THE Bishops take the knee BISHOPS across the country led Angli- The Rt Rev Guli Francis-Dehqani, said: cans in ‘taking the knee’ to mark the “We must stand up and share our abhorrence death of American George Floyd and to of that racist brutality but also act in our own CHURCHOF highlight injustice in British society. areas to address the culture of discrimination The Bishop of Leicester, the Rt Rev Martyn we live in this society too.” Snow, led others in kneeling for eight min- Meanwhile the Bishop of Coventry, the Rt utes and 46 seconds, the length of time that a Rev Dr Christopher Cocksworth, and the ENGLAND US police officer knelt on Mr Floyd’s neck. Bishop of Warwick, the Rt Rev John Stroyan Bishop Snow said: “I am deeply shocked by ‘took the knee’ in front of the Charred Cross the appalling brutality we have seen against in the Cathedral Ruins. Newspaper black people in America and I stand along- In Manchester hundreds of people joined side those who are suffering and peacefully in a ‘Protest through Prayer’ event as a form calling for urgent change, as well as commit- of action in solidarity with #BlackLivesMatter ting to make changes in our own lives and organised by the Archdeacon of Manchester. the institutions we are part of. This week the Archbishop of Canterbury 12 June, 2020 “Structural and systemic racial prejudice said: “The racism that people in this country £1.50 exists across societies and institutions and experience is horrifying. The Church has No: 6539 we must act to change that, as well as failed here, and still does, and it’s clear what Established in 1828 addressing our own unconscious biases that Jesus commands us to do: repent and take lead us to discriminate against others.” Earli- action.” er this year he led the General Synod in a Download our App on vote to apologise for racism in the Church. The Bishop of Loughborough, page 7

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9770964816108 2 Friday 12 June, 2020 THE CHURCH IN ENGLAND

Diocese of Portsmouth THE Inspired by the extraordinary fundraising accom- plishments of Captain Tom Moore, 94-year-old for- mer Church Mission Society missionary Canon John Harwood is embarking on a fundraising chal- lenge of his own. Harwood is planning to do 94 CHURCH IN walks – one for every year of his life – from his home in Nile St, Emsworth in Hampshire, to his local church, St James, Emsworth, a total distance of 47 miles, nearly double the length of a marathon. Mr Harwood, who has never previously complet- ENGLAND ed a marathon or long distance event, is managing to complete two walks every day and so far has raised more than £2,000 for CMS people in mission based in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle Diocese of St churchmanship, so it is a great East, Europe and the UK. After completing walk Edmundsbury and representation of the churches number 32, Canon Harwood said he was relishing Ipswich in Ipswich. The feedback has the challenge. He said: “I’ve not had any blisters but been unanimously positive and I do have to sit down to take a rest mid-walk.” He Dozens of people from church- encouraging. It has created a expects it will take another month to reach his total es across Ipswich have come real sense of support, even from of 94 walks. To officially mark each of his walks, he together to sing a song about the churches who could not deposits a numbered slip in the rectory letterbox at unity and hope. Members of 43 take part as they did not have a St James’ Church. Christian church denomina- singer. Everyone is excited Canon Harwood, who served as CMS missionary tions from the town have about being part of something in Nigeria and Sierra Leone for 10 years, explained recorded themselves singing bigger than any one individual that although he retired many years ago the work of along to the song The Blessing or organisation.” CMS continues to inspire him. He said: “I am by Elevation Worship. Bishop Mike Harrison said: thrilled by CMS’s ground-breaking mission pio- Performers who were “It’s entirely right, good and neers like Rachel Karanja, who is utilising renewable energy technology to benefit local communi- involved in the project include proper that as churches we ties in Kenya through the Greenspan Biotechnologies project. I hope the money raised by this walk members of Hope Church come together to bless Ipswich, will help raise up many more entrepreneurs.” Ipswich, Rushmere Baptist truly seeking the good of The challenge has captured the imagination of John’s local community who have donated gener- Church, Trinity Praise Centre, Ipswich and its people in God’s ously to support his effort and offered their encouragement with comments such as “Inspirational”, Waterfront Churches and Holly strength.” “CMS is lucky to have you” and “the Racing Rev”. Lodge Baptist Church, among Alastair Bateman, CEO of Church Mission Society, said: “John’s effort is a great example of the many more. Diocese of Gloucester energy, commitment, and faithful dedication characterised by CMS missionaries throughout our The project was organised by history. All of the CMS community is with you - praying for you, walking with you [in spirit] and the Rev Amy Key and her hus- willing you on, as you take on this epic challenge.” band Matt, of St Augustine’s Church in Ipswich, and aims to bring hope and comfort to the A list of playful suggestions peutic in times of crisis and we the Great, Audlem, described community during the Coron- from the Play Rangers – who hope that our ‘Bags of Play’ what steps her parish has taken avirus lockdown. Matt said: “We are normally out and about in bring some joy and happiness to to achieve the silver Eco- were hugely inspired by The parks and open spaces across families in Gloucestershire”. Church award. Although much UK Blessing, which quickly the county – is also included, Pictured: Cathy Pascoe, Chil- planning had gone before, went viral. It has had more than further helping the children to dren and Families support man- Audlem have demonstrated three million views. There was be creative and active. ager at Kingsholm Primary how quickly a parish church can lots of talk about churches The Diocese has purchased School in Gloucester. register and achieve Eco- working together and being 250 of these bags and distribut- Church accreditation. there for their community, so ed them to the most vulnerable Diocese of Chester we thought it would be wonder- children through their school ful to replicate it in Ipswich as a network. The Diocese of Chester hosted Diocese of Liverpool message of hope to our town’s The Diocese of Gloucester has Bishop Rachel Treweek said: a webinar to mark World Envi- residents.” teamed up with Play Gloucester- “I am so pleased we have been ronment Day and to help parish- Volunteers from churches The pair contacted more than shire to support their Bags of able to support and get involved es explore Eco-Church, an across Knowsley are enabling 60 church leaders, representing Play project. The local chil- with this project as play is so award scheme run by environ- local grassroots charity SHARe 75 churches of all denomina- dren’s charity has distributed important for children’s mental ment charity Arocha, which Knowsley to continue to provide tions across Ipswich, to put for- 1,500 Bags of Play to children in health and wellbeing. We hope encourages parishes to be practical, emotional and social ward a representative to sing a need across the county, as part that the children who receive mindful of the environment. support for asylum seekers and part of the song, which was then of their emergency response to these play bags will have some Invited guests include repre- refugees during the COVID-19 edited into one single video. the Coronavirus crisis. Play great fun, getting creative with sentatives of Arocha, Ruth pandemic. The Rev Amy Key added: “The Rangers and volunteers have all the art and crafts materials to Richards and John Smith, who SHARe Knowsley is a local response has been absolutely filled the bags with soft foam choose from.” provided a potted history of the ecumenical group that provides amazing. We have 58 singers, balls, skipping ropes, balloons, Play Gloucestershire’s Direc- charity and explained why the a welcome and befriending ser- ranging from teenagers to the chalks, paints, scrap and more tor of Play Pip Levett said: “Chil- Eco-Church award scheme was vice to asylum seekers and older generation and a mixture to offer some playful respite to dren always need to play, but established. refugees who are housed there. of ethnicities, genders and the children most in need. especially now. Play is so thera- Anne Draper from St James Margaret Roche, who has supported the charity since it was founded over four years Diocese of Derby ago, said: “The impact of Covid- 19 has meant a significant The Diocese is calling for prayers after a massive clean-up operation is continu- change in operations”. ing as millions of people across northern India try to rebuild their lives following The group had to stop their the devastation left by Cyclone Amphan. weekly drop-in service at Two weeks ago, many of the diocese’s partner dioceses in North India, includ- Prescot Methodist Church and ing the Diocese of Kolkata, were badly hit, with streets flooded and blocked by face-to-face English lessons at trees, church buildings and community projects devastated, and many people the Old School House in Huy- left homeless and without food and water. ton. These services are now The cyclone came on top of the challenges already being faced due to the being carried out remotely. Covid-19 lockdown. Despite this, SHARe Many people in Kolkata earn their living as daily labourers, and have lost their Knowsley has seen “more than livelihood because of the lockdown. Children receiving education through a 300 per cent increase” in peo- diocesan and CRS schools are now at risk of being trafficked into child labour ple they are now supporting and child marriage. after putting out flyers to all of The Diocese of Kolkata, in partnership with the Cathedral Relief Service, has the Home Office properties in enabled a relief programme to reach out to the neediest people – 4,500 families Knowsley and setting up a new have already been helped, but more help is needed in this ‘desperate’ situation. ‘Drop-Off’ Project. NEWS Friday 12 June, 2020 3 A Rocha trustee wins prestigious international award A TRUSTEE of the A Rocha Chris- has made seriously? I plan to use the and contributed significantly to the tian environmental charity has won profile gained from winning this award expansion of the number of species a prestigious global environmental to promote a harmonious, sustainable assessed. This strong scientific basis award future for people and nature.” has established the Red List as the most Dr Simon Stuart, a trustee of A Rocha Now in its 29th year, the prize was cre- reliable data on species extinction risk. International from 2000 to 2009 and ated by the Asahi Glass Foundation to He warned that the decline in the num- again since 2017 has been announced as recognize significant contributions to ber of amphibians indicates that not the winner of the 2020 Blue Planet Prize, the resolution of global environmental only their habitats but also the sur- along with Prof David Tilman of the Uni- problems. rounding ecosystems are deteriorating. versities of Minnesota and California. Each recipient is presented with a cer- Peter Harris, co-founder of A Rocha A committed Christian, Dr Stuart is a tificate of merit, a commemorative tro- International said: “Simon has been an member of Holy Trinity, Combe Down, phy, and ¥50 million (Japanese yen) inspirational figure in the conservation in Bath. He said: “Receiving the 2020 (£365,000) in prize money. movement for decades.” Blue Planet Prize is the greatest honour Dr Stuart is the Director of Strategic Andy Atkins, CEO of A Rocha UK, of my life. I have had the rare privilege Conservation at Synchronicity Earth said: “For many Christians who care to spend my entire working life follow- “We stand at a critical moment in his- and Former Chair of the IUCN Species passionately about nature and the wider ing my passion to promote the conser- tory – will we listen to the evidence and Survival Commission. environment, Simon Stuart is a role vation of nature. It’s an even greater start living within the limits set by our He led the development of the cate- model of how to combine rigorous and privilege when my passion is also a planet? Will we take our God-given gories and quantitative criteria for the detailed scientific analysis with a broad major part of my Christian calling. responsibility to care for everything he IUCN Red List of Threatened Species vision for global change.” Communal worship is set to follow in weeks after limited reopenings THE GOVERNMENT has New guidance is to be pub- tional worship, as well as wed- quickly adopted by all faith government could help them, announced that churches lished to ensure that the limited ding services. He accepted, groups, whatever the size of perhaps by removing VAT on will be allowed to reopen, for re-opening of places of worship however, that some groups their place of worship, when the building repairs. Lord Green- private prayer only, from 15 can be done safely and in would not be reopening even time was right. halgh said finance was frequent- June. line with social distancing when they were allowed to do Asked by The Church of Eng- ly a concern at round tables and The Communities Secretary guidelines. so. land Newspaper how soon ser- he would look at the suggestion. Robert Jenrick confirmed the However, Faiths minister They were proceeding within vices could resume he said: In the webinar he was asked decision last Sunday following Lord Greenhalgh was not able Public Health England guide- “When it comes to collective or why places of worship were not discussions between the Gov- to say when the guidance would lines and the earliest date that corporate worship that’s a deci- classed as important as “essen- ernment and representatives of be published, but he suggested change could happen would be sion that won’t be taken any ear- tial”, like shops, which had been major faiths through the Places that the return of communal 4 July. lier than 4 July, so my mission allowed to open earlier. Lord of Worship Taskforce, which worship could follow in weeks Full guidance would be pub- as faith minister is to come up Greenhalgh said it was a great the Communities Secretary has rather than months. lished as soon as possible, after with the guidance as soon as we achievement that places of wor- chaired. Fresh from announcing that a taskforce meeting yesterday possibly can.” ship would open for private The move ‘recognises the places of worship will reopen for (Thursday) and virtual round Many places of worship are in prayer on 15 June, the same day spiritual and mental health ben- private prayer from Monday 15 tables with faith groups. Lord financial difficulties because of as non-essential shops. He said efits for people being able to June, he told a Religion Media Greenhalgh’s role was to the coronavirus, with a loss of there is no indication that the pray in their place of worship’, Centre webinar that his task- ensure that the guidance was income from activities and con- government did not see faith as and that for some this cannot be force was now working out how ready and that people were tinuing costs. absolutely critical to the life of replicated by praying at home. to open all places for congrega- engaged, so that it could be He was asked whether the this country. Archbishop lays down his crozier Government due to announce THE ARCHBISHOP of York, Dr John Sentamu, accompanied by his wife, Sunday trading extension the Rev Margaret Sentamu, laid THE GOVERNMENT is expected to churches to make their own decisions down his crozier of office on the high announce an extension to Sunday about what kind of ministry to host in altar of York Minster last Sunday, 7 trading hours in order to stimulate their buildings, rather than continuing June. the economy. to impose highly restrictive con- On Monday Archbishop Sentamu con- This has sparked criticism from straints.” cluded nearly 15 years in his role as Chief Executive of Christian Concern, USDAW general secretary, Paddy Archbishop of York. He has served in Andrea Williams, who pointed out that Lillis, commented that while the trade ordained ministry within the Church of the government is relaxing the Sunday union ‘appreciates the desire to help England for 41 years. The Archbishop trading laws whilst maintaining ‘strict the retail sector, this attempt to undo a will continue to live in the North of Eng- rules that hinder church ministry’. long-held and respected compromise land, and has said he will continue with Williams said that ‘churches can eas- on Sunday trading is misguided’. his work on the case for income equality ily be made as safe as supermarkets’. “The last thing the retail industry and sustainability. “Churches should be allowed to do needs is longer trading hours, there is The Dean of York said: “In the simple so if they so wish. We call on the gov- no economic case for this and it will put and symbolic act of laying down his crozi- ernment to recognise the vital impor- extra pressure on the retail workers er, Archbishop Sentamu brought his min- tance of church ministry and the who have worked so hard throughout istry as Archbishop of York to a close. In principle of church autonomy from the this crisis. current circumstances we have been state. The government should urgently “Retailers have mixed views over the unable to fulfil our hope to gather togeth- rescind its restrictions on church min- benefits of opening longer on Sundays er for a service. However, in households istry. and we have repeatedly demonstrated and communities across the Diocese of “This restriction on church ministry that it would be bad for business. Open- York, the North and Nation, those whose is unprecedented. The government ing for longer will increase overheads lives have been graced by Sentamu and should not be criminalising prayer but not necessarily take any more cash Margaret give thanks for their witness to meetings, church services or sacra- through the tills. The fact is that cus- the joy, simplicity and compassion of the ments. tomers will not have more to spend just good news of Jesus Christ.” “The government should allow because the shops are open for longer.”

