The Official Guild of Vergers Magazine

The Virger Magazine Winter 2011 Page

www.cofegv.org.ukTheThe VirgerVirgerWinter 2011 Issue 273

The Official Guild of Vergers magazine

The Virger Magazine Winter 2011 Page 2

Shop

Catalogue for 2011 is Out Now!

The Guild shop has Guild branded articles to add a little something to every Verger's uniform, whether a Guild fleece, designed to help the Verger as they tackle the Medieval heating or a Guild gown badge to spice up your official Verger robes. The shop has something for you. Lanyard £2.00 For more information on the shops products, to order a catalogue or Name Badge £7.50 to place an order contact the shop manager: The Shop Manager Silk Tie £13.00 Guild Fleece £25.00 Mr Andrew Baker 70c The Close Salisbury Wiltshire SP1 2EN

Or email direct: [email protected]

Or via the Guild Website: www.cofegv.org.uk

Thanks to everyone involved in the Canterbury Province Festival, this year being hosted by the Ipswich Branch, held at St. John’s College Cambridge. Did you know? For a write-up of the day see Paul Collards article on page 11 The King James Old Testament consists of 592,439 words consisting of 2,728,100 letters.

The New Testament 181,253 words consisting of 838,380 letter (total 3,566,480 letters).

The longest line in the Bible is Esther 8:9 – 89 words, 425 letters.

The longest word in the Bible is Maher-shalal-hash-baz: Isaiah 8:1.

The word “Lord” appears 1855 times in the Bible.

The word “God” appears in every book except Esther and Song of Solomon. Corrections

Caption Competition Following a communication from the artist, Juliet Venter, regarding the Icon As you can see a great day was of Christ in Glory, which she was kind had by all but Just what is our enough to give us permission to use for the Front Cover of the Autumn Edition National Chairman up to? of The Virger, we would like to take this See if you can figure it out for opportunity to make clear that owing to yourselves. necessities of formatting the image had to be stretched to fit the cover. All will be revealed in the Spring Edition of The Virger. This had the effect of distorting the image to a certain degree.

We would like to offer our apologies to the artist, as no denegration of her work was intended. It is unfortunate that images have to be stretched to fit the page.

To view this Icon in it’s proper propor- tions please visit Juliet Venter’s website: www.juliet-icons.co.uk Front Cover: The Nativity by Christus

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Chairman’s Letter— December 2011

I begin this message with a very big thank you to the Ipswich branch and Stephen Stokes for making our Canterbury Province Festival at Saint John’s College Cambridge such a success.

With over one hundred of us to move from location to location it must have been a logistical nightmare; however it was faultless in its execution.

It was a wonderful day, due to the planning and hard work of the branch and the warm welcome of the Master, Professor Christopher Dobson, the Dean, the Reverend Duncan Dormor and staff of Saint John’s College. They even organised fair weather although some still managed to get wet.

Their excuse was that there were wet seats in the Punt but I think someone was splashing about.

My thanks must also go to Stephen for arranging the venue for our standing committee meeting on the evening before the festival. I do not think we have met in grander splendour also thanks to Ian Griffiths for his hospitality as we toured the Chapel of Kings College.

The half yearly Central Council meeting was held at Saint Mary Redcliffe, Bristol, amongst other items we heard from the Training Officer details of our new Training Conference venue. Please look out for information available soon.

We discussed ideas on “The Virger” magazine and web site in which the Communications team are working at present. But do remember these publications are only as good as the information supplied remember the old saying “you can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear”.

Members overwhelmingly indorsed the award of Guild Fellowship to Chris Crooks, former National Chairman and Andrew Page our National Treasurer, also the award of Guild Life membership to Ian Cobb of the Ipswich branch, Congratulations to them all.

Christmas is fast approaching and as we wait for the avalanche of carol services that will hit us, lets us take consolation in the joy of serving our Lord and in the reward of a job well done.

May I wish you all a blessed and holy Christmas with peace, joy and prosperity in New Year.

James Armstrong

A BIG THANK YOU… Job Vacancies Dear Friends,

All Saints’ Church, Wraxall, North Thank you so much for your Somerset, seeks a dedicated person generous gift, presented to me to care for their beautiful Grade 1 at the conclusion of my term of listed church with friendly office as National Chairman in congregation. the summer.

Duties include opening and closing the The cheque that I received church and parish room (daily), pre- was exactly what was needed paring for and assisting with services, to commission a local artist caring for church property, welcoming here in Canterbury to paint a visitors. water-colour of one of my favourite parts of the cathedral – The Martyrdom – the spot where Archbishop Tho- The successful applicant should be mas Becket, later to be known as St Thomas of Canterbury, was murdered in the prepared to work an average of ten cathedral in 1170. hours per week and be flexible with time management. Verger duties at If this has whetted you appetite to see the area in reality, and see the original picture weddings and funerals are paid a close-up, do sign-up now for the 80th Anniversary Festival to be held in Canterbury separate set fee. Cathedral on 25th September 2012.

