THE ORIGINAL CHURCH NEWSPAPER. ESTABLISHED IN 1828 The Gospel Shining a light according to THE on the ‘dark Joseph, net’, p10,11 CHU RCHOF p7 ENGLAND Newspaper

NOW AVAILABLE ON  NEWSSTAND FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19/26, 2014 No: 6259 A happy and holy Christmas to all our readers, contributors and advertisers

Our next edition will be published on 2 January, 2015 Libby Lane makes

A PARISH PRIEST from from the dioceses of the North Thomas said: “Members of the Cchester hDioceseu was nramed cWest.h hisRefotrm neotwork wilrl be pyraying this week as the new Bishop of The Catholic Group in Synod, for the Rev Libby Lane and for Stockport. The Rev Libby Lane and Forward in Faith, both said the Diocese of Chester in the made history as she is the first they would be praying for her, light of the announcement. woman to be appointed to the but were cautious, noting the Whilst not surprised by this episcopate in the Church of implications for ecumenical appointment we are very con - England. relations. cerned about the strain it will Her appointment was greeted Canon Simon Killwick, Chair - put on local diocesan relation - with enthusiasm across the man of the Catholic Group in ships.” Church, and in the political General Synod, said: “In the He called on the Bishop of world. The Archbishop of Can - spirit of mutual respect and Chester to uphold the promises terbury said he was “absolutely flourishing for all in the Church made in July and “enable the delighted”, while the Prime of England, we offer our prayers many thriving conservative Minister said it was an “impor - and good wishes to Libby on evangelical churches in his Dio - tant day for equality.” her appointment as Bishop of cese to continue to serve their Her appointment came just Stockport. communities with theological weeks after General Synod final - “Naturally, we regret the integrity under the oversight of ly passed into law the right for implications for the wider unity a male bishop.” women to be considered for the of the worldwide Church.” The Archbishop of York episcopate. Speculation had The chairman of Forward in praised the appointment and been high that the first such Faith said: “Today’s announce - said he was looking forward appointment would be a dioce - ment is an inevitable conse - “with great joy” to consecrating san post, but the Bishop of quence of the legislation that her at York Minster on 26 Janu - Chester, the Rt Rev Peter was passed by the General ary next year. Forster, moved quickly to fill Synod. We are conscious that The Bishop of Chester said: the suffragan post in his diocese there will be enormous pres - “As the first woman bishop in that had been vacant since May. sure on the Rev Libby Lane as the Church of England she will land has appointed its first cant gifts to the College of Bish - The Rev Libby Lane has spent the first female bishop in the face many challenges as well as female bishop so soon after ops, particularly from her 21 most of her ministry in the Church of England. enjoying many opportunities to approving the legislation to years in parish ministry and her northern Province and trained “We send her our good wish - be an ambassador for Jesus allow this to happen. expertise in families, education for the ministry at Cranmer es and assure her of our prayers Christ. I have no doubt that she “I’m particularly delighted and hospital chaplaincy. Hall, Durham. Her husband, as she embarks upon this new has the gifts and determination that it is Libby Lane who has “I look forward to the continu - George, is a Chaplain at Man - ministry, while offering contin - to be an outstanding bishop.” been appointed, whom I have ing growth in women’s ministry, chester Airport and she was one ued support to those parishes, The Bishop of Lincoln, the Rt got to know a little as she has and the enormous benefits that of the women elected as Partici - clergy and people that are Rev Christopher Lowson said: “I recently been a participant will bring to the Church of Eng - pant Observers in the House of unable to receive it.” was delighted to receive the observer of the House of Bish - land.” Bishops, as the representative For Reform, the Rev Rod news that the Church of Eng - ops, and who will bring signifi - More on page 2

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper 2 www.churchnewspaper.com Friday December 19/26, 2014 News THE Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham Chainsaw artist Peter Leadbeater was commissioned to create a THEDIARY tree sculpture at Holy Trinity St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Hucknall recently. Send your events to CHURCH A community member paid for the commission when 24 trees cen@churchnewspaper IN .com had to be cut down around the church due to safety concerns. or Tweet @churchnewspaper Leadbeater carried out a pre-planned design on an eight-foot section of tree that will see God represented by an orb, an abstract ENGLAND Jesus, and a flying dove to represent the Holy Spirit. 19 December 7.30pm Star-studded per- formance of Handel’s Messiah to mark the 20th anniversary of Diocese of Chichester the Minster Chorale, A special centenary event meant to Southwell Minster, commemorate the famous Christmas football tickets £12 (£10 con- truce was held in Pershore Leisure Centre cessions and £5 stu- last Saturday. dents) from the On that fateful day in 1914, British soldiers Cathedral Shop – emerged from their trenches when they 01636 812933. heard their German opponents singing Silent Night, and the enemies called for ceasefire to play a friendly Christmas football match. 20 December Churches Together in Pershore has organised a service of commemorative carol 7.30pm Abbey Singers at St singing set to start at 2:30pm, as a part of the James’ Church, Den- national series of “Silent Night Carols.” ton Holme, Carlisle. Prince William has celebrated the series, saying: “Even at the bleakest of times, Christmas offers peace and hope. Silent Night 21 December carol services are a powerful way to remember the sacrifice made by so many in 6.30pm The world premiere the Great War and to celebrate the peace we performance of a enjoy today.” brand new choral work – A Hymn for Diocese of Durham Christmas Day – The Bishop of Jarrow, the Rt Rev Mark Bryant, and Lord Lieutenant of which was the win- Durham, Sue Snowdon, have praised a Peterlee centre that serves the needs of Diocese of Portsmouth ning entry in a nation- recovering drug and alcohol addicts. A 75-year-old grandfather has been awarded a al music competition The Durham County Council Public Health Recovery Academy is funded by top honour from the Christian Youth Work will be the highlight the NHS and utilises their own adapted version of the 12-step recovery Awards for his generous sharing of his of the Festival of Nine programme that has brought about a remarkable success rate of 60 per cent. passion for chess with young people in Lessons and Carols Dot Turton, Area Manager NECA, said: “The visit means so much. To have Portsmouth. by Candelight in Bris- people show an interest in their lives boosts their self-esteem and their David Smith was named as a joint winner for tol’s 800-year-old St confidence which ultimately helps their recovery.” Volunteer of the Year award at the London Mary Redcliffe ceremony on 4 December. David has Church. volunteered at the Charter Academy Diocese of Gloucester Breakfast Club in Southsea and other youth The Bishop of organisations to teach and play chess with 23 December Tewkesbury, the Rt young people. Rev Martyn Snow, and Ben Mizen, the youth and children’s work 7.30pm Christmas Carol members of his staff adviser for Portsmouth Anglican Diocese Service, Canterbury are pictured signing up explained the value of his contribution, saying: Cathedral. to Gloucestershire “His youth work is beautiful - he teaches and Credit Union at a plays chess with young people over breakfast - Barclays office in it embodies participation, respect and fun. He 24 December Gloucester as a part of is a shining example of how good senior Christmas Starts with figures can be in a youth work setting.” 11am Crib Service, Canter- Christ campaign, in bury Cathedral, support of greater 3pm Christmas Carol financial responsibility. Service (tickets only), Canterbury Cathedral.

Diocese of West Yorkshire and the Dales Rt Revd Nick Baines, the Bishop of Leeds, visited an event in St Aidan’s Church in Harehills by the Positive Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (PAFRAS), which provides 25 December refugees and asylum seekers with much-needed support. The organization puts on events to give these individuals necessary clothing, food, 9am Christmas service hardship payments, and administrative support. Organizers emphasized their severe need from Portsmouth for volunteers for the cause. Cathedral broadcast Christine Majid said: “We used to have two drop-ins a week, but can only afford to run one on BBC Radio 4. now, and yet the need is huge – they’re really packed in to the church hall each week. So we 11am Main Christmas are in desperate need of donations, volunteers and interpreters (particularly Arabic Eucharist, Canter- speakers).” bury Cathedral. (Preacher: The Arch- bishop of Canter- bury). Diocese of West Yorkshire and the Dales Christ Church in Harrogate has officially raised enough money to provide 166 parish workers in the Diocese of Kagera, Tanzania with their own, personal bikes. The workers will use these Diocese of Southwark 26 December bikes to reach isolated and vulnerable people in their region. This minimal Nativity set is now Dr Susan Wilson of the Tunaimi fund was presented with the £11,620 cheque on 7 December. for sale at the Southwark 3.15pm Choral Evensong The fund cares for around 20,000 orphans in Tanzania that have largely been left on their own Cathedral Shop. The life-sized with Congregational due to the rampant rise in HIV/AIDS in Tanzania. Now parish workers will be able to check up version will be at the high altar Carols, Canterbury on children that are widely spread out around the area and ensure they are getting proper care. from 23 December - 2 February. Cathedral.

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‘TDHE aCHuURCnH tofe Edngla nad’s nfirsdt t uenitiexs, tco pirotcleaim dafre’sh ,b in tyhis getn h- Meos t cRevh Juastin lWlelbyn, sagid: e“I am TWEETS woman bishop said this week that she eration, the Good News of Jesus and to absolutely delighted that Libby has was ‘daunted and excited’ by the build his Kingdom. The Church of Eng - been appointed to succeed Bishop appointment, and added that she hoped land is called to serve all the people of Robert Atwell as Bishop of Stockport. Lambeth Palace @lambethpalace she would be joined by other women this country, and being present in every Her Christ-centred life, calmness and Archbishop of Canterbury welcomes bishops soon. community, we communicate our faith clear determination to serve the church appointment of the Revd Libby Lane as After training for the ministry at Cran - best when our lives build up the lives of and the community make her a wonder - the new Bishop of Stockport mer Hall, Durham, she was ordained as others, especially the most vulnerable. I ful choice. a priest in 1994 and has served a num - am excited by the possibilities and chal - “She will be bishop in a diocese that David Cameron @David_Cameron ber of parish and chaplaincy roles in the lenges ahead.” has been outstanding in its develop - Congratulations to Revd Libby Lane on North of England in the Dioceses of However, as a suffragan, she will not ment of people, and she will make a becoming the first woman bishop in Blackburn, York and Chester. For the be eligible to take up a seat in the major contribution. She and her family the Church. An historic appointment past eight years she has served as Vicar House of Lords. There are currently will be in my prayers during the initial and important day for equality. of St Peter’s Hale and St Elizabeth’s four diocesan bishoprics selecting can - excitement, and the pressures of mov - Ashley. didates, and if they chose a woman ing”. Yvette Cooper @YvetteCooperMP Speaking at Stockport town hall David Cameron said this week that The Bishop of Chester, the Rt Rev Dr Congratulations to Revd Libby Lane on where she was announced as the new plans are in hand to fast-track her to the Peter Forster, said: “Libby has had a her appointment as CofE’s first female Bishop of Stockport Libby Lane said: “I Upper Chamber. varied and distinguished ministry, and Bishop. Great news! am grateful for, though somewhat Responding to news of the announce - is currently a first-rate parish priest. daunted by, the confidence placed in ment the Archbishop of York, the Most She has already demonstrated her abili - George Osborne me by the Diocese of Chester. This is Rev Dr John Sentamu, said: “It is with ty to contribute nationally through her @George_Osborne unexpected and very exciting. On this great joy that on 26 January, 2015 - the representative role in the House of Absolutely delighted that Rev Libby historic day as the Church of England feast of Timothy and Titus, companions Bishops, on behalf of the north-west Lane from Ashley is to become first announces the first woman nominated of Paul - I will be in York Minster, pre - England dioceses. female bishop. She will be fantastic to be Bishop, I am very conscious of all siding over the consecration of the Rev “As the first woman bishop in the Bishop of Stockport those who have gone before me, Libby Lane as Bishop Suffragan of Church of England she will face many women and men, who for decades have Stockport. challenges as well as enjoying many Chelmsford Cathedral looked forward to this moment. But “Libby brings a wealth of experience opportunities to be an ambassador for @CCathedral most of all I am thankful to God. in parish ministry, in hospital and FE Jesus Christ. I have no doubt that she Congratulations from @CCathedral to “I’ve no doubt that many will follow chaplaincy, in vocations work and the has the gifts and determination to be an the Revd Libby Lane on her on from me and I look forward to the nurture of ordinands. I am delighted outstanding bishop. appointment as Bishop of Stockport! time when I’m still the first, but not the that she will exercise her episcopal min - “I am delighted at her designation as only, woman to be nominated as a bish - istry with joy, prayerfulness, and trust Bishop of Stockport after a lengthy Loose Women @loosewomen op in the Church of England.” in God.” process of discernment across the Congratulations to #LibbyLane, the “The church faces wonderful oppor - The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Church of England and beyond.” UK’s first female Bishop. Another step forward in equality for all.

Simon Parke @simonparke A great day for the church as a @ManUtd supporter is declared the Libby Lane: A new role new Bishop of Stockport. Libby Lane is TPHE RREV OLibbyF LaIneL hasE been also a woman. named as the new Bishop of Stock - port in a historic appointment that Diocese of Truro @DioTruro stands as the Church of England’s model for the Church Bishop of Truro welcomes Libby Lane first female bishop appointment. as Bishop of Stockport This decision comes just a month after the general synod of the Paul Bayes @paulbayes Church voted to accept female bish - Great choice. Calm, wise, prayerful, ops in July and adopted formal legis - Godly. lation in November. Mrs Lane said: “I’m honoured and Chichester Diocese thankful to be called to serve as the @ChichesterDio next Bishop of Stockport and not a Congratulations to Revd Libby Lane on little daunted to be entrusted with her historic moment. such a ministry.” Ms Lane has a long history of Ruth Gledhill @RuthieGledhill paving the way for strong female Congratulations Rev Libby Lane! leadership within the Church. She has been the vicar of St Peter’s Erin Mobley @ErinTMobley Hale and St Elizabeth’s Ashley, in the A big step forward. Congrats Rev. diocese of Chester, since 2007. In Libby Lane. January 2010 she also became Dean of Women. Her education started in Children’s Society both Manchester and at the Universi - @childrensociety ty of Oxford before she pursued Every blessing to Rev Libby Lane the training for ministry at Cranmer Hall new Bishop of Stockport. in Durham. Ms Lane has been ordained as a Gyles Brandreth @GylesB1 deacon since 1993 and a priest since Well done Libby Lane, our first female 1994, serving her curacy in Black - Bishop: well done Stockport! It seems burn, Lancashire. so extraordinary now that that it’s The newly named bishop has broken a glass ceiling for the Church and personal charity work. She has served in the taken quite so long. female leaders in the Church that has persisted since women diocese of York as a chaplain in a hospital and further educa - were allowed to become priests in 1994. Though they tion, and as the family life officer for the committee for social Nicola Sullivan @nicola_sullivan achieved some progress, women were still kept from the responsibility in the diocese of Chester. Rejoicing at news of Libby Lane’s most senior roles like bishop positions. She has rejected this idea that her appointment is a “ges - appointment as first woman bishop. A Mrs Lane has said she is “conscious that other women will ture,” saying that “it feels like God’s time in God’s plan. But I godly, gifted and able person - and best be looking to me.” am very conscious of all those who fought and prayed and of all, a parish priest. Speaking at a Stockport town hall about her new appoint - worked, and I hope my continuing ministry will enable others ment, Lane called this a “remarkable day for me and a his - to flourish.” Chris Ilott @ChrisJIlott toric day for the church. Excited and a little daunted to be This position of ministry will be another addition in the Congrats to Reverend Libby Lane for entrusted with such a ministry. Conscious of those recog - many hats Lane wears, also including school governor, a sup - becoming the first female bishop in the nised and unrecognised who have prayed and worked and porter of social action, mother to two children, wife to anoth - Church of England. An appropriate suffered for this moment.” er Church of England priest, saxophone player, Manchester time and promising example. She has had wide and varied involvement with all aspects of United fan, and crossword enthusiast.