www.churchnewspaper.com [email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper 4 Friday 12 June, 2020 NEWS

News In Brief

Church bells to ring out on Synod to Zoom AN INFORMAL virtual meeting of members of General Synod has been planned for Saturday third anniversary of Grenfell 11 July. The meeting has the support CHURCH bells across Lon- math of the fire and dreds of families are still trying of the Synod’s Business Com- don will ring 72 times at undertook a series to make sense of what hap- mittee after it was confirmed 6pm on Sunday to mark the of interviews that pened on that day in June 2017. that the residential meeting due third anniversary of the culminated in the “Life has not moved on for the to take place in York in July had Grenfell Tower fire, in a publication of a families and friends of the 72 been cancelled in the light of coordinated effort to ensure report, “The Social victims – they still mourn the the Coronavirus pandemic. the victims of the tragedy Legacy of Gren- loss of their loved ones and seek The term of the current Gen- continue to be remembered. fell”. This sought to justice. eral Synod has been extended Over 80 churches across the identify the societal “On Sunday 14 June bells will for a year with planned elec- Capital, including St Paul’s issues that Grenfell ring across our nation; bells of tions to the General Synod post- Cathedral, Westminster Abbey brought to the fore remembrance, of sympathy and poned until next autumn. and Southwark Cathedral will and posed an agen- support for those whose lives The timetable includes a pre- join the bell ringing, as will St da for change in were changed forever that day sentation followed by questions Clement, Notting Dale, the wider society, to and of hope that nothing like it on a response to Covid-19. parish in which Grenfell Tower improve communi- will ever happen again. I invite stands. ty cohesion and as many churches as possible to The 72 peals will mark the wellbeing. join in ringing their bells, and Footballing first beginning of two minutes’ The Bishop said: those who listen to join in the silence, observed in the local “Nearly three years silence that follows to remem- community and elsewhere in ago, the tragedy at ber this tragedy that affected memory of those who died. Grenfell Tower left our national life so deeply.” The Bishop of Kensington, us wondering how Grenfell United, the bereaved the Rt Rev Dr Graham Tomlin, this could happen families and survivors group, has invited churches further in a 21st century said: “It means a lot to our fami- afield to join in the act of city like London. lies and the community that remembrance. We are now facing across London bells will ring Churches across the Kensing- a very different out in memory of 72 loved ones ton Area, under the leadership tragedy in the form lost at Grenfell. Thank you to all of the Bishop of Kensington, of Coronavirus, but faith communities across Lon- were instrumental in offering and cohesion in the three years we continue to ask similar ques- don that stand with our commu- support immediately following that have followed. tions. As we try to make sense nity in North Kensington to pay A NEW joint venture between the fire in 2017, and in support- Bishop Tomlin worked closely of what we are living through respect and show that 72 lives the charity Oasis UK and Crys- ing the community’s wellbeing with the community in the after- today, let’s not forget that hun- are forever in our hearts.” tal Palace FC Academy will pro- vide a comprehensive education programme for young footballers. Bishops express concern for homeless policy Shinnel Paras, 26 and a gradu- ate in Business Studies, has THE BISHOPS of Salisbury and sleepers in emergency accommodation. are becoming newly homeless because of been appointed to head the pio- Southwark have backed an open letter They also announced £3.2 million in fund- the ongoing economic impacts of Coron- neering project, designed to urging the government to extend the ing for local authorities to protect those avirus. help young footballers fulfil ‘Everyone In’ policy on the homeless. who are homeless. They outline grave concerns regarding their potential on and off the The Museum of Homelessness (MoH), But the campaigners are calling on gov- winter provision, which is set to be vastly pitch. together with the Haringey Migrant Sup- ernment to ensure that all homeless peo- reduced due to public health require- Crystal Palace FC is investing port Centre has written to the Communi- ple will benefit from an extended ments this year. The church halls and £20m in a state-of-the-art Cate- ties Secretary Robert Jenrick MP Everyone In policy, including people with community centres usually used to house gory 1 footballing centre as part outlining their concerns with government ‘No Recourse to Public Funds’ who make the majority of people who are rough of its training facility in Becken- plans to end the Everyone In policy, high- up a large proportion of the rough sleep- sleeping will no longer be an option due to ham. lighting weaknesses in the current strate- ing population but who are currently not public health measures. Without action gy to end homelessness. set to be provided for under the plans. now this could be a humanitarian disaster, In response to Covid-19, the Govern- In addition, they are calling on the gov- leaving people sleeping rough at signifi- Church advertises ment launched the new scheme, which ernment to urgently clarify what will hap- cant risk of exposure during the colder for a journalist required local authorities to house rough pen to the large numbers of people who months. A KENT church is advertising for a full-time journalist, in what is believed to be the first appointment of its kind. Concern grows over Covid-19 imbalance The Bishop of Tonbridge said THE NEW report from Pub- are more at risk from this hor- Mr Ashworth said: “As the and highlighted existing that the decline of local newspa- lic Health England has rific disease.’ brutal racist and sickening inequalities within society, pers meant that the link with sparked calls for action to However, he added: “The killing of George Floyd rever- chiefly longstanding systemic local communities was being reduce the imbalance of the report utterly fails to offer any berates around the world, we inequalities. lost. impact of Covid-19 on meaningful action. This is a stand in solidarity in condemna- “Once again many who are The advert placed by St Mar- minority groups. glaring abdication of responsi- tion – and we demand that sys- most marginalised are bearing garet’s in Rainham says: “Half The report revealed that bility, adding insult to injury in a temic inequalities are the heaviest cost, amongst them of the stories you produce will death rates are twice as high in week when thousands have confronted. Black lives matter. people of BAME heritage” she focus on the local community – the most deprived communities. taken to the streets to demand But that must be more than a said. its people and groups, schools People from BAME communi- justice for BAME.” slogan politicians tweet when She added that the Govern- and new housing. The other ties are three times more likely The Bishop of Loughbor- convenient. We need bold ment must outline clearly what half will focus on telling the to die from Covid-19 and more ough, who has called for a com- action.” steps are to be taken to tackle story of the church, its people, likely to be admitted to inten- prehensive public enquiry Meanwhile the Bishop of racial prejudice more widely purpose and history.” sive care. Disproportionate following this week’s report, Loughborough said: “I welcome and to challenge the culture of The Rev Nathan Ward, the numbers of BAME NHS and echoed his comments. The Rt the delayed Public Health Eng- discrimination. vicar of St Margaret’s, said: care staff have died. Rev Guli Francis-Dehqani is land (PHE) Disparities in the “I support the call from the “We know that there are some The Shadow Health Secretary also urging the Government to risk and outcomes of Covid-19 coalition led by the Ubele Initia- fantastic things going on in John Ashworth said that the outline what steps will be taken report which highlights what tive for a full and comprehen- Rainham which we need to cele- report ‘confirmed what we to tackle racial prejudice more was already widely known - that sive public enquiry into these brate and also some real chal- already knew: BAME people widely. the Covid-19 virus has laid bare disparities,” she said. lenges people are facing.” NEWS Friday 12 June, 2020 5

