annual report 2011

presented to the all souls annual meeting april 26th 2012

@allsoulschurch

Northcote Road, St Margarets, TW1 1PB allsoulschurch 020 8891 6820

annual meetings
thursday, 26th april at 8:00pm

agenda
parishioners meeting Churchwarden Elections annual parochial church meeting 1 Apologies for Absence 2 Minutes of APCM 2011 3 Matters Arising 4 PCC Elections 5 Election of Deanery Synod Representative 6 Electoral Roll Report 7 The Reports: PCC Report Finance Report Fabric Report Appointment of Sidespeople Other Reports 8 Any Other Business

minutes from 2011 APCM : april 27th

attendees Ken and Pat Andrews, Rob Anstey, Matt and Charlotte Berding, Al Bird, Debbie Braun, Fiona Budden, Karl Burgess, Tom and Rosalie Callway, Tilly Connor, Jan Cowie, Marcus Cutler, Adrian and Cath Davies, AJ de Jager, Dominic and Roz de Lord, Iain Fletcher, Richard and Catherine Frank, Bill and Maggie Greenfield, Charles and Charlie Hudson, Pranay Jeyachandran, Tom Johnson, Karen Kerr, Becky Kimble, Tim Knight, Craig Knipe, Caroline Lim, Nick and Katherine Merrifield, Sharon Miller, Linda Northern, Veena OSullivan, Helene Parry, Richard Peart, David Peppiatt, Adrian Ramsey, Tim and Helen Stephens, Charles Tapson, Beth Thyr, Eleanor Tuck, David Vroegindeweij, Mark and Deborah Warne, Mark and Sue Wing, Jon and Rachel Wooden, Apologies from Lou Bird, Matthew Kerr, Sian Knight. welcome Richard Frank welcomed everyone and opened the meeting. The meeting was in two parts: the Parishioners Meeting, open to all who live in the parish, and the Parochial Meeting, open to those on the electoral roll of All Souls. previous minutes - The April 2010 minutes were approved. pcc elections Becky Kimble, David Peppiatt, Pranay Jeyachandran, Helen Stephens, Karl Burgess and Eleanor Tuck were elected to the PCC. Charles Tapson was elected to fill the vacant Deanery Synod post. Continuing for another year: Al Bird (Treasurer), Helene Parry (Secretary), Charles Tapson, Rosalie Callway, Debbie Braun, Nick Merrifield, Iain Fletcher, Krista Small, David Rowe (Deanery Synod) & Jan Cowie (Deanery Synod). Tors Ramsey is standing down as she will be leaving.

Page 3

election of churchwardens Cath Davies and Deborah Warne stood for election as churchwardens again. There were no other candidates, so both were elected. The church gave them a round of applause. election of sidespeople No changes announced. Richard reminded the sidespeople that they had the power of arrest within the curteledge of the church review of reports Reports were distributed to members of All Souls present, who were encouraged to read them later. finance report Al Bird (Treasurer) gave a presentation on the 2010 Accounts. Our plan for 2011: Budget: 170,000, slightly down on last year. Expenditure for 2011: Bills: 23,000, Resources: 17,000, Team: 47,000, Buildings: 16,000, Diocese: 64,000. Giving: 90,000. Regular giving from over 60 households in All Souls with Gift Aid: 25,000 Rent: 45,000 - halls, studio and church flat Other: 7,000 - one-off gifts vicars address Richard spoke on the core business of All Souls: that people should be transformed by an encounter with Jesus Christ. He reminded us that we need to keep Jesus at the heart of what we are about. AOB No other business. The meeting was then closed and was followed by worship and testimonies. Helene Parry PCC Secretary

parochial church council (pcc)

The proposed PCC for 2012/2013 would be: Clergy: Richard Frank (Chair); Calum Lindsay Church Wardens: Deborah Warne & Cath Davies Deanery Synod: David Rowe, Charles Tapson & Jan Cowie Standing for election this year: Esther McCallum, Tim Knight, Brenda Dickens Continuing for another year: Helen Stephens; Al Bird (Treasurer); Nick Merrifield; Iain Fletcher; David Peppiatt; Eleanor Tuck; Becky Kimble; Pranay Jeyechandran

Page 4

pcc report
The PCC has met seven times since the All Souls Annual Meeting last year. Its meetings have covered matters from the focus of the church budget to our work with the Ivybridge church. Each meeting begins with a report from Richard, which the PCC then discusses. In the past 12 months, the PCC has covered matters ranging from promoting our Energyshare project, generating church growth and building up general giving. Recent highlights of PCC meetings have included discussions on improving the outside of the buildings (making the face of the church match our heart) and extending our children, youth and outreach ministry. Helene Parry - PCC Secretary

electoral roll report

The updated electoral roll has 142 people, of whom 95 are resident outside the parish. Since the revision of last years role, 35 names have been added and 24 names removed. New applications can be made at any time after the APCM - please ask for further details and/or an enrolment form. Krista Small - Electoral Roll Officer

commentary on 2011 finances

2011 marked a clear turning point in All Souls finances where we were able to manage our income and outgoings prudently to restore our unrestricted funds back into the black at the end of the year. We hope this will provide a solid foundation for ambitious community facing projects in the coming years. Thank you so much to the All Souls community for your continued generosity and support. Income Total unrestricted income in 2011 increased to 196,946 (2010 174,511). Total regular giving from the congregation, including gift aid, increased to 146,908 (2010 116,669) Total rental income from the flat, studio and halls increased to 44,354 (2010 41,349) We also received 17,834 of one-off gifts which have been set aside in a restricted account for development projects to improve the buildings and environmental impact of running All Souls The Ivybridge bank account and income are restricted for use on the estate and remained stable in 2011

