www.oxford.anglican.org March 2018 No. 300 thedoor

Tim discovers community organising page 11 Win a book see centrespread the Door – have your say page 3 Meet Margot Hodson page 16 Churches to reflect on ‘life in all its fullness’ By Jo Duckles

THE is calling on Christians across the diocese to join him in reflecting on the story of the raising of Lazarus this Lent. The Rt Revd is encouraging everyone to read the story, told in John 10 and 11. He has written Abundant Life – a series of 21 reflections, also available as podcasts, to accompany the Bible readings. The Abundant Life resources are accompanied by a verse and response style prayer and the piece of artwork pictured, which was created by Oxford based artist, Tom Bower. The booklet is selling like hot cakes. A fun companion booklet, GodVenture through the Life Of Lazarus, complete with stickers, is being used by 2,000 families. It comes hot on the heels of Exploring the Beatitudes – a three session course launched late last year. 4,000 copies have already been ordered with more than 300 small groups using the resource. In a recent blog, Bishop Steven wrote: “Lent began in the early Church as 40 days of preparation time for new Christians to prepare for baptism at Easter. The whole Church started to keep this 40 days to go back to the heart of the gospel and walk with the candidates as they prepared for this life-changing moment. “Christians give up things for Lent as a spiritual discipline, remembering the 40 days Jesus fasted in the wilderness. © 2018 Tom Bower: www.tombower.co.uk We also take on spiritual exercises to go deeper in our faith.” He said: “The story of Lazarus stands or rich or famous. Life in all its fullness Read Bishop Steven’s full blog here: at the very centre of the Gospel of John. is to live a life which is contemplative, blogs.oxford.anglican.org/getting-ready-for-lent/ In the story, Jesus lives out what it means compassionate and courageous.” Order your copies of Exploring the Beatitudes and Abundant to live the abundant life he talks about In a review, the Revd Graham Sykes Life: store.oxford.anglican.org in John 10.10: life in all its fullness. This praises both the simplicity and depth of abundant life is not about being busy Abundant Life. (See page five.) 2 News Volunteers helping keep thousands safe in our churches By Jo Duckles computer in our practice, so I understand aware of what can happen. It’s important volunteers on the books of St Aldate’s, child protection and safeguarding. everyone uses their eyes and ears. Jenny keeps a database, an Excel “That helps me in overseeing the 40 to Observation is so important.” spreadsheet, to keep up to date with DEDICATED volunteers are working 45 people involved in youth and children’s Jenny Lee is the PSO for St Aldate’s, a safeguarding checks. hard to ensure the safety of children and work in our parish.” That includes the huge church in the centre of Oxford that “It’s very important to keep our vulnerable people in our churches. volunteers for Messy Church and those attracts people of all ages, but has a major children and vulnerable adults safe. A big Parish Safeguarding Officers work involved with RE Inspired. They are ministry to students. church is a complex organisation and it’s with their parish teams to ensure that working on ensuring that something Her role includes working out who, a complex task to make sure we make it everyone in our churches is kept as safe is written and recorded regarding each out of a volunteer body of 100s of people, as safe as possible for everyone. It’s about as possible. They provide a link between volunteer’s individual role. needs to be DBS checked. In cases where making sure all of our churches have good the Diocesan Safeguarding Team and the answer is not clear, Jenny will contact processes.” each parish, implementing safeguarding It’s about making sure all the diocesan safeguarding advisor, John procedures, promoting safe working Nixson, who can offer advice. “Luckily, we of our churches have good practices and training and responding to “ have had no serious concerns at all, at least Read more about safeguarding: safeguarding concerns. processes.” in the seven years I’ve been in this role. oxford.anglican.org/ The need for robust safeguarding “There are always at least 100 safeguarding-protecting-others/ processes was highlighted at the recent volunteers for our children’s church and CofE General Synod, where leading clergy Jane is also on hand to listen to any with a mobile population, especially with Meet the safeguarding team: gave updates on how the national Church safeguarding concerns and keep an eye on the students, 50 might change every oxford.anglican.org/mission- is making major improvements to prevent relationships between groups of people, year. We also have a turnover of 12 to 15 ministry/safeguarding/ cases of abuse. particularly younger people. interns every year.” Trained nurse, Jane Fulford, is the “It’s about encouraging parents and “Some of our ex-offenders may need Read the presentations made to PSO for Southlake St James, Woodley, helping them if they have concerns. additional conditions around what they General Synod here: tinyurl.com/ in . Working in a team, Jane Children can also come to me if they have can and can’t attend. For these we have yaqt3cv8 oversees the DBS checks for her parish, concerns but I must say that if appropriate, contracts which are reviewed every ensuring that the necessary paperwork is if I think they could be in danger, I may three months. We liaise with police and Call the diocesan safeguarding up to date. “I worked in General Practice for have to share what they tell me. probation services about these members team on 01865 208290 or 587041. many years. I was the person who entered “Safeguarding is vital. Most of the of our congregation.” details of any family concerns into the time everything is fine, but we must be With the high number of staff and Lottery grant stops St Mary’s roof caving in AN initial £30,300 Heritage Lottery At the same time, the church plans to Fund grant has been awarded for the next replace its 1980s glass doors, making the phase of work to save St Mary’s, Banbury, building more accessible, and to produce , the largest parish church to a new, updated guidebook. A team of 10 be built in in the 18th century. volunteers will be trained up to give tours The grant will fund investigations of the historic building. paving the way for major repairs to be The Revd Philip Cochrane, the Vicar, carried out next year. St Mary’s is at the said: “The grant for the first stages of the heart of its community, used by many next round of repairs is great news, but different town groups and hosting it is just the next stage in a long, ongoing concerts and other events as well as programme which will span a good number services. It is Banbury’s only Grade I of years. St Mary’s is Banbury’s cathedral. historic building, and is one of the town’s We need to get these urgent repairs done most important tourist attractions, so that the building is weatherproof and welcoming 20,000 visitors a year. where we can work on making it accessible Banburians rallied round in 2015 and a comfortable place to better serve the to raise £60,000 to deal with a serious community in the years to come.” outbreak of dry rot, helped by a £110,000 A funding application will take place grant from the coalition Government’s once St Mary’s has started to progress the Listed Places of Worship Roof Repair plans. From there the Heritage Lottery Fund. Further work is now needed to Fund may decide to award £250,000 for stop the rot threatening the chancel with the whole of the necessary works to be Artwork at St Mary’s Church, Banbury. Photo: Terence Heng/St Mary’s PCC its irreplaceable wall paintings showing completed. Christ and his disciples. banburystmary.org.uk

Governor steps down after 30 years TELEVISION presenter turned artist Timmy Mallett has Headteacher to become HIGH Wycombe Church of School CE Wycombe High Photo: received a special blessing England School said farewell from the Bishop of Oxford, the Berkshire’s new parish to its longest serving governor, Rt Revd Steven Croft, for his David Copcutt, recently. David forthcoming pilgrimage. development advisor has served the school for more Timmy, who lives in the than 30 years. During that Cookhams, in Berkshire, is set A HEADTEACHER is leaving his recently as the headteacher at time, he has taken on a wide to get on his bike next month career in education to join the Aldermaston CE . variety of roles. David, who to pedal the 2,000km (1,500 mission team at the Diocese of Rhodri is a member of St attends St James’, Downley, and mile) Camino Way to Santiago Oxford. Nicolas Church, Newbury, was involved with designing de Compostela. He donned his Rhodri Bowen, currently the where he particularly enjoys and building the church, has cycling gear and along with his headteacher at Aldermaston CE contributing to the music brought particular expertise to wife Linda, and some friends, School, will become the PDA for (playing guitar, drums, mandolin maintaining and developing the travelled to Oxford’s Christ Berkshire on April 16. and singing) and occasionally school premises. Church Cathedral. There Bishop Rhodri grew up on the West dressing up as a Bible character. Schools throughout the Steven blessed Timmy in the coast of Wales. After training He is married with two grown-up diocese are always looking to Tom Quad, which forms the in Geology, he worked as a children and a dog. recruit new governors, and more entrance to the cathedral. children’s and youth worker He is looking forward information about this varied for parishes in Oxford (St to bringing his experience and fulfilling role can be found at timmymallett.co.uk/ Andrew’s) and Newbury (Shaw). in, and enthusiasm for, oxford.anglican.org/schools/ This led on to a teaching career developing people to the governance/ in Berkshire schools, most Berkshire Archdeaconry. News 3 Appealing for ringers for a peal for peace AN appeal has gone out to church bell around the world will want to join in this Corps and the Army Cadet Force. of church and cathedral bells will ringers internationally to join in a major once-in-a-lifetime tribute to everyone who That evening, at 6.55pm buglers will provide a fitting conclusion to a day of event later this year to commemorate the served on the battlefields, the high seas sound the Last Post at more than 1,000 contemplation, commemoration and, centenary of the end of World War 1. and the home front.” locations across the country. This will be ultimately, celebration as the United The organisers of Battle’s Over, an Ringing Out for Peace takes place across followed at 7pm with WW1 Beacons of Kingdom and other nations reflect on international event marking the armistice, the , Channel Islands, Light signifying the light of peace that events a century ago, on the battlefields of wants to see more than 1,000 churches and the Isle of Man, and at scores of locations emerged from the dreadful darkness of Europe and at home in our factories and cathedrals participate by ringing their bells overseas, including Australia, Canada, war. farms. simultaneously at 7.05pm on the night of Denmark, , the United States Then at 7.05pm, church and cathedral “I hope as many people as possible will 11 November 2018. and Germany. bells will take part. Ringing Out for Peace join us in the Battle’s Over events to mark Pageant master Bruno Peek is The event begins at 6am on 11 has been organised with the assistance of the conclusion of the First World War and encouraging bell ringers to take part in November with lone pipers playing Battle’s the Central Council of Church Bell Ringers, pay tribute to the loved ones who played Ringing Out for Peace. He said: “We want O’er, a traditional tune played after a battle, the representative body for groups who their part.” this to be the most widespread ringing of outside every cathedral in the country. ring bells in the English tradition with church bells since the First World War. At the same time, pipers everywhere will rope and wheel. It was founded in 1891 and “It would be a fitting and moving tribute be playing the same tune in their local represents 65 affiliated societies of local to the 1,400 or so bell ringers that we communities around the world. The tribute ringers from all over the British Isles and in Register your interest here: understand lost their lives during that is being organised with the assistance Australia, Canada, the USA, South Africa brunopeek.co.uk/ war,” said Mr Peek. “I have no doubt that of Glasgow-based College of Piping, pipe and Italy. battles-over.php dedicated campanologists in Britain and bands around the world, the Air Training Mr Peek said, “The stirring sound

