Annual Report 2019 The Parish Church of Saint Cuthburga, Wimborne Minster.

Reports presented at the Annual Parochial Church Council Meeting 27th March 2020

Contents of the APCM Report 2019:

Churchwardens’ Report 2019 -20 Peter Cook

Finance Report, Treasurer, Richard Knott

Rector’s Report, Revd Canon Andrew Rowland

Proceedings of the PCC, Secretary, Beatrice Dopita

Safeguarding Report, Jane Davidson

Aspects of Spirituality, Anne King,

Bell Captain, David Warwick

Chained Library, Judith Monds

Choir, Colin Davey

Companions of St Francis, Beryl Balinas

Diocesan Synod Report, David Steele

Deanery Synod, Anne King

Education Committee, Trisha Knott

Fabric Committee, Colin Feltham, for Francis Vine

Flowers, Christine Oliver

Friends Group, Peter Cook

Fundraising & Events, Barry Glazier

God’s Acre, Margaret Turner

Greenbelt Group, Mike Lunt

House groups:

Barclay, Anne Pollard

Emmaus Group, Mike & Wanda Winchester

Peter, Liz Watson

Refresh, Trisha Knott

Lay Pastoral Assistants, Anne Pollard

Lay Worship Team, Andrew Patrick

Minster Environment Group, (MEG) Alison Francis

Mothers’ Union, Di Hiscock

Open the Book, Sheila Soper Sheila Soper

Oasis, Carol Jarvis

Outreach, Sue Stevens

Parish Magazine, Rosalind Jensen & Barry Gibbs

Publicity Officer’s Report, Anthony Oliver

Servers Report, Chris Feltham

Shop Report, Donna Gosney

Sides-persons, Anthony Oliver

Social Media, Ian Grimbly

Saint Margaret’s Chapel, Wanda Winchester

Strollers, Sandra Thompson

Sunday School, Stephanie Shimmons

Tour Guides, Christine Oliver

Tourism, Anthony Oliver

Two by Two Toddler Group, Ruth Edgar

Vergers, John Hughes

Victoria Hospital, Alison Watkins

Wimborne Minster Musical Heritage Appeal, Andrew Curtis

Churchwardens’ Report 2019

This is an overview of life at the Minster seen through the eyes of the Churchwarden(s) during 2019 and into the beginning of 2020, the 900th anniversary of the present Norman building.

As I took over as senior Churchwarden in April 2019 we had been blest with our new Rector for about 7 months and it fell to me to help Canon Andrew accustom himself to our procedures and local foibles. This has proved to be both interesting and

educational experience for me personally, especially as we had been challenged by Bishop Karen at Canon Andrew’s installation.

We owe enormous gratitude to our Associate Priest Suzie Allen and our volunteer associate priests, who continue, often in the background to support the Rector and the churchwardens in their day to day task of keeping the parish working smoothly.

At the APCM in April, De Ashton stood down as Senior Churchwarden, taking on the role of Churchwarden Emeritus, and her place was taken by Andrew Patrick. We are grateful to De for all the detailed work with Minster administrative systems, and particularly her help with Safeguarding. De always took great care in her work as churchwarden and engagement with members of the congregation.

As Andrew Patrick became a full churchwarden, Bruce Jensen stepped in as Deputy Churchwarden but we still have a vacancy for a second deputy to support Bruce. My particular thanks to Bruce for all his hard work on erecting and taking down the platforms. Thanks are also due to Richard Knott our treasurer and to Beatrice Dopita who has bravely stepped into the role of PCC Secretary. The new Parish Secretary Jane, MacCaig has settled in very well and even ably manages the weekly diary meeting of Rector, Churchwardens and Verger with great aplomb.

PCC members and Sub-Committees have continued to work hard for the mission of the parish and have had a busy schedule with special events, a lot going on with the fabric and some interesting fund-raising events.

Our new Organist and Director of the Choirs, Colin Davey has now just completed his first year and has worked closely with Revd Heather Waldsax and Canon Andrew with regard to changes to the liturgy. Colin’s wife Heather has involved herself closely with the choir and the other choir parents as well as joining the Minster Guides.

The Music Appeal committee, of which I was a member until recently, has had a busy year and after much discussion appointed a PR firm to manage the appeal launch and a special company to manage the grant funding. This led to a busy time in the New Year, but the appeal is now up and running and recently we have received a number of sizeable donations from £500-£20,000. The proposed design of the rebuilt organ is exciting and should much enhance the inside of the Minster. The petition for a faculty is currently expected to be considered at the March meeting of the DAC. If everything goes according to plan the organ will be removed in the late autumn and returned in the autumn of 2021. A digital instrument will be used in the interim. Due to Salisbury’s organ being out of commission for the past 15 months, the Minster has been pleased to host two organ events: an RSCM course for newly appointed organ scholars before they took up their new posts and a Pipe-Up event at which a number of young people (including one from our own choir) had the chance to try our instrument. At the time of writing the Conservation of the Beaufort and Courtney tombs is complete. The Lighting and Power update is progressing well and the Carillon or “Chime Barrel” is shortly to be removed. This leads me to comment

about the DAC which has experienced problems and, in spite of a very positive site visit last August, is still dragging its feet over the re-ordering of the rear Nave as well as the organ. Intervention by the Archdeacon has made some progress and I now have link in the DAC office with whom I am in regular contact.

Both the Music Box week organised by the Michael James Music Trust and the Monday Lunch time summer recitals proved successful, though a fault with the organ caused one recital to be postponed.

The Minster has, during the last year been the venue for several special events including the Experience Easter programme and a very successful Leavers Event and Service in the summer plus a special service organised by Bishop Karen for those killed in road accidents. This means that the Minster is increasingly becoming the focus for special events in Dorset. Later this year we will host the Special VE Service for Dorset in May and a service for Nurses and Midwives in September.

We are grateful to Heather Waldsax and Colin Davey for their work through the Advent and Christmas seasons with re-designing the special services in the Minster. These have provided an enhanced worship experience and many positive comments have been received. The Informal Service now takes place twice a month on 2nd and 4th Sundays. The music at this service has been enhanced by the acquisition of a Yamaha electric piano. Choral Evensong continues to have an important place in the worship at the Minster and we are encouraging visiting choirs to sing on occasions when the Minster Choir is on holiday. I know of one person who travels from Weymouth as no churches in his area do Evensong.

We continued to support our chosen charities through regular giving, special events, focus weekends [for CMS, The Children’s Society and Pramacare] and the Minster Green Fair. Lunch and Chat sends donations to the Salisbury-Sudan Medical Link and the regular Sunday coffee supports MARS educational work. We have continued to support the Wimborne Food Bank.

Thanks are due to the Minster Environment Group who collated the evidence for the award and continued their work with the congregation to improve awareness of environmental issues. A new boiler has been installed in Church House which apart from reducing the need to call out the contractors, should count towards the groups aim to achieve a Silver Eco award.

Improvements continue to be made in our compliance with Safeguarding and Data Protection procedures, and we are grateful to Jane Davidson, De Ashton, Donna Gosney and Barry Glazier for their work in these areas. As Administrative Assistant, Donna has also improved staff training in Health and Safety.

Special thanks are again due to “The Friends of Wimborne Minster” for the way in which they continue to raise awareness of the Minster by promoting social events and for providing financial assistance when the need arises. The latest of these grants being £30k for the lighting, £95k for the organ and £10k for new vestments

and Altar frontal. The Minster Shop, as Wimborne Minster Ltd, continues to flourish and we are grateful for the funds that have accrued to the Minster from trading profits. Special thanks go to Donna Gosney, her husband and family members, and all the volunteers who support the Minster through the shop.

Of necessity, this report can only give a snapshot of the Minster over the past year, but with the completion of the light and power work together with the conservation of the tombs we are gradually seeing some improvements. This year we are due a Quinquennial Inspection, and we trust that nothing of any great significance will raise its head. We are particularly grateful for the hard work of our Rector, Associate Priests, Retired Clergy, Organist, Parish Staff, Volunteers and members of the congregation. All have led and inspired us to live as witnesses to Christ’s love in the world.

Peter Cook - Senior Churchwarden

Finance

Financially this has been a good year although, as the year closed, there were grey clouds threatening which must be dealt with before they cause problems. My last report said that we were going into 2019 with a balanced budget but a debt of £70,000. Thanks to a generous member of the congregation, who has made a substantial donation towards that debt, and negotiations with the diocese, who were happy to write off the rest of the debt in exchange for this early payment, we are now debt free. In addition, we were able to work within the budget, so have ended the year as we would have wished: owing nothing and having paid our Parish Share in full. Thanks are due to the churchwardens (past and present) and others who put everything in place to make that possible because it means that the three bequests we received during the year can now be used for specific projects rather than subsidising the day to day running of the Minster. Of course, several charities rely on bequests to fund their work and, in the longer term, I see no problem with using legacies in this way; but it always good to have funds available for additional projects.

As the year progressed it became clear that our regular giving was decreasing slightly, with new donors not replacing those who had stopped giving. In October we held a Stewardship Sunday in which the treasurer gave the good news about the 2019 finances, but warned of the problems ahead. The diocese had announced that the Parish Share would be increasing by more than inflation as the total number of givers had declined. More significantly this year Salisbury had granted us a 21% subsidy on our Parish Share but in 2020 that would be reduced to 14%, meaning that we would have to pay significantly more. We would therefore need to increase both the contactless giving and our individual weekly/monthly pledges. Unfortunately, neither of these has occurred, so we are thinking carefully as to how that can be addressed.

