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CRUX Issue 49 Church for a different world April 2019

EASTER BLESSINGS Church for a different world CRUX April 2019 CELEBRATING FAIRTRADE OUR A STITCH CONSTANT IN TIME HOPE If you sew or are part of a church sewing group, can you help the North It plays havoc with school timetables Manchester General Hospital by making and complicates many people’s a banner for the Chapel of St Luke? holiday arrangements, but I quite like the fact that the date of Easter Please contact Revd Kathryn can vary, by up to a month or Carmyllie with any offers of help. more, from one year to the next. It Tel: 0161 720 2990; Kathryn. reminds me that the joyful news of [email protected] the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the proof of his sonship, the assurance of our hope, cannot be confined to any one day in the secular diary. HOST UK Jesus conquers all constraints, not just the calendar, but even death itself. Would you consider offering the hand of He invites us to join him to break the friendship to an international student by barriers that seek to deaden you and welcoming them to your home? Host UK hosted a wonderful event me. In his company we can journey on is looking for volunteer hosts who can called Changing the World Through Fairtrade and the boldly, fearful of neither change itself offer hospitality for one day or for three nor the pace of unpredictable change days and two nights over a weekend. diocese launched its own Fairtrade chocolate bar to which typifies our present era. In the stress the importance of buying Fairtrade products light of Easter all becomes new, and we Further information is available at to improve the quality of life of producers. can share in God’s work of renewing www.hostuk.org or by ourselves and the whole of creation. calling 020 7739 6292. The cathedral was a buzz of activity, The Dean of Manchester, Rogers Those five familiar words, Church for a with over 200 people sampling Govender, said: “In a world where Different World, are sometimes referred delicious Fairtrade produce, taking there is much inequality, poverty and to as the diocesan strapline, but they are part in workshops, and hearing injustice, Fairtrade is an important way far more than that. They are our rallying PETERLOO presentations from the Fairtrade to make a difference for good in our cry, our call to action. Individually and in Foundation and Traidcraft. society and especially in the poor parts our churches, through our private deeds of our world. We should endeavour to and our Mission Action Plans, we identify BICENTENARY The Diocese of Manchester is the first in pay people fair wages for their work the changes in the world around us, and Does your church have links with the the Church of England to commission its and to ensure that trade rules and our seek to be ourselves a force for change. Peterloo Massacre? Maybe congregation own fairly traded chocolate bar. The bars of purchasing practices do not impoverish We are an Easter People. And that’s true members were involved or there are delicious chocolate were given out at the those who are trying to make a living whatever the date in our diaries may say. victims buried in the churchyard? event, much to the delight of participants. despite the inequality they experience”. Bishop , who spoke at the Happy Easter! If you would like your church to be celebration, said, “Delicious chocolate and The chocolate bars were produced by involved in a project to commemorate the Fairtrade badge are a marriage made local Fairtrade business, The Meaningful this event, please contact Heather in heaven! Every time we buy Fairtrade Chocolate Company. The cocoa beans Ford, Heritage and Archdeaconry products we are lifting people out of come from the Ivory Coast and the sugar Resources Advisor, heatherford@ poverty, giving dignity to the families from a number of cooperatives across the manchester.anglican.org of the poorest communities across the globe. The growers receive a fair price David Walker world, and living out justice in daily life.” for their produce along with a Fairtrade Premium cash donation which can be used to improve their communities.

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MEN IN SHEDS

Tackling men’s isolation is high on the agenda at St Paul, Heaton Moor. The church runs Men in Sheds which gives men a space to come together, socialise and make useful things.