Please contact The Canterbury Branch are looking forward to welcoming you. The parish office Tel: 01275 852442 or Please see the application form in this edition of the Magazine, or download one either of the churchwardens from the website www.cofegv.org.uk . Eileen Tel: 01275 856597 or If neither of these work for you, just write to me at Cathedral House, Bob Tel: 01275 851501 for 11 The Precincts, Canterbury, Kent. CT1 2EH and I will be pleased to help. Job Description and Application Form. Again, with my thanks and best wishes, Closing date is Chris Crooks th Friday 6 January 2012

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Chaplain’s Page Dear Friends,

Greetings for Advent and the Feast of Christmas!

As I reflected on our preparation for the great Feast I wondered what difference it made to our lives that the ‘Word made flesh’ had come among us and that the humanity of Jesus had become for a while the focus of our lives. As I pondered over this I came across this poem by the Canadian poet Louise Granaham and hoped it might provide some food for thought and reflection.

When Christ was born

Where were you What did you do when the child was born? when the child was born? Looking for a way to follow a star, Welcoming the child into my life, Seeking a treasure to keep in my heart. Marvelling at the gift that came to be.

What did you hear What did you say when the child was born? when the child was born?

Singing the love of Mary and Joseph, Praying for truth to be known by all,

Dancing the light with angels above. Thanking the one whose grace makes us free.

What did you see What did you give when the child was born? when the child was born? Witnessing a piece of Heaven on Earth, Offering my faith to follow his truth, Wondering how God can love me so much. Awaiting the promise of love without end.

What did you feel What were you given when the child was born? when the child was born?

Hoping for life for those without hope, Knowing that I am held in God’s love, Longing for one who would change the world. Trusting that I am also a gift.

Christmas can so easily pass us by – we are all too busy: occupied with the frenzy of Carol Services, the logistics of putting up a 36ft Christmas Tree (at least in Hereford Cathedral!), as well as all the personal busyness of getting presents posted and cards written. Of course, these things too are part of the Feast: but compared with the reflection of what it all REALLY means, a very small part.

I do hope that you might be able to set aside an hour (or two) to consider what difference the Feast of the Incarnation will make to the way you live your life during the next months and years.

With every blessing and my love,

Canon Maureen

Prayer Requests

If you know of someone for whom prayers would be of benefit or someone who has been prayed for and has recovered/shown improvement, please inform the National Welfare Officer or National Chaplain

Blackburn, Chester & Manchester: Margaret Scott Chichester, Guildford & Portsmouth: David Lee & Family Gloucester, Hereford & Worcester: Paul Birkin, Colin Rodway & Jim Wooldridge Oxford: John Bayliss, Don Mitchener& Margaret Morris Rochester: Victor Warren Saint Albans: Peter Hudson Salisbury: Babs Taylor Somerset & Avon: Marek Barden, ‘Dick’ Chenoweth, Lionel Holway, Christopher Jones, Peter Martin & Ian Millard York: John Roycroft

And everyone not specifically mentioned who needs love, counseling and the grace of Our Lord

R.I.P. Margaret Frances Young – London & Southwark Branch R.I.P. Denis Strange – Oxford Branch

