07.01.2015 Views

The Parish of Bramshott and Liphook - The Diocese of Portsmouth

The Parish of Bramshott and Liphook - The Diocese of Portsmouth

The Parish of Bramshott and Liphook - The Diocese of Portsmouth

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Parish</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Bramshott</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />

<strong>Liphook</strong><br />

0<br />

Pr<strong>of</strong>ile 2010


Welcome<br />

From the Churchwardens...<br />

Welcome to the parish <strong>of</strong> <strong>Bramshott</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Liphook</strong>. As you read through our <strong>Parish</strong> <strong>and</strong> Person<br />

Pr<strong>of</strong>iles we very much hope you will find the contents appealing <strong>and</strong> inspiring, <strong>and</strong> will learn<br />

something <strong>of</strong> who we are <strong>and</strong> the work that we are doing in the Lord’s name.<br />

We are fortunate in living in such a beautiful part <strong>of</strong> Hampshire, <strong>and</strong> we are grateful for all God<br />

gives us in our daily lives. But we recognise the need to face up to our weaknesses <strong>and</strong> build on<br />

our strengths as a parish. We are looking for a priest who has a passion <strong>and</strong> commitment to<br />

mission, who will lead us <strong>and</strong> help us to meet the challenges <strong>and</strong> reap the joys <strong>of</strong> God’s abiding<br />

love <strong>and</strong> plans for us.<br />

Is this for you Is the Holy Spirit calling you to help us fulfil our Mission Statement – to be:<br />

Christ centred<br />

Bible based<br />

Spirit filled<br />

Ministering the Father’s love in a broken world<br />

Nick Sear <strong>and</strong> Kay Murray<br />

Churchwardens<br />

“Waiting upon the Lord”<br />

1


Sections<br />

<strong>Diocese</strong> <strong>and</strong> Deanery<br />

<strong>Parish</strong> Pr<strong>of</strong>ile<br />

Person Pr<strong>of</strong>ile<br />

2


<strong>Diocese</strong> <strong>and</strong> Deanery<br />

<strong>The</strong> parish <strong>of</strong> <strong>Bramshott</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Liphook</strong> is in the Deanery <strong>of</strong> Petersfield <strong>and</strong> part <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Diocese</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>Portsmouth</strong>. <strong>The</strong> strongly urban heart <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Diocese</strong> could lead to a disconnection with the<br />

rural parishes but, as one <strong>of</strong> the smaller <strong>Diocese</strong>s, the clergy benefits from a more personal<br />

relationship with the Bishop <strong>and</strong> Archdeacon, <strong>and</strong> a greater sense <strong>of</strong> belonging.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Deanery <strong>of</strong> Petersfield has a rural character <strong>and</strong> includes 15 parishes, ranging from the<br />

larger 'commuter' settlements on the eastern side <strong>of</strong> the Deanery to the more scattered<br />

parishes <strong>of</strong> the hills <strong>and</strong> valleys <strong>of</strong> the Meon Valley. <strong>The</strong> Chapter meets regularly for shared<br />

Holy Communion <strong>and</strong> Chapter meetings. Since 1997 the Chapter has gone on retreat to a<br />

convent in Brittany every two years. <strong>The</strong>re is a strong commitment to personal support <strong>and</strong><br />

encouragement among the stipendiary <strong>and</strong> active non-stipendiary members <strong>of</strong> Chapter.<br />

Currently there are 9 full-time stipendiary clergy in the Deanery, but current plans envisage a<br />

possible reduction to 6.5 over the next few years. As the <strong>Diocese</strong> looks to leaner times in terms<br />

<strong>of</strong> stipendiary ministry it has launched a Ministry for Mission Strategy <strong>and</strong> has encouraged the<br />

deaneries to be a part <strong>of</strong> the process <strong>of</strong> establishing new patterns <strong>of</strong> ministry in the years<br />

ahead. <strong>The</strong> development <strong>of</strong> a new Deanery Plan in the light <strong>of</strong> these changes is still in process<br />

but we have recognised a need for the parishes to collaborate more closely in their ministry<br />

<strong>and</strong> mission in the communities we serve. This will most likely result in clergy <strong>and</strong> laity being<br />

licensed to more than one parish, possibly through the establishment <strong>of</strong> a Deanery wide Group<br />

