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Family refuge - 2 y Digital future - 3 GOOD NEWS Community pantry - 7 FOR & Churches re-open - 9 Autumn 2020: FREE Tokyo link-up - 10 20,000 meals given to hungry

Norfolk families Over 20,000 meals were provided to hungry families over the school summer holidays thanks to the churches and schools of the Diocese of Norwich.

n Over 120 families received food and re- source packages through the Filling the Gap project which was born in April out of a vision from the Rt Rev , Bishop of Nor- wich. He set the education team a challenge to offer a “rainbow of hope” to local families dur- ing the summer break. Diocese of Norwich staff packing food Paul Dunning, Director of Education ex- parcels as part of the Filling The Gap plains: “Working with our network of schools, project. Picture by Diocese of Norwich. who know their communities well, we have identified where families are going to struggle through the school holidays and would value being provided with food to help them whilst chil- dren are at home. Much of this is taking place in rural communities where no-one else is filling this gap. Local churches and Foodbanks have worked with staff from my team to organise a Churches into action weekly food parcel delivered to their front door. A big thank you to all who’ve contributed to this valuable project.” Liaising with 110 schools and academies, Filling the Gap empowers the local church to deliver hampers to the need iden- as lockdown struck tified through the schools. Working with partners, food has been sourced food for 128 families. The Covid-19 and lockdown did not tions from local supermarkets. Norfolk Showground provided one of their build- Soul Church Foundation set up a food ings to act as a central warehouse to sort and stop most Norfolk churches distribution hub in Norwich which deliv- process the packages. As well as the county’s serving their communities, a ered 130,000 meals each month during foodbanks, the Soul Foundation and the Norfolk Community Foundation assisted with the provi- survey by Christian news website lockdown and afterwards. Reaching out to help neighbours who sion of food. Network Norfolk has revealed – were vulnerable or shielding at home by Alongside weekly deliveries of hampers, it was they just did it in new and innova- collecting prescriptions, shopping trips, decided that an important part of the gap to fill chats on the phone or via Zoom and lifts to was the social and physical provision for these tive ways. Keith Morris reports. urgent appointments were also widely families. So, each family also received weekly provided by different church members. craft and sporting resources throughout the summer. mong the 90 churches which Cornerstone Church in Norwich and The Norwich Foodbank. Open Door Christian Fellowship were good A recipient family said: "We have just received responded to the website survey, our food hamper and would like to express our almost two-thirds (62%) said that examples. A Team Ministry were part gratitude to everyone that has been involved. they had been undertaking social action tem, Worship Centre delivered You have been so generous and we are cannot projects while their buildings and normal over 80 food parcels a week and the Adat of a the council coordinated community response, said Rector Helen Jary. “This thank you all enough. This is a really huge help projects were forced to close their doors for Yeshua Messianic Synagogue in Norwich to our family and so thankful for your generosity. almost three months earlier this year. set up a daily food parcel service. involved shopping, collecting prescriptions and phone befriending. We kept the As soon as we are in a position ourselves we will Stories of what many churches and Meanwhile Gateway Vineyard’s Pantry certainly be donating back to the community. Christian organisations did to help out project, based in , fed hundreds of church porch open 24/7 for foodbank dona- tions and we delivered flowers to the From the bottom of our hearts, thank you!” their communities can be found on the people three times a week and, when com- “It has been a remarkable journey and we are faithhopelovenorfolk.co.uk website, which ing out of lockdown, All Saints Church, neighbourhood with 'we're here to help' cards.” grateful to all our partners from sponsors, volun- was launched by the team at Network Nor- , set up a community larder and teers, food providers and encouragers,” said Fill- folk specifically to tell those stories and fridge to make sure food did not go to Gardening, shopping and food distribu- tion, meals on wheels, medication ing the Gap project co-ordinator Jon Moule. “We help inspire and connect different groups. waste. truly hope that the food hampers and activity Supporting existing Foodbanks or set- The Community Food Pro- deliveries, exercise opportunities, phone calls and socially distanced door step chats packs will be a blessing to these families over ting up new food parcel projects, often in ject, based at Our Lady and St Thomas of the summer holidays. Through this project we association with council or community Canterbury church in Wymondham, has and coffee were some of the activities undertaken by The Christian Fellowship, can express our mission values. In real and prac- hub networks, was the most common been helping to support and feed 80 vulner- tical ways, we are sharing our bread with one an- activity. able families a week during lockdown – Norwich, said pastor Duane Elkins. Oak Grove Community Church in other, loving our neighbour and acting as Baptist Church was involved with extra help from staff seconded from stewards of God’s creation and provision.” with the local foodbank and volunteer sys- South Norfolk Council and generous dona- n Story continues on page two faithhopelovenorfolk special report – see centre pages 2 Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Autumn 2020 www.networknorfolk.co.uk NEWS

GOOD NEWS FOR NORWICH & NORFOLK Essential medicine for the pandemic

n Good News for Norwich & Norfolk is published by Network Norwich & Norfolk, n There are many responses to a pandemic. By Rev people who don’t wear masks when we think part of Christian Community Trust for We think of the medical response, the quality Canon they should or who don’t keep social distance Norwich and Norfolk Ltd. of nursing care and the longed-for vaccine. or hand wash. It is there in our attitude to Registered charity no 1105340. Then come the measures necessary to con- Andrew those we think are too preachy about face cov- n Website: www.networknorfolk.co.uk tain and control the virus: social distancing, Bryant, erings, social distancing and hand sanitising. n Editorial: 07712 788762 or e-mail stories hand washing and face coverings. And with It is there in the way churches talk about one to [email protected] or the economic challenges we have become Canon for another, whether that be those who have been send copy to Pear Tree Farmhouse, used to the concepts of furlough, rental holi- Mission & too quick or too slow to re-open. It is there in Wymondham Road, Wreningham, Norwich our reaction to the way that shop, office, pub, NR16 1AT. days and Eat Out to Help out. Pastoral But living through a pandemic is also a spiri- café is / is not operating. And as ever we think n Advertising: Helen Baldry (01603) 926120 Care at n Distribution: Alan Lusher 07743 926884 tual challenge. Journeying through uncertain it is open season to criticise politicians and oth- n Editor and designer: Keith Morris and challenging times asks deep questions Norwich ers in leadership or offering guidance. n Regular writers: Sandie Shirley, Helen about who we are as individuals and how we Cathedral. In our own anxiety about these present Baldry, Kevin Gotts, Eldred Willey, Tony will be as friends and neighbours. The word times we can lose sight of kindness. The truth Rothe that seems to me to be so important, as we go is that none of us has lived through times like n Churches, Christian organisations and through these uncharted waters, is ‘kindness’. Many churches have been trying to show this before; all of us in some way are strug- individuals from Norwich and Norfolk are in- Talking about kindness can appear rather kindness with shopping for those shielding, de- gling. Each of us has our own complicated vited to send news, events and pictures which ‘soft’, even glib, rather ephemeral as a re- livering parcels of food, cooking meals and gift- backstory that colours how we are reacting. In relate to the demonstration of the Gospel in so- sponse to a global crisis. Yet the truth is that ing them to key workers. But how far have we uncertain times we need to be slower to judge cial action, community care and evangelism. receiving kindness is vital to our well-being and allowed that kindness to infect the whole of our and quicker to understand. As we seek to give n The deadline for material for the Winter offering kindness is essential to the health of lives? meaning to ’ great commandment that edition is Friday November 6. Distribution is relationships. The kinder we can be, the better It is remarkable how quickly judgement we should love one another, is not kindness from Thursday November 26. we will cope walking into an unknown future. one of its most important fruits? n Reproduction of any part of this publication smothers kindness. It is there in our reaction to without permission is strictly forbidden. But please ask as we are usually happy to oblige for a credit line in non-commercial situations.

