European Anglicans www. europe.anglican.org

Diocese in Europe | Summer 2021

Pictured top: Ghent ordinations. Pictured bottom: Milan ordinations Pictured: Bergen Anglican Church

European Anglicans (Summer 2021) Pictures: Images are reproduced courtesy Editor: of chaplaincies across the diocese, and Damian Thwaites unsplash.com Director of Communications [email protected] Contact Us: [email protected] Design: Amber Jackson Digital Communications Officer [email protected] @ DioceseinEurope Copy: Jamie Ellis Content Writer & Producer [email protected]

2 Contents

05 Chaplaincy News

06 Diocesan Synod

08 Bishop Robert: A Message for Europe Day

10 Licensing Service for the new Archdeacon of North West Europe

10 Licensing Service for the 12 Ordinations new Archdeacon of North West Europe 18 Bishop David in Italy

20 Two new Canons in the Diocese

22 A Journey to Ordination

24 Services of the Admissions of Churchwardens

26 Welcome to our new Diocesan Spiritual Advisor

27 Diocese launches pledge on email use

28 Conexión: 2021 Architectural Biennale in Venice

18 Bishop David in Italy 29 Pentecost: Breaking out of Confinement for a New Beginning

30 Music, Motivation and Mobile phones

Pictured: Bergen Anglican Church 32 Dante’s “Divine Comedy”: A Spiritual Journey

34 Song for the Summit: 25,000 children sing to G7 on climate care

36 Racial Justice: “From Lament To Action”

34 Song for the Summit: 37 Engage and Encounter: Women’s Ministry Network 25,000 children sing to G7 on Morning with Bishop Sarah Mullally climate care 38 World Refugee Day 2021

39 Council of Europe Istanbul Convention: 10th Anniversary

40 Save the Valletta Skyline Appeal: Event with Sir Max Hastings

3 From the Editor

Dear Friends,

Welcome to this Summer issue of EA magazine.

In the midst of the continuing Pandemic, we celebrate with joy ordination services that have been conducted across the diocese so far this year, in Madrid, Ghent and Milan. Meet all eleven candidates in the diocese this year with profiles in this EA.

In this issue, we feature the stories that have been making the news in the diocese over these past three months. We celebrate the licensing of our new Archdeacon for NW Europe, we share Bishop David’s blogs of his recent travels visiting chaplaincies and ecumenical partners in Italy. As European Anglicans, we also look back to, and forward from Europe Day. It is marked annually in the European Institutions in May, and we continue to work on diocesan campaigns promoting social justice and climate care.

On 11 July we will celebrate the feast of St Benedict of Nursia. St Benedict has particular importance for us in the diocese as patron saint of Europe, of course; and there is a named stall for a Canon allocated to St Benedict in Holy Trinity Pro Cathedral, Brussels. EA has interviews with our new Canons appointed today by Bishop Robert, and we congratulate them both! They are The Revd Smitha Prasadam and The Revd Marcus Ronchetti.

I hope you will enjoy reading this issue of EA. Please tell your friends about our quarterly magazine, and like and share on social media, and keep sending us your chaplaincy newsletters and stories!

I wish you a restful summer break.

With warmest wishes,

4 Chaplaincy News A royal token of appreciation for Simone

SIMONE Yallop, a much loved licensed lay minister in the Dutch chaplaincy of St. Mary's Twente, was presented on 26 April, with a royal token of appreciation for all her work in the chaplaincy.

"This week I had a real surprise when I was called to the town hall in Hengelo and was decorated Lid in de Orde van Oranje-Nassau," commented Simone. "It appears that a number of people from St. Mary’s were involved in making this possible. They did very Simone Yallop well to keep it a secret!"

"I had no idea that this was going to happen until the Burgermeester phoned me. I am extremely grateful to all who were involved. It was a wonderful ceremony and I feel very honored to receive this. Thank you, too for the climbing rose that was presented to me."

New faces on the Anglican

Central Committee of Eric Sibomana Belgium WE are delighted to announce the appointment International Mass for of Mr Eric Sibomana as a Member of the Anglican Central Committee among its new members, by the Seafarers Minister of Justice. Eric is the first member of the Central Committee to be born in Rwanda, and he A new monthly online International Mass for brings to his new role a deep experience of seafarers has been launched on YouTube, streamed Francophone Anglicanism. Congratulations, Eric! live from the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde in Marseille. The Anglican Chaplain at All Saints' Read more here. Marseille shares this story with us.

Read more here.

5 Diocesan News Diocesan Synod: 9 June 2021

Pictured: St Peter and St Sigfrid’s, Stockholm

DIOCESAN Synod met together I reflect that our Diocese is about “From my virtually as they held their final people and we have some really meeting of the current three- excellent people!” perspective as year period. Bishop Robert spoke of the bishop, I look Synod opened with Morning importance of a team of back with worship, and the needs of free-standing stipendiary members of the diocese were Archdeacons, and of the extraordinary held in prayer. professional safeguarding and (now expanding) communications gratitude and In his opening address, Bishop teams. Bishop Robert also Robert reflected on what has, for announced the appointment of thanksgiving” many people, been an impossibly The Revd Ray Andrews as difficult year. Bishop Robert spoke Diocesan Advisor in Spirituality, between our Young People’s of the effects of the Pandemic succeeding The Revd Canon Network and our work on climate within our local communities, John Newsome. You can read an change. in a multitude of ways, and the interview with Ray about his role response from people across the as Diocesan Advisor in Spirituality A pan-diocesan event, bringing Diocese: here. together our eco- and young people’s ministry, is planned in “From my perspective as bishop, Bishop Robert’s address also early September. This is ahead of I look back with extraordinary covered areas of mission and the Conference of Parties gratitude and thanksgiving. I have ministry. Archdeacon Leslie (COP-26) meeting in Glasgow in witnessed remarkable endurance, Nathaniel updated on the Racial November. You can read more resilience and, indeed, success. Justice agenda, including the about our Diocesan Eco agenda Our clergy and lay leaders rapidly current audit of chaplaincies, here. adapted to worship conducted on following up the Breathing Life Zoom, Facebook live and Report. The Eco Diocese agenda Bishop Robert emphasised work Youtube. Communities worked is “trying to share the message with children and young people, hard to stay in touch with those that care for creation and the because he said he feels who are particularly vulnerable. climate challenge is a discipleship “particularly distressed by the Social mission such as feeding issue and not anything less, which impact that Covid has had on projects for migrants and is at the heart of our strategy,” their young lives.” Bishop Robert refugees continued in the most said Andrew Caspari, Chief highlighted the work of those in challenging of circumstances... Operating Officer. A key theme is chaplaincies who have kept some the developing relationship kind of children’s and young

6 people’s work going over the AGM/Finance: Nearly 95% of the Common Fund pandemic. He commended Celia requested was paid by Paterson (St George’s, Madrid) for chaplaincies who were The Chief Operating Officer, her training work on Godly Play, warmly thanked for their Andrew Caspari, described the and thanked Richard Bromley, remarkable generosity in a Diocesan financial position as who is now stepping back from difficult year. A new financial plan both ‘resilient and fragile’. He was our Youth Network, for all he has including deficit funding of £1.4 aware that this would be a very done to encourage young people million over the next three years tough year for many chaplaincies in the diocese. has been approved. and he urged a focus on strategies to increase giving in You can read Bishop Robert’s full chaplaincies. This will strengthen Conduct in the Diocese: Presidential Address here. the local position as well as that of the Diocese in due course. Synod also received short Lessons learned from presentations of current Diocesan Synod members are important initiatives on Conduct Covid-19: also the members of the in the Diocese, including the 5C Diocesan Board of Finance which use of email Pledge, Chaplaincy Guides, A Guide to a Well Run Discussion groups discussed the held its AGM. The Annual Report Chaplaincy Council and the work lessons learned from Covid-19 and Financial Statements were of the Diocesan Anti-Bullying across chaplaincies. Feedback formally approved and the Working Group. You can read included: thanks for the medical members showed their about the 5C use of email pledge and technological advancements appreciation for the outcome and here. over recent decades; theological the work of the Diocesan Staff. reflections; equality/inclusivity of online services; the benefits The accounts for 2020 show a Concluding session: of hybrid church; financial costs/ surplus of just under £10,000. savings; the importance of face- However, if £70,000 had not been In the concluding session, Bishop to-face gathering; sharing held over in the Hardship Fund Robert thanked members who resources across chaplaincies; and a £210,000 grant had not be have served on this Synod. and the overall benefits/ received from the Archbishops’ “A synod is literally a walking challenges of online services. Council, a deficit of £270,000 together, and we have walked would have been the outcome. together in faith through good times and through very difficult times,” he said. The election process for the next three-year term of Diocesan Synod is now underway.

Synod concluded with Evening worship.

Pictured: Youth work in action at St Nicholas’ Helsinki

7 Diocesan News

Bishop Robert: A Message for Europe Day

BISHOP Robert issued this boundaries there lies a common the organisation of public Message for Europe Day. interest.” We continue to face authorities at all levels in You can also download an two overriding challenges that administering them, and the illustrated PDF of his Message defy geographical boundaries in enduring patience of people as on our website. their impacts. They summon a we await them, may allow common interest in us all: global vaccination targets to be reached On 9 May, we will mark Europe Pandemic and our global Climate. across Europe - enabling us to see Day, celebrating across the the first signs soon of a post- continent the first steps to There have now been well over Pandemic recovery. I welcome building European Institutions 30 million Covid-19 infections warmly the contributions of that developed into the Council of across Europe; and more than Anglicans and other faith Europe and the European Union. 650,000 deaths. We pray for the leaders to encourage vaccination Jean Monnet, one of the plight of all who are suffering and campaigns nationally, and across architects of post-war European perishing from this global disease. Europe. unity said the goal of European As Christians, our faith is rooted integration was to “make men in hope. Vaccination programmes In 2021, we witness another work together to show them that are gathering pace. We hope that renewed focus on a common beyond their differences and the scientific innovation of interest that affects us all: care for geographical vaccines that are now available, our climate.