Ministry, <strong>and</strong> it will necessitate all ministers exploring creatively how we can better share our<br />

gifts <strong>and</strong> resources<br />

<strong>The</strong> Patron <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Parish</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Bramshott</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Liphook</strong> is Queen’s College, Oxford. <strong>The</strong> parish is<br />

recognised as not only one <strong>of</strong> the largest but also one <strong>of</strong> the most dynamic in the Deanery <strong>and</strong><br />

it is anticipated that the Priest appointed to this post will have much to contribute to this<br />

shared ministry. <strong>The</strong> living has been suspended as a result <strong>of</strong> the requirements <strong>of</strong> the Diocesan<br />

Strategy <strong>and</strong> the development <strong>of</strong> a new Deanery Plan.<br />

3


<strong>Parish</strong> Pr<strong>of</strong>ile<br />

Contents<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Parish</strong> <strong>and</strong> Community<br />

<strong>The</strong> Church Buildings<br />

Ministry <strong>and</strong> Worship<br />

Finances<br />

Conclusion<br />

4


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Parish</strong><br />

Location<br />

<strong>Liphook</strong> is a large village situated in the extreme east <strong>of</strong> Hampshire adjoining both Surrey <strong>and</strong><br />

West Sussex <strong>and</strong> is just outside the boundary <strong>of</strong><br />

the newly formed South Downs National Park.<br />

<strong>The</strong> parish <strong>of</strong> <strong>Bramshott</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Liphook</strong> includes<br />

<strong>Liphook</strong> itself <strong>and</strong> the hamlets <strong>of</strong> <strong>Bramshott</strong>,<br />

Conford, Griggs Green, Hammer Vale <strong>and</strong><br />

Passfield. <strong>Bramshott</strong>, established in Norman<br />

times, was originally the main settlement<br />

surrounding the <strong>Parish</strong> Church <strong>of</strong> St. Mary's. It<br />

has long been outgrown by nearby <strong>Liphook</strong> which<br />

due to the coaching trade <strong>and</strong> the advent <strong>of</strong> the<br />

railway became the parish centre.<br />

<strong>The</strong> borderl<strong>and</strong> <strong>of</strong> these three counties is renowned for its beautiful scenery <strong>of</strong> rich <strong>and</strong> varied<br />

“renowned for<br />

its beautiful<br />

scenery <strong>and</strong><br />

varied<br />

woodl<strong>and</strong>”<br />

woodl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> colourful heaths rising to nearly 700 feet<br />

above sea level at <strong>Bramshott</strong>. <strong>The</strong> River Wey flows<br />

through the parish. Extensive areas in <strong>and</strong> around the<br />

parish are in the ownership <strong>of</strong> the National Trust.<br />

<strong>Liphook</strong> is just <strong>of</strong>f the A3 London to <strong>Portsmouth</strong> trunk<br />

road. London is 46 miles away. <strong>Liphook</strong> Station is on the<br />

South West Trains line from London, Waterloo to<br />

<strong>Portsmouth</strong> with a regular service, the journey time<br />

between London <strong>and</strong> <strong>Liphook</strong> being approximately one hour. Bus routes link <strong>Liphook</strong> with<br />

Haslemere, Alton <strong>and</strong> other surrounding towns. <strong>The</strong>re is a local link circular bus service.<br />

National Express coaches call at <strong>Liphook</strong>.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Community<br />

<strong>Liphook</strong> is essentially a commuter village with a population <strong>of</strong> about 8,500. <strong>The</strong> main local<br />

employers are Allianz <strong>and</strong> the service industry. It has the appearance <strong>of</strong> being an affluent<br />

community <strong>and</strong> there is a wide spectrum <strong>of</strong> wealth but also small pockets <strong>of</strong> real deprivation<br />

<strong>and</strong> hardship. Housing ranges from large private<br />

houses to social housing. <strong>The</strong>re are five areas <strong>of</strong><br />

retirement houses <strong>and</strong> flats <strong>and</strong> four residential homes<br />

in the parish.<br />

“small pockets <strong>of</strong><br />

real deprivation<br />

<strong>and</strong> hardship”<br />

<strong>Liphook</strong> has a strong sense <strong>of</strong> community which<br />

manifests itself in various events throughout the year. In June the local business association<br />

