the
The newspaper from the Church of England for everyone in the Diocese of Guildford November 2015 - Issue 86
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Bishop Andrew calls for PEACE I think the main aim is that all of us work together, local councils, Government, the churches and charities in order to help find good permanent solutions to this issue.
Find PEACE on the centre pages >>>
Government to double appeal donations tackling malaria in Nigeria This year’s Christmas appeal from Christian Aid will focus on the diocese’s link country, Nigeria, which accounts for a quarter of all cases of malaria in Africa and where 250,000 children under the age of five die as a result of malaria every year. The Government has announced match funding for the appeal. Pregnant women are vulnerable too with a higher risk of miscarriage, premature delivery, stillbirth, severe anaemia and delivering babies with low-birth weight – a leading cause of child mortality. A lack of knowledge and poor access to information on health issues make the situation worse with malaria accounting for 11% of all maternal deaths in Nigeria. An announcement by the Government that it will match every pound raised in Christian Aid’s Christmas Appeal, which could help prevent many thousands of unnecessary deaths from malaria, has been welcomed by Bishop Andrew.
The UK Government will match every donation made to the Christmas Appeal between November 6 and February 5 up to a total of £5m and Christian Aid has prepared a range of resources to help parishes engage with the appeal, including an alternative nativity, prayers, reflections and decorations. Many of the partner organisations Christian Aid works through in Nigeria are diocesan organisations, including Aguata Diocesan Community Human Services (AD-CHUS) in Ora-Eri, south-eastern Nigeria, which provides life-saving mosquito nets and a public education programme delivered by trained community health agents. Community Development Committees have also been set up to ensure the Nigerian Government provides quality healthcare and free malaria treatments to clinics. Bishop Andrew said: “I commend this appeal which will protect the lives of many across the populous nation of Nigeria. It’s so important to look beyond ourselves and our close family
Onuchukwu Okoye is 28-years-old and has just given birth to her second child, a son called Israel, in the health centre in Ora-Er village. Seen here with staff nurse and midwife Dorothy Ukowfu, who had prescribed her with medication so that she didn’t get malaria during her pregnancy
circle at Christmastime, as we praise God for his ‘indescribable gift’ of his Son. “With UK Aid Match doubling every pound that is
raised and this being the fiftieth year of our link with the Church of Nigeria it seems a perfect opportunity for parishes to give generously. No child should die from a preventable disease.” Christian Aid regional coordinator for Hampshire, Charlotte Page said: “With churches’ support for this UKAid Match appeal, communities will better understand how malaria is transmitted, prevented and treated. “Last year, congregations across the country helped to raise more than £3.65 million for the Christmas appeal. “Our hope is that with the Diocese of Guildford’s long-standing relationship with the Church of Nigeria, parishes will lead the way in helping prevent thousands of unnecessary deaths from malaria.” Just £3 could buy a mosquito net and £60 could train three community health workers to deliver the nets and life-saving health advice in their local area. For more information and resources visit www.christianaid.org.uk/getinvolved/christmas/
Inside: Google a grave - P2 • Tunisian beach attack survivor’s story - P5 • Is your church listening? - P7
News
Archbishop makes Connections at Claygate Parishioners in Claygate were delighted when Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, visited Holy Trinity Church in late September. Archbishop Justin came to witness Connections, a weekly event for older people that has been running at Holy Trinity for five years and is one of the largest such events in the country. Over 140 people enjoyed the usual pattern of coffee and cakes, activity tables and fun and fellowship, as well as hearing a special ‘thought for the day’
from the Archbishop. During the Archbishop’s two-hour visit he took the time to talk with many of the regular visitors to Connections and the team of 30 volunteers who help to run the scheme each week. Speaking at the end of the visit, Archbishop Welby said: “I have had a great morning here at Connections. What I have seen here is inspiring.” Pippa Cramer, Pastoral Care and Seniors Co-ordinator at HTC, commented: “It was so encouraging that Archbishop Justin found time in
Diving into Messy Baptisms
his busy diary to come and visit us at Connections. We are so thankful for what is happening here, and excited that we were able to share our story with him.” Vicar of Holy Trinity Claygate, the Revd Philip Plyming, said: “One of Archbishop Justin’s priorities is helping local churches reach out with the good news of Jesus. “He was clearly interested with the creative ways this is happening in Claygate, and we were honoured by his visit.”
Google a grave at St John’s, Hale Information about who is buried in the churchyard at St John’s, Hale, is coming to light and being published online for the first time, thanks to work by a parish team. Among those whose graves are now mapped and documented in the churchyard dating back 175 years are John Henry Knight who built the first petroleum carriage for two people in England, and Bishop Sumner, who lived in Farnham Castle and built 200 churches in the area. To see what has been done, go to the website at:
Dylan, Tia, Logan and Theo were joined by family and friends – and a blessing from Australia – for their paddling pool baptism
The September weather was mercifully kind when around 90 members of St Nicolas Church, Cranleigh gathered to witness four Messy Church baptisms – in a paddling pool. The Van Praag and Brambley families are regular members of the popular monthly Messy Church congregation, and so decided a ‘Messy Baptism’ would be perfect for their children’s significant day. As well as being supported by their parents, godparents, grandparents and even great grandparents, Theo (9) and Logan (6) Van Praag, and Tia (4) and Dylan (2) Brambley, were prayed for by a sibling or a school friend, using their
own prayers and a blessing from Tia and Dylan’s grandparents sent from Australia. The Revd Roy Woodhams said: “Rather than using the church font on this occasion, a ‘messy font’ paddling pool was set up in the garden, surrounded by the whole congregation. “It was the most water I have ever had to bless, the size of the paddling pool even made it possible for Theo to have a total immersion baptism! “We pray that this will be the first of many and that other churches may be encouraged to support children who would prefer such a meaningful welcome into the family of Christ.”
Archbishop Justin was ‘inspired’ by the work he saw at Holy Trinity Claygate’s weekly gathering for older people
www.badshotleaandhale.org/ funerals/ and click on ‘funerals’ followed by ‘Who is in St John’s churchyard?’. Joint rector, the Revd Alan Crawley, said: “This has not been an easy task and is still a work in progress, but we have had a tremendous amount of interest in what we are doing. “The tools to do it are all free and in the public domain – if anyone would like to document another churchyard or cemetery then I would be happy to talk to them about it.” You can contact Alan by email – reverend.alan@gmail. com or by calling him on 01252 820537.
Screenshot of St John’s churchyard showing a little of what the online tools can do
Parish Giving Scheme takes off Has your parish signed up for the new Parish Giving Scheme? Since the start of this year, 25% of the diocese – 39 parishes plus Guildford Cathedral – have joined. The scheme is now recommended by the CofE nationally as its preferred method, and is fast taking root across the country with the dioceses of Leicester, Birmingham, St Albans and Truro due to join in early 2016. The Parish Giving Scheme is a centrallyrun donation management system that allows planned giving to be made on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis by direct debit. Donations are paid into
the PCC bank account with any related Gift Aid. A unique feature of the scheme is an option for the donor to commit in principle to increase their gift annually in line with inflation. This is done on an opt-in basis and is a popular choice, with over 60% of donors currently requesting this. Case studies of parishes successfully using the scheme will appear in the December/January issue of The Wey. Anyone wishing to know more can contact Juliet Evans, diocesan stewardship adviser, on 01483 484923 or juliet.evans@ cofeguildford.org.uk. Further information and resources can also be found on the dedicated PGS pages of the diocesan website at: www.cofeguildford.org.uk/pgs.
All Saints moves closer to rebuild Since the devastating fire that gutted All Saints Church, Fleet, in June, the congregation, together with the wider community, has been taking essential steps on the path to rebuilding its beloved church. Work has already begun on the clearance of debris from the church. Once clearance is completed, the windows and doors of the church will be sealed, scaffolding erected and a temporary roof put on to protect surviving monuments and furnishings, and to make the site secure, a process that will probably take the best part of two months. In the meantime, thoughts have turned to what the new All Saints will be like. “Now begins the exciting work of planning for the future,” said the Revd Mark Hayton, vicar of Fleet.
