The Month May 2015

May 2015

tmas starts with ristingle NEED TO KNOW

I S T O R I E S I A R E A U P D AT E S I E V E N T S N E A R Y O U

Arc hdeacon’s View

By Ven ANNETTE COOPER, Archdeacon of Colchester SPRING is here and many of us will be thinking about spring cleaning I am not sure we do this quite as purposely as in previous generations.

I have vivid memories of my mother tackling the task with determination.

Somehow sunshine and the Spring air encourage us to have a great tidy up; fling open windows and get to the back of cupboards.

Since a major flood at our home, Andy and I have been sorting and sifting through all sorts of things from cupboards, in the loft and garage.

A major decluttering exercise, although I have to admit that with so much destruction by flood water our task of decluttering was simplified!

Then last month I came across a recently published book 'Stuffocation' by James Wallman who asks some crucial questions into our clutter.

Do you find the things that you own bring you joy or more stress?

Do you regularly use all you own? Does CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

Got my goat

ds to light a candle rist’s birthday

tmasstarts.com

--

Christian Aid Week May 10-16: Pages 6-7 www.chelmsford.anglican.org

Ford End benefits from Friends of Essex Churches £10,000 improvement grant

Slum Survivor youngsters build shelters from discarded materials

Page 12

Page 4

■ Government gives £38,000 roof repair grant to England's oldest place of worship: Page 3

2

THE MONTH May 2015

THE

month — An ordinand experiences a unique Anglican structure

Letter from the Māori dioceses

By OLIVIA MAXWELL-COOTE

An ordinand at Westcott House, Olivia is due to be Ordained and serve as Assistant Curate in the Parishes of Black and Great Notley in June.

IN January, I accepted an invitation from Bishop Ngarahu Katene (pictured left) to experience the ministry of the Māori Diocese of te manawa o te wheke (the central North Island) of the Church in the Province of Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia for two months.

I was placed with Revd Ngira Simmonds (a friend and fellowsteward of the 2008 Lambeth Conference), Priest in Charge of Hemi Tapu, Hamilton and also Missioner to the Waikato area, as Archdeacons in this

diocese have been replaced by missioners who have a more concentrated focus on mission and evangelism.

The structure of the Anglican Church is unique. In 1992, in light of the recognition of the importance of the Treaty of Waitangi and the principles of partnership and bicultural development, the General Synod / te Hinota Whanui adopted a three tikanga (culture / a manner of doing things) structure: tikanga Māori; tikanga Pākehā (non Māoris, often of European descent) and tikanga Pasifika: (Pacific culture).

It was envisioned that this would ensure that the Anglican Church respected and embraced the rich and diverse traditions that each strand were gifted with.

The three dioceses overlap

Photographic competition has 'Mystery' winning shot

THE winner of our photographic competition for April on the theme of churchyards was 'A Mystery – Canon Simon Pothen in Chelmsford Cathedral's graveyard' by Brian Crawley (above right).

Photo competition judge, Paul Starr of Chelmsford photographers StarrPhotos commented: “I love the Easter setting which all links in with the churchyard and ecclesiastical clothing.

"The composition is well thought through and observes a rule of thirds.

"With the figure offset to the right, it allows the eye to follow the path from the left in to the tomb and also follow the figure’s eyes as he peers into the same place.

each other; Bishops oversee a sharing of resources and commitment to come together for worship. However in reality the relationship is strained and the partnership unequal.

Despite the unfavourable attitude towards our settler ancestors in regard to the confiscation of land and suppression of Māori culture and language, I was quickly regarded in Hemi Tapu and Pikitu Marae (a complex of carved buildings forming one of the spiritual ancestral houses of Raukawa, Ngira’s iwi/ tribe) as one of the whānau (extended family), such is the great hospitality and communal way of living that I experienced.

Some significant differences of this tikanga are that Māori ministry is more overtly spiritual and focused on a

PHOTO COMPETITION

"It is indeed ‘a mystery’.

The whole picture with the flowers, the garden arrangement within the cathedral grounds and the keen interest from the figure makes the whole effect charming.”

Each month a winning photograph, taken according to a fixed theme will be printed in The Month and as many contributions as possible will be showcased on our new Pinterest board www. pinterest.com/chelmsdio.

The entrant judged to have submitted the best photograph of the year will be invited to a masterclass with Paul Starr of

photographers and videographers Starrphotos.

Our next theme is 'church family'.

To enter the competition, email your photograph (one per reader) with the caption and your name to photos@ chelmsford.anglican.org.

The closing date for entries is May 5, 2015 at midday. The winning picture will appear in the June issue of The Month.

Terms and conditions are online at www. chelmsford.anglican.org/ photocompetition

Campaign to protect yews

THE Heritage Lottery Fund is supporting an ancient and veteran yew tree campaign being launched in early May. Ancient yews are estimated to be at least 1000 years old and veteran yews are between 500 and 1000 years.

The campaign will be managed by The Conservation Foundation in association with the Church of England - 217 of the country’s 272 ancient yews are in churchyards.

The campaign will include the distribution of young yews to communities and churches to celebrate the 800th anniversary of Magna Carta. The young yews have been propagated

from yews that were growing at the time of Magna Carta. It is thought the ancient yew at Ankerwycke, near Runnymede was where King John, his Barons and the Bishops gathered to witness the Magna Carta.

There will also be grants to support local community and school projects to do historical research around their ancient or veteran yew. ● A list of ancient and veteran trees listed by diocese can be found on the Ancient Yew Group website: www.ancient-yew.org/. Further information: The Conservation Foundation on info@conservationfoundation.co.uk.

The Month, incorporating NB and East Window, is the free circulation newspaper of Church of England in Essex and East London (Diocese of Chelmsford). www.chelmsford. anglican.org/themonth ● Find Chelmsford Diocese on Twitter @chelmsdio ● Find Bishop Stephen on Twitter @cottrellstephen ● Subscribe to our YouTube channel www.youtube.com/ChelmsfordDiocese ● Like us on Facebook: www. facebook.com/chelmsdio ● Like our Ask an Archdeacon Facebook www.facebook.com/ askanarchdeacon ● View our photostream on Flickr www. flickr.com/photos/chelmsford-diocese ● Follow us on Pinterest www. pinterest.com/chelmsdio.

editorial Editor: Jon Longman Editorial and photographs for The Month should be sent to: themonth@chelmsford.anglican.org or Jon Longman, The Month, 1 Bouchiers Place, Messing, Colchester CO5 9TY. Tel: 01621 810530. Mobile: 07860 769906

Marae, not the Parish; services are held predominately in te reo Māori; and even when focused on an individual, ministers consider every event in light of the entire whānau because an individual cannot be separated from their family.

Certain services are also very different. A tangi (funeral) takes place on a Marae and lasts three days, the coffin is open and whānau sit and sleep next to the body until the burial.

The placement was a great privilege and a gift I will continue to process and to reflect on throughout my ministry.

After my time in Aotearoa, I spent time with a community of Sisters in the Solomon Islands and I am currently experiencing the Episcopal Church in Philadelphia.

● Digital photographs for publication: Please take pictures at largest size, resolution and compression. Hi-res JPGs or Tiffs should be re-sized to min 7x5in at 300dpi with no layers or sharpening.