5


LIDBA organises a charity bike ride. Up to 1,200 riders take part <strong>and</strong> the money raised goes to<br />

local charities, clubs <strong>and</strong> projects. In July there is a<br />

Summer Fun Day on the Village Green. Most clubs,<br />

societies <strong>and</strong> churches are involved. <strong>Liphook</strong> in Bloom<br />

volunteers plant up the village throughout the year.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y have an excellent record <strong>of</strong> winning prizes in a<br />

national competition <strong>and</strong> won a Silver Gilt award in<br />

Britain in Bloom in 2009. On the last Saturday in October<br />

the Carnival <strong>and</strong> Bonfire takes place. It is one <strong>of</strong> the<br />

biggest <strong>and</strong> oldest in the South <strong>of</strong> Engl<strong>and</strong>. <strong>Liphook</strong> has its own Community Magazine<br />

published quarterly, free <strong>of</strong> charge <strong>and</strong> distributed throughout the parish. It covers information<br />

<strong>and</strong> news from all the clubs, societies <strong>and</strong> churches within the village. Age Concern organises<br />

Meals on Wheels, weekly Lunch Club <strong>and</strong> a support laundry. <strong>The</strong>re is a Day Centre for the<br />

elderly at the Peak Centre. Assistance is also available from Voluntary Care.<br />

Education<br />

<strong>The</strong>re are three state schools. <strong>The</strong>y are <strong>Liphook</strong> Infant School, <strong>Liphook</strong> C <strong>of</strong> E (Voluntary<br />

Controlled) Junior School (St. Mary's provides two Foundation Governors, one <strong>of</strong> whom is<br />

usually the incumbent) <strong>and</strong> Bohunt Community College. Bohunt caters for over 1,200 pupils<br />

aged 11 to 16 years. <strong>The</strong> school is very successful. Ofsted awarded it four <strong>and</strong> a half stars. 63%<br />

<strong>of</strong> pupils achieve 5 or more grade C or above GCSE's. Bright pupils can also take exams early<br />

<strong>and</strong> achieve GCSE <strong>and</strong> AS levels before 16 years <strong>of</strong> age. It has designated Language College<br />

specialist status <strong>and</strong> has many extra-curricular activities. <strong>The</strong> community uses the facilities out<br />

<strong>of</strong> school hours.<br />

<strong>Liphook</strong> also has two independent co-educational preparatory schools. Highfield <strong>and</strong> Brookham<br />

School is a co-educational school for children from nursery age through to preparatory school,<br />

<strong>of</strong>fering boarding <strong>and</strong> day places for children aged from 3-13 years <strong>and</strong> Churcher's College<br />

Junior School is for 4 to 11 year olds. <strong>The</strong>re are also many other private schools nearby.<br />

Leisure<br />

Sports available include bowls, cricket, football,<br />

<strong>and</strong> tennis including youth sections. <strong>The</strong>re are two<br />

18 hole golf courses. Scouts <strong>and</strong> Guides each have<br />

their own purpose built facilities adjoining the<br />

Millennium Centre. <strong>The</strong>re is a Youth Club held at<br />

the Centre. <strong>The</strong>re are many clubs <strong>and</strong> societies<br />

including two Women's Institutes, a Preservation<br />

Society, an Art Society, a Horticultural Society <strong>and</strong><br />

a University <strong>of</strong> the Third Age.<br />

Other Churches<br />

Catholic Church, Methodist Church, Tower Road Gospel Church, Trinity Church held at Bohunt<br />

School<br />

6


<strong>The</strong> Church Buildings<br />

St Mary the Virgin, <strong>Bramshott</strong><br />

<strong>The</strong> traditional cruciform shaped church dates from 1220, having originally been built by the<br />

neighbouring Manor. <strong>The</strong> Transepts were added in the 14th<br />

century <strong>and</strong> the present Nave was rebuilt in 1871. <strong>The</strong><br />

wooden Spire dates from the 15th century.<br />

<strong>The</strong> church is situated in the centre <strong>of</strong> the original <strong>Parish</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>Bramshott</strong>, one mile from the relatively new village <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>Liphook</strong>, <strong>and</strong> set in one <strong>of</strong> the largest churchyards in<br />