Call for peace after Foreign Office appeal attacks in Turkey THE GOVERNMENT is A CHRISTIAN TV station Irish language ruling being urged to create a spe- has called for peace and jus- cial budget to assist reli- tice in Turkey following an gious minorities uniquely outbreak of attacks on affected by Covid-19. Christians there. prompts backlash The letter sent to Foreign “We are deeply concerned by Office Minister Lord Ahmad the recent rise in threats and A PETITION for a grave panied by a translation which says that in recent months attacks against Christians and memorial to bear an Irish can be in a smaller font size.” there have been new trends minority communities,” said Gaelic inscription has been The petition also sought a fac- developing in the marginalisa- Melih Ekener, the channel’s granted on the grounds there ‘The decision does ulty for a memorial stone with a tion of religious minorities ‘that Executive Director. is an accompanying transla- not reflect any rough-hewn top bearing a Celtic are closely related to the Covid- After an increase in attacks tion. Cross containing at its centre 19 pandemic’. on church buildings and Margaret Keane was buried in national Church of the emblem of the Gaelic Athlet- The letter signed by parlia- threats against Christians and the burial ground of St, Giles, England policy’ ic Association. mentarians including Lord minorities in Turkey, SAT-7 Exhall, but a request by her However, the Church of Eng- Alton and Bishop Philip Moun- TÜRK has amplified their calls daughter for the gravestone to land has said that ‘the decision stephen says: “In China, many for peace and justice. include the phrase “In ár does not reflect any national Uyghurs and members of other “We are also advocating for gcroíthe go deo”, was only intended as a political statement Church of England policy’. Muslim-majority ethnic groups God’s peace and tolerance at authorised on the grounds that but is an important part of the Pointing out that this was a who were moved from the so- this time.” the memorial also carried the Irish heritage of Mrs. Keane judgment from the consistory called ‘re-education camps’ are SAT-7 TÜRK’s news outlet translation, “in our hearts forev- and of her husband, the judge court of the Diocese of Coven- subjected to forced labour, first reported an arson attempt er”. questioned whether he could try, a spokesman said that ‘the including forced transfer to on the Armenian Church in Margaret Keane and her hus- permit an inscription that would Irish language is an important other cities and regions, expos- Bakırköy, Istanbul, on 10 May, band were both born in the Irish be ‘incomprehensible to almost part of the heritage of the ing them to the threat of con- sharing news from the Armeni- Republic but had made their life all its readers’. Church of England’. tracting Covid-19. an Patriarchate that no damage in the United Kingdom. They He explained that not only “Consistory court judgements “In Myanmar, Rohingya Mus- or injury was caused. remained proud of their Irish would the message of the may, with permission, be lims and Christians are dis- This attack was followed by heritage and were active in the inscription not be understood appealed to the Provincial Court placed as a result of military the vandalism of a second Istan- work of the Gaelic Athletic but there is a risk of it being of the Archbishop, in this case attacks and are often denied bul church on 23 May, in which Association both in Coventry misunderstood, and that ‘given the Arches Court of Canterbury. access to adequate medical the building’s cross was and nationally. the passions and feelings con- “The Irish language is an care,” the letter says. removed. Mrs Newey was against the nected with the use of Irish important part of the heritage of The letter also points out that The Association of Protestant suggestion that the words “in Gaelic there is a sad risk that the Church of England. It was, ‘frontline sanitary workers, Churches issued a statement: our hearts forever” should in the phrase would be regarded after all, Irish speaking monks who are predominantly from “We reproach these acts direct- English rather than Gaelic or as some form of slogan or that in Lindisfarne and beyond who the Christian community, are at ed against Christians and that the words should be accom- its inclusion without translation played a central role in estab- increased risk of contracting minorities, which are intended panied by a translation. She said would of itself be seen as a polit- lishing the Church in what is Covid-19 as they are not to create an environment of this would over-complicate or ical statement’. now England,” the official equipped with protective gear’. hatred and to make people feel crowd the memorial. “That is not appropriate and it Church response stated. They also raised concerns insecure in their own homes While Mrs Newey said that follows that the phrase ‘In ár about Pakistan’s failure to and places of worship.” the use of Irish Gaelic is not gcroíthe go deo’ must be accom- Letters, page 6 address minority concerns. Coming out of lockdown in Bangalore Vinay Samuel continues his diary from two. Bangalore continues to be the home Divya Shanthi Christian Community Ser- for pensioners and few ministries vices address their needs. Our work of training pastors of grow- THE UNLOCKING of the 10-week ing independent churches among the long lockdown began on 8 June. Last Dalit people resumes this week. They week revealed signs of hope and have faced loss of income but their con- continuing challenges. gregations have remained intact. They Most of the migrants from the central need advice and encouragement on how and northern states of India have to minister to people who face much returned to their home states. Our State insecurity. Some will be part of the 30 officials finally began ensuring trains, million who economists suggest will fall food and water to the travellers. Groups back into abject poverty. of young volunteers (pictured) from dif- Since Easter I have been preaching ferent faith backgrounds monitored the about how Christ’s resurrection and migrants departing at the railway sta- ascension has elevated humanity into tions and bus terminals and ensured working with migrant groups who are Poor and low-income families have heaven and eternity. Yet some of our peo- they were adequately provided for as returning. They share their concerns many needs. Colleen and I tend to focus ple now face the prospect of losing some they began their journeys. and involvement through WhatsApp exclusively on our service to them. We of the human dignity they achieved in We surveyed those who had lost their groups incessantly. A few pastors are do not address the needs of the middle the past decade as they slide into pover- jobs and found they were construction among them. I am concerned that some class and those comfortably well off. In ty. workers, domestic help and in the clean- keep asking when they can share the the past three weeks I became very They know they will have the fullest ing industry. Most are returning to work gospel, suggesting that their main con- aware of the needs of the elderly lonely. possible dignity when they reach heav- this week. Our fear of large-scale unem- cern is evangelism. This is likely to invite We try to keep in touch with them by en. However, they need human dignity ployment among these daily wage earn- opposition from people from the majority phone at least once a week. Some have both in time and eternity: that is what we ers and low wage employees is alleviated faith in our area. no family in India and others have no believe the Gospel promises and we to a significant extent. Some of the most vulnerable continue family in Bangalore. They have been iso- strive for as we minister. We are also encouraged that those to be motorised (auto) rickshaw drivers. lated in their homes for 10 weeks. New guidelines announced by the Gov- who ran roadside vegetable, food and A large number live in our part of Banga- A civil servant in his early 80s who ernment for churches restrict gather- other stalls returned back to their micro lore with its affordable rents for low- retired from a very senior position in the ings to less than 50 people. The enterprises. These are all women who income families. They live on their daily country broke curfew, drove and came suggested number is 25 and churches show creativity, enterprise and earnings, which have reduced by 60-70 to see me in the late evening last week. are encouraged to have services out- resilience. per cent. We are finding ways to support He did not feel he could share his fears doors. Clergy should not administer The signs of hope we notice are in the them with school fees and a meal for with his only son who lives in the United bread and wine directly. The over-65s are attitudes and actions of the people who their children. States. After an hour of conversation on discouraged from attending services. We are finding ways to earn and care for Restaurants and hotels will open with a the state of the country, a glass of wine are trying to find creative ways to follow their families. few services. Those who worked in this and a prayer he left for his home. I know the guidelines and also craft our meet- More groups, particularly Christian sector as daily wage/low-paid labour will more than 20 such people in Bangalore ings so that we can experience the fel- groups from within our State, are also still struggle to find employment. but cannot keep in touch with more than lowship the Holy Spirit makes possible. 6 Friday 12 June, 2020 LETTERS & COMMENT

ers on in their theology I don’t know THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND NEWSPAPER what would be. John Humphreys, Tadworth Leader Comment LETTERSTO Integrated theology Sir, Theology should be done in an inte- The Church must set an THEEDITOR grated, bottom up-top down way, com- bining the insights of both example on equality Schleiermacher and Karl Barth, if it is not to ignore the lived reality of those at The Black Lives Matter protests in cities throughout Europe was the coal face of human suffering. sparked by the death of a black American, George Floyd, at the Attitudes towards slavery demonstrate hands of police. This proved to be a trigger for protest on behalf of its evolutionary nature. Gregory of black Americans in the USA. The feeling was that racism, and even Nyassa defined slavery as an unpardon- institutional racism, is as serious an issue on this side of the able offence against God as early as Atlantic. 370AD. His elder brother and fellow Britain likes to pride itself on the belief that it is one of the most Denigration bishop, Basil, regarded the institution as tolerant and open societies in the world, and that attempts to vilify it damnable but necessary, for how other- in this way are motivated by other causes. But the weekend’s Sir, The Irish are an island people whose wise were those of inferior intelligence protests have demonstrated that minority communities are finding history seems older than history itself. and capabilities to live? Britain and the their voice and highlighting the injustices that have for too long For better or worse we have our own cul- United States profited from this conve- gone unnoticed. ture, traditions, and language. nient and widely accepted understand- And this does not just affect the streets of London or Bristol: the A long time past our nearest neigh- ing, until the Abolitionists returned to issue of racism is keenly felt across the nations of the European bour invaded and subjugated, and over biblical first principles of what it means Union. Certainly there have been laws enacted to outlaw racial dis- some hundreds of years laid waste much to be human (Gen. 1). In time, Apartheid crimination but the shadow of racial prejudice lingers on. And nor of that. was dismantled and Civil Rights enact- is it an issue for the wider society only. The Church has its own The absence of empathy displayed in a ed, though racism has tragically yet to house to set in order. ruling by one of your QC, in the Consis- be eradicated in the Christian west. As we marked the Archbishop of York laying down his crozier tory Court of the Diocese of Coventry, is When it came to slavery, and to last weekend, the departure of Dr John Sentamu from one of the a reminder of how your people denigrat- women, revelation and upbringing highest offices in the Church leaves a gap. It is, as our writers this ed ours, and how some still won’t miss pulled Paul in opposite directions (Tom week comment, somewhat inexplicable that the number of other an opportunity to hinder our ways wher- Holland). In his instincts and prejudices, Church leaders from the BAME community can be counted on less ever they are found. Paul remained recognisably the product than the fingers of one hand. Perhaps it is time to examine the rea- If five words of loving and respectful of his Pharisaic schooling and so he sons behind this fact. affection represent a threat solely readily equated all same-sex relation- The Bishop of Loughborough makes a call in our edition this because they exist in a language that ships with idolatry. Even so, he week for a review into the Church’s record. She concedes it would your ancestors attempted to erase, as preached the primacy of Love (1 be ‘painful’, but it is nevertheless incumbent on the Church to give part of the tradition of a people that your Corinthians 13) and accepted that the a moral lead on this most sensitive of subjects. As we have been ancestors sought to eradicate, and are Law of the God of Israel might be preparing this week’s edition our reporters have heard from many such a threat to the order of your society inscribed on the human heart (Romans of instances of racism within the Church. It is long past the time for then it is your society – and it’s values – 1:20), thereby adopting the Greek con- such behaviour to end, and Christians to be setting an example. which is broken. The Irish still stand, cept of natural law and enshrining the Speaking up on behalf the BAME community is right and hon- and we accept and respect guests and Stoic concept of conscience at the heart ourable, and is perhaps the least that we can do, but there must be visitors, and we do what we can to of his gospel. more demonstrable examples of all Anglicans being treated equi- accommodate and to get on together. His correspondence is not consistent tably. This is not simply an aspirational hope for church and soci- Though many of us are beyond mas- but this is a feature of the Bible too. ety: it is indeed the teaching of the Bible that ‘There is neither Jew terful users of your language, we still Jesus himself came not to abolish the nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for have our own. Tá sí fós againn. It is still Old Testament but to fulfil it and so a you are all one in Christ Jesus’. with us, battered and bruised admitted- Spirit-driven theology will necessarily be Striving for equality is at the heart of the Gospel message and ly, but for those of us for whom it is the progressive, in anticipation of a realised proves that ‘black lives matter’. Jesus is the role model for blacks preferred language it is the language in eschatology. It sadly took a painfully and whites, returning to him will bring peace and love in a time of which we feel, love, and show our high- long time for the Church to follow Gre- frustration and perplexity. est respect. gory’s lead on slavery. If being English can only be achieved Serena Lancaster, by the denigration of things of Gaelic tra- London W11 dition, then please, if you do finally leave The Church of England Newspaper the European Union, it is better to also New fund with Celebrate magazine incorporating The Record and Christian Week leave the places where Gaelic languages Published by Political and Religious Intelligence Ltd. reside. Most people there do not wish to Sir, As a BAME community, we have Company Number: 3176742 leave: please respect that they are your been very moved by what is going on Publisher: Keith Young MBE

