TheWay The FREE newspaper of the Church in Cumbria – Winter 2018/19

One woman and her May you all have a dogs – and her flock wonderful Christmas PAGE 12 and Christ-filled 2019! ‘IN PRISON BUT FREE!’

By Dave Roberts n The chief executive of The “I REMEMBER sitting in a police station and saying, Well Communities describes ‘God, if you get me out of this, I won’t commit another crime’. I was bailed, walked how finding faith put an end to out, then just laughed it off with ‘God! God who?’” a spiral of drug-fuelled decline Dave Higham, founder and chief executive of The Well sentences followed while his able to fight and look after Communities in Barrow, re- cravings for the next ‘high’ myself. I’d told him, ‘Don’t calls just one of the many times grew ever stronger. Drugs were you come near me’. he was arrested for stealing easy to come by inside prison “But that was years ago and and burgling to feed a as well as outside. now I was stood here looking at crippling heroin addiction. But starting another four- this Bible. So I said ‘Alright, if Plagued by self-hatred and year sentence, and by now in you’re there I want you to low self-esteem both as a child his mid-30s, Dave found hope. come into my life right now’. and young man, and living A fellow prisoner mentioned a And it happened. It was as if within a dysfunctional family 12-step rehabilitation my whole body had come alive. in Liverpool, he sought programme run at the former It’s so hard to describe but it comfort elsewhere, but in Lancaster Castle prison. He felt like my blood was full of terribly self-destructive ways. applied and was accepted. bubbles. There was such inten- On the programme were sity and power and I now know Aged just 12, Dave began to that was the Holy Spirit. Dave Higham: experiment with household people he knew as former Overcame a addicts, learning how to be “God knew that’s what I substances such as glue. By 14 needed; I’m someone who crippling heroin he was addicted to heroin. Two clean from drugs. Then one day he walked into the dorm needs hard facts in order to be- addiction to years later he was serving his lieve something. That was establish a first sentence - three months at he shared with seven other men to find a Bible on his bed. when God came into my life. It programme for a Young Offender Institution was the most free I’d ever felt; other former having been convicted of “In the past I’d told God I was in prison but I was free!” drug users attempted burglary and theft. where to go,” he explains. “I His life spiralled out of wasn’t interested in him. I was DAVE n Turn to page 5 ROBERTS control; repetitive prison inside prison, I needed to be 2 The Way, Winter 2018/2019 www.carlislediocese.org.uk INSIDE EVENTS AT Leading clergy walk CARLISLE THIS CATHEDRAL EDITION together in mission DECEMBER Fri 7 – 7.30pm, The Eden Valley Hospice Carol Service. Carols for MUSIC MAN all with the Cathedral Carliol Choir n Group will visit Mon 10 – 7pm, University of Heralding Cumbria Christmas Celebration every Mission Fri 14 – 7.30pm, Gala Concert for Christmas Christmas with the Cathedral in Carlisle Community Choirs Sun 23 – 3pm, Festival of Readings PAGE 7 and Carols with the Cathedral area, or where Choir Mon 24 – 3pm, The Christmas Eve APPOINTMENT one is planned Crib Service with the Cantate Children’s Choir; 6.30pm, A Festival of Readings and Carols Craig takes By Rev Mike Talbot, with the Cathedral Choir; 11.30pm, up cathedral Evangelism Enabler Christmas Midnight Eucharist with the Senior Girls’ Choir and Lay position Clerks, Preacher: Canon Jan BISHOP James, along with Kearton PAGE 10 the other ecumenical Tues 25 – 8am, Holy Communion; 10.30am, Christmas Morning church leaders who will Eucharist, President: The Dean of accompany him along parts Carlisle, Preacher: The Bishop of RUGBY LEAGUE of the way, will be taking Carlisle; 4pm, Said Evening Prayer Chaplain the opportunity to increase Sun 30 – 10.30am, Eucharist sung their step count through by the Cathedral Carliol Choir for Barrow Lent when they set out to Raiders walk across Cumbria. JANUARY 2019 The group will visit every Sun 6 - 3pm, Carols for the Feast PAGE 15 area where there is either a of the Epiphany with the Senior Mission Community, or one Girls’ Choir and Lay Clerks being planned. Tues 15 – 7.30pm, Christingle CONTACT US Joining them for some of the Service time will be the newly EDITOR & consecrated Bishop of Penrith, FEBRUARY ADVERTISING: Emma Ineson. Sun 3 – 3pm, Evensong for Dave Roberts Planning to cover around 10 Candlemas attended by the miles a day, their visits aim to Friends of the Cathedral, Preacher: Tel: 01768 807764 support local churches in build- Mobile: 07469 153658 the Dean ing on the work that took place Sun 10 – 10.30am, Plus Eucharist Email: communications@ during Moving Mountains – carlislediocese.org.uk looking for ways in which we can help those around us MARCH The Way is the newspaper of the Church in discover more of God and his Ash Wednesday, March 6 - Cumbria. It is produced in partnership purpose in their lives. 7.30pm, Eucharist sung by the between the Church of England Diocese of Senior Girls and Lay Clerks Carlisle, the Methodist District of Plans are already afoot for Cumbria, the United Reformed Church in tea parties, grill-a-bishop Sun 17 – 3pm, Evensong and the Cumbria and Churches Together in evenings in local pubs, Installation of the Bishop of Penrith Cumbria. Through Churches Together in storytelling in libraries and Sat 23 – 7.30pm, Cumbria Rural Cumbria, we ensure coverage of and Choirs concert: Mozart’s Requiem distribution to the Roman Catholic, meetings with local council- Stepping out: Bishop James DAVE ROBERTS Salvation Army, Quakers and independent lors to explore how the church and Haydn’s The Seven Last churches. The editorial team is made up can support the community. Words of Christ of representatives from across the The best events are those denominations. DATE MORNING LUNCHTIME EVENING The purpose of The Way is to reflect the which build on what is already APRIL Church in Cumbria to itself and to our happening – using the visit of Mon 11 March Launch event Penrith Inglewood Sun 14 – 10.30am, Palm Sunday communities more widely. the church leaders to support Plus Eucharist with procession We do not seek to promote any and resource us as we seek to Tue 12 March Walk to Wetheral Holme Eden/Scotby Brampton particular theological viewpoint, but rather Wed 13 March Walk to Lanercost NE Brampton MC Carlisle Central Our Holy Week Preacher for 2019 aim to stimulate debate by featuring writers embed outreach as a way of will be The Very Rev Dr Frances from a variety of church traditions and from life within our Mission Thu 14 March Walk to Kingmoor/Houghton Kingmoor/Houghton Carlisle South Ward, Formerly Dean of St society more widely. Communities. Fri 15 March Walk to Burgh by Sands Carlisle Rural Carlisle Rural Edmundsbury. She will preach at While we are happy to consider Sun 17 March Moresby unsolicited submissions, we operate As the group walks the the services marked * below. largely on a system of commissions and do county, local people will be Mon 18 March Walk to Solway Plain Solway Plain Maryport/Criffel View Mon 15 - 7.30pm, Holy Week not guarantee to publish any materials encouraged to join them for Tue 19 March Walk to Workington Workington Grassmoor Eucharist * received. parts of the journey – walking The views and opinions of contributors Thu 21 March Walk around Derwentwater Tues 16 - 7.30pm, Holy Week and advertisers do not necessarily reflect together, discovering God in Fri 22 March Walk Beacon Edge to Langwathby East of Eden North Appleby Eucharist * the views and opinions of the partners. the thin places which prolifer- Sat 23 March Tebay South Appleby South Appleby Wed 17 - 7.30pm, Holy Week The publisher takes no responsibility ate across Cumbria, and learn- Eucharist * for losses arising from information in ing from one another what it Sun 24 March Western Dales Western Dales Rainbow advertisements in The Way. means to be a pilgrim people. Mon 25 March Walk to Kent Estuary Kent Estuary Grange Maundy Thursday, April 18 - 11am, Tue 26 March Walk to Kendal Kendal Kendal Eucharist with renewal of What are the ways in which ministerial vows and blessing of Wed 27 March Kendal Kendal Kendal you might be able to make the oils; 7.30pm, Maundy Thursday most of this opportunity, both Thu 28 March Walk to Windermere Windermere Windermere Eucharist * The Way in your community and for Fri 29 March Walk to Ambleside Central Lakes Central Lakes Good Friday, April 19 - 12 noon, yourself? Sat 30 March Walk to Crake Valley Crake Valley Ulverston Meditation; 1.30pm, Good Friday For details, talk to your Sun 31 March Walk to Urswick Dalton/Urswick Dalton Liturgy * Newspaper of Mission Community leader (or Mon 1 April Barrow Sat 20 - 7.30pm, Easter Eve local minister) or get in touch Tue 2 April Barrow Barrow Millom Eucharist and Confirmation with Mike Talbot via mike. the Church Wed 3 April Seascale South Calder Central Calder Sun 21 (Easter Day) - 10.30am, [email protected]. Thu 4 April Hensingham East Whitehaven Whitehaven Sung Eucharist, President the n The proposed itinerary Fri 5 April Binsey Binsey Keswick Bishop of Carlisle, Preacher the in Cumbria can seen in the orange panel Dean of Carlisle; 3pm, Evensong on the right. Sun 7 April Two Rivers www.carlislediocese.org.uk The Way, Winter 2018/2019 3 NEWS IN New bishop following BRIEF The ‘Big Events’ CUMBRIA’S God’s call to Cumbria ecumenical leaders will host two special God for All ‘Big Events’ next year. n Rheged’s 200-seat The Way meets the Rev Emma Ineson as she prepares to move north theatre is the venue for both events on Emma, firstly, tell us a little bit Friday March 1, from 2-4pm and more about yourself, your repeated from 7-9pm. They will provide a chance to Qupbringing and your family? explore how God for All is working Hi! I was born in Birmingham but in a local context. spent most of my childhood in In December a survey will be AKenya, where my parents were in- emailed to all mission communities volved with education. I met my hus- (planned, developing and launched) band Mat at University in Birmingham, so that feedback can be collated to help hone the events’ content. where I studied English, and we have Early in the New Year, invitations two children, now adults. We’ve lived will be opened enabling 10 people all over the UK – Birmingham, Bristol, from each community to attend. Devon, Sheffield – and now Cumbria. Each session will be live-streamed allowing countywide participation. At what point did you make a Qcommitment to follow Jesus? Ad man leaves My mother took me and my sister AFTER 10 years as along to church from when we advertising man- Awere little so I learned very young ager for The Way, Steven Bowditch, that Jesus was my friend. I got to know pictured, has the Bible and ‘grew into’ Christian faith. stepped down from It was when I left home at 18 that I the voluntary role. owned faith, and had to decide whether I The 71-year-old would be known for being a Christian. former headteacher at James Rennie School in Carlisle has overseen the advertising for more How has your relationship with than 30 editions of the newspaper God helped you over the years which is published three times a year. Qand, particularly, as you prepare Steven, who lives in Stanwix with to move to Cumbria? his wife Christine and son Andrew, My relationship with God, through said: “It’s been a pleasure to be involved. I have met a wide range of Jesus, directs everything I do and people, all of whom have viewed Awho I am at my very core. Without The Way with great Christian God I wouldn’t have made many of the kindness.” decisions I have. Being a Christian gives Steven even continued in the role me such hope and joy, even (or espe- what aspects of ministry and mission hope and healing. Oh, and I’ve learned a Emma while serving as a city councillor cially) at those times in life when things need to remain the same, and what thing or two about running a fairly large between 2010 and 2018. needs to change. We’re going to need institution, which might come in handy Ineson: Dave Roberts, the Diocese of have been tough – at the death of my fa- Carlisle’s communications manager ther following a road accident a few creativity and imagination to tell the occasionally! Preparing for and editor of The Way, said: “I years ago, for instance. I have been so age-old story of God in new and com- I’ll be sad to leave Trinity College, consecration would like to thank Steven for the grateful for the way Jesus has been at pelling ways. My sense is that there is but I know I’m following God’s call to many years he has given towards the centre of our marriage and family already a lot of great stuff happening in Cumbria. as Bishop of the production of The Way. and through the churches of Cumbria. Penrith in “Steven’s energy, enthusiasm life too. As we prepare to move to Cum- and support for The Way have bria I am so looking forward to getting What passage of scripture par- February proved invaluable.” to know the Christian family in this You’ve already made a number ticularly resonates for you at We are looking for a new wonderful county. of visits to Cumbria