Southern Engl<strong>and</strong>. St Mary’s has a strong link with Canada, a<br />

number <strong>of</strong> items now present in the church having been<br />

given in memory <strong>of</strong> her soldiers who died here in the flu<br />

epidemic <strong>of</strong> 1918/19 <strong>and</strong> who now lie in the War Graves<br />

section <strong>of</strong> the churchyard. A service<br />

<strong>of</strong> remembrance is held annually in<br />

June. <strong>The</strong> church has 6 bells, rung<br />

regularly at most services. <strong>The</strong>se<br />

were re-hung in 1989.<br />

Recent additions/renovations include the restoration <strong>of</strong> the old bier <strong>and</strong><br />

Bier store, glassing in <strong>of</strong> the South Transept, a new electronic organ,<br />

new central heating boiler <strong>and</strong> Bell Tower access. <strong>The</strong> church is kept<br />

open during daylight hours all<br />

year round<br />

<strong>The</strong>re is always work waiting in<br />

the wings <strong>and</strong> our current<br />

mission is to raise £100,000 for<br />

the replacement <strong>of</strong> the whole<br />

ro<strong>of</strong> <strong>and</strong> chimney. We also<br />

plan to upgrade the toilet<br />

facilities.<br />

St Mary’s is cared for by a b<strong>and</strong><br />

<strong>of</strong> willing volunteers. We have<br />

regular churchyard working<br />

parties to help with the upkeep<br />

<strong>of</strong> the churchyard.<br />

7


<strong>The</strong> Church Centre, <strong>Liphook</strong><br />

Built in the 1960’s, this is a<br />

relatively modern church <strong>and</strong><br />

community building serving<br />

many purposes. It is used for<br />

Sunday Worship <strong>and</strong> other<br />

associated church activities,<br />

e.g. youth groups, mother <strong>and</strong><br />

toddler groups, Alpha courses<br />

<strong>and</strong> music group. <strong>The</strong> building<br />

can be divided into three separate areas to accommodate such activities. <strong>The</strong> building is also<br />

used during the week by many local groups <strong>and</strong> organisations. It has a large modern fully fitted<br />

Kitchen, <strong>and</strong> is used for social functions. <strong>The</strong> foyer has also been refurbished.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Rectory, <strong>Liphook</strong><br />

In the 1980’s a separate building (the Ark) was<br />

erected, which contains the Church Office <strong>and</strong> a<br />

room used for Sunday children’s activities. In 2006<br />

the Church Centre was linked to the Ark <strong>and</strong><br />

Church Office by a corridor <strong>and</strong> small chapel. <strong>The</strong><br />

Chapel is used for services <strong>and</strong> quiet prayer.<br />

<strong>The</strong> whole is fronted by a large car park <strong>and</strong> to the<br />

side by a grassed play area.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Rectory was built 10 years ago on what was part <strong>of</strong> the Church Centre grounds. It has been<br />

sympathetically <strong>and</strong><br />

purpose built to<br />

encompass some <strong>of</strong><br />

the features <strong>of</strong> the old<br />

rectory, st<strong>and</strong>s in its<br />

own secluded<br />

grounds, <strong>and</strong> has<br />

views over both fields<br />

<strong>and</strong> the Church<br />

Centre. It is situated<br />

<strong>of</strong>f the <strong>Portsmouth</strong><br />

Road on the western<br />

edge <strong>of</strong> the village <strong>of</strong><br />

<strong>Liphook</strong>.<br />

It comprises four bedrooms <strong>and</strong> box room, bathroom, shower room, two separate toilets, large<br />

entrance hall, two reception rooms, kitchen <strong>and</strong> laundry room, <strong>and</strong> has a separate study <strong>and</strong><br />

downstairs cloakroom. <strong>The</strong>re is a double garage with hard st<strong>and</strong>ing. <strong>The</strong> entrance is <strong>of</strong>f the<br />

Church Centre car park.<br />

8


Ministry <strong>and</strong> Worship<br />

Leadership structure<br />

Over the past decade, our stipendiary ministers have worked hard to encourage <strong>and</strong> develop<br />

lay leadership. Besides the clergy, the preaching team includes one non-stipendiary minister,<br />

three Lay Ministers <strong>and</strong> three other experienced lay preachers. Members <strong>of</strong> this team have a<br />

wide diversity <strong>of</strong> backgrounds, enabling the preaching to be stimulating <strong>and</strong> balanced.<br />

