Church finances

Frequently asked questions:

How is the church financed?

St Lawrence Church is responsible for raising funds to keep the church open. In 2021 this amounted to £43,983 and in 2022 we expect this figure to increase further , largely due to fuel and inflationary pressures.  Each year we aim to break even. In 2021 we achieved this but are expecting a shortfall in 2022. For more detailed information click here. 

How is the money spent?

We are part of the Diocese of Rochester and we pay more than half our income (£21,437    in 2021) to the diocese to meet the the Vicar’s stipend and pension costs, partial upkeep costs of the Vicarage and diocesan administration expenses which also includes outreach costs.

The remaining income is spent on church upkeep (insurance, electricity, repairs, churchyard upkeep) and administration expenses (Vicar’s and Vicarage expenses, organist) plus several smaller administration costs.

How is the money raised to keep the church open?

Almost half our annual income (£19000 in 2021) comes from Standing Orders generously set up by church members and reviewed regularly to ensure they are keeping up with inflation (see below for how to set up a Standing Order). Other sources of income are an annual appeal, cash collections in church, Gift Aid recovery on contributions, wedding and funeral fees, sundry donations, investment income). These income sources leave a shortfall which we aim to meet through fundraising by church members.

How can I help to keep the church open?

The most efficient method for you and the church is to give by Standing Order. For you it reduces administration and for the church it helps with our budgeting to know what income we can expect from this source.

To set up a Standing Order:

-contact the church treasurer (click here) for details of the church’s bank account and sort code.

-decide on amount and frequency of payment and tell your bank to set it up either on a form they can supply or on online banking. Please include your name as a reference on the payments to help us know the source of the donation

-it is helpful to the treasurer to know when you have initiated or amended a Standing Order. He can also send you a Gift Aid authorisation (if appropriate) which enables us to increase your donation by 25%.

Is there any other way I can give to the church?

You could leave a legacy in your Will. The church needs reserves to meet major unexpected expenses and in addition the income from legacies is a valuable source of income to meet the increasing costs of keeping the church open. For more information on wording to include in a Will or Codicil please contact the PCC Secretary, John Morris (Tel: 01732 810227)

**The church has also committed to raise money to support local, national and international charities. The fundraising for and donations to charities is completely separate from the income and expenses described above. Further details on our charitable giving can be found here.