GOODFOR NORWICH NEWS Easter 2009 Do you remember Billy Graham in Norwich? ■ in brief

■ Exactly 25 years ago in June, appealing for people to come along American evangelist Dr Billy Graham and to tell them their stories or graced the hallowed turf of Carrow memories of the crusade. Road in Norwich drawing over 63,000 Entitled 25 Years of God's people to hear him proclaim the Faithfulness, the celebration event will Christian gospel. reflect back on those momentous Church action It was part of the major three-month events of a quarter-of-a-century ago, 1984 Mission England crusade which what happened afterwards and the saw over one million people hear the on-going legacy today. fair to take over well-known American preacher in six The event is aimed at people who football stadiums across the country supported or attended the mission Norwich Forum also including Roker Park, Anfield, and also for those who did not. Villa Park, Ashton Gate and Portman It will include an exhibition and ■ A first-ever Church Community Action Road. videos as well as the chance to hear Fair will be taking over The Forum in From June 9 to 12, 1984, in from people involved at the time and Norwich for two days in June to show Norwich, no less than 850 churches what it meant to them. Christian projects in Norwich that have were involved, raising the £175,000 youth leaders and stewards. Now, quarter-of-a-century on, a Did it change the region's spiritual a direct impact on the social infrastruc- cost and providing 4,500 volunteers Almost 100,000 people responded 25th anniversary celebration is being climate and Christian community and ture of the city. including 1,456 counsellors and a to Billy's message, over the 12 weeks arranged at Norwich Cathedral on what are the lasting legacies today? The initiative is being led by 1,745-strong choir plus administrators, including over 3,700 in Norwich. Saturday June 6 and organizers are ■ see centre pages Transforming Norwich and its development officer, John Betts, and will comprise a two-day exhibition called the 'Church Community Action Fair', with a strap line of 'What we do when it is not Sunday!' Norwich family speak It will be a two-day event on Thursday and Friday June 11 and 12, enabling the general public to get a sense of all the different things that 'the church' does in and around the city to help the community. On the Thursday evening there will of their miracle baby also be a Civic Reception with local dignitaries. This will be addressed by the Rt Revd Stephen Lowe, Bishop of By MIKE WILTSHIRE Urban Life and Faith who is also Bishop of Hulme. He will speak on "Creating a Fine Community – The Role of Norwich family has spoken of their son's Partnership and Faith in Urban recovery from near-death as a baby, Renewal". A nearly 15 years ago, to become a lively Christian projects will be displaying and musically-gifted teenager today. what they do. "You asked for a miracle – and you have got "Our intention is to celebrate, support one!" said a senior hospital doctor to the young and promote the work of organisations mother – also a doctor – after the dramatic sur- who serve so brilliantly in Norwich,” said vival of her premature baby son, Jonathan. John. "The result of seizing this exciting Parents, Michael and Bernadette Cant, recall: opportunity will be that they reach a much wider public than they normally "Our son's name, Jonathan, means 'Gift from God.' do, both Christian and non Christian, It was almost unbelievable that our tiny baby on a and perhaps gain new supporters and ventilator had survived such severe medical volunteers." problems. He weighed only 2lbs 6oz and was in a The exhibition space is now fully coma for three days." booked. Contact John on tel 01603 The senior consultant said he "feared for the 861181 mobile 07906197430 or e-mail baby living", because the child would have so [email protected] much brain damage. "We faced a heartbreaking decision about possibly turning off the life- support system," says Michael. Today, almost 15 years later, Jonathan has a GOOD NEWS remarkable gift for music. As a guitarist, keyboard FOR NORWICH player, drummer, music writer and singer, he leads a band, called 'Back2Front' at his local church. Have your say on Michael adds: "We are a happy family of four, Red-haired Jonathan, right, with his mother Bernie, dad Michael and sister, Isabelle, with family dog, future of Good News including Jonathan's lovely young sister, Isabelle, Barnie, and above, Jonathan as a tiny baby. nearly 12, whose birth was without complications. Bernadette is still a practicing doctor and car accident where another close family friend ■ Good News for Norwich is conducting Michael has seen success as an architect on award- died. My younger brother Geoffrey, then 34, also a short online survey of its readers and winning projects. died in a car accident leaving behind two young potential readers to help determine the However, during his childhood, Michael's children." future for the publication which has been produced three times a year at family faced a dramatic tragedy. "I'll never forget Despite these events, both Michael and Easter, Harvest and Christmas since the day when, as a 12-year-old schoolboy, Mum Bernadette remain people of faith which has 1992. In that time it has distributed over helped them through hard times. arrived with a friend at our boarding school,” he 1.4 million copies to homes across Michael trained in Dundee as an architect and said. “She looked very distressed and we drove greater Norwich. home in silence – I was not sure what to think. later moved to Norwich where he met Bernadette To give your views, and have the Then, in our lounge, Mum broke the news: at their local church. They were engaged within a chance to win a £40 voucher from the 'Darling, your father has died in a car accident' year. Norwich Christian Resource Centre, Michael was numb. His father's sudden death When their son, Jonathan, was born, Bernie, as visit: www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?s left a great void, but other tragedies followed. a GP, knew that Jonathan, their first-born, was m=_2fqq3xvf4dOjWfYymyaZ6JQ_3d_3d "My mother married again, but then my step- "a miracle baby" who had survived a brain father died in a diabetic coma. I was involved in a ■ continued on page two 2 Good News for Norwich, Easter 2009 NEWS latest Norwich & Norfolk Christian news at www.networknorwich.co.uk GOOD NEWS FOR NORWICH Paying attention to what is before us ■ Good News for Norwich is published by Festival ■ "How on earth did I miss that?" I thought to stranger explained to them why these things Norwich, 48 St Giles St, Norwich, NR2 1LP. myself. It was Friday afternoon and I was sitting Rev Mark had to happen. They urged the stranger to stay ■ Website: www.networknorwich.co.uk at home on the settee watching 'Countdown'. I Fairweather-Tall with them. ■ Editorial (01508) 488318. Send copy to Pear Tree don't normally watch daytime TV but it was my pastor of As they ate, the stranger took bread, gave Farmhouse, Wymondham Road, Wreningham, day off and having completed many chores I Norwich Central thanks, broke it and gave it to them. Suddenly Norwich NR16 1AT. felt I deserved a rest. Baptist Church their eyes were opened and they realised the e-mail: [email protected] As I sat and watched, out came the nine stranger was Jesus. How on earth had they not ■ Advertising and distribution: Peter Barnes letters – a mixture of consonants and vowels. realised before? Maybe they were caught up (01603) 743786 Next, the familiar sound of the ticking of the with the events of life and were suffering from ■ Editor and design: Keith Morris clock, as the task of making the longest word 'inattention blindness'. It caused them to miss ■ Writers: Peter Barnes, Kevin Gotts, Mike possible out of the random selection of letters the presence of Jesus Wiltshire, Sandie Shirley. ■ began. As I joined in the game, I kept discover- something that, in different circumstances, We are all susceptible to inattention Printed by Archant Print. would be obvious. ■ The majority of Norwich churches are solidly behind ing the contestants found longer words than I blindness. With the limited processing capacity Let us go back to that first Easter Sunday the aims of Festival Norwich which is to give every did. As they shared what they had found, it of our minds and the many things that take our afternoon when two of the believers were person in greater Norwich the opportunity to respond suddenly seemed so obvious. I could only ask attention day by day, it is all too easy for us to leaving Jerusalem and walking to a village to the good news of Jesus Christ and to bring the myself the question, "How on earth did I miss fail to pay the appropriate attention and see called Emmaus. With all that had happened message of Christ to bear on the social, cultural, that?" Jesus in our daily lives. This Easter – with all over the previous few days, there was much to educational, industrial and professional life of the city. Scientists have researched into why people that may be happening with our family and In order to facilitate the communication of these miss the obvious and have called it 'inattention talk about and reflect upon. friends, at work, in the world – let us take time aims and to improve the exchange of information, the blindness'. The mind is constantly bombarded A stranger starts to walk with them and asks to focus on Jesus. In doing so, we may Festival board decided to publish a periodical with a cacophony of sights, sounds, smells, what they are discussing. After telling him discover new and wonderful things about newspaper to keep the Christian churches, tastes and physical feelings. We have a limited about Jesus' death, the missing body and the Jesus' presence with us. It may also stop us organisations and associations informed. processing capacity and if we are paying claims of women who said they had seen a looking back in the future and thinking, "How Leaders and church members are invited to send attention to one thing, we may end up missing vision of angels reporting Jesus to be alive, the on earth did I miss that?" information on forthcoming events and short articles (with relevant photographs) relating to the demonstration of the Gospel in social action, community care and evangelism generally. This will not only encourage those Christians involved in similar activities but also inform leaders in other churches who are contemplating similar forms of Kendrick concert in outreach.