Captions, your name and contact details should be embedded in the 'File Info' section if possible. If e-mailing many shots, send only 72dpi initially at max size of 8x6in. When submitting photos please confirm that written consent has been obtained from parents / guardians of children under age 16 for publication of photos publicising church activities. ● The inclusion of an advertisement should not be taken as implying endorsement of the objects of the advertiser by the diocese.

advertising Please contact: Glenda Charitos, Cornerstone Vision, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell,Plymouth, Devon PL3 4PY. Tel: 01752 225623. Fax: 01752 673441. e-mail: glenda@cornerstonevision.com

distribution For distribution contact: internalcomms@chelmsford.anglican.org Tel: 01245 294443.

Your newspaper will normally be available from the third Sunday in the month. Any further changes will be advised to distributors.

3

THE MONTH May 2015

month — £38,000 award for St Peter's Chapel

Roof repair grant for England’s oldest place of worship

BY RUTH COLLIN

ST Peter’s Chapel on the Essex coast has been awarded a grant of £38,000 for urgent roof repairs.

The building, said to be England’s oldest place of worship still in use, is a key part of the county’s history and a landmark on the Dengie Peninsula coast.

The internationally historic building dates back to 654AD and was built by St Cedd on his arrival in England.

It is the oldest Romano British building in the world and Grade I listed. The simple building which stands in isolation on the Bradwell coast is a place of pilgrimage for thousands of people each year and in daily use as a place of worship.

The chapel, formally known as the Chapel of St Peter-on-the-Wall, Bradwell-on-Sea, has secured the grant from the Government’s Listed Places of Worship Roof Repair Fund to address urgent roof repairs to ensure it is weathertight, safe and open for use.

It is one of 502 grants from a total funding package of £30million that have been announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

The fund is administered by the

National Heritage Memorial Fund on behalf of the Department for Culture Media and Sport.

Chelmsford Cathedral is responsible for the care of the chapel.

Vice-Dean, Canon Ivor Moody, said: “This is fantastic news for a building that’s a jewel, both in terms of its place in history and its part in the formation of the Church of England. ""There’s a beauty in its isolation on the coast, but the battering of the elements takes its toll! Without these repairs to the roof, the historic masonry could have been lost forever.

“This successful grant application is the result of the commitment of the voluntary committee and I’m delighted that the outcome will go towards ensuring the chapel’s presence for another 1500 years.”

Twelve more parishes in the diocese were successful in obtaining grants through the fund. This is the first round as the Budget allocated more funding for a second round. The successful parishes are: Colchester St John £47,800 East Tilbury St Catherine £99,900 Great Bardfield St Mary £26,000 Heydon Holy Trinity £13,000 High Ongar St Mary £53,100 Langley St John £17,600

FRIDAY March 13 was Red Nose Day and huge thanks to all at the Diocesan Office who cooked, baked, decorated, dressed up, eaten and donated on a day that will change many lives. More than

£410 was raised in the office on the day with more pledges to come.

RND started in 1988 and has raised 'gazillions' through people being funny for money.

Since the last RND, Comic Relief has spent £99 million helping over 12 million people in this country

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GRANT AIDED: The Chapel of St Peter-onthe-Wall, Bradwell-onSea, has secured the grant from the Government’s Listed Places of Worship Roof Repair Fund.

Leyton St Mary w St Edward & St Luke £45,400 Little Warley St Peter £46,300 Stambourne St Peter & St Thomas £48,100 Stanford Rivers St Margaret £24,900 Wicken Bonhunt St Margaret £14,900 Willingale St Christopher £100,000

Dressing up for Red Nose Day

BY STEVE KERSYS

St Mary, Shrewton, Wilts

THE

and abroad. Working together we make a difference.

Pictured in charge of the Diocesan Office cup cakes were, left to right: Liz Watson, Alison Brewster, Rachel Orford, Andrea Pannell, Sheila Downs and Sue Denham.

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THE MONTH May 2015

THE

month — £1million development features Scharff Room

West Ham building is dedicated

By REVD STENNETT KIRBY MARCH 22 marked the dedication of our new building at All Saints' Church West Ham by the Bishop of Chelmsford, Rt Revd Stephen Cottrell, at our 11am service.

The new building (right) was built on the foundations of the old vestry which was demolished some 20 years ago.

It is a two-storey structure, providing room for a new church office, a new choir vestry and extra rooms for use by our church and local communities.

Its design, stone and brickwork are sympathetic to the original 12th century church, which itself has undergone extensive restoration over the centuries.

The project has included renovation of a special feature of the church, the Bridal Porch, and the provision of a new kitchen and store room at the west end of the church.

The work began in August 2013 after many years of planning by the previous vicar, Revd Julian Scharf and the PCC, and was formally handed over in February.

The largest room in the new building is called the Scharf Room to commemorate Julian who died in January after a long illness. His widow Lindsey and other

Slum Survivor experience members of his family attended the dedication service.

The total cost of the project amounted to approximately £1million, funded through grants from local charities including the Avenons Trust which benefits West Ham parish, fundraising through church events and generous donations.

A GROUP of 11 young people, above, led by youth leader Matt Williamson, took part in a Slum Survivor event at St Mary’s parish church, Saffron Walden.

The youngsters chose to spend 32 hours the way a billion people who live in the world’s slums spend their lifetimes.

They had to build their own slum houses, built out of basic discarded materials, such as cardboard and tar-

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£420 has already been raised and it will go towards the work of Soul Action for projects serving some of the world’s poorest communities and towards tickets for the young people to attend Soul Survivor.

Amy and Edward Dunn who took part in the event said: "We now appreciate many home comforts and the variety of food that we can eat, especially apple squash.”

paulin. The young people had to eat simple food, such as potatoes, onion and rotis and faced restrictions in what clothing and personal items they could have.

During the 32 hours of the event they completed five challenges that simulated aspects of slum life, including creating their own game with a discarded newspaper, carrier bags, string and tape.

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THE MONTH May 2015

month — Electoral Roll figures are cause for concern

A YEAR ago we explained the latest changes to the annual Statistics for Mission forms which parishes are asked to complete each year, and about how the data is used by the National Church and by this Diocese.

Several recent articles have well illustrated the latter point.

One of the features of the new system is a speedier data collection process so that information derived from the data can be presented in a more timely manner.

'More people in church last year not counting Fresh Expressions...'

At the end of March 2014, we had 82% of the church attendance data processed for 2013.

At the end of March this year the data already processed for 2014 and held on the Church House website was for an almost identical proportion of parishes.

This underlines the need to continue encouraging every parish to get its return made by the end of January deadline.

However, it also provides an early opportunity to see how 2014 has compared with 2013.

The table below gives an early comparison of some of our regular measures of attendance based on an estimate of the likely end-of-year outturn.

The data is encouraging as it suggests there was an increase in attendance in 2014 and that’s before taking into account the growing number of Fresh Expressions on which we reported recently in The Month.

'...but Electoral Rolls dip 11% in six years...'

When overall numbers don’t change very much, either up or down, there can be a temptation to say all is well, let’s carry on as we are on for another year.

However, overall averages tend to obscure large changes occurring in individual parishes.

As an illustration of this we can look at the total numbers on our Electoral Rolls.

