The Diocesan Accounts 2010

Accounts p6-7

JUNE 2011 Diocesan Gathering Bishop James attended his first we are so far behind in using the gifts of Rochester Diocesan Gathering on women in the service of Jesus Christ! I believe the mission factor is critical here. There needs Saturday 21 May. Following the to be pastoral provision for those who are AGM, the main subject under opposed, whilst avoiding creating second discussion the day was that of the class bishops. There needs to be a compromise for all parties but most here will ordination of women as Bishops. say that we must get on with making women Very well attended, the event bishops without more delay.” attracted around 200 delegates Continuity from across the Diocese. Opposed to women bishops, Preb David Prior to the event, papers relating to the Houlding stressed the need for continuity in subject were uploaded on the diocesan the Church. He said, “I want to agree with website (www.rochester.anglican.org) where Hilary in so many ways. It is time the Church they remain for people to view. Bishop of England had women bishops and it is James had invited four guest speakers to inevitable. You can’t have deacons and priests address the issue, to be followed by a but no bishops! We should move forward in question and answer session. Those this way and we lose credibility if we do not. attending could either submit a question in For me, this is a question about the identity Bishop James with the four speakers and continuity of the . It’s a writing prior to the speakers responding, or trajectory is as inclusive of women as it is of Bible, we listen to bishops, synods and ask a question from the floor. The speakers question about the unity of the Church. One holy catholic and apostolic church. It’s a men. I am content with the legislation as we church rules! These are very important, but were: Rev Dr Mark Burkill representing we must recognise that bishops, synods and question about justice and justice works both have it. So, where do we go with this Reform, Rev Charles Read from the Diocese church rules cannot take the place of God’s ways. What about theological conscience? trajectory? In the Old Testament, God calls of Norwich, Prebendary David Houlding from apostolic Church. The danger is we get Those who object must be protected! The both men and women. The New Testament the Society of the Cross and Hilary Cotton ourselves in to an awful mess! You may be in provision we have can’t be amended. In the features men and women together. A from WATCH. favour (most are) but you may end up in a way it is phrased, the provision does not do scriptural thread runs through it all. Jesus The stained glass ceiling called twelve disciples, but who was it who position that you did not want. By pushing the trick!” Reminding delegates that the through the legislation, you exclude people Hilary Cotton opened her presentation by legislation in the 1990s promised everyone in went to the tomb? The women! In the New reminding the audience that some ordained Testament, the criteria (for being an apostle) is women can be made to feel uncomfortable that you have witnessed the resurrection and and she entreated everyone to remember given testimony to it. The Bible is about them. She said, “Some ordained women feel egalitarianism. How then should we read they have to hide! There are women Bishops contradictory text? The answer is that you in numerous countries including Canada, have to study the texts very carefully!”

the Church of England would have an like me! If you exclude opponents, you are ‘honoured place’, David said, “I believe this saying they are not worthy of being part of new legislation takes away that right and we the Christian community! will change by accident. This is a theological Almost 40 questions followed the issue about apostolic ministry. I don’t mean to presentations and inspired some lively insult the ministry of women – someone like discussions over lunch. Cuba, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, me has to salute women. Sadly, we do not Bishops, Synods and Church Rules Sudan and the United States. Some have A common Diocesan Vision always behave well and I regret that. This Closing the presentations, Rev Dr Mark Burkill even retired!” Asking the rhetorical question, In the afternoon, Bishop James described his provision won’t do – we have to do better!” opened by saying he wanted to speak about “Why should we have women bishops?” impressions of the Diocese to date and theology. He said, “The issue of men and Biblical perspectives outlined some of his ideas for the future. He Hilary said, “It’s the next logical step. women is very important. We are made in the tasked 11 groups to consider the following Capable women hit the stained glass Rev Charles Read spoke about biblical image of God. We already see, in both wider questions: What does/should/might a ceiling. It’s logical to choose bishops from perspectives in favour of women bishops. He society and the Church, that people find it Diocese add to local mission and ministry? these women. If we allow women to be said, “I am happy to describe myself as a impossible that equality and order can exist in priests, we must allow them to be bishops – charismatic evangelic, and I have always been the Trinity as equal, but that the Son must (What’s the benefit?) If we lost 25 this isn’t about the rights of women, we in favour (of women as bishops) because of submit to the Father. Very little thought has stipendiary posts, what criteria might we use need to catch up with our sister churches. scripture and not in spite of it. I think you need been given to this issue for provision for those for those that remain? How might we best The Methodists, United Reformed Church to take a broad overview of where the Bible who are against it and we may do something develop and deploy other kinds of ministries and Baptists all have either women bishops goes. In the creation story, God created men destructive. I believe in one holy, catholic and for mission? or their equivalent.” Hilary reminded and women together in the image of God. apostolic church. The Spirit-inspired apostolic The Gathering concluded with an act of delegates about the history of the issue Right the way through the Fall, Eve is treated teaching holds the Church together. But worship led by the Rev Canon Alan Vousden before saying, “We follow Jesus Christ but as morally as culpable as Adam. The whole instead of relying on apostolic teaching in the with Bishop James on piano!

PLEASE NOTE: Copy deadline for the July/August issue of The Link is 4pm Wednesday 8 June 2 ochester Link