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“There is an overwhelming desire among congregation and community for the church to be rebuilt, and it will be, but it would seem right and proper to rebuild in a way that both honours and preserves the heritage of what the church has been, whilst at the same time building a church that will serve the community of Fleet in this century and beyond.” With this in mind, the church PCC held a series of three public meetings in September and early October to update the community of Fleet on the work so far, to discuss some of the issues surrounding rebuilding and listen to ideas and suggestions. “We wanted to know what sort of church building our community needs. As well as being a place of worship for the Christian community, are there other ways our church can be used by the people of our
The Wey November 2015
town? If so, how does the new All Saints need to be ordered and equipped to facilitate all this?” added the Revd Mark. He has praised the support that he has received from the community, which has embraced fundraising as a practical response to that tragic fire, raising just under £20,000. Encouragingly, the community’s support has also been seen in church attendance, with worship numbers increasing in both the church centre next to the church, and at the nearby St Philip and St James. llA 17-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has pleaded guilty to both arson and arson with intent to endanger life. He will be sentenced on A cherry picker was brought in to help with October 26. clearance of the burnt-out church
News
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Grayswood School overcomes wet weather delays The start of term was worth waiting for at Grayswood Church of England Primary School where pupils returned from an extended summer holiday to brand new and improved school buildings. Prolonged summer downpours and difficulties with water and electricity supplies had put the school’s £2million expansion scheme behind schedule, forcing governors to delay the start of the school year by a week. With builders still on site for the project, funded by Surrey County Council and supported by the diocese’s buildings and estates team, pupils were finally able to return to a brand new entrance and four new classrooms by mid-September. The remainder of the extension project, which includes a science/tech/art room, two new libraries, new toilets, a new
kitchen and a large new hall is expected to be completed by the end of half term. Headteacher Sally Bloomfield said the challenge had led to strengthened relationships: “Without hesitation, acting headteacher Clare Talbot from Woolmer Hill secondary school, Haslemere, enabled pupils from Grayswood to be educated at her school for the week our school was closed. “It was a fantastic collaboration with everyone benefiting from working together. We had access to a classroom base, their gym, media lab with iPads, the canteen for lunches and outdoor play space.” Due to the success of this collaboration both schools are now looking into a range of ways in which they can work together in future. Grayswood is currently expanding from an infant school to a primary school. It has 150 pupils up to Year 4 and will
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Pupils explore the new-look reception classroom with headteacher Sally Bloomfield. Working parties of parents helped with jobs from painting the library area to moving classroom furniture to make sure the school was as welcoming as possible when the new school year finally began at Grayswood Primary School
soon be able to accommodate 210 pupils aged 4–11 ready for when it becomes an all-through primary school in September 2017. Chair of governors Fiona Tough said: “This is such an exciting and pivotal time for our village school, which not only has a secure future but wonderful new facilities. “It is very exciting to see the children enjoying the new environment and the opportunities it is already
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Woking unites for its third Peace Day Woking People of Faith celebrated its third annual Peace Day in Woking town centre on Sunday 20 September to tie in with International Day of Peace the following day. The event offered a mixture of activities centred around peace with members of the public encouraged to add notes on their feelings about peace to a board of messages. Peace quotations were read from the world’s major religions and Imam Hashmi from Shah Jahan Mosque spoke about the importance of peace. Primary children from all over Woking had been asked to produce a poster or piece of writing on ‘How can children help to bring peace?’ and their entries were displayed during the event. Winners were chosen from Barnsbury
Primary, Beaufort Primary, Westfield Primary, Maybury Primary, Goldsworth Primary and the Shah Jahan Mosque and presented with certificates and gift vouchers by the Mayor of Woking, Councillor Schoolchildren were commended for their work on peace and urged to befriend refugees in Woking at the town’s Derek McCrum, third Peace Day while runners-up received prizes donated by WHSmith. is September 21, we mustn’t see peace as our Surrey Faith Links’ Kauser Akhtar aim for just one day – there are many activities commented on the importance of maintaining that you can take part in throughout the year. the theme of the day throughout the year. She World peace is important every day.” said: “Although the International Day of Peace
A Victorian step back in time A one-and-a-half mile trek over the Hog’s Back from Tongham to Seale was a weekly necessity come rain or shine, for worshippers without a village church in the early nineteenth century. Then, 150 years ago, St Paul’s church was built in Tongham as a gift from local landowner John Back, to enable villagers to attend their own church and save them the walk to Seale’s St Laurence Church. On 13 September, to mark the 150th anniversary of St Paul’s consecration, its congregation recreated the weekly trek, led by vicar the Revd Claire Holt. Around 60 people, three dogs and several small children, most dressed in period Victorian costume, walked the route over
Members of St Paul’s, Tongham, recreated the weekly Victorian trek to nearby Seale as part of their church’s 150th anniversary celebrations
the Hog’s Back where they were welcomed by the rector of St Laurence, the Venerable Adrian Harbidge. After a short service, which included talks
Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; for the Lord knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish. Psalm 1 (ESV)
on the history of the two churches from both incumbents and the singing of favourite hymns, the party walked back to Tongham for tea and cakes in The Old School Hall.
Photo: www.sxc.hu
The Wey November 2015
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Community Could you help support a young person like Rebecca?
Fifi the pony pictured with its rider Ruby Stokes and her mother, Michelle, receives a blessing at the service
At 98-years of age Freddy the tortoise took the occasion in his stride
All creatures great and small St Alban’s Church, Hindhead was blessed with glorious sunshine for its first pet blessing service, which attracted people and their fourlegged friends from across the area this September. Held next to the Punchbowl Café with the support of the National Trust, the ecumenical event was led by Revd Ruth Dillon (Beacon Hill United Reformed Church), with Father Fergal McGuinness (St Anselm’s Catholic Church, Beacon Hill) who had only arrived five days
earlier. The Revd Richard Bodle of St Alban’s gave a short talk, and the worship group from St Alban’s lead some lively singing. As well as several very well-behaved dogs, guests included a 98-year-old tortoise, and Fifi the Shetland pony. Each animal was prayed for and given a certificate. Richard explained how the idea came about: “Over a pub lunch, the local clergy thought it would be a good idea to have an ecumenical celebration, outside of our usual joint services held in the Week of
Prayer for Christian Unity and at Easter. “We thought about doing it outside and decided that then people could bring their pets. Everyone was very supportive, although the words ‘Vicar of Dibley’ did come up on a few occasions!” He continued: “The blessing was definitely a great success – people immediately wanted to know when there would be another. Hopefully it showed that the church isn’t boring, and that God isn’t boring – he can be worshipped anywhere.”
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The Wey November 2015
Christian charity east to west urgently needs more host families to support homeless young people aged 16–19 in Surrey. Over 400 young people in the county become homeless each year. The reasons vary, but all are low on confidence and lack the ability to see a way forward. Through its Supported Lodgings programme, the Egham-based charity places a young person into private homes, providing security, east to west helps homeless young people like Rebecca stability and confidence emotional struggles. to help them towards independence. “I have now left my lovely Supported Lodgings This is Rebecca’s story … home and have moved on to university. east to west “From a young age I faced a challenging life managed to put together everything I needed to start at home, suffering from both sexual and physical my course, and raised money for a computer as well as paying the deposit for my accommodation. They abuse. At 16, I moved to Surrey so I could start a new life. After just a few months, I was made have continued to offer support during university, which shows that they care a lot about the young homeless and was refused help by the council. I was forced to spend nights in a tent, with nothing but people they are helping. a sleeping bag. I then moved to a YMCA, but was “Without east to west, I would not be where I am today and I am very grateful for everything they have struggling to afford it, even with a part time job. “I was then referred to east to west. In a matter of done for me. It has given me a second chance.” weeks I was moved into my new home with a great Rebecca’s name has been changed to protect her identity. family. “east to west offered amazing support throughout east to west, which has received support from the Bishop of Guildford’s Foundation, is looking for hosts the whole process. They chose a family that they thought would be right for me and provided who could support a young person for up to two years exceptional help and guidance that got my life back and provide them with a place they can call home. To find out more call Emily Gibbons on 017884 together. They helped me with anything I needed 438007 or email sl@easttowest.org.uk whether it was work related, money problems or
Make a difference to a child in Romania this Christmas Can you make this Christmas one to be remembered for a deprived child in Romania? Every year Task Force Romania (TfR) Children’s Shoebox Appeal, based in Cranleigh, collects shoeboxes from around the country to send to children in Hunedoara, Romania. Last Christmas the appeal was recognised by a BBC TV documentary which recorded Cranleigh school children filling their boxes, following the consignment on its journey to Romania and showing the joyful faces of the children. Most of them live in shacks around Hunedoara and each one was given a wrapped Christmas shoe box, just for themselves. Last year 500 shoeboxes from children at Cranleigh schools and more than 200 from St Nicolas’ Church, Cranleigh were added to 3–4,000 boxes collected from
across the UK – from Dundee in Scotland to Poole in Dorset. This year TfR hope to send even more, so all the children cared for by Diana and Corneliu Medrea, can experience the thrill and excitement of opening a box and realising that the contents are really all for them. Their Bethlehem Christian dropin-centre provides food, warmth, sanitation and Christian teaching for those in Hunedoara, where there is still 60% unemployment. The Rotary Club of Cranleigh is once again encouraging all schools in Cranleigh to take part. “The children really enjoy doing this for those in Romania who are less fortunate than themselves,” says TfR volunteer Ruth Collins. “Wrapped shoeboxes will be collected by Rotarians and West Cranleigh Nurseries generously allow us to store them in their large warehouse before being dispatched to Romania.” Ruth continues: “Please start collecting so that we can make this year’s collection even bigger and
reach even more children. It will probably be the only present that they receive this Christmas.” If you would like to help the TfR Children’s Shoebox Appeal reach even more deprived children in and around Hunedoara, contact Ruth Collins 01483 274398 or email: mamwild@aol.com.