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First woman Commissioners bishop to be ‘largest forestry fast-tracked to investor in UK’ The Lumo Project House of Lords WOMEN BISHOPS will not have to wait their turn to enter the breathes new life House of Lords. At present only the two Archbishops, and the Bishops of London, Winchester and Durham enter the intBy Kelsey Maongan the Gospels second chamber on UNDER PRESSURE because of appointment. Other their £150 million investment in THE LUMO PROJECT – the lat- bishops have to wait Shell and BP the Church Commis- est attempt to take on the their turn but special sioners have announced that the unthinkable task of filming all legislation will make purchase of a forestry portfolio four gospels – launched in Lon- it possible for women from UPM Tilhill for £49m makes don on 11 December. bishops to go imme- them the largest private forestry Accomplished producer Han- diately into the investor in the UK. nah Leader wished to marry her Lords. The new purchase is made up of dual passions for film and Chris- Without the new 15 separate forests, 13 in Scotland tianity, and did so in creating a legislation there were and two in Wales and means that professional-quality depiction of fears that a women the Commissioners now have an the Gospels, depicted word-for- bishop could wait up overall UK forestry holding of word, unabridged. to 10 years to enter around £100m. Upon personal research, the House of Lords. Edward Mason, pictured, Head Leader was dismayed to find that According to the of Responsible Investment at the the professional standard of old Sunday Times both Commissioners, said that ‘the religious films were either of Nick Clegg and Ed Commissioners are delighted to very poor quality or not compre- Miliband supported be adding to their low carbon hensive enough in their range of the change in the law investments with this further sig- stories. In response, she took on being pressed by nificant investment in sustainable this massive project over the Archbishop Justin forestry’. course of 99 days in Morocco Welby but No 10 Mr Mason answered questions alongside director David Batty. Downing Street did on the BBC ‘Sunday’ programme Together, they pursued the high- not see the need for about the Commissioners’ invest- est quality filming equipment action. The newspa- ments in the oil industry following possible, accompanied by a soar- per reports that the call by Archbishop Desmond ing soundtrack and strong, clear David Cameron did Tutu for churches and universities narration of the texts to the tune the most faithful representation ancient Palestine. not see the issue as a to get rid of their investments in oil of $7 million. possible. One of the most stirring priority. giants. He argued that disinvest- The films were launched in The films star British actor scenes was of course the most “Everyone was a ment would be ‘counter produc- Southwark Cathedral and their Selva Rasalingam – of Tamil iconic of John’s Gospel: the cru- bit mystified as to tive’ and that it was better to Canon Missioner, Stephen descent – in the role of Jesus, the cifixion of Jesus. Sickening why No 10 dragged engage with oil companies who Hance, praised the visual project only European actor in a cast image of hands and cross silhou- its feet for so long on play a major role in the world econ- as a way to “communicate the exclusively chosen from Moroc- etted against the sky, blood spat- such a positive meas- omy. message afresh to a new genera- co. The choice to avoid the typi- tering as the nails are pounded ure that had cross- He argued that the transition to tion.” cal temptation to cast a into Jesus’ hands. Jesus is raised party support,” a a low-carbon economy needs to Such an ambitious project blue-eyed, light-skinned Euro- up on the cross, in striking con- source was reported follow a longer time scale than is requires a wealth of creative pean in the role of Jesus is a cre- trast against the setting sun. as saying. envisaged by Archbishop Tutu. choices, exactly what Batty and ative choice fairly unique to this The director insists that this “It’s good that the The Church of England has Ledger took on. series. It was a part of Batty’s film is not simply for Christians. Prime Minister has tabled resolutions for shareholder One such important choice ultimate aim of the films: “to It leads audiences into the now opened his eyes meetings at BP and Shell next year was to use narration of the keep it real.” scenes. It never preaches or tells to its benefits too.” asking the companies to reduce unabridged text of the Gospel He said: “I want people to expe- the audience how to feel; you Women will now go their own carbon emissions and to rather than dialogue. This pre- rience the gospels first hand.” “get to know characters with straight to the front do more to invest in renewables. vents the film from being exclu- Batty discussed his various your own unique perspective.” of the queue to Resolutions also ask the compa- sive to a single language. The artistic choices in bringing first Taken as a whole, the Lumo replace bishops retir- nies to be open about their negoti- film has already been repro- century Palestine to life. He Project is certainly luminous. It ing from the Lords. ations with governments about duced in seven different narra- mentioned that most efforts to is best encapsulated in its depic- The new arrange- carbon pricing. tions, including the New film the Bible have gone straight tion of the very beginning of the ments will remain in The Church of England has a International Version, the King to Israel to film. However, the Gospel of John. The narrator place for 10 years. target to reduce its own carbon James Version, and the Spanish Project believed that Israel was speaks: “In him was life, and that They probably mean footprint by 80 per cent by 2015 Reina-Valera of 1960. complicated for both its political life was the light of all mankind” that a woman bishop but there is likely to be a debate The director brought the mes- strife and the excessive modern (John 1:4). A single match is will enter the second about investment in oil companies sage to life through a dedication influences on the land. They struck and illuminates the dark- chamber next year. at General Synod next year. The to accuracy. He worked with went instead to Morocco, and ness, introducing the viewer to Male bishops will Diocese of Oxford has already ancient historians and expert both set design teams and digital the Jesus that will lead them now have to wait for a voted to sell its investments. theologians in order to create artists rendered this land into through the four-part epic. longer period. Premier Radio battles to retain digital service PREMIER RADIO, Britain’s largest Christian Premier says this is because Arqiva wants Arqiva is now expected to submit a formal radio station, is battling to retain its place on a to replace them with a new pop music station. request to Ofcom to either change the con- national DAB network. Peter Kerridge, CEO of Premier Christian tent of the Digital One network or find anoth- The London-based station broadcasts on Radio, said: “We have spent many years er full service Christian radio station. AM in the capital, but has a national profile attracting a large and loyal national audience Lawyers for Premier will now review the thanks to the digital platform. However, the and want to continue broadcasting nationally. draft contract and will study any conclusions transmission company, Arqiva, has only It would seem, at best, illogical to replace Pre- from Ofcom on One Digital over the next few offered Premier an extension until March. mier with yet another pop music station.” days.

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Church proposes a new MBA qualification for its

THE CHURCH is planning a completely appointment all bishops and deans will period if it seems no longer npew apporoach tto treaining nnew tatlent, iaattend a lgu idedl speiritual raetreat. derighrt for tshem. according to a new report published The report was drawn up by a review Members of the talent online. group chaired by the Bishops of Ely, pool will be identified at a The so-called Green Report, chaired Rochester and Truro and the Bishop at review held each year by by the former head of HSBC and coali - Lambeth, the Rt Rev Nigel Stock, also the Diocesan bishop who tion government minister, Lord Green, served on the group together with will discuss nominations who is an ordained Anglican priest, has Andrew Brown, Secretary to the Church with the senior staff and sparked widespread debate. Commissioners, David Jennings, senior ‘there will be targeted So far the Church of England has strategy officer, Caroline Boddington, development for individuals made no official comment but the leaks Appointments Secretary, John Spence, from groups which are currently under- for recruiting members of Development are embarrassing for the Church. Archbishops’ Council, Brad Cook, represented in senior leadership posi - Programme have been attacked as too A new leadership development pro - Appointments and Development Officer, tions within the Church’. conventional. Very little is said about the gramme is proposed for bishops and Christopher McLaverty, Consultant The Development and Appointments role of bishops as teachers. deans. The provider should be a ‘major Design Manager, and Karen West, Arch - Group (DAG) will ensure nominations Major questions need to be asked by university or business school’. The bishops’ Adviser on Bishops’ Ministry. are of consistent calibre across the dioce - the Church of England about the way the group found that internal providers or The group recommends replacing the ses. Assessors at the discernment panel report has entered the public domain by theological colleges ‘failed to provide suf - preferment list with a new approach for will be the Archbishops and include lay means of a leak. No official announce - ficient challenge for a senior Church identifying and developing leadership in and ordained individuals. Over time bish - ment has been made about the report, cohort’. the church. A Talent Development Pro - ops will be appointed from the alumni list no press conference has been called to A Mini MBA programme is to be tar - gramme will be aimed at a ‘small number of people completing the development explain its aims and content, and no indi - geted primarily at deans (although it of outstanding individuals, who demon - programme. An alumni network will be cation has been given about when Gener - could be extended to archdeacons and strate exceptional performance and developed with and overseen by the al Synod will be asked to discuss and will be open to bishops). The archbish - potential over a sustained period of time DAG. approve the report. ops will need to set a lead and participate to undertake key strategic leadership An additional budget of £2m has been Almost all comment in the blogos - as well as explain the programme to the roles in the future’. This will involve no approved to fund the new programmes phere has been critical. There are con - wider church. more than 150 people. between 2014 and 2016. cerns that Archbishop Welby is pushing Residential modules in the programme There will be continual rotation of Although the Report of the Review the kind of management culture on the for diocesan bishops will look at building those on the list and it is expected that Group quotes both Pope Francis and church that he experienced in secular healthy organisations, leading growth, the average duration of membership will Pope Benedict XVI, observers are seeing employment and that the new scheme and re-inventing ministry. Action learn - be five years. The programme will look the report as reflecting the priorities of will give too much power to church ing will take place between the modules. at how the talent of participants can be Archbishop Justin Welby. It is heavy on bureaucrats. A mandatory induction process for used in senior leadership roles. management and spirituality but light on The way the Church of England Diocesan and Suffragan bishops will be There will be an annual review and par - theology. Critics have pointed to the responds to this report is likely to be an introduced and there will be a new induc - ticipants could be asked to leave the pro - absence of a theologian or an ordained indication of whether it is prepared to fol - tion process for deans. Within a year of gramme before the end of the five-year woman on the review group. The criteria low the agenda of Archbishop Welby.

Ed Miliband calls on Christians to join movement for social justice CCJ unveils new strategy and new chairman THE LABOUR leader Ed people working for change ised by churches and there BISHOP MICHAEL IPGRAVE was human trafficking and food banks Miliband called on churches in society. The Labour Party, are countless other exam - welcomed as the new chairman of the will also be monitored. A “buddy pro - to continue their work to which was itself formed ples. Council of Christians and Jews this gramme” has also recently been support social justice, just from different groups com - “Our Christmas reception week as the organization unveiled a introduced, pairing Christian and months before the General ing together to work for was a great opportunity for raft of new initiatives. Jewish ministers and was officially Election. social justice, aims to lead a church leaders, with differ - The Bishop has previously been an launched in Lambeth Palace in Octo - He was addressing a similar coalition today. ent political perspectives, to inter-faith officer and adviser to the ber this year. reception hosted by Chris - He contrasted Labour’s hear how the Labour Party former Archbishop of Canterbury For the 50th anniversary of the Vat - tians on the Left (formerly policies to help people on values their work. Ed and said he is very familiar with the ican’s Nostra Aetate declaration, the Christian Socialist low pay with the approach of Miliband showed that he issues that face the CCJ who are “ide - events will be help between leading Movement) at Labour Party the current Conservative- gets it.” ally poised to give a lead” in the area Rabbis and Clergy at Jewish and headquarters in Westmin - LibDem government. Shortly after the reception of the Middle East. Christian locations, alongside dia - ster. The reception focused on the Labour leader issued his The CCJ says it wants to ensure logue events with current and new Over 200 church leaders the work of volunteers support for the bid by Lon - “prejudice is challenged and we can partners, including at CCJ. joined MPs including organising food banks, men - don’s Premier Radio to celebrate biblical values”. There are Over 50 CCJ stakeholders gathered Stephen Timms, Keith Vaz toring young people, and retain its digital licence. three key groups – Branch members, at a reception on Monday launching and Siddiq Khan to hear supporting minorities in He said: “I know the Students and young adults and Chris - the CCJ’s new strategy, which was about the party’s agenda, Iraq and Syria. importance of Premier tian and Jewish communities work - presented by their new director Dr particularly its work sup - Andy Flannagan, political Radio. I know it from having ing together. Jane Clements and Deputy Director porting food banks. communications officer at been on Premier Radio. One of the important events com - Elizabeth Harris-Sawczenko. Ed Miliband said: “Politics Christians on the Left said: “There’s got to be regula - ing up is a service in Chichester Both Bishop Nigel McCulloch, the still needs ideas because it is “As we approach the Gener - tory processes that take Cathedral to mark 70 years since the current Chair of the CCJ and Rt Rev ideas that start movements. al Election it is vital that place. end of World War 2. Michael Ipgrave, the incoming Chair, Food banks would not have political parties recognise “I really hope that there’s Christian and Jewish young people were present at the reception, as well been organised by a political the work being done by the a way in which Premier will be welcomed in Israel when they as Lord Howard of Lympne, a CCJ party. It required a move - churches throughout the Radio can continue to broad - travel there, encouraging them to be Trustee. ment.” country. Most of the food cast because I think it’s a part of a plan working towards the Dr Jane Clements said: “We are He said that Labour wants banks, which are a real life - really important outlet for “kingdom of heaven on earth”. really delighted to be launching the to lead a coalition of such line for so many, are organ - lots of listeners.” Work will also continue against new CCJ strategy.”

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New approach to hate crimes in London By Kelsey Mangan 86.2 per cent rise in transgender hate crime, and a 26.8 offences to national and international faith controver- per cent rise in homophobic crime. There has been a sies of the past year. A record number was recorded in A NEW SET of measures aimed at tackling hate crime small decrease in disability hate crime at 12.5 per cent. July alone due to the anti-Semitic incidents that of all kinds in the capital has been presented by the In his speech, the Mayor addressed the rise and said occurred as a response to Israel’s summer invasion of Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Stephen Green- that there was a general consensus that it was not a gen- Gaza. halgh. uine increase in the amount of recent hate crimes, but Online hate crime was of particular concern to affect- Greenhalgh revealed the new Mayor’s Hate Crime instead due to people becoming more comfortable with ed faith groups. According to Tell MAMA, a support Reduction Strategy on 3 December as a part of London coming forward. service for Muslim victims of hate crime, 80 per cent of mayor Boris Johnson’s vision for London to be the Over a dozen focus groups conducted consultations the cases they handle deal with online hate crimes. “safest global city on earth.” The Strategy was devel- on the plan spanning 12 weeks and encouraged com- Because of this rise, MOPAC and MPS have worked oped by the Mayor’s Office for Police and Crime munity members to come forward with accounts of together to ensure victims of online hate crimes will be (MOPAC) with the support of organisations such as the their views towards hate crime supported by research given equal concern as victims of other online crimes in Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) and Ministry of Jus- and studies. The consultation revealed a need for online the hope that it will encourage victims to come forward. tice. reporting tools in order to establish confidence of indi- In addition, the Strategy calls for better, more victim- A hate crime is defined as any crime directed towards viduals in the adequate treatment of their cases. There- centred training for the Crown Prosecution Service, an individual that is motivated by intolerance for per- fore, the strategy outlined the Mayor’s plans for the police and court members due to a wide dissatisfaction sonal characteristics, including race, faith, disability or creation of a new online hate crime reporting app, with the handling of hate crimes in the justice system. sexual orientation. The ultimate aim of this strategy is scheduled to be released in 2015. Greenhalgh has high hopes for this new vision and to encourage London communities to report hate The Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, Stephen how it will be executed. crimes, work on how to prevent offences in the future, Greenhalgh, said: “London is one of the most diverse He said: “The Mayor and I are committed to tackling and to develop a way for victims to receive justice for cities in the world and one of the safest with crime hate crime in all its forms, online and in person. This victims of the crimes. falling across the capital. However far too often people strategy, supported by the Met, the criminal justice sys- The overall rate of hate crime-related offences rose 20 become targets of hate simply because of who they are tem and partners across the board sets out how we plan per cent since last October. Faith-related offences alone or what they look like.” to do just that and ensures that everyone in London is have increased by 23.4 per cent this year, along with an The report also attributed the total 1,048 faith-related free to live without fear.”

