THE UNITED BENEFICE OF MORTON AND STONEBROOM WITH Profile of The United Benefice of Morton and Stonebroom

with St. Peter’s, Stonebroom

St Peter’s, Stonebroom Sh ir land Holy Cross, Morton

St. Leonard’s, Shirland

24th March 2017 Page 1 of 17 THE UNITED BENEFICE OF MORTON AND STONEBROOM WITH SHIRLAND

. GENERAL The parishes of Morton, Stonebroom and Shirland are former mining villages situated close to the towns of , Chesterfield and Matlock and within easy reach of the Peak District National Park. The villages are easily accessible from Junctions 28 and 29 of the M1 or the A38; there are also excellent rail links to and from Chesterfield and Alfreton. Morton and Stonebroom have been a United Benefice for approximately 35 years and were joined by Shirland in 1998. We are now part of the newly formed Hardwick Deanery with a recently appointed Area Dean who actively encourages parishes to work together and share challenges and opportunities. The area represented by our three churches has a population of approximately 5000 people and this is expected to increase progressively with planned housing development. In common with many rural congregations we reflect an older age demographic but whose energy and commitment belie their years. During our Vacancy period we have been blessed by the input of one retired member of the clergy in addition to three associate priests who all reside in the local area who have all helped us enormously with support during quite challenging times. We also have two Lay Readers and lay worship leaders. The Rectory is situated in Shirland and is a modern four bedroom detached house with garage and large gardens. It has gas central heating.

LOCAL AREA There are three renowned Country estates in the area, Chatsworth, Hardwick and Haddon; also in close proximity are the beautiful market towns of Chesterfield, Matlock, Bakewell and Buxton. Within easy reach are the National Memorial Arboretum, the popular family attractions of Alton Towers and Drayton Manor Park and the World Heritage sites of the Derwent Valley featuring the iconic mills of Arkwright and Strutt and Carsington reservoir..

SCHOOLS & EDUCATION: Holy Cross

St Peter’s There are four schools on four sites within the parishes in which members of all three churches are actively involved. There are four secondary schools is in the vicinity. There are flourishing “Open the Book” and School Club teams and schools are actively St Leonard’s encouraged to use church premises for a variety of functions and the previous incumbent led assemblies once each term at each school. The “Open the Book” team includes members of the Methodist Church. Each church continually explores ways of improving and developing their work with children. There are well attended Sunday Schools within the Benefice and each church has its own dedicated Child Protection Officer.

24th March 2017 Page 2 of 17 OUTREACH: We have an active Benefice Outreach Group that fosters goodwill and social interaction between our parishes In addition to our involvement with schools, regular services are held for our more senior parishioners in the local nursing home and the village hall. We have a dedicated Vulnerable Adult Officer. We take the involvement of the laity very seriously and we endeavour to give adequate opportunities, encouragement and training to all. Members of the congregation are increasingly involved in planning and leading some worship, in pastoral visiting including home communion and baptism preparation. The further development of our outreach programme continues to be a priority with particular emphasis on young people and teenagers. The Benefice has a web site at www.msschurches.btck.uk covering all three parishes. OUR NEW INCUMBENT: We are looking for someone who is kind and caring, with good communication skills for all age groups, and an experience of ministry in a variety of settings. More specifically, the person we are looking for: • Will have respect for the traditions of each church but will also explore opportunities for change. • Is an effective leader, organiser and listener who can delegate and encourage others and have a visible presence in the community. • Experience of working with children and to continue ministry to out local schools. • Has a heart for mission and will build on our existing work within the community. • Will nurture our Christian discipleship to enable us to grow in faith. • Is happy to work with Christians from other denominations to encourage a unified Christian witness. • A good sense of humour would be a distinct advantage! • Will assume the responsibilities of the Assistant Area Dean – See Appendix A below.

In return we can offer: A welcoming fellowship with diverse gifts which is open to change. We are ready to move forward as we discover God’s purposes. Enthusiastic Church Wardens and Parochial Church Councils, who work well together, are mutually supportive and are looking forward with a great hope and enthusiasm to greeting our new incumbent.