A child in Romania receives his Christmas shoebox last year
Community Matters
Tunisian beach attack survivor to help deepen interfaith links Many media pages have been filled with images and stories of the terrorist attack on the beach resort of Sousse, Tunisia on June 26, which saw the massacre of 38 tourists. Amidst the shock and anger at the senseless atrocity, one survivor, Colin Bidwell from Windlesham, is determined to turn his terrifying experience into a positive one – using it to benefit the development of interfaith relationships. Since returning from Tunisia, Colin has visited his local church and mosque to begin those faith links and to find answers to his haunting questions about the motives behind the attack. He is working with the Diocese of Guildford and Surrey Faith Links to find ways to share his story and his hopes for the future at interfaith community initiatives in the diocese over the coming months.
Colin’s story Colin and his wife were relaxing on their sun loungers on the beach outside their hotel when the terrorist began shooting, only metres from where they lay. Colin said: “I had on my headphones, so didn’t notice as quickly as others did. At first I thought it was fireworks, but when I realised it was gun shots, I turned to check on my wife. As I did, a bullet went under my arm, right where I had just been.” Colin’s wife fled back towards the hotel, but Colin dived for cover behind his sun lounger, before making a break for a small boat on the sand, and then into the sea to escape the approaching gunman. All the while, he was being shot at, yet amazingly suffered only two surface gunshot wounds. After swimming out to a safe distance, Colin was picked up by the
water sports boat from the neighbouring hotel, which took him and another tourist slightly further up the beach. But Colin’s ordeal wasn’t over. On approaching the rear of the hotel next to his own, he was ushered inside by a member of staff who urged him to hide in a room containing roughly 60 tourists. Colin said: “I didn’t feel safe being penned into that small space. I could hear grenade explosions and I knew that the terrorist was nearby, so I went back outside to get to the street at the front of the hotels. I saw a local man jump over a wall into an alleyway, and tried to do the same, but realised there was a steep drop on the other side so hesitated on the top. Lucky I did, because from there I saw the terrorist’s gun poking round a wall in the alley. Then the Tunisian police came down the alley and took him down in a hail of bullets.” When he was sure the danger was over, Colin went back to his hotel to find his wife. Fearing the worst, he searched amongst the dead for her, checking under beach towels. Mercifully, he found her unharmed in the hotel lobby. She had been able to hide in the spa area with 40 other tourists. They were taken to hospital together and Colin was treated for his injuries.
Many questions The Bidwells flew back to the UK on the Sunday, extremely shaken but thankful to be alive. Colin, who was raised as a Christian but is not a regular churchgoer, felt moved to give thanks. “I don’t know if God saved us, but so many little things add up to us still being here today that I can’t ignore the possibility.”
So, after returning home, Colin and his wife attended some services at their local church, St John the Baptist in Windlesham, and were welcomed by the Revd Jonathan Hillman: “Our hope is that as they share in our worship they will become increasingly aware of God’s presence surrounding them, enabling them to take the next steps on their road of healing. Such an experience as theirs can raise Colin Bidwell (left) with Imam Hafiz Hashmi many questions and as Christ’s body we are here to walk every went to lunch at Imam Hashmi’s house and met his wife, Kauser Akhtar, who step of the journey with them.” Surrey Faith Links Advisor at the Interfaith involvement isDiocese of Guildford. Over lunch, they discovered mutual friends and Colin decided that some of his discussed ways Colin could become questions needed to be voiced in a involved in events in the area, sharing Muslim environment. “I have lots of friends who are Muslims, but I don’t his story and building interfaith know much about Islam,” he said. relationships. On November 18, during National “Understanding more about other Interfaith Week, Colin will be attending people’s faiths might help to stop Woking People of Faith’s event ‘Values something like this happening again. Even if I can change just one person’s of culture and faith: The challenges of negative stereotype then it has been integrating in society whilst retaining worth it.” our identity’ at which the Bishop of Colin went to Shah Jahan Mosque in Guildford and Baroness Warsi will Woking and met with the Imam, Hafiz speak. Colin will share his story at Hashmi, who welcomed him and talked Woking Debates ‘Why do people through some of his questions and become terrorists?’ on January 9, fears. Imam Hashmi said: “I would like 2016, with Kevin Hurley, Police and to show them the true side of Islam, not Crime Commissioner for Surrey. For the one they experienced on the beach more details on these events, see www.cofeguildford.org.uk and that day.” www.wpof.org.uk. A few weeks later, the Bidwells
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The Wey November 2015
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Advertising Feature
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Cross Rhythms Teesside community radio station broadcasts 24/7 to Stockton-on-Tees and the Tees Valley. ‘That’s a long way from here’ you may be thinking, but hopefully the aims and values of this Community radio station will not be a long way from those of many in the church throughout the UK. The station engages with the community through radio using local news, discussions and interviews, with the latest contemporary Christian music providing the backbone to the sound and ethos of the station. Sharing the Gospel with a 21st century audience using 21st century means. One of the station’s founding DJ’s had this to say: “We’re often hearing from people who love the station, for the effect it has on the community if not the music itself. I’ve been a DJ for 10 years and my grandmother, who is 87 years old, supports what I do wholly. She can’t stand the music I play, but she supports what I do because she loves me and she believes in the project. The music may not be to the taste of older Christians. But it’s actually about seeing
Reaching a City with the Gospel
the bigger picture and saying, ‘It’s not necessarily what I like but I can see it connecting with a lot of people.’ That’s the starting point and everything else will fall into place around it.” The radio station is run as a not-for-profit organisation, and any income goes towards the ministry of reaching the local community with the Gospel, and engaging with local communities for social gain. During the recession, many of our projects with young people, especially around education and training, sadly ceased due to lack
of funding. Organisations that used to pay for those services had their budgets cut or removed, and as a result, the station has to find new income and support. But now for the good news: Effectively, the station ‘re-started’ in September 2014, with a new Station Manager and a new Station Administrator, Rafal and Ania Dupat. This young Polish couple arrived in the Tees Valley area sensing a call from God and not really knowing why. Rafal has extensive production and audio engineering experience, and Ania has managed a number of community projects. Ideal qualifications for a Christian Community Radio Station, although they had no idea it even existed when they came! Since getting involved, Raf and Ania have encouraged the growth, management and training of a new crop of more
than twenty volunteers to produce and present local programmes. They have also been meeting and engaging with the local community at large, and the Christian faith community especially, as well as community groups and organisations, and listener feedback is encouraging. “We’re working towards securing funding to develop more programming and training opportunities to reach what is one of the most deprived areas in the UK”, said Rafal. “We have developed a love for the Tees Valley area, and the people here, and we want to use the radio station to bring hope and light in difficult times. As an evangelistic outreach, this radio station is broadcasting to people 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year – it’s a phenomenal resource for the church in its mission.”
A message from Chris Cole, co-founder of the Cross Rhythms ministry. It is fair to say that the Christian Faith has been the most ‘civilising influence’, globally, since the revelation of Jesus Christ as the Son of God. In the Western World, the printing of the Bible over 500 years ago on the newly invented printing press enabled our civilisation to develop our politics, economics, education, societal attitudes, major institutions and spirituality. All of these developments have been at the cornerstone, until recently, of our liberal democracies. It is now the development of the internet, digital satellite, FM radio and television communications that gives all of us who call ourselves ‘followers of Jesus Christ’ the opportunity to
Please return this form to Cross Rhythms Teeside, c/o Cornerstone Vision, 28 Old Park Road, Plymouth, PL3 4PY
share our stories on these platforms. In many ways this is probably the first opportunity people will have of witnessing powerful messages and testimonies of real life in God. We are often the first Bible people will now read. Cross Rhythms as a national ministry is growing with three Community radio stations licensed in the UK, (Teesside, Stoke on Trent and Plymouth), independently owned and operated but partnering together with similar aims and vision. Cross Rhythms Teesside is reaching young people who engage with the music – but it is asking older people with a passion for a lost generation for support. It is based in one of the
most deprived areas of the North East of England – but it is asking for help from people in this area who can see the vision and wish to support it. We now have a younger team developing around us who are very ‘media savvy’ and capable of maximising the amazing opportunities the Lord is giving us to ‘influence our cities for good’ by broadcasting the very best Christian Contemporary music with life changing messages. Your partnership is not only deeply valued but is part of our spiritual resourcing to influence the airwaves in a way that helps those who don’t know Jesus gain a glimpse of His offer of salvation.
Contact:
Rafal Deputat
Station Manager E: raf@crteesside.co.uk
Cross Rhythms Teesside is very grateful to Cornerstone Vision, who have kindly sponsored this page.
