St John the Evangelist Church, Hook
Annual Report
And
Financial Statement
For the year ended 31st December 2013
St. John’s Church
London Road
Hook
Hants
RG27 9EG
01256 760169
Final Version
office@whitewaterchurches.co.uk
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Page
Final Version
Contents
3
Annual Rector’s Report
5
Annual Church Wardens’ Report
11
Vision 2013 and Vision 2013 Teams
14
Other Groups and Activities
16
Finance Report
19
Independent Examiner’s Report
2
Annual Rector’s Report
One of the most important events in the life of this Diocese (and yes! we are part of the Diocese of Winchester)
was the Diocesan Conference at Swanwick early last autumn. The outcome was four strategic points which will,
please God, enable all of us to become a more Mission focused Church reaching out to all who live in these
parishes and beyond. This is not an entirely new initiative; I remember a similar vision being adopted by the
Diocese of Gloucester entitled Mission and Ministry. One starting point might be to examine our own vocation –
What is God calling me to do? Followed by, Which Ministry will equip us for Mission? ‘Sharing the love of our
Lord Jesus Christ with all whom we meet.’ I firmly believe that all things must be undergirded by prayer…………
Almighty and everlasting God, by whose Spirit the whole body of the Church is governed and sanctified, hear our
prayer which we offer for all your faithful people, that in their vocation and ministry they may serve you in
holiness and truth to the glory of your name; through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, who is alive and reigns
with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
The year 2013 was marked with joys and sorrows as the Parish Families began to prepare for the forthcoming
vacancy commencing in the Spring of 2014. St John’s Church celebrated the seventy-fifth anniversary of the
dedication of the church in 1938. It was a joy to welcome Bishop Tim to preach and celebrate at the Festival
Eucharist in June. Whilst Bishop Tim was with us I asked if he would sign the entrance to the church with the
bishop’s mark of dedication (three crosses to show that the building had received the Trinitarian dedication) –
something that was not recorded on the twentieth of June 1938. On the Feast of Pentecost we welcomed Bishop
John Ellison to conduct a service of Confirmation in Rotherwick Church. The first occasion in living memory that a
Confirmation service had taken place there. Lydia, Penelope, Raymond, Cheryl and Marcus were the candidates
presented for Confirmation. I have thought of Confirmation as being the Ordination of the Laity; to receive the
gift of the Holy Spirit to enable them to live the Gospel of Christ.
It is also a joy to witness members of our Parish Families growing in Faith and seeking God’s will as they share in
the Church’s ministry. The Rev Mary Ashton, who had served her Title here, was appointed as the Incumbent for
the Parish of Onslow Village on the outskirts of Guildford. John Spiers was ordained Deacon and is now serving
his Title in the Parishes of Eversley and Darby Green. It is a great sadness that Margaret Gray was diagnosed with
cancer on her return from holiday in the spring and died during the summer. Shortly after Margaret was licensed
as a Reader I told her that we must always be open to God’s call for I believe that her vocation was to serve God
as a Priest. With my departure just before Lent 2014 the ministry team will have changed significantly. We need
more ministers! Is God calling you to be an accredited Minister in his Church? I will keep those whom I have
encouraged in my prayers. It would be remiss of me not to give thanks to God for the wonderful ministry of The
Open the Book teams who faithfully lead Collective Worship in Whitewater C of E Primary School and Hook
Infants School. Going forward, the burden of maintaining the pattern of services in these parishes will be shared
by Jennifer, Peter and to a lesser extent by Gordon, supported by the Area Dean and visiting Ministers.
I have spoken about the death of dear Margaret, who had the gift of being able to enthuse everyone she met in
worship and social events. I will remember her as a fellow minister of the Gospel, a loyal friend and those
spectacular Burns Suppers in Rotherwick Village Hall. Shortly after Margaret’s funeral we were all stunned by the
tragic deaths of Mark Robertson (our Honorary PCC treasurer) and his close friend, Rupert Beaumont in a
helicopter crash in northern Russia.
Among the faithful members of our Parish Families who died during the year were Frank Fowler (Organist at St
Michael’s Church, Heckfield) Mavis Driscoll (a Sunday School teacher at St John’s for over fifty years) Gillian
Morgan-Brown, Andrew Watson, Eric Ryall, Doris Seymour, Ivy Jarman and Francis Hancock who had celebrated
his one hundredth birthday a few months beforehand. We give thanks to God for their lives and their ministries
that enriched our worship and our own lives.
We pray… Rest eternal grant unto them O Lord, and may light perpetual shine upon them.
Part of the Lent course this year will be focussing on ‘Growing the Church’ or, ‘Doing Mission’. I have long since
advocated that it’s imperative that our Liturgy (the way we do our services) is accessible to all who come to these
churches. We need to constantly review our pattern of services and learn from best practice within the Church of
England. Where we have witnessed growth in recent years has been in All Age Family Praise and Messy Church.
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Recently All Age Holy Communion has been introduced on the third Sunday each month at St John’s. We are still
learning, however, the service has been well received by the majority. During the forthcoming vacancy the
Archdeacon is insistent that the pattern of services is maintained and no changes introduced. During my
Incumbency it has been my policy to maintain existing services and bring in new ways of ‘doing Church’, such as
Messy Church. One of the changes that have occurred in recent years is the growth of our Crib Service on
Christmas Eve. Many people are attending these services as ‘their’ Christmas service. How the church wardens
managed to squeeze well over three hundred and fifty people into St John’s last Christmas Eve is a miracle!
I have always stressed the importance of the opportunity to minister to all who approach our churches for the
Occasional Offices, that is, Holy Baptism, Holy Matrimony and Funerals. It is at these times when we, as
Christians, have the opportunity to share the love of God with them, to make them aware that they are welcome
and we value them sharing in our worship. Many people stay briefly and then move on. Hopefully this coming
Lent we can find ways through mission to hold onto to these families so that they too become members of our
Parish Families. Since being Ordained Deacon at Petertide 1995 I have kept a record of the number of Occasional
Offices I have conducted. Since being collated as the Incumbent of Whitewater Benefice I have officiated at 133
Baptisms, 90 weddings and 159 funerals. Our Churches maintains records of all these people – what an
opportunity for Mission!