■ The deadline for material for the Harvest 2009 issue is Friday August 28. Norwich is sell-out

Family’s miracle baby By MIKE WILTSHIRE He is a supporter of the worldwide children's charity 'Compassion', ■ continued from page one. encouraging audiences to understand worship as a way of life, and true haemorrhage, a blood-clotting disorder and other orld famous Christian intimacy with God as well as sharing complications. He was so ill that the senior singer/song-writer Graham in the concerns of young people in consultant advised them to turn off the ventilator W Kendrick, who has a sell-out need. The charity operates in more and let him slip away, as medically nothing more concert in Norwich on Friday April 24, than 24 nations, helping over a could be done. has spoken about his love for the Bible million children. Michael recalls that heartbreaking moment. "We and how it inspires his lyrics. cried to God – 'Take this decision from us – please Graham has been described as a Graham was one of the founders intervene and decide for us.' 'father of modern worship music' whose and the songwriter behind the global "At this point I felt God reminded me how He songs are 'crammed full of poetic, phenomenon called 'March for Jesus', had intervened at the last moment to save the boy divine, biblical truth' that have 'sculpted which has mobilised millions of Isaac, the beloved son of Abraham, from certain a view of God that has impacted Christians to 'take the walls off the death, and I was to trust Him just as Abraham generations.' church' and bring praise, prayer and had. For more than 30 years he has been at acts of goodwill and reconciliation on "Then, at the crucial moment, Jonathan the forefront of Christian music in the to the streets of many cities. suddenly began breathing on his own after three UK having written and recorded All 730 tickets for Graham's days in a coma. He was able to leave hospital hundreds of songs, many of which are Norwich concert sold out in a few eight weeks later, weighing 5½lbs. Brain scans well-known around the world, includ- weeks in January. An Evening with revealed no damage - that was miraculous!" ing Shine Jesus Shine, Knowing You, Graham Kendrick is at Kings The couple say that many people have been The Servant King and Amazing Love. Community Church on Friday April touched by the story of their miracle baby, Graham has written many songs 24 at 7.30pm and is arranged by including a Christian consultant who had prayed around the Easter story - the death and Transforming Norwich with the Diocese of Norwich. with them at the time. Also Bernie's father, who resurrection of Jesus Christ. Two of his Well-known Graham Kendrick is to visit Norwich. came to faith in Jesus Christ as a result of the latest songs are based on the Easter However, there is another chance to recovery of his grandson. message and the Bible message has a big relationship with God, then they have to be hear Graham Kendrick in Norwich on "Yes, my family has known deep tragedies – but influence on his life and song-writing. biblical in their content." Saturday April 25 at Norwich Cathedral also great miracles," says Michael, who is a leader "I make time to read chunks of the Old and Graham has received numerous awards for when he will take part in "Finding a Voice", in a Norwich fellowship of Christian business New Testament at the start of the day. The his contribution to the worship life of the (10-5pm) , a music day for all who want to men. "We also know that God's love changes lives Christian faith is a matter of revelation and church at large, both in the UK and around find fresh ways for music to flourish in – and he is 'just a prayer away.' He promises that if not opinion. The sum total of the revelation the world. Based in the UK he travels church worship. Singers and musicians from we look for him with all our heart we will find of God is seen in Christ, and the Bible from internationally for music tours, festivals, around the country, including Graham will Him." cover to cover points us to Christ,” he said. conferences and training events, as a worship lead a variety of workshops, Details from "So if worship songs are about our leader, speaker and performer. Rosie Sethia on 01603 729818.

Recently Renovated Shop… Greeting Cards - Stationery Cards ‘n’ Things Helium Balloons - Cylinder Hire Corporate buffets, fresh bread, cakes, The Specialist Card Shop filled rolls, sandwiches, Party Products - Cross Stitch Threads Gluten & Wheat Free Products, Reepham Road, Hellesdon, Norwich 485832 187 Reepham Road, Hellesdon Christian Books & Church Resources Good News for Norwich, Easter 2009 3 NEWS Norwich & Norfolk Christian job opportunities at www.networknorwich.co.uk

Norfolk Christian Police group to reform ■ news in brief

■ Norfolk Constabulary are set to re-form their own branch of the Christian US hit movie makes UK Police Association, known for supporting fellow officers and staff, thanks to Sergeant Rachel Thrussell and a debut in Norwich church colleague attending the national CPA conference in October 2008. ■ An American box office movie sensation has made its UK debut not in "I felt strongly that God was telling me Leicester Square but in a Norwich church, organizers believe. to write to the Christian churches Excited voices filled the foyer and the smell of fresh popcorn wafted throughout the county asking for prayer enticingly as people looked forward to the premiere of a major new film in for the CPA in Norfolk," explained Norwich on February 25. However it wasn't at Riverside or Castle Mall Rachel. "It seemed an onerous task where the crowds gathered but at Witard Road Baptist Church. but when I started things began to fall Showing on the big screen at the church was the film Fireproof which into place." has proved a box office sensation in the USA. With the international licence The response from church leaders for the film and members has been immense, with only granted significant email networking. As a direct for this consequence, some local churches have country five started getting in contact with their own days before, Safer Neighbourhood Teams (SNTs) and Witard Road getting to know their local police officers was swiftly and Police Community Support Officers. off the mark Rachel continues: "The Safer to buy the Neighbourhood Teams' remit is to authorisation integrate with their communities at all over the levels and they are encouraged to know weekend. all faith groups. The church “The police service plays a vital role believes that in protecting the public from crime and it is possibly disorder in our communities and we denomination. Currently Rachel and 'Adopt a Cop' visit: www.cpauk.net. Find the first in believe that the Church has a vital role colleagues meet as a group on a regular out more about Safer Neighbourhoods the UK to in bringing a message of hope to our basis and operate with some flexibility at www.safernorfolk.co.uk show the communities." based on local priorities. You can e-mail Rachel Thrussell at film. Fireproof showing at Witard Road Church. The CPA is open for membership To find out more about the aims and [email protected] Fireproof to serving and retired police officers principles of the National CPA and tells the story of a firefighter who, while saving lives through his work, has and support staff irrespective of initiatives such as Pray4YourPolice and Report and picture by Kevin Gotts a dramatic battle to save his marriage, helped in no small way by an introduction to the Christian faith. The film was made by Sherwood Baptist Church, Albany, Georgia, USA with the help of 1200 volunteers from the church and is the follow up to their last successful movie, 'Facing the Giants'. Fireproof, which cost $0.5 million to make, has confounded critics who said that it would be a limited success, by debuting at No4 at the US box office with receipts to date of $33.5 million. The DVD of the film climbed to Crisis food bank No 3 on Billboard's DVD chart and the accompanying book 'The Love Dare' has sold over 2 million copies, propelling it into the bestsellers list. 'Fantastic', 'Wonderful movie' and 'Brilliant' were just a few of the comments from members of the church, friends and invited guests as they left the building. Members have become accustomed to seeing Hollywood blockbusters at their church with a monthly 'Reel Issues' evening, where people look at clips of movies and discuss the associated life issues from a idea for Norwich Christian perspective. See the Fireproof trailer at www.fireproofthemovie.com he idea of launching a crisis the case. The rising cost of food means The DVD is available from the Norwich Christian Resource Centre By KEITH MORRIS By Duncan MacInnes food bank project to offer we are able to help less people. T emergency food parcels to Whereas a box of food used to cost needy families across Norwich and said John. around £20, now it's well over £30." Norfolk is being explored by "Some local churches are already John Betts believes there is the Transforming Norwich to see if there is being called upon by individuals and potential for a number of churches to a demand for the service and churches other agencies to help supply food to work together to really address the willing to support the concept. those who are finding it increasingly issue: "It is a time in which the Foodbank is a project already being hard to feed their families," he said. churches could arise to the challenge operated by groups of churches in up "New Hope Christian Centre and and minister to those who are to 30 locations across the UK, Lakenham Street Pastors are already struggling to cope. This project gives providing three days of emergency seeking to respond in this situation. churches a practical tool for social food to individuals or families in real One local school has asked for help for action whilst sharing the Gospel." crisis, before the statutory authorities families who are in serious need in The Food Bank concept has been can get involved. Lakenham. Lakenham churches, backed by the Archbishop of York, the OPTOMETRISTS & Food is collected from churches, Ipswich Road URC, St John's and St Rt Rev John Sentamu, who said: "This DISPENSING OPTICIANS schools and outside supermarkets Paul's, contributed their Harvest offer- project has a lot in its favour – the fact when shoppers are asked to buy one ings to help alleviate the need." that people can easily get involved, item from a list. It is then gathered into Norwich Vineyard has run a food- that it brings churches together to QUALIFIED ADVICE IN a central warehouse and sorted for store scheme, giving boxes of food to make an immediate difference and that ALL ASPECTS OF EYE CARE use. needy families, for the past ten years, those who seek assistance find person- Food is allocated on a voucher and as news of the service has grown, al and prayerful support - it is a model CONTACT LENS CENTRE scheme basis and collected from requests have started to come in from which I hope to see spread." further afield, according to organizer John Betts is organising a meeting centres where clients are also offered ALL TYPES OF LENSES INCLUDING on Tuesday April 21, 2pm at Norwich advice from experts. Austin Perkins. DISPOSABLES FITTED & SUPPLIED Transforming Norwich development "Although as a fellowship, Vineyard Salvation Army Citadel, for those who officer John Betts is looking for local gives very generously, we are unable are currently involved in distributing churches already involved in similar to meet all the requests we get because food and those who have an interest TEL: NORWICH (01603) 626750 projects to help determine both the the need is so great. We are now in exploring what they might do need and possible support for a similar getting pleas for boxes from as far as together: “The purpose of the meeting 19 CASTLE STREET, NORWICH NR2 1PB cross-church project based in Norwich. Great Yarmouth and Wymondham. is to reflect on the present demands for "In the present economic situation "I have definitely noticed the food being experienced by churches www.dippleconway.co.uk with a credit crunch in full flow, many economic climate making things and our response to it,” he said. people are now finding themselves in worse. It's not so much that we cannot [email protected] difficulties and looking for support," meet every need, which was always weblink: www.trusselltrust.org 4 Good News for Norwich, Easter 2009 NEWS latest Norwich & Norfolk Christian news at www.networknorwich.co.uk Paul is on the fast track

