APCM annual report year ending 2017 draft as of 9th march 2018

ANNUAL REPORT & ACCOUNTS Year Ending 31st December 2017

Annual Report Contents Page Section 1

Vicar’s Report for 2017

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Section 2

Reports by Church Groups

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2.1 Services

Page

Page

The 8am

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Messy Church

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The 9:45

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Morning Prayer

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The 11:15

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Tuesday Communion

8

Together@10:30

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Thursday Communion

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Choral Evensong

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Friday Celtic Morning Prayer

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Youth Worship

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2.2 Church Life Bereavement Team

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Occasional Offices

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Chattabox

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Oundle CE Primary School

16

Chattabox Plus

10

Pastoral Care

17

Confirmation Class

10

Rooted

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Explorations Outings

10

S.A.G.E

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Facilities Coordinator Report

11

Soul Survivor

17

Holiday at Home

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The Way

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Ignite

12

Tiny Tots

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Junior Church

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Tuesday Club

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Men’s Breakfast

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The West End Project

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Mission / Mission Giving etc

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Work in Schools

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Mothers’ Union

14

West Porch Café

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Munch Club

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Women’s Breakfast

20

Music at St Peter’s

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Youth Intern Report

20

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Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

2.5 Teams Audio and Visual

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Coffee Team

21

Bell Ringers

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Flower Team

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Cleaning Team

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Green Group

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Section 3

Report on PCC Financial Activities (Treasurer’s Report)

24

Section 4

Independent Examiners Report

24

Section 5

Financial Report (Yearly Accounts)

24

Section 6

Reference and Administrative Details

24

Section 7

Structure, Governance and management

26

Section 8

Objectives and Activities

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Section 9

Report on Deanery Matters: an annual review of business

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Section 10

The Friends of the Parish Church

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Section 11

Figures at a glance

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Section 12

Churchwardens’ report

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Section 13

Electoral Roll Report

30

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Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Section 1: Vicar’s Report for 2017 Throughout the Old Testament there is a frequent refrain. We find it in, for instance, in Chronicles and Ezra and in many of the Psalms. “Give thanks to the Lord. For He is good. His love endures forever.” It is good to pause and to look back and to give thanks. When we do so we are reminded of God’s goodness. Looking back over 2017 there is a great deal about which we can say, “God is good. His love endures forever.”

2017 had hardly begun before the west end of the Church went behind boarding and work began on the new tower room, balcony and toilet facilities. For the first half of the year we got used to the busy-ness and noise of a building site at the back of Church as well as to having a little less space than usual and a few more drafts. The plans and drawings posted on the wooden screen gave a hint of the exciting transformation taking place behind.

For the weekend after Easter St Peter’s – or to be precise 138 of the Church family – gathered at Hothorpe Hall in Leicestershire. The theme of the weekend was ‘Christ love compels us’ and led by Rev Prebendary Patrick Whitworth we explored St Paul’s teaching to the Corinthian Christians. We were delighted to be joined by a team of wonderful helpers and volunteers from beyond Oundle to lead our worship and youth and children’s work.

There was a lot of laughter, some walking, quite a bit of eating together, a significant amount of barn dancing for all ages and a real sense of growing together : growing in our faith and growing in our friendships. There was a widespread resolve to do this again and not to leave it too long.

June brought a great reveal. The boards came down and we were able to see for the first time the stunning development at the West End. Long-awaited accessible toilet facilities were sensitively incorporated into a beautiful new West End room and balcony. Toddlers (our new ‘God’s Tots’ group), teens on a Sunday evening, an adult ‘Explorers’ Bible study on a Thursday – are just some of the many groups who have been able to use and enjoy the new spaces. And at long last we have sufficient toilet facilities – and ones accessible for all. It has helped us to love and care and serve people better. In June at our Confirmation Service the Bishop of Peterborough was able formally to give thanks for and commission the new development. The renewed West End very quickly came into its own when a few days later 113 guests came and enjoyed a ‘Holiday at Home’ in St Peter’s. With much love and hard work from many volunteers the building was transformed into seaside resort for a day.

At the end of June the PCC spent an Away Day at Little Gidding exploring God’s love and grace through Jesus’ story of the Lost Sons in Luke 15. The question was then explored: how does truly knowing God’s love change how we live and give? Since the Away Day members of the PCC have begun work on renewing our small groups and homegroups and refreshing our prayer-life. The PCC has restructured how it operates, moving away from 3 Action Groups instead to ensuring that PCC members are actively involved in key areas of Church life and reporting in to the PCC on those.

The very next day we were able to celebrate with Mark and Sue Donnelly as Mark was ordained deacon at Peterborough Cathedral and joined us as our new curate. We look forward to Mark’s ongoing ministry among us and are really glad of both Mark and Sue’s faith and witness. We able to celebrate too with trainee readers Alan McMurdo and Peter Taylor when they were licensed as Lay Ministers in Peterborough Cathedral in September.

We look forward to their licensing as Readers in 2018.

July saw the arrival of a family to Oundle under the Government’s Vulnerable Children’s Refugee Resettlement programme. Members of St Peter’s have worked closely with East Midlands Councils, The Red Cross and the Christian charity Hope Into Action to make this happen. A lot of love and care went into preparing a home for the family and providing a warm welcome and ongoing support.

We were very conscious through 2017 of the growing number of children and young people connected to St Peter’s. 99 primary-aged children appear as regular attenders in our Junior Church registers, with an average of 62 on any given Sunday. We have 40 or so secondary-aged young people. As a result September saw some new Junior Church and young people’s groups. God’s Tots for the youngest and ‘Breathe’, ‘The Way’ and ‘Rooted’ for teens were all established.

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Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Later in the Autumn we spent a series of Sundays reflecting on Christian giving. This formed part of our ‘ThanksGiving’ appeal and we were very encouraged by the response. The increase of about £19,000 in pledged giving (and over £14 in additional one-off gifts) was a real answer to prayer and will enable us as a Church to do what we feel called to in 2018.

Since 2015 we have benefited from the ministry of our Youth-worker-in-training and intern Ben Wilson. Thankful of all he has contributed to our work among young people, but conscious that his time with us will come to an end half-way through 2018, the PCC began to think ahead to how we should respond once Ben moves on. At the end of 2017 possibilities were beginning to be explored with the local Christian charity Souster Youth. Under discussion was a potential shared appointment of an experienced Youth Minister. Since then what was only a potential possibility has become very clear and exciting proposal. After much discussion, thought and prayer and the PCC believe it right to pursue this proposal. We will be seeking to share this vision with the Church family and seeking support for it. It will need to be fully financed.

So we look back at 2017 and are reminded of God’s goodness; we thank God for so much answered prayer. We thank God for His generosity. And we look forward aware of new challenges. In Psalm 5 King David says, “Lord you hear my voice; I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.” May we become a Church family ever more dependent on God. A Church family whose instinct it is to turn our worries, concerns and needs into prayer to a good and loving God; a Church family whose instinct it is to listen for His voice and guidance and to step out in love and service of others in His name. For He is good and His love endures forever.

By Stephen Webster

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Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Section 2: 2.1

Reports by Church Groups The Services

The 8am The 8am Sunday Service, held in the Chancel, provides a time to reflect in peaceful surroundings. When the days are short in late autumn and winter it is a joy to see the "Light of the world" appear in more ways than one, through the East Window adding further to the reflective nature of the service. There are between 10 and 20 regular attendees, with many more joining us for the special occasions of the Christian year, for the said service from the Book of Common Prayer. The readings at the service are either from Cranmer's Lectionary or those used at the later service ----- providing a reminder that we are one Church ---- followed by a short (10 minute) talk, often giving background to the reading and always thought provoking.

It is a tribute to St. Peters that it offers a range of services that appeal in different ways to the differing sections of its community ---- with the "Common thread", of course.

By Neil Underwood The 9:45 Our 9:45 service continues to be a lively engaging service attracting a congregation of all ages. The introduction of a new 945 Planning Team has led to greater involvement of people leading the service alongside the clergy.

The service continues to make full use of screens for showing images and video, as well as for projecting the words of songs and liturgy. Our sung worship is supported by a band and it has been encouraging to see those confident to join in with this grow.

By Stephen Webster The 11:15 The 11.15 service continues to fulfill the needs of those members of the congregation who prefer quieter and more reflective worship. For those who like to come early to catch up with the wider church family, the coffee session before the service provides a welcome opportunity.

Organ music usually marks the transition from coffee to worship. The start of the service is generally heralded by one of the clergy giving out any notices, after which is a hymn. The service, which is always a communion, follows through using the Common Worship booklets for the relevant season of the church’s year, the lectionary readings for the appropriate Sunday, and a variety of hymns, usually from Hymns Ancient and Modern book, but sometimes from the black book of more modern songs.

