opportunity to sit
with their child helping them to do puzzles or playing with playdough which is vital for
developing skills required in pre-school and infant school.
In 2010, the group donated £75 to Barnardo’s Toddle; with members’ contributions this
became £109.
Heavy rain forced us to bring our teddy bears and picnic into the Gwinnell room, however
it gave us the opportunity to use our ride-ons which we can’t normally use due to the lack
of space.
We are now using the choir vestry on a regular basis giving us more room for sticking
activities with the children and to display seasonal objects. Thanks to Bridget Webb for
this and to Adela Kay who is leading singing and rhythm sessions with the toddlers.
The highlight of the year was the Christmas Party. Father Christmas cancelled at the last
minute so Father Ian filled the role and a brilliant job he did too. Our Rector has hidden
talents.
Jan McGown
Seekers
After many years with us, Chris Meikle retired in July. She is very much missed but we are
grateful that she has offered to help us out in the occasional session. Bev Alderson has
kindly stepped forward and we are delighted to have her as part of our team.
We are also fortunate to have some of the older members of Quest helping us and Laura
Walker and Emma Pamplin have become integral parts of Seekers – thanks to both of
them.
Children and young people play a big part in the life of St Mary’s.
A talented substitute Father Christmas
19
The Seekers children enjoy being involved with St Mary’s all age services; the
responsibility makes them feel a real part of the church family. Seekers time covers
Bible studies taken mainly from the Scripture Union Syllabus. When time allows we
have held fund raising events, alongside festival activities which we all enjoy. The
children’s collage work is displayed in church so do take time to have a look at it.
Through our regular giving we have given nearly £100 to various charities.
As ever very grateful thanks to all Seekers staff, helpers, Mums and Dads,
grandparents, congregation and clergy who give us so much support.
Shirley Lealman
In addition to our regular programme of Bible
study, games, craft, prayer and participation in all-
age services (April & December this year) Quest
has been busy with various special projects. With
Peter Webb, the group created dramatic
illustrated panels for display in church on Good
Friday, which gave members the chance to
practice drawing hands - difficult, but ultimately
very effective! In June we joined with Seekers to
circle the church with prayer, and thanks to extra
‘donations’ from the congregation, achieved a
total of 137 prayers - can we beat that in 2011?
In September/October, we spent 3 sessions
exploring the Jewish roots of Christianity, with the
assistance of Quest helper Tessa Theron, who taught us the Shema Yisrael (‘Hear, 0
Israel’) in Hebrew. We made tiny scrolls and containers (mezuzot) to hang in our
homes, and also feasted on apples and honey to mark Rosh Hashanah. Later in the
autumn we embarked on an art and calligraphy project, creating a beautiful
‘illuminated’ manuscript, aided by senior Quester Jessica Baxter, the group’s official
calligrapher.
Martine James visited us twice during the year to lead ‘foodie craft’ sessions, which as
always went down extremely well, and Bridget Webb helped us make lovely Pentecost
doves.
We asked Questers for their own favourite memories of the year - here is a
representative selection of their replies, showing a proper balance of the temporal and
spiritual:
• ‘Circling the church with prayer’
• ‘Learning how to do calligraphy’
• ‘Writing prayers on hand and foot cut-outs and animal cut-outs, and making leaves’
• ‘Making biscuit-trees with Martine at Christmas with everyone’
• ‘Learning that Jesus is the most important person in our lives’
• ‘Teaching everyone how to write in the style of calligraphy’
From Seekers to Quest
20
• ‘I enjoyed the path to
enlightenment due to the Bible
stories - calligraphy was also
exquisite’
• ‘ l liked making and eating cake’
This was our last year as a 10-15+
age group. We will miss the Senior
Questers as they move ‘onwards
and upwards’ into their own group,
but we wish them well for the
future.
Thanks are due to Martine James,
Peter & Bridget Webb and our
regular back-up team of Tessa
Theron, Jean Russell and Kathy
Wiltshire. Although we have their valuable support, we are still in need of a co-leader to
take charge of the group on one or two Sundays in the month. Please pray for the
success of this particular ‘quest’.
