THE ORIGINAL CHURCH NEWSPAPER. ESTABLISHED IN 1828 Edith THE Cavell and a CHU RCHOF message of hope: ENGLAND p12 Newspaper The Church is family NOW AVAILABLE ON  NEWSSTAND p10 FRIDAY, AUGUST 8, 2014 No: 6240

200,000 Christians flee

Bishop Also Health questioned Inside The Michael Perham dangers of steps back from chlorine his post

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper i2 www.churchnewspaper.com Friday August 8, 2014 News 200,000 Christians flee from ISIS jihadists in Nineveh plain By Amaris Cole “Displaced Assyrians are sleeping on fleeing Qaraqosh, it is now thought “I believe the United States has a moral sidewalks and in open fields.” Karamlis, Bartella, Bashiqa, Tel Kepe, responsibility to support us, because this THE LARGEST Christian town in Iraq The agency says government officials Batnaya, Telsqof, Alqosh are also is a fight against terrorism, and we have has now been captured by the militant have also fled these areas, along with thought to be empty of Christians. proven to be pro-democracy, pro-West, Islamic group ISIS. And the UN has been residents and Christians clerics. “Tal Kayf is now in the hands of the and pro-secularism.” urged to take concrete action to defend An AINA report reads: “Yesterday at Islamic State. They faced no resistance The Assyrian Patriarch has appealed the Christian community that were midnight a column of Islamic State (IS) and rolled in just after midnight,” said for the United Nations to take ‘concrete forced out. vehicles entered Tel Kepe and took con - Boutros Sargon, a resident who fled the and statutory action’ in a plenary session The Islamic State has seized trol of the city, whose population had town and was reached by phone in Arbil. of the member-states of the United Qaraqosh, after a successful attack that already fled north. IS is now marching to “I heard some gunshots last night and Nations against the perpetrators of these pushed Kurdish troops back across a Batnaya and Telsqof, which have been when I looked outside, I saw a military crimes against humanity. He added: “I large area of the north of the troubled abandoned. convoy from the Islamic State. They implore the Security Council to take a country. “All of the population of the city of were shouting ‘Allahu Akbar’ (God is positive vote in favour of these persecut - Those that fled Mosul City had sought Alqosh has fled. greatest),” he said. ed Christians who are suffering a new refuge in Qaraqosh, but overnight raids “The massive exodus of Assyrians was Tel Kayf was a significant Christian and modem genocide. have now made this town unsafe too. precipitated in part by the withdrawal of stronghold, but was also home to a His Holiness Mar Dinkha IV, The Patri - Some Iraqis have fled to the moun - Kurdish forces from the Nineveh Plain. Shabak Shiite minority, who also fled. arch of Holy Apostolic Catholic Assyrian tains, while an estimated 200,000 Assyri - “With no one left to defend them, AINA said: “The situation of the Assyr - Church of the East said that: ”The world, ans have fled the Nineveh Plain in just 24 Assyrians followed the retreating Kur - ian refugees is critical. and much less the United Nations, can - hours. dish forces.” “There are thousands who fled on foot not stand by with obvious complacency Once the stronghold of Assyrians in Qaraqosh is now ‘completely empty’ of and are stranded on the roads without and apathy towards our plight and allow Iraq, the Plain has been attacked by Christians, following a mass exodus on food or water, with many handicapped this destruction of these peoples in Iraq. Sunni jihadists. Thursday morning at 2:30am when the and disabled people. Mere statements of condemnation by the The Assyrian International News Kurdish troops began their withdrawal. “For those fortunate to have cars, they UN, and even of the major countries of Agency (AINA) said: “The influx of The ordered all churches to are unable to find shelter and are sleep - the West, are not sufficient! These state - refugees into Ankawa and Noohadra ring their bells to warn residents to flee. ing in their cars.” ments, though taken with gratitude, are (Dohuk) has overwhelmed the towns. The Islamic State took control of the One refugee, Falah Mustafa Bakir, not enough to bring an end to these There is a shortage of everything — city and its surrounding areas, with told CNN: “We are left alone in the front atrocities and to stop this genocide of a shelter, food, water. reports that its soldiers robbed those to fight the terrorists of ISIS. religious nature.”

Bishops urge Government to offer asylum to Iraqi Christians By a staff reporter he would be ‘very disturbed’ if the Government failed to ty in Iraq. He called on the Government to do more to act. Invoking a ‘tradition of offering sanctuary to people help Christians fleeing Mosul. BISHOPS are calling on the Government to follow the who are oppressed’, the of , the Rt Rev It has been reported that Prince Charles has been in example of France and grant refuge to Christians flee - Nick Baines, argued: “We have an obligation to at least touch with White to see how more publicity can ing Iraq. raise with the Government the possibility that we be given to the plight of Christians in Iraq. Prince The , the Rt Rev David Walker, should be offering sanctuary to Christians in Iraq who Charles has long had an interest in the welfare of appeared on the BBC Radio Four ‘Sunday’ programme have effectively been expelled under threat of death.” ancient Christian communities in the Middle East. He and spoke to The Observer to make the case that Britain Writing on his blog from Baghdad, Canon Andrew recently wrote in a pan-Arab newspaper that it ‘saddens had a moral duty to help because military intervention White said that it is easy for people in Iraq to feel for - me deeply that the ancient Christian communities are there by British and American forces had helped cause gotten, with most of the world’s attention focussed on among those facing growing difficulties, despite the the present situation. Gaza. He reported that even in Baghdad people were fact that part of their deeply-rooted history in the “Given the vast amount of money that we spent on the frightened and that his congregation was involved with region is testimony to the tolerance and understanding war in Iraq, the tiny cost of bringing some people flee - helping Christians who have fled Nineveh and Mosul. Muslim leaders have shown in the past’. ing for their lives to this country and allowing them to He welcomed a fact-finding visit by the . Archbishop has changed his homepage settle – and who in due course would be an asset to our Over 35,000 Christians have been forced to flee Mosul. photograph to the Arabic letter for ‘N’. This has been society – would seem minuscule,” he told The Observer. Last weekend Canon White paid a brief visit to the daubed by ISIS on the homes of Christians, standing for Speaking on the ‘Sunday’ programme, he compared the UK. He told the BBC that numbers in his church in ‘Nazarene’ — or Christian — and making them targets Christians of Mosul to the Ugandan Asians. Baghdad have fallen from 6,500 to 1,000. He warned for attack. It has now been adopted by Christians world - The , the Rt Rev , said that we could be about to witness the end of Christiani - wide to show solidarity with the Christians of Iraq. Lights go out in remembrance of World War I THE LIGHTS went out across the UK on commenced to repent. you directly if I come back.” Monday evening to commemorate the Readings included David Morris - The Captain, who survived the war 100th anniversary of the start of World sey’s recital of 1914 by Wilfred Owen with facial injuries, went on: “It’s a funny War One, led by a service at Westminster from Poets’ Corner and the Rt Hon game this war.” Abbey. Michael Fallon MP reading from Joel He said while they were leaving with Candlelight illuminated church servic - 2: 1 – 3, 12 – 13. joy, he predicted they may soon curse es, art installations, a parade through Serving Captain Edward Harris read this day. Folkestone and even Downing Street at the letter of a World War I serviceman, The Rt Rev Nigel McCulloch led the 10pm. Captain Alfred Dougan ‘Mickey’ first prayers, praying to the God who The service at the Abbey, itself Chater. wants to ‘restore all things’. touched by the war, with a falling bomb ‘A Letter to Joy’ was saying goodbye, The retired Bishop of Manchester and losing members of staff, hosted the ‘for God knows when we shall see one prayed: “Bring the families of the nations Duchess of Cornwall and a large number another again’. divided and torn apart by the ravages of of guests to build up to the exact anniver - The Captain said he was glad to be sin, to be subject to his just and gentle sary at 11pm. going, as this was what he had been rule.” The Dean of Westminster, the Very preparing for, but noted it came so Large candles were extinguished grad - Rev John Hall, welcomed the Royal rep - much sooner than expected. ually throughout the service by notable resentative, who met the Bishop of Lon - “So now, dear, it is goodbye, and may figures, including Baroness Warsi, don and the Catholic Archbishop of we meet again if God wills. before she resigned from the govern - Westminster before walking down the “You know if I am allowed to come ment this week. nave with a single candle. back to you, I will feel the same as I do The Rt Rev Richard Chartres, Bishop The congregation also held candles. now.” of London, prayed that the ‘design of his The Dean said the service reflected on He promised: “I shall come to you great love shine of the waste of the loss the failure of the human spirit, and a when you are ready, and you know I and sorry’ on earth, among nations, in moment’s silence was held as the service shall come straight to you and ask for homes and in hearts.

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Bishop of Gloucester

PEOPLE IN THE Diocese of except to say it is ‘for personal abuse, one on a girl under the Cuddesdon. for the appointment of his suc - Gloucester were left asking reasons’. Lambeth Palace has age of 18 and one on a woman He is married to Dr Alison cessor. qsuestionts at the weekenpd by the srefuse d to bcommenta. covker the a ge of f18. roGmrove and th e cpouple haove Bsishop tPerham also surprise announcement that the A statement for the diocese on Bishop Perham made his three grown-up daughters. expressed his reservations , the Rt Rev Saturday said the Bishop had mark early in his ministry as a In recent years Bishop Per - about the House of Bishops Michael Perham, was to retire ‘stepped back’ from his min - writer on liturgy and served on ham has been a strong advocate statement in response to the ‘with immediate effect’. istry. A spokesman for the dio - the liturgical commission for of women bishops. introduction of same sex mar - The Bishop, who is 66 and has cese refused to say whether he almost 20 years, resigning in A press release from the dio - riages. been in office for 10 years, was had been asked to resign. It is 2001. He is credited with being cese described him as ‘ecstatic’ He claimed the statement had due to step down in November unlikely that a special service to one of the main authors of Com - when the measure passed Gen - been made ‘under pressure’ and after a farewell pilgrimage celebrate the Bishop’s ministry mon Worship. eral Synod. that the bishops had ‘underesti - across the diocese. which was to have been held in Before going to Gloucester he Gloucester, where there was mated how uncompromising On Sunday he had been due Gloucester Cathedral will now was first Provost and then Dean overwhelming support for and hurtful the statement felt to to give the blessing at a special take place. of Derby Cathedral. As well as women bishops, has been pre - some’. World War I service on Sunday However, on Tuesday it was serving on the Liturgy Commis - dicted to be the first diocese to “The tone was harsh – there afternoon in Gloucester Cathe - revealed that the Bishop attend - sion he was also for a time sec - have a woman diocesan. It was not much sense of welcome dral. ed a police station by appoint - retary of the Doctrine remains to be seen whether the to all as children of God,” he No explanation was given for ment to answer questions Commission. He was educated manner of Bishop Perham’s said. “I am sorry for that and for the Bishop’s sudden resignation concerning two charges of at Keble College, Oxford, and departure changes the schedule all the hate it has engendered.”

Glenda Jackson Gambling advert complaint upheld A COMPLAINT by the placed the advert) at Evangelical Alliance the complaint. He said opens first Post about a gambling adver - they illustrated ‘a patent tisement that appeared failure to grasp why in the free London such mockery and dis - Office in a church newspaper, City AM, figurement of the per - has been upheld by the son of Christ should be Advertising Standards deemed offensive at Authority (ASA). all’. The advert appeared “Such religious illiter - on 10 June, on the acy and lack of respect threshold of the World for faith communities in Cup. It showed an the UK is concerning,” image of the statue of he commented. Christ the Redeemer in “Despite some assump - Rio de Janeiro digitally tions that society would altered to appear hold - become ever more sec - ing a bottle of booze in ular, it is now clear that the right hand with the this is not happening left arm around a bikini- and that faith will play clad model over the an increasingly impor - caption ‘There’s a more tant role in British soci - exciting side to Brazil’. ety. Dr Dave Landrum, “We hope that the Director of Advocacy at ASA decision will the EA, welcomed the encourage businesses decision of the ASA but to think twice before referring to the expres - seeking to exploit reli - sions of incredulity gious images and senti - from City AM and ments for financial THE LABOUR MP Glenda Jackson this week opened the Sporting Index (who gain.” first ever main-branch post office set within a church in the UK. The result of a two-year project led by the vicar of St James, West Hampstead, the Rev Andrew Foreshew-Cain, the Sherriff Centre will pass all profits to a new charity. The proceeds will help provide services to the local Mothers’ Union ‘unites in prayer’ community such as carer and toddler groups, support and ‘UNITED IN PRAYER’ is the theme for the Mothers’ “As we look to build the community of Mothers’ activities for the elderly and debt advice. Union in 2015. The new theme, with its focus on the Union, we unite with other members across the Fr Andrew initiated the project in response to appeals centrality of prayer in the Mothers’ Union across the world, and particularly we are united in prayer,” he for a closing post office branch to be relocated. In addition World, is intended to be a development of the 2014 said in a statement. “As we embark upon a new Wave to the post office facilities, the Sherriff Centre offers local theme ‘Sowing the Future Together’. of Prayer, with over 100 new links added, we have the residents a children’s soft play area providing entertain - New resources for the 2015 theme are being devel - exciting opportunity to pray for many more people.” ment and activity for children, a café, a retail area selling oped and should be available on the MU website in One immediate focus of prayer at MU has been the stationery, gifts and cards and a delicatessen offering a 2015. Daniel McAllister, Head of Fundraising and girls kidnapped in Nigeria. MU is in contact with range of artisan-produced goods, which are supplied by Communications at the MU, described prayer as ‘the members in the surrounding areas for news and to businesses in the local area. heart of all we do’. identify prayer needs.

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper 2 www.churchnewspaper.com Friday August 8, 2014 News THE Hundreds of churchgoers from 27 churches around the Driffield area will be abandoning their usual services on Sunday 17 August, and heading to Tribfest, the UK’s biggest tribute band music festival, held at Sledmere House in East Yorkshire. The churches from the Harthill Deanery will be holding a CHURCHIN service on Tribfest’s Main Stage instead: the first time a service has been held at the festival. This year, over 150 tribute bands and acts will be performing, including DJs, comedians, acoustic and unsigned acts. The Rev David Fletcher, Rural Dean of Harthill and Vicar of 12 churches in the Waggoners and Woldsburn Benefices said: “Music is really important in the life of the church, so I think popping over to Tribfest for a Sunday is a great idea! It’s a unique opportunity for congregations ENGLAND from local churches across the Deanery of Harthill to join with festivalgoers for an act of worship.”

