APCM REPORT 2018 2 23 REPORTS Included: I Ask That Group Leaders Please Tell Me If Anyone Leaves Or If Someone Wants to Join Them

MISSIONS

As I write this report I am reminded once again that we are all involved in mission! It is true that for many mission does not involve crossing continents, however crossing the street is something in which we can all participate! Crossing continents is a special privilege, and we give thanks for your continued support for Brigit and Mike (B&M) in Cambodia, Norah and Chris (N&C) in Northern France, and Irene and Stephen (I&S) with Wycliffe. Give thanks with B&M for the work of FEBC in Cambodia. Pray for ongoing language learning in Khmer, safety in travel and protection for their health. Please continue to pray for First Response Radio (FRR). B&M’s work is helping people who are in the middle of a disaster such as typhoon, or an earthquake. In the last 13 years there have been about two disasters each year somewhere in Asia that their team has been able to help with. Give thanks for recent opportunity to train a new team in Pakistan. More recently Mike has had an opportunity to speak at the UN HQ in Geneva. Please pray that this meeting will generate support from the UN in terms of both finance and management for FRR. Give thanks for N&C and good news with the recent purchase of Chateau du Paradis. Also give thanks for Norah’s recent recovery form surgery. Please continue to pray for God’s blessing on their life and work in their new home, and for planned renovations over the coming months, to facilitate accommodation for conferences and groups. They are considering a working holiday/camp during August this year. Please let them (or myself) know if you would be interested in helping. Please also pray for continued outreach especially via Alpha groups. Give thanks for I&S and much answered prayer over the past year. Irene has been delighted to see her team members working effectively together, and successful handover of Lead Cartographer work. Stephen has seen growth in the mapping team’s work, providing mapping information for an interactive map facility on the Ethnologue website (www.ethnologue.com). Thank you for your support for the work of missions within the church family. We acknowledge with thanks once again the ongoing commitment of the PCC, and the church family, to provide over 10% of all income to mission. Graham, Tom or myself would be happy to talk to anyone considering working in mission whether short or long-term. A small bursary fund may be available, should you wish to apply.

Dr.Richard Loveless, Chairman Missions Committee APCM REPORT 2018 2 23 REPORTS included: I ask that group leaders please tell me if anyone leaves or if someone wants to join them. House groups should let me know if they can take extra members and if they Official: * Vicar’s Report have any materials that could be shared. If anyone wants to start a new group, that * Churchwardens Reports will be welcomed, they should inform me so we can support their efforts. Later this * Deanery Synod year I hope to visit all the groups. House groups are important and I will do my best * Financial Review for them. At the moment we have 11 groups. * Resources: Trinity Hall, Church Office * Health & Safety ECO CHURCH

One of the 5 marks of mission for the church is: ‘To strive to safeguard the integrity Other: of creation, and sustain and renew the life of the earth’.  Prayer  Music & Worship For the fifth year in succession, September was recognised by Trinity Church as  Trinity Choir our ‘eco’ month. Not only was this reflected in our preaching focus through the  Outreach month but also played a key part in establishing a link with the Town Council and  Pastoral Care other churches through the ‘Earthing Heaven’ conference hosted in the Town  Inclusion Council Chamber. It is encouraging that the Trinity congregation recognises that  Children’s Work environmental issues play a key role if we are to fulfil God’s invitation and call to be  Sunday mornings good stewards of His creation. Indeed, there is much expertise and passion to be  Trinity Toddlers, harnessed.

 Lighthouse Messy Church Caroline Pomeroy (Lay Chair Deanery Synod and Diocesan Eco Leader, living in  Youth Work, Sunday Café, Soul Survivor, Nunney) is an influential presence in Frome and the local area and offers much School Christian Unions wisdom and energy to this field of mission. Consequently, eco activities link up  Flower Ministry Trinity with the wider Christian scene in the area, a good example of this being the  Tuesday Lunches FACT service ‘What a wonderful World’ held in the Cheese and Grain last October.  The Bridge In addition to Caroline there were speakers from A Rocha and Mary Colwell (BBC  Parish Weekend Away and author) – it was an inspiring evening. Caroline is organising the Bath Eco  Transport to Church church conference on Saturday 16th June and is hoping as many local Christians  Men’s Ministry as possible will attend. Details and booking at www.bathandwells.org.uk/event/  FACT , HOPE Van and Alpha Course how-green-is-your-church/  Bereavement Ministry We are now getting more involved on a practical basis by signing up to become an  Mothers Union eco church. This is organised by A Rocha and is a way of ensuring that we as an  Discipleship, Small groups organisation and a building are as environmentally friendly as possible. The new  ECO Church eco rep is Jenny Clarke who has been carrying out an eco audit of how we run  Missions Trinity – she will be keeping everyone informed through the church bulletin and

magazine. (The Trustees report forms part of the Accounts that, as well as the minutes of the last APCM, A very exciting time for us as we engage in protecting the future of our environment and learn more about how to live in harmony with God’s precious are published on separate sheets) creation. John Samways 22 3 A Quiet Day was held at Norton-St-Philip in May for members throughout the By Revd Graham Owen, Vicar Diocese. In July a Cream Tea at Rodden Church Hall in aid of our ‘Away From it All holiday Scheme’ attracted people from all over Frome and raised over £360. 2017 was the first full year that we have had our re-ordered building, and MU members have supported clergy with over 80 weddings at Lullington and especially after the acoustic panels were fitted in August 2017, I think we can all Orchardleigh as well as making Teddies for Baptisms. be pleased with the way in which it is now working. We have a wonderful, God- As Wells Archdeaconry Leader for MU, I invited Revd Graham Owen to speak at our given place for worship, to welcome people of all ages and backgrounds in times Annual meeting held this year at St Thomas church Wells. His talk and personal of happiness and grief, for the schools, and for the many excellent musical events testimony was very well received and had life-changing effect on some members. laid on by local choirs and for the Frome Festival.