Roberta Flynn
Guiding
Guiding at St Mary’s was as popular as ever during 2010 with all units fully subscribed,
always with girls waiting to join as well as girls ready to move up through the different
sections
2010 was our Centenary year and we soon got into our stride and celebrated by staging
our own Centenary Gang Show in the Memorial Hall. The Rainbows, Brownies, Guides
and Guiders took to the boards, all worked extremely hard and much to their delight all
performances were sold out.
The guiders and all the girls have contributed in some way to social and fund raising
events at St Marys. They cooked eggy bread and acted as waitresses for The Big
Breakfast; made hot dogs, ran games, and this year attempted to tell 100 jokes at the
Food and Fun Day and ran various activities at the Charity Bazaar. They also enjoyed
their usual fund raising Bingo Evening to contribute towards the Memorial Hall costs.
This year, as well as working tirelessly, with the 1st
Woodford Rainbows, the Rainbow
Guiders have also been acting as recruitment officers – Penny Freeston and Sue Baxter,
stood down through pressure of other commitments n December. Despite much
publicity, no one came forward to take on this commitment, although some general
interest was shown. However, Angela Walter, the Division Commissioner, stepped in to
help run meetings, and Jan McGowan has volunteered to stay on to help until September
2011.
As well as working towards and achieving numerous Brownie interest badges the 1st
and 9th
Woodford Brownies joined together on several occasions this year. In April they
competed in a Road Safety competition staged by the London Borough of Redbridge.
Quest helped wrap the church in prayer
21
In June they held a very noisy sports
evening with traditional sports like
sack race, potato and spoon and welly
throwing. They also went into Church
for a whole evening learning about
weddings and Revd Ian Tarrant guided
them through the wedding service. In
July we held World Cup Football
Brownie Revels and Sally joined us for
the evening to lend her expertise.
1st
Woodford Guides went to a
Centenary week long celebration camp
at Cudham in Kent. It was part of an
huge event with many activities. In the
X Factor competitions they produced the winner and runner up out of 1000 girls! They
enjoyed a Take That tribute band and also took a day trip to Brownsea Island where
some girls made their promise at the BP Memorial Stone.
In September all units got the opportunity to take part in Chigtenary at Chigwell Row.
All sorts of activities and crafts for everyone to enjoy and some splendid arena
activities including the release of doves, an amazing dog handling demonstration and
some fantastic cake to celebrate our 100 years of Guiding.
The final event of our Centenary was Vision – when at 20:10 20/10 2010 all guides took
time to renew their Promise. We renewed ours on St Marys Church steps.
Of course, none of this would be possible without the continued enthusiasm and
commitment of Guiders, Unit Helpers, Young Leaders and anyone who helps out from
time to time. Our thanks to everyone who makes this happen and long may such
co-operation continue.
Martine James
St Mary’s guiders representing all generations
from Rainbows to the Trefoil Guild
A year in pictures
Shirley Lealman wrote this to accompany the Seekers report:
“It is such a delight to see the late Anne Snowdon’s snowdrops and early spring
flowers blooming under the trees, Her little garden is much appreciated by Seekers
children and adults as we pass by before entering the church”
Most of us would agree with this sentiment and we are pleased to have these
pictorial reminders of the delightful spring garden Anne created.
22
Mission and Charity Giving 2010
Mission Societies £
CMS 1,000
Leprosy Mission 400
USPG 300
Mathieson Music Trust 200
Medicines For Muheza 200
Good Shepherd Church 100
Mission Societies 2200
Church Societies
Bible Society 300
Children’s Society 200
Church Army 250
Manna Society 200
Essex Clergy Charity 100
Christian Aid 200
Church Urban Fund 100
Church Societies 1350
Charities
Macmillan Cancer Support 100
Royal Commonwealth
Society for the Blind
100
Marie Curie Cancer Care 100
Royal Association for the Aid of
Deaf People
150
Samaritans 100
ELHAP 200
Charities 750
TOTAL £4300
Special Collections £
Send A Cow 1352
Bishop’s Lent Appeal 236
Makutano Orphanage 420
CMS - Good Shepherd
Church
600
CMS -
Muchunguri Dispensary
393
DEC- Pakistan Floods 301
Christian Aid -
Haiti Earthquake
471
Haven House 763
Church Army 370
USPG 190
TOTAL £6269
Christian Aid -
Harvest Collection
258
Medicines for Muheza 190
Sightsavers 240
Royal British Legion 155
Leprosy Mission 330