THE ORIGINAL CHURCH NEWSPAPER. ESTABLISHED IN 1828
THE The best films of 2013 in review, CHURCHOF p15 ENGLAND Newspaper The headlines that defined 2013, p4 NOW AVAILABLE ON NEWSSTAND FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2014 No: 6209 Judge’s marriage shock
A HIGH COURT JUDGE has resigned after being and could have served another five years. He was effec- Sir Paul said he strongly disagreed with the inquiry’s rebuked for expressing support for traditional tively forced out of his position but he claimed to have conclusions. He is due to step down from the bench at marriage. the support of all but ‘one or two’ of his colleagues. Easter. Just before Christmas he wrote an article for the Sir Paul Coleridge was given a formal warning by the He has set up the Marriage Foundation as a think Daily Mail saying that people who wanted to have chil- Lord Chief Justice, Lord Thomas, and the Justice Secre- tank to promote ‘healthy, stable relationships’ and dren should get married and claiming that supporting tary, Chris Grayling, for judicial misconduct in giving undertake research to demonstrate the importance of marriage ‘was something our courts no longer seem speeches and writing newspaper articles protesting marriage. able or willing to do’. against cohabitation, pointing out the impact of family- An inquiry by the Office for Judicial Complaints, “The fact is,” he wrote “that the single most important break up on children, and calling for greater support for which investigates complaints against judges, found Sir factor by far in the successful development of children marriage. Paul’s speeches and newspaper articles ‘incompatible is a committed, healthy relationship between their par- Sir Paul was responsible as a judge for family cases with his judicial responsibilities’. ents.” Report to Parliament shows culture of Minster’s street treat for sexual violence for women in Colombia By Katie Hornell and Cait Flynn paramilitary groups as well who BBC drama viewers began to move into formerly guerrilla- Advocacy group AB Colombia occupied areas. AN ICONIC building within the East End – was transformed from modern released a report to parliament, in In order to demonstrate power, precincts of York Minster was seen by thoroughfare into a Georgian street, with association with Colombian jour- impose a rule of fear, and control the an audience of millions over the Christ- the entrance to St William’s College nalist Jineth Bedoya Lima and indigenous peoples of the areas occu- mas period when the BBC screened dressed to provide an inn for heroine Eliza- Baroness Jean Coussins, detailing pied, many native Colombian women ‘Death Comes to Pemberley’, a cos- beth Darcy’s sister, Lydia, to elope with the the harrowing condition of women were raped by paramilitaries, bar- tume drama penned by PD James cad Wickham. in Colombia who have been the barously tortured and sometimes left which revives the characters of ‘Pride The historic college, which is owned by largely ignored victims of the impregnated by the invading troops. & Prejudice’ in a nail-biting murder York Minster, also provided the backdrop country’s internal conflict. In many reports some guerrilla fac- mystery. for a number of other scenes with the inte- Thousands have been killed in the tions rape the women that they have For a week during the summer, College rior courtyard doubling as a tavern while process of this conflict which has been kidnapped as sex slaves, and then Street – which sits beneath York Minster’s the period interior rooms were also used. going on over the last 60 years, but force abortions upon those same one of the most devastating casualties women. is also one of the least known. Namely The first real study conducted on the violation and abuse of women. the abuse was carried out by Oxfam This practice has created a culture four years ago, and the study found of using women as weapons of an that there were 400,000 reported vic- already violent war. As well as a socie- tims of this sexual violence from the ty in which women must not only live years 2001 to 2009 alone. in with a constant threat, they also experience a systematic lack of justice Continued on page 6 for the perpetrators. The report revealed that women PRICE £1.35 / 1,70€ / $2.20 face a constant threat of sexual vio- lence. The violence is, however, not used as a means of sexually violating women, but rather as a weapon of war to control the population. The raping and torturing of women in order to humiliate their families has occurred throughout the 60-year conflict, but especially grew in promi- nence in the 1990s. At first done by guerrillas in the area, and later by the
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BRADFORD all agreed to go to someone’s house to CHURCH St Wilfrid’s church in watch the final, but as IN Calverley (between more people became Bradford and Leeds) was interested we needed a the unexpected venue for bigger venue, and I a Strictly Come Dancing couldn’t think of a better ENGLAND finals event. place than St Wilfrid’s. Organiser, Debbie There’s a big screen and Turk, said she got the we all decided to dress up idea when discussing the in our best ball gowns and hit show with friends. “We tux.”
SOUTHWELL AND NOTTINGHAM RIPON AND LEEDS
Six church primary schools joined with a Hundreds of walkers joined with the Rt Rev John Packer on choir from the Samworth Church Boxing Day as he undertook his final pilgrimage before retiring. Academy in Mansfield to take part in ‘The The Pilgrimage took them from Ripon Cathedral to Fountains Big Sing’ event just before Christmas. Abbey and follows in the footsteps of a group of Cistercian Monks One school wrote their own carol who first walked from Ripon to Fountains on December 26th, especially for the occasion and all the 1132, and founded the Abbey. The annual event has for many choirs came together for a finale of ‘Ding years been described by Bishop John as one of the highlights of Dong Merrily on High.’ Throughout the his year. He has led the walk each year for the past 14 years as evening the audience were reminded of Bishop of Ripon and Leeds, and as the popularity of the four-mile the work of Christian Aid through video pilgrimage has continued to grow. clips and conversations with Christian Aid Before the pilgrims set off, a service of Holy Communion took workers, and it is estimated that around place at the Cathedral, which this year was led jointly by Bishop £1200 will have been raised. John and the Sub-Dean of Ripon, Canon Keith Punshon.
SOUTHWELL AND NOTTINGHAM
Students from Southwell Minster School broke with tradition this year when they were asked to make Christmas Crib figures for the Cathedral’s Nativity scene. The pupils designed shadow images produced by light falling upon sculptures, creating in shadow and light a Nativity scene; Angels appearing to the Shepherds; and the Three Wise Men. The sculptures themselves are made of coloured card, paper and wrapped presents. School Chaplain, Father Mathew Askey explained how the idea came about: “We wanted to do something a little bit different this year, something to help us think afresh about the story we are telling. We looked at an artist duo called Tim Noble and Sue Webster, and at their art installations, which use both sculptures and shadows projected on walls... we took this as our starting point for the Crib art in the Minster. The students have been really willing to take on this idea and think outside the box; I think they have made something that is very memorable. And we say a big ‘thank you!’ to the Minster Vergers for the work involved in making the grottos where the art is installed.” The Dean, the Very Rev John Guille commented: “This is a really imaginative creation and one that has engaged the students in an exciting way. I am deeply grateful to the Minster School for creating the crib scene for us this year.” The students involved in making the Crib are: Oliver Asbury, Year 11; Emma Baskerville, Year 10; Amber Burbidge, Year 10; Alice Defriend, Year 11; Hannah Defriend, Year 11; and Megan Fryer, Year 13. Pictured is the whole group with Father Matthew Askey; and Amber Burbidge with Alice Defriend in front of one of the scenes.
WAKEFIELD MANCHESTER Christmas markets, knitted mice and just like new sales were amongst the The Bishop of Manchester, the fundraising initiatives by Barnsley Rt Rev David Walker, launched a churches in their bid to set up an church-backed national emergency fund of money to help advertising campaign just before those most in need. Christmas. The Bishop unveiled The Barnsley Deanery Project was the UK’s biggest outdoor set up in response to the Bishop of religious Christmas ad depicting Wakefield’s initiative to give every a simple payday loan cheque and church in the diocese £100 for a the words ‘Does Christmas have community project to mark his tenth to start with a payday loan? No! anniversary as diocesan bishop and Christmas Starts with Christ’. to celebrate the Christian churches The ad, which is 40 feet high year of mission, Hope 2014. and the length of three buses Most of the 20 churches that make (106 feet long), was part of the up the Barnsley Deanery area ‘Christmas Starts with Christ’ decided they wanted to set up a poster campaign. Millions of community project for the more people are expected to see the vulnerable in the town so wanted to ad which was fixed to each grow their £100 into £1,000 and scaffolding on the side of St pool their resources to build up a Ann’s church at the heart of crisis fund of money with which they Manchester’s shopping and could help people in need. commercial centre.
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Enduring Christmas ALTERNATIVE VIEWS on will argue that Religious faith inclusion with Nishkam group meeting with the Par- RE were presented to Education must be informed School Trust and a member liamentarians were Rabbi ARCHBISHOP JOHN SENTAMU said that Parliamentarians in by the actual faith and prac- of the group. Shmuel Arkush, the Rev for many people the Christmas festivities December by individuals tice of faith communities and Another member of the Nims Obunge MBE of the were ‘a test of survival rather than a season and organisations who should not be confused with group, James Bogle, vice- Peace Alliance, Canon Chris of celebration’. claimed they had not a ‘museum approach’ that chairman of the Catholic Sugden, Ms Shahnam Khan, Writing in the Yorkshire Post just before been consulted by the RE ‘speculates but expresses no Union of Great Britain, Secretary for Education for Christmas he warned that while reports of Council when it drew up commitment’. argued that up to now the the Muslim Council of an economic recovery are welcome ‘unem- its report on Religious “Religion is fundamental to 1944 Education Act has “pro- Britain, Dr Philip Barnes of ployment remains a massive issue, especial- Education. the development of young vided an excellent frame- Kings’ College, London, Dr ly amongst the young’. The group, who met with people’s identity, the forma- work for providing an Marius Felderhof of the Uni- The Archbishop claimed nine million peo- the MPs and peers, said they tion of character and their education that families and versity of Birmingham, and ple in the UK ‘live below the breadline’. would provide an alternative ability to relate to others and communities can support” Guy Hordern MBE, chair of He attacked the Government’s plans for report to the All Party Parlia- wider society in distinction and said it had helped pro- the Birmingham Standing further public sector cuts in 2015 and mentary Group early in the from the selfish pursuit of mote “harmony and toler- Advisory Council for Reli- argued that there would be a knock-on New Year. economic gain,” said Ranjit ance”. gious Education from 2004 effect in the North of England, quoting a In their report the group Singh Dander, leader for Other members of the to 2012. survey that showed six of the 10 hardest cities to find a job were in that region. Refuting stories of people remaining on benefits because they did not want to work, he quoted statistics that show 24 per cent of Evangelicals join Protestant decline those actively looking for jobs had to apply more than 40 times and that 70 per cent of EVANGELICALS have joined main- that Southern Baptist decline starting Dr Roozen writes that “the dramatic applicants never make it to an interview. stream Protestants in seeing a in 2005 pushed evangelical figures as a decline in confidence in organised reli- “For most, unemployment is not a decline in their numbers, according whole into decline. Before that date gion is unmistakable”. He quotes the lifestyle but a daily battle as they run the to an analysis by the Director of the growth had fallen from an average of General Social Surveys of the National gauntlet of application, job interviews and Hartford Centre for Religious three per cent a year during the 1950s Opinion Research Center that show a the disappointment of constant rejection,” Research, Dr David Roozen. to one per cent a year in the 1980s. dramatic decline of Americans saying he wrote, adding that work is one of the The rate of decline in mainline or ‘old- they have confidence in organised reli- things that mark out our human dignity. Dr Roozen claims that the only Chris- line’ Protestant denominations has gion. “Take work away, and life is not only tian churches in America that are grow- accelerated since the turn of the centu- “Surprisingly, the biggest decline tough, its meaning is challenged and we are ing are those that belong to the ry. In total the group Roozen labels among any age group is among older severely diminished as human beings.” Pentecostal/holiness family. Mormons ‘conservative Protestant’ has declined evangelicals,” he points out. The Archbishop reported that the Youth are also increasing and there is no reli- from 27.8 million in 2000 to 27.5 million As well as growth in Pentecostal Trust he established in 2008 to empower able data for black churches. in 2010. churches he sees ethnic minorities and young people to engage with their commu- Writing in the Christian Century Dr In the same period mainline Protes- immigrant communities as the main nities has seen 15,000 school children in Roozen says that both the US Census tants have declined from 25.9 million to source of vitality for churches facing 145 schools take part in its Young Leaders for 2010 and an analysis of figures pro- 22.5 million and Roman Catholics have overall decline. “The decreasing reli- Award designed to equip them with leader- vided by the Yearbook of American and gone down from 62 million to 58.9 mil- gious participation of each new genera- ship skills and be a force for good in their Canadian Churches provide evidence lion but Pentecostal and holiness tion of young adults is affecting local communities over the past 18 months. of decline. churches have increased their mem- virtually all religious groups,” Dr Figures given by the Yearbook show bership from 6.7 million to 7.2 million. Roozen concludes. Keswick development
IMPORTANT DEVELOPMENTS have been announced by the trustees of the Bishop’s new house causes a stir Keswick Convention. They are looking for a full-time chief executive and are designing A DECISION by the new Bishop of Bath and part of their programme for 2014 to appeal Wells, the Rt Rev Paul Hancock, not to live to people without faith as well as committed in the historic Bishop’s Palace at Wells has A CALL TO Christians. caused controversy. The Convention attracts as many as After press reports saying that the Bishop was CANADIAN 15,000 people to a three-week conference seeking more privacy it was revealed that the each year and is now in its 138th year. Up to Church Commissioners took the decision to find ARCTIC MINISTRY now it has been led by a team of volunteer a more simple home for the new Bishop before trustees but the new CEO will be responsi- an appointment was made. Have you heard of British missionaries who ble for leading the strategy of the ministry, Bishop Hancock said that he welcomed the went to the ends of the earthto share the gospel of Jesus Christ? developing the use of sites across Keswick, decision because for him to live in a palace with and exploring partnerships with other 14 acres of ground would run contrary to the idea Do you have the same desire to serve God in agencies. that the bishop was a servant to the diocese. an extreme mission adventure? The theme of the 2014 Conference is The palace has been the Bishop’s home for 800 ‘Really? Searching for reality in a confusing years but it will not be sold. Instead it will contin- Bishops David Parsons and Darren McCartney are world’. This year the third week will be ue to be the working headquarters of the diocese seeking such people who are inspired to consider a aimed at people who not have faith as well with offices for both the diocesan bishop and the similar call to ministry.They can’t offer you riches or an easy life, as those who do. Bishop of Taunton. but for such a time as this, when many reject biblical authority they The aim will be to help non-Christians Andrew Brown, secretary to the Church Com- can offer communities in the Canadian Arctic who are seeking bible and Christians to explore the reality of missioners, said that the palace and grounds believing clergy to teach, pastor and make disciples. Jesus. Activities aimed at young people will would remain open to the public but local resi- be ready to welcome a higher than average dents expressed the fear that the palace would The Arctic Bishops will visit the UK during February 2014. number of young people without a faith lose some of its character when it is no longer commitment. home to the bishop. To set up an appointment with one of them The speakers who will address the con- It is understood that the Commissioners are please contact the ference are Vaughan Roberts, Ivor Poobal- looking for an alternative home for the new bish- Rev. Canon R. J. Tonkin, an and Becky Manley-Pippert (first week); op near to Wells. A trust has been established to 39 ShackerdaleRoad, Wigston, Leicester, LE18 1BQ Jonathan Lamb, Ruth Padilla De Borst and run the palace as a tourist attraction although the Tel: 0116 281 2517. Ian Coffey (second week); and Chris Sink- working life of the palace will continue. inson, Ravi Zacharias and Roger Carswell The Bishop’s Palace stands next to the cathe- (third week). dral at Wells and is surrounded by a moat. Work For a complete profile of the Diocese A video about the coming Convention can on the palace started in 1210 and a Bishop’s pleasecontact [email protected]. be seen at the Keswick Convention website. House was added in the 15th century.