The Virger Magazine Winter 2011 Page 5

CHESTER, LIVERPOOL & After the service there followed a barbe- later in the day was the exact oppo- cue in the church garden. There was site...warm, sunny and most welcoming. MANCHESTER BRANCH more than enough food, burgers, chicken and sausages, with a good se- We had gathered earlier on the front at Visit to Dunham Hall lection of salads. This was followed by a Littlehampton, and after a leisurely good variety of sweets and then a birth- stroll, led by Chris Weymouth, the th 11 July was a cloudless, sunny day, day cake. We all sang Happy Birthday verger at Saint Mary’s, Yapton, a when 17 vergers and friends met for a to Valerie and all got a piece of cake. It “proceed” of vergers and companions visit to Dunham Hall in Cheshire. We was a delightful day, but a disappointing were led to a most interesting fish res- gathered in the Stables Restaurant for turn out by the vergers. taurant on the quay, that Chris knew coffee then went into the Information well, where we were able to enjoy the Centre for a talk about the Hall. We Visit to Saint Peter’s, Scorton most splendid lunch, of locally caught then split up into two groups for guided fish and the English accompani- tours of the Hall and Gardens. The weather was not so kind to us when ment...chips! Delicious! the Branch met at Saint Peter’s, Scorton The Hall is a superb place to visit, the near Garstang, on Tuesday 6th Septem- The venue was adorned with all manner furnishings are lavish to say the least, ber to celebrate Pam Derbyshire’s 25 of sporting memorabilia, the hosts had and you are even allowed to sit on the years as a Verger there. We had to come from the east end of London, and chairs and sofas. At lunchtime some travel through torrential rain, which was are huge fans of the sport of boxing, the members had brought a picnic, with it causing floods in places. restaurant reflected their passion and being such a pleasant day, one or two contacts with the boxing industry, and bottles of wine were shared between The Eucharist was celebrated by the was adorned with posters, boxing everybody, it made us all feel very con- Area Dean. The church was really gloves and everything that represents tented. packed with vergers and friends. We professional boxing. We lingered, en- were also very pleased to welcome the joying the display and reminiscing on After lunch we all changed tours, some National Chairman, James Armstrong, the likes of Cassius Clay, as he was going to the Hall and the rest to the who gave us a talk about the Guild and then and Henry Cooper, one of our all Gardens, which are also well worth a himself. The Area Dean’s sermon was time sporting heroes. After an ice visit. The knowledgeable guide told us all about ‘Keys’, the duties of Vergers to cream, watching the boats, the sea and all about the plants and trees, also be the Doorkeepers—opening up, being the world in general going by suitably about the ‘Parterre’, the way the plant- the first to welcome people and locking replenished, we made our way to Saint ing is done in colour order, and gave us up after services were over. First in, last Mary’s Church, Clymping, where we tips on how to grow things in our own out. Afterwards there was a large buffet were able to explore this ancient and gardens. After the tours we all met up and a cake to celebrate Pam’s 25 years reverent place, set in the most beautiful again for a group photograph. It was a as Verger. of settings, near to the sea. most enjoyable day. The weather was still terrible, high A big thank you to Freda Murphy, winds and torrential rain on the journey It dates back to 1170 and is really an Verger of Christ Church, Timperley, for home, but we all got home safely. architectural gem. The Norman tower arranging the day. was originally built as a watchtower, Geoffrey Timms and later the stone built church was Visit to Saint Mary’s, Davyhulme Branch Secretary added in 1230, in

the purest English style and has been left largely unaltered for 750 years. It was mentioned in the Doomsday book, and was built from stone brought from Caen in Normandy, France. A magnificent Crusader Chest used to be housed in the South transept. In 1166 and again in 1200 orders were given that every church was to install a chest for the collection of arms, equipment and most importantly, money, so th Tuesday 9 August was another cloud- that the poorer people of the parish less, sunny day, when seven vergers CHICHESTER, GUILDFORD could take up arms and join the Crusad- met at Saint Mary the Virgin, Davy- ers in the Holy Land. th & PORTSMOUTH BRANCH hulme, to celebrate the 70 birthday of Valerie, our Secretary/Treasurer’s wife. Still in good condition, apart from the After the usual coffee, tea and choco- Summer visit to Clymping …. fragile pin-hinged lid, some of the iron late biscuits, we had a talk by a gentle- Sussex by the Sea bands and chains for securing the chest man from the American Episcopal remain, but the original locks have been Church in Charlotte, USA. I wish I could say that twenty-five verg- lost over time. However the chest has

ers and their friends travelled to Little- been removed to Chichester Cathedral, We then robed and processed from hampton West Sussex on our south presumably for safe- keeping. It was the church hall, around the outside of coast on a glorious warm and sunny standing room only in churches until the the church to enter by the North door th July day, to enjoy the hospitality of 15 century when pews were intro- for the Eucharist. Our American friend Gillian Wintle a recently admitted verger duced, (the origin of that expression ” read the Epistle and the Reverend Deb- of Saint Mary the Virgin, Clymping but go to the wall”… easier to lean on the orah Prest, Curate of Christ Church, unfortunately…I cannot. wall, if you were weary or frail! ) the end Timperley, read the Gospel. The panels of these wooden pews are still in Eucharist was celebrated by the Rever- The weather was grey, chilly, windy and place towards the front of the church. end Chris Ford, Vicar of Saint Mary the downright typical of our summer! Our There is also a series of paintings on Virgin. reception from Gillian and her friends oak panels that depict the life of Christ,