Page 6
The Wey November 2015
Focus on Sensory Needs
How does your church help those with sensory needs? There was a time when being ‘disability friendly’ meant putting in a ramp to a church hall to accommodate wheelchair access. That was all that was thought necessary. However, there are those who have sensory needs, such as impairment to sight or hearing, and are unable to fully participate in services or activities. So to be disability-friendly any organisation needs to aim to cater for the full spectrum of sensory needs. Experience shows that the provision of sensory inclusion facilities often draws people into church and other activities who previously hadn’t been able to join in. Tracey Wade, sensory inclusion adviser for the diocese has been involved with the deaf, deafened and hard of hearing community for over 20 years and has a real commitment to helping those with sensory loss. She is also trained to NVQ level 3 in British Sign Language and will shortly be a fully-qualified mobility officer, having completed the sight-related modules of a foundation degree in Health & Social Care (Visually Impaired Rehabilitation).
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Inclusive She says: “The service we provide aims to ensure all-round inclusion in activities for those with sensory needs. We can provide advice to churches on how to make their services and activities more accessible, give talks and workshops, demonstrate or lend assistive listening resources or test existing equipment. We also run regular lip-reading courses and have access to qualified sign language interpreters who have experience in a Christian context. “Sometimes a solution can be as simple as putting down carpeting to reduce background noise or improving lighting. On one church visit recently we looked at bringing the communion rail down from the chancel, to make it more accessible, installing a couple of grab rails and creating more contrast with the lighting. “Many churches have hearing loops but when was yours last tested? Using my field testing equipment I can check this. On one visit recently I discovered that a church had neither of their loops working satisfactorily.” There is also the very successful ‘Hear Here’ project. This stemmed from Tracey’s participation in the hard of hearing forum, run by Surrey Coalition of Disable People, which she attends. “At every meeting people complained about aftercare for those with hearing aids, but nothing was done about it. I knew we had the volunteers, so I thought, how can we help?”
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Champions This resulted in the setting up of a network of ‘Hearing Champions’, volunteers who are trained in the cleaning and maintenance of hearing aids and replacing batteries. This has really taken off with monthly hearing aid drop-in clinics taking place at 30 locations, mostly church halls, around the diocese. Miriam Thompson in Normandy became a hearing champion almost by chance. Having had hearing aids fitted herself two years ago she had some technical queries. She signed up for a course to answer her questions, and found herself learning how to service and maintain hearing aids. So, with the Revd Alison Craven, her vicar, she decided to offer the service to others and it now takes place at the church’s monthly mini-market. “All of us Hearing Champions have been trained by an audiologist and one member of our team is really brilliant at doing the detailed technical work,” says Miriam. “Previously, people had to go to the Royal Surrey Hospital just to pick up free batteries! By doing it in a side room during our mini-market people can have a
A hearing aid being adjusted during a Hear Here session
coffee and a chat with others, or buy something in the market. Last Saturday we had 12 people along, all of whom needed new batteries, as well as cleaning and re-tubing. “People who use the service are so very grateful,” says Miriam. “And it’s a great service for the church to be providing free to the local community.”
Example “Normandy is an excellent example of what can be achieved,” says Tracey. “Many hearing aids end up in a drawer not being used, simply because it isn’t easy to maintain them. In addition the volunteers enjoy being of practical help, it brings new people into the church community, improves relationships with residential homes and sheltered housing and reduces the isolation which many people with hearing aids experience.” Hand in hand with deafness goes sight loss. As part of Sight Awareness Week in September, sighted volunteers were able to experience what it is like to have various forms of sight impairment. And advice was also available – for instance it is easier to identify food on a plain plate than a patterned one. Tracey provides awareness-raising talks on visual impairment and sighted-guide workshops. Parishes increasingly find a need for screens too, not only for displaying words of songs and videos but also for signing. At Holy Trinity, Aldershot, several have been installed, combined with an extension of the hearing loop to overcome dead spots in the building. Churchwarden Paul Kirkup says: “It means that people can now sit anywhere in the church and follow what is going on, regardless of any sensory impairment. We have also put in one facing the chancel so that members of the worship team and anyone preaching can see what the congregation is seeing.” Overall there is extensive support for any parish which needs advice on any aspect of sensory inclusion. Equipment is available for loan, whether for a special event or to try out with a view to purchasing. Items available include an 8m x 8m loop, domestic loops and radio microphones. For more information go to www.cofeguildford. org.uk and put ‘sensory inclusion’ in the search box, or contact Tracey Wade on 01483 790327, SMS: 07531 268476 or tracey.wade@cofeguildford.org.uk .
The monthly maintenance contribution towards the cost of each flat is subsidised by the charity, and includes heating, lighting and council tax. Applicants must be retired and over 60 years and in reasonable health since the alms house does not provide nursing care. For further information regarding qualification for admission please contact The Master by letter, or by telephone: 01749 813 369 or by email: magisterbruton@aol.com Charity Registration No: 1130351
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The Wey November 2015
Page 7
Focus on Refugees
Bishop Andrew c
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I think the main aim is that all of us work together, local councils, Government, the churches and charities in order to help find good permanent solutions to this issue. – Bishop Andrew
E IS FOR EDUCATE An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise 5) seeks knowledge. (Proverbs 18:1 ome ‘welc to d calle are we tians As Chris the stranger’ (Matthew 25:35), yet this can be difficult in a situation fraught with d complexity, and which must be responde have tions rega cong e Som ly. to intelligent been trying to develop an understanding of the relevant facts and opinions surrounding
, the crisis. Shere and Peaslake churches the of s for example, have provided copie Archbishop of Canterbury’s statement on refugees to their congregations, along with a list of actions and places to research the issue. A wealth of facts, figures, and its information about the refugee crisis and history can be found online.
E
PEACE: Event
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www.gilead.org.uk Page 8
g, Do not be anxious about anythin Refugee Crisis Prayer and er but in everything by pray Heavenly Father, let supplication with thanksgiving you are the source of all goodness, to your requests be made known generosity and love. ch God. And the peace of God, whi We thank you for opening the hearts of surpasses all understanding, will many, to those who are fleeing for their ds guard your hearts and your min lives. 7) in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6Help us now to open our arms in ort Prayer continues to underpin the supp welcome, and reach out our hands in ss, Christians give to others in times of distre support. by not least to refugees currently displaced That the desperate may find new hope, conflict in the Middle East. Congregations and lives torn apart be restored. God across the diocese have been turning to We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ in prayer, asking Your Son, Our Lord, Him to relieve the who fled persecution at His birth plight of refugees and at His last triumphed over death. and to guide the Amen efforts to help; Holy Trinity St congregation of Holy Trinity, Claygate were Mary’s, Guildford week encouraged to sign up for 24/7 Prayer’s has set up a prayer . crisis ee of prayer for the refug station, and the
Parishes are encouraged to Pray, Educate, Act, Campaign and Engage (PEACE) in response to a complex crisis. The Bishop of Guildford, The Right Revd Andrew Watson, has spoken out on the refugee crisis and talked to the local media about his concern for the millions of displaced people across Europe and the Middle East. “As the plight of millions of displaced people heightens, I welcome the news that EU leaders have pledged a further one billion Euros of crucial aid,” he said. “Meanwhile I am greatly encouraged to hear many stories from around the Diocese of Guildford, where individuals and parishes are rallying to offer prayer and support.
On Tuesday October 20 the Diocese of Guildford will be hosting a FREE information morning at Guildford Cathedral. This not-to-be-missed event is designed to equip parishes in responding more effectively to the refugee crisis in Europe and the Middle East. Keynote speakers include: llMaurice Wren - Chief Executive, The Refugee Council llChristine Elliott - Director of World Church Programmes llMartin Kettle - Home Affairs Policy Adviser, The Church of England The Diocese of Guildford’s safeguarding experts will also be present, as well as members of the local authorities. Questions & Answers will follow, and those attending will be encouraged to share and discuss what they have learnt in their parishes. Parishes are invited to send as many delegates as they wish. For further information or to book places, please see the Diocese website www.cofeguildford.org.uk/whats-on/events or contact cet@ cofeguildford.org.uk
The Wey November 2015
“Echoing the words of the Archbishop of Canterbury, I commend our Government’s strong commitment to the world's poorest people through the delivery of the aid budget. I am however deeply concerned that the UK’s target of 20,000 refugees over five years - slightly more than a Centre Court crowd at Wimbledon - falls short of what we can achieve.”