neighbours, not your property. around the world and we have been Telephone: 020 7222 2018 But whether you stay or go, tabhair coming up with practical solutions to meas do teaghlach Uí Catháin: give combat structural racism and discrimi- respect to the Keane family. nation in our society. Publishing Director & Editor: CM BLAKELY The Coventry Diocese decision is not The result has been the creation of a Reporter: JO MAY alone racist, it is petty; it is not at all Minority Fund to help Young BAME Editorial Correspondent: STEVE MORRIS great, Britain. individuals and Legal Centres across the Is mise le meas, UK fight against injustice. Advertising: CHRIS TURNER Fachtna Ó Rua, We hope that our fund can carry on Advertising & Editorial Assistant: PENNY NAIR PRICE Éire this energy that the Black Lives Matter movement has created before we get Subscriptions & Finance: DELIA ROBINSON Confused back to normal life. The acceptance of advertising does not necessarily indicate Slydon Lungu, endorsement. Photographs and other material sent for publication Sir, In his letter under the title Evolution- www.minorityfunduk.org are submitted at the owner’s risk. The Church of England Newspaper ary Theology (5 June), Colin Bricher does not accept responsibility for any material lost or damaged. seems to confuse changing the text of Inappropriate advice scripture on the one hand with develop- Editorial Advisory Board: Lord Carey of Clifton, The Rt Rev Michael Nazir-Ali, The Rt Rev Pete Broadbent, ing our understanding of it on the other. Sir, The latest advice from the WHO to Dr Elaine Storkey, The Rev Cindy Kent MBE Yes, Matthew does quote Jesus as say- wear a mask in all public places may be

ing that he has not come to abolish the appropriate for city streets but it is whol- The Church of England Newspaper, Law and the Prophets (5:17), but of ly inappropriate for country areas. This Political and Religious Intelligence Ltd course he also quotes him as saying sev- will only result in resentment or refusal 14 Great College Street, London, SW1P 3RX eral times (later in the same chapter) to comply and encourage people to Editorial e-mail: [email protected] with reference to the Old Testament, ignore other laws which may be helpful. Advertising e-mail: [email protected] “You have heard it said ... but I tell you”. Jonathan Longstaff,

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Bishop Guli Francis-Dehqani We need to look at our own record On Monday morning, two treating them with dignity and weeks since the murder of re-instating them to their George Floyd, I, together with rightful place within the several colleagues, took the community. The writings and knee outside Leicester theology of Paul, best known Cathedral. We knelt in silence perhaps in Galatians, underline for 8 minutes 46 seconds, the that in Christ there is neither time it took Floyd to die as the Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, police officer knelt on his neck. male nor female, “for all of you Ours was a representative are one in Christ Jesus”. All this action on behalf of the takes us eventually to the vision Leadership Team and the of the New Creation in diocese at a time when we are Revelation where all nations are mindful of restrictions on brought together before the gatherings. We could have filled throne of God, equal before the Cathedral Gardens many times Almighty. over and I was conscious of Celebrating and respecting being surrounded by a great racial diversity is apparent cloud of witnesses as we prayed across the whole vista of the for racial justice and equality. Bible and today too the Holy Why should we take this Spirit inspires us to continue action now and why are so working towards a time when many others – people of all God’s kingdom will show no colours and ethnicities – only partiality; where all colours and now joining in protests and races are honoured and demonstrations in this country celebrated. That’s why I believe and elsewhere? Surely, the that as well as a Government death of George Floyd, inquiry now is also the time for shocking though it was, is but open and transparent one example of the consideration within the discrimination that has long Church of England. Such a blighted society, its de- review may well be painful but humanising toxicity impacting is overdue. It will expose the structures and organisations? extent of racism that has Well, in many ways present seeped into our structures and actions do come far too late and organisation, and will enable us for that, repentance and effectively to address issues reparation is required. But and move purposefully into a sometimes there are moments future with greater justice and in history when one event equality. becomes a turning point. Thirty years ago the Events converge and that opportunity to create a moment becomes a catalyst for Commission for Black and long and lasting change. A line others, I am among a growing As the law was established, Minority Ethnic Anglican is crossed and there is no going number of voices calling for a throughout the Pentateuch, the Concerns was squandered back. The moment when Rosa public inquiry into the evident as well as a place of foreigners and when the Faith in the City Parks took her seat on that bus disparities and asking outsiders was recognised (eg, report led instead to a in Alabama all those years ago Government to outline clearly Government inquiry Leviticus 19:33-4). The stories Committee that (despite great in 1955 is another such what steps will be taken to now is also the time of Ruth and Naomi, of Esther, of efforts and much hard work) example. Only time will tell tackle racial prejudice more King Cyrus of Persia who simply had less power and whether Floyd’s death will be widely and challenge the for open and honoured the Jews in his impact than a Commission such a moment but I hope and culture of discrimination. kingdom, each demonstrate would have had. Enough is now pray so. Celebrating diversity has transparent that respecting racial diversity enough. This time, let’s not Floyd’s death came during a always been part of God’s consideration within and rejoicing in difference miss the chance to do the right time when Covid-19 has laid ecology. It was there from the takes us beyond familial and thing, begin making amends bare existing inequalities within start and will be there at the the Church of tribal ties. The poetry of Isaiah and find a better way. society, chiefly longstanding end. It is a Christian imperative, England dignifies those whom society But a brief word of warning. and systemic inequalities. The running like a thread undermines. The account of When it comes to matters of Public Health England report throughout Scripture. Right at Jonah reveals a compassionate justice and equality, it is in the Disparities in the risk of the beginning, the stories of God showing love for the end not possible to address outcomes of Covid-19 has creation (including the birth of people of Israel, and of the people of Nineveh despite the individual causes in isolation. If exposed that once again many humanity, male and female, responsibility of those with prophet’s plea for judgement we truly want to be a Church who are most marginalised are made in the image of God), say power to respect the human without mercy. where diversity is celebrated, bearing the heaviest cost, something about God’s love for dignity of all. Indeed in Genesis In the New Testament Jesus then we must find ways of among them people of BAME diversity; God’s self-expression 18 Abraham is visited by God is of course the most profound addressing other pressing heritage. Whilst further is an act of glorious variety. who appears in the guise of example of one who reaches questions including those research is needed to All through the Old three strangers. A reminder out to strangers, gentiles, around class, gender, sexuality understand the underlying Testament there are reminders that we encounter God in the outcasts, those who were and disability. Until we grasp scientific causes of why this about the value placed on all face of those who are other and considered different, the nettle we will forever fall virus impacts some more than God’s children, not just the unfamiliar. acknowledging their humanity, short of our true calling. 8 Friday 12 June, 2020 FEATURE

Lusa Nsenga-Ngoy The last dance? On Sunday 7 June, I watched Archbishop. As I followed his House of Bishops. with some emotion Dr John ministry over the years, I was We need to listen to the Sentamu lay down his crozier often struck by the sense of chorus of discontent rising on the high altar of York isolation and the loneliness he from our theological Minster, marking his final act must have experienced as a institutions, towards our as Archbishop of York. This singular BAME voice in an mission agencies, and in all our simple gesture not only otherwise white institution. To governance structures. We brought to an end his me, he epitomises the need to listen to the protest that archiepiscopal ministry, but it experience of a host of people demands more than simple also marked the end of 25 years from the global diaspora who access to the room. It demands of history in the Church of are continually expected to a seat at the table and, more so, England. The first black singlehandedly shoulder the it requests an equal voice. archbishop of York, he was also burden of ethnic diversity and Dr Martin Luther King, Jr. the last remaining of only two inclusion. As my friend Dr reminded a divided nation of diocesan bishops from the Elizabeth Henry says: “There is the imperative for swift action. global majority to ever serve in something perverse expecting Over half a century later, I the Church of England. those who are oppressed and believe that Dr King’s words I cannot claim to have known excluded to be the architects of have renewed significance for Archbishop Sentamu well eliminating their oppression our Church. We would do well enough to offer any meaningful and exclusion.” to heed his words and act assessment of his character. In recent weeks, we have swiftly to address and redress However, like many, I have witnessed, in the global wave of the painful legacy of the loved his passion for a gospel people who have taken to the structural and systemic racism preoccupied with issues of streets, some extraordinary that continues to plague our social justice, his enthusiasm acts of moral courage and institution. For, as he said: “We for a Church confident in her selfless commitment to change, are now faced with the fact that mission, and his commitment to justice, and humanity. Both our tomorrow is today. We are equip and release others in Archbishops have boldly stated confronted with the fierce ministry. I was struck by his the part we, as a church, are to urgency of now. In this ability to command attention play in creating and fostering unfolding conundrum of life through the sheer force of his the environment that will allow and history, there ‘is’ such a charismatic personality. I was us to bring to an end the thing as being too late. This is often moved by his ambition to structural and systemic no time for apathy or help the Church become less expressions of racism that complacency. This is a time for parochial. For that and more, I permeates every strata of the vigorous and positive action.” give thanks. Church of England. My prayer is that there I recall watching images of It is encouraging to hear an continues to be an aliveness his enthronement service in increasing number of senior that persists and insists York Minster, alive with drums Church leaders advocate through the violence, and dancers. It then seemed to radical change. As we heed devastation and loss, and augur a new season of hope for their call to lament and thrives against the odds. I pray the Church, and usher in the repentance, we need to insist that we may be imbued with the change I had heard so many that these calls do not ring with audacity of living that compels black, Asian and minority the hollowness of countless us to build the true, the good, ethnic Anglicans speak of. At similar calls in the past. We and the beautiful. the time, I was not an Anglican need to ensure that they do not I pray that we may again hear and the thought of becoming sound in dissonance with the the sounds of drums resonating one and serving as a priest in anguish and unrelenting with accents of hope, and join in the CofE was not even a remote protest from a host of black and the dance. prospect in my mind. Looking Archbishop Sentamu retiring, brown lives dying to be heard back, I often wonder whether We need to listen the CofE now counts exactly in the pews and pulpits of our The Rev Canon Lusa Nsenga- that moment might have to the protest that two more bishops from the churches, in the chambers of Ngoy, is BAME Mission and unleashed in me a world of global majority than we did our Synods, in the corridors of Ministry Enabler, Leicester unsuspected possibilities. For demands more over 30 years ago. Lambeth Palace, and in the Cathedral the young black man I was While it may be premature to then, he represented the kind than simple access fully appreciate and assess the of iconography that made it to the room. It legacy of his ministry within possible for me to one day the CofE, it is undeniable that imagine myself becoming a demands a seat at John Sentamu has left an priest in the Church of indelible mark on the Province England. the table and, more of York. However, the question Fifteen years on, it seems like so, it requests an remains, was he just an the drums have fallen silent and unconventional punctuation in the dance has come to an end. equal voice the history of our Church? While it is true that significant Many of his critics will argue strides have been made in that he was not able to bring recent years with the senior roles within the CofE, about the expected increase in appointments of more people of the landscape remains ethnic diversity in York BAME heritage in some of the tragically sparse. With Province during his time as

