The Walking Welcoming Growing

Vol.26 No.5 Newspaper of the Anglican Diocese of Southwark June 2021

Parish news Justice for all Fond farewell From Pentecost How the Diocese of biscuits to virtual is working to Southwark leads pilgrimages combat racism goodbye service See pages 4-5 See pages 6-7 See page 12

Young people join the climate debate at Kingston Youth Forum

Bishop Christopher speaks out on Palestine crisis

In May, violence erupted in Israel and the West Bank while Christopher was in the Holy Land for the installation of the new Archbishop in Jerusalem, the Most Revd Hosam Naoum. “We learn a lot about climate Suggestions for looking after the brilliant to hear the young people’s change in schools. However, I think environment included remembering voices and opinions…how do we On 16 May, as the UN Security Council it should be discussed more in to switch lights off, walking or cycling embrace their prophetic challenge and met to discuss the Israel-Palestine conflict, church, so we further understand whenever possible and buying second- protest? How do we talk about the and while he was himself still in Jerusalem, Bishop Christopher spoke to BBC News how to take action against climate hand. The young people also encouraged societal, economic and political changes churches to become eco-churches, that are needed and the journey of about the situation. change” ― group feedback from the and consider solar roofing panels and conversion that we all need to go on?” Kingston Episcopal Area Youth Forum. He said: “I have heard the sound of stun better insulation. grenades at night, debris on the streets This was a recurrent theme in the However, they also commented that, How to get involved... during the day, and we are just a short discussion among the young people who whilst adults and organisations said distance from the Damascus gate.” attended the first Kingston Youth Forum The CYP Team and Area they cared about the environment, He spoke of the tension and locked-in on Tuesday 18 May, which took place there was little action. Aware that the invite young people online and debated climate justice. nature of Gaza, as well as the economic global climate crisis causes droughts, from Croydon and Woolwich to disadvantage and unemployment that was Churches and the CofE secondary water depletion and soil erosion add their voice to the climate causing deep-seated resentments. He schools in the Kingston Episcopal Area affecting the least responsible and most justice discussion. Saturday 19 added: “It is about the underlying issues of were invited to select up to three young vulnerable, they called for there to be June on Zoom; Croydon Youth creating a long-lasting peace with justice.” people aged 13-plus to attend, along with more conversation in both schools and Forum (2.00-3.15pm), Woolwich Asked if he felt despairing, the Bishop an adult supporter. On the day, 20 young churches around how to care better Youth Forum (4.00-5.15pm); people shared their concerns and ways in for God’s amazing creation. said: “People of faith are always agents e-mail keli.bolton@southwark. of hope, and I have been here as part of which their churches and schools could Aaron, 15, from Immanuel, Streatham, anglican.org do more to engage. that demonstration. I do not feel despair, said: “The forum had a successful first I feel extreme sadness, disappointment, Feeling challenged as to how Among those present were Bishop session. The debates we had were frustration that underlying issues are yet best listen to the children and Richard; Archdeacon ; Ian interesting and enriching as we got to to be addressed.” Christie, Area Environment Officer; hear from different people from different young people in your church? and Laura Baggaley, Environment backgrounds. It aided my personal Check out the latest Welcoming Administration Coordinator, who are opinion and I hope has had an impact on Children and Young People More about Bishop part of the team behind the Diocesan the Church as a community.” toolkit, Decision-making & Christopher’s visit can environment policy that will be Vanessa Elston, at St Anne and Inclusion: bit.ly/CYPToolkit be found on page 10. presented to Diocesan Synod in July. All Saints, South Lambeth, said: “It was

Find more on our blog at southwark.anglican.org/blog or find us on social media @SouthwarkCofE 2 | The BRIDGE June 2021

A view from NEWS IN BRIEF The Help your church to win up to £7,500 BRIDGE Ecclesiastical has launched its third annual Movement for Good awards, with £1,000 to be donated to 500 charities. Only one nomination can be made per e-mail address, so Ecclesiastical urges churches to spread the word to as many The last time I wrote this Conflict is the cause of displacement people as possible. Nominations close on 13 June. Nominate your church here: editorial, it was spring and the for many people across the globe. https://movementforgood.com daffodils were in full bloom. Now, When I worked in East Africa I was Meanwhile, up to £7,500 can be won in Ecclesiastical’s Good News 2021 roses are taking centre-stage, responsible for sharing the stories of competition, which seeks to celebrate what churches have done to support heralding summer. refugees living in camps throughout the region. Some of the people I met their communities over the past year. This is open until 17 September. Find more As we start to open up more, people were waiting to be resettled in the information and enter at: www.ecclesiastical.com/church/competition are thinking of where to go on their UK, Canada, the US and Australia. Calling all clergy: get paid to take a break holidays. Staycations are likely to They attended classes to learn the be a favourite choice and I’m sure customs and ways of their soon-to- The MBAs have been running for more than 30 years and are open to all members many in this Diocese will opt for the be-adopted homes. They shared their of the clergy from Anglican Christian faiths. The awards will provide financial countryside. My children reminded stories from the point of departure, support for sabbatical breaks and projects planned for 2022. All applicants for a me recently that, during our time in but of course they continue. Churches Bursary Award must submit their application forms by 30 September 2021. Kenya, we often went camping and on play a key role in helping refugees For more information including eligibility criteria and to download an application form safari “up-country”, something they resettle. Learn more on page 8. please visit www.ecclesiastical.com/mba haven’t really done since we returned In May, I attended a service marking to the UK. the first anniversary of George Floyd’s Find out more about the Diocese’s new lay ministries We are blessed to be a Diocese that murder. Children from two schools This online event on Saturday 19 June, introduced by Bishop Christopher, is open not only includes the urban towns of in the Diocese took part, as did to those who feel they may have a calling to become a lay minister, or Incumbents South London but also the East Surrey Bishop Christopher and Archdeacon who wish to encourage lay people in their congregations. 10.00am-1.00pm, Zoom. countryside. The Revd Susie Williams . See page 11. Find out more and book your place here: https://southwark.anglican.org/new-lay-ministries was licensed at Diocesan Synod in As a Black British woman, racism is March as the Diocese’s new Faith in a reality. It is not as overt as it was Living in Love and Faith taster day the Countryside Officer. Read about during my childhood in the 1970s, To sign up for this online taster event from the national LLF team on 26 June, her on page 9. Caring for our planet but it is still very real. I was moved 2.00pm-5.30pm, please e-mail Zoe Skilton at [email protected]. was on the agenda at the Kingston listening to Chine McDonald speaking Youth Forum. Read what they had to LLF material can be found on the CofE website at https://www.churchofengland.org/ to Rosemarie Mallett at Southwark say on the front page. resources/living-love-and-faith. More can also be found on the Diocesan website at Cathedral about her book God is Not southwark.anglican.org/llf The new Archbishop in Jerusalem, a White Man and other Revelations. Archbishop Hosam Naoum, was Racial Justice should not be an add-on Parishes asked to respond to Protect Duty consultation installed in a beautiful service on that we do as well as other activities, As part of the Government’s plans to protect public places from terrorist Ascension Day against a backdrop but embedded in our very core as attacks, it has launched a consultation on its new “Protect Duty”, under which of conflict in Jerusalem and on the churches. The centre-spread discusses public venues with a capacity of more than 100 are legally required to ensure West Bank (see page 10). Please keep this further. preparedness for, and protection from, terrorist attacks. According to David Knight him, his family, and everyone in our We also said farewell to the of the Church Buildings Association and Luke Miller, Archdeacon of link Diocese in your prayers. Bishop Archdeacon of Southwark, London, this could lead to unintended consequences for churches and they urge Christopher travelled to Jerusalem for (see page 12) and Diocesan Director parishes in every Diocese to respond to the consultation with their views. the service and while there and on his of Finance, Tony Demby (page 9). return did several media interviews Find out more and respond online: www.gov.uk/government/consultations/protect-duty Please join me in wishing them well. about the situation (see page 1). Sophia Jones New book launched by the Archdeacon of Reigate The Venerable , Archdeacon of Reigate, has published a new book, From Nazareth to Northumbria: How Christianity Came to Britain and Stayed. The Notice about images book reflects on the places mentioned in John’s gospel before investigating how Christianity might have arrived and taken root in Britain. It is on sale from Amazon Please note: some photographs in the paper where people are for £20 at https://amzn.to/34hHxqg; proceeds will go towards the Croydon-Central not socially distanced were taken before the pandemic. Zimbabwe Diocesan link.

