September Edition
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Church of S. John the Divine, Horninglow Sunday Services 08.00 Mass 10.00 Parish High Mass 10.00 Junior Church 12.00 Mass 18.30 Night Prayer
Weekday Services (said Mass) Monday 18.30 Wednesday 09.30 Thursday 19.00 Friday 09.30 Saturday 10.30* * except when there is a monthly Folk Mass Folk Mass: Last Saturday in each month at 18.00 – unless otherwise announced Private Prayer: The Church is open on Monday 09.30 – 11.00 S. John’s website: www.churches.lichfield.anglican.org/tutbury/horninglow PARISH ADMINISTRATOR: For General enquiries, Weddings and Baptism arrangements and appointments, please telephone Mrs Susan Oakes 245 Tutbury Road (01283) 512539. Email: s.oakes@tiscali.co.uk Parish Priest: The Reverend M.R. Freeman, M.A. Horninglow Vicarage. T. 568613 Curate: The Reverend G.T.Reading, B.Sc. 10 Field Rise. T. 544471 Licensed Reader: Mrs. J. Towler, 18 Riverside Park, Wetmore Ln. T 07713 175 637
Parish Information Vicar’s Warden People’s Warden Sacristan PCC Secretary PCC Treasurer Electoral Roll Head Server Church Flower Secretary Mothers’ Union Magazine Editor Magazine Advertising Catering Co-ordinator Bible Study Notes Junior Church Church Linked Youth Club Scout Leader Cub Scout Leader Rainbows Guide Captain Brownie Leader Beavers Wives’ Group Men’s Outing Stewardship Scheme Stewardship Recorder Guild of St Raphael Bell Tower Captain
C.W . Dean, 76 Outwoods Street 561066 A.M. Johns, The White House, Lount Lane, Anslow 812894 Mr. J.B. Stacey, BEM, 220 Calais Road 566657 Mrs. S. Bastock, 1 Enderby Rise 563298 Dr. S. Collier, 35 Field Lane 564074 Mr. P. Bastock, 1 Enderby Rise 563298 Mr. D. Blant, 17 Elwyn Close, Stretton 542352 Mrs. J. Fitchett, 24 Bitham Ln, Stretton 562817 Mrs. M. Dunkerley, 22 Harehedge Lane 568935 Mrs. F.M. Shepherd, White Ferrers, Repton Rd, Newton Solney 701292 Mr. K. Brough, 248 Wyggeston Street 565770 Mrs. E. Ashforth, 49 Church Rd, Stretton 561792 Miss. B. Bourne, 1 Hurst Drive, Stretton 545673 Mrs. R. Freeman, Horninglow Vicarage 568613 Mrs. M. Collier, 35 Field Ln 564074 Mr. G. Ellis, 16 Bitham Court, Stretton 532019 Mr. P. Goodfellow, 73 Knightsbridge Way, Stretton 543819 Mrs. S. Cox, 63 Westfield Road, 565340 Mrs. M. Adcock, 12 Bamborough Close, Stretton 532712 Mrs. S. Lawrie, 240 Tutbury Rd 564483 Miss. G. Evans, 126 Bitham Ln 567875 Mrs. C. Statham, 5 Oadby Rise 565717 Mr. P. H. Farren, 23 Leamington Rd, Branston 563195 Mr. R. J. Dean, Rosemary Cottage, Rolleston Rd 813934 Mr D. Walford, Studway House, Wilmore Lane, Rangemore, 711602 Mrs. E. King, 23 Hornbrook Rd 541425 Ms. H. Coxon, 18 Outram Drive, Swadlincote
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Calendar for September Date Day Special Intentions for our prayers 1 2 3
W Th F
4 5 6 7 8
Sa Su M Tu W
9 10 11 12 13 14
Th F Sa Su M Tu
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th
The Church in the inner cities All in management Gregory the Great, Bp., and Dr. Retired priests who help in our church The hungry Trinity 14 Parish and people Peace between nations and religions Convents and Monasteries The Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary S. John’s Wives’ Fellowship Unborn children Strength out of weakness Our friends and relations Trinity 15 Parish and people Licensed Readers The Exaltation of the Holy Cross All converts Rainbows and Beavers Scouts and Guides The needy Those who suffer psychological distress Trinity 16 Parish and people Christian Unity S. Matthew, Apostle Ember days Newly married Our Sacristan Bell-ringers Junior Church Harvest Thanksgiving Parish and people Production staff Guild of S. Raphael Michaelmas Religious freedom Volunteers
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Fr Michael writes... Our family holiday this summer was at a Eurocamp on the Spanish Mediterranean coast south of Barcelona. One of the shops on the campsite sold international editions of English newspapers, though didn’t stock a full range on any one day. So on 1 August I purchased a copy of the Sunday Telegraph – the alternative was the News of the World. It contained a lengthy article by Jonathan Wynne-Jones based on a wide-ranging interview with the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Westminster, Vincent Nichols, the leader of that church in England and Wales. I was a bit disappointed by the article: I found it rather naive, lacking a critical breadth. It reported the Archbishop’s excitement that the (newish) Prime Minister, David Cameron, has pledged to work for the common good. The Archbishop pointed out that this echoed a document produced by Roman Catholic bishops offering election advice to churchgoers. The document was called ‘Choosing the Common Good.’ He felt the coalition government was becoming a much more natural partner to his church than the previous government had been. “The Catholic Church has highlighted the need for society not to fall into the trap of thinking that everything is to be provided and that it is somebody else’s responsibility,” he said. He was sympathetic to the government’s promotion of the ‘big society’ – citizens actively addressing social needs. Now I have a great deal of time for Roman Catholic social reflection (as I do for that from a Methodist background and elsewhere), but I feel that the Church of England has been taking this particular position for quite some time. Since the 1970s one of the introductions to sharing the Peace at Mass has been, We are the body of Christ. In the one Spirit we were all bap tized into one body. Let us then pursue all that makes for peace and builds up our common life. Working for the ‘common good’ and building up our ‘common life’ are very close in meaning. And in 1985 the Church of England produced the report Faith in the City which addressed the need for 5
community programmes and led to the Church Urban Fund raising over £55 million for faith based initiatives. I am sure that Archbishop Vincent is aware of this. The Sunday Telegraph may not be, and the Church of England (or the Anglican Communion from a global perspective) has an image problem at present, seemingly preoccupied with women bishops and homosexuality. Social involvement has been given less priority, yet that is where all church members can have a major impact by living in a way that demonstrates love for neighbour. Interestingly this sort of community involvement was the theme of other articles I have read recently, in the Church Times and in a magazine called ‘Theology’. Using the community links we already have, often informal, will be the surest way of growing as a church, but more importantly of bringing people closer to the kingdom of God. Michael Freeman For your Diary Each Sunday at S. John’s: Mass said at 08-00 and 12-00 The Parish Family Mass sung at 10-00. (coffee afterwards in the Parish Room ) Junior Church at 10-00 in the Parish Room or in Church Night Prayer at 18-30 Each Tuesday 19.30-21.00 Bell-ringing practice Each Wednesday 19.00 – 20.30 Church Linked Youth Club in the Parish Room for 11-16 year olds who have a link with the Church. Wednesday 1 14.30 Mothers’ Union meet in the Parish Room to hear Fr. Glenn Reading speak of “A year behind the Dog Collar”. Thursday 2 09.00 – 15.30 Kids Fun Day in Church Friday 3 09.00 – 15.30 Kids Fun Day in Church
Saturday 4 18.00 Celebration of Kids Fun activities service in Church. Congregation welcome. Monday 6 19.00 Men’s Group depart the Parish Room for S. Mary’s Church, Rolleston on Dove. 6
Wednesday 8 20.00 Wives’ Fellowship Group meets in the Parish Room for Annual General Meeting with fish and chips supper. Please bring gifts for the Michaelmas Market. Friday 10 19.00 Choir practice Sunday 12 - Trinity 15 Parish Magazine copy date “More to my life” VOCATIONAL QUIET DAY – at Shallowford House, Stone. 18.30 Evening Prayer with Benediction Monday 13 09.30 Standing Committee meeting at the vicarage. Wednesday 15 09.30 Mothers’ Union and Wives’ Fellowship Group Corporate Communion, followed by coffee in the Parish Room. Val and Peggie on coffee duty 19.30 Deanery Synod meeting at S. Mary’s Church, Dunstall. Saturday 18 12.00 Guild of the Servants of the Sanctuary Midlands Area Festival at S. Mary de Castrol, Leicester. Monday 20 19.45 Parochial Church Council meeting in the Parish Room. Wednesday 22 Communion to the Housebound after the 09.30 Mass Thursday 23 20.00 Young Peoples’ Committee meeting at 41 Rolleston Road, Burton upon Trent. Friday 24 19.00 Choir practice Saturday 25 18.00 Folk Mass 19.00 for 19.15 Harvest Supper and entertainment in the Parish Room. Sunday 26 – Harvest Thanksgiving Tuesday 28 18.30 Guild of St Raphael meets in Church for the last time until April 2011. (Prayer chain now operates.) Thursday 30 19.30 Horninglow History Hunters meet in the Parish Room – note new date. 7
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How Music Continues to Surprise Me I hear people say to me nearly every year, that modern pop music, is not proper music, not like, the Rock ‘n’ Roll of the 60’s and 70’s or classical sounds of Bach and Mozart. And there may or may not be some truth in such a claim. It strikes me that in every musical generation there is perhaps a lot of mediocre music, but also occasionally some truly impressive pieces. It was such a piece written a few years ago, that caught my attention and reminded me that music never ceases to surprise me. The group that wrote and sang the song was called ‘Savage Garden’ they are described as an Australian Soft Rock Duo that were active between 1994 and 2001. They had a number of hit but it was a lesser known song called ‘Affirmation’ that caught my attention. You can view the song with lyrics on the ‘You Tube’ website, just type ‘Savage Garden Affirmation’. I reproduce the lyrics here for you to consider. I believe the sun should never set upon an argument I believe we place our happiness in other people's hands I believe that junk food tastes so good because it's bad for you I believe your parents did the best job they knew how to do I believe