Each month on the 3rd Thursday one Deanery is invited to lead a short service in All this is alongside the use that so many community groups make of our Wells Cathedral. Frome chose June – The Only month in the year when the Bishop’s facilities day in and day out; I often meet people in Trinity on a weekday and hear Chapel us used instead and this offers by invitation, free access for the day to the them saying, “Wow, there is a real buzz here!” Palace Gardens. This is always well supported and much enjoyed.

MU continues to support members working from their own churches in their own We have, of course, had our sad times when we have had to say farewell to loved community at home and throughout the world by prayer and fund raising and ones who have gone to their eternal home with Christ, but we have also had the always welcome new members. joy of welcoming many new people to the family of Holy Trinity and seeing the Mary Earle. church become stronger not only in depth but also in number and in the diversity DISCIPLESHIP of the 200-plus people who now make up the committed core of the family. Of The discipleship team still stands at me only although I would love to get a team these, at least half volunteer for service in one aspect of church life or another. together, especially someone to concentrate on Women’s discipleship. Apart from Thank you! Alpha there haven’t been any long courses going, not through lack interest or lack of suitable courses, but because we would like leaders to come forward and offer a We can indeed give thanks for all that has been in 2017 and as we go further into course that they have a passion for. I have submitted a discipleship article to the 2018 we can look forward to welcoming two new members of the staff team: an magazine most months and there is also an idea that I am floating for a day course outreach and discipleship leader for children and families, and also parish nurse, on discipleship for anyone who doesn’t want to commit to many weeks. At the funded initially by a generous legacy from the estate of Rosie Jay. moment it is a case of watch this space to see what happens. There are things to The concept of parish nurse is a relatively new one although there are already explore and we are always keen for new ideas to bring the word of God in all its around 90 around the country. The big idea is that a professionally qualified and many places to everyone. If you are keen to do what you can to promote registered nurse working on a half time basis would be a wonderful asset to our discipleship please do speak to me, or if you have any suggestions or good ideas pastoral care team and would work with our church family and local NHS for events or courses you would like to see running at Trinity, please do let me know. providers to give advice and support to those for whom this could make a huge Alan Somerville difference.

These two new posts will help us in reaching out with the Gospel with the love of SMALL GROUPS Christ for all people, and at the same time we will be putting an emphasis on I took over the co-ordination of House groups from Ann Philips last year and so far outreach as we engage with new ways of pioneering in outreach (ie breaking new have tried to get a pool of resources together so any group can borrow materials for ground) and building on what we are already doing with other church families in study. My own group has just finished the Ten Commandments with Canon John working with the HOPE 18 initiative along with the existing work with the Friday and we have done the Bile Course as well. Two more courses have been purchased night van, the Live Lounge and the presence at the monthly markets – by me for groups to use. endeavouring to bring the Gospel to wherever the people of Frome are. There is a Library of study resources available through the church office from previous years. There is, of course, much more that could be written both about 2017 and also 4 21 our plans for the rest of 2018, but I think the best way to find out about life at appreciate the wonderful hospitality provided by Frome Town FC. There is Trinity is to be involved as deeply as you are able, and if you are having trouble considerable capacity for expanding this ministry which is our prayer. finding your own place in the life and witness of Trinity do please speak to me. Tony Perry, John Samways Our mission is now as it has always been, to share the Love of Christ in Frome, and for all that we have in Him we give thanks and for all that will come over the course of 2018 we say ‘Yes!’ BEREAVEMENT MINISTRY Graham Owen Vicar of Holy Trinity Frome and Rural Dean of Frome Deanery The Bereavement Team continues to offer support and is an active part of Holy Trinity Ministry. The team is Susan Clark, Jenny Dale, Fran Reed, Heather White and Don Young, working closely with Graham Owen. CHURCH WARDENS’ REPORT Once again, our principal role has been supporting Graham as he guides the We continue to support the families of the newly bereaved by sending growing church in the direction that we believe is God’s will. Completing the cards after 6-8 weeks and first anniversary cards, offering any help or ‘Statistics for Mission’ form (itself a bit of a mission!) clearly demonstrates a inviting them if appropriate to attend Community Lunches or Tea and Chat church that is on the move: growing numerically, yes, but also a church that is sessions. For 3 years we invite families to attend our Annual Bereavement growing wider and deeper and higher in terms of spiritual development. This Service, now well established in the Church's calendar for over 13 years. positive movement has also been brought into focus in the recently completed Two of the team act as welcomers at funerals to support the bereaved Articles of Enquiry, which, once again, demonstrates a church that is very much family and the Churchwardens. alive and also has a hugely important role to play in the Parish and the local community. In November we ran our Annual Service of Remembering Loved Ones, the year before it had been in conjunction with Clarkson's Independent Funeral As Wardens, we have noticed a significant rise in the number of occasions and Directors closer to Christmas. It was very well attended and the ways that HTF is used – and we’re not just talking of funerals and other formal congregation had a peaceful time of reflection and a chance to light a services. There is rarely a day that the Church is not used in some way and it’s candle, stay on for refreshments and a come together with bereaved especially good to see schools making more use of this excellent facility. During families who have experienced a similar loss, We have positive feedback the Christmas period, we estimate that approximately 2200 people attended a that the service helps in this way. service of one sort or another! We are actively looking for and would welcome other people to join this worthwhile Ministry. Please speak to Graham or one of the team. A significant amount of time has been taken up with the appointment of James Markham to the new role of Children’s and Families’ Discipleship and Outreach Jenny Dale Leader. The drawing up of Job Descriptions and Person Specs all took time and effort, as did the composing of the advert that eventually caught the eye of the MOTHERS UNION right person. This is a truly exciting development in the life of the Church and we In 2017 we had 40 members in two branches which met monthly at Beckington look forward to welcoming James [and his wife, Rachel, who works for the Bible and Norton-St-Philip. Society] as he takes up the post in early May. In addition to this there are 12 Diocesan members in Frome who organised fundraising events for our ‘Make a Mother’s Day’ Appeal, Christmas appeal and We would like to thank the PCC who have worked extremely hard in order keep the support for 16 days of Activism Against Gender Violence. ship afloat. Financially, the church is in a good position; we are indebted to Chris In all, over £1,500 was raised over the year. Round, our treasurer for the steps he has taken to ensure fiscal stability. We would The Contact Center at ‘The Key Center’ on The Mount is funded and run entirely by like to thank Margaret Jefferies, Darren Jones [now Prayer Ministry Co-ordinator], MU. It is open fortnightly and offers support to families in crisis. Dave Revell, Alan Somerville and Jane Stafford who step down from the PCC at 20 5 benefits payment regime. the end of this year; their combined contribution has been unstinting. Whilst