n We endeavour to adhere to the IMPRESS standards code. If you have a complaint you should, in the first instance, contact the editor Norfolk pastor creates [email protected] with details. If you are still not satisfied you should contact IMPRESS, details below. family refuge in Malawi

Anne Simpson, a Pentecostal At the moment, 10 young ladies are being Anne Simpson. accommodated and there are plans to house pastor living in Thrigby on the many more as finances allow. The need in Norfolk Broads, had a vision two Malawi is so great and the land is big years ago for creating a refuge for enough for great expansion. There is also a vision for a Bible school and mission house women and children in Malawi. as well as a wedding dress business. Church action She is now seeing it turn into a Anne says: "The vision is not only to give the women a safe place to stay but also to reality. Eldred Willey reports. train them with life skills for starting small n Story continues from front page businesses to sustain them in the future.” nne, who is currently based at East Anne began appealing for sewing Norwich set up a telephone befriending pro- Gate Ministries in east Norfolk, has machines so the ladies could begin learning ject and distributed food and family activities, A been visiting Africa for the past 10 tailoring and have a small business of mak- continued its parenting programme and gave years. During those years she has seen first- ing or altering clothes. In June 2019, a money advice. hand the poverty and struggles that the container was sent to Malawi with sewing Helping to house homeless people was people in Africa face on a daily basis. machines and other essential items for the also done by several churches, including St One of the greatest needs that Anne began refuge. The people in Chitipa were Margaret’s in . St Catherine’s to see was in Malawi, where there was a delighted with the sewing machines and the church, Mile Cross, did the same through need for a safe place for women and their women have begun learning to sew. The Hope Into Action. children who had been abused or ability to earn a living significantly reduces Working with people affected by substance abandoned. Many women have experienced the risk of women being abused in the and alcohol misuse was another social action domestic violence in a country where it is future. Anyone who would like to donate a women escaping from domestic violence, or activity. An Addiction Recovery Group has still common in the rural villages for men to sewing machine can get in touch with the those who have been abandoned by their been meeting, first by Zoom, and since June, have more than one wife. project. husbands and family. in open air, said Hope Church lead At the end of 2018, Anne felt it right to buy Donations towards the refuge can be With the help of generous donations, a elder Nigel Worth. land in Chitipa, in the dusty north of made payable to "Overseas Missions" and building is slowly rising. Anne also found a Lots of other innovative ways of helping Malawi, with a vision to build a women's sent to Mill Cottages, Mill Road, Thrigby, house to rent that would begin housing the out vulnerable members of their local com- refuge. Kingdom City Refuge would be a , Norfolk, NR29 3DY women on a temporary basis until the munities were engaged in by churches. beacon of hope for the most vulnerable in Anne can be contacted by email at refuge is completed. Phone calls to elderly and lonely people African society. It would be a place to train [email protected] and leaving bouquets and cards on the doorsteps of those suffering was done by members at Liberty Church, , said Barrie Lawrence. Evangelical Church (TEC) pro- duced 200 wash bags out of pillow-cases to three local care homes for staff to use while washing re-usable PPE. Over 1400 invitation cards offering sup- port, a chat or a prayer were circulated by Cliff Park Community Church, Gorleston, said leadership team member Tony Mallion. NEWS www.networknorfolk.co.uk Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Autumn 2020 3

Live streaming Mass at St John’s Catholic Cathedral in Norwich. Support

our paper The Good News for Norwich & Norfolk news- paper works alongside the www.networknorfolk.co.uk website to help tell good news Distributors stories about the life and work of the Christian community across Norwich and for papers Norfolk.

are needed The paper and website are free to read and enjoy but we need to cover the sizeable production, n The Good News for Norwich & Norfolk team printing and distribution costs for are looking for volunteer distributors for small numbers of newspapers in the following areas: each issue. Norwich city centre, Eaton, , If you appreciate what we do, , Heartsease, , we invite you to make a one-off Wymondham, Gorleston and . or regular contribution to help The job entails delivering six to eight small bundles of papers to churches in each local sustain our work into the future. Churches in area and should take no more than one or two hours just four times a year. You can donate at If you would like to help us to spread good news stories about the Christian community. www.networknorfolk.co.uk please ring Alan Lusher on 07743 926884 or or request more details from Norfolk plan email [email protected] [email protected] digital future RECONNECT recorded services on YouTube or Facebook WITH YOUR Norfolk churches went digital in a and telephone calls. very big way as the Covid-19 lock- One small Norfolk house church said: “We down struck and most of them now meet as usual in our own homes but GROUP plan to continue that way into the nobody else comes. We visit during the week, take a guitar, socially distance in gar- future. Keith Morris reports. dens, and quietly worship together." Enjoy a 2 day / 1 night all-inclusive The pandemic has also changed what the group residential retreat at our £49 mong the almost 90 churches which church across Norfolk will look like well From only stunning conference centre on the responded to a networknorfolk.co.uk into the future with over three-quarters Norfolk/ border. A survey, an impressive 92% said that (76%) of churches planning to continue they had been doing church digitally in doing church digitally even when they do Perfect for team building, church return to public services. some way at least during the 15-week pan- family breaks, leadership retreats, Almost 85% of the churches which have demic lockdown. youth groups and much more... The responses from right across all been doing church digitally say they will denominational and other church groupings continue online in some form – for many a revealed that Zoom and other live-streaming hybrid of a smaller service and live stream- video meetings were the most popular digi- ing as well. tal format – used by 71% of churches. Rev Matthew Price, from St Mary’s Gor- belseybridge.org.uk Some 54% reported placing recorded ser- leston, said: “We are resuming our Sunday vices on YouTube or Facebook and 28% said morning service but will also continue to they did live-streaming on platforms such as broadcast on Zoom and on Facebook Live. YouTube and Facebook Live. We are really aware that for some people Other ways of keeping in touch with they do not feel ready to come out of their church members and meeting their spiritual homes yet and we want to continue to pro- needs included telephone conference or indi- vide access to church for them for the vidual calls used by 24% of churches with foreseeable future. drive-through prayer and car park services “Church is going to feel different for the starting to emerge when lockdown started to next wee while but I am really excited about ease. the opportunity to gather back together Only 8% of churches said that they did not again at the heart of our community in our do church digitally during the three-month wonderful building.” lockdown period. Prices are per person. Subject to Bowthorpe Worship Centre, which could n Read how one Norfolk company is helping availability. Terms and conditions apply. not meet because a foodbank was occupying churches live-stream into the future – see its premises, said they have used Zoom, page 12. 4 Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Autumn 2020 www.networknorfolk.co.uk NEWS Conference to challenge Norfolk connections