Primary schools celebrate results Archbishop of Canterbury CHURCH OF ENGLAND primary nificant number of disadvantaged schools have secured some of the pupils in Year 6 – demonstrating once best results in the country, according again that a child’s success should not to league tables released by the be limited by their background’. ‘inACCORDINGvitTOedthe web-tosage visitof good wishesChina’to Council, which was found- Department of Education. Congratulating ‘pupils, teachers, site of the Chinese China as he flew over the ed as an umbrella organisa- Six of the top 10 schools, and over support staff, parents and communi- Embassy the Archbishop of country on his way to South tion for the Protestant half of the top 100 schools, were ties’ on working together to achieve Canterbury has been invit- Korea but relations Churches in China. He died Church of England primary schools. successful results, Mr Genders said: ed to visit China. between Beijing and the in 2012. Critics greeted the news by com- “We are working hard to ensure that The website praises the Vatican remain cool and In 1988 he attended the plaining that the C of E selects the the excellent practice in these high good relations between two Cardinal Joseph Zen, the Lambeth Conference. ablest and most motivated children performing schools is shared across official state-registered 82-year-old emeritus bishop The CCC participates in for its schools but this was denied by our network and beyond so that all Protestant organisations, of Hong Kong, has said he the World Council of the Rev Nigel Genders, Chief Educa- schools can achieve the best for their the China Christian Council is ready to go to prison for Churches and it is tion Officer. pupils.” and the National Commit- the sake of democracy in undoubtedly Chinese gov- Commenting on the results, he said Roman Catholic and other faith tee of the Three Self Patriot- the former British colony. ernment policy to secure he was delighted that the highest per- schools also performed well in the ic Movement, and the An Anglican, Bishop KH recognition from other forming C of E school, Hampden Gur- league tables and figures reveal that Archbishop of Canterbury. Ting, was the first president Churches of the official ney C of E Primary School, ‘has 62 per cent of the top 693 primary It states that the Arch- of the China Christian church in China. secured fantastic outcomes with a sig- schools have a religious affiliation. bishop of Canterbury has been invited to ‘witness the harmonious coexistence of different religious and eth- nic groups’ in China. NOT QUITE TWIDDLING OUR THUMBS……. Lambeth Palace declined a request to comment but This time of the year is very busy for most of us, but not everyone has a said there had not yet been full diary.The runup to thefestive period is always a little quieter for an official invitation. peopleinthe motor vehicle industry.So if you thought that youdidn’t It is likely that China is have the time to change your car this winter, think again. Here is the putting out feelers to see if easiest and quickest way imaginable to get a great used car. Lambeth Palace would respond positively to an Priory Automotive can help you in just three simple steps: official invitation but Dr 1) Give them a quick call about the car that you are looking for. Welby will be cautious 2) Let Priory use their skills and locate the very best car foryour about entering what could needs and budget. be a diplomatic minefield. 3) Wait for them to deliver your fully prepared motor car to your Christianity has expand- front door. ed rapidly in China but much of the growth has This is what Mrs Richardson said about Priory after receiving her Skoda occurred in churches that only last month, “Weare very pleased with the professional service are not officially approved we received, the car is just what we wanted. We have already by the government. recommended you to a friend and she has purchased a car from The Archbishop will not you and is delighted with it. Many thanks for a top class service”. want to be represented as giving approval to govern- The Priory team has over 35 years’ experience in supplying quality cars ment policy that has recent- and minibuses to Clergy and Church members, so you can be guaran- ly seen the demolition of teed of receiving friendly,honest and impartial advice. Partexchangeof your current car is welcome and Priory will deliver your new car directly large church buildings on to your door at no extra charge. the pretext that they were not given planning Please call 0114 2559696 approval. or visit www.prioryautomotive.com Pope Francis sent a mes-

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Australian Archbishop urges Scottish bishops clarify THEGoARCHBISHOPd tofoSydneyphasunish terrorDaviesissaid.ts called for God to punish terrorists “I was heartened by the swift position on and protect his people from terror- response of our police and security ism. officials. We are well served by Archbishop Glenn Davies’s state- Commissioner Scipione and his ment came amidst a hostage inci- team” he said, adding New South same-sex dent in Sydney’s Central Business Wales’ “Premier Mike Baird is right District. On 15 December a man when he describes this as a test for believed to be an Islamist terrorist this city and for our peaceful, demo- marriage took five people hostage at a café. cratic way of life.” THE COLLEGE of Bishops of the Scottish Episcopal Armed police surrounded the The archbishop asked all people Church has issued a statement clarifying the building, which was festooned with to “pray urgently for the outcome of church’s position on same-sex marriage in light of the flag of ISIS, the Islamic State in the siege. I ask Sydney Anglicans, the decision by the Scottish government to permit Syria. and all Christians, to pray for the same-sex marriage from the end of the year. Steve Loane, the CEO of Lindt local time, with reports that one safety of those still held hostage, for The 9 December “Guidance for Clergy and Lay Australia – owner of the chocolate hostage and the captor were killed. the police and security forces work- Readers in light of the Marriage and Civil Partner- shop – told News.com.au that he “It is alarming when terrorism ing so hard to protect lives, and for ship Scotland (Act) 2014” follows the course taken believed 40 to 50 customers and reaches our shores but that alarm the speedy delivery of justice for by the Church of England and forbids clergy to staff were in the shop. reaches a new height when it occurs those who would seek to invade our solemnise gay marriages or for clergy and ordinands The siege came to an end in the in the centre of the city in which so world with such a doctrine of hate to contract same-sex marriages. early hours of Tuesday morning many people live and work,” Dr and violence.” Until such time as the SEC “opts in” to the laws governing same-sex marriages, its clergy are not permitted to solemnise such unions. “If [clergy] conduct a ceremony in such a manner as to lead the parties concerned to believe that they are solemnising a valid marriage they would be com- mitting a criminal offence,” the statement said. Indian law Melbourne unveils The statement further noted that whilst some cler- gy may wish to bless civil gay partnerships or mar- riages such blessings would be “informal” and plans plan to compensate should be “kept separate from the civil ceremony.” As the SEC has no liturgical rites for the blessing abuse victims of same-sex partnerships, it would “not be appropri- denounced by ate to use SEC marriage liturgies for this purpose.” THE DIOCESE of Melbourne has put forward a plan to com- The statement noted: “The Church cannot give pensate victims of clergy sexual abuse, without requiring the official sanction to informal blessings but, without victims to give up their rights to sue for damages. intending to pre-empt the outcome of ongoing dis- Church leader The Melbourne plan would offer victims pastoral support, cussions within the Church about same-sex mar- THE DEPUTY Moderator of the Church of medical and psychological support, financial assistance and riage, each Bishop would nevertheless expect to be South India has denounced bills put forward by would engage the victim in determining the right punish- consulted by clergy prior to the carrying out of any allies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ment to deal with offenders. informal blessing of a same-sex marriage or civil strengthen anti-conversion laws and to make Michael Shand QC, chancellor of Melbourne and author of partnership in his diocese.” the Bhagavad Ghita the national book of India. the proposal, told Fairfax media “the guiding principle must On 13 December Bishop Thomas K Oommen be fairness to the individual,” adding the “key thing about said laws forbidding the conversion of Hindus this is that the interests of survivors and children are para- to Christianity and other religions violated nat- mount.” ural human rights as well as India’s constitu- Under the Melbourne plan, complaints would be evaluated tion. by a state committee and, if considered to have merit, an Privileging the Bhagavad Ghita, a primary investigator would undertake an in-depth review. Interim text of Hinduism, over other religious books care would be offered to victims while the complaints were also violated the secular nature of the Indian investigated and if found to be true, compensation and sup- state, he said. port would be offered. The bishop’s comments come amidst sharp The scheme would be overseen by a separate board of debate in the lower house of the Indian parlia- directors made up of abuse survivors and institution and ment, the Lok Sabha last week. Opposition government representatives. MPs attacked the government over its alleged Mr Shand said a community-based state scheme would be support for a “reconversion” ceremony staged better able to support abuse survivors, deal with perpetra- in Agra on 8 December 2014 where 57 Muslim tors and lead to an institution taking responsibility. “I’m inter- families underwent purification rituals to ested in changing the culture in institutions,” he said. become Hindus. The ruling BJP party has denied any role in the con- versions, but some of its MPs have defended what they describe as “ghar wapsi” (homecoming). Money, food, and ration cards to obtain state subsi- dies were allegedly prom- ised by a militant Hindu group in order to convert Muslims. Last week’s “ghar wapsi” ceremony was one of a number of recent events staged by Hindu militants in Uttar Pradesh to publicise the conversion of Muslims and Christians to Hinduism.

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The same Church? cernment concerning their parents Sir, In the coming year we will be Concerns over the Coronation spinning them yarns for so long, it reminded that Magna Carta guaran- Sir, I share Jonathan Longstaff’s concern (12 December) about suggestions could cause a scenario where a child teed our Church should be free. But is that in the next coronation we also acknowledge the gods of non-Christian could also regard the account of the it still the same Church? At the Refor- faiths. I was surprised to read that Lord Harries, the previous bishop of Baby Jesus born in a manger with mation we claimed to be part of the Oxford, suggested that a portion of the Qur’an should be read. But what pas- angels and shepherds also as just a Catholic Church in continuity with the sage? The passage about the need to stone adulterers might cause embar- fanciful ‘fairy story.’ early Church. Our Prayer Book was rassment. If an individual decides that the holi- the Rites of this Church according to It is true that the Old Testament tells the Jews to stone adulterers. But the day is no longer for them, some people the usage of the Church of England. New Testament shows that that was a temporary local measure for a partic- can be quite indignant about it, when We claimed a continuity of faith and ular group of people. The focus is now on God’s concern for our repentance, they are in fact breaking no Biblical practice with the early Church otherwise in the light of Jesus’ comment on the sins of the mind as well as command. Christmas is just Church or reformed from the medieval errors physical ones (Matthew 5) we all deserve punishment. ecclesiastical tradition and not ever a and abuses. We eschewed doctrinal Muslims do not have anything quite like our New Testament. There are practice of either the first New Testa- and liturgical innovations, today wild the Hadiths and Sharia, which aim to offer some clarification of the Qur’an, ment Church or of the early Celtic variations in both are tolerated if not but since there are seven versions of the Qur’an, and the Hadiths vary Church in Britain and Ireland who encouraged. according to whether you are Shia or Sunni it is not clear what to suggest. If kept Passover instead of ‘Easter’ Generations of Anglicans pointed to we are going to have a portion of the Qur’an, can it be the part that tells Mus- (which is named after the pagan deity the Vincentian Canon to exclude novel lims that they can learn about Jesus in the Bible? Eastre and cited invariably in differing views that required a radical re-read- Dr J Matthews, cultures as Astarte, Ishtar and the ing of core texts of Scripture in a way (LLM Reader) abominable Ashtoreth of the Bible unknown to the early Church. Today it Wareham which God detested) and they also seems that anything goes. A bishop kept the seventh day Sabbath (Satur- may say God is dead, that the idea is a day) as opposed to the later Roman construct of man’s intellect. Nothing is paper)is not an aberration of the pres- research has not found out why. How- ‘Sun’-day named for the veneration of done when inspired Scripture, once ent Pope or the Second Vatican Coun- ever, such small numbers of all people the sun, before the Synod of Whitby in our supreme authority, is treated as a cil. It forms part of the constant cannot distort the fact that almost all 663 when the Roman practice won human composition to be judged by teaching of the Catholic Church that a people are male or female. Indeed, if over the former Apostolic format. man’s intellect. The miracles it person, through no fault of their own we define people as having entities The celebration of Christmas is not records as proof of the supernatural who has never known the truth of the with, for example, two arms and two found before the fourth century so it is origin of religion are treated as imposi- Catholic Faith (and here comes in the legs, ears, eyes, brain and a digestive not a Biblical practice, but a Church tions of a previous age. This includes balance of culpable ignorance), and system then they are as other people invention. the Virgin birth that pointed to the has died in a state of perfect contrition and I do not question that God made Christmas is a mixture of ecclesiasti- uniqueness of Christ and his place as a may possibly be saved. them. cal and pagan traditions and the usage second Adam and the Resurrection Such souls are deemed to have been How to know everything is a big of evergreen foliage hearkens back to which guarantees our redemption. united to the Church in invincible question: terminology and definitions those pre-Christian druidic practices, Sexual morality can be turned on its ignorance and are covered by the bap- are all-important. We are always learn- with the veneration and decorating of head. Christians “live in sin” rather tism of desire. Obviously God is the ing and discovering more, and individ- trees, hanging of holly, ivy, mistletoe than covenanted in marriage while only fair Judge of a person’s culpabili- uals struggle to understand complex for good luck and other superstitious homosexual practices are harmonised ty. ideas. So probably most people are reasons. with Christian teaching. A bishop may In my own case when through the like me and perhaps have ‘learning dif- The travesty of Christmas, or the advocate rebaptism provided it is grace of God, I became convinced of ficulties’ with nuclear physics. ‘Mass of Christ,’ is just one example of made clear that it is celebrating, not the claims of the Catholic Church, and Geoffrey Streets, this, and yet many Christians are busy denying the previous infant baptism. was drawn by the doctrinal consisten- Hessle, East Yorkshire trying to defend it! They say, “Jesus is While once we accepted the Hebrew cy and historical continuity, I had to by the reason for the season” and “put origins and history to explain civil and conviction convert, or risk my soul. Christ back into Xmas,” and more of scientific origins, today our teachers In the 1940s an American priest Christmas celebrations late, “Christmas begins with Christ.” often deny them, preferring the rav- taught that only Catholics would be Sir, I do not like the pressure to cele- Colin Nevin, ings of evolutionists, anthropologists saved and he was excommunicated brate Christmas even if more and Bangor and secularists, endorsing what their from the Church. more Bible scholars increasingly predecessors declared serious errors. Robert Ian Williams, agree that 25 December is very likely Montanists, as proto-Charismatics, Bangor not to be the date of with their women leaders and ques- Christ’s birth at all. I tionable miracles were once seen as don’t know if Jesus heretics, now the early Church that Sex selection would approve of his suppressed them is judged as spiritual- Sir, Mrs Mary P Roe asks (21 Novem- followers supporting ly dead. ber) who created, for example, her- a lie (and the Bible If a Church is a body of people unit- maphrodite people if God made male warns us where all ed by their common faith and practice, and female clearly distinct. First, may I liars will end up!). can we really claim to be still the same say that I wrote that chromosomes This applies to Church? Do we have an agreed under- “supported” this statement. Proof I see the myth of Santa standing of the creed, morality, liturgy as a clear step-by-step logical progress Claus for which par- or churchmanship with our predeces- to an irrefutable conclusion. I used ents lie to their inno- sors or with each other? In fact, do we “support” in the sense of, for example, cent and trusting qualify as a single church? a planning application has a form out- children, which Alan Bartley, lining proposals and signed by the also serves the dual Greenford, Middlesex. applicant. The attached plans, eleva- purpose of masking tions and assessments, for example of the story of the flood risks, are supporting documents. Nativity, then Protestants in Heaven I accept that there are a tiny number when their off- Sir, The idea that a Protestant may of people who have random and arbi- spring do come to possibly be saved (as reported in your trary X and Y chromosomes and the age of self-dis-

