sketty parish annual report 2012

Printed at St Paul’s Parish Centre

Sketty Parish Report 2012

Sketty Parish is in the Deanery of Clyne

Vicar : Canon Andrew J. Knight

The Vicarage, De la Beche Road, Sketty, Swansea SA2 9AR

Dear Friends,

Your Parish’s Annual Report is a look back at the life of the Parish during the past year,

and recording the past is something which we are obliged to do at the Annual Vestry.

But I want to commend to you, as you come to that meeting, the vital importance of

looking forward too.

You are, by now, getting more and more familiar with our forward-looking Diocesan

Vision of becoming:

A family, rooted in Christ, committed to transforming lives by:

Gathering as God’s people;

Growing more like Jesus;

Going out in the power of the Spirit.

The challenge of the vision is twofold:

1. To transform our own understanding of what it is to be the church and our life

as the church; and

2. with that renewed understanding, to work as disciples

to transform the lives of others.

I believe that your acceptance of this challenge carries with it the possibility of truly

renewing the life of our Diocese and your parish, and enabling the church to make a

difference in local communities. So, I hope that you as individuals, as a PCC and as a

community are already signed up to making the Vision live where you are - ready, for

the sake of the Gospel to take risks and face challenges with faith and commitment.

We can then really be the welcoming, faithful and serving Church that Jesus calls us to

be and not the private club of the like-minded which some foolishly imagine.

Thank you for your faithful witness; my blessings for all that you plan as our Vision

takes root.

Page 35

Ex-Officio

Rev Canon Andrew J. Knight Vicar

Rev Alison Jones Curate

Janet Vine Vicar’s Warden

Dr Jane Watkeys People’s Warden

Iris Jones* Vicar’s Warden

Claire Hazell* People’s Warden

Sian Parkhouse Family/Children’s Worker

Elected Members

Maureen Amner*(Secretary of the PCC), Alan Edwards, Eifion Francis (Vicar's Assistant

Warden); Jill Francis; Elaine Gale; Clive Garrish; Yvonne Garrish; David James; Susan

James; Sonia Jones; Liz Jowett, Ken Lewis (People's Assistant Warden); Viv Lewis, Sue

Miles, Brigid O'Kane; Ian Stevenson; Graham Wattley; Clive Williams

*Appointed from Holy Trinity Church

Parish Officers

Parish Treasurer Sonia Jones

Parish Secretary Maureen Amner

Holy Trinity Church Officers

Secretary Julia Mitchell

Treasurer Ken Owens

Bankers

P.C.C.: Charities Aid Foundation, Kings Hill, West Malling Kent

Holy Trinity: Barclays, Llanelli

The Parochial Church Council at 31 December 2012

4

Mission and World Mission Andrew Knight, Vicar 01792 202767

Fellowship Carol Edwards 01792 414195

Sunday School & Youth Sian Parkhouse 07805 091994

Family Service Team Gillian Knight 01792 202767

Sketty Parish Child Protection Susan James 01792 201511

Parish Website Sister Marian 01792 208724

Beacon Editor Susan James 01792 201511

Choir Richard Burden 01792 521391

Music Group Jill Francis 01792 796735

Sketty Players Susan James 01792 201511

House Groups Graham Wattley 01792 290408

Church Women's Guild Barbara Gambold 01792 208366

Mothers' Union Biddy O’Kane 01792 204922

Altar Flower Guild Pam Brown 01792 207628

Bell ringers Hilary Rose 01792 232808

Buildings and Fabric Alan Edwards 01792 414195

Wardens Eifion Francis 01792 796735

Parish Centre Katrina Guntrip 01792 208779

Parish Centre Bookings Katrina Guntrip 01792 208779

Tots on Tuesdays Carol Davies 01792 206790

Lunch Club Janet Vine 01792 428902

Church Walks Graham Wattley 01792 290408

Women On Wednesday Maureen Amner 01792 206466

Sketty Rainbow Unit Ann Morgan 01792 298295

2nd Sketty Brownies Ann Morgan 01792 298295

2nd Sketty Guides Ann Morgan 01792 298295

44th Swansea Scouts Viv Lewis 01792 539973

Holy Trinity Iris Jones 01792 201955

Tots on Thursdays Sian Parkhouse 07805 091994

Contact Telephone numbers

Page 3

Bishop John’s letter ………………………………………….…………………………………………...2

Statistics and Appointments ............................................................................ 4

Mission Statement ........................................................................................... 5

Introduction Canon Andrew J. Knight ................................................................ 5

The Parish of Sketty ......................................................................................... 6

The Parochial Church Council; Mission Committee; World Mission; Fellowship

Group; Worship Leaders; Safeguarding; Patchwork; After School Club;

Saturday Club; Techno Corner; Tots on Thursday; Holiday Club; Messy Church;

Sunday School

.......................................................................................... 12

Choir; Bible Reading Fellowship; Music Group; Beacon; Sketty Players; House

Groups; Churchwomen’s Guild; Mothers’ Union; Women on Wednesday;

Library; Website; Religious Life; .

.......................................................................................... 16

Wardens; Breakfast; Lunch Club; Buildings and Fabric; ICT; Bellringers; Parish

Centre; TOTS on Tuesdays; Altar Flower Guild; ; Cytun; Fairtrade; Church

Walks; Diocesan Conferrence; 2nd Sketty Rainbow Unit; 2nd Sketty Brownies;

2nd Sketty Guides, 44th Swansea Scout Troop.

Holy Trinity Church ........................................................................................ 24

Church Report; Church Guild; Tots on Thursday.

Deanery Conference Report ........................................................................... 25

Accounts ........................................................................................................ 26

Contact Telephone Numbers .......................................................................... 34

PCC officers .................................................................................................... 35

Contents

At 31 December 2012 roll numbers (2011 figures in brackets)

were: St Paul’s 177 (171), Holy Trinity 33 (34).The figures for Eucharistic services are the sum

of recorded numbers of communicants plus a figure for non-communicants and, when

appropriate, an average figure for Sunday School children.

Governing Body: Jane Watkeys, Janet Vine, Alison Jones (2013-15)

Diocesan Conference (2010-12): clergy and Janet Vine

Clyne Deanery Conference (2010-12):

Eifion Frances, Iris Jones, Ken Lewis, Alice Sullivan, Rose Wattley.

Diocesan Board of Finance Executive Committee: Gill Knight

Diocesan Board of Finance: Ken Lewis

Church in Wales Widows Orphans and Dependants Society: Gill Knight

Church in Wales Ethical Investment Group: Gill Knight.

Diocesan Webmaster: Alison Jones

The Electoral Roll

Parish Representatives elsewhere (during 2012)

Page 33

is £22,796, an increase of £615 on 2011, leaving us with an excess of Income over Expenditure of £1604.

This has left us with Current Assets totalling £11,893 compared to £11,596 for last year, an increase of £297. What must be borne in mind, however, is that last year’s figure included £1,307 for Tots, whereas this year they do not appear in our Balance Sheet. Next year, after two years of the new accounting system, it will be easier to draw a direct comparison between each year.

As Tots’ money passes through Holy Trinity’s bank account, I cannot ignore them and still have to account for them. So, I have prepared a separate set of accounts for them, showing an opening balance of £1,307 and a closing balance of £1,077.