young leaders to Mayflower voyage n A one-day intensive Young Leaders Conference, which aims to provide a foun- Exactly 400 years ago, a group of dation for Christ-centred leadership in the community, is set to be run by Celebrate brave pilgrims sailed from Norwich & Norfolk in Norwich in October England on a hazardous journey with a high quality line-up of speakers. to North America on the Celebrate Project Director, John Betts, said: “The conference is aimed at Chris- Mayflower in search of a new life. tians in Norwich and Norfolk aged be- The group included a dozen with tween 18-30, who have a passion to serve Norfolk roots and the colonists’ Jesus Christ in their chosen profession and are prepared to confront the ideas of influence on the future United our culture and confidently lead others in States of America was profound. the light of the truth of God’s Word. Our aim is to provide a foundation for Christ- Keith Morris reports. centred leadership in the community that the delegates serve, both in and out of he Mayflower’s passengers were in church. search of a new life – many seeking “The day will be filled with quality teach- T religious freedom, others a fresh start ing, practical equipping, worship and in a different land. They would go on to be prayer, preparing young leaders to face known as the Pilgrims and their story the issues in today’s society.” became a central theme in the history and The speakers come from all over the culture of the United States . More than 30 million people can trace country and include: Paul Huxley from their ancestry to the 102 passengers and Mayflower replica in from Christian Concern; Melvin Tinker, approximately 30 crew aboard the Plymouth. Picture by cultural theologian and Vicar of St John’s, Mayflower when it landed in Plymouth Bay, wikimedia/GmaJoli. Newland in Hull; Dave Brennan, founder of Massachusetts, in the harsh winter of 1620. Brephos, a ministry that helps churches The Mayflower, leaving on September 16, grims but never joined the Mayflower. He Samuel fell ill himself and died. respond to abortion; and Nick Franks, 1620, took 66 days to cross the Atlantic in leader of multiple online resources for the led many of the Pilgrims first to the Dutch n John Hooke, born in Great Yarmouth in severe winter storms. When the pilgrims town of Leiden, then helped to plan the pio- church including the Into the Pray podcast, 1607, moved with his family to Leiden. After made landfall in New England, they knew neering journey of the Mayflower. He was Firebrand Notes blog and My Heart Notes his father died, John was apprenticed as a they had no right to settle in the land and instrumental in a planning a second Pilgrim 12-year-old to Isaac Allerton as a tailor. Instagram page.. decided to draw up a document that gave voyage but tragically died before being able John accompanied Isaac and his family on “This is a chance for young Christian them some attempt at a legal standing. to live out his dream. the Mayflower but died in the first winter, leaders in Norwich and Norfolk to come to- The Mayflower Compact, signed by 41 John became a fellow at Cambridge aged just 13. gether around the unifying centrality of the men on board, was an agreement to co-oper- University’s Corpus Christi College in 1599 n Thomas Williams was also born in Great word of God, bringing together Christians ate for the general good of the colony and and moved to Norfolk where he took charge Yarmouth, in 1582 and had moved to join of all backgrounds to advance the King- was the first written constitution in the New of St Andrew’s Church in the centre of the Leiden congregation. All that is known dom of God together. Delegates will come World and laid the foundations for the Norwich. of Thomas was from historian William away challenged and empowered to lead American Constitution and the Declaration His radical views on religion meant he Bradford, who noted that Thomas Williams by example, standing for the truth of Christ of Independence. was suspended from this role and instead, had died soon after their arrival in the gen- in an increasingly hostile culture,” said Among the group of pilgrims who left he preached to a small Separatist congrega- eral sickness. John. England to sail on the Mayflower, no fewer tion before going to Leiden. n Thomas Tinker, his wife Jane and son,

Tickets costs £50 each, including lunch than a dozen were believed to have Norfolk from in East Norfolk, were among and refreshments for the day on Saturday roots. However, many of them died in the the Pilgrims who had lived in Leiden for a October 24, from 10am- 4pm, at New first harsh winter. Norfolk pilgrims while. Thomas was listed as a carpenter. Hope Christian Centre, Martineau Lane, There was also a significant thirteenth The whole family died in the first sickness, Lakenham, Norwich, NR1 2HX. Norfolk connection to the Mayflower n The Fuller family – Edward Fuller was according to Bradford. Pilgrims. www.celebratenorfolk.co.uk the son of a butcher from Redenhall in n Edmund Margesson, a free man aged 34, John Robinson was the Pastor to the Pil- South Norfolk. He sailed with his wife and was believed to have been baptised in Swan- 12-year old son Samuel. Edward and his wife nington near Reepham in 1586. He did sign both died in the first winter of 1620/21. the Mayflower Compact but died soon after The young Samuel survived the winter of his arrival in Plymouth. Kevin Cobbold Funeral Services 1620/21 and became a freeman in Plymouth n Francis Cooke, born in Norwich in 1583, in 1634. He married Jane Lothrop in 1635 had moved to Leiden where he married Hes- and is recorded as having 9 children. He ter Mahieu, a French Protestant, and they moved to Barnstable and died there in 1683. had six children. Francis and his eldest son 01603 528800 07789 586817 Edward had a brother called Samuel, also John travelled on the Mayflower. His wife born in Redenhall, who travelled with him. and the rest of the children came out in July

