March 2016 Christmas starts with Christingle NEED TO KNOW I STORIES I AREA UPDATES I EVENTS NEAR YOU

Archdeacon’s View T By , Archdeacon of Stansted h IN my attempts to be a disciple of Jesus, a question I’ve always had in my head is, a ‘Which is best, being right or being together?’ Before we got married, I can remember n someone telling us there were no arguments in a marriage worth winning – the damage done far outweighed the kBring the kids to light a candle benefits of having the right colour curtains. When it comes to being a disciple, the same question is still there. Is it worth for Christ’s birthday holding on to what I believe is right at all s costs, or does there come a point when disunity undoes any benefit from ‘being right’? Of course, the argument goes the other way too – can we go on compromising what we believe to be true, D whatever the cost? I’m a bit of a lone sportsman these days (running, cycling, etc.). I have recently a joined Sudbury Rowing Club and try to get out on the river on days off, which usually means Friday morning, when Friends create nobody else is around. It’s great to have v the river to myself, but doing it alone, picture to say christmasstarts.com especially over the winter months, can be farewell to the hard work. i But there was good news recently - I Archdeacon was asked if I could fill in when a crew of of Chelmsford: ‘veterans’ needed an eighth man. It was a d See Page 3 www.chelmsford.anglican.org CONTINUED ON PAGE 5 Aid volunteer Sandra Archdeacon John witnesses plight of Perumbalath tells fleeing refugees on his life story to Greek island of Lesvos The Month Full story: Page 5 Interview: Centre Pages

■ New Bradwell Festival weekend replaces traditional pilgrimage — Full story: Page 3 2 THE MONTH March 2016 THE month — Bishop Stephen follows in the footsteps of predecessor Deaf centre anniversary Pilgrimage to IN November 1935, the third , Henry Wilson, laid the foundation stone of the St the Holy Land Mellitus Centre for Deaf People in THE Bishops of Jerusalem. If you would Southend. Chelmsford and Barking like to find out more, Eighty years later the present will be leading a please visit www. Bishop, Stephen Cottrell, joined pilgrimage to the Holy chelmsford.anglican.org/ deaf worshippers at a service of Land in May next year pilgrimage2017 where thanksgiving at the St. Mellitus with McCabe Travel. you will find information centre (right). There will be two about the itinerary and Bishop Stephen gave everyone a options to be part of this costs. stone to remind us that we are each amazing trip which will There will be two chosen and called by God. take you to all the key evening meetings for The St Melitus Centre is one of sites associated with the those who would like to the locations where signed services life of Jesus. find out more – in the are regularly provided by the One group will be in the Barking Episcopal Area on diocesan Deaf Church, a Bishop’s Holy Land from May 23- May 24 and in Chelmsford Mission Order (BMO) church. June 1, and the other on May 25. Further details A BMO provides legal recognition will be there from May will be posted on the of a mission initiative 27-June 3. Both groups website and appear in the ● For more information, visit www. will spend time together in April edition of the Month. deafchurch-chelmsford.org.uk.

ESSEX Police have launched heritage crime meetings to protect the county's valuable heritage assets The first meeting of the Essex Police in Essex Heritage Crime Running parish Strategy Group took place at the Corporation of London's Epping Forest Rangers' base at Loughton. move to reduce Stephen Armson-Smith, Essex Police heritage crime gets redefined prevention lead said: "The REMEMBRANCE Sunday group consists of Essex heritage crimes in the mid-Essex village of Police, Essex County Council Stebbing features a 10-mile Place Services, Historic running race. England and other heritage and reduce crimes many, varied, and valuable In the past, this sporting professionals representing threatening our heritage and in most cases they are event had caused some the different facets of our assets such as metal thefts simply irreplaceable. disruption to the parish heritage – visitor attractions and the recently publicised "It is important that we are church’s Remembrance and museums, archaeology, theft of historic masonry. proactive in protecting them. Service, but then the race’s church buildings, listed "As well as discussing This group brings together the organisers, Grange Farm and building owners, the current threats and risks to people with the knowledge Dunmow Trotters, working insurance sector and history each aspect of our county's from the wide variety of with the Priest in Charge, Tim groups. heritage there were heritage fields to help keep Goodbody, came up with an "The group are a guiding presentations from William our heritage safe for this and excellent solution; the runners body for the formation of Brown, National Security future generations to enjoy.” would come to the war Heritage Watch and the Adviser to the Arts Council, ● Stephen can be contacted memorial to participate in the meeting included an update and John Minary of Trace-in at Braintree police station by silence before the race on its progress. Metal Ltd." ringing 101 ext 407110 or at began. So two competing "One of the objectives of Stephen added: “Heritage stephen.armson-smith@ events became one united the group is to understand assets within our county are essex.pnn.police.uk Act of Remembrance. Since 2011, about 700 people have been attending resolution and compression. Hi-res JPGs the wreath laying and two and church was cemented by giveaway though (above). In or Tiffs should be re-sized to min 7x5in at minutes silence at the war Tim and the Archdeacon of the race, Archdeacon Robin 300dpi with no layers or sharpening. memorial, and then 200 Stansted, Ven Robin King (303 in inset) left Stebbing’s Captions, your name and contact details proceed into church while 500 participating in the race. parish priest in his wake as The Month, incorporating NB and East should be embedded in the 'File Info' turn round to start their race Before the race, both he stormed to a time of one Window, is the free circulation section if possible. If e-mailing many just below the church. ministers led the Act of hour 14 minutes, finishing newspaper of in shots, send only 72dpi initially at max size This development has been Remembrance before 142nd out of 494. Tim (210) Essex and East London (Diocese of of 8x6in. When submitting photos please welcomed by all concerned, stripping off their robes to eventually made it round the Chelmsford). www.chelmsford. confirm that written consent has been and this year the good reveal running kit underneath. anglican.org/themonth route in two hours and two ● obtained from parents / guardians of relationship between runners The trainers were a bit of a minutes (but he wasn’t last). Find Chelmsford Diocese on Twitter children under age 16 for publication of @chelmsdio photos publicising church activities in ● Find Bishop Stephen on Twitter @cottrellstephen ● ● The inclusion of an advertisement Subscribe to our YouTube channel should not be taken as implying Striding out for homeless www.youtube.com/ChelmsfordDiocese ● endorsement of the objects of the FATHER James Rodley, Priest-in- Like us on Facebook: www. advertiser by the diocese. charge of St Andrew North Weald and facebook.com/chelmsdio St Mary Magdalene, Harlow Common ● Like our Ask an Archdeacon advertising has completed a long-standing pro- Facebook www.facebook.com/ ject to walk between Land's End and askanarchdeacon Please contact: Glenda Charitos, John O'Groats. ● View our photostream on Flickr www. Cornerstone Vision, 28 Old Park Road, James (left) said: "This was a very flickr.com/photos/chelmsford-diocese personal route which passed through Peverell,Plymouth, Devon PL3 4PY. my current parishes in West Essex. Tel: 01752 225623. Fax: 01752 673441. "It's taken me more than 10 years editorial e-mail: [email protected] to complete in stages but I didn't start out with the intention of it becoming Editor: Jon Longman distribution how it ended up. Editorial and photographs for "However, I thought it would be The Month should be sent to: For distribution contact Sarah Newman: good to celebrate the end, after more [email protected] [email protected] than 1500 miles by asking friends, or Jon Longman, The Month, 1 Bouchiers Tel: 01245 294443. family and colleagues to make a Place, Messing, Colchester CO5 9TY. Tel: Your newspaper will normally be donation to Harlow's charity for the 01621 810530. Mobile: 07860 769906 available from the third Sunday in the ● homeless, Streets2Homes. Digital photographs for publication: month. Any further changes will be "I set up a fundraising page and Please take pictures at largest size, advised to distributors. people generously donated £1,035." THE MONTH March 2016 3