The ’s Diary, The Rt Rev Dr Brian Castle What’s on 6 June 1830 Speak at Bexley Rotary Club June MEDWAY– Wigmore Gardens Weekend 18 – 19 June 7 June Bishop’s Staff Meeting with many different gardens open at various times. For Saturday 4 June 8 June 1930 Institution of the Rev Ren Harding, details visit www.southgillingham.diocese- BEXLEY - Book sale at St Mary’s Church 11am – 2pm. Joydens Wood rochester.org/stmattsmainpage.htm or contact Paul Refreshments available. Visit www.stmarysbexley.co.uk 9 June 1100 Mission Theology Advisory Group Bellerby 01634 387328. Meeting, London BECKENHAM – Singers ‘Cameo Opera’ will perform light LEAMINGTON SPA – CPAS You and Ministry weekend 11June 1500 Preach at St John’s Ambulance Day opera and musical show favourites 7pm – 10pm at 10 – 12 June for people to explore a variety of vocations Service, West Malling, St Mary St Paul’s Church. Tickets £15 including buffet and first in the Church of England at Offa House, CV33 9AS. Cost 12 June 1030 Confirmation – St Peter & St Paul, Bromley drink. 020 8650 5400 or [email protected]. 13 June 1030 Bishops’ Seminar – Church House, £160 per person or £310 for couples, including accommodation, meals and sessions. Visit London Saturday 11 June www.cpas.org.uk/exploringcall 14 June 0930 Bishop’s Extended Staff Meeting CHELSFIELD – Family Wild West Summer Fete with 15 June 1100 Attend Urban Bishops’ Panel Meeting, stalls, sideshows, prize draw and plants at St Martin of ROCHESTER – On 4 – 5 June visit St Margaret’s Church London Tours 12pm – 4:30pm. Free parking. Proceeds to and tower during the annual Dickens weekend. 10am – 16 June 1300 Preside at Eucharist – Church Schools St Martin’s Church and Christian aid. Contact 01689 5pm with a display of Bibles to celebrate the 400th Festival – Rochester Cathedral 852092. Anniversary of the King James Bible. 1400 Sevenoaks School Governors’ Meeting 19 June 0930 Confirmation – Dartford, Holy Trinity Saturday 18 June WATERINGBURY – Patronal Celebrations 25 – 26 June 1300 Preach at Service for Princess of FAWKHAM – Fawkham & Hartley Summer Fete 12pm – at the Church of St John the Baptist with floral displays Wales’ Royal Regiment Freedom 4pm in the meadow at St Mary’s Church, Fawkham. The and an opportunity to dedicate a flower in memory of a Parade, Tonbridge School theme is 1971 – Decimalisation with stalls, music and Fun loved one. Saturday 10:30am – 5pm and Sunday 2pm – 1830 Confirmation – Tonbridge, St Stephen Dog Show. Free entry, £1 parking. Visit 5pm. Also Broomscroft Garden, 143 Canon Lane will be 22 June 1030 Hospital Chaplains Meeting and Lunch www.fawkhamandhartley.org.uk. open 2pm – 4pm on Sunday with a cream tea at the 1930 Reader Training Church. Tickets for the garden and tea £6, garden only 23 June 0800 Churches Together in Kent Leaders LONGFIELD – Musical Quiz Evening at The Jubilee Hall, £3.50. Details from 01622 813032. 1400 Chair ACMT meeting adjacent to Longfield Church at 7:30pm. All questions are 24 June Attend Ordination Retreat - Crowhurst music based. Tickets £5 from Vic Walsham 01474 COLLIER STREET – Flower and Arts Festival 11 – 12 25 June 1230 Ordination Lunch – Bishopscourt 708832. Please bring own drinks and nibbles. June at St Margaret’s Church. Saturday 10am – 5pm, 1500 Ordination of Priests Sunday 12pm – 5pm with flowers, embroidery and 26 June 1830 Preach at Deanery Evensong - BROMLEY – Bromley Symphony Players play music by antiques on display. On Saturday a concert at 6:30pm, Shoreham Vivaldi, Handel and Mendelssohn in aid of A-T Society at tickets £8, £2 children and Sunday a cricket match on the St Mary’s Church at 7:30pm. Admission £6 on the door. village field. TONBRIDGE – Antiques and collectables Sale at St Philip’s Church 2pm – 4:30pm, 50p entrance fee. July MARTIN Copies of the combined Book of Saturday 2 July CHAPMAN Common Prayer and Hymns PETTS WOOD – Summer Fair in the St Francis Church BROMLEY COMMON – ‘What has Psychotherapy to do Hall and grounds 11am – 3pm. Punch and Judy, cakes, Electronic Church/Home Ancient and Modern Revised with God?’ exploring the interface between psychotherapy Organs & Digital Pianos required by St Botolph's Church, Lullingstone. jams, games of skill and recitals on our Willis organ. Visit and faith in God led by Michael Insley, MA, Mphil, Hon Repaired & Serviced Sadly now out of print the church will be www.stfrancispw.org.uk Canon Theologian Rochester Cathedral 10am – 12pm at happy to buy from another church with spare St Luke’s Church. Book by 29 June by contacting Michael Installation of Audio & copies or from a bookshop. NORTHFLEET – Northfleet proms at Northfleet Schools Hearing Loop Systems on 0208 464 2076 or [email protected]. Please contact the Secretary, Peter Hill on for Girls at 5pm. A joint community effort with participation of Northfleet Brass Band, school choir and All Saints’ Tel: 020 8310 3550 01322 862722 GRAVESEND – Gravesham Choral Society presents or email: [email protected] Church choir. Admission £5. For details call Jean 01474 Gabriel Faure’s Requiem and Benjamin Britten’s Rejoice in 568267. Funds towards restoration of Church. the Lamb at St George’s Church at 7:30pm. Tickets £10 (full time students £5) from 01474 816684 or on the Saturday 25 June door. Visit www.graveshamcs.co.uk BROMLEY COMMON – St Luke’s Summer Fair in the Church Hall, Raglan Road 2pm – 5pm with stalls and BROMLEY – Bromley Philharmonic Choir present their cream teas. Admission 50p including entry into draw for Summer Concert at St Mary’s Church at 7:30pm. summer hamper. Admission £8 (£6) on the door. SOUTHFLEET – St Nicholas Church presents Proms in ROCHESTER – Evening concert with the Medway the Park at the village hall at 5pm with Rebecca Knights, Singers, Kent Schools Recorder Orchestra and the Kent The Jagger Folk Band and the Medway Brass Band. Youth Recorders at 7:30pm. Tickets £7, concessions £5, Refreshments available to purchase, tickets £10, students £4 from 01634 848900 or on the door, concessions £8. Bring own chairs. Visit bookings open from the 3 June. www.stnicholassouthfleet.org.uk.

Various BECKENHAM - Recitals at St George’s Church. Friday Flower festival 10 - 12 June recitals at 12:30pm, Saturday recitals at 11am. Refreshments available before the concerts. Free Flower Festival 10 – 12 June 10am – 4:30pm at St admission, with retiring collection. Mary’s Church, Hadlow. The theme is ‘God in Action’ 3 Elenlucia Pappalardo (Piano) with flower exhibits/arrangements depicting in floral art 10 Cyril Baker (Organ) Bible stories and events. Lunches and teas served 17 Nigel Groome (Organ) each day. Free admission. On Saturday evening Lisa 24 Mary Fortune and John Skae (Piano Duet) Wright will perform ‘Spilling the Beans’. Tickets £7 25 Sally Quantrill (Flute) and Lydia Bosworth (Piano) from Iris Shaw 01732 851917. On Sunday there will be a Community Service celebrating Pentecost at LAMORBEY – Trinityfest 18 – 25 June at Holy Trinity. 10am. For more information contact Richard Morley Church will be open all week from 11-4pm, For further 01732 850283. details please call the Parish Office 020 8300 4548. 18/6 3pm Festival of Song from local schools 19/6 10am Youth and Family Mass with Archdeacon Sporty Church of Bromley and Bexley preaching 20/6 Wine Tasting Sporty Church is returning by popular demand. Fun 21/6 MU Archdeanery Service 2pm, Early evening and games centred around a Christian message – for Parish Walk primary school children accompanied by a parent/carer 22/6 Taize 8pm concluding with a picnic tea for all. At St Alban’s 23/6 Sung Mass 8pm Church, Robin Hood Lane, Chatham, ME5 9QR 24/6 Concert 8pm Monday afternoons 3:30pm – 6pm on 20 June, 18 July 25/6 Gift Aid Day and 19 September. Admission £2. Contact Rose Robinson 01634 683688 or [email protected]. ochester Link 3 The Big Society Bishop James reflects....