By SANDIE SHIRLEY

hurch minister Paul Harvey is a rally car driver on the fast C track of faith in East Anglia and beyond. It takes him on the knife edge of danger at speeds of up to 120 mph in all weathers. With a passion for motor sports, the Suffolk Baptist church leader at Occold near Diss races at dawn and through the night, across a changing terrain, including disused airfields, farmyards and the twists and turns of Thetford Forest and the Snetterton race circuit. "I never had bags under my eyes until I did this, but using it to share the gospel is dear to my heart," said the man who has taken Jesus out of the church box and into the sporting arena. Revved for faith, his 1993 Ford Escort Cosworth carries the Bible text: Paul Harvey in his 1993 Ford Escort Cosworth. You must be Born Again (John 3:7). He takes the driving seat of the Christian rally sport team, the Alpha and Omega CMT and has shared the thrills and D.J. HOOD spills of faith both on and off road. Now Paul, aged 40, is hoping to win new ground with visits to schools, AUTO-BODY SERVICES churches and youth clubs in neighbouring Norfolk and ■ Cambridgeshire this year. ■ Servicing Specialists in The last decades have seen toil, tears ■ MOT preparation repairing and painting and sacrifice but Paul still holds firm to ■ Accident repairs plastic car parts his future dreams that include ■ ■ competing in the Blackpool car rally Caravan repairs Free estimates that attracts 10,000 people along the promenade. With wife Pauline, the TELEPHONE 01603 487869 couple provide most of the finances for this expensive sport – one day of rac- MOBILE 07765 306972 ing cost £15,000. He swapped his full- time farm worker's job for a flexible grounds man's post 12 months ago to Minister and rally driver Paul Harvey. facilitate his rally mission role. He and his five-man team refuse to race on an Escort Mark II for £3,000. He ladies are usually better navigators Sundays. "There are some events we entered his first event in Cambridge a than men." They have no pre- would like to do nearer to home but year later despite parental threats that conceptions about the holding and they are on Sundays so we concentrate he would be evicted from home if he manoeuvrability of rally cars unlike on Saturday events to keep the Lord's was involved in the dangerous, many men who incorrectly compare day of rest," he said. expensive sport. their performances with normal road Provision has come against the odds. Alpha and Omega CMT is now a vehicles which rally cars far exceed, The team have a premier car once family affair. Brother Mark is the explains Paul. "Once a former male co- owned by the Ford World Rally Team mechanic and together they burn the driver screamed 80 per cent of the and driven by a former world rally midnight oil, preparing the car for the time, which was not very helpful." champion, Carlos Sainz. "We were heavy assault courses. Mark's hi-tech Paul found faith at 19 but the really blessed because the car also has surgery has saved the team thousands foundations were laid when he went to a high build specification," said Paul. including £10,000 when he rebuilt the chapel and pondered creation. One of Due to current expenses for the Cosgrove engine. Pauline is the four siblings, the family was strapped sport, the team only compete in three administrator and his sister was the for cash. There was no pocket money annual events at present – Manby in first navigator (co-driver) before so sometimes he stole from home. He Yorkshire, Goodwood in Sussex and becoming an overseas missionary. left school with few qualifications and Woodbridge in Suffolk. Today she is replaced by student Becky joined a youth training scheme to "This is one way we thought we Pullen. follow in his father's footsteps as a could reach people. For many rally car Teamwork is the key to successful farm worker. "I earned £25 a week and drivers, the sport means everything to rally driving. The navigator is often thought I was rich." He was rebellious them and they can get into serious the unsung hero, judging and and wrestled with adolescence until debt. For some, their life is empty. communicating every turn, jump, crest his brother and sister became They may have a £100,000 car but they and hazard ahead to the driver. Christians and he was drawn to church are still seeking something in life," says "You are running blind with a after seeing their lives change. Paul who visits churches and youth navigator to guide you around so it "I knew I was a wretch and had groups with his rally vehicle and has puts a bit more fear and excitement in done wrong but I had to deal with it," made two appearances at a local the sport," admits Paul. he said. A bedside prayer became the engineering show. "I have had various rally drivers but turning point of confession and Paul was trying out the family car my sister was one of the best," he adds. commitment. Peace came, striving off-road as soon as his feet touched the She never lost her cool and continued ceased and there was a new confidence pedals and he was always enthralled to signal the course ahead despite that changed his life's course with a by motor sports on television. He put hitting a redundant barracks during a thirst for adventure and faith. his enthusiasm to the test in 1990 at the race in Watton after being wrongly For sponsorship details and booking Bill Gwynn Rally School in advised to use a particular set of tyres events with the Alpha and Omega Oxfordshire where he was the fastest in wet weather. Christian Motorsport Team ring: 01379 driver on his course. He saved his "I always say to the navigator, don't 678764 or [email protected] earnings and bought his first rally car, worry unless the car actually stops but or vist: www.alphaomega-cmt.org Good News for Norwich, Easter 2009 5 NEWS Norwich & Norfolk Christian job opportunities at www.networknorwich.co.uk Churches attract more young people ■ news in brief ■ Norfolk's Anglican churches are bucking the Tricia said: "Credit must go to our hundreds of café church called Xpressions in the Chet Valley, Mike is new FGB national trend with a large rise in the number of youth and children's workers, most of whom are where children and families worker, Alison Ball, under-16s attending church, according to a new volunteers. These figures are the result of their said: "Seeing God grow the number of families report. committed work in reaching out and building who have made the café their church has been Norwich president The new figures from the Church of England relationships with children and young people. fantastic. It has been very encouraging to see show average weekly attendance up 11% "The weekly rises reflects the rise in after- many of the original families coming on a (2,800) and highest weekly attendance up 19% school, mid-week and holiday activities being Sunday morning having discovered the café." ■ The new president of the Norwich Chapter of (5,700) in the Diocese of Norwich. offered. Being such a rural diocese has its The diocese is also currently working on a the Full Gospel Business Men's Fellowship is Among all age groups, the Diocese also disadvantages but it can make it easier to get to youth networking website, where young people author and journalist Mike Wiltshire. He succeeds performed well with average weekly (+3% at know the children in your community. Much of will be able to find out more about the Christian Michael Cant, who successfully held the post for 22,100), Sunday (+1% at 19,600) and highest the work with the under 16s is small-scale but faith and ask questions about Christianity. three years. weekly attendances (+9% at 32,200) also going together amounts to a great deal. Churches with St John's, King's Lynn, have begun an after- New president Mike Wiltshire, worked in the up. their army of volunteers are supporting and school Messy Church, building on the interest secular media for more than 25 years and was a These Norwich rises buck figures from across reaching out to young people in new ways and and momentum created by 'Bright Light Night ' commissioning editor with the Financial Times in the country, which show weekly and Sunday it's bringing results." an alternative Hallowe'en party. London. He was also founding editor of the FT's attendance of under 16s falling by 4% and no Last year the diocese received nearly £19,000 Popular Christian band, thebandwithnoname, monthly review of business change amongst all ages. from the Youth Evangelism Fund which was used will be performing at Norwich Cathedral in technology. Diocese youth and children's administrator, for a hand bell ringing group, a puppet team and October 2009 in an event organised by the He and his wife Lois have Tricia Elson, attributes the rise to creative and starting youth clubs in the parishes of Ludham, Church of England Youth Task Force. four grown-up children. innovative youth projects and the dedication of Catfield, Potter Heigham and Hickling. Subscribe free to Fresh magazine on 01603 London-born Mike has youth workers and volunteers. Innovative youth projects include a developing 266316 or [email protected] travelled in 50 countries. In earlier years, he helped to publish more than 100 million pieces of Christian literature in India, while working with a mission group, Operation Mobilisation. Later, the group asked Mike to find an ocean- Norfolk flying doctors going ship to purchase as a training and conference vessel, carrying hundreds of tons of books and medical supplies. He found the right ship in Denmark and this became the first of four such ships which together have in new bid for airplane attracted more than 37 million visitors worldwide. The Norwich fellowship arranges around 20 lunch and dinner events a year with guest speakers from business and professional sectors. During 2009, the Norwich group will be holding all its events at the Maids Head Hotel in Tombland, including its monthly Friday night dinners and Thursday lunches. www.networknorwich.co.uk/NorwichFGBMFI