There is always a sermon, expounding scripture from one of the readings, which is followed by intercessions, and the sharing of the peace. On some Sundays, the choir provides music whilst the congregation receive communion. On other Sundays there is organ music. It is a well-attended service, with a regular core congregation, though the numbers tend to be variable according to the time of the year and the weather.

By Althea Strzebrakowskai Together @ 10:30 There are occasions in the year when it’s really good to gather as a whole Church family. On those Sundays we have a “Together at 10:30” service which replaces our other usual morning services.

2017 began with a New Year’s Day “Together at 10:30” celebration. In January we were pleased to be able to join with Oundle Baptist Church and Methodist Church for a joint 10:30 service at Oundle Primary School as we marked the end of the week of prayer for Christian unity.

On Easter Day we all celebrated together at 10:30 and were delighted to mark the occasion with 4 baptisms and 19 children being admitted to communion. The Sunday after Easter was also a single 10:30 service for those of our Church family in Oundle unable to be at the Church weekend away.

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Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Further 10:30 celebrations were held for both Pentecost and Chattabox (for both of which we were joined by the other Churches). On Christmas Eve we had a combined service at 10am – and a Together at 10:30 on Christmas Day. 2017 then finished as it began – with a Together at 10:30 celebration for New Year’s Eve. We are very aware in planning “Together at 10:30” services of a difficult balance. On the one hand it is always good to come together as a whole Church family. On the other hand too many breaks to routine can have a cost in terms of attendance. Not all who are regular at either 9:45 or 11:15 necessarily find it easy to make the different time of 10:30.

By Stephen Webster Choral Evensong At St. Peter's a service of Choral Evensong is held every month, normally at 6.00 pm on the second Sunday.

Over the last few years this service has gradually attracted a greater attendance and during 2017 average numbers were about 50 people, including the choir.

The origins of Evensong can be traced back to the time of the Reformation and the service uses elements of the old monastic offices of Vespers and Compline together with liturgy from Cranmer's Book of Common Prayer which first appeared in 1549. Today we use the King James version of this prayer book, published in 1662.

The service includes the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis, which, together with an introit and anthem, are sung by the choir. Everyone sings the psalm and hymns. There are also prayers, bible readings and a short sermon.

This shape of this service has stood the test of time and over the last 500 years has encouraged the composition of fine musical settings of the words by well-known composers from the sixteenth century to the present day. However, whilst the music sung by the choir is central to this service, it is NOT a concert- the purpose of the music is to enhance the meaning of the words.

At St. Peter's, the choir is directed by Ben Smith and John Arkell usually plays the organ and we thank them for all their skill and hard work. Please do come along. Evensong is a wonderful, dignified and thoughtful end to a Sunday, sharing worship together in a way which Christians have followed for hundreds of years.

By John Round Youth Worship Youth Worship is a service held on the third Sunday of each month where young people from Oundle and the surrounding villages get together for an evening service. There is a game, a talk, worship led by the young people, prayer, hot chocolate and time for everyone to chat and grow in fellowship with one another. The service is for 11+ and is well attended by young people of all ages.

By Sophie Lee Messy Church Messy Church has been running on a monthly basis since September 2015 and continues to flourish. Providing craft activities, games, celebration time and a meal we have approximately 60 children and their parents attending on a regular basis, with new families joining us all the time.

For many of the families it is their first involvement in church activities and we have been pleased by their positive reactions, in particular how welcome they say they are made to feel. Occasionally, due to other commitments, our team of leaders is sometimes reduced so we are always on the lookout for new adults willing to help with the activities. We would ask that you join us in praying for more helpers (all ages welcome) to come along and meet with our young people. No training or experience is required, just a willingness to join in with the fun, perhaps get a bit messy and learn bible stories through a child’s eyes!

By Val Wood Morning Prayer Morning Prayer is held at 9am on a Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at 9am in the Lady Chapel. On Saturday’s 10 or so members of St Peter’s Church gather to prayer for the parish and the world beyond. These services are open to anyone who would like to attend.

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Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Tuesday Communion This Eucharist is held here at St. Peter’s Church in the Lady Chapel at 8.30 am, except for the second Tuesday of the month when it meets on a rotating basis in the other churches in the Oundle Deanery. On that Tuesday, a service of Morning Prayer is held at St. Peter’s and is a wonderful, inclusive service and is open to all.

There are, at least, two special moments within this service: the first being the passing of the peace when one goes around everyone so no-one is left out and the other is the passing of the bread and wine to each other in the circle ending up with the Celebrant. Each priest in the Deanery, whether retired or serving in a parish takes it in turn to celebrate.

After the service, coffee, real, and tea is served and this can be a very valuable time to follow up on ideas, plans or to discuss problems with fellow clergy or lay ministers. As the service is based on the Deanery College of Ministers, at the end of a year gaps have occurred due to death or moving away but others join as they move into the Deanery. This occasion provides a firm basis of prayer and fellowship from which the Deanery of Oundle operates.

By Elizabeth Magahey Thursday Communion I have been coming to the Thursday 10am Holy Communion service for eighteen years, and really like it! I enjoy the friendliness of the congregation. Yet, when it comes to the service, there is the quietness and familiarity of the beautiful words of the Book of Common Prayer, which I find comforting and inspiring.

We really appreciate the addresses which Stephen and Jema give us, without notes. They give us much to think about and it is as if they are talking to us personally. The Lady Chapel suits the service which has over 20 regular communicants, but sometimes as many as 30. We love it when it is almost bursting! Different seating arrangements have been tried but we always return to two rows. The back row come forward to receive communion; the front row then just stand.

The coffee/tea/milk and homemade biscuits afterwards give us an opportunity to discuss the address, talk with friends and relax. Although it is mainly the more elderly members of the congregation who come, it is a service well suited to all who cherish a truly peaceful and worshipful service, lasting approx 35 mins.

By Kelsey Coles Friday Celtic Morning Prayer Friday mornings have become a very special time at St Peter’s. We have a regular cohort of between 8-12 who look forward to our short half hour service which follows the Celtic Morning Prayer Service from The Northumbrian Community.

Centred around a quiet time of prayerful reflection we have found this time a source of strength. Between us we are also concerned of the pastoral care of others and often go for coffee afterwards to make sure each of us are well supported.

Georgina Backhurst and I have found a good working pattern on how we can best lead and meet the needs of the group. We feel very blessed to be entrusted with this work.

By Caroline Hawkins – Trainee Reader 8 Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

2.2

Church Life

Bereavement Team There has been a bereavement team to assist clergy in ministering to the bereaved for some 9 years now. This ministry has always been well received but the way it is delivered has developed. It continues to be adjusted to respond to any common needs we have observed over the years.

Erica Grubb leads a small team of bereavement visitors who work alongside the clergy and current procedure is: When information about a funeral comes from the funeral director, Justine Turton our administrator lets Erica know name of the deceased, date of funeral, and which member of the clergy is taking the funeral. One of our clergy visits the next of kin to give pastoral support and to discuss the funeral. Often they will leave a card with the family saying that we’re praying for them and explaining that (with their permission) a member of the bereavement team will be in touch with them in the next week or two.

After their visit the Clergy alerts Erica if any or all of the following (below) would be inappropriate: a) Between visit and funeral the allocated team member to drop by at the next of kin's with a plant or flowers and a card with a prayer in it from St. Peter's and leaving contact details of the visitor. b) If appropriate a team member can attend funeral and if appropriate be part of welcome team handing out service sheets etc. c) Team member can visit the bereaved about 2 weeks after funeral and take a card assuring them of our continued prayers for them. Prayerful support can continue for as long as it is needed.

In addition the allocated bereavement visitor will send a ‘Thinking of You’ card to the next of kin on the anniversary of the person’s death. The needs of bereaved families are varied and we aim to respond in consultation with the clergy with appropriate and prayerful support in each situation.

We have two Remembering services (formerly called thanksgiving) services each year when we invite the recently bereaved to come and remember their loved ones by lighting a candle as part of this service. In addition, at the end of this service, we invite others who wish to light a candle to remember someone who has died at any time in the past but more than 6 months ago.

The first service each year is in May and the second service in November. This service has always been much appreciated and those attending tell us that they derive great comfort from it.

More recently we have offered a Blue Christmas/‘The Longest Night’ Service. Not everyone is feeling cheery for the Christmas holidays. Those dealing with the death of a loved one, facing life after divorce or separation, coping with the loss of a job, living with ill health that perhaps puts a question mark over the future and a number of human situations that can make parties and joviality painful for many. This service is reflective, accepting where we are and holding out healing and hope. We hold this service of worship on or about the Longest night of the year which falls on or about 21st December, the Winter solstice which converges with the traditional feast day for St. Thomas the Apostle.