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Peterson Feital I never experienced racism until I came to Britain

I was thrilled when Prince Dave Hogan Picture: inclusion are the same. I saw about it in the form of a one-to- Harry announced his the drawing illustrated below on one scenario with your boss is engagement to Meghan social media, illustrating what hard to quantify. But what is not Markle. However, I was not diversity (here marked right is that after disclosing this prepared for the undercurrent ‘integration’) and inclusion look information through the of racism in British society that like. I think, at best, most appropriate channels, no one would soon become a tsunami, people believe that integration seemed to care. nor the torrent of racial abuse is the same as inclusion, which In common with other victims that Meghan was about to it clearly is not. of abuse I was led to believe endure. This narrative that “Britain that it was my fault, and that it And over the last week or two will be overrun by migrants” was a personality issue, which this undercurrent of racism has who are “ready to steal jobs, to this day I believe was unfair exploded across the world drain the system, and stretch and biased. The structure and following the death of George the waiting time for doctor’s safeguarding for people like me Floyd and the reaction of the appointments” needs to need to change because by not American President to it. challenged. The truth looks having someone to report to This weekend campaigners very different. A simple search and to dialogue with just caused tore down a statue in Bristol on the Global Citizen website me even more pain. that was erected to remember gives some facts on In a pastoral and theological Edward Colston, a prominent immigration and migrants. We sense, the Bible is very clear 17th Century slave trader, who each have different stories, what the treatment of the has been a source of journey and scars. It isn’t true “foreigner” is to be like. I could controversy in the city for many to say that every foreigner is not put this in better words than years. A Bristol MP had called draining UK’s resources. It the Associate Professor Jarvis J for the statue’s removal as early would seem that individuals, Williams, who asserts in as 2018. Then, Thangam studies in this field was anonymous faces in the crowd organisations and institutions an article written for Christian Debbonaire, the Labour MP for conducted by the European and so more needs to be done – need to learn how to listen Today entitled “Jesus, Deliver Bristol West, said the city Research Centre on Migration, we need to start calling out on without bias. Us from this Racist Evil “should not be honouring and is entitled “Ethnic racism ourselves, in our own I, for example, failed to listen Age” that: ‘We believe in a people who benefited from Relations, ‘Racism and Cultural communities and workplaces. to the Bishop of Dover, Rose Saviour who redeems, a Spirit slavery”. Diversity in the Mass Media”. The truth is that we Hudson–Wilkin, to whom I owe who reconciles, and a gospel Perhaps things are changing, The research investigated how foreigners are easily treated as an apology. In 2016, Rose went that is the antithesis of white even here in the UK, because in narratives regarding race were a commodity. on record in an interview for supremacy.” recent years the anti-immigrant presented, and then measured It feels as though we are a the BBC reporting institutional The article articulates that in rhetoric of Brexit has not the rise in levels of racism visible ‘good thing’ when racism in the Church of Christ, every human has helped any immigrant to feel instigated afterwards in the institutions choose to display England; I refuted that on value, everyone is called to safe – even if you are a royal. public and in large institutions. our faces for the purpose of twitter saying that I did not belong, and racism must be Indeed, many of us from In Britain, it looked particularly displaying ‘diversity’. But, this agree. I am ashamed of myself fought against. different ethnic and religious at how institutions deal mostly is the issue: “diversity” only for doing this. I now realise I The power to fight racism lies backgrounds are now feeling a negatively with race and fail in means “one can have a seat at was in denial because I had in the Christian community tangible and palpable fear. securing inclusion. the table”, whereas “belonging,” never experienced racism until being able to model and shape Whilst this sense of not Last October Steven means “one who has a voice I moved to Britain. It took me acceptance and inclusion. belonging in the UK is not new, Spielberg released a that is listened to and time to realise that what I was Christ’s example is clear; Jesus especially for BAME documentary, Why we hate in respected”. Belonging means experiencing was in fact never placed institutions above individuals, it now seems that which he explores with being allowed to be who we are institutional racism. people. He confronted and the issue of racism can no scientists, sociologists and individually and being I did not want to believe that challenged religious structures longer be avoided. However, historians how the media respected with our differences. the country that gave William that didn’t offer a place for what is terrifying is that the creates destructive narratives I have come to realise that Wilberforce to the world, people to belong, regardless of media is reinforcing behaviour that feed on people’s fear of ‘the people think that diversity and whose faith was the catalyst to their race. Therefore, this must and language that is other’, leading to devastating set many slaves free, had be our measurement. unfortunately prevalent in consequences. It raised for me forgotten his legacy. We must be a Church that society at large. It is the question: “who holds the So, what are the media and operates like a family who normalising racist bullying media accountable?” and led me the Church institutions doing welcomes, blesses and supports against individuals and to conclude that institutional about such instances of racism? its members; which does not communities throughout the and public racism has not been For the Church of England’s accept racism; and who calls out UK and is affecting our view of challenged nearly enough. part, when I spoke to senior those who perpetrate it, “the other”. Unfortunately, not all of us leaders and managers I was told providing a safe place for all to Since the 1970s, sociologists, have the letter of solidarity that to just “keep my head down”, belong. media psychologists and other Meghan had from 72 female and reminded that I did not researchers have been looking MPs supporting her in her want to get on the “wrong side The Rev Peterson Feital is at ways of measuring the impact suing of British tabloids for of those who would ultimately Missioner to the Creative of the media opinion on public their misleading news and write a report that would impact Industries and Chief Executive – attitudes, especially with colonial undertone. This my future”. The Haven + London regards to race. One of the support for her is reassuring for I appreciate that to report http://thehavenlondon.com most influential research us, but most of us are just racism when you are talking facebook.com/thehavenlondon/ 10 Friday 12 June, 2020 FEATURE

A development that needs our attention I cannot remember a period of such uncertainty and distress While the Coronavirus pandemic has turned our world for so many people. So many unthinkable events have unfolded in the last few years: upside down, there is another development that could be our collective ‘no’ to continued EU membership; years of even more devastating paralysis and recrimination in our house of elected representatives. Then as we emerged from a general election into what appeared to be the promise of a more stable political period, putting personal politics aside, Coronavirus turns our world completely upside down. Now we look on in shock and horror as mayhem and violent scenes of racial disintegration unfold in the United States. This is a time of hurting, distress, self-doubt, uncertainty and fear for the future. Does anyone know anybody who is not feeling this? We are at risk in so many ways. Our collective capacity to think things through together – our differences complicating but also enriching our self- awareness – is imperilled. Inevitably, so too is our sense of perspective. These are not easy times to be a political leader, or any other kind of leader. There are so many pressing and urgent concerns to deal with. How to prioritise, to find time, to be strong when strength is required, flexible when more besides, is not exceptional: it’s President Trump unveiled his Here’s the rub: it has always time is needed? How to be Amidst the commonplace. long heralded, so-called, ‘Deal been accepted that a resolution compassionate as well as firm; In the midst of this of the Century’, formally to the conflict between Israel to act decisively but also wisely, maelstrom of events overwhelming confusion we entitled From Peace to and Palestine is dependent on a and with justice? How to know competing for our need to pay careful attention to Prosperity. Israeli Prime comprehensive settlement, when, and to whom, to listen in one particular development that Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agreed by both sides. We know the cacophony of social media attention in requires of our political and greeted it with unalloyed how intractable and comment and opinion, so much faith leaders clear thinking and enthusiasm. “An opportunity unsuccessful have been of it ill-considered and over- broadcast and decisive action. Right now it such as this comes once in attempts to bring such blown? social media, this may, at best, be writ small on history and cannot be missed”. agreement about over decades People in the Middle East will your list of next things to focus It’s not hard to see why. It with disastrous consequences not be as shocked or ill- issue hardly on. Seen from Embrace the completely rewrites the rule- for millions of people, and prepared as us. They have Middle East, and from the book on issues such as land, prolonged anguish and grown wearily familiar with features perspective of so many of our sovereignty, the status of suffering on both sides. The much of the above, manifested partners in the region, in refugees, Jerusalem as well as situation we face now is entirely in different ways, many of them particular in Israel and the core principle of negotiation different. violent, over decades. Which is They absolutely do. But they Palestine, it is anything but. – participation and consensus. One party has interpreted the not to say they do not have had to live with it much Amidst the maelstrom of events It has been roundly condemned Trump plan as a green light to experience the same feelings of longer. Lockdowns, isolation, competing for our attention in by the Palestinian leadership move ahead with proposals distress, fear, loss of hope or police brutality, shamefully broadcast and social media, this and deplored by Christian within the plan that should not, expectation and uncertainty, complacent or cruel executive issue hardly features. leaders in the Holy Land, the which we are experiencing. orders and so much more In January this year UK and elsewhere. Continued overleaf

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Continued from previous page been unwavering, until now, on this issue) on the West Bank, as and cannot legally, morally, or well as the fertile and in any other way, be justified strategically significant Jordan unless there is mutual valley. The US has already agreement between two declared its support for Israel’s peoples, or the parties claim to sovereignty over legitimately representing them. Syrian land occupied in the That party is the newly formed same war – the Golan Heights. coalition government of Israel Why is this such an important led by Benjamin Netanyahu. moment demanding clear The agreement signed by thinking and decisive action? If members of the coalition that this annexation goes ahead came into existence on 17 May hopes of a two-state solution go included a commitment to pass with it. Such a clear breach of legislation paving the way to international law will require a the unilateral annexation by the coordinated and firm response State of Israel of the lands from the international conditionally earmarked under community, led by the UN the Trump Plan for possible Security Council. The UK will transfer of sovereignty. These have to be part of an lands are part of territory international response that occupied by Israel following the could have severe, and many Six Day War in 1967. It is illegal Israelis believe, disastrous under international law to settle consequences for Israel. With on occupied land, let alone the death of the two-state challenges of this dramatic and understand the importance of Jews in the UK, the US and formally annex it. solution an entirely new uncertain moment there is one this pivotal moment; we must. elsewhere, as well as Israelis of The land earmarked and problem arises – how the equal that we should not ignore: not As Christians, we have been Jewish and Arab/Palestinian subject, from 1 July, to the rights of Palestinians and only for the sake of the millions asked by our sisters and descent who see through this threat of annexation includes Israelis can be guaranteed of Palestinians and Israelis who brothers in the Holy Land to glass darkly. They are clear that East Jerusalem, all but a within a Jewish democratic will reap a whirlwind, but for say a clear, firm no to annexation is wrong. On this miniscule fraction of the land state. No one knows the answer the credibility of a fragile annexation. It must not happen. issue we must find a way to settled illegally under but everyone who follows this international order based on We have a small window of think straight and speak true. international law (Israel situation knows it cannot be law and universally recognised opportunity to make their, and disputes this but the ignored. rights. The current US our, voice heard. In doing so we Tim Livesey is CEO of Embrace international community has In short, amidst all the other administration may not will be standing alongside many the Middle East