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JANUARY the US government’s domestic and for- The Rt Rev Justin Welby is elected Arch- eign personal data collection pro- bishop of Canterbury is elected after grammes, calling them an attack on Archbishop Rowan Williams steps down. liberty. The end to the ban on gay bishops in Statistics produced by the Research the Church of England provoked a range and Statistics Division of the Archbish- of reactions within the Church and out- ops’ Council show a steady increase in side of it. the number of women clergy and a The recently retired Archbishop of declining number of stipendiary clergy. Canterbury, Rowan Williams, is awarded a life Peerage by the Queen. NOVEMBER Major Christian charities and organiza- The Bishop of Southwell and Notting- tions point out that the newly proposed ham announced that the rate of the new welfare cuts will impact children and nationwide Living Wage is to be £7.65. families. A married vicar was suspended for at least eight years following an eight- FEBRUARY month affair with a teenager from his Recently stepped-down Archbishop of congregation. Canterbury Rowan Williams meets The Archbishop of Perth withheld his Richard Dawkins to debate at Cam- consent to a synod motion affirming bridge University Union on topics con- fare cuts came into effect on 1 April and parishioners in Jersey express their con- same-sex marriage. cerning religion and science. came under attack by the Church. cerns. Christian relief organisations mount A skeleton with battle wounds was Bishops got on their knees to shine the The government’s anti-immigration massive operations to assist the victims identified as that of King Richard III, shoes of passers-by on Maundy Thurs- tactics of using vans with adverts urging of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines found in archaeological dig in Leicester. day. immigrants to go home was condemned and the Archbishop of Canterbury said Bishops and clergy on behalf of the Ex-Prime Minister Baroness Margaret by many members of the church. he was “deeply shocked and saddened to Church of England wrote letters to MPs Thatcher dies. The funeral was held in The Church is largely split over the hear of the loss of thousands of lives and in opposition to the vote concerning gay central London despite protests. fracking debate, with some critics saying of the suffering caused to millions by the marriage. The Church of England’s new report that it is a ‘cocktail of toxic chemicals’ storm.” In an official ceremony new Archbish- on marriage was universally condemned. being put into the earth, and supporters The Archbishop of York stressed the op of Canterbury Justin Welby was offi- Archbishop Welby met with gay cam- claiming its the best way to support our importance of evangelism in the life of cially installed as the Primate of the paigners. contemporary lifestyle. the Church when he took part in a Church of England. Greenbelt music festival features two debate on the subject at General Synod. The Bishop of Bath and Wells wrote a MAY speakers who are accused of being ‘anti- The Bishop of Oxford backed a move letter to the government asking them to The Dean of Jersey apologises in a long- Israel’. Greenbelt says it is giving a plat- to improve rights for asylum seekers focus on schools and not get hung up on running row over the implementation of form for all the voices in Christianity. who come out of the care system, aged structures. protection issues and is reinstated. 18. In response to a retired priest being New figures reveal that church atten- SEPTEMBER The Bishop of Derby hit out at super- sentenced to eight years in prison on dance for weekly and Sunday services is The Archbishop of Canterbury, Bishops markets such as Tesco for selling lads’ child abuse charges Archbishop Welby stable. in the House of Lords, and MPs all voted mags that degrade women. says he is “appalled” by the “betrayals A bid is made in the House of Lords to against military action in Syria. The Archbishop of Canterbury is ‘cau- and failings in the Church when it comes protect children from porn. More children are now living in pover- tiously hopeful’ that women in the epis- to handling accusations of child abuse.” ty than in the 1960s says the National copate will soon be a reality, following JUNE Children’s Bureau. General Synod’s approval of new legisla- MARCH The nation celebrates the 60th corona- Wales opens the door to women bish- tion. It was revealed that the highest number tion anniversary. ops by approving the consecration of A NSM priest in the Diocese of Oxford, of young people in ordination training in The new Bishop of Manchester is women to the episcopate by a single bill. the Rev Christopher Tadman-Robins — a 20 years had peaked (22 per cent of named as the Rt Rev Dave Walker. A survey by the National Centre for former magistrate — was sentenced to those enrolled were under 30). The new Archbishop of Canterbury Social Research found a more liberal atti- prison for child abuse. met with Pope Francis. tude towards social issues such as homo- Bishops in the House of Lords sig- sexuality and children born outside DECEMBER nalled an end to their attempt to throw marriage. In its first pages the House of Bishops’ out plans for gay marriage. Britain gets its first woman bishop in Working Group on human sexuality A new Church Commissioner was the Rev Patricia Storey, who was appoint- recognises that the issue is far from appointed: Simon Picken QC. ed by the Church of Ireland and is the being a marginal matter but also one that The removal of the phrase “God” from first Anglican woman bishop on the is a difficult issue to resolve. the Girl Guide Promise causes anger. British Isles. There was a mixed response in the Church of England to the Pilling report. JULY OCTOBER One member of the group, the Bishop of The Church admits failures over sex The Church Commissioners are part of a Birkenhead, the Rt Rev Keith Sinclair, abuse carried out by clergy. consortium of investors taking over 314 declined to sign the document. He sub- The Rt Rev Colin Bennetts dies. Royal Bank of Scotland branches across mitted an appendix outlining his under- Bishops bid to amend the gay mar- the UK, now holding a 10 per cent stake standing of Scripture’s teaching on riage laws. in the bank. same-sex relationships. The Bishop of Norwich backs equal The Speaker of the House of Com- The Church of Scotland reaffirmed its gay pension rights. mons opened a special free school, a opposition to same-sex marriage. Church attendance in London grew by partner of a celebrated London Church The newly formed Sunday Assembly - 16 per cent from 2005-2012 from 620,000 of England School. often dubbed, ‘The Atheist Church’ - has to 720,000. The Church of South India consecrat- enjoyed nine months of dramatic growth. A committee of General Synod was ed its first woman bishop. Beginning in a deconsecrated church announced forming membership of the The Archbishop of Canterbury accept- and adopting many elements of the steering committee for the preparation of ed an invitation to attend a meeting of the Christian service format, it provoked a the draft legislation on women bishops. Primates’ Council of the Fellowship of range of reactions from churchgoers. Confessing Anglicans of the Gafcon The dangers of pornography were AUGUST movement. highlighted by bishops in the House of Thousands gather at Trafalgar Square Church welcomes the Royal baby. Arch- A Bolton vicar lost 18 members of his Lords as they backed calls to strengthen in support of traditional marriage against bishop of Canterbury Justin Welby said: family in the Pakistani bomb attack on a controls to stop children accessing inap- the vote for gay marriage. “I am delighted to congratulate the Duke church. propriate material. and Duchess of Cambridge on the arrival The Perth Diocesan synod endorsed a Nelson Mandela, described by the APRIL of their baby boy”. resolution affirming civil same-sex Archbishop of Canterbury as ‘South The Archbishop of Canterbury cele- The safeguarding investigation into unions. Africa’s amazing grace’, died and was brates Easter. the Dean of Jersey’s handling of an Renowned evangelist the Rev Dr Billy remembered in a broadcast service from The much-dreaded Government wel- abuse complaint begins. But some Graham offered a scathing critique of St Martin-in-the-Fields.