By Erica Grubb Chattabox Another year where we have experienced God’s faithfulness and blessing in the Chattabox week.

Once again this summer Chattabox was able to use the fantastic facilities provided by Oundle Primary School.

Our week began on 14th August when 120 children (aged 5 -11) arrived to be welcomed by enthusiastic leaders and helpers ready to explore the Bible stories about Joseph. The mornings were split into time all together for worship, drama and stories and then small group time for craft and one to one discussion with the children. On Friday as the week drew to a close parents joined us for a picnic lunch before we gave them a taste of what we had been doing during the week.

As in previous years a large group of helpers and leaders can together for the week each bringing unique skills that together enabled us to share the love of the Lord Jesus with the children.

By Sian Fytche 9 Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Chattabox Plus This year we had 60 young people join us for the youth camp. The week was once again a week of friendship, fun and learning together. We were joined again by YWAM Bristol and they led our evening sessions each night where we looked at 'being transformed'.

We had a whole load of wonderful helpers who made my job much easier, so thank you to all of those who gave up their time to support the young people. Each evening we had a different late-night entertainment, everything from a barn dance to a disco. On the Tuesday, we again hosted the elderly of Oundle for a tea party, and the young people learnt to waltz, so they could dance with the elderly. Great fun was had by all!

We are already thinking about how we can make this year even better and we are really excited to see what God has in store for all our young people over this coming summer.

By Esther Ormston Confirmation Class On Sunday 11th June 2017 we celebrated with Courtney Chimane, Lily Borley, Sophia Stead, Eleanor Kerr and Nadine Brown as they were confirmed by the Bishop Donald, the Bishop of Peterborough. Joel Waller also took part in the course and was confirmed at Evensong on Sunday 9th July 2017 by Bishop John Flack.

The group enjoyed meeting together with Stephen and Jema over six sessions to explore what it means to be rooted in the Christian faith. We had lots of good conversations and laughter together, and we ended each of our sessions with a practical activity to help 'ground' what we'd been exploring that week. It was a joy to see these young people make a public affirmation of their desire to follow Jesus in front of their friends and family at the service itself.

The confirmation service this year will take place on Sunday 1st July 2018. Young people and adults who would like to declare publically their intention to follow Jesus are encouraged to talk to Stephen, Jema or Mark for details about this year's course.

By Jema Ball

Explorations Outings Explorations Outings celebrated its 10th year of existence in 2017 with yet another record number of passenger trips. The year’s total rose to 238, bringing the aggregate since inception to 1,666. The biggest event was in September when a fleet of 16 cars took our “members” to a wonderful tea party at Wadenhoe Village Hall where they were entertained by some of the G&S Singers. Another highlight of the year was a canal trip in May when 15 people enjoyed a beautiful sunny day cruising along the Grand Union Canal in the hands of volunteers of Crusader Community Boating on a wide beam boat that had been part of the pageant on the Thames in 2012 celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. We also featured some of our more local customary venues such as Burghley Gift Shop & Orangery, various garden centres and tea rooms.

At least a dozen new “seniors” with restricted opportunities were able to benefit from our provision of trips to local places of interest during which they can enjoy the company of others and have afternoon tea out. Our original vision of showing the love of God to older members of the community (very often single) through this means has continued to be thoroughly appreciated and we are grateful to all who have volunteered as drivers 10

Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

By David Varley Facilities Coordinators Report 2017 During the last year we have seen the completion of the fabulous new facilities in the West End of Church.

Following this work a team of us cleaned the Nave from top to bottom as well as washing every single one of the 316 chairs!

There has been a considerable sort out in the North Transept and Upper Room. The later of these has been transformed into a comfortable quiet space that can be for meetings and reflection.

The Church continues to be used as a venue for many events throughout the year alongside regular worship and occasional offices. As such the day to day maintenance a building such as ours requires is always ongoing and as such a huge thanks must be made to all the volunteers who tirelessly give of their time and energy to help make St Peters, the building, the clean, warm, welcoming place it is to so many.

By Jonno Ball Holiday at Home Holiday at Home for the older generation ran for the fourth year on June 13th. This one day event took place in all areas of the church which was decorated with festive bunting following the theme of "A day out at the Seaside". Deck Chairs adorned the church, paddling pools and inflatables were in abundance. Shoals of fish hung on fine thread so the church seemed like an aquarium.

Volunteer drivers assisted in the arrival of over 80 guests with a photographer capturing photos of everyone in fancy seaside hats as they came in, - printed in time for them to take them home. Our holiday makers participated in a morning of workshops and coffee, ranging from a seated exercise class, hand massage, nail painting, Steve's Seaside Saunter, flower arranging, rugby memories workshop, holiday hairstyling and decorating photo frames. We dug in the sand for treasure, played Beach Boccia, Seaside shuffleboard and watched Mick Webb do wonderful wood turning.

Rev Stephen Webster offered a Thought for the Day before everyone enjoyed tucking into fish and chips and knickerbocker glories. During the afternoon, there was a lovely relaxing concert provided by Harpist Rev Rowena Bass followed by games and tea and cakes.

This free event was covered by generous donations given at the end of the day and money from the pastoral budget. It was staffed by a huge number of cheerful, willing volunteers from the church and the town. Our thanks to Waitrose and Freedom Leisure who provided several members of staff to work with us for the day, free of charge and to Oundle Town Council for lending us lots of tables.

By Sarah Lee

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Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Ignite The Ignite youth group started in September. Before this Oundle Baptist Church had run a group called “The Zone”. This came to an end so that a new group could begin. The new group, Ignite is a joint youth group, run by both St. Peter’s and Oundle Baptist Church. This means that now there are leaders from both Churches supporting and nurturing the young people of Oundle and the surrounding areas. The group’s purpose has been to aid and enable young people to learn more about God and what He and His son Jesus Christ has done for us.

We have recently started a series of Youth Alpha. This course as 12 sessions and makes use of video to walk participants through the Christian faith in a new, exciting and engaging way. The series has been going well and overall, numbers of young people for the group have been between 15 to 20 plus and seems to be reaching out more and more to the young people of Oundle.

Again, a big thank you to everyone who has supported the group and made the time for the young people we encounter. We are very blessed to have such a good space and support base to minister and nurture to young people.

If you could let me know that would be marvellous. The report needs to be ready by Friday 23rd February to enable me to pull everything together and get it sent out to everyone prior to the meeting.

By Ben Wilson Junior Church We have been very blessed at St Peter’s over this past year with regular high numbers of children attending Junior Church from 2 to 14 years old and we could not have achieved this without the support and leadership from the clergy and the prayers and dedication of the congregation.

At a recent prayer meeting in church, we heard from Rev Jema Ball and David Harding about the tremendous wealth and breath of youth work happening through the Holy Spirit in church every Sunday and the joy of answered prayer.

In the Autumn term we had a great number of positive changes introduced as a result of the high numbers attending Junior Church.

The first change was to introduce a new group, ‘God’s Tots’ for the youngest children aged 2 -4, to relieve pressure on what had become a very large Powerpack group. This has six leaders/helpers and even though the children are very young to be learning in a slightly more structured environment, we think this helps to set a good example for the very young before they move into Powerpack.

The second change was an exciting development for our 11+ children. You may recall this time last year we had suspended the 11 -14s JC group on a Sunday morning but after thought and prayer the Holy Spirit has blessed us richly.

We now have two groups for this age group, a Sunday morning Junior Church group named Breathe and a midweek bible study called The Way. We are committed to the ongoing success of these groups because we know it is a critical age range when churches often lose young people.

Other changes as a result of the tireless efforts of Jema with support from Jonno, Justine and Ben included: • Tidy up of the Upper Room so the leaders can find craft materials they need quickly at the start of the session (including their own JC boxes).

• Moving our rota to an ‘online’ portal to help leaders and helpers co-ordinate the sessions • A Junior Church handbook to help all leaders and helpers in their work.

Please join us in thanking God for his continued goodness developing our Junior Church children and pray that we will be faithful to His wishes in the coming year.

By Louisa Baker 12

Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Men’s Breakfast During the past 12 months the men’s breakfasts have continued to take place every 3 months or so. They have mainly been held at Café No4, between 9am and 10am on a Saturday morning and on each occasion numbers have grown. The latest one was a sell-out.

At the November breakfast we introduced a new idea and we now have a speaker who presents a short ‘thought of the day’. Peter Taylor was our first speaker and Mark Donnelly spoke at the January breakfast.

During the year we provided an opportunity to meet at The Talbot on the first Wednesday of each month (at 8pm). The evening has averaged about 12 chaps (often very different people) and hopefully provides an opportunity to get to know each other a little bit better.