since your Qthis time and why? advertising manager. Anyone Qappointment. What do you One of my favourite books is DAVE interested should contact Dave make of the county? Paul’s letter to the Ephesians. It of- ROBERTS Roberts on 01768 807764, 07469 As Bishop of Penrith you’ll be 153658 or at communications@ involved in enabling the ecu- Cumbria is an amazing place! Afers a great vision of what the carlislediocese.org.uk. Qmenical God for All strategy. Aside from the obvious natural church is for – and could be. Chapter 3 What excites you most about this? Abeauty, the people seem to have verse 20-21 says: “Now to him who by It’s an audacious vision, which is warm hearts and a great sense of hu- the power at work within us is able to great. I love the fact that the aim is mour. I can’t wait to get stuck into all accomplish abundantly far more than all Afor every woman, man and child to that Cumbria has to offer. Church life we can ask or imagine, to him be glory have the opportunity to know God and can be tough in an area with small, dis- in the church and in Christ Jesus to all Phone: 01768 868683 his purpose for their lives by connecting persed communities, but I’ve glimpsed a generations, for ever and ever. Amen”. with a Christian community. The fact creativity and resilience. I’m looking That sense of audacious possibility is Email: [email protected] that it’s an ecumenical vision makes it forward to becoming part of the big what I see at the heart of God for All. all the richer; we are better together, and family that is the Diocese of Carlisle. www.askins-little.co.uk each denomination brings its own riches As you prepare for consecration to the way we do mission. You come to this role after four in February, what would you years as principal at Trinity Col- Qask people to pray for both you God for All is not without chal- Qlege, Bristol. How has that and your family? lenges as we all look at develop- helped you prepare for this next step? Please pray that God equips and Qing new forms of mission and Being among a large community prepares me to serve the people of ministry. How can we help our church of (mainly young) people training ACumbria and the Diocese of families on this journey? Afor ministry and ordination has Carlisle well. Do pray for Mat my I don’t think mission has ever been given me real hope for the Church of husband and for Molly and Toby, our easy. Even when Jesus walked this England. I’ve also learned a lot about children, who will be off following their We carryP outhone all: stonework,01786 868683 lime pointing Aearth there were those who re- the importance of everyone (not just own vocations. And pray that I follow jected his message. We live in complex those at theological colleges) growing in Jesus closely in the weeks and years andwww.askins-little.co.uk lime plastering to churches, and uncertain times, and so we’re going faith and discipleship. Above all I’ve ahead. I am very much looking forward Email: [email protected] to need courage to stand firm. We’re seen the power of the Holy Spirit of God to being with you, alongside Bishop memorials, listed buildings and homes also gong to need wisdom to discern to transform lives and bring growth, James and my ecumenical colleagues. 4 The Way, Winter 2018/2019 www.cumbriamethodistdistrict.org.uk By The Way Less mischief, please ‘I have come that they I WONDER if we could change the culture around Halloween to bring a little bit of light and thankfulness instead of celebrating trickery and mischief? You could have a family might have life to the full’ celebration in your own home, with a special harvest meal, perhaps lighting a candle for each person you want to remember, sharing some stories about them. And imagine if n County develops and strengthens national Vision for Education for local children those who went round knocking on doors gave a little gift instead of expecting a treat! Jennet McLeod, Around Church, THE past two years have seen Ramsden Street URC some exciting developments in the realm of education. Across FAMILIES Together In Tebay and Orton. I want Cumbria there is a fresh vision to introduce this with a quote: “It takes a vil- lage to raise a child.” As a single mother to for all children and young three children this comforts me along with people, based on Jesus’s words prayer in my darkest times. This quote comes in John 10:10 “I have come that from an African proverb which means that it takes an entire community of different people they might have life to the full.” interacting with children in a safe environ- Rev Andrew Towner, chair of ment. Families Together look to promote this. the Diocesan Board of Education Pippa Smith, The Link, Orton, Tebay and and, himself, a former teacher, Ravenstonedale with Newbiggin-on-Lune explains: “When I was appointed WE are pleased to tell you Lamplugh CofE to chair this work in early 2017, I School won a ‘Golden Apple’ award for Best knew that a clear vision was vital. Early Years Provider – a fantastic achievement. “The Church of England had The pupils continue to enjoy their learning and already done some work on this at are undertaking many exciting opportunities, a national level, and we had also both in and out of school. I am thoroughly begun to review it at a county enjoying leading the school forward and sup- porting the fantastic pupils, staff and parents. level. We needed to focus that into Lindsey Martin, Contact, Lamplugh, the realities, challenges and Kirkland and Ennerdale Ecumenical Parish opportunities, in Cumbria.” The national Vision for AS I was quite young, my memories of the war Education focusses ‘life to the are vague: the black-out blinds, the gas masks, powdered egg, blackcurrant puree in tins, con- full’ into four concepts designed centrated orange juice, cod liver oil and pow- to shape all our desires for children and young people: dered milk, which my mother used to make Benefitting: Pupils at Carlisle’s Bishop Harvey Goodwin School CHARLIE HEDLEY into delicious mint-flavoured sweets. We didn’t n Wisdom – that learning have an ‘Anderson Shelter’ which my husband develops wisdom as well as remembers from his childhood in Stanwix. knowledge and skills plan to make schools into this vision has rightly captivated a considering the three-legged stool Eileen Sinclair, Dalston Parish Paper n Hope – that all are mini-churches. number of heads who don’t work of church, school and family and Michael Mill, diocesan director in the church schools’ context – the strong potential of these when PERIOD Livingin November featured the encouraged to develop hope and Stationmaster’s House at Wetheral railway sta- aspiration of education, said: “This vision and we are thrilled by that.” working together to influence tion, the home of Mat and Judith Jansen. Back n Community – that each expands beyond the 100-plus The Bishop of Carlisle recently lives for good. in July there was one grey day amidst the wide individual lives well with others schools for which we have legal described this as “an important Andrew added: “The test for us blue skies all around. That was the day the n Dignity – that our statutory responsibility. It is a aspect of our God for All mission has always been whether this is photographer from the magazine arrived – at desire to positively influence the in Cumbria” and the ecumenical making a positive difference in 6.30 in the morning – and he had driven up communities value and respect from Wales. He was pleased that there was no each individual lives of all the children in partners across our county have real lives on the ground. The feed- sunshine as that suited him better. The reaction up and down our Cumbria. We long that everyone been involved at all levels. back we hear is overwhelmingly Nigel Holmes, Focus on Eden, county has been positive, whether flourishes. The Church of Eng- Plans are in place and work is positive, and so we intend to Holme Eden and Wetheral with Warwick from heads or pupils, staff or land’s will is that our church underway to develop the vision – continue, develop and strengthen THE initiative – supported by church leaders governors, while clear distinctions schools be ‘church schools for all not least, according to the Arch- our work for all the children and from widely differing denominations ranging have been made that this is not a for Jesus’s sake’ and for another, bishop of York, through young people in Cumbria.” from the Church of England to the Salvation Army, as well as the blessing of our Roman Catholic friends – to bring God to the attention of everyone in Cumbria by 2020 is ambitious. Hope into action through character education What it has done though is make us all realise that to achieve this we need to work with oth- ers because we cannot just offer the URC vision. ENJOYING ‘life to the full’ does kindness, honesty, trustworthiness, Nick Mark, not mean it’s without challenge; resilience, empathy and Newsletter of Penrith and Penruddock URC just ask the pupils and staff of positivity to name just a few and IF you are taking your children to a Christingle, Blennerhasset School. Their all characteristics of living well or crib service, why not ask them to invite their school grounds have been together as part of a school friends to come too? The schools will do some repeatedly flooded in recent years. community. marvellous shows and services as term ends. A much-valued outdoor log cabin “The deeper enquiry saw the Let’s see if we can carry the same spirit over classroom was destroyed in Storm children determining what each of into the holiday! There are many special Desmond in 2015. these words might look like in events and services throughout the Binsey Team in the weeks before Christmas. Why not But the school community action, in school. invite your friends or neighbours to a carol turned a negative into a positive. “They worked in groups, service, or a Christmas social? Maybe Together, pupils wrote and illus- talking and thinking about each particularly to the very special and almost trated a book about their experi- class across the school, magical atmosphere of the late-night services ences – Do I need wellies today? acknowledging that demonstrating on Christmas Eve. It built on a theme of resilience empathy for example would look Binsey Link, Binsey Team Mission Community and hope, key components of the different in key stage two and I WAS licensed as a Reader in October 2016 Vision for Education. nursery. after two years’ training, including a While not a church school, Communication: From left, year six pupils Jake, Holly, Lily “The results of the character placement for four months at St Kentigern’s headteacher Jillian Harrison- and Ruby join headteacher Jillian Harrison-Longworth to education work clarified that the Aspatria, Hayton St James and Gilcrux St Longworth says the vision relational aspects of cooperation, Mary’s. The training was in theology, ministry read through their book on resilience DAVE ROBERTS and mission, overseen by Durham University. I embodies values they hold dear. communication and being the best really enjoyed it and wish I could do it all over Talking about character educa- of character education. As a worked with our children to version of oneself stood out signifi- again. The thing I enjoy most now is spending tion through their Peer Support leadership group we considered identify the key traits they wish to cantly to the children and these are time studying God’s word and then Network (PSN), she says: “The the vision and identified areas of develop as a member of our continuing to be incorporated into communicating it. focus for the second year of our focus for each of our schools. school family. The initial planning and policy in our school Julie Graham, Connect, St James, Carlisle PSN group was the development “At Blennerhasset School, we discussions raised a list of words: community for future generations.” www.cumbriamethodistdistrict.org.uk The Way, Winter 2018/2019 5 ‘I’VE BEEN ABLE TO GET TO THE Former addict CORE OF WHAT’S MADE ME TICK’ GED Pickersgill is the full-time project development manager for The Well Communities. He took up the post after volunteering for more than 18 months. helps users He came to Barrow in June 2015, having been on a six-week crack cocaine and alcohol binge. For Ged, previously a retail manager, rehab had never worked… until he met Dave Higham. He’s been substance-free for three-and-a-half years. find their way “I was completely broken when I arrived here,” he says. “I started using drugs aged 14. I dreamt of being a Ged Pickersgill: ‘I’m not your traveller and just wanted to forget stereotypical alcoholic’ n Dave turns life around after release from prison about everything else – my O’ Levels, my future. “The 12-step programme is just one “I’d had a good upbringing in St of many intervention programmes on n From page 1 Helens. I’m not your stereotypical offer here. For me it’s worked and alcoholic or drug addict; I’ve never taken me out of myself to realise I’m been in the gutter clutching a brown not at the centre of everything. With chaplaincy support, paper bag. Even in the grips of it I was “I’ve engaged in more than 30 Dave began to serve in the in well-paid jobs and successful. But I courses on things