anyone no charge no hassle no age limit confidential

Right, Craig and Rae Oranmore-Brown, working together in theatre at St Francis Mission hospital, above, a Cessna 206, and left Zambian villagers Drugs Alcohol with all their worldy goods: a set of clothes and a mud hut. Making a difference to young ormer Norfolk doctors, Craig and Rae people and adults Oranmore-Brown, are climbing new By KEITH MORRIS F mountains in their dream to establish a 24/7 helpline Christian flying doctors service in isolated rural areas of Zambia and are also appealing and provided training and anaesthesia support for funds for a new aircraft. to the rural hospitals." 0800 764754 Twenty months after the medical consultants Mercy Flyers are working with Dutch relief left Norwich, Mercy Flyers is now a registered organization CORDAID as well as Flyspec in East of the country, Rae became acutely aware Non Governmental Organisation in Zambia Zambia. of the need for trained surgeons and has now Could you help us and has supporting offices in both the UK Craig has now completed training for his completed her first year of a specialist surgical (near Norwich) and the USA (near Boston). But commercial pilot's licence in the USA and has training programme at the teaching hospital in help others? the couple, who worshipped at Norwich converted this to a Zambian commercial the capital Lusaka. Call Vineyard, are having to climb mountains of license. This sets the stage for the flying The hospital serves those unable to afford paperwork and political negotiating in a bid to operations in Zambia. private health care. 01603 626123 establish their dream two years after they "Our need for our own aircraft has become Rae said: "I am enjoying contributing to the climbed Mt Kilimanjaro to raise start-up funds critical. The charity Wings of Hope in the USA surgical care of a wide range of patients and www.matthewproject.org for the venture. have offered to help us in this regard. A would like to thank health professionals from Craig said: "It is our opinion, shared by Cessna 206 aircraft has already been sourced the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital Supporting people with drug and alcohol related issues which is being partly donated by its owner. Providing innovative education about the risks of drugs and many of our colleagues in the charity sector in who have contributed various items to help alcohol Zambia, that "Unity is Strength" and in We therefore only need to pay $60 000 (around those less fortunate in Zambia. We appreciate Empowering people to make more informed choices working closely together and sharing resources £40,000). This is extremely cheap for this your effort and interest and our patients are we can all achieve a lot more for the aircraft and we are pleading with the public to truly grateful for the difference these items 24 Pottergate, Norwich, NR2 1DX help us raise this amount before we lose this community. The charity has seen over 300 make." Registered Charity No.1122801 patients in the clinics and operated on over 100 wonderful offer." Anyone who would like to make a donation Registered in England No. 6388343 of those seen. The surgery provided so far has After spending the first six months working can visit the website www.mercyflyers.org and been in gynaecology, orthopaedics and plastics at a mission hospital in a rural village in the find various ways of doing this. 6 Good News for Norwich, Easter 2009 FEATURES

■ 2009: what people said Reunion ■ Were you involved or touched Today, 25 years on, what is the legacy of that memorable event.

■ East Anglia North regional co-ordinator Peter Carroll spent two full years on the enormous enterprise. "It was a life-changing moment for a large number of individuals," said Peter. "But the most enduring thing for me was all the churches in the region coming together in co-operation and understanding. Then working together and forging relationships across geographical and denominational boundaries to a common purpose. The mosaic of Christian life in the region changed forever." ■ Tim Stapleford, chairman of the Norfolk Christian Youth Football League, said: "It gave me a greater depth and confidence in my BillyBilly playedplayed Christianity to make this apparent in my high school teaching role and in leading a young people's group on a Sunday morning at Holy Trinity, Norwich. Today, my commitment through faith includes coordinating the une 9, 1984 was a truly memorable day. It was the day that running of the Norfolk Christian Youth Football League, having shared a vision to create this in 1995. Norwich City's captain Dave Watson first played for England By KEITH ■ Tony and Carol Smith currently work in West Africa and met as a J against Brazil in Rio De Janeiro, Heveningham Hall went up MORRIS result of the 'Mission England' crusade. They have been long-standing in flames and minister Ian McGregor and Arthur Scargill met members of Holy Trinity, Norwich and are supported within the church's during the miners' strike. missionary network. Carol said: "At the last prayer triplet meeting before There was also a special souvenir edition of the Eastern Evening Mission England, a friend said that none of the people she had been News dedicated to the first night of Mission England with Dr Billy praying for would come to the event, but a colleague had asked to Graham preaching at Carrow Road. come. We prayed for him; he went forward, and became a member of The meeting was front page news in the Eastern Daily Press and our church. I met him there; we married and are now working with a was covered by national newspapers, TV and radio stations and Bibleless people group in Africa." even by international correspondents. ■ Mission England was an important milestone for the Waite family with Dr Graham told the hushed crowds that he was going to speak to two of them having since become Church of England ministers. Dan them as though it was the last sermon he would ever preach and Waite, 66, is part of the ministry team at St Andrew's, Gorleston where told them that he could not prove the existence of God: "You cannot he was ordained 11 years ago. He was director of a bacon company in go to a laboratory and prove God scientifically. But it is instinctive 1984. He and his wife, Jill, had started taking their two daughters, Sally in man's heart to believe that there is a God." and Alison, to Sunday School at St Andrew's when a coach to Carrow He then asked people to come out of their seats and make a Road was organised. Dan describes how, as Billy Graham was speaking public commitment to Christ and some 3,700 did exactly that. and calling people foward, he felt the need to "get up out his seat" and go down to the front. But he had his eyes closed in prayer and when he ■ 1984: what people said opened them "the whole family had gone as well". Daughter Sally Gaze also went into the ministry. She serves a group ■ Reaction at the time was very positive. One local minister said of South Norfolk churches including Saxlingham Nethergate and has been greatly used to develop new types of church styles and rural work, that the next Sunday morning, he noticed 16 new people in his and has written two books on the subject. small congregation. They all said the same: "Mr Graham told us that we should get into a church where Christ is proclaimed." ■ Dr Peter English, a GP and former lord mayor of Norwich, and chairman of Mission England in East Anglia, said: "I have great joy at so many people coming forward to show their commitment to Christian Books Christ. It is something I have dreamed of for years. It can only be the work of the Holy Spirit; we couldn't & Bibles have organized it ourselves." ■ Rev Hugh Palmer from Holy Trinity, and now Rector at All Souls, Langham Place, said: "I find it hard to take Church Resources in. This is all that we thought would happen and more than we dared hope. I pray that we pick this up and available at… channel it effectively." ■ Rev Canon Gordon Bridger, vicar of Holy Trinity, said: "If we learn this lesson, we should never be the same again." Cards ‘n’ Things ■ Mission England was in fact a three-year programme of local church outreach with the crusades the centre- piece. Thousands of Christians across the region attend- 193 Reepham Road, Hellesdon, ed Christian Life and Witness classes and Caring for Norwich. Tel: 01603 485832 New Christian Courses in preparation with the backing of Bishops Maurice Wood and Timothy Dudley-Smith. ■ More details of the 25th anniversary event on June 6 will be available on networknorwich.co.uk or from Peter Carroll at [email protected] or on 07739 189288.