Children on-song for annual service The way of Christ leads across CHILDREN from Goring CE Primary School provided the choir for the Annual Service for Reading’s river Headteachers and Governors at Christ Church Cathedral. Light was the theme for the event, which attracted hard working headteachers and school governors from Church schools across Oxfordshire, Berkshire and . The Rt Revd Steven Croft, the Bishop of Oxford, preached and presided, with readings and prayers read by the diocesan schools’ team and heads and governors.

Christchurch Bridge lives up to its name. Photo: Mark Carpenter

Steve Jenkins Andrew preached at Greyfriars about being an ‘outdoors’ rather than ‘indoors’ A NEW crossing over the River Thames church before leading the transfer group Photo by Jo Duckles. See more at www.oxford.anglican.org/2018HTservice lived up to its name as the Bishop of and friends, together with clergy and Reading, the Rt Revd , led churchwardens of the two churches, out worshippers across Christchurch Bridge of the church and through Reading to the from Reading to Caversham. The group river. Members of St John’s met them on of 15, from Greyfriars in the town centre, Christchurch Bridge where, led by Bishop In brief have joined the evolving community at St Andrew, all publicly declared their faith as John the Baptist, Lower Caversham. an act of unity. “They have publicly declared their desire Arrival at St John’s was greeted with Listen to the Door audio edition in and your ideas for what might be improved. to follow the call of Christ and, with their music, cheers and helium balloons, Podcasts. surveymonkey.co.uk/r/door-readership- brothers and sisters at St John’s, to learn before Bishop Andrew commissioned the iTunes itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/ survey-2018 and live the way of Christ,” said the Revd newly-united St John’s congregation and the-door-newspaper-audio-edition/ Penny Cuthbert, transition minister at celebrated Holy Communion. id1346574617?mt=2 or add this URL Correction: St John’s. “Friends from Greyfriars have “The party to complete this great day wherever you normally get your podcasts IN the February edition of the Door we pledged their continued support, and was wonderful, with so much sharing of oxford.anglican.org/support-services/ described the Revd Tim Davis as the the new, united St John’s congregation food, friends and chat,” said Penny. “With communications/podcasts/ former vicar of Christ Church, Abingdon. have promised, with the help of God, to so much joy around, it promised further He is in fact still the vicar, though not accompany one another on the journey of growth to come out of this ‘transfer There’s still time to tell us what you think at present involved in active ministry. faith, supporting each other in friendship, growth’.” about the Door A tribunal found Davis was in breach of love and prayer.” In April, St John’s will begin a monthly Newspapers up and down the country are safeguarding procedures and thereby guilty The Thames is the boundary between café church and monthly contemporary changing. So, we are inviting you to tell us of misconduct. The penalty hearing is set for Caversham Thameside and Mapledurham worship service in addition to the current what you do and don’t like about the Door 10 March. Parish and Greyfriars Parish. Bishop pattern of worship. the Door, March 2018, page 4 Advertisement Feature Resources 5 Abundant Life – Reflections on the Raising of Lazarus by Steven Croft

fruit of that methodology coming to life. It is a very simple, straight forward little booklet which is beautifully and appealingly packaged. Its 21 reflections are designed to be used during Lent for individual study and personal reflection or gathering for group reflection once a week. I recommend that latter as in my experience hearing the reflections of others deepens our own understanding. I like the design feature that doesn’t have specific dates for each reflection so there is no guilt if you can’t do it on a specific day. Perhaps on some days you might choose to do more than one. Each day gives a reading from John’s Gospel starting with the abundant life passage of Chapter 10. Each session has a short commentary and then some searching questions. The course follows on neatly from Bishop Steven’s Exploring the Beatitudes course. Together they by Graham Sykes are designed to help the people of the to reflect together I FIRST reviewed some of the Rt Revd on what it means to be a Christ-like Steven Croft’s resources in the 1990s. He Church, relentlessly pursuing the themes was a co-author of Emmaus, the enquirers’ of what it means to be compassionate, course designed to appeal to a wider contemplative and courageous. I constituency than Alpha or the Catholic recommend it as a resource which can Catechumenate course. I was impressed by help develop our missional thinking as the breadth of its appeal and the depth of individuals, churches and as a diocese. the content. More recently he co-authored the Pilgrim Course which was simpler in The Revd Graham Sykes is a Chaplain at presentation but very usable in helping to Oxford’s Sobell House Hospice and the Chair MORE than 350 copies of our fun new GodVenture Through the Story of Lazarus explore the faith for the first time or to of the Door’s Editorial Support Group. have been sent out to recipients across the Diocese of Oxford. reflect at a deeper level. The book offers a fun way of exploring the Lazarus story for all the family, exploring Bishop Steven once said to me The Rt Revd Steven Croft is the Bishop of Bible passages and offering a way to use the 200 plus stickers that come with it. that when you start thinking about Oxford. It contains 40 days of tiny readings to do together and open-ended questions to help particular issues, at first they seem you practise ‘dwelling in the story’. Every few days, there’s a link to a related page in the simple, but the more you reflect the book. more complex you realise they are. As Abundant Life – reflections on the Order your copies of GodVenture Through the Story of Lazarus, which was co-produced you reflect more deeply, that complex raising of Lazarus order online at by the diocesan children’s adviser Yvonne Morris and GodVenture’s Victoria Beech, at understanding leads to a simple way of store.oxford.anglican.org godventure.co.uk/shop expressing it. In Abundant Life I see the The Man on a Donkey by HFM Prescott “GOD here is comen to us. That is the their hearts bursting for joy, and there order to squeeze it into my panniers for a news!” So whispers the woman mystic, follows a gospel-like scene of them on the recent pilgrimage to Assisi). Malle, whose visions witness the hillside. It is a marvellous read, deeply moving shimmering theological thread that and encouraging. Prescott’s descriptive runs through HFM Prescott’s book The a great work of English powers rival those of George Eliot and Man on a Donkey. It tells the story of the Thomas Hardy. She paints with great Pilgrimage of Grace and offers much food pastoral“ Christology that, skill and beauty the contours of the for thought for the modern Christian at 18 pages a day, would be English landscape and does likewise reader, as we are confronted with our own with the contours of the English heart. family history. The title is derived from the perfect companion for I would describe it as a very Christian one of Malle’s visions, in which Christ your Lenten journey” work; discreetly apologetic in the most is crossing the bridge over a local river, accessible way. It is a great work of riding on a donkey. English pastoral Christology that, at The book steeps us in the complex It is in this central, enthralling, 18 pages a day, would be the perfect political, social and religious world of mystical moment that Prescott reveals companion for your Lenten journey. 1530s England. Prescott handles the the full depth of her own faith. Deep tensions of this time with remarkable theology is deftly untangled in the The Revd Jonathan Beswick is the Vicar of St even-handedness, tenderly opening-up simplest, homeliest prose: “For God, Barnabas Church, Jericho, Oxford. the rival loyalties at work within the that was too great to be holden even principal players. Amid tangled webs of everywhere and forever, had bound of intrigue and worldly-ambition, we Himself into the narrow room of here suddenly encounter the Christ himself. and now. He that was in all things had, A longer version of this review can be The men working in the fields have come for pity, prisoned Himself in flesh and found at sbarnabas.org.uk in for refreshment and there is a man in simple bread. He that thought winds, (the Man of the title of the book) who waters and stars, had made of Himself a they don’t know: “black, shaggy-haired” dying man.” HFM Prescott and “of not much more than thirty by his The Man on a Donkey was first The winners of the February Prize Draw Apollo Books £10 look, but with lines bitten into his face published, in two volumes, in 1952. It was are B Griffiths of Milton Keynes, Betty by… some stress beyond the common republished in 2016, in a single-volume Course of Newport Pagnell and Cathie By Jonathan Beswick lot.” Malle and her simple friend Wat (the paperback. It is 700 pages long and, at Little of Abingdon. They each win a copy unloved, bastard son of the parish ) two and a quarter inches thick, is hard of Found Out by Alison Webster. recognize and follow “the Man” with to fit into a bag. (I cut my copy in half in the Door, March 2018, page 6 Advertisement Feature TRUSTEE A Spiritual Approach to The Oxford Diocesan Schools Trust (ODST) is currently seeking trustees to join us. We are a multi-academy trust that operates 30 schools across Oxfordshire and Berkshire, serving over 5,800 pupils Technology and their families and communities.