THE Elmstead Parish Church month — New festival is built on years of tradition Church Road, Elmstead Market, Colchester CO7 7AR Meeting Room Hire Bradwell's We have the perfect venue for: Social Gatherings, Friends and Family Training Days, Visiting Speakers, Quiet Days. We are surrounded by beautiful and quiet countryside and there are two extensive lawn areas pilgrimage for additional activities Disabled Male toilet facilities Female toilets toilets Meeting

Vestry revamped Room Kitchen BRADWELL-ON-SEA will take on from charities and campaign a different flavour during the first groups will have a new home in weekend in July this year as a the Othona gardens. Wheelchair Entrance new festival comes to the village. Festival speakers will include access "The Bradwell Festival will build Dave Walker, cartoonist from the on the legacy of the Bradwell Church Times, Leigh-on-Sea Booking enquiries, please contact Pilgrimage, starting with the author Jane Dolby, whose book Linda Cobbold on 01206 824570 pilgrimage itself," said Revd ‘Song of the Sea’ tells the story of Hannah Bucke, the chair of the how she rebuilt her life and organising committee. formed The Fishwives Choir after "This year there will be two her fisherman husband was routes to choose from: the tragically lost at sea. Also x traditional walk through Bradwell speaking will be Stephen Cottrell, village, starting from St Thomas’ Bishop of Chelmsford. church, and a new coastal route Festival-goers will be able to beginning at The Green Man pub enjoy a wide range of music at on the marina, and taking in the both the Performance Café on unique landscape of the the Othona site and on the main Blackwater Estuary. stage in the Chapel Field. The line "Once at the festival, which will up includes vintage jazz trio The incorporate St Peter’s Chapel Daisy Bowlers, and Christian and the Othona Community, singer-songwriter and social festival-goers will be able to enjoy justice campaigner Andy Festival a variety of worship, activities, Flannagan. More artists will be updates food and drink throughout the day added to the line up. BE KEEP in touch with and evening. "For those wishing to make a the Bradwell Festival "Worship will take place outside weekend of it, camping will be St Peter’s Chapel as people arrive offered on the site. The chance to updates and the SEEN and the Northumbria Community see the sunrise over this stunning musical line-up by will be leading the Daily Office in landscape will undoubtedly be a logging on to www. the chapel during the weekend." real highlight for anyone staying bradwellfestival. To advertise Stallholders and representatives overnight," adds Hannah (right). com in this newspaper, David's friends 01752 225623 in the frame for farewell picture A FRAMED reproduction of a “I had to work up to 14 hours a day painting of Christ by the Spanish painter El Greco was presented to in a basement. I wasn’t allowed to on his retirement as Archdeacon of Chelmsford at a leave. I was given only a cup of rice farewell Eucharist on January 31 at Chelmsford Cathedral. and a fried egg to eat each day.” The picture (right) was assembled from hundreds of photographs of David’s colleagues and friends. Garry Martinez Bishop Stephen said: “The Migrante International in the Philippines reason David Lowman has been an outstanding Archdeacon, and a wonderful servant to the Chelmsford diocese, is quite simply because he is an outstanding priest. He has always carried out his work with a Our Lent appeal for 2016 focuses on the church’s priest’s pastoral heart as well as an response to human trafficking around the world. Archdeacon’s eye for detail. "His love of the gospel and his Prayer and study resources at: care of souls never dimmed. This will www.weareUs.org.uk/lent go on as God opens new doors of opportunity in retirement. We wish 020 7921 2200 him well, and thank God for his ministry.” Us. The new name for USPG Become a Parish Registered charity number 234518 Safety Volunteer ESSEX County Fire & Rescue Service and Essex Police are working together to recruit two Parish Safety Volunteers per parish. For the Lord your God is a merciful God. He will not Volunteers will conduct home safety leave you or destroy you or forget the covenant with visits to deliver crucial fire and crime prevention advice; provide an your fathers that he swore to them. extensive knowledge of local support services and signpost people to them; and fit smoke detectors. De 4:31 You will receive full training from both the fire service and police, a uniform and all equipment required for the role. COVER STORY ● Contact [email protected] 01376 576203 4 THE MONTH March 2016

THE month — Friends of Essex Churches grant for High Ongar roof works Roof project

MAJORcost fundraising by the congregation £100,000 has Revd Malcolm Peters said: “Whilst these augmented grants from Friends of Essex works were in progress our Sunday services Churches and the Government’s Listed Places were held in High Ongar Primary School and of Worship (roof repair fund) and enabled vital we are truly grateful to the headteacher, staff work to take place at St Mary’s High Ongar. and governors for their support and "The church dates back to Medieval times hospitality.” and King John granted a licence to hold a fair The church opened its doors again on in the churchyard," said Project Manager Andy December 13 when the special guest was the Neale. former , Rt Revd Wallace "Since then the church has been home Benn. to many generations of Christian believers Wallace was formerly a parish minister and with these repairs carried out we hope in Harold Wood is more famous as one of that this will continue for many years." the participants in the Top Gear 'Fastest The scheme, costing more than £100,000, Faith' race where he took a magnificent third was undertaken in partnership with Natural place. England, the Bat Conservation Trust, Historic Pictured below at a site meeting are (left to Britain and local authorities to ensure that all right) contractor John Cater, architect David aspects of the project were completed. Ferguson and churchwarden Peter Lewin. Morris Men add colour to Plough Sunday celebration BISHOP Roger and Janet Nicholls, Rural with the first working day after the 12 days Adviser & Agricultural Chaplain, celebrated of Christmas, hence Plough Monday in Plough Sunday at Thaxted church. some places such as Maldon. A troupe of Thaxted Morris Men (above) In medieval times some ploughs were and a plough also made an appearance at kept in the parish church, and some the service on January 17. churches kept a ‘plough-light’. In days The observance of Plough Sunday goes when work was scarce in winter, the back to Victorian times, but behind it there observance looked forward to the time of is a much older observance, associated sowing with the promise of a harvest. FREE for 4s and under ReducedFREE childrens for 4s andprices under Reduced childrens prices AMAZING! CONFERENCES The best website to buy a car RETREATSCONFERENCES Paulo Marco Fulvio RETREATSHOLIDAYS HOLIDAYS BRAND NEW NISSAN NOTE 1.2 VISIA 5DR

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THE month — Volunteer meets refugees fleeing to Lesvos WE BEAT OTHER WE BEAT OTHER NEED A LASTING QUOTES WITH... NEED A LASTING QUOTES WITH... POWER OF ATTORNEY? Canvey Islander SANDRA 50%50% OFF OFF POWER OF ATTORNEY? WEPOWER POWERBEAT OTHEROF OF YOUNEED NEED A A LASTINGLOCAL COMPANY THAT IS TUDOR spent a week QUOTESATTORNEYATTORNEY WITH... YOU NEED A LOCAL COMPANY THAT IS AND UPTO FAST, EFFICIENT, COMES TO YOU AND IS volunteering on the 50%AND UPTO OFF FAST,POWER EFFICIENT, OF COMES ATTORNEY? TO YOU AND IS 30%POWER OFOFF COMMITTED TO DRIVING DOWN COSTS Greek island of Lesvos, 30%ATTORNEYWILLS OFF COMMITTEDYOU NEED A TO LOCAL DRIVING COMPANY DOWN THAT COSTS IS WILLSAND UPTO FAST, EFFICIENT, COMES TO YOU AND IS distributing aid to The WillThe & WillTrust & Company Trust Company are professional, are professional, 30% OFF COMMITTEDaccredited TO DRIVING certificate DOWN providers COSTS and will refugees arriving on their WILLS accredited certificate providers and will Realities of tide sendThe Will thesend &finished Trust the finishedCompany documents aredocuments professional, to the Office to the Office shores via Turkey. "We of Theaccreditedof Public The PublicGuardiancertificate Guardian for providers registration for andregistration afterwill after have all seen the plight of send thesigning finishedsigning and documents witnessing. and witnessing. to the Office the refugees on the news, of The PublicWe provide Guardian a forhome registration visiting after service to We providesigning a home and witnessing. visiting service to but the sheer volume of take instructionstake instructions and bring and back bring all theback all the We providedocuments a home for visiting signing service and witnessing.to humanity on the move documentstake instructions for signing and bring and backwitnessing. all the was incredible to see of humanity . . . So,documents don’tSo, delay,don’t for contactdelay, signing contactus and today witnessing. us and today give and give yourself peace of mind that we will assist close-up. Many were yourselfSo, don’t peace delay, of contact mind thatus today we will and assist give youyourself andyou yourpeace and family’s yourof mind family’s wealth that we andwealth will health. assist and health. families with babies you and your family’s wealth and health. and young children, 0126801268 55 11 55 22 11 – 220800 – 1120800 3417 112 3417 [email protected] 55 11 22 – 0800 112 3417 bewildered by their [email protected]@willandtrustcompany.com www.willandtrustcompany.com plight," says Sandra. www.willandtrustcompany.comwww.willandtrustcompany.com Here is her story.