The Virger Magazine Winter 2011 Page 6

th and the 14 century stone pulpit proved community. It was founded in the late ROCHESTER & to be of special interest to the visitors. 19th Century by Nathaniel Woodard and EAST CHICESTER BRANCH built of stone from the nearby quarry at Gillian had pointed out the beauty and Staynes Hill – indeed the founder’s son antiquity of the church earlier, and it is W.B. (Billy) Woodard was the Master Visit to Rye certainly well worth a visit, if you are a Builder, with resident masons on site lover of fine churches and happen to be and at the quarry. Set high on the South Late September saw the Rochester & in the area. For a village church it is Downs, Lancing College Chapel is a East Chichester Branch visit Saint considered to be large, the nave and magnificent building but its growth has Mary’s Church in Rye, joined by Mem- chancel being nearly 100 feet long and been spasmodic over the years and did, bers of the Canterbury Branch. it is interesting to note that thirty gen- in fact, cease completely with the First On what began as a grey, drizzly day, erations of the Clymping faithful have World War until the 1950’s, apart from we were warmly welcomed by the Rev- enjoyed worshipping in this beautiful the War Memorial Cloister being built erend David Frost, and his Verger, and spiritual place. between 1921 and 1927. The Chapel Tony Douglas. boasts a fine Walker organ and beauti- After morning coffee, with the most deli- ful rose window. Sadly, the building is cious homemade shortbread, at nearby still not finished according to its foun- Fletchers’ House, we enjoyed a beauti- der’s wishes and an appeal has been ful Eucharist in Saint Mary’s Clare launched to raise £3 million in order to Chapel. A special time for us all. complete the west end of the Chapel by We retired again to Fletchers’ House building a porch. There is a large Crypt for an equally delicious and compan- with small Chapels where we enjoyed a ionable lunch, and were thoroughly welcome cup of tea before saying Com- spoilt—Guild Members do enjoy their pline and making our farewells prior to food on days out! our journeys home. Afterwards, Reverend Frost gave a Cynthia Taylor most interesting guided tour of his Branch Correspondent church, a fine historic landmark for We were treated to a most splendid miles around. tea. Home made scones with cream We then ascended the tower, by which and jam were a real treat, and Gillian Get well wishes are extended to time it was a glorious day. We admired and the ladies of the church produced Valerie, wife of Bill Groves, formerly the views as far as Folkestone one way the most delicious sandwiches, cakes Dean's Verger at Guildford Cathedral. and Hastings the other. and refreshments. As you will know Valerie was speedily admitted to hospi- Finishing with tea in the church, we from my previous musings, our branch tal at the end of November for an went our own ways. I reflected it had of the Guild are particularly fond of their emergency operation on her stomach. been what all Guild days should be food, and they were certainly not disap- At this moment of writing she is making about: spirituality, good company, and a pointed with the splendid repast. steady progress, and all the members happy time together. of the Chichester, Guildford and Ports- Further joy was in store, the choir of mouth Branch of the Guild of Vergers Julian Thorn Saint Mary's started to arrive, they extend their best wishes for a good Chairman, Canterbury Branch robed, and we had the sense that a recovery and health and happiness in sung choral evensong would take 2012. place. Several people joined us from their regular congregation, and a most Elaine King beautiful sung service was delivered by Vice Chair the choir and the Rector, the Reverend Richard Hayes who most generously led us through a really enjoyable end to our superb and memorable day in Sussex by the Sea.

Many thanks to Gillian and the Rector, and to everyone who made our visit to Littlehampton and Saint Mary the Virgin at Clymping such a memorable occa- S.T. CHURCHWARE sion. Church Plate  Carved Wood  Altar Wine Elaine King  Hassock Kneelers & Pew Cushions  Vice Chair Vestments & Linen Visit to Lancing College We specialise in CANDLES – wax & Lancing College Chapel is described as nylon oil burning one of the most remarkable achieve- ments of the gothic revival and it was here that 15 members met at the 176 Short Heath Road, Erdington branch meeting on 14th September. Birmingham B23 6JX

Lancing College is a co-educational Telephone/Fax: 0121 350 6177 school of 500 pupils and the Chapel Telephone: 0121 693 6277 plays a large part in the life of the school as well as serving the wider Email: [email protected]

The Virger Magazine Winter 2011 Page 7

Now hear this.

The assistive hearing market is developing, and so are your responsibilities.

James Knight looks at the diverse world Vergers need to connect with.

In the UK alone it's estimated that about 10 million people have a noticeable hearing loss, which is expected to rise to around 15 million over the next 20 years as the population ages, says Julian Pieters, Managing Director of induction loop manufacturer Am- petronic. In the EU alone the number shoots up to 55 million. Without doubt, therefore, there is a need for assistive hearing products.

These products have applications in a variety of different situations but they are especially effective in Houses of Worship. Matt Nettlefold, Business Development Man- ager for equipment distributor POLARaudio explains: “due to potentially poor acous- tics of the building, positioning of loudspeakers and the distance of the listener to the person speaking in the pulpit, having a system which can amplify the audio of the person speaking, as well as music, can be of great advantage to the individual listening.”

Peoples’ awareness of these „assistive listening products‟ – the umbrella name for items such as induction loops and hearing aids – has grown over the years, and recently new legislation has been introduced to improve the quality of life of those with hearing impairments.

As Pieters explains: “Churches have long been the early adopters of systems to assist disabled groups, and hearing loss is a very good example. Induction loop systems have been used in churches in the UK long before any legislation, demonstrating the very substantial benefit these tools can give in a church environment.” However, times have changed since the products were first rolled out, and now Houses of Worship have the same obligations as any other organisation under the Equalities Act – which means it's absolutely necessary for any place of worship to make “reasonable adjustments‟ for people with hearing loss, and the revised standard cites assistive hearing products as a main example of what might be considered reasonable. Many of these products are no longer desired, but expected.

Installing anything in a church application is always difficult, not least due to appearances – but, induction loops, which are al- ready extremely discrete, are not the only option on the market. Installers also have the option of using radio-frequency based devices, which work on the same principle as an FM radio, such as the new “Synexis‟ system – manufactured by German company “beyerdynamic‟.