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A new resource aimed at helping Nicolle John St Maranda children handle death and dying has been produced by the team at Oxford’s Sobell House Hospice.

HE Revd Graham Sykes, hospice chaplain and Kevin Game, from the fundraising team, have worked to develop a guide Tfor primary schools, including lesson plans and other materials. The aim of the project, entitled Life and Death in all its Fullness is to help teachers to equip children to be able to better understand death, bereavement and grief. The project is to be rolled out in the run-up to the national Dying Matters Week (14-18 May), when Sobell House and other hospices will be encouraging people to talk openly about death and dying and to consider what might be important to them as they approach the end of their lives. …equipping people from a“ young age to deal with death and dying.”

Kevin says: “We think this has value as a long-term future resource. We felt we could provide something quite important, not just for children but for teachers as well who are often cast adrift when there is a bereavement to deal with. This is early intervention, equipping people from a young age to deal with death and dying. The Revd Graham Sykes, hospice chaplain (right) and Kevin Game, from the fundraising team. Photo: Jo Duckles “Children in the age group we are looking at have the most inquisitive minds. We are helping them deal with Oxfordshire. “Help is there and it’s fine The sessions are creative and the suggestion of making donations to the bereavements which hopefully won’t to ask for it.” SeeSaw even has a dog, a include using the story Waterbugs and hospice. happen to them for a long time.” Labrador that children can talk to as a way Dragonflies by Doris Stickney. The story After the materials were produced, of dealing with their grief. follows a waterbug as he bursts through Competition Kevin spoke to someone in his village “It just enables the child to chatter the surface of the pond he shares with his Schools taking part in the project are whose husband had died, asking if she away. It can be a horrendous situation but friend. As his body is transformed into being encouraged to ask pupils to run an thought the pack was helpful. She thought someone being able to talk about it and a dragonfly he can no longer honour a art contest, exhibiting children’s work it was. If she had said ‘no’ the whole process it without people shutting you up promise to go back underwater to tell the around their premises. They have the project would have been a waste of time is helpful. other water bugs what it is like above the option of holding an exhibition of the but she came back to me positively.” “The whole Dying Matters project is water. It is used as an analogy for death work for parents, in aid of Sobell House. So, what should people do if they are about release. It’s important children get and dying. Each school can then choose two pieces to experiencing a bereavement and need to the chance to deal with grief. When you be exhibited in a wider exhibition at Sobell help children deal with it? “First of all, ask cosset them away it causes more harm.” Help is there and it’s fine House during Dying Matters Week. for help,” says Kevin. “If it is the first time “There is nothing more profound than someone is dealing with bereavement, The lessons are: to“ ask for it.” seeing a piece of art inspired by death. Art everyone is cast adrift and they need to Lesson 1 – What is alive? therapy is one way of allowing people to know that help is available.” Lesson 2 – Death is inevitable As well as the lesson plan for teachers, express their grief,” says Graham. One place to go is SeeSaw, an Oxford Lesson 3 – Emotions and grief the Sobell House team has suggested Winning pupils will be invited to based charity that provides grief Lesson 4 – Funerals and ceremonies schools run a non-uniform day, and/or an deliver the art work to the hospice in support to children and young people in Lesson 5 – What to say/not to say after-school cake sale or tea party with person and receive a tour of Sobell house. Where to find help seesaw.org.uk There’s no need to book, although if a dyingmatters.org group is larger than six it would be useful cruse.org.uk for us to know in advance if possible.” As part of its Care for a Cuppa HOSPICES IN THE DIOCESE: fundraising campaign, the hospice will be Katharine House, Banbury, Oxfordshire: providing tea and cakes all free of charge khh.org.uk and there will be display of artwork created by patients as part of Oxfordshire Katherine House’s annual open day takes Artweeks. place during Dying Matters Week, on Friday 18 May from 1.30pm to 4.30pm. Sue Ryder’s Duchess of Kent Hospice, Communications officer, Chris Higgins, Berkshire: sueryder.org says: “It’s a relaxed afternoon, open to anyone – perhaps they have a family Florence Nightingale Hospice, , member who may need a hospice, or Bucks: fnhospice.org.uk maybe they’re interested in volunteering/ working for us, or just curious to see what Helen and Douglas House, Oxford: a hospice is like. helenanddouglas.org.uk “Children in the age group we are looking at have the most inquisitive minds.” Photo: iStock. WE CAN 8 Songs of the Spirit: a psalm a day for Lent and Easter DESIGN By the time you read this Shrove Tuesday will be a receding out at baptism as we make our home within memory. Whether you chose to fast from something, take up God’s people. God has already decided on us a spiritual discipline, for example, following Bishop Steven’s to be his home. Let’s be at home with him. Think how you might create a holy space for PRINT Abundant Life reflections (See pages one and five) or to simply God in your home. What would it be like? DISTRIBUTE continue living as normal, we will be well into Lent. Here the REVD DR MEGAN DAFFERN provides reflections for the last Who can be a pilgrim? weeks of Lent. YOUR Read Psalm 24 Home from home destroyed in AD 70). So David’s vow not e care more than we admit about to sleep until he had made a home for God ‘who’s in’ and ‘who’s out’: sports LEAFLETS Read Psalm 132 clearly was not literally fulfilled by David teams, TV shows, shortlists, himself. In fact it had already been fulfilled Wselective schools – it matters to us. If we’re AND MORE he homely themes of the by God. As verse 13 tells us, God has already ‘in’, the membership of a group defines us; if of ascents begin at Psalm 132. chosen Jerusalem as his dwelling place, his we’re ‘out’ we wonder what we’re missing, or David thinks of his own home, home. What is it for God to make his home why we were deselected. It puts boundaries even his bed (verse 3), and realises somewhere? God’s decision that he belongs in place, borders that we may never have the • Design Tthat the Ark, the symbol of God’s presence, there is what actually makes that place his chance to cross again. Being excluded brings does not have such a place. This psalm is home. Significantly, the Ark, the sign of bitterness. It implies judgement on us. The Our talented designers can give about holy places and holy vows. David has God’s presence, was portable. desire to belong is strong. To whom or what your business or event a great a sumptuous palace to live in, while God God is not confined by human intentions. do you want to belong? look. We can source images and has no such place. The contrast is quickly God did not need David to build him a Do you give thanks if you do belong established. So David vows that he will not Temple; Solomon’s construction of the somewhere? And how does not belonging proof read your print media. rest until he finds a place God can call home. Temple (where so many of the psalms would affect you? Being excluded can be a lonely That seems like a pretty daft vow – eventually be sung) was above all a sign of and desolate experience. We exclude people building a Temple would take years. Is David his own devotion to God and the covenant. too, from conversations or committees. really planning not to go home or to sleep Naturally God blesses such commitment, When we do so, we may be causing • Print for that length of time? He wouldn’t survive. promising first food for his people (verse others hurt. Sometimes it is unavoidable, If he’s anything like the rest of us, sleep 15), and second the beauty of holiness. Verse sometimes unconscious. But if we can be We can manage the print of your deprivation would quickly have an impact 16 pictures the and the congregation: aware of it, remembering what it feels like leafl ets, business cards, stationery, on his decision making and kingly work. Is whatever your tradition, imagine an to be excluded, we might grow into richer and almost anything else. David making a vow he knows he’ll never inspiring act of worship, the building packed human beings because of it. keep? What else is going on here? David with faithful throngs. Verse 17 is about the Finances exclude. Politics excludes. Faiths We offer short runs as well as grew up during the wars with the Philistines Temple fittings. exclude. Does God exclude? Psalm 24 is large quantities at great rates – wars which featured Samson, Goliath, and sometimes called an ‘entrance’ liturgy, to including FREE UK mainland all sorts of stories of heroes and battles. ...imagine an inspiring act accompany the pilgrim’s arrival at the gates The book of 1 Samuel charts some of of the Temple, as he seeks entry into the delivery on most orders. these. The Philistines captured the Ark of “of worship...” house and presence of God. Look how it’s the Covenant, but while they had it in their built up: from the widest expanses of the possession, they were terrified by its power, The ‘horn’ could either be a sign of earth, the fullness of the world (verse 1), to so they loaded it on a driverless cart and it plenty, which would tie in with verse 15, or the seas and rivers (verse 2), to the one and • Distribution made its own way out of Philistine territory. a reference to the shape of the altar (many only holy mountain (verse 3). It reached Beth Shemesh, where the people Old Testament references to the altar in the There’s a kind of ‘funnelling’ effect as We are able to insert your leafl ets recognized it and rejoiced. Psalm 132 refers Temple describe it as having ‘horns’, best the Temple Mount comes into focus at the into this and similar publications to how David went to fetch the Ark from envisaged as very ornate corners resembling centre of this contemplation. We stand at enabling you to reach a church Ephrathah, where it had been kept after the bulls’ horns). Psalm 132 is easily understood the foot of the Temple Mount, preparing to Philistines released it. Mention of the Ark as a ‘pilgrimage psalm’. It invites movement go up. Who can go up? That’s the question of audience in this and other CofE itself only comes in verse 8. Verses 7–9 are at every turn. The Ark is making a journey, this psalm. Who’s allowed in? Verse 4 gives dioceses. an encouragement to the Psalmist’s fellow from captivity to Jerusalem: God’s presence the answer: it is the person who upholds worshippers to make that journey to God’s is a journeying presence. God’s Torah, his instruction. Some think presence. David cannot settle until he is confident this psalm is within another mini collection, that God is present among his people. Psalms 15–24. Psalm 24 is placed in God’s presence is a Thrones made by human hands cannot hold relationship to Psalms 15 and 19, which are God still; God chooses the places he will about being upright and keeping the Torah. journeying“ presence.” bless by his presence. Yet where a place is This means that the Torah features at the Great chosen that is clearly blessed by God, that beginning, middle and end of this sub- God doesn’t need anyone to find a place place in turn invites God’s people to journey collection. The Torah is viewed as the key to customer service for him or make a home for him, because towards it, towards sanctuary. This provides entry into God’s presence. Who then can get he has always gone in front of his people. us today with encouragement to start afresh close to God? In Passiontide the themes of FREE Unlike the idols of the neighbouring our journey towards God – whether through Lent are intensified. The time set aside for estimates peoples, the God of the Hebrews can make a physical pilgrimage or a spiritual one. our penitence is now well past. In a couple his own way, take up his own place. That Moving towards God is also about being of days it will be Holy Week. Have we been CALL fact is conveyed particularly in verses still, an idea we explored yesterday. keeping our Lenten disciplines? Have we 11–18, the rest of the psalm, where God Moving towards God can be about moving been achieving a closer union with God? 01752 225623 makes a vow which goes way beyond David’s inwards within ourselves, our hearts and Have we been diligent in prayer and fasting? [email protected] promises in the first half. Thrones signify minds; or about moving outwards, looking My guess is that we’ve all had bad days the fixed point of a kingdom. This is the beyond ourselves and responding to God’s this far into Lent: days when we’ve failed www.cornerstonevision.com centre of the kingdom, the place where the invitation to us to transcend our earthly to live up to our own expectations, or our king sits. lives. It can also be about opening ourselves church’s expectations. Is there a risk that David has his throne, and he wants God up to God to come closer to us, to make his we don’t live up to the Psalmist’s standards, to be similarly enthroned. But God replies home in us. In Psalm 132, God has decided that we ‘aren’t good enough’, that we’ve let with a vow that points to David’s children, he has a home on earth long before, as other people, ourselves, and God down, at his sons and their sons (verses 11–12). If Christians proclaim, he made his home in the a time when we should have been trying they stay in close relationship with God, womb of Mary prior to Jesus’ incarnation. even harder than usual? We stand at the then God will enthrone them generation In some Christian traditions, the Virgin threshold of Holy Week and hope we might by generation. God transcends David’s Mary is seen as the Ark of the New Covenant. be admitted; now we’ve come this far, to the attempts to enthrone God, and looks God promises a sanctuary lamp shining foot of the mountain, we wonder if we’ll be instead to enthroning David’s son Solomon. in the Temple for his anointed (verse 17). allowed to approach yet closer to our holy Solomon built the First Temple in Jerusalem Could this anointed one be not only David God. But there is tension here. Verse 4 asks (the Second Temple was built on the Jewish or Solomon, but Christ, who is literally the a lot of us. We’re not perfect, and it seems to return from exile in Babylon, and was Anointed One? Our own anointing shines require that we should be. St Columba’s House Retreat and Conference Centre Songs of the Spirit: a psalm a day for Lent and Easter 9 Maybury Hill, Woking, Surrey, GU22 8AB