Bob and Linda Humphries outside the Kedesh drop-in Centre in Norwich. Good News for Norwich, Easter 2009 7 Norwich & Norfolk Christian volunteer opportunities at www.networknorwich.co.uk

by the Mission England crusade 25 years ago? Tabernacle set to open to the public

■ A full-sized New Testament Tabernacle is being erected in a beautiful Norfolk garden and will open to the public from May 23 to June 7. Skilled people from within the Norfolk Call to Prayer team, following in the footsteps of Bezalel and Oholiab, have constructed a full- size Tabernacle as a teaching tool and visual dd CarrowCarrow RdRd aid for understanding the Christian faith. Its purpose is to enable people to encounter God in a deeper way, with the altar of sacrifice broken in two and replaced with the cross of Jesus, and the deep significance of every item revealed. The Tabernacle is available for bookings for local churches, schools and Main picture and inset, Dr youth groups, retreats and conferences, as well Billy Graham as visits by individuals. Teaching tours are led preaches at by Jill Gower, who brings amazing insights into Carrow Road the links between the Old and New Testaments. in 1984. John and Susan Wright have kindly given Bottom left, permission for the Tabernacle to be erected in Billy Graham their garden at Kirby House, Kirby Bedon, in Norwich Norwich NR14 7DZ, and it will be open to visi- with Dr Peter tors from Saturday 23rd May to Sunday 7th English. June. For further information contact: Jill Gower [email protected] or 01508 491770, Annabel Valentine

'The path to recovery…' Can you help women with serious drug and alcohol addiction to find their way to a new life?

Could you: Become a volunteer? Support us in prayer? Consider giving a donation or regular contribution? Consider legacy giving?

To find out more about our work, or Food “miracle” at Norwich drop-in to offer help in any of the above ways, please contact us ■ Hurting and needy people from London, Kedesh has a two-pronged ministry: to welcome wondered if they should serve smaller portions – at: 10-12 Stanley Birmingham and Sheffield have been making their people who would never go near a church, and to until Bob and his wife, Linda, felt that, in faith, they Avenue, Norwich, way to a Christian Drop-in Centre in Norwich, as help train people in the Christian community who should go ahead and serve generous helpings. word has spread about its helpful services. – with the backing of local churches – share the "I remembered that in the Gospel story, Jesus NR7 0BE The Kedesh Centre in Magdalen Street has vision to reach out to the community. blessed the food and told his disciples go ahead Tel: 01603 439905 increased its volunteer support team to 13 people. Bob and Linda gained much previous experi- and feed the people," says Bob. Email: "It's quite extraordinary to see the way things have ence while working at London's Wandsworth Remarkably, Carol then became aware that info@hebron- developed since we opened in July," says Bob Prison and at a hostel for ex-offenders. there was a lot of food left over, so they gave trust.org.uk Humphries who pioneered the project with his The faith of Kedesh staff was boosted at dinners to all nine staff and then offered seconds wife, Linda. Christmas when food, offered free to drop-in to guests till they could eat no more. With the credit crunch, even anxious business visitors, appeared to be 'miraculously multiplied'. "We must have served 50 generous dinners," www.hebrontrust.org.uk people have visited the centre which offers a The staff had bought two turkeys to serve a free adds Bob. "If we had charged for the meal, we'd warm welcome to anyone who wants a chat, a Christmas meal for people who live alone. Carol have been 'on our own'. But this was the Lord's cup of tea, a listening ear or a word of prayer. Legg, the experienced cook and meal co- lunch, and everyone was fed!" One worried man, who came in for prayer for ordinator, estimated they had just enough food Contact: 01603 615100 or 07729 263650, at his struggling business, later reported: "I've had so "with all the trimmings" for 15 to 20 people. 148 Magdalen Street, Norwich, NR3 1JD. much new work come in I can hardly cope with it! But as the number of guests increased, Carol By Mike Wiltshire 8 Good News for Norwich, Easter 2009 NEWS latest Norwich & Norfolk Christian news at www.networknorwich.co.uk

CMA President New church set Mike Fitton on his for developing Harley Davidson. Norwich suburb

■ A new church is set to be launched in a Norwich suburb later this year as a plant from a growing existing congregation. Lively, vibrant but able to bridge the gap between the 1st and 21st century church expe- rience is what Rev Vic Ready is anticipating for Taverham Evangelical Church's (TEC'S) new church plant at Queens Hills in Costessey. "It will incorporate a culture that will have a multi-generational approach to worship where young and old can worship together in the unity of the spirit and share the love of Christ together," said Vic. Queens Hills is very much a stand-alone community that will eventually consist of some 2,500 houses, shops and a sports pavilion, but it already has a great community spirit, according to Vic. For those who are not familiar with this new development, it is very close to the 'Sainsbury's' and the 'Range' end of the southern by-pass. Vic will be taking a team of around 12 from the 120-strong TEC congregation to take charge of this new plant and he, along with Marie Hobbs, will make up the initial pastoral team. The worship will be led by Dan Hobbs and Queens Community Church (QCC) have also appointed Joey Graver, an MA graduate from Loughborough University, to head up the Youth/Student ministry. QCC has been support- ed financially by AoG as well as by TEC and from the outset will be an AoG church. Vic will look after both churches for a year and then look to hand over to the local teams with Fran Tregay and Geoff Brendling already at Taverham. QCC will be launching the Church with a Community Fun day on August Bank Holiday Monday, August 31. Their first Sunday morning Mike gets on his bike service will then commence on September 6 at Queens Hills Primary School in Costessey. Pyrenees, canoeing, motorcycling and back Vic said: "Norwich is an area of real church By SANDIE SHIRLEY ■ packing. growth and, as most successful modern church- Norwich CMA Frustrated by authority, and with a growing es have already discovered, to succeed they violent temper, his police career took a down- must always have one foot planted in modern K President of the Christian ■ The Norfolk branch of the Christian ward spiral. Mike's answer was to move to a culture to reach this generation. The other foot Motorcyclists' Association, Mike Fitton, put a new spin under the wheels of its Motorcyclists' Association meets regularly on: self-built cabin in Alaska by the Yukon River in however, needs to be firmly planted in the U ■ First Tuesday in the month at Costessy Norwich members in a bid to win more bikers the wilderness. But God had other ideas. power and authority of the 1st century church. It Baptist Church, 7pm to 10pm. is important to get the balance right. QCC aims for Christ. The former policeman, who forges ■ He met some Christians while on police duty Harvest Centre, Brandon Full Gospel when their house roof flew off in a storm. to get that balance right and, with the mixture of links with national and international members, church, Fengate Drove, Brandon on the third "They invited me in for a cuppa and I noticed youth and adult ministry experience from the was in Norwich in February to help mark the Friday in the month, 7pm to 10pm. beginning, it has every chance of succeeding." Association's 30th anniversary. ■ The Boundary pub in Norwich on the second the scripture: 'If the son sets you free, you will For more information ring Vic Ready at the He shared his rousing call to swell member- Tuesday of the month be free indeed'. I saw in their eyes the same QCC church office on 01603 865111. ship by 2500 during the next ten years and to ■ Social at the Racecouse on Salhouse Road, peace I saw in the man in Holland." A Keith Morris place a Biker Bible in the hands of every UK Norwich every third Wednesday from 7pm. friendship developed and they taught Mike biker after its remarkable publishing success 18 ■ Witard Road Baptist church most Sundays if about Christ before he heard a tough Welsh months ago. they are not doing runs events or visits. preacher speak about God's love despite his sin "I want to encourage every member and To find out more contact Ken Hardy 01603 and violent temper. affiliate member to find four new members 495277 or visit www.bike.org.uk "I realised Jesus died for my sin and over the next ten years," he said. Renewed everything I had filled my life with just made manpower from committed Christians will me thirsty. I carried a burden of guilt bigger help share the Good News and the love of God an impact and asked me to take his funeral than any pack I hauled over the mountains. I to give hope and encouragement to people, service," said Mike. ran from problems, leaving a trail of hurting explained Mike, at Norwich's Racecourse "Recipients have got the word of God in their people in my wake. I wanted to stop running. I Public House on Salhouse Road. hand – the Bible that brings life – not a worn walked to the front of the packed church and As he addressed new targets for mission, he out document – and it has made a difference in surrendered my life, asking Jesus to change me has seen the Biker Bible exceed projected my life," said Mike, who believes he would and walked out free indeed." forecasts. It was launched in June 2007 – a have taken note if he was given one when he Returning to work, the following day, began pocket-sized New Testament with 24 stirring was looking for the way ahead when he was years of ridicule. But it was the best training global bikers' stories. "Since then we have given younger. ground for evangelism. Mike was injured in a away 22,000 and now we have enough funds to At 16 he drifted through nine European fight and was forced to end his police career. publish 20,000 more.," said Mike. "The original countries. There was a brief encounter with a He became a children's evangelist and idea was to publish 50,000 in five years. cult in Vienna and a memorable Christian in development worker - leading missions in "We are seeing bikers, at Holy Joes (tee-total Amsterdam with haunting eyes of love. "I did Poland and Spain before joining CMA with his refreshment tents, manned by CMA at bike not realise it was the peace of God that passes passion for motorbikes. In 2004, he became rallies) sitting up all night and reading those all understanding," he reflects. their first full-time president: "This is my job stories after a skin full." Returning to England he joined the police and I actually get to ride a bike and tell people It is not just affecting bikers and their force for an adventurous career with fights and about Jesus which is great." families. "One man was given a copy on his car chases. He needed a daily fix of adrenalin He oversees 33 branches and has developed death bed. The motor neurone disease sufferer that included endurance sports. Descending CMA's partnership with World Horizons to into the depths of depression he pushed Queen’s Hill Primary School where the was a confirmed atheist when he read the provide motorcyclists for overseas missionaries new church will meet. testimonies from the Biker Bible given to him himself physically with rock climbing, winter in rural areas. Mike’s travels across the world by a nurse. His wife was convinced they made mountaineering alone in the Alps and to forge a new and expanding mission field. Good News for Norwich, Easter 2009 9 NEWS Norwich & Norfolk Christian job opportunities at www.networknorwich.co.uk