Religious persecution While Bishop Andrew praised the Government’s aid budget he urged the Prime Minister to “benchmark our intake of refugees against numbers being offered by our European neighbours, and secondly to ensure that Christians who have already fled camps in Syria, Jordan and Turkey in fear of religious persecution are not alienated from the UK’s resettlement provision.” Bishop Andrew also reminded the local media that he is witnessing church congregations and parish communities fundraising and offering practical help for refugees, adding that the Government should “be even more ambitious as it responds to this historic crisis, and that a number closer to 50,000 over five years be targeted, bringing us into line with comparable commitments by other countries.” “The situation is complex, and we are working together with local authorities to ensure that the best advice is available to churches as they are called to help. We know that this is not a new problem, nor is it one which can be quickly resolved, and so it is crucial that provision is put in place not only to address the immediate
A IS FOR AC Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth (1 John 3:18) The church community in the Diocese of Guildford has been incredibly compassionate and generous in its response to the refugee crisis, sending financial and physical donations to charities providing humanitarian assistance to refugees. Parishes, such as St Martin’s, Blackheath and St Nicholas, Thames Ditton, to name just two, have
A
pledged the fun at their Harvest aid organisation Likewise, tre generosity has shown with the of supplies, suc food and clothin St Mary’s, Chid sent a van full o refugee camps Iraq in January, of Samara Levy Appeal (picture support has als given to ‘Guildfo to People’, whic hundreds of vita collected and d refugees campe One of their mo events was Ref at Holy Trinity S Guildford. The o saw a number o churches, inclu St Saviour’s, Ch
Focus on Refugees
calls for PEACE
humanitarian challenges, but also to meet the longer-term cultural needs of those for whom the UK will soon be called home.” “My own grandparents housed a German Jewish refugee family at the outbreak of the Second World War, with the family later returning safely to Germany after the conflict had ended. And I feel we ought to encourage, not necessarily that kind of action, but that sort of generosity, that sort of openheartedness, that can be lacking in the modern debate. “I think the main aim is that all of us work together, local councils, Government, the churches and charities in order to help find good permanent solutions to this issue.”
PEACE event “In the Diocese of Guildford we are encouraging parishes to Pray, Educate, Act, Campaign and Engage (PEACE) in response to the crisis,” added Bishop Andrew. “Our website has links to the latest resources and materials, all of which are available at www. cofeguildford.org.uk/refugees. I encourage parishes in this diocese to be active in their
CT
nds raised t festival to ns. emendous been provision ch as ng. ddingfold of items to in Northern , in support y’s Winter ed). Church so been ord: People ch has seen al items delivered to ed in Calais. ost successful fuTEA, hosted St Mary’s, occasion of Guildford uding Burpham, hrist Church,
E IS FOR ENGAGE
engagement on this issue. “We are also hosting an event for parishes to gain practical and background advice on the current situation.” (See box bottom left for more details.)
Bishop Andrew: “I encourage parishes in this diocese to be active in their engagement on this issue.” Fundamentally, responding with PEACE requires us to engage others positively with the refugee crisis, a request echoed by a number of senior church representatives , including the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Archbishop in Jerusalem, as well as our own Bishop Andrew. This can be done in a creative way, guiding and educating communities to open their hearts and mind s to those fleeing from conflict. In our diocese, Revd Mark Wallace of All Saints, Lightwater has encouraged members of his parish to donate goods and to offer
accommodation to the refugees, and has found the issue to be striking a chord beyo nd the church family.
E
THE PRAYER BOOK SOCIETY
C IS FOR CAMPAIGN
Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy (Proverbs 31:8-9).
C
It is vital that we make our voices heard in support of Bishop Andrew’s call for Britain to take more than the current target of 20,000 refugees over 5 years – barely more than a centre court crowd at Wimbledon. Taking political action, such as signing a petition,
writing to an MP, or involvement with an activist initiative, sends the firm message that we are prepared to welcome refugees into the country. Several parishes in the diocese are encouraging congregations to email MPs on the matter, and a video petition has been produced by church volunteers at the Guildford: People to People RefuTEA. This video shows visitors holding a #RefugeesWelcome banner, and will be sent to local MP Anne Milton, as well as national and European politicians.
My own grandparents housed a German Jewish refugee family at the outbreak of the Second World War, with the family later returning safely to Germany after the conflict had ended. And I feel we ought to encourage, not necessarily that kind of action, but that sor t of generosity, that sor t of open-hear tedness, that can be lacking in the modern debate. – Bishop Andrew
PEACE: Resources Go to the diocesan website for ideas on how to:
St Nicolas, and the Family Church, join together with members of the local community in good will. Not only were 250 food parcels made up and sent to Calais, but the event raised over £4,000 in just two hours. The money will be partly donated to a number of humanitarian organisations, as well as being used for the provision of high-quality UN tents, crucial for survival in the coming winter months.
Pray Educate Act Campaign Engage
is a charity whose members represent a wide diversity of background, tradition and churchmanship, united by a determination to promote and preserve the use of the 1662 Book of Common Prayer for this and future generations. Our many activities include: • Forging links with and between clergy and churches • Supporting clergy and laity • Publishing books on relevant topics • Promoting the prestigious Cranmer Awards for young people Members receive five magazines a year and are invited to the annual residential conference featuring high calibre speakers from religious backgrounds, the media and the arts. Please contact Ian Woodhead on 01380 870384 or join online at www.pbs.org.uk Reg Charity No. 1099295. Co. Limited by Guarantee No. 4786973
Europe refugee crisis The Diocese in Europe has nominated Us to receive your donations. Please hold a collection in your parish; your gifts will provide emergency healthcare, food and shelter. Donate at www.weareUs.org.uk/ europe or phone 020 7921 2200. Us. The new name for USPG Registered charity number 234518
www.cofeguildford.org.uk/refugees
There is none like you, O Lord, and there is no God besides you, according to all that we have heard with our ears.
The Wey November 2015
1Ch 17:20 (ESV)
Page 9
rg.uk .uk
240675
Time away to think spiritually Just a cursory glance on the World Wide Web will open up a whole world of ideas on the subject of retreats. You may be more than a little surprised to find you can have detox retreats; rural retreats, chic boutique hotel retreats and even surf goddess retreats. As you can see, not all retreats are Christian let alone spiritual in the wider sense. It’s worth taking time, therefore, if you are looking for time out for a life affirming or life changing event that you check the provider before making a booking. Retreats come many and varied from the simplest of silent retreats to those on a specific theme. The Retreat Association office provides an information resource for individuals inquirers, parishes and other groups seeking something suitable and can be contacted on 0845 456 1429. Most Diocesan Offices will also have contact with a variety of retreat providers if you are thinking of getting a group together. There is much to be gained spiritually as well as emotionally by taking time out to contemplate, returning home refreshed and renewed. This small focus contains an example of some of the retreats and events lined up in the near future.
‘A haven of peace in the heart of Cornwall’ Epiphany house offers comfortable accommodation in tranquil surroundings in which to retreat. Organised and private retreats available throughout the year, please see our website www.epiphanyhouse.co.uk or contact us on 01872 272249 or bookings.epiphanyhouse@keme.co.uk
Saint Columba’s House Retreat and Conference Centre 01483 766498 Maybury HIll, Woking GU22 8AB retreats@stcolumbashouse.org.uk www.stcolumbashouse.org.uk
Registered charity in England and Wales No 240675
Page 10
Focus on Families
Domestic abuse – often hidden and un-reported
can be obtained from October each year Suzette Jones, health and brings Domestic Domestic Abuse: well-being adviser, 01483 Abuse Awareness A Charter for Your Church 790335 or email suzette. Week, but it is an Initially he controlled her mostly jones@cofeguildford. issue which we through emotional abuse, but need to be alert org.uk. this soon escalated to physical to throughout the There are a number and sexual abuse. Pregnant with year. of organisations which their second child, she decided to Domestic abuse is can help those suffering leave. This took several attempts a largely hidden and from domestic abuse. as he would charm, blackmail, and unreported crime and is Chapter 1 is a Christian promise things would be different. a regular occurrence for charity which provides But they weren’t. There was no a surprising number of accommodation and Inspired by the love of God and sacrifice of Jesus contact for months, then one households. Statistics support for vulnerable evening the doorbell rang. Suddenly This Church:………………………………….. show one in four women people. Their South he was in the hall, wielding a knife 1 Accepts that domestic abuse is a serious problem which occurs in all and one in six men suffer West Surrey Domestic sections of society including church families. and threatening to kill her. The domestic violence at Abuse Outreach Services 2 Recognises that domestic abuse can be the physical, sexual, attack, witnessed by the children, psychological, spiritual, emotional, social or financial abuse of a person some time, with 12% works in the community, within an intimate or family-type relationship and that forms a was vicious. He slashed her hands of children under 11 helping people in their pattern of coercive and controlling behaviour. 