In the short term more of us will need to increase our giving but, looking further ahead, we will need to create a new business model that doesn’t rely as much on Stewardship. Whether, like many larger churches, that means running a profitable cafeteria; increasing our bequests; adding other income streams; or cutting our costs still further is something that will be debated during 2020.

Despite our problems there is positive news as well. The costs of replacing the lighting, restoring the organ and improving our audio-visual equipment are significant but will be met. From Easter the Wi-Fi in the Minster building should be much improved which, together with the better wiring, will allow us to promote the contactless giving. I remain optimistic that, with prayer and good management, we will overcome the problems and so continue to be a source of practical and spiritual help to the people of Wimborne and elsewhere.

Richard Knott - Treasurer

Rector

This, my second report, covering my first full year as Rector.

I have come to recognise, and be deeply grateful for, the committed team of Christians, Lay and Ordained, who work so well together to facilitate the mission and ministry of the Minster. I am still learning and thus appreciating more fully the scope of activity here. Simply, thank you.

I aim to spend one Sunday in five visiting one of the Northern Villages for their Parish Communion Services. The majority of my time is at The Minster. My esteemed colleague Rev’d Suzie Allen takes daily responsibility for the villages but interchanges with me and assists here. The Pastoral Reorganisation Scheme for the Northern Villages is in advanced stages now and should complete around Easter 2020. Thanks to Dr John Waldsax who has worked steadily as a facilitator. He has also assisted us with the selection and appointment of new accountants.

The Benefice greatly benefits from the fine support of Associate Clergy; Reverends Heather Waldsax, Elise & Michael Harding, and Bill French. I am also grateful to all LLMs/LWLs and LPAs – quite a team. Anne Pollard keeps me fully informed and I am blessed by her ministry. I have announced that Nick Wells will come to serve a curacy here, after ordination, at Petertide 2020. His family will move to the curatage in late May.

Thank you to all PCC Members and office holders. We say farewell and thank you to those leaving by rotation/retirement and welcome to those who join at the APCM.

Jane Davidson has kept the PCC informed and well trained with regard to Safeguarding which is so important.

Sheila Soper is an inspirational co-worker in the gospel and in thinking of her – my thanks to all who ‘make, bake and serve’ in the hospitality department – this facilitates the other kind of Holy Communion in which we share. We were glad to support her visit to South Sudan … and glad when she safely returned! December 7th Zahra and I met with Archbishop Samuel Penni of Yambio and Nzare at the Sudan Committee Meeting held at Dr Robin and Marilyn Saddler’s home. The Archbishop invited me to join with Bishop Nicholas in a visit in 2020 but neither of us were free.

My thanks also to Vergers, Staff, Volunteers and helpers in The Minster as Guides, Librarians, Shopkeepers and Relief Vergers. Thanks to all who beautify the Minster with flowers, who clean, sparkle and count. Thank you to Beatrice Dopita our new PCC Secretary. Thank you to Stephanie for her remarkable work with our Sunday School.

Thanks also to PCC Committee Chairs and Members. For more focussed meetings without AOB! We are attempting what I am grandly calling a renaissance – it is a team effort and I pray I can be worthy of the trust placed in me. Together, we want to make the Lord Jesus known in all His Ways!

I am supportive of Home Groups and we are encouraging more groups to form please.

I attend/lead The Daily Offices at 8:30am and 4/5pm. Everything must be committed to the Lord in Prayer. Thank-you to the few who join together for this essential ministry. Please join us!

On the last day of January our beloved Rev’d Dr Brenda Gibson, passed to be ‘Away with the Lord’. Her funeral was held in February with Ven. Paul Taylor officiating and former Rector, Ven. Vanessa Herrick preaching. It was a sad but glorious day. “Well done good and faithful servant”.

Various adjustments have been made to our pattern of worship and revisions made to liturgy in the light of growing experience. My thanks to Revd Heather and Colin Davey for their assistance. We have been blessed by the ministry of Colin and his commitment to developing the choir, and musical heritage of the minster, together with Minster Voices and our other musicians.

I presided at Divine Worship and various Occasional Offices throughout the year with able support from Associate and Assistant clergy, Lay Ministers and Deacons, and Lay Worship Leaders. We generally meet as a Great Chapter on the first Tuesday every month to review and plan ahead.

Special services in 2019 are noted below:

1st January I greeted and blessed the New Year’s Revellers in the Town Square, with Mayor and Town Crier. On Sunday 27th January we hosted a Holocaust Memorial Service. 2nd March I led a Parish Vision Day at Corfe Mullen attended by some 90

parishioners. 4th March I officiated at a Service of Thanksgiving for East Dorset District Council as they handed over to Dorset Council with officials from both councils present. 2nd March I was interviewed for our Desert Island Discs social event. This was repeated at the Methodist Church. During March I offered a visual Lent Course based on reflections from extracts of the film, “Fiddler on the Roof”. Anthony Oliver has been a great support in many ways and insisted that I ‘kept the faith & ran the race’ (Pancake).

The Revd Canon Nigel Lloyd assisted us through the Great Tridium, and we greatly benefited from his ministry over Easter. Our heartfelt thanks to him.

28th April I participated in the Mayor’s Civic Service at the Allendale Centre. On June 2nd I was honoured to lead an Act of Remembrance at a National Commemoration of the Normandy Landings at Tarrant Rushton Airfield. (This linked in well with my chaplaincy ministry at the WW1 & 2 Memorial Exhibits at The Great Dorset Steam Fair at the end of August). My family celebrated the wedding of our Son, Christopher, to Victoria on 17th June. It was a sunny day in every respect!

The Mayor of Wimborne, Shane Bartlett, hosted a Civic Tour and his guests visited the Minster and Chained Library 0n 13th July. We welcomed Bishop Karen who led a Road Traffic Accident Victims Service on 21st September. 22nd September I spoke at the joint Saint Lioba Service at St Catherine’s R.C. Church. 13th October I led a Pet Blessing Service. I attended Bishop John Kirkham’s Memorial Service at Salisbury Cathedral on 15th November.

We welcomed members of the Ochsenfurt/Wimborne Twinning Association on the weekend of 16/17th November. I participated in the turning on of the Christmas lights in the square (with the choir) on 23rd November. Advent to Christmas was filled with many joyful Carol Services, a Christingle and Christmas Concerts.

I was greatly employed in the complex process of Queen Elizabeth’s School becoming part of The Wimborne Academy Trust (WAT). I am indebted to David Steele for his part in the process and I hereby recognise his longstanding special devotion to school as Chair of Queen Elizabeth’s School Trust (QEST). The ‘conversion’ exercised us greatly throughout the year but especially in the summer months when we would much rather have been at play! I now serve as a Foundation Member of the QES Committee (together with Pola Bevan) under the direction of the Trustees of WAT (who also have Foundation representation). On the 18th December I participated in an interview process which led to the appointment of Katie Boyes as Head Teacher.

I took responsibility for raising the funds required to complete the funding of the Renewal of Lighting and Electrics Scheme that was planned before I arrived. Work began in January 2020.

I worked with Governors of Wimborne Minster to develop beneficial schemes with regard to a New Rectory and profitable disposal of the existing. This was part of the

Parish Profile brief. This is ‘work in progress’. I reiterate that we have a three-way deal between Diocese, PCC and GWM to our mutual advantage and a distinct aspiration for a major scheme for Church House and more.

I continue as an active member of Diocesan Synod.

I meet with various other ecumenical groups, participate in Clergy fraternal meetings.

I continue to serve as Rural Dean of Wimborne. I was asked to become the Sherborne Area Convener of Rural Deans by The Bishop. I was invited to join the College of Canons of Salisbury Cathedral to the seat of Fordington and Writhlington from 3rd October.

Finally, my absolute love and appreciation for Zahra my dear wife, who supports us all.

When I look through my diary, I am astonished at how busy life has been. I participated in most committee meetings and events. I cannot overstate the debt of gratitude I feel to our Church Wardens, Peter, Andrew and Bruce. I also recognise that De Ashton was in office for part of this year. The PCC were pleased to recognise her as Church Warden Emeritus, and she continues to assist us greatly, as does former CW Francis Vine. I am aware there was an active administrator in the past. Without this function Church Wardens and Rector have significant extra workloads in administration - that should be appreciated. It is a team effort and I appreciate the commitment and self-sacrifice of all.

May the Lord Jesus Christ accept our humble offering, and may he build his church and bless us through our service. AMDG.

Andrew JW Rowland – Feast Day of St Agatha 2020

Proceedings of the PCC

The PCC met six times during the year, each meeting beginning with the Gospel of the Day and Prayer. The first meeting of the new PCC after the APCM, in May, was preceded by a service of Holy Communion in the Minster.

The PCC were delighted to learn that our Rector has been inducted as Canon of Fordington and Writhlington, in September 2019; the formal installation will be completed at Salisbury Cathedral Evensong on May 5th 2020.

Regular reports were received from the sub-committees and Deanery and Diocesan Synod representatives. Mr. Richard Knott, Hon. Treasurer, has kept the PCC up-to- date on financial matters and was instrumental in introducing a system for Contactless Giving.