like relationships prison chapel each Sunday, in couldn’t stop taking drugs and that without conflict and parenting. charge of the music and projec- misuse completely ruined my family. “The wonderful thing is that we are “I now know I don’t have a drugs able to reconnect families through tor. Prayer and Bible study be- problem; I have a ‘Ged’ problem. came part of his daily routine The Well. When I see that happen – a That’s been identified by the work we daughter meet the father she’s not and he completed an Alpha do here. Underneath all of this ego seen for a long time – that makes me Course. Later it was even sug- and bravado is a kind, compassionate realise why I do what I do now. gested he offer pastoral support person. But also, fundamentally, I’m “This is a faith-based programme. to fellow inmates who had suf- dishonest, manipulative, greedy and People are offered the chance to fered bereavement. And all of selfish. Through The Well I’ve been answer to their God as they walk the this as he continued the recov- able to get to the core of what’s made journey. I’m continuing to work ery programme. me tick. It means I can finally accept towards that and at the end of each After release from prison, what I’ve done in the past and ask my- day I centre myself and look at my Dave settled in Lancaster, ini- self and other people for forgiveness. behaviour towards everyone I’ve met.” tially terrified that he would re- lapse. He spent three days in prayer, ‘Please God, please help me’ but with the support of the chaplaincy team he moved into a flat and began to rebuild his life. Within two months he’d met Kerrie. The couple married 13 years ago and have two chil- dren. He helped set up a church in Lancaster for newly-released prisoners and the homeless – the Church for the Unchurched. Armed with a diploma in psy- chology and a foundation de- gree in substance misuse he ‘Not an easy ride’: Dave Higham says those The Well began voluntary work in addic- helps have responsibilities too DAVE ROBERTS tion services before eventually understanding, in 2012, that it wood and Lancaster and out- ple who are considered to be was God’s plan he create The reach into prisons, The Well the most likely to die due to Well Communities. provides help and support to re- their addiction. “I felt I needed to be out in covering addicts, using the Dave adds: “We have over the community more,” Dave same 12-step programme Dave 1,000 members on our Well explains. “That’s where you completed. Page. We’ve provided a lovely, connect with people and help He and his team have sup- therapeutic environment where recovery. So I put my own ported hundreds of former pris- people can come to get well. money into the creation of The oners in tackling their It’s a really simple concept; Well, opened it up over a week- addictions and reintegrating they are loved so, in turn, they end and created a constituted into society. Each is given a come to love themselves. But group which included my for- place to live in rented accom- it’s not an easy ride; people mer prison chaplain. modation; they have five have to understand that if they “We’d open every weekend houses in Barrow. Social enter- come to us for help they have a while I was working full-time prises in catering and repairs responsibility to behave well for a service user organisation. provide a route back into work. too. There’s no hierarchy; Initially that was in Lancaster Local churches provide a net- we’re all accountable to each but then I secured a contract to work of support too, offering other. support users through The Well. venues for drug and alcohol ad- “It’s a blessing to be among I gave up my job knowing we diction groups, and clothes and these people and to feel God’s only had enough money for a toiletries for those newly re- presence here. It’s an amazing year. That was six years ago. It leased from prison. feeling to be able to keep your- gave us the means to expand Through close liaison with self well and your spirit well, and into Cumbria and open our statutory authorities, Dave and go out to help somebody else. base in Barrow.” his team – who are all former “But I know I couldn’t do it With bases in Barrow, addicts – now also provide a on my own; Jesus is right here Kendal, Morecambe, Fleet- targeted approach to those peo- all the time!” 6 The Way, Winter 2018/2019 www.nwsynod.org.uk By The Way ‘Lord, come quickly!’ Axe looming over city’s THE cry of Advent is: “Lord, come quickly!” But as we try to stir God into urgent action, we become grateful for his patience. What if he were to come now? Am I ready for that? Too often we are part of the problem rather night-time Street Pastors than the solution. In truth, we are not quite ready for him. Advent tugs us simultaneously towards a longing for urgent resolution and n Dwindling funds and lack of volunteers threatens project that offers help to vulnerable towards greater patience. The answer to “Lord, come quickly” is “May the Lord, when he comes, find us watching and waiting”. By Dave Roberts Stewart Fyfe, North Westmorland News

AS we prepare to sing those familiar carols and A CITY centre church scheme read the Christmas story once more, we begin supporting vulnerable people on to ask ourselves how we can bring something the streets may operate only for new to this familiar story? Well, maybe that is the wrong question. Perhaps we should be five more years due to asking ourselves, ‘What new gift can I bring to dwindling funds and volunteers. Jesus this Christmas?’ What do I need to do to The Carlisle Street Pastors pro- see the unfamiliar in the familiar? ject was set up in 2010 through Debbie Harkness, Newslink, Churches Together in Cumbria. South West Cumbria United Area The inter-denominational group THE season of peace and goodwill is days initially had more than 20 volun- away. We will wish each other a happy Christ- teers. They take to the city’s mas and peaceful New Year, but this remains streets on Saturday nights from a wish if we aren’t prepared to do something 10pm to 3am, offering help where to bring it about. I came across an anonymous needed to those on nights out. quote recently, which chimes with a quote from Gandhi. It is: “Be the reason someone The group, which runs under believes in the goodness of people.” Don’t the national umbrella organisation you think this would make a wonderful New the Ascension Trust, offers flip- Year’s resolution for us all? flops to people who may have lost Nigel Davies, Parish News, St George, Kendal shoes, organises taxis for those I WOULD like to thank all those who have who may be vulnerable through helped with the flowers, cleaning of the brass drink and collects bottles and and the church throughout the year. Thanks glasses from the streets, working also to Wreay School for their donation to the in consultation with Cumbria food bank at harvest time and all those who Constabulary. contributed throughout the year. Wishing you While they cannot actively a merry Christmas and a happy 2019. Jennifer Johnson, St Mary’s Church, Wreay spread a Gospel message, they re- Dedicated: Street Pastors Kathy and David Howe ALL PICTURES: DAVE ROBERTS main a Christian presence on the I FIND such generosity in many people of streets at night. Members are able least one man, one woman and a Pastors can work. Group members Glasgow, Edinburgh or Hawick, faith, and I think that is just one of the things to explain to those people who ask senior street pastor. Some weeks say they continue to trust that God so it’s a couple of hundred pounds that has drawn me to faith. So why do I find why they serve in this way. we simply can’t meet those re- will provide but it is important a each time we train someone. Christmas so appealing? Because it reminds But the number of volunteers has me of what has been given by God. It encour- quirements.” close eye is kept on their financial “We pay for the majority of hand- ages me to value that gift and to share in the fallen to 13 and the group is having Coupled with the fall-off in forecast. outs we give to people, such as the joy of giving with God himself. I wish you all a to draw on financial reserves. It volunteers, the group is eating David Howe, who chairs the flip-flops. There are uniform costs peaceful and joyful Christmas and pray that means they may be able to operate into its reserves. When first set up, group, explained: “Because the and also payments that have to be you are able to receive and give gifts, and that only for five more years. it received a £5,000 grant and population base up here is smaller, made to the Ascension Trust to by doing both you will have so much pleasure. Kathy Howe, who was one of co-ordinators say they remain we don’t have 10 or 15 people cover admin. It means our expendi- Bill Heatley, The Link, Holy Trinity and St Barnabas with Sandsfield Fellowship the first volunteers and is now the grateful for the regular support coming to us for training at any ture is outstripping our income.” group’s co-ordinator, said: “At the given by churches and businesses. one time. So we’re faced with one n If you would like to offer finan- AROUND the beginning of March, two Iranian moment we don’t have enough A city centre church provides a or two people coming forward. cial support to Carlisle Street Pas- ladies started attending Egremont Methodist people to put out a team every room every Saturday, free of “That means we have to send tors or become a volunteer, contact Church - Sedigheh and her daughter Sanaz. week. Each team must include at charge, from which the Street our individual trainees to Preston, Kathy Howe on 01228 511819. They were welcomed by many in the congre- gation, often involving hugs, because neither of them spoke good English. Ever since then, Sedigheh and Sanaz have been two of the most regular members of the weekly congre- New church plant finds home in unlikely spot gation, attending nearly every Sunday. Egremont Methodist Church A WORKING Men’s Club is the trated on meeting Christians in the Church planting traditionally ST MARY’S has been a member of Churches surprise home of a new church area to pray together and we ran a sees a mother church send out Together in Wigton for many years. This forms a link with Low Moor Evangelical Church, St plant in south Cumbria. Lent group. In year two we started some of its congregation to set up Cuthbert’s Roman Catholic Church and the Grace Church has been set up a Sunday afternoon family event, a new worship community. That’s Methodists in Wigton. In addition, we are by Pioneer Minister, Rev Robin but the prayer was always to step not happened for Grace Church, now members of the Solway Plain Mission Ham, in the Holbeck and Roose out and grow a committed church although there’s been welcome Community which brings together many of districts of Barrow, which were community, so Grace Church was support from other local churches. the churches in the area of Wigton, Silloth and Aspatria. without a church following clo- born in autumn 2017. Robin admits that this style of St Mary’s, Wigton sures in recent years. “A number of people we’d got pioneer planting is not easy. Initially, the congregation met to know through mid-week com- “A traditional church plant sees THANK you to those who quietly but incon- on Sunday afternoons at a local munity groups suggested Sunday people who embody the ‘DNA’ of spicuously support KPC’s concern for world primary. But, since October, afternoons were typically ‘family the mother church move to a new mission and so link with brothers and sisters in many different situations. These include: services have been held on Sunday time’ for them. So we’ve acted, setting. Instead we’re working those who have put donations in the boxes mornings in the Roose Conserva- moving from the school to the from scratch. Rather than having a for Manna House, Springfield Hostel and the tive Working Men’s Club. Working Men’s Club and to a Sun- core team we feel we are growing Food Bank; those who have signed up to help Robin, who lives near the new day morning.” one. That can be tough but it’s provide meals for this winter’s night shelter; venue, said: “During my curacy in Services are described as exciting at the same time.” those who pray regularly for Andrew and Maria Leake or who support their work finan- the town I was working with Rev informal, community-led and As for the new relationship cially; those who have contributed through Gary Cregeen and the two congre- family-friendly. All worship in- between church and club, Robin Christian Aid or other agencies to the crucial gations he leads while also look- cludes singing, prayers and a Bible says things are going well. “The relief work following the tsunami in Indonesia. ing towards trying to get thought, with refreshments club is naturally happy that they Michael Hunter, Parish Life, The Rev Robin Ham: something going here. provided. Communion is cele- have a regular booking which will Holy Trinity Parish Church Kendal ‘It’s tough but exciting’ “For the first year we concen- brated once a month. benefit them financially,” he added. www.nwsynod.org.uk The Way, Winter 2018/2019 7 Illness isn’t punishment By Dave Roberts n Writer Lorraine reaches out to