On Maundy Thursday a piece by Behind the statistics lies the reality – an groups in society; we provide opportunities Simon Jenkins appeared in the uncomfortable one for some - that the and premises for celebrations and community church’s ‘reach’ into the life of our society is gatherings. And of course we pray. Guardian entitled, “There’s no such still very significant and in many places is As part of our re-shaping of diocesan thing as ‘big society’ – just many growing. At the local level, this is confirmed support for such social and community for me by my visits around our deaneries (15 engagement, we are trying to map as much as small ones, under steeples”. finished, 2 to go by the time you read this!). possible of what happens at local level, so The focus of the article was about church All over our Diocese I find examples of that we may discern how best that might be buildings and their uses, but a wider point churches and church-related groups working supported, nurtured and extended. This will be was being made about how the church and praying for the well-being of their one of the strands to be part of our refreshed continues to be at the heart of our communities in all kinds of ways. There are diocesan vision and strategy; some of you will communities even in a society which many initiatives taken by individual churches, by also have fed into this at our recent Diocesan describe as ‘secular’. The point was made that clusters of parishes, deaneries and Gathering and other opportunities will follow. on Easter Sunday some 4 million people ecumenical groupings; there are chaplaincies, The Bishop’s Council has a full day of would attend some form of Christian worship church-related charities and community discussion and prayer around this in in around 47,000 buildings. Since then groups; and of course hosts of individual September – please hold us in your prayers statistics have been published showing that Christians give time and energy to a wide as we seek together to discern God’s attendance at weekly services in Cathedrals range of social and community activity. We purposes and priorities. has increased by 7% in the last year. As work with children and young people in Jenkins puts it, ‘Christianity is still the largest schools and beyond; we minister to the sick; With my prayers and good wishes, Bishop James affinity group in Britain’. we are engaged with all kinds of vulnerable +James Endings and Beginnings By the Very Rev Adrian Newman

precious is lost, all part of life’s many little deaths. But at this time of year we inhabit a period of the Christian calendar which affirms something important. Every ending is scattered with the seeds of a new beginning. This time after Easter is marked by the confidence that death is not a brick wall at the end of our journey, but a gateway into something wonderful and new. We live this new experience in the assurance of Ascension and the power of Pentecost. Seeing the beginning in every ending is therefore part of the Christian hope. Juggling so many different things as I count One of the many new pieces of ‘episcopal down towards Stepney, I feel a bit like the kit’ I’ve got to find for my new role is a depressive, insomniac, dyslexic atheist who pectoral cross. A friend has offered to make woke up in the middle of the night worried mine and we’ve been discussing a number of composed of 8 segments, and the number ‘8’ into a new expression of God’s creative and there was no dog. Too much to be anxious design options. The one I’ve settled on is a is biblical code for resurrection and new life. redemptive power. The Resurrection is Day about. Canterbury Cross. In the Bible, Eight is 7 plus 1. It is the One of a new creation. Much of life is located at the I love the Canterbury Cross because it tells number associated with Resurrection and My Canterbury Cross will therefore uncomfortable nexus between an ending a number of stories. One that resonates with Regeneration, and the beginning of a new era embody for me a belief that God is and a beginning. Transition points are me is this: it symbolises both death and or order. constantly bringing life out of death, order normally just that – sharp and painful. resurrection. Think of the 8 signs in John’s gospel. These out of chaos, and hope from despair. Adolescence, leaving home, changing jobs, Most crosses speak powerfully of the death are carefully designed and coded messages That’s not a bad reminder for everyone, moving house, empty-nesting, bereavement, of Christ – of suffering, atonement and that the Gospel is a completion of the perfect like me, facing the loss that is inevitable in divorce – in all of these things something sacrifice. But the Canterbury Cross is 7 days of creation, and now we have stepped any change of life.

The ’s diary - The Rt Rev

1 June 0930 Bromley & Bexley Archdeaconry Mission & 12 June 1030 Pentecost Confirmation – St Paul, Crofton 23 June 0800 Kent Church Leaders meeting Pastoral Committee 13 June 1030 Theological Seminar for Bishops 1700 Diocesan & Cathedral Staff social 1100 Rochester Retired Clergy Association 14 June 1500 Rochester Archdeaconry Mission & 24-25 June Petertide Ordination Retreat 1500 Founders’ Day Service – Bromley & Pastoral Committee 25 June 1500 Petertide Ordination Service – Cathedral Sheppards’ Colleges 1930 Licensing: Rev Alison Spreadbridge - 26 June 1000 Preside & Preach – Istead Rise 2 June 1030 Consecration Service: new Bishop of Lynn Holy Trinity, Gillingham 1500 Open air service and community day - 2000 Ascension Day – St Barnabas, Tunbridge 15 June All day Housing Justice National Conference Ditton Wells 16 June All day Housing Justice Board – London 1830 Confirmation – St Matthew, Wigmore 3-4 June All day Deanery Visit – Dartford 1100 Consecration Service: new Bishops of 27 June 1000 Canterbury Christ Church University - 5 June 1000 Confirmation – St Mary the Virgin, Stone Ebbsfleet and Richborough Medway 1600 Blessing of refurbished window - The 18 June 1400 Address: Friends of Rochester Cathedral 27-28 June Bromley & Bexley Clergy Residential – Annunciation, Chislehurst 19 June 1000 Confirmation – St Paul, Rusthall St Columba, Woking 6 June All day Diocesan Golf Day – Cobtree Manor 1830 Confirmation – St George, Gravesend 28 June 1400 Canterbury Christ Church University: 9 June 1300 Medway Mission to Seaman Trust 20 June 1400 Rural Advisory Group – Bishopscourt Governing Body meeting 11 June 1430 Licensing: Rev Derek D’Souza – Christ 21 June 0930 Malling Abbey Visit 2000 Joint House Group meeting – the King, Princes Park 1400 Hospice in the Weald Visit St Augustine, Gillingham 1900 Rochester Choral Society Concert – 22 June 1130 Founders’ Day Service – Morden College 29-30 June Deanery Visit – Gillingham Cathedral 1430 Finance Committee 4 ochester Link Advertising Feature Vacancies St David’s Cathedral Places to visit Pembrokeshire VOLUNTEER ORGANIST The building dates back from Required by St Peter & St Paul, Shorne. this summer... 12th century and the ceilings Enquiries to Revd Glyn Ackerley are of special interest. 01474 822239 or ■ DAILY SERVICES [email protected] ■ BOOKSHOP ■ Open 8am to 6pm CONCERTS St John the Evangelist Bexley ☎ ■ GUIDED TOURS Choir Director/Organist 01437 720199 ■ DISABLED ACCESS We seek an enthusiastic organist to lead and develop our music from September 2011. www.stdavidscathedral.org.uk Sung Eucharist, monthly Matins and weddings Established Senior and Junior choirs 2 manual Father Willis organ.