8 “We are examples of how we can all seek out opportunities to share contribute both to national Church experiences and approaches to committed to net zero carbon targets for 2030, combating racism and gender as well as to the EU Green Deal inequality in all their forms, as playing our full package to make the EU carbon well as on migration and neutral by 2050. refugees, with faith partners part in the and across global institutions common interest At the same time, we have where we have a voice, including witnessed the upsurge of in the EU and Council of Europe. that is building boundaries that are born of ignorance, prejudice, and lack of Finally, we continue to see the together the empathy for, and fear of the hindrance of religious expression future of Europe.” other. Someone once and our ability to hindrance of commented that the opposite of religious expression and our love is not hate, but indifference. ability to organise Church life in Our young people are ever the We are sadly seeing this on racial Europe. Where there are torch bearers for causes and and gender inequalities, and the genuine concerns regarding campaigns that matter. I am ongoing pan-European challenges religious extremism and thrilled to share here the “Gee around migration and refugees. radicalisation, Anglicans are Seven” song recorded by young As Anglicans in Europe, we have completely open to discussion. choristers of Truro Cathedral along taken a clear stand on racial But we are concerned at efforts with a message from their injustice as has the national that seek to constrain the voice Diocesan Bishop, Bishop Philip Church in its response. We are of faith organisations in civil Mounstephen, who has a also actively campaigning on society. We will remain both longstanding involvement in gender justice, notably in our vocal and vigilant on these diocesan ministry and life in ongoing support to the Council of issues, not least in EU Article Europe. The beautiful music Europe and the EU on ratification 17 dialogues, and engaged in performed by the choir has a of the Istanbul Conventionon fostering integration and inclusion deeply earnest side in its preventing and combating wherever we can in countries message, both for our global violence against women and across Europe where we consider leaders and for us all. We are domestic violence. And on the ourselves to be honoured guests. planning a pan-diocesan event scale of the refugee challenge, bringing together our eco- and our hearts must surely be We are a bridging Church and we young people’s ministry in early troubled by this one statistic will remain one, reaching across September ahead of the reported in The Guardian: 17 boundaries of the forty-two Conference of Parties (COP 26) child refugees arriving in Europe countries that make up our meeting in Glasgow in November. have disappeared every day since diocese. We are European I am proud, too, of the local 2018. Immigration boundaries Anglicans, working closely contributions to our Eco-Diocese cannot possibly excuse a lack of alongside our ecumenical and agenda, from dedicated Lent human care and response on the faith partners, engaging actively commitments made to reducing parts of governments and public in dialogue across the European plastic waste to the pioneering authorities. Institutions, and committed to of the first ever City Forest in our playing our full part in the Church, a microcosm oasis and a We are Anglicans in a diverse common interest that is building bio-diversity sustainability project Communion spanning over 165 together the future of Europe. in Italy. All these efforts are real countries, and we will continue to

9 Diocesan News

Licensing Service for the new Archdeacon of North West Europe

10 sharing in the Lord’s work in This is and will always be the case and care for the chaplaincies of for all who migrate during our Arnhem-Nijmegen and Twente. lives’ pilgrimages. In contrast to Following my wife’s medical that fictional character’s calling, we moved on to experience, we delight in Groningen, a vibrant university return-visits to my home country, city, where, alongside enthusiastic but have also been inspired and sisters and brothers in the faith, formed by living in so many we started a congregation, Grace different and wonderful places Church Groningen, linked to Holy in the Diocese. And joining in Trinity Utrecht. worship and fellowship in Holy Trinity Brussels, which Coretta THE Ven. Sam Van Leer shares Returning to Brussels last and I regard as our home church, this personal reflection: Saturday to be licensed for a is always heartening and inspiring. substantial new role in the service It has changed a bit, and we have Returning to Holy Trinity of the Lord in our Diocese for our too. Brussels on Saturday, June 12th, churches in the Benelux was, to for my licensing, was a say the least, a powerful As Bishop Robert preached about momentous occasion which experience. Though, owing to Barnabas’ vital encouragement brought back many fond necessary constraints, not all to believers in Acts 11, we pray memories for my wife and me. could join us on the day, several we continue, following Barnabas’ dear friends and colleagues did, example, to build each other up Decades ago, as a graduate and we were grateful it could take in Christ, in all of our chaplaincies researcher from the US who’d place. here. I am especially indebted landed in Brussels to study to my ministry colleagues and language politics in Belgium, American novelist, Thomas Wolfe mentors, and the outstanding role I joined Holy Trinity. And it (ironically, born where my models of Archdeacons who’ve remains a part of me. grandparents and parents have served NW Europe before me, long lived, so a place we what shoes to fill! Coretta and I sang in the lovely frequently return to when we go choir there, belonged to a lively back to the States), once wrote a And in this transitory life, it is also home group, and helped with book entitled You Can’t Go Home such a blessing for our church offering meals for the homeless. Again. communities to be It was an inspiring time that compassionate homes, changed our lives. In it, a writer publishes a novel albeit away from our ultimate and about his hometown which isn’t eternal home, but connected to it, We were married in Holy Trinity, well-received there. In search graciously reflecting its light and and after discerning my call to of himself, he heads off to New sharing God’s warmth and love. ordained ministry, the chaplaincy York, Paris, and Berlin, May Christ always show us the supported me to train at Cranmer experiencing first hand how these way! Hall, at the University of Durham. global centres faced the roaring After a formative and ’20s and the deprived ’30s. The Yours in Christ, delightful curacy at St Ursula’s, protagonist eventually returns to Bern, in spectacular Switzerland, his hometown, and is reconciled Sam with it, but recognizes how he has changed and how his ‘home’ also has.

11 Ordinations

Matt Thjis, St John’s, Ghent

Following ordination as priest, Matt is to continue THE diocese has celebrated ordination serving as curate at St James’, Voorschoten. Matt services so far this year in Madrid, Ghent grew up in a Christian family and moved around and Milan. Meet Diocese in Europe a lot throughout childhood, where he attended local candidates for ordination this summer, Anglican churches. He started working for churches based on a series of interviews with the as a Youth Worker in The Hague and in worship, seven men and four women who will serve working with musicians and training musicians. chaplaincies across the diocese. Then, moved to do mixed-mode theological studies taught through St Mellitus while on the staff at Bishops Robert and David said: “It has been St James’, where he then moved into curacy. a joy to ordain two new deacons and seven “Nearing the end of my training, I am completely new priests at services in three locations in the convinced this what God wants me to do. God has diocese, especially at a time when we have not put a love for this in my heart and a love for his emerged from the Pandemic, and thank people.” Impacted by the personal relationships and everyone who has been involved in the discipleship in his own spiritual journey, Matt says“ ordinations this year. We continue to pray for I always ask God that he would put those people Glen Ruffle and Kirk Weisz as they prepare for on my path that I can invest in, that I can encourage their ordination services.” and nurture and help along the way”.

12 Annie Bolger, Solomon Uche Ike, St John’s, Ghent St George’s, Madrid

Annie was ordained priest and will continue as Solomon has been worshipping at St George’s for assistant curate at Holy Trinity, Brussels. Annie grew nearly twenty years and shall be serving as up in the US, where she met her husband. Annie Assistant Curate in the chaplaincy. First perceiving previously worked in communications and project a calling to ordination while serving as a youth management, freelancing in Leuven and studying pastor in his home Anglican church in Nigeria, theology in the Catholic University there. Originally Solomon explored his call to ordination in the intending to stay in Leuven for a year, Annie says Diocese in Europe after hearing nudges from God “evidently there were other plans at work!” through dreams and people. Solomon has a very distinctive perspective of Madrid as a city, and on In her early twenties, Annie experienced a health life more broadly from his night shift work on the conditions where she saw emerging, meaningful Madrid Metro. experiences with hospital chaplains, one of whom who is now a mentor to Annie today. “She was Solomon has a particular passion to reach Nigerian a very tangible presence of Christ in my life, and communities, providing pastoral care and I thought this was really what I would like to do. sharing the word to everybody. “My main ministry This was the first inkling of ordination,” says Annie. is to preach the Word, but also to help the Nigerian “I wasn’t exactly sure how my vocation would be communities here as, I have discovered … they expressed when I arrived in Belgium. Really are brought up in Anglican church in Nigeria but no wonderfully, we landed at St. Martha and St. Mary’s, longer come to church,” says Solomon. “I want to Leuven, where there was such an openness and help with pastoral care, help people put God at the warm-heartedness for people who were discerning centre of their lives.” vocation.” You can view a full live stream of Solomon’s Speaking ahead of her ordination, Annie tells us she ordination service here. You can also read more particularly looked forward to giving her husband her about Solomon’s journey to first blessing as a priest! “My imagination has had to ordination here. expand to be able to envision this kind of calling in my life and I don’t think it would have been possible without his vision,” says Annie.