Samuel became a deacon in the Leiden 1623 to join them. He died in 1663. Christian funeral director Separatists church and was part of the n Desire Minter was believed to have been group who decided to relocate to America. born in or near Norwich and travelled with Independent, affordable and personal He trained to be a doctor before sailing on her family to Leiden. After her father died the Mayflower. Samuel's wife Bridget sailed she became a maid servant to John Carver over in 1623 and they had two children born who then took her with him on the Home visits, Full quotations, Funeral Plans, Memorials in Plymouth – Samuel and Mercy. Mayflower. After John Carver’s death in Samuel was among other senior members 1621, Desire was one of the people who re- 109 Road, Norwich, NR6 6XW of the group who bought the joint-stock com- turned to England. pany in 1626. n Much of the pilgrim details comes from www.cobboldfunerals.co.uk In 1629 and 1630 Samuel was sent to assist contemporary historian William Bradford the colonists of Salem and Charlestown as and more can be found on the they were sick and also needed help in www.mayflower400uk.org website. [email protected] organising their local Church. In 1633 5

special report www.faithhopelovenorfolk.co.uk West Norfolk Church leaders back teacher is a global star social action effort

n A Diocese of Norwich Primary Academy The amazing response of teacher’s maths and phonics lessons have been a hit on YouTube, reaching across the churches across Norfolk when the globe from her base in West Norfolk. Covid-19 pandemic struck, and Jackie Patnell is a teacher at the tiny school of Sandringham and West Newton the “faithhopelovenorfolk” project Church of England Primary Academy, which which highlighted those efforts, has under 100 pupils on its roll. But that has- has been backed by senior Chris- n’t stopped her YouTube videos on maths and phonics from attracting 1,300 sub- tian leaders from across the scribers during lockdown. county. Keith Morris reports. “I knew my Reception class wouldn’t reach their full potential if I simply gave them work- sheets for maths and phonics,” responded ady Dannatt, Lord-Lieutenant of Nor- Jackie Patnell. “Four and five-year-olds folk, said: “Any initiative that spreads would benefit more from seeing their usual L faith, hope and love across this glori- teacher teaching in a similar way to what ous county of Norfolk of ours, is to be they were used to in the classroom. welcomed with open arms. “I had to adapt the lessons quite a bit in "It is my ongoing hope that we will order to make them entertaining but still edu- emerge from this pandemic an even kinder, cational. This proved trickier in some more less judgemental and more inclusive soci- than others, especially during a lesson on ety; communities respectful of others and time, when I had to time my chicken racing even more appreciative of this fragile, but round my back garden (this took several oh, so beautiful world we jointly inhabit. takes - never work with chickens)! “Above all, a thankful nation for all the “I received thank you messages from peo- gifts we receive and take so much for ple on several different continents and this granted on a daily basis, when other nations was when I felt really proud and extremely lack even the basics to stay alive." happy to be helping out so many people that The , Rt Rev Graham were suffering from the same struggles all Usher, said: “We are each learning to be the around the world.” Church in new ways, but continuing to be a people of hope, a people of prayer, and a peo- ple of loving kindness and service. Yet there Church launches are many who are still in need, and our call- ing as Christians is to be particularly there for the vulnerable. free larder for its “I would love to see our different Synagogue runs foodbank churches working together in this new land- scape, finding ways to meet the needs which community are appearing every day. We can be so much n The Adat Yeshua Messianic Synagogue ies from the central food hub in Norwich, more effective when we are one church and NR2 Community Skill Share in Norwich plus many donations from local people who

united and the faithhopelovenorfolk launched a foodbank to help feed people just want to support this vital work. All rele- resource can help enable this to happen who are going hungry because of the vant social distancing and hygiene require- n A community larder was set up in Mundes- ley by the local parish church for anyone to more effectively” Covid-19 crisis. ments are in place and the foodbank is collect food that would otherwise go to Chair of the Methodist Church East The foodbank targets residents of the registered with the local council as a food waste.. Anglia District, Rev Julian Pursehouse, NR2 area which surrounds the synagogue outlet. The larder was set up by All Saints said: “I am delighted to support this initia- who are needy and vulnerable, many of Rabbi Binyamin Sheldrake, who leads Church, Mundesley, and the first distribution tive as I think it is profoundly important whom are going hungry during the crisis. the Synagogue, said: “The foodbank is in session was held on Friday July 17. It now that we remain connected to the most There is normally a team of four volunteers an integral part of our mission and vision operates every Friday morning from 8.30am vulnerable members of our community on site each day, two from the synagogue for the area the Lord has placed us in. Re- to 10.30am at the All Saints Community particularly during this crisis and that we community and the two council volunteers. gardless of the virus crisis we would have Rooms. seek to respond to their needs in whatever Each day (apart from Saturday) the food- set up this foodbank, but the timing of the Anyone can add to the larder from their relevant ways that we can. bank is open for one hour, noon til 1pm and opening has met the needs of the area per- allotment/vegetable patch, and anyone can “Clearly the present conditions place it offers the full range of food items and fectly.’” take away regardless of circumstances. Take enormous pressures on our common ways other sundry household items. No charge is Contact: 01603 624267 away coffee and cake are also available. of working but the churches of all denomi- made for anything. The project gets deliver- www.adatyeshua.co.uk The organisers say: “The larder has nations are finding creative and innovative opened to receive food and give food so that ways in which to serve the community, to we can all reduce food waste. Anyone can together for the good of all, and especially in “I am sure that this new project to help us preserve our Christian identity and to sus- bring food, and anyone can take food away. tain worship in alternative ways.” moments of real need. to tell our stories of how we are supporting Food that would normally be thrown away The Catholic Bishop of East Anglia, the Rt "The coronavirus is indeed just such a and encouraging the most vulnerable and needs to be put to good use.” Rev Alan Hopes, said: “The different Chris- moment – a time which is frightening many each other will both inspire and help us Contact: 01263 722218 tian communities have always found a and causing much grief and distress in our to work for and achieve these ends more www.facebook.com/communitylarder sense of common purpose in working local community. effectively.” 6 special report www.faithhopelovenorfolk.co.uk

Some of the team behind the Wymondham Com- Crisis team munity Outreach Project emergency food service aids vulnerable at their base at Wymondham Catholic church.

n The Crisis Care Team at St Thomas Nor- wich church supported people who had been impacted by Covid-19 who were self-isolat- ing, unable to get out or are vulnerable, by picking up prescriptions, shopping, telephone support and prayer. The STN Crisis Care team supports peo- ple in the local community through a practical help and chaplaincy model and this was ex- tended to cover needs emerging with the Covid-19 crisis. Julian Bryant from the team, said: “The Crisis Care Team works through over 30 volunteers many of whom have been DBS checked. We accept self-referrals and refer- rals from groups, churches and agencies. We have supported people who are in self- isolation by picking up prescriptions and keeping in touch through the telephone. “We can also shop for people or liaise with other groups to ensure food is given. We will also encourage our team to volunteer with other groups and charities. We will match volunteers with requests to ensure there is a good match.” Crisis food project fed Contact: 01603 624390 www.stn.org.uk