The Bridge is produced & published by: Next Issue: Submission deadline and guidance Press and Communications, The Diocese of Southwark, Trinity House, The JULY edition is due to be published online on 1 July 2021. Material for that 4 Chapel Court, Borough High Street, London SE1 1HW edition must be with Sophia Jones by e-mail by MONDAY 21 JUNE. Tel: 020 7939 9400 E-mail: [email protected] Space limitations mean that we cannot guarantee to publish everything we receive The Editorial Team from Press Editorial Group: and material may be edited. All photographs submitted for publication are assumed to and Communications: Ruth Martin have the necessary permission for printing. So, please ensure that people are happy Commissioning Editor: Editorial Adviser (vacant) for their photographs to be submitted before you do so. Sophia Jones Sophia Jones Forms for permission for the use of photographs of children and adults who may be Editor: Abigail Sanderson vulnerable can be found at southwark.anglican.org/safeguarding/diocesan-policies- Advertising and Distribution: procedures Susana Rojas

The Bridge — in print, in your parish, and online at southwark.anglican.org/thebridge June 2021 The BRIDGE | 3

Bishop Richard accepts invitation to join new Anglican IN FOCUS... Communion Science Commission committee News from the Diocese The new Anglican Communion Leaders in an Age of Science Science Commission, which (ECLAS) project, which provides was announced on 21 May, has opportunities for church leaders invited Bishop Richard to be to connect with science (www. an inaugural member of its eclasproject.org). Service marks four years 20-strong committee. Bishop Richard said: “The According to its draft pandemic with its mantra of since London Bridge attack constitution, the purpose of ‘following the science’ has the new commission is to reminded us all of the central The , “resource the whole Anglican importance of science in our , led a service Communion for courageous and world, both for the practical on 3 June, jointly organised by confident spiritual leadership results such as vaccinations and Southwark Council, marking the in issues involving science”. our deeper understandings of the fourth anniversary of the London Committee members will be mysteries of life and the universe. Bridge terrorist attack. a mix of scientists, theologians So it is critical for the Churches and bishops with an interest and Christian faith to have a Also present were dignitaries including in science. strong and positive engagement the Mayor, Sadiq Khan, and Councillor with science.” Kieron Williams, Leader of Southwark The Commission will Council, who joined the families of victims formally launch at 2022’s He added: “For some years in laying flowers at the base of the olive Lambeth Conference. In the I have been a co-director of tree which was planted as a permanent meantime, the Most Revd ECLAS, which has provided memorial in the Cathedral courtyard on , Archbishop of many resourcse for it. The newly the first anniversary of the attack. Dean Andrew by the olive tree. Canterbury, is inviting his formed Anglican Communion The Dean said: “ was fellow Anglican Communion Science Commission will give a their lives, eight people working here, at the heart of the events of that evening Primates to nominate real opportunity to develop four years ago. We continue to stand as enjoying this place, relaxing in its inclusive a Bishop from their that across the world in a place of loving remembrance for the atmosphere. They were eight people from Church to serve as their the next few years. I whole of the community who continue to around the world, as were the 48 people live with the reality of what happened but whose injuries we know about, and the provincial representative am enormously looking look to the future with hope.” many people who were mentally and at the Commission’s forward to serving on it, emotionally scarred that evening.” conferences. praying that it will bring In introducing the service, he also paid stronger understanding tribute to the victims, saying: “On the The service can be viewed on YouTube at: Bishop Richard has of the benefits and evening of 3 June 2017, eight people lost www.youtube.com/watch?v=msyOZd96T-0 long been a nature of science, champion of and crucially the the importance relationship of Artwork in Southwark Cathedral offers “message of hope” of science in science with our discussions of deep Christian © Ben Stevens, The Times faith. He is a beliefs about co-director God’s creation of the and the impact Equipping of that for Christian God’s mission.”

A message about the PSF from the Diocesan Secretary

Thank you for your sustained generosity to the Parish Support Fund which has enabled continued strong collection rates rising to more than 98% in March and April, writes Ruth Martin.

As we think ahead to 2022 please could I ask you to include the discussion of your 2022 pledge as an agenda item at your PCC meetings in the months of July, August or September. We will be sending out the 2022 Parish Support Fund Southwark Cathedral unveiled a major installation by artist and former material digitally at the beginning of July and asking parishes to send in their Turner Prize nominee Mark Titchner on 2 June. pledges by Wednesday 15 September.

The installation, entitled Please Believe These Days Will Pass, was originally intended We appreciate that this will be a tight deadline and financial forward planning to be staged as the Cathedral’s Lent installation earlier this year. With normal may be difficult for you, but we hope by then there may be a better sense of life only now tentatively resuming, Dean Andrew Nunn said: “Mark Titchner’s how your finances may look for 2022 with rentals etc restarted. Equally, without monumental installation in Southwark Cathedral will be a stark reminder that your pledges it will be difficult for us to enable the budget to be we need to look beyond these islands to a world still suffering. But it is also a presented and discussed by the governance committees ahead message of hope.” of Diocesan Synod. We will be asking you to submit your The artwork was first seen on billboards and posters across Britain in the early pledges online, as last year. If you have any questions please days of lockdown in 2020. Mark Titchner said: “I am excited and grateful for the contact Head of Giving Gabby Parikh or your Archdeacon. opportunity to present a new large-scale version of this work to a new audience Thank you again for enabling us to continue to resource our within the resonant, historical setting of Southwark Cathedral.” Diocese’s mission and ministry through your Parish Support “Please Believe These Days Will Pass” will be on display in the Cathedral to 23 July 2021 Fund pledge donations. 4 | The BRIDGE June 2021

St Mary, Barnes Reader celebrates 18 years of service IN FOCUS... News from our parishes Putting sidespeople centre stage in Blackheath At All Saints, Blackheath’s APCM on Sunday 23 May, parishioner Edward Gormley made a short speech reflecting on his first ten- and-a-half years of organising the sidesperson’s rota, and thanking them for all their hard work and commitment.