that beauty magazines promote low self esteem I believe I'm loved when I'm completely by myself alone I believe in Karma what you give is what you get returned I believe you can't appreciate real love until you've been burned I believe the grass is no more greener on the other side I believe you don't know what you've got until you say goodbye I believe you can't control or choose your sexuality I believe that trust is more important than monogamy I believe your most attractive features are your heart and soul I believe that family is worth more than money or gold I believe the struggle for financial freedom is unfair I believe the only ones who disagree are millionaires I believe in Karma what you give is what you get returned I believe you can't appreciate real love until you've been burned I believe the grass is no more greener on the other side I believe you don't know what you've got until you say goodbye 9
I believe forgiveness is the key to your unhappiness I believe that wedded bliss negates the need to be undressed I believe that God does not endorse TV evangelists I believe in love surviving death into eternity I believe in Karma what you give is what you get returned I believe you can't appreciate real love until you've been burned I believe the grass is no more greener on the other side I believe you don't know what you've got until you say goodbye Fr Glenn
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REFLECTIONS A fresh look at St. Matthew’s Gospel Chapter 20. Jesus continues on his final journey to Jerusalem, ostensibly to celebrate the Passover with his disciples and followers. This chapter ends with his departure from Jericho, but before that come two further important passages of teaching. The first of these follows on from his revolutionary statement, at the end of chapter nineteen, (that many that are first shall be last, and the last shall be first). Jesus amplifies this statement with the parable of the labourers hired to work in the vineyard, to give insight into the Kingdom of Heaven, and those who work in it. The story is well known; the master of the house needs labour to harvest the grapes in his vineyard, which are ready for the picking. He goes to the market early in the morning, and hires a group of labourers at an agreed wage of a penny a day. (By coincidence, this was the normal rate of pay for labourers in this country in the late mediaeval period, and remained so at least until the seventeenth century). But he needed more men to get the job done, so he continued to hire people at intervals throughout the day, almost until the end of the day. When the time came for everyone to go home, they all lined up to receive their pay, starting with those who had worked the shortest time. They were paid the full wage of a penny, just like everyone else. But when they saw it, those who had worked since early morning felt unfairly treated, and grumbled to the master, for they had expected preferential treatment for working through the heat of the day. The master, however, insisted that they were being treated quite fairly, for he was paying them all at the agreed rate. He was, of course, being generous and compassionate to those who had not started work until late in the day. By his action he was stating, very clearly, that there are no special cases, no hierarchy, in the Kingdom of Heaven, as there invariably are in human society. His remarks may have been directed particularly at the twelve, warning them that many more would be recruited to serve the Kingdom, and that they would all be of equal importance, at the end of the day. In verse 16, we find yet another discrepancy between the King James Bible and earlier Greek texts. The phrase “Many are called, but few are chosen� occurs in the Latin Vulgate, but not in the Greek versions. This is probably why it is omitted from the New English Bible. The second section, (verses 17-28), starts with the departure for Jerusalem; 11
Jesus takes the twelve aside, and warns them of his coming betrayal, his passion, death and resurrection. Their response to this warning is not recorded, but we may recall that Jesus had already warned them what would happen when they were in Caesarea Philippi, (see Chapter 16). At this point, the mother of James and John, (the sons of Zebedee), came to Jesus, with her sons, to ask a very special favour: “Say that these my sons may sit, one on the right and one on the left of you in your Kingdom”. Jesus must have been taken aback, for the dear lady had clearly not grasped the point of the parable of the labourers in the vineyard, (that there was to be no hierarchy in the Kingdom). His answer was both kind and diplomatic: “You know not what you are asking; can you drink from the cup that I am about to drink from?” * When they affirmed that they could, Jesus replied that they certainly would share in his trials, but that permission to sit on either side of him in the Kingdom was not his to grant, but that the Father would give it to those for whom it was prepared.