These rolls are renewed every six years and this last happened in the years 2007 and 2013.

In between renewal years, ER numbers tend to rise as illustrated in the table above, only then to drop at the next renewal. The numbers at renewal are probably more reliable than at any other time.

Between 2007 and 2013 our Electoral Roll total dropped by 11% from 44,686 to 39,766.

This clearly is a cause for concern. However, the chart shows that the changes in

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% decline

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Challenging clues for mission, ministry and resources Year Normal Sunday Attendance (NSA) adults Normal Sunday Attendance (NSA) children Electoral Roll (ER) Average Sunday Attendance (ASA) adults Monthly Members (DSS) Number of Sunday Services in October

individual parishes were often very different from this.

'...and two out of three parishes see declining Rolls' Of the 452 parishes for which we have data, the chart shows

2013 2014 25,757 25,219 4,733 4,740 39,207 40,143 27,811 28,178 35,699 36,380 3,237 3,255

that about a third grew their Electoral Rolls whilst about two-thirds declined.

The problem was that the parishes with declining numbers out-numbered those with growth and so overall our numbers were reduced.

Are such charts (charts similar to the one shown at the top of the page have been referred to as a

Change -2.1% +0.1% +2.4% +1.3% +1.9% +0.6%

“beach diagram”) likely to be an important tool as we aim to be more accountable for our mission and ministry and our use of resources? l Canon Don Cardy can be contacted by email at dfcardy@tiscali. co.uk. 2015 is Don's tenth year as the chair of the budget subcommittee. He will not be seeking re-election.

Churches can cut energy costs

THE Church spends an estimated £41m on heating and lighting each year. This represents a large proportion of most churches’ budgets, taking money away from mission and ministry.

Hunting around for new contracts also takes up valuable time and dealing with energy companies can be frustrating as they don’t always understand churches.

This is why Parish Buying was set up – to help parishes save time and money on their

energy bills (as well as other contracts). They offer a range of energy contracts, from the popular Energy Basket through to competitive green contracts, so you can find the right one for your parish and release resources for your mission and ministry. l See www.parishbuying.org.uk for a handy leaflet that explains the different energy offerings available and gives PCCs the pros and cons of each.

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THE MONTH May 2015

THE

month — Christian Aid Week: May 10-16

What a differe makes to Eth

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There is none like you, O Lord, and there is no God besides you, according to all that we have heard with our ears.

1Ch 17:20 (ESV)

ADI is a mother of eight. Her children range in age from 7 to 27 and are at the heart of everything she does. But it was only with her newest arrival that her family felt complete.

That new arrival came not through childbirth, but from a local cattle market. A humble cow, provided by Christian Aid’s partner, Hundee.

In the Borena culture of Southern Ethiopia, cattle are incredibly important. A cow is your bank account, fridge, and larder all wrapped up in one – a source of food and income.

Even more importantly, owning cattle gives you status. Only livestock owners are allowed to speak on the village council and make decisions about their own futures. Even taking part in local customs and cultural practices is dependent on owning cattle: to not add milk to your coffee is a terrible taboo and if you can’t present the symbolic gift of cow dung at a newborn baby’s naming ceremony, then it’s better to simply stay away altogether.

Without cattle you are a persona non grata and as it is traditionally only men who own cattle, that makes women outcasts within their own community.

When Adi received her cow (right), her life changed. She says: "The day I received my cow I felt like a conquering hero returning from war."

Adi makes butter from the milk the cow produces and sells this at market. With this new income, she can feed her children three full meals a day – a stark contrast to surviving on just one nutritionally incomplete meal each day. What’s more, Adi now has a voice in the community. She doesn’t just turn up at community meetings, she marches straight through the throngs of men and takes a spot right in the middle of the room, in prime position to make herself heard!

Through involvement in a self-help savings group, she has even managed to save enough to set up a small shop in her village and demonstrate her natural entrepreneurial skills. From being a penniless widow, she has become a respected leader and businessperson. She has become the woman she was always meant to be and it all started with a cow.

So what about the rest of her community?

First, when Adi’s cow gave birth, she gave the calf to the next poorest person in the community that they might fulfil their potential too. This person will do the same when the time comes. How Adi must have felt to be able to help someone else, after so many years of being dependent on others herself!

The second great community-wide impact, came as a result of the broader work Hundee has done with both the men and women of the community to tackle some of the gender inequalities that exist. This has triggered the introduction of three new local laws, which bring hope to thousands more people than Hundee can reach directly.

Firstly, marriages for girls under 18 are now banned and marriages for girls over 18 can only take place with the girl’s consent.

Secondly, female circumcision has been outlawed, leading to a reduction in complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Thirdly, the community has chosen

FR

to put limits on excessive drinking, meaning cases of domestic violence have plummeted.

The transformation in the community is real and tangible, but there is still so much more to be done, in communities like Adi’s. This Christian Aid Week there is the opportunity to release the potential of thousands more people like Adi and walk alongside them on their journey to transform their lives and their communities. £150 – the cost of a cow – can transform a life.

Across Essex, churches are gearing up to take the church out into the community and bear witness to the faith that takes us out into the world.

In Braintree, churches will be coming together to walk in solidarity with people like Adi, with a sponsored walk in Great Notley Country Park, hoping to raise enough money for a small herd of cows!

The sponsored walk is on Saturday May 16 at Great Notley Country Park. It is suitable for all ages and all abilities and is pushchair and wheelchair accessible.

Walking starts at 10 (registration from 9.45) and finish with a celebratory picnic from 11.30-12.30.

If walkers want more information or a sponsorship pack, they can call Rubita on 020 7523 2105 or email LSE@ christian-aid.org What could you do? Watch out for events going on in your church and in your community to mark Christian Aid Week or take a look at the website. For more information about Adi and for fundraising tips and resources: www.christain-aid.org.uk.

A cow can make a big difference. Can you?

an be yo clo A or an T in ov pro F M wi T Ja ide ou T dis T liv the T co we

THE MONTH May 2015

ence a cow hiopian family 'We as Christians are charged to live simply'

ROM FRONT PAGE

nything represent who you would like to e one day, for example classical novels ou think you should read to improve or othes that are too small?

Are you just working to buy more things do you look for valuable experiences nd making memories?

There are more searching questions. If our busy and cluttered lives we are verwhelmed by things then we are obably suffering from Stuffocation!

For Wallman less is generally more.

More fulfilment and joy and less stress ith less stuff to worry about.

To my surprise, in a recent interview ames Wallman did not realise that his eas of simpler living have been a part of ur Christian tradition for centuries.

Think of how Jesus sent out his sciples in Mark 6, they travelled light.

Then there are the saints whose Godly ves inspire us: think of the simplicity of e lives St Francis or St Clare.

The Five Marks of Mission urge us to onsider environmental issues to ensure e tread lightly on God's earth and do not

destroy His creation; also to ensure justice in the use of resources especially with those living in developing countries.

We as Christians are surely charged to live more simply and more generously so that others may simply live.

This is something that will especially set us thinking this month as Christian Aid Week arrives and we focus on the people of Ethiopia.

I have never been to Africa but during my recent Immersion experience in India with Christian Aid I lived with a poor tribal family who were settling into a concrete house after living in the forest for generations.

