Canon Missioner retires ochesterLink

May 2016 see pages 6 and 7 Diocesan Project on Dementia By Julia Burton-Jones ince last April the diocesan ‘An excellent day – informative, enriching, encouraging.’ SMission and Community ‘Wide range of examples, ideas, Engagement work has included experiences shared.’ a project on dementia delivered ‘Inspirational speakers and input.’ ‘Has given me a greater understanding of by Julia Burton-Jones and dementia and a way forward to engage in supported by Henry Smith our larger community. A very informative Surplus of the Poor Clergy Fund. day.’ ‘It was good to meet so many committed The aim of the project is to and caring people.’ develop chaplaincy to support people with dementia and their ‘I found it inspiring that the families. We are doing this importance of support for the through working with The Gift elderly and those with dementia of Years, the home of Anna is being recognised and Chaplaincy. ministered to in such a brilliant way!’ After an initial scoping exercise from May to September 2015, which indicated broad Those who attended were invited to support in the Diocese for introducing express an interest in becoming an Anna Anna Chaplaincy, two events were offered Chaplain or an Anna Friend in the Diocese. for those keen to explore this new model Thirty one people have indicated they wish of ministry. Over the two events (on 23 to explore a sense of calling and there February in Istead Rise and 7 April in is still time to join the first group. Over Rochester) 80 people from 40 parishes the coming months a pathway towards across the Diocese came to meet Debbie discerning, resourcing and supporting Thrower and Alex Burn from The Gift of these new ministry roles will be developed Years to learn about Anna Chaplaincy. with the aim of establishing a group of Anna Friends and Anna Chaplains in post Comments from those who attended and active in ministry by early 2017. included:

For more information, email Julia Burton-Jones at [email protected] Rochester Cathedral Chorister to join Aled Jones in St Paul’s Cathedral

emi Lasekan (12) from the The choristers will travel to London for work specially composed by the 39-year- the concert on 27 April, to be hosted by old former cathedral chorister Philip TRochester Cathedral Choir Aled Jones and Alexander Armstrong. Stopford. will be joining other cathedral Temi said, choristers from around the UK The concert is being organised by the “I am very excited to be going Friends of Cathedral Music (FCM) as to boost St Paul’s Cathedral part of several nation-wide events to choir in the first concert to London for this concert.” commemorate the 60th year of its designed to kick-start a £10m founding in St Bride’s Church, Fleet Choristers are rehearsing pieces such as Street, London, in 1956. It also marks fund to safeguard the 1,400 Handel’s Zadok the Priest composed for the launch of FCM’s Diamond Fund for year-old cherished tradition of King George II in 1727, Sir Hubert Parry’s Choristers which will be announcing its music making. anthem of 1902 I was Glad, and a new first grant at the concert.

Copy deadline for the June issue of Rochester Link is 4pm on 13 May 2016. Copy to: [email protected] 2 ochester Link