In 1972 Michael Ramsey (then the Archbishop of Canterbury) wrote these words to Ordinands that he was going
to ordain the following day………..
It is to a ministry like that of the Lord himself that you are called. The Gospel you preach affects the salvation of
the world, and you may help your people to influence the world’s problems. But you will never be nearer to Christ
than in caring for the one man, the one woman, the one child. His authority will be given to you as you do this,
and his joy will be yours as well.
Each one of us has a God given vocation to serve his Church using the gifts he has given to us, to his praise and to
his glory. Whatever your ministry, accredited minister, church officer, musician, sacristan, teacher, cleaner,
administrator, treasurer, welcome, caterer, maintenance engineer, publisher, pastoral visitor,.. who have I left
out? Whatever you do for your church, you have the authority of God through the gift of the Holy Spirit that you
received at your Baptism and Confirmation.
May your ministries be richly blessed.
With my love and prayers
Peter Quinnell
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Annual Church Wardens’ Report
Statement of Aims
The Parochial Church Council [PCC] is to co-operate with the Ministry in promoting in the parish the whole
mission of the Church, pastoral, evangelical, social and ecumenical.
The PCC meets generally every other month with the Standing Committee and Finance Committee in alternate
months.
Membership
Members of the PCC are either ex-officio or elected by the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) in
accordance with Church Representation Rules.
Following the APCM in April 2013 the membership was made up thus;
Incumbent (Rector)
The Rev’d Peter Quinnell
Curate
The Rev’d Mary Ashton (left parish May 2013)
Church Wardens
Martin Rudd
Sue Steele
Deanery Synod Representatives
David French
[Treasurer]
Jennifer Martin
John Lambert (resigned August 2013)
Elected Members
Kate Blackman
Shirley Clancy
Stephen Davies
Kim Foster
Heather Lambert (resigned August 2013)
Ian Kenny
Carole-Anne Morris
Liz Wilson
[Secretary]
Chrissie Bridson was Diocesan Synod representative until October 2013 when she resigned.
PCC Training & Induction
There is a short induction program for new PCC members.
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Building and Fabric
As Wardens we are part of the ministry of the Whitewater Benefice, we also lead in ensuring that the buildings
and fabric of our wonderful church of St John’s, Hook, is kept in good order. This does take a lot of time and an
ever increasing amount of money.
During 2013 the one major piece of work carried out was the redecoration of the Narthex, kitchen, coffee and
parlour areas as well as the office, toilets and the two stairwells. This has really made the whole place look a lot
brighter and neater. There was also a lot of activity around the outside at the front of the church to make us look
more welcoming and inviting. We had the front hedge trimmed to waist height, the Japanese knot weed taken
out and some old fir trees that were blocking the overall view of the church removed. However, the wind also
played a part, and took down a couple of trees on the right of the pathway into the church, and although
replacements were planted they have still to grow. There were no other major works carried out in 2013.
We finally got the two ‘buzzing’ spot lights in the front of the church sorted out and all seems quiet for the
moment! We will also need to replace some of the ‘chicken wire’ in the tower (a leftover from the previous
Quinquennial Inspection in 2009) to stop the pigeons roosting. For 2014 and beyond we will need to decide
about new notice boards and review our projection equipment.
It would be quite wrong in this report not to mention the immense pressure we are currently experiencing on
our funds at St John’s in keeping the church in the forefront of God’s work in the Parish. Many people perhaps
are not aware that it takes an income of some £355 per week to keep the buildings of our church open, i.e. a
total of £18,500 every year. Please read our Treasurer’s Report later in this review.
The Wardens are very thankful for all the help and support we receive in looking after the fabric of our church. It
is always difficult to single out people who have supported the work needed, but thank you to those who have
helped in keeping the church gardens looking so neat and tidy, the ‘Holy Dusters’ for their work in the church
itself and to Tara Steele, whom although paid, does do a great job as our friendly cleaner.
Our Benefice Office located at St John’s is busier each year and Ruth Scott does a really great job. The combined
Benefice Office has bought with it vastly improved fellowship between the churches in the Benefice. We are also
pleased to see that the St John's Church Centre continues to be used for cross Benefice events, such as the Lent
and Alpha Courses, which in turn brings the Benefice closer together to further God’s work.
As leaders in mission, our thanks must also go to our Ministry Team in the Whitewater Benefice, led by our
Rector, who tirelessly proclaims God’s message to the church families and beyond.
Martin Rudd & Sue Steele - Church Wardens
As this report goes to print, Peter & Jean move to Gloucester and we wish them well.
Committees
The PCC operates through committees which meet between full meetings of the PCC, their deliberations are
received by the full PCC and discussed accordingly.
Standing Committee
This is the only committee required by law. It has the power to transact business of the PCC between meetings,
subject to any directions given by the PCC.
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Finance Committee
This oversees the general financial work of St John’s by monitoring income and expenditure, budgeting,
maintaining appropriate financial controls and co-ordinating a review of Christian stewardship of money,
including planned giving.
Chairman: Treasurer
Mission Committee
This committee supports the mission work of St John’s church including Odiham Deanery and Winchester agreed
mission charities.
Chair: Joyce Baldock
Administrative Information
St John the Evangelist Church is situated on London Road, Hook. It is part of the Diocese of Winchester within the
Church of England and also part of the benefice of Heckfield and Hook with Mattingley and Rotherwick. The
correspondence address is:
The Church Office
St John’s Church
London Road
Hook
RG27 9EG.
The PCC is a charity excepted from registration with the Charity Commission. The PCC is a corporate body
established by the Church of England. The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure.
Church Attendance figures
During 2013, attendance figures for key services and a representative month at St John’s were as follows:
Date
Easter Sunday (March 31st)
October 6th
October 13th
October 20th
October 27th
Christmas
Service
Attendance
Both services
115
Both services
82
10.00am service
34
10.00am service
33
10.00am service
55
Christingle, Crib service, Midnight Mass
607
and Christmas Day 10.00am service
Electoral Roll
The Electoral Roll records the names and addresses of all those who consider their spiritual home to be St John
the Evangelist, Hook. It is revised every year before the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) and a new roll
prepared every six years. 2013 was such a year and as a result a completely new record was created for St John’s.