Page 5

 Regular church outgoings were controlled carefully in 2011 to enable the repayment of loans and build up of reserves for future maintenance needs Total expenditure for All Souls in 2011 decreased to 172,518 (from 184,235 in 2010) The Diocesan Common Fund increased as planned by 7,484 to 64,184 in 2011, and is on track to meet full costs of 68,222 in 2012 a tremendous watershed moment to achieve the target set 11 years ago as a new church plant. Changes in the church office team and staffing gaps during the year meant a reduction of 12,803 staffing costs in 2011, which is budgeted to return to previous levels in 2012 Overall, the Income and Expenditure in 2011 was generally in line with expectations and the budget. Huge credit is again due to the Sage skills and cash flow monitoring of Sue, Sara & the finance team to keep everything prudently budgeted and accounted for! The PCC are extremely thankful and very appreciative of the generous giving which has allowed the church to grow and provide resources for the congregation and the community.

We started 2011 with 21,595 net owing in loans to the Diocese for works to complete the Link and essential maintenance in replacing the old hall boilers (due to our historical lack of reserves). We ended 2012 with net unrestricted funds of 2,833 the first time we have had positive reserves since completing the Link project in 2009. We ended 2011 with 21,007 in the restricted savings account for building- related development projects.

In 2012 we are consolidating this turning point in All Souls finances: maintaining a prudent focus on balancing regular income and expenditure while responsibly growing our unrestricted reserves for ongoing maintenance needs. We have ambitious plans to increase our community-serving mission with more resources for childrens, youth and family engagement and better access and usage of the Church buildings by our local community. As our debts are paid off, we will use the freed up outgoings and any increase in regular giving to invest in more community-facing staff and resources starting with a childrens worker in 2012, and targeting a youth worker and further community activities when regular giving levels allow. Likewise, we are looking to attract additional one-off funds to the savings account to invest in significant development projects to improve the church buildings for greater community service, while minimising the environmental impact of their increased use. Al Bird - PCC Honorary Treasurer 2012

Page 6

ALL SOULS CHURCH, ST MARGARETS Annual accounts for the period

1 January 2011 to 31 December 2011

Statement of financial activities

Unrestricted funds Restricted income funds Endowment funds TOTAL 2011 TOTAL 2010

Note

Incoming resources
Incoming resources from generated funds Voluntary income Investment income Incoming resources from church activities Total incoming resources

146,908 22,132 95 49,943 196,946 22,132

4

169,040 95 49,943 219,078

151,005 14 48,266 199,285

Resources expended
Costs of Generating Funds Church activities Total resources expended

172,518 172,518 24,428 (21,595) 2,833

2,419 2,419 19,713 24,620 44,333

-

174,937 174,937 44,141 3,025 47,166

184,529 184,529 14,756 (11,731) 3,025

Net movement in funds Total funds brought forward 1 January Total funds carried forward 31 December

ALL SOULS CHURCH, ST MARGARETS Annual accounts for the period

1 January 2011 to 31 December 2011

Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2011

Note

Unrestricted funds 450,000 450,000 -

Restricted income funds -

Endowment funds

2011 450,000 450,000

2010 450,000 450,000

Fixed assets
Tangible assets - Curate's House Total fixed assets
5

Current assets
Debtors Cash at bank and in hand Total current assets
6 8

8,689 9,621 44,333 18,310 44,333

8,689 53,954 62,643

2,299 27,009 29,308

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year

Net current assets/(liabilities) Total assets less current liabilities

10,979 7,331 457,331 44,333 44,333 44,333

10,979 51,664 501,664 454,498 47,166

6,592 22,716 472,716 469,691 3,025

Creditors: amounts falling due after one year Net assets/(liabilities) Parish Funds
Unrestricted funds Restricted income funds

454,498 2,833

2,833 44,333

2,833 44,333 47,166

(21,595) 24,620 3,025

Total funds The notes on pages 2 to 4 form part of these accounts

2,833 44,333

R Frank
Signed by one or two trustees on behalf of all the trustees
..

A H Bird
Print.. Names Date of approval R Frank Vicar (PCC) A H Bird Treasurer (PCC)

Page 7

Notes to the financial statements

For the year ended 31 December 2011

Note 1

Basis of preparation

The only change to the accounting policies during the year was to adjust the fixed asset capitalisation minimum to 750 (previously 500).

Note 2

Accounting Policies

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 together with applicable accounting standards and the SORP 2005. The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the valuation of investment assets which are shown at market value. The financial statements 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.

Funds

Restricted funds represent (a) income from trusts or endowments which may be expended only on those restricted objects provided in terms of the trust or bequest, and (b) donations or grants received for a specific object or invited by the PCC for a specific object. The funds may only be expended on the specific object for which they were given. Any balance remaining unspent at the end of each year must be carried forward as a balance on that fund. The PCC does not usually invest separately for each fund. Where there is no separate investment, interest is apportioned to individual funds on an average balance basis.

Unrestricted funds are general funds which can be used for PCC ordinary purposes.

Incoming resources

Planned giving, collections and donations are recognized when received. Tax refunds are recognized when the incoming resource to which they relate is received. Grants and legacies are accounted for when the PCC is legally entitled to the amounts due. Dividends are accounted for when receivable, interest is accrued. All other income is recognized when it is receivable. All incoming resources are accounted for gross.

Resources expended

Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that award creates a binding or constructive obligation on the PCC. The diocesan parish share is accounted for when due. Amounts received specifically for mission are dealt with as restricted funds. All other expenditure is generally recognized when it is incurred and is accounted for gross.