The health of our Balance Sheet is slowly getting back to what it was in 2008 but we can’t be complacent about this. There is no getting away from the fact that the income we are receiving from the Seventh Day Adventist Church is the main reason for this improvement and we always knew that it would not continue forever. We now know that they have received planning permission for rebuilding their church and, whilst we do not know when the building will be completed, it does mean that we will soon be losing this income. It may continue for this year but will probably come to an end sometime in the next twelve months. The challenge for us will be to maintain this improvement once they no longer use our church for their services. Ken Owens

This year the Parish Centre continues to operate in profit with a surplus of Income over Expenditure of £3,109.69 (2011 was £2,728.21). Overall income was marginally down, some categories were up, but parties were down. The increased profit was attributable an £800 decrease in expenditure on Repairs and Renewals. As long as income is maintained to the present level and expenditure is carefully budgeted we should be able to continue in profit in the coming year. Mike Johns

My second year and the financial position is looking healthy and positive. I would like to acknowledge the work of Ken Owens, Mike Johns as well as that of Fred Amner as Envelope and Gift Aid Secretary for Holy Trinity and the PCC Finance sub-Committee. Thanks are also due to Roger Pike for his diligent examination of the Accounts especially as we move from paper to electronic forms of production. Thanks again also go to my friends and family, who have advised and listened to me throughout this demanding but rewarding task.

Thank you gracious God, we present these our offerings freely, not just our money but ourselves, our stewardship, our fellowship and our gifts, praying for the growth of your kingdom and fulfilment of your will, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.

Sonia Jones PCC Treasurer, March 2013

Parish Centre

Acknowledgements

Thank you gracious God, we present these our offerings freely, not just our

money but ourselves, our stewardship, our fellowship and our gifts, praying

for the growth of your kingdom and fulfillment of your will, through Jesus

Christ our Lord, Amen.

Commentary on accounts continued…

General Comments

From 2013 St Paul’s will also be produced electronically in line with the Parish Accounts. This will streamline the process and ease the cumbersome task of adding up many columns and sheets. The Independent Examiner will continue to get hard copy paperwork at the end of the financial year. All safeguards will be put in place to ensure that data is kept securely and is backed-up. A review of the various Restricted and Discretionary Funds will also take place mid 2013.

In addition to the increase in capital gain which has brought the value of the COIF Income Units to £156,188, higher now than in December 2010, there has been no need for withdrawals in 2012 due mainly to the donations and increased giving. A review of our financial investment portfolio took place mid-year with Ecclesiastical Financial Services. The PCC agreed not to make any changes to the current investments but will continue to review the position regularly.

Strategic Direction 2013 Onwards

From 2013 the Parish Share will decrease to £84,860 with a further fall expected in 2014. Under the old system this would have been £98,000 in 2013.

During 2012 Ecclesiastical Insurance Group have reviewed and re-valued all three buildings. None of the premium payments were adjusted in 2012 but the valuation assessments have affected the policy values from 2013. The Assessor has increased the policy value of St Paul’s Church from £4.9m to £7.3m with an increase to the premium of £400 pa. However there is a reduction of over a £1,000 to the Parish Centre insurance premium as a consequence of changing from Aviva to Ecclesiastical. This has also brought all building insurance on St Paul’s site under one insurance company. The review was originally brought about due to additions to

the policy to include the Night Shelter, raising the fact that a valuation had not been completed for over eight years.

The Family/Children’s Worker contract will be reviewed in 2013.

Re-modelling of St Paul’s Church cost is expected to be in the region of £40,000, (still under discussion) and probably paid over a two year period 2013/15.

From April 2013 the government will allow us to claim up to £5,000 in cash receipts (per charity) yielding a further £1,250 pa from 2013 onwards. Sonia Jones

In 2009 and 2010 we recorded deficits totalling £4,689 but, due to the income received from the Seventh Day Adventist Church in 2011 and 2012, we have managed to recover those losses and our accounts are now in better shape than they have been for a few years, although they are still not back to what they were in 2008.

This year I have made a small change in the way I present Holy Trinity’s accounts. Previously, the figures for Holy Terrors (now known as Holy Trinity Tots) have been included in our accounts but this distorts our figures, as this is their money not Holy Trinity’s. This year I have shown our Income and Expenditure both inclusive and exclusive of their entries and it is the bottom line (exclusive) figures which show the true position. Also, I have removed them from our Balance Sheet and prepared a short separate set of accounts for them adjacent to Holy Trinity’s Balance Sheet.

Our Total Income, after allowing for this adjustment, amounted to £24,400 which is an improvement of £887 on the previous year. Total Expenditure, again after allowance for this change in our accounting procedure,

Holy Trinity Church

The Diocese is developing a vision, and asking us to share in it! Our reporting this year is therefore considering how we are rooted in Christ and how we

GATHER drawing longstanding members, new faces and enquirers together

GROW in grace, understanding, fellowship, worship . . and then

GO to serve our community here in Sketty and further afield.

It is a challenge to see all our activities in this way, but a useful one. Thanks to everyone for gathering this material and growing it into a coherent whole so that it can go to our Vestry meeting (18th April) and beyond.

Andrew Knight, Vicar

Mission Statement

Introduction

Sketty Parish invites all to practise Christian faith, together serving God and our community

by sharing the good news of Jesus

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) met on nine occasions including an Away Day at Reynoldston, and at each of these meetings, it has reminded itself of the “Fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace . . . )” with appropriate prayers and Bible readings.

The Away Day topics were:

Parish Audit – an aid to thinking about mission.

Family/Children’s Work – achievements and future strategy.

Assessing the value of what we do.

Apart from the day-to-day business of the PCC there were four topics of particular importance. These were:

Finance – towards the end of 2012 the PCC noted with great satisfaction that its income for the year was likely to exceed its expenditure. This has been largely, but not entirely, due to the success of the “Giving in Grace” initiative. The PCC has also been much encouraged by the prospect of having to pay a significantly lower ‘parish share’ from next year.

Family/Children’s Worker – the PCC decided that the focus of the F/C Worker (Sian) should increasingly be directed at the growing number of older children (8-11). Her contract has been extended for a further year from September 2013 and her salary increased to £21,000 from that date.

Possible Adaptations to St Paul’s – the

PCC gave approval in principle to the removal of pews from the back of St Paul’s Church and from along its south wall. It also gave approval in principle to the provision of a glass porch inside the south door. These approvals were given to allow for: engaging an architect to draw up a detailed scheme, consulting the Diocesan Advisory Committee, and obtaining costings. A decision on whether to proceed with the proposed adaptations awaits the outcome of these investigations.

PCC meetings – the PCC has approved: terms of reference for the PCC Lay Chairman, the appointment of a Lay Vice Chairman, and fixed dates for meetings in the second week of each month.

Does this work of the PCC measure up to the Diocesan Vision of Gathering, Growing and Going? Perhaps it does, given its support for the continued work of the F/C Worker, its readiness to join Swansea Night Shelter, its willingness, at least to explore, the idea of making St Paul’s more adaptable and welcoming, and finally, its desire to work together in love over challenging and divisive issues.

Much of the detailed work of the PCC was carried out by PCC subcommittees: Mission, Stewardship, Buildings, Finance, Parish Centre, World Mission, Fellowship, F/C Worker support group, and the Holy Trinity Committee.

The principal function of the PCC is "promoting in the parish the whole mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelistic, social and ecumenical."

The Parish of Sketty

Page 31

The Parish and St Paul’s Church

The PCC Annual Accounts for the year ending 31st December 2012 have been subject to independent examination and have been compiled in accordance with Church in Wales guidelines. As suggested by these guidelines the PCC has prepared: (i) a Statement of Financial Activities; (ii) a Balance Sheet; and (iii) a Statement of Funds Financing the Total Assets.