Diocese of Worcester The Bishop of Worcester, Dr John Inge, NOW BOOKING has announced that the Rev Canon Thursday 4 September Robert Jones is to be the next . Robert has POWER AND been a priest in the Diocese since he was CONTROL - Who ordained in 1980 and is currently cares? Director of Development. Robert will be The Rev Dr Peter D well-known throughout the Diocese of Stell from Aegis Worcester, having served as Vicar of St Counselling discusses Francis in for eight years and power in the Church of then as of St Barnabas with Christ England following Church in Worcester for 14 years. Bishop recent cases of abuse. John said: “Robert’s appointment was Chaired by Mike made with the unanimous Palmer-Fry (Counsellor recommendation of the advisory group and Therapist) at Holy set up to find the next Archdeacon of Trinity Church, Worcester. He is a very gifted and well- Clapham Common loved priest who is very mission-minded FREE North Side London, and fulfils all the criteria of the role. At a SW4 0QZ, from 6.30pm. time when we’ve had a number of senior Tickets £10.00 appointments from outside the diocese, Contact: Julian Whiting Robert’s appointment will help provide MAGAZINE 07899723620 or stability as we move forwards as Meet the Church’s [email protected]. Kingdom People.” Diocese of Bath and Wells Bath Abbey’s congregation has donated over £42,000 to five new Chief Education charities around the world, as part of the church’s annual Officer Pentecost Appeal. The total raised surpassed even the Abbey’s own expectations as it was £10,000 more than the amount St Andrew by the Wardrobe collected from a similar appeal last year. The five projects that Get our app on your church, whose parish will benefit from the donations range from a Bible translation mobile device via Apple includes site of the old project bringing literacy to 35,000 people in Cameroon to helping Newsstand or Blackfriars’ monastery, the homeless and vulnerably housed in Bath. The Rev Preb PressReader or marked the legacy of Edward Mason, Rector of Bath Abbey, said: “The Abbey’s download it free from William Wilberforce with a ‘Mission Links’ isn’t just about charitable giving. It’s also about our website service and charity fête. being connected to others that we might never meet, sharing our www.churchnewspaper. The church has a strong wealth and gifts, and learning to share poverty and historical link to the disadvantages.” com abolitionist movement. The Rev William Goode, a contemporary of Wilberforce and fellow abolitionist, was a previous Rector. The fête showcased a number of charities with CHANGE YOUR CAR AND links to St Andrew’s. These were Suited & Booted, an ENJOY THE SUMMER! independent charity that operates out of St Andrew’s Holiday time is upon us again, maybe with the children or providing business clothing even the grandkids, a lot of us will be off to the hills or the and interview coaching for men referred when they coast. Many of us will travel around this country and quite a have the offer of a job few will drive to various European countries. But is your car up interview; Kahaila, a non- to the journey, or would you like more space and better denominational community economy? cafe in Tower Hamlets; Spear, which delivers a free six-week pre-employability It could well be an opportune time to change your car, and course for unemployed 16- there is no one better to use than Priory Automotive, the sole 24-year-olds; and Hackney suppliers to the church community. Over the years they have Foodbank, an independent supplied thousands of cars to all parts of the U.K. as they charity based at St Matthias deliver free of charge, so it makes no difference where you Church in Hackney, which runs in partnership with live, north, south, east, west. local churches. The Rev Guy Treweek, Priest in Have a quick look at the testimonials on their website, many Charge, commented: “We from Newspaper readers like you, who just look to towering people of want agreat value car with a first class level of service, from a faith like Wilberforce, who worked tirelessly and highly rated honest and ethical company. faithfully in their response to God’s call. This is the Please call 0114 2559696, same call we seek to or visit www.prioryautomotive.com respond to here in this place.”

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper www.churchnewspaper.com Friday August 8, 2014 News 3 Church and Nation commemorate World War I ‘NEVER AGAIN, the slogan after so dent of Germany was among those who Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast, the Archbish- scouts and guides, from the church to many wars, requires us to say Yes to the spoke at the service. He said that people op of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, the war memorial. words of Jesus who tells us love of our should show they have learnt the lessons the Most Rev Dr Richard Clark, spoke of At one parish in the Diocese of West enemies is the only way to eliminate of the war by their deeds as well as by the feelings of sadness, pride and horror Yorkshire and the Dales muffled bells them – we make them our friends – and their words. stirred by memories of the war and were rung at 10am on Monday, followed change the world for ever’. The Duke and Duchess of Cornwall appealed to people to ‘bring God’s peace by a short service and the tolling of a sin- With these words the Archbishop of also attended the evening service in and light into God’s world’. gle bell. Canterbury concluded a reflection on Westminster Abbey at which lights were Preaching in Llandaff Cathedral on At St Peter’s Church in Friesthorpe in World War I he gave on BBC Four’s extinguished at 11pm, with the light at Monday, the , the Lincolnshire three newly restored bells Thought for the Day before travelling to the tomb of the unknown warrior being Most Rev Barry Morgan, said that war were rung together for the first time to Belgium for a special service at Mons. the last to be put out. One of the prayers may sometimes be necessary but that it commemorate three brothers who died The service, attended by the Duke and was said in German. Both the services was a sign of human failure. He told the in the war. They belonged to the Duchess of Cambridge and by Prince from Glasgow and from the Abbey were congregation that we were called to be Beechey family and a play, ‘Leaving Harry, took place at St Symphorien Mili- televised. peacemakers and that no conflict could Home’, was performed in the village to tary Cemetery where both Common- In addition to high-profile national be called good. tell the story of the family. wealth and German war dead are buried. events, commemorative services took In addition to cathedral celebrations Some parishes have mounted exhibi- The Belgian who gave the land for the place in cathedrals and churches across many parish churches marked the start tions giving details of local men who cemetery made it a condition that the the country. of what became known as ‘the Great were killed in battle. St John’s Church, dead of both sides be interred there. Pri- Some held special services on Sunday War’. had a evening vigil Mansfield, has an exhibition featuring vate John Parr, the first British soldier to morning but in a service service on 4 August and has a World War the 50 men from the parish who died. In die in the war, and Private George Elli- was held on 4 August from 8-8.50pm fol- I display planned for over the summer. many parishes the names of the dead son, one of the last, are both buried in lowed by a vigil of prayer in the St John St Matthew’s Church in Chapel Aller- were read out, in some cases a list run- the cemetery. Chapel which lasted until 11. ton has created a poets’ corner with war ning into hundreds of names. A service for the Commonwealth to Lichfield Cathedral held a service of poems and readings for visitors to reflect Services up and down the country saw commemorate World War I was held on reflection on Sunday evening. It included on and set aside a chapel for prayer the Church of England playing a central Monday morning in Glasgow Cathedral. the performance of a short requiem writ- where people can light a candle. role in helping people to remember the It was attended by the Prime Minister ten by Walford Davies in 1915. In many parishes there were parades First World War and the terrible loss of and by the Prince of Wales. The Presi- Preaching at a service on Monday in St involving the Royal British Legion, life it involved. Legal challenge over Archbishop expresses priest’sBy Amaris Cole appointmentmessage to all chap- where I have a licence,” lains of whom a consid- he said. A LEGAL challenge will erable number are gay “So I’ve been treated concern overrent strategyGaza, be it threatening security by be issued by the first and lesbian. This is an in an inconsistent way, ARCHBISHOP JUSTIN WELBY has spo- the indiscriminate firing of rockets at civil- priest to enter into a area of law that has not and the House of Bish- ken publicly of his concern for Gaza. He has ian areas or aerial bombing, which increas- gay marriage, to ‘test’ been tested and needs ops can’t agree been receiving regular updates from the ingly fails to distinguish between whether it was legal for to be.” amongst themselves staff at the al-Ahli Arab hospital in Gaza and combatants and non-combatants, is self- the Bishop of Southwell The Canons current- what ought to be the has been making his views known about the defeating,” he warned. and to ly declare that marriage processes that some- situation through private contacts but last “Further political impasse, acts of terror, refuse to issue a licence is between a man and a body who enters a Thursday he issued a public statement on economic blockages or sanctions and clash- for an NHS chaplaincy. woman, and the Bish- same-sex marriage the crisis. es over land and settlements, all increase The NHS has since ops sent a clear mes- should go through.” The statement, which appeared on the the alienation of those affected. Populations withdrawn the job offer sage to clergy that A senior Conserva- Archbishop’s website, carried a link to the condemned to hopelessness or living under of chaplaincy and while they are permit- tive raised the issue in emergency appeal of the Diocese of fear will be violent,” he argued. “The road to bereavement manager ted to enter into civil the House of Lords last Jerusalem. reconciliation is hard but ultimately the for Sherwood Forest partnerships, same-sex week. In his statement the Archbishop only route to security.” Hospitals NHS Founda- couples should not Lord Fowler said: expressed his admiration for all involved in Turning his attention to acts of anti-Semi- tion Trust to the Rev marry. “Given that there are emergency work, especially the staff at al- tism in Britain he described such acts as Jeremy Pemberton. However, the disci- other clergymen at sim- Ahli Hospital and encouraged Church of ‘simply unacceptable’. He concluded by This follows Bishop pline measures are ilar risk, will the minis- England parishes and dioceses, as well as echoing the prayer of Pope Francis saying: Richard Inwood’s unclear and untested. ter as a matter of the wider Anglican Communion, to both “Let us pray to the Prince of Peace who suf- refusal to issue a Per- The chaplain current- goodwill look at the pray for the hospital staff and to send sup- fered in a land of violence that hearts may mission to Officiate in ly works in an NHS hos- position here and see if port to the Diocese of Jerusalem. turn to peace and the innocent be helped.” the diocese to the priest pital in Lincoln, but there is anything that But the Archbishop stressed that while The Archbishop was clear about the right for marrying his part- hoped to move closer to could be done to help humanitarian help was a priority, there was of the people of Israel to peace and security ner, Laurence Cunning- home. reconcile the difficul- a need for a renewed commitment to politi- but argued that underlying issues need to ton. While he does not ties?” cal dialogue and the search for ‘peace and be addressed, including the ongoing threat The Bishop said in a require a licence to Lady Northover, the security for both Israeli and Palestinian’. to Israel and the expansion of settlements in statement he blocked hold his post in the Lin- government’s women “For both sides to persist with their cur- the Occupied Territories. the licence following coln Hospital Trust, the and equalities consultation with Arch- , the spokesperson, said it bishop , a Rt Rev Christopher was a matter for the strong opponent of gay Lawson, has not acted Church of England. marriage, as Lincoln is against the priest. However, she added: in the . Mr Pemberton told a “Things can evolve. It is New Archdeacon of The ceremony took local radio station he good to see, for exam- place in April, disre- was “very, very disap- ple, that we should garding the House of pointed” not to be able soon see women bish- Nottingham announced Bishops’ ruling on cler- to take up the post after ops.” THE NEW is made it possible to put myself forward.” gy entering into same- the offer was with- Following recent dis- the Rev Canon – the first There are two in the diocese sex partnerships before drawn last week. cussions with leading woman to take up such a senior position in – the Archdeacon of Nottingham covers the an official decision is “I’ve now been treat- figures in the Church, the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham. south of the Diocese including the city of made following the ed, I think, in an unfair Mr Pemberton said on Sarah, who is currently Team Rector in Nottingham, and the Church’s two-year con- and rather harsh way in Twitter: “Is ‘ability to be Clifton, replaces , who left to covers the north of the Diocese. They have sultation period of Southwell and Notting- passive-aggressive become the . She said she wide-ranging responsibilities for pastoral human sexuality. ham, whereas I’m now while appearing to be was excited about her new challenge: “It care and support of clergy, play a crucial Mr Pemberton said: going to carry on doing “nice”’ part of the per- feels like everything I have done so far in role in appointments, and work with the “It this is not chal- the job I have been son spec for being a the diocese comes together in this role. I Bishops and senior leaders to shape the lenged, it will send a doing in Lincolnshire bishop?” had a real sense that God was in it and that direction of the diocese.

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper 4 www.churchnewspaper.com Friday August 8, 2014 News Comment: Letting Bishop backs plan for