The Electoral Roll is used for a variety of purposes including parish and diocesan communications, and it also
determines the number of representatives the church has on the Deanery Synod. The PCC appreciates the help
and support that roll members give to St John’s through their prayers, offerings and participation in church life.
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The relevant numbers for St John’s for 2013 and 2014 are as follows:
Composition of Electoral Roll
2014
Number
2013
%
Number
%
Men
Resident in parish
30
30
Resident outside parish
6
6
Sub-total
36
37.1
36
36.4
Women
Resident in parish
54
56
Resident outside parish
7
7
Sub-total
Total
61
62.9
63
63.6
97
100
99
100
Between the 2013 APCM and 2014 APCM, two new names were added to the roll and four names were
removed. During the twelve months two of our roll members – Mrs Glenys Mullins and Mrs Doris Seymour –
sadly passed away. One member requested that their name be removed from the roll and one member left the
parish and ceased to worship at St John’s.
Kim Foster - Electoral Roll Officer
PCC Meetings
May 2013: The first meeting of the new PCC began with a Eucharist followed by the formal PCC meeting.
Appointments within the PCC were confirmed. Claire Abbotts who had accepted the role of Children, Young
People and Families Offer attended the first part of the meeting and discussions included Praise and Play at St
John’s. The progress of planning for the 75th Anniversary of St John’s was discussed. Consideration was given to
introducing a more informal Eucharist service on the third Sunday of the month, and it was decided to trial this.
Following the APCM it was decided to advertise the post of a Deputy Church Warden for St John’s once a job
description and résumé of the duties had been written.
July 2013: The success of Festival 2013, the 75th Anniversary of St John’s church, was discussed and thanks given
to Dee French and her team for organising these events. It was reported that no one had applied for the post of
Deputy Church Warden. David French said he was now part of the Deanery Working Party looking at Parish
Share. The kind donation in memory of Doris Seymour was discussed. Messy Church was mentioned and the
need to recruit additional helpers. The pattern of 10am services at St John’s was finalised:
First Sunday - All Age Non Eucharistic Worship
Second Sunday - Formal Eucharist
Third Sunday - All Age Communion
Fourth Sunday - Formal Eucharist
Fifth Sunday - Benefice Sunday in accordance to the rota with HMR
September 2013: David Wilson had sent round briefing notes to the PCC on behalf of the Communications Team
explaining the research he had done into providers of a new website and invited the members of both Hook and
HMR PCC’s to a presentation evening demonstrating the new website and the work that he and Anna Shergold
had done. After consultation it had been decided to purchase a new copy of the Gospel Book for use in the
Church and a Bible for use in the Lady Chapel with the donation in memory of Doris Seymour. It was agreed to
call an Additional Parish Meeting to clarify the position of length of service of a Church Warden and the
recommendation for continuity during the forthcoming vacancy. The need to get the church lights fixed was
highlighted and the plans to get some parts of the church building redecorated.
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November 2013: Decorating of the Narthex, two staircases, kitchen and toilets was now complete and there had
been many positive comments. It was agreed to purchase new chairs for the Parish Hall. The Communications
Team reported the success of the open night regarding the proposed new website and it was decided to go
utilise Church Edit and Mail Chimp, aiming to go live at the beginning of December. It will be a Benefice website
and a representative from HMR joined the Communications Team. The recent break in at St John’s was discussed
and quotes for repairs to the doors and door furniture were submitted. A proposal to form a new Benefice
Worship Group was put forward to organise Benefice services during the vacancy. David presented the draft
budget showing a shortfall due to giving going down and expenses, particularly utilities, going up.
January 2014: Parish Hall chairs have been ordered and the playgroup is purchasing some new children’s chairs
for the hall. The financial situation is now getting critical and so all spending over £25 needs approval.
Preparations for vacancy were discussed, the Rectory will be let and in February there will be a joint PCC meeting
with HMR led by the Archdeacon. There was an update on the Benefice Worship Group and the impact on
services and who would cover. The plans for a Benefice Service on 2nd March were agreed, to be followed by
lunch as this will be Peter’s last service. Fundraising was mentioned and the success of Hook Christmas Cracker
and ideas for future fundraising projects discussed.
February 2014: Extraordinary Meeting of Joint PCC’s of HMR and Hook - this meeting was convened so the
Archdeacon of Winchester the Ven. Michael Harley could address both PCC’s with regard to arrangements during
the forthcoming vacancy. There was an explanation of the vacancy and who would cover. Then the appointment
process was explained, firstly the need for a Benefice Profile and role description which would be led by a
committee of a chairman and two representatives from each PCC. Then, when the Benefice Profile is complete,
another meeting with the Archdeacon and both PCC’s will set up the Appointment Panel with two
representatives from each PCC. The whole process will take approximately eight months. A second meeting was
held after the Archdeacon retired to appoint a chairman for the Benefice Profile Team. Richard Blackmore was
proposed and he accepted this position.
February 2014: An extra PCC meeting was convened instead of Standing Committee to discuss the joint PCC
meeting with the Archdeacon and appoint the two Hook parish representatives to the Benefice Profile Group.
Sue Steele and Brigitte Maynes were selected and both have accepted the position. It was agreed to a
Suspension of Presentation for a period of five years. It was also agreed to update the benefice website with
photographs of recent events and pictures of the Church Officers.
March 2014: Meeting not held at time of going to press.
Liz Wilson - PCC Secretary
Deanery Synod Report
During 2013 St John’s Church was represented at Deanery Synod by Jennifer Martin, David French and John
Lambert (resigned August 2013).
The Deanery Synod is a diverse partnership of Anglican Christians in the Odiham Deanery working together
where
 Every member aims to be a growing Christian
 Bringing others to God
 A growing and inviting community
 Transforming own neighbourhood
In the Diocese of Winchester there has been a concerted move over recent years to give more responsibility to
Deanery Synods. Two of the most significant functions that deaneries are now tasked with are developing and
maintaining Deanery Pastoral and Mission Plans and agreeing the allocation of Parish Share.