Claire Boxall joins the Diocese laire Boxall joined the the strategic framework Cdiocesan staff in March as process, which is going to Strategic Framework Man- be a conversation across the What’s on ager. This part-time role will Diocese. This will involve What’s On May 2016 BROMLEY help shape the first diocesan potential stakeholders, inter- WALDERSLADE 15 May at 3:00pm. Free Sunday afternoon concert in strategic framework, working ested parties and all those 1 May Philippa Hanna, one of the UK’s most inspiring St Mary’s Church, College Road, Bromley BR1 3QG. Family- alongside parishes, dean- who make up the Anglican songwriters will be performing at the Arts Cafe, St William’s friendly music played by Eleanor Tagart (piano), Helen eries, archdeaconries, the Church in this part of North Church, Walderslade Village. Doors open from 6:00pm for a Twomey (violin), Dan Burrows (cello) and Aidan Twomey Bishop’s Council, Diocesan Kent and the London Bor- 6:30pm start, finishing at 8:00pm. Entrance is free but a pay (bassoon). Further information on 020 8464 1239. Synod and outside partners. oughs of Bromley and Bexley what you want scheme is in place. and should help determine SEVENOAKS As project manager, Claire the diocesan focus going SEVENOAKS 15 May Affirming Catholicism Rochester meeting at 7:30pm. will enable those at the cen- forward.” Eardley Road, Sevenoaks, Lunchtime Recitals, Lasting 30 St. Luke’s church, Eardley Road, Sevenoaks, TN13 1XT. The tre to listen to what it is that minutes. Every Wednesday at 12:30pm. Please join us – Rev Stephen Sealy talks on “The life and faith of Sir John people think are the most Claire has many years of admission free. Refreshments available from 12 noon Betjeman.” All are very welcome. important things for the experience working with MAY Diocese to focus on in the local churches as an active 4 Gabrielle Lewis – Organ ROCHESTER future. From this resources member of the Methodist 11 Victoria Edge – Soprano, Greg Gomberg – Classical guitar 16 and 20 May Dementia Friends sessions will be held could be utilised in a much circuit, and voluntary work 18 Sue Casson – Singer/Songwriter in St Peter’s Parish Centre on Monday from 1:30pm to more productive way. Claire with many groups including a 25 Helena Booer – Soprano, Sandra Booer - Piano 2:30pm and on Friday from 4:30pm to 5:30pm. Learn more said, “I am here to manage year with VSO in India. Most For future organ recitals, see: www.organrecitals.com about what it is like to live with dementia and turn that recently she has been PR understanding into action. To register on one of the session and Communications Manag- ISTEAD RISE go to www.dementiafriends.org.uk or contact John Portman er at Golding Homes housing 7 May Don’t Burst the Bubble event at St Barnabas Church, on [email protected] or 07989 783447 association. Claire is pas- Istead Rise from 9:30am to 3:30pm. Cost £5 per person sionate about social justice, which includes lunch. This day is a mini conference exploring ROCHESTER baking, Shakespeare’s plays the nature and nurture of children’s spirituality. Mary Hawes 20 May Dementia Friendly Rochester Café from 2:00pm to and Bollywood films. is the keynote speaker and there will also be a taster session 4:00pm in St Peter’s Parish Centre, Delce Road, Rochester on Godly Play. To book your place please contact Sarah ME1 2EH. Cake and Refreshments, dementia friendly She said “I am incredibly Cabella, 01634 560024. activities, information and advice. No need to book, just turn excited to have joined the up on the day. Diocese in this role, and look SEVENOAKS forward to conversations 7 May Choral concert, Écoutez!, by Temenos Chamber BROMLEY about what God is doing with Choir, with French Chansons including Jannequin’s La 21 May Plant Sale and Coffee Morning at 11:00am at and through us”. Guerre, Poulenc’s Soir de Neige, and a Mass by Guerrero. St Mary’s Church Hall, College Road, Bromley BR1 3QG. Instrumental items for Flute and Piano at 7:30pm at St Organised by St Mary’s Mothers’ Union to raise money for CONTACT US Luke’s Church, Eardley Road. Tickets £10 (£5 students) from Mothers’ Union projects in UK and abroad. Admission 50p News and letters to the Editor: Sevenoaks Bookshop, or by phone from 01959 523765 includes first cup of coffee! Further information on 020 8464 [email protected] 1239. Telephone: 01634 560000 WALDERSLADE 8 May World leading scholar, Prof Robin Gill will be speaking FAWKHAM & HARTLEY ADVERTISEMENTS on Health and Christian Ethics at the Public Lecture Series, 21 May, May Fair at the Parish of Fawkham & Hartley from Email: [email protected] St William’s Church, Walderslade Village. Doors open from 12noon to 4:00pm, at St Mary’s Church Meadow, Fawkham Copy for The Link needs to be typed and submitted by email please. 6:00pm for a 6:30pm start, finishing at 8:00pm. Entrance is Road, Fawkham, DA3 8EQ.The event will feature a variety Images must be submitted as either a TIFF or a JPEG file of 300dpi. free but a pay what you want scheme is in place. of stalls and activities, plus a fun dog show, classic car (Set your digital camera to the highest quality setting and we will try to do display and live music courtesy of the band, ‘Jazz Force’ and the rest for you.) BECKENHAM choir, ‘Local Vocals.’ Win a Bluewater voucher worth £200. A 13 May Concert of music by the Elm Singers at 7:30pm at St. contribution of £2 upwards per vehicle will gain entrance to Barnabas, Oakhill Road / Perth Road, Beckenham, BR3 6PP ample car parking. – concert of music by the Elm Singers, on the theme of “The merry month of May”. With Laura Corbin (flute). More from GILLINGHAM John Webber on (020) 8650 9164. Admission free; retiring 21 May An evening with Marilyn Baker, a gifted Christian “The church is called to be with the collection. song writer and singer and Tracy Williamson at 7:00pm at Gillingham Parish Church. Tickets £5 to include refreshments people. We help young people to MEOPHAM can be obtained from Hilda 01634 932135 or The Parish 13 May Concert for Christian Aid with Meopham Brass, Office 01634 853459 [email protected] study and try to improve nutrition. Meopham Community Choir and Guests at 7:30pm at St John’s Church, Wrotham Road (A227), Meopham. Tickets £10 PEMBURY God is on the side of the vulnerable.” tel: 01474 813106 or e-mail [email protected]. 21 May ‘Music for the Bard’ - Celebrating 400 years of Supporting a Christian Aid project providing reproductive Shakespeare Cantiaci Vocal Ensemble plus Harpist Anna Fr Lakshman Daniel, Church of Ceylon healthcare for women and girls in Ethiopia. Wynne and Reader Alison Sandford MacKenzie at 7:30pm at St Peter’s Upper Church, Pembury. Tickets: £10 from ERITH [email protected] or by calling 07775 624048 13-15 May Art Exhibition of paintings, photographs, craftwork www.cantiaci.org.uk and sculpture. An artistic celebration of Erith at Christ Church, This Harvest, help Us to feed the bodies and minds of Victoria Road, Erith, DA8 3AN. Friday 12:00pm-5:00pm, ASH children from tea plantation communities in Sri Lanka. Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm, Sunday 12:00pm-5:00pm. For 27 May The Church of St Peter and St Paul, TN15 7HD at more info: email [email protected] or visit 8:00pm. Celebrating Shakespeare with Words and Music. Worship resources and more info www.christchurcherith.org.uk Organised by Friends of Ash Church. Tickets £8 on the door. at www.weareUs.org.uk/harvest or call 020 7921 2200. EDENBRIDGE BELVEDERE 14 May Three Counties Community Choir Festival at 7:15pm 27 May St Augustine Belvedere Patronal Festival in the Us. The new name for USPG at Edenbridge Parish Church, St Peter & St Paul TN8 5BD. Centenary Year. Sung Concelebrated Mass at 7:30pm. Registered charity number 234518 Fund-raising concert. Proceeds to Breast Cancer Now. Entry Principal Celebrant & Preacher: The Right Rev Norman by donation at the door. Banks, Bishop of Richborough. All welcome