Beatrice Dopita was appointed PCC Secretary in October. Hill Osbourne Accountants have been appointed to oversee and update the accounts of the Minster, and to offer accountancy for the new parish of The Wimborne Villages, at its inauguration after Easter 2020.

Business transacted during PCC meetings included consideration of: -  Legal requirements – New Diocesan Safeguarding policy, GDPR.  Routine oversight of fabric and establishment matters  Proposed conservation work on the “Carillon aka Chiming Bell”.  Selection and purchase of a larger Silver Safe.  Consideration of the Diocesan led restructuring of the Northern Parishes to become The Wimborne Villages.  Plans to co-operate with the Diocese and Governors of Wimborne Minster to build a new Diocesan owned rectory.  Lighting, Electrical and A.V. works, in progress January to April 2020.  Conservation work on the tombs at The High Altar completed February 2020.  Plans to celebrate 900th Anniversary of the Minster’s Norman Foundation.  The launch of Minster Makes Music Appeal as a separate CIO to raise money for a complete restoration of the organ and to set up a restricted fund for music scholarships to benefit and support the Minster’s musical heritage.  Towards a Mission Action Plan (following up on Parish Vision Day 2019).

The Rector expressed his heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Mr. Peter Cook and Mr. Andrew Patrick as Churchwardens, together with Mr. Bruce Jensen as Deputy Warden.

The Rector has strengthened our contacts and friendship with all the Christian churches in Wimborne. There has been an influx of new ministers at most Wimborne Churches during 2019. They regularly meet at a fraternal.

Canon Andrew has worked hard to involve the Minster in many aspects of life in the town and has taken part in events ranging from: the pancake races, the Minster’s traditional Bun Walk to Pamphill on Good Friday afternoon, a Pentecost celebration during the Folk Festival, walking in the town’s Christmas Parade, Carols in the Cornmarket, Blessing the crowds in the Square at New Year, a Business Breakfast hosted by Wimborne BID, and even wassailing the apple trees at Dean’s Court. There is a great sense of spiritual renewal as a result of the many initiatives that have marked Andrew’s first full year of ministry at the Minster.

Beatrice Dopita - PCC Secretary

Safeguarding

“To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6 8

The process for Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks continues to improve. At the present time, all in need of DBS are up to date. Checks can be done online or Jane Davidson, Parish Safeguarding Representative (PSR) is able to assist with these for applicants who prefer not to use the online service themselves.

It is expected that all PCC members and volunteers complete the C0 Basic Safeguarding training and those with leadership responsibilities complete C1 and C2 trainings.

All “Experience Easter” volunteers have DBS certification and have completed Safeguarding trainings.

The Rector and Churchwardens have all completed Safer Recruitment training.

Jane has delivered C1 Safeguarding training to the volunteers of Two by Two.

Safeguarding Training in CO (Basic Awareness) and C1 (Foundation) are available on line through Salisbury Diocese on https://safeguardingtraining.cofeportal.org Jane is able to facilitate C1 training face to face, if requested.

In June 2019 a “Lone Worker” workshop was delivered to volunteers by Jane and De Ashton. This was much appreciated and helped to improve communication amongst volunteers.

Jane is usually available on Thursdays, 10.00 -12.00 either by in telephone or appointment in the Church Lounge; for enquiries, DBS checks and support with online training. De Ashton, Church Warden acts as Deputy Parish Safeguarding Representative (DPSR) in Jane’s absence.

Thank you to all the Wimborne Minster volunteers and congregation for their support in delivering the Safeguarding agenda. It is of great importance to ensure that our congregation and visitors are treated as Jesus would encourage us to do.

“I believe that the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults should be the highest priority of all parts of the Church, and that any failings in this area must be immediately reported. There are no excuses for shortcomings”. Archbishop Justin Welby.

Jane Davidson - Safeguarding

Aspects of Spirituality Talks

Putting together the Aspects of Spirituality talks for 2019 was challenging, but interesting. The speakers who emerged from much prayer, were all very different from one another, and each gave us much to think about in our own discipleship.

The theme of How we think about God was designed to give speakers wide scope. It also gave the audience a flavour of the different approaches adopted by others worshipping in Wimborne. Having local speakers also provided an opportunity to build links and understanding between the town’s various congregations.

Each speaker chose his or her own title; and there were all individual and insightful. The first talk Heart and Head: Ignatian ways of being with God sounded daunting,

but Fr Paul Keys really held the audience as he described a systematic way of thinking about God and worship which was challenging, but very practical.

Richard Bush from Wimborne Quakers, talked about the history of Quakerism in England and the significant role they played in social reform. He explained how the Quaker method of worship and governance depends much upon silence and waiting for God’s will to emerge.

The MEG group’s presentation talked about how God is manifested in wildness; and the importance of our stewardship as Christians of our environment. They offered guidance on practical steps on how we can separately and together improve things, which was helpful and positive. The focus was not only preventing environmental disasters, but also in being joyful and giving praise for God’s creation.

The final speaker was Carole Gadsden, who is new to Wimborne. Hers was a personal reflection on how God enters our lives and calls us to service. A main theme was that, whatever our starting point, each of us can be called to serve God. Carole explained that the Salvation Army are called into many emergency situations, such as the Grenfell Tower fire where they provide practical help and immediate support to those affected.

All four speakers in the series gave different, but complementary, perspectives on thinking about God, and I hope everyone who came found it an interesting experience. For those who could not come to any of the talks, audio recordings are available from the Parish Office.

Many thanks to everyone who helped organise the talks, producing and printing posters and tickets, helping set up, welcoming people, serving food and drink and being cheerful and encouraging throughout. Thank you too to all of our speakers, and to everyone who attended.

The theme for the 2020 Aspects of Spirituality is Faith in Action.

Anne King

The Bell Tower - Wimborne Minster Tower Report for 2019

We have rung regularly for all Sunday morning and Sunday evening services during 2019, ringing all twelve bells, and also for weddings (usually on ten bells) and other special occasions. Our practice nights have been well attended by a regular nucleus of around fifteen to twenty local ringers and occasional visitors. From 7.00pm - 7.30pm we normally ring on the front eight and then move on to twelve-bell ringing after that. Methods have ranged from Grandsire, Little Grandsire, Erin and Stedman Cinques, Cambridge and Yorkshire Maximus. On the third Tuesday in every month we have held a special advanced practice and with the help of some regular visitors we have managed Newgate, Bristol and Zanussi.

Four peals have been rung on the bells during 2019. A local band peal of Stedman Cinques on Easter Monday was rung in thanksgiving for the life of Neil Garrard and two visitor peals were rung by bands from the East meets West Tour (Bristol Surprise Maximus) and the Winchester and Portsmouth Guild (Stedman Cinques). The Christmas peal on 28th December was Spliced Bristol Maximus and Stedman Cinques; the first time this has been rung for the SDGR.

Monday, 22 April 2019 in 3h 27mins 5007 Stedman Cinques Composed by Mark R Eccleston 1 Patricia M Hitchins 2 Katie L Child 3 Rosemary J Duke 4 Felicity S Warwick 5 Lucy S Warwick 6 Graham A Duke 7 John G Riley 8 Matthew A Child 9 David A Warwick (C) 10 Harry E Blamire 11 Nigel R Woodruff 12 Robert T Child Rung by members of the Wimborne Minster Society of Change Ringers to celebrate Easter and also in thanksgiving for the life of Neil Garrard, ringer at Wimborne Minster since 1975. Neil was grandfather of Katie and Matthew, father-in-law of Robert, and taught Lucy, Matthew and Katie to ring. First of Stedman - 2 100th peal - 10

It was with much sadness that we lost Neil Garrard from the ringing team at the Minster on Saturday 20th April. Neil came to Wimborne in 1975 when he was appointed Chief Planning Officer for the Borough of Poole following Local Government reorganization. He and Mary quickly established themselves as key members of the Wimborne band as well as important figures in the ringing of the wider area, and Neil was a founder member of the Dorset County Association. He taught his two daughters, Hilary and Alison, and later his grandchildren Matthew and Katie Child to ring and they have all continued to support ringing at the Minster. In 2015, Neil was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease and was forced to stop ringing, but he maintained his interest in the tower activities and was able to attend our Shrove Tuesday Pancake Party.

Max Knight rang his first peal at Ringwood in September, a peal of Grandsire Triples by a local Wimborne band.

Ringwood, Hampshire St Peter and St Paul Sat 28 Sept in 2h 57 (17–2–18 in E) 5040 Grandsire Triples Composed by Albert J Pitman 1 Rosemary J Duke 2 Patricia M Hitchins 3 Max G Knight

4 Graham A Duke 5 Felicity S Warwick 6 Robert T Child 7 David A Warwick (C) 8 Alan R Bentley First peal - 3

Sixteen quarter peals have been successful, ranging from Plain Bob Triples, Cambridge Surprise Major, Grandsire and Stedman Caters, Cambridge Surprise Royal, Grandsire and Stedman Cinques, Cambridge, Yorkshire and Bristol Surprise Maximus, and one of Spliced Stedman Cinques and Bristol Maximus - the first of its kind for the Guild. Firsts have been achieved by Gill Richards and David Coates (first of Surprise), Max Knight (first on ten and first on twelve), Kathy Bentley (first of Stedman Cinques) and Flick Warwick (first on twelve as conductor). A quarter of Stedman Cinques in November was rung as an engagement compliment to Bebe Clegg and Adrian Rowland (former Wimborne ringer).