Life was very different from Essex. I slept without a mattress, enjoyed daily bathing without a mains water supply or drainage and ate meals cooked on a simple open fire stove.

It proved easy to sit on the floor to prepare a meal, no kitchen worktops here.

It was also good to sit cross legged and share in eating those meals, no tables or chairs needed.

I was amazed at how well I adapted and was challenged by the many questions

that were raised for me about the causes of world poverty and the cry for justice for all God's people.

The hospitality I received was a generous gift from people who had no share at all in twenty-first century Western wealth.

The family were living on less than four pounds a day.

Life for the women in the community is especially hard with no access to life outside the home, save for a long walk to fetch grass for the cow tethered in the backyard shed.

They had no possessions of their own and none I met could read or write.

I feel so privileged to live with freedom and choice about what I own and how I use money.

I also know that yearning for more stuff is not for me. God provides for my needs and gives me much to share with others.

He alone gives me deep joy and peace.

Stuffocation is not for me!

How about you?

Ven Annette Cooper Archdeacon of Colchester

Hindu temple dancers at Mothering Sunday service

CHELMSFORD Cathedral hosted a unique and moving worship experience for our Mothering Sunday service.

A group of young dancers in traditional Hindu costume from the Bharata Natyem School of traditional Hindu Temple dance from Southern India (left) danced three different parts of the Eucharist; the Halleluiah refrain before the Gospel, the Sanctus and Benedictus and The Lord’s Prayer.

Under the guidance of their teacher, Shrimathi Susanna, and in front of a packed Cathedral, including many children from all our uniformed organisations, they stunned the Cathedral congregation with their colourful, powerful liturgical dance and their interpretation of these ancient and familiar Christian prayers.

In a world that seems to be tearing itself apart with religious, cultural and tribal conflict, we were privileged to witness two faiths coming together and the traditions of one being lent to another to enrich and enhance the worship of Almighty God. On a day when we were thinking about families and the love and care of those who look after us, we were reminded that we belong, not just to the community of those around us, nor the community of our ‘Mother Church’ the Cathedral, nor even the communities in which we live and work, but to a family of nations of which we are all a part, under one God who is our mother, our father, our sister, our brother, and for whom we dance for joy because of his love and care for us.

Ivor Moody Vice-Dean, Chelmsford Cathedral

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7

8

THE MONTH May 2015

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TM

THE MONTH May 2015

THE

9

month — What’s on near you in Essex & East London

Tuesday, April 21 ● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester.

12-2.15pm. Friendship Group. ● Church of Our Saviour, Ashton Place, Chelmer Village.

7.30pm. Cap Money Course Budget Save Spend - How To Use Your Money More Effectively! Two sessions on Tuesdays, April 21 and 28. To book: online at CAP Money or ring Sue on 01245 460205.

Wednesday, April 22 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9am-12noon. Pram Group in St Cedd’s Hall. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/ coffee and cakes. All welcome. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 8pm. Chapter House. Chelmsford Cathedral Theological Society. Archdeacon Annette Cooper ‘Preachers, Pastors, Bishops’: a personal and theological reflection upon the ministry of ordained women since 1987.

St George's Day - Thursday, April 23 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7.30pm. The Welsh Society meets in the Chapter House. Life In Merthyr Tydfil with Gwynne Mack. ● St George the Martyr Church, Ongar Rd (near the Costead Manor Roundabout), Brentwood. 8pm. Feast Of St George Patronal Eucharist - preacher, Sr Theresa (RC Community of Our Lady of Walsignham). Come and pray for our country as the General Election approaches - and wear a Red Rose to keep dragons at bay! Drinks and refreshments afterwards to help the celebrations. Tel 01277 213618. ● St Laurence, Corbets Tey Road, Upminster. 1.50pm.

Lunchtime Recital by Athena Duo. Retiring collection. www. upminsterparish.co.uk Friday-Sunday,April 24-26 ● Chelmsford Diocesan House of Retreat, The Street, Pleshey CM3 1HA. Sr Magdalen Lawler SND. House Retreat. “Reflections on the Easter Mysteries”. Cost £152.

Friday, April 24 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Concert by Jennie's Accordionists. Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, which are divided between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments are available in the Cathedral from 12 noon, or you are welcome to bring your own if you wish. ● St Thomas of Canterbury, Brentwood. 1pm. Lunchtime Live! Musicians from Brentwood School. Admission free Retiring collection. Further details: 01277 218121.

Saturday, April 25 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7.30pm. Rotary Club of Chelmer Bridge presents a Charity Coral Concert. The Rotary Club of Chelmer Bridge presents a Charity Coral Concert featuring men2sing and The Colchester Military Wives Choir. Tickets are available from David Whitehead on 01245 469945 and are priced at £10 for adults and £5 for 18 and under. ● St Mary's, Wivenhoe. 7.30pm. 50 years at St Mary's organ: Graham Wadley, a Celebration.

Sunday, April 26 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm – Evensong. ● Parish Church of St James, Clacton-on-Sea. 4pm. St James @ 4. A short, informal Service of Holy Communion using modern songs and Taizé chants, and followed by refreshments. For further details please contact Revd Peter Kane on 01255 429896 or e-mail: p.kane.03@cantab.net Monday, April 27 ● St James the Less, Hadleigh. 6.15pm. Julian Meeting.

Contemplative prayer introduced with words and music.

Tuesday, April 28 ● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester.

12-2.15pm. Friendship Group. ● Church of Our Saviour, Ashton Place, Chelmer Village.

7.30pm. Cap Money Course Budget Save Spend - How To Use Your Money More Effectively! 2 sessions on Tuesdays, April 21 and 28. To book: online at CAP Money or ring Sue on 01245 460205..

Wednesday, April 29 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9am-12noon. Pram Group in St Cedd’s Hall. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/ coffee and cakes. All welcome.

Thursday, April 30

EVERYONE is very welcome to join a prayer vigil at Chelmsford Cathedral between 7.30 and 8.30pm to mark the beginning of a county-wide week of prayer for the UK General Election.

● St Peter-on-the-Wall, Bradwell-on-Sea. 10am-4pm. Quiet Day - Cost £15, including lunch and refreshments.

Pilgrimage with St Ignatius as Maureen Macpherson leads us on our journey. Further information: Revd Brigid Main tel: 01621 776438 - email: stpeterschapel@outlook.com www. bradwellchapel.org ● St Laurence, Corbets Tey Road, Upminster. 1.50pm.

Lunchtime Recital by Graham Davies (St Mary the Virgin, Hayes). Retiring collection. www.upminsterparish.co.uk Friday, May 1 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Concert

by Alberto Brigandi - Organ. Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, which are divided between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments are available in the Cathedral from 12 noon, or you are welcome to bring your own if you wish.

Saturday-Monday, May 2-4 ● St Michael’s Church, Myland, Colchester. Flower Festival.

Sat and Mon 11am-6pm Sun 12-6pm.

Saturday, May 2-Saturday, May 9 ● The Lexden Arts Festival 2015, St Leonard’s Church Lexden.