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By George Conger Anglican Episcopal Church of Episcopal Church of South the Churches of North and cution over the Christmas holi- Brazil. Brazil also witnessed a Sudan and Sudan. South India saw two bishops days SEX, MONEY and politics schism from the left in 2013, as Central Africa was the hold removed from office, and The depredations of Boko dominated the news of the the largest Anglican Church in out, however, in a year that saw retired bishops arrested for Haram, which has vowed to Anglican world outside of South America, St Paul’s Cathe- considerable gains for women fraud and corruption. Corrup- drive out all Christians from England in 2014. dral in Brasilia, quit the clergy. While the Central tion allegations paralyzed the Northern Nigeria – either by Disputes over doctrine and province to resume its historical African synod voted down a Diocese of Sabah, and led to death or expulsion – has led to discipline surrounding ques- status as a Church of England motion put forward by the Dio- police questioning of bishops in the deaths of hundreds of peo- tions on human sexuality ani- chaplaincy. cese of Harare to allow women South Africa and Zambia, while ple, while the Taliban has mated overseas church Church splits in Central Africa clergy, women bishops were the election of a new primate of ramped up its campaign in Pak- discussions in 2013. The politi- were almost brought to a con- appointed and elected across Tanzania was marred by istan against religious minori- cal battles over gay marriage in clusion in 2013. At the Church the globe. The Church of Ire- charges of vote buying. ties – Christians, Shi’ites, England, France, New Zealand of the Province of Central land appointed its first woman Abuse investigations animat- Ahmadiya and Hindus. and a number of American Africa’s synod in November, bishop, while the Anglican ed the secular press in Aus- However, the single largest states had their counterparts Archbishop Albert Chama Church of Australia saw its first tralia, as a Royal Commission gathering of overseas Angli- within the Anglican world lead- reported the Kunonga schism woman diocesan bishop elect- investigated institutional cans, the Global Anglican ers. had been successfully conclud- ed, as did the Church of South responses to child abuse. Mis- Future Conference (GAFCON) Not all the talk was about gay ed with the country’s Supreme India. An English female priest handling of Australian abuse held in Nairobi in October, saw marriage, however. At year’s Court ruling against the bid by was elected a bishop in New claims led the Bishop of Grafton a new enthusiasm for mission, end, a US federal court struck breakaway bishop Dr Nolbert Zealand and two women took to resign, and saw church lead- evangelism and renewal. down portions of a Utah law Kunonga to seize the property their place in the House of Bish- ers admit before the commis- The collapse of the authority banning polygamy, prompting of the dioceses of Harare, ops in the Anglican Church of sion that they did not follow the and relevance of the existing one Episcopal priest to cele- Masvingo and Manicaland for Southern Africa. The Diocese church’s published guidelines instruments of unity for the brate. his “Anglican Church of Zim- of Ballarat, one of the last hold on abuse reporting. Anglican Church – a point con- The Presiding Bishop of the babwe”. outs against allowing women Census reports and statistical ceded by the Archbishop of Episcopal Church, the Most Rev While the cathedral in Harare clergy in Australia, ordained its studies published in 2013 paint- Canterbury – since Lambeth Katharine Jefferts Schori, also and most of the province’s first female priests at year’s end ed a picture of a church in 2008, and the retreat by Arch- challenged the church’s doctri- schools, churches, hospitals – while commentators predict a decline in some parts of the bishop Justin Welby from the nal boundaries in a May sermon and other properties were woman priest will be elected a Communion. The Episcopal world scene, has seen a more when she denounced the Apos- restored to them by the courts, bishop in Uganda. Church reported that while its aggressive overseas policy from tle Paul as a jealous bigot for not reports of Kunonga die-hards Secular issues also animated losses appeared to have stabi- the Episcopal Church and con- seeing the gifts of God at work holding on to properties with the life and the work of the lized, over the past 10 years servative global south Angli- in the slave girl whom he the connivance of local police church in 2013. Bishops in the there were 24 per cent fewer cans. released from demonic bondage officials were reported at year’s Church of Ceylon backed their people in church on Sundays. as reported in Acts 16:16-34. end. government in a spat with the New Zealand census figures Salvation comes not from The provinces of Central Commonwealth over human reported an even steeper 3/567;40 being cleansed of our sins by Africa and Sudan voted against rights abuse claims – leading decline in that country, with the atoning sacrificial death of dividing into national churches Archbishop Desmond Tutu to Anglicans declining by 17 per 27
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Love your Lord before neighbour Their position does not come from ‘understanding Sir, The core of Mrs Roe’s letter regarding the judge- Taking issue with Jesus the Gospel as a book of rules’ (sic); it comes from a ment on Peter & Hazelmary Bull’s situation appears Sir, If I were still in full-time parish ministry, I consideration of what the whole Bible says. Let Mrs to be her statement ‘Not all Christians share the think I might adopt the practice of starting mar- Roe disagree, but she needs to do her homework Bull’s understanding of the Gospel as a book of riage services with these words from Mark 10:6-9 first. rules’. – ‘Jesus said - In the beginning at the time of cre- Ralph E Ireland, It is hard to see how she arrived at this judgement. ation ‘God made male and female,’ as the scripture Nottingham I know of no one who holds such a view; certainly says, ‘and for this reason a man will leave his the Bulls do not. father and mother and unite with his wife.’ So they Mrs Roe is free to hold her own convictions are no longer two but one. Man must not separate, Remembering Mandela regarding same-sex issues. What she is not free to then, what God has joined together.’ Sir, The Christian attitudes of love, joy, peace, for- do is to quote only half a text (re love of neighbour People would of course be free to think this was giveness and reconciliation which are at the centre …). The full text says (Mark 12:30-31, English Stan- rubbish, but at any rate it would be clear that they of the Christmas message were remembered last dard Version): 30 And you shall love the Lord your were taking issue not with me, but with Jesus! week as key in the life of Nelson Mandela, despite all God with all your heart and with all your soul and The Rev Canon Roy Lawrence, he suffered. How different was the response in the with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31 The Via email hearts of the Islamic extremists who killed a young second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbour as soldier in the belief they were doing what was right yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater and just. than these.” I know which understanding of God I prefer and It is quite improper to focus on loving your neigh- bly not accept - but the Bulls were seeking to honour which can bring peace for this world. bour, unless you first love the Lord your God. Mrs the first part of the commandment (from which the J Longstaff, Roe may find it hard to understand - and will proba- second half gains its strength). Woodford Green, Essex
Culture of Sexual Violence for Women in Colombia Report: Continued from pg 1 The nature of sexual humiliation and her father’s refusal to Though the victims are casualties of shame within the culture, however, sug- smuggle a kilo of the internal war with the Colombian pop- gests that there are many more cases cocaine. ulation, the issue of sexual violence is that were not reported, and that the fig- Horrific stories like considered by most Colombian men to ure could be over a million. Of the this are accepted as a be a women’s issue, and most Colombian 400,000 reported cases, however, still happenstance of life men don’t see themselves as part of the only two per cent of the abusers were in Colombia, and the solution. brought to justice by the Colombian police system often So as the peace talks between guerrilla state. doesn’t even recog- factions and the Colombian government Since the practice became especially nize rape as a true come to a head, Lima and AB Colombia prominent in the 1990s, the use and crime but rather the fear that the welfare of women will drop abuse of women to control society and consequence of other on the priority list. gain territory has continued to develop crimes. “The peace talks are an important into a systematic practice of violating For instance, a moment for women, and the biggest women to shame and control families in woman could be kid- challenges revolve around impunity. order to control the indigenous popula- napped and raped, It’s going to be a massive challenge tion and seize their properties and but the law will only to give the victims access to truth,” goods. pursue the crime of kidnapping because says Lima. Though the threat of sexual violence of the rape came as a result of that one In the last few years much of the this manner looms over the whole popu- crime, as opposed to charging the perpe- financial reinforcements to the lation of women in Colombia, women in trator on simultaneous counts of rape NGOs that are responsible for the rural areas, especially Afro-Colombian and kidnapping. support women receive has been and indigenous women, are particularly “The machista country and patriarchal reduced because of the financial cri- at risk due to their remote location. model discriminates and empowers the sis in Europe as well as current Afro-Colombian and indigenous Colombian administration. “You women are targeted in large part due have this president telling everyone to their race. “These minority that ‘Colombia is fine; Colombia is women, even though there are more fine! Look we’re having peace talks,’ minorities that outnumber the major- but Colombia is not fine!” says Lima. ity in Colombia, are targeted simply The report is hoping to encourage because they are seen as less than financial support to these NGOs and because of their race,” says Colom- abuse and feel the need to remain silent women’s organizations. “Legislative sup- bian Journalist Jineth Beyoda Lima, out of shame and lack of faith in the port is crucial, but we still have major who spoke through an interpreter. Colombian government and in society. deficits in truth and justice. We have Lima has covered the Colombian “There is a lack of faith in Colombia. excellent laws, but they’re not put into conflict her whole career, and has Women say ‘why would I go through the place. We have to support the over 70 experienced the oppression of process to report it if nothing is going to women’s organizations that work women firsthand. A few years ago be done’,” said Lima. throughout the country,” says Lima. she reported on the story of a local Lima herself was a victim of the sexual She also reiterates the importance of fisherman on Colombia’s Pacific violence that so many women experi- cultural change: “Its a shame that the coast who was ordered to smuggle ence. Even though she has an estab- government has made no effort to drugs with his goods for the Bandas male combatants,” says Lima. “They see lished voice and career in Colombia, and change men’s perception of women. Criminales (one of Colombia’s largest women’s bodies as weapons to harm she has the legal and financial support of That has to be done ourselves. Luckily, criminal groups). their enemies.” numerous groups throughout the inter- these women’s groups are doing a lot to When he refused, his 11-year-old Though this abuse is widespread and national community, in 13 years her give the psychological, physical, and daughter was raped by his aggressors. reports are well known, women are aggressors haven’t been tried or held legal support sexual violence victims This young girl was abused to reprimand nonetheless made to feel isolated in their accountable for their crimes. need.”
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The Church should not fear unpopularity
The Church was born into peril and powerlessness with the birth of the Christ child, the Lord of the Church. We Putting off the old, could say that Mary was the first Christian disciple, Joseph with her, the shepherds were the first congrega- tion to be engaged by this Messiah and his power of love. Our lectionary after Christmas then brings us to the hor- ror of Holy Innocents day, recalling King Herod’s brutal putting on the new murder of children in order to kill the baby Jesus, but Mary and Joseph had fled. The earliest Christians stressed this peril in which the Lord of the Church was plunged at the start of his life with us, and then of course they witnessed to Good Friday, the brutal end of his life. Jesus was indeed the ‘suffering ser- vant of God’ of Isaiah 53, who took the pathway of truth and suffering love, exposing, judging and defeating sin and evil by this death and resurrection. The Church is defined as those disciples of Christ cruci- fied and risen, and as such those prepared to take the way of Jesus along with him. As St Paul asks us, along with his readers in Rome, ‘Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death?’ The new Bishop of Rome, Francis, rightly says that the Church is not just another Non-Governmental Organi- zation, if Jesus is not at its defining centre it is no longer the Church. The Church of England in its upper structures needs to hear this Christocentric summons loud and clear as it ven- tures into the New Year. The parishes clearly are centred in Christ, preaching the Gospel of Jesus and offering his love to the neighbourhoods they serve. That local pres- ence of the parish churches up and down the land shows that establishment itself need not get in the way of the Gospel. It is however the superstructure that is in danger of blurring the core heartbeat of the Body of Christ, blur- ring it by a growing temptation to implement governmen- tal norms and secular Zeitgeist as ‘nice’. Senior appointments in particular are in danger of being heavily influenced by this criterion of acceptability to mod- ern culture. In particular the Church’s doctrine of creation as regards sexual behaviour is now increasingly at the mercy of the state, and also it seems of whether church In fact, many people are so aware of the cer- leaders seem ‘nice’ according to the catechism of tainty of their moral failure that the only resolu- Stonewall. J John tion they can consider is to avoid resolutions. And, likewise, the determined efforts by some, for the Can we hope for a new life, whether at a New nicest possible reasons, to forward a religious cultural rel- Year, or at any time? It is significant how little ativism which undermines the claims of Christ crucified to If you listen to what people say at the end of hope or help there is on offer. Biology coldly tells be the Way the Truth and the Life in favour of his being an December I expect that you will hear someone us that we are inescapably programmed by our interesting and accidental religious figure in the great mix talk about ‘putting off the old year and putting on genes to be what we are. of faiths. Here we are departing from the one holy catholic the new’. It’s a seasonal version of that deep-seat- The wisdom offered by psychologists and soci- and apostolic faith and ceasing to be Church. ed human desire: the wish to start all over again. ologists tell us that it is our upbringing or our The task of the Church is to summon the lost to saving Who of us has not at some time wished that we culture that locks us into who we are. faith in Jesus, however counter-cultural and unpopular could have a new beginning? To have a second Reincarnation holds out the possibility of a that summons may be to hostile secular culture. opportunity at a day, a year or even a life? ‘better luck next time’! Elsewhere in the reli- Comment Very few people can look at gious systems of the world we find their past without some sense only a faint hope that God (or the The Church of England Newspaper of regret, some awareness that There are gods) may – if we are good or with Celebrate magazine incorporating The Record and Christian Week they could have done more that problems w ith lucky – overlook our mistakes. Published by Political and Religious Intelligence Ltd. was good and less that was bad. If we survey the world of belief Company Number: 3176742 ‘Could do better’ is the verdict the hope that and knowledge we find the prom- Publisher: Keith Young MBE most of us have over our past. ise of genuine change is only to be This promise of a new start is the New Year found with one person, Jesus the appealing attraction of a offers Christ. He offers new life in the Publishing Director & Editor: CM BLAKELY020 7222 8004 New Year. fullest possible way. He deals with Chief Correspondent: The Rev Canon GEORGE CONGER 00 1 0772 332 2604 Oprah Winfrey, whom we the past as God for us, giving for- Reporter: AMARIS COLE 020 7222 8700 might have thought had little to regret, has said: giveness and in doing so preventing past failures “Cheers to a New Year and another chance for us from contaminating our future. He gives us Advertising: CHRIS TURNER 020 7222 2018 to get it right.” It is a toast that many people encouragement for the future by offering us the Advertising & Editorial Assistant: PENNY NAIR PRICE 020 7222 2018 would echo. gift of the Holy Spirit as God with us. We can Subscriptions & Finance: DELIA ROBINSON 020 7222 8663 Yet there are problems with the hope that the travel unburdened and with God’s presence into New Year offers. For one thing, what we are the future. Graphic Designer: PETER MAY020 7222 8700 does not conveniently end at midnight on 31 Interestingly, the origin of the wish to ‘put off The acceptance of advertising does not necessarily indicate December, as if the passing of the year somehow the old and put on the new’ probably comes from endorsement. Photographs and other material sent for publication wiped the stains off the slate of human nature. something the apostle Paul wrote to the church are submitted at the owner’s risk. The Church of England Newspaper does Indeed, much of the unease we feel when we in Ephesus: “You were taught, with regard to not accept responsibility for any material lost or damaged. look at our past is due to the uncomfortable real- your former way of life, to put off your old self, isation that yesterday’s pattern is likely to be which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; Christian Weekly Newspapers Trustees: Robert Leach (020 8224 5696), repeated tomorrow. to be made new in the attitude of your minds; Lord Carey of Clifton, The Rt Rev Michael Nazir-Ali, The Rt Rev Pete Broadbent, The mistakes of 2013 will most probably reap- and to put on the new self, created to be like God Dr Elaine Storkey, The Rev Peter Brown, The Rev Cindy Kent pear in 2014. in true righteousness and holiness,”(Ephesians Far from being able to stride out bold and free 4:22-24). The Church of England Newspaper, into the landscape of the New Year, we find our- This New Year, why not resolve in those words Political and Religious Intelligence Ltd selves weighed down by bad habits and weak- of Paul ‘to put off the old and to put on the new 14 Great College Street, London, SW1P 3RX nesses. Like the unfortunate Bill Murray in the self’? We can’t alter the past, but we can bring the Editorial e-mail: [email protected] film Groundhog Day we find that we are con- past to the altar of God. So let’s bring our past to Advertising e-mail: [email protected] demned to endlessly relive our failures. God and embrace the future with him into 2014 Subscriptions e-mail: [email protected] The New Year becomes not so much a source with anticipation and expectation for new begin- of new hope, but a merciless cycle for a repeat nings and possibilities. Website: www.churchnewspaper.com performance.