Wimborne X and Wimborne Y came first and second in the Branch Striking competition at Spetisbury earlier in the summer, and were beaten into second and third place at the Guild Six-Bell competition at Child Okeford in September. In the Eight-Bell competition at Whitchurch Canonicorum in May, Wimborne were placed 4th, a position they also achieved in the South West 12-Bell competition at South Petherton in October.

Four ringers from the QE School Bell Club have continued to make good progress with their ringing under the guidance of Ben Duke, and they rang rounds on eight for both the School Commemoration Service in September, and again for their Carol Service in December.

The highlight of this year’s ringing events was the outing to Trowbridge and Bradford on Avon, expertly organised by Ben and Rosemary Duke. Other social occasions have included a Pancake party on Shrove Tuesday, a summer barbecue, the annual Skittles’ match against the churchwardens, and a New Year’s Eve party.

David Warwick - (Tower Captain)

The Chained Library

We saw 6,657 visitors during the year and received £1,334.46 in donations. We took the rather risky step of increasing the "suggested Donation" amount but I am happy to tell you that no one complained that it had gone up from 50p to £1 and indeed some people still gave a lot more than that. It is always satisfying to find paper money in the donations box. We were slightly worried that asking for a £1 per adult might put some people off. Happily, it does not seem to have done so.

My wonderful team are amazing and to be congratulated for all their enthusiasm and hard work during the year. Thank you everybody you are brilliant. Sadly, we shall have to start advertising for some new volunteers soon as some of our friends will be leaving before or during the new Season which we hope will start on 1st April 2020. Our gratitude to those leaving for their efforts in the past.

2020 looks like being a bumper year. A Flower Festival and the 900th year Anniversary should bring in a goodly number of people. Like the rest of the Church the Library is having its wiring replaced and there will be new lights on the stairs and in the Library and extra power points so that we can offer our visitors even more excitement than we did last year.

Judith Monds

Charities Supported by the Minster

Age Concern

Bible Society

Children’s Society

Church Missionary Society

Fairtrade

MAAF Mission in Action

MARS

Minstead Trust (Plants)

Mission to Seafarers

PRAMA

Society of St Francis

Wimborne Foodbank

The Choir

The year began 2019 with Sam Hanson as acting Organist and Choirmaster. Sam did a fantastic job, and we extend our thanks to him, and best wishes as he establishes himself in London.

I took up the post of Organist and Choirmaster at the Minster, coming from a previous position at St. Michael and All Angels in Bassett, Southampton. The Choir has welcomed me, along with three new choristers; the number of gentlemen in the

Choir has been retained. One chorister has recently passed his voice trial to join Salisbury Cathedral Choir in the autumn term.

The Choir has built on its existing repertoire, introducing works by Philip Moore, Bob Chilcott and Herbert Howells, among others, and sing most of the services during term-time. Outside of this, the gentlemen of the Choir sing with a soprano top-line and Minster Voices cover a number of services throughout the year. We have also welcomed three visiting choirs and are one of the few churches still to celebrate Choral Evensong.

Members of the Choir have sung at the switching on of the Christmas lights, Carols in the Cornmarket and, more recently, on ITV Meridian News as part of the launch of the Minster Makes Music campaign.

The choristers enjoy an active social life and have had a number of choir teas, a BBQ in the Rectory garden, hot chocolate and ice- skating on the Minster Green. Photographs from the ice skating event appeared in the local Wimborne Guide, Dorset Life and as a front to the Salisbury Diocese Christmas webpage.

My arrival helped to move forward plans for a major organ rebuild. A number of our young choristers also regularly play the organ before choir practices, which we actively encourage. One took part in the recent Pipe Up event for young organists.

Overall, the Choir has developed and has enjoyed successes throughout 2019. We look forward to further progress during the coming year.

Colin Davey - Organist and Choirmaster

Companions of St. Francis

Since our last report, this has been a challenging year for the group. After leading two very thought-provoking sessions on “Why the Cross” (Easter) and the “Powerlessness of Saint Francis” our Founder, Rev’d Alan Davies was forced to retire due to ill health. We pay him tribute for his wise and kindly guidance since our inauguration in February 2014.

After a summer break, we decided to continue as a group without a designated leader. I would be the “Enabler” and others would take it in turn to lead a session.

We were delighted to learn that Brother Jason Robert (Alnmouth SSF) has overall responsibility for The Companions. Meaningful contact has been made with him and support received both from him and from his assistant Sister Chris C.S.F.

The Companions Newsletter (three issues per year) has been re-established which keeps us in touch with other groups. We are also continuing to support the Young Franciscans at Wendell Park, West London. Contact with, and support from, Hilfield Friary continues through Wanda Winchester – thank-you Wanda.

Our Christmas meeting witnessed a delightful display, by John and Jenny Spratchett, of their collection of “Cribs from Around the World” The New Year has seen us studying Helen Julian’s B>R>F> Notes on Saint Francis and Saint Clare. Helen is the Minister General C.S.F. John and Jenny Spratchett are leading us in this study. We give them our sincere gratitude.

As always, we welcome all of any faith, or none, to our meetings at Saint Margaret’s Leper Chapel 2.30.p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month. We celebrate, as ever, Saint Francis’ joy in the whole of God’s Creation.

Beryl Balinas - Enabler

Deanery Synod Report

The Deanery Synod was well attended. The Deanery has done well in meeting the Parish Share. 91% had been paid by the end of October. The Treasurer spoke of the Task Group reviewing the Share scheme. He also encouraged Parishes to adopt the Parish Giving scheme, and moving people from Standing Order payments to Direct Debits (which are variable), and to the value of Gift Aid and tap and pay systems.

Safeguarding – there is a new handbook, and all the information Parish Safeguarding Officers need is on the Diocesan website. All PCC members should have completed the CC1 course, and should also be aware of the responsibilities as trustees. A new Diocesan Safeguarding Officer is starting in January 2020.

Gillian Clarke talked about the Community Hub and Children & Youth Project. Hubs are being started to enable young people to congregate and learn about God. Co- operation between schools and churches within the Deanery is being developed, although problems with schools.

Problems of delays with the DAC were highlighted, and the diocese had appointed additional staff to cope with the volume of work and deal with the backlog.

David Pain (Diocesan Secretary) gave an interesting and useful outline of the Pray, Serve, Grow initiative with the focus being on churches serving local needs. He stressed the need for us all to keep learning as things change. He went through the 5-year plan, and produced a Wimborne Deanery Presence Map listing information about each church. He listed Dynamic Collaboration & Leadership; Transforming Lives & Communities, Sustainability as being key elements in our forward programme. Putting the Cross at the centre of everything we do. Questions included issues of funding, feedback and the need for simple systems and governance, ecumenism and ongoing learning.

Anne King - Deanery Synod Representative.

Diocesan Synod Report

The 2019 Diocesan Synods were held on 16 February 2019, 19 June 2019 and 16 November 2019. Below is a brief snapshot of the main non-routine issues dealt with. For a fuller report please refer to Synod Minutes on the Diocesan website at www.salisbury.anglican.org.

Bishop Nicholas highlighted in his presidential addresses:

Themes of resources, rural hope and our values as Christians.

All parishes to use the Archbishop of Canterbury’s ‘Saying Yes To Life’ during Lent 2020.

Our partners in Sudan will be invited here, with spouses and partners, for the week preceding Lambeth Conference in 2020 so there will be a large job of providing hospitality, to be done across the diocese.

The need for Christians to be a people committed to being about the truth.

Focus on the preparation of a 3-5 year Financial Framework and a 10 year diocesan vision including Diocesan Priorities.

The need for ongoing safeguarding work and the current Past Cases Review.

Other matters dealt with: reports from the diocese’s team of Rural Field Officers on the subject of rural hope.

The Bishop began a conversation about the need to concentrate on the Grow part of the Renewing Hope -Pray Serve Grow project, which is intended to lead to action to reverse our small but steady drop in numbers and income each year. He cited - decline over the last 40 years of males aged 9 – 50 attending church; need to stop church being boring; example of significant growth in Hamworthy church due to major efforts being made; need to engage with Messy Church projects, new housing developments in our area, and particularly going into schools rather than waiting for schools to come to us.

Bishop John Gladwin has been tasked with carrying out an interim review after 4 years of the RH- PSG project. He has carried out much research and consultation work, has affirmed the project and we are now looking towards phase 2 of the project and concentration on Grow. The Diocesan Secretary and Bishop of Sherborne outlined work on this to date including identifying the following Diocesan Priorities namely – Discipleship and Evangelism, Dynamic Collaboration and Leadership, and Transforming Lives and Communities. In parallel, the Finance Committee is working on a Financial Framework aligning sustainable finances to our shared goals, including updating Fairer Share.

The Diocesan Secretary outlined four current areas of work which seek to address Diocesan Priorities within a sustainable financial framework namely – re-imagine

patterns of ministry, find new sources of income to support objectives, plan to invest in change, identify new ways of working.

Synod has resolved as follows – to take note of the Diocesan Priorities outlined and it looks to the final approval of these Priorities at the February 2020 Diocesan Synod to bring the detailed five-year financial plan for 2021-2025 to the Diocesan Synod for first consideration at the February Diocesan Synod, and a discussion to agree the budget for 2021 ‘with line of sight’ to the five-year framework at the Diocesan Synod in June 2020’. in future the Channel Islands will come under the episcopal oversight of the Diocese of Salisbury.