I officially became responsible for organising the sidesperson’s rota on Sunday 15 August 2010, writes Edward Gormley.

The first rota I organised ran from 12 September to 12 December 2010. I have now organised 39. The sidespeople welcome the congregation and visitors into church on Sunday mornings, and occasionally at other times. May they strive to bring those outside who never worship into membership. After nearly 18 years as a Reader at St Mary, Barnes, Christabel The first mention of sidespeople at All Gairdner has now decided to step back from some of her duties. In Saints was in 1889. Ten were elected. a joyful celebration in May, Christabel was thanked for her Reader I invited the congregation to join me in Ministry and was presented with a certificate signed by Bishop thanking God for all the sidespeople Christopher, conferring her new Reader Emeritus status. who have served in the church in the past 132 years. The image above shows (left to right) Christabel, the Revd James Footnote... of the 38 sidespeople who Hutchings and Marilyn Burkett, Area Warden of Readers for the have served in All Saints in the past ten- Kingston Episcopal Area. and-a-half years, one is now a Verger at Southwark Cathedral, and one is a . I think it’s very special that two former Edward Gormley giving his speech sidespeople have moved on to these at the APCM, which fell on Baking faith into Pentecost at St Clement, Dulwich exciting next steps. Pentecost.

St Catherine, Hatcham takes Pentecost into the open air

Parishioners at St Clement with St Peter, Dulwich, got a tasty treat this Pentecost, when the Revd Cécile Schnyder served up home-made Pentecost celebrations at St Catherine, Hatcham took part outdoors biscuits after the all-age worship service. She said: “The past year we this year, with the congregation joining in with songs and the Gospel really missed out on community and we still have no coffee after the before moving indoors for the sermon, intercessions, anointing with oil service. So I was looking to create something beautiful, something and Holy Communion. The Revd Sheridan James (above left, seated) that could be shared... By taking a biscuit home to share with others, said: “We came out again for This Little Light of Mine, plus ‘Come, Holy ‘Here is a flame biscuit from my church because today is Pentecost’, Spirit!’ in as many languages as we could!” that’s not a bad introduction to faith, I think.” June 2021 The BRIDGE | 5

Exploring the Cathedrals of Birthday celebrations for St Francis parishioner aged 102

St Francis of Assisi, England, online and by bike West Wickham, wished its oldest church member, Joyce Town, a happy 102nd birthday on Sunday 16 May.

Joyce, pictured right, is now in a care home, but her daughter says she is well and still has her sense of humour, and is highly thought of in the home.

“Hopefully we will be able to visit you again soon, Joyce,” said a representative of St Francis. Southwark Cathedral, which was one of the stopping points on All Saints’ virtual pilgrimage. © Len Abrams

On 19 May, All Saints, West Dulwich diverse, but they had two things in Warm hands and warm hearts at St Luke, Eltham Park had its first virtual pilgrimage in common. First, they profoundly valued place of our usual annual “actual” their sacred heritage, and, second, they pilgrimage, writes the Revd Dr Alan believed in their distinctive mission. These Everett, . complementary qualities were inspiring. We were greatly encouraged by their Uploaded to our YouTube channel, the day generosity to us, the viewers. Their began with Morning Prayer and concluded offerings were produced at a difficult with the Eucharist, Night Prayer and a time: during the last lockdown, or soon Blessing by Bishop Christopher. afterwards. Despite the immense pressure Under the theme of Cathedrals of Britain, they were under, the Cathedral staff, lay we enlisted the support of eight cathedrals and ordained, spent valuable time and from around the United Kingdom. energy producing wonderful insights into Southwark, Wakefield, Salisbury, Armagh, their work. Edinburgh, Bristol, St Albans and Durham Watching these recordings and all sent us recordings. participating in the virtual pilgrimage was We learned about their history, and their a joyful, moving and prayerful experience mission, ministry and outreach to the for us all. So much so that this autumn we The old inefficient heating system that heats up the whole church evenly, local community. They told us about their hope to have a second pilgrimage, to the at St Luke, Eltham Park was rather than having pockets of heat in a experience of the pandemic and their Shrines of Britain. in desperate need of replacing, largely cool building. hopes for the future. They prayed for us. The “virtual” pilgrimage can been found at: writes Chris Warrell, Churchwarden. Our “Warm Hands, Warm Hearts” The Cathedrals and their stories were www.all-saints.org.uk/virtual-pilgrimage-2021 Heating Appeal has been extremely Six of the 14 overhead gas heaters generously supported to meet the (dating back to 1982) had stopped £80,000 total cost from individual Missioner takes to his bike for cycling pilgrimage working and the level of warmth was donations, fundraising events patchy to say the least. In 2019 the and grant applications success decision was made to replace the The Revd Jay Colwill (right), with Allchurches Trust, The Rank whole system with something more Canon Missioner and Director Foundation, Goldman Sachs, Viridor, efficient. The process of getting advice, of Mission, is doing a pilgrimage the Garfield Weston Foundation and applying for the Faculty, and obtaining of his own this summer. He will the Beatrice Laing Trust. quotations and grants took more than be cycling as much as he can of a year, but by late 2020 everything was Our Vicar, the Revd Liz Oglesby- the new 2,000-mile Cathedrals in place to go ahead. Elong (pictured above left alongside Cycle Route, which links all 42 Chris Warrell), along with my fellow The contract was awarded to the firm English Cathedrals and which was Churchwarden Lynette Polderman and of HeatinGlobal Ltd of Manchester launched on 30 May at Newcastle the PCC, are delighted that there has who carried out the work in February Cathedral with a relay event, been so much support for this project and March 2021. They were a very to heat the church building. Cycling with Purpose. efficient and hard-working team who The new route was devised by finished the job one week early! It will ensure that, with warm hands and warm hearts, our worship, our Shaun Cutler of Northumbria University, who also led a band of cyclists We now have 18 fan-assisted radiators welcome and our outreach to our in the first leg of the relay event. They were joined by Jay, who said: “I find around the church, with electric local parish and the wider community heaters in the crêche, kitchen and the greatest sense of stillness when I’m on the move, on my bike. As the will be sustained and grow, guided toilet. The twin gas boilers are located pedals turn, so my mind turns with them.” by the light of Christ. Thanks be to in an upper room. For the first time in God. Alleluia! Find the route here: www.cyclinguk.org/cathedrals-cycle-route-challenge many years we have a heating system 6 | The BRIDGE June 2021

“But God has put the body together… so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern DISCIPLESHIP & for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it.” MINISTRY ― 1 Corinthians 12: 24-26 Racial justice Moving forward with our brothers and sisters to tackle injustice everywhere