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The Hospital, founded in 1132, is home to 25 retired laymen (‘Brothers’) and applications are welcomed. A registered Charity with a Christian foundation, the Hospital is situated a mile south of Winchester. Each Brother lives independently and occupies a flat which he furnishes himself. A view over a modern-day Jerusalem. Photo: the Door archive Further information and an application form are obtainable from: Clerk to the Trustees So do we turn back, disconsolate, opportunities, that we don’t just do things mountain, the possibility of pilgrimage Hospital of St Cross disappointed? No. We’re not the only ones for a minority but make them available is there for us all. Our ability to approach Winchester, SO23 9SD seeking God. There are many of us: a whole to as many as possible at once. It’s not God grows as we practise it, falteringly or Tel: 01962 878218 generation at any one time (verse 6). always easy. But this isn’t about one or two confidently. It’s not so different from the E-mail: [email protected] The righteous exemplar is but one person. campaign groups leading the way. This is way of the cross. Jesus goes before, opening www.hospitalofstcross.co.uk Surely we’re not all going to be turned about God helping us progress. Making the way of life, the gates to God’s kingdom. Registered Charity No.202751 away? The triumphant, repetitive call of the accessibility accessible, as it were. We gather as hosts of people behind this Psalmist to the gates of the Temple banishes Neither is this just a one -off. Verses 7 mighty Lord, the King of glory. God becomes our fears (verses 7 and 9). Fling wide the and 9 describe the ‘everlasting entrances’. accessible to all, for all. gates! All is opened up, access is granted. This path is open for all time. Opened at To what groups do you belong, or want to Now the focus shifts. Suddenly it’s no longer the approach of the King of glory, they belong, and why? on the morally perfect person. Instead it’s remain open for all who gather behind him. on the King of glory. That means us. We may not have had the most successful Lent; or we may have had The above is an edited extract from Songs of the triumphant, repetitve the most holy Lent we’ve ever experienced. the Spirit by the Revd Dr Megan Daffern. This portable music box stores and plays over 2880 Wherever we are right now, we know that Megan is the Chaplain at Oxford’s Jesus traditional hymns and popular worship songs - all at the call“ of the Psalmist to the as we journey towards the foot of the College. Reproduced with permission of SPCK. touch of a button! gates of the Temple banishes Easily create play lists, control the tempo, change the key and even choose your instrumentation. our fears...” Win a copy of Songs of the Spirit With over 7300 hymn book SONGS of the Spirit: reflections on ancient psalmody.” John entries indexed to 10 It’s not about who is the individual A psalm a day for Golindgay, of the Old Testament, favourite hymn books righteous person. It’s about who is the ‘King Lent and Easter Fuller Theological Seminary, California, says (upgradeable), the great of glory’ (verses 8 and 10). The question provides 192 it is: “Written by someone who enthuses sound of Hymnal Plus has is asked and answered twice. It makes the pages of insight, about Hebrew, but knows how to write short made it the choice of point. This isn’t about a faultless earthly primarily designed sentences comprised of ordinary words, churches across the UK. king. This is about the Lord, about God. for the current and who knows how to relate the Bible to Who’s entering the Temple? God. God – and and forthcoming everyday life.” he’s leading the way for us all. He’s not on season. But the So, the Door has teamed up with the other side of the gates. He’s on the same reflections, packed publishers SPCK, to offer three copies side as us. with theological of the book to the winners of this month’s For more information: He’s getting us in. Contrary to what gates insight made competition. For the chance to win, make us think of, there’s no exclusion here. relevant for answer the question: which God has whole hosts of people behind him the every-day, psalm, according to the book extract (verse 10). He’s pictured as a mighty Lord 21st Century featured on this centrespread, is a leading great valiant armies into battle, world, could be used all year round. pilgrimage psalm. Send your answers To advertise in armies of people who will not be beaten. Susan Gillingham, Professor of the to [email protected] or to The entrance ritual pictures us drawn in at the , Songs of the Spirit Competition, Church to God’s presence by God. Accessibility describes the book as: “A fresh and insightful House Oxford, Langford Locks, Kidlington, the Door please call Glenda is important in society. We need to make guide for any Christian who seeks to Oxford, OX5 1GF. The closing date for entries sure our buildings have wheelchair access, engage with these practical and prayerful is Friday 9 March. on 01752 225623 that all people have access to services and the Door, March 2018, page 10 Advertisement Feature 11 Being the change we want to see

Barack Obama, one of the world’s most famous advocates of community organising. Photo: Shutterstock