Hamas off the hook ArmedPLANS TO set up a crFoedit thrce cleresgy and otcredither groups, fuel poverunionty and of a down- By Fran Waddams militarised Gaza and used its peo- union for members of the need a source of affordable ward spiral. Anglican Friends of Israel ple as human shields. Armed Forces have been credit for short and long- “An occupationally based Hamas’s tunnels should have backed by the Bishop of term needs. credit union is not only a safe- Hamas’ baleful rule in Gaza has raised alarm among Gaza’s inter- Sheffield. “As a society we have duty ty net but something that will been swept under the carpet by too national community years ago. We Bishop Steven Croft put his of support and care to our further encourage service many for too long. would be outraged if funds and name to a move in the House Armed Forces. personnel to plan financially We have all watched the images materials intended for building our of Lords to give the Govern- “Recent research in a num- for current situations and of dead and injured Palestinian schools, amenities and hospitals ment a role in establishing a ber of strands shows clearly future needs. children caught up in the were instead diverted to construct credit union. that the ability to obtain cred- “Other professional bodies Israel/Hamas conflict with horror. tunnels for storing weapons, shel- He said: “The amendment it at reasonable rates of inter- and occupations, such as the It’s only because of Israel’s com- tering military commanders and gives strong support to the set- est is a vital element in police and trade unions, mitment to its people’s welfare that attacking neighbouring communi- ting up of a credit union for the building resilience to poverty already offer a credit union to we don’t see photos of thousands ties under our homes and public Armed Forces and their fami- and debt across our whole their members.” of dead and injured Israeli chil- buildings - using families, worship- lies in a similar way in which society. The amendment to the dren: for Hamas intended each of pers and the sick as human shields the church is setting up its “The inability to obtain Armed Forces (Service Com- the 10,000 missiles fired from Gaza as protection. own credit union - the Church- such credit in times of need plaints and Financial Assis- since 2006 to murder Israelis. Yet this is precisely what Hamas es’ Mutual Credit Union. raises the possibility of falling tance) Bill was withdrawn Israel’s aim of preventing Hamas have done under the noses of UN, “The Armed Forces, like further into debt, of food and without a vote. from attacking its citizens again other relief workers and corre- has been made that much more spondents from world media out- difficult (and more damaging to lets such as the BBC, Channel 4 people living in Gaza) because and CNN. Where was the outcry? there was no serious international Now, all Gaza’s terror infrastruc- opposition to Hamas in the years in ture will have to be destroyed which it turned Gaza into a before Israel can be certain that Bishop’s anger over fortress for terrorism. Now, another assault on Israelis from Hamas’s immense network of ter- Gaza can’t happen – a huge and ror tunnels will have to be disman- dangerous task that will bring fur- tled so they cannot take advantage ther misery to the people of Gaza. of a ceasefire to regroup, rearm It’s disturbing that NGOs, PRIMECaMINISTERbinDavideCamerton hasdbeenecision and begin a fourth all-out assault including Christian ones, criticise criticised by the for down- on Israelis. Israel for the steps taken to defend grading the role of Leader of the House of Some of Hamas’s illegal strate- Israeli families from Hamas - with Lords. gies are finally being reported, but all the hideous but (on Israel’s The Bishop spoke out against the plan in a for years journalism in the region side) unintended consequences - debate that led to peers voting heavily in has been restricted. As writer and when they have been all but silent favour of a motion attacking Mr Cameron. film maker Pierre Rehov says: “In during years of Hamas’s misuse of The row came after the recent Cabinet the Middle East, reporters are materials and aid dollars and disre- reshuffle in which new Leader of the Lords, threatened ... Their choice gard for the welfare of Gaza’s peo- Baroness Stowell of Beeston, was not given a becomes a simple one: promote ple. full Cabinet position, meaning that for the first the Palestinian point of view or Can it be that NGOs are unaware time ever no member of the Lords is in the stop working...” Is this also true for of the propaganda value to Hamas Cabinet. the UN, NGOs and charities work- of constantly pointing the finger at Bishop Peter Forster said the Lords had a ing in Gaza? If so, perhaps this Israel over the visible misery of “vital” place in the country’s democracy and it explains why the truth about Gaza’s people? Are they unaware was “very important that the proper authori- Hamas’s baleful rule in Gaza has that their focus on Israel diverts ty” of it was maintained. been swept under the carpet by so attention from Hamas, who are the He told peers: “The actual role of the House, many for so long. real cause of Gaza’s plight? for example in scrutinising legislation, is United Nations Relief and Works It’s time for NGOs, particularly more significant now than it has ever been, Agency (UNRWA) officials last Christian ones, to take a stand. because so much legislation simply is not week condemned the storage of They must stop criticising Israel’s scrutinised in the primary Chamber. Hamas rockets in two of their Gaza government for doing their job of “That makes the demotion of the Leader of ly low turnouts at elections, which is some- schools. But this wasn’t a new protecting Israeli citizens. Then, the House from the Cabinet a very significant thing which we should be very concerned development. For years Israel has further aid to Gaza must be condi- event, in my view, because of our role in scru- about in our democracy. deplored the way Hamas embeds tional upon Hamas recognising the tinising that which the Commons has not the “People just cannot be bothered to vote, terrorist infrastructure amongst Jewish state’s right to exist, and time, energy or will to scrutinise. because they somehow think the power is not its people. This begs the question committing to do what govern- “We live in a time when the Executive tend with them in the ballot box but with other peo- of whether aid organisations in ments are supposed to do – build- to dominate the legislature; when the Execu- ple in government. Snap decisions, such as Gaza, including Christian ones, ing a peaceful and prosperous tive are seen rather cynically by many people the way in which the role of the Lord Chancel- have either not seen this embed- future for their people. in our country as exercising power in their lor was changed — I think that this does have ding or have chosen to remain own interest, or not in the interest of society a very similar feel to that passage —simply silent - and why aid money contin- Fran Waddams is a Director of as a whole. encourage the sense of an over-dominant Gov- ued to flow into Gaza as Hamas Anglican Friends of Israel “I would associate this with the progressive- ernment.”

4,69:@5/ 1:AA! THE PLANNING SYSTEM is too restric- years. ning that involves architects who have a *6#6<9?6A< Ptive,lleadinganto thenhousebinuildersgmak-sy“I fearsthattweehavemthe slumsaof tthe trealasensitivityckforespacedand place is ing the “slums of tomorrow”, the Bishop future. Houses are squashed together important. of Chester has warned. because of rules on density that were “Alongside that, we should ask people Bishop Peter Forster also suggested introduced. what environment they want to live in architects were undervalued during a “They are often on three floors so it is rather than decreeing it through some debate in the House of Lords. very difficult to put in stair lifts, and so over-rigid planning regimes.” He told peers: “I sometimes think that forth. They have very small gardens. Bishop Forster said that architects 0> 87-.;' 0> 8)(>-3+28 in this country our whole planning “Is this really the environment in were “to some extent the poor relation to regime is too constricted. which people will want to live in the other professions” despite the “huge %%%&@<$6#<&"?= “We need only look at the modern future? amount of work” that went into their housing that has been built in the last 20 “Buildings affect the spirit and a plan- training.

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper www.churchnewspaper.com Friday August 8, 2014 News 5 Crackdown on the ISIS destroys Christian Sign of the Peace THE VATICAN’S Congregation called to discuss the Eucharist for Divine Worship (CDW) has suggested moving the institutions in Mosul released a letter directing bish- exchange of peace to before the THE ASSYRIAN International News Agency the Middle East, Dr Mouneer Anis of Egypt, said ops to crack down on boisterous presentation of gifts. However (AINA) reports that the Islamic State in Iraq and on 4 August. and prolonged exchanges of the Pope Benedict XVI declined to Syria (ISIS) has “destroyed, occupied, converted The fighting in Gaza, Syria, Iraq, South Sudan sign of peace during the accept the suggestion. to mosques, converted to ISIS headquarters or and now Tripoli had driven hundreds of thou- Eucharist. In his apostolic exhortation shuttered all 45 Christian institutions in Mosul.” sands from their homes. “Here in Egypt, every In a letter dated 8 June the Sacramentum caritatis issued On 29 July the news agency reported that 10 other day we hear about a violent and terrorist CDW asked bishops to discour- after the 2005 synod, Benedict Syriac Catholic Churches, seven Syriac Ortho- attack, especially in the Sinai where military and age “familiar and worldly ges- also criticized the modern prac- dox, three Holy Apostolic Catholic Assyrian police officers are targeted. What a region, full of tures of greeting” and asked tice of seeing the peace as a Church of the East, 17 Chaldean Church of Baby- flames and blood.” that they be substituted with mini-social hour within the serv- lon, two Armenian Orthodox, four Roman Yet God still reigns, Dr. Anis said. “We need to “other, more appropriate ges- ice. Catholic and one Presbyterian churches, con- think of how God was faithful to his church in tures.” Liturgical catechesis for the vents, monasteries, and diocesan offices had this region in the last 2,000 years. Just as the The CDW letter also stated clergy on the principles of the been taken by ISIS. blood of the martyrs became the seeds of many proposals to move the exchange Roman rite from bishops would The city’s Christian Cemetery in the Ekab Val- churches throughout this region, we trust that of the peace from its present “offer some practical measures ley was also vandalized. this current turmoil will turn into something place after the consecration and to better express the meaning “The Middle East is groaning,” the Presiding good. We don’t understand now, but one day we prior to the reception of Com- of the sign of peace and to mod- Bishop of the Episcopal Church in Jerusalem and or the next generation will.” munion to before the presenta- erate excesses, which create tion of gifts, as practiced in the confusion in the liturgical Anglican and Orthodox tradi- assembly just prior to Commun- tions and in the Ambrosian rite ion,” the CDW said, noting “the of Milan and Mozarabic rite of intimate relation between ‘lex Toledo would not be contem- orandi’ and ‘lex credendi’ MeriamTHE SUDANESE Christianarrives in theinternationalUSoutcrAy arose after plated at this time. should obviously be extended woman who had been sentenced her conviction, and a Khar- A 2005 meeting of bishops to ‘lex vivendi’.” to death for apostasy from Islam toum appeals court overturned has emigrated to the United her conviction. States. However, shortly after her In May a Sudanese court con- release, police arrested her victed Meriam Ibrahim of aposta- again, saying she had attempt- sy and adultery, holding that ed to leave the country with though she had been brought up forged documents. Prayers urged for a Christian, she was legally a The 26-year-old and her hus- Muslim. After she refused to band took refuge in the US recant her Christian faith she was embassy in Khartoum in June. sentenced to death. Last week, they flew to Rome under the protec- Christians in Iraq While in prison, she gave birth to a baby girl, tion of the Italian government where they stayed her second child with her husband Daniel Wani, for eight days. Mrs Ibrahim and her family are to and Syria an American citizen of South Sudanese origin. An settle in Manchester, New Hampshire. EVANGELICAL leaders in the US and Australia have issued calls to prayer for the persecuted Christians of Iraq and Syria. On 2 August Dr Foley Beach, Archbishop of the Anglican Church in North America, released a pastoral letter highlighting the destruction of Christianity in the Levant. “Those who are Chris- Episcopal Church reports tians are being brutally murdered, women and girls raped and forced into marriage, experiencing all kinds of torture, and hun- dreds of thousands have been forced out of their homes and coun- strong financial performance tries. THE TREASURER’S office of “Annual returns after all fees tracked by the InvestorForce “We are seeing communities who date to the 1st Century with the Episcopal Church of the and expenses were 18.6 per Performance Reporting Net- their Christian presence being totally annihilated and killed. His- USA reports the church’s cent, 14.1 per cent and 7.7 per work (subsidiary of MSCI toric churches, holy sites, and tombs are being completely investment performance con- cent for the one-, five- and 10- Inc.).” destroyed - all in the name of Allah.” tinues to be strong. years ending March 31, 2014 – The income from the $380 The Archbishop of Sydney, Dr Glenn Davies said it was “an out- In a statement released on 31 ranking within the top 20 per million trusts fund account for rage that a community established in the early centuries of the July the Church’s chief financial cent of all foundations with approximately 25 per cent of Christian era should face expulsion from their own land, simply for officer, N Kurt Barnes said: assets over $50 million as the Church’s annual budget. their faith.” Dr Davies said: “We have entered a period of signifi- cant suffering for Christians around the world: from Iraq to Syria and from Egypt to Sudan.” The Archbishop said: “While the Cross is the sym- bol of suffering for all who are followers of Jesus of Nazareth, we have a respon- sibility to stand with our brothers and sisters in the face of such unmitigated per- secution.” Dr Beach urged American Anglicans to support the work of the Barnabas Fund, the Voice of Ishmael, and Christ Church Jerusalem in aiding the Christians of Iraq, Syria and the Palestinian ter- ritories.

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The Doctor’s plea Sir, In 1966, the late Dr Martyn Lloyd Bishop’s lead is welcomed YOUR Jones, possibly the greatest evangeli- Sir, It is very encouraging to see that, through Bishop , the cal preacher since Spurgeon, caused Church of England is leading the way on the national debate on safeguard- a furore by calling conservative evan- ing. First in his call for a national inquiry on child abuse earlier this month TWEETS gelicals to come out of mixed denom- and now in voicing his support for the mandatory reporting of sex abuse Andrew inations and, together with allegations or suspicions, Bishop Paul is pursuing entirely the right agenda Graystone @AndrewGraystone independent evangelicals, form a and we wholeheartedly endorse his actions. As a Christian, going to #LivingIslam united Gospel witness as ‘a burning Any who remain unpersuaded by the need for mandatory reporting need felt a bit risky, a bit arrogant. I found and shining light’ to the nation, ever to bear this in mind: the Church of England has in the past been rightly crit- friendship, passion, energy, fun. in a downward ethical and spiritual icised when abuse by those in positions of trust was known about - but not Treasure hidden in a field spiral. He was resisted by John Stott acted upon. And the Roman Catholic Church has faced similar condemna- and Dr Jim Packer, who argued that tion for moving clergy who offended to other parishes or dioceses and who we are not free to go – very true at then went on to commit further offences. George Pitcher @GeorgePitcher that time. CCPAS often hears about churches that try to deal with such situations in First day @IBTimesUK today. Pencils In those heady days many of us house, including asking the victim to forgive the offender. This is intolera- sharpened, plimsolls whitened, spleen younger conservative evangelicals ble, so anything that might help change the attitude within our churches to unvented #gameon dreamed of the day when the Church report abuse should be welcomed. Mandatory reporting can bring about of England would be brought back to the decisive cultural change that is so desperately needed. its biblical and Reformation moor- Thanks Bishop Paul for your principled and welcome stand. Now it is London Diocese @dioceseoflondon ings. over to the government. 6 years, £500k+ of small grants for With the ordination of women to Simon Bass, fighting poverty in London’s most the priesthood, and the final Chief Executive, CCPAS, disadvantaged communities. Is that approach of women bishops, that Swanley, Kent enough? buff.ly/1tMxBOd seems further away than ever. Your Petertide Ordination photographs reveal both a plethora of women (IFES/Lausanne Movement, a for- these to insist that the female gender Diocese of @LivDiocese being ordained and the scarcity of mer OICCU President). Current stu- is to be included when the male gen- “Like so many I will take time today to young men. Out of 10 dent leaders will tell of plans for the der is used in Ordination, Consecra- pause, reflect and pray to mark the ordained in the archdiocese of York, 2015 Oxford University mission with tion and elsewhere, and it is this centenary of the start of hostilities in nine of them were women! How many Tim Keller. revised inheritance that all new cler- WW1” Bshp Richard women bishops and priests are likely OICCU for Life will be held on Sat- gy assent to. Then we have the long to be conservative evangelicals? urday, 15 November in Woodstock standing anomaly of Canon A4 that The nation is now in an even worse Road Baptist Church, Oxford, from insists that all clergy agree that all are DFID @DFID_UK state than it was in Dr Lloyd Jones’ 2.00 - 5.30pm. Coffee will be served recognised as rightly ordained and The UK has activated its Rapid day, spiritually and ethically. Is it not from 12.30pm for those who wish to consecrated who have received such Response Facility to provide £3 million therefore the time for evangelicals to meet with friends and bring their Anglican Orders. of emergency humanitarian assistance heed the substance of ‘the Doctor’s’ lunch. Again when it comes to women in to Gaza: ow.ly/zSylE plea, not necessarily at this stage of To register and find out more, read- authority, we have Article 37 of the leaving denominations, but coming ers should visit www.oiccu.org/alum- Thirty-nine Articles that excludes any together in far greater unity than ni assumption that our Queens and their Bishop of Bradwell @johnwraw even the Proclamation Trust, the David Earle, civil delegates have any authority to New side effect over weekend - Keswick Convention or the Evangeli- Chairman, The OICCU Standing expound the Word or administer the sensitive to sunlight. Shows chemo is cal Alliance, who paved the way. Committee sacraments. However with regards to having some effect. Only part vampire. There must be clear objectives and the authority of women priests and No great desire for juicy steak carefully worked-out strategies, bishops we have no such caveat, and which were sadly lacking in Dr Lloyd Welcome challenge of course the primary pastoral Jones’ call. “If we can come together Sir, Congratulations to Andrew Carey authority in any Parish is the Dioce- Bishop Angaelos @BishopAngaelos for Billy Graham,” a free church pas- for his challenge to anti-Israel protest- san who may soon be a woman. The horrors and loss of life in #war at tor said to me, “why not then more ers in his column this week! Finally on the associated matter of the forefront of our hearts and #prayers permanently?” Bruce Patterson, lack of complementarian (Leadership today with the current reality of #Gaza We are engaged in a more impor- Via email is male) Evangelical Bishops. It is and #WW1Centenary tant war than the American War of worth reflecting that had this view Independence, when Benjamin been rightly represented in the Franklin proclaimed: “We must all Two integrities House of Bishops there may not have Andy Walton @waltonandy hang together or else we will all hang Sir, With all due respect to the Rev been the requisite two-thirds majori- 100 yrs since lions were led into battle separately!” Ours is not only a war for David Stuart-Smith (letters, 1 ty. However given the above constitu- by donkeys. Some things never the soul of the nation, but for the sal- August), the era of two integrities is tional provisions, can anyone expect change... #FirstWorldWar #Afghanistan vation of souls for eternal life. over, if it ever really existed. The any uncompromising complementari- #Iraq The Rev Canon Peter Cook, House of Bishops Declaration make it an bishops, let alone a single Dioce- Cheadle, Cheshire clear that all who minister in the san? Is not any hoped for positive Church of England must acknowl- discrimination in favour of comple- Lambeth Palace @lambethpalace edge that “the Church of England has mentarians excluded by Archbishop Read @JustinWelby’s @BBCr4today OICCU invitation reached a clear decision on the mat- Justin’s statement to the Ecclesiasti- Thought for the Day: bit.ly/XwXp3O Sir, The Oxford Inter-Collegiate ter [that women may be priests and cal Committee of Parliament (August #tftd #r4today #WW1 Christian Union (OICCU) is once bishops]” 1, p. 3) that “the Crown Nominations more gathering former members for The House of Bishops Declaration Committee and other selection an afternoon of renewed fellowship, also rightly points to the Declaration boards will be encouraged to practice Aaliya Versi @14alia news and stories. The speakers will of Assent and the Preface that is positive discrimination” in favour of #ISIS have identified 40 holy shrines of be Andrew Atherstone (Wycliffe Hall, assented to in Canon C12. Included in women candidates. prophets in Mosul and are desecrating who is preparing a history of the this inheritance is the Prayer Book Alan Bartley, these sites. #No2ISIS OICCU), and Lindsay Brown and its Ordinal, but we have amended Greenford, Middlesex.