Spiritually there have been very encouraging signs. A feature has been fortnightly thanking the PCC, we would also like to thank our Vergers, Ben and Audrey Lyons, Sunday afternoon teas at the Bridge organised by John and Wendy Rootes which who do so much ‘stuff’ in the background without any fuss or even include an epilogue. These occasions, together with relationships that have been acknowledgement. Their combined attention to detail and love and care is a large built up over several years, have led to two people attending weekly services and part of what makes HTF what it is……..thank you! several coming to church over Christmas. The two major improvements this year have ensured that maximum use of the As ever we are extremely grateful to our dedicated staff team who not only premises can be made – part of the original TTTL project and vision. The heating dispense food and drink but also display sensitivity and empathy towards issues – largely due to a lack of understanding as to how the system actually works individuals who often find life challenging at various levels. and a very simple fault that was easily rectified – have now been resolved and it Tony & Margaret Perry was so encouraging to see people arriving in the bitterly cold wintry conditions to be met by a really warm and welcoming church. The acoustic panels erected in the TRANSPORT TO CHURCH church to reduce the echo have really ‘done the trick’; the resultant clarity of the spoken word is clearly evident but the sharpness required for concerts has not been We have had a very busy year and are just managing to give lifts to most of the dulled; the Woolly Shepherd really knew what he was doing! These significant people who need transport most of the time. changes have made such a difference to the ambience of the church as a whole. We have six regular drivers who help most weeks, but could use a few more to help

particularly at holiday times. I am aware that there are people who are giving lifts to members of the The Hall has a new manager – Jonathan Norcott, which is great news. The congregation by personal arrangement both at the 9.00 and 10.45 services and Church’s sincere and wholehearted thanks to Clive King must be recorded. He has would like to extend out grateful thanks to them. managed the Hall with expertise and dedication and all users owe him an enormous Howard Page debt of gratitude. Thanks are also due to Chris Round and Jonathan Norcott for the recent floor renovation work…..it looks quite superb! MEN’S MINISTRY In 2017, Men’s Ministry at Trinity primarily focussed upon two regular, The role of Church Warden is many and varied and we are assisted by an excellent team of Welcomers and Sidespeople. In an attempt to bring some uniformity and informal, yet fruitful, gatherings – a monthly pub meeting at The Griffin and 4 cohesion to the wonderfully diverse groups of helpers, we organised a supper at the Men’s Curry Nights held at Frome Town FC. Stafford’s house, where all concerned were given a ‘crib-sheet’ of the dos and don’ts Attendance at the monthly pub nights at The Griffin varied between four and of these vital roles! We also enjoyed each other’s company and a splendid supper. eight men two of whom were non church attenders. The evenings usually Any helpful comments regarding how we can make things run even more smoothly featured a lively discussion of a wide range of subjects both spiritual and would be welcome. secular.