13 Diocesan News

Sarah-Jane King, Roxana Teleman, St John’s, Ghent All Saints, Milan

Sarah-Jane was ordained deacon and will serve Roxana has been ordained priest and will continue as curate at St Martha and St Mary’s Anglican to serve as curate at All Saints’, Marseille. Growing Church in Leuven. Prior to discerning ordination, up in communist Romania, Roxana and her husband Sarah-Jane moved to Brussels as she worked for wished to explore other faith traditions than the the North East England Office then later joined the Orthodox and Catholic. They learned of the Diocese EU Institutions working in the Commission’s Justice in Europe through invitation to the Anglican Church Directorate-General for Justice. “What I observed in Bucharest: “It was a transforming experience to [while working for the EU institutions] is there is a be welcomed as we were; not Anglicans or English lot of spiritual hunger and curiosity about spiritual speaking. We could experience ecumenism things. I have a very strong motivator towards first-hand and trust in personal relationships. We outreach and towards bringing the good news in were encouraged to invite in our own traditions. ways that are meaningful and relevant to people’s From that year on, I considered the Anglican church everyday working life,” says Sarah-Jane. as my own church.” Roxana was originally a maths teacher. After moving to France with her husband, Sarah-Jane’s heart for mission, ministry and social she was invited to help with RE classes at school justice radiates, she says; “My experience working and then sent to train as a youth minister and in justice and equality is something that is shaping pastoral assistant in the Catholic school, where she my ministry at this stage. I feel it is important to has been for fifteen years. Roxana feels particularly speak about these issues as the church. When we called to nurturing the spirituality of young people read the Bible we see Jesus cares very and children, as well as reaching refugee and passionately about justice and equality. We see migrant communities. “Reading in the lead up to that in his interactions with people who are on the ordination, Roxana shared a text, originally in Latin. margins of life with people who have been excluded “What are you oh priest! You are not of your own and oppressed.” Describing the discernment creation, you do not exist for yourself alone, you do process and training as a huge adventure, not belong to yourself. But you are an intercessor Sarah-Jane reflects; “God is so faithful. The before God, you are the servant of all, you are God’s Christian life is such an adventure and we journey minister. So you are nothing and everything”. together through life”.

14 Kirk Weisz, Robert Morley, Anglican Church, Bergen All Saints, Milan

Following his ordination as priest Kirk will continue Robert will continue to serve as curate at All Saints, to serve as curate in the Anglican Chaplaincy of Milan following ordination as priest. Robert was Norway, in Bergen. Kirk was previously a minister of brought up in the West Country in a tourist village, the American Presbyterian Church but has always where it was like “having a large extended family had strong links with Episcopalians. His wife’s work who returned” annually for the summer. At the age took the family to Norway where his family made of 12, Robert found himself in an Anglican church, its home in the Anglican church. After some years despite not coming from a Christian family. During assisting in Bergen under the Ecumenical Canons, university, the first inklings of ordination emerged. Kirk requested a ministry transfer. Kirk is passionate Robert studied English , then lived and worked in about pastoral care, spending plenty of time Italy, as well as other countries, teaching English for studying and enjoying Clinical Pastoral Education, most of his adult life. Upon reading a book, Robert training hospital chaplains and clergy with pastoral felt the presence of God and returned to church. care at a veteran’s hospital in the US. “This was a In 2015, Robert felt nudged to explore ordination tremendous time to affirm God was calling me to and begin the discernment process. “Inside me ministry and pastoral care, I was able to see God something was leaping up and down, yes, yes, yes, gave me gifts to care for and lead people,” says this is something I have always wanted to do!”. Kirk. He then started studying a PhD in Pastoral Robert is excited for blessing people and looking Counselling and Theology. his thesis in preparation forward to being priest-in-charge at Lake Como is on a narrative story of pastoral care based on his during August, particularly to be able to bless own experience of moving to Norway. “I feel weddings. Robert also would love to set up a committed. When we commit ourselves to ministry for tourists, “which will take me back to something like being ordained, there is a sense of my roots”. Robert will continue to teach, enjoys freedom in that this is what God has called me to writing poetry and in 2006 hepublished a novel, and I am ready, I am prepared. There is a sense of about a 19th Century Anglican priest from Cornwall. being ready to get going and celebrate communion! There isn’t any other type of work that I would rather be doing and I feel blessed in that” says Kirk.

15 Diocesan News

Martin George, Dorienke De Vries, All Saints, Milan St John’s, Ghent

Professor Dr Martin George was brought up Dorienke is to serve as curate at Arnhem & a German Lutheran, the son of a well-known Nijmegen, Netherlands following her ordination Lutheran pastor. He was ordained after his studies as priest. An English-Dutch fiction and non-fiction in Berlin but has exercised his ministry largely in the translator, she studied at ERMC and is looking Academy. He has worked in Bern and now holds an forward to beginning her years a priest. Dorienke honorary post in the Humbolt University, in Berlin felt called to the Anglican tradition for a long time and continues to teach Patristics full time. Now very and knew of the Anglican churches from her cycling much in retirement, but after years of ecumenical holidays to England, and romantic rural churches engagement with the Eastern Churches and the in the countryside. Dorienke also felt drawn to the Church of England he has sought to have his liturgy, the music and realised she could be a part of ministry recognised in the Church of England and an English-speaking community, which could help his “further” ordination to the diaconate in Rome her translating work. last year was a significant step, not of denial or renunciation but embracing of his appreciation of After moving to Arnhem, Dorienke went to the the full catholicity of ministry in the Church of Arnhem and Nijmegen Anglican church and stayed, England. getting involved in the Arnhem & Nijmegen chaplaincy and her sense of call developed there He plays a full and active part in the ministry of St over the years. Dorienke enthuses about conducting George’s and is to serve as curate in the chaplaincy weddings, baptisms and funerals, as well as of St George’s, Berlin following ordination to Priest. offering home communions. Her hopes for curacy “I am excited for the following Sunday 11 July for is for social context ministry opportunities in local my first spoken Mass as an Anglican priest,” says and and country-wide communities across the Martin. Leading up to his ordination day Martin says Netherlands. Dorienke reflects; “Thomas Merton “It will be such a joyful occasion, I am really thankful says that as a priest ‘when you say Mass, the spirit to God that I live up to this day and I have full of God, there is an explosion of love’, and that confidence that this is a meaningful and good step I think it is that love that I am looking forward to. to take which will be blessed by the Lord”. It is the work but also the spiritual side of things that I am looking forward to.”

16 Glen Ruffle, Valdis Teraudkalns, Savoy Chapel, London All Saints, Milan

Glen is due to be ordained as deacon on 18 July, Valdis will continue to serve as curate at and will serve as curate at St Andrew’s, Moscow. St.Saviour’s, Riga following his ordination as priest. Glen studied completed his theological training at Valdis comes from a Latvian Lutheran background Ridley Hall, Cambridge. Prior to ordination and but has spent time in some of the freer churches discerning vocation, Glen worked as an English and Baptist churches in Latvia. Valdis came to the teacher in international schools. “I think there has Anglican church while he visited Manchester, UK always been a sense of working for the church as a Theology student in the US. He works for the from a young age, but one of the key moments in Bible Society as the local Head and he has overseen 2010 when I was working for an English teaching the recent translation of the Bible into Latvian, with school, I was basically doing management and a team of translators. He has been involved in the pastoral care for staff. The penny just dropped one Anglican Chaplaincy for some years. Having been moment where I thought ‘this is rather like working brought up in the former Soviet Union, he has seen in a church’. Instead of trying to make money for many changes in national politics and culture. Valdis investors, it would be far better to put my energy is very passionate about teaching, theology and into advancing the kingdom of God. That was a key church history. “I am looking forward to organising moment.” St Andrew’s, Moscow is a “really different discussions around hot topics and using amazing place because the nations of the world my background in church history to organise retreats are literally gathered here and they are united or other activities to explore our heritage and how in faith, which is a really amazing picture of the we can apply it today. Christianity is a community church,” says Glen. Glen is excited to help develop of memories.” Valdis is passionate about working more work with the young people, meditative ecumenically in Latvia. prayer and ecumenical relationships.

"You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit - fruit that will last." John 15:16

For more information on ordained ministry, visit our website 17 PALERMO

Many Anglican churches have BISHOP David shares side chapels, but on a recent highlights of his recent visits parish visit to Holy Cross, to chaplaincies across Italy: Palermo, Sicily, I was reminded of the particularly splendid, and I was marooned for a few wonderfully named, “Marsala more days in Italy than I had Chapel”. In fact the whole church counted on, due to changing building is rather beautiful, with COVID quarantine a splendid apse decorated with requirements imposed by Italy mosaics in a style common to this Over the years, excellent after I arrived for some parish part of Sicily. ecumenical relations have been visits. A return to the UK (with built, particularly with the Roman the usual quarantine) then a The chapel’s dedication comes Catholic Church. return to Milan for in time for from the fact that the church was ordinations, with a newly built in the 1870s by the It was a joy to celebrate the imposed Italian quarantine, descendents of Benjamin Ingham sacrament of Confirmation with was going to be impossible. Sr, an Englishman who settled some candidates on 20 June. But it was far from lost time, in Sicily and built up the Marsala They had been prepared by the as I was able to touch base wine industry. (There are a few locum priest, Fr Nigel Gibson, with several of our parishes in other churches in the Diocese whom I had not seen for several Italy during these days. with a similar history, such as in years. Fr Nigel previously served Malaga, Porto and Madeira!) in this diocese in Milan and Lugano. The faith of the Today, the members of Holy confirmands was palpable and Cross Church come from around moving. the world, the UK and Northern Europe, Africa, North America, The chaplaincy is now awaiting and the Middle East. Others have the arrival of their new chaplain, been born and raised in Italy and the Revd James Hadley. Fr James have found a spiritual home in this will begin his work in September. Anglican congregation.