APPENDIX A Responsibilities of the Assistant Area Dean  To assist the Area Dean in developing and delivering a Deanery Mission Strategy, which would include a mission to schools.  To deputise for the Area Dean, on occasion, at Licensing, Synod, Chapter and Parish Visitations.  To assist with oversight of parishes in vacancy and to be involved, on occasion, with appointments, short-listing and interviews.  To cover deanery matters during the Area Dean’s leave.  To meet with the Area Dean on a monthly basis for prayer, support and communication.

24th March 2017 Page 3 of 17 For further information, please contact either:

The Acting Archdeacon of Chesterfield Canon Tony Kaunhoven 0162 9814462 or Area Dean of Hardwick The Revd Gill Manley 01773 873305 or Bernard Gratton, St Peter’s Church Warden and Chair of Selection Committee 01773 873493 or see our web site www.msschurches.btck.uk

WORSHIP PATTERNS

Average Average Average Day Holy Cross attendance St Peters attendance St Leonards attendanc e 1st Sunday 10:30am Morning Praise 9:00am Holy Communion 17 10:30am Holy Communion 2nd Sunday 10:30am Family Communion 10:30am Morning Service 15 9:00am Holy Communion nd 2 Tuesday ~ 9:30am Holy Communion 6 ~ 3rd Sunday 10:30am Holy Communion 9:00am Holy Communion 18 10:30am Sung Eucharist rd 3 Tuesday ~ ~ 9:30am Holy Communion 4th Sunday 6:00pm Table talk 10:30am Family Communion 29 8:00am Holy Communion 10:30am Morning Prayer 5th Sunday 10:30am Holy Communion hosted by each church in turn 49

All three churches use order one service formats. There are also these other services: A monthly service in Stonebroom Village Hall on the 2nd Tuesday at 2:30pm. This is aimed at Old Age Pensioners A bi-monthly service at Morton Residential Home on the 2nd Tuesday at 10:30am. The service is led by the Methodist Church on alternate months. Each parish has an open baptism policy. The remarriage of divorcees is allowed at the discretion of the incumbent. These policies have the support of the PCCs. There is a Benefice Treasurer who is responsible for all fees and expenses.

24th March 2017 Page 4 of 17 MINISTERIAL STAFF: These officiate throughout the Benefice.

Reverend John Epton – Associate Priest Reverend John Wood – Associate Priest Reverend Chrissie Wood - Associate Priest Reverend Ian Mitchell - Retired Priest David Hadfield - Reader Margaret Cook - Reader

24th March 2017 Page 5 of 17 The Parish of Holy Cross Church, Morton

Morton claims to be the geographical centre of as it is midway along the longest North-South Axis (Near Berwick upon Tweed to Poole) and is also midway between the Welsh border (Close to Dodleston) and the east Coast at Skegness.

Morton is a small village with 600 houses and a population of just over 1100.

Records show there has been a Church on the site since 1002AD. Although the chancel and nave were rebuilt in the 1850’s, the 15th Century Tower remains untouched and the Tower Arch dates from the 13th Century. The Tower has a peal of 6 bells and a dedicated team of ringers. It is a Grade II* listed building. Holy Cross has an “open” Churchyard.

The Church has always been the centre of Village Life and still plays an important role today.

ELECTORAL ROLL

2016 – 37. Age range: 22 – 87

FINANCE

Common Fund – 2016 - £11,370 11 twelfths paid last year. Accounts Year Ending 2015 Turnover - £22,873 Income - £23,257

24th March 2017 Page 6 of 17 AMENITIES:

• Post Office and General Store • Village Hall – Built 1680 for use as village Malt House. 1834 the Malt House closed. • Two Public Houses – The Sitwell Arms and The Corner Pin • A Cricket Club: Morton Colliery Cricket Club field’s three teams in local leagues. There are also junior teams. • Two Country Parks: Morton Colliery Plantation and Doe Hill Country Park. Morton. • A children’s Playground off New Street. • Bus services to nearby towns: There are regular daytime weekday bus services to Alfreton, Chesterfield and Sutton-in-Ashfield.