Naturally, when the ten heard of this, they were angry with the two brothers, for the message of the parable, which Jesus had just told them, was not lost on them. Jesus had to pour oil on troubled waters, so he called them all together, and told them quite plainly that the rules of the Kingdom were quite different from those of their earthly rulers.
“Whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister, and whosoever, wants to be first among you, let him be your servant” This was why his mission was not to be served, but rather to serve, and to give his life as a ransome for many. Hopefully, the twelve, and his other immediate followers, would now begin to get the message about precedence and hierarchy, and about the importance of service.
The chapter ends with a miracle of healing. As the party were leaving Jericho, two blind men heard that Jesus was passing, and bravely seized their opportunity. They yelled at the top of their voices: “O Lord, have mercy on us, thou son of David”. The bystanders tried to shut them up, but they kept on yelling, until Jesus took notice. “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked. And of course, when they asked him to open their eyes, he was moved with compassion, and did just what they asked of him. At once, they got to their feet, and followed him.
Custos * the words “and to be baptised with the baptism that I am baptized with?” occur neither in the Greek, nor in the Latin Vulgate.
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HARVEST THANKSGIVING God, our maker, doth provide For our wants to be supplied On Saturday, 25st September, harvest celebrations will begin with a supper and entertainment in the Parish Room at 7.00PM for 7.15PM Tickets: adults ÂŁ3.00 : Children ÂŁ1.50 A service of thanksgiving will be held on the following day at 10.00AM when gifts of food can be donated by the congregation for distributing to charity This is also church parade Sunday The church will be decorated for the festival on Saturday, beginning at 10.00AM, when contributions of flowers and produce, together with help in decorating the church will be most welcome.
MICHAELMAS MARKET and Community Event Saturday, 2nd. October, 2010 at 2.00PM A variety of stalls in church ************************* Refreshments in the Parish Room ************************* IN AID OF CHURCH FUNDS
We hope you will support the event and also enjoy looking around the church 13
Have you ever wondered – how we came to have a Parish Room? The Parish Room, like the vicarage, is 100 years old this year. Prior to it being built there was no official meeting place in which to hold the various activities that had evolved since St. John’s Church was built 44 years previously. Since then, of course, despite having had three Church Halls, with a further one planned, the Parish Room has remained an important and integral part in the life of our church. On the old chimneybreast, at the far end of the Parish Room, is a small plaque that is inscribed as follows: TO THE GLORY OF GOD AND IN MEMORY OF MARTHA HOPKINS THIS CHURCH ROOM WAS BUILT OUT OF FUNDS GIVEN BY HER FOR THIS PARISH 1910 Martha Hopkins was a remarkable lady and was instrumental, probably as much as anyone, in getting St. John’s built. Despite this, her name is hardly mentioned in the records of the time. Her name didn’t appear on the list of any of the early committees and she never held any of the offices of the church. This was due, in part, to the fact that she was a woman and women, in the 19th. century, despite having a queen on the throne, rarely played a prominent role in public affairs. Having said that, Martha was certainly no wallflower and was, through her family, very much a driving force in the life of Horninglow during a large part of the 19th century. Martha, who was born in 1812, was one of the daughters of John and Martha Hopkins of Bushton, a small hamlet to the north of Anslow. She married John Hopkins, a Horninglow farmer and landowner, who was possibly a cousin of some kind. They lived on Rolleston Road, eventually building and living at the Poplars. Martha was one of the people instrumental, in 1845, in getting the building on the corner of Farm Road built for use as a schoolroom 14
and chapel. Some 18 years later, when it was decided that a church was essential for the growing village of Horninglow, the Hopkins family were very much to the fore in the organisation and planning. Martha’s husband, John, was one of the early committee members, as was her eldest brother, William. Her youngest brother, Daniel, also gave his active support to the project. Also, Martha’s niece, Sarah, married John Auden, who became the first vicar of St. John’s. John Hopkins became one of the first churchwardens, a position he held continuously for almost 20 years. After his death, in 1891, Martha paid, as a memorial to her husband, for the installation of the ‘Prophets’ window at the west end of the church. Just before the Bishop of Lichfield was due to dedicate the window, in November 1892, Martha paid for the church to be cleaned – an act that I think sums up the care and thought that she gave to all that she did in her busy life. Martha died just a short time later, in 1894. We all owe a great debt of gratitude for her selfless life and service, to the people of Horninglow and to St. John’s Church in particular. But above all, we are eternally thankful for her lasting legacy of the Parish Room. Martha’s remains lie, with those of her husband, in the large grave at the top of the church drive. David Blant WEBSITE OF THE MONTH www.claymills.org.uk The Victorian Claymills Pumping Station celebrates its 125th anniversary this year and there are a variety of events to mark the occasion. Up to the pumping station being built, most of the local sewerage, both domestic and industrial, was discharged into the River Trent, with the resultant high levels of pollution. The pumping station is now run by a Trust which holds frequent open days. For those who are interested in our local heritage, log onto this website for details of these and for the special events taking place over the coming months.