Meetings in 2013 have been interesting and varied, the agenda for each meeting is set by a Standing Committee
made up of representatives from several churches.
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Main items covered this year have been:
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Messy Church presentation, several churches in the deanery are undertaking this work
The work of Christian Aid
Finance - where the Parish Share goes
Mission - which Missions are supported by churches
The Diocesan Conference
Open the Book and the work of the Mothers Union both nationally and Internationally
For 2014 the expectation will be looking at the Deanery Pastoral Plans and continuing to fulfil the aims.
Jennifer Martin - Deanery Synod Representative
The Ministry Team
The Ministry Team in 2013 for the Whitewater Benefice consisted of: the Revd Peter Quinnell Rector (Full Time
and has a stipend), the Revd Peter Hewlett Smith (Non Stipendiary priest), Gordon Crowder (Reader Emeritus),
Jennifer Martin (Licensed Reader) and Jonathan Bushman (Reader - Living and working abroad). We give thanks
for the life and Ministry of Margaret Gray who died in the summer, her passing is a great loss to the benefice.
A Priest is called to ‘lead God's people in the offering of praise and the proclamation of the gospel’. They share
with the Bishop in the oversight of the Church, delighting in its beauty and rejoicing in its well-being. They are to
set the example of the Good Shepherd always before them as the pattern of their calling. With the Bishop they
are to sustain the community of the faithful by the ministry of word and sacrament, that we all may grow into
the fullness of Christ and be a living sacrifice acceptable to God.
A Reader may do many things but the most common are those associated with their calling; preach at church
services, lead worship, assist at Holy Communion, conduct funerals, teach in groups, lead or enable Sunday
School, Bible Study and confirmation classes, and undertake Baptism preparation. They may also visit people at
home and in hospital, and administer communion to them, use gifts of organisation and administration in the
church and community, explore the meaning of the gospel for everyday life, at home, at work and in the
community, work collaboratively and imaginatively with clergy and other colleagues in ministry to build the
church and finally, to identify and encourage the ministry of others.
These roles and responsibilities have been undertaken during this year by all of the Ministry Team.
For 2014 we will be in a vacancy and Peter Hewlett- Smith, Gordon and Jennifer will endeavour to maintain all
that we are asked to do and to; live out our calling and to pray for others as well as ourselves.
Jennifer Martin - Reader
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Vision 2013 and the Vision 2013 Teams
In May 2012 we had a difficult discussion as the setting of the 2012 Budget was very challenging. The PCC
endorsed a plan – Vision 2013, to find out what we really liked about our church and what opportunities there
were to improve, which would help us create a real plan and budget for 2013. The result was this Vision:
GOD LED
INCLUSIVE
LOVING
ACTIVE
We welcome, accept and value
everyone unconditionally. We
are accessible, transparent and
clear.
We are serving God, each other
and our community. We
nurture through forgiveness,
listening and trust.
We are a vibrant church,
reaching out to raise awareness
and increase understanding.
The plans were approved at the first PCC meeting in 2013 and Vision 2013 is now a reality. The Teams are as
follows:
Children, Youth and Family Ministry
The main aim of the team is to encourage more children, young people and families into our Church family.
Sue Steele
Communication
A group was set up following Vision 13 to help us improve the way we communicate across the church.
One of the first things that was introduced was a new internal notice board to catch your eye as you enter
church, followed quickly by a new external sign showing any passing visitors when our services are.
The largest project undertaken was a benefice-wide initiative, rather than just St John’s, and involved widening
the membership of this group to include our brothers and sisters in HMR. This initiative was to enhance the
benefice website, making it more informative and lively, as well as increasing the functionality. We are now
averaging over 25,000 web page viewings per month. We wanted to make things easy to distribute via mailing
lists, with the first being the weekly pew sheet. We now have over 70 people receiving the weekly pew sheet in
this manner, which helps us to reduce our costs. We now hope to roll out a Prayer Diary, in a similar manner, for
those who are interested.
If you have not visited the website, we encourage you all not only to visit, but also to contribute. If you feel you
have an interesting article, photographs or other possible contribution, please let any member of the
Communication Group know.
David French
Fabric
See Church Wardens Report for details.
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Fellowship
The purpose of Fellowship is to build up the Church. “Fellowship” is groups of people with a common interest,
carrying out God’s purpose. Our Parish’s Fellowship meetings include elements of socialising, prayer, pastoral
support for each other, learning, and study and faith development.
Existing groups include Living Flame Wednesday and Thursday evenings, Saturday morning Bible group, Tuesday
afternoon Ecumenical Bible Study Group, Geffery’s House Bible study and Alpha. The groups have an established
participants and also make new comers welcome. Themes discussed examine how biblical teaching applies in
our parish and our lives today.
Looking ahead to the next year, the Fellowship Vision includes supporting the establishment of new small groups
that support the needs of the members of our church, as and when they arise. The Fellowships groups will
continue to be involved with organising social and fund raising activities.
Nikki Wild
Festival 2013
A small committee was formed in July 2012 to plan and organise a series of events to mark the St John’s Church
75th anniversary festival. This festival was to take place between 20th June and 24th June 2013. We met monthly
in the church hall to plan the events.
The events that resulted were an open air Songs of Praise held in Hartletts Park, a beautiful flower display which
filled the church with a riot of colour and scent, at the same time there was a display in the church hall of photos
of the church events over the last 75 years. We held two tree plantings one with the dignitaries of Hook and one
with the children of our local schools, a BBQ for the Benefice church family at which a local youth band called
The Trap played and many sang along. We celebrated with a Festival Eucharist attended by the Bishop of
Winchester and a bring and share lunch afterwards.
In the end very many people helped to make this the success that it was. We look forward to the next one, but
we will have to wait for another 25 years!
Dee French
Finance
As part of Vision 2013 a new Finance Committee was established and a budget proposed to the PCC.
The principal function of the Finance Committee is to manage the financial affairs of the church, including the
preparation of accounts and budgets.