Further details available from: The Reverend Scott Lamb 01322 521786 [email protected]

Pre-school Supervisor required for Ditton Church Pre-school. Candidates should be qualified to NVQ Level 4 or higher and have three years experience of working in an Early Year’s setting. Candidates should have sympathy towards the Christian Faith as they will be working in a Church Pre-school. For more information contact: Rev Ross Terranova, Pre-school Chair on 01732-842027 Closing Date for Applications: Friday, 10th June 2011 Interview Date: Friday, 17th June 2011 The successful candidate will be required to complete a CRB form ochester Link 5

ORGANIST To advertise St Nicholas’ Royal Wedding Fete available as relief in the By Michael Dormandy SE London/ Kent Rochester Sundays & Weekdays Link Traditional & St Nicholas’ Church, Sevenoaks, publicity mentioned St Nicholas’ Church and Modern Music call Roy on a stand where puppets were performing also decided to serve our town on Contact Ron Smith 01752 the day of the Royal Wedding had the church name. The puppets danced to TEL/FAX: 020 8300 1527 clever Christian parodies of pop songs (either Fee & Mileage 225623 by putting on a classic English “He loves you though he knows that you’ve village fête. been bad”, with a nod to the Beatles or We could not think of a better way to “Reach out to God” with a nod to S Club 7, celebrate the fairytale wedding of the heir to depending on your generation!). Even Mark, the throne than by inviting the whole town to cheerily taking sponges while dog-collared, relax together on the Vine garden with games demonstrated Christian grace and good and amusements. Highlights included a humour and the cake stall was on a voluntarily coconut shy, throwing hoops over pegs and, donation basis. In an age in which Christians beating them all, a chance to throw wet are seen as joyless and inward looking, we sponges at the curate and organiser of the pray we would have given a good time to the fête, Mark Oden. Needless to say, the stalwart estimated 1,000 who attended the fête at of village fêtes, the cake stall, was there, different times of the day but, without knowing explicit presentation of the Gospel in a talk or raising over £1000 for Japan Christian Link, a Jesus, this is worth nothing, so we pray this testimony, it was clear that the organisers charity St Nicholas supports, which has been good impression will lead to people visiting were Christian and were motivated by love of recently involved in Earthquake relief. church, hearing the Gospel message and Christ, demonstrated in love for the people of The Christian content of the event was responding to Christ in repentance and faith. Sevenoaks, churched and unchurched. The definite, but subtle. Although there was no Here I am Lord By Rev Mark Griffin, Lead Vocations Advisor

Churches across the Diocese contain many, known for her pioneering work in palliative The Festival celebrates its many wonderful people, each with their own care for children, founding Helen House and 42nd year in 2011 gifts and skills, each one called by God. Douglas House in Oxford. She is also a very Music and events in Fishguard, Goodwick, St. Davids Our Vocations work in the Diocese seeks to good speaker, reflecting on her own journey Cathedral, Rhos-y-Gilwen Mansion and Newport nurture and encourage those gifts and to and keen to encourage the journeys of others encourage everyone to think about how they across the broad spectrum of ministry. This prestigious West Wales International Music can fully be part of the Body of Christ. There will be a marketplace in the Festival provides Choral, Orchestral and Chamber Music in beautiful venues in and around Fishguard. “Here I am Lord” is the Diocesan Cathedral crypt, with stalls representing a Artists include: Vocations Day, being held in Rochester wide range of ministries, with the opportunity Orchestra of Welsh National Opera, conductor Cathedral on Saturday, 17 September, for an informal chat. - Owain Arwel Hughes, Peter Donohoe, St. which is designed for anyone exploring During the afternoon, there will be Petersburg String Quartet, Sir Richard Rodney where God might be calling, or wanting to workshops throughout the Cathedral looking Bennett and Claire Martin,Tuxedo Jazz Orchestra find out more about the possibilities of at different aspects of lay and ordained participants informally during the day. with Tony Jacobs and Catherine Sykes, authorised ministries, or thinking about ministry, discussing ministry in its broadest For more details and booking forms John S. Davies Singers, ministry at work or in church sense. Each workshop will run twice, so contact Theresa Harrison 01634 560000 or Orchestra of the Swan with Julian Lloyd Webber The day starts at 12.30, ending at 4.30, everyone will be able to attend two during the [email protected]. The and Jiaxin Cheng (‘cellos) and David Curtis, Frith but with an opportunity to stay for Evensong afternoon. The subjects covered will range booking forms will include a full list of Piano Quartet, Richard Jenkinson (CBSO), Richard Parry, National Youth Choir of Wales, Young at 5pm. We have two guest speakers, from mission to youth ministries to community workshops and an opportunity to choose Musicians’ Platforms, Rodolpho Bonucci and your preferences. There is no charge for the Bishop Brian, who will be opening the day, involvement, and offer the chance to ask Dorothy Singh and more.... and our keynote speaker will be Sister questions, and find out more information day but booking forms should be returned Frances Dominica, from Oxford. about possibilities for ministry. by 31 August, those received after that date July 22nd - July 30th Brochure - May 2011 Sister Frances, is an Anglican nun from the Members of the Diocesan Vocations team will not be accepted. It promises to be a Box Office 01348 875538 (mid June) All Saints Order for the Poor, and is best will be on hand, and will be happy to talk to great day, why not come and find out more? Enquiries: 01348 891345 (Alan Caunce Artistic Director) 01348 891226 (Chairman) www.fishguardmusicfestival.co.uk Huggens College Founders Day Mission Shaped Ministry How are you going to share the good news of Jesus with the people who don’t come to church? Are you fed up with “preaching to the converted?” Maybe it’s time for us to go to them instead of expecting them to come to us. The mission shaped ministry course could help you find the answer. This one year course starts in September and will equip you to plant and sustain fresh expressions of church. It is open to people of all denominations, traditions and ages and deals with practical issues such as listening for mission, team building, leadership skills, mission spirituality and how to help a fresh expression of church grow to maturity. It costs £250pp, which covers all materials, refreshments and the weekend away in March 2012. It may be possible to find a bursary so please do not let the cost put you off. We recommend that you come with two or three other Christians who share your desire to start On Tuesday 10 May Bishop James attended a service of thanksgiving for Founders Day something in your network or neighbourhood. and unveiled a plaque to commemorate the refurbishing of the College Room at Huggens Contact Carol Evans on01634 844508 College in Northfleet. [email protected]. 6 ochester Link The Diocesan Accounts 2010 By Martyn Burt, Diocesan Treasurer

