The Parochial Church Council (PCC) of St Mary’s and St Leonard’s is a non-profit making charitable organisation which depends on the generous giving of church members, visitors and well-wishers. All giving is anonymous. The PCC Treasurer is elected annually from the PCC and the church accounts are published every year, with the Annual Report, for the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM), copies of which can be found here.
Every year, the churches contribute to the central Church of England finances by means of the Parish Share. This pays for the Rector and the associated training, housing and pension costs as well as vital safeguarding work, funding of initial ordination training and lay training on a national basis. All costs associated with the parish are paid for through the Sunday collections, standing orders and occasional one-off gifts and legacies. The costs associated with maintaining these historic buildings are not insignificant; in addition, funds must be found for holding regular services, running a variety of weekday activities etc.
Where does the money go?
The following chart shows a break-down of where our money goes (click to enlarge):
Where does the money come from?
To find out where our money comes from, see below (click to enlarge):
Ways of Giving
• Collection Plate – this is a way of giving money during a service
• Envelope scheme – this provides a means of setting aside, on a weekly basis, money you are giving to the church; this can be gift-aided.
• Standing Order – this is a way of giving a set amount on a regular basis, eg monthly, and once setup requires no intervention; this can be gift-aided.
If you wish to set up a standing order or use the envelope scheme, click here; after completion, please post it in the church letterbox, which is to the right immediately inside the entrance to St Mary’s, addressed for the attention of Mrs Harden.
Importance of Gift Aided donations
The church receives, from the government, 25p for every £1 you give. If you are a higher rate taxpayer, your own bill is also reduced.
Have you considered a legacy?
Another way of giving is to leave a lasting gift to God in the form of a legacy to His church. A gift in your Will is one of the most valuable and lasting ways to support its mission and ministry within your community. A gift can be an expression of your gratitude and thanksgiving towards God, and can help to keep your local church alive, and help transform its future. Click here to find out more.