Fixed assets

Consecrated and benefice property is not included in the accounts in accordance with s.96(2)(a) of the Charities Act 1993. Movable church furnishings held by the vicar and churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal are inalienable property, listed in the churchs inventory, which can be inspected (at any reasonable time). For anything acquired prior to 2000 there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the financial statements. Subsequently no individual item has cost more than 500 so all such expenditure has been written off when incurred. Individual items of equipment with a purchase price of 750 (previously 500) or less are written off when the asset is acquired. In 2008 a house was acquired for the new curate at a cost of 450,000. This is funded by interest and equity loans of 200,000 and equity loans of 250,000 from the Diocese and church members respectively. The asset and the liability are reflected in the balance sheet. Investments are valued at market value at the year end.

Page 8

Note 3

Analysis of incoming resources

Unrestricted funds Restricted income funds 22,132 Endowment funds 2011 146,908 17,834 4,298 169,040 2010 116,669 10,597 23,739 151,005

Voluntary income
REGULAR GIVING FROM CONGREGATION (incl gift aid) GIFTS & 'ONE-OFF' FROM CONGREGATION IVYBRIDGE GIVING Total

146,908 17,834 4,298 146,908

Activities for generating funds

Little Souls Income

4,597
Total 4,597

4,597 4,597

4,941 4,941

Investment income
INTEREST Total 95

95 -

95 95

14 14

Income from church activities

Rental Income (Halls, Flat) Parochial FEES & Events Total

44,354 958 45,312 34 34 196,946 22,132

34 34

44,354 958 45,312 124 124

41,349 1,852 43,201

Other income

Total Incoming Resources

219,078

199,285

Note 4

Analysis of resources expended

Unrestricted funds Restricted income funds 2,419 2,419 -

Endowment TOTAL 2011 TOTAL 2010 funds 1,575 2,737 364 9,183 630 4,724 3,916 2,481 64,184 770 7,200 25,321 1,778 18,358 4,329 0 4,707 7,530 2,772 798 1,666 6,889 594 12 2,419 174,937 1,416 2,535 436 9,028 1,215 4,453 3,973 1,445 56,700 1,183 7,200 38,123 609 6,377 1,547 16,263 4,705 12,954 2,285 2,732 3,309 5,589 82 76 294 184,529

Church activities
Admin Fees (Bank, Accounting Etc) Cleaning & Materials Copyright For Music Electricity And Gas Funerals, Banns And Weddings Insurance & Legal Fees Other Utilities (Water, Telephone, Alarms) Sunday Refreshments Common Fund (Diocese) Clergy Expenses Curate House Interest Salaries, Professional Fees & Ni Training, Gifts, Vicar's Discretionary Fund Maintenance - Church Buildings Maintenance - Vicarage, Curate House + Flat Buildings - Design/Development Little Souls Costs Giving (Soul Connections Fund & Special Services) Discipleship And Outreach Events Childrens And Youth Work Mission And Ministry Resources Office Equipment, Supplies And Postage Xmas Decorations And Celebration Welcome (Literature, Events) IvyBridge

1,575 2,737 364 9,183 630 4,724 3,916 2,481 64,184 770 7,200 25,321 1,778 18,358 4,329 0 4,707 7,530 2,772 798 1,666 6,889 594 12 172,518

TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED

172,518

2,419

174,937

184,529

Note 4 - continued
Staff costs

Analysis of resources expended

25,321
-

25,321

38,123

For the first half of the year, the PCC employed an Administrator, a Church Secretary and a Youth Worker - all part time - who then moved on to new roles. For the remainder of the year, a new part time team was recruited comprising Church Manager, Finance and Lettings Administrator and Youth and Children's Administrator. The total cost of employment in 2011 (including PAYE and NI) was 25,321 (2010 38,123), with the reduction primarily due to staffing gaps during the restructure. This figure includes Site Director Professional Fees. There were no Pension costs or Pension contributions in 2011 (2010 Nil)

Unrestricted funds

Restricted income funds

Endowment funds

2011

2010

Note 5

Fixed Assets

In 2008 a house was acquired for the new curate at a cost of 450,000. This is funded by interest and equity loans of 200,000 and equity loans of 250,000 from the diocese and members respectively. The asset and the liability are in the balance sheet.

Note 6

Debtors (unrestricted funds)

5,010 3,679 8,689
-

Tax recoverable (outstanding gift aid for 2011) Rent Receivable

5,010 3,679 8,689

2,299
-

2,299

Note 7

Liabilities

Amounts falling due in one year(unrestricted funds) Accruals for 2011 costs due for payment after end of year 10,979 10,979 10,979 10,979 6,592 6,592

Longer Term Loans: In addition to the loans for the curate's house obtained in 2008 (per Note 5), there are now two further Diocesan Loans in place, each with 3 year repayment terms. In 2009 a Diocesan Loan for 14k was drawn down to complete the Link project and other additional costs associated with the curate's house to be repaid over 3 years. As at Dec 31st 2011 there was 1540 outstanding (Dec 31st 2010 6208). Repayments are proceeding to plan and will be completed by mid-2012. In late 2010, a further 15k Diocesan Loan was approved to fund urgent replacement of the very old boiler with associated plumbing, electrical and redecoration works of the Church Halls. This work was completed in December 2010, and repayments began in mid 2011, to be repaid in full in 2014. As at Dec 31st 2011 there was 12,104 outstanding.

Note 8

Restricted Funds and Investment

As at Dec 31st 2011, the restricted funds comprised 141 in a bank account associated with The Martha Lugg Wooldridge Trust, and 21,006 in a deposit account which are both restricted for development work to the Church buildings, along with 23,186 in a bank account restricted for church activities with the Ivybridge. At Dec 31st 2010, these three accounts stood at 141, 1034 and 23,445 respectively.