Synod also resolved as follows re Climate Emergency: “Synod recognises that there is a Climate Emergency and it encourages every part of the Diocese to engage with the Fifth Mark of Mission, it welcomes the Archbishop of Canterbury’s Lent Book 2020, ‘Saying Yes to Life’ and recommends it for use in the Diocese of Salisbury’.

David Steele - Diocesan Synod Representative.

Education Committee

It has been another busy year for members of the education committee which exists to promote life-long discipleship amongst the Minster Community as well as reaching out to local schools.

 A new initiative was the Mustard Seed Event in July which saw the Minster filled with Year 4 leavers from church schools across Dorset, busily taking part in activities designed to consolidate the Christian learning they have received, as they move forward to their Middle Schools.

 Building on Last year’s successful collaboration with Canford School, students from their Art Department designed bags, mugs and other items which are for sale in the Minster Shop. Allenbourn School participated in the Holocaust Memorial Service. Overtures have been made to other local schools but there has been no response.

 Plans are well underway for a slightly expanded version of Experience Easter which gives children from local schools a hands-on and thought provoking re-telling of the Easter story.

 A Meeting was held for existing and prospective members of Home Groups one Sunday afternoon in July in Church House. Members enjoyed sharing experiences and as a result a new group is in the process of forming.

 Two by Two continues to provide useful support to those caring for young children, very often grandparents or child minders as well as parents. Numbers experience seasonal fluctuations, but has been pleasing to see participants at the Crib service and at least one family coming forward for baptism.

 Numbers in Sunday School have continued to be steady but low; on Sundays when the choristers are present the numbers swell considerably, but this has been on fewer Sundays than previously, with the choristers singing evensong more frequently. However, the whole congregation enjoys and benefits from the Sunday School slot at the end of the service.

 Thanks are given to all those who organised, participated in and otherwise supported the events above.

Tricia Knott - Chairman

Fabric Committee

During the year the Minster Fabric Committee has met five times and addressed a wide range of topics which included:

 Completion of work recommendations contained in the architect’s Quinquennial Inspection carried out in June 2015. – (The timetable for which work covered a five- year period)  Liaison with the Minster architect and the DAC on work specifications  Environmental survey of the Minster  Consideration and implementation of actions recommended by the survey of books in the Chained Library  Re-organisation of the western end of the Nave (i.e. behind the ‘crossing’)  Consideration of plans for the refurbishment/reordering of Children’s Corner  Consideration of plans for the refurbishment of the Utility Area (Vestry Kitchen)  Commissioning proposals for, acceptance of and commencement of major upgrade of Minster lighting and power installation.  Consideration of a new access ladder between the Ringing Chamber and the bell chamber and consequent repositioning or removal of a ‘carillon/chime bell’ from the mezzanine floor between ringing and bell chambers.  Conservation of the “Beaufort and “Courtney” tombs  Upkeep of car park, driveway, and paving. Day to day activities have included arranging and overseeing: -

 Annual test of roof safety wire testing  Gutter clearing  PAT tests on electrical equipment  Annual test of lightning conductors  General maintenance of the Minster and Church House

We are immensely grateful for the support and advice provided by the Minster Architect John Beauchamp of Benjamin & Beauchamp Architects in these projects.

Further thanks are due to the “The Friends of Wimborne Minster”, “The Minster Preservation Trust” and the trustees of “Church Estate” for providing funds that have enabled much of the above work to be carried out. We are also grateful to A E Griffin and Son, out ‘regular contractors’ for the advice and support they have again provided.

Thanks are also due to all Committee members for their encouragement and support during the year.

Colin Feltham - for Chair, Francis Vine.

Flowers

A faithful group of flower arrangers keep a regular rota going throughout the year. The High Altar flowers are arranged each week for special occasions, Birthdays and Anniversaries, or in Memory of loved ones. For £25 anyone was able to book their special day at the office in Church House where the date was secured and a message printed in the weekly news sheet. This is a lovely way to honour such occasions and we will continue throughout this coming year, arranging flowers and explaining in the weekly news sheet who they are for and who donated them.

The Urn known as Jimmy’s Pot Is arranged each week with seasonal flowers. Harvest colours – Christmas – Easter and we try to keep to the colour schemes of the brides. For Advent we only arrange with foliage and for Lent the ‘pot’ has only dried grasses etc. (Our version of the Wilderness). Added to our regular team we had many helpers and still have many people who come to arrange flowers for the Festivals of Easter, Harvest and Christmas. St. George’s Chapel is looked after by the Mother’s Union. A special thanks goes to them.

Flowers give pleasure to both our own congregation and to our many visitors who enjoy chatting to us as we arrange.

Christine Oliver - Head Flower Arranger

Friends of Wimborne Minster (Charitable Incorporated Organisation)

The Friends of Wimborne Minster is a registered charity originally set up in 1945 to support the Minster with regard to its buildings and its mission.

During 2019 grants were made to the Minster for:

 Books for Oasis Group  New Lighting Project,  New choir surplices  Organ rebuilding

Activities during 2019 included:-

 Valentine’s Coffee Morning in February.  AGM Evensong with our new Rector, Canon Andrew Rowland presiding and preaching.  Dean’s Court tea, at the invitation of Sir William Hanham.  Members provided tea for the Laudemus visit in July  The Cuthburga Lecture was given by Christine Oliver based on her “1300 years in one hour” tour.  November Tea party featured a Desert Island Discs from our new Organist, Colin Davey which delighted the capacity audience.

Our goals for the future include a challenge from the Rector to recruit 75 new members for our 75th anniversary, to stage a concert to celebrate our birthday and to continue to develop the work of the Friends further in the community with regard to fundraising and legacies.

We are actively seeking new members, so if you are not a member, come and join us now. We are also seeking volunteers who may wish to become trustees of the charity at the AGM on 12the July, at which the Dean of Salisbury will be present. The Secretary (Peter Cook) will be happy to discuss membership or trustee duties of the Friends with anyone who is interested after Parish Eucharist on Sunday 29th March (or any other last Sunday in the month) or can be contacted via the Parish Office.

Peter Cook - Secretary

Fundraising and Events Committee

Our aims and objectives: To oversee the regular fundraising activities of the Minster, develop a balanced calendar of events, and extend the Minster’s fundraising capacity, particularly to include visitors and the wider civic community.

2019 got off to an excellent start, with a New Year concert very well attended in Church House, and very efficiently organised by Sue Tipping and Rosemary Protheroe. Some hidden talents among the clergy and congregation were revealed! This was followed by another successful Silent Film evening, thanks to Bruce Jensen. Liz Curtis entertained an audience of 100 to a lovely recital in the Minster, entitled Music for a While, and this was followed in June by the Dorset Police Male Voice Choir singing gloriously in a packed Minster at an event kindly sponsored by Battens. Thanks to Malcolm Angel, we told some more Minster Tales as one of the events of the Wimborne Literary Festival, with generous sponsorship from Douch and Small. Sarah Steele organised a successful coffee morning in October, with much attractive jewellery sold. Finally, the committee provided mulled wine and mince pies at the conclusion of the Shoppers Carol Service, giving the congregation an excellent excuse to linger a little longer in the Minster.

Funds raised during the year amounted to a little under £5,000.

We have also researched other opportunities to raise funds for the Minster, and to entice visitors and Wimborne residents into the Minster, fully supporting the creation of the open space behind the crossing. We have developed a lively programme for 2020, and look forward to being joined at them by more and more members of the congregation – please do buy your tickets as soon as they are on sale!

Finally, I would like to give my heartfelt thanks to Committee members, and particularly the tireless catering team led by Sheila Soper, for their enthusiastic support and encouragement.

Barry Glazier - Chair

God’s Acre

The team have worked hard this year to manage the garden with the special idea of attracting pollinators.

We sowed wildflower seeds and were rewarded with a very good show of flowers through the Summer.

In January we hosted the RSPB Big Garden Bird Watch. Several members of the team and the MEG group took part and a total of 30 birds were spotted.

A small extension was made to the water feature.

We had a welcome visit in August from Mr. Tony Bates a trustee of the DWT and an old friend of God's Acre.

He came in an advisory capacity to help us in our garden management.

A very pleasant morning was spent by the team members at the DWT headquarters at Forston, at a Living Churchyard workshop.

The Minster team were asked to bring their notice board for the workshop members to see and it was much admired by the 15 churches represented.

The small team continue to work in God's Acre to help attract wildlife and provide a peaceful place for visitors to enjoy.

Margaret Turner - Chair

Greenbelt Group

The Greenbelt Group meets monthly to explore questions of social justice and ways of life in our changing world. Our name comes from the Christian based annual Greenbelt Festival which is a celebration of the arts, faith and social justice.

Meetings take up some of these themes, using a recording of one of the festival’s talks or panel discussions, or we may use other resources. During 2019 we have discussed the following issues: Education for the future; Living with Difference; Veganism; Attitudes to older people; Campaigning on the environment; Faith and Doubt; Peace activism; People and Technology; and quirky ways to Make a Difference.

In December we held for annual Amnesty International ‘Write for Rights’ session in the Minster nave atrium. The focus was on young people who were trying to uphold human rights around the world and we wrote over 80 letters and cards in support of them.

If you would like to explore contemporary issues with us in an informal, open- minded forum you would be welcome to come along. Details of meetings are publicised in the Minster newsletter.