<strong>The</strong> church has looked to the stipendiary clergy for much <strong>of</strong> its vision <strong>and</strong> direction. Within that<br />

vision, lay leadership across all areas is provided by the<br />

PCC, which is largely concerned with matters <strong>of</strong> policy, by<br />

paid staff members, <strong>and</strong> by churchwardens <strong>and</strong> other team<br />

leaders. Lay team leaders oversee aspects <strong>of</strong> pastoral work,<br />

work with families, children <strong>and</strong> young people, education<br />

<strong>and</strong> training, finance, buildings <strong>and</strong> administration. So we<br />

are blessed with many lay leaders <strong>and</strong> helpers. However, it<br />

is also true that a minority <strong>of</strong> church members do most <strong>of</strong><br />

the work. We would very much like this to change, so that the workload is shared by more<br />

people <strong>and</strong> we have some spare capacity. We feel that we are in need <strong>of</strong> refreshment, renewal<br />

<strong>and</strong> encouragement to reach out more effectively to our community.<br />

Most church members attend one <strong>of</strong> the three morning services. <strong>The</strong>re is not much crossover<br />

between the three congregations, but each one is noticeably good at loving <strong>and</strong> caring for its<br />

members. However, we would like to see a stronger connection between the congregations.<br />

We also need to improve communication between team leaders, church staff <strong>and</strong> the<br />

congregations.<br />

Work with children, young people <strong>and</strong> families<br />

“we are blessed<br />

with many lay<br />

leaders <strong>and</strong><br />

helpers”<br />

Children’s work is one <strong>of</strong> the top priorities for<br />

the church. In addition to the Sunday morning<br />

children’s groups, we run weekly Urban Saints<br />

meetings for three age groups (5–7, 7–11 <strong>and</strong><br />

11–14). <strong>The</strong>re is also a youth group which is<br />

run by a paid part-time church youth worker.<br />

<strong>The</strong>se midweek meetings involve about 60<br />

children <strong>and</strong> young people, many <strong>of</strong> whom<br />

have no other contact with a church.<br />

However, we are now facing an acute<br />

shortage <strong>of</strong> leaders <strong>and</strong> helpers; we are looking urgently for a solution to this problem.<br />

9


We have two other paid part-time posts: a children’s worker <strong>and</strong> a family worker. <strong>The</strong><br />

children’s worker coordinates the Sunday morning children’s groups at the Church Centre.<br />

Although most church families with<br />

children worship at the Church Centre, a<br />

growing number who prefer a traditional<br />

service are attending St Mary’s. Five years<br />

ago we introduced Junior Church to give<br />

children at St Mary’s suitable help to grow<br />

in their faith. Once a month, this group is<br />

swelled by a large number <strong>of</strong> children who<br />

are attending a Baptism service. We see this as an outreach opportunity to introduce nonchurchgoers<br />

to a good Sunday school experience. Junior Church is now in urgent need <strong>of</strong> new<br />

leaders to allow it to continue <strong>and</strong> flourish.<br />

<strong>The</strong> family worker has a range <strong>of</strong> projects that keep her in touch with local families. <strong>The</strong>se<br />

include running a toddler group, Little Lambs, which is hugely popular <strong>and</strong> is our biggest weekly<br />

contact with the community. She also runs the youngest Urban Saints group <strong>and</strong> contacts<br />

families <strong>of</strong> children who are baptised.<br />

<strong>The</strong> paid posts are a small part <strong>of</strong> the story; we are in need <strong>of</strong> more who are willing <strong>and</strong> able to<br />

lead. For instance, for the past fifteen years we have run a summer holiday Bible club (<strong>Liphook</strong><br />

Lightshow). Normally this attracts around 100 local children, many <strong>of</strong> whom then become<br />

involved in Urban Saints. This year, partly because <strong>of</strong> a shortage <strong>of</strong> leaders, we are having a<br />

sabbatical in order to consider whether we should continue with Lightshow or look for<br />

something new. So once again we are in need <strong>of</strong> fresh energy <strong>and</strong> vision.<br />