Parish Summary

The key figures to note in the Accounts in 2012 is the overall Parish surplus of income in relation to expenditure which was £8,178. The total asset increased by 8% rising to £299,290 an increase in assets of £21,460. This is mainly due to an increase in Capital Gain of £13,280 on St Paul’s Charity Investment Funding Income Units (COIF IFU). Parish Income amounted to £180,330 increasing 18% on 2011. Planned giving increased by 8% due to the GiG. Offertories given through the Gift Direct scheme increased in year by 9% to nearly £5,000 pm at December 2012. Parish spending was modestly increased by 1%.

St Paul’s Church ~ Key Factors Affecting Income

Income is up by 22% on 2011 mainly due to the increase in planned giving and we benefited from two generous donations of £5,000. Tax credits for Gift Aid, at £22,000, are higher as more people are now giving through Gift Direct as well as

a good increase in signed agreements that allow us to claim 20% tax back in each pound given. £3,000 of this is attributable to 2011 but due to backlogs at HMRC these were received too late to be adjusted into 2011. A £2,500 grant from the Bishop’s Fund has helped to alleviate the Family Children’s Worker salary.

St Paul’s Church ~ Key Factors Affecting Expenditure

The 2012 Parish Share payment continued to increase to £95,226 by 2012 and we have coped well with the increases since 2009. A low level of expenditure on Repairs and Renewals and the Family Children Worker and Curate costs staying in line with PCC approved budgets has kept spending to 2% lower than in 2011.

Rather than bank charges we now earn a small amount of interest on our Accounts. The incentives of moving to British Gas for gas and electricity supply in 2010/11 have now ended. The existing contract ends in July 2013 and we are currently considering a contract change to help us attain a similar level of saving in 2013/14.

Mission in the Parish is higher but most of this has been spent on Family associated activities, but some cases like Alpha have been offset by donations. A full analysis can be found on page 8 in the full Account’s Sheets.

Continued on next page...

Parish of Sketty— Commentary on the accounts 2012

The Church Buildings and contents, the churchyards and the Vicarage are vested in the Representative Body of the Church in Wales and do not form part of the assets of the Parish.

The Accounts for 2011 have been prepared according to a new standard form to be used by Parishes from 1

st January 2010,

Rev. Canon Chancellor A J Knight, Vicar ____________________________

Mrs Sonia Jones, PCC Treasurer _______________________________

J M Vine, Churchwarden _______________________________

Dr J Watkeys, Churchwarden _______________________________

Date _2nd April 2013_________

2012 2011Parish Organisation £ £

St Paul's Church Altar Flower Guild 2690 2,665 St Paul's Church Choir 1758 2,066

Sketty Parish Tower/Bellringers 673 1,293 St Paul's Church Friday Lunceon Club 738 110

Sketty Church Women's Guild 1094 1,063 Women on Wedneday 925 894

TOTS on Tuesday 874 931 Holy Trinity Church Women's Guild 351 298

*F/CW Petty Cash Account 169 96 Total Organisation 9,273 9,416

* F/CW Family/Children's Worker

PARISH OF SKETTY, SWANSEA

ORGANISATION ACCOUNTS 2012

Parish of Sketty Accounts 2012

Parish of Sketty, Swansea Organisation Accounts 2012

Belonging to a worldwide Christian family implies a need

to know something of how other family members are faring, and care for them through

prayer or other means. The PCC subcommittee tries to facilitate this through arranging

preachers and magazine articles. The parish gives a proportion of its income to mission

work just as we as individuals are encouraged to give a proportion to the church, and the

committee suggests a division of this money to the PCC – see the parish accounts for

details. It’s a chance to support sharing of the Gospel, and to learn from those who do it

more keenly than maybe do we. Our particular link for all this is SAT-7, the Christian

satellite TV station, the Christian satellite TV station, which is making God’s love visible in

the countries of the Middle East and North Africa through the provision of vibrant and

supportive Christian television programmes in their regional languages.

Gillian Knight; Secretary.

In addition to the topics above, the PCC kept oversight of the work of the sub-committees. The PCC was particularly indebted to the Buildings sub-committee for their professional skills and for their care of the fabric of both churches and of the parish centre. It was also aware of the debt that it owed to its Treasurer and to the Finance Committee.

The PCC welcomed the Revd. Alison Jones and have much appreciated her work in the Church.

Church grounds maintenance was kept under review. The PCC was well aware of the great efforts of the diminishing number of hard-working volunteers and of the possible need to pay for assistance in future if more help is not forthcoming.

Graham Wattley, Chair

This group GATHERS a small number of people with the intention of GROWING mission in our Parish. We have been involved with Giving in Grace, the planning of PCC Away Days, and the writing of a Parish Profile. Reflection on where we are, through Mission Audit, may help us GO with the gospel of Jesus in directions familiar and less so . Vicar Andrew

Mission Committee

PCC Away Day 2012

World Mission Group

A new year ‘Social

Evening’ was well attended with varied entertainment provided by the Sketty Players and a stimulating quiz by Ray Bennett, followed by a light supper. This was a very enjoyable gathering that provided good fellowship for all present.

In March, the church offered a ‘marriage preparation’ day with lunch was provided by our group.

On June 16th, a ‘Jubilee Celebration’ was arranged with the help and support of Sian Parkhouse, the family and children’s worker. Again it was extremely well attended despite a wet and windy afternoon. The church and Parish Centre were used very effectively in providing activities for the children.

Open to all, a ‘Table-Top’ Sale took place

on September 29th which resulted in £778.01 being donated to the church funds. All organisations in the church supported the event by providing stalls and refreshments. Many thanks are due to all those who contributed in making this a successful afternoon both socially and financially.

During October, a buffet lunch was provided in Holy Trinity for the Leprosy society and In November, Sketty Amateur Dramatic Group had another production where the fellowship Group helped with refreshments.

This group aims to

organise enjoyable and

interesting social

gatherings Most are well

attended and provide true

fellowship for all. Carol Edwards

Many thanks go to all members of the committee and all who helped with social gatherings in the church throughout the year. Without their loyal hard work and support the group would not function as it does.

Fellowship Group

Our Worship Leaders’ main role at present lies in devising and leading all-age worship on the first Sunday in the month. For

that we now have three teams of three who work to help people grow in their faith by fresh, prayerful and thoughtful approaches. The service is aimed at helping to gather more people by being more accessible to those less used to church, and of all ages - shorter than usual, not communion, often interactive and less traditional. The very activity of working as team to seek what God is saying through the readings also brings us together and helps us grow in understanding. Invitation to services has been largely left to other members of the church, except in approaches to the scouting and guiding movements.