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A letter of thanks from Priscilla Slusar 23.07.10 To everyone at St. John’s Dear all Thank you so much for your generous ordination gifts – from the congregation and from the Mothers’ Union. I think that I will use the cheque to buy a stole or to contribute to a home communion set. I’m not sure which one has priority at the moment. I’ve already used the book voucher to buy a book called Pastoral Prayers. It’s a classic prayer book which will be very useful. The ordination was a wonderful day for me and it was made extra special by the support from St. John’s. I’m so pleased that there were lots of you there – I know that those who couldn’t attend were supporting me with their prayers. Life in Codsall since the ordination has been interesting. The diocese are buying a house for us but the purchase has not gone through yet so I’m staying in a B & B for 4 nights and then coming back to Burton for 3 nights. It means that I leave home at 6.30 am on a Sunday to be back in Codsall for the 8am service. It’s a good job that I’m used to getting up early! Everyone in the parish at St. Nicholas has been very friendly and welcoming. I have been invited out for meals to people’s homes which has helped with my domestic arrangements and has given me a chance to get to know people. The style and worship is a bit different from St. John’s so I will have to get used to that. Sundays are very busy. There’s an 8 am Holy Communion using the Book of Common Prayer, then 9.30 Holy Communion (Common Worship), then 11.15 All Age Worship. We finish with Evensong at 6.30 pm. In the last few weeks there have also been services in the afternoons – baptisms, a Wedding Anniversary blessing and a summer service at the daughter church which had a football theme! There is a church school for 4-8 year olds and I have been involved in 2 school services which have been great fun.
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There seem to be a lot of elderly people in the Codsall area – several care homes and elderly people in various church groups. At my first Fellowship meeting (formerly Mothers’ Union) one of the ladies loudly and proudly said “I’m Elsa, I’m 99”. The following Sunday Elsa appeared to be ill in church and had to lie down on the pew. We all thought “this is it, Elsa’s not going to make 100” but we were wrong. She was just tired because she had been out the night before until 1 am! She was asked if she would like to have communion at home in future but she declined because that would mean that she would have to stay in and miss her social activities! What a character! The other clergy from the parish are all away on holiday next week, so I’m in charge. I dread to think what might happen! Fortunately there are lots of lay members of the ministry team to tell me what I should be doing. Thank you once again for your support and generous gifts. I’ll keep in touch and hopefully see you in Codsall when we have settled into our new home. With love from Priscilla
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ST JOHN’S WIVES’ FELLOWSHIP GROUP Chairman: Christine Statham Programme 2010 Wed. Sept. 8th
Annual General Meeting, with fish and chip supper. Please bring your gifts for the church Michaelmas Market to this meeting.
Sat. Oct. 2nd
“Michaelmas Market” in St. John’s church at 2PM. Gifts may also be brought into church, in the morning after 11.00AM. Help will be needed to run the stall in the afternoon.
Wed. Oct. 20th
Talk on ‘Ghosts of Staffordshire and Derbyshire’. Speaker Mr Keith Blood. PLEASE NOTE: This is the 3rd Wednesday of the month
Wed. Nov. 10th
Demonstration called “A Winter Hanging Basket” by Mr Nick Fairbrother of Planters of Bretby. Donations will be taken during the evening for the St. Giles Hospice Patients Christmas Drink Trolley.
Wed. Dec. 8th
“Crafty Christmas” – demonstration by Mrs Barbara Marshall, with items for sale. Followed by sherry and mince pies.
2011 Wed. Jan. 12th
“Know Your Library” Speaker: Mr Paul Tovell
Wed. Jan 19th
Annual Dinner at The Castle Hotel, Hatton. Meet at 7.30PM for 8PM meal
Wed. Feb 9th
“Goings on Below Stairs”. Speaker Dr Wendy Freer.