By Rod Cousins Mission Support and Mission Giving We are thankful to God and to the Church family of St. Peter’s for the commitment shown to the support of Mission. The PCC re-confirmed the allocation of 12.5% of pledged giving as the amount to be shared in grants to the Mission Agencies and charities we support.

After discussion within the Mission Support Group and with the approval of the PCC the total was distributed as follows.

The largest grant, for the support of the Robinsons in Bangkok, through Crosslinks, was £4,200, USPG received £3,768 and CMS £2,602. FEISA and Langley House both received £1,706. SAT-7 was given £959 and 221 and Tearfund £709 each. Christian Aid were given £1000 in response to their appeal for help in the famine in East and Central Africa. In addition Christian Aid, the Mothers Union holiday scheme and The Children’s Society were helped during the year through church activities. There is more information on each of the Mission Agencies and charities on the Mission Notice Board.

The completion of the works at the West End of the Church were celebrated by our Twinning our Toilets here with the Toilet block of a school at Kanombe Village, Muramba Parish in Uganda, with a donation of £240.

Please see David Adeney for information if interested in Toilet Twinning.

David Adeney attended the Annual Network Conference of SAT-7 in March 2017 in Beirut, learning more of the Satellite TV ministry Christians from the Middle East and North Africa are broadcasting to a huge audience across the region, providing programmes of topical interest, entertainment, teaching, Bible study, worship and programmes for children. He was able to visit a school for displaced Syrian children in the Bakaa valley and see how they are being helped.

The Mission Support Group, Eleanor Rayden (USPG and Christian Aid), Caroline Curtis (Crosslinks), Ann Varley (FEISA and Children’s Society), Jonathan Lee (Langley House), Jenny Firth (221), David and Ann Adeney, have appreciated the PCC representative, Gill Morrison’s input at their meeting. It has been decided for the allocation of grants for 2018, the group will allocate from the actual amount contributed in planned giving the previous year, rather than on a projected forecast.

The church family are reminded by the Mission of the Month in our weekly bulletin that our brothers and sisters around the world, who we seek to serve, need our prayers and our interest as well as our giving.

By David Adeney 13

Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Mothers’ Union The Mothers’ Union Branch at St. Peter’s, Oundle is very active in prayerful support for the work within our parish as well as the MU Diocesan projects. Within the parish, we concentrate on our Baptism Project in which we pray for this children about to be baptised and then continue with prayer support. To the date of writing this we have members praying for children. Within the diocese, we concentrate on praying for the work of AFIA, Away From It All. This is a scheme in which families which are in great need of a holiday and are unable to afford one, and have a break of some sort. This scheme does rely on referrals from parishes, so please get in touch if anyone springs to mind. Our last main area of prayer support is within the Wave of Prayer around the world when each diocese and its projects is prayed for throughout the year.

We meet on the first Tuesday of the month, beginning with an act of worship. During the year we have speakers who introduce us to various topics. In 2017 these included hearing from a chaplain at Peterborough prison as well as Stephen Webster’s thoughts about St Peter’s and we travelled to Africa with Margaret Hopkins. We also had a wonderful trip to Little Gidding where we learnt about the work done there and, of course, we had the tea at Latham’s.

At the beginning of 2017 Nidjah Bowen-Lyttelton took over as Secretary from the capable hands of Sally Langham to whom we give many thanks for her great service. At the end of 2017, Cecily Porritt has retired after many years of being Treasurer, she will be sorely missed. Nidjah will be taking over from her and is stepping down from being Secretary. I and the members have been and are very grateful for their continued support. This is a wonderful organisation to support prayerfully as well as financially, do give it some thought.

By Elizabeth Megahey Munch Club This Oundle venture is staffed by many volunteers from St Peter’s and other churches and also volunteers from the town. It takes place once a month apart from August, from 1.30-3pm in the dining hall at Oundle Primary School on the Cotterstock Road. The £4 hot roast lunch, dessert and tea/coffee for 80-100 diners is provided by Kingswood Catering after the school lunch has finished.

Diners were given a free lunch and an Easter egg each at our April lunch and a gift bag of goodies & a free Christmas lunch in December due to grants from Age UK, Oundle and District Care Committee, the Oundle Feoffees and Waitrose.

Pupil musicians from the primary school under the care of Jane Webster kindly entertain our guests beautifully with singing and instrumental performances during each lunch. This year we had visitors from the local Gilbert and Sullivan Society in May who kindly entertained us with wonderful singing, and a pupil from Oundle School did a musical recital in July. Spire Homes also came to explain about useful household gadgets to help people as they grow older.

By Sarah Lee Music at St. Peter’s Is just what you’d expect: a living reflection of the varied worship styles enjoyed by our growing church family. There really is something for everyone, whether at our 9:45 with worship band, Family Service with young musicians and singers from our local schools, or the more traditional 11.15 Holy Communion led by our regular team of organists and singers.

A talented group of young musicians and singers from churches across Oundle are a focal point of our busy Youth Worship events. St Peter’s Choir makes monthly Prayer Book Evensong ‘choral’ - the perfect close to a busy weekend - and our Carols by Candlelight at Christmas is ever popular.

A growing number of regular choir members are also joining us from outside the Benefice. Our fantastic team of church musicians bring so much to our worship here at St. Peter’s and we’re always keen to welcome new talent! Please talk to a member of the team if you would like to help with any aspect of our musical offering.

By Ben Smith

14

Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Occasional Offices Baptisms: Eighteen took place in St Peter’s during 2017, two adult and sixteen infants. We welcomed William Beadle, Darcy Butterworth, Arthur Clay, Courtney Chiname, Nicholas Do Carmo, Isobel Hammond, Lily Guess, Rory Hankins, Claire Hawkins, Sophie Judge, Etta Kruger-Dean, Victoria Lysenko, Sophia Marshall, Harry McLaughlin, Kohen Radford, Alexander Richards, David Richards, Catherine (Kasia) Richards, Thanksgivings: In addition we “Welcomed with Thanksgiving” two other children: Lacey Craig-Reeves and Bridgette Pike Weddings:

Seven couples married in St Peter’s during 2017. We celebrated the weddings of Alan Watts and Christine Neads, David Andrew and Zoe Shoesmith, Mark Timson and Esther Morris, Tobias Bateman and Veronica Giraldo, Allan Simpson and Jennifer Dean, Duke Ofori and Anja Ahleit, Thomas Brady and Emma Sullivan.

We also celebrated a blessing between Ian and Lorraine Gow.

Funerals:

Across the Benefice, the clergy team took 41 funerals in 2017. We said goodbye to Nancy Afford, Eva Baker, Peter Baker, Betty Beaver, George Bettyes, Barbara Bleasedale, Robin Bolsover, Toby Brighty, David Browning, Brian Buttle, Margaret Carr, Alma Coles, Yvonne Cottrell, David Clayton, Margaret Crosby, Rosemary Davison, Nora Druce, Gerald Fensom, Peter Hawken, Molly Henton, Mary Hoyland, Patricia Ingram, Gerhardt Iwansky, Dorothea Langridge, Jean Judd, Roco Mabbutt, Ines Rose Macdonald, Alexander Murray, John Nicolson, Bernard Prior, Douglas Robinson, Ivy Routledge, Marion Skinner, Catherine Smith, Jacqueline Sworder, James Turpin, Sheila Ward, Angus Watson, Terry Wells, Betty Wiggins, Kelvin Williams

Wedding Preparation Morning: On a Saturday morning in February twelve of the couples getting married in 2017 in the Deanery joined us for this event. Using materials from HTB’s ‘Marriage Course’ we explored together issues around the expectations we bring to marriage from our upbringing and the importance of forgiveness in marriage. The feedback we received from the morning was very positive. All had enjoyed it, found it helpful and would recommend it to others. The morning was facilitated by Stephen Webster, Jema Ball and Rev Anne Hindle.

Please pray for everyone who has been baptised: that they might continue to know God’s love and find joy in His presence. (We are very grateful to the Mothers’ Union members who commit to pray for each child brought for baptism) . Please pray for all of our wedding couples as they journey through their lives together, may they feel God’s love for them and that they support each other through life. Please pray for bereaved families as they come to terms with their loss and help them know that their loved ones are now in God’s glory.

By Justine Turton 15

Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Oundle CE Primary School At Oundle CE Primary we celebrate another year of strong partnership working with the team at St Peter's Church. We were initially concerned that a move further away from the centre of the town would negatively impact our church/ school relationships, however we are finding the opposite is the case.

Every year we state that a lot has happened, and this year is no exception! Some of the highlights we would like to share include...