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Janey Lee Grace Live Healthy! Live Happy! Boosting your immunity
Atishoo!!! Tis the season to be unwell – unless of course possible to eat a great diet and get as many proper nutri- you have a really strong immune system. But how do we ents from food. However, due to the degradation of the boost it? soil and farming methods the reality is that it’s not pos- According to US researchers people who take multivi- sible to get everything we need, especially if we have tamin supplements are ‘wasting their money’. The US stressful lifestyles. I’d also recommend you remember good old trial, however, was done on patients who already had So how can we boost our immunity for the winter sea- favourites such as garlic (take it crushed with some poor cardiovascular health, some had Angina, diabetes son? Well I’ve banged on about it a lot but Vitamin D is Manuka honey to cover the taste, hot lemon and or heart valve disease. Who would assume a multivita- from sunshine and that’s pretty much it, so supplement Tumeric). min tablet would sort those conditions out in one six- with an oral spray preferably such as the Better You D3 Last but not least you’ll be pleased to know that week trial? 2000 (get yourself tested to see if your levels are low). chocolate is great for immunity, but sadly not the Dr Carrie Rushton said that: “Vitamins are intended My new immune-boosting find is Olive Leaf Extract. selection box from your Christmas stocking. I’m talk- for the maintenance of health rather than the manage- It’s usually very bitter tasting but Ovivo Wellness have ing raw cacao: it is high in antioxidants and tastes ment or treatment of pre-existing disease normally produced a great daily antioxidant drink which you take great as a drink or made into biscuits/cakes et al, use treated with medicines or surgery.” for seven days and it has all manner of antibacterial and raw organic coconut nectar to sweeten. Try the So what are we to do? You may find it surprising that antiviral properties as well as increasing energy. starter kit from www.chocchick.com. Guilt-free choco- I’m not really a vitamin pill popper, preferring wherever www.ovivowellness.com late. Yum. Profits of the season Positive Dieting Chapter and staff at Winchester Cathedral can look back on a profitable January is the month when people join gyms and resolve to lose weight after the excesses Christmas season. So many people wanted to visit the Cathedral Christmas of the festive season. A well-known American pastor is aiming to help people keep their Market that local residents and councillors are complaining about the New Year resolutions to diet. The author of The Purpose Driven Life has just published a amount of traffic it generated. On one day alone in November, 30 coaches new book, The Daniel Plan (Zondervan), written jointly with two doctors, Mark Hyman arrived in Winchester, full of shoppers. Around 100 exhibitors took chalets and Daniel Amen, that outlines a programme that enabled him to lose 65 pounds in 2011. in the market at a cost of up to £9,984 plus a daily surcharge of £12 for a The 40-day plan has also worked for members of Warren’s congregation who collectively prime location. The market, which started six years ago, also features an lost 250,000 pounds last year. The Daniel Plan includes elements found in other diets such ice rink. The local newspaper estimated profits to the Cathedral at between as recipes for healthy eating and plans for exercise but it also features stress reduction, £364,000 and £899,000. Last year the market increased gift shop sales by prayer and support from other church members in small home groups. The Purpose 75 per cent and the refectory profits by five per cent, according to the Driven Life sold 35 million copies; it remains to be seen how many copies The Daniel Plan Cathedral’s Annual Report. The price paid by the city was long queues, will sell but it has already featured on American TV programmes. Warren won much tailbacks and congestion but since local shopkeepers also benefitted from sympathy after the suicide of his son, Matthew, who had a long history of wrestling with increased trade the Christmas Market does not lack for supporters. mental illness. Warren’s comment, ‘you don’t get over grief, you get through it’ rang bells Customers flooded in even though on some days there was a 15-minute with many. wait to enter the inner close. Even without the Market, the Gallery can recommend the Refectory. When CEN’s man visited in December the scones, mince pies and Christmas cake were all of high standard although the same cannot be said of the sculpture of the head of former Dean, Trevor Beeson, which adorns the Refectory. Born gay or made gay? The American gay magazine The Advocate raised eyebrows when it made Pope Francis its person of the year because of his comment on homosexuality ‘who am I to judge?’ Someone who is prepared to judge is General Synod member and Awkward Archbishop founder of Christian Concern, Andrea Minichiello Williams. Ms Williams is no stranger to controversy but her latest Archbishop Desmond Tutu made headlines around the world comments have provoked outrage in the gay when he announced he had not been invited to Nelson Mandela’s community. Speaking at a conference in Jamaica to funeral. Word soon spread that the politicians didn’t want him at lobby against repealing a law outlawing gay sex, she the service. The ANC had to deny it was trying to snub the appeared to suggest that Tom Daley was gay Archbishop because he had criticised the party and Dr because his father had died of cancer. She used Tutu duly received his invitation. You don’t play around this to support her claim that homosexuality is with Desmond Tutu! If he thinks it necessary in the cause not inborn but often the result of a lack of a of justice, he can be an awkward customer. A story told Whispering father, or abuse. The Bishop of Chichester, the about him pictures the Archbishop arriving at the gates of diocese which Ms Williams represents in synod,
heaven after his own death. St Peter has to tell him that The Gallery was quick to condemn her comments. Stonewall his name doesn’t appear in the Book of Life and he must expressed its sorrow and Changing Attitudes go to the Other Place. Tutu duly disappears without labelled her comments ‘a bigoted outburst that passing through the pearly gates. A week later the devil amounts to dangerous hate mongering’. shows up outside heaven. ‘You’ve got to take that According to a report in The Independent, Ms fellow Tutu,’ he tells a startled St Peter. ‘We can’t keep Williams was unavailable for comment but she him. He is giving us all hell’. The joke appears in may take up her controversial views again when Mark Braverman: A Wall in Jerusalem. she speaks this month at a conference for the ex- gay movement on conversion therapy.
[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper www.churchnewspaper.com Friday January 3, 2014 Comment 9 Hope for leadership in 2014 Andrew Carey View from the Pew
Customarily having looked back at the death of democracy in their country. whose legacy is much disputed, must be and stick to them rather than u-turning year in the final column of the year, I This ended the cricket career of both seen as a much more serious figure than at the slightest flicker of controversy. tend to look forward in the first week of men and put them and their families in our political leaders today. Politicians may pride themselves on lis- the New Year. danger. Yet both men have conducted Whatever your view on the politics of tening to the public, but the public My predictions are naturally gloomy, themselves with tremendous dignity. either Mandela or Thatcher, or for that despises them for not sticking to their pessimistic. They are also always com- The same goes for the late, great Nel- matter many other leaders of that era, guns. We want our leaders to lead and to pletely obvious; for example last year’s son Mandela. I have heard a number of were figures of much greater gravitas serve, rather than to be led by spin doc- prediction that gay marriage would people make comments about his terror- than our current crop (Lech Walesa, tors and the media. become law during 2013. I tend to make ist past but that merely confirms the fact Gorbachev, and Ronald Reagan also I’ll make no predictions this year, I’ll predictions that are completely safe bets. that the trajectory of his leadership spring to mind). merely express the hope that we’ll see I’d never risk anything on my favourite towards peace and reconciliation was a The problem it seems to me is that some leadership this year. Both the Pope football team (Arsenal) though I may powerful journey through suffering, iso- constant polling and PR that now infects and the Archbishop of Canterbury have have to revise my usual doom-monger- lation, patience and imprisonment. our politics. Every policy is now weighed the opportunity, the profile and the gifts ing there, or on the England cricket His story of forgiveness is quite simply by focus groups and floated in public to to take up that mantle of leadership in team. the most profound and powerful witness gauge how popular it is. There is no con- the vacuum left by our forgettable politi- It’s fairly safe to say that the English to the possibility of reconciliation. It is to viction and very little ideology any more. cians. One of the most poignant images are always going to be beaten by a hun- Mandela that the primary credit lies in It is no longer possible to make even of the year was the picture which gry Australian team, especially when the the fact that South Africa didn’t descend the most simplistic statements about the showed Pope Francis embracing a man summer of cricket did little more than into the kind of genocidal violence that differences between our political parties. scarred by disfiguring tumours. And it is expose the batting frailties of the current was seen elsewhere on the African sub- For example, is it possible to say that striking that the Archbishop of Canter- team. continent in the same historical period. Labour favour a bigger state and Conser- bury’s intervention on pay-day loans, I have to say that I hope the England Sadly, we see few examples of great, vatives favour a smaller one. Yet even at a debt and banking this year have struck coach survives the fall-out from this ill- compassionate and courageous leader- time of supposedly biting austerity the such a chord in the public mind. fated tour of Australia. He is one of the ship today. It is probably unfair to con- Conservative government has cut the Christian leadership is about more people I most admire in sport. It was just trast the ‘selfies’ taken by the Danish size of the State by a mere three percent than setting a decisive direction, it is also over 10 years ago, in 2003, that he and Prime Minister with David Cameron and and the Labour Party’s cuts would be lit- about service and sacrifice. It is a gift to his fellow Zimbabwean, the black bowler Barack Obama against the example of tle different in terms of scale. the Church and the world. Henry Olonga wore black armbands dur- Mandela. Margaret Thatcher, another We now long for leaders and politicians A Happy New Year to all the readers of ing the Cricket World Cup to protest the leader of tremendous significance, who will nail their colours to the mast The Church of England Newspaper. Jesus: universally Paul Richardson appealing Church and World Eight days after celebrating Christ’s birth, the Church appreciated in recent years. Otto Dix painted Christ as a prisoner surrounded by at the Feast of the Epiphany emphasises that he came Now Richard Harries has produced an important barbed wire, the barbed wire merging into a crown of as saviour for all the world. The wise men travelling to study, The Image of Christ in Modern Art (Ashgate), a thorns. Bethlehem represent the gentiles who were to be richly illustrated book that looks at how Christ has been An interesting theme developed by Harries is the drawn to follow Christ as the gospel was preached represented over the past 100 years in a secular world appeal of Jesus to Jewish artists. Chagall’s White Cruci- beyond the borders of Palestine. that might have been expected to be indifferent to him. fixion is very much a Jewish Christ with the body One fact about Jesus that it is hard to dispute is his Harries deals with a large number of artists, some wrapped in a Jewish prayer shawl and Hebrew words universal appeal. One historian of American religion well known like Chagall, Stanley Spencer, Graham written over his head. For Christians the painting has pointed out that while different groups have given Sutherland or Henry Moore; others less well known shows God in Christ sharing the agony of his people up on different elements in Christianity, no one has like Norman Adams or Peter Ball. during the Nazi period; for Jews the white light coming given up on Jesus. Liberals have given up on miracles, The challenge for artists is to show how Jesus is at from the flames of the burning Torah and merging with biblical inspiration and spoken of the ‘death of God’ but once fully human and yet also divine. Harries tells of the white light from heaven shining on the cross they have kept Jesus. going to an exhibition of bronzes at the Royal Academy emphasises the faithfulness of the Torah, even in the Some conservatives have given up on creeds or and seeing images of gods from all ages and cultures. midst of destruction. ancient traditions but they have held fast to Jesus. Such Surely it will not be right for Jesus to be included here Harries quotes some words of the Red Dean of Can- doctrines as predestination, original sin or substitution- as just one more god, he thought. ‘Then, there he was: a terbury, Hewlett Johnson, at the funeral of Jacob ary atonement have been jettisoned by some but Jesus thoroughly human Jesus - Seated Christ by Adriaen de Epstein: ‘If we ask how it was that a boy born and bread has remained. Beyond the church atheists and agnos- Vries with nothing to distinguish him from any other in the Jewish faith and never embracing any other tics usually profess their admiration for Jesus although human being’. should become the interpreter of the sublime mysteries some try to undermine his appeal with the implausible Stanley Spencer is a modern artist who was good at of our religion, there can be no clear answer. Such mys- claim he never existed. depicting the holy in the mundane. His paintings of teries belong to the inscrutable wisdom of God’. Jesus features in Western art, literature and music. Christ in Cookham High Street or preaching at Harries says that the theme of his book is how artists T.S.Eliot produced a memorable poem about the Cookham regatta are famous. While theologians wran- have responded to the challenge of Christian iconogra- Epiphany in his ‘Journey of the Magi’. Years after the gled over sex, Spencer had no difficulty in fusing the phy whilst retaining their artistic integrity. Some of the event one of the wise men wonders whether they jour- sexual and the holy in ‘one stream of energy’ as Harries artists he discusses like John Piper or Roger Wagner neyed to see a birth or a death. He concludes: ‘this puts it. Spencer wrote about how he was troubled that are definitely Christian although Piper grew disillu- Birth was/ Hard and bitter agony for us, like Death, everything in Cookham seemed meaningless until he sioned with aspects of the Church. Wagner is a fascinat- our death’. came to see that everything was in fact full of special ing modern painter who often depicts Christianity as a Poets and artist can often show aspects of Christ the meaning and he needed to take off his shoes because secret and secret affair. theologians miss or find it hard to talk about. David he was on holy ground. In Harries’ words, Spencer ‘saw But a quote from Henry Moore suggests that all art Brown has written a number of excellent books to show all things as redeemable and painted them in their is, in some sense, religious. An artist, Moore argued how art, literature and music have contributed to the redeemed state, as raised into true life even now’. could not work without believing that life has ‘some sig- development of Christian doctrine and growth in theo- Other painters have been good at depicting a suffer- nificance and some meaning, which is what I think it logical understanding and this fact has become widely ing Christ who identified with the pain of the C20th. has’.