Unless otherwise stated, all meetings will be held in the Parish Room at 8PM
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Men’s Group Outing On 21st June, the men’s group visited the church of St Edith at Orton-onthe-Hill. The church today dates entirely from the 14thc, and is built in a grey ashlar (dressed) sandstone. The great west tower is perpendicular. The spire was damaged by lightning and rebuilt in 1797 making it 120 feet, but this was considered hazardous and later had to be taken down to its present height, leaving a rather unusual truncated shape. In the south aisle is a hagioscope, or squint, cut into the pillar to give a view of the altar and nearby is a tomb recess with a piscine for washing sacred vessels in the old days. Until recently, the box pews faced a triple deck pulpit dating back to 1764 and would have had a clerk’s stall below and a reading desk below that. The clerk’s task would have been to lead the metrical chants of the psalmody, a few hymns and these would have been accompanied by serpents, cello and recorder from the gallery. There were no choirs in those days. On the walls are the coat of arms of the Perkins family, a royal coat of arms and the Lord’s Prayer. In front of a tomb recess on the south wall is along plain grave of an unknown knight with a man on horseback at the head. Along the south wall is a stone bench from the days when there was no seating and when the ‘weakest’ literally had to ‘go to the wall’. Forming part of the bench is a coffin lid of a priest with a carving of a cross and chalice. On the north side of the nave, on top of a mausoleum is the effigy of a 14thc. Cistercian monk which takes us back to the time when the nearby Cistercian Abbey of Merevale, colonised from Bordesley, was founded in 1148 by Robert, Earl Ferrers, who endowed the Abbey with the manors of Weston and Orton-on-the Hill, Leicestershire. The taxation of 1291 stated that the Abbot of Merevale held half curicate of land worth 8s, three acres of meadow worth 6s and a mill worth 4s; where the mill was situated remain a mystery. It was the de Ferrers family who originally had Tutbury castle built and who were granted thousands of acres of land in the Midlands by the Conqueror. The chuch was re-pewed in 1764 and a small baluster-shaped font was installed with the inscription of S.S.Perkins Esq. – Samuel Steel-Perkins who lived nearby at Orton Hall from 1742 having taken over from the Bradshaws, who had lived there for generations. A descendant of the Steele-Perkins family is Crispium Steele Perkins, the classical trumpeter. Outside on the south wall are two scratch dials, or mass clocks, which worked like a sundial to tell worshippers the time for Mass, but how they went on when it was sunless is anybody’s guess. 21
In the churchyard is a tombstone to Edward Brown a ‘Professor of Mussik’ who died in 1811 and contains some engraved lines of music, which didn’t seem to make much of a tune when someone attempted to sing them! The church is another reminder that these buildings are increasingly becoming a burden with the problem of clearing clutter, such as box pews, and bringing them up-to-date for modern worship. Whether this is cost effective is doubtful, as no demand for religious use is apparent. Does the future lie in secular use? (they hold dances etc. at Orton); or do we keeps them as museums? In the meantime who up keeps them? Soon some decisions will have to be made. The visit was arranged by Adam Johns who also led us in a well-sung service of Compline. Refreshments were taken at the Bull’s Head, Rosliston. Scribe
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Hello Children, Where did the holidays go? All too soon school will be starting again and no doubt many of us will be a little worried about the changes that are taking place, but we should put out trust in God because He surrounds us with His love and protection. Christians will be celebrating Michaelmas towards the end of September, an important date for many different reasons. As I’m sure you remember, it is the special day for St. Michael. During the middle ages, it was a great religious feast in England and incorporated a number of traditions. It coincided with Harvest Festival, a time when tenants would pay the rent to their landlords once the harvest had been safely gathered. Michaelmas Day was sometimes known as Goose Day and there were many Goose fairs around. Indeed there is still one held in Nottingham and although live geese are no longer sold, everyone still enjoys the fun of the fair. Many people would have a special harvest meal of goose stuffed with apples and eaten with a variety of vegetables. Have you noticed that on Saturday, 3rd October, we shall be holding a Michaelmas Market in St. John’s to raise money. Do try and support the event. Apparently, people believed it was unlucky to eat blackberries after Michaelmas. However, we mice think blackberries are delicious at any time. Indeed, our family and friends have been busy collecting them for aunties and grannies to turn them into pies, jams, cordial and even wine for the grown-ups. Of course, when we are collecting them we have to try them and make sure that they are of the tastiest variety. However, there is always more than enough for everyone and we usually share our good harvest with others who are not so fortunate. I suppose I ought to go and finish my jobs if I want to go out to play after tea. All to soon it will be too dark to play outside with friends. It’s important to make the most of autumn evenings. Hmm! If I’m lucky I might be able to find more acorns and even some beech nuts. Take care Your little friend Aspooras 24