We continue to work closely with the team from St Peter's Church and have many things to give thanks for, some of which are listed below: • Regular participation in family services; this is a great opportunity to get some new families into church so we can all enjoy learning more about the joy of the gospel.

• Messy church; many of our families talk about the fun and fellowship which has developed for them through this service.

• The established monthly Munch Club provides the community of Oundle with a hot lunch and entertainment by the children at OPS. We are grateful for the dedicated team of volunteers (many of whom are members of the St Peter’s family) who ensure this event is a success.

• Visits to school by the St Peter's team and visits to the church by OPS for services and to support the curriculum. The community comment on how lovely it is to see the whole school processing down Glapthorn Rd and we've discovered it's really not that far!

• Tiny Tots operating from our community room is fabulous for us. Welcoming both families we know and others less familiar to us is a great way for all to routinely see our school in action. The St Peter's team and staff from OPS are developing some lovely relationships. We also have a great display in there of the many ways St Peter's works with families across the town.

• We are underway with the preparations for a new Easter celebration in St Peter’s Church. ‘Jerusalem Joy’ is to be performed by children in years 4, 5 and 6 in Holy Week. It is on Wednesday 28th March at 6pm and there could be a few spare seats if you would like to come along.

• We have had great support from members of the St Peter's family, both practically and in prayer and we thank you all for that.

If anyone has any good ideas about how we can further strengthen what we do together, to support the children of our town and local villages, we would welcome your feedback. Please share your ideas with anyone from the OPS team.

By Janet McMurdo (Head Teacher)

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Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Pastoral Care We are blessed at St Peter’s to have many lay visitors who support the clergy team by regularly visiting members of our church family who are unwell (in hospital or at home), or unable to come to church due to declining health and mobility. They have also visited newcomers to Oundle (living at Stronglands Court, Riverside Maltings and Abbott House), helping them to settle into the area and make friends. Meals have been cooked for those in need at critical times when family members are unwell or bereaved. Home communion is organised for those who are house-bound or unwell.

To support those who provide good pastoral care, the team members met on several occasions during 2017 to update each other on visits undertaken and ongoing need, and to share best practice in relation to listening, boundaries and safeguarding. In Sept 2017 Tracey Cunningham, our safeguarding officer came and trained many of us using the diocesan safeguarding course.

By Sarah Lee Rooted Rooted started in September and we do 2 sessions a month. This is run by Esther, Tom and Dave Harding.

Last term we looked at knowing it. This term we are looking at living it and next term we will be moving into giving it.

There are between 4 and 12 young people who attend. The numbers have varied from week to week but on average we get 6 young people attend regularly.

It has been a joy to see the young people question and investigate their faith and how it applies to their lives.

We have been surprised at how open and honest the young people are when discussing some really big topics such as 'what is holiness? and 'how to be courageous as a Christian'.

The group will change slightly in September as Tom and Esther step down from this group as they welcome their little one into the world, but Dave will carry it forward hopefully with the support of some new volunteers

By Esther Ormston SAGE (Senior Adults Growing and Exploring) SAGE met on a Thursday morning after Holy Communion and Coffee, in the Lady Chapel in January 2017 to study the York Course, "Praise Him: Songs of praise in the New Testament." This small group of older people led by Ann Adeney and Sarah Lee enabled those who had been to Tuesday Club, Holiday at Home and other church events as well as church members to join a small group and explore Christian ideas in more depth.

As a group, they then met in June to tackle "A way through the wilderness, experiencing God's help in times of crisis." SAGE then convened in Advent to do a 4 week course for older people provided by Southwark Diocese looking at Abraham, Moses, Job and Simeon & Anna. SAGE intends to continue to meet several times a year to offer short courses on Thursday mornings that are particularly geared to the needs of seniors.

By Sarah Lee Soul Survivor Soul Survivor is a Christian festival held in Peterborough where thousands of teenagers gather from all over the country and worship God. There are morning and evening sessions where everyone gathers together for a celebration and then smaller seminars and talks throughout the day. The teaching is interspersed with fun games and relaxation times where the teenagers grow closer to one another and the leaders. It is a much loved event by both the young people and the youth leaders, despite everyone having to camp for the week!

By Sophie Lee

17

Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

The Way We were excited to introduce a new discipleship group, The Way, specifically for young people aged 11-14 (school years 7, 8 and 9) in September.

As we know, in order to truly experience the fullness of life Jesus came to bring us, we need to move on past just listening and learning to actually having a go at practicing what Jesus taught and did!

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is .... wise” (Mt 17:24) So The Way is all about discipleship or apprenticeship to Jesus. Our aim is to encourage and support young people to follow The Way of Jesus by ordering their lives around: • • •

Being with Jesus Becoming like Jesus Doing what Jesus did

As we know, the hallmark of disciples is transformation into the likeness of Jesus and it is wonderful to already be starting to see signs of the Holy Spirit at work. Young people are starting to put Jesus’ teaching into practice by spending time with God and inviting him to change their hearts and actions.

Another exciting development this term has been the involvement of members of the wider church family in providing hospitality and joining in the evening session. The whole group – leaders included - have benefitted enormously from the wisdom and passion for Christ that these lovely people have shared with us.

By Anna Freij Tiny Tots Tiny Tots, the St Peter's toddler group which has been running for 50+ years, is thriving. Usually have around 50 adults and children there each week, representing steady growth month by month. There are approximately 30 families who come regularly (at least once a month), with at least 10 other families who come fairly often. This means that the team can really get to know people because they attend regularly and conversations are moving away from the superficial and onto the issues that affect people's lives.

We find that those who come for the first time often return the following week and bring friends with them. We've introduced a prayer box and gradually people are starting to put in prayer requests. The number of spiritual conversations taking place has significantly increased. The children who come are used to sitting and engaging with a Bible story and a prayer at each session, along with Bible-themed crafts. During 2017, seven families whose first contact with St Peter's has been through Tiny Tots in the last two years, now come regularly to either The 9:45 services or Messy Church. Many others come to 'special' services through the year (e.g. Christingle).

A new daytime Bible study group called 'Explore' has recently been launched at St Peter's, and so far we have had two mums from Tiny Tots who are trying out this group, and we hope for more as it becomes established!

I am grateful to the St Peter's members who help each week - Jonno Ball, Sophie Kirkpatrick and Philippa Frewin, as well as the support we receive from the Oundle School students and staff who also help.

18

Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

By Jema Ball Tuesday Club Tuesday club met on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month throughout 2017 apart from Holy week, August and Christmas week. This gathering runs from 2-4pm each time with a “Thought for the Day” in the middle from one of the clergy. Home-made cakes are consumed with gusto and much tea and coffee is drunk. Games are played, serious scrabble and fun scrabble too! Jigsaw puzzles feature regularly and this year we have introduced Mexican Dominoes which has been a big success. The friends chat, laugh, find company and - we hope - go home cheerful.

The group has remained steady throughout 2017 and we regularly have 20-25 people at our meetings. Participants are brought by a wonderful team of volunteer drivers who stay to help and run the club.

Members of Tues Club have started to join in with other church activities too.

By Sarah Lee The West Tower Development For many years the church has had insufficient and outdated facilities in the West Tower area to meet the needs of an increasing congregation. There was one small toilet, a balcony which was little used due to a difficult access and no assisted toilet for infirm people.

As a result of generous financial support from the Friends of St Peters; a substantial grant from East Northamptonshire Council and donations from church members together with existing Church funds, it has been possible to re-configure the whole West Tower area to provide much needed, modern facilities.

We now have separate ladies and gentlemen’s toilets with underfloor heating, a large assisted toilet at nave level for ease of access, a new balcony with access from the front, a new heated creche area and a main entrance for weddings and funerals. The balcony has been especially strengthened to support an organ should this be introduced in the future and the large tower ceiling vault has been re-decorated and supplied with new lighting.

The whole scheme has been built in oak and has been designed to harmonise with the architecture of our historic church.

The area - especially the balcony - is now used by church groups and it provides St Peters with an improved standard of facilities to enable a greater use of the church by the Oundle community.

By Malcolm Winder Work in Schools St Peter’s and especially its clergy team continued with our regular support of schools throughout 2017.

Obviously this was most evident in Oundle Primary School, our Church School. We have 3 very active Foundation Governors from St Peter’s on the Governing body – as well as a number of other governors who are also members of St Peter’s. There are weekly clergy-led assemblies (as well as some led by others from St Peter’s) and regular assistance with RE sessions. Children from OPS frequently visit our Church building and hold special services there.

St Peter’s also supports Laxton Junior School through leading assemblies, leading special services and visiting classes and assisting with RE. Through our youth intern Ben we also have a growing presence in Prince William School. St Peter’s clergy are also regularly involved with the other Church school in the benefice: Glapthorn Primary School. Our links with Oundle School remain friendly but informal and irregular.