MORTON PRIMARY SCHOOL:

The present Primary School was opened circa 1885 and was completely refurbished in 2010. There are about 100 children attending.

RECTORY ROOM:

A few metres down from the Church, the Rectory Room is a small building surrounded by a grassy area with some parking. It comprises a room with a kitchen area and is used for various activities and small meeting groups. The Sunday School, Table Talk and Soup and Social are held here.

CHURCH – FACILITIES/CONDITION:

• Good general condition • Loop System • Sound System

24th March 2017 Page 7 of 17 WORSHIP: We offer a reverent but relaxed style of worship, which aims to be inclusive of all. We have responded to the challenge of providing alternative services/times to ensure we meet the needs of the congregation. Common Worship is used at all Eucharistic Services and vestments are worn. The Sacrament is reserved for the sick, and Holy oil is kept. Intercessions are normally led by the laity who also read lessons and assist in administering the chalice. The Family Eucharist is designed for children and young people and they are actively involved in this Service.

REGULAR SERVICES:

• 1st Sunday Morning Praise 10.30 a.m. (A service of readings and hymns followed by refreshments) • 2nd Sunday Family Holy Communion 10.30 a.m. (A Holy Communion Service for all ages, followed by refreshments) • 3rd Sunday Holy Communion 10.30 a.m. (Baptisms are sometimes held in this service or after the service at 12.00pm if requested. • 4th Table Talk 6.00 p.m. (An informal gathering for worship and discussion, “Café Style”. This is held in the Rectory Room. • 5th Sunday Benefice Holy Communion 10.30 a.m. (A service for all three Churches together, hosted in turn).

SERVICES FOR MAJOR FESTIVALS:

• Easter Services beginning with Agape on Maundy Thursday.

Good Friday Stations of the Cross. Easter Sunday Eucharist. • Mothering Sunday • Harvest Festival (Harvest Supper) • Holy Cross Tide • Memorial Service • Remembrance Day • Church Carol Service • School Carol Service 24th March 2017 Page 8 of 17 • Christmas Tree Festival • Crib Service • Christmas

OCCASIONAL OFFICES - 2015

Baptisms - 7 Weddings - 4 Funerals -11

CONGREGATION: Pastoral Care and Fellowship: We have a wide range of ages in our congregation, there is a sense of harmony and we are welcoming and inclusive community. Every month there is a service in Morton Grange Nursing home. This is a Churches Together Ministry. Holy Communion is taken to residents who request it.

Evangelism and Outreach: We are actively involved with outreach with the Community and Church members are involved with a majority of village projects. We recognise that we need to develop and maintain spiritual fellowship. We also have a good number of families bringing their children for baptism and we have in place a good working practice.

Bible Study: We have an informal monthly Bible Study Group for anyone interested in knowing more about the Bible.

Children/Young Adults: We are fortunate to have a very strong Junior Church. Their age group ranges from young children to young adults and they are from different communities and different schools and this enhances their relationship. They are actively involved with the Family Service; they assist with fundraising and with outreach raising money for the Church/Children’s Society/Operation Child/World Vision. Nine of these children were confirmed last year. We have close links with Morton Primary School. • Take assemblies. • Children visit the Church as part of their RE lessons. 24th March 2017 Page 9 of 17 • The School Carol Service is held in Church. • “Open the Book” goes into School. • School Harvest festival in church.

Morton Monkeys:

This group was initiated by the Church, initially being held in the Rectory Room. This group of parents and children of under 5’s is very successful and is held in the Village Hall on Thursday mornings.

Community Groups and Activities:

We enjoy a wide range of Social Events. We as a Church are actively involved in most village activities and groups.