MEOPHAM WATERINGBURY 14 May Sponsored walk for women and girls in Ethiopia. 28 May Annual Plant Sale at The Church of St John the 14 mile walk starts 9:00am, 6 mile walk starts 2:00pm. For Baptist, Wateringbury from 10:00am to 4:00pm. It is an To advertise further information and entry forms, please contact Peter and ideal occasion to purchase plants for your flower beds, pots in this newspaper, Jill Kettle on 01474 813632, e-mail [email protected], and vegetable gardens, whilst at the same time raising BE contact Glenda or Michelle on or visit our website: www.cadswalk.co.uk much needed money for our beautiful church. 01752 225623 STROOD WROTHAM or email 14 May Book Sale at St Nicholas Church, High Street, Strood 28-30 May Flower Festival from 10:30am to 4:30pm at SEEN [email protected] from 10:00am to 12:00pm. All books 50p St George’s Church, Wrotham TN15 7AH ochester Link 3 Godparents’ Sunday

Matthew and Christopher — and I pray for each of them across each week of the year. They and I each live far from where we first met, but I can still pray for them.

Likewise, I have prayed for my godparents, Tom, Ken and Jean, and I have been very grateful for the bonds which I have had with them, which, in Tom’s case, extended up to his death at the age of 95.

Do take the occasion of this festival to celebrate the stories which you have of being a godchild or a godparent and continue to enrich that relationship with your prayers.

This month also hosts 3 other major festivals from the Christian calendar: — Ascension Day (Thursday, 5 May) — the ascension of Jesus into heaven and eternal glory, Pentecost/Whitsun (Sunday, 15 May) — the coming of the Holy Spirit in power on the first Christians of the Early Church, and Trinity Sunday (Sunday, 22 May) — a celebration of the reality and revelation of God as Father, Son and Holy Spirit. In their own different ways, they all speak to us of the supernatural character of Christian faith and of existence. Life is more than material, fuller than the physical and far greater that what is familiar and focussed on what lies within our grasp.

To enter on the journey of Christian faith is to look out through different eyes and to see what lies before and beyond our horizons.

In a culture which has tended to look at “religion” as what “others” do (and, for some, those “others” can be viewed as even “weird” or “extreme” just for having religious faith), it can be a challenge and privilege to help people to enter the world of faith and his May is rich in festival occasions. gave” having godparents as a reason for wanting to have see things afresh through new eyes. The first one is a new festival — on their child baptised at a christening”. Whatever else is T important within the occasion of a baptism, the creation In their very title, “godparents” hold before their Sunday, 1 May, which has been designated of a bond between a child and their godparents is seen as godchild a reminder of the “God” dimension of life “Godparents’ Sunday”. very important. as normal. In their praying, they constantly keep their godchild open to the love and presence of God. Are you a godchild? Are you a godparent? If you have I hope that many churches will take the opportunity to In becoming trusted and enduring friends, they brought a child for baptism, have you pondered long and celebrate this new festival of Godparents’ Sunday. may come to play a special part in assisting and hard over whom to ask to be a godparent — and how accompanying their godchild on that amazing journey did you make your choice of that person? How did they To be a godparent is a huge privilege and one which we of faith and vision through life to eternity. respond? What has happened since? Recent research will seek to fulfil in whatever way is possible, sometimes undertaken in connection with the Church of England’s with more success and sometimes with less. I have 6 by The Ven Clive Mansell, Archdeacon of Tonbridge Christenings Project suggested that 91% of parents godchildren — Dominique, Daniel, Alastair, Edward, Bishop James’ Diary