Over the past year, since George sets out a 12-point plan to bring changes report in April (see bit.ly/3cqvqMa), which members has told of her own experiences Floyd’s murder in May 2020, there to Diocesan, deanery and parish life. concludes that, while racism still exists of racism. The Revd Sandra Schloss, Vicar in British society, there is little evidence at St Luke, Peckham and Area Dean has been an outpouring of grief, Speaking at Synod, the Venerable Dr of institutional racism. This conclusion is of Camberwell, says: “When I went to anger and reflection all around the Rosemarie Mallett, Archdeacon of contradicted by the Archbishops’ Anti- Bishops’ Advisory Panel, I wanted to world. The rallying cry has been, Croydon and Diocesan lead on Anti- Racism Taskforce’s report From Lament be considered for incumbent status. “Black Lives Matter!” Racism, said: “The plan now is to take to Action (see bit.ly/3wXusi0), which However, despite being a manager in forward our programme for future action. proposes deep changes to the culture the Civil Service, where I managed An inflection point on issues of racial This action must be taken at all levels, of the because of its several staff for many years, I was not inequity appears to have been reached, working in partnership with our parishes, ongoing institutional racism. considered as a leader. It was stated that and has doubtless influenced the our schools, our young people, our I lacked confidence. For far too long they publication of the three major reports in Cathedral, and our Area and Diocesan This recognition of systemic racism in look at us and think we are not good the UK in spring 2021 by the Government, Minority Ethnic Anglican Concerns the Church of England was highlighted enough. This needs to change.” the Diocese of Southwark and the Committees, to ensure that racism in in a BBC Panorama report about clergy National Church. any form is rooted out and diversity is experiences of racism aired only a few The , the Rt Revd At Diocesan Synod in March 2021, the truly our strength.” days before the publication of the Anti- Dr , welcomes From Racism Taskforce report. Lament to Action, saying: “It’s a watershed Diocese of Southwark unanimously The Government’s Commission on approved its Anti-Racism Charter (see Race and Ethnic Disparities published its Indeed, one of our Diocesan clergy southwark.anglican.org/antiracism), which Continued on page 7 June 2021 The BRIDGE | 7

Continued from page 6 Southwark Vision and Anti-Racism Charter Commitments What does being moment for us in the CofE to honour God anti-racist mean? and strive for a future where these gospel The Diocese is committed to actively listen to the voices of imperatives would be the order of the day challenging racism in our church those impacted and affected Being anti-racist is not the and these issues would be behind us.” and the wider society, recognises by the issues, from UKME and same as simply not being Despite differences in emphasis, each of the need to create a more diverse white communities racist. It is not enough as a the three reports recognises the need Church and is fully committed to: • providing training and Diocese not to be racist but we for action to tackle inequalities that • learning more about the way in mentoring and opportunities must actively counter, disrupt arise because of racialised differences. which past and present church for leadership development for and oppose racial injustice. Our deaneries and churches across the collusion in institutional people from diverse heritages This isn’t an easy task; it Diocese have heard the message and are racism and ethno-cultural • working to close any gaps focusing on racial justice. takes introspection as well as differentiation continues to that exist between UKME continued intentional action Deptford Area Dean and vicar of St impact on UKME community and white experiences of and is not a static description of Catherine, Hatcham, the Revd Sheridan members’ participation in engagement with the Diocese ourselves. We are not anti-racist James, says: “As a deanery we are keen to the Church. This will include • engaging our parishes and because we have a Charter, see real and tangible changes that make a relevant work on the history equipping them to engage we are anti-racist when we act significant difference to the way the Black and contributions of diverse constructively with the and brown community feel seen, heard, against racism in individual people to our Church as well Charter and the practical supported and empowered. I am reminded situations. as the history of our buildings change it hopes to bring about of the suffragettes’ slogan: ‘Deeds not words’.” and memorials • collaborating with our training Source: The Diocese of Southwark • creating safe and trusting institutions and schools Anti-Racism Charter There is the Black Voices Matter initiative spaces to have honest and on issues of diversity and at St John, East Dulwich; Racial Justice open conversations about race inclusion. Conversations at St James, Clapham; and and racism, racial inequality, Why UKME rather All Saints, Peckham has been running Read the full Anti-Racism Charter here: power and privilege, and a process called Listening for Change. southwark.anglican.org/antiracism than BAME? Emmanuel, Croydon also set up a listening group two years ago and has We mark a shift away from been running a series of sermons with What does it mean when the Church of England calls itself the acronym BAME to UKME accompanying home group materials institutionally racist? which is more inclusive of entitled Conversations about Race (Read colleagues who did not see more about what churches are doing at In 2006, General Synod issued an Synod, Archbishop Justin said themselves as falling within a southwark.anglican.org/antiracism). apology, acknowledging the part there was “no doubt” that the Black or Asian categorisation. Some churches have also publicly repented it played, through the actions Church of England was “still This includes our community of the past indignities meted out to people of individuals and agencies, deeply institutionally racist”. The members from Korea, China, of colour when the Anglican Church did in perpetuating and profiting National Church has established Hong Kong and Singapore, and not welcome of those of the Windrush from historical slavery and the an Anti-Racism Taskforce, and Latin America among others. Generation. The Revd Canon Jonathan exploitation of, and discrimination will shortly be setting up an This term (unlike BAME) has Boardman of St Paul, Clapham arranged against, people based on the Archbishops’ Commission on come into usage as it recognises a service of apology (see www.pcuuk. colour of their skin. Racial Equality which will address com/Watch-Anglican-Church-apology-to- that people coming from global the justified anger surrounding PCU-founder) for what happened to the General Synod voted in February majority ethnic heritages and the continuation of structures of Revd Carmel Jones in 1955, when, after 2020 to apologise for racism living in the United Kingdom racism and racial injustice within attending on three successive Sundays, he experienced by UKME people are only minority ethnic in Church institutions. was asked by a member of clergy not to in the Church of England since that context. return. the arrival of the Windrush Source: The Diocese of Southwark Source: The Diocese of Southwark “The importance of this apology lies in Generation. Speaking to Anti-Racism Charter Anti-Racism Charter the way it helped strengthen the openness in our Church family towards continued was “no doubt” that the Church of Concerns Committee and Area Minority institutional racism in the Church of Read more... England and our dedication to change that England was still “deeply institutionally Ethnic Anglican Concerns Committees as much as we can,” says Jonathan. racist”. He also responded to the many which enable the Diocese to ensure we calls not just for an apology but for actual are working together in common purpose • Read an interview with The Revd Andrew Moughtin-Mumby, change in the Church’s systems, structures to tackle racial injustice.” the Revd Sandra Schloss Vicar of St Peter, Walworth and member and practices. and Bishop Karowei at: of General Synod, not only apologised She adds: “It is a strategic objective of Systemic cultural change on racial Southwark Vision that we actively seek southwark.anglican.org/ to Doreen Brown for the historic antiracism inhospitable treatment her Windrush inequalities very much underpins the diversity in our Diocesan structures. Diocesan Anti-Racism Charter. Earlier this We are each of us made in the image of • Watch members of the Generation parents received at his church, Woolwich and Croydon but, on 11 February 2020, he led a motion year, the young people of the Diocese’s God and I pray that we resolutely move Woolwich and Croydon Youth Forums forward with our brothers and sisters to Youth Forums speak about at General Synod on behalf of people who racism in the Church were barred from entering the church met to talk about the Charter and about tackle injustice wherever we can.” racism in the CofE. One young participant at: www.youtube.com/ “due to the plain fact of the colour of Bishop Christopher says: “I am greatly said: “Sometimes I think people think that watch?v=GJo4Wt_IoL4 their black skin”. encouraged that the Diocesan Synod because we’re all Christians and we’re all • Learn more about the voted unanimously to endorse the Anti- The motion called upon the Church to meant to be nice that it [racism] won’t Minority Ethnic Anglican Racism Charter which we are committed “lament” and apologise for conscious translate at all into church… and if we Concerns Committee to implementing fully. Our rich ethnic and unconscious racism encountered by don’t think that that can happen then we (MEACC) at: diversity in this Diocese is God’s gift and “countless” UKME Anglicans arriving in never really address it.” bit.ly/2T6bp6u Britain from 1948 and in subsequent blessing which we celebrate.” • Send us stories of what you The Diocesan Secretary, Ruth Martin, years. (Read the full motion here: He adds: “There is no place for racist are doing in your church has emphasised some of the structural bit.ly/2TE0D7Q). attitudes and behaviours in this Diocese. to combat racism so we ways the Diocese approaches working The Charter will guide us as we journey can share them also. E-mail The , Justin collaboratively on issues of racial inequity. forwards in faith, hope and love for the sophia.jones@southwark. Welby, said that he was “sorry” and She says: “We are blessed with a vigorous people of South London and East Surrey.” anglican.org “ashamed”. He told Synod that there Diocesan Minority Ethnic Anglican 8 | The BRIDGE June 2021