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The importance of good history

The outbreak of WW1 is being commemorated with appropriate sadness, and in the media a heavy emphasis on local history, par- ticularly soldiers and their letters home. Columnists are noting the eerie similarity of the febrile situation in the Balkans then and now. Historians now are querying the left wing ‘Oh what a lovely war’ assumption of British desire for the war, when German militarism under the delusional Kaiser was the overriding factor initiating the catastrophe. Britain did not want war and was not prepared for it, in Hope for 1914 any more than 1939. To pretend that there was a moral equiv- alence is simply bad history, and hinders good planning for the future. Likewise Hitler’s nationalistic propaganda that Germany lost WW1 because of a ‘stab in the back’ by Jewish financiers was a dangerous lie and honest history would have helped to nullify it. The horror of the Israeli-Hamas conflict is surrounded by inter- pretations of history, about who has strong claims to which area of parched desert, about the use made of territory against neighbour- ing people, about the 1967 Six Day war of aggression by Arab states the dyInifactnit’s worsegthan that, for they don’t even against Israel and their consequent loss of land and control. This have a realistic notion of who the poor are, but history has its background in the outcome of WW1 and the cutting Peter Mullen instead merely ape and mouth the secular fan- up of the Ottoman Empire at the Treaty of Versailles, creating the tasies about “equality,” “diversity,” “inclusivity” state of Iraq for example, now in a state of disaster as ISIS creates “How do you cope with all those dying people and all the associated claptrap. I don’t know how violent hell in the area under its control. History is vital, and is dif- and the funerals? “ much the modern clergy love the poor, but I do ficult: who could have foreseen in 1918 the rise of such barbaric It’s the question I’m asked more than any know that they hate the rich. political Islamism, and the deep instability of the region? Francis other. There are two answers, I think. First, we So what do they do, these secularist politicos in Fukuyama’s book The End of History, 1992, confidently argued that have rituals and forms of words in prayers for the cassock and surplice, when it comes to the divine the worldwide spread of western liberal democracy and capitalism sick and the Burial of the Dead in The Book of and supernatural parts of the Gospel that are the seemed to complete the politico-economic evolution of humanity’s Common Prayer. And, contrary to what’s gener- foundations of it all? They treat these stories, government – he has had to adjust that thesis very deeply! Instead, ally supposed, the burial service is one of the these doctrines – the Virgin Birth, The Resurrec- the thesis of Samuel P Huntington, ‘the clash of civilizations’ looks more cheerful rites in that book. tion and Ascension – as metaphors. more plausible, although such an inconvenient truth to western The funeral starts with the resurrection of the They are the ones to whom St Paul’s words political leaders as to attract instant denial. His reading of the dead: “I know that my Redeemer liveth and that apply precisely: “If in this life only we have hope importance of religious cultural norms globally has he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth.” It in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.” been much deeper than that of the secularist believers goes on, relentlessly confident: “Though worms They are futile. in the power of Coca Cola culture. destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see So how do I cope with all the death and the Closer to home the SNP have offered Scots who live God.” The firm belief that God loves us and that funerals? By believing the promises of Jesus in Scotland, but not its diaspora, a vote on withdrawal therefore we have nothing to fear because we are Christ. When you do this, you will be dismissed from the UK, and here again readings of history have in his hands resounds throughout: “Thou know- by the modern types as a “fundamentalist” – to been important. The great Scottish comedian Stanley est Lord the secrets of our hearts.” which the appropriate response is, “Very well, Baxter rightly says that Mel Gibson’s propaganda film And supremely the climax, the words of the but something has to be fundamental and I would Braveheart, with its many crass anachronisms such as Son of God himself: “Come ye blessed children rather believe in the words of Jesus Christ, who warriors painted in blue wode some thousand years out of my Father, receive the kingdom prepared for never once showed himself to be untrustworthy, of date, had a deep effect on turning the popular imagi- you from the beginning of the world.” than in all the implausible dogmas of material- nation against England. The date chosen by the SNP There, does that make you feel any better? ism.” regime for the vote is the commemoration of Bannock- Of course it helps if you actually believe it. The And when a priest does believe Christ’s prom- burn and the defeat of the English army: 1314 – almost confidence expressed in the old funeral rite is ises – to which should be added the spiritual and back to “1066 and all that”. Balancing this, the BBC overwhelming, even outrageous. The service philosophical insights of such as St Paul and St series The Stuarts showed that the Scottish King James starts with the melancholy tolling of a bell. Then Augustine – he has a context into which to set the VI forged the idea of Britain politically and devised the here comes a man leading in a corpse. Yet the facts of suffering and death. Once the profound Union Flag. Good history includes all the facts, and first words he says are the plain declaration that theological truths are grasped and accepted, the

Comment does exaggerate some, ignoring others. this person now dead will at the end stand up and pastoral work flows on from them perfectly natu- see God. But is it true? It’s too much of a tall rally. story for many. St Paul does not lack confidence: At the graveside, throwing earth on the coffin, “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are or at the bedside of a dying man, the believer The Church of England Newspaper of all men most miserable.” But St Paul is far does not see the same scene as that perceived by with Celebrate magazine incorporating The Record and Christian Week from miserable. Rather he chooses the subject of the unbeliever. Published by Political and Religious Intelligence Ltd. death in his Epistle to the Corinthians – the les- Some of the priest’s most rewarding – and Company Number: 3176742 son prescribed to be read at the funeral – and occasionally hilarious experiences – happen in Publisher: Keith Young MBE makes of it a long ecstatic poem celebrating life: the close presence of death. There is nothing gloomy or macabre about the prayers of the so- “O death where is thy sting? called Last Rites. These prayers are the Our Publishing Director & Editor: CM BLAKELY020 7222 8004 O grave where is thy victory? Father, the Absolution: “Pardon and deliver you Chief Correspondent: The Rev Canon GEORGE CONGER 00 1 0772 332 2604 The sting of death is sin from all your sins and bring you to everlasting Reporter: AMARIS COLE 020 7222 8700 And the strength of sin is the law life.” And the most beautiful of all: But thanks be to God which giveth us the victory “Go forth on thy way O Christian soul, in the Advertising: CHRIS TURNER 020 7222 2018 Through Our Lord Jesus Christ.” name of God the Father, who created thee; in the Advertising & Editorial Assistant: PENNY NAIR PRICE 020 7222 2018 name of Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, who Yes, I admit it is a tall story and the funeral suffered for thee; in the name of the Holy Ghost, Subscriptions & Finance: DELIA ROBINSON 020 7222 2018 service itself agrees, saying: “In the midst of life who was poured forth upon thee. And may all the Graphic Designer: PETER MAY020 7222 8700 we are in death.” But the point is that The Book holy angels receive thee this day into heaven The acceptance of advertising does not necessarily indicate of Common Prayer is unfailingly accurate when it with Lazarus who once was poor.” endorsement. Photographs and other material sent for publication describes human nature. It knows that we are Moving. How about hilarious? Our parish are submitted at the owner’s risk. The Church of England Newspaper does sinners – deviants from the will of God. It under- treasurer at St Sepulchre was near the end after a not accept responsibility for any material lost or damaged. stands our weakness and lack of faith, our self- long period of suffering. His wife asked me to ishness, lust, covetousness, envy, hatred and give him the Last Rites. He was deeply uncon- Christian Weekly Newspapers Trustees: Robert Leach (020 8224 5696), malice. And a book that has us bang to rights in scious and had been for some time. Certainly, he Lord Carey of Clifton, The Rt Rev Michael Nazir-Ali, The Rt Rev Pete Broadbent, every aspect of our lives is surely not suddenly to was not expected to live more than a day or two. I Dr Elaine Storkey, The Rev Peter Brown, The Rev Cindy Kent go wildly wrong when it speaks to us of death? said the prayers, blessed him and left the hospital The astounding truth of the Gospel is that no ward. The Church of England Newspaper, matter how rotten you feel – no matter how rot- Later that day, I took a phone call from his wife Political and Religious Intelligence Ltd ten you are – Jesus Christ has redeemed you. to say that Andrew was sitting up and cheerfully 14 Great College Street, London, SW1P 3RX And, as Dr Johnson used to say, “There’s an end asking for something to eat. The hilarious bit was Editorial e-mail: [email protected] on’t.” what she said next: “Thank you for coming, Advertising e-mail: [email protected] Unfortunately, there are many in the clergy Peter. But I don’t think you should come again!” Subscriptions e-mail: [email protected] who don’t believe it. They think that the Chris- tian faith consists of social work among the poor. Website/Blog: revpetermullen.com Website: www.churchnewspaper.com

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Toyama Medical and Pharmaceutical University in Japan, the researchers stated that residual chlorine in bathing water reduces the water-holding capacity of the top layer of our skin, which results in the skin drying out more easily, compromising the skin’s barrier and potentially leading to infections and irri- tation. Even at very low levels, chlorine causes damage Janey Lee Grace to skin and hair. And half of our daily chlorine expo- sure is from showering, so the water you shower in should be a priority, particularly if you suffer from Live Healthy! Live Happy! sensitive or delicate skin prone to dryness, eczema, psoriasis or any chemical sensitivities. The great news is you can buy a shower filter to remove the chlorine and soften the bathing water. It fits easily onto most shower units between the shower head and hose, or there’s a ball that hangs The hazards of Chlorine under the taps to dechlorinate the bathwater as it many people simply wash too often. effects on our skin and hair. runs. Gratitude is the only word I can think You may be reeling back in horror at Chlorine can destroy much-needed I have a shower filter and it has lasted for a year. for whoever invented paddling pools! that statement, but it really is true. proteins in our bodies. Depleted of It’s advised that they last six to 12 months depend- When the weather is hot the kids will Washing in heavily chlorinated protein, skin and hair can become ing on frequency of use, but the good thing is it’s spend hours splashing in and out and water is very drying for your skin. very dry and unmanageable. Chlo- clear so you can see that when the golden section of it cuts down on the expensive trips to Chlorine is used worldwide for its rine also strips the natural protective the filtration unit turns a black/greenish colour it the swimming pool. Personally I’m disinfecting power, and is added to oils from skin and hair, causing will need to be replaced. Meanwhile enjoy your not a fan of pools because of the our water to protect us from water- excess dryness. After clinical studies splashing! Chlorine but we often forget this is in borne infections – and it can also be were carried out for over a year at our tap water too. To start with, responsible for some fairly adverse the Department of Dermatology, http://www.water-for-health.co.uk/

Dean makes way JohnFeHowaretd Yoderofwas oneClaof the theologicaly giants of the 20th century. He was an for Deane important advocate of Christian non-violence who exercised a great deal of The Dean of St Edmundsbury has triumphed. It is a story that could have come influence on Stanley Hauerwas. In fact, he is quoted in virtually every book straight out of Trollope. Once she made public her letter to the local MP, David Hauerwas has written. In the Politics of Jesus Yoder sketched out a way of radical Ruffley, about his physical attack on his partner, a friend of the Dean, the MP’s discipleship that inspired many Christians beyond the Mennonite Church to which days were numbered. He is to stand down at the next election. How his former he belonged. Yoder finished his career at the prestigious American Catholic partner feels about the affair has not been revealed. She had been keeping quiet. University, Notre Dame. But Yoder was dogged by allegations of sexual misconduct But once Guido Fawkes published the letter from the Very Rev Dr Francis Ward for 20 years and now a group of theologians at Baylor has published an essay on his website, Ruffley was doomed. No doubt he will have his sympathisers. He examining the link between his theology and his behaviour, which appears in the had after all been punished by the law and received a caution. Political current issue of The Christian Century and online. The essay makes uncomfortable commentator, Andrew Gimson, writing on the Conservative Home website, is reading. Yoder refused to be held accountable for his actions and rejected just the one of those who sympathises with Ruffley although he foresees a bright future kind of group accountability he thought appropriate in the church in his teaching on for Dr Ward on the bench of bishops. But whatever happens to Dr Ward it looks communal binding and loosing. His treatment of women also contradicted his as though another Deane could benefit from the affair. According to The Times, teaching on non-violence in which he attacked behaviour that violated other people. Alex Deane, 35, a ‘common councilman’ in the City of London where he works, is Yoder may have justified his behaviour in his own mind by his view that what he said to be interested in representing his home town in Parliament. He is not on called ‘nongenital affective relationships’ between people who were not married the approved list of Conservative candidates but he did once work for David should be allowed in the church. Unfortunately Yoder’s victims never saw it this Cameron. The big question is whether the other Deane, Dean Ward, will smile way and he resolutely refused to meet with them. The Baylor team think Yoder on him. He has a link with the Cathedral where his father was once a warden (a shows God can use the fallen for good. Others will be less convinced. twist that would have appealed to Trollope) so perhaps she will. The Conservatives have held the seat since 1885.