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By Derek Walker Not content with that unexpected be their best, missing in their first live album. return, he made a cameo appearance on their more poignant Martin Smith Decorated with lap Plenty of musicians made news this year, the title track of Arcade Fire’s Reflektor, side, but it is a beauti- steel and such, it but those who created the most noise but his overall legacy – particularly his ful complement. reflects their new were not necessarily those who made Ashes to Ashes sound - left a striking Another fan-funded Nashville home and is the best noise. The Lady Gagas and mark on the whole album. Many critics Christian release to as highly produced as Miley Cyruses hit front pages and web seemed unhappy with the more dance note was Daniel ever. pages, but maybe that was making up for oriented feel of the release, but re-listen- Amos’s excellent Dig Our review of Quer- deficiencies elsewhere. ing to its great predecessor The Suburbs Here, Said the Angel. cus, spearheaded by Listening to where the fans speak, afterwards only confirms the vibrant Brandishing trade- June Tabor, showed rather than marketing machines, 2013 tone of Reflektor. It may have fewer mark humour, wisdom how folk and jazz need saw some welcome returns for long-dor- hooks, but the thoroughly enjoyable and hooks, it is a won- not be that distant mant rock artists. Black Sabbath’s hia- album revels in greater layers of colour derful (whisper it…) from each other and tus-ending 13 débuted at number one and texture. concept album about another ECM-label …or should that be ‘dou- death, but far, far artist, pianist Keith Jar- ble album’? It had two discs, cheerier than the idea rett, has set aside his David even though the music seems at first. A full jazz leanings for a clas- Bowie would comfortably fit on review is coming very sical duet with one, especially if its closing shortly, as is one of Sandra McCracken’s Michelle Makarski. Their double album noodling was cut, as many very fine Desire Like Dynamite. of Bach’s Six Sonatas for Violin and critics suggested. Over the While the mainstream side of Christian Piano beautifully balances Bach’s twin Rhine’s pastorally inspired music poured out more of the usual vac- features. The music’s crispness has Meet Me at the Edge of the uous worship material (and the jury is enough stately qualities to give it a World did the same. Both still out on Martin Smith’s slightly more refined, courtly mood; yet its colourful discs saw the duo eschew creative God’s Great Dance Floor, Step sprightliness also oozes fizz and sparkle. piano-based songs for a 2) some properly crafted works Two of this year’s most striking and satisfying releases were from the world genre, but the joys of Saffron’s highly sensuous, jazzy and oriental Dawning and Bombay Dub Orches- tra’s lushly ambient Tales from the Grand Bazaar deserve more space in with a return to the sound of their a few weeks. classic years, polished a little by As the independent Todd0 has the influence of intervening acts. shown this year (check out toddze- Pondering weighty issues, they ro.com) you do not have to go to asked “God Is Dead?” and ended global corporate acts to get some of with a typically non-committal con- the catchiest and tuneful music. This clusion. section of the paper plans to keep David Bowie seemed to catch mining the outer fringes of the music out just about everyone with a sur- world to bring you the richest music – and we may even continue to mix Bombay Dub Orchestra our metaphors for your entertain- ment.
appeared. Jars of Clay consolidated the sound of Good Monsters and Eleventh Hour on Inland, another thoughtful and subdued release full of well-honed songs. It doesn’t quite match the spacious beauty of their début or the synth-rich intricate layers of The Long Fall Back to Earth, but it is a melody- Quercus fuelled work, rich in lyrical imagery, that succeeds both as an introduction to the band and as a satisfying addi- tion to their canon for long- time fans. prise comeback. Produced again by more country-inspired sound. What has Keith and Tony Visconti, The Next Day was a dis- not changed is their commitment to fine Kristyn Getty tilled version of his more popular phases songs. Given time, these rise to the sur- unwrapped a and garnered both popular and critical face of the release. The fan-funded proj- huge bundle of acclaim. ect (reviewed in this newspaper) may not favourite tracks
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addressing people who had no clue about the Bible. Such kindness is fruit (it grows because of the KINDNESS Since that is what God is like, then those who life of the Spirit within us), but it also has to be worship him must show the same character. The cultivated. It has to become a habit that builds into Old Testament has several outstanding examples of our character. And we know it has become a habit By Chris Wright people showing exceptional kindness – at their own only when it becomes more natural to say and do cost: what is kind, than not to. I’m sure you’ve heard the little girl’s bed-time * Ruth showed kindness to her mother-in-law by It has become a habit when we feel really prayer: refusing to leave her, walking instead into an wretched and bad about ourselves when, for ‘Dear God, please make the bad people good, uncertain future in a foreign land. Then Boaz whatever reason, we fail to do and say what is kind, and please make the good people nice.’ showed kindness to Ruth and Naomi by exercising or (even worse) when we behave in ways that we Kindness and goodness go together in Paul’s list the duties of kinsman-redeemer and providing for know were downright unkind. We should be saying and maybe that’s because they need each other. them both. The book of Ruth is a model of hesed in – ‘How could I do that?’ And then, of course, we Some ‘goodness’ can be very cold and clinical – action. should come back to the Lord to ask for being morally upright and doing everything right, * David (though not always behaving in this forgiveness and grace. but lacking in warmth and humanity. So it’s helpful way), acted to show ‘the kindness of the Lord’ to So as we go out into each day, with its travel and to think about kindness first. Paul also puts Mephibosheth, the crippled son of his deceased its work, and its constant rubbing shoulders with kindness straight after patience because he saw friend Jonathan (2 Sam. 9). other people, why don’t we ask God for both of them as essential qualities of love – the first Kindness is one of the key things that God opportunities to show kindness? fruit of the Spirit. ‘Love is patient, love is kind’, he required of his people – alongside justice and said (1 Cor. 13:4) humility. – ‘Do justice, love kindness, and walk Who can I thank today – in shops or at work, or The essence of kindness is being thoughtful for humbly with your God’ (Mic. 6:8). ‘Administer true on transport? others more than for myself in any situation. It justice, show kindness and compassion to one Where can I give a smile or a word of means having a desire to help others, to encourage another’ (Zech. 7:9). appreciation – e.g. to those who clean the streets? them. It means that I put myself in the other How can I help out someone in need? person’s shoes and think what I would most want Kindness and the example of Jesus Who can I show ‘the kindness of the Lord’ to? or need them to do for me – and then do it for If kindness is essentially caring for others and them. It means a word, or a smile, or an action, that their needs more than yourself, then Jesus was Maybe this will help: helps somebody else even if it might be kindness incarnate- kindness on two legs. There are two places in Colossians 3 where Paul inconvenient or even costly, to myself. They say ‘a I have a friend who says he wants to write a book begins a sentence with, ‘Whatever you do…’ (which little kindness costs nothing’ – which is often true. on the life of Jesus and call it ‘a theology of covers just about everything!) But real kindness in action can certainly cost interruptions’. Because, as he says, so many of the money or time or both. things that we read in the gospels that Jesus said or First: ‘whatever you do, whether in word or deed, In the Bible kindness is often linked with did, happened because somebody interrupted him do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus’ (v. 17). That generosity – an outpouring of loving care and when he was doing something else or on the move. means that I act as if Christ were acting in and provision for somebody else. That’s biblical Yet Jesus responded, not with irritation and through me. If I were Christ, what would I do for kindness. dismissal, but with kindness and warmth. that other person? Think of the woman with bleeding, the parents Second: ‘whatever you do’, do it ‘as working for Kindness and the character of God with their children, blind Bartimaeus, the Syro- the Lord’ (v. 23). That means that I act as if the In the Old Testament, God is often praised for his Phoenician woman, the woman who anointed his other person were Christ. Even slaves could serve kindness. There is a word in Hebrew - hesed – feet. Even on the cross he was thinking of the Christ by working for their masters. which is so rich that it gets translated in many ways needs of his mother. - sometimes as ‘faithful love’, sometimes as ‘mercy’, And all these examples of the kindness of Jesus Wouldn’t that make a difference to how we treat and in older translations, as ‘loving kindness’, or were not just because he was ‘a very nice man’, or a other people? What lengths of kindness would we sometimes just ‘kindness’. bit of a smiley wimp. Jesus had some pretty strong show to others if we asked ourselves those words and actions against religious leaders and questions: ‘What would I do for that person if I were ‘Surely goodness and mercy (that’s hesed)) shall hypocrites. But to the poor, the sick and the Christ? What would I do for that person if they were follow me all the days of my life’ (Ps. 23:6) - said marginalized – people that everybody else pushed Christ?’ David, thinking of God as a shepherd who treats aside – to them Jesus showed amazing kindness Richard Wurmbrand, the Romanian pastor who his sheep with kindness, provision and protection. and gave precious time and attention to their needs. was imprisoned and tortured under the Communist So if being a disciple of Jesus means I ought to be regime, tells of how one day in a cell with other ‘Give thanks to the LORD for he is good, his like him, why do I so often fail to take the time to be people, when he had been tortured and was kindness endures forever’ – the refrain that echoes kind to others in daily life? Often it’s because I’m hugging his only blanket, he saw another prisoner all the way through Psalm 136. too busy and don’t want to be interrupted. shivering with cold in the corner. Sometimes it’s because I’m being self-protective. He hugged his blanket more closely, until the The Israelites really celebrated God’s kindness. Here’s When I travel, it seems almost necessary to go into thought occurred to him, “If that were Christ, an example: ‘flight mode’ and just push ahead: ‘Don’t cross me, would you give him your blanket?” The question I’ve gotta do what I’ve gotta do’. At such times, I answered itself. He gave the man his blanket (and I will tell of the kindness of the LORD, need to remind myself that if Christ lives in me, later on, after he was freed, he wrote a book with the deeds for which he is to be praised then how should I be behaving towards others that question as the title). according to all the LORD has done for us – around me – even strangers, and even when I’m That kind of kindness is not only what it means to yes, the many good things he has done for Israel, tired and under pressure (as Jesus must have be Christlike. It is also deeply attractive as a according to his compassion and many kindnesses…’ been)? witness to the One who lives within us and whose (Isa. 63:7). Spirit is bearing fruit in our lives. Kindness as a habit of life Dame Anita Roddick (founder of Body Shop) So when Paul wanted to tell people in Lystra what We need to remember that kindness is part of the once said: ‘The end result of kindness is that it the one true living God is like he focused on God’s fruit of the Spirit because it doesn’t come naturally draws people to you.’ kindness: ‘He has shown kindness by giving you (even though it’s true some people are just more With far greater conviction and truth we should rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he naturally kind than others). But the sort of be able to say, ‘The end result of kindness is that it provides you with plenty of food and fills your kindness Paul is talking about is not ‘natural’, but draws people to Christ.’ hearts with joy,’ (Acts 14:17). That is very Old ‘spiritual’, in the sense that it comes from being Chris Wright is International Ministries Director of Testament language, even though he was filled with God’s Spirit. Langham Partnership.