Page 10

report on the fabric (buildings) of all souls

2011 continued the transition from the initial beach head plant to a more settled church, first noted in 2010. Here are a few highlights (not necessarily in order of significance!): Speaker brackets were fitted to the front columns to improve the acoustic (hopefully successfully). The utility charges were reviewed and new contractual arrangements made resulting in a useful saving. A white board was fitted in the Den (school work?). The renewal of the car park lease behind the main hall rumbled on, and on, and on, and might just be ready for completion by the APCM. The first draft proposals of the landscaping scheme were received to remove the boundary wall, extend the paved footpath level to the church, with new planting etc. Some external repairs were carried out, as promised, to 25 Brantwood Avenue, Calums home. The halls were redecorated externally. A video entryphone was fitted for the church office next to the courtyard entrance. Some lighting repairs were carried out in the church. Plans were progressed to replace the electrical heating in the Studio with air source heat pump conditioning including the installation of an insulated false ceiling. The works are expected to be carried out in the summer break (note for those involved!). The old water heater in the halls kitchen was replaced. Some minor roof repairs were carried out and maybe a few more are now required with the onset of wet weather (the buildings have sprung a few roof leaks). The Studio lease to the dance academy was renewed. Duplicate suspension cabling was installed for the Christmas candelabra as a security measure. Heavy duty perforated steel mesh grilles were fitted to the main hall radiator enclosures and have so far resisted all football attacks! The garden play area was refilled and the climbing frame repainted. Charles Tapson Buildings Manager

Page 11

vicar's report to the apcm

My 2009 report was about a year that had been characterised by the new our new Link, a new bishop, new parish boundaries, new Messy Church and the new second service. 2010 was more about consolidation - depth and strength, celebrating our past (including our 10th birthday) and digging in for the future. Today, looking back on 2011 its been, quite simply, a year of change but, remarkably (even, miraculously!), not only are we still standing as we look back, but very much still All Souls!

all change
From the start of 2011, we knew already that Charles was coming to the end of his curacy and would be moving on (though neither we nor he yet knew where) and that Tors was finishing her ordination training and would be starting as a curate somewhere new. Little did we know that wed also have an entirely new Office Team twelve months' later! Charles and Charlie, with Milly and Pippa headed off to the north (of London at least!) for Charles to become Rector of Broxbourne with Wormley (broxbournewithwormley.org.uk) and we were able to send them on their way in May with a photobook full of memories of their three years in All Souls and with our love and best wishes for the future. Having seen them just this past week, I can tell you that theyre doing well. Its been just as challenging as you might expect a house, job and church move to be, but theyve seen Gods hand at work just as weve been praying. We miss them all tremendously, but were very glad God has used their time with us to get them ready for the next task. Tors and Adrian, together with Alfie and Megan, have headed to Exeter where Tors has become Curate based primarily at Exeter Network Church, meeting near the centre of the city. Several from All Souls were able to be in Exeter Cathedral for her ordination and the family are doing really well. Again, we miss them hugely, but were chuffed that this family who were part of All Souls for so long are being a blessing to a new part of Gods church. And then there was Sue Wing, who had been Church Administrator since the church plant started in 2000, working from the Vicarage when there was no office and helping steer All Souls through the bumpy ride between vicars. I remember with gratitude her helping me prepare for my arrival and smoothing my first months in post. Now, around the time of Charles departure, a new job opportunity arose that clicked with Sues increasing sense that it was probably time to move on to something new. It was a blow to us, but clearly the right move for Sue and much as she's missed, it's great to see God moving someone on in a way that just 'clicks' for them. Around the same time, Karen Kerr who had for several years, played an important administrative role in the office needed to move on, in order to give time needed to the family business... again, sad for us, but the right move for her. All change indeed! Heres what I wrote back then: "That's quite a wave of change - and we'd be forgiven for feeling at least uncomfortable and perhaps even a little wary of what's to come. Personally, I like things just the way they are with this rather brilliant staff team!

Page 12

But like sea waves, we don't have to either run from them or try and jump over them - we have the choice to surf them! It's much more fun - and has a rather better outcome - then any of the alternatives. We use the energy of the wave (that could otherwise knock us flat) to move us up and along at a speed and in a way that we could never do by ourselves. That's got to be the right way for us to view this next few weeks and months - a wave that God can use by His Spirit to move us on into a new phase of All Souls' life."

swept forward
If we were to 'surf the wave' of change, we needed to build a new team and that's exactly what happened in the second half of 2011. It started with the arrival of Calum as our Curate, fresh from training at Ridley Hall in Cambridge and then after the summer, we were delighted with the appointment of Krista Small (a long-time member of All Souls) as Church Manager. Joining Kristas Office Team were Sara Bagnall as Finance & Lettings Admin (she also happens to be Churchwarden of St Johns in Isleworth) and Sam Burnett (a member of All Souls) as Administrator. Its been a great experience getting to know one another, working alongside one another and praying together week-by-week. Weve all had lots of learning to do, but weve enjoyed the experience and its already hard to believe weve only been together as a team for a few months. God is very good!