A Big Loss Seminary in trouble The death of the Dean of Jesus College, Cambridge, John Hughes, has caused widespread grief and dismay in the Church of England. Aged just 35 Declining numbers and falling parish incomes are taking a toll on the seminaries of he died in a car crash. Over 1,000 filled for his funeral. John the Episcopal Church. General Theological Seminary in Manhattan is blessed with a was one of the brightest minds of his generation and bid fair to be a leading site worth millions and managed through selling some of its land for apartments to theologian in the same class as . Like Rowan Williams he shore up its finances (at least for the present). The Episcopal Divinity School also could easily have combined theology with leadership in the church because has a prime site in Cambridge, Massachusetts, not far from Harvard on Brattle he had pastoral gifts to match his intellectual ability. The Times published an Street, a street once known as ‘Tory row’ because so many residents left for Canada obituary of John (written by the Starbridge lecturer, Andrew Davidson) and after the Revolution. EDS used to share its campus with the Jesuit Weston School of now the Australian Broadcasting Corporation has published a tribute by Theology but that had to decamp to Boston College when EDS sold part of John Milbank and Catherine Pickstock. John was an Anglo-Catholic in its site to Lesley University in a $33 million deal that took place in 2010. the radical orthodox tradition whose doctorate was supervised by Dr That steadied EDS finances but still left the school taking too much Pickstock. In their tribute Milbank and Pickstock remind us that John money each year out of its endowment. Now The Living Church reports first burst into print when an undergraduate essay was published that a strategic review designed to make the seminary viable for the in Modern Theology, a prestigious journal many established future has had to be abandoned because of opposition from the faculty. theologians struggle to appear in. As they comment: “John did Last year the faculty passed a vote of ‘no confidence’ in EDS not hide his always genial contempt for the ‘realism’ of liberal President Katherine Ragsdale. Part of the trouble seems to be Anglicans happy to bow to the will of state or market. By that the seminary is trying not to hire tenured staff in a bid to contrast, he was beginning to renew in an astonishing save money. Most of the present faculty have tenure but many fashion the spirit of Hackney, Ditchling, and Thaxted – of are nearing retirement. Tenure offers a lifetime job and some Anglo-Catholic and British Catholic distributist socialism.” people wonder whether EDS can afford it. The review was to John wrote only one book (The End of Work) but he look at whether to retain, eliminate or modify tenure. At contributed to a number of others, including a new book present EDS has 72 students. For many years it has had a on Anglican Social Theology, edited by Malcolm Brown, reputation for radical theology, welcoming lesbians and gays and he himself edited a superb collection of sermons on Whispering and offering courses on liberation theology. But one regular the new atheists (The Unknown God). Milbank and The Gallery CEN contributor whose theological views are much more Pickstock promise a collection of his sermons. It will be traditionalist has happy memories of living there in the 1970s. well worth reading. Until the split with Weston it had a superb theological library with just about every Catholic publication published in English.

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper www.churchnewspaper.com Friday August 8, 2014 Comment 9 Our confusions over childhood Andrew Carey View from the Pew There’s a confusion about childhood that is dangerous and of the few jobs in life in which the ultimate aim is to make our- threatening. It is neatly illustrated by page 15 of Monday’s selves redundant. The role of a parent to older teenagers is The censorship of war edition of The Times on which there are three stories about one of guidance and advice. They now have the agency and As we mark the centenary of the First World children. ability to ignore and reject more heavy-handed and involved War, an article by Michael Nicholson in the The first story reports the remarks of an artist in a Sunday parenting. Sunday Telegraph caught my eye (‘Reporting newspaper advising parents that to take their children to an In that context, it is easy to understand why Jake Chapman the First World War: stumbling through the art gallery is a total waste of time (‘Don’t take children to gal- should remark that “children are not human yet”. I’d be sur- fog of war’, 3 August 2014). The article was leries. They won’t understand, says top artist’, The Times, 4 prised if he meant that they were a different species, merely about censorship and the plight of the war August 2014). He argued that parents were arrogant if they that they are not adults. They are not at a stage of develop- correspondent. thought their children could grasp the complexities of works ment in which they understand all the complexities of art. “A state of war exists between the reporter of art. “Children are not human yet,” he added. The problem for Mr Chapman is that if we don’t trust them to and the establishment – and the reporter Another article reports the campaign by Ruth Hunt, the learn about art they will never develop an understanding and invariably loses. It was never more thorough- new head of , to target toddlers for gay liberation love for the great masterpieces. ly and tragically so than in the First World (‘Toddlers should study gay lifestyle’). She argued that the And it is here that parents must make decisions for them War.” next step to combat homophobic bullying is to go into pre- about how and when they learn about art – including those The fact that the scale of casualties and the schools with books and teaching that celebrate difference. “I first visits to art galleries. conditions on the front were concealed for so really want to commission a suite of books that celebrates dif- Ruth Hunt acknowledges that children can understand and long cannot be put down to supine journal- ference in all its forms for under-fives – with different fami- be educated and might be receptive to propaganda, but wants ism but to very rigorous and severe censor- lies in it but also mixed-race people and sent into every to take parents out of the picture entirely. She admits that her ship. pre-school setting. That will take time... But ... is possibly one campaign is ‘radical’ but it is radical precisely because it Lord Kitchener in particular introduced a of the most radical campaigns we could do,” she declared. attempts to reach very young children directly through an blanket press ban in the first year of the war Finally, an ‘expert’ has published advice for parents giving institutionalised pre-school setting rather than through the refusing all press accreditation. David Lloyd them tips for exam results day for parents (‘How to pass as family. It’s an approach that sees parents as a problem. And George is reported to have told CP Scott, edi- A* parents when results day arrives’). Harrison Gross of Lin- that is hardly surprising given that parents have an emotional tor of the Manchester Guardian, that if people coln University says that parents should realise that their investment in the family that Stonewall seeks to supplant knew what was going on in the trenches, the role is to provide money and a roof over teenagers’ heads with its celebration of difference. war would be stopped immediately. during the summer and to try to avoid interfering in anything In all sorts of ways the role of mothers and fathers are Yet the truth was filtering out by other else, as they prepare to get their A level results. being assumed by the state and its agencies. But we must not means and eventually newspapers managed That last story is a simple recognition that the role of par- allow pre-school childhood to become the next battleground to win some limited editorial battles against ents is in preparing our children for independence. It is one for the culture wars. Our children deserve better than that. censorship. Politicians and the Paul Richardson crisis of credibility Church and World It’s a cliche to say that conventional politics is in crisis. but even America no longer gets everything its own the list of single issues that can determine a person’s Political leaders are unpopular. Membership of political way. vote is endless. parties is plunging even faster than church attendance. Another problem is the quality of leadership current- Such a situation calls for leadership skills of the high- MPs lack credibility. First it was the expenses scandal ly on offer. Put bluntly, Nick Clegg and Ed Miliband do est order. We need politicians who can put together a now it is the alleged cover up of child sex abuse. not impress. Clegg’s failure to master detail was on dis- broad coalition, identify the key issues facing the nation According to a YouGov poll almost half those ques- play when he pledged the government to provide hot and persuade people to see their importance. Only then tioned have ‘not very much confidence’ or ‘none at all’ school lunches without even checking kitchens were can political leaders try to sell their policies to the vot- that inquiries ‘will fully investigate the matter’. available to prepare them. Miliband’s office is a collec- ers. Alex Salmond is this kind of a politician. It is possi- YouGov points out a paradox involving Ukip. The tion of warring groups and he has difficulty in making ble to admire him and disagree with what he is party wants to take Britain out of the EU in order to up his mind. There is little to suggest he is up to the job advocating. On coming to power the coalition was return power from Brussels to Westminster yet its sup- of being Prime Minister and even Labour voters sense forced to identify the financial crisis as a major issue porters display greater suspicion of MPs than voters for this. facing the nation and it offered an austerity policy that any other party. As Peter Kellner suggests, this is more Cameron has ability but people do not know what his commanded the support of most of the population. evidence that the Ukip draws it support from the alien- real beliefs are. Andrew Gimson has suggested that he In order to command support for policies that may ated and the discontented, those who have no trust in is a liberal Anglican through and through who is more demand sacrifices politicians have to build bridges with politics or in politicians. concerned with form than belief. Unkind critics would the voters. This is a major area where they are falling In Kellner’s words, many people see politicians as go further and say he is a PR man who tailors his poli- down. Too few have experience of life outside politics. ‘inveterate crooks and liars who live decadent and cies, whether gay marriage or a EU referendum, to suit Particularly on the left, most began life as political immoral lives’. Those with friends in politics know this the public mood. advisers and then moved to being players without hold- is not true. In his book on the Bible Society, God’s Cameron is not alone in being focus-group driven. It ing any other kind of job. On both sides of the Com- Agents, Matthew Engelke reports that the Society’s par- is a common complaint made against Hillary Clinton mons there are people who have followed their parents liamentary officer felt many MPs were getting a rough whose husband was the inventor of triangulation. Bill into politics. Among Labour members people like Euan ride during the expenses scandal. He was probably stressed that his policies were between or above those Blair, Will Straw and Stephen Kinnock are known deri- right. But it’s important to probe the reasons why peo- of the right and left and this approach was followed by sively as the ‘red princelings’. ple think as they do. New Labour. When politics becomes a family business the impres- One problem is that in a globalised world MPs have There is a reason why Clinton and Tony Blair did this. sion is given that the country is being ruled by an elite much less power. Many problems are hard to solve at The days of class-based politics when the Labour and out of contact with ordinary people. Questions of moti- the national level. Conservative Parties commanded over 90% of the vote vation arise. Are people trying to get to Westminster out Although people can’t see it, this is why leaving the between them are over. of a burning desire to change lives for the better or EU would diminish Britain’s power in the world. We can The electorate is much more fragmented. Some vote because it is a family tradition? work more effectively through bodies like the EU than on tax, others on identity issues. Immigration divides No one knows why Cameron wanted to be PM and a we can as solitary players on a world stage where our the working class and drives many white voters into the cruel, probably inaccurate, conclusion sometimes voice doesn’t count for very much. For years Britain Ukip camp. Sexuality, women’s rights, fracking, the advanced about Miliband is that he just wanted to stop has sought to retain influence by staying close to the US environment, international aid, fox hunting, the NHS - his brother getting to No 10.

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The Church is family

By Martin Dales And this time I voted in favour of the new legislative package. Now that legislation has been passed to enable women to become Last month the General Synod met in York So what’s changed and why within 20 bishops the Church of England is fully and unequivocally committed and finally passed legislation to enable both months has the Church of England come to a to all orders of ministry being open equally to all, without reference women and men to be bishops in the Church new mind on the matter? to gender, and holds that those whom it has duly ordained and of England. In the same article in 2012, I wrote: “The appointed to office are the true and lawful holders of the office which For many it is a cause for celebration; for mission of the Church and the teaching of they occupy and thus deserve due respect and canonical obedience; others it creates a time of uncertainty. Christ have always been on the side of Anyone who ministers within the Church of England must be In December 2012, I wrote in a newspaper minorities and the marginalised in society. prepared to acknowledge that the Church of England has reached a that the previous attempt at legislation at that How much more then should it be practised clear decision on the matter; November group of sessions fell due to “the in bodies such as General Synod and our Since it continues to share the historic episcopate with other failure by those who wanted this to happen in churches.” Churches, including the Roman Catholic Church, the Orthodox not ‘hearing’ the voice of those who needed a I also suggested that it was vital that all Church and those provinces of the Anglican Communion which continuation” of the provision that had been sides of the argument should meet up as continue to ordain only men as priests or bishops, the Church of around for the 20 years for those whose early as possible in 2013 to find a way England acknowledges that its own clear decision on ministry and consciences made it impossible for them to forward from the impasse. gender is set within a broader process of discernment within the accept the ministry of women as priests due On 21 March 2013, the , Anglican Communion and the whole Church of God; to their theological convictions. Justin Welby, was enthroned as the 105th Since those within the Church of England who, on grounds of On that occasion both sides had become and to me this theological conviction, are unable to receive the ministry of women polarised in their positions and over 27 per was to mark the turning point in the way we bishops or priests continue to be within the spectrum of teaching cent of members of General Synod, including as a Synod do our business as well as relate and tradition of the Anglican Communion, the Church of England 36 per cent of the lay members, voted against to each other in disagreement: the Church is remains committed to enabling them to flourish within its life and the proposals, and that included myself. a family and all families fall out at times. structures; and There followed an outpouring of disdain Archbishop Welby has an accepted track Pastoral and sacramental provision for the minority within the and derision for the Church from Parliament record in reconciliation helping people in Church of England will be made without specifying a limit of time and some Media as it was clear they didn’t some of the most war-torn countries of the and in a way that maintains the highest possible degree of understand that the Church is both in and for world find solutions to their problems. Out of communion and contributes to mutual flourishing across the whole the world but not of it: ours looks to spiritual that work, came the idea of facilitated Church of England. forces in the form of Jesus Christ whereas a conversations for members of Synod with the lot of the world believes and promotes the help of professional mediators led by the secularist and liberal agenda. highly experienced Canon David Porter, the The new legislation also includes the opportunity for parishes, as I remember having a particularly hard time Archbishop’s Director of Reconciliation. before, to pass a resolution to ask their Diocesan bishop for the pastoral explaining ‘what and why’ to Vanessa Feltz in The atmosphere in the Synod changed care of a male priest and male bishop on grounds of theological convic- a BBC interview: other than read the almost overnight as we recognised that we tion. In the event of any disputes, the matter can be referred to an Inde- headlines; she clearly had done no had allowed the legislative programme to pendent Reviewer, a sort of ecclesiastical ombudsman. preparation before our interview and was dominate and polarise our positions instead The key point is that there is now a desire on all sides to establish a cli- more interested in expressing her own views of caring for each other in a Christ-like way mate of trust within which all members of the Church of England can rather than hearing mine. as we struggled to find agreement. flourish in an acceptance of each other’s theological positions – this is This time, however, it was a very different Unusually, the steering group (committee) not a monochrome church. atmosphere in the debate chaired with great set up to find a way forward included both As Archbishop Welby put it to us: “To pass this legislation is to commit sensitivity by the , John those against as well as those in favour – ourselves to an adventure in faith and hope… it allows us to move for- Sentamu, with most people signed up to normally they have been made up of only the ward together, all of us faithful Anglican Christians and all of us commit- reconciliation and desire to show the world latter - and I believe this was another factor ted to each other’s flourishing in the life of the Church… if I did not that these Christians really do love each in the success of the settlement this week. think that was likely, I could not support this legislation. You don’t chuck other. In the end, the steering group came up with out family, or even make it difficult for them to be at home: you love When it came to the vote, 17 per cent of a package that included a Declaration from them and seek their well-being, even when you disagree.” members voted against, including 23 per the House of Bishops with this statement of cent of the lay members: a two-thirds guiding principles which, I believe all of us – Martin Dales majority is needed in each of the House of bishops, priests and congregations – should Lay Member of General Synod for the Diocese of York since 1995 Bishops, Clergy and Laity. sign up to;