Norwich charities meet Church is on the move government minister ■ Representatives of Norwich Christian social action charities have met with government minister Sadiq eadow Way Chapel is it was in danger of closing due to Khan MP (pictured below) to talk with him about celebrating a year of lack of volunteers willing to engaging faith communities in the delivery of public M holding its two Sunday organise it." services. morning services at Hellesdon The club has just celebrated its The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Community Centre because it has 60th anniversary and each Friday Department for Communities and Local Government outgrown its original purpose-built attracts 60 -100 older people. This visited Norwich on March 23 and included a visit to premises. club is another contact for the look around the newly-opened Norwich Central YMCA. Church chairman, Gavin church's full-time community The visit also included a meeting with Struthers, said: "For a number of worker, Thelma Robertson, who representatives from YMCA Norfolk, the Magdalene years Meadow Way Chapel has works with the older people of the Group, Pregnancy Crisis Norfolk and Norfolk Street tried to become more involved in area. Pastors. the local community. By 2007 we About the same time the church The Under Secretary is also realised that our premises started a coffee morning called keen to hear from faith groups how they are could not accommodate any further "Stage 1 Café" in the foyer of the delivering services of increase in attendance at the community centre benefit to the public and Sunday morning Family Worship offering refresh- how the government could Service. ments and the www.meadow-way.org.uk help them to do that more "Various solutions were opportunity for a effectively. considered during a period of chat. Meadow Way "Faith is a key issue to seeking God's will, then the "There is no is now the government," said membership were surveyed. The doubt that the meeting on Sadiq. "We recognise that survey showed that many felt we church now has a Sundays at faith groups can reach should be more in the community. much higher Hellesdon parts of the community So last February our two Sunday profile in the Community which just cannot be morning services, early morning community, with at Centre and reached by other agencies communion and family worship, least some running other and they make a vital contribution. The amount of vol- were moved from Chapel premises misconceptions groups there. untary work the faith communities are undertaking to the local Hellesdon Community about 'church' means that if we give them public money, we will get Centre. people allayed, and out far more than we put it – it is a no-brainer. "We were already involved in the a number who "Faith plays an important part in people's lives whether they be Christians, Muslims or Buddhists. In community centre, running a wouldn't have come the midst of the uncertainties of the global economic Friday afternoon club for the older to the Chapel, now crisis, people will look to where they can find certainty. residents of Hellesdon. We had attend family wor- Faith communities can help to provide that. Not just been asked to take this over when ship," said Gavin. through their messages but through their practical experience and expertise at delivering or signposting services and by giving a sense of hope and optimism for a better future." The minister met with Mair Talbot from the Magdalene Project, Tish Ash-Lameer from Pregnancy Crisis Norfolk, John Drake from YMCA Norfolk and John Drake steps Keith Morris from Norfolk Street Pastors. They told Sadiq about the work of their charities, the vital role volunteers play in most of them and the difficulties they sometimes encountered accessing public finance to support their work. down after 30 years Pioneering website engage with programmes in the Jordan By KEITH MORRIS Valley as well as chairing a number of spreads its wings companies and charities "I have enjoyed incredible support from so ■ Pioneering ecumenical Christian website Network MCA Norfolk is nearing the end of many loyal and committed staff teams over Norwich has spread its wings and relaunched itself its search for a new chief executive the last 30 years, with each generation to provide coverage for the whole of Norfolk as well, Y officer after the decision by existing bringing innovation and building on the under the banner Network Norwich & Norfolk. CEO John Drake to step down after 30 years success of those who have gone before. I just Web editor, Keith Morris, said: "We have been of distinguished service. count it a privilege to be part of their success. online for over three years now, with more than “My successor will inherit opportunities, John joined YMCA Norfolk on January 1, 1,650 subscribers for our weekly e-newsletter and challenges but most valuable of all the skills 1979, and since then has overseen a massive over 7,000 unique visitors every month. For quite a and commitment of some incredible people." expansion in its size and scope, culminating while we have been covering news, events, projects John and Barbara will continue to live in the opening of a new £3m Central etc across Norfolk as well as those based in locally in a county in which they have come Norwich YMCA on January 5. Norwich. The relaunch simply reflects this reality to appreciate and cherish over the last 30 The organization now employs over 100 and helps us to provide connections and years. staff and works not only to support and communications for the Christian community right YMCA Norfolk chairman, David Ingham, house homeless young men and women, but across the county. said: "John has taken the Association from a also in pastoral care in schools, prison work, "While maintaining our weekly news service in the struggling organisation with significant debt a furniture warehouse, NightStop and Y-Life Norwich area, we are now extending our award- to the excellent state in which it exists today. schemes and providing advice for asylum winning coverage to other parts of the county with We have seen a huge expansion of the seekers. the backing of groups such as Norfolk and Waveney housing work and the spread of the John said: "Barbara and I have been Churches Together. Association's work throughout Norfolk with privileged to see the transformation of the "We hope to be able to help local ecumenical centres in Great Yarmouth, King's Lynn and YMCA over the last 30 years. Although we groupings and partnerships communicate what they Thetford plus other developments which are are now inundated with policies, procedures are up to. If you are interested in the website still in the planning stage. and professionalism the YMCA's core DNA promoting your news, project or church or even "John is leaving us with one of the remains unchanged. The commitment of helping you to produce a professional website as country's leading YMCAs with its probably local people to respond to the challenges of part of the project, please get in touch." unique mixture of urban and rural mission local need as their faith gives them Keith is also looking for local web champions in and activity. It is a thriving business, motivation and courage to do so. Now is the the different areas of the county, to help provide supported by a group of Christian business opportune time for a successor to come and local news and information. John Drake. people with a real heart for meeting the take the Association forward into this new Contact Keith on 07712 787762 or at needs of those who are in trouble." century." give scope for enjoyment, extended travel [email protected] John plans to retire from YMCA Norfolk But John will be far from retiring and is and less bureaucracy. www.networknorfolk.co.uk looking to develop a range of projects that Amongst John's aspirations are to re- on July 31. 10 Good News for Norwich, Easter 2009 NEWS latest Norwich & Norfolk Christian news at www.networknorwich.co.uk Norwich churches share in a passion for life

■ A growing number of evangelical churches in tions, or churches working together. understand that there may be very good rea- Norwich are signing up for the Passion for Life A year of preparation and a lifetime of results sons, both of principle and practice, why some initiative – a nationwide evangelistic project The month itself will be preceded throughout churches may not wish to fully participate. But planned for March 2010, in the lead up to Easter. 2009 by shared evangelistic training pro- we hope that you might include us in your A number of evangelical churches from across grammes, opportunities to pray together, and prayers, and might even suggest that you keep in the denominational spectrum in the Norwich area efforts to build relationships with the wider com- mind what we are intending to do when you are already part of this movement, and plan to munity. make your own plans for evangelism." make the most of the opportunity that this ven- "We believe that the focus on grass-roots wit- "However, we do also hope and expect that ture represents in the region. They include South ness and genuine co-operation will mean this will there are many churches in Norwich and Norfolk Park Evangelical Church, Norwich Central not be just another evangelistic flash in the plan," who can share our understanding of the gospel Baptist Church, Surrey Chapel, Holy Trinity and says Pastor Tom. "It is just as important to us to and our vision for proclaiming it. If so, perhaps St Andrew's. increase co-operation in the gospel between you would like to consider joining with us in this Bible-believing churches, and inspire sustainable mission?" A month of gospel outreach long-term commitment and gospel confidence in The focus of the mission will be proclaiming the our members, as it is to notch-up commitments Gospel initiative gospel message. "Great work is being done in during the mission itself. "Passion for Life" is an initiative of the Gospel our area through projects with a social action "Since Billy Graham, the gospel hasn't Partnerships, a national inter-denominational emphasis," says Pastor Tom Chapman of Surrey the help of visiting evangelists. However, the changed – but the culture has, radically. We must group of evangelical churches which is repre- Chapel, chair of the Norwich area steering main thrust of the work will be done through the convert our churches to share Christ, before we'll sented in our region by the East Anglia Gospel group. "But we want to rise to the challenge of ground-level efforts and energies of ordinary ever convert others to follow Christ." Partnership. Further information about "Passion putting action into words!" church members. for Life", including the basis of faith to which par- The Mission will have a national identity The strategy is to turn all the activities of the Churches working in partnership ticipating churches subscribe can be obtained through advertising and media, and eye-catching churches over to evangelism for that whole "We hope that this venture is something that from the website www.apassionforlife.org.uk activities and exciting larger events will be month, whether through personal witness, small many Churches in our area can be part of to For more details of the Norwich group contact planned to begin and conclude the month, with groups of different kinds, the whole congrega- some extent," said Pastor Tom. "We of course Tom Chapman at [email protected] Financial team aims to help Norfolk Christians