“The compact receivers in the system can be used with both headphones and neckloops, and feature both beltclips and lanyard straps for a choice of how the device is worn, and with an operating time of up to 20 hours between charges, the Synexis system can cope with even the longest sermon” adds Nettlefold.

Technologies today are more user friendly, cost-effective, and less intrusive than ever before, and with a rise in people demand- ing assistive listening facilities expected in the near future, it's a smart idea to be prepared.

James Knight is Church Relations Manager for audio-visual provider Hans Kolberg.

If you would like some friendly (and free) advice about assistive hearing products or your sound system in general, send him an e-mail: [email protected] — he’s always happy to have a chat!

Obit Denis Strange – 10 January 1934 – 5 October 2011

Denis was an early member of the Oxford Branch following its formation back in the late 1980’s and he, and his wife, Rosemary, supported this Branch’s activities as time and circumstances permitted. Denis was at the heart of the community (he being keen on local history and traditions), in and around Wallingford, Oxon and it was from members of this community, and from Rosemary, their three sons – Andrew, Brian and Chris – and their respective families, that he received support and comfort, especially during the latter years as illness took hold and restricted his activities. He commenced his working life in the retail trade working in local stores and extended into driving coaches and buses; he be- came involved in local politics and served as a councillor for the Henley Rural Council and more locally, becoming the Mayor of Wallingford in Millennium Year, 2000. At the same time, Denis was the verger of St. Mary le More, Wallingford – the Civic Church – the church where his funeral took place on 14th October. Public service formed a major part of his life and his care for individuals and involvement in local issues, was well known; he loved the challenge of championing a cause! He was also a keen supporter of railway groups and loved his gardening, and his Christian faith was uppermost in all that he undertook and achieved. Our love and prayers are with his widow, Rosemary, and all the family, at this time, and the thanks of Oxford Branch members for his input and support over the years, is duly noted.

Michael Golby Oxford Branch Chairman

The Virger Magazine Winter 2011 Page 8

LEICESTER & PETERBOROUGH BRANCH

Visit to Birstall For our September meeting fourteen Members of the Branch attended a service of Holy Communion at Saint James the Great, Birstall. We were joined by some of the congregation. We sang some very lovely hymns and the service was presided over by the Rector, the Reverend Vince Jupp. Associate Member, Clive Mobbs, who is from Saint James’, read the Psalm, the Epistle and Intercessions were read and led by members of the congregation. After the service we were provided with some very tasty refreshments by various members of the Church. We would like to thank our hosts for the evening, Clive and Kate Mobbs, also the Rector, Organist and Choir. It was nice to see our Chairman, Jack Lippitt, again. He cannot get to every meeting due to ill health.

Birstall Church has a long history, the present building dates from the early English period. It is probable that a church has stood on the site since Saxon times. Remains of a Saxon window were found during restoration works in 1869. These have been carefully preserved and can be seen in the North wall of the Chancel, the oldest part of the building. The West Tower contains a peal of eight bells, two of which are rung by Clive and Kate Mobbs. A further extension to the building was completed in 1963. The new Nave and Vestries are linked to the old building and the result forms a blend of old and new in church architecture.

Visit to Saint Mary de Castro In October we met at the Collegiate Church of Saint Mary de Castro in Leicester for a service of Holy Communion. We sang some very lovely hymns, one of which, ‘ We love the place, O God,’ is one of my favourites. I call it the vergers hymn. (If you study the words!) At the beginning of the service the Reverend James Shakesphere admitted two new Full Members to the Branch, Bruce Leat from Saint Dionysius, Market Harborough, and Leslie Michelmore from Saint Mary’s, Humberstone.

We warmly welcomed them and hope they will enjoy our fellowship in the future. Father Rob Stephen, an Associate Priest from Burbage, Celebrated and Preached and John Bence played for the hymns. We would like to thank them and also Clifford Dunkley for being our host and providing lovely refreshments. Eighteen Members along with with Father James, our Branch Chaplain, attended. This is a record number for the year.

Saint Mary de Castro (Saint Mary of the Castle) is the second oldest Church in the City. The oldest work in the present building dates from the beginning of the twelfth century. It has been claimed that there was an earlier Saxon Church on the site. The present building contains a mix of Norman and Mediaeval architecture. There are Mediaeval Paintings at the back of the church, also carved Bosses and Traceried Trusses. The Tower has a ring of ten bells, originally rung from the ground level. The marks of the ropes can still be seen on the arches of the Tower. The Ringing Chamber is now halfway up the Tower.