Ministry<br />

Worship <strong>and</strong> Service Patterns<br />

We are fortunate in having two churches, one ancient <strong>and</strong> one modern, so we are able to <strong>of</strong>fer<br />

a good variety <strong>of</strong> worship styles. <strong>The</strong> average total attendance for both churches on Sundays is<br />

roughly 120 adults <strong>and</strong> 25 children.<br />

St. Mary’s<br />

At St. Mary’s the worship style is<br />

traditional, involving organ <strong>and</strong> hymns.<br />

Sunday services start at 8 a.m. with<br />

Holy Communion (Book <strong>of</strong> Common<br />

Prayer). <strong>The</strong> next service, at 10.30 a.m.,<br />

cycles between Morning Worship <strong>and</strong><br />

Baptism, Sung Matins <strong>and</strong> Sung Holy<br />

Communion. At 6 p.m. there is Evening<br />

Prayer or, once a month, Sung Holy<br />

Communion.<br />

Services such as Remembrance Sunday,<br />

Canada Wednesday, Harvest Festival<br />

“60 children <strong>and</strong> young<br />

people, many <strong>of</strong> whom<br />

have no other contact<br />

with a church”<br />

10


<strong>and</strong> Mothering Sunday are held at St. Mary’s, as are our Easter <strong>and</strong> Christmas Eve services,<br />

which draw large congregations from the local community.<br />

Church Centre<br />

<strong>The</strong> worship style here is less formal. <strong>The</strong>re<br />

is a thriving music group that includes a<br />

number <strong>of</strong> young people. We use a screen<br />

<strong>and</strong> projector, which enables us to introduce<br />

new songs easily. <strong>The</strong> main Sunday service is<br />

at 9.45 a.m. <strong>and</strong> cycles between Morning<br />

Worship, Holy Communion <strong>and</strong> a family<br />

friendly service. Most <strong>of</strong> our families with<br />

young children attend the Church Centre,<br />

where there are several children’s groups<br />

<strong>and</strong> a Crèche. <strong>The</strong>re is a visible gap in the 20–40 age range in the village generally, which is<br />

reflected in both churches. Nevertheless, we would like to do more to reach young families.<br />

Church Centre Chapel<br />

<strong>The</strong> chapel is left open all day for private prayer <strong>and</strong> reflection. It is also used for a midweek<br />

Holy Communion service, for prayer meetings <strong>and</strong> prayer ministry.<br />

Pastoral <strong>and</strong> Outreach<br />

We have much to <strong>of</strong>fer both in love <strong>and</strong><br />

support <strong>and</strong>, when combined, our<br />

different approaches to our faith <strong>and</strong><br />

spirituality give us a powerful witness <strong>and</strong><br />

outreach in the village <strong>and</strong> beyond. As part<br />

<strong>of</strong> this, we provide many activities for all<br />

age groups. We aim to bring people<br />

together, to help them grow in faith <strong>and</strong> in<br />

their knowledge <strong>of</strong> the Bible, to provide<br />

support <strong>and</strong> fellowship in Christ for all<br />

members <strong>of</strong> the church family, <strong>and</strong> to<br />

enrich parish life in general.<br />

We are very fortunate to have some<br />

dedicated <strong>and</strong> committed leaders for the<br />

many aspects <strong>of</strong> our pastoral <strong>and</strong> outreach<br />

work. Here there is strong teamwork, but<br />

we need to improve communication<br />

between leaders <strong>of</strong> each team so that we<br />

can work more cohesively; we also need<br />

more volunteers.<br />

11


Home – Bible Study/Discussion Groups<br />

At present we have seven home groups, which meet weekly. <strong>The</strong>y provide teaching <strong>and</strong><br />

informal pastoral care for around 30% <strong>of</strong> our congregations. We would like to increase<br />

participation, as home groups are an important source <strong>of</strong> fellowship <strong>and</strong> prayer support for<br />

their members.<br />

Bereavement Support<br />

Tea <strong>and</strong> Company is one <strong>of</strong> the main areas <strong>of</strong> our support for bereaved people. Once a month,<br />

members <strong>of</strong> our bereavement support group welcome bereaved <strong>and</strong> elderly members <strong>of</strong> the<br />

parish to meet over a cup <strong>of</strong> tea. We organise occasional outings, <strong>and</strong> there is an annual<br />

Thanksgiving <strong>and</strong> Remembrance Service which is always very well attended.<br />