Community organising offers a fantastic chance for limited) goals and we then work together which celebrated our amazing young Christians to join with others in their areas to make to put hope into action. The big highlight people. a difference both where they live and in the wider of the year is the annual Accountability • Lots of opportunities to train new Assembly when we meet power-holders leaders and help them develop. This world. The REVD TIM NORWOOD spent his sabbatical who can help us make a difference. has included members of Citizens MK, reflecting on how powerful a tool this is proving to be The process is important. It’s about young people, and lay people in our in Milton Keynes. building relationships (lots and lots churches. John Robertson has of one-to-one conversations) and then launched a brilliant course as part of setting clear priorities. In a sense there’s the Mission Partnership’s training remember sitting at an airport on a matters of human dignity and common nothing new about it, but following scheme which uses community damp morning. It was like any other good in society. These ideas address an agreed process ensures that we get organising to build-up lay leaders. airport pick-up, but we were waiting oppression, the role of the state, social somewhere. for three Syrian families who were organisation, social justice and issues of If I sound like a bit of an enthusiast Ijust arriving from refugee camps in the wealth distribution.) Barack Obama is Organising is for community organising, it’s because I Middle East. There was expectancy and the most well-known former-organiser, am. It’s an approach which is working for excitement, and then our new friends but the influence of organising has been fundamentally“ a way churches and dioceses around the country came through the door. significant in both the US and the UK. of helping us make a and it has certainly made a difference This was only the first time I would get We launched a “broad-based in Milton Keynes. I’d love to see more to meet new refugees. In Milton Keynes community alliance” in Milton Keynes difference…” Citizens groups spring up in the Diocese we have now welcomed 12 families and back in 2010. The member institutions of Oxford, and I think it’s worth a bit of there are more on the way. It’s hard to include churches, schools, Muslim Some of the highlights from the last investment. Organising is fundamentally express what a real privilege this has associations and an LGBT+ group. Each few years have been: a way of helping us to make a difference been. In a world where so many bad things institution pays annual “dues” which pay • Working with local businesses to in the world – to act as heralds of the happen, it has been wonderful to do for a Community Organiser who provides promote the Real Living Wage. We now Kingdom. something positive – however small. training and support. We’re also part of have 48 companies signed up in MK. In the words of that famous American This has been one of the many good Citizens UK – “the Home of Community • Working with the Council and the Red Community Organiser and former things that community organising Organising in the UK”. There are now ten Cross to welcome nearly 80 Syrian president: “Change will not come if we has brought into my life and ministry. similar “chapters” from Tyne and Wear to refugees. wait for some other person or some other Community organising is a way of helping South and Wales. • Running Weaving Trust events time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting groups of people to build enough power to that have brought together diverse for. We are the change that we seek.” achieve goals for the common good. It’s a …it has been wonderful groups like the police, the synagogue, set of principles and methods which have churches, mosques, school children, The Revd Tim Norwood is the Area Dean of been developed over the past 80 years or to“ do something positive…” students, businesses, LGBT+ people and Milton Keynes. so. It began in America with a sociologist prisoners (not all at the same time!) called Saul Alinsky, but has been shaped In Milton Keynes we have an annual • Working closely with people from other by Catholic Social Teaching and a desire to cycle, where big problems are identified, faiths on common issues that have reinvigorate democracy. (Catholic Social teams work on SMART (Specific, helped us to become genuine friends. citizensmk.org.uk Teaching is about Catholic doctrines on Measurable, Achieveable, Relevant, Time • Helping with a Fight Against Hate day the Door, March 2018, page 12 Advertisement Feature Advertisement Feature the Door, March 2018, page 13 the Door, March 2018, page 14 Advertisement Feature Comment15 News 15 COMMENT Oxford faith groups unite to “All People are fund a new Ark CHAPLAINS from Oxford colleges, as well to mark the 175th anniversary of the Welcome” at Christ other faith groups, have raised £3,850 to Congregation, it was decided to raise funds support Oxford’s Jewish Congregation in for a new Ark. Hearing about their efforts the Cornerstone building a new Ark in the city’s synagogue. the Revd Canon Bruce Kinsey, Chaplain An Ark is essentially a large cupboard at Balliol College and the Chair of Oxford Dr Fidele Mutwarasibo explores that we need to ask ourselves is how do used to store the handwritten scrolls University’s College Chaplains group, had an the importance of recognising and we form an opinion of others who don’t containing the Torah, the first five books idea, to jointly fund the new Ark. “ celebrating diversity. share our heritage or any other identity of the Bible. “An Ark, while not in itself an markers? How can we harness diversity object of veneration, becomes the focal point Read a fuller story and see a ONE of my earliest memories of my and overcome those things that separate of a synagogue and is made as aesthetically photograph of the Ark here: first visit to the Church of Christ the us? beautiful as possible.” said Isaac. He oxford.anglican.org/newark/ Cornerstone is the sentence often At Christ the Cornerstone we arranged explained that, as one of the activities mentioned during Church services: “We a workshop on 3 March opening with have come from all corners of the world.” Biblical Reflections by Br. Anthony Purvis In other words, you are all welcome (St Michael’s Priory) under the theme of Meet these amazing people irrespective of your backgrounds. This We are Many – We are One. Shaama Saggar- spirit can also be found in the Ubuntu Malik prepared a workshop on Unconscious Worldview of Sub-Saharan Africa (where I Bias. was born and spent my formative years). The maxim that underpins Ubuntu is: …diversity is not just “I am because we are and we are because I am.” This is in line with the fact that as limited“ to the issues of race Christians we are members of the family and religion…” of Christ. This is underpinned by the profound message of Genesis 1:27 – we were all created in God’s image. Moreover, Participants were to be given the this does not mean that, as far as we are opportunity to reflect on what informs their concerned as Christians, there are no views of people who are different from them challenges in relation to diversity within for one reason or another. More importantly, the Church. Additionally, it is important participants were to explore how they can to highlight the fact that diversity is overcome differences and build bridges to not just limited to the issues of race and engage and welcome others who are different Photo: Jo Duckles religion that dominate debate in public for one reason or another. The workshop was discourses on identity. a precursor to a diversity training session A ‘POP up vicar’ from the Midsomer to the Order of St Frideswide. The order, planned in the coming months for all office Murders, as well as people who work named after the patron saint of Oxford, holders at Cornerstone. tirelessly against social injustices, and was founded in 2001 by the then Bishop I am because we are and provide a myriad of support to the Church of Oxford, the Rt Revd Richard Harries. It is because“ I am.” For more information contact Dr Fidele were honoured in a special service at a way of giving recognition to lay people Mutwarasibo, Church Warden and a Member Oxford’s Christ Church Cathedral. who have given outstanding service to the The Equality Act 2010 spells out the of the Ecumenical Council at Christ the Six people were made Honorary Canons Church over many years. following protected characteristics: age; Cornerstone and a Visiting Research Fellow of the Cathedral. Canons are selected disability; gender reassignment; marriage at the Open University (Centre for Voluntary because of their work within the Diocese of Read short biographies and Civil Partnership; pregnancy and Sector Leadership). Oxford and the wider Church. During the here: oxford.anglican.org/ maternity; race; religion and belief; sex; same service three people were admitted laycanonsfrideswide/ and sexual orientation. The question Email: [email protected]

about working on sustainability, making focus group is exploring the possibility of issues, including Bible based reflections and God in the Life of... communities stronger and more resilient introducing the Eco Church initiative to practical eco-tips. so they can cope with the demands of the benefice. Eco Church is A Rocha UK’s “Part of what we do is help people look this century,” says Margot. The group award scheme for churches who want to be at what they can do positively. If you look …continued from page 16 acquired air tightness testing equipment as environmentally friendly as possible. at environmental problems you can get and used this to detect where heat might be Several of Margot and Martin’s joint depressed but there are ways in which you He has had two recent visits to leaking from local homes, including their projects have been publications. One is a 28- can respond and know that God is a God Sweden, including the Växjö Diocese vicarage. This gave them the chance to page Grove booklet entitled An Introduction of hope. He loves this world and wants to which is twinned with the Oxford find easy places to improve insulation and to Environmental Ethics. Another is BRF’s A see it cared for so when you get involved Diocese. Martin leads a distance make the building warmer and more heat Christian Guide to Environmental Issues – an in environmental issues you are working learning course, Christian Rural and efficient, especially Margot’s study. And a accessible guide to eight contemporary with him. From there you can’t help but Environmental Studies (CRES), which care for others as part of God’s creation; it goes more deeply into theology and all works together.” environmental issues and is based at Ripon College, Cuddesdon. The Hodsons The future of transport When not working as a parish priest and teach international Christian graduates WHAT are the current trends in transport Professor Emeritus of Transport Studies doing her environmental work, Margot enjoys in Berlin each year on a course called and what will we be using in the future? at Oxford University, Michael Talbot – cooking, country walking and visiting her Bible and Culture. Margot also does some We all use transport almost every day Head of Industrial Strategy, Centre for family in Somerset. tutoring in environmental and rural of our lives, but do we ever think about Connected and Autonomous Vehicles theology for Ripon College Cuddesdon. what we are doing? These and other issues and John Weaver, Chair of the John Ray On a more local and practical level, when will be discussed at a John Ray Initiative Initiative. Martin and Margot moved to Haddenham, conference in Birmingham this month. Useful links: they found themselves at the start of a new Keynote speakers include David Banister, tinyurl.com/y85qps4n cres.org.uk Transition group: “Nationally Transition is arocha.org.uk/