Men in Sheds meets in the choir vestry shell. One man is a carer and didn’t have for wood working sessions. They create much contact with people outside the bird and bat boxes, plant troughs home. Since coming to Men in Sheds and bottle openers. The project has he’s become much more outgoing.” made the church more accessible to To get the project started, St Paul’s PERSIAN CELEBRATION the community and meets a social used its connections with Heatons Iranian Christians from churches in integrate the growing number of Iranian need for friendship and creativity. Together and asked Pure Innovations, Manchester, Rochdale and Salford Christians who worship in their churches. which supports people who struggle joined a congregation of about 450 Anthony Williams, one of the members, with mental health and loneliness, for at Wakefield Cathedral to celebrate Canon Daniel Burton said, “This surprising said: “Men in Sheds is aimed at older ideas. They held a ground force day at the launch of the first authorised area of growth is a blessing for a number men who don’t have a lot of outlets or the church focusing on mental wellbeing Common Worship Eucharist in Farsi. of churches in our diocese, including St opportunities to come together and chat. and loneliness, and asked the men Thomas, Pendleton. In four years we have Instead of doing things in a shed at the what they would want from a group. The bi-lingual service was led by the seen more than 20 young Iranians come to bottom of the garden, they come along Iranian born Rt Revd Guli Francis-Dehqani, faith, be baptised and confirmed. But the and do it as a group. For some it’s the St Paul’s is proud of how Men in Bishop of Loughborough, whose brother challenges of worship and nurture have only thing they do during the week.” Sheds makes the church building was murdered for being a Christian in been exacerbated by language problems. more accessible to the wider, not just the country’s revolution. Her family fled Having a liturgy that is genuinely bi-lingual The activity is having a real impact on the worshipping, community. The Iran when she was just 14, in 1980. will be a great help. It was moving in the its members. Anthony adds, “A lot of project won a Church for a Different service at Wakefield to see some of our them are beginning to come out of their World award from Bishop David. The request for the new liturgy came own young people singing and praying in from clergy who wanted to be able to their own language for the first time.” MANCHESTER AND SALFORD WHIT WALKS Bank Holiday Monday 27 May

Please save the date and come along with your church for this joyful act of witness

To register your church or for more information please contact Canon Daniel Burton on 0161 745 7608; [email protected]

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FIT FOR MISSION NEXT STEPS BRIEF ENCOUNTER: Fit for Mission has recently been You can read the letter or listen to a evaluated by an external agency. message from Bishop David by visiting RICHARD LEWIS Bishop David has written to all www.manchester.anglican.org/ clergy and lay chairs to update them fit-for-mission on the findings of the evaluation “We all need to be involved in and outline the next steps. the life of the Church to keep it strong for years to come”

‘If you need something doing, ask He said, “I think I can add value by a busy person!’ is a phrase that taking an interest in the decisions that WELCOME TO springs to mind when talking to the diocese takes and by challenging Canon Richard Lewis, who holds the boards and committees and holding HELEN PLATTS role of Chair of the House of Laity. them to account. For me it’s important to take an interest and help to Helen Platts joined the diocese as the Richard is responsible for chairing some make sound financial decisions.” new Chief Operating Officer and Diocesan of the sessions of Diocesan Synod, which Secretary at the beginning of February. is the parliament of the diocese and the Richard, now retired, appreciates that She says “During my first month in main policy-making body. Synod meets not everyone has the time to sit on post my focus has been on meeting three times a year to debate important boards and committees, but we can all colleagues at Church House and finding issues, vote on business, and approve the probably do something to be involved out about the support they provide to diocesan budget of nearly £13 million. in the running of the Church and to the parishes and others in the diocese. help take the pressure of administrative They’ve all given me a very warm As part of this, I’ve been asked by Bishop Richard has been a member of St tasks off the clergy. Often, a personal welcome and I’ve been impressed by David to deliver a clear statement of Andrew’s Church in Eccles for over approach is required to ask someone 30 years, and during that time has if they have considered taking on a their commitment and dedication. I was purpose – building on the foundations volunteered for many roles within the role, rather than just putting a request delighted to be at the commissioning laid through the Fit for Mission church and wider diocese for which he in a news sheet or notice board. of the Children Changing Places team programme – and which we will be feels he has the skills and experience. and to attend the Changing the World taking to Synod in June. Work is already Richard has been surprised by some through Fairtrade event at the Cathedral. underway on a number of fronts to feed He said, “I feel called to serve in our of the interesting things he has got into this, I look forward to sharing this diocese and if I see something that needs involved in. “As part of the Discussion “I’m very much looking forward to with you soon. I’m also keen to focus on doing and I have the time, I will put my and Agreement team I have visited getting out to meet clergy, laity and other the learning from the pilot deaneries and name forward. I strongly believe that about 95 different churches over the officers in our parishes over the coming over the next few weeks I’ll be meeting the laity need to take a more active role last four years to discuss their Parish in the life of the Church if it is to remain Share contribution! I’ve really enjoyed weeks and months. It will be good to people involved in the pilots to find out fit and healthy in 30 years’ time.” seeing other parishes and finding out hear from you about the joys of serving how we can build on their experience.” the differences between them,” he said. our communities, and the challenges With a background in finance and IT you face. It’s really important that we Helen will be sharing her journey systems, Richard first got involved If you would like to get more involved pay attention to the positive changes on Twitter @HelenPlattsMCR helping the PCC with fundraising. He in the life of your church, have a word that are already taking place, as well as so do follow her there to find then became Treasurer and Gift Aid with one of your PCC members. being clear about our ultimate goals. out how she is getting on. Secretary, which led to going on Deanery Synod and then Diocesan Synod. It was a natural progression to use his work skills to serve the church.