2010 has been a good year and we is also around 25%, up on the figures for Actual Income 2010 2010 by £67,000 due to the number of have moved in the right direction. Ordinands we have been supporting. Other We are in a much better position Costs represent 18%, an increase on 2009 than a year ago, although we by some £21,000, mainly due to additional mustn’t become complacent.Yes, pension costs for the lay staff pension scheme. The remaining 2% is the surplus – there are a few concerns but we the difference between income and have balanced the budget, expenditure. (See fig 2) The Diocesan Budget is only part of the generating a small surplus on the picture and to see the complete position way, and we have been able to bring involves adding in all other items of income the general reserve back up to the and expenditure as per the accounts. Total income in 2010 was £11,366,000. It minimum recommended level. has remained at around £11.5M for the past Looking at the Diocesan Budget, income few years. £3,035,000 came from Parish was £3,881,000, UP £50,000 on 2009 and Share (27%) and £6,134,000 from payments expenditure was £3,832,000, DOWN by towards stipends (54%). Investment income £167,000 on 2009. This generated a surplus was up, by an additional £60,000, as were of £49,000. We know that some parishes the gains on the sales of fixed assets by struggle with Parish Share payments but the £48,000. In total around 81% of total budget has remained balanced because of diocesan income is made by payments from savings made elsewhere. parishes. Other income makes up the 78% of our Diocesan Budget income remaining 19%. The proportion coming from fig 1 comes from Parish Share. We are heavily parishes as stipend and Parish Share has dependent on it. Other income showed signs been increasing in recent years. (See fig 3 of growth compared to 2009. and 4) Actual Expenditure 2010 Grants/donations represents 6% of income - Total expenditure was £11,567,000 of which up £39,000; Dividends/interest represent 4% property and housing costs were £1,511,000 of income - up over £40,000; rentals (13%) and stipendiary costs were represent 3% of income - up £32,000; fees £6,638,000 (57%). Within the £1,511,000 is £524,000 for depreciation of our properties in represent less than 1% of income and were use (mainly parsonages) although in reality down on 2009, yet up on the budget they hold value and we have no plans to sell requirement; and planned transfers represent them. Expenditure splits across the 3 the remaining 8% of income, and these too headings that match our diocesan strategy. were up on 2009. (See fig 1) (See fig 5 and 6) Diocesan Budget expenditure breaks down Our general reserve has increased in value into 4 main areas, Parsonages, Diocesan to £822,000. This represents over 3 months Departments, National Church, and Other of budgeted Parish Share income but this is Costs. For 2010 Parsonages represent 25% the minimum level we need to operate of spend and costs were down on 2009 by effectively. With all other funds there is an £62,000. We had limited expenditure in increase in total funds of £644,000, up 1%. parsonages to keep costs down. Diocesan The Diocese now has £59,104,000 total Departments represent 30% of spend - some funds on the balance sheet. £193,000 lower than 2009 mainly due the ‘Funds’ does not mean just cash but all closure of Church in Society. National Church assets, which includes property, amounts fig 2

Diocesan Income 2006 - 2010 Diocesan Income 2006 - 2010: Proportions

fig 3 fig 4 ochester Link 7

The amount of unpaid Parish Share continues to grow and now stands at £1,220,000 Diocesan Expenditure 2006 - 2010 unpaid since 1995. Some parishes pay significant sums, whereas others pay nothing. There have been debates about what to do to ‘encourage’ payment and we continue to request parishes to contribute what they are asked; most do. We send out regular reminders. Some fear the situation will get worse. Several churches appear to find money for special activities of their own but not for the Parish Share. Some parishes that do not appear to make an effort to pay their Parish Share do not even prepare a budget. Is there a link? Across the Diocese the average of the Parish Share and stipend is £41,600. This is £13,800 for parish share and £27,800 for owed, investments, as well as bank deposits. stipend. Compared to electoral role it works £41.2M (70%) is in property either for our out as £103/ER/annum for parish share fig 5 own use or to generate income to the (£1.98/week) and £207/ER/annum for Diocese. There is a further £19.7M as long stipend (£4.00/week). How do these figures term investments, with the remaining sums as compare with other items? a mixture of short term cash, debtors and A simple mobile contract £15/month = creditors. But we remain very short of cash £3.46/week; a bottle of wine £5.99; a gallon Diocesan Expenditure 2006 - 2010: Proportions and we do not have sufficient cash reserves of petrol £6.14 (at £1.35/litre); the Times immediately on hand to cover the full costs of Newspaper for 6 days £6.50/week; Sky parish deposits. This is not an ideal position, Sports subscription £9.17/week; and a but as most deposits are placed for a five year season ticket at Arsenal £17.79/week. So term the likelihood of parishes withdrawing Parish Share and stipend costs are very good funds at the same time is very low. value! If the balance sheet is averaged across all And how are we doing for 2011? Parish parishes it works out as £268,200 per parish, share is lower than we would like at this time – but the parsonage is most of this. The Diocese this is not unusual but we do need to keep a does not have a vast wealth of riches, and close eye on this. We monitor Parish Share those that we do have are used to support carefully each month to see any trends. parishes! However, expenditure is lower than budget, 2010 was the first year that we budgeted mainly due to savings on Social Responsibility. not to receive the entire Parish Share that we We would have expected a deficit for the 3 ask for. However, even allowing for this the month period of £224,000 but it is only amount received is only 96%, some 4% lower £180,000, a turn around of £44,000. than we budgeted. With the savings made For further details contact Martyn Burt on elsewhere this is sufficient; but if all 01634 560009/01634 560000 or email expenditure had been as per the budget we [email protected] fig 6 might have had trouble. .

How strongly do you feel about your Church? By Alan Strachan, Diocesan Stewardship Advisor

Do you feel strongly about the need for your emergencies. I’m really glad it’s there for ‘good news to all’ and the church is there to money can we grow our churches to fulfil the church to grow and maintain its place in our important times in people’s lives and to both proclaim it and help people grasp it for ministry of Jesus Christ and meet the society? If so maybe the following might, support those who are having a rough time. I themselves. The church is there for more than mission and vision aims that you have for just might, engage you to think how you will know it does a lot of good work, I want the just emergencies. your ministry in your church. be able to achieve this. church to be there for me when I need it too Why not take another look and invest in Giving for Mission not Maintenance – you They were only children but they knew but I realise it costs money and people’s something that is of real and lasting value to know it makes sense. that playing by water was dangerous. When time and effort to keep going and I am so many people. (Based on the 6 steps in Giving: Reflections Charlie fell in the pool his sister knew what willing to help out when I am asked. Only by the giving of your time, skills and and Challenges) to do. She picked up the lifebuoy and threw However I don’t think it is necessary to get it in the water as close to him as possible. involved any further than that on a more He grabbed it and kicked his way to the regular basis. side where his sister dragged him from the Are you ready to give your resources to CONTACT US water-safe and sound. help ensure that the church is there News and letters to the Editor: Lifebuoys. You hardly ever notice them whenever you might need it for yourself or until you need one. I would fight tooth and your family and friends? Email: [email protected] Telephone: 01634 560000 nail to make sure that they were available If so, how should you work out how much to NEXT COPY DEADLINE Wednesday June 8th for July/August Link despite the fact that I hope I would never give and how regularly would be ADVERTISEMENTS Email: [email protected] have to use one. appropriate. Church can sometimes feel a bit like a Your challenge – Copy for The Link needs to be typed and submitted by email please. Images must be submitted lifebuoy. There in the background, for The gospel message is about bringing the as either a TIFF or a JPEG file of 300dpi. (Set your digital camera to the highest quality setting and we will try to do the rest for you.) 8 ochester Link Why not relax and enjoy a good book this summer...