Communication:

• Church News Letter - free copy monthly • Morton Messenger - free copy twice yearly • Village Notice Boards • Church Website www.msschurches.btck.co.uk • Village Website www.mortonvillage.org

24th March 2017 Page 10 of 17 The Parish of St Peter’s, Stonebroom

The village of Stonebroom Stonebroom was built just over a century ago, primarily to accommodate miners of the Morton Colliery. It was a thriving, busy, coal mining community that has gradually declined in size since the pit closed. The houses range from private housing to a council estate. There is a Village Hall catering for the elderly and a Pre school group, a Community Centre, a Doctor’s Surgery with Pharmacy and a Primary School. There is a Post Office, a Takeaway and two “Corner Shops” and a small industrial estate. The village had a population of 1,800 in 2015.

Employment There is very little employment in Stonebroom, except for the industrial estate. 22% of the population are over 65 and 18% are under 16.

Our Church St Peter’s was built in 1900 in the Arts and Crafts style, stone outside, brick inside. It has a toilet and a basement room fitted out as a kitchen and school room. There are 35 on the electoral roll and average congregations are 20, which is average for the Diocese of Derby. The church is open to the public from 10:00am to 4:00pm every day.

Ecclesiastical traditions St Peter’s is central and has robed crucifer and servers. There is a gifted regular organist. There is a robust, informal, ecumenical relationship between the Anglicans and Methodists through Churches Together in Stonebroom

Regular Groups • Art Group • Benefice Music Group - rehearses at St Peter’s • Cursillo • Dominoes • Ladies’ Choir • Sunday School 24th March 2017 Page 11 of 17 Finances St Peter’s has its own Treasurer. St Peter’s finances are healthy. Income from collections and monthly fund raising events enables the PCC to meet church running costs and to pay the Common Fund. The church has no debts and no major maintenance is required, although there is a Building Fund to cushion any unexpected maintenance costs. The next quinquennial is in 2017.

OCCASIONAL OFFICES - 2015

Baptisms 3 (Including one for two children) Weddings 2 Funerals 6

Mission Action Plan • To develop spirituality within the congregation. • Outreach.

Challenges • To attract younger people • To improve our mission to people at home and the unemployed • To encourage interaction and communication with newcomers to the village.

24th March 2017 Page 12 of 17 The Parish of St Leonard’s, Shirland.

COMMUNITY:

Shirland is an expanding village on the A61 with good transport links and a population of 3,000. Within the parish there are five distinct communities.

CHURCH BUILDING:

The church dates back to the 13th century, and houses a traditional church space with pews, a main nave and two side aisles. It seats approximately 120 comfortably. It has Grade II* listing.

Following the 2015 quinquennial report the PCC is currently trying to raise approximately £60,000 for repairs to the North and South Aisle roofs.

In 2004 extensive alterations were made to accommodate a disabled toilet and a kitchenette. A new heating system was installed and some new chairs purchased to extend seating facilities. Space was created for wheelchairs at the front of the nave. A music system and microphone were installed.

CHURCH BELLS:

The tower houses 6 bells which were re-hung in 2012, 2 of which are of historical interest. More details are available on the website.

St Leonard’s has a dedicated team of bell ringers who ring for Sunday services, for special occasions and for weddings.

24th March 2017 Page 13 of 17 CONGREGATION:

St Leonard’s is a village church of moderately catholic persuasion with a committed congregation of 30/35 adults and an Electoral Roll of 44. Worship is primarily Eucharistic.

OUR MISSION:

To be beside people at important times in their lives, when children are brought to baptism, when couples marry, and when people are bereaved. Growing the Kingdom of God and reaching out to the Community. Our current MAP includes :- Continuing to work with the local primary School and to extend children’s work where possible. To introduce a welcome pack.

FINANCE:

Summary of accounts from 2015

Total receipts £26,319

Payments COMMON FUND £12,640 OTHER £13,086

£25,726

EXCESS FOR YEAR £593

CASH, DEPOSITS, AND INVESTMENTS AVAILABLE AT YEAR END (INCLUDING RESTRICTED FUNDS) £23,243

THE COMMON FUND HAS BEEN PAID IN FULL FOR THE LAST 2 YEARS

WORSHIP AT ST LEONARD’S:

All Eucharistic services involve procession of choir and clergy. Vestments are worn.