Community support families during lockdown

in difficulty are helped in a full and effective users, are really making a difference.” n Cliff Park Community Church in Gorleston A community outreach project has been active in supporting the local com- based at Our Lady and St way. All of our volunteers are committed to Normally a receptionist at Wymondham munity during lockdown, helping with food that way of working. Leisure Centre, Karen Brindle led the team and meals distribution, as well as on-line Thomas of Canterbury Catholic “Recently I was alerted by social services organising the huge amount of work needed services and an Alpha course. church in Wymondham, has been that a housebound person in the community to provide a twice-weekly food delivery and Tony Mallion, from the church leadership, with complex needs had run out of food. On collection service direct from the church. said: “We have twice sent out invitation cards helping to support and feed 80 that particular day our Help Point service “We were feeding 80 families a week,” to 2,000 homes in the area. We partner with vulnerable families a week during was closed. said Karen, “and anyone who is in need can other churches particularly working with the “I managed, however, to contact Deirdre come in and collect some food – which is lockdown. Keith Morris reports. local emergency foodbank delivery service Marr who immediately dropped everything free. There are lots of people who cannot through lockdown and continuing to help with she was doing, gathered together a parcel of leave their homes and families with young a weekly distribution of hot meals during the he Wymondham Community food and made a contactless delivery to a children who are really struggling. We per- school holiday. We also support the Identity Outreach Project has been providing a very grateful individual.” sonalise the boxes for people according to Youth Project which is currently actively T much-needed community help point Parishioner Deidre Marr, and her two their needs.” reaching out to young people using social and foodbank service since late March with teenage daughters Bryony and Catherine, Food donations come from Waitrose, Mor- media.” the help of parishioners, staff seconded from from were among those mak- risons and Lidl and Co-op in Wymondham “As a church based in a local school (Cliff South Norfolk Council and generous dona- ing vital deliveries of food. as well as lots of local people from the Park Junior) we are unable to meet until tions from local supermarkets. “We don’t just drop off the food though,” church and elsewhere bringing in boxes of September or later. But using Zoom we are Prior to lockdown, the church-based pro- said Deirdre. “One man did not have either food and essential items. able to have regular Sunday services.” ject ran a Community Fridge and a fridge or freezer working, so we were able “Karen and her team have been fantas- www.cpcc.org.uk Community Kitchen service helping to feed to help him. For many people we are the tic,” said Arnie. “They have been vulnerable local people and save food waste only people they see all week. People really extraordinary when there was a lot of fear at the same time, with support and guidance value having a chat, having been locked up and uncertainty about, reassuring people – churches from Fr Pat Cleary and Fr Denis Gallagher. and sometimes frightened throughout the they have been inspirational.” But many of its volunteers were older lockdown. “The project has been working in partner-

parishioners who have been self-isolating “All our lives have changed through lock- ship with South Norfolk Council,

and unable to help during the crisis. down – many for the worse. However, most Wymondham Town Council and Norfolk n Churches in Dereham have united to pro- South Norfolk Council generously would agree that taking the opportunity to Police who have been able to identify people vide emergency help to families and individu- seconded members of staff from its nearby look out for others is hugely gratifying. Cer- in crisis who we are able to give prompt als who have been cut off by the crisis. In its Wymondham Leisure Centre, who joined tainly, all those working tirelessly, either support to.” first two weeks alone the project helped 45 younger parishioners to launch the lock- behind closed doors, like Arnie, who con- If you might be able to help you contact households by running 80 errands. down service which currently provides food stantly fights the causes of many, or those the project on 01953 603104 or at Trusted volunteers from Dereham’s parcels and a contact service for many des- who are dealing directly with the foodbank [email protected] churches called people back to chat if they perate and needy families across the town. want to hear a friendly voice. Or volunteers The project is co-ordinated by parishioner will also do a simple errand, whether going to shops or pharmacy, for example. Arnie McConnell, who was having to work The project is especially supporting people from home: “Sometimes people fall through the safety net and sometimes the net is who are isolated at home and can’t get out. Greetings cards, stationery, helium balloons, party products www.wfcdereham.org insufficient to adequately deal with the hardship experienced,” he said. and Thorntons chocolates

“Either way, we will do everything possi- 193 Reepham Road, , NR6 5NZ - cardsand [email protected] - 01603 485832 ble to ensure that people, and often families, 7 special report www.faithhopelovenorfolk.co.uk Norwich church sets up Church uses imagination free community pantry to inspire

of these. A Norwich church's free n St Mary's Church in has “Our food parcels are avail- been putting on some imaginative activities community pantry able to anyone on a self-referral to inspire the local community during the basis. People who self-refer can scheme has fed Covid-19 pandemic. hundreds of people from send us an email directly, they The church stands in the centre of Ken- will then be sent a link to fill in ninghall village in the district with scores of families during for the next available delivery a population of just under 1,000 and is very lockdown and beyond or collection slot. In this form, much at the centre of its community’s life too. people are able to choose which as it expanded to meet Rev Canon Lorraine Summers reports: items they would like, including “We’ve distributed 48 packs of playing cards rising demand. food, baby and household essen- to the elderly and couples in the village and tials. ladies toiletry or chocolate gift bags were left “We aim to provide some on doorsteps of single parents and female ateway Vineyard fresh food as part of the parcel residents and so far we’ve dropped over 50 Church, in Norwich, set as well. We are a team of volun- packets of biscuits on residents doorsteps, G up a new emergency teers running the operation with more still to be delivered! food and essential household remotely and from our church They held a ‘Great British Lockdown Bake items project called The Pantry offices in Trowse. We operate a Off’ contest by putting up wartime recipes for to meet growing need arising click and collect service, as well the locals to try, who then uploaded their out of the Covid-19 crisis. as having an amazing team of efforts to the church Facebook page. It was The Pantry provides food delivery drivers who deliver timed to coincide with the planned VE Day parcels, free of charge, to those parcels across the city and 75 celebrations. who have found themselves beyond. Keeping the younger residents occupied affected by the current situation “We love our city and we has also been an ongoing aim. An Easter and operates on a self-referral want to be the hands and feet of colouring competition proved very popular basis. Jesus to the people of Norwich. with lots of entries shared via Facebook. Pantry founder, Katie Lilly- Jesus fed people, we see it in the “We’ve sent out over 200 craft bags to stone, said: "Every single week feeding of the 5000, and that’s local children,” said Canon Summers. “We we have different teams work- why we are doing this. We’re theme the bags, so there was a general craft ing inside our Trowse doing what Jesus would do and one, Easter one and an ‘under the sea’ headquarters, packing, sorting, ery drivers from stores and food hubs bring- showing the love of God in a theme. We also left left bubble wands on counting and planning. People in their ing us food to distribute as well as our own practical way during this time.” doorsteps for 100 children in the village. homes answering emails, families collecting delivery drivers taking out our parcels and Ring 01603 920045 or visit: Families are very grateful, and the children donations in their local communities, deliv- lots of other people pitching in alongside all www.facebook.com/thepantrygtwy love getting doorstep deliveries from church!” Two batches of craft bags were given to Kenninghall primary and Spooner Row primary for key worker children who are still in school. The children loved them. Matthew Project goes extra mile with packs All of these activities have fostered a real sense of community through this difficult time, with many people posting grateful com- ments on St Mary’s Facebook page. n The Matthew Project sent out activity packs during In partnership with the Parish Council, the the school summer holidays to 200 children across Church has given key workers in the village Norfolk who are affected by someone else’s substance a financial gift and has financially supported misuse. a few families that were struggling. Each young person got four themed packs (one a week) delivered throughout August to their homes by the Unity Team. Each of the packs contained some- thing new and fun to do in the summer holidays. The Food and firewood packs include baking ingredients, materials for grow- ing your own food, art and craft activities and some gifts, including a letter to the children from the former n Members of Baptist Church Norwich City Captain,Russell Martin. There was also a have been supporting their local community surprise book for the children in final pack. during the current pandemic, with the bene- The Matthew Project is aware that with fun places fits reaching out across North Norfolk. closed and a global pandemic happening, this summer The church is based at the chapel in the holiday could be very challenging for some children. tiny village of Meeting Hill, near North Wal- George Harmer, who leads the Positive Activities sham. Minister Rev Patrick Coghlan has Programme at The Matthew Project, said: “We know been sending out a weekly letter of greeting that it is a tough situation right now. It is hard to see all and ministry material. the young people we work with. We have been able to Patrick has also been phoning round peo- do things as a charity virtually or over the phone, but ple on the ‘list’ offering support and encour- we wanted to show each young person that we really agement – and praying with those who would do care about them and willing to go the extra mile… like it, whilst his wife June has been cooking literally.” and delivering meals. The Matthew Project wants to thank Children in One of the deacons, Andrew Squirrell, de- Need and Norfolk Community Foundation for the livered boxes full of firewood during the funding to allow this summer activity. colder part of the lock-down. www.matthewproject.org George Harmer with one of the activity packs. Contact: [email protected] 8 special report www.faithhopelovenorfolk.co.uk