February 2017 again saw every Year 4 child in the Deanery, in Church schools, non-Church Schools, state schools and independent schools alike – in St Peter’s for the celebration of Candlemas.

By Stephen Webster

19

Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

West Porch Café Up until September of last year numbers at West Porch Café were around 10 – 15 young people every week who would continuously come down to the church and enjoy the safety and warmth that the church and the leaders there had to offer.

As of September, this year West Porch Café changed days, from a Wednesday to a Tuesday. This is because as I am now running West Porch Café it made more sense for me to be there every week, which I couldn’t be on Wednesdays, due to my University schedule.

As usual in September each year our numbers dipped a little (as those at the top of the group moved on to new things and new younger members took time to find out what West Porch Café offers). We have continued to meet with a small group of young people. West Porch Café has become very important for them and has been the first step to coming to Ignite and Youth Worship. In January 2017 we are also aiming to boost numbers with the help of increased advertising in Prince William School.

I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who commits their time to West Porch Café. Whether that be as a volunteer leader or if you provide food, everything you do is much appreciated by myself, the team at West Porch and the young people. We have struggled at times to find enough volunteers to run West Porch Café. We are always interested in hearing of new people to help. We know of some new volunteers who want to help from the new year.

By Ben Wilson Women’s Breakfast A couple of times during the last year a group of the church family ladies met at Cafe no4. This was time to enjoy each other's company, eat a delicious breakfast and ponder on a "thought for the day "

By Bobbie Turton Youth Intern Report As of last year’s, report, my time at St. Peter’s Church has been amazing. One of the really encouraging things I have been involved with is “The EDGE” – a group for Christians meeting on Tuesday lunchtimes at Prince William School. I run this group alongside Jason Royce from Souster Youth Trust. It’s really good to build on St Peter’s Church connections with the largest school in our town. We get up to 8 people on a regular basis. It’s small, but it’s very worthwhile supporting these young Christians as they live out their Christian life in school.

Other aspects of my work appear later in this report.

Alongside my weekly youth work in Oundle I study for a Youth work qualification at Ridley hall in Cambridge. I spend a couple of days per fortnight – and sometimes more – in Cambridge. My first full academic year went very well as I passed year one of my university course at CYM (Centre/Institute of Youth and Mission).

September marked the first anniversary of my move to Oundle and St. Peter’s. In that time, I have learnt so much from many different people and have met some amazing people too. I would like to say a big thank you to everyone at St. Peters who has supported me and helped me over the last year.

By Ben Wilson

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Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

2.4

Teams

Audio and Visual Thank you to all who have responded to our requests for assistance by joining the AV team. If you have not yet offered to participate you would be very welcome to fill the gaps that we still have on the rotas and training can be provided.

During this year we have continued to provide sound and vision support for the services and we hope that this assisted in our ability to worship together. There was a difficult patch during the year when we had trouble with the projectors (sorry) but we hope that those difficulties will be behind us for a while. We have recently appreciated that the hearing-aid loop in the Chancel area was not operating, that should now have been fixed.

Thank you to all who help out with the AV jobs. Again, a special thank you to Justine, who not only prepares all the slides for the 9.45am services and the youth services so faithfully, but who has produced further videos for the church this year. I think I have counted five new videos since the last AGM and each of those represents many hours of work by Justine. Thank you, so much.

Finally, please do let us know (gently) of any problems you have in hearing or in seeing the screens; we may not be aware of those difficulties and a solution may be possible and straightforward.

By Jonathan Lee Bellringers During 2017 the bells were rung for 7 weddings and we were also pleased to welcome visiting bands. The 'market bell' is tolled by Len Johnson every Thursday at midday. We do not have a regular band of ringers, but ringers from other towers generously give their time and expertise.

Once again we are grateful for the advice and guidance of members of the Peterborough Diocesan Guild of Church Bellringers, in particular Nick Elks.

The clock mechanism has benefited from maintenance, and we are pleased the problem of pigeons in the tower has now been solved.

By Pauline Davidson Cleaning Team During 2017 thousands of people have been welcomed in through the doors of St Peters. In order for the Church to remain a clean and welcoming space we have faithful teams of people who come in each week to dust, hoover and generally keep the place clean and tidy.

Each team cleans for about an hour once a month. Some have been faithfully cleaning once a month for many, many years. A huge thank you to all who faithfully serve God and our Church family in this way.

As ever we would welcome more servant hearted people who would like to serve the church family in this way and share the load. The more hands to help the better for us all as a church family. If you would like to help serve the church in this way please let Jonno Ball know.

By Jonno Ball Coffee Team Refreshments continue to be served from the area outside the Lady Chapel between the end of the 9.45 and the start of the 11.15 service on Sundays and we continue to be grateful to Jonno Ball, who allows us to leave the tables and urns at the end of serving, to be removed at a more convenient time.

Sadly, since the reorganisation of the services and other commitments taking priority, the coffee rota has lost several of its members and I would ask for your prayers that more volunteers come forward soon so that we can continue to offer refreshments on a regular weekly basis. It is a lovely opportunity for all the members of our church family to come together for a catch up over coffee but it needs willing helpers to make it happen.

By Val Wood 21

Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Flower Team The Flower Team consists of thirty four ladies who generously provide the flowers and arrange two pedestals each week throughout the year excluding Lent. One pedestal is at the High altar and the other at the Nave altar. Each lady is responsible for her pedestal for two weeks. This year we have lost a very valuable member of the team, Mrs Anne Cooper, who has had to resign due to ill health. Anne has arranged flowers in St. Peter's for very many years and she will be very much missed. We are pleased to welcome one new member to the team this year.

A small team are also involved in decorating the Church for Easter and Christmas but our Harvest decorating has diminished since the service was held in the Market Place. These festival flowers are either generously provided by individual ladies whilst the cost of the bulk of the flowers is met by the Flower Fund.

Flowers are also arranged around the candle in the Lady Chapel every fortnight and this rota is organised by Sheila Wills.

The team at present is drawn from the more senior members of the congregation and we would very much welcome more ladies or gentlemen to join the team particularly some of the younger members of St. Peters. If anyone is interested but feels they are not certain how to go about arranging a pedestal then help can always be given.

Our aim continues to be the enhancement of the beautiful building and the worship within it.

By Margaret Dowd

Green Group The Green Group members are concerned to look at St Peter’s stewardship from a green perspective by considering areas where the church and individuals who make up the church in Oundle can reduce their environmental impact. The scope is in line with the Anglican churches policy entitled “Shrinking the Footprint” During 2017 • We continue to gain a better understanding of development of the Churchyard with supporting strengths and practical ideas for biodiversity. The churchyard team and Green Group worked about 90 hours during the year • The group was presented with a silver award by the Bishop of Brixworth, in the Churchyard Conservation Award Scheme organised by the Northants Wildlife Trust • We recorded and analysed gas & electricity consumption and have proposed annual targets to 2020 which the PCC has accepted • A Care for Creation Prayer is displayed on the Green Group board which is changed periodically 22

Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Plans for the future • We are looking for future opportunities to hold a Creation Care service.

• We are proposing in the future to change the nave up and down lights to LED lamps (with the same fitting design). This could save 2 kW and with the lamp changes so far made in the north and south aisles, about 1 kW, St. Peter’s will be reducing the original lighting electrical load by almost half • We are considering how the church heating can be improved by up-dating the wall heaters. This is a medium to long term project • A display is to be shown in the church in April at the time of the Creation Care service about the History of the Wildlife Trust Movement, including the history of the local Beds, Cambs and Northants Wildlife Trust • We are hoping to be carbon neutral, or nearly, by the end of 2018 in the use of gas and electricity Do talk to members of the group if you are interested in joining or making any comments to us. The members are Judy Rusher, Judy Potts, Diana Awdry, Lorraine Swift, Alan Rayden, David Varley, Jonno Ball

By Jeremy Rusher

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Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Section 3:

Report on PCC Financial Activities – Treasurer's Report

This report is on the 2017 financial year and is based on the draft accounts which will be available after the APCM .

RAG, PCC and the Treasury Committee have up to date reports on the financial position at each of their meetings. The Treasury Committee consists of the Treasurer, Assistant Treasurer/Giving Officer and representatives of each of the Action Groups to ensure that our financial planning and direction is aligned to the development plans, mission and ethos of the Church. The Treasury Committee meets at least four times annually following the closure of the previous quarter to review giving, income, expenditure, VAT and tax claims and risk.

Incoming Resources Total income during 2017 at £318972 was up on the previous year (£267096) however a significant amount (£76721) was capital income. Planned giving and the tax recoverable via the gift aid mechanism continues to be central to St. Peter’s financial health contributing £194329 with a further generous £25018 received in general donations.