The Church possesses gifts of silver Plate, also the Churchwardens Staves are toped with eighteenth century carvings. The Pro- cessional Crosses and Sanctuary Lamps are memorial gifts. At the junction of the Nave and Chancel is the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary, to whom the Church is dedicated. Many find it helpful to say a prayer here and to light a candle for themselves and those for whom they pray. This Church has an Anglo-Catholic tradition of services which I love, and probably some of the other Guild Members do too. It was nice to see John Walters who cannot be with us every time due to ill health. Let us hope and pray that he can join with us when he can. AGM In November we held our AGM at Saint Bartholomew’s Church Hall, Kirby Muxloe. Fifteen Members were in attendance. In the absence of our Branch Chaplain, Clive Mobbs led the opening and closing prayers. Our Branch Chairman, Jack Lippitt, thanked the Officers for their hard work during the past year and gave names of those who had sent apologies. Mary Mozley has stood down as treasurer, she has done it for five years, and will be a hard act to follow. But Clive Mobbs has agreed to take over.

After all the other items on the Agenda had been dealt with, the following Members were elected as Officers. Jack Lippitt—Branch Chairman, Kate Mobbs—Secretary, Clive Mobbs—Treasurer, Marjorie Thomas—Correspondent, and Sylvia Crawley—Magazine Distributor. We prayed for those Members that were unwell during the meeting. Due to Capitation Fees etc... Being changed to March deadline each year, it was decided that we would have an Extraordinary Meeting at the end of January next year to approve the new fees. At the end of the meeting, light refreshments were served by Jean, Sylvia, Mary and Brian. We would like to thank them for being our hosts.

Kate, Clive, Pauline and her husband, William, and Margaret attended the Canterbury Province Festival in Cambridge and all enjoyed a lovely day. We wish all Members, Local, National and International, a very Happy Christmas and a Healthy New Year.

Marjorie Thomas, DipGV Branch Correspondent

The Virger Magazine Winter 2011 Page 9

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The Virger Magazine Winter 2011 Page 10

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The Virger Magazine Winter 2011 Page 11

LONDON, SOUTHWARK & CHELMSFORD BRANCH

Visit to Croydon Minster

On 28 September members of the Branch visited Croydon Minster at the invitation of the Verger and Admini- stration Officer, our Branch Secretary, Denise Mead.

After some welcome refreshments we Saint Luke’s Day in Cambridge were given a guided tour of the Minster, which was only awarded this A lovely sunny October day found Teresa and I, once again, invited to share the day status in May 2011, and the Bell Tower. with the Church of England Guild of Vergers for their Festival. This year it was or- Croydon Minster was severely dam- ganised by the Ipswich Branch and held at the College of Saint John the Evangelist aged in a fire in 1867 but was rebuilt in Cambridge. incorporating the remains and was re- consecrated in 1870. It still contains Approximately ninety vergers and associates from around the country arrived for several monuments and fittings saved registration and a welcome to the College, this year celebrating 500 years since it from the fire. was founded by Lady Margaret Beaufort, mother of King Henry VII. Those of us not robing then made our way through the beautiful college courtyards, The Minster is believed to have been across the Bridge of Sighs, to the 19th century Chapel, designed by Sir George Gil- founded in Saxon times since there is a bert Scott, for the Eucharist. record of “ a priest of Croydon” in 960, although the first record of a church The procession of vergers and chaplains entered followed by the altar party, Mat- building is in the Domesday Book thew Kemsley, Sub Deacon, Reverend Dr. Stephen Griffiths, Deacon, and the Cele- (1066). brant Reverend Duncan Dormer the Dean of Saint John’s Chapel. It has close links with the Archbishop of Canterbury who had a Palace in Croy- The address was given by Reverend Canon Dr. Maureen Palmer, the National don. Six Archbishops are buried in the Chaplain for the Guild. The Reverend Dr. Stephen Griffin of Linton Parish Church Minster and many more would have was then admitted as Chaplain of the Ipswich Branch. Proceeds from the retiring worshipped there. collection were given to Saint Luke’s Healthcare for the Clergy.

For Evensong we processed in with the After a group photograph everyone enjoyed an excellent lunch in Hall. Girl Choristers (one of four choirs at the The afternoon allowed for a choice of activities: a city tour, punting, a visit to the Minster) and their Choirmaster Andrew College Library, a guided tour of the College or a combination of these. Cantrell. The Officiant for Evensong Tea was an opportunity to reconvene and offer thanks to the organising team, Laur- was the Curate Tim Goode. ence Kidman, Steven Stokes the Chapel Clerk, Matthew Kemsley, Area Leader, and The evening was completed by a won- other Ipswich Branch members. derful supper prepared by Denise and husband Melvyn. Thank you both for Refreshed by tea and cake we then returned to the Chapel for Choral Evensong as the hospitality and to the other mem- set down by the 1662 Book of Common Prayer. Thus spiritually refreshed, “goodbyes” were said to old and new friends as we made our way home. Another memorable and uplifting day cou- pled with an invitation to the 2012 Festival to be held in Canterbury.

Paul Collard

Congratulations to .....