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THE 2013 Matters (Presence and St Mary (Sheffield), to be also ANGLICAN CYCLE OF PRAYER Engagement and Kings Centre Assistant Curate of BIBLE CHALLENGE in Southall), (London). Kimberworth and The Rev Martin Powell, Kimberworth Park and Friday 03 January. Psalm 100, Isa. 59: 15b-21. Abakaliki - Incumbent of New Addington Assistant Curate of Rawmarsh Day 1 Genesis 1-3, Psalm 1, (Enugu, Nigeria): The Rt Rev Benson Onyeibor to be Incumbent: with Parkgate (Sheffield). Matthew 1 Saturday 04 January. Psalm 149: 1-5, Phil 1: 18b-26. Aldingbourne, Barnham & Day 2 Genesis 4-6, Psalm 2, Aberdeen & Orkney - (Scotland): The Rt Rev Dr Robert Gillies Eastergate (Chichester). RETIREMENTS & Matthew 2 Sunday 05 January. Christmas 3. Psalm 9:1-11, Isa 33:13-17. The Rev Canon Robert RESIGNATIONS Day 3 Genesis 7-9, Psalm 3, PRAY for The Anglican Church in Aotearoa, New Zealand & Reiss, Matthew 3 Polynesia: The Most Rev William Brown, Turei Pihopa o has been appointed part-time Day 4 Genesis 10-12, Psalm 4, Aotearora and Primate and Archbishop of the Anglican Church Ministry and Training The Rev David Brown, Matthew 4 in Aotearoa, New Zealand & Polynesia Consultant (temporary) and Priest-in-Charge of Day 5 Enjoy hearing the Monday 06 January. The Epiphany. Psalm 72: 1-8, Titus 1: 1- will hold the Bishop of Barlavington, Burton with scriptures read aloud in church 9. O God, who revealed your only Son to the Gentiles by the Southwark’s Permission to Coates and Sutton with Bignor Day 6 Genesis 13-15, Psalm 5, leading of a star, mercifully grant theat we, who know you now Officiate. (Chichester), is to retire. Matthew 5 by faith, may after this life enjoy the splendour of your gracious The Rev Eric Robinson, The Rev Janet Fife, Day 7 Genesis 16-18, Psalm 6, Godhead, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen Chaplain to St Oswald’s Priest in Charge, Marske in Matthew 6 Tuesday 07 January. Psalm 72: 1,10-14, Titus 2. Accra Hospital, Worcester, has been Cleveland (York), is retiring Day 8 Genesis 19-21, Psalm 7, (Ghana) - (West Africa): The Rt Rev Dr Daniel Sylvanus Men- appointed as Assistant Curate with effect from 4 March 2014. Matthew 7 sah Torto (part time) of the Benefice of The Rev Heather Humphrey, Day 9 Genesis 22-24, Psalm 8, Wednesday 08 January. Psalm 72: 1,15-end, Eph. 1: 1-14. York Holy Trinity, Micklegate Vicar of Christchurch Coseley Matthew 8 Adelaide - (South Australia, Australia): The Most Rev Jeffrey (York). in the Diocese of Worcester will William Driver The Rev David Rushton, retire on 12 Jan 2014. Thursday 09 January. Psalm 98, Eph. 1: 15-23. Afikpo - Lead Chaplain and Hospitaller, The Rev Simon Wilson APPOINTMENTS (Enugu, Nigeria): The Rt Rev Paul Uduogu Bart’s Health NHS Trust, County Ecumenical Officer, Diocese of London, to be: Lead Norfolk and Waveney Chaplain, Royal Free London Churches Together. Social and Union Church, Johannesburg, The Rev Susanne Jukes, NHS Foundation Trust Community Concerns Co- The Rev Martin Eardley All- South Africa. (Chaplain to HMP Full Sutton) (London). ordinator, Diocese of Norwich. wood, The Rev Ann-Marie Crosse, has been appointed as Vicar of The Rev Maurice Slattery, Chaplain, Norfolk and Fire (Curate of the Hundred River Chaplain of the Queen the Benefice of Topcliffe, To be Priest-in-Charge (House- Rescue Service, is to resign due and Wainford Group of Alexander Hospital Home to be Baldersby with Dishforth, for-Duty) of Burpham, St Mary to ill health (Norwich). Parishes) has been appointed Licensed as Priest-in-Charge Dalton and Skipton on Swale the Virgin and Poling, St The Rev Richard Wynn, as Rector of the Benefice of (House-for-Duty) of Brightling, (York). Nicholas (Chichester). Priest-in-Charge of Stopham The Street Parishes (York). Mountfield and Netherfield The Rev Graham Miller, The Rev Anita Elisabeth and Fittleworth (Chichester), is The Rev Helen Bence, (Chichester). Associate Vicar at St James, Smith, to retire. has resigned as Assistant The Rev Dr Kevin Stuart Paddington (London), to be Mission Partner at the Church Curate (known as Associate Ellis Rector of Holy Cross, Mission Society in Kenya, has LAY & OTHER Minister) in the Benefice of Vicar (Bartley Green, St Greenford (London). been appointed to the Vicarage APPOINTMENTS Thurnby with Stoughton and Michael & All Angels), Diocese The Rev Rosemary (Rosie) of Banbury Saint Hugh, in the has been licensed as Assistant of Birmingham, to be Vicar of Grania Morton, Diocese of Oxford. Curate (to be known as Holy Island, Diocese of Bangor, Formerly Chaplain, Newcastle The Rev Thomas Bamidele Timothy Hone, Associate Minister) in the Church in Wales upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Adegboyega Sotonwa, has been appointed to the half Benefice of the Cornerstone The Rev Alastair Ferguson, Foundation Trust, Diocese of Has been given Bishop’s time post of Secretary to the Team (Leicester). To be Priest-in-Charge (House- Newcastle, has been given the Permission to Officiate, Liturgical Commission and The Rev John Trevor Bir- for-Duty) of Withyham, St Bishop’s Permission to Diocese of Birmingham Worship Development Officer beck Michael and All Angels Officiate, Diocese of The Rev John Taylor, (in succession to the Rev Rector of Rawmarsh with (Chichester). Birmingham who currently holds PTO in the Christopher Woods). He will Parkgate and Assistant Curate The Rev Richard Ford, The Rev David Owen, Peterborough diocese has been take up his new responsibilities of Greasbrough St Mary having served his Title Curacy Team Vicar in the Droitwich appointed Assistant Priest for on 6 January 2014. (Sheffield), to be also Assistant in the Sanderstead Team Spa Team Ministry and Priest- the Rutland Water benefice Ian Charles Watmore, Curate of Kimberworth and Ministry is to be licensed as in-Charge of Salwarpe with (Empingham, Edith Weston, Has been appointed a Church Kimberworth Park (Sheffield). Honorary Assistant Curate of Hindlip & Martin Hussingtree Lyndon, Manton, North Commissioner for three years The Rev Matthew Charles the benefice (Southwark). is to be Rector of the Chet Luffenham, Pilton, Preston, effective from 1 January 2014 in Brailsford, The Rev Geraldine Foster, Valley benefice (Norwich). Ridlington, Whitwell, Wing) succession to the Canon John Priest in Charge of North Interim Priest at Wroxham in The Rev Kevin Parkes, (Peterborough). Andrew Spence, Esq, OBE who Ferriby, has been appointed as Norwich Diocese, be appointed Part time Chaplain in the The Rev Canon David Tickn- resigns on 31 December 2013. Vicar of the Benefice of North to the Vicarage of Watton in Hillingdon Hospital Foundation er, Ferriby (York). the Diocese of Norwich. Trust (London), to be: to be Licensed as Priest-in- The Rev Michael William The Rev Dennis F Handley, Healthcare Chaplain, Charge (House-for-Duty) of DEATHS Brierley, Team Rector of Almondbury (Southwark). Turners Hill: St Leonard Priest-in-Charge of Tavistock with Farnley Tyas (Wakefield) The Rev Dr Anna Poulson, (Chichester). and Gulworthy (Exeter), to be to be Vicar of Holy Trinity & St SSM Curate at St John, Southall The Rev Arthur Daniel The Rev Canon James (Jim) appointed to the Canonry in the Mary, Berwick (Newcastle). (London), to be: Part time Walker, Reinhold Fry, Cathedral Church of Christ and The Rev Eleanor Jean, Associate Vicar of St John, (Assistant Curate), has (PTO 2000-2013, Canterbury) the Blessed Virgin Mary, has resigned as Assistant Southall (London). resigned to be Vicar of the died on 17 December 2013. Worcester. Curate in the Benefice of The Rev Mark Poulson, benefice of St Paul & St Luke, The Rev Canon Herbert The Rev James Buchanan, Thurnby with Stoughton and Incumbent of St John, Southall Birkenshaw in the Diocese of Grant Ockwell, Curate at Trinity Church, has been as Assistant Curate in (London), to be: Part time Wakefield. Canon Emeritus of Southwark Islington (London), to be the Benefice of the Incumbent of St John, Southall The Rev Lyn Sharon Wortley Cathedral died on 11th Senior Minister at Melville Cornerstone Team (Leicester). and Adviser for Inter Faith Priest in Charge, Greasbrough December 2013.