Bishop Christopher speaks out on asylum issues IN FOCUS... Refugee Week Burundian refugees, who may be affected by the new asylum rules “Groups speak again and again of the joy their sponsorship has brought”

Syrian woman sets up in business selling Syrian food. © UNHCR

Bishop Christopher spoke up made by those who have passed in the House of Lords on 27 May through or have connections with against the Government “engaging a safe third country. in blarney” with its new rules on asylum claims. He said: “The refugee convention makes no such requirement of The Bishop’s intervention came those fleeing persecution that in response to a Motion of they must do so in a specified Regret moved by Lord Green of geographical radius.” Deddington in protest at a lack of transparency in recent changes to The Bishop added: “What the the asylum rules. Home Office might consider safe is not universally experienced Deploring the lack of time set as such,” and also pointed out aside to debate the issues by the “linguistic, cultural and the Government, the Bishop family ties” that influenced the In a special report to mark Refugee Week, Nicola Thomas, Head of questioned its desire to “treat as routes that people fleeing from JPIC, recalls the part she played in setting up the UK’s Community inadmissible” any asylum claims persecution might take. Sponsorship scheme while working at the Home Office.

In September 2015, when then Prime being sponsored to access English lessons, have been resettled through community of Canterbury? You will hear first-hand Minister David Cameron announced his benefits, healthcare and employment, as sponsorship; it is not a scheme for from people who have experienced the intention to expand resettlement from well as sourcing accommodation for them. everyone. transformative power of community Syria to 20,000 people, I was working in They will even meet them at the airport. sponsorship. However, the rewards are immense. In the Home Office. Take-up in the UK is still small. In the a policy change, every refugee resettled Other support is available, too. Reset I immediately asked if I could join the latest published statistics, 449 refugees under community sponsorship is now provides information and training, new Resettlement Programme, and a few in addition to the Government’s original including application workshops and an weeks later had started a new role in commitment of 20,000, and can come application-checking service, sponsorship a tiny makeshift office where about 20 Read more... from a range of countries requiring training and an advice line for any issues people were squeezed in, often two to resettlement, not just Syria. Sponsoring that arise post-arrival. a desk. groups speak again and again about the The charity’s website also has a huge joy that their sponsorship has brought to My job was to implement the amount of useful information, videos their community, and about the way that announcement that then Home and testimonies about the experience coming together to care for a refugee Secretary Theresa May had just made of sponsorship from resettled families family has transformed the welcoming at the Conservative Party conference, and sponsors. community as well as those welcomed. to create “a scheme to harness the generosity of spirit of the British people… Faith communities have been key to allow individuals, charities, faith groups, partners all along the way. The very first Get involved... churches and businesses to support community sponsorship placement was refugees directly”. at Lambeth Palace in July 2016, followed The Communities for swiftly by a Roman Catholic parish Refugees webinar is on 17 This was the birth of the UK’s Community Parishes around the Diocese in Manchester and a Salvation Army Sponsorship scheme for refugees. June at 6.00pm. Register here: are already working to help community in South London. communitysponsorship.org. Skipping forward five years, we now have a refugees and asylum-seekers. So far there are a number of sponsored uk/events scheme which is internationally recognised Read more about the work of families in South London and East Surrey as the first private sponsorship scheme in Battersea Welcomes Refugees Resources from Reset can be but none that is directly connected to the the world to follow the lead Canada set accessed here: ResetUK.org and St Peter, Lee (above) Diocese of Southwark. If you think you 40 years ago. at: southwark.anglican. might be ready to take on this challenge, Nicola Thomas is speaking The idea is that local groups sponsor a org/we-cannot-walk-alone- why not sign up to an event on 17 June at Welcoming the Stranger on refugee or family of refugees, helping them supporting-refugees-and- being run by Government-sponsored 16 June at 7.30pm. Book here: to integrate into life in the UK. During asylum-seekers-in-the-diocese charity Reset and the Church of England, bit.ly/SalArmyStranger the first year, the group will help those with an introduction by the Archbishop June 2021 The BRIDGE | 9