IN Lesvos alone, there is a near constant stream of overloaded boats arriving from Turkey, where refugees have been forced – often at gun point, paying 1500 to 2000 euros each for the trouble – into rubber dinghies with dud CHURCH PEWS lifevests and sent on their way. UNCOMFORTABLE? Some boats are turned back by WHY NOT TRY SAFEFOAM’S TOP QUALITY the Turkish police, others suffer UPHOLSTERED FOAM PEW CUSHIONS? Safefoam, Green Lane, Riley Green, engine failure and struggle to Hoghton, Preston PR5 0SN reach the safety of land. Between www.safefoam.co.uk Freephone 0800 015 44 33 1,000-2,000 people can arrive on Free Sample Pack of foam & fabrics sent by first class mail a calm day. When phoning please quote TM0316 And each week there continue to be those who don’t make it, whose boats capsize at sea or children who die of hyperthermia MEMORIES: Sandra Tudor helps during the crossing. Boat upon to unload UK aid lorries and one boat lies strewn on the beaches. of her "customers" parades with I was encouraged by the a new hat number of volunteers there, including people who simply turn on watch for boats arriving, mainland, were stranded to spend politics, whatever the 'best up on the island and offer their teams of doctors, nurses and aid the night in the cold. solution’, these are people in help. workers to meet the boats and We took one of our aid lorries need. And despite whatever is It was heart-warming to see the United Nations buses to take to the port and spent four hours said or done to prevent them constructive efforts and attitudes the refugees to the camps for giving out clothing and bedding to travelling, they will continue to do of locals and volunteers alike – registration. a constant stream of people. so – because this risky journey is St Mary, Beaminster, Dorset Stavros was a lovely local running But the situation evolves And in marshalling the queue, I better than the alternative in their one of the camps. He was so according to weather conditions, met some great people – without homelands of Syria, Iraq and grateful for the 'presents' (aid) we Greek ferry strikes and language we smiled, laughed and Afghanistan. enhancing church interiors brought. He said there were no shared sweets. bureaucratic demands, and so Please pray for the people Ronald Emett fine furniture refugees or immigrants – only there is an undercurrent of chaos One man was so grateful for the working in Lesvos and for the www.ronaldemettfurniture.com guests to his island to whom he and searching for information. warm trousers I’d been able to sort refugees. And pray that a solution shows hospitality. One evening while I was there out for him that he came back just of safe passage is found soon. 01308 868025 As this situation becomes the weather got so bad they to show me what he looked like ● Further accounts of the trip the ‘norm’ for now, there is closed the ferry port – and a wearing them. and details of the charity I went some degree of process and thousand refugees, who had been Each refugee brings a story of with can be found at www. organisation – there are lookouts hoping to leave the island for the hardship and hope. Whatever the hopeandaiddirect.org.uk

Ante-

Mark takes Rowing in the Including: • Public Address • Sound Reinforcement • Sound Distribution youth role right direction? • Induction Loops BISHOP has Hannah Phillips, said: “We’re very FROM FRONT PAGE the disciples when they didn’t • No organ? - No problem! appointed Mark Tiddy as Youth excited for Mark as he becomes quite understand his teaching, Adviser in the Bradwell Area. part of the youth adviser team. Saturday morning, the diary and so I guess that’s why I tend Mark (above) trained in youth "Mark brings with him a wealth was clear, and I jumped at the to learn towards ‘being together’ ministry with Oasis College in of experience and expertise that opportunity. over ‘being right’. The truth in Portable Equipment London whilst working as a youth complements us as a team. We It was great to be in a crew scripture is that I am a fallible worker in Peterborough. look forward to welcoming him in and feel the encouragement of human being and have to accept SOUND + VISION For the last six years he has April and introducing him to the everyone working as one (or the possibility that I just might be worked as a youth facilitator and excellent youth work that happens trying to). The only trouble was, wrong about something. If I can’t E L E C T R O N I C S schools worker with churches and across the Diocese.” having been going out on my own be sure that I am right, I can at 26 The Triangle, Frinton on Sea, CO13 0AU schools in villages just outside Mark begins his work in the for so long, I suddenly had to least be sure that I am united with [email protected] Hull. In his spare time, Mark loves Area on April 4 and is looking submit to what everyone else the church and with my fellow www.save-electronics.co.uk music, runs a youth work forward to invitations to visit youth wanted to do and the way they pilgrims – and being united with resource website and enjoys groups, chapters, synods and wanted to do it – and acquire a them perhaps gives us a better A family run business with over 45 years experience. playing with the latest tech. churches. completely new set of blisters in chance of arriving at the most Bishop John said: "Mark Bishop John added: "I would the process. godly solution anyway. 01255 673766 or FREEPHONE 0800 056 3766 brings practical experience both very much like to visit as many Togetherness in a rowing boat I’m now back to rowing on my of leading and developing youth youth groups as possible with is crucial. It wouldn’t take more own, but just one day of being work himself as well as helping Mark over the next few months, than a few days to train a crew part of something bigger has and supporting churches and so please do send your invitations of beginners to beat a crew of made a difference and I’m fitter other groups. He has a real to my PA, Amanda Robinson Olympians if the beginners did and stronger for it. Of course, it There is none like you, O Lord, passion for ensuring the voices of ([email protected]. everything together and the would be great to be both right and there is no God besides you, young people are heard so that org), who is looking after Mark’s experts each did their own thing – and together – and so perhaps they can play a full role in the life diary until he joins us. their disregard for each other that’s the miracle I should be according to all that we have of the church." "Please do join me in praying would spoil it all. praying for. heard with our ears. The Barking and Colchester for Mark as he makes his Jesus prayed passionately that ROBIN KING 1Ch 17:20 (ESV) Youth Advisers, Rachel Brett and preparations to move to Essex." we should be one, and he forgave Archdeacon of Stansted

6 THE MONTH March 2016 THE MONTH March 2016 7

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month — 'Sometimes the point of the Gospel is to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable' O T F F E A SSEX CR

The Guild of Essex Craftsmen is a voluntary non - profit making organisation, which, since its inauguration in 1984, has supported genuine local craft workers. Members are selected for the outstanding quality and originality of their work, which, through these events, can be brought to you at very reasonable prices. All crafts on display and for sale are the work of the Guild members who are in attendance throughout each event, and are more than happy to share their skills, knowledge and experience with you. Surplus funds raised at Guild Events are donated to The Essex Air Ambulance Events Spring 2016 Sunday & Monday, 27th & 28th March Easter Craft Fair Grange Barn, Coggeshall Grange Hill, Coggeshall, CO6 1RE Open 10am to 5pm each day. Ample Free Parking. Archdeacon puts his faith in Refreshments Normal National Trust Entry chg £3.75 includes Craft Fair. (NT Members and Under 16’s Free) Sunday & Monday, 29th & 30th May Late Spring Bank Holiday Craft Fair Thames Chase Forest Centre Pike Lane, Cranham, Upminster RM14 3NS Open 10am to 5pm each day Entrance £1 per Car Tearoom Open THEyouth VENERABLE DR JOHN to revive the Church PERUMBALATH, Archdeacon of Barking, spent the first four years of his life in an agricultural community in India before his father swapped farming for the The Barn Church Church. The Month talked to John Great Totham, Essex Building Conservation UK Ltd about the steps in his own journey of faith from academia to urban ministry and Church leadership