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Summer Fiction A tsunami could hit Iona! The novel Planetquake shows Climate change is happening; while this may not how democracy and dictator- be such bad news for Scotland, Plantequake warns ship both struggle in the face those of ecological bent how climate awareness of a global food shortage. Only could either bring better politics or an opening for those with spiritual wisdom scheming wannabe dictators. (OK, plus some smarts) can ac- Umoya Lister (a pen name out of Africa) imag- tion the right response. ines a sudden, worldwide famine triggered by an earthquake and its ensuing air pollution that circles the globe. Hunger wars soon follow: published in 2011 but written in 2009, the book has proven re- 978-1897913-840 p/b 512pp £9.99 markably prescient so far (food prices, earthquakes,

highlandbks.com Readers have an authentic ‘whiff’ of the processes - rial get togethers where things can get physical…) Lister’s broken rainbows recall Genesis: Noah, Pharaoh stockpiling cereals. He takes some risks

itself, portrayed as a creature who obeys God and speaks to mankind. Second, nation states – hard for

978-1897913-864 p/b pp320 £6.99 - ers. Third, an academic couple features, trying to juggle two nationalities, two careers, two children and one faith. The villain is a charmer, who is a convinced fol- lower of folk beliefs. Dreaming of creating a world- class empire in Southern Africa, his moral error is interesting: his political campaign correctly blames A sabbatical that rocks (the rich nations for the pollution and notes that most boat?). Daydream Believer has problems hit already-poor regions at risk of deser-

that speaks to pastoral hearts. entitled to ignore any duty to reduce emissions. Instead of studiously compos- Many novels work through emotion and social observation. This one is cerebral and strategy- on Timothy or visiting your so driven: Prospective readers could think in terms of John Buchan’s Prester John plus some Hofstadter successful pastor in the USA, (Gödel, Escher, Bach) this minister escapes from his and moral philosophy that could grace Dostoesky or Milton. The spiritual sub- dog collar by touring with an text is the abiding fruit of 19th-century missions to amateur band… Africa versus the West’s loss of moral compass. ochester Link 9 All in a week’s work Rev Peter Barnett,The Pilsdon Community,West Malling By Louise Whiffin

Award winning Rev Peter Barnett developed The Guests can stay from 10 minutes to 30 church furniture makers years and come to Pilsdon for different Pilsdon Community in West reasons. Often people are looking for some Makers of the revolutionary Malling in 2004. respite after an emotional or financial crisis, He said, “We community planted! We took they can be homeless or recovering from drug Canterbury and York Lecterns four community members from our previous or alcohol addiction. Peter said, “We claim no community in Dorset, my wife and I and two expertise in rehabilitation, our skill is to bring a others and three of our long stay residents. 7 sense of loving service and community www.fullersfinerfurniture.co.uk years on, we are full to capacity and are through the work that is available.” looking to develop and grow the community There are three core principles while living Metalsmith by creating more accommodation and in the community: voluntary prayers four times and woodworker facilities on the site.” a day before every meal, hospitality as Conscientious and reliable, Long stay residents in the community are everyone is welcome as long as they are Ian Marshall provides new work and maintenance for a referred to as guests. At any one time there sober and communal dining. Peter said, “We number of churches. can be 20-25 guests living there contributing always eat together, it is fundamental to which enables Peter and his volunteers to To join his list of satisfied to the life of the community. Peter said, community building. We have a large offer open hospitality and extra treats such as customers call: 020 8850 7851 “Everybody cooks, cleans, carries out vegetable garden, greenhouses and breed birthday and Christmas gifts and outings. or 077 6666 2747 maintenance and repair and looks after the pigs, sheep and poultry. We produce half of Peter said, “I get great satisfaction out of grounds.” the food we consume and it is very satisfying being very close to the gospel imperatives in if you have been working in the garden or practice. We are ministering to all those CHURCH PEWS working with the animals and then you see it people that it seems Jesus identified in the UNCOMFORTABLE? on the dining room table. However those who priorities of his ministry and those people who WHY NOT TRY SAFEFOAM’S TOP QUALITY work with the animals tend to go vegetarian!” are on the margins. It’s not just those of us UPHOLSTERED FOAM PEW CUSHIONS? Safefoam, Green Lane, Riley Green, Guests in the community vary: they can be who are running the community who minister Hoghton, Preston PR5 0SN men and women, the elderly, those from all to others, everyone ministers to each other. www.safefoam.co.uk Freephone 0800 015 44 33 ethnic backgrounds and all faiths and none. For example a long term recovering alcoholic Free Sample Pack of foam & fabrics sent by first class mail When phoning please quote RLL0611 Peter said, “We can have people who have could offer advice to a young dropout from PhDs and people who can’t read or write. college with a drinking problem and could People can be vulnerable no matter what their speak with authority. I couldn’t because I don’t circumstances.” have that experience” Birchwood House The community is funded from donations Contact Peter on 01732 870279. Rest Home Residential Home for the Elderly Cafe Church gets creative Respite care & short stay available By Rev Penny Marsh A beautifully refurbished Georgian manor house, set in 6 acres of glorious Kent countryside, within easy Last summer a team who lead café church in designed to be relaxed, fun and informal - in reach of Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells. Bluewater were considering fresh ways to a style recommended by the café church • All rooms have en-suite facilities & nurse call attract people to café church at Bluewater. network and welcomed by Costa Coffee. system. Lift to all floors. They decided to have a summer event Each café church event embraces a • Excellent home cooking, with special diets catered targeted at families. The theme was to be contemporary issue, providing a place for for. • Hairdressing, chiropody, library and mobile shop. ‘holidays’, the event was named ‘Costa del people to come and join in something which • Monthly in-house Holy Communion and links to Bluewater’ and the goal was to pack as stimulates discussion and thought from a the local church. much holiday fun into an hour in Costa Christian perspective. The style created is Stockland Green Road, Coffee. The highlight was the sand castle designed particularly for those who may not Speldhurst, Kent TN3 0TU building competition. Teams around tables feel comfortable in a traditional church Telephone: Langton (01892 86) 3559 took up the challenge to build, decorate and service. Costa staff serves their usual coffee name their castle using the (sandy- and food for those attending to purchase. coloured) boxes provided and anything else Subjects which we have, or will be they could lay their hands on. After a quiz, looking at, include: stress management, PUBLIC lots of face painting and cool frappuccinos, good decision making, confident parenting, the evening finished with a simple meditation activity led onto a relaxed time of discussion relationships, care for the environment, and ADDRESS / INDUCTION about a God who commands rest and around the meaning of Easter and, with the friendship. blesses our leisure time. aid of a DVD clip, a short talk about the Anyone is welcome to come along and The summer event was so much fun that significance of the cross and resurrection LOOP SYSTEMS often passers-by drop in and join us. It is we decided to host a creative event each today. advertised through the invitation cards for: Chapels • Churches holiday season. At Christmas a cardboard Cafe church takes place on the 2nd available in Costa during the week, and we tree had to be decorated, and just a few Sunday of each month in the Costa Coffee • Village Halls • Schools • Nursing can also be found on Face book - ‘Cafe weeks ago teams around tables were outlet in Thames Upper Mall (next to Boots) Homes • Waiting Rooms Church Bluewater (Costa Coffee)’! challenged to create an Easter bonnet. This between 6pm and 7pm. Each event is New systems, updates or portable units.