We continue to be grateful for the generosity of the committed members of St Peter’s church family who give through standing orders and the envelope schemes.

Our income as a Church is always a moving target as people move away and rightly re-allocate their giving (and sadly as some die). Approximately £4500 per week is needed to run the Church, with £2200 of this being the cost of the parish share. We receive no funding from the Church of England or the state, that is we rely solely on the generous giving of the Church Family. We would encourage everyone who feels part of this wonderful Family to give to enable us to continue to grow as a Church. We will continue to work with new members of the congregation to encourage them to give and to explain to the different methods of giving available and to also explore new ways of giving. Our Legacy Officer encourages giving beyond our time on this earth.

We are very grateful for one off donations and grants that supplement our income. During 2017 we received a number of grants and donations including, £2000 from the Praebendo Charitable Trust, £1500 from the Honourable Company of Grocers, £230 from Waitrose towards the explorations outings, £158 from Oundle Art Group, £100 from Oundle & District Care for West Porch Café along with £500 from the Rotary Club and £660 from Cards for Good Causes along with many generous donations from the congregation.

We are very fortunate to be supported by the Friends of St Peter’s Church Charitable Trust for help in maintaining our beautiful church building in particular around major building project. During 2017 we received £20000 from the Friends towards the West Tower Project as well as £20000 from ENDC and a £10000 private donation. We also received two, £1000 grants from the All Churches Trust towards the roof alarm and from the Archbishop’s Council towards the conservation report for the Parvis roof and a donation of £1200 from FEOFFEES to be used towards capital works in 2018. We continue to source grants for our capital building projects.

We also received a number of restricted donations for the refugee house £3500, towards Dan Stevers costs, to set up a financial support fund, to set up a small projects fund, to contribute to the stewardship campaign and towards the AV costs as well as our first legacy (£1000).

Resources Expended The largest item of expenditure continues to be the Diocesan Parish Share (£118658 in 2016) being our contribution to the Stipends, Housing and Training of the clergy in the Diocese and their Pension and National Insurance costs. A major component to this cost is that of training ordinands and then training, housing and paying for curates. Peterborough Diocese is looking ahead and preparing for the next decade when many current clergy in the Diocese and country will retire. The Diocese wants to have a good number of clergy ready to step into their posts. This does add significantly to everyone’s parish share, but it is for a good reason and we benefit directly.

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Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Excluding £156462 of Capital projects we spent £20667 on the care, maintenance and development of our beautiful church building. (£12308 in 2016). This expenditure isn’t just about investing in stones but it is about keeping our Church safe and warm and welcoming for all who come in and having spaces and facilities that meet the real needs of ALL who use it. “Welcoming Everyone”.

Utilities costs dropped in 2017 to £7773 (£8761 in 2016). Income (£2958) generated from the Feed In Tariff from the solar panels on the roof was transferred to the Friends of Oundle Parish Church. . The Utilities contracts have been renegotiated as we strife to make wise and good use of all the resources we have been given through the generosity of all who give and ultimately, therefore of the resources God has given us.

The work on the West Tower although partly funded by grants and generous donations including those mentioned above have used up our unrestricted reserves. Any subsequent major building projects will only progress following a serious fundraising campaign and grant finding.

I continue to thank God for the support of all who have helped me in my role as Treasurer and to trust God that through the generosity of all who give He will provide all that we need to do the things He has called us to as St Peter’s continues to seek to be a community of worship, mission, outreach and service to our town and the world beyond.

I wish Mark Elkington and Lindsey Wallis all the best as they take over the Treasury work.

By Wendy Forster (Treasurer)

Section 4: Independent Examiners Report (NOT YET COMPLETE - TO BE ADDED AFTER APCM)

Section 5: Financial Report (Yearly Accounts) (NOT YET COMPLETE - TO BE ADDED AFTER APCM)

Section 6: 6.1

Reference and Administrative Details

Administrative Details

Parochial Name

St Peter’s, Oundle in the Rural Deanery of Oundle, Diocese of Peterborough

Postal Address

North Street, Oundle, PE8 4AL

Telephone Number

01832 275675

Email

administrator@stpetersoundle.co.uk

Website

www.oundlestpeters.org.uk

Bank

National Westminster Bank, Market Place, Oundle, PE8 4BB

Investment Bank

CCLA Investment Management Ltd, The CBF Church of England Funds, 80 Cheapside, London, EC2V

Independent Examiners

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Graham Darbourne at Bulley Davey, 6 North Street, Oundle, PE8 4AL

Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

6DZ

6.2

Membership of PCC

(A)

01/01/17 – 28/03/17 Rev Stephen Webster (Chair), Julia Newman (Churchwarden), Emily Taylor (Churchwarden), Rev Jema Ball (Associate Vicar) Deanery Synod: Peter Coatham, Adrian Christmas, Cynthia Dimmock, Daniel Grange, Sarah Lee, Gill Morrison Elected Members: Jackie Bland, Mark Elkington, Wendy Forster, Ian Goldsmith, Alan McMurdo, Janet McMurdo (Vice Chair), Esther Ormston, Alan Rayden

(B)

29/03/17 – 31/12/17 Rev Stephen Webster (Chair), Steve Cunningham (Churchwarden), Emily Taylor (Churchwarden), Rev Jema Ball (Associate Vicar), Rev Mark Donnelly (Curate) (From June 2017) Deanery Synod: Peter Coatham, Cynthia Dimmock, Sarah Lee, Gill Morrison, Justine Turton, Rachel Wong Elected Members: Mark Elkington, Wendy Forster, Ian Goldsmith, Alan McMurdo, Janet McMurdo (Vice Chair), Esther Ormston, Alan Rayden, Kim Treverton PCC Secretary: Justine Turton

6.3

Staff Receiving Remuneration Through Parish Share Vicar Associate Vicar Assistant Curate Through Salary Administrator Facilities Coordinator

Section 7:

Rev Stephen Webster Rev Jema Ball Rev Mark Donnelly (from June 2017) Justine Turton Jonno Ball

Structure, Governance and management

7.1

Legal Status The PCC is a corporate body established by the Church of England. Its governing documents are the Parochial Church Councils (Powers) Measure 1956 (as amended) and the Church Representation Rules contained in Schedule 3 to the Synodical Government Measure 1969 (as amended). It became a registered charity on 12 November 2009 (No. 1132677).

7.2

Appointment Appointment of PCC members is governed by and set out in the Church Representation Rules.

7.4

Parochial Church Council All regular church members are encouraged to join the electoral roll, which makes them eligible for PCC membership. People are encouraged to stand for the PCC via weekly bulletins , announcements and personal approaches. New PCC members are given paperwork, e.g. minutes of recent meetings, copies of Charity Commission/Church of England guidance on responsibilities of PCC members, a description of the roles and responsibilities of the PCC member within St Peter’s church, and oral explanations about the conduct of business, and other responsibilities e.g. safeguarding, health and safety, responsible financial management.

The PCC meets 5 times each calendar year, with additional meetings as required. It has established committees, action groups and project teams to help it with its work, and receives regular reports from these groups. The established committees which helped PCC discharge its various duties and responsibilities during 2016 were:26

Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Standing Committee which is required by law, sets the agenda for PCC meetings and has delegated power to transact certain PCC business in between meetings. Membership in 2016 was the Clergy team (Rev Stephen Webster, Rev Jema Ball and Rev Mark Donnelly (from June 2017), the Wardens, the Vice Chair of the PCC (Janet McMurdo), Elected PCC Member (Gill Morrison).

Treasury Committee exists to support the work of the treasurer in some of her key tasks: VAT recovery, Gift Aid and Giving, Insurance, Grant applications being amongst them. It also exists to provide scrutiny of the Church’s finances and to assist with budget preparation and monitoring. In 2017 it will meet quarterly in advance of PCC meetings and Action groups as part of a regular cycle of financial reporting and monitoring. It is chaired by the Vicar.

Risks which concern this busy and active church include:-

7.5

a)

Safe Usage of the Church Site by all. Legislative requirements are closely followed, e.g. the Health & Safety Act and Food Hygiene Regulations. There is regular inspection by a specialist fire protection agency, and displays of notices relating to fire, health and safety and first aid.

Defects to plant are reported to the Chair of Resources Group, Adrian Christmas and remedied quickly according to the level of risk. Training is given, e.g. in first aid and food hygiene. One off events are assessed for risk before being run.

b)

Welfare: The church follows the Diocesan guidance on the safeguarding on children and vulnerable adults, with annual reviews of the policy by PCC. External organisations using the church site have their attention drawn to the need to follow appropriate practices.

c)

Financial: Prudent policies for the handling of money are in place. Major expenditure has to be approved by the PCC, which also approves an annual budget and receives quarterly monitoring reports. Cash flow is carefully managed, bills are paid promptly, and investment of any shortterm funds carefully placed to ensure maximum return compatible with ready access.

d)

Reputation: Equal opportunities legislation is followed in relation to staff appointments, use of voluntary workers, and site lettings. We actively encourage people to come to join our activities and make use of our facilities.