The terms of reference are as follows:
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
To manage the day to day financial affairs of the church, including the preparation of accounts and
budgets.
To ensure proper stewardship of finance.
To review ways of promoting regular giving and Gift Aid.
To consider longer term financial commitments, as directed by the PCC, and how to arrange financing of
these projects if required.
To ensure compliance with all applicable law and regulations relating to finance matters.
The committee works in conjunction with all other Committees and Mission Teams formed under Vision 2013
and reports to PCC.
David French
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Outreach
The aim is linked to the Vision statement: To be a welcoming, loving and inclusive Church
There has been outreach carried out by many people, this has been through Ministry in the Hook schools with
Collective Worship in the Junior School, and Open the Book in the Infant School. Open the book is also carried
out in the Whitewater School with people from the benefice taking part.
The main ministry of outreach was the 75th Anniversary of St John’s with the flower festival. People came from
far and near to see the flowers and exhibitions.
A large part of outreach is the Coffee Shop, there is a group of people who meet and spend a couple of hours
socialising, and this is a very valuable ministry carried out by Shirley Clancy and her team of volunteers.
Praise & Play was started, and was proving successful, but due to unforeseen circumstances the sessions had to
be postponed, a new leader is required to take this forward.
Hook Infant and Junior Schools held their Christmas nativity and Carol Services in the church.
The Annual Service for Remembrance was held and this year saw a larger congregation. The Crib service, despite
the appalling weather, saw a packed church and attendance was higher on Christmas Day too.
Messy Church is also a valued ministry which continues to grow.
The All age Communion Service commenced in 2013 and this is enjoyed by many, attendance is increasing. The
All Age Service on the first Sunday is valued by many and continues to grow.
The aim for 2014 is to sustain the valuable work being carried out and to grow new disciples. We will use the
Winchester Diocesan Lent Course as a model to grow God’s Kingdom.
We pray that we will continue to develop our outreach during the vacancy.
Jennifer Martin
Mission
The Missions Group was set up to outline the mission work of Winchester Diocese and Odiham Deanery. The
group meets approximately every 6-8 weeks, usually on a Monday evening.
The group has continued its support for several charities and organisations. The group were allocated the sum of
£1,000 (equal to around 2% of general income) to distribute between charities of their recommendation and, for
2013 were as follows: Q1 – Children’s Society; Q2 – Burma; Q3 – RITE (Rwanda); Q4 – St Michael’s Hospice. It is
hoped that, for 2014, this will be increased to 3% of general income.
In addition, the group focuses on various charities and organisations each month – during 2013 this has included
the Children’s Society, Hart Foodbank, Royal British Legion, Urban Saints, Marie Curie, St Michael’s Hospice,
Winston’s Wish, RNLI, Naomi House, RITE (Rwanda), Burma, and several others. 2014 will include St John’s Lunch
Club, St Michael’s At Home, Christian Aid, May Place, Rose Road, RITE (Rwanda) and Burma.
We are in the process of implementing a Prayer Chain during 2014. This is currently in its early stages.
We have strengthened our links with Hart Foodbank and some of our St John’s members now work there on a
voluntary basis.
Joyce Baldock
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Other Groups and Activities
Messy Church
Messy Church is a new way of creating church for people of all ages which has now reached right across the
globe. The principles of Messy are based around hospitality, sharing and learning together as a church family.
Here in this benefice we meet once a month on a Friday after school, our congregation is made up of children
aged 0 to 11 years with their parents, child minder or grandparent. Our helpers range across three generations
so no-one is too old or too young to be a Messy Christian!
In 2013 we learnt about Joshua and Jonah, we celebrated Easter, Pentecost and Christmas and studied the great
"I am..." sayings of Jesus.
In 2014 we will continue to meet each month, this year our focus will be on the stories and teachings of Jesus.
Ruth Scott
St John’s Ecumenical Bible Study Group
This is the longest running group within St John’s and the benefice and it is ecumenical. Until recently we met at
St John’s, Hook, but now meet on Tuesday afternoons from 2.30-4.00pm in the church Hall of Sacred Heart
Church. The group is open to all. The group has been running under several different leaders for approximately
fifteen years.
The aim of the group is:
 To study the bible to enlighten our understanding of God’s word and impart and share this
understanding with others.
 To put into practice the Teachings of Christ into our Daily lives, and to enjoy friendship and prayer with
each other.
During 2013 we studied the Gospel of St Matthew, learned about several significant women in the Bible, and
studied the prophet Amos. In Advent we held a two week session on Jesus the Light of the World. We have
termly socials.
In 2014 we have planned a one off session on forgiveness, studying the parables of Jesus and comparing these
with other Gospel writers, and two sessions on prayer and fasting. There will be other themes and Books of the
Bible studied.
For the future we pray that God will guide and lead us to grow in faith and in numbers.
Jennifer Martin
St John’s Lunch Club
The St John’s Lunch Club is now well into its second decade and is still flourishing due to the excellent home
cooking skill provided by the kind volunteers, who each month produce mouth-watering classic favourite dishes.
Our lunches are held on the second Tuesday of each month, and for special occasions, at 12.30pm in St John’s
Narthex. Entertainment is also provided. The cost is only £4 and we are always pleased to welcome new diners to
our lunches. Please book in advance.
Kate Blackman
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Living Flame
There are two Living Flame groups, both meeting twice a month, one group on a Wednesday the other Thursday.
Thursday Group Living Flame usually meets at St John’s with the occasional foray to someone’s living room. We
aim to improve our knowledge of the Bible whilst enjoying the fellowship of others with a hot drink and of course
biscuits.
In the last year we have studied a variety of courses or had one- off evenings as the mood takes us. We have
also had film nights. Recently we have been studying the Bible readings from the previous Sunday service.
We have also undertaken group activities such as painting the parlour and more recently helping with organising
of the church’s contribution to the Hook Christmas Cracker. At Christmas we visited a local pub for a festive
evening which we all enjoyed.