Lunch Break<br />

Each month, 35–40 people get together for an informal lunch, prepared by volunteers, after<br />

which we have a guest speaker. This is a wonderful opportunity for people in the parish to mix<br />

<strong>and</strong> share in fellowship. Some <strong>of</strong> those attending bring friends, encouraging people from<br />

outside the parish to join in.<br />

Live Nativity<br />

In December 2009 we put on our very first<br />

‘Live Nativity’ event. This event gave us the<br />

opportunity to share the Good News <strong>of</strong> the<br />

free gift <strong>of</strong> Jesus with our community. We<br />

were delighted to welcome over 170 visitors<br />

on the day, coming to see the animals <strong>and</strong><br />

meet the nativity characters, to enjoy a drink<br />

<strong>and</strong> a mince pie, <strong>and</strong> to listen to live music.<br />

Live Nativity 2010 is already in the diary.<br />

Alpha Courses<br />

We have run many Alpha courses for our congregations <strong>and</strong> the wider community. <strong>The</strong>se have<br />

helped a number <strong>of</strong> people to become regular worshippers, especially when courses led to the<br />

formation <strong>of</strong> new home groups.<br />

Diaso Link<br />

<strong>The</strong> church family has a long-st<strong>and</strong>ing link with the parish <strong>of</strong><br />

Diaso, which is in Cape Coast, Ghana. We have had a number <strong>of</strong><br />

exchange visits, <strong>and</strong> we support the parish by providing finance<br />

for capital projects.<br />

Prayer<br />

Prayer Chain <strong>and</strong> Hospital Prayer Watch<br />

Our Prayer Chain has being running for around 20 years. Eight<br />

committed members currently provide confidential prayer<br />

support for those who request it. For Hospital Prayer Watch, a<br />

dedicated team <strong>of</strong>fer half-hourly prayer for people in the<br />

church family who are having surgery in hospital on a particular day.<br />

12


Prayer Ministry<br />

We have a Prayer Ministry<br />

team that has existed for<br />

some years <strong>and</strong> has attended<br />

the main services at both<br />

churches. Recently, prayer<br />

ministry has been carried out<br />

informally; at the Church<br />

Centre, church members<br />

<strong>of</strong>ten pray together<br />

spontaneously or with the<br />

service leaders. Prayer<br />

Ministry leaders are also<br />

available for more confidential requests in the quiet <strong>of</strong> the Chapel.<br />

Annual <strong>Parish</strong> Quiet Day<br />

We normally have a <strong>Parish</strong> Quiet Day once a year. Last time it involved about 20 people, who<br />

much appreciated the fellowship <strong>and</strong> valued the<br />

opportunity for making this quiet space for God.<br />

“church members<br />

<strong>of</strong>ten pray together<br />

spontaneously”<br />

Development<br />

Over several years, tutors from the Acorn<br />

Christian Foundation have organised Christian<br />

Listening courses for members <strong>of</strong> our parish.<br />

Around a dozen church members are now accredited Christian Listeners; many more have<br />

taken some <strong>of</strong> the courses. <strong>The</strong>y have enabled us to grow in compassion. It is noticeable that<br />

we are a parish whose members make time for each other <strong>and</strong> who look out for those who<br />

have particular needs.<br />

Some <strong>of</strong> our church members have taken various courses within the parish <strong>and</strong> the diocese to<br />

develop their awareness <strong>of</strong> different kinds <strong>of</strong> prayer. This training has been helpful to the<br />

church <strong>and</strong> has deepened the prayer life <strong>of</strong> those who have been involved.<br />

Training<br />

<strong>The</strong> parish has been a training parish for many years <strong>and</strong> it is anticipated that this will continue.<br />

Any prospective applicant needs to be aware <strong>of</strong> this. <strong>The</strong> Revd Alison Bennett, who was<br />

ordained priest in July 2009, is our stipendiary curate at the moment. <strong>The</strong> curate’s house,<br />

which is owned by the diocese, is a three bedroom detached house in <strong>Liphook</strong>, well placed for<br />

both churches.<br />

13


Finances<br />

<strong>The</strong> financial situation <strong>of</strong> the parish is very satisfactory. Our balance<br />

sheet at the end <strong>of</strong> 2009 showed a balance <strong>of</strong> £206,000. Of this,<br />