Hope Into Action volunteers City church equipping a home. delivers 800k lockdown meals

n Soul Foundation, the outreach arm of Soul Church, Norwich, has delivered around 800,000 meals to people in need across the area during lockdown. The church says it has seen unprece- dented need across the city. With schools closed and many people unable to work, there’s been a steep increase in people going hungry, whether through lack of money, access to food or the inability to travel to the shops. During this time, Soul Foundation have been able to step up to meet the need for many, partnering with 30 schools across the area to identify those families who need practical support and to deliver food to them, as well as pro-actively seeking referrals for individuals in need. “We have been blown away by the re- sponse from school staff, our own volunteers and local businesses alike,” confirms Sam Mooney, who has been running the initiative. “We’ve been given eight vans, so we can collect three tonnes of food each day from FareShare in Ipswich before sorting it at our warehouse (also donated by a local business) and distributing it on to families and individuals. We want to say a huge Charity gives chance to ‘thank you’ to all our partners and sponsors!” The team are hoping to increase their capacity over the coming months, and are also looking to offer a number of courses, with parenting, cooking, budgeting, CV writing and more in the pipeline. “We believe Soul Foundation is an essen- help house homeless tial part of our church – it takes the message that Jesus cares outside the four walls of our building and gives us the chance to show his Christian charity Hope in Action working with 11 Norfolk churches and hous- church, which forms a group of 6-8 people love to the people around us in ways they is planning to expand its work to ing 40 tenants in 11 houses, with two more committed to providing friendship and sup- can really appreciate. It’s love in action,” ex- in the pipeline. port to the tenants within that house. plains Pastor Jon Norman, Senior Pastor of house the homeless to two more Hope into Action provides the properties, A support worker is employed by Hope Soul Church. towns in Norfolk and continue professional support and expertise which into Action to provide professional support If you’d like to find out more about Soul can enable a church to engage with home- such as organising tenancies, benefits, risk Foundation, make a donation or become a despite the Covid-19 pandemic. lessness and help them to meet the vital, assessments and liaising with other agen- corporate partner or sponsor, visit: www.soul- Tony Gray, Norwich Coordinator basic needs of vulnerable people living cies, involving formal meetings with the foundation.org.uk within their community. Our tenants are tenants once a week. for the charity, tells the story so drawn from the homeless or would-be home- Hope into Action provides introductory Pictured below is the Soul Foundation far. less with support needs. Our current training and ongoing support for the warehouse. tenants are ex-offenders, those recovering ‘Friendship and Support group’ made up of from addictions, those with poor mental the 6-8 members from the church. In return hile the Covid-19 lockdown signifi- health, and refugees. The churches we work this group gives practical and emotional cantly affected us and restricted with are of all shapes, sizes and denomina- assistance and prayer support to the W how we work, we have continued tions. tenants. The help can include showing ten- to take in new tenants. It has been a won- Church leader Rev Martin Hartley said: ants how to cook, being on hand to garden, derful opportunity for churches to show “Hope into Action has given St Catherine’s talk through issues or drive them to a meet- love to our tenants through food parcels, an opportunity to put our faith into action. ing. presents and help with internet access. To see God’s people using their gifts and Hope into Action founder Ed Walker said: However, the impact of the virus to our skills to support our tenants is a real bless- “Churches are full of gifted people with so society is likely to increase unemployment ing.” A tenant who had been rough sleeping much to offer.” It is this church and homelessness, and the period of tem- for many years and had lost everything involvement in the lives of tenants that porarily placing the homeless in hotels is through addictions said: It was the first time crucially sets Hope into Action apart from coming to an end and there will be a far in nine to 10 years that I’d actually had a other housing associations or supported greater need for our services. We are key to the front door and somewhere I could housing. earnestly seeking to work with more call home. Where I had given up hope, I In Norfolk, Hope Into Action is working in churches that feel called to help the home- then had hope.” Norwich, Wymondham and soon plans to less so we can expand our work. The Hope into Action model started in expand the work to Great Yarmouth and In 2012, Hope into Action started work in in July 2010. The charity . Norfolk with one volunteer approaching encourages an investor to buy a house to For churches and individuals wanting to churches asking them to commit their time home the homeless, or if possible, an exist- engage with the homeless, you can email: to help house the homeless. Now, after ing or new church property can be used. [email protected] ring 01603 nearly eight years, Hope into Action is The charity then partners with a local 927271, www.norwich.hopeintoaction.org.uk NEWS www.networknorfolk.co.uk Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Autumn 2020 9

Survey reveals 55% of Norfolk churches re-opened for public worship in July and August Churches cautiously re-open doors for public worship