3 Recognises that domestic abuse in all its forms is unacceptable and and body, but she survived. years being exposed own homes. They irreconcilable with the Christian faith and a Christian way of living. From the time of the incident to 4 Undertakes to listen, support and care for those affected by domestic to domestic violence offer practical advice, abuse. relocation she was supported by between adults in their information and emotional 5 Will keep up to date, embrace training and work with domestic abuse support agencies, publicising their work. home. An estimated support so individuals Chapter 1, attending the Freedom 6 Will teach, model and encourage what it means to be in good, 130,000 children in the can make their own Programme and counselling. Her respectful, safe and nurturing relationships. UK live in households decisions. Many do not children were supported by Chapter where there is a high risk want to flee to a refuge, 1 Children’s Outreach Service. The of harm or even death leaving their home, Outreach team helped her face her as a result of domestic disrupting children, and former partner in court and were Communities Engagement Team Synod November 2013 abuse (CAADA, 2012). cutting links with friends there for her whenever she needed There are also many and family. As with all them. He was sent to prison. The misconceptions about Chapter 1 services, family were referred to the Witness approved a Domestic Abuse Charter what constitutes domestic abuse. An Outreach tailors its approach to meet Relocation Service and now have (pictured) and 7 Steps of Action. individual whose partner is verbally the particular needs of individual new identities. They are living a Many parishes have supported these abusive towards them or controls their clients – men, women and children, happy, safe life somewhere he will finances or restricts their daily activities, with posters in their churches and ranging from telephone advice to never find them. may fail to recognise that that in itself is halls promoting telephone helpline visiting and agreeing specific support If you would like to know more domestic abuse. Actual physical abuse, numbers. If your church does not plans. The service is completely about the work of Chapter 1, you is only one aspect. Domestic abuse can display these you can download confidential and face-to-face meetings can contact them on 01483 577392, include emotional, psychological, sexual them from www.cofeguildford.org. always take place in a location which is or email swr@chapter1.org.uk. or verbal abuse, none of which anybody uk/resources/safeguarding. Also safe for both client and worker. available are leaflets and a bookmark should be subjected to or be expected ‘Love me, love-me-not signs of a loving to tolerate. Controlling behaviour, relationship’ which, although developed harassment and blackmail are all for the young, has proved popular with indicators of an abusive relationship. If you have immediate concerns for the safety of children or In addition, children who are brought up marriage preparation classes. adults call the Police on 999. Other key contacts are: Domestic abuse now also forms in such an environment are also at risk, 24hr helpline Domestic Abuse Helpline – YourSanctuary module 4 of the diocese’s safeguarding not necessarily of physical harm but 01483 776822 and Hampshire 0808 2000247 emotional harm. Domestic abuse has a training for clergy and church workers and there has been a huge response from higher rate of repeat victimisation than By area, local contacts are: any other crime and in 90% of incidents parishes for this. For a wider audience, a Guildford and Waverley:........................................ 01483 577392 (Chapter 1) in the family, children were in the same free, 60-minute talk raising awareness of Reigate, Banstead, Mole Valley and Tandridge:... 01737 771350 domestic abuse is available to churches or next room. Woking, Runnymede and Surrey Heath:....................01483 776822 (YourSanctuary) and community groups. Church charter Epsom, Ewell, Elmbridge and Spelthorne:............ 01932 260690 More information about the talks and copies of the leaflets and bookmarks In 2013 the diocesan synod Hampshire:............................................................ 0808 200247
The Wey November 2015
CASE STUDY: A story of survival
Help where it is needed
Focus on the Environment
Reconciling our Wounded Planet In September, Coventry Cathedral, internationally known for its great reconciling ministry, hosted the two-day conference “Reconciling our Wounded Planet”. The event follows July’s General Synod, at which climate change was a hot topic, with members backing a call for world leaders to seek to limit the rise in global temperature. reconciliation with our wounded Echoing the urgency of the General Synod’s meeting, all planet. The Revd Lesley dioceses were asked to send Crawley, joint rector of Badshot Lea and Hale and the delegate representatives to the Coventry representing the Diocese of conference. Guildford said: “Everything The aim of the conference was created through Christ but was to rally parishes to join the movement. Bishop Christopher also for Christ – everything has intrinsic value, their value is Cocksworth, who has responsibility for the environment not just their usefulness, for all creation belongs to Christ, not to in the Church of England, us. The scripture also gives us explained: “As Christians we hope – in Christ all things hold have hope and we are called to action. This is a movement we together, and hope is not mere must be part of and the voices of optimism, it is instead challenge and inspiration.” people of faith are being heard, Each delegate was asked including those of the Pope and to share stories of hope from the Chief Rabbi.” The delegates called upon the their diocese, many of which Holy Spirit to connect them and were surprising and exciting, to bring them to action in creative showing that there is much
The Wounded Planet conference at Coventry Cathedral
that is good going on. Lesley added: “I believe the people of God are being called to be bold, imaginative, creative and prophetic, and in the power of the Spirit we can reconcile our wounded planet. Evidence
shows that the planet can heal in ways that seem impossible, deserts can be reversed and organic farms can give greater yields than those which use intensive methods, if only we join in God’s creative work.”
Praying with our feet and voices for the UN climate talks in Paris At the end of November, world leaders will meet at the UN climate talks in Paris. It’s a crucial moment, as negotiators from more than 190 nations will gather to discuss a new global agreement on climate change, aimed at limiting Archbishop Justin Welby and Bishop Peter greenhouse Hancock hand the yew baton to eco-Bishop Nick gas emissions Holtam. It will be carried to the UN climate talks in from 2020 Paris when current commitments run out. cheer the pilgrims on, or walk with The Church of England, Christian them some of the way – there will be Aid, CAFOD and Tearfund have come stopping off points for coffee, lunch and together to organise a Pilgrimage2Paris tea. In addition, we are having a prayer ahead of the talks. The pilgrimage vigil led by Bishop Andrew at Guildford will start in London on November 13 Cathedral from 4–5pm on November and arrive in Paris on November 27. 28.” Inspired by their faith, pilgrims from Anyone wishing to join the pilgrimage across the UK will call on world leaders (for the Banstead–Crawley leg or more) to agree a fair, ambitious and binding can do so by signing up on the website climate change deal. www.pilgrimage2paris.org.uk. To find Revd Lesley Crawley, who is helping out more contact Lesley Crawley on to organise the Diocese’s response to 01252 820537 or revdlesley@gmail. the climate talks said, “You can simply com.
The Wey November 2015
Page 11
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The Wey November 2015
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Noticeboard
Remembrance concert at St Martha’s Dogs and wellies will be welcome at St Martha-on-the-Hill, Guildford this November when a popular series of musical recitals continues with a lunchtime concert marking Remembrance. Perched high up on the Downs with no road access, the tiny church of St Martha’s provides a dramatic setting for performances, which are attracting a loyal band of both two-legged and four-legged supporters. The Remembrance recital at 1.30pm on Saturday November 8 will feature the vibrant and accomplished Oxford-based string quartet, OXUS, as well as a performance of Elgar’s piano quintet by University of Surrey pianist, Margaret Roberts.
Parish Collection date for Dec/Jan issue: from November 17 Don’t forget to look at the Diocesan website: www.cofeguildford.org.uk
EDITORIAL THE WEY is compiled at Diocesan House by editors Kate Jamieson and David Green. If you have items for inclusion, or ideas for stories, please send them to: editorial@cofeguildford.org.uk Diocesan House, Quarry Street Guildford GU1 3XG. Tel: 01483 790347 Fax: 01483 790311 Editorial deadline for the Dec/Jan issue: November 2 (but ideally as soon as possible!)
DISTRIBUTION THE WEY is distributed through Deanery Centres and we are grateful for those who give their time to sort papers and enable individual parishes to receive their supplies. If you need advice on distribution of this newspaper, please call the Communications office on 01483 790345 or email ‘editorial’ as above.
ADVERTISING For advertising information in THE WEY please contact Glenda Charitos at Cornerstone Vision: 28 Old Park Rd, Peverell, Plymouth, PL3 4PY Devon Tel: 01752 225623 Fax: 01752 673441 Email: glenda@cornerstonevision.com
The Wey is published by Cornerstone Vision on behalf of the Guildford Diocesan Board of Finance E-mail copy is preferred. Please ensure that photographs are sent as JPG attachments and are not embedded in a Word document. JPGs need to be at least 500KB file size, but preferably larger. Please limit any letters submitted to 200 words. Unsigned letters will not be published.
Page 14
Margaret, who organises concerts at St Martha’s as well as the popular coffee concerts at Guildford Cathedral, said the setting offered something special for both performers and the audience alike. She said: “The climb is always worth it, but in November when the leaves have turned, the views are quite spectacular. “Although our recitals are free, we welcome donations towards the upkeep of the church, and our concertgoers have been so generous that, through a sponsor-a-key scheme, we have been able to raise enough to buy a new upright piano. “I am thrilled that we have been able to attract highly-talented musicians and choirs – and that they enjoy playing there so much that they aren’t put off by
the hill! “I would urge anyone to join us for what I can guarantee will be a memorable occasion. Dogs and walkers are always welcome.” St Martha’s annual carol concert will be at 2.30pm on Sunday December 20, when the audience will be able to enjoy both the winter sunset and some mulled wine, after an hour of carols sung by young chamber choir, Coromarta, directed by Peter White. For more details visit www. stmarthaschurch.org.uk.
St Martha-on-the-Hill, Chilworth, Guildford
Train your own organist!
Proclaiming liberty this autumn Marking the 800th anniversary of the signing of the Magna Carta, aspects of liberty are the theme of the autumn public lecture series at Guildford Cathedral. The aim of the programme is to stimulate discussion and encourage engagement on how contemporary society faces questions of freedom and justice. Subjects include: llOctober 22: Modern Slavery – Ruth Dearnley OBE, chief executive officer, Stop the Traffik. llNovember 5: Surveillance
Professor Kirstie
Ruth Dearnley OB
E
Ball
The Rt Hon Lord To
in Society – Professor Kirstie Ball, Director of the Centre for Research into Information, Surveillance and Privacy (CRISP) llNovember 19: Freedom of Speech – The Rt Hon Lord Toulson, justice of the supreme court.
ulson
All lectures start at 19.45 and are free. To reserve your place please go to www. guildford-cathedral.org/events/ boxoffice or contact Helen Ellis 01483 547888 or email helen@ guildford-cathedral.org.