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A culture war we don’t need or want We are importing a US-style Windrush generation was culture war into Britain where it explicitly made to feel is neither needed nor wanted. unwelcome in the Church of And the storm of controversy England. And back then it over the George Floyd killing is would have been impossible to an example of this. It is imagine having an Archbishop welcome that there are protests who came to Britain seeking over the terrible death of asylum from the repressive rule George Floyd even thousands of Idi Amin, or a black woman of miles across the Atlantic. But as Bishop of Dover. minority backgrounds. place where women are that there is a similar revolution in the UK we must confront our But even recently senior In the space of a few years, suddenly numerous. Let us do as far as race is concerned. Let own problems of racism against clergy have faced problems in the House of Bishops became a more than just hope and pray us make it so. the backdrop of colonialism, the Church of England. In 2002, rather than the different scars an anonymous evangelical of segregation in the US. clergyman interviewed by The And in confronting our own Church of England Newspaper real problems of racism, let’s for a survey on who should be dismiss the radical the next Archbishop of troublemakers (largely white) Canterbury described Bishop who are vandalising statues, Michael Nazir-Ali as a ‘Paki- defacing monuments, and Papist’. At that time there was a attacking the police. notable campaign against It is possible to be against Bishop Nazir-Ali that was racist racism – indeed, institutional in intent. racism – and still deplore mob In 2012 after Archbishop violence on the streets. It is Rowan Williams’ resignation, possible to regret the vandalism one of the Bishops of a statue and simultaneously anonymously briefed a deplore the fact that journalist that John Sentamu philanthropists like Edward was the wrong person to take Colston have been honoured in over in Canterbury “… because Bristol without enough explicit he is quite tribal and the recognition being given to how African chief thing comes they benefitted from the through.” barbarity and inhumanity of the A retired bishop similarly slave trade. commented: “There is But in the week that we say something in Sentamu which farewell to the Archbishop of retains his African views and York, John Sentamu, it is worth approach, which can be at one marking the fact that the time an asset and another time Church of England’s own can be a problem.” problem with racism is now Recently, a 29-year-old black even more conspicuous than clergyman, Augustine Tanner- ever. For too long the Church Ihm, tweeted excerpts from a of England has been able to rejection email he had received deceive itself that its problems after applying for a curacy of racism were nothing to position. The email stated that worry about because it had a “the demographic of the parish black Archbishop – John is monochrome white working Sentamu one of the doughtiest class, where you might feel The dangers of the safety-first approach and most prophetic uncomfortable.” campaigners. We owe it to Archbishop It now looks unlikely that children will return to school in decent numbers until September. I But at February’s General Sentamu, to this young have been saddened by the timidity of the government, the unions and sadly so many teachers Synod, Justin Welby had to clergyman, and to the many and parents. As a primary school governor, I admire the hard and dedicated work of teachers in admit that the Church of people (especially the young) the past few months combining the new discipline of online teaching with child care England remained who are rightly impatient for responsibilities for key workers’ children. But I despair of the reluctant approach across the institutionally racist. To my racism to finally end, to bring board to welcome back as many children as possible into the classroom. memory, the Church of change to the Church of It is a matter of assessing risk sensibly. In many areas of the country there is very little England first admitted that it England. While overt racism is community transmission of the virus. Children seem to be extremely safe, and are therefore was ‘institutionally racist’ in the dying away there are no signs probably unlikely to pass the virus to teachers or parents. Sadly the overwhelming approach to wake of the Stephen Lawrence that we are paying attention to balancing risks emphasises the priority of ‘safety’ above all other factors. Inquiry with the publication of most subtle forms of prejudice. The safety-first approach to risk assessments has over the years led to fewer adventurous the ‘Seeds of Hope’ report in There must be no place for activities, and a reduction in school trips and experiences and less contact sports at a younger 1991. Since then the Committee lazy and dismissive age. This has been damaging to boys’ education because young boys struggle when they are on Minority Ethnic Anglican stereotyping. And we must be tethered to desks. Concerns has highlighted this conscious and deliberate in our And the safety-first approach discourages children from learning how to successfully manage problem roughly every five approach. We cannot just hope risks for themselves. I believe this approach to safety makes people more anxious and less able years or so. for the best. If we want to have to cope with the exigencies, emergencies and disasters that life throws at all of us. And indeed there has been a church that is the body of It is time to reject the emphasis that is placed on ‘safety’ in favour living life with the rewards of progress. One black friend has Christ we must actively reach well-taken risk. As Christians, we know that when we take up the cross, we leave ‘safety’ behind told me that he was called a out, nurture black vocations us in pursuit of an open adventure. This does not mean that we take ‘silly risks’ but we accept ‘monkey’ in theological college and then purposefully value the that everything entails a risk, and that the ‘safety first’ approach is joyless and life-limiting. in the 1950s and 1960s. The ministry of people from ethnic THE REGISTER Friday 12 June, 2020 13

Collect of the Week THE REGISTER First Sunday after Trinity

God of truth, Friday, 12 June 2020 Day 167 – Ezra 7-9, Psalm 135, I Corinthians 10 help us to keep your law of love and to walk in ways of wisdom, Newark (The Episcopal Church): The Rt Rev Tuesday, 16 June 2020 that we may find true life Carlye J Hughes in Jesus Christ your Son. Ankole (Uganda): The Rt Rev Sheldon Freder- Niagara (Canada): The Rt Rev Susan Jennifer ick Mwesigwa Anne Bell The “law of love” is so simple yet utterly profound. It is the final Bible in a Year: Day 164 – Ezra 1-3, Psalm 133, I Antsiranana (Indian Ocean): The Rt Rev command that Christ gave his disciples, indeed the only command Corinthians 8 Theophile Botomazava that he gave them during his final hours with them – that they are to Jamaica & The Cayman Islands (West Indies): love each other as he has loved them (John 13:34). Saturday, 13 June 2020 The Rt Rev Howard Gregory Jesus called this his “new commandment” as it brings together the Day 168– Ezra 10, Psalm 136, I Corinthians 11 two Mosaic Laws of loving God with all our “heart, soul, strength Newcastle (Australia): The Rt Rev Dr Peter Stu- and mind” and “loving our neighbours as ourselves” (Luke 10:27). In art Wednesday, 17 June 2020 so doing, he is calling us to love to a new standard – his standard. Newcastle (England): The Rt Rev Christine We are to love as he loves us. In doing so, the whole world will know Hardman Niassa (Southern Africa): The Rt Rev Vicente that we are his disciples. Day 165 – Ezra 4-6, Psalm 134, I Corinthians 9 Msossa So why do we find this so difficult? Aotearoa (Aotearoa NZ & Polynesia): The Most Why can’t this “law of love” be something that we all keep as our Sunday, 14 June 2020 Rev Don Tamihere daily goal and mantra? Because our disagreements and differences Day 169 – Nehemiah 1-3, Psalm 137, I Corinthi- get in the way. Because we have differing understandings about Pray for the Church of the Province of Myan- ans 12 what we perceive to be right and wrong – because we have eaten of mar (Burma). The Most Rev Stephen Than the Tree of Knowledge and think that we, and we alone, know the Myint Oo - Archbishop of Myanmar and Bishop Thursday, 18 June 2020 truth. of Yangon But knowledge is one thing, wisdom is quite another. We need Day 166 – Enjoy hearing the Scriptures read Nicaragua (Central America): The Rt Rev Stur- wisdom to know how to deal with difference, and wisdom to know aloud in church die Downs how to respond to situations that are beyond our control. So, it is Argentina (South America): The Most Rev Gre- only when we live with both grace and wisdom that we will find true Monday, 15 June 2020 gory James Venables fullness of life. Argyll & The Isles (Scotland): The Rt Rev Kevin How can we then set our hearts to focus on loving and our minds Ngbo (Nigeria): The Rt Rev Godwin A. Awoke Pearson to focus on seeking wisdom in such a way that builds bridges and Antananarivo (Indian Ocean): The Rt Rev Day 170 – Nehemiah 4-6, Psalm 138, I Corinthi- not barriers? Samoela Jaona Ranarivelo ans 13 Jalingo (Nigeria): The Rt Rev Foreman Nedison