The quarterly Curry Nights have been quite well attended with now over 60 Finally, we would like to thank all the Church members for their support throughout people on the e mail list. Speakers were Rev Andy Bowerman (Exec Director of the year. Naturally, inevitably, the year has had its ups and downs but that is part- Anglican Mission, Southampton FC Chaplain), Andrew Wingfield Digby (former and-parcel of community life. It is an enormous privilege to be Church Wardens but England CC Chaplain), James Cary (BBC playwright and member of General along with such privilege comes responsibility and neither of us underestimate that Synod) and Ian Gibbons (a Senior Executive of Wiltshire County Council). Each for one moment. provided fascinating, amusing and engaging insights into living out and Libby Doewansey & Chris Stafford sharing faith in the workplace. The evening provides the opportunities for men from different churches across Frome to meet up, have a beer together, enjoy an excellent meal and 6 19 FROME DEANERY SYNOD We are sincerely grateful to Audrey, Fran and other friends from Coffee, Cake and Chat who raised £110 at the December meeting on our behalf, and also to Imogen’s house Review of the year group who kindly gave a donation to the flower fund on £68.00. The Reverend Graham Owen, Vicar of Holy Trinity Frome was commissioned as We look forward to the flower arranging work our Dear Lord plans for us in the future Rural Dean of Frome by The Venerable Kevin Roberts, Acting Archdeacon of Wells days. If you are interested in flower arranging please come and join us. The credit at a service held at Norton St Philip on 31st January 2017. balance in the Church Flower Fund on 31st December 2017 was £249.65 There were Synod meetings on 8 March (at Frome, Holy Trinity), 19 July (at Molly Butler Frome, Holy Trinity) and 5 September (at Mells Barn). Details of matters raised and information shared at the meetings of synod are contained in the minutes, TUESDAY LUNCHES but in broad terms, the work covered was as follows Tuesday Lunches continue to prove popular, though numbers fluctuate wildly....from At the March meeting: low 20s to high 40s. We provide an excellent value, 2-course, hot lunch with tea or  We discussed how to develop a mission plan for our deanery in line with the coffee for only £4.00. Those who attend obviously value this outreach, and the meals new diocesan strategy for Living and Telling the Story of Jesus and the Bishop’s are well received. As ever, we are SO grateful to the team of around 40 faithful helpers expectation that we would submit a written plan to the diocese by October. who make it possible....and as always we are eager to hear from those who could help...to cook, serve, table-lay or just be on standby once a month. And for those of you We formed a new Mission and Pastoral Group to progress this work and this who cannot volunteer, please hold Trinity Lunches in your prayers. began meeting on 27th March with further meetings to take place through the Jackie Platt and Maggie Hancock year. At the July meeting