Worship leaders are trained to lead worship, so also help clergy in taking services except for celebrating and preaching. Gill Knight

Worship Leaders

Page 29

2011£ £ £

Accumulated FundBalance 1st January 73,293 99,647

Surplus/(Deficit) St Paul's Church [1] 6,716 (22,334)Surplus/(Deficit) Holy Trinity Church 1,375 1970

Surplus/(Deficit) Parish Centre 3,110 2,728Change in COIF Funds (net of additional units) 13,281 (8,718)

97,775 73,293

Reverend Garfield James Memorial FundDesignated Fund 1st January 1,024 1,019

Interest Earned 5 5 1,029 1,024

Repairs and RenewalsBalance at 1st January 61,597 61,597 61,597

Accommodation Investment FundBalance at 1st January 70,476 70,517

Interest Earned 2,992 4,294 Rental Expenditure (5,563) (4,335)

67,905 70,476

Contingency FundBalance at 1st January 70,000 70,000 70,000

Vicar's Memorial FundBalance at 1st January 1,442 1,056

Addition to Reserves 109 630 Expenditure (566) (244)

985 1,442

TOTAL FUNDS 299,290 277,832

PARISH OF SKETTY ~ FUNDS FINANCING THE TOTAL ASSETS AT 31st DECEMBER 2012

2012

Parish of Sketty—Funds financing the total assets at 31st December 2012

2011INVESTMENTS £ £ £St Paul's Government Securities (at cost)

3½% War Loan 146 146 4% Consols 37 37

COIF Income Fund 156,188 142,907 COIF Fixed Interest Fund - -

COIF Deposit Fund 97,421 96,570

Parish Centre COIF Deposit Fund 27,067 23,178 Holy Trinity National Savings Investment Account 6,148 6,115

287,007 268,953

CURRENT ASSETS

Current Account Lloyds/TSB - 5,140

Covenant Account now CAF 7 74 Charities Aid Foundation Accounts 73 2,000

Current Account Barclays 2,362 1,765

Holy Terrors 1,078 1,307 Other Accounts 1,933 702

Current Account Lloyds/TSB - 1,437 Charities Aid Foundation Accounts 1,626 1,000

St Paul's 2,910 1,718 Holy Trinity 1,449 1,707

Parish Centre 325 450

St Paul's 2,277 1,947 Holy Trinity - -

Parish Centre 705 1,859 14,744 21,106

CURRENT LIABILITIES

St Paul's (928) (9,883)

Holy Trinity - - Parish Centre (500) (1,567)

St Paul's (1,000) (500)Holy Trinity - -

Parish Centre (32) (277)(2,460) (12,227)

NET CURRENT ASSETS 12,284 8,879

TOTAL ASSETS 299,290 277,832

PARISH OF SKETTY ~ BALANCE SHEET AT 31st DECEMBER 2012

2012

Sundry Creditors

Income Received in Advance

Pre-Payments

Sundry Debtors

Cash at Bank St Paul's Church

Cash at Bank Holy Trinity

Cash at Bank Parish Centre

Parish of Sketty—Balance Sheet at 31st December 2012

[Child protection has been extended to cover vulnerable adults and is called “safeguarding”.]

The 2008 Church in Wales Children and

Young Persons publication offering guidance

to parishes quotes the above verse and goes

on to say : “Implicit in the words of Jesus is a

recognition of the unique status of children

and young people. Therefore they need to be

respected as persons in their own right and

given especial protection because of their

vulnerability”.

As a parish, led by the clergy and PCC, we

must all strive to adhere to the above and especially those who volunteer to work with young people. Thank you to those who volunteer and appreciate the need to be checked by the Disclosure and Barring Service

(DBS), which has now replaced the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) in that regard. Please remember to contact me so that all new volunteers are checked.

Susan James (Safeguarding Officer)

Safeguarding

“Let the children come to me; do not try to stop them; for the

Kingdom of Heaven belongs to such as these” Matthew 19.14

Patchwork continues to gather on a Wednesday afternoon during term time, we meet 1.30-3.00pm in St Paul's Parish Centre. We have had new members and a few mums continue to join us even though their children are now in school. It is a busy, friendly group. The parents support each other and take part in various activities and discussions. Some of the parents have led the activities this term, sharing their skills and knowledge with the other members. Vicar Andrew and Alison visit us most weeks and the group have become very comfortable in asking them questions about our faith. Margaret, Alice and I keep the children entertained each week with a Christian story and a craft, while Ken and Liz serve the tea and cake. Sian Parkhouse

Patchwork

Tots on Thursday

Saturday Club

This group meets on a Monday during term time, I run this with Dot Morgan, and this term a new team member from Parklands Church called Dan as well.

We usually have between fifteen and eighteen children each week.

The session is run similar to Sunday school, we start with a team game and then follow that with a song, bible story and a craft to help respond to it.

This group has grown this term and we have a few children in reception class who are waiting until they are in year one so that they can join us too, These children are mainly from contacts that I have made from the activities we run in the two churches.

This group gathers on the second and fourth Saturday of each month at the Parish Centre from 10-11.55 and is for children of all ages. It is run by myself, Bob Thomas and three volunteers from the PCC. Each session is based around a Christian story or message and reflected in craft activities. We have seven regular families and up to seventeen regular children, the numbers vary each week and we have been as busy as thirty two children !

The group runs during the Saturday club

and the school holiday clubs. The group is

run by Bob Thomas. It is for children aged

over eight. This group learns new skills

and gains knowledge through exciting

Science and Technology projects. Take a

look at the web site to see their latest

projects. www.technocorner.org.

We meet at Holy Trinity Church during term time, 9.35-11.30, and our team is Pam, Fatima, Iris, Claire and myself. This is a very busy and lively gathering, the

parents feel very relaxed and have a sense of belonging to this group. We have parents turn up early to help set up. We have free play, then we encourage all the children to help tidy up before we gather on the carpet for songs and news sharing. We do not have a Christian story but we believe that through the way we make the church a warm and welcoming space, it leads parents and carers to ask us questions and we have chats about our faith. Three times a month the activity table is a Christian themed craft which gives us an opportunity to share the good news. We make a special effort on Christian festivals.

Sian Parkhouse

Parklands After School Club Techno Corner

Page 27

General

Funds

£

Restricted

Funds

£

2012 Total

£

2011 Total

£

INCOMING RESOURCES/INCOME

Voluntary Income Planned Giving 79,448 5,163 84,611 78,353

Loose Collections 9,124 559 9,683 8,805

Donations 23,507 1,107 24,614 13,268

For Mission 318 1,775 2,093 1,908

Tax Refunds 24,046 24,046 16,958

Legacy Gifts Received - -

Grants 2,500 2,500 461

Generated Income Money Raising 10,978 10,978 -

Fees 9,654 9,654 20,124

Investment Income Investment Income 7,322 7,322 8,070

Other Income resources other Income 4,829 4,829 5,400

TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES/INCOME 169,226 11,104 180,330 153,347

RESOURCES EXPENDED/EXPENDITURE

Support for Ministry Parish Share 90,666 4,560 95,226 90,255

Clerics Expenses 5,718 5,718 7,892

Other 465 465 1,502

Parish Activities Maintenance of Services 7,637 7,637 6,600

General Parish Expenses 9,919 9,919 9,073

Church Property Maintenance of Churches 17,644 17,644 17,312

Maintenance of other Property 4,347 4,347 6,536

Exceptional Expenditure -

Grants and Other Mission Parish 21,726 613 22,339 22,620

Financial Support Mission Home/World 575 8,283 8,858 8,844

Other Resources Expended

TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED/EXPENDITURE 150,595 21,558 172,153 170,634

NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS 8,178 -(17,287)

SURPLUS/DEFICIT INCOME EXPENDITURE

Capital gain or loss in investments 13,281 -(8,718)

INCREASE/DECREASE IN TOTAL PARISH ASSETS 21,460 -(26,005)

PARISH OF SKETTY SWANSEA - STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES 31/12/12Parish of Sketty Swansea—Statement of Financial Activities 31-1-12

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF THE PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL (PCC) OF THE PARISH OF SKETTY SWANSEA ON THE

BALANCE SHEETS, INCOME AND EXPENDITURE OF THE PARISH OF SKETTY

I report on the accounts for the year ending 31st December 2012 and which are set out on pages 3-11 inclusive.