new wealth management and financial solutions company has A been launched in Norfolk specifically to look after the financial needs of the Christian community. Ichthus Financial Solutions is run by Matthew Newton, a Partner with well-respected wealth management company, St James's Place. Venerable Jan McFarlane, the new Archdeacon of Matthew, who is married with two Norwich at Norwich Cathedral. Picture and article children, has worked in the financial extracts courtesy of EDP. sector for the past 24 years, 22 of them with HSBC, latterly as an Independent Financial Adviser. Archdeacon Jan makes He is a regular attendee at Aylsham Community Church since becoming a Norwich Diocese history Christian in May 2008 and says he has a real desire to serve the Christian ■ Norwich's first ever female archdeacon was installed during community with the skills he has. a ceremony in front of hundreds at the city's Anglican "We take a personal pride in looking cathedral on Sunday March 15. after and caring for the financial needs of The Ven Jan McFarlane made history for the Diocese of the Christian community," he said. "In my Norwich when she became one of just 12 female archdeacons various roles I have enjoyed long-term nationally out of 112 in total in the Church of England. relationships and loyalty from clients and She said that she felt privileged to be chosen for the role but their families for many years, providing also acknowledged the pressure that came with breaking new advice in all areas of financial need. ground. "St James's Place Wealth Management, The archdeacon shares with the bishop the pastoral care of who we represent, has a particularly the clergy and undertakes much of the practical, legal and strong record in managing clients' administrative work in a diocese, including looking after investments and has received many buildings. prestigious industry awards." She said: "What is fantastic is I know the people so well St James's Place is a FTSE 250 business Matthew Newton and Carol Smith from Ichthus Financial Solutions. because I have been in the diocese for 10 years and because with funds under management of over provide a trusting, local, accessible and of reviewing existing arrangements to I know the people it just feels a real privilege to be taking on £17 billion and has a charitable consistent service and offer clients a first ensure they remain suitable," said the role. foundation, which in 2008 distributed class investment proposition with a Matthew. "It is a role of offering support to the parish clergy and doing some £3.1m to more than 700 charities. proven track record," said Matthew. "I have the facility to provide work on the ground and I know they are all great people and It offers its services through its team of "In addition we aim to help promote independent research on people's fantastic churches and congregations. over 1,100 financial advisers, 80% of the Christian message by contributing investments and pensions, without "And of course I am the first female archdeacon for the whom also contribute towards the diocese so I do feel a little bit more pressure. It feels like it did foundation. 10% of our income to the church or a obligation, in order to make them aware 15 years ago when women first became ordained, when you Based near Norwich, Ichthus Financial Christian charity of the client's choice." of just how well their existing felt you had to do things better. Solutions provides advice to individuals, Matthew is supported at Ichthus by his arrangements are performing against Ms McFarlane succeeded the Ven Clifford Offer as trustees and companies in investments, PA Carol Smith, also a long-serving ex similar funds with peer companies." archdeacon after spending the past nine years as both pensions and protection, inheritance tax HSBC employee. To find out more about Ichthus communications officer for the diocese, a role she will and will planning. "In the light of recent volatility on Financial Solutions contact Matthew on continue, and chaplain to the Bishop of Norwich. "At Ichthus, our objectives are to build world stock markets and economic e-mail: [email protected] or on long term relationships with our clients, uncertainty, I would stress the importance 01603 891320. Good News for Norwich, Easter 2009 11 EVENTS Norwich & Norfolk Christian job opportunities at www.networknorwich.co.uk

Silent Norwich reconciliation walk ■ events in brief

■ Transforming Norwich has announced that Stewards for the event are being provided Christian centre this year's traditional Good Friday Procession by the Street Pastors team, who will accom- through Norwich will be a silent event, with pany the procession wearing their uniforms. those joining in being encouraged to consider The walk will aim to be at the Cathedral at marks Passover the theme of reconciliation. 5.45, in time for the traditional service at 6pm. In the past the procession has been a 'Walk ■ The Norwich Christian Resource Centre are of Witness' and have marched, with the holding an evening of food and faith on Friday support of the Salvation Army Band, to The At The Forum the procession will hold a Dawn service over city April 3 with a Jewish passover meal. Everybody is invited to come and enjoy some Forum where there has been a short open air two-minute silent vigil, then move off again. ■ The Thorpe & Heartsease Christian Forum delicious Jewish cuisine and experience a service. This year they are being asked to "We want to walk as a silent presence that will be holding a Dawn Service on Easter traditional passover celebration, with its silently consider the themes of Good Friday, speaks of a unity amongst ourselves in the Day: The short service will be held on St and demonstrate a unity in this silence. face of what Jesus did for us on the cross," significance explained by speaker Barry Barnett James' Hill (corner of Mousehold Heath). from Jews for Jesus. Members from churches across the whole says Nicholas Vesey, Chairman of Everyone is invited to assemble at the car of Norwich are being encouraged to meet at Transforming Norwich. "In modern society Jim Channell from Norwich CRC says, "This park at 5.45am on Sunday April 12 ready to join is the meal that Christ poured new meaning into Chapelfield Road Methodist church at 5pm, silence is often the way we remember people in the sunrise service which starts at 6am. and became Holy Communion. So its a good where they will gather together, and then and events, and so it seemed appropriate for There are ample parking facilities on Britannia opportunity to experience something rooted in move off along the traditional route with a Good Friday. We hope it will be a powerful Road Car Park and further details about this Biblical history and something Jesus himself cross at the front, a cross in the middle and event, both for those of us taking part, and for event can be obtained from David Joscelyne celebrated." one at the back. those who witness it." (01603 433493). The three course meal with tea or coffee costs £15 per head For bookings Tel 01603 619772 or 619731 to book or email [email protected] The event takes place at Forget-Me-Not Café, St Michael at Plea, Redwell Street, Norwich, Global Day of NR2 4SN. Five-a-side football