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Keep turning

the Norman Ivison is Director of Communication and Resources for Fresh Expressions. Ten years on from the Mission-shaped Church wheels report, he looks at the road ahead for those pioneering fresh expressions of church

‘Keep turning the wheels’. I was touch with thousands of people who inter-connecting cogs in order to help - being willing to talk to those grateful for that unsophisticated, but want to try new ways of being church, ease the journey. responsible for implementing policy, sincere, piece of advice from a friend a who want forms of church that will be The church finds itself in a new especially when things seem to be few months ago when I told him I comfortable places for their friends. We missional context in these days; those moving slowly. planned to cycle from Newcastle to are championing best practice and responsible for selecting and training It will also mean involvement with Edinburgh. trying to support and accompany both lay and ordained leaders need our those designing courses and training There was, of course, a good deal wherever we can. support to discern the best way schemes and helping them to more to it than that. Challenges forward to respond to that context – as contextualise what is taught – as well as included pedalling through a do the people holding the purse feeding into discussions with leaders mini Scottish heatwave whilst strings. How to make financial and treasurers as tricky financial forgetting to top up on water, decisions that have a positive impact on decisions are made. It won’t be easy reading a map on the move and mission in such difficult, economic but it is worth it! keeping the old derailleur free times? It’s an enormous task. Let’s pray One decade on from that report and from grit and dust! (And for the for those in the thick of those many committed and hard-working non-cyclists reading this: a budgetary demands. pioneers are beginning to make a big ‘derailleur’ is the device that There’s no doubt that missional difference to their communities and changes gears by moving the experience (and passion!) is networks. The signs are good. Many bike chain from one sprocket to increasingly essential in the person people, who have never been part of another…) specification for many of the church’s church, are finding faith for the first Needless to say, there was a key, leadership roles. Do we take that time. But if this new movement of good deal of necessary multi- into consideration enough I wonder? contextual, missional churches is to tasking but actually all I seemed Accountability is a question that is gain momentum, let’s not forget to to be doing was cycling (yes, often on the agenda when fresh have a regular ‘MOT’ so that every and sometimes pushing) along expressions are discussed; let’s lend a ‘cog’, every aspect of our lives as quiet country roads. I was very helping hand to anyone with the churches together, is put to the test. proud of my achievement until I responsibility to implement policy We can’t offer short cuts and there’s saw the Tour de France pass changes within denominational a steep incline ahead of us, but it’s through Yorkshire! structures – changes that involve exciting to tackle it together. Helping something to move in individuals being held to account. How a particular direction is actually can such changes be embraced? How To find out more, visit quite a complex task. That’s no can we give support? www.freshexpressions.org.uk less true for the church. Photos: Norman Ivison/Fresh Expressions Of course there are challenges. Looking back over the last 10 Regional church leaders already have years since the Mission-shaped extremely lengthy ‘to do’ lists so who Church report was published, it’s There has also been a real attempt, can possibly have an overview of all encouraging to see how much has particularly in the Church of England this? Hard-pressed local leaders often changed and moved forwards. But and Methodist Church, to effect policy run from pillar to post just to keep up there is a long way to go. change and explore new forms of with the regular demands of church The vast majority of congregations ministry and leadership. Other life. So, in the end, it will be those to are still to look at ways of engaging denominations have quickly followed whom God has given a passion for those with whom they currently have suit. But sometimes it still feels as if people who have not yet met him, and no contact. National and regional progress, though considerable, needs are unlikely to meet him in church leaders have difficult further encouragement along the way. conventional church, who need to get resourcing decisions to make. How do If the UK church is serious about those wheels turning. you keep the show on the road and yet trying to reach those usually well off its That will mean pioneers taking a at the same time reach brand new radar, especially if it is going to go for holistic approach, and getting involved audiences? growth, then the task is complex. Like in diocesan synods or circuit meetings. The partnership of fresh expressions riding a bike or operating an intricate It will mean those pioneers: has done a great deal to help train and piece of machinery, attention has to be - understanding the decisions that are encourage local pioneers. We are in paid to every part. We need to oil the made and their implications for mission

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saw, some of whom were too tired to eat Thou that rulest the power of the sea after incessant marching: “We were and stillest the violent motion of its divided between pity for these poor fel- waves, arise and help me (Psalm 88) lows far away from their country and Scatter the nations that desire war their people… and hatred of a cruel and (Psalm 68:30) vindictive foe bringing ruin and desola- There is no other hope of refuge for tion on hundreds of happy homes in a me, save in Thee, O Lord my God (Psalm prosperous and peaceful land.” Edith and 71) other English nurses in the city were Her court martial began on 7 October offered safe conduct to neutral Holland, 1915 and Edith openly admitted the although most refused. charges against her. She said she had Edith continued to direct her nursing been doing her duty to her country. She home in Brussels. However she soon did not consider herself a spy. However began to flout the rules laid down by the the court did not agree and she was one German occupiers. Any Belgian male of six people handed down the death sen- aged over 18 leaving the hospital was tence on 11 October. Edith had less than meant to report to the German military a day left to live. police to be sent to forced labour camps Edith’s final visitor the night before in Germany. British and French soldiers her execution was the Rev Horace were meant to be handed to the authori- Gahan, the chaplain in charge of Christ ties to be held as prisoners of war. How- Church in Brussels where Edith had ever Edith agreed to take in wounded worshipped during the past year. She allied soldiers, but when such a patient told him: “I thank God for this 10 weeks’ left Edith’s hospital, they were told to quiet before the end [….] life has always report to the police or the home of a been hurried and full of difficulty. This Mme X, where safe passage to the front time of rest has been a great mercy.” or a neutral country would be found. She also uttered her most famous The choice was left to the patient and quote, one that is on her statue on Trafal- Edith and her staff were able to honestly gar Square: report to the authorities that they had “This I would say standing as I do in directed them to the police. Edith view of God and eternity: I realise that became part of an extensive Belgian patriotism is not enough. I must have no underground network, although she was hatred or bitterness toward anyone.” not aware of its full existence and only Gahan then performed the commun- dealt with a handful of people later ion service with Edith, saying the Lord’s arrested by the Germans. Prayer in unison then both reciting the The German authorities became suspi- words of her favourite hymn, Abide With cious of the comings and goings at the Me: hospital, including a loud rendition of I fear no foe, with Thee at hand to bless; ‘God Save the King’ at Christmas 1914. Ills have no weight, and tears no bitter- In March 1915 she took 10 of her nurses ness. to Antwerp to care for wounded soldiers Where is death’s sting? Where, grave thy there. As she arrived she knelt on the victory? ground and recited Psalm 23. I triumph still if Thou abide with me. On her return to Brussels, realisation Hold Thou Thy cross before my closing grew that the hospital was under close eyes; observation by the Germans. However Shine through the gloom and point me the number of wounded allied soldiers to the skies; arriving was increasing, and Edith could Heaven’s morning breaks, and earth’s not find it in her heart to turn any away, vain shadows flee, despite the obvious danger to herself. In In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me. June 1915 mysterious strangers arrived at the hospital asking if they could rent At 5am the next day, Edith was taken premises once the hospital moved to from her cell, and driven to the place of new quarters, and asked to conduct a execution. She made one last entry in detailed investigation of the building. her prayer book: One of the nurses noted they had Ger- Died at 7am on Oct 12th 1915 Edith Cavell: a beacon man army issue shoes. However Edith’s With Love to My Mother work carried on. E. Cavell She was eventually arrested on 5 She was then tied to a post alongside August 1915 along with over 30 Belgian Philippe Baucq, another conspirator. As of hope for today and French citizens involved in the sub- the shots rang out through the morning dith Louisa Cavell was born on 4 margin she had written: ‘Oct 11/95 terfuge, most of them unknown person- air, one bullet pierced Edith’s skull and December 1865 at Swardeston, Amen.’ ally to Edith. She was taken to the Prison another tore a large hole in her heart. ENorfolk, the daughter of Frederick Amongst other portions of scripture of St Gilles to await trial. Her body was buried in a rough grave Cavell, a country parson. marked out by her was the prophetic In all around 200 soldiers had made it close by. However in 1919 it was brought Her childhood days began with family John 17:21: ‘But all these things will they safely out of German hands due to Edith back in ceremony to Britain, and she was prayers in the morning and ended with do unto you for my name’s sake.’ Next to organising safe conduct through the hos- given a memorial service in Westminster the call for vespers in the evening. Her this Edith had written: ‘Be prepared to be pital. She had given each some money to Abbey before being buried in the father ran a strict Victorian Sunday, with treated as Christ was.’ Also Psalm 18: aid their escape, much of it raised from grounds of Norwich Cathedral. Crafts- toys, needlework and even secular books ‘God girdeth me with strength.’ Britain to ‘help the work of the hospital’, men from her native Swardeston gave locked away until Monday. However his She became a probationer nurse at the and some of it out of her own pocket. their services to produce a beautiful generosity was shown in that when a fine London Hospital on Whitechapel Road During Edith’s imprisonment, trial and stained glass window above the altar. On roast dinner had been prepared, he and rose through the ranks to become whilst awaiting execution, she had three the window the following Bible quotes would tell his servants to `go out quickly temporary Matron of a hospital in Man- books with her to give comfort and are included: into the streets and the lanes of the city, chester. She was invited back to Brus- strength: the Bible, her prayer book and But he was wounded for our transgres- and bring hither the poor, and the sels in 1907 by Dr Antoine Depage to The Imitation of Christ by Thomas A sions (Isaiah 53:5) maimed, and the halt, and the blind… become director and teacher for a new Kempis. She spent many hours annotat- Greater love hath no man than this, that my house may be filled,’ (Luke nursing school. Her reputation for strict ing and underlining Kempis’ interpreta- that a man lay down his life for his 14:21). discipline tinged with kindness grew. tion of different Biblical texts. These friends. (John 15:13) Edith developed a love of poetry and She was on holiday in Norfolk in July included the following lines: He was bruised for our iniquities (Isa- was sent to study at Miss Margaret Gib- 1914 as war was breaking out across Into Thy hands I commend my spirit iah 53:5) son’s School for Young Ladies in Peter- Europe. As thousands of others fled the (Luke 23:46), for Thou has redeemed Edith’s execution created outrage borough before obtaining a position as a continent to the safety of Britain, 48-year- me, O Lord, Thou God of Truth around the world. It was used in Britain governess for a lawyer in Brussels, old Edith travelled the other way, landing Vanity it is, to wish to live long, and to to drive recruitment for the army and where she stayed for five years. She in Belgium on the day before Britain be careless to live well eventually a number of streets and hospi- returned to Norfolk in 1895 to care for entered the war. One of her first acts was O God who art the truth make me one tals were named in her honour. It was her ailing father, a move that inspired to help several German nurses return with Thee in everlasting charity one of two major events of 1915, the her to develop a new career as a nurse. home safely by accompanying them to Neither is it any such great thing if a other being the sinking of the Lusitania, Inspiration for this move was also found the Gare du Nord. man be devout and fervent when he which helped turn American public opin- in the Bible. Edith had marked out 1 On 19 August 1914 Brussels was cap- feeleth no affliction; but if in time of ion firmly behind the allies. In 1939 her Thessalonians, 5:24: ‘Faithful is he that tured by German forces. Edith wrote of adversity he bear himself patiently there life was made into a film, with Anna Nea- calleth you, who will also do it.’ In the her feelings for the German troops she is hope then of great proficiency in grace gle in the starring role. www.churchnewspaper.com Friday August 8, 2014 The Register 13