Carol-Anne Morris
Coffee Shop
Open each weekday morning, St John's Coffee Shop continues to be a very good outreach facility for local folks
and those passing through, enabling them to enjoy some free time and refreshments in a comfortable
environment, we also have a children's play area, giving parents/carers the opportunity for a chat with activities
for their little ones. We offer a selection of hot and cold drinks and snacks, and, thanks to kind volunteers,
delicious home-made cakes are regularly available.
The Coffee Shop runs with a rota of much appreciated volunteer helpers, and there is always room for more to
join us.
Later this year, it is hoped to enhance our space with new carpet and new chairs, replacing the well-worn, much
loved ones used for many years.
Everyone is welcome, please come and join us sometime.
Shirley Clancy
Approved by the Parochial Church Council and signed on its behalf by Martin Rudd
Signed: ……………………………………………………………………………
Final Version
15
Date: 12 March 2014
Finance Report
Annual Financial Report
The statutory accounts for 2013 have been distributed this year as a separate document. The following is a
report from the Treasurer for the year highlighting the key points.
Income – Where our Money Comes From
In 2013 our total income was £6,280 less than 2012.
Voluntary income was down by £4,035.
Two thirds of our income came from donations from
our congregation or visitors.
74% of our planned income comes from 41 regular
givers through a variety of schemes, e.g. Standing
Order, in 2012 it was 85% from fewer contributors.
179 individuals gave us tax recoverable gifts.
However following the introduction of the Gift Aid
Small Donation Scheme by the HMRC we were able
to recover an additional £753 from gifts placed in the Collection Plate.
22% of our income was raised by renting out the church or hall for various activities.
The remainder of our income consists of fees payable to the church for Weddings and Funerals, the gross income
from the Coffee Shop and Lunch and general fund raising.
So Where Does Our Money Go?
Our main expenditure was our payment of Parish Share to Winchester. In 2013 the Deanery recognising our
financial position requested a reduced contribution of £44,775 [£51,731 in 2012] in Parish Share, which we met.
This is 53% of our total expenditure; however it amounts to 68% of our General Income during 2013. Parish
Share paid by our Benefice exceeds the level of actual costs and includes a significant contribution which helps
the Diocese support parishes which cannot meet their actual costs.
How Much Does it Cost To Run Our Church?
Final Version
16
In 2013 it cost £18,495 in running costs to keep the church open and functioning. This is equivalent to £355.67 a
week just for the buildings.
Having delayed maintenance in 2012 the major cost incurred in 2013 was the cost of re-decoration of the
Narthex areas. A small reserve is being built up in order to provide for planned future maintenance.
Summary – What Does All This Mean?
Over the last 3 years our income levels have fallen by 7.8% whilst we have only managed to reduce our costs by
2.8% and the deficit in 2013 represented 21.8% of our total expenditure.
This meant that the total available resources, including investment funds, fell from £36,228 to £20,457 during
2013.
The PCC recommend that we maintain a cash reserve equivalent of two months expenditure which equates to
£14,134, this leaves us a mere £6,323 available for emergency use.
2014 will be a challenging year. Whilst we hoped that Vision 13 would revitalise our church we are now faced
with the stark choice of either growing income or reducing expenditure or running out of money.
Final Version
17
Finance Review
2013 was a challenging year, for whilst we came together with our Vision, our income declined during the year
and we finished the year with a significant deficit position between Income and Expenditure.
Total receipts on ordinary unrestricted funds were £64,999 being a 5% decline on the prior year with expenditure
of £82,945 which was spent in providing the ministry of the church representing an increase of 6.9% against the
previous year. The net result was a deficit of £18,644 which was met from reserves.
The decline in income is a reflection of the reduced numbers attending regular Sunday worship and the general
economic conditions. These are unlikely to change for the better during 2014 as we are facing a vacancy
following the retirement of the Revd Peter Quinnell in March 2014.
In 2013 Parish Share of £44,775 was paid to Winchester, being a 13.4% decrease on the amount paid in previous
years. Parish Share provides the major part of the stipends and housing for the clergy. This was equal to 54% of
all expenditure, and 68.9% of the total general income we received.
At the end of December 2013 the PCC continues to hold monies in the CBF Church of England Investment Fund
(£7,074) and the CBF Church of England Reserve Fund (£8,996), the remainder of church funds being held in the
bank account maintained by the Cooperative Bank.
The general outlook for 2014 continues to be challenging with little expectation of economic growth. The
vacancy will make growth challenging but this is accepted as a priority by the PCC and Finance committees in
order to attract increased numbers and subsequently an increase in giving.
David French - Treasurer
17th January 2014
PCC Approval to Accounts
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006
together with applicable accounting standards and the SORP 2005.
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the valuation of the
investment assets, which are shown at market value. The financial statements include all transactions, assets and
liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe
their main affiliation to another body, nor those that are informal gatherings of church members.
Approved by the Parochial Church Council on 12th March 2013 and signed on its behalf by Martin Rudd.
Signed: ……………………………………………………………………………
Final Version
18
Date: 12 March 2014
Independent examiner’s report to the PCC of St John The Evangelist, Hook, Hants.
For the year ended 31 December 2013
This report on the financial statements of the PCC for the year ended 31 December 2013, which are set out on
pages 1 and 2, is in respect of an examination carried out in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations
2006 (‘the Regulations’) and s.43 of the Charities Act 1993 (‘the Act’).
Respective responsibilities of the PCC and the examiner
As members of the PCC you are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements; you consider that the
audit requirement of the Regulations and s.43(2) of the Act does not apply. It is my responsibility to issue this
report on those financial statements in accordance with the terms of the Regulations.
Basis of this report
My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission
under s.43(7)(b) of the Act and to be found in the Church guidance, 2006 edition. That examination includes a
review of the accounting records kept by the PCC and a comparison of the accounts with those records. It also
includes considering any unusual items or disclosures in the financial statements and seeking explanations from
you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that
would be required in an audit, and consequently I do not express an audit opinion on the view given by the
accounts.