The Rev David (Dave) Hendra, Lindsey Coulthard, Please send any items for inclusion on this page to Assistant Curate, Holy Trinity Leicester, to be Associate Lay Minister to St Stephen, Barbourne. [email protected] or to Priest within the Mitre Benefice (Interim Post for 18 Foluso Enwerem, The Church of England Newspaper, months) (Norwich). Lay Minister to Top Church, Dudley. 14 Great College Street, London, SW1P 3RX The Rev David Hildred, Jon Evans, Permission to Officiate in the benefice of All Saints, Lay Minister to Christchurch, Lye. Darfield (Sheffield), to be Team Rector of Kiddermin- Jessica Fellows, ster East (Worcester). Lay Minister to All Saints, Worcester. APPOINTMENTS The Rev Elizabeth Ann Peachey Christopher Henson, Assistant Curate, Knowle Parish Church, Diocese of Lay Minister to St John, Kidderminster. New Dean of Bristol Birmingham, moving to Permission to Officiate, Dio- Rosie Moss, The Rev Canon Dr Amanda (Mandy) Ford, cese of Birmingham. Lay Minister to St Nicholas, Warndon. Canon Chancellor and Director of Discipleship and The Rev Elise Michelle Peterson, Kim Topham, Ministry in the Diocese of Southwark has been appoint- Curate, Vale of Roding, to be Vicar, Rainham w Wen- Lay Minister to St Leonard’s Clent and St John the Bap- ed Dean of Bristol following the appointment of the nington (Chelmsford). tist with St Saviour Hagley. Very Rev Dr David Hoyle MBE as Dean of Westminster. The Rev Catherine Sigrist, Carol Weston, has been appointed to the role of Priest in Charge of the Lay Minister to Christ Church, Quarry Bank. The Rev Gareth William Atha, King’s Wood Benefice (Canterbury). Vicar of the Elloe Stone Parishes (Lincoln) has been The Rev Nathan Wilson, appointed as Vicar of the Benefice of Pickering with Team Missioner in the Ashford Town Parish, to be Chil- DEATHS Lockton and Levisham (York). dren and Young People’s Ministry Adviser for the Dio- The Rev Elizabeth Anne Cox, cese of Canterbury. Non Stipendiary Minister in the Benefice of The Six in The Rev Canon Stephen Wright, The Rev Brian Brown, Sittingbourne, with special responsibility for Stockbury, Priest-in-Charge of the Quidenham Group Benefice, to Non-stipendiary minister, Wallington (Holy Trinity) (St and of Chaplain at HMP Swaleside (Canterbury), to be be Bishop’s Interfaith Adviser (Norwich). Patrick) Southwark 1985-1991; Curate, Wallington Priest in Charge of St Barnabas and St Mary Magda- (Holy Trinity) (St Patrick) Southwark 1991-2000; lene, Gillingham, in the Diocese of Rochester. Retired from 2000; Permission to Officiate Norwich The Rev Christopher Mark Davey, RETIREMENTS & RESIGNATIONS from 2000, died on 27 May. Area Dean Braintree (deanery); Priest in Charge: The Rev Canon David George Neville Clark, Coggeshall w Marks Hall (St Peter-ad-Vincula, St The Rev Margaret Baker, Clergy with PTO: Coventry East (Coventry), died on 27 Nicholas’ Chapel); Cressing All Saints; Stisted All Saints Team Vicar, Rivers Team Ministry (Sheffield), to retire May. w Bradwell juxta Coggeshall and Pattiswick (Chelms- from 12 July. The Rev Andrew Herbert Redding Thomas, ford), to be Priest-in-Charge of Framlingham with The Rev Mike Bartlett, Curate, Cromer (St Peter and St Paul), Norwich 1969- Saxstead, Framlingham with Saxstead (St Edmunds- will retire as Rector of the Redditch Christ the King 1972; Holiday Chaplain 1972-1976; Rector, Grimston (St bury and Ipswich). Team on 31 July 2020 (Worcester). Botolph) w Congham, Norwich 1976-1983; Rector, Roy- The Rev Ruth Katherine Donegan-Cross, The Rev Sandra Faith Emery, don (All Saints), Norwich 1976-1983.Curate in charge Assistant Curate, St John and St Luke, Bilton, Harro- Associate Priest of Minchinhampton with Box and (of a CD, LEP, Proprietary Chapel, etc), Ewell St Paul gate, Diocese of Leeds, to be Incumbent, Holy Trinity in Amberley Benefice (Gloucester), retired from 24 May. Howell Hill (Conventional District), Guildford 1983- Ward End w Bordesley Green, Diocese of Birmingham. 1989; Vicar, Howell Hill (St Paul), Guildford 1989-1995; The Rev Frances Eccleston, Rural Dean, Epsom, Guildford, 1993-1995; Team Rec- Bishop’s Interim Minister and Area Dean of Laughton LAY & OTHER APPOINTMENTS tor, Beccles (St Michael the Archangel) (St Luke’s (Sheffield), to be Priest in charge of Holy Trinity, Wha- Church Centre), St Edmundsbury and Ipswich 1995- ley Bridge and St James, Taxal (Chester). 2004, Priest in charge, Worlingham (All Saints) w Barn- The Rev Elizabeth (Liz) Claire Hassall, The following people were due to be ordained Deacon at by and North Cove, St Edmundsbury and Ipswich Rector of the Benefices of Coxwold and Husthwaite, Petertide in the Diocese of Worcester. They will instead be 1998-2001. Retired 2004-2020. Permission to Officiate St and Crayke with Brandsby and Yearsley (York) has licensed as Lay Ministers: Edmundsbury and Ipswich 2004-2016. Permission to been appointed as Priest-in-Charge of the York City Claire Billington, Officiate Norwich 2004-2017, died on 29 May. Centre Group comprising York St Olave, York St Denys, Lay Minister to St Leonard, Broughton Hackett; St The Rev Canon Owen George Vigeon, York St Helen with St Martin, and All Saints Pavement Nicholas, Peopleton; St Kenelm, Upton Snodsbury and Clergy with PTO: Coventry East (Coventry), died on 20 (York). White Ladies Aston with Churchill and Spetchley. May. 14 Friday June 12, 2020 REVIEWS / SUNDAY Identifying evangelicals SUNDAY SERVICE Trinity 3 - Sunday 21 June Genesis 21:8-21 Romans 6:1b-11 Matthew 10:24-39

Christianity is not a hobby or a pastime, like fishing or gardening. Faith in Christ is not a lifestyle choice, like owning a pet or keeping to a diet. Worship of God is not an entertainment option like watching sport or going to a concert. Meditation on God’s Word is not a technique for psychological wellbeing. Prayer is not an emotional crutch. Church is not a social club. Let’s not mislead other people about this, least of all be unclear in our own minds. The Christian life is much bigger deal. In his pre-mission pep talk to his disciples, Jesus demands total commitment in this life but offers eternal security. It’s life and death. “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body, but cannot kill the soul,” verse 28. Jesus’ commission to go out in fearless testimony is matched by his promise of divine advocacy, verse 32. From this spiritual perspective, he bluntly lays out the gritty reality of the gospel front line in verse 34. “I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.” Because Jesus requires people to put him first, the other relationships in people’s lives will come WHO IS AN EVANGELICAL? not meet a minimum standard of enrolment by second, and that, inevitably, will cause fallout. “Anyone who loves Thomas S Kidd minorities. Bob Jones University was stripped of his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me,” verse Yale, hb, £22.50 tax exemption in 1976 because of its prohibition of 37. inter-racial dating. Other issues such as abortion He calls his disciples to call more disciples who are willing to Eighty-one percent of white evangelicals in and homosexuality drove evangelicals to support take up their cross and follow him. Again, he speaks in terms of America are said to have supported the election of the Republicans although it took time for abortion life or death. “Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever Donald Trump, a man who has been married to become an issue for them. loses his life for my sake will find it.” It’s all or nothing with three times and has referred in crude terms to Kidd sees Eisenhower as a key figure in forging Jesus; in death we find life. Life is on offer, but life is demanded. affairs with women as well as being a proven liar. the alliance with the Republicans. He was not Paul’s description of our salvation in Romans 6 is equally as Thomas Kidd, Professor of History at Baylor and personally devout but he was respectful of challenging. Though when sin increased, grace increased all the author of numerous works including an acclaimed religious faith and had a good relationship with more, more sin is not instrumental in procuring more of God’s biography of George Whitefield, has written this Billy Graham. Evangelicals were at first strongly grace, verse 1. Not when unity with Christ is the mechanism of short introduction to American evangelicalism anti-communist and later opposed to what they our redemption. Not when the means of grace is death to sin. that explains Trump’s appeal to some evangelicals saw as a threat from Islam. They gave support to ‘Atonement’ is a word originally conceived by the Bible but also argues for greater clarity about who Nixon, Reagan (a great favourite) and George W translator William Tyndale as ‘at-one-ment.’ Our ‘at-one-with- actually is an evangelical. Bush (pictured) although only Bush could really Christ’ status frees us from sin and gives us victory over death. Kidd identifies himself as a #NeverTrump claim to be a believer. It has to be admitted that We are buried with him in his death so that, “Just as Christ was evangelical. He sees the they did not get as much as they raised from the dead though the glory of the Father, we too may experience of being born again in hoped from these leaders in live a new life,” verse 4. United with him in his death, our sins Christ and the felt presence of the vast majority contrast to Trump who has become his to bear and he paid the price for them. United with the Holy Spirit as key marks of an certainly delivered on conservative him in his resurrection, his life becomes ours to live and he has evangelical. With this goes an of evangelicals appointments to the Supreme secured our hope for us. Our resurrection has already happened emphasis on the authority of the Court. in Jesus, so it is guaranteed in the New Creation. Bible and the cross of Christ and voted for Donald Kidd is critical of a number of the The death Jesus died, he died to sin, once for all, verse 10, so on activism that the historian Trump and there positions taken by white those who live for him must be dead to sin, verse 11. We must David Bebbington described as evangelicals and regrets that many actively and decisively avoid rebellion against God. We must turn marks of evangelicalism and is little doubt that were at least lukewarm on civil from wrongdoing and hate every evil thought that enters our which Kidd also accepts but this has rights but one of the aims of this heads. It’s not an easy call and we all fall far short, but God’s which he points out were also book is to correct the rather grace is sufficient. present in the older, Reformed damaged the simplistic understanding of Every year celebrity novices pair up with professional dancers Christianity. evangelicalism present in sections and we watch their progress. Our salvation is like dancing with a Evangelicalism became a force evangelical of the media. Large numbers of perfect professional partner. But then rather than being scored in America during the 18th ‘brand’ African Americans, Latinos and on our own faltering footsteps, being scored on the perfect steps century Great Awakening in members of immigrant groups are of an undisputed champion. Yet the beauty of it is that we move response to the ministry of such evangelical and do not share the together, we are locked together and move as one. Now try to people as Whitefield, John Wesley and Jonathan political agenda of white evangelicals. They have imagine that multiplied by the number of people in the local Edwards. In these early days it faced opposition produced such outstanding preachers and leaders church, the universal church and all believers in history. from established churches, Congregational in as Tom Skinner. Our movement with Christ is dying and rising. In death we find New England, Anglican in Virginia. This led many More care needs to be taken in identifying life. We die with him and we rise with him. We die to sin and we Baptists and other evangelicals to support the evangelicals. People who tell pollsters they are rise in righteousness. It’s a very big deal. separation between church and state in the evangelical have not all been born again or American constitution. Kidd underlines the irony embraced an evangelical spirituality. Many self- The Rev George Crowder is Vicar of St John, Over (Diocese of of later evangelical attempts to impose their ideas identified evangelicals do not even go regularly to Chester) and Regional Director of Church Society (North & on the American people in such ways as stopping church. In any case pollsters are finding it difficult Midlands). a Sunday postal delivery, banning the teaching of to come up with accurate results since few people evolution from schools, or imposing prohibition in are ready to respond to their surveys. the light of the stand evangelicals took at the When all this is said Kidd is ready to admit that HYMN SELECTION Revolution. the vast majority of evangelicals voted for Donald Part of the problem was that although America Trump or at least against Hillary Clinton and had no established church, features of non- there is little doubt that this has damaged the Traditional denominational Protestantism, such as the use of evangelical ‘brand’. After 80 years the Princeton All my hope on God is founded the King James Bible in schools, were part of the Evangelical Fellowship has dropped that name Praise my soul the king of heaven general culture. Supreme Court decisions banning and Timothy Keller prefers to be known as Take my life and let it be prayer and mandatory Bible readings in schools ‘orthodox’ rather than evangelical. Evangelicalism Contemporary were seen as an attack on what had been is not going away but it desperately needs to find In Christ alone understood as a Protestant establishment. new leaders of higher calibre than the likes of Teach me to dance These decisions encouraged the rise of the Jerry Falwell Jr if it is going to be a positive force Kids ‘Moral Majority’. Another factor was an attempt to in American life. What sort of king deny tax exemption for private schools that did Paul Richardson REVIEWS Friday 12 June, 2020 15

Steve Parish reviews the opening film in Canada Now’s online festival, showing on Curzon Home Cinema, and a quirky Russo-Chinese adventure film available on various digital platforms plus DVD and Blu-ray An intriguing insight into the Guest of Honour