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Christmas call for salvation, soap and soup Tackling online child abuse It is right that our church leaders should show their concern for the poor, the homeless and needy especially at Christmas time, and Archbishop Welby’s remarks on food banks were a helpful mes- by shining a strong, bright sage, especially at a time when western culture is selling out to con- sumerism and narcissistic hedonism. The Established Church also has the opportunity, through the House of Lords, to affect food pol- light into the dark net icy and it would be interesting to research how it has used that opportunity. One obvious food item, fish, has become vastly more tains advice about abusing a child sexually. expensive under the Common Fisheries Policy – have our bishops Another important proposal will be to make ever considered entering this practical policy area, as an example? SIMONBASS what is described as ‘revenge porn’ an offence, But for a deeper reflection on our concern for the poor we can do too. This is the making and distributing of a pri- no better than look at the Salvation Army’s practices. That global CEO, CCPAS vate sexual image to a third party. Christian church arose from the poverty in Dickensian London and The inescapable fact is that the sexual abuse the response to it, one Christmas, by a Methodist Minister William Although it remains to be seen whether David and exploitation of children takes place both on Booth. ‘Soap, Soup and Salvation’ was a slogan about its ministry, Cameron’s proposals for tackling child abuse on and offline. Children spend a considerable combining practical help to those in the ‘gutter and the garrett’, the internet, made at the #WeProtect Children amount of time online, so much so that it is no rooted in Christ and his saving, transforming grace. The Army, tee- Global summit last week, will be a watershed in longer helpful to try to draw any distinction total for members, is highly respected in the pubs it visits for dona- turning the tide in safeguarding children online, between their on and offline activities. The sum- tions, and is loved by the poor. They know it is with them their boldness is most encouraging. mit’s announcements show how all-pervasive ‘institutionally’, not as a once-a-year guilt trip by middle class visi- They are significant because, for the first time, online abuse has become. It should act as a wake- tors. Their hostels house the homeless night by night, and feed the legal and practical solutions were put forward to up call to every church as they seek to ensure hungry day by day. This is truly a Christlike practical church. overcome the malaise, hitherto common that the children for whom they are responsible At parish level our own congregations often do similar work, and amongst policymakers, that they are impotent in are safeguarded properly. often are ecumenical partners with the Army and other denomina- the face of internet child abuse. Or, in other Most now have clear policies and procedures tions working with the poor in all sorts of ways, and parish clergy in words, that somehow those intent on abusing for their offline activities - but all too few have e- ‘deprived’ areas engage in such ministries. It is when the general children always seem able to keep one step safety or social media policies to supplement public compares the Army with General Synod and its fixation on ahead of law enforcement agencies on the web. their general safeguarding policies. Even fewer debating, apparently endlessly, issues such as homosexuality, that The summit, which was attended by represen- incorporate all activities and interactions into it gains such a bad impression of the Church of England as inward- tatives from over 50 countries, recognised that their policies, whether they be on or offline. looking, middle class, and angst-ridden, almost driven by the latest the proliferation of child abuse images online has The latest edition of the Church of England’s cultural fad or the latest governmental diktat on minority rights. reached epidemic proportions, despite past com- safeguarding policy document ‘Protecting All Christmas is well focused on the poor, the struggling mitments and promises from internet service God’s Children’ (2010) states: “Recent develop- couple desperate for a place for their new baby, the providers to address this now massive problem. ments in the use of computers, the internet, tough, hard-bitten shepherds, yes: but all in a mode of Cameron’s key announcement was that the mobile phones and digital cameras present new heavenly joy at the revelation of God in our messy world National Crime Agency (NCA) challenges in educating and of problems and hardships! Not much soap in Bethle- will now team up with GCHQ safeguarding children,” (Sec- hem, maybe soup, and immense salvation. And that sal- (the government’s eavesdrop- tion 3.9). vation through Christ Jesus was and is the root of ping agency). They will form a We must not shy away from Christian love to the poor, grace expressed in good new unit that aims to hunt grasping these new chal- works, that is the church’s gospel message. Each new down those sexual offenders This should act lenges, because those intent Christmas requires the open, public declaration of Jesus who have, until now, escaped on harming children are only and his salvation, by our church at every level. Yes to detection by using what is as a wakeup call too happy to steal a march on food banks, but Yes to Jesus, the Prince of Peace, known as the ‘dark net’ in order to every church us. Many are already abusing Emmanuel God with us – that message must not be to distribute images and com- in that online space our chil- reserved for intra-church worship, but is a public truth, municate with each other. As dren are so comfortable in. and all people are entitled to hear it in case they want to he said, this will help eliminate The encouraging aspect of respond personally to Jesus, from whatever background those “digital hiding places for child abusers”. Cameron’s announcement is that it appears to or culture. Online law enforcement will also benefit from herald a sea-change by government in its deter- Comment the creation of a new database. It will use tech- mination to tackle online abuse. And this sort of nologies that will enable child abuse images to be approach works, for gathering internet compa- identified far more quickly than before. This nies together last year and getting them to agree should clearly improve abuse investigations, not to return searches for child abuse terms The Church of England Newspaper since much police time is currently spent cata- resulted in an 80 per cent fall in the number of with Celebrate magazine incorporating The Record and Christian Week loguing and recording the huge volume of these such searches. It is hoped these new initiatives Published by Political and Religious Intelligence Ltd. images; now they should be able to devote much will have a similar impact by shining a strong, Company Number: 3176742 more time to catching the perpetrators. bright light into the farther reaches of the dark Publisher: Keith Young MBE A decade ago sex offenders might have pos- net. sessed just a few images on their computers. But It is often said that church isn’t the building but digital technologies, internet speeds and web the people inside it. In the same vein we need to Publishing Director & Editor: CM BLAKELY020 7222 8004 storage capacities have all increased exponential- recognise that safeguarding children and others Chief Correspondent: The Rev Canon GEORGE CONGER 00 1 0772 332 2604 ly since then, to the point where online offenders who may be vulnerable goes beyond the physical Advertising: CHRIS TURNER 020 7222 2018 may have now built up extensive collections of boundaries of our buildings and activities. It tens of thousands or more of Indecent Images of includes every way we communicate and inter- Advertising & Editorial Assistant: PENNY NAIR PRICE 020 7222 2018 Children (IIOCs), which may now include videos act, for example on social media. Subscriptions & Finance: DELIA ROBINSON 020 7222 2018 of child abuse. Churches can do more to engage with our chil- It is not only the government and law enforce- dren in staying safe online. For a number of years Graphic Designer: PETER MAY020 7222 8700 ment agencies that are now trying to get to grips CCPAS has promoted Safer Internet Day (SID); The acceptance of advertising does not necessarily indicate with this menace. The summit also received com- next year this Europe-wide initiative falls on 10 endorsement. Photographs and other material sent for publication mitments from the giants of the internet indus- February 2015. Its theme will be ‘Lets create a are submitted at the owner’s risk. The Church of England Newspaper does try, including Google, Microsoft and Facebook better internet together’, which means prevent- not accept responsibility for any material lost or damaged. and others, to do more. This includes developing ing online abuse, and we urge churches through- better technological solutions to block and out the UK to get involved. The better we Christian Weekly Newspapers Trustees: Robert Leach (020 8224 5696), remove online child abuse material. understand the dangers children face on the Lord Carey of Clifton, The Rt Rev Michael Nazir-Ali, The Rt Rev Pete Broadbent, Dr Elaine Storkey, The Rev Cindy Kent The government also announced that the Seri- internet, and engage with them (both on and ous Crimes Bill, which is now before parliament, offline) about how best to overcome them, the The Church of England Newspaper, would be amended to legislate for the new safer they will be. Political and Religious Intelligence Ltd offence of sexual communication with a child, 14 Great College Street, London, SW1P 3RX punishable by up to two years in prison. Simon Bass is a member of the UK Council for Editorial e-mail: [email protected] This is an important response and tightens up Child Internet Safety (UKCCIS), CCPAS is a Advertising e-mail: [email protected] a legal loophole that has been exploited by adult partner agency with NCA CEOP. Subscriptions e-mail: [email protected] offenders pretending to be children, who then encourage their child victims to share indecent For more information about how CCPAS can help Website: www.churchnewspaper.com photographs of themselves. The Bill will also children stay safe, on and offline, see: make it unlawful to possess any item that con- www.ccpas.co.uk

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could help with new diet drugs – I’d say choose the real food! Of course this spins on its head all the traditional advice parents give to children but I asked Dr Katrin Bain, a parenting expert, and she said that parents make the wrong decision by making the dessert conditional on eating a certain amount of savoury Janey Lee Grace food first (especially if it is vegetables we want them to get down them). She said that this put the emphasis on the dessert Live Healthy! Live Happy! as a more desirable food, a ‘treat’ whereas the veg- etables must have the ‘dessert bribe’ in order to be eaten. If children aren’t given these ‘conditioned’ messages, Dr Katrin says, they often pick a variety of foods, in some cases even eating just half a bowl Eating the wrong way round? of ice cream before going on to eat so called ‘healthy If you are partial to a nice sugary dessert you will have track of how much glucose is eaten and will tell the brain foods’ such as red peppers, carrots and cucumber. enjoyed the recent research that said that it’s advanta- to seek out more starch and sugar if it seems levels are The message we want children to have is that food geous to eat dessert before a meal. too low. I suppose it could make sense, eat a nice portion is satisfying and enjoyable but that it must not con- Seems bizarre doesn’t it, after a lifetime of being told of cake, trifle or perhaps a better choice would be a small trol us and we can choose to stop when we are full. (and telling our kids) that unless we eat up all our nutri- plate of pasta or brown rice first and then our brain will Major re-think coming up then, perhaps I will serve tious food (especially our greens) we won’t be allowed inform us that levels of ‘good fats’ are still low so we will Christmas pudding before Christmas dinner – I’ll let any pudding at all. hopefully go on to eat a decent dinner. Of course it will all you know how that one works for me! Researchers at Imperial College found that eating go wrong if we simply decide to have a second dessert! One more interesting factoid – Desserts is sugar at the start of a meal could keep your appetite in They say the discovery could lead to simple tips for los- ‘Stressed’ spelt backwards. Wonder if that means we check. It’s because the brain protein Glucokinase keeps ing weight naturally – of course they also suggest it will be stressed if we do eat or stressed if we don’t?

Threat to Carols? Fallen Idol Composer and church musician John Rutter thinks that we don’t Rob Bell has got together with Oprah Winfrey and the ‘Rob Bell Show’ is premiering on Oprah’s sing carols as much as we used to do. Part of the trouble, he network on 21 December. Has the hero of the Emerging Church movement become a prophet of suggests in an article for The Spectator, is that we are not good at America’s civil religion, described as ‘moralistic therapeutic deism’? Many of his former admirers massed singing. The days when children began the school day fear this is now the case. Bell says that Oprah has ‘taught him more about Jesus than anyone’ and by singing traditional hymns appear to have passed. We have lost he has toured America with his new colleague and teacher promoting ‘Life You Want Weekend’, a shared heritage of words and music with which everyone is events at which admirers paid between $99 and $999 a head to hear Oprah dole out her familiar familiar, he laments. Some carols are better sung by a choir, platitudes. The man who once pastored a 10,000-member church doesn’t think church attendance others by a congregation, which is why the invention of ‘lessons- is important. One reporter says that instead of going to church, Bell often ‘surfs the wave near and-carol services’ by Bishop Benson of Truro in the 1880s was Hollywood’. Is he still an evangelical? “If you mean Jesus’ message of revolutionary love for every ‘perfect’ Rutter thinks. We need to sing to play our full part in the person and we can surrender and give our life to acts of loving kindness, then man, sign me up,” celebration of Christmas he argues. “Get singing back in the he replied to a reporter who posed the question. In the past Bell has appealed to evangelicals state schools - properly, not just as once-in-a-while projects. disillusioned with their faith’s marriage to conservative politics and American nationalism but Teach the kids some carols. It shouldn’t just be football that now he appears to have embraced what one critic describes as “the role of ‘life-coach’ for one of brings us all together. The nation that sings together, stays American culture’s most famous institutions of vapidity and materialism” – otherwise known as together.” Congratulations to Rutter on a powerful article. Over the ‘cult of Oprah’. in The Times Ian Bradley agreed that traditional carols are struggling. Compiling a list of the top 10 from various sources he discovered that the carols we sing together (sometimes changing the words) such as ‘While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks By Night’ are replaced by carols we prefer to listen to such as ‘O Holy Night’ (top of Bradley’s list). ‘In the Bleak Midwinter’ was second on Bradley’s list and ‘Silent Night’ third. Person of the Year Last year Pope Francis was Time magazine’s ‘Person of the Year’; this year it is the Ebola fighters. Although not quoted by Time, journalist Sarah Pulliam Bailey has pointed out that stories of missionaries working with Ebola Evangelical Pope? patients in West Africa have Pope Francis is popular with American evangelicals but some women are starting to voice brought attention to the continual criticism. Even 20 years ago it would have raised eyebrows but the fact that a picture of the good work done by missionaries Pope appears on the front cover of this month’s Christianity Today has caused little around the world. A number of comment. Inside the magazine is a long story by Catholic theologian RR Reno who edits missionaries do feature in Time’s story. Dr Kent Brantly, a physician First Things. In a tailpiece to the article, Morgan Lee reports that Brian with Samaritan’s Purse, is one of a number of church workers who Stiller of the World Evangelical Alliance has met the Pope twice this have survived Ebola. He describes his response after going through year and believes he is looking for a real partnership with such as ordeal as ‘How can I do better because of what I’ve been evangelicals. Luis Palau considers Francis a friend and Rick Warren through?’ Saying he is not alone in thanking God for saving his life, he and Joel Osteen are among the American evangelicals who have points out that if you watch videos of survivors in Liberia many of visited the Vatican this year. Women are not so happy. It hasn’t them do the same. “I chose a career in medicine because I wanted a gone down well that he described the appointment of several tangible skill with which to serve people,” he told Time. “Deep in women to the International Theological Commission as the core of my heart, I still think that’s my calling. I don’t want to ‘strawberries on the cake’ or likened the EU to a go on with life and forget this.” When Brantly was diagnosed grandmother ‘who is no longer fertile and vibrant’. Some of there was only enough ZMapp medicine to treat one patient so his remarks are meant as jokes but they don’t always go he insisted it be given to a woman in a worse condition. When down well. New Testament scholar Candida Moss of Notre Brantly’s condition deteriorated the doctor split the dose and Dame called his comments to the EU Parliament ‘nothing then sent him on the first flight to the US. It was the sight of other than crass chauvinism’. Remarks that a church that the returning missionary in a very weak condition because he does not evangelise is more like a spinster than a mother carried the virus struggling to get to Emory University who gives birth or that it might be good to appoint Whispering Hospital that brought the crisis home to most Americans. The women to posts in the Vatican ‘because pastors often The Gallery plight of one individual who had dedicated his life to others wind up under the authority of their housekeeper’ have helped people to understand the plight of hundreds in West upset quite a few women. Africa. Time reports that the Ebola fighters have not yet won but the end is in sight.