From farm to pew: meet Southwark’s new IN FOCUS... Faith in the Countryside Officer News from the Diocese I was licensed as Faith in the Countryside Officer for the Diocese of Southwark at the last Diocesan Synod, writes the Diocesan Finance Director Revd Susie Williams, of St Margaret, Chipstead. heads for retirement Thanks to the forethought of those who sought to keep the green spaces A move from a high-powered job in for the well-being of us all – and haven’t we been particularly grateful the City to the Church of England for that over the last 16 months might not have been for everyone, ― Chipstead is a rural parish even but for Tony Demby, the Diocese’s though we are within the M25! outgoing Finance Director, it made perfect sense. You might wonder why Southwark needs a Faith in the Countryside Tony came to the Diocese in January 2015 Officer, since most of the Diocese of cattle to focus on sheep when my to help with the Year End accounts; when is urban. Among other things I am youngest was tiny, lambing 1,400 ewes the position of Finance Director came here to stay abreast of current rural each year. vacant, he jumped at it. issues and developments so that I may advise the Bishop on concerns During that time I also started training “It spoke to me,” he said. “I was at a point within rural areas, and to support the as an Ordinand and gained my degree where I’d achieved all I’d wanted to in the mission of the Church in our rural in over a five-year period. commercial world, I’d been involved with parishes, which experience different Looking back, I cannot believe that I my parish in one way or another for about challenges and concerns from those managed to juggle so much! 20 years, as the Treasurer and on the PCC in urban areas. and as a server, and it struck me that the The first thing I learned whilst Diocese needed what time and talents I’ve He added: “If I’ve achieved anything it’s on The first thing I will be organising farming – always an unpredictable got more than the City did.” the back of what they’ve done, not on me is a meeting, in mid-October, of the and precarious way of life at the best alone. There is no ‘I’ in ‘Team’, as I’ve said incumbents of the rural parishes of times – was that trusting God is The past 15 months have not made things many times.” within Tandridge and Reigate imperative. The second thing was to easy, with audits for two sets of accounts Deaneries. If you are in another give thanks in every situation; to find having to be undertaken in lockdown. Ruth Martin, Diocesan Secretary, paid area of the Diocese and would the things for which we are grateful However, “it all got done” and 2020’s tribute to Tony in return, saying: “It has like to join us, please contact me and to recognise God’s many blessings. accounts have recently been signed off by been a privilege to work closely with Tony after 1 September at rector@ The third thing was not to be anxious, all the appropriate Diocesan committees. to ensure that the stewardship of our financial resources serves the needs of smchipstead.org because anxiety doesn’t change In a message to his successor, Mark anything positively, it merely makes our wonderful Diocese, working in close “Do not be afraid” Rhodes, Tony said: “You will probably partnership with our parishes.” things worse. never work with a better group of people For 20 years, before becoming a full- So, in these challenging circumstances who are committed to one cause than you She added: “Tony came into the role time vicar, I farmed a 216-acre estate in which we currently find ourselves, will at the Diocese. I’ve never worked with simply to serve and he will be much with my husband on the beautiful Llyn I sign off with my most quoted such a welcoming, friendly group whose missed across the Diocese and especially Peninsula. We could see both the sea verses, Philippians 4: 6-7: “Do not values are pretty much the same as mine, in Trinity House ― not least by fellow and Snowdon from the farm, which be anxious about anything, but in and that’s immeasurable.” chocolate aficionados!” was predominantly livestock. everything by prayer and petition, Speaking in particular of the Finance Team, Tony’s plans for retirement are, he said, to My husband was very ill for a number with thanksgiving, make your request Tony said: “I never thought I’d work with a do “not very much!” initially, but he hopes of years so I had to take over the known to God. And the peace of group of people who get on so well and I soon to be able to spend more time at his work with three, and then four, very God, which passes all understanding, think a testament to that is we’ve all been holiday home on the Isle of Wight, and to small children. It was certainly a will guard your hearts and minds in together pretty much for as long as I’ve do more cycling, “if the weather stays at challenge, and I reduced the number Christ Jesus.” been there.” anything like a normal level of dryness!”

“There is low cancer awareness among the BAME communities”: Kingston MEACC shares vital prostate cancer information

On 19 May, the Kingston Minority Suresh spoke about the risk factors of spread. Signs and symptoms include: Ethnic Anglican Concerns age, ethnicity, family history, body weight, • a weak or reduced urine flow Committee (KMEACC) continued and diet. Almost 6,000 55- to 59-year- • needing to urinate often its health series with a presentation olds in the UK are diagnosed with • feeling the bladder is not completely on prostate cancer by Suresh prostate cancer every year. This rises to empty more than 7,000 men aged 60-64; almost • a desperate need to urinate Rambaran. 8,000 aged 65-69; and 7,000 aged 70-79. • difficulty starting to pass urine. Suresh is the UK’s first UKME person to Men are two-and-a-half times more likely Regardless of ethnicity, if you are be appointed as a Cancer Information to develop prostate cancer if their father Specialist (CIS) and has more than experiencing any of these symptoms, “There is low cancer awareness, as well or brother have been diagnosed. This Suresh urges people to go to their GP, 40 years’ experience of raising awareness risk increases if their relative was under about prostate cancer. He is also a low uptake of screening, among the or contact the National Male Cancer BAME communities,” said Suresh, adding: 60 or more than one close relative has Helpline on 0808 802 0010; member of St James, Clapham. More than been diagnosed. 40,000 men are diagnosed with prostate “The aim of the presentation was to www.orchid-cancer.org.uk cancer every year in the UK. One in four inform and empower men about their Research also shows that being Read Suresh’s blog on prostate cancer at: Black men will develop prostate cancer prostate cancer risk so that they can go overweight or obese increases your risk southwark.anglican.org/i-feel-that-god-has- compared with one in eight white men. to their GP for a prostate check.” of getting cancer that is more likely to called-me-to-use-my-knowledge 10 | The BRIDGE June 2021

Helping the Diocese to speak truth to power for 30 years IN FOCUS... Before there was Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation there Other news was the Social Responsibility Department. As it marks its 30th anniversary, former member Terry Drummond shares his memories of working in one of the department’s incarnations.

The work of the Board for Social World gathers to welcome Responsibility which, in its various guises, is celebrating 30 years of action and reflection was rooted in new Archbishop in Jerusalem the work of a number of paid officers who had over many years developed On Ascension Day, 13 May 2021 projects across the Diocese. the Episcopal Church in Jerusalem celebrated the installation of the The work and ministry of the Most Revd Dr Hosam Naoum as the Board was predicated on reflecting Anglican Archbishop in Jerusalem, the commitment of the Diocese and parishes to social issues such and the 15th Anglican Bishop of the as poverty and exclusion, the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem. environment, fair trade, and refugees was also a space where experience of The Cathedral of St George the Martyr and asylum-seekers. The intention social problems could be channelled in East Jerusalem was filled with family was to highlight issues through into evidence of injustice. and friends, bishops from the Anglican evidence-based research and The environment was an important Communion, the Diocese of Jerusalem’s theological reflection, which could issue about which the Board retired Archbishop Suheil Dawani, heads assist parishes who wanted to work believed both the Diocese and of the Churches in Jerusalem, from for change. local churches should be able to Palestine and Israel, heads of Diocesan The focus was on being a Church in promote better understanding, and institutions, parishioners from St George’s and of the world, active in challenging it made an important contribution Cathedral, and diplomatic and civic leaders. injustice from a theological and at a time when the subject was not Bishop Christopher attended on behalf political perspective. The importance as well publicised as it is today. It of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin of its work was highlighted in the also contributed to helping with the growing problems suffered by Welby. After the new Archbishop was developments that led to the Diocese receiving Fair Trade status, following asylum seekers and refugees, working presented to the congregation amid The Most Revd Dr Hosam Naoum an active campaign that encouraged alongside the London Churches rapturous applause, congratulatory (left) and Bishop Christopher. greetings were said. parishes to be involved. Refugee Working Group. The problems associated with In a fragmented world there will Bishop Christopher read out a message Letter from the Holy Land from Archbishop Justin, which said: “As poverty and exclusion were always be social problems; it is well as rejoicing in this feast day, it is also highlighted by the growing number of important for the Church to minister, a day of sorrow and real concern given On 2 June, Archbishop Hosam food banks across the Diocese. These challenge and follow in the steps the most recent events. I pray, as I do wrote to Bishop Christopher, offered important practical and of the Old Testament Prophets in continually, for the peace of Jerusalem and thanking him for the support pastoral support to many individuals seeking truth. The importance of the I pray for you, Archbishop Hosam, in your shown during the installation. and families but it was equally Board for Social Responsibility was leadership at this time.” important to challenge Government its contribution to trying to focus “Dear Bishop Christopher,” he said, on why so many were required. thinking on the Church in the world Bishop Christopher also sent greetings “I am writing to thank you for your when considering justice issues. The challenge of the prophets who from his fellow Bishops in the Diocese participation as episcopal envoy and spoke truth to power underpinned Nicola Thomas, current Head of JPIC, of Southwark and the Dean of concelebrant on the occasion of the message that the Church was reflects on the 30th anniversary at: Southwark, and expressed thanks that my Installation last month. Coming more than a place for assistance; it bit.ly/3gfYuHj he and Archbishop Suheil had signed the in the midst of the Gaza War and Covenant Agreement between the two ethnic rioting in Israel’s mixed cities, Dioceses in January. your pastoral presence and words of encouragement from both yourself Archbishop Hosam delivered his sermon “Sense of solidarity”: Chine McDonald in conversation firstly in Arabic and then English. He and Archbishop Justin meant a great deal to the clergy and people of the laid out his vision and plan for the © Donna Ford future ministry of the Diocese in its five Diocese of Jerusalem, as well as to Author, regions (Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Syria, me personally.” broadcaster and Lebanon) through its congregations and Head of He added: “It is my hope that with the and institutions. Community travel restrictions beginning to relax Fundraising and “Here in the city of the Resurrection, as the pandemic runs its final course, we must be people of the Resurrection. we will see a return to more normal Engagement at Always looking to God’s life, light and times here and around the world, Christian Aid, hope for us and for the whole world. allowing your plans to move forward Chine McDonald, My vision for our Church is that we for another visit with us here in the spoke movingly collectively reflect the mind of Christ. Land of the Holy One.” in an interview This means first and foremost that we as about her new the body of Christ are united to face the book God is not a White Man and Other Revelations with Archdeacon true north of our faith which is to live in Rosemarie Mallett at Southwark Cathedral on 25 May. the light of the Kingdom of God and seek Read more... God’s righteousness. All are welcome and When speaking about how Black women are perceived, and how included in this vision,” he said. Bishop Christopher has written they see one another, she said, “We are seen as inferior. However, I a reflection on his recent talk about how there is a sense of solidarity. There is a connection The Archbishop is appealing for financial experiences in the Holy Land. that we have. We see each other often in a world that doesn’t see us.” support for Al-Ahli Hospital, in Gaza City, Read it here: southwark.anglican. which falls under his care. You can donate here: org/a-reflection-from-jerusalem “God is Not a White Man and Other Revelations” is out now, from £9.99 bit.ly/GazaAppeal2021 June 2021 The BRIDGE | 11