May 2016 Sunday 1 All Day Speldhurst Parish Sunday 15 6:30pm Confirmation – Dartford Saturday 21 10:00am Kondoa Partnership Group Weekend – Elvenden Deanery training event – Chatham Monday 2 All Day Annual Leave 2:30pm Licensing of Lay Ministers to Wednesday 4 Monday 16 9:30am Confirmation – Holy Trinity – Rochester School, Sunday 22 10:30am St Nicolas – Strood Thursday 5 All Day Deanery Visit – Rochester Dartford to Sunday 15 Deanery 3:30pm Prison Year Meeting – London Monday 23 All Day House of Bishops - York Tuesday 17 7:30pm Kent Workplace Mission AGM and Tuesday 24 Thursday 5 8:00pm Confirmation – Lamberhurst – Larkfield Wednesday 18 6:00pm Mid Ministry Programme Wednesday 25 11:30am Training Incumbents Sunday 8 6:30pm Confirmation – St Philip and – St Cuthman’s Meeting - Rochester St James, Chatham 4:00pm Senior Leadership Tuesday 10 All Day Bishops Staff Meeting Thursday 19 7:00pm CHAS Anniversary – Development Group - London – Rochester Southwark Thursday 26 All Day Senior Leadership Wednesday 11 All Day Learning Community Development Group - London Discernment Friday 20 9:30am Housing Justice Board Sunday 29 10:00am Christ the King – Chatham Interviews – Manchester Meeting – London Thursday 12 3:00pm College of Canons 3:00pm Licensing of Elizabeth – Rochester Chapman – ellenor Hospice 4 ochester Link Advertising Feature

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CHURCH PEWS UNCOMFORTABLE? WHY NOT TRY SAFEFOAM’S TOP QUALITY Celebrations at Tonbridge Parish Church UPHOLSTERED FOAM PEW CUSHIONS? Safefoam, Green Lane, Riley Green, Hoghton, Preston PR5 0SN www.safefoam.co.uk Freephone 0800 015 44 33 After 4 months of extensive restoration and refurbishment, St Peter & St Paul’s Church dedicates Free Sample Pack of foam & fabrics sent by first class mail its fresh, improved building to God and the community on Sunday 8 May at 10am. When phoning please quote RL0516

hurch members raised over £140,000, which, together with grants Cand donations, covered the full cost of the works. Birchwood House Since January 2016, the church has remained in use alongside work on: Rest Home • Restoration of monuments, some 17–18th century and of Residential Home for national importance the Elderly • Repair and redecoration of inside walls Respite care & short • Removing some pews and creating wider staging • Improvements to lighting stay available A beautifully refurbished Georgian manor house, set In the course of the work, several interesting older features came in 6 acres of glorious Kent countryside, within easy to light, including 17th century tombs which had been boarded over reach of Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells. when the Victorian choir stalls were installed. • All rooms have en-suite facilities & nurse call The aims of the project were to safeguard the ancient building and system. Lift to all floors. make it more accessible and flexible for the many community events • Excellent home cooking, with special diets catered we hold – Holiday Club, Experience weeks, Extravaganzas, concerts… for. Everyone is welcome to the dedication service at 10am; a crèche will •Hairdressing, chiropody, library and mobile shop. be available and refreshments served. The service will be attended • Monthly in-house Holy Communion and links to the local church. by all involved – the backers, the planners, the local experts, crafts- Stockland Green Road, men, builders and engineers … and those who have swept up each Speldhurst, Kent TN3 0TU week to keep the church open. Telephone: Langton (01892 86) 3559

Wrotham HLF Funding t George’s Church, wonderful building. The church houses a a small group of large archiepiscopal living, worshipping community, and hosts churches placed near a major ‘palace’ on SWrotham has received many activities that form an important the main road across Kent. It was also a initial support from the part of our village community life, such significant stop on the Pilgrims Way. The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) as weekly Charity Coffee Mornings, church is open to all every day. Arts, Music and Flower Festivals, and for a major restoration project. Concerts. ” The generous pledges of The Friends of Kent Churches (£20,0000 and the The funding should help to ensure Metalsmith The church is the second built on the Garfield Weston Foundation (£10,000) is www.steelyourself.co.uk that the fine 13th Century, Grade l site, the first dating back to the middle also most gratefully acknowledged listed building is preserved for future Conscientious and reliable, Ian Marshall of the 10th Century, and being included provides new work and maintenance for a generations to enjoy. The plans involve in the Doomsday Book. It is one of by the Rev Edward Wright number of churches. carrying out essential conservation work, To join his list of satisfi ed customers including the replacement of failing roof St George’s Church, Wrotham call: 020 8850 7851 or 077 6666 2747 tiling and valley gutters, and repairs to stonework. It is hoped that the work will ALGARVE begin early in 2017. Luxury 3 bed villa (all ensuite) Sleeps 6/8, near Carvoeiro. Own pool, all mod cons Situated on Pestana Golf Resort. HLF have given £19,600 which will Golf, Tennis, Free Wifi. enable plans to be advanced for Also on Trip Advisor Full details and brochure: expenditure of over £160,000 through Brian Chambers Tel: 02380 265 683 a second round application later this [email protected] year. New guides, display boards and www.casa-oleander.co.uk website access points are to be provided, giving considerably improved information concerning the history of the church and points of interest. St George’s School and TravelArranged for RochesterInsurance Link readers Real and friendly people... not machines! the local History Society will be involved Our insurance has a customer 24-hour helpline, full medical in preparing the new materials, which cover with most pre-existing medical conditions accepted and, most importantly, an air ambulance get you home service. will greatly add to the experience of LONG STAY AND CRUISE COVER AVAILABLE those visiting this magnificent medieval Call now for our early summer offers Annual multi-trip cover (max. age 85) church. Single trip cover (NO max. age) for UK, Europe and worldwide holidays The Rector, the Rev Edward Wright, said Single trip cover for all departures up to 31/12/17 Conditions apply FT TRAVEL “We’re very pleased to have received UK Please call for details ~ BASED INSURANCE this support for the conservation work 0116 272 0500 which will help secure the future of this Authorised & regulated by the FCA 6 ochester Link Diocese says goodbye to Canon