24th March 2017 Page 14 of 17 SUNDAY SERVICES:

1st Sunday 10.30am Holy Communion Order One with sung responses, or said, if Baptism is requested 2nd Sunday 9.00am Holy Communion as above. No Baptism. 3rd Sunday 10.30am Sung Eucharist (Order One Traditional) with sung responses and burning of incense 4th Sunday 8am Holy Communion 10.30am Morning Prayer – Service of the Word 5th Sunday 10.30am United Benefice Service at each of the three churches in turn. St Leonard’s uses service booklets for all the different church seasons

OTHER SERVICES:

3rd Tuesday 9.30am Holy Communion 3rd Sunday bi-monthly Healing Communion with the laying on of hands and extended prayer. Services throughout the year include :- Mothering Sunday service, Lay-led Good Friday at the Foot of the Cross, Harvest Festival, All Souls, Remembrance Service, Crib Service plus others as appropriate.

MUSIC:

St Leonard’s uses Anglican Hymns Old and New (blue). Hymns are chosen by the Choir Mistress and a member of the choir in advance. The choir consists of 6/7 ladies and is augmented for special services and occasional offices. Settings for communion services include Merbecke for the Order One traditional service, and Rutter for Order One. St Leonard’s has the services of 3 organists who play on a regular rota. There is also a set of Anglican Hymns Old and New CDs available. The organ is two manual, is serviced regularly, and a clavinova is also available. If you are not a qualified singer, one of our organists is a trained singing teacher and is happy to give instruction.

24th March 2017 Page 15 of 17 CHILDREN’S WORK:

Clergy have regularly taken assembly at Shirland primary School, and children have visited the church as part of their Key Stage 1 and 2 curricula. The previous incumbent served as a school governor. St Leonard’s holds activity days for children on Good Friday, Harvest Time, and Christmas. These take place on Saturday morning from 10.30am till 12 noon, and are usually well attended.

A Christingle service is held in December supporting CECS.

A discovery box has been given to Shirland Primary School to enable the children to explore the meaning of the church and what it contains.

A monthly activity group is held every month in Shirland Primary School, and attracts up to 30 children. It is called SHINE, has its own song and involves storytelling, games and crafts with prayer. In December 2014 Shine was awarded the Bishop’s badge for projects in the community.

OCCASIONAL OFFICES:

St Leonard’s has a good number of occasional services. In 2015 there were :- 14 baptisms 2 weddings 1 renewal of vows 22 funerals A number of weddings have been booked for 2017. These amount to about half the workload in the Benefice.

RESOURCES:

St. Leonard’s leases a large photocopier which is housed in a private house, and is used to print approximately 260 magazines, distributed throughout the parish and surrounding area. There are also 3 banner stands designed by a member of the congregation, which are used to show the story of the parish, the history of the church and the history of the bells. These can be transported to other venues for exhibition purposes.

24th March 2017 Page 16 of 17 FUND RAISING:

A committee organises regular fund raising activities which also provide a social time for villagers. We have a good team who help each other, and work together very well. Most popular of these are minimarkets held in church with refreshments, stalls and a raffle. These are well-attended and enjoyed by all. Other events include a Summer fayre, barbeque, and Christmas fayre. We also have 3 events in the Red Lion next to the church – Shrove Tuesday Supper, Harvest Hymns and Supper, and Beer and carols in December. These events are part of our outreach in the community.

CARING:

St Leonard’s supports various Charities including US(PG), Padley Centre Derby, Foodbank, Bishop’s harvest appeal, Local Farmers’ helpline, and local hospices.

OUR STRENGTHS:

We are a welcoming, friendly congregation, with a dedicated group of people who excel in fundraising activities.

AREAS TO DEVELOP:

The upkeep of the building and the need to constantly fundraise detract from mission in what is a difficult community with several areas of need. The area of Mickley / Stretton has posed challenges in the past, and these have proved difficult to meet effectively.

24th March 2017 Page 17 of 17