 We re-elected Dave Revell as Lay Chair THE BRIDGE

 The Mission and Pastoral Group was able to report good progress in shaping The Bridge continued with its pattern of opening hours during 2017 and has remained a mission plan for the deanery, this work being facilitated by good support from open all year around, apart from Bank Holidays, which regular customers greatly Revd Charlie Peer who is the lead strategist for the diocese. appreciate. The demand for advice has increased slightly as Universal Credit has continued to be problematic for many people. Also a significant number continue to  We received information about how Richard Kelley, an ordinand training for being turned down for disability benefits which has necessitated appeals most of pioneer ministry will be supported during his context-based work in the deanery. which have culminated in largely successful tribunal hearings. Although the diocese was to cover the bulk of the costs, it was thought that the deanery would have to find a contribution of £1,000. This proved not to be Access to food parcels from the Food Bank was transferred to the Fair Frome Centre required. but The Bridge retains an emergency supply of food. Also the Tuesday morning homeless advice drop-in moved to the same venue. However, a newly formed Active  We discusses the question of youth ministry and whether it might be possible and in Touch support group has been meeting on Monday mornings. for the deanery to fund a full time worker. This was fed back to the Mission and Two years into paying a commercial rent there were concerns about the longer term Pastoral Group for possible inclusion in the mission plan. financial viability, but in fact The Bridge accounts showed a small surplus thanks to  Fr Clive Fairclough gave a presentation on Celtic methods in rural ministry increased takings, regular contributions through standing orders and donations from people both inside and outside the church for which we are extremely grateful  We watched the promotional video for HOPE18 which was well received The Hardship Fund has been well endowed mainly through several collections during  We agreed to support a proposal to support the lifting of the Suspension of church services to the extent that £930 was given out to individuals or families in need, Presentation in the Mells benefice and also to apply to commission Fr Clive the largest amount being at Christmas. An adverse effect of Universal Credit is that Fairclough as Acting Rural Dean which was made so when The Venerable Anne many people struggle to budget for four weeks rather than two under the previous Gell, the new Archdeacon of Wells commissioned him at the Clergy Chapter 18 th 7 The Christian Union at Selwood Academy is going very well with 10-20 young Meeting on 26 September. people taking part and looking forward to the next CU! Many of my regular group We received a gift from the Waddington Centre in Lusaka (a photo album and a from Selwood will be graduating on to Frome College at the end of this school desk ornament) and noted that the 15th July 2018 would be a significant date with year, so please pray that they would transition smoothly and that I would be able celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of the link with Zambia. It was noted that to connect with them when they begin at College. we needed someone to take a lead in promoting the Zambia link in our deanery, but The Christian Union at Frome College is fairly slow at the moment with 2-3 as yet no one has offered. dedicated young adults. The majority of last year’s group graduated from College at the end of the last school year and are now pursuing careers and At the September meeting: further education. I have found another small group of younger teens who are interested in rebooting the Christian Union and will be pursuing this following the We heard that our pioneer ordinand, Richard Kelley was starting his studies Easter holiday. and would be spending three days per week in the deanery. Please continue pray for these two Christian Union groups. Most, if not all, of the We reviewed the draft mission plan prepared by the Mission and Pastoral young people attending come from non-Christian families. The Christian Group and it was accepted as our agreed ‘direction of travel’. With a few amendments arising from the meeting, the plan was subsequently message is still foreign to them and can seem threatening to what they’ve been submitted to the diocese and received favourable feedback. raised to believe. Pray that God would open their eyes and ears to what He has We noted that there is to be a puppet ministry training day to be held at for them to hear, that their hearts would be able to accept Jesus and the Life Holy Trinity, Frome on 28th April 2018 – Sue Rodford is the contact that He has for them as their own. person. We noted that there would be a special meeting of Synod on 15th February SOUL SURVIVOR 2018, this to be attended by the Bishop of Bath and Wells with the aim 2017’s Soul Survivor saw us collaborating with two other youth groups, one from of giving feedback on our mission plan and inspiring us for our ongoing Devizes (from St. Thomas’s, the Church Keith Brindle leads), and one from work. Warminster. We had only a few young people in our group, but because of our joined groups, we encouraged and uplifted each other. Several from the joined FINANCIAL REVIEW groups made personal commitments to Christ, one on her own, by herself in her tent Treasurers Report We are hoping to be able to be a part of a joint group for Soul Survivor 2018. Our This is the third year that I make this report as your treasurer, however, again I must current group of young people, though small in number, present with unique say a great “thank you” to Phil for his help in understanding the annual reporting challenges, we’ll need prayer for wisdom in how to navigate the event this year. structure and helping to produce the reports for this process. This last year I can If you know a young person who might be interested in coming to Soul Survivor, report a significant surplus in the General Fund, due to both an exceptional please let me or one of the Trinity Youth volunteers know as soon as possible response to the funding appeal made in late 2016 and Rosie Jay’s legacy, received so we can make that happen! in late 2017. However the Children & Youth Worker Fund continues to be Bryce Tangvald challenging, although it is adequately funded for some months yet. The Bridge is also slightly better than reported last year with a marginal surfeit this year. When FLOWER MINISTRY we returned after the TT-TL work was complete The Hall started off being much Thank you to all who have make contributions to the flower fund, to those who have challenged, however over the last 12 months Hall bookings have considerably given flowers in memory of family and friends. Thank you also to those who have increased and the situation is now one of a small annual surfeit. The redevelopment given flowers and foliage so willingly and of course, a very big thank you to the fund is currently sufficient to service the Diocesan Loan for the next 1+ years but flower arrangers and helpers. funding is currently not so sufficient in the long term.

The accounts have been prepared in accordance with the SORP 2015 SOFA, an 8 17 abbreviated copy of the accounts are available at the back of the Church. If anyone has any queries on these or would like to receive the full set of accounts, LIGHTHOUSE – MESSY CHURCH please email me on [email protected] Lighthouse now happens bi-monthly on a Sunday afternoon. We have a regular Our thanks, as always, to all in the congregation, who have given this year and number of new families, and also quite a few who do not come to Sunday services. throughout the years, some regularly, some occasionally. Your gifts have helped Janet and team regularly feed 60+ people with a family tea. We have a lot of us to fund the Lord’s work here in Holy Trinity, Frome and to meet our financial activities and a time in church with songs, and Bible stories with plenty of obligations. participation. The Lighthouse team are very committed and make the afternoon a great occasion. My thanks also, to Nigel Harris, our independent examiner, who has audited the Helen Harflett accounts with patience and diligence, every year since 2006. This year Nigel has worked again in a voluntary and unpaid manner to get the accounts examined and certified ready for our APCM. TRINITY YOUTH WORK

Total receipts on ordinary unrestricted funds were £206,889 and are detailed in SUNDAY CAFE the Financial Statements. Total payments in the year from such income This year has been a year of continued challenge. A number of our veteran amounted to £136,534. The largest item was Parish Share of £76,382 which was members have graduated on to University and their own personal careers. It paid to the Diocese of Bath and Wells to enable it to provide the parish with clergy can be difficult to know that you will have less contact as the years go on. and support services. The net result for these funds was a surfeit of £70,354. The However, we still have a group of younger members who are in no less need of Church benefited from a large Legacy from Rosie Jay this year at almost our love and care! We have gone from a medium sized group of 8-15 down to a £38,000. This money was left to the discretion of the Vicar and Churchwardens smaller group of 4-6. But make no mistake, this smaller group is no less who are currently investigating the part time appointment of a parish nurse challenging than the larger group was! We still leave at the end of the youth employed by Holy Trinity. group nights as exhausted as ever! The challenges that we’ve faced have underlined, in bright lights, the need for these young people to know the Father- The General Fund had a surplus of £71,398 this period. Giving to the Heart of God and to have someone tell them of Jesus Love for them. redevelopment fund has significantly reduced as the 5 year pledges are reaching The young people currently wanting to attend a youth group over the past year term. Servicing the Diocesan Loan will continue to be a challenge from this fund have been younger than we’ve allowed in the past (13-18). Because of this, from 2020 out. Charitable giving was in line with the PCC tithing policy. we’ve decided to broaden the age range to accept the younger ages, down to 11 years of age! This is made possible by the smaller numbers in our group. The Children and Youth Worker (restricted) Fund showed a small surfeit of When God gives us challenges, He also gives greater opportunities for blessing! £1,178, which is better than last year, Toddlers Fund has reduced losses from

previous years through an annual surfeit of £323 however this year Toddlers have SCHOOLS WORK not contributed the usual £1,000 towards the C & Y fund. Every week, I visit either Frome College or Selwood Academy, where I do one-on