Section 8:

27

Objectives and Activities

8.1

The primary object of the PCC and the church as a whole is to promote the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Our aims are to declare the good news of Jesus, by our words and through our actions, to the people of our community and to the world beyond. We seek to grow in numbers as a fellowship of believers as more people respond to the good news of Jesus. We seek to grow in faith as together we explore what it is to be Jesus’ disciples. This involves: Bible teaching, nurturing, developing new Christians, equipping experienced Christians, studying, praying together and supporting each other.

8.2

Section 11 gives a report on the work of the PCC during 2016. Section 14 contains short reports on activities by church members during 2016. All reflect ways in which the church tries to meet its primary object (para. 5.1). It is PCC policy to maintain a balance between initiatives which meet the needs of the local community such as the work with parents and toddlers, and activities which build up and equip those who are committed Christians, such as the Sunday services. None of these initiatives or activities could happen without the commitment of dedicated volunteers.

8.3

It is also PCC policy for the church building to be made available for wider community use.

Lettings have been encouraging and in 2016 St Peter’s was used for 32 separate events run by third party promoters, 28 lunchtime concerts ran by Oundle School and is the meeting place for reading groups and outside committee meetings.

Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Section 9:

Report on Deanery Matters: an annual review of business

Revd Stephen Webster Peter Coatham Fiona McGill Andrew Hawkins Rev Stephen Webster, Oundle benefice (3 parishes) Rev Jema Ball, Associate vicar, Oundle benefice Rev Mark Donnelly, Assistant Curate Rev Philip Davies, King’s Cliffe benefice (3), + Collyweston and Easton Rev Jane Tailby ~ Watersmete (Nassington) benefice (5) Rev Anne Hindle ~ Warmington benefice (5) Rev Cathy Brazier, Barnwell benefice (6) Rev Canon Brian Withington, Nene 7, Aldwincle benefice (7) (from 10th December 2017) Rev Nolan Robson ~ Thrapston benefice (3) (from 3rd July 2016) Assistant priests Rev Peter Konig, (Watersmete) Rev Peter Morrell (Watersmete) Rev Liz Waller (Aldwincle) Ministry of Readers Carolyn Brawn, Jan Downey, Joy Farey-Wood, Jeremy Firth (PTO), David Teall, Tom Tomalin, Adrian Waring, Charles Wide Lay Pastoral Ministers Cynthia Dimmock, Erica Grubb, Janet Roberts Deanery Primary School Support Visitors – Dot and Peter Coatham

Rural Dean Lay Chair Secretary Treasurer Clergy

Peter Burchell. After years of dedicated service, Peter retired this year. We thank him for his diligence and leadership Candlemas (01.02.17) All the deanery’s primary schools were involved. About 260 Y4 (8 year olds) with their teachers and helpers gathered at St Peter’s Oundle to learn about the Christian Festival of Light and the presentation of Jesus at the temple. One school offered a dramatization of the event and all the other deanery schools produced posters to illustrate the journey from darkness to light. The deanery contributes generously to the cost of transport.

Supporting the deanery’s primary schools.

Dot and Peter Coatham continue to offer support to local schools by being bishop’s visitors for local church schools and by offering assemblies to all the 10 schools in the deanery.

Meeting 157 (21.02.17) – St Peter, Oundle.

An Open Meeting. Jason Royce (Director) talked to synod about the work of Souster Youth within the deanery.

Recommended reading; Faith Generation by Nick Shepherd and Losing Heart report by Youthscape.

Meeting 158 (21.06.17) – All Saints, St James, Thrapston.

An Open Meeting. Jonathan Baker (Acting Dean) spoke about ‘The Mission and Ministry of Peterborough Cathedral’. He talked about it as the seat of the Bishop, as a historic place and as a Worshipping and Witnessing Community.

Meeting 162 (05.10.17) ~St Mary the Virgin, Titchmarsh Revd Cathy Brazier talked about the Candlemas service, 2008 to the present, for Y4 pupils and how the deanery can help.

The final benefice vacancy within the deanery (Aldwincle) was filled in December. The vicar will be another parttime priest. Canon Brian Withington was due to be instituted on December 10th but it was postponed because of snow.

By Peter Coatham, Lay Chair

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Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Section 10:

The Friends of the Parish Church

Objective of the charity: The Friends were formed in 1983 to help maintain the Church of St. Peter in Oundle and restore it where necessary. Until then this task fell solely upon the Parochial Church Council supported by members of the congregation. Donations, sale of electricity produced by the solar panels and fund-raising are the principal income sources of the charity, supplemented by income from COIF investments and the annual Income Tax refund for donations qualifying for Gift Aid. The objective of the charity as stated in the Constitution is as follows: To promote for the benefit the public, including the widest access and use especially for the inhabitants the parish of Oundle in the county of Northamptonshire, the permanent preservation and enhancement of Oundle parish church as a building of architectural and historical interest.

Activities and Achievements: Trustees have met to plan and deliver the annual Jazz evening and this year we welcomed a performance of the music from the film “Brassed Off” performed by the Rushden Town Brass Band. Local maps have also been printed for sale.

During the period expenditure was made for the printing of maps of the locality which are being sold to raise funds, a major contribution of £20000 towards the much needed improvements to toilet facilities s part of the redevelopment of the west end of the Church and costs associated with the January 2017 Jazz and “Brassed Off” Band concerts both of which were oversubscribed and much appreciated by all attendees.

Local correspondent and principal address: Neil Underwood. 9, Scotney Way, Thrapston NN14 4SA Officers: Chairman: Sue Thomas Secretary: John Flory Treasurer: Neil Underwood Independent Reviewer: Bulley Davey Trustees: Ms. S Thomas, Mr J Flory, Mr N Underwood, Mr H. Cartwright, Mr. I. Goldsmith, Mr. D. Webb.

Mrs Denise Taylor tendered her resignation as a Trustee w.e.f. 10th July (From our previous charity) and is therefore not represented as a Trustee of the current charity. Trustees would wish to record their thanks for her valuable contribution to the group over many years and note with thanks her willingness to be called upon to help from time to time as a volunteer.

Acknowledgements: Trustees wish to thank all associated with our ventures and notably Oundle Bookshop and “Oundle in Stitches” for the sale of maps and concert tickets respectively.

The Friends also thank Oundle School Music Department staff and pupils, the Rushden Town Band for their time and effort in support of fundraising and St Peters Church staff for the continued support of all fundraising events at the church. Thanks also to Mr. D. Webb for arranging the Independent Review of the annual accounts

By Sue Thomas – Chairman FOPC Section 11:

Figures at a glance

Up to four services were held each Sunday. Typically 195 adults and 60 children and young people aged 16 or under came on to the church site for these services.

Section 12: Churchwardens’ report Serving God and our church family as churchwardens is a great privilege. Working alongside our clergy has been a pleasure and it was especially good to welcome our curate Mark Donnelly and his wife Sue to St Peter’s last summer.

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Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018

Our official role is to be representatives of the Bishop of Peterborough and to make sure that our parish runs smoothly. This is so evident throughout the year because we are truly blessed in that our parish has a team of paid staff and volunteers who are so dedicated to growing Christ’s church.

Unlike most parishes, we are very fortunate to have a number of deputy churchwardens and we would like to thank them for all they give to the life of the church family. Thanks, too, must go to our team who diligently organise our facilities before and after our 9.45am and 11.15am services. At the 8am service, Neil Underwood represents the laity there as does Kelsey Coles at Holy Communion on Thursday mornings.

We would like to record our thanks to Jonno Ball whose hard work, often unseen and behind the scenes, has been much appreciated. In particular, he has been a key member of Malcolm Winder’s team which has overseen the re-ordering of the west end during the past 12 months.

Finally, I (Steve) would like to thank my fellow churchwarden Emily for her guidance and encouragement during my first year in the role.

By Steve Cunningham and Emily Taylor Section 13:

Electoral Roll Report Total

Died

Moved away

Additions

2012 Total (Full Review) 364

6

71

66

2013 Total

374

7

7

24

2014 Total

360

9

8

3

2015 Total

384

3

10

37

2016 Total

378

2

13

9

2017 Total (to be added after the APCM) Map of our Parish

Source: www.achurchnearyou.com 30

Compiled by Justine Turton, PCC Secretary, ??? 2018