not just a new team

My focus in this report has been on the staff team for its been the most obvious place of change but weve seen God at work in so many other ways too. Jon Wooden has taken the helm of the Worship Team, following Adrian Ramsey's departure; Karl & Kate Burgess lead an increasingly buoyant and exciting youth work (Underground) on Sunday afternoons and many others have stepped in to new leadership and responsibilities in 2011. Little Souls has continued, under Catherine Frank's leadership, to go from strength to strength, with Messy Church a regular highlight of our outreach. Our Monday Communion (organised by Fi & Roxane) has begun to build a (mostly retired and local) community of its own and our childrens work has reinvented itself yet again (particularly in the morning services) with a completely new set-up for pre-schoolers (thanks to Fi & Becky for their leadership of Explorers & Crche) and with weekly resource material from the inexhaustible Brenda Dickens. El Tuck has taken on Soul Connections the team that helps us connect with mission and ministry locally, nationally & internationally and Rosalie Callway has continued to lead an imaginative and active Soul Living team, focusing on environmental and sustainability issues and lifestyle. The Ivybridge Team has continued to pastor, encourage and support the Sunday afternoon congregation that meets in the Bridgelink Caf, with Pranay, Vani and family important and welcome additions to the team.

out of sight, but not out of mind

Through it all, Ive been hugely aware of the unsung heroes behind the scenes the 70+ people on our youth and childrens teams; the video/p.a. operators; welcomers and those who provide Sunday refreshments; people whose committed and key leadership may not be up front, but are vital: Al Bird, our treasurer whos worked to help us integrate our new software and systems (via some late nights and long days!); Charles Tapson who helps us oversee our buildings and the

Page 13

remarkable PCC with Churchwardens Deborah Warne and Cath Davies who encourage, guide and laugh with me as we together work to move All Souls forward month by month. most of all What's it all for? The temptation in reading an Annual Report is to see simply an organisation keeping itself going - and that takes some serious effort in itself! But we have a purpose that goes far beyond a year-by-year 'keeping things moving' motivation. This is one of the ways we've expressed it (from our 'Mission Action Plan'): Nurturing what God has given us here to be an increasingly effective centre for our community, giving people of every age the opportunity to experience the love of God in Jesus through the Spirit for themselves. It's by that yardstick that I hope you'll read what follows - are we making the most of all the opportunities we have to introduce people to Jesus and to see God at work amongst us? I'm sure we're not - there's plenty more to come... Already in 2012, theres plenty to challenge and encourage us: I wonder what the theme of this year will be when I sit down to write it next year? Whatever it is, we know it will be, yet again, a year to celebrate the faithfulness of God. Richard Frank (Revd) Vicar 23rd April 2012

Page 14

ivybridge community church

Ivybridge Community Church (ICC) remains an integral part of the All Souls parish reaching out to those living on the Ivybridge estate and the surrounding community. The small team, supported by Richard and Calum are continuing fortnightly Sunday services in the Bridgelink Centre as well as other regular events like the Christmas Giveaway, Storehouse, the Summer BBQ and small events with the community at Kirkstone Lodge. Richard has also continued to take regular assemblies at Ivybridge School where Nikki Fletcher is part of the Governing Body. As a church and team we are currently looking at how to both maintain and expand our work within the Ivybridge community and build on the contacts and foundation that has been built over the last 8 years. We are desperately in need of more people to join the team to help us just continue the small amount we are currently doing on the estate, especially the childrens group during the fortnightly Sunday services, Storehouse and the work with the older people at Kirkstone Lodge. But we are also keen to fully evaluate the current needs of this community so that the church can serve the people in this part of the parish in the best possible way. The Soul Connections team have recently come on board to help out with this vital work and we are excited that we will be able to explore the best way forward for ICC so that we can continue to meet the needs of those who come to the church and help them to continue to grow in their faith while reaching out to this diverse and very often transient community. Please pray as we do this, that we will be guided by God as to how to direct our energy and that he will raise up people from within All Souls with a passion and vision for the Ivybridge to support the ministry there. To find out more about the history and vision behind ICC visit our website at www.ivybridgechurch.org.uk Nikki Fletcher - for the ICC Team

Page 15

youth and childrens team reports

youth the underground
The Underground meets during the afternoon service every Sunday with between 12 and 18 young people in regular attendance. We have spent the last few months looking at the 10 commandments, interspersed with the occasional games sessions, and have considered their relevance for today and whether they remain a good foundation for establishing a morally and spirituality health society! Predictably this has led to lots of interesting debate. Lively discussion, honest questions, laughter, too much chat, pizza and hot chocolate are all regular features of the Underground. Regular social events are also a big part of the Underground. In the past months we have been paint balling, had a tramp supper with fireworks, and went to the Empire Cinema in Leicester Square (thanks to Mike Hope-Milne one of our leaders). We are currently planning another cinema trip, a Jubilee party and a weekend away at the start of the summer hols. The young people often bring friends to socials. We are looking forward to welcoming some new young people to the group after half-term. The Underground team consists of Mike Hope-Milne, Lucy Anstey, Ade Davies, and Karl and Kate Burgess. Karl & Kate Burgess

creche 10.30
Creche and Explorers (am) amalgamated this year to form a large group for the pre nursery age group. We have seen a few new additions to the church family in this group both new borns and newcomers. We have a soft baby area with sofas for the parents to sit, chat and drink coffee, a free play area for the toddlers with a fantastic home corner and mix in occasionally with the older Explorers children who have a story, craft and song time. It is an active group, which has now settled into it's new surroundings, and the team are able to offer child care for those who want to go into church to listen to the sermon or a relaxed friendly environment for those who wish to stay with their child. Becky Kimble

explorers 10.30
Current number on register: 15 Leaders & helpers: Fi, Nicky, Sally, Tilly, Debra, Gergana, Imade, Lucy, Rachel, Stewart, Toya Its great to have such a fantastic team thank you all. We were quite low on the ground this time last year. It has been all change with Explorers, as we moved from the dance studio to sharing the main hall with the crche. This has allowed for a lot more interaction between pre-schoolers of all ages, and their parents. It has also needed patient adaptability from our leaders and helpers so thanks to all involved for coping so well with the changes.