Churches across Norfolk started even mentioning next year. They include Hope Church Thetford, Stalham Baptist, to emerge from an historic 15- The Sunday morning service at Gage Road Chapel in Norwich, Lighthouse week lockdown and closure of Parish Church on July in Sheringham and Taverham Evangelical churches over the summer – 26. Picture by Diocese of Norwich. Church. When asked what was stopping them some cautiously and some much from re-opening straight away, 49% said more confidently. But almost half taking appropriate precautions re sanitiz- ing, cleaning etc; 41% said social distancing; will not re-open until September 37% said the ban on singing; 34% said the at the earliest. Keith Morris ban on coffee, chat and socializing; 11% said that their premises were unavailable to reports. them and 4% said that their staff were still furloughed. Darren Woodward, from Oak Grove Com- Network Norfolk survey of churches munity Church in Norwich, said: “We don’t across the county has revealed that know when we will re-open but the no A 44% of churches re-opened during singing and no coffee and chat is stopping July with a further 11% in August and 18% us.” not until September at the earliest. Norwich Central Baptist Church do not A further 27% said (in August) that they know when they will re-open and quoted had no idea when they will be able to or “most of the above” as to reasons why. want to re-open their doors for public wor- Several churches said the reason they ship – one even mentioned next year. could not re-open earlier was because the Of the 44% of churches which re-opened premises they use are not available to them. straight away in July many are Anglican They include Cliff Park Community Church and Catholic churches – guided by their (Anglican/Baptist) in Gorleston and Gate- national leadership. way Vineyard in Norwich which both meet St Catholic Cathedral in in schools and Taverham Evangelical Norwich was one of the first in the whole Church which meets in a community country to re-open its doors with a public delighted to be able to open Norwich Cathe- throughout the lockdown. We have no build- centre. Mass on Saturday July 4, followed closely by dral’s doors once more for public worship ing and have been meeting as before – but Bowthorpe Worship Centre has a different Norwich Anglican Cathedral which and looked forward to welcoming people to on Zoom.” issue – they been running a food parcel ser- resumed services on Sunday July 5. our daily services.” Simon Gay, pastor of Baptist, vice so the church itself was still full of Dean of St John’s, Canon David Paul, said: Other churches which told us they re- said: “Nothing is stopping us – we've opened boxes and long life food. “We have now come back as God's family to opened their doors in July included the first Sunday, July 5, that we've been Wellspring Family Church (Relational receive Jesus in the Holy Sacraments. Let Cornerstone house church, the Open Door allowed.” Mission) in Dereham are another church us all see this as an opportunity to renew Christian Fellowship in Norwich, St The 11% of churches who were planning which does not know when it will re-open. our faith and grow in love for the Lord with Stephens in Norwich, Salhouse Baptist, to re-open in August include Great Moulton Elder Jon Beardon said: “Along with many one another. We have been prepared over North Walsham Methodist and The Way in Evangelical Church, St Andrew’s Eaton and other local churches, we are looking ahead the last few months for this new beginning.” . St Nicholas and the Fountain of and trying to discern the new things that Anglican Cathedral, the Richard George, pastor of Cornerstone Life church at Ashill for a limited number – the Lord is doing now rather than simply Very Rev , said: “We were house church said: “We’ve been open they add. trying to return in haste back to where we Some 18% of churches are planning a were. September re-opening of their doors. They “Perhaps smaller in-person gatherings in include Bowthorpe Worship Centre, King- more places combined with larger online dom Life in Norwich, URC in meetings might help us to overcome the Norwich, Cliff Park Community Church in difficulty of not having a spacious enough Gorleston and Heartsease Lane Methodist venue to meet in altogether under current in Norwich. guidance? This might lead to an season of The final 27% of replies said that they just unanticipated opportunities for the don’t know when they will be able to re- churches to expand their mission all over open with some saying October and one the county and beyond.”

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St John’s Catholic Cathedral in Norwich was among the first Please phone Greg Bright across the whole country to re-open for a public Mass on July 4. Home: 01603 479216 Mobile: 07814182940 10 Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Autumn 2020 www.networknorfolk.co.uk NEWS Couple build bridges from Norwich to Tokyo

A group in Tokyo is aiming to build bridges between Liz and MIke Jeggo with their children. Norwich and communities Captain Marie Burr. in Japan and English couple Liz and Mike Jeggo are at the centre of New captain this unusual project. for Salvation iz and Mike arrived back in Japan for the start of a sec- L ond term with Christian Army in Great missionary charity OMF Interna- tional. They were based in a place called Chofu, in the western sub- Yarmouth urbs of Tokyo, and half of their time would be spent in reaching

out to the local community. For n The Salvation Army corps in Great the remaining time they would be Yarmouth now has a new captain at working with Japanese people the helm, and is inviting the local who return to the Tokyo area community to pop in and say “hello”. after living abroad. Captain Marie Burr arrived in Great Often such returnees struggle Yarmouth at the end of July, in the to integrate all that they have midst of all the work going on to serve learned, culturally and spiritu- the community during the pandemic, ally, into life back in their native so she has needed to hit the road country. Instead they simply running. revert to an old and impoverished Marie says: “I was born and bred in version of themselves. Whitstable in Kent, so I come from a From 2001 to 2007, while work- seaside town and I am very happy to ing for Friends International, Liz be back by the sea to work. Before Jeggo saw a number of Japanese coming to Great Yarmouth, I was ap- friends return to Japan and go pointed to the church in Leytonstone through this process of loss. She in London for twelve months and, be- sensed a calling to go to Japan to fore that, Hemel Hempstead, Hertford- support and encourage these were Japanese. them to Liz and Mike’s house for The purpose of their now thriv- shire, for five years. As you can returnees. Rebeca’s message said that a a meal. As they shared memories ing group is to be a bridge imagine Great Yarmouth is very differ- Within a few weeks of arriving Japanese friend, Ayaka Handa, of their time in Norwich, it was between Norwich and Tokyo. Liz ent for me. in Chofu, Liz received a message had returned to Japan, and was clear they missed meeting up and and Mike connect with the “Despite the differences, I abso- from Rebeca Sanchez, a lady she'd living within walking distance of reading the Bible together. returnees’ overseas experience by lutely love it here; the people are so met at a Friends International Liz and Mike’s new home. They Over the next two years, the talking in English and eating kind and generous. I love the location, conference a few months earlier. found Ayaka and began to meet group gradually grew as Rebeca, western food and cakes. They also and all of my church folk and the local Rebeca had been leading a group with her regularly. and others reaching out to use bilingual Bible passages and community have been so helpful. I for international students in Two years later Rebeca came Japanese in Norwich, sent other encourage members to apply am starting to find my way around.” Norwich, whose used to read the out to Japan to visit her Japanese returnees in the direction of Liz what they have learned to their During the current restrictions, the Bible together. Many of them friends and brought a group of and Mike. lives in Japan. Salvation Army in Great Yarmouth has been giving out about 120 food parcels, around 100 hot meals, and 60 family picnics each week. They are seeking more volunteers to deliver parcels to people that are still shield- ing, and assisting the local council hub with their deliveries as well. The church has not returned to live Sunday worship but they have two services online each week - anyone can join on Great Yarmouth Salvation Army YouTube channel on a Wednes- day and Sunday. It is hoped that the charity shop near the market place will re-open in September. Marie said: “I hope to be in Great Yarmouth for a few years to come. If you would like to pop along and meet me, please do.” The Salvation Army centre is on Tolhouse Street, Great Yarmouth, NR30 2SQ. You can email them at: [email protected] NEWS www.networknorfolk.co.uk Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Autumn 2020 11 Time capsule marks exciting moment