Book your tickets for Wintershall Don’t delay booking you tickets for the Wintershall Nativity Play – they are usually all sold out by early December. This year there will be ten performances taking place in and around Holly Barn on the Wintershall Estate at Bramley, near Guildford between 16–20 December. Last year more than 6,000 people attended the performances, which Michael Billington of The Guardian described as “a refreshing antidote to the rampant glitz of most seasonal theatre.” The play brings the story of Christmas to life and is performed by a volunteer cast of 50 in wonderful biblical costumes and historically accurate props, assisted by sheep, donkeys, horses and a sheepdog. This is all set on a hillside on the very beautiful Wintershall estate with
The Wey November 2015
rolling hills, scenic views and lakes. This is a play that all the family will enjoy and it reminds us of the real reason for Christmas in our busy commercial world. Wintershall also performs the Passion of Jesus at Easter and the Life of Christ during the summer. The three plays have been so successful that the cast were recently awarded the Queens Award for Mary with the baby Jesus at last year’s Voluntary Service Wintershall Nativity Play ‘for outstanding community service’. 7.30pm, 19–20 December 2.30pm & 5.30pm. Performances are To book the Nativity please call 01793 418299 or book online 90 minutes long. There is free at www.wintershall-estate. parking and hot drinks/snacks com. Performance times are and a small shop selling seasonal merchandise. 16–18 December 4.45pm &
Have you ever faced difficulties in securing an organist to play for a service, wedding or funeral? A scheme launched last year by the Surrey Organists’ Association (SOA) may help you. With organists sometimes in short supply, the SOA is encouraging pianists (or keyboard players) of any age, but ideally with at least ABRSM Grade 5, to learn the organ. The scheme works in partnership with a local church – the Association provides four initial lessons free of charge, together with a small grant towards music, whilst the church provides an organ to practice on, and opportunities to play in services once the student has had some training (and is confident). The SOA is also able to provide tutors once the initial lessons have been completed, and is happy to mentor the students as they train further. Notable successes include St Anne’s, Bagshot where Alex Moore, having recently completed her music degree at Royal Holloway College has been appointed as organist; at St Mark’s, Farnborough where Justine - an experienced piano teacher - is now playing regularly and at Woking URC where two organ students share the Sunday services. The SOA has committed further funds from its reserves for another batch of students to start in the coming year, and pianists or keyboard players are invited to the next ‘taster’ event at St Nicolas Church, Great Bookham on Saturday November 7, 2.30–4.30pm. For more information, see the SOA information sheet at www.surreyorganistsassociation. org/playtheorgan.pdf and www. surreyorganistsassociation.org/2015programme. php
National Interfaith Week: November 15–21 Woking People of Faith announce an evening event entitled:
Valuing Culture and Faith The challenges of integrating in society while retaining our identity Wednesday November 18, 6.30pm – 9.30pm HG Wells Centre, Church Street, Woking GU21 6HJ Guest speakers: Baroness Warsi and the Rt Revd Andrew Watson, Bishop of Guildford Booking essential at http://wpof-event.eventbrite. com. Cost £5 to include a three-course meal. Dress: smart casual. Further information from Revd Pippa Ross-McCabe p.rossmccabe@btinternet.com
Noticeboard GUILDFORD CATHEDRAL For services, concerts and events at the Cathedral please see the cathedral website www.guildford-cathedral.org or contact the events assistant at 01483 547860 or email events@guildfordcathedral.org.
OCTOBER QUIET DAY 29 October, 10am - 4pm Acorn Christian Healing Foundation, Bordon Led by Revd Elizabeth Knifton. Theme: Sacred space in a busy world. Cost £35 inc refreshments & lunch. To book contact 01420 478121 or email info@ acornchristian.org WORSHIP COURSE 31 October, 10am - 4pm Acorn Christian Healing Foundation, Bordon The Art and Heart of Worship – the last in a series of one-day events designed to stimulate your thinking. Cost £35 inc refreshments & lunch. To book contact 01420 478121 or email info@ acornchristian.org
NOVEMBER WORKSHOP 4 November, 10am-4pm, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB The practice of Centering Prayer is rooted in the Eastern traditions of early Church prayer as well as the wisdom of early Church fathers. This workshop will give an introduction to the theory, practice and application of centering prayer for anyone interested in deepening their spiritual practice and experiencing this approach to their relationship with God. Led by: Rod Boreham Cost: £25 including lunch. Tel 01483 766498 or email retreats@ stcolumbashouse.org.uk INTRODUCTION TO THE ENNEAGRAM 8 7 November, 9.30am coffee for 10am-4pm, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB The Enneagram helps us to understand the motivation behind what our colleagues do, why they may do things differently to us and even seem to see things in a completely different way. The Enneagram system of personality types can assist us in understanding and even appreciating the differences between us. Cost: £40 including lunch. Tel 01483 766498 or email retreats@ stcolumbashouse.org.uk ORGAN TASTER FOR PIANISTS 7th November, 2.30-4.30pm, St Nicolas Great Bookham, KT23 3PN A chance for pianists (and keyboard players) to try the organ, and learn more about the
Surrey Organists’ Association organ student scheme. More information at www. surreyorganistsassociation.org. Booking advisable; no charge (donations for refreshments). RECONCILIATION COURSE 11 November, Acorn Christian Healing Foundation, Bordon Details to be confirmed Cost £35. Contact 01420 478121 or email info@acornchristian.org ORGAN RECITAL 11 November, 13.10pm, St Mary’s Church, Quarry Street, Guildford GU1 3TY Timothy Parsons, Winchester Cathedral Admission free QUIET DAY 12 November, 10am - 4pm Acorn Christian Healing Foundation, Bordon Led by Revd Elizabeth Knifton. Theme ‘God will carry you through’. Cost £35 inc refreshments & lunch. To book contact 01420 478121 or email info@ acornchristian.org JOURNEY INTO WHOLENESS 14 November, 9.30am-4pm, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB Join us for an encounter with Jesus. Learn the insights that can help you pray more effectively for yourself and others. The day will include times of worship, teaching, quiet reflection and group prayer. Cost: £18, bring your own lunch. Tel 01483 766498 or email retreats@stcolumbashouse.org.uk COME & SING 14 November, 2.30pm, St Mary the Virgin, London Road, Ewell KT17 2BB Come and sing The Messiah from scratch. Assemble for the rehearsal at 2.30pm, tea break at 4pm, pub supper under own arrangements at. 6pm, concert from 7.30pm. Music provided. More information and tickets (for performers and audience): £7 from 020 8337 2160 or llamedos@ outlook.com. HANDBELL FESTIVAL SERVICE 14 November, 3pm Guildford Cathedral, Stag Hill, Guildford A service to mark 25 years of handbell services at the cathedral in aid of the fabric fund. More than 20 teams of ringers will perform a programme of well-known hymns and music arrange specially for handbells. CONCERT 15 November, 6pm, All Saints’
Church, Ockham Road North, Ockham GU23 6NL A choral evening with Laudamus, including Haydn’s St Nicholas Mass and well-loved pieces by Bruckner, Elgar, Lotti and Mendelssohn. In aid of the Canterbury Care Centre, Guildford. Tickets: £10 from Richard Broughton 01483 233869 or rhrbroughton@aol.com DEEPER HEALING DAY 19 November, 10am – 4pm, Acorn Christian Healing Foundation, Bordon Led by members of the Acorn Team, this day includes an introductory talk, individual prayer ministry and time for reflection, concluding with communion & laying on of hands. Cost £30 incl refreshments & lunch. To book contact 01420 478121 or email info@ acornchristian.org THEOLOGICAL BOOK GROUP 19 November, 7.45-9.45pm, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB This month’s book is Disturbed by Mind and Spirit: Mental Health and Healing in Parish Ministry by Gavin and Joanna Knight. It is available from St Columba’s bookstall for £14.99. This book offers a unique exploration of how mental health in a parish setting can be addressed via the dual perspectives of pastoral theology and clinical psychology. Led by Revd Gillaine Holland and Becca Rowland. Refreshments are included. Free but donations welcome. Tel 01483 766498 or email retreats@ stcolumbashouse.org.uk CHARITY CHRISTMAS FAIR 21 November, 10am-2pm, Village Hall, King’s Road, GU4 8JU Organised by St Mary’s Church, Shalford. Refreshments, deli, cakes, gifts, greetings cards, DVD’s, jewellery, Santa’s sack, children’s activities, children’s books, hampers, etc. From 11am-12noon children’s author Ciaran Murtagh will sign copies of his books which will be available to buy. All proceeds from the day to charities. CHRISTMAS BAZAAR 21 November, 2-4pm, St John’s Centre, 222 Epsom Road, Merrow, GU4 7AA Many stalls offering gifts and home produce, games for all ages, teas. In support of CMS and the Church Urban Fund. CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL 26 November – 2 December Church of St Peter & ST Paul, Church Street Godalming, GU7 1ES A festival of decorated and illuminated trees by local businesses, schools, charities and other community groups Refreshments available. Entry
QUIET DAY: A JOURNEY TO BETHLEHEM 30 November, 10am-4pm, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB What can we learn from the land we call ‘Holy’ and the current plight of the people there, which might help us on our Advent journey towards the manger? Drawing on the experience of pilgrimage and stories from Israel/Palestine, the Chaplain leads a quiet day to help us on our way. Led by Revd Gillaine Holland. Cost £25, lunch included. Tel 01483 766498 or email retreats@ stcolumbashouse.org.uk
free but donations requested for charities and church funds. CONCERT 28 November 2015 at 7.30pm, St Nicolas Church, Bury St, Guildford GU2 4AW. Chantry Singers Chamber, Nelson Mass - Haydn Tickets £12 (16 and under £2). Further info: chantrysingers@ gmail.com or 01483 852493 (Now recruiting for new members) GENERATIONAL HEALING 27-29 November, Acorn Christian Healing Foundation, Bordon Explore a Biblical perspective on generational healing and learn how to put together a family tree genogram. Cost £185 Early bird discounts available. To book contact 01420 478121 or email info@ acornchristian.org
DECEMBER CHILDREN’S CONCERT 4 December, 4pm, St Paul’s Church, St Paul’s Road West, Dorking A concert aimed at primary school aged children and their parents/ carers. Children are invited to bring a teddy. Lots of fun and mayhem, with music from classic to cool. Tickets £5, under 2s free provided they do not occupy a seat from 01306 743378 or email info@ stpaulsdorking.org.uk.