Exhibiting Artists: Catherine Allen, Jewellery; Richard Baxter, Ceramics; Penny Bhadresa, Lino cut prints; Annie Bielecka, Textile art, Michael Carpenter, Jewellery; Derek Chambers, Etchings & Paintings; Jean Constantine, Handmade felt Pru Green, Ceramics; Steve Higton, Oil paintings; Jane Jennifer, Basketry; Tom Pockley, Woodturning; Sally Pudney, Acrylic paintings; Glynn Thomas, R.E. Etchings; Nat Young, Mixed media paintings.

Open 10.30am – 4.30pm each day except Sunday 3rd May 1.00pm – 4.30pm and Wednesday 12.00pm – 4.30pm Light lunches and refreshments available most days. Please check the website www.lexdenartfestival.org.uk/2015 for

more information.

Saturday, May 2 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10am-12 noon. Cathedral Coffee Morning in the Chapter House. Come and enjoy fresh coffee, home-made scones and a bring & buy. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7.15 for 7.45. Dinner in the Cathedral. Guest Speaker Ven Robin King Archdeacon of Stansted. £25 inc drinks at reception and four course meal with wine. To reserve a place, call Yvonne Spence on 01245 465 108 e-mail: yvonnespence@hotmail.com ● The Room in the Rodings, Dunmow Road, Beauchamp Roding. 10am-3pm. Beauchamp Roding Country Market.

Refreshments, cakes, tombola, plants, second-hand books, bric-a-brac, raffle, local produce etc in aid of St Botolph's Church. Free entry. ● St Michael’s Parish Halls, Myland, Colchester. 11am12.30pm. Plant Sale. Plants, bric-a-brac and refreshments.

Sunday, May 3 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm – Evensong. ● The Church of the Holy Innocents, Church Lane, High Beach, IG10 4BF. 2-5.30pm. Sunday afternoon teas. Come and enjoy home-made cake, tea/coffee in the tranquillity of Epping Forest. Please contact Revd Gill Hopkins 01992 760492 for further details. ● St Nicholas, South Ockendon. 2-4pm. Grade I listed building, masonry architecture from c. 1180. Open day.

Refreshments available. Historical information display changing each month. Free [Sundays] commuter car park two minutes away.

Monday, May 4 ● Chelmsford Diocesan House of Retreat, The Street, Pleshey, CM3 1HA. 10am-4pm. The house and garden will be open. Local crafts and produce available, including plants, cakes & puddings, jewellery, Fairtrade, Tote bags, meat produce and many more lunches and refreshments served

by The Friends of Pleshey. Contact: Stewart McCredie 01245 237251 e: retreathouse.pleshey@virgin.net w: www. retreathousepleshey.com Tuesday, May 5 ● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester.

12-2.15pm. Friendship Group. ● The Church of the Holy Innocents, Church Lane, High Beach, IG10 4BF. 11am-12.30pm. Coffee morning in association with Ashbrook Court. Please contact Revd Gill Hopkins 01992 760492 for further details.

Wednesday, May 6 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9am-12noon. Pram Group in St Cedd’s Hall. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/ coffee and cakes. All welcome. ● Lakeside Shopping Centre, Thurrock. 1-3pm. Café Theology. Meet at the Food Court. ● Spring study day with the Friends of Essex Churches Trust. Navestock, Stapleford Abbotts, Stapleford Tawney and Stanford Rivers churches will be among the churches to be visited led by Dr Christopher Starr. To reserve your place please contact Susan Clark-Starr, tel 01787 242121, email stelladora@hotmail.co.uk.

Thursday, May 7 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10am. Mothers' Union Corporate Communion in St Cedd’s Chapel. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 8pm. Mothers’ Union Evening Section meets in St Cedd’s Hall. ● St Laurence, Corbets Tey Rd, Upminster. 1.50pm.

Lunchtime Recital by Atea Quintet. Free admission. retiring collection. www.upminsterparish.co.uk Friday-Sunday, May 8-10 ● St. Peter & St. Paul's Church, Black Notley CM77 8LE. Flower Festival - theme “Stories from the Bible”. Sat: 10am5pm. Sun: 10am-6pm (All-age Eucharist 10.30am; Songs of Praise 6 pm). Refreshments with Homemade Cakes; Tombola Stall. Children's Competition. Friday. 8pm. Preview Evening: An evening of music, wine and poetry with the flowers at their best. Tickets: £5. To book, call 01376 567971 or email bethbendrey@hotmail.co.uk Friday, May 8 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Concert

by Luca Luciano - Piano. Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, which are divided between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments are available in the Cathedral from 12 noon, or you are welcome to bring your own if you wish.

Saturday, May 9 ● The Church of the Holy Innocents, Church Lane, High Beach, IG10 4BF. 7.00 pm - Prom in the Forest to commemorate the 70th anniversary of VE Day. A concert of light music. Tickets £10.00 to include light refreshments/glass of wine/soft drink from Jane Begley 07572 111387 or jane. begley@irwinmitchell.com ● St Mary the Virgin Church, Church Lane, Stapleford Abbotts, RM4 1ES. 10am to 2pm. Plant sale. Besides the many plants there will be various stalls including, books, homemade cakes and jams and bric-a-brac. Refreshments will be available throughout the sale. ● The Hospital Chapel of St. Mary & St. Thomas of Canterbury, 48 Ilford Hill, Ilford. 10am-2.30pm. Open day at Ilford Hospital Chapel, Redbridge's oldest building dating from 1145AD. Numerous stalls including greeting cards, brica-brac, bargain CCDs and DVDs, memorabilia.

Refreshments. Free guided tours.

Sunday, May 10 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm – Evensong. ● The Church of the Holy Innocents, Church Lane, High Beach, IG10 4BF. 11am. Beating the bounds - come and enjoy a walk around the boundaries of the parish of High Beach starting at the church and finishing there in time for tea and cake. 2-5.30pm. Sunday afternoon teas. Please contact Revd Gill Hopkins 01992 760492 for further details. ● St Mary's, Ingatestone Road, Buttsbury, near Ingatestone. Noon. Rogation Sunday Country Service with prossession at with tea/coffee in church afterwards. ● St Luke's, Great Ilford. 10pm. Parish Eucharist for the 100th Anniversary of the consecration of the present church building, with the Bishop of Chelmsford. All are welcome, especially any former members of St. Luke's.

Tuesday, May 12 ● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester.

12-2.15pm. Friendship Group.

St George's Church, Ongar Road (near Robin Hood roundabout), Brentwood. 7.30pm. Brentwood Deanery Mothers' Union Festival Eucharist.

Wednesday, May 13 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9am-12noon. Pram Group in St Cedd’s Hall. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/ coffee and cakes. All welcome. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 8.15pm. Friends Of Essex Churches Trust The 2015 Gepp Lecture: ‘How Buildings Tell A Story’. The third annual Gepp Lecture will be given by Dr Rowan Williams (Lord Williams of Oystermouth), Master of Magdalene College, Cambridge. Refreshments will be served from 7.45pm. Free admission but it would help us to know if you plan to attend, by email to events@foect.org.uk, or by post to Mrs Catharine Hutley, Camsix Farm, Hartford End, Chelmsford CM3 1JS. Thursday, May 14 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 2pm. Mothers' Union Afternoon Section meet in St Cedd’s Hall. ● St Laurence, Corbets Tey Rd, Upminster. 1.50pm.