Respective responsibilities of PCC trustees and examiner

The Parochial Church Council (PCC) are responsible for the preparation of the accounts. The PCC considers that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed.

It is my responsibility to:

examine the accounts (under section 145 of the 2011 Act);

follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners (under section 145(5)(b) of the Act; and

state whether particular matters have come to my attention.

Basis of independent examiner’s report

My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the Parish and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as members of the PCC concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the accounts present a ‘true and fair view’ and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.

Independent examiner’s statement

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:

1. which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements:

to keep accounting records in accordance with section 130 of the 2011 Act; and

to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements of the 2011 Act have not been met; or

2. to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.

Signed by Independent Examiner

R C PIKE Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy CPFA

March 2013

Parish of Sketty Swansea—Independent Examiner’s Report

Holiday clubs usually run on Tuesday and Thursday during school holidays. I feel it is important to keep some activities running through the holidays as most of our groups only run term time. We run these sessions in St Paul's Parish Centre 10-11.55. Bob Thomas and I run these groups; we have regular help from Jane and Liz and lots of other PCC and church members. The sessions are based around a Christian message or story and we have games and craft suitable for all ages.

This meets on the fourth Thursday of each month in Holy Trinity Church 3.30-6. Vicar Andrew, Alison,

Iris, Claire, Jane, Simon, Maureen, Joyce C and Joyce P, are usually part of it and we have other people who come to it who are happy to help. The church is set up with various activities for people to explore and do. They vary widely including cooking and craft projects all in a Messy sort of way. All the options reflect on our Christian theme of the day. Together we learn this way and in shared worship time at the end. We then all sit down, say the Messy Grace and then the food that the kitchen team have been busy preparing is served. We get to talk together around the tables.

Why do you go to Sunday school? What do you like about Sunday school? What do you do with what you have learnt?

Dear Alison, Here are my answers to your questions: 1. I go to Sunday school because I'm a Christian and because I want to learn more about God. 2. I like Sunday School because it fun, we sing songs, we play games and you make lots of friends. 3. I remember all the things in Sunday school that I learned and I think about it outside Church. I hope these answers are ok for you!

Hannah

I go to Sunday school because I enjoy it and have fun. I love to see church friends when rugby is cancelled! I like learning in a fun way, it isn't just sitting listening but doing as well, and we make things. I like being part of a small group and being confident to ask things, not like in a class at school. I like when the vicar asks questions, and in R.E. in school, that I can answer. I love knowing God is my friend, I can talk to him and look forward to when I’m a grown up to going to church more. I love the songs and prayers and that we can all help choose. It makes me happy not scared to talk to and about God. Thank you for asking what I think! Benjamin

Holiday Club

Messy Church

Sunday School

Bible Reading Fellowship

The choir has had another good year leading the worship at our services. This has included Choral Evensong twice a month. Our membership has remained very stable.

In addition to our regular Sunday services we were privileged once again to spend a happy weekend in July singing the services at Brecon Cathedral. We also sang some special music during the Jubilee Weekend at a Choral Evensong. Bonfire Night on Nov 5th was very successful and we were thankful for excellent weather that persuaded over 900 people to attend!

The Advent & Christmas Carol Services were well attended. A conscious effort was made to make the Christmas Carol Service inspiring for families and not just for adults and we hope we achieved our aim.

We always maintain an active social agenda and we believe that this is important in maintaining a strong team spirit in our quest to lead the worship with inspiration Sunday by Sunday.

Richard Burden

The Bible Reading Fellowship encourages Bible study through its publications and both New Daylight and Guidelines (and in our parish through our two churches) these texts can be ordered and delivered to you.

New Daylight provides daily Bible texts with a comment on each reading seeking to explain the texts and apply them to modern day situations.

Guidelines provides a more scholarly approach to Bible reading in weekly units.

Bible study deepens our faith and helps us find answers to life’s questions and challenges - these publications help us stick to planned and structured study and equip us to share the Good News of Jesus with others.

To order your copy of New Daylight or Guidelines for May 2013 please contact me on 01792 519416 or 07968 231192 or [email protected]. Thanks for the support from all of you at St Pauls and at Holy Trinity over the last year.

Liz Jowett

The Choir

We continue to gather together every Sunday morning to lead the Family Service, and would welcome anyone to join

us. Our vision for the future urges us on, as we continually learn new ‘Songs of Fellowship’ to share with those perhaps new to faith. Our new singer, Julia, joins us at a time when we note that both Ian and Roshan are making plans for their future outside Swansea, and we wish them well. Many songwriters, notably this past year, Matt Redman, have inspired us with familiar Biblical passages which gain an added spiritual dimension when explored through the gift of music. We feel a strength and joy from our communal singing, and are delighted to see that we have some young instrumentalists working on their technical skills before joining us soon. Jill Francis.

Music Group

Page 25

The May meeting was held at All Saints Church Oystermouth in the Lower Schoolroom. Twenty five members were present. The Address for the evening was given by Canon Janet Russell who is the Diocesan Director of Mission. She read a portion of John’s Gospel then gave us questions to discuss with other members around tables then we gave her our answers. It really was very interesting and she did say before she left that she would be doing that sort of meeting again. We then got on with the business side of the evening which did not take long.

In May the Ascension Day service took place in Clyne Gardens. It was a very cold evening but quite a number of people were there and after the service we went into the church and had very nice refreshments.

The November meeting took place in All Souls Church Tycoch to hear all about “The Gathering” which was a meeting held in Aberystwyth and many people went.

The Rev’d Dr Olav Fykse Tveit (General Secretary of the World Council of Churches) spoke about the lack of Justice undermining peace in the European Union and how the Church could be a prophetic voice for peace by making unity visible. We are rethinking what Christian unity is in our time and our way. He shared a picture of a circular lichen growing on a paving stone

which was cracked and split and likened it to the possibility of growing in unity despite the rifts. As Christians in our different churches we are walking together like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, to a place of revelation, and from sadness and despair to solace and transformation. The covenant between the churches could be understood as an action initiated by God…that there is mutual accountability but no need for any church to feel threatened.

For Him this is the dream we carry that time, heart, doors will be open. The world

is too strong for a divided church, making unity visible depends not just on churches working together in service, but also in doctrine.

The day concluded with a celebration of

the new order of Holy Communion

service …an update of one previously

drawn up Archbishop Barry was there for the

Church in Wales and all the bench of

bishops attended the day. Rev Dr Olav

spoke again,

talking about the bread of life being given much mention in the new service . It was

very inclusive and welcoming, sensitive to the language of today and acceptable

liturgy for all covenanted churches. Iris Jones.

Clyne Deanery Conference

The Gathering…

… one church

uniting in Wales?

“The world is too

strong for a

divided church”

Our church services continue to do well especially the Wednesday morning, and our extra service on a Sunday morning (without communion) is going very well.

We didn’t hold a Lent group this year but we did have a Lent lunch which wasn’t as well attended this time. The lunch was prepared by the Seventh Day Adventist ladies it was a shame there weren’t more people present because so much food was left over.

The Hot Cross Bun service had a good number of adults and children and was very interesting. Tea and buns were enjoyed afterwards. The number attending this service is very encouraging, more seem to come each year.

The church was decorated nicely for Harvest and after the Service we served tea and biscuits for every one to have a chat. St. Paul’s choir joined us for both services.

In September Messy Church started and it has taken off

very well .The families come after school and have fun, worship and a meal. Everyone sits down together to eat.