TM – Can you tell us something about where you come from and about the Christian Restoration and Conservation of communities there? Churches and Listed Buildings JP – I come from Kerala, the land of coconuts, the southwestern state of India. Christianity is • Decoration • Lime Wash • very prominent in Kerala and the majority of • Painting • Rendering • Christians there belong to the ancient Syrian Suitable for away days, Alpha Holy • Lead Work • Stone Masonry • Christian community. My family traces its Spirit days, retreats, etc. For more details • Stone & Brick Cleaning • Christian heritage back to first century AD. phone 01621 893085 or • Building Restoration & Repairs • TM – You followed your father into ministry. email: [email protected] • Roofi ng & Guttering • Was this an easy move to make? JP – Not that easy! My sense of being 0800 052 1030 called was surely influenced by my father’s www.buildingconservationukltd.com life and work. But in my youth I became Holiday Cottages conscious of poverty, homelessness and [email protected] injustice around me. I questioned the Church’s Spring/Summer Availability We work on Public Churches and Listed lack of response to social problems like these. Buildings, through extensive Conservation Works, So I drifted away from the Church in my late Family run Holiday Cottages in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Exmouth, Wales, London, teens. Norfolk, Blyth, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Bexhill- TM – Did you feel the Church had lost its beautiful south Shropshire, an on-Sea and numerous other Cities and Villages way? area of outstanding natural beauty. throughout the United Kingdom. JP – I felt a contradiction between Jesus as I Wonderful location with spectacular saw him in the scriptures and a Church that Estimates and Advice FREE without obligation. views. We off er 1, 2 or 3 bedroom consisted of comfortable souls pretending there new Christian friends, I had a life changing ROOTS: John in touch with me. Three among them are clergy examine our conscience. Our conscience is was no world outside the Church. I felt that experience of reading John’s Gospel, chapter 1, in the same diocese now. related to our culture, tradition and upbringing. cottages to suit all the family. people in Church acted as individuals wanting at home in and I got stuck at verse 14. I felt as if the Word Kerala (left) and TM – How have you managed to change It is often influenced by our prejudices and Please visit www.botvylefarm.co.uk to have a better life for them rather than as of God was jumping out of the pages and attitudes and grow the Church? unhealthy presumptions. Conscience is not instruments of God in this world. St James' or call 01694 722869 for brochure confronting me, bridging the gap between the church in JP – We need to speak to the heart and even static. I have changed my mind – I believe it things I was struggling with. In “the Word challenge but with love and humility, building on was the work of the Holy Spirit – on certain became flesh”, I found God doing away with Calcutta relationships with people and living among them matters. My conscience responds differently (above). ALGARVE SHERBORNE Do your shopping 'I had lost faith that dichotomy of spirit and body, spiritual and as one of them. Sometimes the point of the now from the past when I approach those Luxury 3 bed villa (all ensuite) Short breaks in Dorset physical. I began to search the Scriptures more Gospel is to comfort the afflicted and afflict the issues. People have thought and felt differently Sleeps 6/8, near Carvoeiro. Elegant, spacious, 2 bed, about the same things in different times and Own pool, all mod cons seriously, started the Evangelical Union study comfortable. All are created in the image of God Situated on Pestana Golf Resort. apartment in listed building in comfort group in my college and soon I found myself places. Take slavery, for example. Our Golf, Tennis, Free Wifi. and all have the potential to grow into his close to Abbey Church. in the Church' teaching and preaching at various church conscience must be subjected to the ongoing Also on Trip Advisor likeness. Church growth does not happen just Full details and brochure: Open all year. and confidence at TM – What were you struggling with gatherings. by what the priest does. Ministry belongs to renewing work of the Sprit. We need to engage Brian Chambers JP – We are products of our culture and prayer, and the vows of stability, obedience and Please ring for brochure: exactly at that time? TM – Did you go straight into Ordination context. I was a rural boy until I went to the the whole people. So I would start with the with the scriptures, reason and tradition in this Tel: 02380 265 683 JP – I was struggling with the dualistic way of conversion of life have since shaped and [email protected] Cross Rhythms Direct. training after university? university. Farming is what most people did in congregation – helping them to be confident in journey. www.casa-oleander.co.uk 01404 841367 thinking I found in my Christian community. ordered my life. JP – After I left the university, I worked a year the communities where my dad served. That TM – What was your first post after practicing and sharing their faith, enabling them TM – What makes you feel sad about the They separated the spiritual from the physical Church today? full time with the Evangelical Union, then took a context helps me a lot even when I read the Ordination? to love one another (and the strangers) and Music, books and material. They were interested in saving JP – I am sorry that fewer families are coming Bachelor of Divinity degree, did a year of Bible. I understand what it probably means to 'to JP – I was invited by the Bishop of Calcutta to shaping them to be a community of radical souls not persons in flesh and blood. Most of teaching in a small Bible college and then went to Church. It also saddens me that often Dartmouth take the yoke' – I still remember my dad making serve at St James’ Calcutta as curate; or so I hospitality, sharing time, space and material and DVDs for life... them saw being human as bad. But I believed on to do postgraduate degrees in the New individuals are asking what satisfaction they Devon or repairing yokes – and learn from Jesus. thought. I had taken a look at the curate’s resources. Delightful ground floor as St Irenaeus said: “The glory of God is the Testament and philosophy. I was invited to join are getting from Church, holding on to a Take Check out thousands of amazing books and DVDs... human being fully alive.” I couldn’t see in them When I read about the farmer who went on vacant flat but when I mentioned this to the flat with glorious views the faculty of New Testament Studies at sowing seeds even on the rocky ground, I consumerist approach to religion. Faith is across river Dart. any commitment to transform the world that Bishop, he asked: “Why would the vicar live in reduced to a feel good factor in life. Faith is a Serampore College (University), near Calcutta, wonder ‘what a crazy farmer’ because farmers Sleeps 4: double ensuite, Thousands of God created and loved. the curate’s flat?” St James’ had the largest then neither vibrant nor deep. There is also a twin with bathroom, and taught there for two years. I was ordained normally sow seeds after preparing the ground 'Ministry belongs to TM – Did you look for solutions to social while I was teaching there and served my English speaking congregation in Calcutta and I tendency to be inward-looking and becoming all mod cons. CDs and DVDs for it. break problems outside the Church? curacy in a parish in Calcutta alongside was the youngest vicar ever appointed there. I blind to the human realities around us. That is Tel: 020 7223 5473 at only £9.97 JP – I became political at university. I felt if teaching. was in shock. the whole people' worrying. people’s lives were to be transformed, I needed TM – Why did you move into parish TM – What was parish ministry like? TM – What gives you hope about the And thousands of CDs and DVDs to work with politics. I was drawn to socialist ministry when you could have remained an 'Urban challenges JP – I sooner found out that a lot of people had TM – Doesn’t the Church today have too Church? now have FREE POSTAGE thinking and activism. I had my faith; I never lost academic? dropped out of the congregation and – to my many problems of its own to make it a JP – God. It is God’s Church and God continues it, but had lost faith in the Church. JP – I had fallen in love with Calcutta and the horror – I realized it was the economically poor model for transformation? his mission in this world. Although the membership TravelArranged forInsurance The Month readers WWW.CROSSRHYTHMS.CO.UK/DIRECT TM – What made you go back to Church? urban challenges beckoned me out of the ones who left. I went knocking on their doors. JP – The Church always had problems! But the is in decline, the Church is still the largest network Real and friendly people... not machines! beckoned me' Six or seven people would be living in a one- or New Testament provides us with examples of Our insurance has a customer 24-hour helpline, full medical OR CALL 01782 251000 JP – I came into contact with some friends academy. I enjoyed teaching and writing but I of volunteers making any real presence in many cover with most pre-existing medical conditions accepted and, belonging to the Evangelical Union at university longed to share life with people outside the TM – Was there any other turning point or two-bedroom flat. I met many youngsters who handling problems and transforming conflicts communities in this country. So we still have the most importantly, an air ambulance get you home service. who accepted me without judging me. They academy – communities with real challenges transition in your life that has bearing on wanted to come back to church but felt they (and disagreeing well). May be it is good that potential to reach out to our communities. And on EASTER COMES EARLY accepted that what I was doing as an activist and needs out in the world. That passion and your ministry? were not welcome there. A number of families we have some problems of our own – to keep a global level, the Church is not in decline as such. Call now for our special offers Annual multi-trip cover (max. age 85) To advertise was part of what God wanted me to do. longing grew in me as I prayed about my future JP – Yes, it happened when I was training for returned. My wife and I made space in the us human and humble lest we assume a moral Where the Church is declining, like in this country, Single trip cover (NO max. age) in this newspaper, Fellowship with other Christians started to and then it wasn’t difficult for me to conclude Ordination. My spirituality became sacramental vicarage for several young people who needed high ground in our public discourse! But the there are still signs of people searching something for UK, Europe and worldwide holidays BE contact Glenda or Michelle on become more important to me. where I was called to be. and Eucharistic centred. In one sense it was a somewhere to sit and study. Our youth group Church fails in its calling and defeats God’s deeper. I have a lot of confidence in young people. Single trip cover for all departures up to 31/12/17 TM - How important was the Bible to you at TM – You have become very passionate strange thing to happen because I trained in a grew eight fold. We got to know around 100 purposes for us when we fail to love. They tend to have the capacity to think deeply, to Conditions apply FT TRAVEL 01752 225623 that time in your life? UK Please call for details ~ or email about urban context and life. But how does seminary which had a low view of sacraments. children and youngsters during those five years TM – Should Christians exercise their be socially conscious and open to change. I am BASED INSURANCE SEEN [email protected] JP – I had never stopped reading the Bible. your rural upbringing contribute to your Then I was drawn to Benedictine spirituality. there who grew in life and faith by encountering consciences in the cause of transformation? also heartened that migrants are bringing new 0116 272 0500 But somewhere around the time when I met my perspective today? The Benedictine framework of study, labour and an affirming environment. Most of them are still JP – Yes, but we should also be willing to vibrancy into the Church. 