Page 16

The change has mostly been positive, allowing those crche members who naturally want to join in with Explorer games, story time and - the most popular area for the crche toddlers the craft, to do so. There is much more flexibility and choice for the young children, and space to roam, but this does not mean that we dont encourage the children to sit down for the story time! This set up has been particularly good for parents who have a child in crche and a child in Explorers as the older child is comforted knowing their parent is close by. It also makes the transition from Creche to Explorers less stressful for the children, and encourages parents of those making that transition to come aboard with helping on the Explorers team, as they know what to expect. It can be a little chaotic, however, especially when there is a large turnout, as we often have 2-3 creche children joining in. However, this is balanced by having the crche parents helping out particularly around the craft table. Once again, we are grateful to Brenda Dickens for setting the session themes, content and craft. The message often needs simplifying for our age group, but the leaders have become adept at this. Often, we find we have a number of parents listening to the story and the theme and, for me, a simple message can be the clearest no matter how old you are! Fi Budden

gems 10.30
Our Gems team has been happily busy this year with numbers of kids bubbling along between 6 to 16 in the group, aged between 3 and 5 years. We continue to be excellently resourced by the wonderful Brenda Dickens. Amongst many other another things what stands out for me was their enjoyment of Moses' adventures, including re-enacting floating in his basket into the arms of the Egyptian princess as well as bravely crossing the Red Sea with the Israelites. The kids have really begun to get know each other and love play-acting the stories, industrious colouring and craft making, as well as modelling with play doe. They have also become more and more helpful, helping out the snacks, crafts and drawings, and even helping to tidy up at end the of sessions! Rosalie Callway

stars 4.30
Our Stars meet in the Stage Room every Sunday afternoon! The age of the children varies from small babies through to Reception age children, and we can be anything from three to ten in number. Given that range, the sessions can be challenging! The format is pretty similar each week. We have some free play, a time of coming together with a story and prayer, and finish with a craft activity or more free play and dancing. We have discovered that the children love dressing up and doing role play as part of the story telling piece! We have a small team and often need to ask a parent to stay with the group to help out during the session. This seems to work well, although if you do feel you can help on a more regular basis, do let me know! Cath Davies

Page 17

movers
10.30
We have completed a full year in the new group arrangements and after a bumpy start finding our feet, we are doing really well. We have a brilliant team of leaders and helpers who all bring their own value to the team. We average between 10 and 12 children each week and they all feel comfortable to ask questions and contribute to the session. As the children have matured we have been able to encourage them to really think about how the stories could apply to their lives and how they can live for Jesus. We are trying to encourage the children to believe that they can make a difference (even though they are small). This is done through games, stories and crafts. Brenda Dickens

4.30
Movers PM (Reception to Year 3) has been very enjoyable and rewarding in the past year. On average, the group has comprised 10-15 children, who participate readily and enthusiastically. The activities range have included quizzes and team games, bible stories, acting out bible stories, prayer time, various craft activities, DVDs and, from time to time, joint activities with Groovers for all or part of the session. We have addressed a number of bible stories and themes over the year, including the Good Samaritan (encouraging the children to think about practical ways to contribute to their community), Moses / manna from heaven (how God provides), Moses and the Burning Bush (God providing us with the right tools), Gabriel's message (we can be messengers for God too), and Joshua and Rahab (God helping us through other people). One of the challenges this year has been retaining the attention of the group and challenging their energy into the session. With help from Richard and others, we have made good progress with this. Tom Johnson

groovers
10.30
Groovers' (for years 3 to 6 at Primary School) is a fairly small group in the mornings usually just 5 or 6 but they make up for lack of numbers with bags of life, great questions and pots of enthusiasm! We particularly enjoyed creating our own movie of the Exodus from Egypt (the army going down into the waves was a very funny highlight) and there's always real engagement with the various creative crafts we do. We've been spending a bit more time this past year in sung worship often together with Movers at the start of some of our sessions and prayer too. Russell, Calum, Stephen, Jen, Bernie, Naomi, Jen and I lead the sessions, a pair of us taking a week each month. Great fun!
Richard Frank

Page 18

4.30
Soul Groovers on Sunday afternoons (years 4-6 age group) usually has up to 15 children and is based in the large hall. We are very fortunate to have a session plan provided each week by Brenda, covering a range of Bible stories and themes. Over the past year, these have included a 6 week series on Moses, a Christmas series and recently a Lent series. Activities include team games, acting out Bible stories, watching DVDs, prayer time and craft activities. We also join together on occasions with the Movers for singing lead by Richard or Calum. The teams are led by Debbie, Matthew & Karen, Calum and Tim with very able assistance from Beth, Sian and Rich B.
Tim Knight

joining the team

More than eighty members of All Souls are part of our Sunday youth and children's teams helping out once a month as part of an age-group team, with some taking responsibility for leading sessions, many simply helping with setting up and working alongside small groups of children. Most leaders are new to children's work - no previous experience is needed! You simply need to enjoy the company of the age-group, be happy to engage with them at their level and to enjoy being part of God at work amongst the young. All our leaders undergo a Criminal Records Bureau check at 'enhanced' level. We are always on the look-out for people to come and give it a go - why not try it out one week and see if you enjoy it? Simply chat to Richard, or to the leader of a particular group if you'd like to know more.

serving others
schools
Calum and I continue to be involved in the life of several local schools - in particular, three CofE schools, but increasingly the two primary schools in our parish. The Blue School as in previous years takes the majority of my school time, as I continue as Governor, with particular responsibility for Safeguarding issues, Special Needs provision and IT, as well as sitting on the Blue School Trustees. My weekly assembly (first with nursery then the rest of the school) is a genuine highlight of my diary (I just hope it is for them too!) as I take my guitar in and teach and lead worship songs with the children. I continue to meet with Jon Frostick, the headteacher, to chat and to pray. The big news is the provision of a bulge Reception class for September 2012, together with a commitment to work towards going two form entry as soon as possible.