Our Carol Praise service did take place this year and it was a great success. We had several readings the Vicar sang a solo and Alison played the flute. We served tea and mince pies afterwards everyone enjoyed it.

We went to St. Paul’s to see the Nativity play and quite a number of St. Paul’s members joined us on Christmas morning. We had more children present this year and adults so we had to put out extra chairs which was very encouraging. We do have more outside groups using the hall now which is good for us. We are pleased to say that the Seventh Day Adventists are still with us every Saturday. We also have an Indian Christian group using our church on the first Sunday morning of the month they are very pleased to be able to worship in our church.

We thank the clergy for all their help and hard work.

We have tried to make our meetings entertaining and so this year everyone seemed to enjoy our Programme. We began the year with a Quarterly Service and we had a very good talk about the

Leprosy Mission from John White a talk about her life by Revd Sue Knight, Councillor Paul Meara on his musical instruments and a very enjoyable lunch to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee to name but a few.

Unfortunately we don’t seem to attract any younger

members so we carry on as we are because we do enjoy our meetings very much.

I thank all the committee members for their hard work especially the two ladies who make the tea.

.

Iris Jones.

Holy Trinity Holy Trinity Guild

The Beacon

The Beacon is published in six editions: February/March, April/May, June/July, August/September, October/November and December/January at 60p each. The annual subscription has increased from £2.50 to £3 this year and the Beacon can be posted for an inclusive cost of £7. A form was enclosed with the January/February magazine encouraging readers to renew their subscriptions.

I have edited the Beacon since 2004 and have decided to retire. Susan James has kindly agreed to take on this task as from the April/ May 2013 issue.

Reflecting on the diocesan vision and challenge to look to the future with the three headings of gathering, growing and going, I consider that the Beacon goes some way to connect to this.

Gathering. All the news of service times, rotas and group meetings are published in the Beacon.

People express their views and experiences through the articles they write, which are then communicated to those who read them.

Growing. There are many ideas shared in the Beacon, which help people to know more about Christian faith and life’s challenges.

Going. We attempt through distribution of the Beacon to agencies outside the church ( GP surgery, library) to share the Good News.

This is all dependent on the circulation and readership and this might be a consideration for the year ahead.

Thank you to all those who contribute, the proof readers, the printers and collators and also the Sketty Traders who support the Beacon by advertising in it. You have all made my work most enjoyable and I wish Susan James every success in taking the Beacon forward in the new vision.

Pat Steane

Sketty Players’ first production in 2012, was Norman Robbins’ comedy-drama, Tiptoe through the Tombstones, a sequel to A Tomb with a View performed two years earlier, and November saw a successful pantomime, Cinderella, by local author Gillian Drake - a major achievement for a small group. Profits were given to two local charities, the travel fund of The Association for the Welfare of Children in Hospital and Swansea Night Shelter respectively. We are indebted to the Fellowship Group and also to Judith Gilbody for their continued support in helping with the refreshments.

We are a mixed-age group and have recently had five committed teenagers, two of whom have now left Swansea for Higher Education. Meeting in Holy Trinity on Thursday evenings, we extend a warm welcome to anyone over the age of fourteen who has a yearning to tread the boards or help backstage. Elaine Gale

Sketty Players

“The Parish express grateful thanks to Pat Steane for all her dedicated editorship of The Beacon, and welcome Susan James to the role”

The members find the Guild meetings interactive and stimulating. They offer an opportunity to catch up with the latest news. During the year we have had many interesting speakers; A Strawberry Tea and a lunch at Hen Dderwen. The Reverend Clive Williams invited us to his home, where he gave a talk about the organ he had rebuilt and played several pieces of music. This moved us all deeply. The Guild enjoyed afternoon tea with him and appreciated his thoughtfulness in providing the refreshments. At one of our Tuesday meetings the Rev Clive Williams played the Organ at Saint Paul’s Church Sketty; the music was uplifting and enjoyed by all. Clive felt privileged to play this special organ. Guild closed with a Christmas tea plus musical entertainment by a guild member and the curate. The Guild provides a meeting place for Christian fellowship and continues to support the church. Thank you to all members for supporting the Guild.

Barbara Gambold, Chair

A record nine house-groups were on offer in the autumn. With each group having between 8 and 10 members, some 70 to 90 church members were meeting weekly in small groups to study the Bible, to pray together and to grow in friendship. Subjects ranged from “The Apostles Creed” to “St. John’s Gospel”, and from “Christian Life” to “Good and Evil”. The Diocesan three-year “Living Faith” course continued and, most importantly, there was an Alpha course that was well attended by both present church members and several outsiders.

Apart from the autumn programme, at least two groups met throughout term times, whilst many of the remainder also had meetings between New Year and Easter, and often continued for a few weeks after Easter. In Lent there were the ecumenical groups which offered the chance to meet Christians from other churches. The programme for the coming year is much the same; and as always we do encourage everyone to come along and join us. As well as learning more about our faith and praying together, we find that house-groups offer mutual support and provide much fun and friendship. Many thanks must go to those hosts who generously open their homes, and to those who prepare for and lead the house-groups each week. As to the Diocesan Vision, House-groups score highly both for ‘Gathering and Growing’ and hopefully lead on to members ‘Going’. Graham Wattley

Housegroups

Churchwomen’s Guild

Page 23

44th Sketty Church Scouts

The past year at the 44th Sketty Church Scout Group has been successful in many ways. In an average week some 200 or more youngsters and leaders meet in our Hall. Such was the growth of the troop up to last year, In January a second troop was started with Elaine Clarke and David Bould as leaders. An appeal for help with Beavers

resulted in 2 full teams of leaders in the two colonies, three of the volunteers being worshippers at St Paul's. The packs enjoyed their annual pack holidays and the troop winter and summer camps. We have taken part in District and Area competitions and brought home trophies. A highlight of the year was 5 of our Explorer Scouts becoming Queen's Scouts and they were joined by representatives of the Group at Margam Park for H.M. The Queen's visit there. Our cubs and beavers performed “The fourth King” at the Warm and Woolly

service at Christchurch and later at St Paul's. Our Cubs did a wonderful Christmas story play and this was performed in Christchurch and St Paul's. Beck pack cycled for hours on the exercise bikes at Sainsbury's raising hundreds for Sport Relief and were back there with the hand bells at Christmas in aid of the Air Ambulance. They also 'starred' in the Waterfront Museum and at the rather wacky Cultural Olympiad. We thoroughly enjoyed teaching Ellie Simmonds to ring the hand bells when she visited us in December. The highlight of the year is being chosen to appear on BBC’s “Rhod Gilbert's Work Experience,” filmed recently during meetings of beavers and cubs and at a very muddy but enjoyable camp at Silver Cross, Penllergaer. Rhod was sent home exhausted. The show goes out in May this year on BBC Wales and nationwide in the Autumn. It is hoped that it will help to enthuse more people to volunteer to help with the serious business of having fun in our great Movement and reducing the 35,000 waiting list which exists all over the country. As Group Scout Leader I should like to thank members of the Mothers Union for their cream teas at our Summer fete, our well-wishers in St Paul's and Holy Trinity and Rev. Andrew for his patience ,understanding and encouragement in what we are trying to achieve. Carol Fowler Group Scout Leader

The last year has seen an increase in the number of Rainbows – at one point we had a full Unit of 15. It

is lovely that the older ones have gone on to Brownies. One evening in November 11 girls made their promise as Rainbows for the first time which was really thrilling for the Leaders. Unfortunately Sara who joined us as Unit Guider last year has changed her job and cannot manage a Thursday evening so once again we are looking for a Guider. The girls took part in two challenges last year – one for the Queen’s Jubilee, celebrating 60 years of activities and one for the Olympics – which was very interesting. It is lovely to see all the new Rainbows joining in with the fun that we all get from Guiding.