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● ● Sunday, February 21 Toddler Group in St Cedd’s Hall. Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. Mothers' Union Coffee Morning. St John the Baptist ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm. Evensong. ● The Chelmsford Christian Bookshop Reading Group. A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and Church, Danbury CM3 4NG. 10am. Celebrating140 ● abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout years of the Mothers’ Union Christian care for families. St James' church, Beatrice Road, Clacton-on-Sea Library at Diocesan Office, 53 New St, Chelmsford. ● CO15 1LE. 4pm. St James @ 4. A short, informal 1pm. Everyone is welcome and it is free to join in. For and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual St Mary’s church, Church End, Broxted CM6 2BZ. health and well-being. Second in series of walks organised by the churches in Service of Holy Communion, using modern music, and details, please contact the bookshop on 01245 294405 ● followed by refreshments. Suitable for all ages. or [email protected] Chelmsford Cathedral. 2pm. Mothers' Union the Deanery of Dunmow and Stansted following the ● Afternoon Section meet in St Cedd’s Hall. theme of Singing with the Angels. This reflects various Monday, February 22 Chelmsford Cathedral is hosting a reflective series ● ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7pm. Flower Guild of talks on Wednesday evenings. The theme is ‘Faith St John’s, Stratford. 7.30pm. Lent lecture series services and events held in the latter part of 2015 and demonstration by David Thomson. and Film’ – five different speakers will show an excerpt week three. , – the involvement of angels in spreading the word of Tuesday, February 23 from a favourite film of theirs and then talk about how it “Serving Accountably – To whom do I render my life?” God. Walkers meet at 9am at the church car park and ● connects to their faith. Nicholas and Christine Henshall Refreshments available from 7pm. No need to book. walk for about 1¼ hours, returning to the church for Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. ● 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group. - Of Gods and Men. The talk begins at 7.30pm in the St Laurence church, Corbets Tey Road, Upminster. refreshments. The walks generally follow footpaths and stout walking shoes/boots are definitely advisable. The ● In Lent 2016, the Bishops of Chelmsford, Barking, north transept of the Cathedral. The evening ends with 1.05pm. Free lunchtime concert by Gerard Brooks Bradwell and Colchester will present four lectures on Compline (Night Prayer), finishing at 9pm. (Organ, Methodist Central Hall, Westminster). Retiring walk is followed by a short time for prayers and singing, the four themes of Transforming Presence, the ● St John’s, Colchester. 7.30pm. In Lent 2016, the collection. Car parking available. hopefully with musical accompaniment. People not Bishops of Chelmsford, Barking, Bradwell and Friday, March 11 wanting to walk will be most welcome to join in with strategic priorities for the . ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7.30pm. Lent lecture series Colchester will present four lectures on the four themes Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime refreshments at 10.15am. Everyone welcome as are week one with Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford - of Transforming Presence, the strategic priorities for the Concert by Essex Police Choir. Admission is free, but dogs – on leads please. Contact Terry Reed, telephone diocese. Week two with Peter Hill, - we welcome your contributions, which are divided 07973 846195, e-mail [email protected]. “Living distinctively – What does it mean to be a ● disciple today?” Refreshments available from 7pm. No 'Evangelising effectively - How can I share and bear between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Chelmsford Cathedral. 6.45pm. Theological Society need to book. witness to my faith?' Refreshments from 7pm. No need Light refreshments are available in the Cathedral from Lecture and Chelmsford Singers Music for Passiontide. ● to book. 12 noon, or bring your own if you wish. ● Harlow St Paul. 9am-1pm. Harlow Archdeaconry St Mary's Ilford, 426 High Rd (corner of Buckingham ● Road), Ilford, IG1 1TX 8pm. Lent Course: ‘Migration ● Lakeside Shopping Centre, Thurrock. 1-3pm. Café St Mary's Ilford, 426 High Rd (corner of Buckingham Vocations Day. Vocations Days are an opportunity to and movement’, a Christian response. Theology. Meet at the Food Court. Road), Ilford, IG1 1TX 7.30pm. Stations of the Cross. consider God’s call and find out more about the different ● Thursday, March 3 Saturday, March 12 types of ordained and licensed lay ministry direct from A Deeper Walk - Lent Course. Emmanuel Church, ● Billericay CM12 9LD. 7.30pm. Find out more at www. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. St Andrew’s church, Ilford IG1 3PE. 7.30pm. Church leaders. For more information and details of billericaychurches.org/html/news.php. A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and Valentine Singers’ Spring Concert. Conductor: Christine how to book, please visit www.chelmsford.anglican.org/ Wednesday, February 24 abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout Gwynn; Alto: Ron Morris; Harp: Brian Davis; Organ: vocationsdays2016. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.30am. Lent Group - and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual Jonathan Dods; Percussion: Chris Brice. Bernstein ● Althorne Church Hall CM3 6BY. 11-3pm. Bit of a Do! Evangelism and the Third Age. health and well-being. Chichester Psalms; Elgar Great is the Lord; Holst In aid of St. Andrew’s church repair fund & St. Clare’s ● ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Chelmsford Cathedral. 10am. Mothers' Union Hymns from the Rig Veda; O’ Regan Dorchester Hospice. Easter Gifts, Soup & Rolls, Tombola, Crafts, Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Corporate Communion in St Cedd’s Chapel. Chronicles. Tickets: £14 /£8 students & benefit holders Cards, Teas & Cakes, Raffle. Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 8pm. Mothers’ Union £16 /£10 on the door. Box office 020 8550 4654. Book ● Ingatestone Hall, Ingatestone Hall Lane, Ingatestone ● Evening Section meets in St Cedd’s Hall. online from www.valentinesingers.org. Tickets from CM4 9NS. The Stondon Singers concert of East Anglian Chelmsford Cathedral. 9.30am-12noon. Baby & Mayfair Stationers, 80 High Street, Barkingside. Toddler Group in St Cedd’s Hall. ● St John’s, Stratford. 7.30pm. Lent lecture series choral music. Tickets £12 and £6 (under 16) from ● Ilford Hospital Chapel, Ilford Hill. 1-2.30pm. Open ● Chelmsford Cathedral, north transept. 7.30pm. week two. Peter Hill, Bishop of Barking – “Evangelising James Dace & Son, Broomfield Road, Chelmsford, effectively – How can I share and bear witness to my Day. Stalls will include greetings cards, jewellry, bargain Allegro Music, High Street, Chelmsford, Post Office, Wednesday Evenings in Lent at the Cathedral – Faith CDs and DVDs, Memorabilia and Bric a Brac. Free and Film. A reflective series of talks with five different faith?” Refreshments available from 7pm. No need to Blackmore, Members of the Choir or on the door. Tel. book. guided tours. Refreshments available. speakers showing an excerpt from a favourite film of ● 01992 522300 or e-mail [email protected] theirs, and then talk about how it connects to their faith. ● St Laurence church, Corbets Tey Road, Upminster. Town Hall Committee Room, Saffron Walden. www.stondonsingers.org.uk Speakers include Bishop Stephen Cottrell, Canon Jane 1.05pm. Free lunchtime concert by Emily Onsloe 9.30am-noon. Sale of Stamps in aid of Buildings and Sunday, March 20 Freeman and Dean with his wife (Soprano). Retiring collection. Car parking available. Music Funds of St Mary’s, Saffron Walden. Free ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm. Music & Readings. Friday, March 4 admission and a warm welcome. ● Christine. The evening ends with Compline (Night ● Baddow Essex Forest Church, the woods at the Prayer), finishing at 9pm. Entry is free. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Chelmsford Cathedral. 7pm. Caprice Concert. ● Rectory in Little Baddow CM3 4SY. 3-4.30pm. More ● St John’s, Colchester. 7.30pm. Lent lecture series Concert by Mark Brayfield (Concert Organist). Colne Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Michael information can be found on www.mysticchrist.co.uk/ week one with Bishop Stephen Cottrell - “Living Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, Whittaker, in concert at St Nicolas Church, Chipping Hill, blog/post/essex_forest_church or email distinctively – What does it mean to be a disciple which are divided between various charities and Witham CM8 2JS at 7.30pm. The programme includes [email protected]. today?” Refreshments from 7pm. No need to book. Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments are available Schubert's 'Unfinished' Symphony; Beethoven's fifth ● Symphony; and Handel's Coronation Anthem, 'Zadok St James' church, Beatrice Road, Clacton-on-Sea Thursday, February 25 in the Cathedral from 12 noon, or you are welcome to CO15 1LE. 4pm. St James @ 4. A short, informal ● bring your own if you wish. the Priest'. Tickets can be obtained from the CPO Box Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. Service of Holy Communion, using modern music, and A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and ● Ss Peter & Paul, Ilford. Stations of the Cross. Office 01206 210933, [email protected] or at ● the door. followed by refreshments. Suitable for all ages. abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout 'Journey through the waterways of Russia'. Henny ● Tuesday, March 22 and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual Parish Room, Great Henny, Sudbury CO10 7NN. 8pm Ingatestone and Brentwood Choral Societies concert. ● Brentwood Cathedral. 7pm. Charles Wood's St Mark's Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. health and well-being. Illustrated talk by Dr Robert L Smith. 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group. ● St Laurence church, Corbets Tey Road, Upminster Saturday, March 5 Passion and Lenten/Easter excerpts from Handel’s ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 8pm. Holy Week Concert: (car parking available). 