Lunchtime Recital by Richard Brasier. Free admission. retiring collection. www.upminsterparish.co.uk Friday-Sunday, May 15-17 ● All Saints Church, High Street, Maldon. Flower Festival ‘Thank you for the Music’. Fri 10am-5pm. Sat 10am-5pm.

Flower Festival, 7.30pm Concert by ‘MEN2SING And Fishponds Choir. Sun 1-5pm.

Friday, May 15 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Concert by the Swift Singers - Ladies' choir. Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, which are divided between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments are available in the Cathedral from 12 noon, or you are welcome to bring your own if you wish.

Saturday, May 16 ● St George's Church Hall, Ongar Rd (near Robin Hood roundabout), Brentwood.11am. Mother's Union Jumble Sale. Admission 30p. Light refreshments on sale - event in aid of MU funds. Tel 01277-213618. 7.30pm. Christian Aid Quiz Night. Tickets (must be booked) - £8 - includes buffet platter bring your own drinks! Event in aid of Christian Aid. Tel 01277-218739. ● St Mary’s Church, Church Lane, Sheering. 7pm. Friends of St Mary’s Sheering concert for local performers, with vocal and instrumental performers. Tickets are £8 (£1 for children between 6-12) and include the concert programme, and a drink and light refreshments served after the concert. Contact 01279 734334 or 01279 734442 for tickets or more details. ● The Church of the Holy Innocents, Church Lane, High Beach, IG10 4BF. 11.30am-3pm. Christian Aid Activity Day May. Come and travel to Africa for craft for the children and a BBQ for everyone All proceeds for Christian Aid. Please contact Revd Gill Hopkins 01992 760492 for further details. ● St Mary the Virgin Church, Church Lane, Stapleford Abbotts, RM4 1ES. 7.30pm. Concert entitled 'Songs Of Hope', featuring the 'Three Valleys Male Voice Choir'. Tickets, Adult £7, Children £4, which includes light refreshment, are available on 01992 815838 and on the door. ● St John & St Giles Church, Great Easton (CM6 2HG).

9am. Journeying With The Saints. In 2014 the churches comprising the Dunmow & Stansted Deanery organised a weekly walk to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Diocese of Chelmsford. In response to the wishes of those who so enjoyed these walks, Rural Dean Cilla Hawkes and a team from the Deanery are planning further walks for 2015. These will take place on the third Saturday of the month from March to October, commencing at 9am with a walk lasting about 1¼ hours. This will be followed by some refreshments and then a short time for prayer from 10.30am to 11am. People not wanting to walk will be most welcome to join in with refreshments at 10.15am. During the morning there will be an opportunity to learn about those interesting saints who have left their mark on the area being visited. Dates for the remainder of the year will follow in subsequent issues. It will be an enjoyable morning. Dogs are always welcome to bring their owners on leads. Queries can be directed in the first instance to Angela Harbottle on 01371 872894 or e-mail at angela.harbottle@virgin.net. ● St Nicolas Church, Chipping Hill, Witham, CM8 2JS. 2pm3.30pm. Antiques Valuation Afternoon with Mark Stacey, Auctioneer & Valuer at Reeman Dansie, Colchester. Well known from BBC TV Antique Shows. 4pm-5pm Talk and exhibition of items by Rodney Cullum. Admission £10.00 (including refreshments) Book in advance £3. For further details or to book valuation slots contact ring 01376 516727 or mikerobinson45@hotmail.com ● St Mary's, Wivenhoe. 4.30pm. Children's Church. Singing, activities and prayers for families with young children. ● St Nicholas Church, Great Wakering. Noon-4pm. Summer Fete. Free admission. On the Meadow - Beer tent, ice, creams, cream teas, cakes & preserves. Bouncy Castle Side shows – tin-can alley- mini ball – children’s’ games – Face Painting – coconut Shy – Tombola – Water into wine.

Plants – Bargain Hunt – Toys & Games. Grand Raffle- air experience flight’ by Seawing Flying Club. The flight will be a 20 minute round the town flight for one in a Cessna 152 Afternoon Tea for 2 at Sands Bistro - plus many more prizes.

In the Church – Music, Art exhibition. ● St James the Less, High Street, Hadleigh. 7.30pm. The Friends of Hadleigh present a concert by Hadleigh voices.

Tickets are £9 on the door.

Sunday, May 17 ● St Mary's Wivenhoe: Open Gardens Weekend. 11am 5pm. Tickets £4 (children free). In aid of St Mary's church and the Wivenhoe Society's chosen local causes. Tickets from Wivenhoe Bookshop, Bryan's Newsagents and Rollo Estates.

Sunday, May 17 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm – Evensong. ● The Church of the Holy Innocents, Church Lane, High Beach, IG10 4BF. 2-5.30pm. Sunday afternoon teas. Come and enjoy home-made cake, tea/coffee in the tranquillity of Epping Forest. Please contact Revd Gill Hopkins 01992 760492 for further details.

Tuesday, May 19 ● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester.

12-2.15pm. Friendship Group.

Wednesday, May 20 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9am-12noon. Pram Group in St

Cedd’s Hall. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/ coffee and cakes. All welcome. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 8pm. Chapter House. Chelmsford Cathedral Theological Society.

Thursday, May 21 St Laurence, Corbets Tey Road, Upminster. 1.50pm.

Lunchtime Recital by Tiago Gomes de Matos (guitar). Free admission. retiring collection. www.upminsterparish.co.uk Friday, May 22 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Concert by the Whitgift School Pianists. Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, which are divided between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments are available in the Cathedral from 12 noon, or you are welcome to bring your own if you wish.

Saturday-Monday, May 23-25 ● St Winifred’s Church, 115 Manor Road, Chigwell, IG7 5PS. 80th Anniversary Flower Festival & Craft Fair. Sat 10.30am5pm: Sun 12.30-5pm: Mon 10.30am-5pm. Free admission.

Refreshments available throughout. Craft Fair - Saturday & Monday. “Antiques”, Bookstall & Plants, History of St Winifred’s. Sunday 4pm - Worship Group. www.stwinifredschurch.co.uk Saturday, May 23 ● All Saints Church, Little Totham. Annual car rally. ● Seventh annual St Helena Hospice Midnight Walk.

Places are still available for the much anticipated female-only St Helena Hospice Midnight Walk. The entry fee is £15.

Walkers are encouraged to take up the dress code of trainers and tiaras. The walk is approximately seven miles starting and finishing at Colchester United’s Weston Homes stadium. To encourage mothers and daughters to walk, the minimum age has been re-duced to 11 years and the new start time of 10.30pm makes it more manageable for younger people.

Registration can be made online at www.sthelenahospice.org. uk/midnightwalk15 or by phoning the St Helena Hospice Fundraising Office on 01206 931468. Final registration closes at noon on Friday 22 May or when 1,000 walkers have registered, whichever comes first.

Sunday, May 24 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm – Evensong. ● The Church of the Holy Innocents, Church Lane, High Beach, IG10 4BF. 2-5.30pm. Sunday afternoon teas. Come and enjoy home-made cake, tea/coffee in the tranquillity of Epping Forest. Please contact Revd Gill Hopkins 01992 760492 for further details.