Another hectic year as we celebrated the Queen’s Jubilee and the Olympics/Paralympics. Some girls

were very surprised how difficult it is to do things one-handed or blindfolded. As many of the activities are chosen by the girls themselves the results can sometimes be surprising. We have two new leaders started – one is already a qualified Guider who has moved to the area. We hope we will be able to keep them both. A number of Rainbows have moved up to Brownies and it is lovely watching their continuing development. Just before Christmas the Brownies joined over a hundred other girls on a visit to Santa at the Guide Centre in Parkmill, their faces were worth seeing. We are looking forward to sharing the fun and friendship that is Brownies over the coming year.

This year the Guides completed the Queen’s Jubilee Challenge – one activity from each decade and the Olympic Challenge. This involved three challenges from each of three sections – sport, culture and values. As well as ‘athletic’ abilities they also made ancient Greek pots and tried various activities with a ‘disability’ – try peeling a potato one-handed (just as well we could do that one outside). This challenge culminated in an ‘Olympic Games’ with 2nd Clydach Guides when both Units were staying at the Parkmill Centre. Charlie our new Guider completed her Holiday qualification and is now working towards her Queen’s Guide Award. Also one of ex Young Leaders has come home from university and re-joined us as a Leader. Next year we hope will be quieter and we can concentrate on ‘normal’ guiding. But we look forward to sharing the fun and friendship that means Guiding to so many.

Ann Morgan

Second Sketty Rainbows

Second Sketty Brownies

Second Sketty Guides

Our Mothers Union branch has members from 2 parishes, and is part of a worldwide fellowship of Christians in some 83 countries.

It meets on alternate Tuesday afternoons to hear a speaker/ discuss topics allied to the MU objectives of supporting marriage and family life. Prayer underlies all MU activities, whether in starting meetings, the daily prayer enjoined upon members, deanery Eucharist services and Quiet Times, annual diocesan service, or our annual Wave of Prayer service. We have supported all this, and been glad to sponsor a Patchwork family on a short holiday, give to MU worldwide work and Safe Houses and this year host the deanery festival. We can also report that Sian has been elected a diocesan trustee. The 2013 theme is ‘the seeds we sow’, about growth. We would welcome more new members. Gill Knight

Mothers’ Union

This is an open group for women committed to promoting friendship. We meet on the second Wednesday of each month (except during August) in the Parish Centre at 7.15 for 7.30pm. The meetings consist of a varied programme of speakers, demonstrations, an annual Christmas Lunch at Sketty Hall and usually an outing in the summer.

On 9th January 2013, the twenty fourth AGM was held, followed by a general knowledge quiz. The Officers are Mrs Cynthia Young, Treasurer and Mrs Maureen Amner, Secretary who work together with a further four Committee members.

We are looking forward to this year’s programme a copy of which is displayed on the notice board in the Parish Centre. Visitors and new members are always welcome to any of our meetings. Maureen Amner

Women on Wednesdays

The library has been quiet again this year with only 20 books being borrowed. I have added some new books, including a good number of Christian novels, ideal reads for

when relaxing when on holiday!

On a different topic, if you are a Facebook member we have a St Paul's page. It has proved useful for last minute notices when we had snow. I hope that more people will join us.

Chris Vickery

Library and Facebook page

Last year I updated our Website. I continue to

have enquiries about various issues concerning the parish and we have a large following including people who once lived in our parish. It remains an up to date resource for those seeking information and news. I am grateful to all of you who proof-read and send me information on various organisations, and to our vicar Andrew for his constant support.

I believe our site makes us accessible to many people seeking a place of worship or wanting to know what is going on in our churches. I hope it will encourage some to join us and to grow in their faith. Our web-site does things backwards. We go on the web. We encourage people to grow in their faith by wanting to know more and then we pray that they will gather here as part of our family. Sister Marian, (Webmaster)

In a world where many are seeking a more spiritual dimension to life and looking to other faiths and groups to find it and to develop it, those of us called to the Religious life can gather together those who want to experience this in the Christian context. We can help them to develop their experience of the presence of God in their lives and in the world around us and to grow into a deeper relationship with Him. They can gain that inner silence and peace which helps us to deal with the stresses and problems of everyday life and which they can go and share with others at home, at work and at leisure. I thank our Vicar Andrew and the people of our parish for their support that enables me to continue my vocation and ministry in spite of ill health. Sister Marian.

Website The Religious Life

At the Annual Vestry meeting the Vicar

reappointed Janet Vine and also appointed Eifion Francis as his Wardens. Jane Watkeys was re-elected as People’s Warden and Ken Lewis as Assistant People’s Warden. The Wardens rotate on a rota for the different services so although they do not have continuity at one service it does mean that they see most of the congregation each month. The churchwarden’s role can be described as leadership, labour and love. These we

attempt to achieve to help the clergy in the smooth running of the busy life within St Paul’s Many other people willingly give

their time and energy to undertake a wide variety of jobs without which the church would be the poorer and dirtier, we extend our thanks to them all. Janet Vine

Started back in June 2007 to celebrate a member’s

hundredth birthday, that occasion has not been repeated, breakfast has been served in the Parish Centre on the first Sunday of

Wardens

Breakfast

“The churchwarden’s

role can be described

as leadership, labour

and love.”

Page 21

Fairtrade

Fair trade although it has faithful and regular supporters hasn’t really gathered people together. It is there as a reminder to us of one response to our Christian faith, and to provide a small chance to respond. The stalls once a month in each church, together with some sales to Tycoch and St James’ church generate over £2000 fair trade sales per annum. With more people involved, activity could grow – for example taking it out to the local produce market once a month, with a valuable opportunity both to talk to other than our congregation, and to show that we care about people around the world. Gill Knight

Of the seven walks planned for last year, we managed to complete (and enjoy) five of them which, given the amount of

rain, was quite unexpected. The ‘Walks Programme’ will be much the same for next year except that responsibility for leading the walks will be shared between four leaders. Church walks are very much about the’ Gathering’ aspect of the Diocesan Vision. Graham Wattley

Church Walks

The 2012 Diocesan Conference was much involved with presenting the Diocesan Vision. We began the discussion of Gathering – Growing – Going, since continued in Area meetings with Bishop John, and the Lenten Study course.

The election results announced at Conference included the election of our curate to membership of the Governing Body. (A considerable distinction – I don't know if a curate has ever been elected before! She remains involved, not only as Diocesan Webmaster, but with the Diocesan Vision process.)

The impression that there will be significant changes in the next few years, not least because of decreasing clergy numbers, is one we all need to face and plan for constructively.

Andrew Knight

Diocesan Conference Report

We have twelve members and two extra flower arrangers to help at Festival times. Flowers are arranged weekly at

the Memorial Book and High Altar sometimes with special requests for anniversaries. We did flowers for three weddings and three funerals. We made one hundred posies with the help of Patchwork mums and children for Mothering Sunday. At Easter the champagne flutes were used for the daffodil arrangements. In September we gave a Demonstration to the Patchwork mums, each creating a Harvest basket which they were able to take home. The Harvest Festival floral basket arrangements were delivered to the Home Communion parishioners. In August we visited the Brecon Cathedral Flower Festival and in September we had a Nearly New stall at the Church Fair. At Christmas seven of the Church organisations decorated their window with a three foot tree. In addition members completed the Pillar arrangements. A Social Meeting was held to discuss rotas and new ideas. We would be delighted to welcome new members, training would be given if needed. If you would like to join us, please contact our very competent secretary, Ann Grice.