Editor: Jo Duckles Tel: 01865 208227 Deadline for April 2018: Monday 5 March 2018 Email: [email protected] Published: 19 March 2018 Audio version Editorial Assistant and distribution: Ruth Hamilton-Jones Tel: Sight impaired people can get a free audio 01865 208225 Email: [email protected] The Door is published by Oxford Diocesan Board of Finance (Diocesan Secretary Mrs Rosemary Pearce). The registered office is version of the Door. Call 01865 208227. Advertising: Glenda Charitos Tel: 01752 225623 Church House Oxford, Langford Locks, Kidlington, OX5 1GF. Email: [email protected] Tel: 01865 208200. While every care is taken to ensure the reliability Letters of no more than 300 words should be sent to Editorial Support Group Chair: The Revd Graham Sykes of our advertisements, their inclusion in the Door does not guarantee it or mean that they are endorsed by the Diocese of Oxford. [email protected]. The Editor reserves the right Email: [email protected] to edit all submissions. 16 God in the life of… LOOKING back over her prayer journal from the early 1990s, over a decade before she was ordained, the REVD Top Eco Tips: MARGOT HODSON had written down that she felt a calling to ministry in rural • Reduce plastics – on the day we parishes and environmental work. She met, the top story on BBC News had tells Jo Duckles how that diary entry been ways to reduce consumption of turned out to be unpredictably prophetic. the plastics that are destroying our oceans. “Easy ways are using a plate argot tells me about her rather than cling film or a container life over a cup of tea in the with a reusable lid when you store vicarage in Haddenham, food in the fridge,” says Margot. Other Buckinghamshire, where she ways are buying food with as little Mlives with her husband, Martin. unnecessary packaging as possible Born in Somerset, Margot grew up in a and opting for re-usable shopping a Christian family and went to a Church bags, rather than plastic carriers. school. “I had a sense of God from very • Buy local – locally sourced food can early on,” says Margot. The beautiful cut down on air and road miles and Somerset surroundings inspired her help provide a more sustainable local interest in conservation and her choice economy. of geography as a degree subject. Margot • Ensure your home is adequately says: “At university I was invited to a insulated Christian event, Down to Earth, and • Don’t waste food – try and use up from there I thought more seriously about any food left in the fridge rather than my faith and became a more committed throwing away leftovers Christian. I’d had a sense of a call to • If you have a garden, nurture native ministry much earlier than that though, plants to encourage biodiversity or from childhood,” she says. install a bird nesting box or pipes for masonry bees. If you are in a flat or student room you can ask if your I had a sense of God church, or even your college, might try from“ very early on…” swift boxes. Today Margot is Rector of Wychert and empower others to do more to look Vale Benefice. Over the last few years she after the planet. Their partnership works has overseen the merger of two previous both ways, as Martin, originally a plant benefices to form Wychert Vale and now Margot Hodson. Photo: Jo Duckles biologist, is also an authorised preacher leads a team of committed lay people and who looks after the Sunday rotas for their clergy. “Forming the new benefice was a “It reminds us that we need to be built ways in which we can help new residents busy benefice. major task,” she says, “there was a legal together in Christ” says Margot. “This find a real home here and become active Martin is the operations director part, but the most important aspect was feels especially relevant at present as we members of our communities.” for the John Ray Initiative (JRI), the the relationships on the ground. face 1,000 new houses in Haddenham As well as the usual activities to be educational branch of the Christian We decided to make a covenant and significant growth in other villages, expected in a busy rural benefice, there is environmental movement. JRI focuses together based on common commitments including Stone. a regular Caféplus+ event reaching out to on producing resources and running to one another and three missional families in the villages and other ‘Fresh conferences and courses. His current purposes: ‘Worshipping God, Serving …there are ways in which Expressions’ style initiatives. “There project is a ground-breaking Christian Community and Sharing Life’. I am are many exciting things happening conference on 17 March looking at thrilled that Bishop Steven’s ‘three Cs’ you“ can respond and know and there is lots of pastoral need in the issues surrounding transport and (contemplative, compassionate and that God is a God of hope.” area,” says Margot. While parish life is sustainability. Martin is also now doing courageous) fit together with these so extremely busy, Margot’s passion for the more and more speaking nationally and well”. Wychert is the local building stone environment sees her spending her spare even internationally. and the name is unique to that part of We are working ecumenically and time and holidays working, together Buckinghamshire. putting an emphasis on welcome: seeing with her husband Martin, to help inspire …continued on page 15

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www.oxford.anglican.org Pull this section out. Keep it handy for your own prayers and involvement in the diocese.

Being a mum and a priest

As Mothering Sunday (11 March) you share their struggles and understand Shutterstock approaches the REVD NICOLA HULKS the ups and downs of their life because describes how becoming a mum and they see you, right there, going through being ordained priest in the same year the same things. There is little time for was both a challenging and enriching any unhelpful clergy/laity divide when experience. the priest is eight months pregnant and needs help getting up or sitting down. In the early days when I was thinking One member of my congregation even and praying about the possibility of fashioned a nifty cassock extender for my I was sent in the direction ever-growing bump. Having a baby in a of a female , about my age, in the parish exposes a certain vulnerability that hope that she might help me with the was rather liberating for me and I hope many questions swirling in my head. for those around me. It laid it bare that In a coffee shop in the town where five this is the stuff of life that we are called years later, unbeknown to me, I would to journey with God through - clergy, be taking up my own curacy post, I laity, whoever we are. It is the work of expressed one of my biggest fears. “But discipleship and we are all in it together. I want to have children,” I said, looking Having a child creates a whole new life, down nervously at my coffee. She smiled new demands and new ways of working at me and said: “And?” I relayed all my that need to be navigated. I wondered how concerns. I wouldn’t be there for them! I’d aspects of my ministry would be affected be working all the time! Can vicars even by pregnancy and by having a small child. take maternity leave? It would upset the There are challenges. If the number of church! People wouldn’t understand! She hours in the day could be doubled then smiled again and said: “Nicola, you do that would really help me out. But my realise you are putting yourself forward ministry has also flourished in ways I had for ordained life, not monastic life, right?” not anticipated. Ministry to the bereaved was one such area that blossomed in It is the work of pregnancy. I found, to my surprise, that arriving to speak with bereaved families discipleship“ and we are all in while bearing new life within me proved it together.” to be a real thing of comfort. Perhaps pregnancy offered a sign of hope, perhaps it was a reminder that life springs up That meeting was the first step along again? All I knew was that pregnancy the road of an extraordinary journey of made connecting with people that much becoming a mother and a priest in the easier. One family even delivered me a same year. Back then I worried that there set of tiny baby grows after the funeral wouldn’t be space in my life for both service I led for them. Pregnancy, once Nicola Hulks and baby Luke. Photo: Ben Hulks ministry and motherhood, but I never again, offered me new opportunities that I considered how God might use both hadn’t expected. experiences to grow both who I am and wonderful as it was, pales in comparison and pain. If ordained life is to have the ministry I have been called to. That God calls us to many with the training I believe that God really any integrity or longevity then it must God might be able to use motherhood to had in mind for me for the ordained life. encompass all of what comes to us in life. make me a better priest and priesthood things“ and really can work Life, and for me motherhood, has been There needs to be room for all that to make me a better mum. That far from through it all.” the most fertile (excuse the pun) training we are to grow and flourish. There needs being an inconvenience to the people ground for priesthood. Parenthood to be room for clergy to be first human around me, having a baby in post would provides the most intense training beings and disciples. I am grateful that I be something that brought great joy and And where pregnancy helped me programme in how to love, how to exercise have had the opportunity to see how God excitement to my church, and blessing to to engage in my work in a new way, patience, how to practise kindness, how can, and does, use it all. my ministry. maternity leave gave me space and time to to travel through pain for the beauty of There is so much more I am sure that In many ways I experienced a public step back from the life of the church and new life. I have seen sides of myself that I I will discover along this path. There are, pregnancy and now I am a public mum. to see things from a different perspective. didn’t know existed. I have new, hard won, I’m sure, some challenges ahead. There is This, of course, brings its challenges but Naturally, as I sat in the congregation understanding and empathy that I could certainly, as for all of us, some juggling also broke down many barriers in ways rather than behind the altar I saw things have gained no other way. to do. But now I know that this journey I had not expected. When I am walking in a way I wouldn’t have seen them before. can be a blessed one, that unexpected the streets around the parish people see Not least how adequate, or otherwise, our …bringing new life is gifts can come from extraordinary the collar and can be unsure of what to facilities for children really are! But, even circumstances. I have been reminded not expect. Then they see the buggy and the more than this, maternity leave offered an both“ glorious and costly.” to make assumptions about what may or screaming toddler and they know that I opportunity for spiritual growth, perhaps may not work in this life. God calls us to am walking the same path as them. A new in a similar way to a sabbatical. I didn’t I learned that bringing new life is both many things and really can work through bond of understanding is formed before come back to work well rested but I did glorious and costly. I understood with new it all. even a word is said. come back with many new perspectives clarity what it means when we say that In church I have found much the same and insights. God labours and strives to bring new life, The Revd Nicola Hulks is curate at St Luke’s, thing happening too. People know that My training for ministry, as rich and even when that journey involves suffering Maidenhead. Advertising March prayer diary The following is for guidance only; please feel free to adapt to local conditions and, if you wish, produce your own deanery prayer diaries.