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NURTURING OUR YOUNG PEOPLE AND GROWING THE CHURCH

Rachel Eden, Project Manager for Children Changing Places

Wandering around Bolton’s newly refurbished museum, I reflected on the rich heritage of the UK’s biggest town. It is full of confident and vibrant people, excited for the future, expressed through the Bolton 2030 vision. A range of public, private, community, voluntary and faith partners have created a vision and strategy for developing Bolton, ensuring that the population thrives for generations to come.

As Project Manager of the new Children The Children Changing Places project Changing Places project, I am excited aims to create Christian discipleship about the opportunity that our team pathways for children, young people We have been encouraged by positive strong foundation for further discipleship has to contribute to mission and and their families, from pre-school responses from Head teachers, through school, and into adulthood. ministry in Bolton, at this unique time through to adulthood. Some emphasis Governors, local clergy and team of energy, vision and partnership. will be put on the key transition points ministries within the three deaneries We look forward to church growth, all As Church for a Different World, the in the educational journey, securing of Bolton, Deane and Walmsley. across Bolton, as we join hundreds of Manchester Diocesan vision is ‘to be a connections between home, church Christians in their mission and ministry. worshipping, growing and transforming and school. Our team is committed to Many schools already run a form of We value your prayers for the team. Christian presence at the heart of every working alongside clergy, and parishes, Christian discipleship group, which Please pray for ministry opportunities and community’. Many parishes have a CE in their vital work of reaching out to the Deanery Children and Family ‘open doors’, as we build relationships school, which is a worshipping community local children and their families. Workers are now supporting and and plan discipleship activities. that is transforming young lives. developing. School staff and clergy are already discussing with us ideas To find out more or to get involved, Our team, commissioned at Manchester for new Fresh Expressions of Church, please email Laura Tebay, Cathedral by Bishop Mark, includes an such as after-school café churches. [email protected] Early Years Worker and three Deanery Children and Family Workers. We aim Early Years Worker, Steph Openshaw, to serve as a transforming Christian has been on the road, visiting church presence through toddler groups, Bolton and school toddler groups. Church-based CE schools and Fresh Expressions of toddler groups across Bolton are doing church, for at least the next five years. great work and their dedication shines In September we will be joined by three out. We are looking forward to supporting new Chaplaincy Assistants working in The Diocese them and working with churches and CE secondary academies in Bolton. has received schools to plan the launch of new distinctively Christian toddler groups. We fully believe that Christian discipleship £1.2 million for young children, and their families, from the Church has an incredible impact and serves as a Commissioners to support this project.