Reverend Canon Jean Kerr will be retiring from her life in ordained ministry and moving to Deal with her husband, Paul, after 30 years of service. Here, she reflects on her life in the service of the Lord. ollowing an initial career in teaching, toral care that she entered into evange- kinds of experiences and she likens it to friends. She said, “The evangelists are FRev Canon Jean Kerr will retire this lism. Jean said, “Anything that enables the Japanese word for vocation – ‘iki- a brilliant, energised group of people! year at the end of 30 years of ordained people to hear, see and engage with gai’ – the thing that gets you out of bed I remember one residential weekend ministry. Heading with husband, Paul the Good News is an act of evangelism. in the morning. Jean said, “I suppose in particular, which was led by Gordon for their new home in Deal, Jean said, Stories from the Bible are a way of that sums up ministry in all of its forms Lamont. I have never heard so much sharing the Good News.” for me. It is what gets me out of bed laughter or known so much energy in “I hope to be involved with in the morning! It is that feeling that one place as at that weekend.” A pioneer, Jean was amongst the first if I only did this one thing today, be the community in Deal.” women to be ordained in the Church of that preach a sermon, lead a funeral, Some people may remember Jean England. She said, “I don’t really know baptise a child, teach a seminar, sit with playing the role of Doris, a cleaner, “Organisations like ‘Seeking Sanctu- where those thirty years have gone. the bereaved, trek through the mud in during the diocesan conferences held ary’ are in Deal and ‘Porch Light’ - the I don’t want people to think it has the Jungle in Calais, then for this I was at Butlins. Jean said, “It was such good homeless charity - is based in Dover, all been easy, because in those early born. “ fun sweeping up after the good and so there may be some opportunities for years, people would drag their friends the great at the conference, and to me there. I also hope to learn to paint out of shops to see the weird sight of “It’s an incredibly humbling have the freedom to go on stage and and to do some writing. Paul and I need a woman wearing a dog collar. Some have an amazing conversation with God to get used to living in our own home, people spat at me in the street! That all feeling to be a part of God’s about life and his call to us, in front of but we don’t have a master plan.” seems impossible now, although there life here on earth.” everyone. It was also probably my most are still times when people in extremes scary ministry, because I had to listen Not always an evangelist, Jean was of the Church find the female presence Jean was Diocesan Warden of Evanglists to people and God all of the time, and raised in a very middle-of-the-road difficult.” for some 14 years, a role that brought try to make connections with them.” Christian family. It was not until she her a great deal of enjoyment and one Real tears were shed by delegates was working in a hospice offering pas- Jean’s ministry has exposed her to all which allowed her to make many good when Doris ‘died’ at the end of the ochester Link 7 Missioner second conference and Jean also shed and offer us stepping-stones to engage but corporate prayer can be very thin. a few tears of her own. Jean said, “I have also enjoyed rep- with the wider family. I have worked The lack of biblical knowledge is still a resenting the Bishop of Rochester in with so many wonderful people, sharing shock to me in so many places. I don’t Jean’s work has taken her around Auckland Cathedral, New Zealand and quality time and finding both the space mean academic study, but instead I am walking behind Rowan Williams in for creativity and finding endless scrip- talking about that regular encounter the world to places like the Falk- procession in Canterbury Cathedral for ture to explore. with the word of God that sometimes land Islands, New Zealand and Archbishop Justin Welby’s service and seems to speak to you, in the right way Chennai in India (as well as the asking God how he had been able to “I have had the privilege and at the right time. I would liken it to do this.” Working with migrants in ‘the people feeding on cheap white bread ‘Two Brewers’ pub in Rochester!). Jungle’ in Calais demanded both phys- joy of travelling with peo- instead of the good, wholemeal bread ical energy and mental strength. Jean ple inside and outside of the which is ready for the taking.” She said, “I will always remember said, “I can honestly say that this was Church and seeing God at presiding in the Cathedral in Chennai, something I felt compelled to do, re- Jean said, “Between us, Paul and I have watching the congregation gazing gardless of the cost or inconvenience.” work in their lives.” almost 90 years of full time ministry. towards heaven. I hadn’t realised The sheer faithfulness of God and the that they were all watching a monkey Jean’s ministry has also seen her Some people can be doing acts of constant amazement that God could running around the ceiling! During the preaching in tiny parish churches, cel- evangelism without even realising it. use even us has kept us going.” True to same trip, Jean worked with children ebrating communion in Fresh Expres- Jean said, “I think that more people are her evangelistic ministry, Jean wanted with special needs and found herself, sions courses in café settings, leading gifted in evangelism than they know. I to retire with one last thought for the with her husband Paul, in front of a parish weekends, and running some think it’s just the word that puts them people of the Diocese of Rochester. She class of deaf teenage boys without a 40 holiday clubs, as well as attending off.” said, translator. Jean said, events like the Blue Water Wedding Fair and running special weekends like the Jean’s journey has been both rewarding “At the end of the day, why “We discovered that ‘Jesus is Leap of Faith. She said, “It’s important and challenging at times. She said, “I to create space where people can hear guess the struggles are the same for would you settle for a glass of Lord’ works in sign God for themselves. Holiday clubs for every parish priest. So often we seem cheap Lambrini when you can language just the same way, example, offer some continuity be- to be stuck in ‘doing church’ rather than have the full-bodied wine of tween Sundays and the rest of the year, ‘being church’. I am sure people pray, the world over!” the Kingdom?” 8 ochester Link