Our purpose is to create a caring, SATURDAY 3 Broughton: Phil White, THURSDAY 8 Walton Holy Trinity: sustainable and growing Christian James Talbot, Sue Smith and Shirley Bull. Amy May and Martin Roper. For a smooth presence in every part of the Diocese We may be offered the management of transition as we await the arrival of our of Oxford. a new community centre: for wisdom new incumbent in April. For our ‘Easter and discernment in this. For the future experience’ as we welcome children from development of the church and for our four local schools to engage with the Let us therefore approach the throne of children’s and youth work as there are Easter story. For the continued outreach grace with boldness, so that we may limiting factors to further growth. at the café at Holy Trinity. receive mercy and  nd grace to help in Bishop Alan confirming at and time of need. MONDAY 5 with House School. Hebrews 4:16 and Nether Winchendon: Richard Phillips, Robert Hutton and FRIDAY 9 with , Pray to the Father through the Son in John Scholefield. For those attending our Oakley and : David the power of the Spirit for: Alpha course; for new beginnings as the Kaboleh. For God’s guidance as we review course comes to an end. For our schools our mission to the local communities. and families’ work throughout Lent and Oakley Combined School. THURSDAY 1 St David’s Day Holy Week as we seek to reach outwards Bishop John Went confirming at Downe and : Mark Ackford. For the in new ways, whilst honouring the House School. church families of St James and All Saints traditions of the season. as they strive to be communities that can SATURDAY 10 Wychert Vale: Margot enrich the lives of those around them TUESDAY 6 Risborough: David Hodson, Philip Groves, Jonathan through sharing Christ. For the pupils, Williams, James Tomkins, Tony Hawkins, Nadine Rose, Nigel Featherston, staff and members of the governing Bundock, Michael Hunt, Daniel Beesley, Olive Kuhrt and Adrian Collier. For bodies of our church schools Bierton Graham King, Ryan Romano and Averil our youth and children’s ministry and Combined CE School and Stephenson. For the Parish of Bledlow for our new Messy Church in Dinton. Park CE Primary School, particularly for in their vacancy. For us as we respond Give thanks for the growth in numbers the calling of more foundation governors to the opportunities brought by new of families attending all our churches to serve at both schools. housing, welcoming and helping our and pray for our welcome programme new neighbours to integrate into our and work with new communities. For FRIDAY 2 Women’s World Day of community. St John’s School, Lacey the appointment of a new part time Prayer Bernwode: Priscilla Slusar and Green; Speen School; Monks Risborough administrator. For all those who serve Jenny Edmans. For the people of the Primary School and Longwick Combined with great commitment, especially those Blessed is the man seven rural parishes in our benefice, School. who take on unglamorous roles, often who walks not in the those who serve within our churches, the unseen. Cuddington and Dinton School; staff and pupils of Brill CE School and our WEDNESDAY 7 : Colin St Mary’s School, Haddenham and Stone counsel of the wicked, continued work to spread God’s love in Hartley and Alan Foster. Combined School. nor stands in the way our communities. Photo: Shutterstock of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; for the Services at Christ Church Cathedral Lord knows the way of SUNDAYS: 8am Holy Communion; 9.45am Matins (coffee in Priory Room); 11am Sung Eucharist; 6pm Evensong. the righteous, but the way of the wicked will WEEKDAYS: 7.15am Morning Prayer; 7.35am Holy Communion; 1pm (Wednesday only) Holy Communion; perish. 6pm Evensong (Thursday Sung Eucharist 6pm). Psalm 1 (ESV) Tel: 01865 276155 www.chch.ox.ac.uk/cathedral

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The following is for guidance only; please feel free to adapt to local conditions and, if you wish, produce your own deanery prayer diaries.

MONDAY 12 Bracknell Deanery: Darrell Hannah, Stephen Johnson, Caroline Coming and Goings Kallipetis, Chris Boutle and Jan Glaze. For the Christian formation of students The Revd Peter Wyard has been The following have been given at Ranelagh CE school. For the recently appointed CMS Mission Partner in the permission to officiate: united parish of St Mary’s, Winkfield, Democratic Republic of Congo; The Revd The Revd Peter Matthew; The Revd St Peter’s, Cranbourne and St Martin’s, Elizabeth Birch has resigned from her Canon Jeremy Hurst; The Revd Lucie Chavey Down. post as Rector, Wantage Downs; The Austin; The Revd Canon Martyn Revd Canon Anthony Dickinson has Griffiths. TUESDAY 13 Ascot Heath: Darrell been appointed Associate Chaplain of All Hannah, Pam Davey and Sheila Saints, Milan. We recall with sadness the deaths of Shrigley. For outreach into new housing Revd Canon Roy Taylor in November; developments. For outreach among Revd Brian Blackman. families of Ascot Heath CE Junior School.

WEDNESDAY 14 Binfield: Luke Taylor TUESDAY 20 Winkfield and TUESDAY 27 Hitcham: Sue Sampson, and Daisy Ridell. For our Bereavement Cranbourne: Huw Mordecai, Mary Knight Henriette Watkins and Janine Edwards. Support Team, which is soon to launch; and Stuart Agar. That we may discern For us as we consider a new vision for St may this help those in our parish who a collective vision for the future of our Mary’s based on Bishop Steven’s mission are struggling with grief in one form or three churches. For our growing youth of being courageous, contemplative and another. May we have ears to hear and work, and for more people to volunteer to compassionate. For us to prayerfully hearts to obey where God is asking us to play an active part in it. St Mary’s School, expand all our lay led ministry teams after join with him in his work in the parish. Winkfield. so many people committed themselves to Binfield Primary School. new areas of ministry on our gifting day. WEDNESDAY 21 Sunninghill and South THURSDAY 15 Bracknell: Les Jesudason Ascot: Stephen Johnson, Jennifer Jones, WEDNESDAY 28 Taplow and Dropmore: and Jim Barlow. For the development of Tracey Williams, Mary Nichols and Michael Jane Cresswell. For the PCC worship sub- our town centre ministry and our outreach Francescon. For Revd Stephen Johnson, committee as they review the pattern of with neighbouring churches. For God’s our churchwardens, treasurer, PCC services at St Nicolas and seek feedback wisdom and guidance for the PCC and for members, ministry team and all who work from those who use the church for leadership as we minister to our growing in mission and ministry in Sunninghill occasional offices. For a strengthening

congregations and plan for the needs of and South Ascot Parish and further afield. of links between St Anne’s and the local St Mary, Beaminster, Dorset new housing developments in the parish. Cheapside Primary School and St Michael’s community and for Dropmore Infant . Primary School, Sunninghill. School. St Nicholas Combined School. enhancing church interiors fine furniture FRIDAY 16 Easthampstead: Guy Cole, THURSDAY 22 Burnham and THURSDAY 29 Colnbrook and Datchet: Ronald Emett Emily Davis, Catherine Bowstead, Peter Deanery: Rod Cosh, Robin Grayson, Sheila Peter Wyard, Rod Cosh, John Collins. For www.ronaldemettfurniture.com Bestley and Roy Burgess. For St Francis Warburton and Jill Bell. For our continuing Peter Wyard and his wife as they prepare 01308 868025 and St Clare Sacramental Fresh Expression. recovery as a deanery. For the Holy Spirit to leave the parish and begin training for For the appointment of a new children and to invigorate our mission to the whole mission service in the Democratic Republic family worker. St Michael’s, Easthampstead deanery. of Congo. For both parishes as they begin the The Hospital of St Cross Primary School and Jennett’s Park Primary interregnum: that they may look forward & Almshouse of Noble Poverty School. FRIDAY 23 Burnham: Bill Jackson, Barry with confidence in the Lord, care for one ‘England’s Oldest Almshouse’ Marsden, Ian Fordyce, Jenny Dobson and another and grow spiritually. Colnbrook SATURDAY 17 Sunningdale: John Liz Watkins. For our ongoing stewardship. Primary School, Churchmead School and Hutchinson and Terry Ward-Hall. For For our outreach to Lesotho and Syria. St Datchet St Mary’s Primary Academy. Vacancies for Brothers our new Sunday service times, starting in Peter’s Primary School, Burnham. The Hospital, founded in 1132, January for a six month experiment; may FRIDAY 30 Horton and Wraysbury: is home to 25 retired we have early signs are that these three SATURDAY 24 Cippenham: Janet Colin Gibson, Joseph Fernandes, Mike laymen (‘Brothers’) and morning services are going well. For the Minkkinen. For our new community Miller and Beryl Walters. For our curate, applications are welcomed. ongoing process of healing. Holy Trinity relationships that have grown by joining Joseph, as he begins the search for the A registered Charity with a Primary School, Sunningdale. Pray for the new Cippenham Carnival committee. right parish for his first incumbency. Christian foundation, the Hospital is situated a mile Diocesan Synod. For our children’s ministry; for those who For our outreach to the local travelling south of Winchester. Each lead it and all the children who now attend community. Brother lives independently MONDAY 19 Warfield: Catharine Morris, and for all those being confirmed in March. and occupies a flat which Nigel Richards, David Ritchie, Katie Urban, SATURDAY 31 Langley Marish: Robin he furnishes himself. Adam Brown, Dave Cappleman, Sam MONDAY 26 Eton, Eton Wick and Grayson, Shola Aoko, Susan Lepp, Bill Mortimer and Michael Summers. For us, Boveney and Dorney: La Stacey and Birmingham. For our Mission Action Further information and an in this new season, with a new vicar, to Alison Hassall. For our work with families, Planning process over the coming months, application form are obtainable from: Clerk to the Trustees slow down sufficiently to listen to God and that links may grow stronger. For our as we seek to flesh out what it means for us Hospital of St Cross to discern what new thing God is doing worship and study in our churches; that to be a contemplative, compassionate and Winchester, SO23 9SD amongst us. For the recruitment of other there may be a growing sense of God’s love courageous church. For a developing and Tel: 01962 878218 new staff members. Warfield Primary and presence with us. Eton Porny First fruitful connection with the schools in our E-mail: [email protected] School. School and Eton Wick First School. parish – eight primary and three secondary, www.hospitalofstcross.co.uk Registered Charity No.202751 but no Church of England schools.