■ The Norfolk Christian Youth Football League Prayer in city is holding its annual five-a-side tournament on Saturday June 6 in Norwich. orwich and Norfolk will Tournaments for Under 10s and Under 12s be participating in the are held in the morning with Under 14s and N fifth Global Day of Under 16s in the afternoon, with squads of Prayer on Pentecost Sunday, May between five and eight players. 31, with a service of repentance The venue, to be confirmed, is usually at and prayer in Norwich Cathedral Heartsease Towers, off Salhouse Road. at 6.30pm. The Bishop of As well as a great end to the season, the day Norwich will be present as will is also an opportunity for interest from any other leaders from different churches who might want to form new teams for streams of the Christian next season, including girls' football teams. community. For further details and an application form, for Light at the end Administrator, Hilary Oliver, any church-based teams, please contact the said: "This is a wonderful league secretary, Katherine Hume by e-mail at opportunity for Christians from [email protected] of the tunnel Norwich, Norfolk and beyond to ■ After a nine-month interregnum at St come together as one body, Stephens Church in Norwich City Centre, uniting through a world prayer Family May Day there is light at the end of the tunnel. Rev with our brothers and sisters Last year’s GDOP service at Norwich Cathedral. Madeline Light (pictured above), to be from around the globe. How ■ Swingboats, a giant slide, a bouncy castle precise, who will join as the new Priest- awesome to think of being part of Christians from all 220 nations will be able to and Punch and Judy are just some of the many in-Charge from Friday May 8. a vast 24-hour wave of prayer starting as dawn participate this year." attractions at this year’s Family Fun Day, Madeline is at present at St Helen's breaks in New Zealand, flowing through Hilary said: "In this time of global shaking and organised by local churches, on May 4 at and the Great Hospital and will remain Australasia, Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas concern for our nation, let us respond to this as Chaplain to the St Martin's Housing Heigham Park on The Avenues, Norwich. and finishing in Samoa." resounding call to prayer, in accordance with 2 Stalls, games, Maypole dancing and the Youth Trust. Jane Holloway, Director of Prayer at the World Chronicles 7:14, a foundation scripture in the The Licensing will be carried out by for Christ Gospel Choir provide ample Prayer Centre in Birmingham and organiser of the GDOP movement. In previous years the cathedral the Bishop of Norwich, from 7.30pm and entertainment and amusement for all ages UK Global Day of Prayer, said: "The vision of has been well filled - this year let's see it bursting the Installation will be done by the new whilst hot dogs, crepes, doughnuts, ice Creams GDOP is to mobilise Christians around our world Archdeacon of Norwich, the Venerable at the seams." and a refreshment tent will also be on offer. Jan MacFarlane – as her first parish to pray from Ascension Day to Pentecost Sunday The Norwich event is being organised by Prayer Organised by the local churches, all proceeds Installation. (10 days), unite with other believers on Pentecost in the Park - for further information and to obtain from the event go to local and national charities. St Stephens church warden, Peter Sunday (1 day) and to be people who share the leaflets about the event please contact the adminis- Further details from Margaret Culley 01603 Carroll, said: "We're all very excited by it good news with others in mission (90 days). In trator Hilary Oliver: phone 07777 656689 or email: 250105. and are expecting a full church. We're 2008, 214 nations took part and we pray that [email protected] inviting the city centre clergy from all denominations, and because of the Who did move the egg? strategic location, we're hoping for a good response from the City authorities. We're the Fire Service and the ■ Oak Grove will kick off their Easter celebra- Normandy and RAMC Veterans church - K.P. ELECTRICS tions on Palm Sunday, April 5 at 10am with the plus the new YMCA centre is in our visit of the one and only Saltmine Theatre parish, together with other charities and FOR ALL YOUR DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS. Company and their amazing production, 'Who agencies. NEW ADDITIONS, REPAIRS AND EMERGENCIES. Moved the Egg?' A real must for families this "The Diocese are being really support- Easter. ive of this appointment and are making a FAST, FRIENDLY, RELIABLE SERVICE Journey with Saltmine team as they travel substantial financial commitment to it and through the Last Supper all the way to the there is also a link with the Fountain of PLEASE PHONE 01603 744208 Ascension - whilst trying to find an answer to Life church, a non-geographic missionary that age old question that still puzzles people congregation, based at the Well Christian MOBILE: 07770 921399 today - Who did move the egg? Centre, Ashill." Admission is free, a collection will be taken to cover costs. More details from Tel. 01603 403388, or email: [email protected] An upto date list of events for the Norwich & Norfolk Christian Website: www.oakgrovechapel.co.uk community can be found at www.networknorfolk.co.uk 12 Good News for Norwich, Easter 2009 NEWS latest Norwich & Norfolk Christian news at www.networknorwich.co.uk Christian centre resurrected

and his team and Lynton Johnson By KEITH MORRIS and his café team. It has become a place where friendships are he resurrection of the formed and the spirit of God's Norwich Christian hospitality is demonstrated. T Resource Centre has been "It is also a tribute to unfussy, celebrated by staff, directors, undiluted ecumenism and proof supporters and the Bishop of that the ecumenical spirit is still Norwich. alive." A reaffirmation service to mark The service included hymns, the successful reopening at St readings, prayers and a blessing Michael at Plea Church, on of the Centre. Redwell Street in Norwich, on Centre manager, Steve Foyster, January 30, was led by the Rt Rev told the assembled audience: "It Graham James, Bishop of has been a bit of a rollercoaster Norwich. ride. But there was only one day "The centre and its staff have when I said I really couldn't be won the support of people in bothered with it anymore. It is many churches across the city all you people that have made it and beyond," he told the packed happen by your prayers and Centre. financial donations and all "There are contradictions about because it is a place you want to a Christian bookshop of course. be and to enjoy. Christianity is not about what "This coming together of spirit you know but who you know. and goodwill has made it But this is more than just a book- possible and long may it shop. The bond between staff and continue, as times are hard at the Scenes from the reaffirmation customers is something that you moment and we need to Centre service, including, top NCRC just cannot get on Amazon. to continue to be visited and driving force Steve Foyster and the Bishop of Norwich. "We all believe in Steve Foyster used." Chinese link to Surrey Chapel

■ The spiritual roots of world-famous left the Church of England and joined the Chinese Christian leader, author and Chapel around 1907. There were some sug- martyr, Watchman Nee, can be traced back gestions of a possible romance between to a Norwich church, and the connection Panton and Barber, but in the end the call to recently led a coach-load of Chinese return to China for Margaret Barber was believers turning up on the doorstep. stronger. The Chinese visitors, led by a Professor "It was a period of missionary fervour in Chen, turned up at Surrey Chapel in the Chapel, when, during the years 1906 to Norwich on a Maranatha Tour in search of 1917, as many as nine individuals went to the background to city missionary Margaret serve in China. Margaret Barber went back Barber, sent out from Surrey Chapel exactly to China as an independent missionary, 100 years ago. sent and supported by Surrey Chapel in Michelle Smith with some of the street boys of Kisumu. In 1909, Margaret left Surrey Chapel to 1909. return to China as an independent mission- "So 2009 is the centenary of her sending ary supported by the church and met an 18- to China by Surrey Chapel and for the year-old Christian, Watchman Nee, whom Chinese visitors, a most significant event in Pastors return to Kenya she personally tutored in the Word of God. their own history. In China, Margaret Barber Watchman Nee went on to became one of met an 18-year-old Christian man, ■ Two Norfolk pastors who were caught up in the violence the most influential Christian leaders in the Watchman Nee. She personally tutored him sweeping Kenya after last year's election, are returning to the history of the Chinese church. in God's Word, directed his study and country in April to reach out to needy people in the local prisons, The story for Surrey Chapel began when encouraged him in his spiritual develop- rubbish dumps and slums and to hold a Revival Bible School. they received a request to host a visit by a ment. Watchman Nee became one of the Michelle and Rod Smith, of Wellspring Church, Poringland, group of Chinese believers keen to visit most influential Christian leaders in the near Norwich witnessed the violence in January 2008 while they their really rather unremarkable church history of the Chinese church - and the visi- were in the country with their Christian charity Healing Streams building. Not understanding why, the Chapel tors to Surrey Chapel in 2009 were all from Kenya, visiting five children they have adopted. politely turned down the request, but were churches whose roots are in Nee's ministry. Since then Rod and Michelle have return to the country twice informed that the coach would be turning up "This is why they were so excited to be and are going again on April 27, taking a team of around 13 anyway, so keen were the visitors. visiting Surrey Chapel in Norwich. As they people from Britain, the USA and Canada. They relented and decided to open the saw it, in the sovereign purposes of God, Michelle explained: "We will be doing a Revival Bible School, doors to what turned out to be a wonderful they were Christian believers today because and encouraging experience, according to Surrey Chapel had sent Margaret Barber to ministering at the men's and women's prisons at Kodiago, the chapel elder, Derek Haylock, who takes up China one hundred years ago!" rubbish dump where 30+ men and boys live amongst the the story: "There in the Chapel, we sang together a rubbish, Kisumu Children's Hospital, among street boys and Derek Haylock shows the Chinese "I told them a little of the history of the hymn written by Margaret Barber and girls, and in the heart of Nyalenda slums where the poorest of visitors around. Chapel, showing them the plaques for the enjoyed a thrilling time of prayer and the poor live. first two pastors, Robert Govett and D.M. "They were particularly keen to see some thanksgiving. More photographs and "In May we have booked the Polyview Hotel, Kisumu, Kenya Panton, that had been brought from the of Govett's and Panton's books in the numerous handshakes and hugs and then as the venue for the Revival Fire School and are expecting a original Surrey Chapel in Surrey Street. Govett Room and to take photographs of they returned to their coach – on their way team of around 13 from USA, Canada and Britain to join us for They were given copies of 150 Years at everything. In the main Chapel upstairs, as to visit the John Lewis car park!," said the two-week school led by Dr Sandy Kirk of Camp Ablaze, Surrey Chapel written by Rosamunde they sat excitedly on the old Surrey Chapel Derek. Alabama, USA. Codling (2004). wooden chairs, Professor Chen reminded "Jesus said, 'The Kingdom of heaven is "The team are paying for their own flights, accommodation and "I explained why the church had moved them of why they were there. The story was like a mustard seed, which a man took and gifts to Kenyan people but we need to raise around £2100 to from its original building in Chapel Loke off inspiring. planted in his field. Though it is the smallest enable 15 young Kenyan potential leaders to join us for the Surrey Street (now the site of John Lewis "D.M. Panton became Pastor of Surrey of your seeds, yet when it grows, it is the school,” said Michelle. car park). But, in fact, they seemed to know Chapel in 1901. A lady missionary called largest of garden plants and becomes a If you can help ring Michelle and Rod Smith on 01508 494211 the history already because it was all Margaret Barber (1866-1930), who had tree …' (Matthew 13.31-32)." or 0774 693 3908 or [email protected] written and illustrated in their study guides! returned to England from service in China, www.watchmannee.org

Printed by Archant Print, Thorpe Print Centre, Norwich