“I REMEMBER one per- people with mental health issues son asking me what I had Mentally Ill is an autobiog- to trust in God. There were done to deserve this and raphy which charts her times when he felt nearby why was God punishing illness, recovery and faith and others when I just had me in this way,” Lorraine journey. It also offers help to pray and hang in there, Gibbard recalls as we sit and advice on how churches becoming more aware of the can work to support those Holy Spirit. It wasn’t easy.” in her living room on the with a mental illness. After recovery she outskirts of Kendal. “I can remember vividly became involved in prayer “I prayed about it and God the moment I came to ministry at St Thomas’s, made it clear this wasn’t the faith,” Lorraine explains. through which she realised a case. He gave me the confi- “I’d been going to church number of people who dence to challenge people for a couple of years. One approached her were suffer- who put forward such views.” day I was reading a book ing from mental illness. Lorraine is talking about called Holy Fire by Colin Spurred on, Lorraine set up the mental illness she experi- Urquhart when I suddenly the Mental Health Fellow- enced 25 years ago. As a realised I had to go to the ship, a safe space for people young mum with three cross to seek forgiveness. to come together in a faith children and as someone who “It was as if I had just setting and which was open had come to faith only a few been switched on inside and to people of all faiths and months previously, she fell ill. the way had been opened up none. More than 60 people Diagnosed with bipolar before me.” were supported by the group disorder – experiencing Just four months later Lor- over the 13 years it operated. manic and depressive raine fell ill. She says she She also says that her episodes – Lorraine was had taken on more and more visits to various churches hospitalised for seven work during this time, creat- for courses and conferences weeks. A nine-month recov- ing huge pressure which led have further highlighted the ery period followed at home, to her breaking point. number of people struggling cared for by her husband, She says: “From the with mental health issues. Ian, and her church family at elation of being born again, That has provided a ‘Unexpected’: Lorraine Gibbard’s autobiography, inset, describes the St Thomas’s, Kendal. over a period of months, further springboard for her mental illness she experienced ALL PICTURES: DAVE ROBERTS They were difficult times things began to be a little book, published in March. which challenged her new- more confusing for me. “Ultimately I wanted to found faith. But Lorraine Sleep was difficult so I was convey God’s part in my has now drawn on those constantly tired. Things survival,” Lorraine adds. experiences to write a book came to a head and I went “Throughout everything he which aims to reach out to through a severe manic has been truly awesome and others with mental health phase and was taken into so faithful.” issues and their carers. hospital. It was all n Lorraine Gibbard is Adventures in a Foreign completely unexpected. available to talk about her Land – Discovering Jesus’ “During the depressive book. Contact her via Compassion for the phases which followed I had [email protected]. Band brings festive ‘tingle’

BY HIS own admission sion for Christmas is Gordon Hiscox loves matched by his love for Christmas! music. “There’s such And it’s lucky he does be- tremendous light and shade cause, for the last 25 years, in music. Sometimes when he has overseen what many I’m playing or conducting it people see as a staple part of makes me tingle.” Carlisle’s festive season. Gordon was deputy band- The retired chartered master for 25 years before quantity surveyor is band- taking up the lead position. master of the Salvation He enjoys playing more Army Band in Carlisle. than conducting, but felt it “People have come up to Bandmaster: was God’s call to step up to us when we’re out playing Gordon Hiscox the role. to say ‘Now I know it’s The band plays every Christmas because I’ve Aged eight, Gordon, Sunday in church and, along heard the Salvation Army began playing the cornet in with the Army’s Songsters band’,” says the 74-year- the Army’s Young People’s choir, performs concerts old. “That’s lovely to hear. band. A few years later it throughout the year. The “As for Christmas, I just was suggested he also learn run-up to Christmas will see can’t help myself; I love it. the euphonium which re- them play at the Cumber- For many years we would mains his main instrument land Infirmary and in front take to the streets to play though he can play trom- of the city’s House of Fraser carols every Christmas bone and percussion too. store from 10.30am to morning. It meant I missed Currently the band has 18 12.30pm on Saturday De- our children opening some members, including support cember 8 and 15. of their presents but it was from a bass player from the And as for Gordon’s still a lovely thing to do. Church of Scotland and two favourite carol? “If I had to “As we’ve all got older Methodist cornet players. pick one I think I’d choose I we can’t manage that now, The youngest musician is in Wonder as I Wander. It may but being part of the musical her 20s; the oldest is 80. not be so well known but it group is still wonderful.” Gordon admits his pas- has such a haunting melody.” 8 The Way, Winter 2018/2019 www.churchestogethercumbria.co.uk The Way, Winter 2018/2019 9 By The Way DOWN YOUR WAY... FRESH EXPRESSIONS Hydro grant awarded HOPES for a green energy project to generate electricity from our streams have been EDUCATION & OUTDOORS encouraged by the award of a grant to ADDRESSING DEPRIVATION explore potential sites. The four parishes of Everyone Together, Leven Valley CE Primary Blindbothel, Buttermere, Lorton and Foodshare, Whitehaven Loweswater, working through the Melbreak ‘EVERYONE Together’ is an Communities Hydro Action Group, have won a opportunity for children, staff, grant from the Rural Community Energy Fund families and church members to to carry out a feasibility study on three sites, to spend time together in shared craft see if any of them would be suitable. activities, worship and food. The Link, United Benefice of Lorton and Loweswater with Buttermere Each session is based on a theme or story, which acts as a WHILE the practical day-to-day things around stimulus for the craft activities and us matter a great deal, our attitudes and a focus for our time of worship. relationships matter even more. Of course, Adults and children alike get that doesn’t mean life will become a bed of involved as equals, talking and roses just because we value our faith above all things. As Jesus discovered, preaching God’s engaging with one another, word and following his path still managed to building relationships. upset many in authority. Usually, one of the crafts can be Parish Magazine, taken home, while others are used Building: Children and adults Benefice of Egremont with Bigrigg and Haile to create a joint display that might get involved as equals go to the churches in our area. ASPATRIA Methodist Church has always been part of a wider family of Methodist churches Refreshments are generously talked about afterwards. across the area and, in facing some of the chal- provided by church members – Feedback has been very posi- lenges that lie ahead, we are now working more food is very much a key tive. The opportunity to have time YOUTH are from local churches, while others are closely together. That process has involved component of these sessions. to talk to one another in the midst Ignite, Grange-over-Sands unchurched, and it has been great to see a bringing our five churches under one umbrella Because of the preparation in- of busy lives seems particularly few make a conscious decision to follow and so you will start to see the name ‘Corner- volved, Everyone Together hap- important to people. Jesus. Invitation: Foodshare prepares to open its doors stone Methodist Church’ appearing. IAN NICOL, headteacher, IGNITE is a cell church run by the Network In Easter 2019, four young people from pens only once a term, but this Youth Church in Grange-over-Sands. We Ignite are going to Sarajevo in Bosnia with Phil Jackson, Link, Aspatria Methodist Church, means it’s looked forward to, and Leven Valley CE Primary AT FOODSHARE in White- selves, and yet they bless St Kentigern’s Aspatria, St Mary’s Gilcrux, St have been meeting for more than two years Youth With A Mission, and we are currently haven, every Tuesday afternoon, volunteers with presents, and we James’s Hayton in a house. fundraising for the cost. The hope is that volunteers make up 50 food hear stories of their own Ignite seeks to build community around the trip will immerse the young people in bags and set out St Nicholas’ generosity – a shower for some- WELL, before we knew it, it was October and a HOSPITALITY AND OLDER fun, worship, bible, prayer and hot another culture and be a life-changing Immersed: Young people raising Café with tea, sandwiches and one sleeping rough, food taken year since we moved here. I can honestly say I chocolate and it has been a pleasure to experience, which is what Ignite is all about. absolutely love it here. I have never been so Take Tea Out, money for a trip to Bosnia by cake. to those too ill to come, and love see young people grow and develop. CHRIS MASON, At 4pm, we open our doors shared in the forgotten places of happy. In a way, it seems like we have had a The Old Plumpton Backstreet Methodist Chapel Some of the young people who attend Ignite Network Youth Church leader doing a sponsored swim year on holiday, but I’m also living the dream. and invite all to share in God’s our town. Cumbria and Allonby is home now. AFTER our development in May generous provision regardless of The food, which would other- Rose Harper, Allonby Beachcomber Monthly 2012, we had an opportunity to rank, status or income. wise have gone to landfill, comes Village Newsletter After the food share, we offer from two charities – Recycling hold other events in the centre. prayer and discussion of the Lives and Fareshare. I HAVE always been impressed by the gentle, With up-to-date facilities we could Scriptures. Interested in doing this? quiet spirit of David (Firth). Never forceful. do so much more. We see people in all sorts of Please email me, Alison Riley at Never undermining people, but revealing a I had always wanted to have an Holy and Godly man, whose life and ministry states, often pitifully thin and [email protected] or has been grounded in prayer, reading the Bible afternoon tea where people could struggling with mental health is- phone/text 07787 508391. and worship. I along with you am thankful for meet and enjoy time together. So Reaching more people sues. REV ALISON RILEY, the ministry which David has brought to Wig- in September 2012 we had our first Many have so little them- Foodshare co-ordinator ton Road Church. Take Tea Out with 10 people. That Richard Teal, The Messenger, was six years ago and now Sylvia Friends: Take Tea Out has Wigton Road Methodist Church Dufton and I prepare up to 50 teas become a regular event CHILDREN AND MESSY WE had a real treat for our September each month. Messy Vintage, Kendal meeting, as local author Ruth Sutton came to In December we do a Christmas made over the years. We have been talk to us. Originally from west Cumbria, Ruth blessed. You should hear the lunch and are fully booked. in more ways than before THIS term we launched ‘Messy started her career as a secondary school We also take food out to people laughter and chatter! It’s great! Vintage’, a programme based on teacher, climbed the ladder into the SHEILA MALLINSON, education authority and, at 40, decided to go who are unwell or need a visit with the benefits of relationships be- freelance, travelling the world as an education most of the money going to chari- senior steward, By Richard Passmore, tween the very old and the young. adviser. She came back home to west ties. Many friendships have been Cottagewood Methodist Chapel Fresh Expressions Enabler SUSTAINABLE SOCIAL ENTERPRISE, Through regular visits - with Cumbria, and at 60 started writing. After some RURAL AND BUILDINGS play, creativity, music and stories rejections, her first book A Good Liar was - we link care homes in the published in 2012. NEW MONASTIC AND WITH nearly 100 people attending this Organic, Kirkby Thore parish with schools and our baby Liz Bell, St Bridget’s Parish News year’s Fresh Expressions Conference in and toddler group. We share ALTERNATIVE SPIRITUALITY November, these are exciting times. ORGANIC is a network of Fresh willing to work together to organise about God through our activities NO ONE ever said that being a Christian was Expressions in Rural Cumbria and run something for their children with singing, crafts and a brief easy – that’s because it’s not. But as we St Kentigern School Last year we recorded 99 Fresh Expressions (FX) across Cumbria, with on centred around Kirkby Thore. every month in the village hall. ‘thought for the day’. wrestle with our faith and seek out God’s way Weekly sessions mean every- in our lives, we can always find comfort in the WHILE participation in religion is ceasing’. Contemplation as