Our Bishops on Sundays Links To advertise in SUNDAY 4 Lent 3 Bishop Alan confirming at Wycombe. Prayers from Christian Concern for One World: www.ccow.org.uk/weekly-prayer-email SUNDAY 11 Lent 4: Mothering Sunday Bishop James Johnson the Door please confirming at Radley College, Bishop Andrew confirming at Topical prayers from the Church of England: New Windsor. www.churchofengland.org/prayer-worship/topical- call Glenda on prayers.aspx SUNDAY 18 Lent 5 Bishop Alan confirming at Newport. 01752 225623 SUNDAY 25 Palm Sunday Bishop Alan confirming at Buckingham. Advertising

Dartmouth thedoorpost Devon Events in March Delighul ground floor flat with glorious views across river Dart. The Doorpost is a free service for churches to advertise their events and is designed to be hung on church Sleeps 4: double ensuite, twin with bathroom, noticeboards. Please send your events to [email protected] or by post to Church House. The all mod cons. deadline for the April issue is Monday 5 March. Tel: 020 7223 5473 FRIDAY 2 MARCH Casa Oleander Luxury 3 Bedroom Villa Medmenham: Footprints: A Service of Remembrance for anyone who has lost a child Sleeps 6/8, near Carvoeiro, Portugal. St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Own pool, all Mod Cons Golf, Tennis, Free Wifi. SL7 2HF, 7.30pm. For more Tel: 02380 265 683 information contact Revd Sue TravelArranged forInsurance The Door readers [email protected]@gmailcom Real and friendly people... not machines! www.casa-oleander.co.uk Morton, suemorton131@gmail. Our insurance has a customer 24-hour helpline, full medical com or 01491 639286. http:// cover with most pre-existing medical conditions accepted and, most importantly, an air ambulance get you home service. www.hambleden-valley-churches. SHERBORNE SUMMER SIZZLERS NOW AVAILABLE Short breaks in Dorset org.uk/footprints.htm Buy your insurance before 31st March 2018 and get Elegant, spacious, 2 bed, £20 OFF any Annual and £10 OFF any Single trip travel insurance apartment in listed building SATURDAY 3 MARCH LONG STAY SPECIALS - If you are travelling for close to Abbey Church. See Friday 2 March for Footprints: A service of remembrance for anyone who has 1, 2, 3, 4 months or more call for our best prices Open all year. Oxford: Women, War and lost a child. Photo: FAICAL Zaramod from Pexels Conditions apply Please ring for brochure: Please call for details ~ Suffrage. The Oxford Supporters UK 0116 272 0500 FT TRAVEL 01404 841367 Group of Freedom from Torture 1 Canterbury Road, 12.30–2pm. Reece. Bring a packed lunch. BASED Authorised & regulated by the FCA INSURANCE present women’s writing from Bring a packed lunch. No need Organised by the Third Order World War I and other conflicts. to book. For further information of the Society of St Francis. No Featuring Dr Vivien Newman, email unicornecumenicalgroup@ charge; donations welcome. author of We Also Served: Forgotten gmail.com. Donations to cover Women of the First World War; expenses welcome. MONDAY 19 MARCH Alice Musabende, Rwandan Gates Scholar, Cambridge SATURDAY 10 MARCH Harwell: Churches Together University; Caroline Sweetman, in Oxfordshire AGM, The Café, Editor of Oxfam’s journal Gender South Stoke: The Royal UTC Oxfordshire, Greenwood & Development. Followed by Harmonics male a cappella chorus, Way, Harwell, OX11 6BZ. discussion: ‘Can war sometimes St Andrew’s Church, 7.30pm. An 7.30pm. Ali Boulton on ‘New lead to greater rights for women?’ eclectic mix of songs from Andrew Housing, a Christian response’. 2–4pm, Friends Meeting House, St Lloyd Webber and Glenn Miller She is involved nationally with Giles, OX1 3LW. Free admission. to traditional English folk songs initiatives reaching into new and Negro spirituals. Tickets £12 housing developments. Contact: Milton Keynes: All People are (including a drink) from Julian David Hare, County Ecumenical Welcome. Becoming a multi-ethnic Charman at [email protected]. Development Officer: ctoshire@ ST. MARY’S CONVENT WANTAGE church is a gift from God; a blessing In aid of Children with Cancer. gmail.com or 07860 609425. and a challenge. Increase your St Mary’s Convent offers a variety of facilities and fl exible understanding of issues for multi- SUNDAY 11 MARCH SATURDAY 24 MARCH accommodation for Group Quiet Days and Group Retreats. ethnic communities. 10am – 4pm, Also, Conference facilities and private stays. The Church of Christ the Cornerstone. Winslow: Evensong at St Laurence Oxford: Reflect on Stanley Everyone is welcome at the Eucharist and Daily offi ce in To book contact Dr Fidele Church with guest preacher Revd Spencer’s Christ in the Wilderness St Mary Magdalene’s Chapel. Mutwarasibo: [email protected]. Canon Rod Cosh, Area Dean of paintings with Bishop Stephen Slough. A warm, reflective service Cottrell. Corpus Christi College, For further details please contact: SUNDAY 4 MARCH with hymns, anthems and prayers. 10am – 4pm. £35 including refreshments (concessions St Mary’s Convent, Wantage, Oxfordshire, OX12 9AU West Wycombe Park: Snowdrop MONDAY 12 MARCH available). Contact Revd Georgie Tel: 01235 763141 Sunday. Adults £2.50, children Simpson at The Oxford Centre for Email: [email protected] over three £1.50. Teas served in Brightwell-cum-Sotwell: Quiz Spiritual Growth to book – 07803 www.csmv.co.uk the historic Church Room (High Night hosted by Nuffield church at 031977 or www.ocsg.uk.net. Street). Proceeds to church funds. the Red Lion, OX10 0RT. 7.30pm for 8pm start. Quiz £2, chilli WEDNESDAY 28 MARCH MONDAY 5 MARCH supper £5. (Vegetarian option available on request. Please advise Tilehurst: Reading Concert For the Lord your God is a Oxford: ‘Trident: Why NOT?’ at time of booking.) For further Singers and guests perform by Commander Rob Forsyth RN information and to book please Stainer’s Crucifixion. St Mary merciful God. He will not Rtd, former nuclear submarine call Sue on 07782 187866. Magdalen Church, 7.30pm. commander. Christ Church Priory leave you or destroy you Room, 1.30 for 2.00pm. Open Reading: Café Théologique. Theale: Spring Concert, St meeting hosted by Oxford Retired Prof Steve Mithen: Prehistory of Luke’s Church, RG7 5AS, or forget the covenant Clergy. RSVP to Canon David Religion: Neanderthals and Homo 2.30pm. Admission £3 including Knight, davidandelizabethknight@ Sapiens. Zero Degrees Bar, Bridge programme and afternoon with your fathers that he googlemail.com. St, 7.30pm. No charge, no booking. tea. Proceeds to ABC to Read (Assisting Berkshire Children to swore to them. WEDNESDAY 7 MARCH SATURDAY 17 MARCH read). www.vivacevoices.org.uk

Whitley: Faure’s Requiem with Benson: Free Craft Fair and FRIDAY 30 MARCH Deut 4:31 Reading Concert Singers. St Agnes Market at the Parish Hall, Church, 7.30pm. Programmes £8 Sunnyside, OX10 6LZ. 10am – Whitley: Reading Concert Singers (£4 under 16) at door or phone 2pm. For more information/to perform Stainer’s Crucifixion. St 01189 425290. In aid of Berkshire book a stall call Sue on 07782 Agnes Church, 7.30pm. Retiring MS Therapy Centre. 187866 or email susan.woodley@ Collection for Heartbeats. To advertise ntlworld.com. in this newspaper, FRIDAY 9 MARCH Eton: Bach St John Passion, BE contact Glenda or Michelle on Freeland: Drop-in Quiet Days at Chapel, 7.30pm. Oxford: Immigration Policy and the Old Parsonage, OX29 8AJ. Performed by Cantorum Choir 01752 225623 Policy Constructs: The Foreign 10am – 4pm. 12.30 Eucharist in and Baroque Orchestra. Tickets or email Criminal Case Study with Dr the convent chapel. No booking £20 (£15 students) from www. SEEN [email protected] Melanie Griffiths. The House of needed; drop in for all or part of cantorumchoir.org.uk or by calling Saint Gregory and Saint Macrina, the day. Leader: Revd Donald 01628 525371.