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ASHES TO GO

Ash Wednesday marked the beginning of Lent, which for Christians is a time for us to reflect on who we are in the light of who God is.

The words that are said to us as we This experience was very moving, receive a cross upon our foreheads in many people stopped and allowed us ash are “From dust you came and to to pray for them. Their experience of dust you shall return, repent and turn to God’s presence was obvious and I felt Christ” - a reminder that this life is not very privileged to have been able to forever. A sobering thought, perhaps, but share those moments with them. in Christ this life is not all that there is. “Ashes to Go,” as it is called, for me is I remember a number of years ago On Ash Wednesday a number of clergy, about bringing belief and belonging out one of the big supermarket chains including myself and the Bishop of from behind the church doors and into “I received ashes in Bury town ran an advertising campaign which Bolton, stood in two places in Bury town the places we go every day. This is what centre, today. It is the first time went something like this, “Chocolate centre and offered ashes and prayer Jesus did. He went out into the streets in many years that I have taken – the true meaning of Easter.” for anyone who wished to receive. to share life, to teach, to pray for those ashes on Ash Wednesday. I found in need, and to call people to himself. it very emotional and was moved Perhaps for many this is a truism: to tears. I want to thank you and chocolate is the acceptable face of Easter, your church for being in the market along with eggs and bunnies - we must square. For being there today, I will not forget the bunnies! But through be eternally grateful to you. God Lent we take time to remind ourselves bless you all and may God continue of the bigger picture. Lent helps us to guide you in your work.” prepare to remember that God sent his only son to suffer and die for our sake.

Easter is not meant to be fluffy and comfortable; it is meant to disturb us and shake us out of our complacent way to consider how much God really, truly loves us.

And as we celebrate together his resurrection on Easter Sunday, our hope is renewed and restored that this life is not all that there is and that God’s presence is now available to us all year round, not just one rainy day in March.

Jean Burgess

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MODERN WAYS OF GIVING APPOINTMENTS As part of its Gift Aid Lite scheme, the diocese is at The Revd Canon Chris Ford The Revd Jonathan Elcock the forefront of the increasing demand to introduce has been appointed Area Dean of will resign as Incumbent of contactless, Chip and PIN, and other electronic Stretford Deanery. He will remain St John Failsworth on 30 April. methods of donating to churches, especially as the Borough Dean of Trafford. use of cash and cheques continues to decline. The Revd Sally Robinson RETIREMENTS currently Curate at High Crompton The Revd Canon Steve James We are trialling two types of device: and Thornham, is to become Curate is to retire as Incumbent of Holy at St John the Baptist Hey. Trinity Rusholme on 14 June Payter device – SumUp device – for 2019. He will become Canon for contactless donations only contactless and Chip and PIN Emeritus on his retirement. RESIGNATIONS donations and payments The Revd Joan Nicholls One of three pre-programmed amounts The Revd Chris Bolster will retire as OLM in the Seven (e.g. £3, £5 and £10) is chosen by This device enables a church to take card currently Incumbent of the Benefice Saints Team on 31 May. She will a donor before tapping their card, payments for donations, Parochial Church of Clifton has been appointed continue in her role as a Chaplain phone or watch to complete the Fees, concert tickets, teas and coffees, Vicar of St Patrick’s Barking in at the Royal Bolton Hospital. process. The donations received are etc. It must be linked to a mobile phone the Diocese of Chelmsford. seamlessly imported into Gift Aid Lite’s using Bluetooth. A church’s existing bank online donations software, and can be account can be used and a spreadsheet claimed tax efficiently via a church’s is downloaded each month to provide Gift Aid Small Donations (GASDS) a detailed breakdown of receipts. allowance or against a donor’s Gift Aid declaration (once their card details have The SumUp device costs £22.80 and been linked to their donor record). a charging cradle £34.90. A basic IMPORTANT 4G mobile phone is required at the The device costs £478.80 plus merchant/ cost of £80 with a 2GB mobile data SAFEGUARDING NEWS mobile data fees of £19 per month (both Sim card costing £11 per month (all inc. VAT), a transaction fee of 1.5% per costs inc. VAT). If your church has Each church will receive in the post visible on the front page of your parish donation, and a one off €15 activation Wi-Fi it will also work via this. a copy of a copy of the new Parish website (i.e. contact details for your fee. A merchant bank account needs Safeguarding Handbook (issued by parish Safeguarding Coordinator or to be set up in advance of using the Thanks to funding from the Church the Church of England) and an A3 the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor). device. Due to the costs involved, this Commissioners, the diocese is poster on Promoting a Safer Church. is more appropriate for churches with providing six Payter devices for a six Parishes without a website may wish a large number of one-off donations. month trial period and six SumUps Please display the poster in your to provide additional information on church. The Diocese will provide their page on A Church Near You. There for a three month trial period. further information and guidance is already a ‘safeguarding’ tab at the on the Handbook shortly, but in the foot of each ACNY page which takes meantime please ensure that all the user through to a map highlighting If your church is interested in joining the Gift Aid Lite scheme, safeguarding arrangements are clearly diocesan safeguarding details. please call 0161 828 4164 or email [email protected]