Pam Brown (Chairperson)

The first 2012 joint ventures of Cytun in Sketty

were the Lent lunches for Christian Aid and the ecumenical house groups. The lunches

were again most successful but there were fewer house group participants. Sketty

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity was moved from January to Pentecost hoping for

better attendance due to better weather. Three services were held but the response

was worse. At the September AGM the secretary retired without a replacement and

there was no new chairperson; so in view of the poor response to most events, it was

sadly agreed to disband Sketty Cytun in the hope that new means would be found to

bring Christians together. Fortunately the ministers still meet, and the Lent lunches and

the Women’s World Day of Prayer continue, while Street Pastors and the Night Shelter

bring different denominations together. We pray that the Holy Spirit will show us the

way forward. Joyce Phillips

[The group that used to GATHER Sketty Churches is taking a rest, the number of participants having reduced significantly. Meanwhile we have been involved with Swansea HOPE (Street Pastors, Night Shelter, Ministers meetings). What will GROW out of this is not clear, but we value our Christian brothers and sisters and will try and stay in touch and GO together on the journey when we can. AJK]

Altar Flower Guild

Churches Together (Cytun)

the month since then.

Although all members of the congregation are welcome, in practice it is mainly the ‘Early Christians’ who take the opportunity to share in this fellowship. We are sometime joined by a few members coming for the family service and we enjoy seeing the children, we remind members that all are welcome. Donations received for the breakfast have been donated to charity, mainly Ty Hafan.

St Paul’s Lunch Club has continued to run weekly

through its fifth year. We have over forty members on our register, made up of

members of St Paul’s and Holy Trinity Churches and people living within the Parish boundary. It gives members the opportunity to meet up each week and the friendships formed with other members and the volunteers helps us all through the good times and the bad. A bonus of course is the sharing of a

nutritious, freshly cooked two course meal. It has been a year for celebrating with the Queen’s Jubilee and the Olympics, plenty of birthdays and of course a Christmas Lunch when we were entertained by young pupils from Craig y Nos School. None of this would be possible without the dedicated, hard working team who tackle everything, with a smile, and within the guidelines of our five star status. Janet Vine

During the year 2012 discussions have been taking place about the removal from the church of the pews from the west and south sides and the provision of a glass porch inside the south door. In December, the PCC asked the Buildings Sub-Committee to ‘accept the lowest tendered architect to develop the scheme.’ The architect was Stephen Waldron Limited, Neath and this process is now proceeding.

On 17th November 2012, two notices appeared in St Paul’s Church giving notice of the intention of the church to present a Faculty Petition and also inviting objections to be sent to the Diocesan registrar within 28 days (i.e. before 15th December 2012).

The maintenance of the grounds has again been carried out by a handful of faithful and loyal volunteers from the church. The lawns have been cut regularly and a number of trees in the grounds have been cut down to make the area lighter and more appealing. In addition, much needed

Lunch Club

Breakfast (continued…)

Buildings and Fabric

help to maintain the churchyard was again received from the Probation Service, who used young people carrying out Community Service Orders.

The cleaning of the church is also carried out by volunteers at little cost. Many thanks must be given to Judith Gilbody for organising the rota and maintaining the essential supplies. However, there is still a need for more volunteers to reduce the workload and replace those who have had to withdraw for one reason or another.

Whilst the Church has voluntary help for maintenance and cleaning, there is minimal cost. However, when this help is reduced, as is likely in the future, it will have to be paid for. The additional cost will add to the church’s future financial commitment. Alan Edwards

Over the last year, increasing use of ICT (Information and Communication Technology) has been made, and requested as a way of enhancing communication of God’s word at times and places other than the 9.30 Service, so we are certainly growing in our use of ICT. Also over the past year, we have seen new faces gathering to use/operate this equipment, including two of our “youngsters” - Holly often operates the projector, and Callum, the Sound-Desk at the 9.30 Service. A camera has been mounted at ceiling-level in Holy Trinity; we have already added a permanent Drop-down Screen in

the Parish Centre, and a new “Head-set” Radio-Microphone in St Paul’s. We also have a second projector. If you have an interest in such things, maybe we can teach you. If you have expertise, maybe you could teach us!

Eifion Francis

Perhaps the most audible declaration of our Christian witness is the sound of the tower bells at St. Paul’s, ringing out before Services every Sunday to call the community to worship, and to remind others that Christians continue to worship here regularly.

The eight bells also ring out on Tuesday evenings, when a wide range of bellringers, from eager students to retired citizens from all walks of life, pass on their skills with patience and enthusiasm. Do get in touch if you would like to have a try. As part of the Diocesan Guild of Bellringers, we can all join together with those from other Parishes as we rotate around the Diocese at monthly practice sessions. This year we have rung bells for a few

Weddings and take every opportunity to

reach out to our community on these

occasions, and hope that those visitors

joining us for special events share our

joyful declaration of God’s love.

Jill Francis

“The cleaning of the church is also carried

out by volunteers at little cost.”

Information Technology

Bellringers

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The Parish Centre hosted approximately 12 Church

Groups, 16 regular groups (such as National Trust; National Osteoporosis Society) and 50 one-off events. These events can be wedding receptions, birthday parties, AGM’s and fund raising activities also the Blood Donor Service. On a number of occasions our regular groups have added in additional bookings and, together with the growing use by Church ad hoc events, the availability of bookable slots is very slim. Those that are available are generally not when potential clients want to hold events. Saturdays and Sundays are still popular for birthday parties of all ages. A number of enquiries for St Paul’s Centre have had to be declined and passed to Holy Trinity as an option. The hours worked by the Centre’s cleaner have been increased to ensure the continued high quality of the Centre. Small maintenance work has been carried out by the goodwill of volunteers. The hire costs of the Centre have not been increased this year and still cover the running costs and its petty cash is managed in line with accounting protocols.

Katrina Guntrip, Administrator

Parish Centre

‘TOTS’ is a Parents and Toddlers Group whose aim is to reach out into the community by providing

opportunities to foster friendship and support for very young children and their parents. The meetings are held during the school term time and they commence at 10.00 am with a short service. This is followed by a time for play, fellowship and refreshments. After a ‘sing-song’ the meetings finish at 11.30 am.

Once again it has been a very successful year with the numbers being between twenty five and forty children each week. As well as helping and supporting those attending meetings, the Group has donated £200 to the Noah’s Ark Appeal; £200 to the Lawrence’s Roundabout Well Appeal and £200 to the Children’s Therapy Centre at Bridgend Hospital.

Our two main celebrations of the year were our twentieth anniversary in April and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee when an enjoyable time was had by all. TOTS is considered to be a valuable means of outreach in the Parish. Thanks go to all the volunteers for their hard work and enthusiasm. We are especially grateful for the work of the team who help with the tables, chairs and equipment.

We are always looking for people to help with the Group. Anyone who might be interested in helping in any way, please contact:-

Carol Davies

Tots on TuesdayS—TOTS

sketty parish annual report 2012

Documents

sketty players susan

parochial church council

parish website sister

vicars warden claire

beacon editor susan

world mission andrew

ar page

west malling kent holy