Montes Reserva quote a world-respected authority. right appearance of restrained oak Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 This is its “entry” range, the tannins, these from French Wine Morrisons, £8.99 lowest priced it produces, but barrels. The finish is long and www.morrisonscellar.com there’s no doubt about the quality. warming. OF THE WEEK It also gets 90 points from another Alcohol by Vol. not more An angel with out-stretched wings wine critic, America’s Robert than14%. There’s nothing dry on the label, a bunch of grapes in Parker. about it. A good choice to open as one hand, a silver goblet in the Oh, that nose: rich, fruity and we begin 2014. Especially if you other. From Chile comes this rich inviting are the aromas that arise are having a beef roast, or roast (intense, Morrisons categorise it) from the darkest of reds in the pork with oodles of apple sauce. It Cabernet Sauvignon. glass. Full bodied, it is rich and can certainly stand up to a chilli Montes, in the Colchagua Valley, warming, with ripe fruit notes, con carne for warming winter fare. produces some of that country’s blackcurrants and black cherries, “grand, expensive” bottles, to deliciously smooth, with just the Graham Gendall Norton
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Bob Mayo
Last year will inevitably be remembered as the year Nelson Mandela died and I will be giving thanks with churches all Celebrating the church across the world for the life that was his. Christmas tends to be my most busy but least creative time of the year. It is busy because it is a period of events man- agement. It is non-creative because there is little variation in how those events can in the community be organised. People don’t want any innovation at Christmas. They want to come to a carol service that is entirely ‘Don’t forget the reason for the Season’ with the local undertaker and planned a turtles for walks in the arcades. The ‘fla- traditional. This means that the decision are making a commodity out of religion. memorial service for those who had died neur’ (as he was known) liked to have over whether to have ‘Away in a Manger’ Carols being played over the Tannoy at during the year. Lodge Brothers are a the turtle set the pace for them. Taking before or after ‘Hark the Herald’ is not Starbucks are nothing more than a cul- family firm and they wrote inviting all of his pace from the turtle meant that the one that takes three years training at tural sound-scape. Advent calendars the families who had lost someone to flaneur had the opportunity to stand Theological College. include New Year’s Eve and New Year’s come to the service and the church was apart from the crowd, time to walk slow- People’s expectations for the Christ- Day and Christmas Day itself is effective- packed. ly and the chance to observe all that was mas season are shaped by commerce. T- ly scripted out. We sung carols because that made peo- happening. shirts that say ‘Happy Birthday Jesus’ or Theologically I am not overly con- ple feel safe. We read cerned by this cultural out the names of those muddle. Easter is when who had died because the rubber hits the road that made people feel %-())!$!&" as far as the incarnation comforted. We invited ("#&*'!)&,&+') is concerned. We are people to place a lit Easter people and we tealight candle on a 020 7222 2018 • [email protected] worship Christ crucified cross to mark the life (1 Cor 1:23) ...not... that had passed. The Christ the baby in a cross of Christ with #!%$"#&! manger. over 100 candles in a Socially I am dis- dimly lit church made traught at the Church’s people feel that they 5!=+(:( =& 9B8" P -(QQ: failure to get to grips were part of a wider with the surrounding whole and not alone in 9OFOMI7O =& -1IFL/3F N!8" 1O5JIHHC social milieu. Christmas their loss. 9./73G9O B>) 9.11IFL/3F can be a difficult and We had a steel band, J3.0O &=< 5./E 21IO0/ lonely time for people a 30-foot Christmas 9 2:!'86!88=4$"6 %=: 6"' 5"B<'N =% MB8'=%5":!86 5"4:+"E 1')"!NNE and there is an urgent tree and food and B>) 6= B88!86 B+:=88 6"' 7'>'F+'E 8!64B6') !> B 3':J B66:B+6!3' B:'B need for the Church to drinks for everyone afterwards — all The parish priest, like the flaneur, is =% 6"' G'>)!< I!NN8E +N=8' 6= 7:!86=N B>) -'86=>D84<':DGB:'C get alongside those who provided by Bev and her team from the not in post to be busy but to have time for 9> !>6':'86 !> L=:P!>$ L!6" J=4>$ <'= The Conversion of the protector made sure no lives were lost. The journal of power of the Europeans who came among them but Maori one CMS missionary describes the dangers of the early they were also attracted by literacy and the biblical nar- Timothy Yates years. It could be intimidating when a naked Maori war- rative. The self-denying lives of the missionaries made Eerdmans, pb, £19.99 rior jumped over the garden fence armed with a an impact, especially on those who lived and worked weapon. among them who spread the gospel message among When it comes to the his- Much discussion surrounds the character of the pio- their own people. tory of Christian mission neer of the Anglican mission, Samuel Marsden. Among Although we are dependent on missionary sources old myths die hard. Two of Australians he is remembered as a magistrate who for accounts of pre-contact Maori culture there is good the most persistent myths flogged offenders but in New Zealand he has a higher reason to think it had many unattractive features such are that the missionaries reputation for his leadership of the mission to Maoris. as the abandonment of the sick, constant warfare, can- were agents of Western Inevitably 19th Century missionary work attracted a nibalism and slavery. imperialism who aimed to range of people. Some were drawn by the prospect of Christianisation did mean some loss. Social disloca- spread British rule around improving their social condition; others were motivated tion followed the decline of chiefly status and some the world and that mission- by a deep religious conversion; still others were carvings were destroyed but on balance it is hard to aries imposed their reli- inspired by a mixture of motives. Difficult conditions risk the conclusion that the mass conversion of the gion on converts who were could encourage even dedicated men to go off the rails. Maori made for a better way of life. pressurised in different Thomas Kendall was one of the first to learn the Maori With conversion went the Treaty of Waitangi and the ways into becoming Chris- language but he had to be dismissed for an affair with a arrival of British rule. Yates makes little of it, but it is tians. Maori woman. William Yate had to go when it was dis- probable the rapid growth of the churches after the In this short study of the covered he had liaisons with young Maori men. Treaty was signed in 1840 was not unconnected with conversion of the Maori One of the major themes of Yates’ study is that it was political change. between 1814 and 1842 the Maori themselves who were the principal agents of Mass religious conversions are often adjustment Timothy Yates is the latest in a string of historians to evangelisation. This is the conclusion also drawn by movements in which tribal people seek to move togeth- undermine the stereotypical view of missionary history. scholars who have looked at other examples of mission- er into a new world. The missionaries, however, were This is a masterly account based on both printed ary work among tribal peoples, such as Darrell White- accidental imperialists. They thought British rule sources and a large number of printed works that will man who has examined the conversion of Melanesians. preferable to unregulated contact with lawless traders repay reading by anyone interested in Christian mis- Far from being passive recipients of the gospel, Maoris and escaped convicts and they did not want to see the sion. were active in spreading the word as teachers and cate- Catholic French become the rulers of New Zealand. Three churches were working in New Zealand in the chists. Missionaries certainly worked to promote the Treaty years Yates describes: the Anglican CMS, the Yates looks at the different motives for conversion, of Waitangi but in political change, as in religious con- Methodist Wesleyan Mission, and the Roman Catholics which by the 1840s was involving a large number of version, the Maoris were not passive. They largely wel- who were largely Marists. They all suffered hardship people with Anglican figures rising from 2,000 in 35,000 comed the Treaty although it seems what they really and setbacks and all had their share of heroes and trou- in 1841 out of a total Maori population in the North wanted was a protectorate rather than the colony peo- ble-makers. The Methodists had to see a mission sta- Island of around 110,000. pled by settlers that eventually emerged. tion plundered and destroyed although their Maori The Maoris undoubtedly looked for the source of the Paul Richardson 14 www.churchnewspaper.com Friday January 3, 2014 Sunday r r Recently I heard of someone Holy Innocents’ Day dates challenge both to our sup- who was so upset by what he back to the fourth or fifth cen- posed sophistication and our o had read about the dangers of turies but from time immemo- wilful independence of the SUNDAY SERVICE smoking that he gave up read- rial children have been caught God who has come among us. t ing. There may be folk out up in conflict and suffered So as we look at our nativity Sunday 12 January 2014 - 1st Sunday of there who have been so turned through no fault of their own. scenes and attend Christmas c Epiphany off by syrupy and sentimental Thus the need to go on events put on with the children Christmas schmaltz that they remembering the victims of in mind, we face a challenge to Isaiah 42:1-9, e are in danger of giving up on cruelty, whether of the sword, think more deeply about the Acts 10:34-43, r Christmas. bomb or famine, continues. implications and resolve to live Matthew 3:13-17 i Perhaps a dose of realism Many of our Christmas carols differently as a result. can come through by taking reflect on the cruelty of Christmas is a good moment The readings this week proclaim the glorious truth that d the days that follow a bit more Herod’s massacre of the chil- to reflect on the willingness of the Spirit-anointed saviour has come, to bring God’s for- l seriously. They include dren in Bethlehem and God to take on weakness in giveness to all the nations of his world. By the Rev Drre Liz Hoare membering the first Chris- whether there were thousands order to redeem us. Here is Isaiah 42 prophesies that God’s chosen servant will tian martyr, St Stephen, the or just a few, it is an appalling God humbling himself and bring justice and truth to the nations. Because the a towering figure of St John the comment on worldly power becoming one of these Father delights in him, he is anointed with his Spirit. Evangelist, another martyr, St and paranoia that is so at odds dependent and vulnerable That anointing often led to works of mighty power in the u Thomas Becket and Holy with the Incarnation. beings. The good news is that Old Testament, from the judges and kings of Israel, but t Innocents’ day. Any one of There are still Herods in the he did so in order to overcome this servant is anointed for gentleness. Those who are i these is sobering to recall and world who will stop at nothing the evil that we see in this damaged and bruised will not be hurt; those whose spir- r impossible to sentimentalise. to achieve their own ends. But cruel action by Herod and in itual fervour is growing dim, will not be put out; he will i It is Holy Innocents’ Day if they have no regard for the the images from today’s world not shout above the noise of the public square but influ- especially that puts us in mind lives of children, Jesus did. also. As Jesus’ followers our ence it and change it for good all the same. of children in a quite different Jesus placed great value on discipleship must mean prayer The redemption he brings is extended to the nations, p way from Christmas Nativity children in a way that even our and action to work towards a all of whom are created and sustained by God. The light plays and Santa’s grotto. child-focused society does not better treatment of all vulnera- of the covenant is opened to them, so that even the s We may not wish to think truly grasp. ble children. coastlands which wait for his teaching, the farthest flung about the massacre at Bethle- He said that if we want to So as the new year begins islands, will hear the truth of his word and have their e hem in the midst of Christmas know what it means to inhabit let’s pray regularly for children eyes opened to its glory. cheer, but then we turn on the the kingdom of God we need who are victims of war, famine, In Matthew 3, that long-awaited Servant comes. To ful- h TV and the same horror con- to look at a child (Lk 18:16,17). cold and abuse. Perhaps fil all righteousness he submits to baptism because all t fronts us going on right now It is their vulnerability and Christmas is for the children Israel were doing so in response to the call of God’s around the world. dependence that is such a after all? prophet, John. Identifying wholly with them, though having no sin of his own to repent of, he is baptised by his cousin who senses what a profound and serious moment this is. The Spirit comes upon the Servant, in the form of a dove, and the Father speaks from heaven to repeat what he said in Isaiah 42 — this is the one in whom I delight! This servant is my own true Son. The Cantate Domino Trinitarian nature of God is exposed to full view, as the Trinitarian plan and work of God to save his people By Alan Edwards Some, then, of the social reasons for the decline of begins in earnest. the sing-along. Also add a musical reason. In our times Peter begins to spread that word to the waiting nations Did you have a good New Year party? Won’t ask how most popular music is performer-centred - no more in Acts 10, as he preaches to Cornelius and his family. many of you were able to sing more than the first few ‘everybody join