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You can advertise in this newspaper with a monthly circulation of 18,000, at a very reasonable cost, reaching a great church audience in parishes throughout the Diocese of Rochester which covers parts of Greater London and Kent.. Novel We can also help you to advertise in seven other Diocesan newspapers throughout the South of England and the Home available Counties, with a total circulation of nearly 170,000. on Amazon To fi nd out more, contact Glenda or Michelle on ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ fi ve star reviews 01752 225623 57 on amazon.co.uk or email [email protected] RL ochester Link 9 Christian military meeting at Sevenoaks he Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Scripture Readers TAssociation (SASRA) has held an annual WE CAN meeting in Sevenoaks since before the Second World War. This event is characterised by an atmosphere of godliness and manliness in DESIGN both the contributions of the speakers and the singing. Attendances in recent years have been most encouraging. PRINT The lead speaker at this year’s meeting on Monday 6 June at St Nicholas Church DISTRIBUTE will be Colonel Christopher Rider, who was commissioned into the Staffordshire Regiment with whom he served in Northern Ireland, Gibraltar, USA, Canada and Germany. His YOUR later and more senior appointments included tours in Bosnia, Kosovo, Sri Lanka, Jordan LEAFLETS (where he was the Defence Attache) and Iraq, after which he was awarded the CBE for his AND MORE exceptional services. On leaving the Army he has been employed by a Non-Government Organisation working for reconciliation between Muslim and Christian communities in • Design Nigeria. He is a member of the SASRA Council.

The other speaker will be Army Scripture Our talented designers can give Reader William Wade whose early life was your business a great look. We spent in Ulster and who served for seven years can source images and proof read in the Royal Irish Rangers, with whom he your print media. completed operational tours in Saudi Arabia and Northern Ireland. He left the Army in 2001 in order to become an Army Scripture Reader. His ministry involves his going into • Print military establishments with the permission of Commanding Officers and Chaplains to “gossip the Gospel” with today’s servicemen and We can manage the print of your servicewomen. After ten years’ ministry with leafl ets, business cards, stationery, British Forces Germany, he is now attached to and almost anything else. 16 Air Assault Brigade in Colchester. In 2013 he spoke with remarkable effect at the SASRA We offer short runs as well as 175th Anniversary Service in the Guards large quantities at great rates Chapel in London to a large congregation including FREE UK mainland which included the Duke of Edinburgh. delivery on most orders. This meeting, which is open to all members of the public, will begin at 8 pm, but light refreshments will • Distribution be available from 7.30 pm in the Undercroft of St Nicholas Church. We are able to insert your leafl ets into this and similar publications enabling you to reach a church audience in this and other CofE Bromley Schools Celebrate Religious Education diocese. uesday 8 March saw Bishop Justus St George’s School, Bickley: “I really feel Teacher at Bishop Justus, was “delighted TChurch of England School host a all the schools were pulling together and to see children and staff from different We also offer inserts in the Mothers’ celebration of religious education, attended the activities really made the children think schools, working together and celebrating Union magazine Families First. by children and staff from ten other about how the Christian teachings about a shared experience of RE; RE is definitely schools across Bromley. 100 Year 4 and Fruits of the Spirit relate to our modern being celebrated here in Bromley”. 5 visitors and ten Year 7 hosts, enjoyed day lives.’ Lee Kings, Assistant Head a day of learning activities, based on the theme ‘Fruits of the Spirit’. Great customer service The day began with children splitting into four groups to explore ‘Fruits of the Spirit,’ FREE led by Bishop Justus RE teachers. This estimates was a wonderful opportunity for primary school children hosted by their Year 7 CALL colleagues, to have a taster of learning in a secondary school. A lunch and then 01752 225623 playtime on the Bishop Justus astro-turf, was followed by an interactive market [email protected] place; each school providing a beautifully www.cornerstonevision.com presented display and market stall, with children and adults participating in various learning activities based on the event’s main theme. The final session of the day was a philosophical discussion led by Bishop Justus’ RE subject leader, Patrick Boughton-Reynolds.