18 ROME VENICE

All Saints Rome describes itself to a healthy size and the On my visit to Venice, Fr as “an open-minded and Council and the Chaplain, Malcolm Bradshaw, the welcoming Anglican Fr Rob Warren, are looking at Chaplain of St George's, was community in the heart of how to strengthen the able to introduce me to a Rome”. An Anglican stewardship and finances in the Ghanaian priest from the congregation has been parish after a very difficult year, Anglican Diocese of Sekondi, worshipping in the Eternal City as well as focussing on some who has been sponsored to since 1816. Once largely essential work to maintain the do a masters degree in English, today it is the home beautiful building, and attend to ecumenism, at the prestigious for “an eclectic mix of the pastoral needs of a diverse Ecumenical Institute of Venice. expatriated employees of and growing congregation. Fr Castro Adiebah is clearly an international companies, emerging young African people working locally in Rome, Situated in Rome, not theologian, and it is very good diplomatic personnel from surprisingly there is a to be able to give him an embassies, visiting scholars significant ecumenical role Anglican home in Venice during and international students”. for All Saints as well. Fr Rob his studies. Each Sunday, outside the knows that many non- extraordinary time of Anglicans, and many Roman It was also good to have a pandemic, the regulars are Catholics in particular, may chance to have a meeting with joined by a healthy community encounter Anglicanism for the Metropolitan Polykarpos of tourists and pilgrims. first time when they attend (pictured, opposite), the a service in the chaplaincy. In Metropolitan of the Orthodox Now that some of the so many ways All Saints is a Church in Italy. His Eminence restrictions imposed by the "shop window" for Anglicanism was previously the pandemic are being relaxed, and the Church of England, in Metropolitan of Spain and like so many congregations, the very centre of Rome. Portugal, where we shared priest and people are working many ecumenical ventures together to map the way forward, with physical worship Excellent relations in Venice restored, and online / hybrid are maintained with the (RC) services continuing. In All Patriarchate. Don Angelo Pagan Saints, the numbers at is the Vicar General of the Sunday liturgies are now back Patriarchate of Venice and has the additional role of being the equivalent of an English Catheral Precentor, but in the great basilica of San Marco, the musical home of Giovanni Gabrieli and Claudio Monteverdi!

My good friend, Archbishop Ian Ernest, the Director of the Anglican Centre in Rome

19 Two new Canons in the Diocese

BISHOP Robert has announced Smitha and her family moved Smitha has a deep commitment that The Revd Marcus Ronchetti across the UK. “The most to justice and mercy. “There have and The Revd Smitha Prasadam significant part of my settled life been various ways that there are to be made Canons of the and ministerial life was in hasn’t been justice in society, or Cathedral chapter for the Birmingham,” says Smitha. in the church, in all sorts of areas: Diocese. Marcus will be Smitha Prasadam is currently the gender, class, ability, disability. appointed to the chair of Chaplain at St. Alban’s Church, But one of those areas is racial St James of Spain, and Smitha Copenhagen, where she has justice, about representation and to the chair of St Catherine of served since 2018. “I was participation of people of colour Siena. Jamie Ellis speaks with privileged to come to this church at all levels,” Smitha stresses. Marcus and Smitha about their in the most amazing God- “People need to be able to ministry and mission. incidence!” says Smitha. “With accommodate each other, 42 countries in one diocese, I just whether by gender or ethnicity”. Smitha Prasadam think it is the most glorious, most Smitha championed the exciting, most varied and joyful, development of the Diocese in “Home is anywhere and discerning place to serve God!” Europe with the Racial Justice everywhere; we had a very Working Group, particularly the nomadic life!” says Smitha. Born Reflecting on her time serving in Breathing Life policy that has into the Church of South India, Copenhagen, Smitha says ; “the been approved by Diocesan one of the world’s biggest last eighteen months have been Synod -and racial justice audits so ecumenical projects with several a time of pandemic and protest. “we can look at widening access denominations, Smitha’s How those things affect us as and creating ways of fuller family then moved to the Anglican individuals, and as a community, participation for a fuller life in Church in Wales where both her has been a really significant way God”. parents became mission of us learning more about our partners with the Church dependence on God’s providence, A focus of Smitha’s vocation and Missionary Society. steadfastness and working for ministry is to “teach the gospel God’s justice, putting God’s afresh to this generation,” justice at the heart of everything”. 20 in creative ways, with a huge been enjoying local hikes. Most After speaking twice on his local passion for bringing God’s word recently, Marcus has been radio station on funerals and to the younger generation. conquering his fear of heights by wedding blessings, Marcus was Previously a teacher, Smitha climbing mountainous rock faces offered a regular slot . Hosting a highlights the significance to her in preparation for a walk along weekly radio show every of taking the chair of St. El Camino del Rey. El Camino del Sunday, 6pm-8pm CET, has been Catherine: “It is just amazing! Rey is famed for its narrow a highlight of his ministry in Spain What an honour [to be made walkway along the steep walls alongside sponsored dances. “It canon] and to be installed in the of a gorge, in the province of is great fun!... last week we had a seat of St. Catherine of Siena. Malaga. Marcus is due to the cool summer reggae BBQ. From Catherine of Siena was known installed as canon in the seat of 7pm, for half an hour, it is more for her teaching, for her St. James. “It really fits well, deep and meaningful; we speak discipleship and very steadfast because the walk to Santiago is about whatever it is related to faith and I think; ‘what big shoes St. James’, which I haven’t church and relating to spirituality,” I’ll be filling’, in a way, with her as completed yet. When I do, I am says Marcus. People have joined an inspiration.” going to feel such a connection services after hearing Marcus on there, it just fits beautifully,” says the radio. You can listen to Marcus Ronchetti Marcus. The Way of St. James Marcus’ Sunday Reflections, is a network of pilgrimage routes wherever you are in the world, on leading to the shrine of St. James PureGold FM live or via tune in on Celebrating the fortieth in the Cathedral of Santiago de a smart speaker. anniversary of his priesting at Compostela. the end of June, Marcus was “The only thing that I can do is ordained in his twenties and has Other passions of Marcus’ are be true to myself. Which means, served his ministry in both the music, arts, drama and what I have to bring [to the role of UK, particularly Eastbourne spreading joy. He has played in canon] is joy. Whatever we find following training, and Spain. a few samba bands, including ourselves doing, whatever we Marcus is serving in the Costa in the Notting Hill Carnival and find ourselves exploring or Blanca chaplaincy – where he has founded the Beach Dreams concerning ourselves with, for been chaplain for nine years and Festival in the late 90s. me, one of the things that will he served previously in matter most is if the consequence temporary locum positions. brings a sense of joy.” Marcus describes the highlights Smitha and Marcus are due to in serving within the Diocese in installed at services in the Europe so far, as the Diocese later this year. opportunities to gather together from the Diocese such as at To find out more about their Synods, occasions when chaplaincies you can visit: congregations from across the chaplaincy in Costa Blanca can be St Alban’s Church, Copenhagen together such as his anniversary celebration, walking, and being Costa Blanca Chaplaincy invited to host a weekly radio programme.

Nestled amongst the mountains surrounding the Costa Blanca, Marcus and his wife have

21 Diocesan News A Journey to Ordination

“No matter how hard I tried to disbelieve, I felt an unmovable rock at my core that kept saying to me that I believe in God”

life at university, had only grown “There is a very large contingent stronger,” says Josh. “But I felt among the congregation of young I lacked a practical understanding professionals who work in the of how ministry played out day by European Union institutions day, living and working in a church so there was more exposure community. That’s why the move to young people in church”. to Brussels was so important!” “Amongst all the activity there, the significant thing was that it Why opt for the Diocese in helped me gain a deeper Europe scheme? Josh tells us understanding of the meaning this was due to his “fascination of and outworking of ministry in our ‘What does the Church of England Church, in its surprises, look like, when you take it out mundanities, and eccentricities.” THE Church of England Ministry of England?’… “I was intrigued Experience Scheme was what ministry looks like in this Josh has particularly cherished created to help young people vast number of locations and memories of the Anglican/Old discern their vocation by cultures.” Catholic Youth Pilgrimage to getting involved in the work of Echternach in Luxembourg: a church, under the supervision Josh completed his 10 month of experienced clergy. Josh placement based at Holy Trinity “The sheer level of enthusiasm Peckett completed the Scheme Pro Cathedral, Brussels. For Josh, and optimism in this group of in the Diocese in Europe and Brussels had more of a feeling of people who were all under the shared his experience and a gathered church, whereas his age of 30 was deeply journey to ordination with EA experience in England had encouraging. Experiences like that prior to his ordination on 3 July. mostly been in parish churches, were very important in feeding and people were coming to find a sense of hope, a Christian hope, “For a couple of years, I had been other English speaking people. that there is light and there is exploring my own calling to Add to these the sheer number a future. We don’t know what it ordained ministry, and the feeling of younger churchgoers. Josh looks like, but we trust in God that of calling, nurtured by Christian explains: the Spirit will lead us to it. “I think there was a lesson in treasuring

22 the friendships and relationships we have locally, globally and ecumenically. We have so much in common even though we come from everywhere from Ireland to Latvia”.