THE 2014 BIBLE CHALLENGE The Rev Canon Vanda Perrett, ANGLICAN CYCLE OF PRAYER Resigning from her appointment as Rural Dean of Alderbury, Team Rector of Bourne Valley, Associate Day 220: Isaiah 13-15, Psalm 30, 2 Thessalonians 2 Friday 8 August. Psalm 46, Gen 22:1-19. Evo - Priest of Salisbury St Francis and St Lawrence, Day 221: Isaiah 16-18, Psalm 31, 2 Thessalonians 3 (Niger Delta, Nigeria): The Rt Rev Innocent Ordu Stratford sub Castle, Ex Officio Foundation Governor Day 222: Enjoy hearing the Scriptures read aloud in Saturday 9 August. Psalm 47, Gen 23. Exeter - of Porton St Nicholas CE VA Primary School, Ex church (Canterbury, England): Vacant; Exeter - - Officio Foundation Governor of Newton Tony CE VC Day 223: Isaiah 19-21, Psalm 31, 1 Timothy 1 (Canterbury, England): The Rt Rev Nick McKinnel; Primary School, Ex Officio of Sarum Archdeaconry Day 224: Isaiah 22-24, Psalm 32, 1 Timothy 2 Exeter - Plymouth - (Canterbury, England): The Rt Mission and Pastoral Committee, and Patron of Day 225: Isaiah 25-27, Psalm 34, 1 Timothy 3 Rev John Frank Ford Bourne Valley, Clarendon, Forest and Avon. She will Day 226: Isaiah 28-30, Psalm 35, 1 Timothy 4 Sunday 10 August. Pentecost 9. Psalm 119:65-80, be Priest in Charge of St Buryan, St Stennen, and St Acts 9:32-43. PRAY for Church of the Province of Levan, The Lands End Benefice (). South East Asia: The Most Rev , Her appointment ceases on 25 September. Her last Archbishop of South East Asia & Bishop of service is 31 August. Monday 11 August. Psalm 48, Acts 10:1-8. Ezo - The Rev Roger Stokes, APPOINTMENTS (Sudan): The Rt Rev John Kereboro Zawo Priest-in-Charge, Bedford, St Martin (St Albans), to Tuesday 12 August. Psalm 49, Acts 10:9-23. retire from 1 November 2014. Faisalabad - (Pakistan): The Rt Rev John Samuel The Rev Kerry Tucker, The Rev David John Adlington Wednesday 13 August. Psalm 50:1-15, Acts 10:24- House for Duty post Ockham with Hatchford & has been appointed Area Dean of Elham Deanery for 33. False Bay - (Southern Africa): The Rt Rev Downside (Guildford) to resign from 31 July. three years with effect from 1 August 2014 Margaret Brenda Vertue The Rev Errol Williams, (Canterbury). Thursday 14 August. Psalm 51, Acts 10:34-48. House-for-Duty Team Vicar in the Benefice of the The Ven Caroline Baston, for Federal Ministries - (The South Cotswolds Team Ministry retired 20 July 2014 Transition Minister of the Benefice of St Andrew, Episcopal Church): The Rt Rev James Magness (Gloucester) North Swindon, (Bristol) will become Priest-in-Charge The Rev Canon Simon Wilkinson of the Benefice of St Andrew, North Swindon, (Bristol). has retired from his appointment as Associate Vicar of The Rev Dave Berry, The Rev Phil Saltmarsh Amesbury. His appointment ceased 14 July. Assistant at St John with St Mary, Mansfield appointed as Associate Vicar (to be known as Vicar) of The Rev Canon Ian Woodward (Southwell and Nottingham) to be Vicar of Bentley All Saints Kensington (London). is resigning from his appointment as Vicar of Bere (Sheffield). The Rev Canon June Steventon, Regis and Affpuddle with Turnerspuddle to be Vicar of The Rev Canon , Rector of Winwick, also to be Priest in Charge at St The Close, Salisbury. His appointment ceases 15 Director of Mission and Ministry in the Diocese of Michael’s Burtonwood (Liverpool). October. His last Service is 5 October. Derby, to be the new Archdeacon of the East Riding The Rev Mark Waters (York). appointed as Team Vicar in the St Luke in the City LAY & OTHER APPOINTMENTS The Rev Mike Coates Team (Liverpool). appointed as Vicar (incumbent) of All Saints Liverpool The Rev Timothy Charles Wilson Mr Matt Arnold (Liverpool). has been appointed Area Dean of Ashford Deanery for to be Fresh Expressions Lay Pioneer (0.5) St The Rev Barnabus (Barney) de Berry three years with effect from 15 June 2014 Augustine, Mansfield and St Barnabas, Pleasley Hill has been appointed Area Dean of Canterbury Deanery (Canterbury). and ‘Growing Disciples’ Adviser in Evangelism (0.5) for three years with effect from 10 July 2014 The Rev Maggie Woodward, for the Deanery of Mansfield (Southwell and (Canterbury). seconded to the parishes of Norwell with Ossington, Nottingham). The Rev Denise Dodd, Cromwell, Caunton, Sutton on Trent and Carlton on Dr Richard Henderson Smith Associate Priest at St James’, Porchester, and Trent (Southwell and Nottingham) from the Fosse has stood down as Lay Chair of Erewash Deanery Partnerships’ Officer: Developing World Church Links, Group to be Associate Priest in the parishes of (Derby). Mr Brian Parker, also a churchwarden at (Southwell and Nottingham), to become Bishop’s Kinoulton with Hickling and Broughton Sulney in the Long Eaton St John, will replace him with immediate Chaplain (Durham). same Diocese. effect. The Rev Dr Sandra Faccini, Mrs Catherine Jackson, Priest in Charge, Ottershaw (Guildford), to be Children’s and Families’ Worker at Trowbridge St Incumbent, Ottershaw RETIREMENTS & RESIGNATIONS James. Licensing takes place 28 September, (Guildford). Trowbridge St James, 11am, with the Archdeacon of The Rev Peter William Gilroy, The Rev Mark Francis Ball, Wilts officiating. (Salisbury). Assistant Curate at St Helen’s,Stapleford (Southwell resigns as Area Dean of Canterbury Deanery with Dr Richard Henderson Smith, and Nottingham) to be Team Vicar at St Luke’s effect from 9 July 2014 , having completed his term of Stood down as Lay Chair of Erewash Deanery. Mr Church in the Eccleston Team (Liverpool). office (Canterbury). Brian Parker, also a churchwarden at Long Eaton St The Rev Neil Green, The Rev Christine Clark, John, will replace him with immediate effect. Asst. Master, Eastbourne College, to be Chaplain, Priest-in-Charge, Odell (St Albans), to retire from 10 The Rev Dr Anna Claar Thomasson-Rosingh Cranleigh Preparatory School (Guildford). November. is now a member of staff on the Southern Theological The Rev Steven Philip Hughes The Rev Canon Richard Cook, Education and Training Scheme. (Salisbury). has been appointed Area Dean of North Downs Incumbent, Goldsworth Park, Woking (Guildford), to The Rev Dr Stella Wood, Deanery for three years with effect from 3 June 2014 retire from 30 September. Co-ordinator for Learning for Discipleship, is to be (Canterbury). The Rev Peter Andrew Cornish Chaplain at Godolphin School and Associate Priest of The Rev Canon Robert Jones, resigns as Area Dean of Canterbury Deanery with Wilton with Netherhampton and Fugglestone Director of Development (Worcester) is to be the next effect from 9 July 2014, having completed his term of (Salisbury). Archdeacon of Worcester. office (Canterbury). The Rev Donald John William Lawton, The Rev Mark Hayton, Associate Priest of High Downs to be Incumbent of resigns as Area Dean of Elham Deanery with effect DEATHS High Downs (Canterbury). from 31 July 2014, having completed his term of office The Rev Paul Massey, (Canterbury). The Rev Louise Lancaster, Rector of Cotgrave and Priest in Charge of Owthorpe The Rev Jenny Low, It is with regret that we report the death of the Rev (Southwell and Nottingham) to also be Priest in Priest-in-Charge St Peter, Lawrence Weston & St Louise Lancaster. Before her ordination Louise was for Charge of Hickling with Kinoulton and Broughton Andrew, Avonmouth, (Bristol), will resign with effect many years a member of St John the Baptist, Sulney in the same Diocese. from the 1st October 2014. Clarendon Park, and was a non-stipendiary priest there The Rev Nick Parish, The Rev Canon Jonathan Martin, for eight years before moving to Roundhay, Leeds in Priest in Charge, Bracknell (Oxford), to be Priest in Resigned from his appointment as Senior Chaplain to 2001. Louise and her husband Roy have died in tragic Charge, St Martin’s, with St Stephen on the Downs, Alabaré. His appointment ceased on 8 June. circumstances at home. Our thoughts and prayers are Epsom (Guildford). (Salisbury) with their family, their friends and the authorities as The Rev Steve Parish The Rev Christopher Morgan, they seek to understand what has happened. appointed as Honorary Canon of Liverpool Cathedral Presently Vicar of Norbury, S Oswald retires with (Liverpool). effect 30th September 2014. (Southwark) The Rev Jeremy Douglas Adam Parsons, The Rev Gilly Pawson, Permission to Officiate (Southwell and Nottingham), Presently Associate Priest in the Putney Team to become Team Vicar of Saffron Walden and Villages Ministry resigns with effect 26th October 2014, her Team Ministry Saffron Walden, St Mary the Virgin last Sunday being 12th October 2014. (Southwark) Subscribe to Wendens Ambo, Holy Trinity Littlebury, All Saints The Rev Claire Parr, the CEN in the Ashdon, St Bodolph Hadstock, St Mary the Virgin Resigned from her appointment as Assistant Curate of Apple Debden, All Saints Wimbish with Thundersley, All Hampreston to be Associate Minister of St James, Newsstand Saints Great Chesterford, St Mary the Virgin, Little Hemingford Grey (). Her appointment Chesterford (Chelmsford). ceased 12 July 2014.

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SUNDAY SERVICE 9th Sunday after Trinity. Sunday 17th August 2014

Isaiah 56:1, 6-8 Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32 Matthew 15:21-28

The theme of our readings this week is appropriate, con- On ‘going sidering all the foreign excursions which readers may embark on over the summer months: God’s mercy extends to those from all nations who come to Jesus in faith. In a section of his prophecy that will focus on the work of the coming anointed conqueror, Isaiah speaks of “foreign- ers who join themselves to the Lord”. They serve the Lord, love his name, and hold fast to his covenant. He in return will bring them joyfully into his house of prayer, accepting round again’, their sacrifices. He is a God who not only gathers the out- casts and downhearted from his own sinful people, but joins them to others from elsewhere who also believe and trust in the God of the covenant. This is a passage Jesus himself used to refer to the Jerusalem Temple as “a house of prayer for all nations.” That Temple had turned into a convenient hideout for bandits and exploitation, but God always intends the gatherings of his people to attract and baptismally draw in outsiders, not repel or hinder them. Jesus teaches on defilement and sin (a subject of univer- sal fascination and importance, not one to be avoided). Nat- urally he offends the Pharisees, who are overly concerned by outward cleanliness and ritualistic rules. He clarifies for his disciples that even with clean hands and a strict kosher diet one can still be defiled in God’s sight by the state of ‘What has been will be again, what has been done will two parish priests all about the problems of respond- one’s heart. besdone again;ptheree is nothinganewkunder theisun.’nging to those who pitched up ‘wanting the baby done’ Interestingly, by including amongst the things that defile Ecclesiastes 1:9 NIV. but were unaware of any demands beyond this. the word porneia, he does actually speak into our modern A retired evangelical bishop then gave a very good debates about sexuality (whereas it is commonly asserted One of the good things about Ely Diocese is that exposition of covenant theology, ‘true blue and that he is silent on the issue). Porneia does not mean the retired clergy are fully integrated into their local sound’. It was the classic evangelical rationale about pornography, though we derive our modern English word Deanery Chapters. This means that they are spared why we could baptise some babies rather than should for that from this ancient Greek term. It does not narrowly the pain of being relegated to the geriatrics’ bench baptise all! It would have passed muster 50 years ago mean “fornication” either, as some translations have it. It is and can enjoy being kept up to date by those on the before the evangelical theological heavyweights. But the word used in the ancient world for all kinds of trans- front line. when I privately asked the speaker about his parish gressive and illicit sexual encounters, whether heterosexu- For our June meeting the archdeacon spoke on the practice, I found the same unsolved issues that seem al or homosexual, male or female, marital or extra-marital, matter of church growth. It was a good talk. It men- to have hung around for generations. consensual or otherwise. Alongside evil intentions, mur- tioned statistics and challenged the parishes. But it I stood up, as one would have expected, to do my der, and slander, Jesus says that these behaviours which was inevitably the question and discussion time that advertising bit about Baptismal Integrity. I explained cross the creation boundaries set by God are what defile a revealed where we all actually are in our churches. how for nearly 30 years we have been beavering away person in his sight. No amount of whitewash can cover that What was surprising was that I had a distinct feel- at these issues and have barely left a stone unturned. up. ing that I had been in that discussion before, 20 years No one cheered or clapped. No one joined us. The The Lord is then confronted by someone whom many before actually. In the 1990s we had a Decade of only radical remarks came from a Baptist who was pious Jews would have considered defiled by nature: a Evangelism (remember it?); I was heavily involved in working on a new book! In fact the whole discussion Canaanite woman. And he shows by his interaction with Worcester Diocese’s attempt to participate in it. felt as though it was a clip from a Baptismal Integrity this woman that even though it was not yet time in his plan Much work was done in those days and much paper meeting of 25 years ago. Things didn’t appear to have of salvation to bring grace in all its fullness to the Gentiles, produced, which resulted in all churches having moved forward; rather the reverse. what would count with them ultimately is faith. If they trust available a huge resource on how to grow your local Before sitting down to write, I went back to our in his word and his power, and turn to him as Lord — who- church, and so on. Baptismal Integrity website (www.baptism.org.uk) ever they are, whatever they have done, they can experi- It did quite well as far as it went. But no one in our and gave it a fairly full trawl over. It is a treasure chest ence the joy of healing forgiveness. recent chapter meeting seemed to be aware of the of resources, experience and dialogue, which would Paul wrestles in Romans 11 with the nagging implica- discussions of two decades ago, and why should they take a week at least to digest. All tribute to our web- tions of this divine mercy extended to the Gentiles. Does it - because most of them were not ordained then! How- site founder and for many years monitor, the late mean that God has once and for all rejected Israel, the eth- ever it illustrated the phenomenon of repetitive Roger Godin. It still gets a large number of hits. nically Jewish people? The answer must be a resounding cycles that come around every couple of decades Again I have to say that Baptismal Integrity, espe- no. He himself is a Jew, descended from Abraham, of the when current issues appear as new to the contempo- cially in its website, has offered a superb on-line tribe of Benjamin. There is a remnant, chosen by grace, rary players. They tackle age-old issues with a new resource to all who have issues from any point of the even though many have been hardened to the alluring call enthusiasm, but there seems to be a disconnect with baptismal spectrum. The hope is that people can see of the Messiah’s word. That is what “the Scripture says to the previous generation’s hard work in the matter. in it an attempt to commit for posterity a bank of valu- Elijah” (noting en passant that Paul equates the words of There is a serious point here. When the present able work and experience from which the next gener- Scripture with the very words of God himself) — there is a generation starts to discuss an issue with a clean ation of clergy may work out their baptismal policies. remnant that has not bowed the knee to the convenient god sheet of paper it is a sure sign that the previous gen- Over 50 years ago at the Royal Naval College, Dart- of this comfortable age. eration either failed to find a solution to the problem mouth, we had to pass out as competent on several So God’s mercy comes to both Jews and Gentiles in and therefore couldn’t act upon it. Or, the previous types of small boat, especially in bringing them along- Christ, as each one turns to the Lord in faith. He gathers generation of church leadership failed to monitor and side. We had to stop the boat parallel to the jetty, not the outcasts of Israel, and he gathers others to them. Peace pass on the wise lessons of previous work to the next too far off, nor ramming it into the woodwork, but for Jews and Canaanites will only come as they turn to generation. allowing the bow and stern ropes to be easily taken in Christ together, for he alone is our peace. In short we should be building an edifice of wise hand and the boat secured. If the Officer of the Day collective practice, rather than leaving church histo- judged any part of the movement to be below par, he Dr Lee Gatiss is editor of the NIV Proclamation Bible and ry littered with the remains of half-baked attempts (at simply said: ‘round again’! You kept on going round Director of Church Society mission). until you got it right. (www.churchsociety.org) Another area, close to my heart, is ecumenism. I On some of our major theological / pastoral issues am told that officially we are passing through an ‘ecu- I fear we are condemned to going round and round menical winter’. It seems that there is nothing left to again until we begin to act with conviction and grasp do theologically and in ecumenical theory. Very little the nettles. So please do have a look at our website! A can be said or added to that which has already been lot has been done already. HYMN SUGGESTIONS said. What might be new is actually having the mus- tard seed courage to implement some of it! All hail the power of Jesus’ name And so to baptism: Last year I went to a very well The Rev Dr Clifford Owen is Treasurer of There’s a wideness in God’s mercy attended Diocesan Evangelical Fellowship meeting, Baptismal Integrity. From the sun’s rising somewhere in the Midlands. The subject was bap- He has Permission to Officiate in the Diocese of Ely Come people of the risen king tism. The speakers were excellent. We heard from and the Diocese in Europe Jesus shall reign where’er the sun