Tower Open Day Consult the professional for Following the sucessful ringing of the first She was about to sit down with her family for ringing. It is their ambition to ring every set in FREE SURVEY, ADVICE & quarter peal of the new bells at St Mary the a celebratory dinner on her 70th birthday the world. Mary says she has acheived QUOTE Virgin, Stone, called the Nightingales, on 29 when she heard the first practicing of the 5,862 of the 6,000 known to exist over a April, the day of Royal Wedding, the church bells. She found it "was brilliant, like having an lifetime’s interest in the subject. Many bell held an Open Day on 2 May, Bank Holiday. extra present. Very special!" Her family have a ringers want to achieve this feat and ROYSTON Local residents were offered the chance to long connection with St Mary's and they are therefore St Mary's should expect there to climb the tower, see the new set of bells and delighted with the sound of the bells. be a lot of interest in any new set. The even go right up on to the roof. Many local Also about fifty elite bell ringers from verdict from Mary was "Great Bells! Excellent PA SYSTEMS people took advantage of this opportunity, around the country arrived during the day to tone!" TEL: 01725 518428 including our MP Mr Gareth Johnson and the try out the new bells. (pictured are Mary Local people were also invited to come departing Mayor, Mr Pat Coleman, despite the Barrass from Loughbvorough, Graham Nabb, along on a Thursday evening to join the bell cold and windy conditions. Mrs Margaret from Kineton in Warwickshire and Jenifer ringing team and learn how to ring changes. PO BOX 1 Phillips, who has lived in Bell Close by the Johnson). Others arrived from places like Fordingbridge church for many years, said they were "thrilled Manchester and Shropshire. They were keen to bits" that the nightingales have returned. to try out a new set of bells hung for full circle SP6 3PQ 10 ochester Link Advertising Feature

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World Sevenoaks Deanery For the Middle East at this time of unrest St Nicholas, Sevenoaks: Start of Men’s Christianity Explored on 6 June and Women’s on 7 June; Sevenoaks Festival Diocese Celebrations, 19 June. With Pentecost, that the Holy Spirit will fall St Luke, Sevenoaks: For our involvement in

afresh on our churches and nation. the Sevenoaks Festival Shrewton, Wilts St Mary, Thanks for new joint Diocesan Prayer co- Weald: Come and Munch Lunch in aid of Fine furniture for church and home ordinator, Jenny Smith. Bible Lands, 7 June. Pimms and Picnic for Back to Church Sunday - For Traidcraft as Father’s Day, 19 June. Ronald Emett they complete the orders; that churches will 01308 868025 [email protected] be envisioned; pray for whom to invite. Shoreham Deanery Shoreham: Thanks for a legacy left to the Visit me at Bromley and Bexley church. www.ronaldemettfurniture.com Sidcup Deanery Tonbridge Deanery Joydens Wood: For the institution of the Rev Hildenborough: For our Pentecost service Ren Harding, husband Steve on 8 June. on 12 June. Tired of Watching St John, Sidcup: For ‘Everyone Welcome’ St Stephen, Tonbridge: For baptism and course to be fruitful confirmation service on 19 June. Christians Living Broken St Mary, Bexley: For success for our Leigh: For David Bennie in his work with Lives? Learn How You extension plans. Nurstead: That our pattern of ministry will Craft Zone and all helpers. All Saint, Footscray: For Jayne Edinboro quickly begin to be fruitful. Tunbridge Wells Deanery Can Change That! newly elected churchwarden. Meopham: For a renewed vision to the Langton Green: For the success of the sale Holy Trinity, Lamorbey: Trinity Festival week Gospel as we open our refurbished church of Real Easter Egg; for curate Sharon www.NeverEverTheSame.com/training 18-25 June including a Gift Day; for this September. leading a group to Coptic Monasteries on Archdeaconry Mothers’ Union service on 21 Dartford Deanery Sinai; for Janet Durrans being ordained in June. St Paul, Swanley and St Peter, Hextable: For September. Ellel Ministries +44 (0) 1252 797 340 Bromley Deanery Flower Festival at St Paul on 24-26 June and St Mark, Tunbridge Wells: Thanks for the The Annunciation, Chislehurst: For blessing church weekend on the Glebe. Easter Holiday Club; for follow up and on visit of Bishop James on 5 June. Darenth and St Edmund, Dartford: For the Pentecost Party on 4 June. St Mary, Bromley: For our Parish weekend in right persons to be appointed Vicar. Southborough Team Ministry: For links with June. Greenhithe: Thanks for repairs to chimney. Kibaigwa Tanzania; for St Lawrence’s outreach through monthly pub lunches. St Augustine, Bromley Common: For Strood Deanery celebrations for our 100th anniversary. St Francis, Strood: For those going from Beckenham Deanery After-School club to the new Youth Club. Prayer Requests For the Street Pastor, for more to join the Cliffe: With local churches to promote unity For JULY/AUG LINK to Jenny team. and outreach; our outdoor service and BBQ Smith, Flat 1, 52 High Street, in June. Rochester Chislehurst. BR7 5AQ. Cobham Deanery Tonbridge 020 8467 6499 Tel:01373 462069 Ash: Our Church fete, 25 June and witness Malling Deanery [email protected] by to the community. BART Parishes: For the Rev Dr Linda Shuker and her husband as they come in July. 30 May. MELROSE BOOKS Established 1969 SEEKS NEW Intercession during June MANUSCRIPTS IN Wednesday 1 June: Northern Uganda – Thursday 9 June: Ogbomso – (Nigeria) Rt Rev Rt Rev Godson Ukanwa; Okigwe South – ALL SUBJECTS (Uganda) Rt Rev Nelson Onono-Onweng Matthew Osunade; Ogoni – (Nigeria) Rt Rev (Nigeria) Rt Rev David Onuoha St Mark, For an appraisal contact Melrose Books (Ref: RL ) Greenhithe Solomon Gberegbara; Ogbia – (Nigeria) Rt Gillingham St Thomas' Place,Ely, Cambridgeshire CB7 4GG Thursday 2 June: Ascension Day World Revd James Oruwori St Mary’s Abbey, West Sunday 19 June: Okinawa – (Japan) Rt Rev Telephone: Mission Forum Malling and The Pilsden Community David Shoji Tani St Mary Magdalene, 01353 646608 Friday 3 June: Norwich – (Canterbury) Rt Rev Friday 10 June: Ogori-Magongo – (Nigeria) Rt Gillingham Email: [email protected] Graham James; Norwich – Lynn- (Canterbury) Revd Festus Davies Wilmington Monday 20 June: Oklahoma – (USA) Rt Rev Vacant; Norwich – Thetford – (Canterbury) Rt Saturaday 11 June: Ohaji/Egbema – Edward J Konieczny Rainham Rev David John Atkinson Horton Kirby & (Province of Owerri, Nigeria) Rt Revd Chidi Tuesday 21 June: Okrika – (Nigeria) Rt Rev Sutton-at-Hone Oparaojiaku Those active in Social Tubokosemie Abere South Gillingham Saturday 4 June: Nova Scotia & Prince Responsibility and Community Engagement at Wednesday 22 June: Oleh – (Nigeria) Rt Rev Edward Island – (Canada) Rt Rev Susan parish and diocesan levels Jonathan Francis Ekokotu Edewor Gravesend Elizabeth Moxley; Nova Scotia & Prince Sunday 12 June: Pray for all involved in Deanery Edward Island Rt Rev Ronald Cutler Mission. Ohio – (USA) Rt Rev Mark Thursday 23 June: Olympia – (USA) Rt Revd Other faith communities in the Diocese Hollingsworth Gillingham Deanery Gregory H Rickel; of Cornerstone Vision Sunday 5 June: The Anglican Communion Monday 13 June: Oji River – (Nigeria) Rt Rev Olympia Rt Rev Bavi Edna Rivera Chalk publishes this Environmental Network as it promotes local Amos Amankechinelo Madu Holy Trinity, Friday 24 June: Omu – Aran – (Nigeria) Rt initiatives to protect the environment, and Gillingham Rev Philip Adeyemo Rural life in our Diocese Diocesan newspaper. encourages the education of Anglicans to Tueaday 14 June: Oke-Ogun – (Province of Saturday 25 June: On the Lake – (Nigeria) Rt We also serve the needs of become better stewards of God’s creation. Ibadan, Nigeria) Rt Rev Solomon Amusan Rev Chijioke Oti Petertide Ordinations businesses all over the UK Nsukka – (Kenya) Rt Rev Aloysius Agbo St Augustine, Gillingham Sunday 26 June: On the Niger – (Nigeria) Rt Stone Wednesday 15 June: Oke-Osun – (Nigeria) Rev Ken Okeke Family Life with excellent design Monday 6 June: Nyahururu – (Kenya) Rt Rev Rt Rev Nathaniel Fasogbon Workplace Monday 27 June: Ondo – (Nigeria) Rt Rev and print services Charles Gaikia Gaita St Mary the Virgin, Ministry & Local Workplace Chaplains George L Lasebikan Holy Family, Gravesend • Business Stationery • Brochures Swanley Thursday 16 June: Okene – (Nigeria) Rt Rev with Ifield Tuesday 7 June: Offa – (Nigeria) Rt Rev Emmanuel Bayo Ajulo St Barnabas, Tuesday 28 June: Ontario – (Canada) Rt Rev • Leaflets • Websites Akintunde Popoola St Paul, Swanley and St Gillingham George Bruce St Aidan, Gravesend For a competitive quote and Peter, Hextable Friday 17 June: Okgwe – (Nigeria) Rt Rev Wednesday 29 June: Oregon – (USA) Rt Rev great customer service Wednesday 8 June: Ogbaru – (Nigeria) Rt Edward Osuegbu St Luke the Evangelist, Johncy Itty Bromley Welcare Tel:01752 225623 Rev Samuel Ezeofor North Kent Council for Gillingham Thursday 30 June: Orlu – (Nigeria) The Most [email protected] Inter-Faith Relations Saturday 18 June: Okigwe North – (Nigeria) Rev Bennett C I Okoro St George, Gravesend 12 ochester Link All Saints’ Primary School Chopping and changing