The Fabric Fund has a negative balance of £8,058. The whole of this negative -one mentoring and facilitate two Christian Unions. The mentoring has been balance will have to be borrowed from the General Fund until further significant encouraging as I’ve seen the young people beginning to take on some of the income is realised. character traits and tactics for dealing with difficult situations that I’ve been discussing with them. At Frome College, I meet with the SEMH Manager The Redevelopment (restricted) Fund was also resourced by a loan from The (Social, Emotional & Mental Health). He is a dedicated Christian and we meet at Diocese for £100,000 which is due for repayment over 10 years (2017-2027) with the end of my Friday mentoring sessions to pray for the young people, personal the first repayment made in May 2017. The redevelopment Fund stands at a situations and the issues in the schools. Please keep these things in your prayers also! 16 9 CHILDRENS’ WORK negative £86,780 at the year end which takes account of the outstanding £90,000 loan liability. This does not take account of the current VAT refund claim which TRINITY TODDLERS should realise close to £10,000. It is the intention to produce separate accounts for Trinity Toddlers is on Monday and Thursday mornings, in the Church Hall from the Project Building works upon completion of these works, for interested members 10 am till 12 am, and caters for Mums or carers with their under-4 year old to peruse. children. The hall is set up with different play areas, and the children can choose to be The Bridge account had an income of £9,448 and an expenditure of £9,432 the involved in a variety of fun activities like art or handwork, ride-on toys, climbing resultant surfeit of £16 is due to Tony & Margaret’s and The Bridge Team’s excellent frame with slide, dolls corner with cooking, ironing, dolls, buggies and dressing up, work. The Bridge made gifts from the Hardship Fund of £930. motor cars and a garage, puzzles, books and stories, see-saws, rocking horses, trampoline etc. The Hall Fund shows a small surfeit this year of £344 which is a significantly better position than last year. Hall revenue suffered due to the Hall being closed for the 8 At 10.40, the children all join in a singing and signing session, where they learn months redevelopment period but has steadily picked up and, as reported last year Macaton sign language through the songs they are singing, after which, there is a this deficit is slowly being clawed back. Last year a deficit of £4,056 was declared, fruit and cheese snack for the children, and tea or coffee for the parents or carers. however this was questioned in the General APCM reporting structure. This Some families have been coming to Trinity Toddlers for years and we have known questioning was explained to the PCC and an Addendum made to the APCM them through subsequent pregnancies and have the amazing privilege of watching Minutes of Meeting held on 26th April 2017. In summary, while the Hall Hire Income that little person grow up with us. Other mums or grandmothers pop in contributes to the the direct Hall expenses it must be realised that the General occasionally and still others hear about us and come to sessions until the Church suffers costs for Power (Electricity, only one meter), Insurance, (for the accompanying child goes to school. However it happens, Trinity Toddlers has been whole building) and Administration; that are paid from our General Fund. The Hall is a place to meet other adults, and also a safe fun place for children to play and contra-charged by the General Fund a sum to cover these costs as a pro-rata explore freely. distribution relative to the Hall’s proportionate use/cover; the 2017 figure was Ali Mathieson £4,208.

The Toddlers Fund showed a surfeit of £323 this year which has reduced previous TRINITY CREW losses, please also see note above regarding Toddlers.

Trinity Crew has had a fruitful year and we have seen many new families, though The Rob & Sue Fund which was established to facilitate the provision of funds from most of these children do not come every week. Numbers have been more parishioners for Rob & Sue Martin for their missionary work in Marsabit, Kenya, was predictable which makes planning and preparation easier. closed in 2016 as Rob entered retirement. The balance in this fund, including any We have a small but dedicated team of leaders and helpers. Lou stepped down outstanding Gift Aid claims was transferred to the ‘Friend of Marsabit’ during 2017 from joint leading last autumn and Helen Harflett has continued to lead with help and the amount may be realized from these accounts. from Beth Baxter and Marie Buxton and assistants. Jane Stafford has led and

developed a lovely crèche for the under 4s with her team. Charitable Status Last summer we held a joint summer picnic with Lighthouse families, and we have Holy Trinity Church is registered with the Charity Commission as The Parochial also had a couple of Praise Parties and a bacon sandwich get-together for families Church Council of the Ecclesiastical Parish of Holy Trinity, Frome. Registered and helpers. This summer we hope to run a camping weekend for church families. number 1129366. The exciting news is that a Children and Families Worker has now been appointed.