Monday, May 25 ● Holy Trinity, Rayleigh. 10am-5pm. Tower Open Day (last tour at 4.30). Views of Canary Wharf and QEII Bridge/Tower Tours incl. Ringing Chamber £3 and £1 Children over 8. Old Rayleigh Exhibition. All day Refreshments. www. parishofrayleigh.org.uk/TheFriendsofHolyTrinity Tuesday, May 26 ● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester.

12-2.15pm. Friendship Group. ● St James the Less, High Street, Hadleigh. 2.40pm. Julian Meeting. Contemplative prayer introduced with words and music.

Wednesday, May 27 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/ coffee and cakes. All welcome.

Thursday, May 28 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7.30pm. The Welsh Society meets in the Chapter House. Restoring A Coach with John Lloyd Williams. ● St Laurence, Corbets Tey Rd, Upminster. 1.50pm.

Lunchtime Recital by Edward Taylor (Carlisle Cathedral). Free admission. Retiring collection. www.upminsterparish.co.uk Friday, May 29 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Concert by the Billroth String Quartet. Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, which are divided between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments are available in the Cathedral from 12 noon, or you are welcome to bring your own if you wish. ● St Thomas of Canterbury, Brentwood. 1pm. Lunchtime Live! Ken & Rachel Bartels (flute & harp duo). Admission free - retiring collection. For further details: 01277 218121.

Saturday, May 30 ● St George's Church grounds and Hall, Ongar Rd (near Robin Hood roundabout), Brentwood. 1.30-4pm Magnificent May Festival Of Fun. Free Admission. Plant & Book Stalls/ Bouncy 'Frozen' Castle/ Score a goal against Tottering Tottenham 'Football shoot out'/ Side shows/ Tempting teas/ Toys & Games/ Smash the crockery/ Raffle/ Face painting and the 81 year old Church is open. Event in aid of Church Funds. Tel 01277-213618. ● St Peter-on-the-Wall, Bradwell-on-Sea. 10am-4pm.

Quiet Day - Cost £18 including art materials, lunch and refreshments. Making Our Own Way led by Chris Macallan.

This will include experiential art and prayer using our own feet, a collage and hopefully a labyrinth on the beach. No artistic experience necessary. For further information: Revd Brigid Main tel: 01621 776438 - email: stpeterschapel@outlook.com www.bradwellchapel.org Sunday, May 31 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm – Evensong. ● The Church of the Holy Innocents, Church Lane, High Beach, IG10 4BF. 2-5.30pm. Sunday afternoon teas. Come and enjoy home-made cake, tea/coffee in the tranquillity of Epping Forest. Please contact Revd Gill Hopkins 01992 760492 for further details. ● St Mary's, Ingatestone Road, Buttsbury, near Ingatestone.

3.30pm. Bruce Pennick and the Vesper Singers sing Evensong - with tea and cake afterwards.

June 2015 diary deadline ● Forward details to Sarah Newman, internalcomms@ chelmsford.anglican.org, 01245 294443 by May 1 for inclusion in The Month and on the diocesan website.

Latest events ● You can find the latest events online at www. chelmsford.anglican.org/faith/whats-on

10

THE MONTH May 2015

THE MONTH May 2015

11

The annual international Christian Resources Exhibition (CRE) is moving After 28 years, the annual international Christian Resources Exhibition (CRE), is moving to its new home at the ExCel in London, from 19th – 22nd May, The event, which regularly attracts over 10,000 visitors, aims to equip, resource and empower the church with the UK’s largest resource exhibition.

show - see you next year!”

CRE is much more than an exhibition “It’s great to find so many resources as there is a daily programme that together under one roof” will enhance your visit including “It was very good to see Christians seminars and workshops led by involved in promoting Christian gifted communicators, and the best programmes in various ways to help in Christian music and art. There is Churches and other evangelism work no other event that provides so much for the glory of God.” variety in one place – it is truly an “Staff were very helpful with experience not to be missed. my disabled friend who needed a As a visitor at CRE, you wheelchair when she arrived with me” can enjoy: “I have been every year since CRE ● A unique exhibition of inception and would not miss it. I Christian resources with an anticipated 300+ exhibitors. recommend it to others as a brilliant source of inspiration and information ● An extensive range of books, music and resources for Christians as we seek to build the kingdom of God in our local to buy. communities and the wider world. ● The latest multimedia Keep up the good work!!” equipment and expert “I was very impressed with the advice. organisation and choice of high quality ● Over 100 practical and seminars and challenging speakers” resourcing seminars.

“Excellent sources of setting up ● Specialist workshops from creative writing to time and maintaining churches. Numerous Christian Charities exhibits and their management ● Authors and performers works. Overall it was an excellent display of God’s works” who will be doing book and “Only wish I had more time to spend music signings there. I’m sure there must have been ● The best in Christian things I missed.” theatre and music “This was our first visit. We were For a full list of exhibitors present all day on the 14th May and and details of seminars, workshops and speakers see didn’t see everything! We could really High Quality Church Robes have done with spending 2 days with www.creonline.co.uk Made in England and you” Here is some visitor individually manufactured to order in our Workshop in CRE at the ExCel, London, runs from feedback from past shows: Newcastle-upon-Tyne 19th – 22nd May, and is open 10.00am “My wife and I visited the show together. We were very CASSOCKS & SURPLICES • ALBS & COTTASVisit our Staff Representatives in person on Standuntil P69 5.00pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Christian Resources CLERICAL BLOUSES • CLERICAL SHIRTS at ExCel London's Thursday and 10.00am until 4.30pm impressed with the rangeExhibition 19th - 22ndand Maythe 2015size of STOLES & VESTMENTS • CHOIR ROBES Friday. Check out www.creonline.co.uk of exhibitors (more details at www.creonline.co.uk - with FREE Entrance available via J&M) VERGERS ROBES • BANNERS & FRONTALS the show. Thanks for a great for more info and updates.

Visit our Staff Representatives in person on Stand P69

IS COMING TO

EXCEL LONDON 19 - 22 MAY 2015

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For all the latest information and to buy your tickets go to

CREONLINE.CO.UK

or call 01793 418218

CRE is part of Bible Society (Charity Reg: No 232759)

at ExCel London's Christian Resources Exhibition Visit19th our Staff - 22nd MayRepresentatives 2015

in person on Stand P69 at ExCel London’s Christian Resources Exhibition 19th- 22nd May 2015

(more details at www.creonline.co.uk - with FREE Entrance available via J&M)

FREE fo and undr 4s er Reduce d ch

(more details at www.creonline.co.uk with FREE Entrance available via J&M)

Order on-line at wwwjandmsewing.com or ask for our free Catalogue Tel: 0191 232 9589 Fax: 0191 230 1215 email: jandmsewing@btconnect.com 1 Charlotte Square, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE 1 4XF Established by Joyce Davison & Maureen Waterston in 1980

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CONFERENCES RETREATS

“Just back from a weekend stay at Lee Abbey. This was our first visit here and I can tell you that I have fallen in love with the place, the scenery and the people!” - SUZIE

HOLIDAYS

MIB TRAVEL 3 Old Church Road, Uphill Weston-super-Mare BS23 4UH 01934 620156 mark@mibtravel.co.uk / www.mibtravel.co.uk      

Experts in Israel & The Palestinian Territories All tours tailored to your own requirements Jewish roots’ tours a speciality All budgets catered for Plan a group for your Church On your own? Join an existing group.