Matthew Buckmaster on his appointment as Head Verger at: St Mary Redcliffe, Bristol

The Virger Magazine Winter 2011 Page 12

Saint Albans, Copenhagen YORK BRANCH Reading through the Autumn edition of the Virger, I was interested to see an article about Saint Alban’s Church in Copenhagen. The church is situated near the harbour Visit to Sledmere th by the famous Gefion fountain, the largest in Copenhagen and a short walk from the Tuesday 6 September 2011 Little Mermaid statue on Langelinie.

Way up in the windswept wilds of the I worshipped there whenever possible whilst work- Yorkshire Wolds is an oasis of calm, ing in Denmark in 1961/62 and have been back rustic tranquillity that was carefully many times since. I have very happy memories of crafted by Capability Brown. Sledmere that church, especially at Christmas time. House, west of Driffield, was our desti- Having celebrated Christmas in Scandinavian fash- nation for the day at the invitation of the th ion on Christmas Eve, the following morning I would 8 baronet, Sir Tatton Sykes and his take the train to Ǿsterport station and walk across brother. Citadel Park to the church. On the way I could hear They in turn were our guests at the church bells ringing including the bells of the nearby Anglican communion service that Russian Orthodox Church and, as I approached, the small carillon of Saint Albans.

Once inside there was a warm welcome and a lovely Christmas Communion. Then it was back to Hellerup to join in a traditional English Christmas Day with my aunt and her family. Yes... two Christmas celebrations! On other Sundays after the service, some of us would go back to the Chaplain’s house for a chat and a cup of tea. On two occasions I played the organ for services there. Whenever I visit Denmark I always try to attend a service.

My last visit was three years ago, when I took communion with a congregation of over 100 of many nationalities. As you walk in, service sheets in various languages are available, although the service is conducted in English. A lot of development is taking place in the vicinity of the church and I hope it will not marked the beginning of our visit, which be dwarfed by tall buildings when the work is completed. took place in their family’s Catholic The photo shows the east end of the church with part of the Gefion fountain in the chapel. foreground. I will certainly look out for Jane Passant when I am next in Copenhagen! After lunch nearly 30 vergers and family then enjoyed a specially arranged tour Richard Babington of the house which took us behind the Branch Chairman roped-off areas. It was a considerable relief that we were allowed to sit in some of the many chairs and divans in Deadline for the Spring issue: Friday 25th February 2012 this home which was painstakingly re- stored after a major fire in 1911.

One of the unusual features is an organ ROYAL BRITISH LEGION at 90 placed at the bottom of the central stair- case which has pipes located in a cu- I have been a member of the Hornchurch Branch of the Royal British Legion for pola far above. Its ability to fill the some years. Our branch is one of the oldest in the country, having been formed 90 house with sound was demonstrated by years ago. trip organiser and Branch Chairman, Richard Babington throughout our visit. This year is also the 90th Anniversary of the national Royal British Legion, and so I felt very honoured to be invited to the national Service of Thanksgiving at Westmin- Next door to the house, but inaccessi- ster Abbey on 20th September 2011. ble from the estate itself, is the parish church of Sledmere, the maintenance The service was conducted by The Very Reverend Dr John Hall, Dean of Westmin- of which the Sykes family has sup- ster, with the Westminster Abbey Special Service Choir singing Psalm 121 and the ported financially, despite their own Anthem, Greater Love Hath No Man. Catholic faith. Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal was received as the Queens’ representa- An attractive building, it was left where tive, together with the Lord Mayor of Westminster. it was when the rest of the village of During the Act of Remembrance, a wreath in shape of 90 was carried from the altar Sledmere was relocated to improve the by two service personnel and laid on the Grave of the Unknown Warrior by the Prin- view for the masters of the House back cess Royal. in the 18th century. The packed congregation of the Abbey sang the hymns, Praise, my soul the King of On a purely practical note, the signage heaven, I vow to thee my country, Guide me, O thou great Redeemer and How around the entire estate was a model of great thou art with some gusto. simple, unobtrusive clarity and could The four Chaplains of the Armed Forces said the prayers in a very moving service. It usefully be copied by many churches was a very poignant occasion in which I was fortunate to be able to share. that also cater for large visitor numbers. Alan Taylor Neil Pickford Branch Correspondent Branch Publicity Office London, Southwark and Chelmsford Branch

YorkThe Virger Province Magazine Winter Festival 2011 Page 13 Cathedral Church of Saint Nicholas, Newcastle upon Tyne Tuesday 8th May 2012

By kind permission of the Dean and Chapter of Newcastle, the Durham and Newcastle Branch of the Church of England Guild of Vergers is hosting the York Province Festival at Saint Nicholas’ Cathedral, Newcastle.

This is a great opportunity to visit our historic, bustling ‘party’ city, share in traditional choral worship, but most importantly, to renew old friendships and turn new acquaintances into friends.