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Questions for the ANDREW Green Report CAREY View from the Pew I’m a member of a school governing body and earlier should sort out the high flyers. Or would it? this year we were called to justify ourselves to Ofsted Stephen Green It’s more workable and far less expensive. But there Inspectors, whose attitude seemed more about attempt- is the same fundamental unfairness about putting an ing to trip us up than support and assist volunteers who artificial barrier on advancement such as unnecessary give considerable time and expertise to schools. qualification. It is as divisive as choosing from the work After a series of seemingly hostile questions we were force a talented elite who are then pushed ahead of asked about training. It must have been clear from the their peers into senior leadership. What about those paperwork that apart from safeguarding training, none who valiantly engage at the coalface successfully in of us had attended any other training for years. It was unglamorous inner cities or rural backwaters? Have not that we hadn’t tried: we had just found the twee get- they nothing to offer to senior ministry? to-know-you exercises in facilitated gobble-de-gook to What about those like St Peter without educational be a complete waste of time and now we relied on our qualifications who failed pretty disastrously in his first own abilities to read and digest policies, budgets and curacy by denying Christ three times but who then other types of data which found their way to us. went on to the highest office of the lot. Our deputy chair, an extremely able businessman and My view is that very often our best priests and minis- dairy farmer, bluntly said: “We’ve been to training and it ters will be too busy getting on with the job to engage in was useless. We think we’re better governors without But let’s be really radical for a change and challenge a talent-spotting pool. Like St Peter, I strongly suspect your training.” the whole upside-down nature of the report that seems that many of our greatest leaders would not have been There was no question he was right and the Ofsted to over-emphasise the role of the bishop as strategist, spotted by anyone other than Christ himself. In fact, report had a glowing commendation for the role of the leader and manager at the expense of teacher/theolo- there are many people for whom such a non-egalitarian governors within the school, notwithstanding our stub- gian, and missioner. Even the role of overseer used in approach to ministry would be enough to refuse any born refusal to jump through bureaucratic hoops. the New Testament has the ring of head teacher or invitation to join the elite. It is with this in mind that I approach the Green chief theologian about it rather than managing director. The Green report deserves public debate and consid- report on training for senior ministry in the Church of So those who are senior leaders in the Church of Eng- eration. It certainly addresses real problems but does it England, which seeks to overhaul the way leaders are land might be better employed in further study of theol- lead us in the right direction? The churches have long appointed. There are many good ideas in the report and ogy, or church growth and mission rather than enrolled had a fascination for importing ideas from business many not so good ones. Public debate about this report in MBAs and learning about Human Resources. How schools to church organisations but we have seen the should sharpen the proposals and make them more about a proposal for every senior leader in the Church faults and limitations of these approaches in recent workable. That will only be possible if the leaders are of England to earn themselves an advanced theological years, especially in the irresponsible practices that led listening. degree before they are eligible for senior office. That to the banking crisis. The need for PAUL RICHARDSON theological answers Church and World Steve Weinberg has famously commented that the are ill-equipped to know how they might do so, who cerned about point scoring and more ready to address more comprehensible the universe appears, the more don’t have the time to do so, and who, when they go off the voters as adults. Political parties need to encourage pointless it seems. John Polkinghorne made a similar to find fulfilment, end up devouring themselves to scat- more involvement by being ready to delegate power to point when he wrote that “from its own unaided terscot causes and light religions.” members. Devolution needs to be encouraged not just resources, natural science can do no more that present It is possible to see the same phenomenon at work in at the national level but at the local level as well. us with the contrast between a finely tuned and fruitful politics. The decline of the major parties and the rise of But together with these measures and many others universe which is condemned to ultimate futility”. Ukip, SNP, and the Greens has made it impossible to designed to make the state more efficient and a better Believer and unbeliever alike agree on the inability of predict the next General Election. There is general dis- protector of the weak and vulnerable must go a recogni- science to suggest a fundamental meaning or purpose content with conventional politics and politicians and a tion that there are limits to what politics can achieve. for the universe. Weinberg can look for no solution to readiness to embrace populist solutions like those ped- Disillusion with politicians is not new. It is the theme the problem he has highlighted. Polkinghorne wants dled by Nigel Farage or the SNP. of Psalm 23, which is saying the leaders of Israel are theology to learn from what science can teach but to be Various causes have been suggested. Globalisation false leaders and only God is to be trusted. Our prob- bold enough to hold on to its own sources of insight and has benefitted people with skills or capital to invest but lem is that we often load too much on to our political understanding. left many workers worse off. Immigration threatens leaders. One of the consequences of the decline of religious local cultures, puts pressure on services and is widely Politicians are often at the mercy of forces they can- belief is that people look in the wrong places for believed (probably unfairly) to lead to lower wages. not control. They find it difficult to shape events. While answers to questions that are ultimately theological. Identity politics in on the rise. they can introduce measures to make life easier and Secular disciplines and pursuits become overloaded Britain is becoming more like Europe in having a more secure for the voters, they cannot make people with expectations they cannot meet. If you want to multiplicity of political parties and more like America in happy. Instead of a lazy readiness to blame politicians know how the world functions, ask a scientist. If you having a white working class that votes according to for every ill, people need to take control of their lives, want to know why it exists or whether it has an ultimate culture issues, not class interest. especially their spiritual lives, and ask not only if the purpose the scientist cannot help. The financial crisis undermined the credibility of country is heading in the right direction but whether It’s the same in economics. On Black Friday David politicians without driving people to look for an alterna- they themselves are travelling the right path in life. The Brooks wrote a column for The New York Times arguing tive to capitalism. The remorseless demands of the 24- only thing worse that disillusion with politics is fixing that capitalism arouses enormous ambition but does hour news cycle have forced politicians to devote time false hopes on Messiah figures such as Hitler, Peron or help us to see where we should focus it. It doesn’t give to spin and media manipulation. Inevitably the eye- Stalin. us an end to define our lives. Instead it fosters the illu- catching headlines beloved by the likes of Gordon This is my final column. It has been a privilege to sion that career and economic success can lead to fulfil- Brown are exposed and disillusion sets in. People in share my thoughts with you for the past 15 years. ment. Consumerism often leads us to believe that if we Western nations are having to get used to the idea of Thank you for all the responses I have received, includ- can only acquire the latest must-have gadget our lives lower growth and competition from Asia, Brazil and ing the critical ones. Starting in Papua New Guinea and will be happy. other growing nations. continuing in The Church of England Newspaper I have Brooks summed up our plight very well: “Capitalism Just as numerous causes have been suggested for the written a weekly column on and off for 35 years. It is on its own breeds people who are vaguely aware that rise of populism so many solutions have been offered. time for break. they are not living the spiritually richest fullest life, who Politicians certainly ought to be more honest, less con- Happy Christmas to you all.

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By Bob Libby surrounding hill country. But a weary and slightly nauseated The Widow Mary hardly noticed Elizabeth’s Anne supported herself and her condition. daughter Mary by running, what we When Elizabeth welcomed her young would call today, a boarding house in cousin, she pressed Mary’s body firmly Nazareth. The house had been built by against her bulging body and the yet to her late husband, Samuel. He was a be born John-the-Baptist did flip flops in stonemason, who traced his family trade his mother’s belly. (Luke 1:39-41). back more than a thousand years to The Gospel When Elizabeth put Mary down for a Solomon’s temple. Samuel had dreams nap, she and Zachariah sat down with of a large family and had added on to his Joseph and heard his story. father’s house. But Samuel had lost his “Of course she can stay here as long life in a rock slide and left Anne with as necessary. But something else is only one little girl. going on here. I wish Zachariah could Joseph the carpenter, along with his tell you himself, but he has been wife Sarah and son James were welcome according speechless since, as a Levite, a tenants. Joseph came from Bethlehem descendant of Aaron, he was taking his and was employed in the construction of turn and tending the incense in the the expanding Roman imperial city of Temple. He had a dream or a vision in Sepphoris, just a few miles down the hill which the Angel Gabriel told him that from Nazareth. my barren body would produce a son The two families got along well. Anne who would, like Elijah of old, prepare and Sarah prepared the meals together to JoseMary,pwith herhhands folded in her the way of God’s Messiah.” (Luke 1:18 - and Mary became a big sister and lap, simply responded with a smile. But 21). playmate for little James. one evening when Joseph had taken Zachariah, although speechless, was But things did not go well for Sarah. James out for a walk, Mary sat down totally engaged in the conversation by She began losing weight and was in next to her mother. nodding his head in agreement. constant discomfort, if not outright pain. “Mother? When you said I had Joseph’s return to Nazareth was The best a physician could do was give become a woman and I was scared when greeted by a happy son and a concerned her something to ease the pain. Anne the blood began, you told me not to be soon to be grandmother. “Is she all gave her nursing care and comfort and afraid… that’s the way it is with women right?” queried Anne. Mary took over with James. They all and that it would happen every cycle of “Oh physically she is well. She doesn’t prayed for relief, but none came and the moon …” say much. I don’t know what’s she’s Sarah’s dead body was laid to rest in a Anne put her arm around her thinking,” replied Joseph. There’s a garden on the edge of the village. daughter’s shoulder and nodded dreamy look about her, like she’s in Joseph was devastated by the loss of agreement.” Then Mary continued, another world.” his wife, but managed, in an almost “Well Mother, it’s been almost two “What about Elizabeth and Zachariah? comatose state, to conduct his cycles of the moon since that happened Can she stay with them? Can she have construction projects in Sepphoris. again.” the baby there?” Anne, while grieving for her friend, “Oh yes, they will care for her through provided the household with stability ************ the pregnancy.” and Mary, graduated from big sister to “And then what? What happens to the surrogate mother for young James. Anne confronted Joseph. “How could baby when he or she is born?” As Mary’s body approached puberty, you do such a thing? Why couldn’t you “That remains to be seen,” said she became something of a dreamer, have waited out the year of your Joseph. “For some reason Zachariah has which her mother attributed to the a community event according to the betrothal? lost his voice. He just shrugs his mood swings that go with adolescence. Torah (Genesis 24) and Hebrew Joseph was in shock. A mixture of shoulders and smiles. Elizabeth is But it was deeper than that. The loss of tradition and (Judge 14:2-7). The anger, disbelief and sorrow surged pregnant, you know, She is sure Mary’s her father and then James’ mother made betrothal bound the couple together for through his body. “I never touched her.” baby is a boy… a very special little boy her acutely aware of the fragility of life a year as man and wife in every sense, He insisted. and that God will take care of things and and the certainty of death. except in the bedroom. “But she never left the house alone,” her own little boy will have a little Anne had taught Mary to pray and Anne’s cousins Elizabeth and countered Anne. brother.” when the Rabbi gathered the village Zachariah came up from the hill country The two backed off from their Joseph divided his time between his boys for their lessons, she hid in a of Judaea, while Joseph’s relatives adversarial stance and probed the edges construction projects down in the valley corner and absorbed the scripture ventured from Bethlehem. There was of the great mystery. There had been a and tried to keep a cheerful stories, and especially the account of much rejoicing. The wine was good and drunken Roman mercenary who had countenance in the presence of his son Abraham and the sacrifice of Isaac, his happiest of all was little James. “Now staggered into the village the previous James. But Joseph’s sleep was restless son. “Why would a father think such a you belong to me,” he slobbered as he month looking for a woman to satisfy his and Anne was sensitive to his troubled thing?” she pondered. “If Abraham was hugged his new stepmother. needs, but he had been dealt quick spirit. When they shared a meal they God’s friend …?” But who could she Joseph, too, was a happy man and justice by stoning to death. “No,” spoke of all sorts of things, but not ask? hovered over his young wife-to-be with a allowed Anne. “I hid Mary and James in about Mary. When the time of mourning had great smile on his face. Mary, in turn, the back of the house and …” she Then one morning at breakfast Anne passed, Joseph indicated that on his hummed old tunes and lullabies when hesitated a moment and then confessed, noticed a difference. “You look like you next visit to Bethlehem, he would be she put James down for the night. This “I threw one of the stones.” had a good night’s sleep.” She stated, looking for a new wife. ritual was followed by her returning to Then Anne remembered Mary’s but it was really a question. “Why go so far?” asked Anne. the dining area, sitting in a corner and dream about the Angel Gabriel telling Joseph nodded agreement, but didn’t “You mean you’d be willing …?” continuing to hum and sing softly. her that God wanted her to bring his son explain. He had work to do, but after the “Oh no,” said Anne. “If the truth be Joseph called her “My bride, The into the world. “But that was just a evening meal when James had been known, I’m past the childbearing time of Dreamer.” dream.” She said.” Just a lovely dream. tucked in, told his favourite story about my life. Yes, I can be a good companion, One evening after supper Mary broke It couldn’t possibly be true.” David and Goliath. Joseph sat down with if you know what I mean, and I can run a off from her music and asked, “Who is But the truth of the matter was that Anne. good house, but James needs brothers Gabriel?” Mary was pregnant. What to do? Joseph “Yes, I had a good night’s sleep, but I and sisters. I couldn’t give you those. “He’s one of God’s angels,” stated suggested consulting the Rabbi, but also had a very vivid dream about But …” Joseph. Anne screamed a defiant, “NO! He’ll Gabriel. He said he had spoken to Mary “But what? But who?” asked Joseph. “Rabbi says he’s one of God’s top simply quote the Torah and the tradition and now he wanted to speak to me. He “There’s Mary.” angels,” offered James. allows an adulterous wife to be publicly told me not to be afraid, that Mary was “Mary? But she’s just a girl.” “And he’s God’s messenger,” added accused and stoned to death.” still a virgin, that no man had entered “Not any more. She’s not a girl any Anne. “Oh my God,” cried Joseph. “Not my her body, that God wanted Mary to more. She’s a woman now.” Said Anne, “Why do you ask,” queried Joseph. little Mary.” carry and give birth to his son, who “I can swear to that.” Mary just smiled. (Luke 1:26 – 38). Then Joseph, being a kind and just would change the world.” Joseph said nothing. He just stared at As days turned to weeks and the man, decided to put Mary away privately Joseph paused, looked at Anne, put Anne, processing what she had just said. weeks into months, Mary became more and take her to the home of her cousin his face in his hands and wept. “I wish I Anne continued: “Mary has already and more remote. While she minded Elizabeth and her husband Zachariah in could believe that… and maybe I will … become a mother to James and James James and did her chores, she said little the hill country of Judaea, not too far but I’m not afraid anymore.” (Matthew loves Mary …and in time you will love and became more and more the from Bethlehem. (Matthew 1:19) 1:20-21). her too.” dreamer. To say that Elizabeth was “great with The mother in Anne reached out to “But I already do,” declared Joseph as “What’s going on?” asked Anne. “You child” was an understatement. Her her son-in-law, held him in her arms and he put his arms around Anne. seem so far away. A mother can tell. Is pregnancy at her advanced age was the the two of them cried together. The betrothal of Mary and Joseph was something wrong, are you all right?” talk of her little hamlet and the Joseph couldn’t wait for his next