The MES also involves its participants in the practicalities of Church life. Josh led and helped with services, theological education and discussion, was involved in the Chapel for Europe in Brussels, readings, as well as attending Archdeaconry synods and Diocesan synod. “It was really helpful for me to have the opportunity to do the nitty gritty; as a church-goer I only saw the end-product of what clergy and lay leaders do. For me to gain experience in that was really important in confirming that this was something I wanted to Pictured: Holy Trinity Pro Cathedral, Brussels do, this was my sense of vocation, and I had a practical desire to do it,” Josh reflects. I think some of this wisdom from Across his three future parish the diocese in Europe could be churches, there are tens of We asked Josh about what the welcome.” thousands of students. Diocese in Europe has to offer the Church of England in England: Josh completed his MES There is also a café ministry called placement, and was “rainbow junction” – a community “Being part of a church which recommended for ordination and outreach café providing food. is very consciously not part of training by a Bishop’s Advisory “The vicar has a significant role the majority, that has to work Panel. Josh began his studies in inter-faith relationships and has out what is important, what to at Westcott House, Cambridge wonderful relationships with other fight for, has to work out what in September 2018, He has now religious groups in the area, which it’s thankful for and how it will completed a Bachelor of Theology I am looking forward to getting respond to situations in a way for Ministry (BTh) and involved with. There is a lot of to value people in the country is now reading for a Postgraduate opportunity for engagement with as guests or outsiders. Which Diploma in Theology, Ministry and the community, different styles you don’t get the sense of in the Mission. of worship. So, I think it’s going Church of England, in England to be quite a lively curacy going but you do get the sense of in Josh was ordained deacon on 3 forward to all three churches. I am the Diocese in Europe.There are July at Ripon Cathedral, not going to be attached to any a lot more opportunities then to and is now taking up his post as particular one parish.” says Josh. explore what Anglicanism is and Assistant Curate for The how it’s tied up with Englishness Headingley and All Hallows Team as well … Ministry in the Diocese of Leeds.

23 Services of the Admissions of Churchwardens

Pictured: Santa Margarita, the Anglican Church in Menorca

24 Pictured: St James Anglican Church, Porto AS a new venture this year, the sorts of positive working services of the Admissions of relationships that a Church Churchwardens were held by Warden takes part in during their the Archdeaconry of Italy & time in office. Malta and the Archdeaconry of Gibraltar over three days in the There then followed a short middle of June. presentation on a Warden’s duties as set out in the Canons Archdeacon David Waller shares and then some time for questions this piece: and discussion. ´Old hands´ were able to encourage those new to As a new venture this year, the post and a good conversation services of the Admissions of took place. Churchwardens were held by the Archdeaconry of Italy & Malta and During that same week, training the Archdeaconry of Gibraltar over was offered across both three days in the middle of June. Archdeaconries or Chaplaincy We elect our Church Wardens at Council officers – Safeguarding, our annual meetings. Church Secretaries, Treasurers and Wardens are then admitted to Electoral Roll Officers. We office by the Archdeacon, on listened to presentations made behalf of the Bishop. This is by those already experienced in because they are Bishop’s these roles and then took part in Officers and the service links a ´open forum´ discussions. At Warden’s two responsibilities – to popular request we have agreed the Chaplaincy and the Diocese. to follow these up with a further set of sessions in six months’ For the virtual Gibraltar meeting, time. forty-four people took part, with slightly fewer at the Zoom It was good for people with gathering for Italy & Malta. Clergy similar duties and passions to accompanied their Wardens and meet across these two were there to bear witness to, archdeaconries, to compare and support the Wardens as they experience and be encouraged made their promises. that they were not alone in the roles that they served in their In each case, the Archdeacon chaplaincies. offered an address called the ´Archdeacon’s Charge´, outlining

25 Diocesan News

“This is a very special diocese, it is so huge and so diverse and chaplaincies work very hard.”

“A couple of people, who I have people to provide a kind of worked with for a number of intimacy, a safety where we can years in the area of spirituality, explore and deepen our faith, were encouraging and explore our experience of God's enthusiastic, so I gave the role activity in our lives, in the church Pictured: The Revd Ray Andrews some serious thought and and in the world." prayer,” says Ray. “It felt very right, it felt the right time and a Ray brings particular experience WE are delighted to welcome very important thing to devote as a spiritual retreat coordinator our new Diocesan Advisor in some years to.” and previously worked in mental Spirituality, The Revd Ray health. Ray is enthusiastic about Andrews from Costa “This is a very special diocese, retreats, quiet days and traditions Blanca. Ray is passionate it is so huge and so diverse and in our faith which grow people about spiritual wellbeing, has chaplaincies work very hard. I spiritually. "I am hoping to bring previously worked in mental think that is one of the reasons some humanising to the whole health and as a spiritual retreat that this role is important; it concept of spirituality to what co-ordinator. Ray tells us of his encourages people and gives we imagine it might be, so that hopes for the role. permission for people to step it becomes easier for people to back, to reflect and to listen to explore their spirituality and shape At Diocesan Synod, Bishop what God might be saying to the their lives from the spirituality Robert announced Ray’s churches,” says Ray. of the Christian faith," says Ray. appointment, in succession to "What I want to bring to the role John Newsome, who has Ray is passionate about is accessibility, I want people to retired from his work as raising the awareness of the deep be able to reach me and I want Advisor in Spirituality. The Advisor spiritual traditions in our faith and people to know that I am here. I in Spirituality is an honorary role “offering opportunities to explore want to be approachable. That is in the Diocese. “Ray has a wide individually within the relationship one of my hopes." brief for looking after the growing of a spiritual director or together network of spiritual directors, as a community.” If you would like to speak with encouraging retreats, quiet days Ray about spirituality in your and promoting everything Another passion of Ray’s, and chaplaincy or your personal connected with spiritual growth aspect of the role, is promoting spiritual journey, Ray would be and development... if your and developing the formation of delighted to offer his support. chaplaincy or archdeaconry would our diocesan network of spiritual You can contact him on his email benefit from his advice, please directors. “We are talking of a address: [email protected] do be in touch with him,” said spiritual friendship... referring to to arrange a conversation. Bishop Robert in his Presidential the forming and developing of

26 THE small envelope appears “Our pledge underlines our again in the corner of your screen to tell you: “You’ve got a commitment to creating a really new email!”

positive, engaging and respectful What is your immediate reaction? communications culture within the Do you look at the message now, wondering if it is really important? Diocese.” Do you save the surprise for “later”... or do you think to yourself “not yet! More emails in my inbox!”? These reactions may be what you are thinking as a 5Cs in recipient. But, what about sending Our pledge 100 words emails? The Bishop’s senior staff have on email use been reflecting on the email challenges we all face and have . developed a 100-word pledge on its use across the Diocese. In a WhatCorrect we write is correct. We put errors right and we do so postcard message and a graphic, as soon as possible after sending. they introduce the “5Cs” as a set of guiding principles before we click ‘send’ on our emails (seen . on graphic). WeConsiderate respect people’s time and workload. Diocesan Communications have produced versions of the pledge that may be used by members . of the Diocese in email signature WeConstructive are polite, we check our drafts before we click ‘send’, blocks, by simply copying and and we avoid long email chains. pasting the images.

This Diocese in Europe pledge on the use of email complements the . Church of England digital WeCollaborative include in emails all those and only those who are charter and social media needed in the conversation. We are clear about who community guidelines to which is expected to respond to a query or request, and who is the Diocese is also committed. copied in for information. Launching the Diocesan pledge, Bishop Robert said, “Our pledge today on the use of email underlines our commitment to . creating a really positive, engaging WeConcise keep our emails short. We use other forms of written and respectful communications communication for longer pieces (attachments)… and we culture within the Diocese.” talk to each other!

27 Chaplaincy News

“Entering that architectural space Conexión of the Anglican Church of St. George in Venice, and entering with a glance at what could be 2021 Architectural done, was like observing those walls, how they could be Biennale in Venice transformed to, what Roberta has even mentioned, as the “Lidia Garden” or as the “Lileón Garden”,” says Lidia, in a sneak TOBACCO leaves, the Venice The installation was conceived as peak of the Biennale Architettura Biennale, and the Anglican an interior design project, 2021. “I have been able to Chaplaincy in Venice … The composed of panels made with produce a kind of collage, in Revd Canon Malcolm tobacco leaves that create a which there is a similarity to Bradshaw, Chaplain at St dynamic and living space. Inside, stained glass, with golden, yellow, George’s Anglican Church in the visitors can recognize the infinite orange tones.” city, tells us more! web of relationships that make up the fabric of society and The modular arrangement of the After a twelve month delay rediscover their connection to panels echoes the placement of because of Covid-19, the nature. the stained-glass windows in the 2021 Architectural Biennale finally upper part of the nave, dedicated opened at the end of May this The Dominican Republic is to famous English residents of year. The theme of the Biennale is renowned for its tobacco and Venice – including J. Ruskin, who ‘How will we live together?’.The most especially the cigars that are was the first to develop a theory Ministry of Culture of the made from it. Leon has stiffened emphasizing the importance of Dominican Republic has selected dried tobacco leaves with a resin, the links between art, nature, and the architectural exhibit entitled linked them together to form the work of human beings. ‘Conexión’, designed by Lidia a collage against a background of Leon, for the pavilion representing specialized lighting. The effect is Accommodating the exhibition, the Dominican Republic at the to highlight the rich golden brown alongside the other activities 17th International Architecture of the dried leaves, as well as to that take place in St George’s, is Exhibition – La Biennale di bring out the vein systems that a working example of ‘How will Venezia. are within them. we live together?’ There is a link between the Diocese and the For the Biennale, the nave of The collage of tobacco leaves Dominican Republic in that St George’s Anglican Church in on the panels was inspired, in Bishop David is a Canon of one Venice has become the official part, by the ancient stained-glass the Republic’s Anglican Pavilion of the Dominican mosaic windows distinctive of cathedrals. Republic. The internationally Venice’s extraordinary artistic and renowned architect-cum-artist, artisanal heritage. The work has The exhibition will run until 21 Lidia Leon, herself from the been placed in the nave, the November 2021. The Pavillion Dominican Republic, has designed traditional public space of the opening was live streamed and an architectural exhibit around church. can be watched here. tobacco leaves.