Company Number: 04330579 - Madeley’s Israel & Beyond Ltd trading as MIB Travel Retail agent for ATOL holder 2893.

Come and visit us at CRE International, 19-22 May, Stand C33 for a chance to win a free weekend DEEPER INTO THE COUNTRYSIDE

www. leeabbey.org.uk/devon

DEEPER INTO COMMUNITY  01598 752621  relax@leeabbey.org.uk Lee Abbey Lynton North Devon EX35 6JJ

DEEPER INTO GOD

12

THE MONTH May 2015

THE

Worship & Prayer at Chelmsford Cathedral

A warm welcome to your cathedral, serving Essex and east London Sunday

8.00am 9.30am 11.15am 3.30pm

Holy Communion Parish Eucharist Choral Eucharist Evensong

Daily Services 7.45am 8.15am 12.00pm 5.15pm

Morning Prayer Holy Communion

(also Weds at 12.35 and Thurs at 10am)

Midday Prayer Evensong

(sung on Mon, Tues, Thurs and Fri)

www.chelmsfordcathedral.org.uk

- Wanted -

Organist/Choirmaster St. Mary Magdalene Parish of Great Burstead with Ramsden Crays

Organist/Choirmaster required from 1st June 2015 following the retirement of the present Organist.

Fine two manual and pedal organ by F H Browne of Canterbury and good musical tradition. Small choir with desire to grow.

Services are 10.00 am. Sung Eucharist and 6.30 pm. Evensong every Sunday, plus 11.30 am. Baptisms on fourth Sunday of each month, and additional services at all Festivals.

Other duties include, weekly Choir practice, planning the music, playing for about 12 weddings per year and funerals as required.

Salary and fees by negotiation.

For further details please contact,

Father Michael Hall Telephone 01277 632060 E-mail revd.michael@btinternet.com

The Vicarage, 111 Church Street, Great Burstead, Billericay, CM11 2TR

Who is like you, O Lord, among the gods? Who is like you, majestic in holiness, awesome in glorious deeds, doing wonders?

Ex 15:11

month — Friends make first improvement grant

New facilities will help Ford End church meet modern expectations

ST JOHN the Evangelist Church in Ford End will soon have a new servery and a toilet thanks to a £10,000 grant from the Friends of Essex Churches Trust.

The new facilities will end years of reliance on Ford End village hall. It is the Friends of Essex Churches Trust's first improvement grant since the charity started more than 60 years ago.

Revd Rose Braisby, the Assistant Curate, said: "It's wonderful that the Friends of Essex Churches are so supportive of our Parochial Church Council's attempts to make our little church more of a community asset by putting in a toilet and small servery. We are so grateful, and proud to be the first church to benefit from their new policy."

Years of hauling water for refreshments into the church, and washing up out of the church, will soon be over.

Churchwarden, Mrs Sheila Bearman, commented: "We have a team of such willing helpers who at the moment carry water into the church and then after we have had an event or service wash up what may be over 100 glasses or cups in a washing up bowl heated by countless numbers of kettles.

"We held a recent family event when the church was full. It was linked to the popular Frozen film and we had countless numbers of little girls dressed in Elsa outfits having to be escorted to the

DAWN OF A NEW ERA Architect's plans will be f​ulfilled for Revd Rose Braisby left and churchwarden Sheila Bearman village hall toilets next door.

Actually we can only hold events when the village hall is free so this is a challenge too as the hall is booked almost always in the week and very often at weekends.

"This makes it terrible for any funerals in particular that take place in the week but now we will be able to offer everyone decent modern day facilities for every function or service.

"We have not been deterred by the lack of facilities but with them it will be so much better and easier and it will allow us to make even more use of the church.

"We hope to open the church to other groups such as mothers and toddlers which we obviously cannot do at the moment."

Dr James Bettley, the chairman of the Friends of Essex Churches Trust, added: "We are delighted to award our first improvement grant of £10,000 to St John the Evangelist Church, Ford End. "This year sees a big change in our grant-making policy. We are now offering grants for church improvements as well as repairs.

We have set aside £100,000 for this purpose in addition to £170,000 for repairs in this first year.

"The improvements that we will be funding are those which help to meet 21st century expectations."

Recent repair grants from the Friends of Essex Churches Trust: l St Paul Great Baddow -

Re-roofing: £8,000. l St Michael Aveley - Work to rainwater goods and other general repairs: £5,000. l Sts James & Paul Colchester General repairs: £1,000.

Rowan Williams to deliver Gepp Lecture THE former Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams (Lord Williams of Oystermouth) will give the Gepp Lecture ‘How buildings tell a story’ on May 13 at Chelmsford Cathedral.

This will be at 8.15 pm, following the annual meeting at 7.15 pm with refreshments from 7.45 pm. l Please email events@foect.org. uk if you are aiming to attend.

Abbey bells centenary peals

TEAMS of bell ringers have celebrated the centenary of Waltham Abbey’s 12 bells.

The centenary was celebrated over the weekend of March 7-8. The bells rang out on Saturday morning, after a wedding on the afternoon, in the evening, and again on Sunday morning and evening.

It was fortunate that an early spring day on Saturday allowed people to listen to them in the beauty of the Abbey Gardens.

Meanwhile a coffee morning and brunch at the Abbey Church Centre on Saturday morning did a roaring trade.

A visiting team of ringers successfully rang a peal on the 12 bells in three and a half hours on Saturday evening.

After a celebratory service in the Abbey church on the Sunday morning, the weekend culminated in a quarter peal on the 12 bells by the Waltham Abbey band and friends which was a first in a new method for all participants and a considerable achievement.

Waltham Abbey had eight bells in the 19th century. These were increased to 12 in 1914, paid for by the widow of John Parnell, a local solicitor and major benefactor to Waltham Abbey, in memory of her husband. The Ringing World commented: “In their tone this splendid ring will compare favourably with any peal of similar weight.”

QUARTER PEALERS: Waltham Abbey ringers and friends in the ringing chamber after ringing on the Sunday morning

Practical benefits of chaplaincy CHAPLAINCY is a powerful resource which has been spreading throughout British locations, organisations and sectors, reports a new study.

The author of the study Ben Ryan, a researcher at Theos, the Christian think tank, concludes: “It is a ministry that is innovative, fitting in with the way British society is, rather than how religious and belief groups might hope it to be; a ministry that provides real practical benefits and services for organisations on their terms, as well as for religious groups alone; a ministry that goes to where people actually are, rather than waiting for them to come to religion.”

However, this ministry is increasingly reliant on lay volunteers, with or without the training

and knowledge of their own faith and belief group.

These groups can either resource and support it or risk losing control. A new system of presenting, evaluating and improving the impact of chaplains could increase their effectiveness.

Cuts to some healthcare chaplaincies show that their position is fragile. l 'A Very Modern Ministry: Chaplaincy in the UK' by Ben Ryan is based on more than 100 interviews with chaplains, users, colleagues, employers and stakeholders.

It is available from Amazon from £5 or can be downloaded free at www.theosthinktank.co.uk/ files/files/Modern%20Ministry%20combined.pdf