Monthly Profile Helen Reading When I was asked to do a profile I was a little bemused as I’ve never done a ‘synopsis’ of me before. I thought I would give it a go as it’ll give you all a chance to get to know me whilst I continue to learn about you, the rate I do being currently hindered by my attentions needed to be on small people! I was born in Birmingham Maternity Hospital in 1977. I lived 1st with my parents and brother in Handsworth Wood before moving to live in Bearwood, Warley. We attended local schools and the local Methodist church with equal regularity. My Mum worked part time as a District Nurse and my Dad was a Manager in the Spastics Society (now known as SCOPE) During this time my Dad felt the call to train as a Methodist Minister and subsequently ended up training at Queens College, Edgbaston. We moved to Staleybridge, Cheshire, when I was 14, so Dad could take up his 1st post as Minister of 2 churches up there. My brother Gareth and I completed our schooling up there before heading off in different directions. Unfortunately before I left home Mum and Dad divorced and Dad left Methodism to go back to Social work and Mum eventually moved back to Birmingham to work and live. This had the adverse affect of me not getting the A level grades I needed to take up a place at Warwick University. However, had I not then gone on to attend Staffordshire University I would not have met Glenn. Glenn and I met whilst he was President of the Christian Union and I was Vice President. We married in the summer before our Finals when Glenn was 21 and I was 20 (crazy I know!) and I left with a 2:1 in Sociology. We then went to work at The Lodge Trust in Rutland. This is a Christian Charity providing Day and Residential Care for Adults with Learning Disabilities. Whilst Glenn moved on to other jobs I stayed 25
and 1st became a manager of one of the 3 houses there before becoming manager of the Day Services After having Phoebe in 2003, Glenn got a job in his native Tamworth and we moved back there to live. I worked part time for the County Council at their Day Services for Adults with learning disabilities. After Toby was born he spent much of his 1st year of life in and out of Burton hospital with the breathing difficulties and allergies that continue to affect him now. I gave up work to care for him and Phoebe. It was during this time that Glenn started to pursue his calling to the Priesthood. It had always been something that he felt called to do and we’d talked about it at length before our marriage. After some time we moved to Oxford so Glenn could study at Cuddesdon. It was a happy and learning time for us all as Phoebe started school, Toby attended pre-school and we all made lifelong friends. Edward was also born here in the summer of 2008. Toby unfortunately continued to have health problems but we had exemplary care at the John Radcliffe in Oxford. When Glenn was offered the chance to do his Curacy at St.John’s, I was pleased to be coming back to nearer family and friends. However, I realised I didn’t know very much about Burton apart our experiences at the hospital with Toby. Over the past year I have felt very welcomed by the community at St.John’s. It was so lovely to have Edward baptised here. The children have settled well into the school and have made friends locally and we are currently awaiting the impending arrival of our 4th baby. Who knows what the future holds. I am resolved to not worry about it and put it firmly, ‘In God’s Hands’.
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Saints Galore St Jerome. Feast Day 30th September Jerome was born in Dalmatia in 342. He was well taught in the faith by his Christian parents, though he was not baptised until 360. He studied Classics in several places, including Rome, and became fluent in Latin and Greek. As he did so he moved away from his early piety, until a vision of Christ, reproving him for preferring pagan studies to learning about sacred matters, sent him fleeing to the desert. There he practised great austerities to overcome his temptations and learned Hebrew so that he could devote himself to the study of the scriptures. He was ordained in 378 and continued his work in Rome and Constantinople. At the request of Pope Damasus he revised the poor translations of the Gospels into Latin and began translating the Old Testament, working first on the Psalter. Jerome was famed for his exposition of the scriptures and was also in demand as a spiritual director, especially to some noble ladies who had renounced their wealth to live a life of prayer. He was, however, equally famed for his short temper and sharp tongue and he provoked many enemies who made life difficult for him. When Pope Damasus died and his successor was less sympathetic, Jerome finally went to Bethlehem where he remained until his death. There he revised his earlier work and then continued translating the Old Testament from the original Hebrew, engaging a Jewish scholar to improve his knowledge of the language. Thus he rendered the whole of the Christian scriptures into Latin. This version, known as the Vulgate, was the official Christian bible for over a thousand years and is the basis of the one we use today. In Bethlehem, Jerome established a free school and a hospice to accommodate pilgrims. He also engaged in various theological controversies and disputes – again with passion and biting sarcasm. In particular he attacked the heresy of Pelagianism; (Pelagius denied the doctrine of Original Sin and taught that people 27