1.05pm-1.50pm. Lunchtime ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10am-12 noon. Cathedral Messiah. Tickets £12 (reserved), £10 (unreserved), £5 students fromMusic Office, Cathedral House, Ingrave Scarlatti Stabat Mater. concert by Ourania Gassiou (Megaron Concert Hall, Coffee Morning in the Chapter House. Come and enjoy ● Athens). fresh coffee, home-made scones and a bring & buy. Road, Brentwood CM15 8AT. 01277 265288 or email A Deeper Walk - Lent Course. Emmanuel Church, ● St John’s, Stratford. 7.30pm. Lent lecture series ● [email protected]. Billericay CM12 9LD. 7.30pm. Find out more at www. St Mary's, Maldon. 7.30pm. Recital for Trumpet and Sunday, March 13 billericaychurches.org/html/news.php. week one with Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford - Organ on the new Hey Orgelbau organ. Sam Moffitt, ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 8.30am Breakfast with the Wednesday, March 23 “Living distinctively – What does it mean to be a Trumpet; Colin Baldy, organ. Also featuring Lewis ● disciple today?” Refreshments 7pm. No need to book. Hammond, counter-tenor and Barnaby Beer, baritone. Bible led by Heike Prentice; 3.30pm Revd Elizabeth Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Friday, February 26 Tickets £12 (£10 conc.) from Maldon Tourist Snowden installed as the next Archdeacon of Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean ● Chelmsford; 6pm Charles Wood's St Mark's Passion. Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Information on 01621 856503. ● ● Concert by Rita Schindler (Harp). Admission is free, but ● Christchurch, Ireton Road, Colchester CO3 3AT. St Mary's Little Parndon. Annual general meeting Chelmsford Cathedral. 9.30am-12noon. Baby & we welcome your contributions, which are divided 10am-4pm. Colchester Area Vocations Day. Vocations after the 9.30 am service. Toddler Group in St Cedd’s Hall. between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Tuesday, March 15 ● Tenebrae at Wickham St Paul's CO9 2PH. 8pm. A Days are an opportunity to consider God’s call and find ● Light refreshments are available in the Cathedral from out more about the different types of ordained and Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. beautiful reflective service or words and music in Holy 12 noon, or you are welcome to bring your own. licensed lay ministry direct from Church leaders. For 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group. Week during which all the candles on the altar are ● St Mary's Ilford, 426 High Rd (corner of Buckingham more information and details of how to book please ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7.30pm. Lent lecture series extinguished one by one after various readings related Road), Ilford, IG1 1TX 7.30pm. Stations of the Cross. contact Revd Geoff Read Colchester Area CMD week four. John Wraw, Bishop of Bradwell – to our Lord's Passion. Saturday, February 27 Adviser Tel. 01245 294453 e-mail gread@chelmsford. “Re-imagining Ministry – What is ministry and what part Maundy Thursday, March 24 ● Church of St Mary and St Lawrence, Great anglian.org can I play?” Refreshments from 7pm. No need to book. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7.45pm. Holy Week: The Waltham CM3 1AR. 7.30pm (doors open 7pm). Songs ● St Mary's church, Church Path, Saffron Walden ● St Mary's Ilford, 426 High Rd (corner of Buckingham Eucharist of the Last Supper followed by the Watch. of the Season by Essex Voices directed by Annabel CB10 1JP. 9.45am-4pm. Skills Development Day – Road), Ilford, IG1 1TX 8pm. Lent Course: ‘Migration and ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7.30pm. The Welsh Society Malton in a mixed programme of vocal music of the making the good news of Jesus more accessible for movement’, a Christian response. meets in the Chapter House. ● 16th - 20th centuries. Admission by programme £15, people with learning disabilities, covering praise, A Deeper Walk - Lent Course. Emmanuel Church, Good Friday, March 25 £6 (under 16) including refreshments available from worship, teaching and prayer. Cost £20 bring your own Billericay CM12 9LD. 7.30pm. Find out more at www. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12noon. Preaching of the Lynne Squier 01245 360047 Annabel Malton 01245 lunch. To book a place contact 0118 9516979 e-mail billericaychurches.org/html/news.php. Cross followed at 2pm by The Good Friday Liturgy 360240 or at the door Proceeds to the Friends of [email protected] www.prospects.org.uk Wednesday, March 16 ● St Mary's Maldon. 7.30pm. The Annual Liturgical Essex Churches Trust. Mothering Sunday, March 6 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.30am. Lent Group - Performance of Bach's St John Passion, including ● Might God be calling you to serve? Vocations Days ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 8.30am Breakfast with the Evangelism and the Third Age. ● Bishop Stephen's Good Friday Homily. The are an opportunity to consider God’s call and find out Bible led by Archdeacon and at Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on congregation is invited not just to listen to the music but more about the different types of ordained and licensed 3.30pm Evensong. Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean to participate by singing some of the chorales (hymns). lay ministry direct from Church leaders. 9.15am- Tuesday, March 8 Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. Between parts one and two, Bishop Stephen gives a 3.30pm, Bradwell Area Vocations Day, Canvey Island ● ● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. Chelmsford Cathedral. 9.30am-12noon. Baby & homily on the meaning of this most momentous day. St Nicholas. For more information and how to book, 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group. Toddler Group in St Cedd’s Hall. ● please visit www.chelmsford.anglican.org/vocations- ● ● St John’s church, St John’s Road, Epping. 7.30pm. Chelmsford Cathedral. 7.30pm. Lent lecture series Chelmsford Cathedral, north transept. 7.30pm. Epping Church Choirs Association presents Fauré’s days2016. week three. Roger Morris, Bishop of Colchester – Wednesday Evenings in Lent at the Cathedral – Faith Sunday, February 28 Requiem conducted by Simon Winters. Entry free. “Serving Accountably – To whom do I render my life?” and Film. A reflective series of talks with five different Retiring collection for charity. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm. Evensong. Refreshments available from 7pm. No need to book. speakers showing an excerpt from a favourite film of Easter Saturday, March 26 Tuesday, March 1, St David's Day ● St Mary's Ilford, 426 High Rd (corner of Buckingham theirs, and then talk about how it connects to their faith. ● ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7pm. Easter Vigil and Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. Road), Ilford, IG1 1TX 8pm. Lent Course: ‘Migration Speaker tonight is Bishop Stephen Cottrell, who will talk Confirmations. 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group. and movement’, a Christian response. about the film Cinema Paradiso. The evening ends with ● ● Easter Day, March 27 URC Chapel Lane, Little Baddow CM3 4BE. A Deeper Walk - Lent Course. Emmanuel Church, Compline (Night Prayer), finishing at 9pm. Entry is free. ● 3.30pm.Chelmsford and District Welsh Society. St Billericay CM12 9LD. 7.30pm. Find out more at www. ● St John’s Colchester. 7.30pm. Lent lecture series: Dawn Eucharist at Gravel Hill on the approach to the David's Day service at Little Baddow. billericaychurches.org/html/news.php. John Wraw, Bishop of Bradwell – “Re-imagining Ministry hamlet of Hickbush in Great Henny. 7.30am. A ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7.30pm. In Lent 2016, the Wednesday, March 9 – What is ministry and what part can I play?” wonderful start to Easter Day: an outdoor Eucharist Bishops of Chelmsford, Barking, Bradwell and ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.30am. Lent Group - Refreshments available from 7pm. No need to book. on top of a hill overlooking the beautiful Stour Valley Colchester will present four lectures on the four themes Evangelism and the Third Age. Thursday, March 17 while the larks sing above us - a short service with of Transforming Presence, the strategic priorities for the ● ● unaccompanied singing. Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. ● diocese. Week two with Peter Hill, Bishop of Barking - Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and Chelmsford Cathedral. 8.30am: Breakfast with the 'Evangelising effectively - How can I share and bear Jean Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout Bible led Revd Kate Moore; 3.30pm: Evensong. witness to my faith?' Refreshments from 7pm. No need ● Tuesday, March 29 Chelmsford Cathedral. 9.30am-12noon. Baby & and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual ● to book. health and well-being. Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. ● Toddler Group in St Cedd’s Hall. St Mary's Ilford, 426 High Rd (corner of Buckingham ● Chelmsford Cathedral, north transept. 7.30pm. ● St John’s, Stratford. 7.30pm. Lent lecture series: 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group. Road), Ilford, IG1 1TX 8pm. Lent Course: ‘Migration Wednesday Evenings in Lent at the Cathedral – Faith John Wraw, Bishop of Bradwell: “Re-imagining Ministry Wednesday, March 30 and movement’, a Christian response. – What is ministry and what part can I play?” ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on ● and Film. A reflective series of talks with five different A Deeper Walk - Lent Course. Emmanuel Church, speakers showing an excerpt from a favourite film of Refreshments from 7pm. No need to book. Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Billericay CM12 9LD. 7.30pm. Find out more at www. theirs, and then talk about how it connects to their faith: Friday, March 18 Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. billericaychurches.org/html/news.php. Paul Hutchinson, Mayor of Chelmsford - Mrs Miniver. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime April 2016 diary deadline Wednesday, March 2 The evening ends with Compline (Night Prayer), Concert by St Cedd's School. Admission is free, but we ● Submit event details at www.chelmsford. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.30am. Lent Group - finishing at 9pm. Entry is free. welcome your contributions, which are divided between anglican.org/eventsform or call Sarah Newman Evangelism and the Third Age. ● St John’s Colchester. 7.30pm. Lent lecture series various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light on 01245 294443 by March 1 for inclusion in The ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on week three. Roger Morris, Bishop of Colchester – refreshments are available in the Cathedral from 12 Month and on the diocesan website. Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean “Serving Accountably – To whom do I render my life?” noon, or you are welcome to bring your own if you wish. Latest events Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. Refreshments available from 7pm. No need to book. ● Ss Peter & Paul, Ilford. Stations of the Cross. ● You can find the latest events online at www. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9.30am-12noon. Baby & Thursday, March 10 Saturday, March 19 chelmsford.anglican.org/faith/whats-on 10 THE MONTH March 2016