a average 30 people attending. There is a regular monthly cycle From those beginnings there has one can visit or get a visit at least fact that God wants us to succeed and that we We are reaching more people in more of all-age gatherings: Messy, been further branching, experimen- falling away, surveys show that we condition can’t be taught; there is once a month and we conclude travel not on our own but as brothers and haven’t become universally atheist. no ‘method’. What we can do, ways than ever before, and to help support Breakfast, Family and Wild. These tation and evolution by following sisters in Christ. the passions of different people. with an end-of-term ‘Messy About 75 per cent of people still however, is cultivate readiness for this we have started to group the new FXs meet for worship, bible, prayer and David Stretton, The Stricklandgater, food in various creative ways The most recent addition to the Service’ with the children and the long for the ‘something other’. that condition to arise through around seven themes. team providing reflections, activi- Stricklandgate Methodist Church, Kendal across several locations. They try to network is Wild. This grew from The penny dropped for me when certain forms of prayer, worship, To help we’re using the centre spread of ties, music and refreshments. IN October I conducted my 773rd funeral ser- a wise teacher told me that Jesus The Way to highlight one FX from each maintain a focus beyond them- one person’s past work in conserva- It took a lot of careful planning, reflections and insight exercises. selves to God, neighbour and cre- tion and is a way of worshipping vice. This fact is sad, not because of the num- asked us to believe in him, not That’s what the Kentigern theme. It gives a flavour of what is but we saw the benefits to both ber of funerals – death is a fact of life and part happening across the county. ation. The aim is to be a community God in and through creation. groups almost immediately. about him. The ‘in’ suggests a School is all about – a gathering of of my job – but because you have a rector who (loving) relationship, a personal Each new FX must be missional of blessing where all are welcome. Our most recent gathering was at It’s truly beautiful to see the counts them! Perhaps it is easy for the clergy fellow wanderers who’ve tried lots (engaging new people), contextual It began four years ago when, as a National Trust property where we residents and children interact to get complacent about death. An audible encounter not contingent upon doctrine or theology. of other approaches; willing to go (growing church through listening and newly arrived house-for-duty reflected on God’s love and care for through conversation, games gasp as a body was buried brought me back to through a six-month programme his creation and our role as stew- including dominoes and bowling, my senses. The earth is the destination of our I think that is what huge serving the community), formational pioneer ministers myself and my rooted primarily in the wisdom (growing new disciples) and ecclesial wife, Kristy, were looking for a ards. We made bird boxes and, with exploring books and toys, physical bodies. This reminder of the destiny numbers of people are still looking making art and saying goodbye for the body we spend so much time, money teachings of that master contem- way to get to know local people. the help of the local ranger, hung for, the direct relationship with the (intentionally being and growing church). with hugs and waving. and mental energy on keeping fit, healthy and beloved. plative, Jesus. So Fresh Expressions are church, Using the tried and tested model them around the estate. comfortable, brings matters into perspective. DAN PATTIMORE , LIBBY TULLEY, Interacting: Young and old That’s what contemplation is all For more information, please engaging new people, and in many places of Messy Church we gathered a children's worker, Bill White, Together Community Newsletter, Wild: Making bird boxes on a National Trust estate number of families who were pioneer minister Matterdale, Watermillock, Patterdale, about, unity with the presence, a phone 01768 779000. working closely with established churches Holy Trinity, Kendal meet through Messy Vintage Greystoke, Penruddock and Mungrisdale condition of ‘prayer without REV PROF STEPHEN WRIGHT to see ideas emerge. 10 The Way, Winter 2018/2019 www.godforall.org.uk By The Way Craig brings his National A cargo of vitamin C I GREW up with the sound of middle C ringing in my ears – from the fog horn of the Needles Light, now long silenced. My mother could still Theatre skills to cathedral recall the sinking of the Varvassi, wrecked on the Needles in 1947. Its cargo of tangerines provided welcome bounty for the West Wight in the post-war austerity. n Appointment of head of visitor services closely linked to Lottery-funded Fratry Project Proclaim, Parish Magazine of North Barrow Team Ministry, St James the Great & St Francis By Dave Roberts I BELIEVE God has brought me specifically to Barrow. When we were back in Norway, our co-ordinators were trying to match the interns A FORMER National Theatre up to a placement. This is where they placed administrator has been me and I believed it is the place God wants and needs me to be. appointed Carlisle Cathedral’s Sara Thu, Norwegian Mission Society Intern new head of visitor services. in Barrow, Team Talk, Parishes of St Aidan’s Craig Carruthers, 45, took up and St George’s with St Luke’s, Barrow the post in October, having worked as a box office operations AT the beginning of the Sermon on the manager at the London venue for Mount, Jesus declared: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children 15 years and latterly for three of God.” If we claim to follow Jesus we are years at the Florence Arts Centre called to be peacemakers in our homes, our in Egremont. families, our communities and in the world. The appointment is closely Peace-making is a divine work. linked to the cathedral’s Fratry John Riley, Gosforth, Nether Wasdale and Project which has already secured Wasdale Head Parish Magazine Heritage Lottery Funding. The IN times of war, the weakest often suffer the aim is to make the historic Fratry most, but war can also bring out great building accessible to the whole strengths in people. It has been said there are community, develop learning no heroes, just ordinary people doing extraor- opportunities and provide a new dinary things. The same might be said of the space for schools and educational church heroes, the saints and holy ones of old. groups. A new visitor café and Peter Blackett, Parish Magazine, St Bride’s Parish Church, Kirkbride and St John’s, hospitality area will also be Newton Arlosh created. Craig, who is originally from BUILDING communities so that all can find a Carlisle, said: “I wanted to move place, where people’s voices are heard, is back to somewhere which is a crucial. Creating communities where every- smaller community but one where Craig Carruthers: ‘A 21st-century faith, arts and cultural venue’ DAVE ROBERTS one is valued and can contribute is what life is all about. Such purposeful activity will you can more readily see the ultimately result in an outbreak of genuine effects you are having on the Craig’s role is a first for the “Put simply, our aim is that it have worked hard to increase the happiness in this country and the world. people who use that space. cathedral. While he does not becomes a destination in Carlisle number of people who are drawn Nigel Davies, Skelsmergh, Selside and “There’s a far greater sense of profess to have an active faith, he which is for everybody. It’s my to the cathedral, be it for a time of Longsleddale Church and Community News community in a place like the says he identifies with the cathe- job to get that message across.” worship, quiet contemplation or an cathedral than there would be in a dral as a living worship space. Further plans could see an exploration of its rich history and I THINK my body is doing a bit of a double building such as the National. My He added: “Of course the events manager appointed who the stories which lie behind that. take as we move into autumn. I arrived here at the end of August, when it was early spring main aim is to keep the cathedral cathedral is a place of worship but would work closely with Craig. “Our prayer is that the Fratry in New Zealand after a cold, wet and windy on the map and to strengthen that it’s also one for people of no faith The Very Rev Mark Boyling, Project will reinforce the cathedral’s winter. Adjusting to early autumn wasn’t a big position. Obviously, the Fratry or those exploring their faith. Dean of Carlisle, said: “The place in the heart of the city and we deal, as the weather wasn’t that different. Project will be an important We’re looking to bring a vision of cathedral building and precinct is see Craig’s appointment as another Now November is looming large and my sys- means of achieving that and my the cathedral as a 21st-century already one of the most visited step in opening up this amazing tem is saying, “What happened to summer?” job is closely allied to that.” faith, arts and cultural venue. sites in the city. In recent years we building to new audiences.” Sam Held, Parish News, Parish of Kirkby Stephen with Mallerstang, Crosby Garrett & Soulby

ABOUT 30 ladies, including guests from Cock- ermouth and Cleator WIs, enjoyed a talk by Our churches top for history and atmosphere Annie Mawson, of the Sunbeam Trust. This is a marvellous organisation, based near Penrith, that provides music therapy for CUMBRIA’S rich church history highest percentage of those people of all ages with disabilities or dementia. has been deemed England’s best offering atmospheric surroundings Annie also played the harp and sang for us. in a national survey of more than (78 per cent), offering the best in Dean WI, Dean Parish News 2,000 places of worship. ‘other-worldly’ ambience. And that’s no surprise as church Jayne Potts, development WORK continues on re-slating the Penrith Parish Centre roof and so far we are fortunate buildings are a constant feature of officer for the Churches Trust for that very little timber rot has been found. the county’s landscape. They are Cumbria and self-confessed Solar panels, to reduce our carbon footprint often the oldest building within a ‘church crawler’, said: “It is and energy costs, have now been fitted. parish, contributing to the tradi- important our buildings are open Although they have added to the original tional iconography of our towns, and welcoming; people visit £100,000 cost the trustee/directors made the villages and rural landscapes. churches for a number of reasons. decision to go ahead with the in-roof panels, They are some of the most We want to make sure they remain rather than surface-mounted, so further scaffolding costs would not be incurred. architecturally, culturally and open for religious and community Lesley Ridley, Penrith Beacon historically significant buildings use, but we also want to celebrate in an area. their tremendous heritage. THANK you so much for all the cards, practical The Churches Trust for “Every church has something help and well wishes for us all as a family fol- Cumbria, working in conjunction Famous connection: St Oswald’s, Grasmere is Wordsworth’s unique about it, with a story to lowing Michael’s illness. Following a small heart with the National Churches Trust tell. Sometimes it is just taking attack at the start of October, he was admitted burial place CHURCHES TRUST FOR CUMBRIA to RLI and then Blackpool Victoria Hospital (NCT), features more than 80 the time to look. Recently I found where he had a double bypass operation. He is Cumbrian churches on its national map for heritage hunters. William Wordsworth is buried at a squirrel carved in the end of a now recovering well at home. It has been a bit ExploreChurches website. Cumbria topped the poll for the church of St Oswald’s, pew, something the church of a shock for us all, but we have appreciated A recent NCT survey compared historic value, with the most Grasmere, and some chapels in warden had never noticed before.” everyone’s prayers and support which have and rated more than 2,000 English churches (54 per cent) having a the north of Cumbria are built n For more on ExploreChurches helped us through the darkest days. Thank you churches for their architecture, connection to celebrated figures with stones from Hadrian’s Wall. and faith tourism, contact Jayne all. Michelle, Michael, James and Eleanor. or historical events, pushing Our churches were also deemed Two Valleys Parish News historic value, atmosphere and Potts via [email protected] or famous connections to create a London into second place. the most atmospheric having the phone her on 07979 606131. www.godforall.org.uk The Way, Winter 2018/2019 11 n Encounter with Jesus brought Steve back from the brink after breakdown WHAT’S ON ‘He couldn’t think or talk. AROUND CUMBRIA NEW YEAR’S EVE HOUSE PARTY Sat Dec 29 to Wed Jan 2, Rydal Hall, Ambleside, Cumbria LA22 9LX Welcome the New Year with fun and reflection. All he could do was cry...’ Cost is £425 per person, full board. To book contact 015394 32050 or [email protected].