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Continued from page 10 her firstborn,” declared Martha as she cleaned up Mary and her baby. “I’ll be quarterly trip to Bethlehem to head back in the morning and take you over to Christmas – a time for giving, but to whom? south and see Mary. When he my house.” Then, turning to Joseph, she By Jeremy Moodey approached the entrance to the little ordered, “Bring that soiled cloak of yours village in the hill country, outside and I’ll see that it gets washed.” Give someone the Christmas they’ve been dreaming of. That was the strapline for Jerusalem, he saw Zachariah waving his It was several nights later when strange this year’s Christmas TV ad from John Lewis, the rather sickly one starring a boy arms, shouting, “Alleluia,” and telling his men, wearing strange costumes and called Sam and his toy penguin, I mean #MontyThePenguin, because everything friends, “It’s a boy; just as God promised. speaking strange languages appeared in the marketing world needs a hashtag nowadays. His name is John! Imagine that. At my outside Martha’s little cottage and woke The advert was inevitably an internet sensation, garnering almost 20 million age I’m the father of a man child. He’s Joseph and Mary from their fitful views on YouTube, four times the number of hits for the equivalent John Lewis ad going to be a prophet. We haven’t had a slumber. two years previously. This was despite a saccharine musical track that involved a prophet in hundreds of years. And not Under the light of bright stars they did young singer called Tom Odell covering a 1979 song by John Lennon. Or rather only that, he’s going to prepare us for the their best to communicate with the new “butchering” it according to one Lennon fan on Twitter. coming of God’s anointed … the parents and finally, after leaving a large The ad provoked equally contrasting reactions from Christian commentators. Messiah.” (Luke 1:68-79). sack of gifts, bid their good-byes and Writing on the ‘Christian Today’ news website, Martin Saunders from youth work Joseph joined the elders of the village disappeared into the night. (Matthew 2: organisation Youthscape invited us to suspend concerns about Christmas con- in congratulating Zachariah. Then on the 1- 12). sumerism and enjoy “pieces of cultural furniture [which] help us to anticipate and way to see Elizabeth and her new born, It was before sunrise when Nehemiah marvel at Christmas.” the two men exchanged their stories. shook Joseph’s shoulder. “You’ve got to Writer Andy Walton was more Scrooge-like and pointed on the same website to Mary appeared in the doorway. get out of here. King Herod has gone the apparent hypocrisy of a retailer which was happy to spend £7 million on a two- Joseph’s voice quivered as he called out stark raving mad, and all Jerusalem with minute TV advert (including TV air time), but which steadfastly refused to pay its to her, “Mary … Mary.” As he embraced him. Somewhere he got the idea that a cleaners the Living Wage: “In the Christian year we have our own way of antici- her he whispered, “Mary… Mary. It’s new king had been born here in pating Christmas and the coming of Emmanuel… It’s called Advent. We antici- going to be all right. I love you and I want Bethlehem. Herod sent a messenger to pate the incarnation. We don’t shop ‘til we drop, in stores that don’t pay their staff to take you home to Nazareth.” He the soldiers sleeping in my lobby. They well enough to live.” paused and then added, “Gabriel spoke to have been ordered to find all the baby The Christmas TV ad from Sainsbury’s was just as controversial, if slightly less me. Zachariah also had a vision about boys in Bethlehem and bash their heads successful (only 15 million views on YouTube). Many viewers felt that the super- baby John and our son. I don’t totally in.” (Matthew 2:13-15 ). market chain’s depiction of the 1914 Christmas truce in the WW1 trenches was understand what is going on. Zachariah It was early morning when a tired and ‘cynical’ and ‘distasteful’, given that the aim was simply to sell more turkey stuff- says God is doing something he has hungry Joseph, Mary and Jesus arrived ing. But again the ad’s strapline was an inducement to be generous: ‘Christmas is never done before and I believe him.” at the home of Elizabeth and Zachariah. for sharing’. They left the next day at first light. “You need to get as far away from King Of course, neither Sainsbury’s nor John Lewis, nor any of the other major Elizabeth had supplied them with an Herod as possible. When he thinks his retailers (and especially not Iceland with its toe-curlingly awful offering featuring ample supply of food, including several power is threatened he’ll even kill Peter Andre), is spending millions of pounds on Christmas TV ads to encourage bunches of ripe figs, which Mary craved members of his own family.” us to be generous in a philanthropic, altruistic sense. Generosity that would at odd hours of the night. Zachariah suggested that Egypt might encourage us to give £500 to charity rather than spend it on the latest iPad. Joseph’s fondest memory of the be a good place to take refuge. There was Rather, they are hoping to capitalise on the ubiquitous and self-absorbed mate- journey was that Mary sang almost all a large Hebrew community in Alexandria rialism of our age. The kind that fuelled the consumerist riots that accompanied the way home. “My soul magnifies the and Zachariah knew a rabbi there who the ‘Black Friday’ sales a few weeks ago and which prompted one poor shopper in Lord … and my spirit rejoices in God my would give them shelter. Tesco to suffer ‘minor injuries’ when a television dropped on her head. Personal- saviour.” (Luke 1:46-55). But before they left, Zechariah, as a ly, I find it all rather depressing, and totally at odds with the true spirit of Christ- minor priest, took the baby Jesus and his mas. ************ parents into the Temple, where Jesus was But then are charities any less cynical, with their endless Christmas appeals? circumcised and Mary and Joseph A study conducted a few years ago by the Centre for Charitable Giving and Phi- Nehemiah’s family had owned and purchased two small doves for their lanthropy (CGAP) suggested that while half of all UK households made a dona- operated the Bethlehem Inn for several thanksgiving offering. (Luke 2:21). tion to charity in any given month of the year, in December the proportion rose centuries going back to the time of Judas Zacharias, assuming his priestly role, to, er, exactly 52.6 per cent. Hardly an orgy of increased generosity. Meanwhile, Maccabeus and the cleansing of the demanded, “Name this child.” the average weekly amount given to charity rose from £2.03 (January to Novem- Temple in Jerusalem. Nehemiah and “His name is Jesus,” replied Mary and ber) to £2.41 in December. Joseph had grown up together, studied Joseph in unison. Indeed, of the average £64 increase in weekly household spend each Decem- together and made their Bar Mitzvah Mary asked, “Why are we doing this?” ber, barely 0.6 per cent went to charity; 10 per cent went on alcohol. under the same rabbi. Zachariah instructed, “Since the time of The CGAP report’s conclusion on UK charitable giving was thus no surprise: Nehemiah was totally embarrassed our father Abraham it has been done to “There is no statistically meaningful difference between the Christmas period when he told his old friend and frequent mark us as children of our Yahweh’s and the rest of the year, as household incomes also rise in December, due in part lodger that every room was taken and covenant with the Hebrew people.” And to factors such as annual bonuses, increased seasonal employment and possibly that a squad of Roman mercenaries was then he added with a smile, “If the truth using income from savings.” camped out in the courtyard. “I’ve never be told, at a man’s humblest and most One thing the CGAP study did not cover is whether Christians give more at seen so many people in Bethlehem. It’s exalted moments, he is reminded that he Christmas. From the massive number of secular charities who place inserts into all due to Caesar Augustus and his damn is a child of God, the Almighty King of the Christian press at this time of year (in the last few weeks I have collected census. You know why he’s doing it, the universe.” fliers from Refugee Action, Médecins Sans Frontières, Sightsavers, Amnesty counting all the people in his empire. Old Simeon begged to touch and International and Alzheimer’s Society among others), you would think so. After the census, he’ll raise the taxes. comfort the wounded baby Jesus and Indeed, a Theos-commissioned survey in 2011 suggested that 68 per cent of The Lord knows, we’re already paying then declared that he was ready to die Christians who responded agreed that Christmas is a time when we should be too many taxes.” because he has seen YHWH’s promised generous to people less fortunate than ourselves. Nehemiah noted that in spite of the late one. As for the widow Anna, she smiled, However, in response to a similar question, about Christmas being a time when hour that it was a very bright night, as he giggled and nodded her agreement with we should challenge poverty and economic injustice, proportionately more Mus- led Mary on her donkey around to the Simeon. (Luke 2:-25-38). lims (45 per cent) responded affirmatively than Christians (37 per cent). This cave behind the inn where several Joseph and Mary were not prepared for may reflect the fact that many Christians do want to be more generous to chari- animals were sleeping. Nehemiah offered the size and scope of the Egyptian ties at Christmas, but don’t particularly want their festive celebrations spoiled by to summons Martha the midwife, but it Hebrew community and the synagogue being reminded of the global challenges of injustice and inequality. was too late. Mary’s water broke as she was huge. It appeared to be as large, if Which takes me back to a North London church a few years ago, where I lay down on a mattress of straw that not larger than the Temple in Jerusalem. addressed a packed Christmas service in support of our Holy Land appeal. I Joseph covered with his cloak. Kneeling They were not the first or last talked about one of the Palestinian Christian schools we support in Bethlehem between Mary’s legs he caught the Palestinian Jews to seek refuge from where a young Muslim boy who had suffered the psychological trauma of seeing baby’s little body. “It’s a man child Herod’s kingdom and Roman abuse. his mother shot in front of him had slowly been rehabilitated through Christian Mary…it’s a boy…Oh thank God,” he They found Rabbi Philo, surrounded by care and love. shouted. (Luke 2:5-7). young rabbinical students as he was Several parents complained to the vicar that my talk was ‘totally inappropriate’ A shepherd and his sons heard concluding his morning lecture. for a Christmas service, given that children were present. It was almost as if I had Joseph’s laughter and came to see what “So in conclusion, if the truth be told, denied the existence of Santa Claus. was going on. A gentle breeze moved all the evidence points to the fact that The lessons were clear. First, one should never over-estimate the willingness of through the trees serenading the YHWH did not give the Torah just to the people at Christmas, even churchgoers, to engage with the real issues of global newborn with a gentle lullaby and Hebrews. He gave it to us through Moses poverty. Second, like dogs and Brussel sprouts, charities are for life, not just for dancing clouds joined the celebration and we are to take it to the whole world.” Christmas. while a cluster of stars sparkled brightly. “When will this happen? How will this Jeremy Moodey is Chief Executive of Embrace the Middle East, the Christian (Luke 2:8- 21). happen?” were questions fired from the development charity which tackles poverty and injustice in the lands of the Bible. Martha the midwife bustled in with a group. Its Christmas appeal is for refugees in the Middle East and does not feature a basket full of supplies and took over. “I can’t answer that,” replied Philo, “But penguin: www.embraceme.org/christmas-appeal. “This is no place for a new mother and when Messiah comes, we will know.”

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper 12 www.churchnewspaper.com Friday December 19/26 2014 Classifieds / Feature What can we expect of the shared conversations? By Stephen Hofmeyr QC,

The Church of England is embarking on a process of “shared conversations” which has two objectives. The first objective is ‘to clarify how we can most effectively be a missionary church in a culture which has changed its view on human sexuality’. Amen! The revealed truth of the gospel is God’s truth for all people, everywhere, in every age. Therefore, the issue about being an effective mis- sionary church is not about whether we are free to change what God has taught, but how to com- municate God’s truth in a culture that has changed its view. In areas of human sexuality that will require a communication of the Bible’s teach- ing about the body and sexuality which a genera- tion ago would have gone without saying. So long as the scope of this first objective is correctly understood, it presents a wonderful opportunity. The second objective is ‘to clarify the implica- tions of what it means for the Church of England to live with … “good disagreement” on these issues’. What are the possible outcomes of these shared conversations? As regards the first objective, there is the prospect that the Church of England will embrace a renewed vision for evangelism, better equipped to proclaim the gospel and to work for the evan- gelisation of England. Nevertheless, the possibili- ty remains that the gospel-minded will remain gospel-focussed; and that those who are not gospel-minded will not become gospel-focussed. As regards the second objective, there is the prospect of an “Anglican fudge”, some limited form of accommodation, just enough, it will be hoped, to maintain a united Church of England. Some traditionalists and a few change-advo- cates will find this unacceptable and move on; but inertia will cause most people to stay where they are. In my view, this is what many at the centre hope will be achieved. This is what the Archbish- op of Canterbury has described as “good dis- agreement”. There is, of course, the possibility that the shared conversations will persuade not only the participants, but also all active members of the Church of England, either that the change-advo- cates are right, or that the traditionalists are right. But realistically, this is not going to happen! Even the Standing Committee of the House of Bishops acknowledges that: “there is no expectation of achieving any consensus – in either direction – in the foreseeable future”. There are two other possible outcomes. Both will involve division. Bishop Michael Nazir-Ali, the former Bishop of Rochester, said in a talk pub- lished by the Latimer Trust entitled “Truth and Unity in Christian Fellowship”: “… unity is very precious for us believers. We cherish it. But we do not cherish it above truth. There are certain things which disrupt fellowship. In the New Testament two things are consistently

presented as being able to disrupt fellowship. One is per- with overlapping jurisdiction – one province for tradi- sistent and systematic false teaching whatever the scope tionalists, another province for change-advocates. of it might be. And the other is persistent sexual •The traditionalists will retain the existing immorality. Of course, there is always repentance and doctrine of the Church of England. forgiveness, as 1 John tells us. Exclusion from church, or •The change-advocates will make significant from what the church does, from the Sacraments, from changes, most notably to Canon B30 and the Mar- Christian life, need not be permanent. Indeed, we can riage Service. say that any such disruption must be for the sake of, and It will then be open to individual parishes to choose in the hope of, restoration. But those are the two things their natural home. New diocesan structures will be that do disrupt fellowship, and we must take this very developed and cathedrals, as necessary, will service seriously in our present situation.” both provinces. If Traditionalists take this view, and state so gra- We must enter this period of shared conversations ciously and clearly, their stance will inevitably (and with the possible outcomes clearly in mind. Indeed, appropriately) cause division. the possible outcomes should significantly shape both But why did I say that there are two other possible our thinking and our approach. If we are to be realis- outcomes? Well, the division may be messy or it may tic, if we are to remain faithful to the truth of the be ordered. gospel, if we are to embrace truth and love in equal It may be messy, as it has been in the USA and measure, what the Church of England needs is not Canada, with litigation and extreme animosity; costly, “good disagreement”, but “gracious division”! divisive and an obstacle to gospel proclamation. But what about an orderly and ordered division, marked by grace and humility and a real desire for [Extracts from a talk given by Stephen Hofmeyr QC to good? The idea I have floated is parallel provinces a gathering of evangelicals in the Winchester Diocese.] www.churchnewspaper.com Friday December 19/26, 2014 The Register 13