NEW Beautiful Easter story design

Dark Special Edition

Front & Back

Original

Easter story in the shape of a cross illustrated by Helen Cann and included in Original, Dark and Special Edition eggs.

Out of the 80 million Easter eggs sold in Buy Now this part of the world every year, The Real Easter Egg is the only one which has an Online or In-Store Easter story booklet in the box, is made of Fairtrade chocolate and makes a donation Not enough space for Easter eggs Every year, 80 million Easter eggs are sold in the UK. But with ** to charity from its sales. Easter day falling on 26th March this year, it means there is not enough shelf space available in shops or enough time for online retailers to post them all out leading to shortages. So if you normally Original (RRP £3.99) buy your Real Easter Eggs online, from supermarkets or a local shop, A fresh new redesign. Includes the Easter story in the shape of a cross, a high then act now. quality milk chocolate egg (125g) and Yummy Bar (25g). Must be ordered from us in multiples of 6. Includes a donation to Traidcraft Exchange. The Dark egg and Special Edition are not being sold in supermarkets but can be bought from independent stores or ordered online. You can Special Edition (RRP £9.99) buy now from www.realeasteregg.co.uk, Tesco, Waitrose, Contains a high quality milk chocolate egg (200g), an olive wood holding cross Morrisons, The co-operative or from independent stores, bookshops keyring from Bethlehem, cross shaped Easter story and orange milk chocolate and Cathedral shops. bar (80g). Not available in Tesco this year. Can be ordered in singles. Dark (RRP £5.50) An egg made from premium dark Fairtrade chocolate (165g) with dark chocolate squares (15g) and a cross shaped Easter story. Must be ordered from us in multiples of 6.

**There is a charitable donation for every 150g egg sold. Find your nearest shop at: www.realeasteregg.co.uk Cornerstone-compassion-ad2.pdf 1 11/02/2016 10:23 THE MONTH March 2016 11 ANNA MARIA LORETO, AGE 7, PHILIPPINES, PH 574

KNOWN, LOVED AND PROTECTED

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When you know and love a child, you do anything to protect them.