CONCERT 28 November, 7.30pm, St Lawrence Church, High Street, Chobham GU24 8AA A gala trumpet and organ recital in aid of the repair of the church tower. Crispian Steele-Perkins (trumpet) and Ian le Grice (organ) play Handel, Haydn, Mozart, Howard Goodall and Burt Bacharach Tickets: £15 from laurachatwin@ gmail.com
CONCERT 4 December, 7.45pm, St Paul’s Church, St Paul’s Road West, Dorking A concert entitled: ‘Silent Night’
- a musical journey through time and space searching for the real Christmas. Tickets - Adults: £10, under 16s: £5 from 01306 743378 or email info@stpaulsdorking.org.uk CELTIC CHRISTMAS: AN ADVENT RETREAT 4-6 December, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB Frustrated and disillusioned by the materialism of Christmas? The Celts had much to celebrate in the depths of winter, not only the birth of Christ. Come join us for traditional Celtic Christmas stories and music (with maybe some mead). Full board, £185 single, £210 twin. Tel 01483 766498 or email retreats@stcolumbashouse.org.uk FESTAL EVENSONG 6 December, 6pm, St Mary’s Church, Shackleford Road, Norney, Shackleford GU8 6AE A festal evensong with the Bishop of Guildford and the choir of Guildford Cathedral to mark the 150th anniversary of the consecration of St Mary’s Church, which was designed by the noted Victorian architect Sir George Gilbert Scott, who designed the Midland Grand Hotel at St Pancras station and the Albert Memorial in Kensington, as well as many other churches. All welcome
Appointments, retirements and resignations Appointments within the diocese Name
Licensing Institution Appointment
Parish or institution
Position
Revd Julie Hawarth
Chaplain
Whiteley Village
28 September
Revd Hugh Grear
Priest-in-charge and Rector designate
Ockham with Hatchford & Downside
6 October
Revd Judith Allford
Honorary Priest Vicar
Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, Guildford
13 October
Revd Martyn Neale Revd Judith Allford Revd Robert Jenkins
Honorary Canons
Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, Guildford
18 October
Michael Bishop Mary Morris
Honorary Lay Canons
Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, Guildford
18 October
Leavers Name
From
To
Date
Revd John Kronenburg
Vicar, Hinchley Wood, St Christopher
Vicar, Redhill, St John the Evangelist (Southwark)
18 November
Revd Nick Grew
Vicar, Knaphill with Brookwood and surrogate for marriages, Woking deanery
Vicar, St Francis, Luton (St Albans)
2 December
Revd John Richardson
Administrator, Clergy on Call register
Resignation
31 December
Revd James Martin
Vicar, Aldershot, St Michael
Retirement
28 February 2016
Revd Peter Talby
Vicar, West Molesey and surrogate of marriages, Emly deanery
Retirement
31 March 2016
Latest clergy vacancies online at www.cofeguildford.org.uk The Wey November 2015
Page 15
Fellow Travellers
Ben’s 100-mile walk for Busbridge Ben Rogers (pictured), a dog walker from Witley and a member of the congegation at St John the Baptist, Busbridge trekked the 100 miles of the South Downs Way in just 17 hours in September. His efforts raised £1,400 for the multi-million pound Busbridge Central church development project. Ben said: “It was a non-stop walk, apart from a couple of 30-minute power naps. The night was the most challenging, both physically and mentally – my legs were happy to keep going but my body clock was telling me to stop and lie down. I kept myself awake by singing along to my music – knowing no one could hear me! The views of our beautiful countryside and being surrounded by nature kept me going – and the sunrise was stunning.” ‘Busbridge Central’ is an exciting new scheme which could radically improve the way the church engages with the local community. “The plans are at an early stage,” says the Revd Simon Taylor, rector of Busbridge and Hambledon. “Our Grade 2* listed Victorian church is wonderful but the population has grown 10 times since it was built and we need more facilities. We are thinking in terms of a centre that would include a new auditorium, hall, offices, meeting rooms, café and reflection garden. “The new facilities would be built on the existing rectory site, and we need to raise £1.7m for this before moving on to the detailed consultation and planning stage. We reckon the total project could cost £4–5m. A Gift Aid day has already raised £790,000 and we are very grateful to Ben for his amazing efforts. I Ben rests his weary legs on Eastbourne promenade after his exhausting 100-mile walk understand he now has other fund raising ideas.”
Thank you from Bishop Ian
What a wonderful afternoon we enjoyed on the 6 September at my farewell service at the Cathedral! The sun was shining, an amazing congregation from all over the diocese (and some from beyond), the cathedral choristers at their freshest and best – their first Sunday back – and then that extraordinary reception in the new marquee afterwards. It was a great celebration and Penny and I were deeply moved by everyone’s kindness, generosity and good wishes. So thank you to everybody for all the messages, cards and gifts we have received. Guildford has been and continues to be a fantastic diocese to be in as a bishop. — + Ian
Jane joins DVM team Jane Huttly has joined the Discipleship Vocation and Ministry team as safeguarding training and development coordinator. In her role, Jane will be supporting the churches in the diocese to promote safeguarding awareness and good practice, coordinating a programme of safeguarding training, and developing relationships with partner agencies. Jane has come from a career in law, having worked most recently with teenagers with complex behavioural needs. Jane practised in the public and private sector before taking a career break to have children, during which
time she was a youth leader and churchwarden for the parish of Wonersh with Blackheath. Jane has been assisting Sue Lawrence, who has stood down from this role, with sessional training for a year and is thrilled to be appointed to the team. Jane says: “My heart is for the church to be a place where people are and feel safe and valued. It is such a privilege to be part of such an amazing team and I am looking forward to using my legal skills and experience of working with those who are vulnerable in the community to support the churches in the diocese.” Jane lives in Guildford with her husband, two of her three children
and two dogs and now worships at St Saviour’s Church Guildford, where she originally met her husband 35 years ago!
40–year ministry milestone
BE SEEN Page 16
To advertise in this newspaper, contact Glenda or Michelle on
01752 225623
or email glenda@cornerstonevision.com
The Wey November 2015
In September, Revd Canon Jeremy Cresswell celebrated 40 years of ministry in the Diocese of Guildford. Jeremy served his curacy at the Church of the Good Shepherd, Wisley with Pyrford and was the incumbent at East and West Clandon before moving to St Andrew’s, Oxshott where he has been vicar for 25 years. At St Andrew’s, Jeremy has been heavily involved in the development of lay ministry and has established a ‘fresh expressions’ church in the local school, which has given him the opportunity to “see many people discover faith in Jesus and grow in that faith.” The church also recently celebrated its centenary and the completion of a major internal refurbishment. To mark the 40th anniversary of his ordination, Jeremy was invited to preach at the Cathedral Eucharist on Sunday, September 27. He spoke on the theme of hospitality and its consequences for faith. His sermon focussed on Mark’s gospel (9:38-50) and challenged the congregation and church today to consider the role of hospitality within the Anglican Communion and its impact on Christian giving and stewardship, as well as how it can be applied to
welcoming refugees in the current crisis. Jeremy said: “Hearts were enriched at this cathedral service with wonderful uplifting worship and celebration of the presence of Christ”.
Revd Canon Cresswell is congratulated by Dean of Guildford, Dianna Gwilliams