A commemora- he capsule was installed by great to see a time capsule being YMCA Norfolk CEO Tim Sweet- Tim Sweeting with Amelie and placed here at the new YMCA Hub as tive time capsule T ing in a small false wall at the Cora Bailey and the time capsule we reach a mid-point and now start to new Community Hub on August 13. at the new Community Hub. close up areas of the refurbished has been hidden It included a collection of YMCA building. in the new memorabilia, stories, drawings, “Keeping the project on track with observations, poems and testimonies new ways of working through the YMCA Norfolk collected from YMCA clients and pandemic has certainly been a real staff from their different locations team effort, and one which will see Community Hub across Norfolk. the local community, especially currently being Tim Sweeting said: “YMCA has young people, benefit from the ser- been in Norfolk for over 165 years vices that will be on offer at the re-developed on and has a long and varied history. We Hub.” Road are excited to leave a time capsule Once renovations are completed in that will commemorate this exciting early 2021, the Hub will feature com- in Norwich to moment in our history and act as an munity café Williams’ Kitchen, an important piece of heritage. It will Explorers Soft Play Centre, and mark an exciting provide a snapshot of this unique Muddy Puddles – an Ofsted moment in the time for future generations to registered nursery with an inclusive explore. and compassionate approach to child- Christian “Through our ambitious Commu- care. The nursery aims to encompass nity Hub we are making a long-term a reduced technology approach to charity’s history. commitment to the local community childcare, encouraging outdoor play that will enable us to serve and sup- and exploration. port families and youth in the area Members of the public who would for many years to come.” Amelie, aged 9, said: “I am looking and Nana can take me there when like to offer financial support are Also present at the installation forward to going to the soft play and she picks me up from school.” invited to visit the public appeal page were sisters and local residents café as a treat after school if I have The renovations to the building are on Just Giving: Amelie and Cora Bailey, who are been good.” being conducted by building contrac- www.justgiving.com/campaign/ymc excited about the new hub and its Cora, aged 5, said: “I am excited tors Cocksedge. Commercial anorfolkcommunityhub facilities. because it is right next to my school Manager Darren Reeve said: “It’s 12 Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Autumn 2020 www.networknorfolk.co.uk NEWS Live-streaming will remain a big part of churches’ future

When the Covid-19 means he is also used to installing the equipment discreetly and in Darren Butler from AED at St pandemic lockdown came line with any historic buildings into force, closing John’s Cathedral in Norwich regulations. with the simple remote control churches overnight, the The system can broadcast live for the video camera system. online and be recorded and, Dar- Catholic Diocese of East ren believes, will also come into its Anglia had only two out of own for events such as weddings. Cathedral music director Daniel over 100 churches with the has certainly been won over: “The capacity to live-stream real benefit of the AED system is the ease of use as it is totally auto- Masses – that was to matic and allows the cameras to quickly change. Keith move seamlessly from one close-up Morris reports. shot, via a wider shot, to a differ- ent close-up position. This gives not only a professional edge, but an incredibly simple user experi- t the start of lockdown, ence.” even the flagship St John’s And, he believes, the system will A Catholic athedral in Nor- be of great benefit long after lock- wich had no means to broadcast down ends. its Masses to thousands of parish- “I think it has become very ioners at a time of unprecedented apparent that many people have spiritual need. gained a lot from our broadcasts,” Director of Music, Daniel Justin, said Daniel. “People who have not stepped into the breach and been able to attend Mass for many quickly set up a home-made web- years before this pandemic have cam system, right in front of the been grateful for the opportunity altar, to provide a picture and to do so. We will be continuing rather echoey sound. But it broadcasting Masses from the worked and online audiences, Cathedral now we have returned which reached over 3,500 for some to public Masses, as it is clear they key Easter services, demonstrated have meant a great deal to a great the strong demand for online and two other cathedrals. that it provides up to 16 different cameras in fixed positions, one number. We have had people Masses. As soon as churches were forced shots from just two fixed close-up to the altar and the other watching from America, Canada, Within a few weeks, up to 20 to close their doors in March and cameras,” said Darren. “They can one further back in the church to the Philippines, Australia, and Catholic churches across East live streaming became the hot zoom, pan and tilt and are fully ideally give a wider view of as Dubai – it’s wonderful to be able to Anglia had set up similar home- topic in church circles, Darren controllable from a small hand- much of the church as possible. share our liturgy and our wonder- made solutions, broadcasting from started thinking hard about what held radio-controlled remote We can include a small TV moni- ful building with all these people. churches (when internet connec- he could see was going to be an control, that the priest or a mem- tor so that whoever is controlling “The work of Darren’s team has tions permitted) and even urgent need to provide a more pro- ber of the congregation can easily the system can see what is being been exemplary, and their sensi- presbytery hallways. fessional, and permanent solution, operate. There is no need for cam- broadcast and also a small com- tivity to installing in a Grade 1 Pretty soon, Daniel realised that for churches across the region. era or control desk operators as all puter to control the system, with a Listed building has been really a more professional and perma- When Daniel contacted him and the shots from the cameras are joystick if required, unless a careful. Every detail has been nent solution would be needed as, he went back to look around St pre-programmed and transition church already has one which we attended to, and the system has even when lockdown has eased, John’s, Darren was already work- automatically at the press of a can adapt.” been a real investment. I have rec- restrictions will remain and there ing on creating a cost-effective button. Darren says the system can be ommended AED to anyone who will still be a need and a consider- twin camera system that he says “I see this system being a simple adapted to suit the needs of every- has enquired, and I will continue able audience for online Masses can be adapted to churches big and long-term solution for those thing from a cathedral to a small to do so.” and other services. small. Once set-up, it can provide churches which want to stream chapel and, because of his good AED have also recently installed Daniel turned to Darren Butler, multiple camera views and angles, services but want to do so with as connections with suppliers, can video systems in the Catholic owner of South Norfolk-based yet be controlled simply with a little involvement as possible. It provide and install it at a very a churches at Dereham and King’s Audio Electronic Design which, small remote control device and offers a sustainable solution which cost-effective price. He is also Lynn and at over 30 years, has supplied audio no other operators needed to repli- is both cost-effective and much working on a smaller single fixed Anglican church in the centre of and audio-visual systems to liter- cate what much more expensive more engaging for the viewer,” camera solution which can be Norwich. ally hundreds of churches across systems offer. said Darren. upgraded at a later date if n Contact AED at: 01953 860074 or East Anglia, including St John’s “The beauty of the PTZ system is “We use two high-definition required. Years of experience www.audioelectronicdesign.co.uk