Rosemary & Mike Lunt - Chair

House Groups

Refresh House Group

The Refresh Group has continued to be enjoyed by the eight members. We meet on alternate Wednesday afternoons in each other’s homes. Leadership is shared between those who are comfortable to facilitate studies and an invaluable secretary. Over the last year we have studied the Sermon on the Mount – what we thought was a familiar passage turned out to be full of surprises. Another series involved Women of the New Testament and it was exciting to discover how important women were in the early church with the passages giving rise to some stimulating discussion. Finally, we have continued to grow in fellowship through prayer.

Trisha Knott

Barclay House Group

The nine members of the Barclay Group continue to meet every two weeks to study the Books of the Bible - various Christian studies - occasional Home Communions and Prayer sessions. The Gospel of LUKE has been studied during the last year and the book of JOSHUA is the current study item.

The Group support the Lent Talks and Aspects of Spirituality. Various social events are enjoyed by the Group - our Chinese Christmas Meal together has become a regular event and a new venture - a visit to `Stewarts` Garden Centre with an excellent tea was also popular and to be repeated. The Group continue to help one another, especially those who have not enjoyed good health over the year.

Anne Pollard

Peter House Group

During 2019 our group continued to meet in each other’s homes on Thursday evenings, approximately fortnightly, during term time. The most interesting course book we used focussed on The Beatitudes, and we all learned a great deal. Study sessions typically lasted just over an hour, followed by drinks and biscuits and a chance to share personal news, both good and bad – a very important time of fellowship.

Mary Mortimer, a founder member of this group, sadly died last year. We all miss her wisdom, her down to earth personality and her care for others. We regularly pray for John, as he mourns her loss. Liz Watson,

Emmaus House Group

We meet in homes on alternate Monday evenings. We have recently studied:-

Characters from the Bible.

"Better Together" a York Course looking at our relationships as Christian's with God, family, church, strangers and broken relationships. John Bell Nicky Gumbel and others give their views on an accompanying CD.

A book on the Beatitudes by Will Donaldson called "Living Differently to make a Difference".

Our year follows a pattern of shared meals, communion at Advent and Easter and a time away at Hilfield Franciscan Friary for an Advent weekend. We aim through bible study, prayer and fellowship to care for each other deepen our knowledge of and relationship with God and reflect his grace in this world.

Wanda Winchester

Lay Pastoral Assistants

There are twelve Lay Pastoral Assistants - Hilda Butler. Bill Dewhurst, Jackie Deung. Mike Downton, Chris Feltham, Sue Hatherley, Carol Jarvis. Anne Pollard. Vera Ricketts. Sarah Steele. Sue Tipping. Alison Watkins. The LPAs continue to visit the Housebound (giving Home Communion on a regular basis) Newcomers, the Sick (both in hospital and at home) those who are lonely and various other needs. The congregation have been asked to make the LPA`s aware of those who have not been in Church recently and this has proved helpful to the LPA`s, who have then made contact with the member of the congregation when possible. Several LPA`s are leading and involved with the Oasis Group, which is most successful and so helpful to members of the congregation and others who have been bereaved. LPA`s assist with the Holy Communion, which is taken fortnightly to the Victoria Hospital and also to Streets Meadow. Communion is taken to Stoneleigh Rest Home on a monthly basis by a LPA. There are regular Deanery Meetings on

different topics, which are attended by the Minster & Villages LPAs to help to keep the training up-to-date. Prayer is a most important and essential part of this Ministry and your prayer for the LPA`s and those they visit is much appreciated.

Anne Pollard

Lay Worship Team

De Ashton, Jackie Leevers, Mike Dodds, Bob Tarring and Andrew Patrick make up the current team of those who have completed the Diocesan LWL Training Course and been commissioned by the Archdeacon or Rural Dean to serve in the Minster. This last year we have continued to lead Evening Prayer on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, to prepare and lead the twice-monthly Informal Worship at 11.30, and also principal services for Mothering Sunday, Harvest Thanksgiving and the Sunday after Christmas.

We much appreciate the support of the Minster clergy team and enjoy working with them. The Revd. Heather Waldsax has taken up the role of LWL Mentor. We also appreciate the support of our musicians.

The Minster aims during 2020-21 to develop weekly all-age informal worship, in parallel with, and complementary to, its acclaimed choral worship, helping us to draw in as wide a range of people as possible. The plan is to use the AV technology being installed alongside the new power and lighting systems. This will require LWL training in all-age worship and AV, and more commissioned LWLs and musicians.

Andrew Patrick.

Minster Environment Group (MEG)

2019 was another busy year for MEG. It was also an exciting one with climate heating coming to the fore in the news (at last) and climate emergencies being declared. We have continued to monitor Minster activities with the aim of improving and reducing the church’s environmental impact. The members of the group are: Alison Francis (Chair) Derrick Powell, Elfie Mills, Jackie Leevers, Linda Bunting, Mary Allen, Mike Lunt, Robert Pearce. (We welcome anyone who would like to join us). We met six times during the year.

Activities in 2019:  Working towards achieving an Eco Church ‘silver’ award  Providing information about Minster and local events through the Green Timeline on MEG notice board and the Minster website  Continuing to monitor the Minster’s energy usage and carbon footprint. In the year ending in September 2019 our carbon emissions were the lowest since 2008 when monitoring started. NB last winter was a mild one!  Encouraging the PCC and congregation to switch to ‘green’ electricity suppliers

 Working with the Fabric Committee on matters where there are environmental concerns  Joining with the God’s Acre team to hold a RSPB Bird Watch in God’s Acre in January and to visit Holton Lee in September  Working with the Minster staff and congregation to improve waste and recycling  Giving ‘Seeds for Harvest’ in the spring to people to grow flowers & vegetables for Harvest  Organising our Harvest Supper with a speaker: Andy Lester from A Rocha  As a team we gave one of the Aspects of Spirituality talks in November  Quarterly collections of computers, printers & IT equipment raising money for the Minster  Planning and/or taking part in community events during the year: o Fair Trade Fortnight event o Leading seminars at a women’s event at St John’s church o Setting up a monthly ‘Repair Cafe’ in the CLERC centre o Planning and organising the first Wimborne Green Festival with events during a week in October o Supporting every month, the ‘Win on Waste’ collections in the Library o Attendance at South West Waste Minimisation Group quarterly meetings

The coming year brings new challenges with the forthcoming COP 26 meeting in Glasgow later in the year and the Church of England stepping up its goals.

Alison Francis - Chair

Mothers’ Union

 Members met twice a month – Corporate Communion at 9.30am on the First Thursday of each month in St George’s Chapel and on the 3rd Thursday at 2.15pm for our main meetings.  The meetings ranged from speakers including finding out more about becoming Dementia friendly, the Bible Society and talks from our own Rev’d Andrew and Bill to ‘Sitting Pretty’ (gentle exercise to music) an outing to Stewart’s Nursery and of course a party and Christmas lunch!  In December we joined with other MU groups in the Deanery for an Advent Carol Service at West Moors.  We continued to raise money for MU projects, particularly for the caravan at Rockley Sands and the Away From It All Holiday at Sidmouth. We held two ‘soup and puds’ lunches to raise money for Sheila Soper to take to South Sudan to support the work of the MU there.  The Minster congregation were generous in supporting our Diocesan projects by donating items for Baby Bundles, knitting cot blankets for Salisbury Maternity Hospital and giving cleaning materials for the Salisbury Women’s’ Refuge. The latter were taken to a MU service in Salisbury Cathedral to support the ’16 Days Activism Against Gender Violence’.  We served lunch and coffee for the two Marriage Preparation courses.

 The theme for 2020 is ‘Hope and Confidence’ with which we will continue the work of the Mothers’ Union!

Di Hiscock - Leader

Oasis

We now have approximately 30 members and continue to hold our main meeting on the first Thursday of each month, with a" Bring and Share" lunch followed by a talk and discussion on a bereavement topic or a social activity.

The members arrange a monthly Sunday pub lunch and various theatre visits. We always visit bereaved people, before they come to a meeting, and then invite them to meet a few regular members before they come to a main meeting. The group is always friendly and welcoming to new members; people seem to derive much support from each other.

There are leaflets in church and in the Parish Office explaining what we do, and contact can be made with the leaders through the Office. Carol Jarvis, Sue Hatherley, Sue Tipping, and through the Minster LPAs.

Carol Jarvis

Open the Book

“Open the Book presents the Bible in primary schools in an accessible and enjoyable way, which helps schools meet their statutory collective worship obligations. We equip, encourage and enable volunteers from churches to deliver good quality assemblies.”

So... let’s Open the Book at our story this week……

There is anticipation around Wimborne First School’s assembly hall as the children look around as the story begins to unfold – adults & pupils dressed up in costume – the Year 4 pupils are always eager to volunteer to participate. They may be going to be Roman soldiers, disciples, crowd, or even take a short speaking part.

The Open the Book Team are in action each Monday in term time – one Monday rehearsing at St John’s Church with our friends there, & the following week presenting our Bible story to the pupils at Wimborne First School. We observe the reaction of the pupils with interest – they engage with the story & are eager to share their thoughts with the teacher at the end.

We have a loyal team from St John’s, Lytchett Minster & Wimborne Minster who work so well together & the rehearsals often have hoots of laughter over some bloomer or other! We have welcomed new members this year and as some have left, we would warmly welcome new volunteers to ensure we have enough “actors” when people go on holiday.