28 Pentecost: Breaking out of Confinement for a New Beginning

WE are delighted to share this contribution for the feast of Pentecost from The Revd Guy Diakese, Anglican Chaplain in Liège.

Christians worldwide celebrate Pentecost as the feast of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples of Jesus and the entire world (see Acts 2). “Amidst all these changes, ask At Pentecost, the apostles spoke in tongues and everyone could yourself: what kind of a Christian is hear them in their own language, God calling you to be? ” a sign that Christ offered his message of salvation for all people without distinction of any kind. We have been in lockdown for Or what kind of a church is God more than a year, due to the calling us to be? In my opinion, Before the day of Pentecost, the covid-19 restrictions. Words fear and despair can be the worst disciples of Christ were living in cannot adequately articulate how confinement which we need to fear of the Jewish authorities. But hard it must have been on us break out of, even as we feel on Pentecost Day, they received individually but also as a church. empowered anew to go forth and the fullness of Christ’s Spirit Today, we are fortunate that, boldly live the Christian message breaking out of confinement by with the help of vaccines, we can as Christ’s disciples. becoming and forming the begin to see a light at the end of Missionary Church of Christ. The the tunnel. Let us celebrate this May Christ’s Spirit renew us as coming of the Holy Spirit alludes Pentecost as an opportunity for a we celebrate this Pentecost. to the fulfillment of the words of new beginning with God. As we Jesus to his disciples at the are slowly breaking out of Happy Pentecost, Ascension: “Do not leave confinement, a lot of challenges Guy Diakese Matumona Jerusalem but wait for the await us in the aftermath of this fulfillment of the Father’s promise pandemic: lots of changes are You can find out more about the … you will receive power when happening on the spiritual, Anglican Church in Liège on their the Holy Spirit comes upon you; political, economic, social, and website and social media. and you will be my witnesses in global scale. Amidst all these Jerusalem, throughout Judea and changes, ask yourself: what kind Samaria, even to the ends of the of a Christian is God calling you to earth” (see Acts 1: 4-5,8). be?

29 Chaplaincy News

Music, Motivation and Mobile phones

OUR friends at Holy Trinity “The covid-19 pandemic, with many discarded attempts! Church, Geneva share this story attendant restrictions and A particular hazard is my dog on their musical response to the lockdowns, has posed challenges barking in the middle of my best Pandemic. that need to be met with a strong attempt, rendering it useless!”, sense of community, if not of says Mary, another choir member. Be it bustling theatres, musical family…”, Phillip, one choir “But, it becomes more familiar. festivals, sung worship, orchestral member said. It is an excellent way to learn the recitals or beautiful choral parts and is fun to see how the acoustics, music and arts for Music at Holy Trinity Church, finished product turns out. Unlike many has been merely a memory Geneva (HTC) has gone beyond real life, you can record yourself during the Covid-19 Pandemic. making beautiful choral music singing two or more parts… Despite this, musical life and which lives up to their legacy, Thanks to Mark for his skill and choral family have continued to but has created a sense of family making this happen for us.’” thrive at Holy Trinity Church, community in the midst of these Geneva - albeit under difficult strange times. Normally, up to forty-five singers circumstances. come together weekly (at the In-church services not being moment, virtually) to rehearse “The covid-19 pandemic, with possible, everything has gone music for the liturgy. They attendant restrictions and on-line. Every Sunday morning, represent ten nationalities, and lockdowns, has posed challenges for the virtual Eucharist, members with an age range of 16 to 93, the that need to be met with a strong of the choir sing psalms, mass singers come from all walks of sense of community, if not of settings and an anthem. These life. family…”, Phillip, one choir are prepared using a click-track member said. which singers work with at home, The choir is supported by two eventually videoing themselves choral scholars and by Max Bauer, Music at Holy Trinity Church, singing on their mobile phones, our current organ scholar, from Geneva (HTC) has gone beyond then sending these stems to Germany, on an Erasmus making beautiful choral music Mark who mixes them together. exchange program studying organ which lives up to their legacy, and choral conducting at but has created a sense of family “Setting off, videoing and Lausanne Haute Ecole de community in the midst of these recording myself, then listening Musique. strange times. back was daunting to start with…

30 There is also a thriving Junior The Junior choir responded The Revd Canon Daphne Green, Choir, directed by Claire Charles, enthusiastically to the ‘What the Church is looking to continue which normally rehearses weekly Easter Means to Me’ initiative its fine tradition of music. Their and which sings for the among the Young People's aim is to increase the diversity of community at least once a month. Ministry network of the Diocese, musical offerings, maintaining the Twenty young singers aged 5-18 with a recording of In the Bulb quality and expanding the remit regularly sing together, drawing there is a Flower by Nathalie to include even more musicians, singers from Junior Church and Sleeth. aiming always to make everything beyond. they do a sincere offering to the To date, around 60 anthems have Glory of God. Emma says, “The Junior Choir been recorded and many can be brings together children of enjoyed on YouTube. Particularly Despite covid-19, “the music has different ages.” Something memorable are: The Hereford indeed come together, and particularly important in this Carol where the choir was joined importantly the choir itself has season. The Junior choir have by virtual singers from across stayed together as a (socially also enjoyed the community and the Archdeaconry; Once in Royal distanced) community. And more new musical skills they have David’s City sung virtually by the than that, we have even wel- learnt during the time of virtual choirs and congregation for the comed some new, virtual choir choir. Christmas Carol Service and members, who live in both Stanford’s Nunc Dimittis in A near- and far-flung places.”, says “I like the variety of music and recorded for an on-line Evensong. Phillip. “Out of the rigors of the the opportunity to sing different Most ambitious so far is Allegri’s pandemic has thus come growth, parts.” Says Samriddh, a member Miserere which was sung for Ash in both music and the choir’s of the Junior Choir. Emmuah also Wednesday and involved sense of community, as it enjoys the different warm-ups twenty-one separate videos. continues to offer up music in the and the repertoire of songs which worship of God.” they sing. Music at HTC is incredibly important as a means of You can find out more about HTC The Junior Choir, created in 1992, elevating the Liturgy. As HTC Geneva on their website and was originally directed by the late moves forward following the Facebook. Lindy Carmalt. It was she that arrival of its new chaplain, established the strong tradition of singing amongst the younger members of the Genevan community. Claire Charles took over the choir in 2018 and has developed it further, expanding the repertoire and drawing in other young singers.

Reflecting the diversity of the congregation, Holy Trinity Church’s Youth Leader, Armel Ayegnon, is an accomplished kora-player. Often playing for informal services, the sound of the kora is particularly lovely for reflection in prayer.

31 Chaplaincy News

Dante's "Divine Comedy": A Spiritual Journey

2021 marks the 700th year of the depths and then to climb the questions were being asked about the death of Dante Alighieri. mountain where those on their peace and justice, wealth and The Revd Canon Tony way to salvation are made ready poverty, the nature of the state, Dickinson, The Anglican for heaven. and about God. Chaplain at The Church of the Holy Ghost, Genoa reflects on Finally, he invites us to rise with Dante was active in much of Dante's "La commedia" later him outside space and time and this. An early biography says that and commonly known as "The to journey among those who as a young man he undertook Divine Comedy" as a Spiritual already enjoy God’s unveiled serious literary and theological Journey. presence. study. His own writings suggest close links with the Franciscans. English histories of European The journey in the “Divine He had taken part in the wars of culture have tended to caricature Comedy” is a quest to deepen Florence against her neighbours. the Florentine politician, scholar understanding of the relationship He had held high political office. In and poet, Dante Alighieri, who between Christian faith and the summer of the year in which died in 1321, as the man who human life. That includes the "Comedy" is set, Dante was put his enemies in hell and his commerce and finance, politics elected (aged 35) as a "prior", one friends in heaven. Apart from the (international and local), and of the chief magistrates of fact that it isn’t true, it is a very relationships of all kinds, between Florence. He appeared to be a inadequate description of probably Church and state, between state man with a bright future. But the greatest Christian poem and and state, between individuals. within eighteen months, the one of the finest accounts of the Dante was writing in a turbulent wheel of political fortune had spiritual journey. Seven centuries world, where tensions in society turned and took Dante the ago, when Dante recorded his could, and did, erupt into half-turn from the heights of inward journey in the poem which violent conflict within and prosperity to the depths of English-speaking people generally between states. Traditional ways adversity. By Easter 1302 he know as “The Divine Comedy”, of life were being broken up by was in exile, financially ruined, he invited his readers to follow economic and social pressures; separated from wife and children, him, in imagination, into the advances in scientific and condemned to death by burning if depths of hell and out the other philosophical thought were he fell into the hands of the new side. 700 years on, Dante invites undermining long-held certainties; regime in Florence. us to join him in that descent into new religious movements were flourishing; issues in human sexuality were being discussed as never before and serious