IN FOCUS... Social justice WHAT’S ON Please send details of your next events for JULY ONWARDS to Trinity House BY MONDAY 21 JUNE CTBI stages service to mark George Floyd anniversary

June Organ Recitals at St John the Evangelist, MONDAY 7 - FRIDAY 11 JUNE Upper Norwood  ONLINE — Church of England-led Free. Thursdays @ 7.30pm. webinars in support of Churches Count [email protected]; 020 8771 6686 on Nature Week. Various times, free. 17 June: Ian Keatley, Director of Music, bit.ly/CountOnNature2 Southwark Cathedral

WEDNESDAY 9 JUNE 15 July: Adrian Gunning, St John the Evangelist, Islington  ONLINE — Wonder, Wisdom and Worship: opportunities and challenges 16 September: Andrew Prior, London for using science in preaching. 1.00pm- 14 October: Jeremiah Stephenson, Southwark pupils lay candles in an act of remembrance. © Peter Neill 2.00pm, Zoom, free. Link available on All Saints, Margaret Street, London the day here: www.faraday.cam.ac.uk/ An ecumenical service in memory Perumbalath, , and event/science-in-preaching-seminar of the anniversary of the murder Youth Worker, Dion-Marie White. She WEDNESDAY 30 JUNE of George Floyd was held at the said: “We all need to stop waiting for WEDNESDAY 16 JUNE justice to roll down and, as churches,  New Testament Church of God  ONLINE — Wonder, Wisdom and ONLINE — Young people, drugs and join with others proclaiming that now is Community Church in Brixton and Worship: opportunities and challenges alcohol – what every churchgoing the time for change and to not only say broadcast on YouTube on 25 May for using science in preaching. Follows parent and care-giver needs to know. it but to actively stand up and speak out A webinar presented in partnership and BBC Radio 4 on Sunday 30 May. on from 9 June’s seminar. 1.00pm- and not to stop doing that until we see 5.00pm, Zoom, £25. E-mail churches@ with local drugs awareness charity the changes that need to happen, happen.” The service, which was organised by faraday.cam.ac.uk to book. the Daniel Spargo Mabbs Foundation. Churches Together in Britain and Ireland, Solo artist HURU sang her song Black 7.30-9.00pm, Zoom, free. Register at: began with Bishop Christopher saying, Beauté, which she describes as “a  WATERLOO/ONLINE — A Jewish https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ “as George Floyd said, ‘I can’t breathe.’” celebration of the culture, diversity, Jesus: Art and Faith in the Shadow of DA0YjUp2SQi4DGwkThvJKQ He was followed by church leaders from history, creativity and greatness that World War II. One-day conference other denominations saying the same resides in all shades of Melanin”. on Jewish refugee artists at St John, words. Children from the Diocese of Waterloo, SE1 8TY. 9.30am-8.30pm, July During the minute’s silence for George £19.46-£32.93. Information and tickets Floyd, a list of the notable black deaths in from: bit.ly/3vItdDc SATURDAY 3 JULY “We all need to stop waiting police custody in Britain was displayed. DULWICH — The Ionian Singers in a  ONLINE — Welcoming the Stranger: ♫ for justice to roll down and, as In his sermon, Les Isaac, chief executive of programme of French and English music. The Ethics of Migration. Webinar by the Ascension Trust and founder of Street St Stephen, Dulwich, London SE21 7HW. churches, join with others in the Moral and Social Issues Council Pastors, said: “The killing of George 7.30pm. £15 (free for under-16s and full- proclaiming that now is the time” exploring the ethical issues surrounding Floyd was projected on a global stage. It time students). Tickets in advance from migration, refugee settlement and gave a panoramic view of the challenges bit.ly/2R9tpwe, [email protected] seeking asylum. Information and booking that Black people and people from all or 07950 143916. at: bit.ly/SalArmyStranger Southwark’s St Martin’s High School and over the world are facing in terms of Archbishop Tenison’s High School took injustice within the 21st century.” SUNDAY 11 JULY part in a symbolic act of remembrance THURSDAY 24 JUNE A prayer entitled There is a Balm was led  PUTNEY — Service of Lament and by laying candles at the foot of the cross.  ONLINE — Living with Dementia. by Bishop Dr Eric Brown of the New Hope at St Mary, Putney, reflecting on Worship was led by John Fisher and Online ecumenical conference from Testament Church of God. Responses the pandemic with personal accounts IDMC Gospel Choir. Scripture readings the shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham came from the Rt Revd Rose Hudson- from those on the front line. 6.00pm, and reflections came from the Most (mass livestreamed at 9.15am). Talks on Wilkin, ; His Eminence free. Revd Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop Archbishop Angaelos, Coptic Orthodox spiritual care for those affected, making of York; Pastor Agu Irukwu, Senior Archbishop of London; the Rt Revd Paul your church dementia-friendly and Pastor at Jesus House; Pastor Matthew Hendricks, the Catholic Auxiliary Bishop more. 10.15am-1.00pm, Zoom, free. September Ashimolowo, Senior Pastor at Kingsway of Southwark; and the Revd Inderjit To register, e-mail mihoward@ btinternet.com International Christian Centre; the Revd Bhogal of the Methodist Church and 18-26 SEPTEMBER Lynn Greene, General Secretary of the Church of Sanctuary. Baptist Union of Great Britain; and the MONDAY 28 JUNE  NATIONWIDE — The Great Revd Mandy Ralph, Church of Scotland. The service ended with a blessing from Big Green Week will be the UK’s Bishop Christopher.  ONLINE — SPIDIR AGM and annual biggest ever event for climate The Venerable Dr Rosemarie conference. 10.00am-3.00pm, Zoom. and nature, held in advance of Mallett, , added You can watch the full service at Open to SPIDIR members. E-mail Sally bit.ly/3fGc4Vn, or listen to a shorter COP26. For more information, visit: to testimonies from university student, Lowe to book a place: sallylowe1943@ greatbiggreenweek.com Gabriel Dedji, the Rt Revd Dr John version on BBC Radio 4 at bbc.in/3i8AAAa gmail.com 12 | The BRIDGE June 2021 Diocese bids farewell to Archdeacon of Southwark after 20 years