£100,000 is the book value <strong>of</strong> the Church Centre, Ark <strong>and</strong> Link<br />

buildings which are not realisable assets as they are built on l<strong>and</strong><br />

which was endowed to the church specifically for church use. <strong>The</strong><br />

church operates a number <strong>of</strong> restricted <strong>and</strong> endowment funds which<br />

account for £35,000 <strong>of</strong> the balance.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Hon. Treasurer is tasked to produce each November a detailed<br />

budget for the following year plus a rolling 5 year generalised budget.<br />

For 2010 the PCC have approved a budget which is in line with<br />

previous year's budgets. A regular report is presented to the PCC on<br />

the actual income <strong>and</strong> expenditure against budget.<br />

<strong>The</strong> church operates a number <strong>of</strong> bank accounts at CAF, Lloyds Bank<br />

<strong>and</strong> CCLA for our medium <strong>and</strong> long term cash deposits.<br />

<strong>The</strong> parish has always been in a position to pay its Fair Shares (Quota)<br />

from general giving. In 2010 the Quota is £63,839. We expect the<br />

Quota to continue to rise by 6-7% per year for the next five years <strong>and</strong><br />

have built our budget accordingly.<br />

At present we have 121 people using the Gift Aid planned giving<br />

scheme. In 2010 we expect over £80,000 income via this scheme<br />

which together with the tax rebate provides about two thirds <strong>of</strong> our<br />

budgeted income. We would expect to have a new stewardship<br />

campaign in 2011 as the last was at the beginning <strong>of</strong> 2007. With<br />

increased costs showing in the five year budget it will be necessary to<br />

raise more from general giving to maintain our present ministry <strong>and</strong><br />

mission. <strong>The</strong> parishioners have in addition been generous with their<br />

giving for specific projects <strong>and</strong> through this we have in the past three<br />

years been able to install a new organ <strong>and</strong> also replace the central<br />

heating boiler without use <strong>of</strong> the general fund.<br />

Our Church Centre is let on most days <strong>of</strong> the week <strong>and</strong> generated<br />

£9,500 in 2009. In total the income for 2009 was £161,000, with<br />

expenditure <strong>of</strong> £155,000 which included the Quota, staff costs, utilities, <strong>and</strong> mission giving.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Church employs a number <strong>of</strong> people, all on a part time basis, accounting for an<br />

expenditure <strong>of</strong> £45,000 per year which is all paid from the giving from the parishioners.<br />

<strong>The</strong> approved Report <strong>and</strong> Financial Statement for 2009 is available upon request.<br />

14


Conclusion<br />

We very much hope that we have been successful in telling you about our parish, its<br />

community, our church buildings, <strong>and</strong> the very active <strong>and</strong> widespread ministry <strong>and</strong> worship<br />

which we are so fortunate to enjoy.<br />

More can be found on our website at www.liphookchurch.co.uk<br />

We know that all the elements are in place for the parish to move forward with confidence into<br />

what will undoubtedly be a very challenging future <strong>and</strong> we hope therefore that we have been<br />

able to fill you with enthusiasm to share that future with us.<br />

15


Person Pr<strong>of</strong>ile<br />

We pray that our new incumbent will ...<br />

Be a committed Christian <strong>of</strong> strong personal faith<br />

Have a strong personal prayer life<br />

Show love <strong>and</strong> respect for the Word <strong>of</strong> God, <strong>and</strong> be open to the Holy Spirit’s working<br />

Be a dynamic, effective <strong>and</strong> servant-hearted leader<br />

Be approachable, warm-hearted, compassionate, <strong>and</strong> have a sense <strong>of</strong> humour<br />

Be an inspiring <strong>and</strong> prayerful Bible-based teacher<br />

Be prepared to equip, motivate <strong>and</strong> actively encourage the ministry <strong>of</strong> those who have<br />

gifts in preaching, teaching, pastoral, evangelistic <strong>and</strong> worship roles in the church<br />

Recognise, value <strong>and</strong> be willing to further God’s work in renewal <strong>and</strong> mission within the<br />

community<br />

Support <strong>and</strong> extend the existing youth <strong>and</strong> children’s work<br />

Nurture all members <strong>of</strong> the church, <strong>and</strong> value <strong>and</strong> develop the traditions <strong>and</strong> styles <strong>of</strong><br />

both congregations<br />

16

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!