PAGE 12 PAGE 13 CRUX April 2019 We want to hear your thoughts What will we do with your comments? SMALL ADVERTS HOW CAN YOU TAKE We will collate all the responses we receive and consider them as we develop GRAVE CARE SERVICES THE MESSAGE OF our plans and priorities for the diocese. Floral arrangements made and delivered, EASTER OUT OF groundwork, memorial anchorage/cleaning/ We will not be able to provide individual WHAT’S ON re-gilding. All work tailored to requirements. YOUR CHURCH responses, but we will provide updates Tel: 07934 194432 or 07934 194480. in CRUX on how your feedback is THIS MONTH AT OBERAMMERGAU AND INTO THE shaping Church for a different world. 13-20 June 2020. 2 nights in Oberammergau COMMUNITY? MANCHESTER and 5 nights at the Zell Am See, Austria. £1465.To join this Manchester group please CATHEDRAL? contact Canon Daniel Burton 0161 745 7608 / [email protected]

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LAKE DISTRICT HOLIDAY LET A well-appointed and equipped 2 bedroom apartment in Bowness with parking and garage. Offering a balcony with views of Lake Windermere. www.swallowsrest.org For more information call 07719 966990; What would you like to see email [email protected] discussed in a future issue? Continue the conversation To advertise in CRUX contact: Website: During Lent we will be exhibiting Simon Ambrose, 0161 828 1410 manchester.anglican.org [email protected] Twitter: three artworks: Remember by Artist in Residence, Stephen @DioManchester The copy deadline is the Facebook: Raw, Loved and Lost by first of the month prior to publication. The Diocese of Manchester photographer Simon Bray and Payment is in advance. Email: Forsaken by Philip Warburton. Small ads cost 50 pence per word [email protected] (maximum of 40 words) plus VAT. For more information visit manchestercathedral.org Editorial: Thanks for your feedback so far All editorial items to Ann Mummery, 0161 828 1470 [email protected]

Send to: Church for a Different World, Follow us at @manc_diocese Follow us at @DioManchester Diocese of Manchester, Church House, 90 Deansgate, Manchester M3 2GH Like us, search for The Diocese of Manchester PAGE 15 WOMEN’S MINISTRY ANNIVERSARY SERVICE

Join us as we celebrate 25 years of Women’s Priestly Ministry

President: The Rt Rev Dr Helen-Ann Hartley, Bishop of Ripon Preacher: Christina Rees, former General Synod member, broadcaster & writer

Manchester Cathedral Thursday 2 May: 7.30pm8.45pm

Refreshments will be served

This event is open to everyone but for catering purposes please register your attendance online: https://womens25th.eventbrite.co.uk