Wednesday 4 May proved to be a their wrists and stretched. I liked the day red letter day for one year four because we saw the ravens, I am in Ravens* at school. They say that if the ravens leave the class from All Saints’ Primary Tower then the King and the country will fall! School, Chatham. When I wrote my letter, I told the King that I Visiting the Tower of London, the children was not a witch and that his advisors had aged between 8 and 9 years old climbed the made that up so that they could chop my steps that Anne Boleyn trod prior to being head off. That must have been really bad!” incarcerated in the Tower of London and (*a house at school.) finally beheaded. Sham Singh: I was really happy because I Head teacher Gill Hill explained, “The had been looking forward to the trip. It would children have been looking at the Tudors and give me more information that I could use in their trip to the Tower of London was the my future. The bloody tower was the best bit. culmination of this area of work for them. We It had loads of stuff about Anne Boleyn and called it “chopping and changing” for obvious how she died, with a picture of her. The next reasons! Each of the students in the class best bit was the Martin Tower because it had wrote a letter to King Henry VIII from Anne a suit of armour. I don’t think I would like to Boleyn, asking him not to have her executed.” have lived then. Anne Boleyn wasn’t very old. Year 4 pupils Michele Ngugi (9), Sham Singh When I wrote my letter I told King Henry that (8), Amelia Miles (9) and Rachel Adesanya (9) if he beheaded me, he wouldn’t have a son. I produced lovely work of a very high standard asked him not to chop my head off and said and this is what they told Link about their trip. alternatively he could set me free”. Michele Ngugi: “It was really exciting to visit the tower. It was my first time there and there Photos: is loads of history behind it. I really liked the Top Left: Michele Ngugi and below her work Queen’s steps which she walked on prior to Bottom Left: Rachel Adesanya and next to her is her work being lead to the tower. It was like I was really Top Right: Amelia Miles and below is her work there looking at what was really happening. Bottom Right: Sham Singh and next to him is his work The bloody tower was the best and had the memorial for the two murdered princes Edward and Richard. In my letter to King Henry, I asked him not to execute me because I was an educated lady and I could help educate our daughter.” Amelia Miles: “I was really looking forward to the trip and was really excited. I thought the bloody tower might be really scary, but it wasn’t because there was no blood! It was like a normal workplace and not scary at all! When I was writing my letter, I imagined that I was Anne Boleyn and I didn’t want the pain of having my head chopped off! I told him I loved him and if he would give me another chance, I might be able to give him a son. The gift shop was good too, because you can have a reminder of your trip.” Rachel Adesanya: I had never been before so I was really excited. The best bit was seeing the bloody tower because all the torture things were there. People would be tied up by

It’s Your Calling By Rev Mark Griffin, Lead Vocations Advisor

On a sunny Saturday just twenty The eleven participants had come from all activities. The day included worship, Bible afternoon with us, led the service, drawing four hours after the royal wedding around the Diocese, male and female, study, discussion, thoughts about what the day together and offering thoughts from younger and slightly older, and with a diverse vocation really means for us and a couple of his own journey, which were a great and not far from the Rochester range of experiences. The day itself began activities to encourage us all to think about encouragement. Sweeps’ Festival, fourteen of us with a look at where God has been leading the God - given talents that each of has and The It’s Your Calling day aims to help all gathered to talk about vocation us, a time to reflect on our journey so far and what that might be telling us about ministry in those taking part reflect on their journey and God’s promptings over the years. Everyone the future. is a part of the process of finding God’s and where God might be calling. has a story and these vocation days show the As well as the formal parts of the day, there calling on their lives. I thought it was a good We were at St Justus’ Church in importance of those stories, and the influence were opportunities to talk to each other, to day and a privilege to work with the group, Rochester for one of the regular It’s Your of God and other people on our lives. share stories, make new friendships and offer to be part of their ongoing journey and to be Calling days, run by the Department of The It’s Your Calling days are led by the mutual support in realising that others are on encouraged by the growing sense of God’s Ministry and Training, which helps people Diocesan Vocation Advisers, and, at St the same journey. calling on their lives. take time to think about calling and ministry. Justus, Mark Griffin, Suzanne Pattle and Paul The day ended with a Eucharist and it was For further information contact Mark Griffin Clark guided everyone through the various great that Bishop James, who had spent the on 01732 452462.