On 22 May, the Archdeacon of have given us reason to rejoice even at Southwark, the Venerable Dr Jane the times of deepest darkness,” she said. Steen, presided over the Choral “To receive is to admit that we ourselves Eucharist at Southwark Cathedral can be different and to be ready for what ― her farewell to the Diocese she the Lord gives,” she added, stressing that served for more than 20 years. the rivers of water do not flow from us but from Jesus himself. In conclusion, The first reading was from Deuteronomy she said, “Come then, my friends, let us and read by Bianca Blake, a Churchwarden receive the Lord. Let us, come Pentecost, Jane Steen presides at her farewell Eucharist. © Eve Milner at St Philip and St Mark, Camberwell. The receive the Spirit. Let us be open to all gospel from John was read by fellow that the Lord might have for us in the Archdeacon, the Venerable Revd Alastair future. Let us rejoice in the ministry that Bishop Christopher’s tribute to Jane Steen Cutting, Archdeacon of Greenwich we have shared, the friendships we have and Lewisham, and the prayers of formed. All that we have done together.” Jane has been an exceptionally gifted and with those for whom she has been intercession were led by Akin Akinwunmi, colleague, working in the Diocese for set to care she is consistently present, Churchwarden at St Paul, Newington. There were joy-filled farewells and reminiscences from Dean Andrew Nunn; over 20 years. After a curacy in St pastoral and sympathetic, working with Jane’s sermon focused on the words Ruth Martin, the Diocesan Secretary; Albans, Jane was appointed Chaplain Alastair and Bishop Karowei as part “Remember”, “Rejoice” and “Receive”. Archdeacon ; and Bishop to Bishop in 1999 and after of the Woolwich Trio. Bishop Karowei In the same way that the children of Christopher, who said, “In the new Bishop five years became Canon Chancellor of sends his love and deep gratitude. Israel were to remember the bondage Southwark Cathedral and Director of of Lynn, the Church of God receives a Jane has executed many important of slavery, she said, “so too for us. Ministry and Training for the Diocese. gift that has been significantly formed, we projects in the Diocese over 15 years. We have had, let us face it, hard times. Her brief was to transform our IME are glad to say, in this Diocese. We wish To give but one example, Jane was a Some of you and those whom we programme with a focus on excellent Jane well as she begins this new phase highly effective chair of our task group know have had very hard times whether ongoing ministerial and theological of ministry.” In response, Jane thanked which saw through a thorough review through work or ministry or family training and development. Eight colleagues and parishioners for their of Diocesan governance structures five circumstance or health or for numerous generations of benefited greatly support. years ago. Jane has also been a highly other reasons. Now we hope, we pray, the from her wisdom and skill in this role. effective member of General Synod worst is over, but in remembering At the end of the service Bishop I appointed her to the archdeaconry of and has recently studied Canon and our own suffering gives us compassion Christopher said a blessing over Jane. Southwark in 2013. In this role Jane has Ecclesiastical Law. when others suffer.” Watch the full service at: bit.ly/2RbsA69; the established strong bonds of trust with In the new the Church Jane thanked the nurses, , porters, full text of Bishop Christopher’s tribute can be clergy and lay officers in each and every of God receives a gift that has been volunteers, priests, delivery drivers, and found in the box to the right; an interview with parish ― Southwark being the most significantly formed, we are glad to transport workers among others. “You Jane is below. distinctly inner-urban archdeaconry. say, in this Diocese. We wish Jane well Her archdeaconry clergy would be the as she begins this new phase of her first to attest to her as an advocate if ministry and we pray for her, and her In her own words... excerpt from an interview with Jane needed as well as a pastor with a loving husband Pip, and the people she will heart. Jane is vigorous and focused, serve in the . How do you feel about What are you looking leaving the Diocese? forward to about being Southwark has been a fantastic Diocese Bishop of Lynn? in which to minister over the last 21 On a personal level, I am very much Bishop Christopher names Acting Archdeacon years. I’ve been very privileged to be looking forward to cleaner air, open part of its life in different roles and to skies and long walks. But most of all, It was announced on 13 May by have worked with so many great clergy I’m looking forward to meeting the and laity. I can’t but feel a wrench as my clergy and laity of the benefices and Bishop Christopher that the Revd time here ends. Southwark will always supporting their mission. Jonathan Sedgwick, Rector of St have a place in my heart. George the Martyr, Southwark, What are you going to miss has agreed to serve as Acting What have been the about the Diocese? Archdeacon of Southwark. high points? That would have to be the people, The Bishop said: “In due course, Too many to mention! But if I could without doubt. I hope to appoint a new Archdeacon choose one for each of the three posts and I am glad that the archdeaconry I have held here, I’d say the Clergy What is your prayer will be in such good hands until Conference in 2004, the completion of for them? that time. Jonathan will be working IME for the 2006 deacons, and Visitation I have found Bishop Christopher’s closely with the Archdeacon of Services while I’ve been Archdeacon. summary of our Southwark Vision, Lewisham and Greenwich – and The 2004 conference was the first one Christ-centred, outward-focused, as of course also with the Bishop of immensely helpful. So my prayer for this we’d had for over 20 years. All the IME Woolwich – and will be assisted by He added: “I am well aware of the curates from 2006 to my last cohort in wonderful Diocese as I leave it, is that Richard Coe who continues as the our parishes, people and priests can toll that the pandemic has had on our 2012 were amazing to work with but ’ PA.” communities and churches and the when the 2006 group were launched, I live by this and be Christ-centred and Jonathan (pictured right), who will well-being of clergy and lay people knew we could do this. As for Visitation outward-focused in their lives. remain Rector of his parish, said: “It alike. I very much hope to be a source Services, I always think that our The full text of this interview can be found is an archdeaconry I love very much. of encouragement and practical Churchwardens are among the unsung on the Diocesan website at: southwark. I love the diversity both of its people assistance as we begin to recover heroes of the Church of England. It’s a anglican.org/interview-with-jane-steen and its traditions.” from this together.” real honour to admit them.