(Oxford), to resign from 30 November. The Rev Christobel Hargraves, BIBLECHALLENGE ANGLICAN CYCLE OF PRAYER Rector Shelswell Benefice and Area Dean Bicester & Islip, (Oxford), resigned on 12 November. Friday 19 December. Psalm 89: 1-7, Esther 6: 1-7:10. Kolhapur - (North India): The Rev Canon Jeff Hopewell, Day 353: Zechariah 7-8, Psalm 137, The Rt Rev Bathuel Tiwade Vicar of Old Dalby, Nether Broughton, Mark 15 Saturday 20 December. Psalm 71:3-8, Esther 8. Kondoa - (Tanzania): The Rt Saxelbye with Shoby, Grimston and Day 354: Zechariah 9, Psalm 138, Rev Given Gaula Wartnaby (Leicester), to retire with Mark 16 Sunday 21 December. Advent 4. Psalm 19: 7-end, Col. 2:8-15. Kontagora - effect from 30 April 2015. Day 355: Enjoy hearing the Scriptures (Lokoja, Nigeria): The Rt Rev Jonah Ibrahim The Rev Richard Lindsay, read aloud in church Monday 22 December. Psalm 85: 7-end, Col. 3: 1-11. Kootenay - (British Incumbent of St George, Mossley Day 356: Zechariah 10, Psalm 139, Columbia & the Yukon, Canada): The Most Rev John Elswood Privett (Manchester), will retire with effect Luke 1 Tuesday 23 December. Psalm 96: 1,10-end, Isa. 7: 10-17. The Most Rev Govada from 30 April 2015. Day 357: Zechariah 11, Psalm 140, Dyvasirvadam, Moderator of CSI & Bishop of Krishna-Godavari The Rev Dr Lee Longden, Luke 2 Wednesday 24 December. Christmas Eve. Psalm 23, Col 3: 12-end. Kubwa - currently Incumbent of Christ Church, Day 358: Zechariah 12, Psalm 141, (Abuja, Nigeria): The Rt Rev Duke Akamisoko Ashton under Lyne (Manchester), Luke 3 Thursday 25 December. Christmas Day - Nativity of our Lord. Psalm 89: 19-end, resigns with effect from 1 March 2015, Day 359: Zechariah 13, Psalm 142, Phil. 2: 1-11. The Most Rev Bolly Lapok, Archbishop of South East Asia & Bishop when he will become Vice Principal of Luke 4 of Kuching; Assistant Bishop of Kuching - (South East Asia): The Rt Rev Aeries the All Saints Centre for Mission and Day 360: Zechariah 14, Psalm 143, Sumping Jingan Ministry. He resigns his post as Luke 5 Friday 26 December. Psalm 98, Isa. 49: 22-26. The Most Rev Dr Daniel Sarfo, Honorary Associate Diocesan Director Day 361: Malachi 1, Psalm 144, Luke 6 Primate & Metropolitan, CPWA; Archbishop of the Internal province of Ghana and of Ordinands on 18 January 2015. Day 362: Enjoy hearing the Scriptures Bishop of Kumasi The Rev Rosemary Whitley, read aloud in church Saturday 27 December. Psalm 85, Isa. 50: 4-11. Kumi - (Uganda): The Rt Rev Associate Minister of the Benefice of Day 363: Malachi 2, Psalm 145-146, Thomas Irigei The Good Shepherd, Loughborough Luke 7 Sunday 28 December. Holy Innocents. Psalm 2, Phil. 1: 27-30. Kushtia - (Leicester), to retire on 8 April 2015. Day 364: Malachi 3, Psalm 147-148, (Bangladesh): The Rt Rev Sunil Mankhin The Rev Sok Han Yong, Luke 8 Monday 29 December. Psalm 116: 12-end, Phil 2: 12-18. Kwara - (Kwara, Assistant Curate (NSM) Abingdon Day 365: Malachi 4, Psalm 149-150, Nigeria): The Rt Rev Olusegun Adeyemi ; Kutigi - (Lokoja, Nigeria): The Rt Rev (Oxford), resigned on 16 November. Luke 9 Jeremiah Kolo Day 1: Genesis 1-3, Psalm 1, Matthew 1 Tuesday 30 December. Psalm 96: 1-4, Isa. 51: 1-11. Kwoi - (Abuja, Nigeria): The Rt Rev Paul Zamani LAY AND OTHER APPOINTMENTS Wednesday 31 December. Psalm 96: 7-10, Phil. 2: 19-30. Kyoto - (Japan): The Rt APPOINTMENTS Rev Stephen Takashi Kochi Thursday 01 January. Psalm 96: 1,11-end, Isa. 52: 7-10. Kyushu - (Japan): The Rt Gabrielle Higgins, The Rev Sophia Caroline Annabel Rev Luke Ken-ichi Muto to be Diocesan Secretary, Chichester. Acland, Mr Mike Kelly, Self-Supporting Assistant Curate in the has been appointed as Youth Ministry Benefice of Cam with Stinchcombe; and Officer for the Diocese of Leicester. He Associate Priest of the Benefice of All vicar of St Benedict’s Church in Stipendiary Vicar of the Benefice of will be based in the Department of Hallows, Berkynchirche-by-the-Tower Northampton, to be Director of Ministry Gloucester, St George with Whaddon; Mission and Ministry. with St Dunstan-in-the-East (London) to and Discipleship (Worcester). Area Dean of Gloucester City Deanery; Mrs Angela Morfett-Jones, be Self-Supporting Associate Priest in The Rev Canon Jacob Knudsen, and Honorary Canon of Gloucester Licensed Lay Minister at present the Benefice of Cam with Stinchcombe; Sub Dean of St Olav’s Cathedral, Cathedral, to be Stipendiary Team Deanery Reader and Funeral Minister in remaining Associate Priest of the Bergen, to be Southwark Cathedral’s Rector of the Benefice of the North Llanrhos Deanery (St Asaph), to be 0.5 Benefice of All Hallows, Berkynchirche- first Ecumenical Cheltenham Team Ministry; remaining Stipendiary Lay Minister for the by-the-Tower with St Dunstan-in-the- Canon. Honorary Canon of Gloucester Elkesley Group of Parishes (Southwell East (London). The Rev Timothy Maybury Hastie- Cathedral. & Nottingham). The Rev Christopher David Bolster, Smith, The Rev David Stevens, Mrs Eunice Rosemary Wilson, at present Assistant Curate in the House-for-Duty Team Vicar in the Priest in charge of St Martin, To be Licensed Lay Worker in the Benefice of Stanwix (Carlisle), has been Benefice of the South Cotswolds Team Potternewton and Area Dean of Allerton Benefice of Cinderford with Littledean appointed Vicar of Clifton (Manchester). Ministry with responsibility for (Leeds), to be Vicar of Doncaster (Gloucester). The Rev Graham Philip Bowkett, Kempsford and Whelford to be House- Minster (Sheffield). Priest-in-Charge at Upper Itchen, be for-Duty Team Vicar in the Benefice of The Rev Caroline Jane Symcox, appointed to the Rectory of Upper the South Cotswolds Team Ministry Stipendiary Assistant Curate in the DEATHS Itchen, in the county of Hampshire and with responsibility for Barnsley and Benefice of Amersham (Oxford), to be in the diocese of Winchester. Bibury with Winson (Gloucester). Stipendiary Team Vicar in the Benefice The Rev Canon Michael Butler, The Rev Arthur Champion, The Rev Louise Nicolls, of the South Cotswolds Team Ministry Born 25 October 1932. Keble College Licensed Public Preacher; and formerly Assistant Curate at St Mary’s, (Gloucester). Oxford BA. College of the Resurrection Environment Adviser, to be House-for- Arnold (Southwell & Nottingham) to The Rev Andrew Thayer, Mirfield. Ordained deacon 1959, priest Duty Associate Priest in The Churn become 0.5 Team Vicar in the Hucknall House for Duty Priest - The Chase 1960. Curate Poplar All Saints with St Valley Benefice; remaining Environment Team Ministry with Pastoral Benefice (Oxford), to be Rector; Church Frideswide 1959-1968. Deputy Director Adviser (Gloucester). responsibility for St John the Evangelist of Ascension, Montgomery, Alabama. of the Samaritans 1968-1973. Honorary The Rev Jennifer Sara Croft, and 0.5 School Chaplain at Hucknall The Rev Thomas Thomas (Tom) Curate St Stephen’s Walbrook and St Vicar of St John’s, High Legh (Chester) National Church of England Academy in Priest in Charge, Springfield, St Swithun etc. Curate Godalming 1973- has been appointed as Vicar of the the same Diocese. Christopher, Diocese of Birmingham, to 1976. Priest-in-charge Brighton St Anne Benefice of St Cuthbert, Ormesby and The Rev Canon Nicholas Parish, be Vicar, Springfield, St Christopher, 1977-1979. Diocesan Communications as Hub Tutor for Contextual Training at Priest in Charge, Bracknell Team (Birmingham). Officer and Director of Social Cranmer College. Ministry, Bracknell Deanery, to be The Rev Gaynor Turner, Responsibility 1977-1983. Director The Rev David Cundill Priest in Charge, Epsom, St Martin’s currently holding the Bishop’s Diocesan Board of Social Responsibility has been licensed as and appointed to Epsom and St Stephen’s Langley Vale. Permission to Officiate (Manchester), is 1983-1994. Social Responsibility Adviser the full time post of Pioneer Minister for The Rev Peter John Partington, to become Non-Stipendiary Assistant 1994-2000. Honorary Curate Brighton St Presence Bishop’s Mission Order in the Stipendiary Team Rector of the Benefice Curate in the Broughton Team for a Peter with Chapel Royal 1994-2000. City of Leicester until 31 December of the Winchcombe Team Ministry to be period of two years from the date of her Canon and Prebendary Chichester 2015. As a result of this he has ceased to Stipendiary Team Vicar in the Benefice licensing. Cathedral 1985-2000. Permission to be Anglican and Coordinating Chaplain of the South Cotswolds Team Ministry The Rev Veronica Wilson Officiate Diocese of Norwich 2000-2014. at De Montfort University. with responsibility for Coln St Aldwyns, Priest-in-Charge of the Heacham Died on 28 November. The Rev Canon Patrick Foreman, Hatherop, Eastleach, Quenington and Benefice has been appointed to a new The Rev Jeremy Whales, who currently has Permission to Southrop (Gloucester). (additional) position as Priest-in-Charge Formerly Vicar of St Luke and St John, Officiate in the Diocese of Norwich has The Rt Rev Stephen G Platten, of Snettisham Parish (Norwich). Cheltenham; and Senior Lecturer of the been appointed to a new position as Rector St Michael’s Cornhill, to be College of St Paul and St Mary, Rural Dean of the Burnham and Honorary Assistant Bishop (Newcastle). Cheltenham (Gloucester), died on 28 Walsingham Deanery. The Rev Dr Kerry Jay Samuel, November 2014. The Rev Canon Kathryn Herrod, Assistant Curate in the Benefice of RETIREMENTS & RESIGNATIONS Team Rector of Hucknall Churches, is Twickenham, St Mary in the Diocese of 9# 6";CB>=@C ?CBC. !?#%C *5* 0555 5*7- #B C'6=8 6"@2$?C+ The Rev Canon Jonathan Kimber, The Rev Canon David Robert Smith, Pagnell with Lathbury and Moulsoe )77 !CB @=%A8C $#8<'% $C%>='C>BC

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper 14 www.churchnewspaper.com Friday December 19/26, 2014 Sunday

SUNDAY SERVICE “IThedon’t getnativityChristmas”, a bornandagain, Spirit-filtheled chbelieve,urnotchbecaus’se of witnessanything we have done, but friend confided to me last week. And could that be a because we have heard God speaking to us and say- 1st Sunday of Christmas - Sunday 28 December secret feeling among many evangelicals? ing “I want to be with you and in you” and we respond 2014 Yet perhaps more than ever, today we need to like Mary “I don’t really understand why or how, but regain confidence in the power of the nativity story to OK, please do”. Isaiah 61:10-62:3 engage the culture with Gospel truth. The next thing we get from Mary’s example is that Galatians 4:4-7 For some time now we’ve known that schools and she carries her Son, shelters and nurtures him like Luke 2:15-21 community organizations have replaced the tradition- any mother does with her baby – and this gives great al Christmas scene with pageants featuring elves, joy but also is tough for her as well. This week our readings focus on the baby Jesus, who has celebrities, footballers and Santa. But how many chil- The physical demands of childbirth were com- come to save his people from their sins in fulfilment of a dren today have never seen a nativity, let alone acted pounded by the suspicion and disapproval from the grand cosmic design. in one? Does it matter? community because of the premarital pregnancy. Isaiah’s vision of the anointed conqueror continues with If we don’t “get Christmas”, and take the un-Angli- Mary was given the task of physically carrying Christ a splendid picture of him “clothed in the garments of sal- can view that the Church is only responsible for the in her womb, and then caring for him after his birth. vation”. The LORD has come to save and rescue his peo- religious education of those who attend and the We too, if we are Christians, if we have experienced ple, covered in a robe of righteousness. And it is ‘fringe’, then perhaps widespread ignorance of the that miracle of God doing something new in us, carry righteousness and praise that he causes to spring up nativity will not worry us unduly. But for those who Christ. We are all “Christophers”. We bear treasure in “before all the nations” — a clear sign that this new birth believe the Christian message is for the public square, jars of clay. So if Christ is in us, like Mary we will is an event of significance for the whole world. here are some powerful counter-cultural messages experience great joy as we carry the light of the Salvation will suddenly shine out like a burning torch in from the Christmas narrative that can build faith and world, but also will suffer as we bear the burden of the darkness, to be seen by the nations — but especially be part of Gospel witness to the nation. sorrow at our own sin, and as others look, we bear as by “the kings” it says (which is one of the reasons the Mary is rightly given a central role in the story. a witness the reproach of the world whose attitude is Magi are sometimes seen as royal visitors). A name is Christmas reminds us that God became small, as indifference or hatred. given by the Lord himself to one who will be a crown of small as a tiny fertilised egg in Mary’s womb – for us! Lastly, the nativity scene features a family. A recent beauty to him. The incarnation shows us how much God values his report about self-harming among teenage boys fea- In Luke 2 we find the shepherds rushing to Bethlehem creation and the lengths he was prepared to go, to tured an interview with a 15-year-old who freely to meet this very child, lying in a manger with Mary and come and rescue it. But while what Mary was told by admitted that the main reason for his rage and low Joseph standing nearby. They share their amazing story the angel was certainly unique, the way she respond- self esteem is the absence of his father since birth. and the angelic proclamation about the new baby. Mary ed is a great example of how an ordinary person His own father failed to take responsibility for his stored up these things in her heart, pondering them and should live in the light of the supernatural Good News biological son, while Joseph took responsibility for meditating on the dramatic events and divine signs that of Jesus. And also what happened to her is a picture of Jesus, and brought him up to appreciate his culture had accompanied the birth of her little boy. No doubt she the Christian life for all of us. and family history so he knew who he was. often thought about them as she heard the scriptures read For the only time in history, a baby was created Despite overwhelming evidence about the impor- in the synagogue in years to come, and reflected on their with only one human being involved. It points to the tance of a mother and father in a stable relationship significance in God’s rescue plan. way that spiritual life is created. Many are still under for a child’s healthy development, government and After eight days, the baby was circumcised in accor- the impression that getting right with God is about many Christians seem timid about promoting mar- dance with the law of Moses and the promise given to what we do, but here we’re reminded of something riage and family. The nativity stands as an icon of and Abraham. He was called Jesus, because the angel who had God does in us – the miracle of new birth. So what vision for an important aspect of human flourishing, announced his conception had said that was to be his happened in Mary literally and physically is a picture not to be worshipped, but confidently commended to name. He was, as Isaiah had prophesied, given a name of what happens in all Christians spiritually through disciples and to society outside church. from the mouth of the Lord himself. The name means faith – God miraculously starts living in those who anglicanmainstream.org “The Lord is our salvation.” The apostle Paul reflects on these same moments in our passage from Galatians 4. Christ came “in the fullness of time” — not a moment too late, nor a moment too soon. He was sent by God to be born of woman — to take human flesh, willingly and obediently. As George Herbert A priest’s Christmas conundrum puts it in his poem, The Bag, “the God of power, as he did By Bob Mayo by writing him into The Lion The festival is a hope for the future. If ride / In his majestic robes of glorie, Reserv’d to light; Witch and The Wardrobe. Father things were so different in the past and so one day / He did descend, undressing all the way.” I am faced with my annual conun- Christmas’ appearance in Narnia when Jesus was born in Bethle- But why did he undress and remove his robes of glory? drum of whether it matters my seems incongruous because there hem they can be so again in the Because “He had new clothes a making here below”. being Father Christmas at the is no mention made otherwise future when Jesus returns to earth In the womb of the Virgin he took frail flesh, because school fete one week and then either of Christ or of Christmas. again. without it he could not die for those given to him by the vicar in church the next. The same Father Christmas comes just as Scripture conveys truth through Father. children will be sitting on my knee the spell of the White Witch such literary forms such as poetry, After his descent to the earthly realm, as travellers are telling me what they want for begins to weaken. The snow starts parable, historical narrative, wont to do, he rested for a while in an inn. And he became Christmas one day and then hear- to melt and he arrives with sleigh visionary apocalyptic, praise, obedient to his Father’s law for the place where he ing me preach in church on anoth- bells jingling. He was “a huge man mocking, satire, irony, prophecy, arrived, but only in order to redeem those who were er. Father Dennis Higgins felt in a bright red robe (bright as wisdom sayings and so on; over 75 under that law — to make the slaves into sons. And so the strongly enough about the issue to holly berries) with a hood that had per cent of the Bible consists of Son of God redeems, so the Spirit can indwell, and each tell a primary school assembly that fur inside it and a great white stories (Mayo, Savage, Collins heart call out “Abba! Father!” in fulfilment of the Trinitari- Father Christmas was not real. beard that fell like a foamy water- 2004). an plan to adopt us and make us heirs of salvation. The parents were outraged but fall over his chest.” Newbigin wrote that the local Did Mary make all these astonishing connections as she they seemed to be driven more by CS Lewis blends different liter- church is the hermeneutic of the turned these events over in her mind? Do we see the eter- nostalgia for childhood than a con- ary and cultural traditions in the Gospel. It is our different congre- nal grandeur of what is unfolding in the Christmas story, cern about the true meaning of Chronicles of Narnia, one of which gations gathering together in the or do we miss the deeper truths hidden in our homely Christmas. is his here reclaiming Christmas name of Christ that have the nativity scenes? One parent was reported as say- as a celebration that is forward- responsibility for talking about and ing “how dare he say such things looking and outward reaching. living out the forgiving love of The Rev Dr Lee Gatiss is the editor of the NIV to such young children? To try and The children receive presents but God. We imagine how the story of Proclamation Bible and Director of Church Society take away the magic of Christmas they are tools that they will need to Christ could be true. We believe (www.churchsociety.org). is just plain mean”. use in the near future to bring that it might be and then we act as Nostalgia for a lost childhood is about the downfall of the wicked if it is. It is a love affair between big business. Card retailers Clin- white witch. Peter is given a shield God and man and therein is the tons have noted a 17 per cent and a sword. Susan is given a real meaning of Christmas. Happy increase over the last 10 years in quiver full of arrows and a little Christmas to all. HYMN SELECTION snow-themed Christmas cards. ivory horn to call for help. Lucy is Bob Mayo is the Vicar of St Stephen However a myth of childhood inno- given a little glass bottle of healing and St Thomas Shepherds Bush cence played out through the fig- cordial and a small dagger to with St Michael and St George ure of Father Christmas is defend herself. White City. He answers questions of Joy has dawned idealistic and regressive and con- Father Christmas appears in concern from young people at Ask Born where the shadows lie tains nothing of the Christian hope Narnia because of what was going the Doctor on thebridge-uk.com. Behold, the great Creator for the future. Nostalgia is tinged to come next and not because of Questions from young people have Joy to the world! with sadness where as Christianity what had happened previously. included: Is it all right to go out Praise, my soul, the King of heaven is suffused with an eschatological Christmas is not magic, as one with a non-Christian? How can I Thou didst leave thy throne faith in the future. irate parent had said. The Christ- tell whether a thought is from me, CS Lewis gives a hint as to how mas story is a battle for public God or the Devil? How do I exercise Santa Clause might best be includ- imagination in which Father self-control better and not get ed in our Christmas celebrations Christmas can play his part. The angry?

