Whirlow Annual Gathering: 23rd June 2026 

1. Financial Outlook & Sustainability : David Booker and John Cowling (Trustees – outgoing and incoming treasurers)

Future Finances:

• Continued focus on breaking even and ensuring long term sustainability.

• Costs kept down by using in house event leaders, though external leaders may be needed for some events.

• A formal budget will be introduced going forward.

• Investments will be reviewed, as agreed at the board meeting (confirmed by +Richard).

Chapel & All Saints Partnership:

• Ongoing need to balance the chapel as a Quiet Space with generating income through external hire.

• Some hire income will need to support Whirlow’s financial stability.

• Julia Newton (All Saints’ Treasurer) emphasised: 

o Whirlow is part of the mission of All Saints.

o The relationship is complex, not simple ownership.

o Partnership influences governance and financial decisions.

Spirituality Centre Income:

• The Centre relies heavily on generous donations from those who come here.

• Many also give elsewhere, so sustainable income streams need exploration.

Grant Giving:

• A refreshed, more rigorous grant giving process has been introduced.

• Aim: encourage people on their spiritual journey with clearer grant giving criteria.

Questions from the Floor:

• Anonymous giving: how to do this.

• Renewable energy: interest in exploring sustainable energy sources.

• Investments: confirmed they will be reviewed.

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2. Events & Engagement

Event Planning:

• Alison issued a survey to understand what events people want to attend.

• Aim: ensure events are successful, well attended, and financially sensible.

• Leadership is moving toward data driven event planning.

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3. The Whirlow Garden & Maintenance of Premises - Andy Locke (Trustee)

Public Thanks:

• +Richard publicly thanked Andy Locke for his leadership and hard work.

Gardening Team:

• Team includes: Andy, Joy, Brian, and Jane.

• Andy also leads premises maintenance as a Trustee, working closely with Alison and Rob.

Work Completed in the Last 12 Months:

• Boundary wall repaired

• New path installed (health & safety)

• Moss removed from roof

• Gutters refurbished

• New lounge carpet

• Magnolia tree pruned

• Gravel area renewed (thanks to Brian)

• Two poustinias repainted

• Garden poustinia roof repaired

• Railings repainted

Overall Aim:

• To create a beautiful, peaceful environment for visitors.

• Future repairs planned to ensure long term sustainability and peace for future generations.

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4. Volunteers & Community: Miranda Bowen (Trustee)

• Emphasised that volunteers keep the show on the road — everything that happens is because someone steps in.

• “Volunteering” includes both designated roles (gardening, cleaning) and unseen acts such as: 

o Welcoming

o Smiling

o Praying at home

o Financial giving

• Message: Everyone contributes. Everyone is valued.

• Expressed deep thanks on behalf of the Trustees.

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5. Outreach & Wider Spiritual Engagement: Judith Jessop (Trustee) Alison Richards (Chaplain)

Current Capacity:

• Alison and Judith are at capacity but still extending Whirlow’s reach.

Judith Jessop:

• Work in Ellesmere (North Sheffield).

• Leading Quiet Days and Take Time Ignatian meditations.

• Took the labyrinth to Ellesmere — small but appreciative attendance.

• Strong interest in online offerings, especially for younger people.

Alison Richards:

• Building a relationship with Attercliffe Deanery.

• Leading Quiet Days there.

• Highlighted Whirlow’s rich resources (space, books, art materials).

• Takes resources out to communities who lack them.

• Invited others to: 

o Facilitate Quiet Days

o Borrow a book box for their church community

Judith Jessop:

• Invited observations, comments, and volunteers to support outreach.

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6. Reflections & Closing

Chris Wood (Trustee):

• Asked to serve by Bishop Ralph.

• Feels welcomed and at peace at Whirlow.

• Looks forward to contributing.

• Member of St Mary’s Church, Penistone — brings ecumenical experience.

• Appreciates Whirlow’s ecumenical character.

Alison Richards:

• Shared that Whirlow is a blessing, a place of sanctuary and hope.

• Remarked on the extraordinary peace and equality the community manages to hold.

• Expressed gratitude for the privilege of being Chaplain.

• Affirmed that everyone helps create this place.

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Action Summary

• Review investment portfolio

• Develop chapel usage plan

• Analyse event survey

• Explore renewable energy

• Plan future repairs

• Support outreach work

• Explore online programme offerings

• Celebrate volunteers

• Strengthen ecumenical links