James Markham starts the new job in May and will take on and develop Trinity

Crew as well as other outreaches into the community. Reserves Policy Helen Harflett It is PCC policy to maintain a balance on unrestricted funds which covers two months of Parish Share payments to cover cash flow problems near the year end 10 15 and to cope with unforeseen situations. Some funds are invested in CBF deposit session on the experiences of being ill, and what she had found helpful – and funds. However it can be realized from these accounts that the Church finances are unhelpful! in a very robust state and the PCC is currently searching for an additional employee We were privileged to have a brilliant talk by a representative of Dementia Friends for Children and Family work and are exploring other avenues to aid Christian and Dorothy-Ann very graciously shared her own experiences. Outreach to the local community. On 10th April a session was booked to consider the needs of the deaf and hard of hearing. This was open to the whole church. Outlook and Budget I continue to be blessed by people’s support in carrying out this ministry. The budget control for the redevelopment project proceeded through 2017 and the project has now been complete under budget. However, as noted above we will Felicity Hill have to service the Diocesan Loan at a repayment rate of £10,000 per year for the next 9 years. We currently have no plan or pledges to cover this, however this fund is in marginal credit and can currently service the next 1 + years. INCLUSION At the heart of inclusion is hospitality in its broadest sense. As a church we are The Toddlers and Children and Youth workers Funds give some cause for concern called to be “hospitable”, remembering the encouragement in Hebrews 13 v1 -2 also as these costs have again outstripped income. Members should be aware that “Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so Children and Youth is a separate fund, much like Redevelopment, and if not doing, some have entertained angels unawares.” specifically noted and supported then C&Y enjoy no other income. Showing hospitality means that we are called to love one another unreservedly, in

word and deed, and to share that love with those outside of the church, irrespective The Church members’ reaction to a funding appeal in September/October 2016 of socio economic factors, physical, mental, or social disability, sexual orientation, continued through 2017 with the General Fund resources being significantly age, race, religious beliefs or creeds, or political persuasion. In so many ways Holy increased. The Year End figure is also greatly uplifted by Rosie Jay’s Legacy. Trinity is a very inclusive church community, but we should all seek to be more and

more so. As an aside a Legacy to a Registered Charity, such as Holy Trinity, can be a very efficient way to reduce Inheritance Tax and provide funding to the charity At every level of church life, inclusion is at work, in the many ministries which reach significantly greater than the drawdown on inherited assets due to this Tax out to the community, such as Tuesday Lunches, Hope van, Trinity Toddlers, Sunday reduction effect. If anyone is interested in this matter please talk with me. Café, The Bridge Café etc. and in smaller more informal gatherings in homes or other Chris Round venues. This year has seen a renewed initiative in hosting fortnightly Bridge Teas, and fruit is already being reaped in the baptism of one of our friends, and the establishment of a THE CHURCH OFFICE small discipleship group. One encouraging aspect of Inclusion has been the CHURCH & HALL BOOKINGS willingness of church members to facilitate some of our café friends to come to The church is now a new Hire-able venue and is proving to be very popular. There church events by buying and donating extra tickets. are Three large Choirs that use Trinity as their regular venue. If you sense a lack of inclusion in any areas of church life, please feel free to come Trinity Hall is a very popular venue as it has the widest spread of facilities amongst and discuss this with me, or let me know by email. all the available church hall venues in Frome. Wendy Rootes We propose a huge thanks to Clive King for all his hard work as Hall manager and are happy to announce that the new Hall manger has been appointed. Jonathan Norcott-Smith will continue in Clive’s capable footsteps to manage the hall, deal with repairs and maintenance, and ensuring all hall hirers are taken care of and aware of H&S.

14 11 variety of old and new carols arranged for various combinations of voices. We OFFICE were able to make good use of these books at Christmas.  Graveyard records continue to be updated, it is a huge job. Susan Leather is working on it. We are still short of men, however, and would welcome new members (especially  Kally and Jennie both say a very big thank you to our dedicated men) who can sing in tune, and read music to an extent. If you are interested, volunteers— the team of money counters; office volunteers Margaret please speak to me. Jeffery, Janet Page and Molly Butler, Suzie our wonder-woman Margaret Perry housekeeper plus all the others who step in now and then— without whom we could not manage. OUTREACH  There is always a place for offering your service to God through many and varied ministries within the church, please don’t wait to be asked. Come The outreach of Holy Trinity Church happens through what we say, our words, and and offer what you can and where you can, it is a great way to get to know what we do, our works. Most of this is hidden except to God, random acts of the rest of your church family and as you offer your helping hands to God, kindness and words of testimony or comfort. Most of our organised, visible you will find that you receive so much more than you give. outreach occurs under the FACT / HOPE banner such as the HOPE Coffee Van, the rest area at the monthly Independent Market and Alpha. FACT/HOPE is being  We would especially welcome anyone who has experience in any of the re-launched in May as HOPE ‘18 with Clive Fairclough from Mells as the new Chair. following; website management, bookkeeping and invoicing, managing There will be a strong emphasis on the churches together reaching out to the commercial advertising in the magazine, and general office duties—taking wider community. hall bookings etc. Kally Dunn & Jennie Tangvald The Bridge continues to help some of the most disadvantaged members of the HEALTH AND SAFETY community through the amazing dedication of Margaret and Tony Perry and team. Between March and April 2017 Risk Assessments were carried out throughout The Bridge Sunday Tea organised by Wendy and John Rootes usually has a full the Church and grounds. This resulted in the Kitchen Worktops being replaced, house. The Toddler Group, Tuesday Lunches, Sunday Home Alone Lunches, which, I’m sure you will agree, make the Kitchen look wonderful. A sign was also Lighthouse Messy Church are all vital contacts with the wider community. At the put on the Kitchen door reminding parents that for the safety of their children, Outreach evening on 13 February members of HT reported on fourteen different children under 12 should not be permitted. All other major risks raised were charitable organisations that they were involved in! completed, which were 2 bookcases, 1 in the Porthole that was secured and one It does seem to be a time when God is drawing people to HT and new faces in the Cabin which was removed. Thanks to Clive King for ensuring these jobs appear every week. We all need to be on the look out to welcome and befriend our were done. The only risk outstanding, which has been approved by the PCC to be visitors. Exciting times! dealt with, is the Bell Rope on the Balcony but this will soon be resolved. Risk Tom Harflett Assessments are carried out annually.