By Dave Roberts LOVE IS – SIN ISN’T Sat Jan 26, 10am for 10.30am-3.30pm, Ambleside Parish Centre, Vicarage Rd, Ambleside LA22 9DH CHRISTMAS Eve 2001 Bob Morley leads a day of meditation, lectio divina and Steve Scoulding stood and time to talk. Cost is £10. Please bring your own lunch. To book contact Richard Broughton on 01946 on the banks of a river, 862990 or [email protected]. threatening to end his life. He’d reached breaking LIVING WITH THE MYSTICS point; the pressures of work, Tues Feb 5, 10am for 10.30am-3pm, Friends Meeting home life and money issues House, Elliot Park, Keswick were too much to bear for this Helen Chalmers leads a day about the Persian Metropolitan Police officer. mystic poet, Rumi. Cost is £5. Drinks are provided but Steve was drinking too please bring your own lunch. To book contact Bob much, the relationship with Morley on 016974 72644 or [email protected]. his wife, Mel, was breaking CREATIVE WRITING WEEK down and he’d just lost his Mon Feb 11 to Fri 15, Thornleigh Christian Hotel, 26 dad. Mel managed to talk him The Esplanade, Grange-Over-Sands, LA11 7HH away from the water’s edge Gill Henn leads a five-day workshop. Cost is £225 for that day. four nights’ dinner, bed and breakfast and all sessions. She said: “Even though Contact 015395 32733 or [email protected]. we’d been talking for months about the difficulties, Steve QUIET DAY just wanted God to take him Fri March 1, 10am-4pm, Rydal Hall, Ambleside, Cum- bria LA22 9LX away from everything. He Mountain Pilgrims’ founder John Fleetwood leads a had decided he couldn’t carry day looking at what it means to be a disciple of Jesus on. But I told him that if he in a modern context and to develop helpful rhythms to went in, I’d go in after him.” lead God-centred lives building on the Celtic tradition. Before Steve fell ill, he’d Bring a packed lunch. There is no cost but booking is returned to church, having required via 015394 32050 or [email protected]. previously attended an Together in faith: Mel and Steve Scoulding DAVE ROBERTS THE HYNING RETREAT Anglican church with Mel visited the couple’s house and Alpha course and, eight weeks the work we were involved more than 20 years before. Fri March 29 to Sun 31, Monastery of Our Lady of offered help through scrip- after first walking through the with was transformative.” Hyning, LA5 9SE The couple had originally met ture, in particular Psalm 139. doors of the Army’s hall, they It’s a family transformed Anthony Finnerty leads a residential course on The at a church youth group. Steve said: “I explained were soldiers. through faith – Steve’s mum Wayless Way of Meister Eckhart. Cost is £130 Further support came in the how I felt as if I was in a By 2003 Steve had made a is now a Salvationist; their (concessions, £100). Contact Richard Broughton on form of a police motorcyclist black space with my hands, phased return to work. The son, Mark, is an officer; and 01946 862990 or [email protected]. who used to partner Steve and feet and mouth gaffer-taped; I couple ran Alpha courses in Steve’s brother and sister-in-law who was a member of the couldn’t move. So Malcolm prisons and Mel offered min- are soldiers. In 2017 they LAKELAND WRITING RETREAT Salvation Army. He put Steve sat and read the Psalm telling istry within the Civil Service, were posted to Carlisle, both Tues April 23 to Thurs 25, Rydal Hall, Ambleside, in touch with an army officer me that God would go to the where she worked. A leader- as captains, to take on the Cumbria LA22 9LX who reached out to the family. Novelist and journalist, Angela Locke, leads this re- ends of the earth for me. ship conference followed in city-centre ministry. treat, suitable for beginners, seeking to inspire writers It was suggested he and Mel “With that I felt someone sit 2008 at the Salvation Army’s Both Steve and Mel are through the Lake District scenery. Cost is £252 per take part in an Alpha course. next to me. He touched me and London headquarters. members of the God for All person for dinner, bed and breakfast. To book contact “I knew our marriage was in said, ‘I’ve never left you, Steve. Steve retired from the Met strategy steering group. They 015394 32050 or [email protected]. such a state that I had to say Now we’ve got to get you in 2009, which meant the remain passionate evangelists. yes to the course,” Mel said. better.’ Whether that was reality couple could enter training to “People often think the DAY RETREAT “But the day before we were or my state of mind, I’m pre- be army officers. Their first Salvation Army is a charity Sat May 11, 10am for 10.30am-3.30pm, Ambleside due to go, Steve had a com- pared to believe I saw Jesus. appointment saw them move and not a church,” Mel said. Parish Centre, Vicarage Rd, Ambleside LA22 9DH plete breakdown. He couldn’t With that encounter the light to Jersey for six years. “It’s a privilege to be able to Neil Douglas-Klotz leads the day. People are invited think or talk. All he could do came back and the fight began.” “It was a wonderful time in tell them why we do what we to give a voluntary contribution of £20. Drinks are Ever since, the couple’s Jersey but it was tough too,” do, how we’ve been touched provided but please bring your own lunch. To book was cry. It was awful.” contact Richard Broughton on 01946 862990 or Salvation Army officer, faith has been at the centre of Mel said. “Being so far away by Jesus and how we want [email protected]. Major Malcolm Westwood, their lives. They made it to the from family was not easy but others to feel that love.” 12 The Way, Winter 2018/2019 www.churchestogethercumbria.org.uk By The Way Call for hall volunteers Vicar arrives in Cumbria AT the last meeting of the Bampton Memorial Hall, the committee decided it was time to start taking a longer-term view of the hall’s future. It is an amenity which is much enjoyed by us all but as it was built in the 1950s it now with her full flock in tow requires work to keep it functional for the community. We are therefore asking for vol- unteers who would be interested in joining a By Dave Roberts small working party to consider how we can n Angela brings ensure its long-term future. Lesley White, Bampton Parish Newsletter A NEWLY appointed Cumbrian vicar has arrived in the county rare breeds and FRIENDS Sunday was held on October 14 and along with her own ready-made thanks go to the Rev Geoff Turner for his eight sheepdogs thought-provoking and humorous sermon on flock – of sheep that is! the theme of friendship. The service was fol- The Rev Angela Hughes has fore I could start in post, I went to lowed by the Friends AGM, where chairman, taken up post as House for Duty seven trials. It’s been great. John Lomax, reminded everyone of the Priest in Charge in the benefice of “The funny thing is that people successful work the Friends do in raising funds Lanercost, Walton, Gilsland and assume I had a rural upbringing but for the Beetham Church Heritage Trust. Nether Denton. The Gateway, Parish Church of St Michael I was born in Brighton, so it’s and All Angels, Beetham She arrived in the county along maybe not what you might expect.” with her 23 rare-breed sheep – ten Angela, 66, is officially retired THANK you to everyone who took part in the Hebrideans, eight badger-faced but as house for duty she will be Macmillan Coffee Morning which raised £340 Welsh mountains and five Manx available for parish work on Sun- – and those who gave a donation even loaghtans – and eight sheepdogs days and two other days. It means though they couldn’t get there on the day. My which she trials regularly. personal thanks go to the wonderful team she will have more opportunity to that set up, welcomed everyone, served teas It’s a passion which dates back devote to her pastime. and coffees and packed away, as well as ev- many years with Angela having A school teacher for 16 years, eryone who baked. previously trained Border collies Angela trained as a reader before Kay Robinson, Raughton Head Parish in agility, obedience and working being ordained in 1992 and trials. A love of sheep – she bred priested two years later. Next year OUR faith won’t grow if we try to hide or run one of England’s best flocks of away. We need to step out and meet him she celebrates 25 years in min- where he calls us to be. That isn’t always easy Manx Loaghtans for show – even- istry, having served in Worcester, but the more we do it the more we will expe- tually led to sheepdog trials. Leicester, Lincoln, Brechin and rience God working actively in our lives and Angela explained: “When I had Peterborough dioceses before her the more our faith will grow. And not only will a dog which was safe to work move to the Diocese of Carlisle. we be blessed, but God will bless others too, with sheep it was great fun to start “God’s timing has brought me through us, which is wonderful. going to trials. Bryan Rothwell, Solway Plain Team here, though I’ve wanted to be in “I’ve had a huge welcome from Cumbria for a long time,” Angela THE rhythms of the seasons and the cycles of people here. In the past I have oc- explained. “I’ve always felt drawn the church calendar continue to influence our casionally struggled to find some- to minister in the north. An added church life. In the short term, Christmas is where to keep my sheep but up bonus is that it’s a great base for coming. There will be carol services and crib here parishioners have been very the sheepdog trials.” dedications. Let’s plan to celebrate Christ’s generous in finding fields for Angela now shares the vicarage birth and to share our celebration with joy. them. Wendy Kilworth-Mason, In Touch, Seascale in Lanercost with her eight dogs – and Gosforth Methodist Churches “For the first eight days that I Frost, Joe, Vic, Jill, Alf, Jet, Ghost was living in Lanercost, and be- and Glen. Together they have won a number of nursery and novice tri- als, though she has yet to be placed in the top six at an open trial. And as for her ‘flock’ of parish- ioners across the benefice, Angela jokes: “The sheep may be a little bit easier as I can get the dogs to help me. That wouldn’t work quite so well with the human flock.” Good shepherd: Angela with Frost DAVE ROBERTS What is prayer? Learn from St Aidan ST AIDAN stood and watched the By Rev Canon So, what was Aidan’s prayer? forces of King Penda of Mercia sur- “Look Lord, what mischief does!” round the fortress of Bamburgh. Cameron Butland, “Is that it?” you may ask. Yes. The year was probably 635. King Cumbria Ecumenical Aidan and his community believed Oswald and his small band were Spirituality Group all was in God’s hands; they didn’t trapped inside as Penda’s flames need to say anything else, rather to threatened to engulf them. As the community, witnessing the im- focus their attention in prayer on Aidan looked on, he led the those who they loved. community in prayer. peding death of his friend and king, We too should pray after this ex- Often, like Aidan, we look on they prayed ‘holding on in love’. ample. The CCP provides a frame- while terrible things happen in our Many people ask what we can do work for us all to pray as part of a world. We cannot influence; we are in our world when we feel power- much bigger group. Like many, I helpless spectators praying to God. less. Apologetically, we sometimes have seen the power of prayer to What should be our prayers? mumble that we could “say a change and transform lives, but that Often we think of prayer as prayer, if you like”. We should be power comes not from us but from something we say or do. This is not more positive than this; our calling the Spirit working through the the meaning for Jesus. Jesus gives is to put prayer first. world. us an example of prayer as a rela- The Cumbria Community of What happened as Aidan and his tionship; a relationship with God Prayer (CCP) seeks to do just this. community prayed in 635? Well, and us. “Abide in me as I abide in CCP is a network of prayer groups the wind changed direction and you,” Jesus tells his disciples. and individuals coming together to Penda’s fires, meant to destroy Aidan knew prayer was a hold the county in prayer; to re- Bamburgh, started to consume his relationship of love, not of hate or ceive prayer requests and to pray invading army. He and his troops vengeance. As he looked on with for one another on a daily basis. packed up and left – never to return. www.churchestogethercumbria.org.uk The Way, Winter 2018/2019 13 n Network helps Syrian refugees find homes, jobs, friendship and a new, secure life in Penrith Everybody needs ‘their place’

By Dave Roberts