Independent examiner’s statement
In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:
(1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements
 to keep accounting records in accordance with section 41 of the Act; and
 to prepare financial statements, which accord with the accounting records and comply with the
requirements of the Act and the Regulations 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: ……………………………………………………………………………
Cranleys Chartered Accountants
Winton House, Winton Square, Basingstoke, Hants, RG21 8EN.
Final Version
19
Date: 12th March 2014
Parochial Church Council of St John’s Hook
Statement of Financial Activities
For the Year Ending 31st December 2013
Note
INCOMING RESOURCES
Voluntary Income
2(a)
Activities for
2(b)
generating funds
Investment Income
2(c)
Church activities
2(d)
Other incoming
2(e)
resources
TOTAL INCOMING
RESOURCES
RESOURCES EXPENDED
Cost of generation
3(b)
voluntary income
Church activities
3(a)
Governance costs
3(c)
Other resources
TOTAL RESOURCES
EXPENDED
NET INCOMING
RESOURCES BEFORE
OTHER RECOGNIZED
GAINS & LOSSES
TRANSFERS
Gross transfers
between funds
Gains on
investments
NET MOVEMENT IN
FUNDS
BAL B/F 1 JANUARY
BAL C/F 31 DECEMBER
Final Version
Unrestricted
Funds
£
Restricted
Funds
£
Endowment
Funds
£
42,903
5,378
417
0
0
0
43,320
5,378
47,027
5,739
402
16,316
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
402
16,316
0
538
18,307
350
64,999
417
0
65,416
71,961
129
0
0
129
116
82,021
795
0
0
0
82,380
795
1,500
84,804
82,738
813
82,945
359
0
1,500
1,859
83,667
(17,946)
(1,441)
0
(19,388)
(11,706)
0
0
0
0
0
743
0
0
743
568
(17,203)
(1,441)
0
(18,644)
(11,138)
36,530
19,327
8,700
7,259
0
0
45,230
26,586
56,368
45,230
20
Total Funds
2013
2012
£
£
Parochial Church Council of St John’s Hook
Balance Sheet
For the Year Ending 31st December 2013
Notes
FIXED ASSETS
Organ
CBF Investment
CURRENT ASSETS
Bank Account : Coop
Bank Account : Lloyds
CBF Deposit Account
Accrued income
Prepayments
Cash in hand
LIABILITIES
Accruals
Agency collections
As at
31/12/2013
As at
31/12/2012
Total Fixed Assets
6,200
7,074
13,274
7,700
6,330
14,030
Total Current Assets
4,377
0
8,996
1,140
0
100
14,612
3,535
0
25,995
732
968
365
31,597
Total Liabilities
1,301
0
1,301
299
98
397
Net Asset Surplus
26,586
45,230
5(a)
5(b)
6
6
7
7
Represented by Funds
Note
Unrestricted
Designated
Restricted
8
Endowment
Total
The notes on pages 6 to 12 form part of these accounts
Final Version
21
16,225
3,072
7,259
0
26,586
36,617
1,265
7,348
0
45,230
Notes to the Financial Statements
For the year ending 31 December 2013
1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006
together with applicable accounting standards and the Charities SORP 2005.
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for the valuation of
investment assets, which are shown at market value. The financial statements include all transactions, assets and
liabilities for which the PCC is responsible in law. They do not include the accounts of church groups that owe
their main affiliation to another body, nor those that are informal gatherings of church members.
Funds
General funds represent the funds of the PCC that are not subject to any restrictions regarding their use and are
available for application on the general purposes of the PCC. Funds designated for a particular purpose by the
PCC are also unrestricted.
Restricted funds are those funds that must be spent on restricted purposes and details of the funds held and
restrictions are provided in note 8.
Incoming Resources
Voluntary income and capital sources
Collections are recognized when received by or on behalf of the PCC.
Planned giving receivable under Gift Aid is recognized only when received. Tax recoverable on Gift Aid donations
is recognized when the donation is recognized.
Grants and legacies to the PCC are accounted for as soon as the PCC is notified of its legal entitlement, the
amount due is quantifiable and its ultimate receipt by the PCC is reasonably certain.
Funds raised by the fête, garden party and similar events are accounted for gross.
Sales of books and magazines from the church bookstall are accounted for gross.
Other income
Rental income from the letting of church premises is recognized when the rental is due.
Income from investments
Dividends are accounted for when due and payable, and interest entitlements are accounted for as they accrue.
Tax recoverable on such income is recognized in the same accounting year.
Gains and losses on investments
Realized gains or losses are recognized when investments are sold.
Unrealized gains or losses are accounted for on revaluation of investments at 31 December.
Final Version
22
Resources used
Grants & Donations
Grants and donations are accounted for when paid over, or when awarded, if that award creates a binding
obligation on the PCC. Amounts received specifically for Mission are dealt with as restricted funds. All other
expenditure is generally recognised when it is incurred and accounted for gross.
Activities directly relating to the work of the Church
The diocesan parish share is accounted for when due. Any parish share unpaid at 31 December is provided for in
these financial statements as an operational (though not a legal) liability and is shown as a creditor in the balance
sheet.
Fixed assets
Consecrated property and movable church furnishings
Consecrated and beneficed property of any kind is excluded from the financial statements by s.96(2)(a) of the
Charities Act 1993.
Movable church furnishings held by the vicar and churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a
faculty for disposal are accounted for as inalienable property unless consecrated. They are listed in the Church’s
inventory, which can be inspected (at any reasonable time). For inalienable property acquired prior to (2000)
there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the financial
statements. Items acquired since 1 January (2000) have been capitalized and depreciated in the financial
statements over their currently anticipated useful economic life (initially over 15 years) on a straight-line basis.
All expenditure incurred in the year on consecrated or beneficed buildings, individual items under (£3,000) or on
the repair of movable church furnishings acquired before 1 January (2000) is written off.
Other fixtures, fittings and office equipment
Equipment used within the church premises is depreciated on a straight-line basis over four years. Individual
items of equipment with a purchase price of £3,000 or less are written off when the asset is acquired.
Investments
Investments are valued at market value at 31 December.
Current assets
Amounts owing to the PCC at 31 December in respect of fees, rents or other income are shown as debtors less
provision for amounts that may prove uncollectable.