Programme

From 9.30 a.m. Registration and refreshments in the South Transept 10.30 a.m. Welcome by the Dean followed by tour of the Cathedral 12.00 noon Eucharist in the Quire 1.15 p.m. Lunch in the Cathedral Refectory 2.30 – 4.00p.m. Tours: Trinity House or Guildhall or free time to explore Newcastle 4.00 p.m. onwards Tea in the Cathedral Refectory 5.00 p.m. Robing prior to Choral Evensong 5.30 p.m. Choral Evensong followed by group photograph 6.30 p.m. Depart

Travel and Accommodation

Newcastle is situated on the main East Coast Line. North-south services are reasonably frequent and the Cathedral is five minutes' walk from Newcastle Central Station.

By car from the south, the A1(M) then A184 & A189 (or the A167) give direct access to Newcastle city centre. The nearest public car-park is in Dean Street which again, is 5 minutes walk from the Cathedral. Newcastle Airport is linked directly to the Central Station by the Tyneside Metro system.

There are plenty B&B’s and Hotels in Newcastle the details of which are available from Newcastle/Gateshead Tourist Information: http://www.newcastlegateshead.com/ Tel: 0191 440 5720.

If you have any queries at all regarding your visit please contact Gordon Scott, Head Verger. Tel: 0191 232 1939 E-mail: [email protected]

The VirgerApplication Magazine Winter Page 2011 Page 14 One per person (photocopies accepted)

Full day’s events including lunch £20.00 O Full day’s events excluding lunch £10.00 O

Cheques to be made payable to ‘CEGV Durham & Newcastle Branch’ - (Festival) and sent with this form to Roy Foster Esq., 47, Moormill Road, Kibblesworth, Gateshead, Tyne & Wear, NE11 0YP.

A receipt will be issued as confirmation together with other relevant information. ______

Menu Please indicate choice...

Starter: Vegetable soup

Main course: Glazed gammon or O Roast beef or O Stilton and broccoli quiche or O Mozzarella and tomato tart O All served with a selection of rice & pasta, garden salad, potato salad, etc.

Dessert: Cheesecake and cream or O Eaton Mess O

Cheeseboard:A selection of Northumbrian cheese with biscuits.

Tea, coffee and biscuits to follow.

A glass of wine is included with lunch and soft drinks are available at the counter.

Do you have any special dietary requirements?

...... ______

Tours

Newcastle Trinity House or O Newcastle Guildhall or O Free time to explore O

Name:......

Address:......

......

Telephone:...... E-Mail:......

If you are under 18 years of age on the day you will need to be accompanied during the day’s events by a named responsible adult, who will be:

......

Closing date to guarantee inclusion for lunch is 10th April, 2012

The Virger Magazine Winter 2011 Page 15

Book Review The Incredible Journey by Steve Brady

Not another book of Bible readings…and for the time of year when every moment disappears frighteningly fast. Surely there is an over-abundance of such material?

But this book is different as it ranges each day, from 1 December to 6 January, on an incredible journey through the Bible, demonstrating time and again the love shown by God to mankind, who repeatedly, of- ten seemingly wilfully, appears to delight in rejecting Him. Each day focuses on a Bible passage from Genesis through to Revelation with comments and questions, ending with a short reflection.

Thus, on Christmas Eve, the chosen passage is 1 John 4:7-21 where the references range from Aldous Huxley through to Harry Belafonte and Superman! All are relevant, as the questions posed are ‘whom did God send?’, ‘why was he sent?’ and ‘what was achieved?’ With very skilful writing, using personal examples to demonstrate the contemporary relevance of the Bible passages, this book succeeds and I found myself looking forward to the surprises in store for the next day. Never predictable; where is the logic of Nehemiah being followed by 2 Chronicles on subsequent days, for example?

Each day’s study could be read in ten minutes but I repeatedly found myself going off down all the side roads offered in the text. Perhaps this is the joy of a book written by someone who teaches; they have the skill to dangle a carrot of knowledge for their reader to reach out towards. Whatever your starting point this book of readings brings home the amazing invitation from God, to allow him to accompany us on the rest of our incredible journey through life. Even if you have never before bought yourself such a book can I suggest you try this, call it an early Christmas present to help through the hustle and bustle of preparation, you won’t regret it!

Forthcoming Events 2012

Tuesday 8th May: York Province Festival — St Nicholas’ Cathedral, Newcastle

Tuesday 25th September: Canterbury Province Festival — Canterbury Cathedral (80th Anniversary of the Guild)

2013 September: St Albans

The Guild Training Course

At the recommendation of the General Synod, the Central Council of the Guild formulated a course, to cover the work and ministry of the Verger.

The Course is formulated in two stages.

First is the Foundation Unit, this consists of sixteen assignments, covering preparation for worship, care of the building, records and archives, care of the churchyard, and care for the people of God.

The second stage is the remaining three units:

Pastor Unit covering the individual’s personal development, their relationship with people and God, care for others and resources.

History Unit covering the history of church building, architecture, the history of worship.

Administration Unit covering communication, forms & registers, the structures of the Church.

If you are interested in learning more about the Course, please contact The Training officer.