Page 19

Calum and I have also made visits to the Green School a girls' CofE secondary school in Hounslow attended by many local children to lead assemblies and services as well as helping run a day retreat for some of the pupils. Im in my second year as Community Governor at Worple School - a Hounslow LEA primary school on the northern boundary of our parish which serves many local families, including many from the Ivybridge community. Im still working to build up my time in the school most recently "baptising" a doll and talking about what it meant to be part of Gods family! This coming year will mark a year of huge change and opportunity for Worple as a new head is appointed - do pray with me that from the start of their time in the school, I'll be able to build good relations and a real presence in that school. Our links with Ivybridge School are well-established now. It's a Hounslow LEA primary school on the Ivybridge Estate (part of our parish) and I've been building on the foundation laid by Rev Luke Taylor, who used to lead the Ivybridge Community Church and take roughly half-termly assemblies as well as the occasional lesson or year-group activity. Nikki Fletcher, a member of All Souls and part of the ICC leadership team is now vice-chair of the Governing Body and we're looking at whether we can offer people to go in and help on a regular basis. The beginning of 2012 has seen me take my first assembly, too, in St Stephen's CofE Primary School - at the kind suggestion of Jez Barnes, Vicar of St Stephen's - in recognition of their expansion as a school and the children who attend from our parish. I'm also a member of their 'Christian Ethos' committee. Plenty to keep us busy... and plenty of opportunities to bless our communities as well as to show children (and teachers and parents) that there's more to the church and to the Christian faith than perhaps they expect. Richard

Page 20

Little Souls continues to dish up coffee and chat every term time Wednesday morning form 10 - 11.30am. It is wonderful to get to meet people living in our local community and see them make friends as their children play happily with all the toys and paint. It is amazing to have such a huge area to play in especially with the outside garden. Once again this year has seen changes to the team. We had to say goodbye to Charles, Charlie, Krista and Lou. They have been missed and it has been a lean year for leaders but we have managed and a new team is starting to grow again. Tuane, El, Nasrin and Sally have faithfully given their time and energy not only in setting and clearing up but also in the care and love they show everyone who walks through the door. Calum has brought along his musical gifts (as well as his sailors ability to clear up sick and blood!! Don't ask - that was a bad week.). It is wonderful to have him there and helps to make the connection between Little Souls and church. Many Little Souls people have come along to church especially at Christmas and Easter and really enjoy it however it is not part of their regular life. The challenge for us is how to nurture people and provide a place where they can ask questions about faith. Messy Church events continue with Messy Harvest, Messy Christmas and Messy Easter. It takes place after school with tables of craft spread all around the church. This lasts for an hour then Richard and Calum do a short altogether time with songs and a short talk. Pasta dinner follows and everyone goes home happy. It is hard to describe just how much fun this is but for Messy Easter we had 100 children and their carers - it was very exciting! Many Thanks to all those that have volunteered over the last year to make it happen - without you it just would not be possible!
Catherine Frank

Page 21

local connections
Our links with the local community continue to grow: Little Souls (see above) continues to attract new folk, serving their needs and giving them a link with the church. The Ballet school continue to lease the Studio and also hire our halls on a weekly basis; Pebbles Nursery is run in the large hall 4 mornings a week (during term time only) The North St Margarets Residents Association hold meetings in the halls and, for the first time this year, the St Margarets Estate Residents Association had their AGM here, which I spoke at. We took part in The Big Lunch last June, together with our local residents, where we provided amongst other things, live music, bouncy castle, refreshments, face painting Were starting to build a really nice link with the 1st St Margarets Beavers, Cubs and Scouts group - including an evening in the church recently doing a photo treasure hunt and pretend wedding (see below). We opened up the church to serve refreshments during the Annual Great Street Sale last September. Richard Frank

Page 22

soul living
The Soul Living group looks at ways to help the church, congregation and community to live more simply, caring for the natural world around us - God's creation. Buildings - This past year we've sought funds to improve the energy efficiency of the buildings (saving money and cutting our carbon footprint). We're also looking at how to better monitor energy use (and loss) in the buildings so we can keep better track of progress and identify the best technologies to improve things further. Congregation - we celebrated the 'Hope for Creation' on harvest Sunday with members making commitments to protect and reduce our individual environmental impacts. We also ran a 'Messy' harvest service with a scrap heap challenge which the kids loved and produced some great recycled art. Community - In the wider community the church supports Ivybridge's Storehouse where good quality used clothes and toys are provided to families living on the estate. Over the next year we would welcome more people to join in and bring their ideas. Contact: Rosalie Callway - rfcallway@gmail.com

monday communion
The Monday Communion is a more traditional service format than the Sunday services, and is a short service followed by a light lunch (home made soup/rolls/cakes). The service has been running on a monthly basis (generally 1st Monday of the month) for over 2 years. It is open to anyone available to come on a Monday, however, most of the regular attendees are retired and we feel the service suits older people. The attendees numbered roughly 5 at the beginning of 2011, with 1 regular helper. However there are now 11 attendees and 2 regular helpers. Those who come really do seem to enjoy the service and lunch, and attend on a very regular basis. One member has started to bring us home-made cakes each month, and some are starting to help out in the kitchen after the lunch, which means that people certainly feel at home! People hear about the group through word of mouth so if you know anyone who is retired and/or generally free on Mondays, please do let them know. There are also plans to increase activities for our older parishioners as of September, and these are under discussion at present. It is great that Roxane Stephens has been able to join the team and assist with making soups, setting up mid morning, serving and clearing up after lunch, one Monday a month. We will need more people to assist in this way, particularly from September, so if this an area of work you would like to help with, even on a temporary basis (and with children in tow), please speak to Richard or Calum Fi Budden