could attain salvation by their own efforts without divine grace). He was a prolific correspondent and over 100 of his letters survive; apart from the religious content they shed much light on the life of the time. Some of his letters to St. Augustine of Hippo are very acrimonious and they quarrelled frequently. But they are valuable as they reveal the live concerns of the church in the 4th and 5th centuries. Jerome died around 420 at Bethlehem. The date of his canonisation is unknown but he seems to have been named a saint for his scholarly services to the church rather than for his holiness of life. Jean Towler (Next month; St. Francis of Assisi)
O Lord, show your mercy to me and gladden my heart. I am like the man on the way to Jericho who was overtaken by robbers, wounded, and left for dead: O Good Samaritan, come to my aid. I am like the sheep that went astray: O Good Shepherd, seek me out and bring me home in accord with your will. Let me dwell in your house all the days of my life and praise you forever and ever. Amen Prayer of St. Jerome 342-420
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DOVEDALE 2010 On the 9th July a small group of young people(15) from the church youth club(CLYC) went to Dovedale House for the weekend. In our spare time, when we were going off on adventures, we played a lot of games. Our favourites were rounders, hide and seek and football. A small group of us including myself managed to climb to the top of Thorpe Cloud, whilst the rest went for a walk near the stepping stones. Once we had trekked down we joined them and dipped our feet in- it was freezing. On the Saturday we went to Chatsworth House. There was a lot to do there, the house, farm park and gardens which included the maze where most of us got lost. Overall I think it was great, this was my third year at Dovedale house and I recommend it although I think we should go for a week next year (hint, hint). Thank you to Mrs Collier and Fr Michael for organizing it and for putting up with us. Emily Smith
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Magazine Copy Date – October Would all contributors to the October edition of the Parish Magazine please ensure that copy is with the Editor by Sunday September 12th Happy Birthday We send greetings to LIAM SALTER, member of junior church, who will celebrating his birthday in September. MANY HAPPY RETURNS OF THE DAY Prayer of the Month Eternal God, you crown the year with your goodness and you give us the fruits of the earth in their season: grant that we may use them to your glory, for the relief of those in need and for our own well being; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. St. John the Divine Mission Statement God is calling us to be his active and visible presence, serving Him and our neighbour, and spreading his word wherever we are. Growing together in Christ through prayer and common worship, in awareness of our ever-changing society, we are called to commit our time and talents to expand his Kingdom and share His love by reaching out actively to our community. Phone a Friend How often do you use a phone book? For the past 130 years it has helped us find all manner of local services, not to mention a choice of tens of thousands of people living in our area. But now its days may be numbered. Disposing of out-of-date phone books and unwanted copies left on doorsteps are costing councils more than £7m. annually. They make up thousands of tons of paper dumped in landfill every year. The average phone book weighs 3lb. In Britain, the most common name in the phone book is Smith, but worldwide it is Wang, with 92.8m. entries – mostly in China. Bill Gates, the Microsoft founder, has predicted that in the USA, no one under 50 years of age will use the phone book within five years. 31
Church Flowers September 5 Mrs. J. Drury In memory of son, David Worker Mr. J. Stacey Mrs. E. Ashforth 12
Vacant
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Vacant
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Vacant
October 3
Mrs. N. Carter
Birthday memories of husband, John Carter
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Communicants Week Commencing Weekdays July 4 11 18 25
Sundays 83 100 94 89
48 44 58 74
From the Registers Wedding August 14 : Andrew Joseph Shaw to Kayleigh Emma Rogers There is no more lovely, friendly or charming relationship, communion or company, than a good marriage. (Martin Luther)
Funerals: July 12 29
Florence Treharne, age 93 Baby Gracie May Bates
Death is the golden key that opens the palace of eternity. (John Milton) DISCLAIMER The Parish Magazine does not warrant the accuracy or content of any advertisement, nor does it endorse or guarantee any of the products or services advertised. We are not to be held responsible for inaccuracies in the adverts nor for the consequences arising from inaccuracies. It is the advertisers responsibility to ensure conformity with all relevant legislation. 33
From the Chantry List 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 18. 19. 20. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30.
Ruth Morley, Brian Doughty, Dick Johns. J. Skipper. Arthur Mallett Dorothy Whetton, John Bishop. Mabel Bastock Albert Cotton, Peggie Stacey, Peggy Butler. William King, Frederick Frost. Harry Shepherd, Beatrice Tomlinson, David Worker. Irene Foster, Fred Wheildon, Gwen Barker. John Sanders, Frederick Earp. Harry Adams, Bill Webb, Marlene Roberts. Aleyn Baker, Lillian Butler, Cyril Roe, Sarah Bishop. Deaconess Bridget Smith, Florence Chadwick, Dave Hathaway, Danuta Pegg, Muff Foster. Marian Gaskell. Marion Sharp. Edith Harrison, John Hodgkins. Gertrude Tomlinson, Violet Brindley. A. J. T. Smith. Peter Wain. Emma Shepherd, William Brown. Sandra Maudsley Beatrice Booth, Winifred Whitehall. George Elson Fred Warren Edgar Cartwright Harry Allen. Albert Collett Ada Wadsworth, Peter Hill. Mary Jowett, Babara Johns.
“Pray for me, as I shall pray for thee, that merrily we meet in Heaven� 34
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