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper www.churchnewspaper.com Friday August 8, 2014 Reviews 15

Behind the scenes with

The First Georgians: projects for new royal resi- with the map of Pondicherry in Art & Monarchy 1714-1760 dences, they retained the dull India - seized from France - Queen’Gs eGallery,oBuckinghamrge I and GeoexteriorsrofgSt Jameseand Kens-IreIcalling the struggle for the Palace to 12 October ington palaces. However, British Empire was already well George I appointed William under way. Kent to decorate the latter’s George II’s son Frederick, 2014 marks the 300th anniver- State Rooms, adorning them Prince of Wales, a connoisseur sary of the Hanoverian dynasty. with such Old Masters as collector, adorned his Leicester In 1714 George Ludvig, Elector Rubens’ Holy Family with St House residence with Old Mas- of Hanover and descendant of Francis, while Queen Caroline ters including Reni, van Dyck James I, became also King beautified it with landscaped and a Teniers domestic interior - George I of Great Britain, its gardens. Kent created her St but while the Georges delighted first fully constitutional Protes- James library; George I in the best British furniture tant monarch, in a peaceful acquired for Hampton Court they did little to back rising dynastic change by Parliament’s seven great Flemish tapestries painters. decision. depicting Alexander the Great. The 18th century saw patron- George and his successors - Such early Georgian splen- age move from court to aristo- albeit accidentally - ushered in dours, recorded in Cattermole cratic, mercantile and even cabinet government and the and Wild’s detailed water- wider circles, evidenced by the role of Prime Minister; quarrels colours, were not for public popularity of Canaletto’s serene with their sons saw Prince of gaze. London vistas and satirical Wales’ rival courts as the gene- Artists celebrated the new Amigoni’s Rococo portrayal as Geo-politics forced the first prints and informal portraits by sis of ‘HM Loyal Opposition’. dynasty and promoted its patron of poetry. Georges to be monarchs of mar- Hogarth. His Harlot’s Progress Under the first two Georges, image. Kneller’s George I in Pro-Hanover devotees bought tial valour, for Britain was at war and Marriage a-la-Mode, and Britain became Europe’s most armour and red cape, and Van- by subscription the Dale-Muller for much of their reigns: with lively image of David Garrick liberal, enlightened and com- derbank’s huge equestrian por- print of the monarchs set amid France and Spain over colonies, and his wife, are among special mercially oriented society. trait in van Dyck idiom, ornate allegorical figures of Bri- backing Hanover against Prus- delights of this timely, highly The First Georgians: Art & proclaim a figure of European tannia, Plenty, Justice and Liber- sia, in UK itself repelling Stuart informative and very satisfying Monarchy 1714-60 at Queen’s stature; those of his mother ty, extolling ‘the present Pretenders. Campaign plans, exhibition. Gallery, Buckingham Palace, Electress Sophia and George Succession’. Jacobite rebellion memorabilia the Royal Collection’s latest II’s Queen Caroline, recall Yet such images but modestly such as Grante’s ornate map of Brian Cooper exhibition, splendidly showcas- women of remarkable learning compared with continental the Young Pretender’s route in es paintings, prints, furniture and Enlightenment sympathies; counterparts: the new kings Britain, and Wootton’s George The First Georgians: Art and and ornaments to reveal the Kneller’s grand-style George II knew their British subjects II at the Battle of Dettingen Monarchy 1714-1760 is at The monarchs, their role and British contrasts with Mercier’s Fred- wanted them to be dutiful and 1743 [last time a British Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham society in transformation three erick, Prince of Wales, leading worthy, not extravagant. monarch led his army in the Palace, until 12 October 2014. centuries ago. an informal music party, and Accordingly rejecting major field], highlight these conflicts, Admission: £9.75; Concessions.

Resurrection and Moral but a means by which we can be transformed. God is a living God whose energis- Imagination ing, active presence enables us to place our lives in the service of renewal and heal- Sarah Bachelard ing. Ashgate, hb, £60.00 Bachelard ranges over many topics and her book is hard to summarise but some themes stand out. One of the crucial lessons the Resurrection teaches us is that This book is likely to become a clas- ‘life is not in short supply’. This influences the way in which we understand moral- sic and it establishes the author, in ity. Knowledge of mortality has helped foster a stress on human rights designed to Rowan Williams’ words, as ‘a really significant new emphasise the wonder and preciousness of human beings. Unfortunately it often voice in theological ethics’. Sarah Bachelard is an Angli- fails to achieve this objective and rights are interpreted as a way in which individu- can priest based in Canberra who, in addition to being a als can protect their possessions or themselves against any claim upon them. theologian, is also the leader and founder of Benedictus A better way to proceed is to see human beings as ‘sacred’, loved by God and Contemplative Church, an ecumenical community that called to realise a unique potential and vocation. When we are each separately practices and promotes silent meditation. bearers of rights and ‘this seems to leave us without much room to grow and Bachelard begins her study with the work of Iris Mur- locked into an essentially competitive relationship’. doch and Raymond Gaita, two philosophers who are In heaven love will remain but no one will be standing on their rights. To see life committed to the transcendence of the good but who extending beyond death is to change our moral understanding and to free us from reject belief in God. Gaita has written of experiencing the sense that we need to make our mark before death cuts everything short. such goodness when he witnessed a nun visiting a ward of patients on a psychiatric Death can make us anxious, less generous and open, more competitive and prone ward and saw how her love for them revealed their humanity and moral equality. to rivalry and envy. This doesn’t mean that in some sense death doesn’t have to be Bachelard accepts that Gaita can leave the encounter as he experienced it, not accepted, a fact Bachelard recognises, talking, for example of the ‘costly letting go seeking to give a metaphysical explanation or have it ‘theorised away,’ but she still of the illusory and separate self and its death-dealing ways’, but which she does not thinks we are entitled to ask how the nun came to be capable of that act of revela- really integrate into her overall approach. tory love. Bachelard has words that deserve to be pondered not just by Anglicans but by all Would the nun have shown this love if she had not come to believe that we are all Christians struggling with divisions over ethical decisions. We should not, she equally God’s children? “Can we assume,” Bachelard asks, “that we can explore remarks, be surprised by messy debates over such subjects as homosexuality. A the ethical significance of her love, without taking seriously the matrix in which it resurrection ethic does not rule this out but what is not consistent with the resur- arises?” rection of the crucified is ‘the strident and self-righteous tone of those who are Bachelard follows Iris Murdoch in believing that our moral choices are influ- sure of their righteousness and innocence, the forging of an assured moral rheto- enced by how we see the world. She draws on Wittgenstein to argue that our ric over the bodies of individuals or groups cast out of fellowship’. Sometimes we unconscious background pictures of reality filter or unwittingly influence our have to act before agreement is reached but we must remain open to the other. thoughts and actions. This means that it is important for us to attend to how we pic- “Although an ethic sourced in the reconciling love of Christ will seek clearly to ture the world and seek to see it as it really is, rejecting any facile and illusory name and stand against injustice and oppression, it will hope to do so in a way that views. holds open the possibility of friendship, repentance and reconciliation,” she writes. The Resurrection reveals a new horizon against which we think and act. This imaginative, well-argued, clearly written book should be issued in a cheap- Bachelard quotes Rowan Williams to argue that the resurrection is not just a para- er, paperback edition as soon as possible. It deserves to be widely read. digm of salvation but an agent of it; it is not just something that happened to Jesus Paul Richardson

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper For all of you fortunate enough to be having a few weeks off this summer, I hope you are enjoying them. Perhaps some of you are braving the great out- doors and heading, or have already headed, to the brilliant Soul Survivor COLLEGE STREET festival, following our advice earlier in the year on the best ways to spend your summer? If you are, you are bound to hear about their new project, which hopes to get as many young people as possible reading the whole of SW1 the New Testament in one year. If you want to learn more about the Bible and get deeper in faith, this is the thing for you. CITY OF WESTMINSTER Are you going to attempt it? Let me know, with Amaris Cole @AmarisColeCEN.

Read the whole New Testament? In a year? No problem! Or so says the back of Soul Survivor’s new book. But is it really possible to get It is written in the world’s most popular English half way through the Holy Book in 365 days? Yes, and the best thing is: you Bible translation, the New International Version, won’t be alone. developed by Biblica. Many scholars have con- The aim is to get thousands of young people to commit to reading the word tributed to this version of the Bible, and it is together. To make it easier, this is the latest translation, arranged into specific accessible to all. chunks to read each day. It is hoped this book will go on to teach you great While the last thing you want to think about is going back to school, the habits for life and further your understanding of Scripture. Young festival- New Testament in One Year book begins on 1 September, so you can start the goers, and those who couldn’t make it, are all being encouraged to pick up the term, and in fact, the year, as you mean to go on. The book kicks off with a book and give the challenge a go. quick run-down of the entire Old Testament – laid out in a handy timeline. For more information, head to www.soulsurvivor.com/uk. New Testament Other features include online blogs from Mike Pilavachi and Andy Croft to in One Year is published by Hodder & Stoughton and is available from 14 help you during the 12 months. August 2014. The paperback is £4.99.

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(variant spelling) [2 Down Christians at the end of PRIZE CROSSWORD No. 911 by Axe Chr] (5) time (12) 11 The largest religious 1Relationship of Milcah 13 High Priest before group in India (5) to Haran [Gen] (8) whom Jesus was inter- 12 'For though I am ------2Roger -----, 13th century rogated [Matt; Luke; from you in body, I am English scientist and John] (8) present with you in spir- Franciscan monk (5) 15 Whirling ------, one of a it...' (6) 4'...I will accept nothing dancing Muslim cult (7) 14 Senior church officers belonging to you, not 17 1980s move- (6) even a thread or the ment concerned about 16 Canaanite commander strap of a ------...' mind, body and spirit killed by Jael [Judg] (6) [Gen/NIV] (6) (3,3) 18 Delphic shrine, for 5Biblical road through 20 Biblical mount [Exod] example (6) Edom denied to Moses (5) 19 Prophet in the time of after the Exodus [Num] 21 King of Israel, son of Jeroboam II and OT (5,7) Omri [1 Kgs] (4) book (5) 6'And when he had given 22 Oldest Afro-American him ------, Paul stood on Last week’s solutions: state (1804) – associat- the stairs, and beck- ed with voodoo prac- oned with the hand Across: 5 Reuben, 7 To draw, 9 Simon tices (5) unto the people' the Less, 10 Lewdness, 12 Omri, 13 23 Threshing floor owner, [Acts/KJV] (7) Leah, 15 Eastward, 17 Very Reverend, alternatively named 7'"In that day," declares 19 Nephew, 20 Sister. Ornan [1 Chr] (7) the Sovereign Lord, "I 24 '...he commanded...that will make the sun go Down: 1 Kenite, 2 Gnat, 3 Atheists, 4 he and his sons ------down at ----..."' Caesar, 6 Broad Church, 8 Diet of ...'[Esther/KJV] (2,6) [Amos/NIV] (4) Worms, 11 Eyebrows, 14 Envied, 16 25 In religion generally, 8Following Christ's cru- Rented, 18 Vast. moral offences or short- cifixion and death, a

T h e f ir s t c o r r e c t e n tr y d r aw n w il l w in a b o o k o f t h e E d i to r ’s c h o i c e . S e n d y o u r e n tr y t o C r o s s wo r d N u m b e r 9 11 , T h e C h u r c h o f E n g l an d Ne ws p ap e r , PRICE £1.35 / 1,70€ / $2.20 1 4 G re a t C o l le g e S tr e e t , W e s t m in s te r , L o n d o n , S W1 P Across because you 9One adjective 3 R X b y n e x t Fr id a y begged me to"' ascribed to lep- 1'"You wicked [Matt/NIV] (4) ers in the Bible N am e servant," he 3One of the five (7) said, "I can- Philistine cities 10 Pharaoh, the A d d r e s s celled all that ---- [Judg; 1 Sam; slayer of Josiah of yours Jer] (8) at Megiddo P o s t C o de

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