Short-term deposits include cash held on deposit either with the CBF Church of England Funds or at the bank.
Final Version
23
2. INCOMING RESOURCES
2(a)
Voluntary Income
Planned Giving
Tax recoverable
Tax - GASDS
Collections (Open
Plate)
Donations, appeals
Donations for flowers
Donations for
candles
Sub Totals
2(b) Activities for
generating funds
Fundraising
Lunch Club
Coffee Shop
Courses
Messy Church
Bookstall
Alpha
Other events
Sub Totals
Unrestricted Restricted
Endowment
£
£
£
0
28,385
6,889
753
5,854
29,011
7,408
0
4,083
0
0
0
0
0
0
1,155
0
284
5,743
315
467
42,903
417
0
43,320
47,027
1,052
1,375
1,916
210
0
130
387
308
5,378
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1,052
1,375
1,916
210
0
130
387
308
5,378
937
1,495
1,942
521
589
164
0
91
5,739
402
0
0
402
538
402
0
0
402
538
2(d) Income from church
activities
Church lettings
Fees
Sub Totals
13,470
2,846
16,316
0
0
0
0
0
0
13,470
2,846
16,316
16,099
2,208
18,307
2(e) Other income
Insurance claim
Other income
Sub Totals
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
350
0
350
64,999
417
0
65,416
71,961
2(c)
Income from
Investments
Dividends and
interest including tax
recoverable
Sub Totals
Total Income
Final Version
28,315
6,889
753
5,507
70
0
0
0
347
1,155
0
284
Total Funds
2013
2012
£
£
24
3. RESOURCES EXPENDED
3(a)
Unrestricted Restricted
Endowment
£
£
£
Church Activities
Missionary & charitable giving
Overseas
RITE
250
Burma
250
Home
Ascension Trust
0
St Michaels Hospice
250
Royal British Legion
238
Children’s Society
369
Others
79
Sub Totals
1,436
Total Funds
2013
2012
£
£
0
0
0
0
250
250
250
250
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
250
238
369
79
1,436
250
250
271
0
0
1,271
44,775
0
0
44,775
51,731
4,332
2,342
21,445
359
0
0
0
0
0
4691
2,342
21,445
5,862
5,430
11,576
Ministry
Diocesan Parish
Share
Other ministry costs
Music costs
Church running &
maintenance
Administration
Lunch Club & Coffee
Shop
Festival 13
Others
Depreciation
Bank charges
Sub Totals
3,751
1,381
0
0
0
0
3,751
1,381
3,192
1,366
1,674
885
0
0
80,585
0
1500
0
1,859
0
0
0
1,674
885
1500
0
82444
0
998
1,304
8
81,467
3(b)
Fund Raising costs
Sub Totals
129
129
0
0
0
129
129
116
116
3(c)
Governance Costs
I Examination
Licences
Sub Totals
330
465
795
0
0
0
0
0
0
330
465
795
324
489
813
Total Expenditure
82,945
1,859
0
84,804
83,667
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25
4. SELF EMPLOYED WORKERS
Services Provided
Services Provided
Totals
Unrestricted Restricted
Endowment
£
£
£
5,503
5,503
0
0
Total Funds
2013
2012
£
£
0
0
0
0
5,260
5,260
The PCC does not have any employees.
The services of a Musical Director, Administrator and Cleaner were provided to the PCC by workers on a selfemployed basis.
Together these workers equate to less than one full time employee.
No payments were made to any PCC member, persons closely connected to them or related parties.
5. FIXED ASSETS
(a) Tangible
(all restricted)
Organ
Total
Actual / Deemed Cost
At 1/1/2013
Additions
Disposals
At 31/12/2013
22,080
22,080
22,080
22,080
Depreciation
At 1/1/2013
Charge for year
At 31/12/2013
14,380
1,500
15,880
14,380
1,500
15,880
Net Value
At 1/1/2013
At 31/12/2013
7,700
6,200
7,700
6,200
(b) Investments
(all unrestricted)
£
Market value at 1/1/2013
Revaluation gain
Market value at 31/12/2013
Final Version
6,331
743
7,074
26
6. DEBTORS (UNRESTRICTED FUNDS)
Tax Recoverable
Prepayments
Debtors
Total
2013
£
2012
£
0
0
1140
1,140
732
968
0
1,700
Debtors are outstanding invoices for Hall or Church hire and the contribution from HMR in respect of shared
clergy costs..
7. LIABILITIES
Amounts falling due within one year
2013
£
2012
£
Accruals for utility costs (Unrestricted)
Accruals for Mission Payment RBL
Other debtors (Agency Collections – Restricted)
Accrual re purchase of new hall chairs
Total
727
0
0
574
1,301
45
254
98
0
397
8. FUNDS
The restricted funds at the 31/12/13 comprise the Organ Fund. & a Specific Restricted Collections
[Rev’d Howe / Doris Seymour] that are restricted in their use.
Fund Movements
Restricted Collections
Organ
0
1,000
418
359
1,059
7,700
0
0
1,500
6,200
Balance as at 1/1/13
Transfer post y/end
Incoming resources
Resources expended
Balance as at 31/12/2012
In addition restricted funds are held in respect of Agency Collections where money has been collected on behalf
of another party. The total held stands at £0[as at 31/12/2012- £98].
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9. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BY FUND
Tangible Fixed Assets
Investment Fixed
Assets
Current Assets
Designated Fabric
Fund
Liabilities
Total
Unrestricted
funds
£
0
7,074
Restricted Funds
Total 2013
£
6,200
0
Endowment
funds
£
0
0
10,482
3,072
1,059
0
11,541
3,072
(1,301)
0
0
(1,301)
19,327
7,259
0
26,586
£
6,200
7,074
10. RESERVES
The PCC considers that it is appropriate to hold reserves equal to two months expenditure, including Parish Share
to cover the running costs – this equates to £14,134 based on the 2013expenditure levels. In addition a
designated reserve was created in 2013 which is to cover the expected costs of redecoration over a 5 year
period.
This fund has a balance of £3,072, which is part of the Unrestricted Funds.
Final Version
28