Page 23

soul connections
Soul Connections exists for two purposes: helping keep the worldwide mission of Gods church (material and spiritual) in focus within the life of All Souls and overseeing the distribution of a proportion of All Souls income to projects and organisations that help fulfill this aim. The team was reformed in September 2011 and now consists of David Rowe, Tilly Connor, Linda Northern, Bill Greenfield, Helen Stephens, Sarah Wiggins, Rosalie Callway, Nick and Katherine Merrifield and Paul and El Tuck. In 2011 we supported: Joshua Opondo Diocesan Youth Paster in Kenya Bob and Becky Faber in Bulgaria Crossway Pregnancy Crisis Centre in Twickenham Zimbabwe womens network Tearfund Ali Mathew Book Grant Since September, the teams main focus has been to get more information about All Souls wider connections out to the wider church congregation, through prayer slots in the services, setting up pages on the website and starting a noticeboard. Please do take a look at these for more information about our connections.

The Shelter Project Through Soul Connections, 15 members of All Souls helped to support the Shelter Project from January to March 2012. This involved providing the welcome, a hot meal and teas and coffees to 15 homeless men on Thursday evenings at Hounslow Methodist Church. All Souls was part of a team of more than 30 churches in the Hounslow/Brentford/Chiswick area who provided more than 45 men with food and accommodation this past winter. If you would like any further information about Soul Connections work or the Shelter project, please look at the website or contact one of the Soul Connections team. El Tuck

Page 24

small groups and short courses

Homegroups. In 2011 we had 8 homegroups of varying sizes meeting in locations from Haliburton Road to Hampton Hill. Most of our homegroups meet monthly (with one group meeting bimonthly) and are a great place to touch base, discuss the bible and pray for one another. The Tuck/Merrifield group was involved in cooking for the homeless shelter that met at Hounslow Methodist church over the winter months. Digging Deeper is All Souls name for short and intensive (in a good way) course of 1 to 4 weeks looking at different areas of Christian life March 2011 saw three Digging Deeper courses. Tongue Tied? - a series on sharing our faith led by the Bishop's Advisor on Mission, Ruth Bushyager. Reading Romans - led by Charles Hudson, linking in to the start of the sermon series the same book. Why Jesus? - a three session led by Richard to enable people to investigate the person of Jesus Christ and his claims. So 2011 was a quiet year for short-courses after a busy Spring! The Baptism Course is a new two-session course Richard has written and leads that has run three times in 2011 for parents of soon-to-be or recently baptised children. The first session looks at the baptism service itself and what it signifies and the second looks at the consequences for our role as parents which always prompts great discussions. Other Meetings: A new addition to the calendar this year was a series of Advent reflections held by the four Isleworth churches (All Saints, St Mary's, St Johns and All Souls) based on the sections of book The Meaning is in the Waiting by Paula Gooder. The final meeting of the series was held at All Souls on the evening of December 14th and was attended by members of all the Iselworth churches. There were times of worship and reflection with 4 prayer stations set up around the church which looking stunning in it's Christmas finery. Calum Lindsay

Page 25

sung worship
Throughout the Bible, we can see that music has many powerful associations celebration, freedom, warfare, breakthrough, deliverance to name but a few. At All Souls we seek to continue to use this musical tradition to help us as part of our adoration and worship of our Creator to keep our eyes focused on the One who truly is worthy of all our praise. This year has seen quite a change in personnel within the worship team. Adrian Ramsey, who had been a member of All Souls for many years and was heading up the worship team, moved on to pastures new with his wife, Tors. Adrian had done a great job with the team over the last few years, and was also a multi- talented musician and worship leader, therefore his skills and mere presence have definitely been missed. At the same time, one of our other morning service worship leaders, Matt McCarty, also moved away to the New Forest. It was sad to say goodbye to Matt, as he was again a very musically talented individual, and had a good knowledge of the enigma that is the All Souls PA system! Despite these departures, God has raised up other individuals to stand in the gap, and we were delighted that our new Curate, Calum, is also an accomplished musician and worship leader. His excellent fiddle-playing has definitely brought a touch of the Celtic to West London! It has also been great to have Mark Warne starting to lead worship in the mornings from the keyboard. Highlights of the year in terms of sung worship include our Carols by Candlelight service, where Rob Anstey did a fantastic job of bringing together all the music, including a brass ensemble. We have also had more intimate events, such as the well-attended first Womens Worship evening, which gave an opportunity for worship, prayer, testimony and reflection in a relaxed setting. In contrast, our recent Easter Sunday service was also a reminder of the great joy and celebration that we can express as a whole church as we declared in enthusiastic song, liturgy and prayers that Christ is risen He is risen indeed alleluia! Looking ahead to the coming year, we are aiming to encourage even greater musical talent and spiritual depth in worship, with short courses and musical master-classes. We are also aware of the responsibility to encourage the next generation in the area of music as a part of worship, and we will be looking to take the first steps to help some of the younger members of our church family to get involved. A big thank-you goes out to all those worship leaders, musicians, singers and PA/AV team who have continued to use their gifts faithfully and cheerfully over the last year. Jon Wooden

Page 26