Emergency Lighting, the Fire Alarm system and Fire extinguishers checks are PASTORAL CARE carried out regularly and are up to date. The PCC have changed the company that deals with all checks. The company is now Bath and West Fire and Safety. The Pastoral Care team continues to offer support to those members of the New maps of where all extinguishers are kept were also drawn up and displayed church who are experiencing difficulty. As well as this there is a strong culture in the Link in case of an emergency. Thanks to the Office for drawing them up. within the church of offering help, support and prayer when it is needed. Relevant signage has also been positioned around the church building to point We have a small team of people who are willing to provide emergency meals. In out fire exits and routes to escape the building. order to access this service please contact Felicity Hill (01373 300794) or the

church office. There have been no major accidents written up in the Accident Book and the only We have arranged sessions on topics that are relevant to the task of pastoral supplies used, you will be pleased to hear, have been plasters. caring, but also of interest to the wider church. Wendy Rootes led a very helpful Susanna Hanson 12 13

PRAYER This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. One of the most important aspect of any good relationship is communication. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we Listening, speaking and spending time in one another’s company. If we truly want asked of him. 1 John 5: 14 – 15 to know God and to know His will, we have to spend time with Him in prayer; If you are interested in Prayer Ministry please do speak to Graham or myself. individually and corporately. In His wisdom He has chosen us to be actively involved in the process of bringing His kingdom in, leading others to Jesus and to Darren Jones love and care for one another. Through our prayers God does amazing and miraculous things. This is why prayer is vital and central to all that happens at MUSIC AND WORSHIP Holy Trinity church. Many thanks to everyone who plays and sings so faithfully at all our services and Through prayer we love, care and support one another and try to ensure that all particularly to our music leaders Margaret, Ben, Chris, Jack, Ruth, Abi, Phil, Vere, our activities/ministries are covered in prayer. Stephen and Millie. Our Prayer Circle consists of 60+ members who promise to pray for you Thank the Lord for making his presence known so wonderfully as we gather to immediately upon opening prayer requests via email. worship him. Prayer ministry is offered after each morning service in the side chapel by the How grateful we are for the generous gift of two new pianos: a Roland piano kindly prayer team. provided by a private donor and a Nord Electro portable stage piano with enhanced During administration of communion at 10.45am services, 3 praying pairs are features for modern worship use. situated around the church offering to pray with us; helping us in prayer to We are planning further sound desk training and looking for new recruits to join Dave meet with Jesus in our need. Dunn and team. A big welcome to John Bedford who has volunteered to assist with We are encouraged to pray for our leaders, preachers, musicians, congregation both projection and sound. etc. in the side chapel before the start of Sunday services. The 10.45am worship team continue to gather monthly for a worship ‘jam’ in church. Prayer Triplets meet regularly to support each other in prayer, and pray for our A great time to worship together and also to experiment with instruments and new church and local community. songs. We have a Thanksgiving Book displayed in church that anyone can record and Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the share their answers to prayer, so we can all rejoice, thank and praise God for sea, and all that is in them, saying: all he is doing in our lives. This book is growing as the Lord continues to do great ‘To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb things for us. be praise and honour and glory and power, for ever and ever!’ – Revelation 5:13

Lesley Owen The Lord put on the heart of several of us to hold a 24/7 Prayer event at Holy Trinity. Last September we held 48 hours of non stop prayer over a weekend. God greatly blessed us. Many left the prayer room having experienced God's TRINTY CHOIR presence. The intention is to hold more of these events this year and allow the The Choir sang at nine 9am services during 2017, plus Good Friday, a joint Harvest Lord to guide us in His will for not only this church but for Frome. Service and the Carol Service. We aim to practice on two Friday evenings per month prior to the 9am service, when we sing during communion, sometimes harmony for We are in the process of planning another prayer initiative that the Lord has the hymns, and a descant or two. shown as well as some other ideas. These will be announced shortly. I would just like to thank Claire for all her hard work as prayer coordinator and to all those The number of singers has increased slightly, with normally at least 6 for any one who are involved in this wonderful ministry. Thank you for all you that you do and service, culminating in an impressive 13 for the Carol Service. The Church purchased for responding to the Lord's call to serve Him. a set of new Carol Books – the Oxford Book of Flexible Carols, which contains a