32 Pictured: Illustrations to Dante’s Divine Comedy, Dante Running from the Three Beasts, by William Blake.

For the rest of his life Dante was strands of his life and weaves Dante’s journey was the topic of a wanderer, picking up a living as them together with a strong, three Holy Week addresses, at best he could in the households radical Christian faith into a rich the Church of the Holy Ghost in of the great, as a tame poet and tapestry. The action of the poem Genoa, as part of the philosopher, as a teacher, doing begins on the evening of Maundy commemoration of the 700th odd jobs as a part-time diplomat. Thursday, 1300, in the middle of a Anniversary of the poet’s death in There are rumours that he dark and menacing wood, "where September 1321. travelled as far as Oxford. It is the right road was wholly lost and more certain that he visited gone". It ends outside time, in the These are available now on the Bologna and Paris. He read contemplation of God — a vision Diocesan YouTube channel here. much—and he wrote: poems and beyond the power of human prose works, books of literary imagination to recall or human criticism, books about the theory language to record — a blinding and practice of politics. For some flash of insight into "the love that years Dante lived at the court of moves the Sun and the other the della Scala in Verona and stars". That dark wood is the toward the end of his life he outward expression of Dante’s found a home in Ravenna. His inner intellectual, emotional and bones are there still, despite spiritual tangle, a way of repeated efforts by the Florentine describing the mess from which authorities to reclaim them. The he could find no way out except magnificent tomb in Santa Croce by embarking on his inward remains empty. journey, guided initially by the Roman poet Virgil and then by his The “Comedy” was the great lost love Beatrice; descending to work of Dante’s exile. In it Dante the depths and finding a way out draws together the different on the other side, the way out which leads him, in the end, to Pictured: The Revd Canon Tony God. Dickinson

33 Song for the Summit 25,000 children sing to G7 on climate care

WE reported in early June on said Bishop Robert, who was the Sing2G7 choir inspiration Song for the Summit: invited to offer a video message urging G7 leaders to listen to Gee Seven this week to the Sing2G7 young people's words on choristers from Truro Cathedral climate care and on latest One of the key items on the G7 who have been leading children developments on our leaders’ agenda this year will be worldwide in song. He c Eco-Diocese agenda. We also “building back greener: Climate ommended the children as feature the European Green and nature.” Speaking ahead of “... courageous advocates who Deal package in the EU to make the Summit, Bishop Robert said: can help to change our world Europe the first climate neutral for the better. “It’s about young continent by 2050. "Care for our climate is an urgent people, the young people who common interest that affects us form the choir… we are hoping Leaders of the G7 have gathered all. The G7 summit in Cornwall to encourage young people from in Cornwall this weekend for a this week is a key opportunity for around the world to join in with Summit billed by the UK G7 our global leaders. They need to the Sing2G7 project and make Presidency as “building back commit themselves to their voices heard. It’s about our better” from the global Pandemic. overdue action now to tackle responsibility to care for The G7 was set up in 1975 as an climate change." creation,” adds Bishop Philip informal forum bringing Mounstephen, the Bishop of together the world’s leading As we have shared on diocesan Truro. industrial nations. Its (normally social media, young people have annual) summits gather leaders been ensuring their voices are The Diocese in Europe is also from Canada, France, Germany, heard by G7 leaders! 25,000 planning a pan-diocesan event Italy, Japan, UK, United States. children across 27 nations have bringing together our eco- and The European Union is united to sing to G7 leaders, young people’s ministry on 10 represented by the President of urging them to “make bold, September, around the time of the European Council and the decisive steps this weekend to Climate Sunday ahead of the President of the European care for everyone in the world and Conference of Parties (COP 26) Commission. look after our planet,” meeting in Glasgow in November.

34 over ten Eco-Churches. Diocesan • Decarbonising the energy Eco-Diocese Environmental Officer, Elizabeth sector Bussmann and the Diocesan Synod this week • Ensuring buildings are more Environmental Network are received updates on latest energy efficient; and working hard to get more developments and initiatives. churches signed up as • EU work with international The Church of England has set eco-churches and embarking on partners to improve global a ‘carbon neutral’ target by 2030. care for creation initiatives, such environmental standards. A net-zero group in the Diocese as the Palermo chaplaincy is working on guidance to innovative development of an chaplaincies and we are trying The EU has agreed to enshrine Eco-Forest in a pocket-sized to measure our carbon footprint. the goal of 2050 climate neutrality flower bed to encourage This involves; bringing in a Climate Law. In addition, last bio-diversity, which we reported eco-churches onto agendas, December, EU leaders agreed “Fit on in April. giving ‘First Steps’ guidance to all for 55” a binding target to cut net chaplaincies, a recommendation greenhouse gas emissions by at of online measurement tools and The European Green least 55% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels, up from its current encouragement to record Deal Carbon Footprint on annual target for 2030 of at least 40%. returns. Across the Diocese in The Diocese also participated this Europe, there is now a network “As part of our Eco-Diocese week in one of the EU regular of over seventy representatives agenda, there are key EU dialogues that include faith to develop approaches to tackle opportunities for us to decide, as partners, organised by the the climate crises, inform a diocese, get involved in, European Commission and chaplaincies on caring for creation including the European Climate European Parliament. Coming and encourage worship in regard Pact, an invitation to share together before the G7 Summit, to creation, such as at last year’s information about tackling climate partners considered the European pan-diocesan Creationtide service. change and environmental Green Deal and they discussed degradation. There is an online the challenges ahead with There are also more events and platform, as well as dialogues Aleksandra Tomczak, Member of conferences to look forward to on and exchanges to foster the link Cabinet in the team of Frans reducing our carbon footprint and between digital and green Timmermans, European caring for creation, similar to the transitions across economic life,” Commission Executive ‘Plastic Free February’ event held says Damian Thwaites, Bishop’s Vice-President for the European in January and our series in April attaché to the European Green Deal. 2021 exploring the theological Institutions discussion of caring for creation The EU is striving to be the first as discipleship and our strategy “At the dialogue this week, I was climate-neutral continent by 2050. for tackling the climate crises in able to share some of our recent The European Green Deal the Church of England. The series Diocesan initiatives with partners, package covers: covered the topics of; ‘Caring for and to promote Sing2G7 and our Creation’, ‘Church of England Net • Investing in pan-diocesan eco event in Zero goal’, ‘Biblical Mandate for environmentally-friendly September. Working alongside Care for Creation’, ‘Intentional technologies our ecumenical and other faith Discipleship’ and ‘Green Anglican • Supporting industry to partners on the green agenda is movement’. innovate really important engagement for the Diocese”, Damian added. In collaboration with A Rocha we • Rolling out cleaner, cheaper have also developed a network of and healthier forms of private and public transport

35 Racial Justice

IN Autumn 2020, The synods better represent our The Group today commended the Archbishops of Canterbury diversity and we are committed to urgent and timely Report, and York set up an Anti-Racism the journey to make this a reality. emphasising: “What makes this Taskforce. The work of the Task report significant is its impetus, Force looked at the real lack of We are ashamed when we detect scrutiny, direction and progress on tackling evidence of discrimination in our implementation. It seeks to institutional racism in the discernment or appointments address the 4th mark of mission – Church over 35 years. It has processes and take steps to “to transform unjust structures in prepared the ground for a address any such injustice. We society”. longer-term Commission on know there is urgent work for us Racial Justice for the national all to do in encouraging minority The members of the group added: Church. ethnic ministry and ‘Breathing Life’ anticipates and representation. We intend our mirrors many of the This Taskforce published its report diocese to be a spiritual home recommendations made in ‘From "From Lament To Action" on 22 where everyone is welcome Lament to Action’ and members April, which has been welcomed and belongs. And we pledge to of the Working Group are already by the two Archbishops. The do everything we can to ensure working alongside synods and Report proposes a suite of people of all races experience the chaplaincies to monitor changes to begin bringing about dignity of being beloved children participation and audit the a change of culture in the life of of God. Please join us in this vital presence and active engagement the Church of England. The report task.” of Black, Asian and Minority sets out 47 specific actions for Ethnic (BAME) members at every different parts of the Church of The Diocese in Europe has been level of church life.” England to implement across five working intensively on ways in priority areas: participation, which we ensure racial justice The Diocesan Group also stated governance, training, education across our own diocesan unambiguously in their response and young people. structures and chaplaincies. today that:“Unless every diocese makes the same stringent From the Diocese in Europe, In December 2020, Diocesan commitment to implementation Bishops Robert and David Synod unanimously approved a and action; and every responded to the Task Force report entitled “Breathing Life”. Archdeaconry Synod and Report: This report was prepared by The Chaplaincy follows suit, the work Bishops’ Working Group on Racial of the Archbishops’ Task Force “The Diocese in Europe is Justice, chaired by The Ven. Dr. will be in vain and the ghosts of gloriously diverse and welcomes Leslie Nathaniel and includes Stephen Lawrence, Nicole worshippers and incorporates two clergy, The Revd Augustine Smallman, Bibaa Henry, George clergy from across the globe. So Nwaekwe and The Revd Floyd and Daunte Wright will the publication of ‘From Lament Smitha Prasadam, Bishop’s BAME haunt us for generations to to Action’ is a welcome challenge Advisors, and a chaplaincy lay come.” for us. As bishops we long to see representative, Ms Ozichi George our structures, councils and Baron. You can read the full response of the Group to the Task Force Report here.