CHANGE A CHILD’S LIFE TODAY www.compassionuk.org

COMPASSION UK CHRISTIAN CHILD DEVELOPMENT 43 High Street, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 8BB Registered charity in England and Wales (1077216) and Scotland (SC045059) Registered in England No: 03719092 12 THE MONTH March 2016

IN BRIEF THE month — London Underground trains carry prayers Clergy well-being days in demand THE Cathedral hosted an experimental Bishop Stephen pens clergy well-being day last October built around simple times of prayer and silence, gathering around the Word of God and sharing in ways of working and reflecting together. In response to excellent feedback another opportunity to journey together prayers for the trains in prayer and reflection will be offered BISHOP Stephen has contributed on April 27. three prayers (see panel on right) The day will run from 10am to 2pm to SPCK’s Prayers on the Move TUBE LINES and can be booked by visiting the campaign. website at www.chelmsfordcathedral. Supported by a booklet and an THE Bishop of Chelmsford's org.uk, clicking on 'Worship' and app, this campaign has placed prayers appearing on London following the link to 'Clergy Well prayers in 3,000 London Underground trains are: Being'. Underground train carriages Dean Nicholas Henshall says: "In the from February 15. many demands clergy face, taking time I am bone dry, refresh me. The national campaign is for refreshment and renewal is hugely I am careworn, restore me. important. seeking to encourage more I am heartache, revive me. people to give prayer a go by "There are many ways to do this, and I am outside, include me. this day is offered simply as a spiritual placing thousands of thought- support to enable the journey." provoking posters on public transport. My heart. It still keeps This campaign was launched beating. But what for? Encouraging tourists despite recent challenges faced Show me how to measure by other religious organisations my life in something other seeking to promote similar than years. to become pilgrims initiatives. PILGRIMAGE has become a big theme Prayers on the Move is also supported by a a dynamic I have everything I want, in the contemporary Church but you but I don’t know what I need. don’t have to travel to Jerusalem or website, and a host of exciting Compostella (or even Canterbury or events, including a public Prayer Show me what matters. Walsingham) to go on pilgrimage. Walk with the , Archdeacon of from Westminster Abbey to The survey also looked at what Harlow, has convened a group Trafalgar Square. nation’s prayer habits, to coincide broadly in line with the national annoyed people most on public encouraging congregations to see Rt Revd Richard Chartres, with the campaign launch. result, which found that 42 per transport. People taking up more their church buildings as places of Bishop of London, said: "Prayer, Rt Revd John Pritchard, Chair cent of people pray. than one seat came top – this pilgrimage, places where tourists can reaching out beyond ourselves, of SPCK, said: "I was fascinated "Londoners are most likely to habit annoyed 69 per cent of become pilgrims. is something many people do to discover that, even in our pray to give thanks (69 per cent), Londoners – followed by people Martin’s group are planning three without even realising it: praying supposedly irreligious society, followed by praying for a loved having their music on too loud (64 days when people can learn, try things for our team to win; begging for 41 per cent of Londoners pray, one (63 per cent). per cent), littering (60 per cent), out, share ideas, and listen to things the health of a loved one. The and more than 17 per cent of John added: "The survey not moving down inside the that have worked elsewhere. The comforts and benefits of prayer Londoners pray every day. results show that people’s carriage or vehicle (58 per cent) venues are Canvey Island, (May 7), appeal to people who might never "The prayers we are placing on prayers are fundamentally and having phone conversations Barking (June 11) and Coggeshall have thought of entering a the London Underground are unselfish; they see prayer less (52 per cent). (October 15) (all 9.30am to 12 noon). church." designed to enable people of all as a tool for getting what they l For more information, see l To find out more and to book, please SPCK published the results of faiths or none to give praying a want and more as a way to align www.prayersonthemove.com. email [email protected]. a new YouGov* survey on the go.The result from London is themselves spiritually." Sir Barney to give Gepp Lecture SIR Barney White-Spunner will the important role they play in general meeting at 7pm for give the fourth annual Gepp local communities. 7.15pm. Light refreshments will Lecture on Wednesday May 18 In his talk, entitled ‘Sharing the be provided free of charge. HOLY WEEK at Holy Cross church in Space, Sharing the Spirit’, he will l All are welcome. No charge is Felsted. also explore the potential for made for admission but it would EASTER 2016 Sir Barney (right), who recently more inter-denominational places help us to know if you plan to stepped down as Executive of worship. attend, by email to events@ Palm Sunday 20 March Chairman of the Countryside The time of the lecture will be foect.org.uk, or by post to Mrs 8.00am Holy Communion Alliance, is a passionate 7.45 pm following the Friends of Rachel Grainger, Rockhills Farm, 10.30am Sung Eucharist with procession advocate for rural churches and Essex Churches Trust annual Willingale CM5 0QG. of palms 3.30pm Music and Readings Tuesday 22 March 8.00pm Holy Week Concert Free entry St Saviours sets eco-example Wednesday 23 March WESTCLIFF'S St Saviours church is facing commonly used in the home; and information 3.30pm Choral Evensong up to the challenge from the Bishop of from the RSPCA on the dangers of waste to (Please be seated by 3.15pm) Chelmsford to reduce the church’s carbon Ecology services animals. footprint, and raise the profile of good Vicar Revd Lee Mullen is determined to Maundy Thursday 24 March ST Paul's Harlow and St Mary's Little environmental stewardship. make his church a focal point in the community 7.45pm The Eucharist of the Last Supper Parndon have both held an ecology ser- Bishop Stephen Cottrell is leading the local for recycling and good environmental practice. followed by the Watch vice. The services included a campaign to put the Church of England St Saviours want to become a recycling centre Good Friday 25 March presentation on the basics of the at the forefront of efforts to reduce energy for the local area, inviting parishioners to bring Noon Preaching of the Cross ecological systrem, a mime on the consumption, and slow down the rate of along items that cannot be disposed of through 2.00pm The Good Friday Liturgy efects of climate change performed climate change. by Revd Martin Harris. the normal channels. Holy Saturday 26 March To meet the challenge, St Saviours hosted At the end of the service at St Paul's, The church will gladly accept things like 7.00pm Diocesan Service an innovative Eco Christmas Workshop as a panel answered questions from the ink-jet cartridges, used batteries, old mobile with the Bishop of Chelmsford part of an Environmental Awareness Day. The congregation. The panel included the phones, unwanted spectacles, used postage Easter Day 27 March emphasis was on using recycled materials. vice-chair of Harlow Council and the stamps and similar items. Visitors to the church were able to join in a The Bishop of Chelmsford’s initiative is part 8.00am Holy Communion Diocesan Environment Champion, craft workshop to learn how to create Susan Latchford. of the Church of England’s response to the 9.30am Parish Eucharist attractive and unusual Christmas decorations. damaging effects of climate change. 11.15am Choral Eucharist In the church hall, four tables focused on The campaign is aimed at raising 3.30pm Choral Evensong demonstrating different types of craft involving specifically created to be child friendly, and awareness of good environmental stewardship, others using unwanted items such as Friday evenings in Lent and on Monday, Tuesday and recycled items – Christmas crackers made with individual churches leading the way Wednesday of Holy Week, 7.00 pm Compline from cardboard packaging and surplus buttons. locally.

20 minutes of meditation with beautiful choral music. wrapping paper; Christmas ‘trees’ created In the main church, St Saviours showcased Lee and his colleague, Revd Carol Palmer, from old paperback books; rag wreaths static displays focusing on environmental wore green collars to promote the International awareness. Topics included climate change For more information visit formed from scraps of material; and cone Climate Change Conference in Paris. They wreaths constructed from rolled pages of and its causes; information on what happens want St Saviours church to be a beacon of www.chelmsfordcathedral.org.uk sheet music. to our kerbside recycled waste; advice on how light in the community when it comes to Also demonstrated were craft items to be more aware of how much energy is combating climate change.