We have now completed six years of the programme and are very pleased to have been asked to continue for another year. It has been a very successful project developing a strong relationship with Wimborne First School & also deepening the relationship between St John’s and the Minster. Wimborne First School now join us in the Minster on several other occasions. It is great to be greeted in the town & other places by pupils who recognise us as OTB people.

Our relationship is flourishing between this team & the team from St Michael’s Church, Colehill. Several members from each team meet once each half term to go into Beaucroft School & again, we have been warmly welcomed & many of the pupils there are eager to dress up & be part of the story. We will be presenting the Easter story again in both schools just before Easter.

Grateful thanks go to the volunteers who meet week by week & also to those who have made costumes, made & painted scenery & to those who have prayed for us.

Sheila Soper

Outreach

Our aim is to support people both locally and in the Sudan.

Core/regular activities

 Weekly Lunch and Chat in Church House on Fridays in aid of Sudan Medical Link. Where there are months that have five Fridays a donation is given instead to the Wimborne Deanery Yambio South Sudan Link.  Quarterly Holy Communion for the Housebound followed by lunch/tea  Refreshments for the Minster Fair  Support of Wimborne Food Bank. Sue Slydel, an Outreach committee member, is the Minster link person. Minster food collection taken weekly to the Wimborne Food Bank collection depot.  Regular Outreach committee meetings are held.

Highlights of 2019

 Average of 30 people attending Housebound events. These occasions are extremely popular and very much appreciated by all who attend.  £1966 raised at Lunch and Chat for Sudan Medical Link  Provision of refreshments at the Minster Fair – (£500 raised)  A free Christmas Lunch and Chat with donation box which was very well attended. £210 raised by donation was given to the Salvation Army in Poole for their Christmas activities.

Sue Stevens

Parish Magazine

Over the last year we have carried on with our aim to attract readers from the town – and beyond – in addition to members of our congregation. We also hope to attract the attention of new residents. We have written a series of articles on ‘What makes Wimborne Special’ and begun another series on local organisations such as Probus.

Thanks to Barry Gibbs and a couple of volunteers, distribution now includes dentists’ and doctors’ waiting rooms, and the Walford Mill Co-op. For Christmas we published early, printing 500 copies to cover all the Christmas services. We continue to be grateful to our advertisers, particularly regulars such as the Tivoli and Douch & Small. Barry Gibbs spends a great deal of time contacting and negotiating with potential advertisers, and it has been satisfying to see that we are beginning to cover our production costs more often. Please mention the parish magazine when you use the services and products mentioned.

The Parish Magazine aims to reflect the range of our church life, so do let us have information about activities, or your ideas for articles. In 2020 Barry will be retiring from his position as Co-editor (with special responsibility for production and advertising) but would like a hand-over period. If you are interested in being part of the team, please talk to us both about what it entails.

Rosalind Jensen and Barry Gibbs - Editors

Publicity Officers Report

 My aim has always been to try and make sure the Minster and all its activities are kept in the Public Eye.  Press Notices are sent out where appropriate both before and after events and these always include the Minster website, Parish Magazine and the Diocesan Communications Office. 2019 was the first year without the weekly publication of the Stour and Avon Magazine. It has been a great loss to the Town

particularly as it contained very much up to date news of events both recent and forthcoming and although there are other Publications they come out less frequently and require a longer lead in time. Much use has been made of Social Media, Facebook and Twitter and thanks must be expressed to Ian Grimbly for all he does in this respect.  Radio Stations are included in Press Release circulation and Television if the event warrants it e.g. the Pancake Race. Details are always sent to the Wimborne BID for inclusion on their website.  The Media more often than not are unable to cover an event but are quite happy to receive photos and reports which are hopefully then published even if they are somewhat abbreviated.  Posters are produced for Special Services and Events for putting up around the Town. They are also put up on the Boards outside Church House, but remember they need to be booked in with the Parish Secretary well in advance.  Each month the Parish Magazine is sent to the Press.

Anthony Oliver - Minster Publicity Officer

Saint Margaret’s Chapel

We average 15 for the Friday communion. Thank you to clergy for officiating and Bob, Leonie and Dinah for our music.

A very big thank you to John Old- for many years our verger who took care of everything helped by Susan Maskell, they blessed us with this service for the Lord.

It is now a team effort and everyone works well together.

We had a Harvest Festival Service and a Carol Service. The latter was attended by some residents of the alms houses and all enjoyed refreshments afterwards

We thank the Trustees of the chapel who presented two large paintings by David Kirk for the chapel walls, one is St Margaret, the other St Anthony of Egypt, to whom the chapel was dedicated in the 12th century.

We completed 35 boxes for transportation to the countries of Eastern Europe. We thank Tammy Compton and Gracie and George for a huge effort this which helped us all. They are collecting now for next year.

The Companions of St Francis and the Third Order of St Francis both meet monthly in the chapel. The local residents have a Macmillan coffee morning and their Christmas gathering in there. One of our members has a Christmas recital for her music pupils.

This small chapel is still well used-to the Glory of God.

Wanda Winchester

Servers Report

Once again I should like to record my thanks to our loyal servers who assist at services throughout the year.

After 26 years Donald Fromow has retired and we thanked him formally at 9 45am Eucharist in July. At present we have a total of 14 members, which includes new recruits Beatrice Dopita and Zahra Rowland who joined in December 2019. I am still unable to allocate a Crucifer, on a regular basis, at Evensong and once again, our grateful thanks go to Choirman Jonathan Hiscock for fulfilling this role.

More volunteers will be extremely welcome. Training, which includes an explanation of why we do things in certain ways, is always given. If you are interested, please contact me either at the Minster after a service or on 01202 526368.

Chris Feltham - Head Server

Shop Report

The aim of our shop is to offer a service to visitors and locals alike enabling them purchase goods such as cards and souvenirs that relate to the Minster along with Biblical literature that they may find difficult to source elsewhere. By achieving this we are able to generate a profitable income, which is contributed towards the upkeep of the Minster.

This year has seen a lot of key names on the high streets around the country closing their doors. Unfortunately, this is the way the world is going, with more and more of us shopping on–line. The Minster shop has been affected as well, with less visitors coming through the doors, and the disruption of the ongoing works 2020 hasn’t got off to a very good start with sales in the shop.

Leonie Thurlow, De Ashton and myself were fortunate enough to work with 6th Form, and GCSE pupils from Canford school this year, on an exciting art project. Many of the pupils came into the Minster, and sketched different aspects, from the inside and outside of the building. They went away to produce pieces of work which varied from paint, oil, chalk and screening. We put the finished artwork on display in September, which looked spectacular, and was viewed by many people. From some of the artwork we have produced new tote bags, mugs with a design of the chained library and the outside of the Minster, and a print on the art wall. More designs to be used this year, so please come and have a look!

Our sales for 2019 have stayed static, but as I have already pointed out in the changing world of retail, this is quite an achievement, although I myself am disappointed.

As I start my 9th year as Shop Manager we are having a culling of old stock, and writing some off. This is necessary, as some of the stock has been here longer than I have! This will of course affect the profits at the end of the year, but it is a necessary

exercise. We are looking forward to our new season, although our volunteers aren’t getting any younger, and recruiting new volunteers is very difficult. I am hoping as the year progresses, we may find some new people willing to help.

Donna Gosney - Wimborne Minster Shop Manager

Sides-persons

Sides-persons have the duty of welcoming both the regular members of the congregation and visitors alike to the various services held in the Minster, not only on Sundays but at other times of the year as the need arises. The most important aspect is to give that warm and friendly welcome to all who step into the Minster.

The 2020 Annual Meeting will see the three yearly complete revision of the sides- persons list and whilst currently we do have a good compliment we can always do with more as it saves those on the list from having to be on duty too often. The only requirement for sides-persons is they must be on the Church Electoral Roll so if you feel you would like to be part of the team which carries out this side of the Minsters Ministry please do get in touch.

The sides-persons list also includes those taking up the elements at the 9.45am Parish Eucharist on a Sunday so if you would like to join this team, again, please do please get in touch.

During the course of the year we welcomed as new sides-persons Brian and Janet Boniface and Michael Dodds.

In addition to thanking all those who have carried out sides-person’s duties so faithfully throughout the year special thanks must also be paid to those who retired during the year after many years of devoted service: Cathy Thompson, David Sims and Cedric and Jill Mogg.

Anthony Oliver – Head Sides-person

Social Media

This is the first report for an APCM and so it covers our progress over the seven years since we set off.

For those of us less familiar with social media, one way of thinking about the different sites are in terms of publications; so, Facebook is like a magazine and Twitter is like a newspaper but more short term.

The key points to bear in mind are that the national average reading age is nine years Old, and with a span of attention of three seconds, so these media platforms are designed to attract people’s attention and keep it.

The Church of England runs award winning social media operations and even has its own social media platform. The C of E’s social media website is A Church Near You, www.achurchyearyou.com The Minster’s ACNY Page can be found at https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/9462/ One key benefit of being online is that you can measure your interactions with your audience.

Our Facebook and Twitter Pages have been online since June 2013 and we have gradually built up our online presence up. Our Facebook Page now has 484 Page Likes, of which over 180 have arrived since Christmas 2019, and 518 Followers, which means we have an audience we can now broadcast to and who can learn about the Minster activities & events.