WALAA Asfar’s face lights up as she talks about her dream to open a Syrian café in Penrith town centre. The 26-year-old and her family moved to the town in April 2017, some of the 285 refugees welcomed to the county as part of the Home Office and United Nations’ Welcome: Refugee families enjoying a picnic with Syrian Vulnerable Persons local people in Penrith Resettlement Scheme. In total 20,000 people are Catherine’s Catholic Church. year, Churches Together in being supported across the Organisers expected half a Penrith invites a group of UK. Another refugee family dozen people to attend; more asylum seekers and refugees is also based in Penrith. than 60 turned up. from Newcastle to Glenrid- Both families and other Local services and com- ding for a day out. refugees are being supported munity groups are learning “The OpShop is a great by the Penrith and Eden how to welcome refugees place for our families to Refugee Network, which in- into the community. The visit,” Sarah added. “You cludes significant input from regular summertime infor- can be sure to find good sec- the local faith community in- mal ‘Great Get Together’ ond-hand goods. When you cluding the town’s mosque. picnics in the town’s Castle walk in wearing a head scarf The network’s chair, Sarah Park are popular. you are greeted with Wilson, explained: “Our Penrith Quakers have also ‘Salaam-Alaikum’, the Ara- ethos is all about helping partnered with the network bic greeting meaning ‘Peace people to integrate into their in launching the social be unto you’. There couldn’t community. Everybody needs media project #PenrithWel- be a warmer welcome. a place in which they feel comesRefugees. This makes “Churches have always they belong; to find their links with nearby dispersal been a tremendous support place. Everybody needs towns and cities, where for the good causes of this friendship, family, acquain- many refugees and asylum world. It’s amazing just how tances, an introduction to so- seekers live who are not part many volunteers with the cial projects and clubs and to of the Government pro- network also go to church jobs. That’s what we’re here gramme but need support. and are Christians.” to help with. Essentially it is Sarah added: “Often these It is hoped the town will about being good neighbours. people simply stay put in welcome new asylum “We’re fortunate in Penrith these places but it’s seekers and refugees to and Eden that we have people important they have a choice Penrith next year. who wanted to help achieve to consider what location Sarah said: “While we Syrian refugee Walaa Asfar: ‘I love to cook. It makes me happy’ that for the families who are would be best for them.” would encourage anyone now here. It’s been wonderful Local churches continue to who may feel isolated to to welcome them; our town is support the grassroots group, make contact we recognise enriched by their presence.” with many volunteers com- we have core skills in areas ‘I know my kids are safe, they are Founded a couple of years ing from congregations in such as translation which ago, the network’s first and around the town. The would be of particular help.” at school and they have food’ meeting was held at the Diocese of Carlisle’s charity n For more information, Haydock Community Centre OpShop offers work visit www.penrithandeden- “I WAS able to send my had gone. It wasn’t safe for work and Penrith’s OpShop which belongs to St opportunities while, each refugeenetwork.org. mum pictures on my phone our kids or us to stay.” who have made them wel- of me cooking Syrian A perilous bus trip saw come and helped practi- dishes for people here in the family make it to cally. Penrith,” Walaa Asfar ex- Lebanon before their She has repaid that plains. “When she saw relocation to the UK as part kindness by cooking Syrian Mike Angelo those she knew I was safe of the Syrian Vulnerable dishes for OpShop cus- and she was happy.” Persons Resettlement tomers as part of the Penrith Photography Walaa and her husband, Scheme. on a Plate food festival as Mustafa, are forging a new In April 2017, they well as serving up recipes life for themselves and their arrived in Penrith. Two of from her native country at a PRESS – PUBLICITY – PRESENTATIONS three children in Cumbria, their children are now refugee network meeting. having had to flee Syria as pupils at a local school, Walaa adds: “Of course I Lakeland Seasons, Lakeland Life and civil war raged. while their youngest at- miss my family who are still Lakeland Calendar are three differing, Grange-over-Sands Bayscapes.co.uk When the conflict began tends a nursery in the in Syria but at least I know in 2011, the family were town. my kids are safe, they are at 50-minute audio-visual presentations featuring living in Idlib in north-west Mustafa is able to school and they have food. the annual beauty of Cumbria. Syria, a former stronghold worship at Penrith’s It’s a very different life here; of the armed opposition mosque and Walaa has things can be difficult but These FREE entertaining and informative shows against the Assad regime. enrolled on a catering people have helped us a lot. may be booked in advance by WI and MU. Sustained bombing saw course at Carlisle College. “And my dream for the Music, poetry and narration accompany the Walaa, Mustafa and their The family are integrating future? I love to cook. It ThornleigH extended families move into their new community, makes me happy. I don’t spectacular images which have already been appreciated at various venues. from city to city, eventually although Walaa admits it want a big restaurant. I An Amazing Christian Hotel living in school buildings can be hard. She says they would be happy with a near the Turkish border. are thankful for the support kitchen and one table to For details, phone/text 07813 085877 “It was very bad,” Walaa of volunteers from the Pen- serve Syrian food to people or visit www.edenonline.net 015395 32733 says. “It was war. Everything rith and Eden Refugee Net- here in Penrith.” [email protected] www.thornleigh.org 14 The Way, Winter 2018/2019 www.salvationarmy.org.uk

By The Way Excited but anxious Easter story to be acted GREETINGS! By the time you read this, I hope I will have met most of you in the circuit. Moving here has been very exciting, if not something that has made me at times anxious and apprehensive. Like all new out on streets of Carlisle things, walking into the unknown is difficult but we have a promise that Christ walks with us, that God’s grace and peace surround us; n that the Holy Spirit is equipping us. Auditions to be held in January for all Passion Play roles, including that of Jesus Andrew Sterling, Newsletter, Kirkby Stephen, Appleby and SPECIAL auditions are set to By Dave Roberts Tebay Methodist Circuit take place ahead of the ambi- I AM encouraged by some branches who are tious performance of a Passion has also committed resources to attracting new members, particularly Solway Deanery. This diocese has a bright future Play in Carlisle city centre. the event, including two Methodist ahead with new members joining. We need Staging will be erected and churches, St George’s URC and the to encourage new leaders. It is up to you as sound systems rigged in the city’s Salvation Army (who will provide members to rise to new challenges and be a pedestrianised English Street for refreshments on the day). Anglican force to be reckoned with in our churches. I the performances on Saturday churches, Carlisle Christian Fel- would like to see a Mothers’ Union presence April 13, 2019. lowship and Hebron Evangelical in every Mission Community in this diocese. Jane Conlan, Mothers’ Union News But before that can happen, Church are also supporting it. actors must be cast for the lead Organisers have liaised with CAROLE Harkins has become a Reader roles – including that of Jesus. churches in other towns – such as Emeritus. This means she can have a slightly Auditions are scheduled for Kendal – where Passion Plays have quieter life because, although not ‘retired’, January 9 and 11 from 5-9pm at St been staged and want the Carlisle she will be doing a little bit less. Carole has George’s URC in Carlisle. performances to act as a springboard been a reader at St John’s for 27 years and has served the church well. This hasn’t just The performance is the idea of for people to hear more about the been in the leading of worship, but in a lot of the Rev Isaac Lawrence, vicar of Easter story in their local church. pastoral work. It has all been much appreci- Scotby with Cotehill and Open-air meditation and contem- ated and we thank her for her dedication. Cumwhinton, who in recent plation sessions will be held in the The Observer, St John the Baptist, Upperby months has liaised with Carlisle days after the play. Those leading City Council and the city’s faith sessions include the Rev Richard THE 2019 calendars are now available. As usual they cost £10, which will enable me to community. Teal, chair of the Cumbria give something to the causes I support. Isaac said: “The God for All Methodist District, the Rev Sarah These include St Mary’s Hospice, Christian initiative was the catalyst for me Moore, area president of the Cum- Aid and Oxfam as well as the church. This is to start doing something about bria area of the North Western my eighth calendar and I have been able to staging the play. As I prayed, I felt Synod of the URC and the Very Rev donate £1,500 from their sales. I am grateful God’s calling to take this play out Mark Boyling, Dean of Carlisle. to those who support me. Gill de Bourcier, Grapevine, Methodist Churches onto the streets of Carlisle, to take “The Christian church is pretty of Coniston, Swarthmoor & Ulverston it out to the people who may not good at putting on events but not readily come to church. that good on follow-ups,” Isaac THANK you for the beautiful flowers received “The Passion Play is such a explained. “So the plan is that we after my fall on Anglers’ Crag, Ennerdale. At powerful way in which the story will hold open-air sessions on the least I had achieved reaching the top and of Christ’s trial, death and resur- Monday, Tuesday Wednesday and was on the way down when it happened. Fortunately, no major damage was done and rection can be told which will Thursday of Holy Week.” my bruises faded more quickly than the flow- hopefully move people to ask the John Davies, of Classic Theatre ers. simple question, ‘Why Jesus?’” Cumbria, is writing and directing Fiona Donaldson, Living Stones, There will be two, hour-long the play which will be performed Whitehaven URC performances of the play on the in the modern idiom. There will be MOBILES are a great tool for keeping in day at 11am and 2pm. A technical more than 20 speaking parts, as Isaac Lawrence: Planning a performance of a Passion support team has been set up to well as live music. touch, getting out of a jam, doing business, n keeping safe and even finding your way Play in Carlisle. Other Cumbrian towns, including Kendal oversee the recruitment of actors, For more details, visit home. However, I have some reservations… the staging, sound system, www.carlislepassionplay.org, we do get rather attached to them… We do inset, have staged similar plays in the past costume and stewarding. email info@classictheatrecumbria find it hard to stop fiddling with them… We MAIN PICTURE: DAVE ROBERTS A group of city centre churches or phone 07970 673236. have a tendency to panic when they go missing… And we seem to have become a generation that looks down (at the screen) rather than up (at life, God, at the world). Andy Murphie, Crosthwaite Parish, Keswick Campaign enables church to balance books NEXT autumn when you see geese heading south for the winter, flying in a ‘V’ formation, WE KNOW generosity is a key and encouragement as we seek to you might consider what science has By Sophie Hodge, aspect of the character of God. We Stewardship Enabler begin a major building project in discovered as to why they fly that way. As our church. each bird flaps its wings, it creates an uplift see everything in our lives as gifts for the bird immediately following. By flying from God, and we recognise the “Perhaps most importantly, in a ‘V’ formation the whole flock adds at ultimate gift of God in the birth groups and we wrote letters to stewardship has given us a forum least 71 per cent greater flying range than if and death of Jesus Christ and in everyone in our congregations to look again at what it means to each bird flew on its own outlining our vision for fulfilling be children of God. Parish