36 Engage and Encounter: Women’s Network Morning with Bishop Sarah Mullally

JOINING together virtually from across the Diocese, the Women’s Network carved out time for a morning of engagement and encounter Bishop Sarah reminded us of our This builds in to the picture across with Bishop Sarah Mullally. relationship with God and took us the Diocese of the Women’s Carolyn Cooke, Diocesan back to who we are in Christ. Network. “ Adviser for Women’s Ministry, Leaving the reassuring reflects on her highlights of reminder that our biggest calling Aims of the Advisor to the the call exploring reflections is to Jesus, Bishop Sarah said; Bishop for Women’s Ministry is to on leadership, how can we “I have had two careers: Equip, Evaluate and Engage. You disagree well and how can the becoming Chief Nursing Officer can read more about Diocesan church respond to Covid? in the Department of Health in Women’s Ministry here. Carolyn the UK, and as Bishop. But, I recognises “this can only be done Bishop Sarah Mullally, Lead have one vocation to follow Jesus fruitfully as women work together Bishop of London, Lead Bishop Christ”. Wrestling with life’s across the Diocese in Europe thus for Living in Love and Faith and challenges, our biggest call is to the importance of building up and Chair of the Covid Recovery Jesus Christ. “What do we boast strengthening the network”. Group lead the morning, with a in, we boast that God knows us focus on encountering and and we need to remind ourselves Bishop Sarah highlighted the engaging with Jesus during this that our name is written on God’s projects of Living in Love and time. hands – this will help us weather Faith and the Six Pastoral the difficult times,“ said Sarah. Principles. “We were deeply grateful to Bishop Sarah for carving out a Bishop Sarah reminded us of unity Evaluation after the call explored whole morning to share with us - and togetherness, reminding that facilitating complicated with honesty, humour and down we are all broken and vulnerable, discussions, the voice of women to earth stories. but we are in this together. across the diocese, recognising Carolyn Cooke said, “Bishop cultural shifts surrounding Female clergy across the Diocese Sarah highlighted the need for women, creating Intentional steps in Europe were invited to attend women to amplify women’s to enable women in the diocese online - both licensed clergy and voices in leadership, building and fostering relationships across priests with PTO. The morning alliances together with other the diocese. Women due to be focused on three key themes; women, creating a network of ordained in the Diocese were held Reflections on Leadership, women. in prayer. Disagreeing Well and Church Response to Covid.

37 World Refugee Day 2021: Anglican and Roman Catholic Bishops issue Joint Statement

AHEAD of World Refugee Day and on the Roman Catholic side, special concern for those who 2021, Bishop Robert co-signed the Archbishops of Southwark arrive in north-western France, a Joint Statement by Anglican and Lille, the Bishop of Arras, mistakenly expecting to be and Roman Catholic Bishops Boulogne & Saint-Omer, and the welcomed to the UK”. from Dioceses on both sides of Bishop of Bruges. the English Channel, in which The Bishops add in their they express concern about the In their Joint Statement the Statement: situation in Northern France Bishops state: and urge a “climate of welcome “We urge all who gather in places and understanding”. “These are fellow humans who of worship along the frontiers of deserve to be helped to find European states to pray and In 2020, there were approximately places where they can live in gather information to support 80 million forcibly misplaced dignity and contribute to civil pleas for better treatment of all people globally, of whom 26.3 society. With sadness, we vulnerable men, women and million people are refugees. observe the lack of hope that children. For ourselves, we Among these are an estimated drives people in distress to resolve to work to encourage 1500 people, including women become exploited by traffickers residents to create a climate of with newborns and and add to the profits of their welcome and understanding for approximately 200 illegal trade… their stories should strangers who share in the hopes unaccompanied children, living be heard before decisions about and needs of all humanity." in forests or makeshift shelters their futures are announced”. in Northern France. The Human The partnership hopes this Joint Rights Observers NGO who The Dioceses of Canterbury and Statement this week about the monitor found there were 973 Europe are working with USPG in situation in Northern France and evictions by the police in Calais a project which reflects the need surrounding coastlines will shine in 2020 alone, not including the for a more co-ordinated approach a light on the plight of refugees dismantling of hundreds of tents to care for and support migrants trapped between one side of the in Calais each month. and their families – on both sides English Channel and the other. of the English Channel. They In this predicament, many find In response to this ongoing are part of an effort mounted by themselves in a climate where human misery in and around NGOs locally, including in close they are being held back currently Calais, surrounding ports and collaboration with Seeking from dignity, and from having their coastline towns running from Sanctuary. Their aim to “raise human worth recognised. Northern France to Belgium, awareness about the situation where many misplaced people of people displaced from their The UN Refugee Agency UNHCR seek shelter, the group of Bishops homes and to channel basic has adopted "power of inclusion" have issued a Joint Statement for humanitarian assistance from as their emphasis for Refugee World Refugee Week 2021. Faith Communities and Week this year, reminding us that Community Organisations through "this is a chance to recognise the This Anglican and Roman Catholic partnerships with experienced contribution refugees and group of Bishops represent the aid workers. They have “a displaced people have made, Anglican Dioceses of Canterbury and continue to make, to society." and Europe,

38 ON 11 May, the Council of Europe marked the 10th “The different provisions of the Anniversary of the Istanbul Convention on preventing and Istanbul Convention are inspiring combating violence against women and domestic violence. action and are driving change” We published this story:

In November 2020, the Diocese monitoring implementation of the of the Council of Europe, including joined the campaigning efforts Convention by the Member the UK. In the House of Lords, to bolster the Istanbul Convention States of the Council of Europe. our Bishops have supported the with a video by Bishop Robert and ratification by the UK of the a 16-day social media campaign. Their website also covers Convention. The Bishop of Featuring the four pillars of the campaigning work by civil Gloucester, The Rt Revd Rachel Convention: Prevention, society organisations, featuring Treweek and her fellow bishops Protection, Prosecution, and the effort of European Anglicans. in the House of Lords have been Co-ordinated Policies, this was closely engaged in scrutinizing as a contribution by European In a series of testimonies, UK Domestic Abuse legislation, Anglicans to the Gender Justice including a contribution from notably on the plight of migrant work of the Anglican Communion. Bishop Robert, the Council of women who are victims of abuse. Europe states: For today’s anniversary, we have The UK campaign for ratification released this short video “The different provisions of the has been joined by a range of recalling our support to the Istanbul Convention are inspiring organisations, including IC Council of Europe effort. action and are driving change in Change, who are campaigning responding to the different forms with a petition for UK-based In March, Bishop Robert joined of violence against women and residents to sign. Following the international reaction following domestic violence. They bring final passage of the Domestic Turkey’s announced decision to hope and a greater feeling of Abuse Act at the end of April, withdraw from the Convention safety to millions of women and we now await the next steps of and he has had exchanges on this girls. Addressing a societal issue the UK Government regarding with both the Council of Europe such as violence against women commitment to ratify the Istanbul and the EU External Action means bringing it into the open. It Convention. Service. helps victims speak out, enables professionals to respond In the Diocese in Europe, we will The Council of Europe has appropriately, and instils a sense continue our advocacy and launched a dedicated website for of trust and hope in women and campaigning efforts on the this 10th Anniversary of the girls. In short, the Istanbul Istanbul Convention wherever Istanbul Convention. It looks back Convention saves lives.” we can raise its profile through at the past decade of our close engagement with the achievement, including the work We join in continuing efforts to strategies and priorities of the The of GREVIO, the independent urge ratification of the Istanbul Council of Europe and EU and our Group of Experts responsible for Convention by all member states bishops in the UK Parliament.

39 Books & Events

resulted in some of the heaviest The Covid-19 Pandemic led to all casualties for British forces during fundraising events, both in the the Second World War. UK and Malta, to be postponed or cancelled throughout the whole In an interview on his book with of 2020. The hope was to raise the Times of Malta, Sir Max said: awareness of the “Save the “I wanted to honour the real bond Valetta Skyline Appeal” and raise bet­ween the Maltese and the important funds for the campaign British, both then and now. as restoration funds for the Cathedral suffered due to the My research for the book made pandemic. Save the Valletta me realise just how bad things Skyline Appeal: were for the Maltese and just “This virtual event was an how horrific the battle was for unqualified success!”, Says Event with Sir Max Hastings the Royal Navy. Yet Operation Joanna Oswin, Chairman of the Pedestal boosted morale for both UK Events Committee for the nations at that critical moment in Save the Valetta Skyline Appeal. SIR Max Hastings, acclaimed the war – and, I believe, ultimately “Max Hastings gave a stunning author, journalist and historian, paved the way towards victory presentation of Operation presented his new book on three years later.” Pedestal, painting such a vivid Operation Pedestal, a pivotal picture of that amazing convoy wartime operation which saved The Chairman of the Malta and its battles to get to Malta.” Malta during the Second World Business Network (UK), David Nearly 300 people attended the War. At a webinar for the 'Save Walsh will open the event with Sir event and gave rave reviews. To the Valletta Skyline' Appeal, Max, with a welcome. Sir Martin date, there has been a total of held on 1 June, Sir Max Laing, Chairman of the ‘Save the £8,000 of donations, with more discussed his research on Valetta Skyline’ Appeal, will give still coming in, and additional Malta’s Santa Marija Convoy, a message of thanks. donations from book sales from and participated in a live Agenda Bookshop in Malta have Question and Answer session. The stunning Valetta Skyline is been promised. “Equally renowned globally for its beauty. important has been the Sailing from Britain in August The ‘Save the Valletta Skyline’ opportunity to raise awareness 1942, carrying crucial supply Appeal was launched in March of the need for funds to save this items for Allied sea and 2017 to save and restore St Paul’s wonderful Cathedral in Valletta submarine operations, Operation Anglican Pro-Cathedral in Malta, – which we have undoubtedly Pedestal was vitally important, a vital part of Malta’s rich done!” yet little-known in ensuring cultural heritage. You can read Malta’s survival. A costly, though more about the Appeal in previous If you would like to donate to the strategic mission, the Santa diocesan website coverage here. Valetta Skyline Appeal, you can Marija Convoy was bombarded give on their Just Giving page with relentless attacks which here.

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