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper www.churchnewspaper.com Friday December 19/26, 2014 Reviews 15 The epic Hobbit series comes to its conclusion FILM OFTHE WEEK

The Hobbit – The Battle of the Five Armies (dir. Peter Jackson, cert. 12A) mercifully ends the epic series. It seems an age since the dragon Smaug (voiced by Bene- dict Cumberbatch) was woken from his slumbers over his enormous pile of gold, and I’d forgotten (a) why he was asleep, (b) who woke him, and (c) why he’s got it in for the people of Lake-town. Stephen Fry (as the Master of Lake-town) being throttled and then drowned may be a highlight – he was trying to run away from the dragon’s fiery wrath with his own collection of treasure – followed swiftly by Bard (Luke Evans) shooting down the dragon. Unfortunate- ly, Smaug is the best character and he’s dead within the first reel. There’s the usual daft stuff – Bard knocks a hole through a tiled roof that has no rafters or battens to sup- port the tiles, and during a fight Legolas (Orlando Bloom) jumps upward from stone to stone as a If that’s not to your taste, then the Christmas releases Annie will be strictly for fans of the musical (that one - makeshift bridge collapses. There’s a lot of fights - do offer some variety. The biblical epic is back, and Exo- though Guys and Dolls is reissued), while Tim Burton’s which of the five armies is on which side barely seems dus: Gods and Kings has already had about a quarter of Big Eyes tells the story of Margaret Keane, whose hus- to matter – but the serried CGI ranks of Elves and Orcs its content released to the media. We’ve got Moses, per- band Walter claimed credit for the pictures of big-eyed go at it with gusto, until there is only a handful (of any- haps with concussion, seeing God in the burning bush children she’d painted, and made them both a fortune. one) standing. as a “petulant” 11-year-old boy, and Christian Bale who It looks high on production value, has got both leads So it comes down to single combat – my money’s on plays Moses quoted as saying the man was “schizo- Amy Adams and Christoph Waltz Golden Globe nomi- the Elf – but the Dwarves wisely stay out of it. That’s phrenic” and “barbaric”. nations, and we wait to see if it mentions Margaret’s apart from Thorin (Richard Armitage), who goes mad His relationship with half-brother Ramses (Joel becoming a Jehovah’s Witness. from the gold, but redeems himself by noble self-sacri- Edgerton) takes up rather more than in the book, and If cheery Christmas fare is less important than an fice, while the cowardly Alfrid (Ryan Gage) survives, there’s rather more bloody conflict than in the original inspiring story of determination and survival, then and rich with it. story, but in the end it is God who sends the plagues Unbroken may be the one to look for, as Angelina Jolie Bilbo (Martin Freeman) also survives to return to the (“It’s out of my control,” says Moses). It looks spectacu- directs an adaptation of Laura Hillenbrand’s biography Shire, to find he’s presumed dead and his house con- lar, but unlikely to satisfy anyone’s expectations. of Olympic runner Louis Zamperini, who survived a tents are being auctioned off. Cut to old Bilbo (Ian Dumb and Dumber To may be the comedy highlight wartime plane crash, 47 days in a life-raft, and two years Holm) and the opening scene of the first Lord of the of the year, depending on how high the gross-out dial is in a Japanese prison camp. Or you could find a cinema Rings movie, as Gandalf (Ian McKellen) knocks on the set. For family viewing Night at the Museum: Secret of showing It’s a Wonderful Life. door. the Tomb looks a crowd-pleaser. Steve Parish

Darton, Longman and Todd are producing (Faith Words, £11.99 from the CEN Shop). This is an BOOK OFTHE WEEK ‘resources for an inclusive church’. In two new intelligent, readable book that sheds much volumes Susan Durber looks at new light on a very old problem. Clergy who Poverty (£8.99 or £6.95 from the CEN have to confront this problem many times in Gerald Bray’s God Has Shop) and Susannah Cornwall examines their ministry will find this book very useful. Spoken (IVP, £33.86 or £32.12 Sexuality (£8.99 or £6.96 from the CEN from the CEN store) is a Shop). Both volumes contain a 1936 Olympic Athlete, Japanese prisoner of history of Christian theology theological examination of the topic and war, a man who spent his life helping others, that occupies over 1,250 pages. practical suggestions for parishes. Louis Zamperini died at the age of 97 but Every library will need a copy before he died he shared his story with but many In Julian’s Gospel David Rensin. The result is Don’t Give Up, students, (Orbis, £23.99 or £17.73 Don’t Give In (Lion, £12.99 or £12.08 from ministers and from the CEN Shop) the CEN shop) in which we can learn the students of Veronica Mary Rolf has lessons of an extraordinary life. theology will want written a life of Julian of to own their own Norwich that seeks to To buy any of these titles visit the CEN Shop at copy of this amazing work of explore her relevance www.churchnewspaper.com/shop scholarship. Although comprehensive, it for today. When it was is never obscure and the author adopts first published in 2013 an interesting way of organising his this book received material under seven enthusiastic reviews. It headings: the Israelite legacy; is now available in the Person of the Father; the paperback. Work of the Father; the Person of the Son: the Work of the Son: 100 Ways to Get Your Church Noticed by Neil the Person of the Holy Spirit; Pugmire (Church House Publishing, £17.99 or the Work of the Holy Spirit: One £14.88 from the CEN Shop) is a practical guide to God in Three Persons. Highly help churches communicate and put themselves on recommended. the map. Outreach to the community, social media, communications strategy and liaising with the media Also from IVP is Hidden but are among the topics covered. The author runs Now Revealed: A Biblical national training events for the C of E. He was a Theology of Mystery (£17.25 or journalist for nine years and now works as £17.10 from the CEN shop) by GK Beale and communications adviser for the Diocese of Benjamin L Gladd. How did it come about that even Portsmouth. This is a new and updated edition of a Jesus’ disciples seem unable to understand his book many have found very useful. identity? The authors examine the idea of mystery as a partially hidden revelation that is subsequently Ravi Zacharias has a big reputation as an apologist more fully revealed. They look at the influence of and Christian writer. He has teamed up with Vince Daniel on the New Testament. Vitale, senior tutor at the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics to write Why Suffering?

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper COLLEGE STREET SW1 The Vicar with links CITY OF WESTMINSTER to the Time Lord As we get closer and closer to the Christ- the life of a vicar, what they mas season, Doctor Who fans are believe and do in their preparing for the highly anticipated 2014 profession. Besides all Christmas Special episode, and a certain of her parish work, Car- vicar within the Diocese of Gloucester oline also balances look- can relate. ing after the couple’s The Rev Caroline Symcox, pictured, two-year-old son, may have just become a team vicar with Thomas. the South Cotswold Team based at St She admits that with Mary’s Church in Fairford, but she also all of these chaotic mov- has the famed Time Lord in her past. ing pieces in her life, Along with her typical duties as a writing, and the Doctor, member of the clergy, Caroline has also have taken a necessary leant her spare time to writing audio backseat. books for the Doctor Who series. She said: “Writing is She started this path by a very happy certainly something I coincidence. She just happened to meet would like to get back into, Gary Russell, an audio editor for the Big but training as a curate and Finish audio book company, at a Doctor now taking on my own parish, Who convention, Gallifrey One. She was I do need to focus on other very interested in writing her own audio things. book for the series that has become a UK institu- follows the fifth doctor, Peter Davidson, as he jour- She is excited to start her new work within the tion. When she pitched the idea to Russell, he com- neys to the year 325 AD to attend the first great Fairford community. missioned it on the spot. Church council with all of his companions. But “I’m looking forward to getting started here. Her interest in the topic was almost certainly none of them are prepared for the chaos that erupts There is a lovely sense here of the church being at influenced by her husband, famous science fiction in the streets in the name of faith, or the Doctor’s the heart of the town, and I want to see it taking an writer Paul Cornell. urge to rewrite history. active role at the centre of this community.” She said: “It does help that I am married to Paul. Despite her writing successes, Doctor Who is Though she has left the Doctor Who world I co-wrote a story featuring the Eighth Doctor with only a small part in her very busy life. Caroline is behind for now, you can believe that she will be set- him, called Season for Fear. coming to the Cotswold Team from a curacy in tling in for the 2014 Christmas Special alongside Her original audio book, The Council of Nicaea, Amersham, Buckinghamshire. She also writes The every other Whovian in the UK to reunite with her was also influenced by her church background. It Vicar’s FAQ, which intends to explain more about old, familiar friend, the Doctor.

FREE CEN ONLINE FOR ALL STUDENTS! Email your course details to [email protected] architect of the Refor------and destroys it must Israelites from Egypt mation (8) let the slave go free...' (8) PRIZE CROSSWORD No. 930 by Axe 11 'In that day the Lord will [Exod/NIV] (3,3) 14 Members of the Church punish...Leviathan, the 2'He sent messengers of Jesus Christ of Latter- gliding ------...' [Isa/NIV] throughout Manassah, Day Saints (7) (7) calling them to ---- ...' 16 'Then Peter stood up 13 Gift of the Magi [Matt] [Judg/NIV] (4) with the ------...' (5) 3'In...the reign of [Acts/NIV] (6) 15 Easter, for example, is a Tiberius Caesar...when 18 'The king of Israel said movable '-----' (5) Lysanias [was] tetrarch to Jehoshaphat. 'I will 17 Irish apostle who con- of ------...' [Luke/NIV] enter the ------in dis- verted the Picts (7) (7) guise...' [1Kgs/NIV] (6) 20 The first king of Judah 4'They made the -----, the 19 'Jesus replied, '----- have [1 Kgs] (8) sacred emblem, out of dens and birds have 21 Third son of Adam and pure gold...' nests...' [Luke/NIV] (5) Eve (4) [Exod/NIV] (5) 21 Noah's eldest son [Gen] 22 'At that very hour there 5'------have purified the (4) was a ------earthquake...' Levites...they are come [Rev/NIV] (6) to do their work...' Last week’s solutions: 23 'It is easier for a camel [Num/NIV] (5,3) Across: 5 Bartholomew, 7 Kind, 8 to go through the eye of 6'He has granted us new Explored, 9 Jerome, 11 Shinto, 12 a ------...'[Mark/NIV] (6) life to rebuild the house Safely, 15 Hyenas, 17 Potiphar, 18 of our God and ------its Abba, 19 Deuteronomy. Down ruins...' [Ezra/NIV] (6) Down: 1 Arad, 2 Phoebe, 3 Clopas, 4 1'An owner who hits a 12 Jewish festival celebrat- Ammonite, 5 Bride, 6 Wheat, 10 male or female slave in - ing the exodus of the Onesimus, 13 Aloud, 14 Yahweh, 15 Hermon, 16 Abbey, 18 Amos.

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N am e Across 8'The man... ------[Dan/NIV] (6) A d d r e s s his right hand 9Supreme god of 7Angel of the and left hand ancient Greek 9770964 816108 P o s t C o de second order toward heav- mythology (4) (6) en...' 10 Follower of the [email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper

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