Church of St Paul Grange-over-Sands the promise of eternal life. So how do we respond to this God’s mission and ministry in “I was delighted to hear people Ulverston, explaining church in my congregation discussing THE first session of The Ark, the new toddler amazing generosity? Members of finances as clearly and transpar- group run jointly by the Mothers’ Union and how God had blessed them; how Ulverston Parish Church have ently as possible. Through includ- God had been challenging them in church members, held its first session in been exploring just that. October. There were a small number of ing response forms, the letters their finances; the freedom they visitors aged from five weeks to the grand old The Rev Canon Alan Bing, made it as simple as possible for had discovered since committing age of two years. Everyone seemed to enjoy rector of Ulverston Parish Church, people to respond to what they to tithing and the challenge; and themselves, including the helpers. explained: “We have run had heard on a Sunday morning Alan Bing: ‘Confidence’ anxieties they were still battling The Parish of Whitehaven ‘stewardship campaigns’ in the and in their small groups.” with when it comes to money. past, but often with few results. WE live in one of the most beautiful places in Before the campaign started, result of this push is that we now This openness and honesty felt the country. We have the privilege of living in This time we decided to look some congregation members had have an extra £1,000 income a like a refreshing and real response a place where God’s creation has not been more holistically at the topic of reported back that they felt people month. This has made all the to the God who has given us masked by the concrete jungle! We can still generosity and stewardship. were already giving as much as difference to us as we have now everything.” find those ‘thin places’ in our environment. “We ran a preaching series on a they could. balanced our books and are not n Contact stewardship enabler Graham Tate, ADRU Benefice News, Sunday morning, we looked at operating at a deficit. This has Sophie Hodge on 01768 807777 or Aldingham, Dendron, Rampside and Urswick “Thankfully this didn’t end up money and giving in our small being the case,” Alan added. “The given us tremendous confidence [email protected]. www.salvationarmy.org.uk The Way, Winter 2018/2019 15 Rugby-playing vicar seeks conversions as team’s chaplain

A RECENTLY By Dave Roberts and gave his life to Jesus. He staff, directors and the fans. appointed Cumbrian was appointed children and Director Denis Fay said: “In vicar who played rugby families worker at his home our development planning we electronics, Tony was per- church before being chosen for recognised the club needed to league semi-profession- suaded to try rugby league. ordination and training at Oak do more in its welfare provi- ally has been appointed He laughed: “I was told Hill Theological College. sion. We were pondering a re- chaplain of the Barrow ‘Come along you’ll love it. Now Tony now has been sponse when, almost by divine Raiders RL club. You won’t get hurt.’ I was named as chaplain of the Barrow intervention, the opportunity to Rev Tony Ford took up his picked as hooker and was Raiders Rugby League club, appoint Tony came along!” post as Priest in Charge of St promptly kicked all over the having previously served for And as for any return to the Mark’s Church in Septem- park! I loved the physicality eight years as chaplain of Old- pitch, Tony joked: “There are ber, having made the move of it all, though, as well as the ham RLFC. The role involves plenty of exciting things God north from Rochdale. social side. It was great fun.” pastoral care and welfare across wants me to tackle in my new As a child, Tony battled His love of the sport saw the whole Barrow Raiders’ com- role, rather than tackling back from severe birth him turn out for Salford munity including the players, somebody on a rugby pitch!” defects caused by the drug Rugby League’s first team Thalidomide, to be signed by and reserves before a return Manchester United. to Oldham where, again, he Tony said: “When I was represented the reserves. born my feet were virtually “For my mum and dad, back to front. I had to have Oldham was a big club so surgery and spent much of playing for their reserves was my time in special shoes to a huge thrill for me.” Make a help correct them. By the age It was the birth of his of nine they were virtually as daughter, Nicola, now 25, difference... normal.” which proved the catalyst for His talent led to him Tony’s faith journey. He and become a joining the Old Trafford club his wife Denise wanted her for seven years. Aged 16 he to be baptised but the vicar turned professional, playing insisted they had to attend Become part for Canadian team, The church regularly. carer and of Cumbria’s biggest Whitecaps, and later semi- “We went along intending family professionally for an Aus- to do a runner after the change lives tralian team in Woolagong. baptism but we made friends Returning to the UK, there and kept going,” he 0303 333 1216 cumbria.gov.uk/fostering Tony Ford: Played semi-professionally where he worked in ware- said. Tony eventually PHILIP HATFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY housing and as a buyer in attended an Alpha Course Churches back foster support scheme

CUMBRIAN congregations of love and stability.” are being encouraged to sign Cumbria County Council up to a new scheme which Andy already supports more than aims to create new church Batchelor: 200 foster families, but with support for foster carers. close to 700 children Cumbria County Council Fosters needing care, they are launched the Fostering with his always looking for more. Friendly Churches scheme wife Julie The council hopes that in September, with the sup- churches who sign up to the port of Penrith Methodist scheme will celebrate Church and the Parish of DAVE fostering and foster carers Whitehaven. ROBERTS through prayer, sermons and They have now been participation in campaigns. joined by St Mary’s, Walney foster children, and Julie and began the wait to be Island, and St John’s, Bar- had, for a long time, felt we ‘matched’ to a relevant case. Information sessions, at row Island. The Rev Andy might be able to offer a “We are now long-term which you can find out more Batchelor, who fosters with home to children in need of foster carers for two chil- about fostering and chat to one. dren aged 9 and 11, and they local carers, will be held on: wife Julie, is vicar of both n churches. “After having a conversa- are very much a part of our Saturday February 9 – Andy said: “I was so tion with our daughter who family. Crown & Mitre Hotel, pleased we have become lived at home with us, we “People often comment Carlisle (2-4pm) Fostering Friendly churches, decided the time was right that they admire our dedica- n Saturday February 23 – particularly as through our to investigate. tion in taking on the chil- George Hotel, Penrith work as carers, Julie and I “After undergoing the dren, but in reality we are (2-4pm) understand the urgent need very thorough process of as- just an ordinary family who To find out more about for more carers. sessment we were approved happens to have the space becoming a Fostering “We were both brought up to be foster carers, under- and the willingness to take Friendly Church email in families that included took some initial training, in children in desperate need [email protected]. 16 The Way, Winter 2018/2019

Called to return to his first love – and Richard Teal: Was working in the fields at the age of 16 when he heard a voice say three times ‘Richard, I want you for ministry’ Yorkshire DAVE ROBERTS

Please tell us a little bit n Qabout yourself. Ahead of his move next summer, Rev Richard Teal, 60, chair of I was born into a tenant Cumbria Methodist District for 10 years, is our latest ‘Focus on Faith’ farming family in the church. In East Yorkshire we were hold dear the responsibility of that together we can do great for All is a constant approach from AYorkshire Dales with no called to do the same and grew to caring for ministers and retired things for the Gospel; separately the top without any engagement connections to church. My child- a congregation of 300-plus adults ministers. I want to be known as we can’t be as effective. locally. I feel things are changing hood ambition was to teach music and 50 children. someone who can be approached and that people have become more and one day the minister from the The job in Cumbria came up in and trusted. What challenges does confident and trusting in each other. village’s Methodist Chapel asked 2008. I never thought I was chair ecumenism bring? That means being missional if I would play the piano. material but others did. I was We are in England’s first Q through God for All has become Usually, I’d take a book to read persuaded God was talking to me ecumenical county. Why’s The national ecumenical part and parcel of all our agendas. during the sermon, but one day I through other people. Qthat important? officers have walked with us forgot so I listened and, as Wesley I was new to faith in my Ain Cumbria and been What does God have said, “my heart was strangely What does your current teens. At that time David incredibly supportive but across planned for you next? warmed”. From that moment I role entail? AShepherd and Derek the county we continue to push at Q was converted to Christ. When I Q Warlock were leading the doors. That is a challenge but it’s I’ve always said that before was 16, I was working in the Methodism is a connexional ecumenical scene in Liverpool. I a good one to face. We face theo- retirement I felt I was called fields when I heard a voice say church so that has shaped my was inspired by these men logical differences. I’ve always Ato return to my first love – three times “Richard, I want you Arole. Nationally, I have bringing communities together; it stressed that, as Methodists, we circuit ministry. I’ve been asked to for ministry”. I know that to be represented Methodism on three was not about theology, but about would not change our views on consider a number of national the voice of God so, rather than ecumenical committees as well as what could happen on the ground. gender equality. Through prayer, roles but I’ve said no. So from music, that’s the path I chose. serving on the Methodist National In my last appointment I was tradition and reason we have come next August, I shall be superinten- My minister advised I ‘taste Medical Committee and as a board minister of the main Methodist/ to understandings. Likewise there dent for the Driffield and Hornsea life’ before moving into ministry member on the Methodist URC church as well as the are times when we can’t agree and Circuit in East Yorkshire. so I took a job in sales and Ministers Housing Society. I was Anglican church. we have all had to respectfully production. In 1978 I went to train then asked to co-chair the National In Cumbria, we’re not saying accept that. But that doesn’t mean How will you feel as you at Wesley College, Bristol. At the Rural Strategy Group. there should be ‘one denomina- we can’t live well together. leave Cumbria? end of my third year I was pulled On a regional level I meet regu- tion’; it is important identities are Q out early due to a shortage of larly with chairs from across the retained. But I’d also say that You’ve been heavily in- A number of people have ministers. Newly-married to north-west and the Isle of Man. ecumenism helps us to realise volved in the God for All said I will find it hard to Susan, we moved to Gateshead. The district role is manyfold. even more who we are within our Qstrategy. How is it going? Areturn to pastoral ministry By 28 I was a superintendent in The Methodist Church does not denominations. Beyond our It is placing mission at the from the role I’ve been in and I’m Berwick-upon-Tweed, tasked with have a hierarchy so although some distinctiveness there is an over- forefront of all of our aware of that. We’ve been very turning round a church on its people say I’m the ‘leader’ of the arching unity and commonality. Aministries and that is to be happy here so I shall be sad to uppers. When we left nine years Methodists in Cumbria, I see We also have to understand that celebrated. We need to be aware, leave Cumbria but it will be a joy later, it was a thriving community myself as first among equals. I resources are less plentiful and however, that people don’t feel God to get back into Yorkshire.