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Thank you to Margaret Withers

argaret Withers has stepped I have started a major revision of Mdown from her work as the ‘Welcome to the Lord’s Table’ to be Bishop’s Adviser on matters relating published in July 2017. The first edition to the admission of children to Holy was in 1999, with a revision in 2006 to Communion. Bishop James has thanked respond to the General Synod debate Margaret for the hard work she has put and Regulations. I have felt that it was into this, and the Advisory Group is well dated but it refused to lie down! Apart aware of her sterling efforts in this field. from updating I plan for it to be geared Gilead Foundations towards a more ecumenical readership Margaret said, “I first worked as the as well as including chapters on worship is a Therapeutic diocesan Children’s Adviser in 1989. and especially Eucharistic worship in Community, Since then I have worked for the Diocese schools. I feel that, apart from anything for sixteen years and also been part else, it is a fitting work to form a closure of a team leading Taize music at the to my years of work on this very special offering a residential Cathedral for a further four and played subject. I may do some work for the the organ for some schools’ festivals. Diocese of London – retirement is a rehabilitation It’s hardly surprising that I am regarded myth!” programme, called by some as more-or-less part of the furniture! Margaret’s remit is now held by the KEY, for people Diocesan Worship Development Adviser, with life-controlling I officially stood down at Easter but my Rev Lindsay Llewellyn-Macduff, alongside last ‘working’ day was Friday 18 March. the existing members of the Advisory addictions, such I was the Bishop’s Adviser from March Group. If you have any queries on this as drug or alcohol 2008 and was on diocesan staff for a matter please don’t hesitate to be in total of sixteen years, the other eight touch with her at Bishopscourt. abuse, homelessness, being as diocesan Children’s Adviser. gambling, eating disorders, self harm, Intercession and other addictive Rochester Diocese - May 2016 behaviours. Rochester Diocese: Rochester Diocese: Sunday 1 May Our Link Diocese, Mpwapwa: Bishop, The Most Rev Tuesday 17 May Bishop’s Chaplains gathering today Jacob Chimeledya, Archbishop of Tanzania Monday 2 May Philip and James, Apos- Rochester Diocese: Rochester Diocese: tles (transferred from 1 Gillingham, St Mark, and St Mary’s Island Wednesday 18 May Milton, Christ Church May) Rogation Day Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Saju Muthalaly Vicar: The Rev Sue Brewer

Rochester Diocese: Rochester Diocese: Thursday 19 May Tuesday 3 May Dunstan,Archbishop, Milton, St Peter and St Paul Rogation Day Farmers and those whose livelihood depends on the land monastic reformer, 988 Rector: The Rev Graham Herbert

Wednesday 4 May Rochester Diocese: Rochester Diocese: Rogation Day Gillingham, St Mary Magdalene Friday 20 May Northfleet, St Botolph, and Rosherville, St Mark English Saints and Martyrs Alcuin, Deacon, Abbott, 804 of the Reformation Era Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Ade Lawal Team Rector: The Rev Lawrence Smith

Rochester Diocese: Rochester Diocese: Thursday 5 May Saturday 21 May Ascension Day Readers as they celebrate 150 years of Reader Ministry Helena,protector of the Holy Perry Street, All Saints Places, 330 Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Lawrence Smith

Rochester Diocese: Rochester Diocese: Friday 6 May Rainham, St Margaret Sunday 22 May Tunbridge Wells Deanery: Rural Dean, the Rev Canon Jim Vicar: The Rev Judy Henning Stewart; Lay Chair, Mr Graham Syms Rochester Diocese: South Gillingham: Hempstead, All Saints; Wigmore, Monday 23 May Rochester Diocese: Saturday 7 May St Matthew; Bredhurst, St Peter; and Parkwood, St Paul Willian of Perth c. 1201 For those whose journey is perilous, or unclear. Based on a 300 Team Rector: The Rev Brian Senior acre dairy farm in Tuesday 24 May Sunday 8 May Rochester Diocese: Rochester Diocese: Strood Deanery John and Charles Wesley, Shorne, St Peter and St Paul rural Devon, Gilead Sunday after Ascension evangelists, hymn writers, Day Area Dean: The Rev David Green; Lay Chair: Mr Geoff Foord Vicar: Vacant 1791 and 1788 uses the Genesis Rochester Diocese: Wednesday 25 May Monday 9 May Chalk, St Mary the Virgin The Venerable Bede, monk, Rochester Diocese: Process Relapse Vicar: The Rev Nigel Bourne scholar, historian, 735 Swanscombe, St Peter and St Paul Aldhelm, bishop, 709 Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Mark Hurley Prevention programme Rochester Diocese: Tuesday 10 May Diocesan Resourcing & Support Team Thursday 26 May with our clients. Director: Mr Geoff Marsh Corpus Christi; Augustine, archbishop, 605; John Rochester Diocese: Calvin, reformer, 1564; Borstal, St Matthew Rochester Diocese: Philip Neri, founder of the Vicar: The Rev Anne Bennett Wednesday 11 May Gravesend, Holy Family, with Ifield, St Margaret Oratorians, spiritual guide, If you, or someone Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Richard Martin 1595 you know would like Rochester Diocese: Rochester Diocese: Thursday 12 May Gravesend, St Aidan Friday 27 May Chatham, St Mary and St Paul, with Emmaus Church Centre more information about Vicar: The Rev Lusa Nsenga-Ngoy Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Penny Foreman Gilead or would like to Rochester Diocese: Saturday 28 May Rochester Diocese: Friday 13 May Gravesend, St George Lanfranc, monk, archbish- Chatham, St Paul with All Saints make an application, Rector: The Rev Canon Chris Stone op, scholar, 1089 Vicar: The Rev Keith Johnson please contact: Rochester Diocese: Rochester Diocese: Saturday 14 May Gravesend, St Mary Sunday 29 May Augustine’s College of Theology, Principal: Rev Dr Alan P Laura Alm Matthias the Apostle Vicar: The Rev Trudi Oliver R Gregory Monday 30 May Tel: 01837 851240 Josephine Butler, Social Rochester Diocese: Sunday 15 May Rochester Diocese: Reformer, 1906; Joan of Arc, Fax: 01837 851520 Whitsun; Christian Aid co-ordinators in the Diocese For all who care for needs of the outcast or marginalised. Christian Aid Week begins visionary, 1431; Apolo Kivebu- laya, priest, evangelist, 1933 [email protected] Rochester Diocese: Monday 16 May Rochester Diocese: Tuesday 31 May Ordinary Time resumes today. Chatham, St Philip and St James Greenhithe, St Mary Visit of the Blessed Virgin Caroline Chisholm, Social Vicar: The Rev Martyn Saunders Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Andrew Avery Mary to Elizabeth Reformer, 1877 www.gilead.org.uk 12 ochester Link Sixteen years and counting…