in’. Also tunes are more difficult to He recounts the story of Jesus, the Lord of all, sent first words of ‘Auld Lang Syne’. Not because of inebriation, remember and sing along to. Lines that don’t rhyme to the Jews to preach peace to them. He narrates how he of course. CEN readers can hold their drink. No, an also make memorising refrains more difficult than it was baptised, and how the message of the good news ability to sing the old songs or even remember the once was. spread, and how he was anointed with the Holy Spirit. words, however off-key one may be, is a declining gift. What is true of society as a whole is sadly also true of He retells the story of Christ’s good works, his healings When did you last hear a workman whistling while much modern church music. The full-blooded, genera- and miracles, and defeat of the devil. he worked, let alone singing? Nowadays radio din is tions uniting vigour of ‘Who Is On the Lord’s Side’, Supremely, as a first-hand witness, he marvels in the the accompaniment to painting or plastering. Or see a ‘Calon Lan’ or ‘Faith of Our Fathers’ is as lost as roof- death and resurrection of this Messiah, and testifies to youngster, if not ‘mobying’, who’s not wired up to a raising renditions of ‘I Belong to Glasgow’ or ‘The its truth: “we ate and drank with him — he was no ghost sound system? Lambeth Walk.’ or phantom!” The communal pub sing-along around the old Joan- A good test of the popular appeal and singability of a After this gospel outline, we might expect an altar call, na has been replaced in most areas by a juke box or hymn has been its ability to turn up being sung outside so to speak. And Peter does not disappoint. But the way the karaoke solo. church, admittedly often with spicier words, whether he presents the message he has been called to preach is The last stronghold of community singing is a on the football terrace, building site or barrack room. startling when looked at closely. We are often told that Retirement Home. Here residents, who will sensibly Worship songs may have captivated chorus-singing the Old Testament God is supremely a God of judgment doze through the ever-present congregations, but, even allowing and wrath, but that Jesus is gentle and meek and would- TV programmes, or perhaps less for the decline in church atten- n’t exclude anyone. Yet look how Peter sums it up: we, forgivably during the occasional dance, how many worship songs the New Testament apostles, preach that Jesus has been service, however enthusiastic have flown beyond the church ordained by God to bring justice to the nations: he is may be the visiting curate or The last stronghold doors? judge of the living and the dead. That is the New Testa- Reader leading it, come to life William Booth moved music ment gospel. when it’s time for an old-fash- of community the other way - from the music Yet Christ is also the fulfilment of the Old Testament ioned singing session. Gracie singing is a hall to his Citadels. From there hope: the prophets testify that he is the one who brings Fields, Harry Lauder, Flanagan they spread to churches and forgiveness of sins to all who believe in him. Forgive- and Allen still have their fans, Retirement Home chapels. He allegedly said: ‘Why ness preached in the Old; judgment in the New. How and even if the old folk often should the Devil have all the best surprising the message of the Bible can be, undercut- don’t know the day of the week, tunes?’. The compilers of the ting our preconceptions or lazy formulas with its preci- they know the words of the old English Hymnal foraged four ale sion and depth! songs. bars marrying folk song You may say that football fans still sing, but their melodies to hymn verses. Lee Gatiss is Director of Church Society and Editor of the repertoire is limited, the only variation being the name However, as well as ‘walking about like a roaring NIV Proclamation Bible of the opposing team who is the subject of the obscen- lion’ the Devil goes in for subtle plans. The unsingable ities hurled towards the away end. Welsh rugby fans nature of many modern pop songs makes it difficult are now less tuneful than they once were. The ‘hymns for a latter day Booth to reinvigorate church hymnody and arias’ celebrated by Max Boyce are no longer as by looking for the modern equivalents of music hall familiar. Not surprising, given the sad decline of the ditties. HYMN SUGGESTIONS chapels, not just spiritual homes but also musical and What has been transferred from pop festivals to cultural Bethels. preaching houses are ‘vain repetitions’, the hallmark Beanos by coach to Barry Island, ‘Skeggy’ or of much modern popular music and now characteristic Christ, when for us you were baptised Southend, when songs flowed as plentifully as the of many worship songs. These often go to repetitious God forgave my sin beer, have faded away even more rapidly than the lengths undreamed of by the 16th century Reformers. Hail to the Lord’s anointed! Welsh chapels. Also since the rise in the 1960s of Hit Me with Your Rhythm Stick may have worked for O thou who camest from above youth culture, age groups mixing, and singing togeth- The Blockheads, but at St Bartholomew or St Barn- The church’s one foundation er across the generations, has become less frequent. abas...? [email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper www.churchnewspaper.com Friday January 3, 2014 Reviews 15 Sunshine on Steve Parish’s film roundup of 2013 The 2014 Golden Globe nominations include several films that haven’t even had a general release in the USA, or anywhere yet, but of last year’s nominees that got here late I couldn’t argue with Lincoln, Django Unchained, Zero Dark Thirty and Les Misérables as among the best films of 2013. From the UK box office figures, only Les Mis got near the blockbuster range, but came second to Despicable Me 2. Follow-up animated films must be worth it, as Mon- sters University was fourth, beaten by Iron Man 3 in third place. Caveman/new world animation The Croods was the most popular film to come from an original idea. The popularity of sequels and adaptations means that original screenplays do need encouragement, but the writer-director is still alive. Gravity, a lost in space story by Alfonso Cuarón, was certainly the most beautiful film of the year thanks to cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki and to British techni- cal expertise in the studios. Most tragic story, but laced with humour and hope, was Philomena, about an Irish woman look- dramatisation of the 1988 ing for the Chilean referendum to end child taken Pinochet’s rule, reminded from her in us of some of the darker infancy. For days of American interven- outright tionism. comedy, it For my film of the year, was hard to several of the above would match the be runners, as would the start of the very different Saving Mr year Quar- Banks (all Hollywood tet, which glossy) and Nebraska also ticked (black and white simple the box for cinema’s older audiences – I have no prob- Fire) but storytelling). For the lem with adopting Billy Connolly’s maxim against being also of the sheer joy and enthusiasm taken short: “The wise man goes when he can, the fool dystopian future of the cast, and my coming goes when he must”. of Elysium. away from the cinema I’d have to break company who those who didn’t like Ordinary crime delighted (and as Cinema The Lone Ranger, which was most of the critics – quite paid well, and Ryan Gosling, this time in The Place Paradiso is 25 years old), I have to say that Scottish good fun, even if Johnny Depp was essentially playing Beyond the Pines, has captured a niche role in moodi- musical comedy Sunshine on Leith was my personal the masked stranger as Captain Jack Sparrow with a ness. Danny Boyle’s Trance went for most complex plot favourite. horse instead of a boat. Woody Allen’s Blue Jasmine of the year, and probably gets it for his art theft caper. Steve Parish was funny and biting as only Allen can be, and Cate Baz Lurhmann’s version of The Great Gatsby, star- Blanchett in the role of a sister with airs and graces is a ring Leonardo DiCaprio, deserves a mention for its favourite for best actress awards. ambition and the cinematography by Simon Duggan. At We had two fictional attacks on the White House the other end of the social spectrum, Broken, largely (Olympus Has Fallen, White House Down) but there confined to a British cul-de-sac, did the cause of was no shortage of reality-based dramas. Captain social realism a lot of favours. Phillips, about modern-day piracy, was the best of Outstanding foreign films were few, but Wadjda these, though biopic Lincoln dealt with more porten- may be the bravest, challenging the role of women tous events. in Saudi Arabia with its simple tale of a girl who Politics was never far away, just wants to ride a bike. For Metro Manila Eng- though Ken Loach’s rear- lish writer-director Sean Ellis took guard action for the welfare social realism to the Philip- state and state ownership of pines, partly for financial the commanding heights of reasons, but it was made the economy, The Spirit of in Tagalog and is 45, persuaded few. On the Britain’s entry for the other hand, Arbitrage painted Oscar® for foreign-lan- a depressing view of the alter- guage film. native, a world run by banks The Deep’s true story of and criminal entrepreneurs. an Icelandic fisherman who Disparity of wealth and the survived six hours in oppression of the masses the North Atlantic was a theme not just of the after his boat went second of The Hunger down in a storm is Games series (Catching remarkable, while No, a [email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper Happy New Year, College Street-ers! Last year was packed with shocking/surprising/interesting events, but mostly filled with the entire COLLEGE STREET nation stalking a bump, and then the baby that caused said bump. If you have any topics you would like us to cover in the New Year, get in SW1 touch. Send an email to [email protected]. This week though, we are looking at the lessons we can learn from 2013. Here CITY OF WESTMINSTER are our favourites: DON’T Twerk DON’T be afraid to She has gone from the Disney Golden ‘Selfie’ Girl to the star who Can’t Be Tamed. If the Oxford English Miley Cyrus caused a stir last year with Dictionary is embracing her raunchy dance moves, losing her it, we should too. The wholesome image once and for all. celebrities have been at it Lesson: Never Twerk. You will either for years, so make like look like a fool or put your back out. Kim Kardashian and pucker up that pout, give it a go every once in a while. Lesson: Give a Selfie a go – but remember no one wants to see a million DO eat Sushi snaps of your mug Andy Murray tucks plastered over Facebook. into 50 pieces of Sushi in one sitting, and goes on to win Wimbledon. DO keep a secret The 6ft 3in Scot works Queen B did it again in 2013. After releasing his way through 6,000 her digital-only, 31-track secret album, iTunes calories to ensure he announced it broke records by selling over has the energy for his 1million copies in six days. punishing schedule. Lesson: Why not surprise your own fans (or friends) Lesson: Adopt this with an out-of-the-blue treat and see where it gets fishy-food and you too you. Probably not millions of pounds richer like will be a champ*. Beyonce, but definitely happier! *maybe FREE CEN ONLINE FOR ALL STUDENTS! Email your course details to [email protected] these and take new clay...' [Lev/NIV] 6Nation named after the alternative PRIZE CROSSWORD No. 880 by Axe (7) name for the patriarch, Jacob (6) 12 Sacred song used to praise God (5) 13 Because of their common viewpoint, 15 'So I will very gladly ----- for you every- the adjective ascribed to the first three thing I have...' [1 Cor/NIV] (5) Gospels (8) 17 'Blessed is the one that does not...stand 14 Agent of God: 'The guardian of the Jew- in the way that ------take...[Ps/NIV] (7) ish people' [Dan; Jude; Rev] (7) 20 Israelite prophet who is remembered 16 Publicly proclaim or teach (a religious for his angry lamentations (8) message) (6) 22 '---- by naked and in shame...' 18 '------the weak and the needy...' [Mic/NIV] (4) [Ps/NIV] (6) 23 NT book re the exploits of the apostles 19 Brother or half-brother of Jesus [Matt] (4) (5) 24 Runaway slave owned by Philemon (8) 21 'For my yoke is ---- and my burden is light' [Matt/NIV] (4) Down 1'In front of each ------there was a wall Solution to last week’s crossword one cubit high...' [Ezek/NIV] (6) 2One of the five Philistine cities [Judg; 1 Across: 5 Whitefriars, 7 Elah, 8 Habakkuk, 9 Israel, Sam; Jer] (8) 11 Seeing, 12 Dances, 15 Geshur, 17 Fastened, 18 3'Teach slaves to be ------to their mas- Seth, 19 Archdiocese. ters...' [Tit/NIV] (7) 4'The angel measured the wall ----- Down: 1 Kish, 2 Bethel, 3 Tribes, 4 Darkness, 5 human measurement...' [Rev/NIV] (5) Wells, 6 Spurn, 10 Ascetics, 13 Ahava, 14 Synods, 5Period of fast in the Christian religion 15 Gideon, 16 Untie, 18 Shem. (4) Th e fi rs t c or rec t en try d ra wn wil l wi n a b oo k o f th e Ed ito r’ s ch oi ce . Sen d yo ur e n try to C ro sswo rd N um b er 88 0, T h e Ch u rc h of En gl an d N ewsp ap er, 14 G rea t C ol le ge S tre et, W es tmi ns ter , L on do n, SW1 P 3R X by n ext F ri da y Na m e Across 9Archbishopric which Pope Addr ess 7------Day, 2 November (3,5) Innocent II entitled the Primate 8'On the ---- side...will be...the of England (4) Po st C ode gate of Joseph...'[Ezek/NIV] 10 Son of Saul (8) (4) 11 '...take other stones to ------ [email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper © Copyright 2014, The Church of England Newspaper. Registered as a newspaper by Royal Mail. Published by Political and Religious Intelligence Ltd, 14 Great College Street, Westminster, London, SW1P 3RX, Telephone: 020 7222 8700. Imagesetting by Classified Central Media Limited, 4th Floor, Central House, 142 Central Street, London, EC1V 8AR, 020 7216 6400. Print- ed by Mortons Media Group Ltd, Newspaper House, Morton Way, Horncastle, Lincs, LN9 6JR. Tel: 01507 523456. 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