In Guest of Honour (dir. Atom The initial plot is told in oppressing the locals, Egoyan), church minister Greg animation, and much of it does ostensibly to feed the dragon (Luke Owen) meets Veronica feel cartoonish, yet the with gold (and the occasional (Laysla De Oliveira) who wants FILM spectacular sets and some human sacrifice). The enforcers a funeral service for her father thrilling fight scenes (with a are giants with such Jim (David Thewlis). His OF THE WEEK touch of humour) mean it’s not superpowers as electricity, connection to the church was dull. There’s always a lot, magnetism and sonic waves. slight and Greg asks what she maybe too much, happening in Jonathan Green (Jason knows of his “spiritual path”. been fooling around with her this 18th century tale. Flemyng) is an English Flashback shows Jim’s career music teacher Alicia (Sochi Jackie Chan has a credit as cartographer who got caught in as a food inspector, an English Fried) – while Veronica learnt producer and, aged 66, more bed with his aristocratic émigré to Canada – it’s four to play the glass harp (glasses than a cameo as an ageing girlfriend Miss Dudley (Anna minutes of Thewlis finding fault of water) – during her mother’s master of martial arts, Churina). He fled to make maps but culminating in a new terminal illness. It may not be imprisoned with a man in an for the Tsar, leading to her restaurant’s joyfully getting its the worst of his guilty secrets, iron mask who claims to be quest to find out why he hasn’t big green pass certificate. He’s but it’s Veronica’s own secrets – Peter the Great, having been come back. then reviewing recordings of why she felt she deserved to be replaced at the Russian court Cameos for Charles Dance happy times with Veronica as a in jail – that emerge. by a double. In charge of the and the late Rutger Hauer child (Isabelle Franca) and his The rabbit interest is prison, the Tower of London, is complement the mostly Russian Brazilian wife Roseangela renewed with a visit to an eccentric soldier James Hook cast. It’s hard to know how this (Tennille Read). Armenian restaurant (putting This is another that just takes (Arnold Schwarzenegger, aged would have done with a Plainly now is not a happy Egoyan in familiar territory ordinary people facing 72) who gives prisoners a theatrical release – the scenery, time, as we cut back to the including a role as usual for his extraordinary circumstances, chance to escape by letting even the CGI, deserves a big funeral visit. Roseangela had wife Arsinée Khanjian as the and weaves a story round them them fight him. screen (and was filmed in 3D) – been a churchgoer, but owner). When Jim returns to to intrigue the viewer. The dragon story involves but for an unusual and messy Veronica has one comment on check on a previous This has the bonus of a good wizards going over to the dark mix of fairy tale and Jim’s life: “He made a lot of odd contravention (fried rabbit ears soundtrack that includes side, and usurping a princess – swashbuckling adventure, it’s choices”. is apparently a delicacy, and not Sergey Karamyshev’s virtuoso again with a lookalike – and still a ripping yarn. Veronica became a music just in Armenia), he is called on version of Air on a G-String teacher – until pupil Clive to make an impromptu speech, played on wine glasses. It also (Alexandre Bourgeois) asks essentially as guest of honour has a virtuoso performance by her out while on a school for not closing them down. Thewlis, and – if awards season orchestra tour, and she turns to The bonhomie changes when happens – he ought to feature. tour bus driver Mike (Rossif he drunkenly launches into a Sutherland) to provide an defence of his daughter’s The Iron Mask (dir. Oleg excuse to avoid Clive. Later, reputation – “Rumours grew Stepchenko) is a Russian film, a she’s accused of very like a cancer; not everything fantasy blending a story of a inappropriate behaviour, and can be cured”. It’s mystifying to fake Tsar (Yuri Kolokolnikov), the film traces how things came his audience, but also a fake Chinese princess to be, leaving an air of mystery threatening. (Xingtong Yao), and a fake over the truth of the allegations. Egoyan’s narrative style, dragon – one alternative title is Explaining to Fr Greg that whether adapting novels The Mystery of the Dragon her father had to look after her (Felicia’s Journey, The Sweet Seal. It’s a follow-up to Viy long-lived pet rabbit when “I Hereafter) or to his own script (2014) aka The Forbidden was in jail”, the next twist is an (Exotica), often mixes mystery Kingdom, which was based on a accusation that her father had and psychological musings. story by Niokai Gogol.

Music Choice Jean-Louis Matinier, Kevin Seddiki RIVAGES

There is a type of accordion music that is highly evocative of France; not a fast, folky type, but a more romantic style. That is what we have here. It is not surprising, as Matinier was born in Nevers and played with the French National Jazz Orchestra for a couple of years around 1990. So this sound is authentic. A few pieces are improvisations (such as the darker “Miroirs” and “Feux Matinier began his career in classical music Follets”) and can be a little directionless, but there is plenty of melody to offset before moving to jazz and then improvisation. this, with tunes like Fauré’s “Les Berceaux” and “Greensleeves,” although the He has collaborated with a variety of musicians, latter is more of a jazz-style improvisation around the tune than playing it straight. who have played instruments as varied as oud, A blend of mood and melody comes out in tracks like the lovely “La Chanson saxophone, piano and bass. d’Hélène” by film composer Philippe Sarde and their similarly beautiful joint Here he is playing alongside acoustic composition “Reverie.” The opening piece “Schumannsko,” a piece based on both guitarist Kevin Seddiki, of French, Algerian and Italian descent, who has played a a Schumann theme and a traditional Bulgarian tune. lot with fellow guitarist Al di Meola and who shapes, just, the lion’s share of the A year or two back, I covered an album (Absinthe) by Sting’s guitarist Dominic music (his “Derivando” is a solo piece). His style is light finger-picking and the two Miller, who introduced an accordion player to several of the tracks and was of them describe their approach as creating “chamber music open to the world.” disappointed that it took away from the purity of his previous solo album. By The two share a deep symbiosis, whether one is backing the other, or whether contrast, this duo work has the instruments pleasingly integrated throughout. they trade lines. Nothing reaches five minutes long, so nothing is stretched out (it It is a beautiful release that leaves a physical peace in its wake. would be lovely if several tracks could continue their tranquil beauty for longer). Derek Walker 16 Friday 12 June, 2020 Reviews/TV & Radio

Steve Morris on TV

NT Live This House, YouTube, make a particular political James Graham point. Instead it tells a story Trouble in the House that talks into our own lives as These are miserable times for well as to the events that we theater, but perhaps TV might different and more positive Margaret Thatcher and James have lived through. come to its rescue. Who knows direction. Callaghan are all referred to, There is one further benefit. what will emerge from this By the time you read this and their presence looms over Plays are here today, gone pandemic and how theatre will review, there’s every chance the production, but we never tomorrow. They are live and adapt? It looks pretty grim at that one million people will see them. Instead, we spend when the production is over the moment. Will we want to go have tuned in to watch This most of the time in the they might rarely be seen to theatre if there is a risk that House. Not only will a million claustrophobic atmosphere of again. It has often struck me we could catch a deadly people have tuned in, but they the whips’ office and we see the that all the work, money and disease? would have seen something of interaction between the two creativity put into putting on a There are, though, signs of such quality and depth that parties and the wonderful play is lost the minute it stops hope and one of the biggest when theatres open their doors comedy and slapstick of those running. NT Live is bringing signs is the phenomenon of the again, surely, they will be the political times. plays back to life and perhaps NT Live broadcast. Even during first people to buy tickets. It’s hard to single out the best tells us that as we go forward, a good run at the National This House, written by James performances, because they’re we should do this kind of thing Theatre, the number of people Graham, was on at the elected with a very small all good. But Phil Daniels as much more often. who actually attend is relatively Cottesloe Theatre at the end of majority to the vote of no- Bob Mellish, Labour’s chief So, I hope that NT Live and low. And those who do tend to 2012. It was voted play of the confidence in James whip, is a beauty. It has comedy other broadcasts from theatres be people who have money and decade in Bloomsbury Callaghan’s ailing government and menace. show how much we cannot do are regular theatregoers. But Publishing’s public vote and in 1979. It helps that this production without the stage. Theatre when a production can be put that vote is not at all misplaced. The genius is that the major has so many echoes of recent explains ourselves to ourselves on television and available to The play covers the period 1974 players of the time are only political events. But what and is the purest art form. all, free of charge, then theatre to 1979, from the general experienced off-stage. Ted makes it so wonderful is that it Thank God that TV can help us is moving in a completely election that saw Labour Heath, Jeremy Thorpe, isn’t polemical, it isn’t played to to know this.

Songs of Praise, BBC1 find spiritual inspiration in the great outdoors, including the & Yorkshire Dales, Cumbria and TV Radio Perthshire, Cumbria and Perthshire, BBC1 3pm Choral Evensong, From York Minster (first broadcast 10 June 2009), Radio 3 Friday 12 June Monday 15 June 5.43am Prayer for the Day. A spiritual comment and prayer to begin 0.15am Thinking Allowed. The Reli- the day with Canon Stephen gious Right in the US. The reli- Shipley, Radio 4 gious right in the US - Laurie 9.45am Daily Service, Radio 4 LW Taylor explores their route to political power, Radio 4 Saturday 13 June 9.45am Daily Service, Radio 4 LW 5.43am Prayer for the Day. A reflection Tuesday 16 June and prayer to start the day with Rev Lynne Gibson, Radio 4 01.40amBlack and British: A forgotten 10.30amThe Queen’s Official Birthday. for ‘noetic’ experiences and 11.30amHeart and Soul. Reflections on history. In part three of this Huw Edwards introduces cover- encounters with the divine, faith in a global crisis. For the groundbreaking series, histori- age of a ceremony marking the Radio 4 final programme in the series, an David Olusoga explores the Queen’s official birthday. 7.10am Sunday, religious news and cur- John McCarthy talks to people Victorian moral crusade against Trooping the Colour is unable rent affairs programme, Radio 4 of faith about the very different slavery, BBC Four to be held as normal due to the 8.00am Religious service, BBC Local world that is emerging and how 9.45am Daily Service, Radio 4 LW Covid-19 pandemic, so a smaller Radio Network. best to cope with that, BBC event is being staged at Wind- 8.10am Sunday worship. Cardinal Vin- World Service. Wednesday 17 June sor Castle, BBC One cent Nichols celebrates Mass 12noon Private Passions: Peter Stan- for the Feast of Corpus Christi ford. For more than 20 years, in 9.45am Daily Service, Radio 4 LW Sunday 14 June live from Westminster Cathe- more than 20 books, writer 11.30amMiriam And Youssef, Radio 4 dral, Radio 4 Peter Stanford has grappled 3.30pm Choral Evensong. From the 5.43am Bells on Sunday comes from the 10.45amSunday Worship. First Sunday with religious belief. Music Chapel of Trinity College, Cam- Church of St John-the-Baptist, after Trinity. Youth minister choices include Hildegard of bridge (first broadcast on 30 Great Gaddesden in Hertford- Sarah Bradley leads a service Bingen, Jacqueline du Pre play- June 2010), Radio 3 shire, Radio 4 from Holy Trinity Platt Church ing Bach, Mozart’s Exultate 4pm Thinking Allowed. The Reli- 6am Good Morning Sunday, present- in Manchester. This service was Jubilate, the political protest gious Right in the US, Radio 4 ed by the Rev Kate Bottley and filmed before the closure of all singer Harry Chapin, and Jen- 8pm Moral Maze. Combative, Jason Mohammad, Radio 2 church buildings, BBC One. nifer Johnston’s version of You’ll provocative and engaging live 6.05am Something Understood: Divine 11.15am: Sunday Morning Stories. Kate Never Walk Alone, Radio 3 debate examining the moral Recognition. Dr Sarah Goldin- Bottley explores the value of 1.15pm Songs of Praise: Worship in the issues behind one of the week’s gay looks to the natural world kindness, BBC One. Great Outdoors. People who news stories, Radio 4

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