The Page has had 1,270 Check-Ins, which means visitors have made a point of finding the Minster’s Facebook Page and recorded their visit on it. Our Twitter Feed has 226 Followers, plus the Twitter Feed appears on the Minster’s website Homepage.

Our A Church Near You Page yields the following information: Views this week 107, this month 721, this year: 6672. So you can see that ACNY, the Church of England’s social media enjoys a lot of attention.

Added to this the Minster Makes Music appeal also has its own Facebook Page and website that should drive even more internet traffic into the Minster’s orbit.

Ian Grimbly - Social Media and Online Media, Username @TheMinster1

Strollers

The Strollers Group exists to provide a companionable monthly stroll, between Spring and Autumn, exploring the countryside relatively local to Wimborne. Walks are usually on the last Sunday of the month. In 2019, the number of strollers varied between 12 and 3. We did five walks of around 3 - 4 miles including: Witchampton, the Cranborne Estate, Dunyeats’ Nature Reserve and Canford Heath, Ferndown Forest and Whitesheet Plantation and a circular walk along the riverside starting from Canford Magna.

We are always pleased to see new strollers – particularly with suggestions for new walks and perhaps, with the willingness to lead one.

Sandra Thompson

Sunday School

Looking back through my records, I can't believe that my earliest notes are dated 2011. We started the Sunday School just before our then Rector John Holbrook and

his family moved away so, 2020 may possibly be our tenth year - wow! We continue to meet on a Sunday morning during the 9.45 Eucharist service during term times and on key Christian holidays and, while our numbers are few, we continue to welcome the Minster Choir into our group whenever they are singing during the service and any visiting children. This seems to go well and while different levels of faith have been identified within our group, we continue to try and get the children to apply the teachings from the Bible into their daily lives and experiences at home and in school. The diversity and thinking in the group can lead to some interesting conversations which sometimes make us late back into church but when we are in full flow, it's too good to call a halt and so we apologise if this means a hasty race to the Communion rail! The Sunday School made another healthy donation to the Food Bank at Christmas with money raised at the Minster Green Fair during the Folk Festival weekend and the Harvest Festival Cake Sale. We also put together another 12 shoeboxes for the homeless at Christmas and would like to thank all those who donated items and money for this to be achieved. On Easter Sunday we will be continuing the tradition of hosting Craft in the Crypt for all children in church that morning. We will welcome you as an adult too if you wish to wield a glue stick and join us. Finally, at the end of the summer term we will be celebrating the achievements of the Sunday School children with the bi-annual presentation and at which we can see how far our children have come over the last ten years. We appreciate your continued support of the Sunday School and it's helpers and look forward to sharing the word of God with you from our perspective for another year.

Stephanie Shimmons

Tour Guides

The Tour Guides Rota began at Easter and concluded at the end of October.

Most guides offered two hours’ duty every other week although some did every week. We managed to cover most days each week throughout the season.

We had many booked tours, ranging from small groups to groups of fifty. We charge a small fee for these tours and had at least three guides on duty. For this service we have made a useful sum of money for Minster Funds. The most fun were the special tours “1300 Years of History in an Hour”. About seven of us took on that challenge.

We do not charge for children’s tours, some of which were undertaken during the early evening. This we see as a form of Outreach to Schools and Cubs and Beavers etc.

We look forward to the new season with enthusiasm as we celebrate the 900th anniversary year and will take great delight in sharing our knowledge with many people.

Christine Oliver - Head Guide

Tourism

The Tourism Committee met on three occasions during 2019

 Members include the Shop Manager, Head Guide and Representatives from the Chained Library and also the Rector and Churchwardens (ex-officio).  The aims of the Committee are to raise public awareness of the Minster as a place of Worship and as a Tourist Attraction and to support the Minster Shop and its Manager and give support to the Minster Guides and the Chained Library  As Chairman I meet with Representatives of the other Town Treasures, the Priest House Museum, the Model Town, Walford Mill Craft Centre and the Tivoli Theatre on a regular basis to exchange views and to see how we can help each other and in particular encourage more visitors to the Town and to each of the attractions. The Wimborne Business Improvement District (The BID) Manager invariably attends. Through these Meetings we can also liaise as necessary with the Town Chamber of Trade and the Town Council. With the loss of the Stour and Avon Magazine it has become even more important to use Social Media, Facebook and Twitter.  It seems apparent that in spite of increased advertising in recent years in various Publications and in the distribution of the Minsters Publicity Leaflet that visitor numbers have not increased so a decision has been taken to do no paid advertising during 2020 apart from in the Wimborne Minster Town Guide. It will be interesting to see what effect this has on visitor numbers.  The Year 2020 being the 900th anniversary of the start of the Minster Building as we know it today will present us with new opportunities and with a number of special events planned we can perhaps hope to see an increase in the number of visitors passing through our doors.

Anthony Oliver - Chairman, Tourism Committee

Two by Two – Minster Toddler Group

Two by Two has continued to meet on Thursdays 9.30-11.00am in the Church House hall. We aim to provide a safe environment for the children to play and socialise and in which the adults can relax.

Our numbers are currently between 6 and 13 family units each week. This means a group of 6 to 15+ children with ages between 2 months and 3 years. The adults include parents, grandparents and childminders, of both sexes. We have been very pleased to welcome the Rector; his visits to the group have been much appreciated by the adults as well as the children. As usual we give thanks for the dedication of our coffee ladies, more are always welcome. Two of our childminders who have retired joined our band of coffee ladies which is very kind of them.

Once again, a thank you to all the clergy who have performed with children and (stuffed) animals at our termly services in church. It is lovely to have you with us.

Ruth Edgar - Leader

Vergers

The Staff Verger team are responsible for setting up and taking down most, if not all, of the services within the Minster, and also some additional events in Church House. We are usually the first in and last out of the building, and effectively act as day managers. We are out of sight at most times during services, unless specifically required to fulfil some additional role. I encourage good relations with all of our works contractors on site, all events personnel and presently am heavily involved with the RBL and Friends Trustees committees.

I want to thank all of our Volunteer Vergers who give their time for our lunch breaks and also to the select few that know how to unlock/lock up the Minster on either Morning or Afternoon shifts. We have some difficulty in covering certain absences and anyone else who is willing to stand in for either lunch or holiday cover would be much appreciated.

Thanks should be given to: all the Clergy, Churchwardens, LPAs, Servers, Guides and all other varied Minster committee members who assist us in an amazing way. Finally, a very special thank you to Bruce Jensen who has looked after the evening concert work for a few years now, for which he does an excellent job, as well as in many other things also. Please contact Verger John if you can assist with cover.

John Hughes - Senior Verger

Victoria Hospital

As from May Communion Services will be held on the first and third Wednesday of each month. At the moment it is every other Wednesday and this sometimes makes it difficult when making out the rotas.

Services are taken by Andrew, Bill and Suzie, and occasionally Elise. An LPA usually accompanies them, but we are in short supply at present. Danny Howlett is very supportive and comes when she can but has other commitments in the Northern Villages. Sue Robinson is helping when she can. She did attend the last service with Andrew and Danny and enjoyed the experience so I hope she will continue. I myself have had to bow out until I’m fit after my operation but I certainly hope to be back.

We usually get three or four patients on average and they are so grateful. But it doesn’t really matter if there is only one. This is a ministry much needed for those who are sick and in need of pastoral care and to be able to take Communion. The short service is held in the dining room but occasionally a meeting is taking place there so the Common room, or in the ward at a patient’s bedside are often used.

Alison Watkins

Wimborne Minster Musical Heritage Trust Appeal

The Minster is the home of a musical tradition that predates that of many English cathedrals. The organ dates from the 17th century, it last received a major service in 1965, and it now needs major restoration.

An appeal has been established to achieve these objectives:

 To provide an outstanding and more versatile instrument to support and enhance the Anglican choral and musical traditions of the Minster  To establish a foundation to manage development of music in the Minster, and to communicate its musical heritage to the congregation, the community, and schools Several organ builders were reviewed, and FH Browne was appointed. The DAC is to be provided with a full application for its March meeting, and a faculty applied for thereafter. The contract with FH Browne has to be signed by 24th May. The intention is that work will commence in the autumn after the 900th anniversary celebrations, and complete a year later.

The cost of the repairs to the organ is going to be ca£500k, and a further £500k will be required to fund the work of the music foundation. Some £320k is available from associated trusts and the Friends.

We are close to having in place the financial infrastructure of the appeal and its charity structure.

We have engaged two highly experienced professional organizations: Apostle Charity Consulting is researching and managing trust and grant funding applications; ROUTEpr & Events has developed and is managing our fundraising appeal.

We held an initial information launch in December to inform congregations, the community, and visitors about the appeal, and early in January we presented to the Wimborne Chamber of Commerce Business Breakfast. We held a very successful launch event on 22nd January to some 60 local figureheads and business-persons at Dean’s Court, and a similarly successful launch event in the Minster two days later to over 100 guests from the wider community.

We have given interviews on BBC Radio Solent and local station Hot Radio, and Canon Andrew has appeared on ITV Meridian.

The appeal has made a good start. A considerable amount of literature has been distributed, and donations have started coming in. ROUTEpr is managing follow up and engagement with community, businesses, and schools. We are planning a number of events this year including a concert by the Caritas Consort Choir which is run by Lindsay Gray, Emeritus Director of the Royal School of Church Music. We are proceeding to select and appoint patrons to support the appeal.

Andrew Curtis - Chair, Wimborne Minster Makes Music Appeal Committee