Following the meeting of General Synod in November 2000, the Church of England called for a significant increase in numbers of minority ethnic clergy and Bishops. Sixteen years on, work is still very much in progress despite a noticeable increase of worshiping minority ethnic Anglicans.

ur own Diocese is actively trying to experience in the church as a minority Ocontribute to this national priority. Last ethnic woman has seen its fair share of year, three candidates from minority ethnic highs and lows. Whilst the lows have heritage were recommended for training been memorable, it has given me much toward ordination; that is one more than insight and I walk on the side of positivity the previous seven years combined. strengthened by the grace of God. As a result, I am in a vocation I love (I really There are also a number of minority ethnic can’t see myself doing anything else) and Anglicans who were recently authorised or look forward contributing to the life and are currently training for lay ministry. work of the Diocese I joined in 2015.

When talking to those with long experience What do I hope to bring to the team? My in vocations work in our Diocese, one thing own story and therefore a different insight you can pick up is the increased diversity of into some of the difficulties and the joys of people exploring what God might be calling being a minority ethnic woman who said them to. One perceptible shift has been the ‘yes’ to God and persisted in saying ‘yes’ in slow, but steady increase of minority ethnic spite of the actions of others. As a vocation Anglicans attending our various vocations advisor with a brief to have concern for events. Inevitably, that is also being the vocation of minority ethnic men and reflected in the make up of ministry teams women, in parishes across the Diocese. “I want to focus on the fact The Rev Ade Lawal of St Mary Magdalene, Gillingham is joining our diocesan vocations that all God’s people have team. Her specific brief will be to act as significance, that they are called, Minority Ethnic Vocations Champion. and are welcome at the Lord’s Ade, the daughter of a Nigerian Muslim table.” father and Ghanaian Christian mother, was born and educated in London. She was Our work to increase representation and made Deacon in 2005 and ordained Priest inclusion of minority ethnic Anglicans at all in 2006. She supports Spurs and enjoys levels in the Church is not merely about tennis, rugby as well as formula 1 racing! redressing an imbalance, it is essential to Ade also likes music, watching films and the mission of the Church. We look forward cooking for friends. to Ade’s contribution in enabling others to say YES and witnessing God’s unfolding She says of herself and her new role: plan for the diocese and the wider church. “I began attending church as an adult and was baptised in my early 20’s. My By the Rev Lusa Nsenga-Ngoy Prayer Room in May t a Cobham Deanery prayer Nurstead/ Longfield and Southfleet) this Prayer Room will be open from Monday 9 Ameeting during Lent a May to Saturday 14 May for prayer, and copy of the letter from the each church has an allocated ‘Champion’ to Archbishops of Canterbury and organise the rota within that church.

York, which was sent to every There will be prayer stations within the serving parish priest in England, prayer room to inspire you and there will be was read out and discussed. every opportunity for you to request prayers and for you to record any answers to prayer The letter was asking for a week of prayer you may receive. during the week leading up to Pentecost for the evangelisation of our country and using If anyone outside the Cobham Deanery the Lord’s Prayer as its focus - Thy Kingdom would like to join with us in this initiative, come. It was thought this would be a great we would be delighted. There will, no opportunity to come together as a Deanery doubt, be space available during the night and pray with our brothers and sisters. shifts, and maybe there are some youth groups who may like to participate as this Following a visit to St Mary’s Church will obviously be a difficult time for the Room, Sole Street, a 24/7 Prayer Room elderly to fill. was born. For those who live within the Cobham Deanery (Fawkham & Hartley/ Ash We are looking forward to a wonderful with Ridley/ Cobham with Luddesdowne week of prayer and seeking the Lord for our and Dode/ Istead Rise/ Meopham with country. For more information or booking a time slot Link to a video from the Archbishop of Can- please call: the Rev Angela Walker 01474 terbury on You Tube. 814332 or Jenny Kelly 01474 569494. www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJt4DrKhwv4