Christ Church Link August 2016 l Number 52 l 50p where sold New Diocesan vision Bishop Peter shares a vision for the diocese of Bath & Wells

From the Rt Revd Peter Hancock, offer them to God in order that we Bishop of Bath and Wells: might be God’s people, living and It’s just over two years ago that I came telling the story of Jesus. to Bath and Wells, and when I came, it In a jigsaw there are many pieces, was with a very clear charge, given to and each one of those pieces is impor­ me by the Archbishop of Canterbury, tant. Each has its own particular place to help the diocese to discern what our and the picture is not complete without vision is and to discover together what each one being in the right place. And it is that God is calling us to be and to so it is for all of us, but the question is do. Where is it God is leading us, as where can we best serve God? we seek to be his people here in Bath For some of us, it may well be in our and Wells? local churches or perhaps in our dean­ As we’ve talked about that, a vision ery. For others it may be in our homes, has emerged that is becoming stronger in our schools, in our places of work, as the more we reflect and talk and pray chaplains, in places where we work or about it. It is that in response to God’s where God is leading us. For others, we immense love for us, we seek to be may be involved in the diocesan synod God’s people, living and telling the or perhaps helping to work together in story of Jesus. order to determine how to take forward ▲ That means that together we need the vision that God is placing in our to pray and seek to discern what it is Continued on page 2 to listen to God’s word, to walk in his steps and to allow his Holy Spirit to transform our lives. As we’ve talked together, three priorities have emerged: • The first is to put mission and evan­ gel­ism at the heart of everything we do; • The second is to look at our resources, our ministry, all that God has given to us and entrusted to us – our buildings, our time, our money – and to make sure we’re using those effectively to build up the kingdom of God and to declare the good news of God’s love; • And the third is to look at ourselves and to think about the gifts that God has entrusted to us and ask how we Bishop Peter presents the new diocesan vision in a can identify those gifts, how we can video. This is a slightly edited transcript. Watch it at develop them and then how we can www.bathandwells.org.uk/diocese/shapingourfuture New Diocesan vision (continued) ▲ hearts, the call he’s placing before us. share with everyone what I believe God I’m sure the most important thing for is saying to us and what we’re hearing each and every one of us is to put pray­ about God’s word and how best we can er at the very centre of all that we do. share the love of Christ. Prayer is what will sustain us. It’s pray­ A prayer has been written that I’ve er that will inspire us and it’s prayer found both inspiring and helpful: that enables us to be God’s people, liv­ Gracious God, may your Holy Spirit ing and telling the good news of Jesus. guide us into the future. I’m clear what my role is: it’s to help Help us, throughout the diocese, to show to further those conversations that uninhibited reliance on your grace and have brought us this far. It’s to listen power, as we seek renewal of our lives. to people, not just inside the diocese Give us courage, rigour, imagination and but from those outside of the life of the generosity in order that your kingdom church, that together we can hear what may come and that your abundant life it is that God is saying at this time. And be known by all. then of course to communicate and to And I say amen to that. Our face turned towards the community Revd Lore Chumbley writes: welcomed into Christ Church, including one This month Bishop Peter presented the who was married in the church in 1962, new “Diocesan Strategy for Mission and several people who had passed Christ Church Evangel­ism”. Those two words may sound a or heard our bells but never before come in, bit foreign to us in Christ Church but actually and our local MP, Ben Howlett. “Mission” is what happens at the end of every The third area of activity centres on the service when we are sent out to “Go in peace discussions we will have in the Autumn to to love and serve the Lord” – mission is the discern what our priorities are in worship, act of being sent out. “Evangelism” is simply and so what shape the reordering of our sharing the good news of the Gospel – in East End should take, the ways we live and work and interact with All three projects relate to our outreach others and even, if necessary, in words. as Church. They affect how we interact with Each church has been charged with each other and the community in which we defining its “mission and evangelism goals”. are situated. They are actually significant It seems to me that there are three areas acts of Mission and Evangelism. As one of activity on which we in Christ Church Church member put it, they are ways of are expending energy. “turning Christ Church’s face towards the Firstly there is the re-ordering of the local community”. entrance at the West end of Church to And encouragingly, when we do that, our provide a welcoming new doorway, entrance community responds. As well as all those who hall and accessible toilets. Secondly we are have come into church on Friday and Saturday continuing our Friday morning Cedar Tree mornings, 60 of the year 1 and 2 children Café, and in addition over the summer we from St Andrew’s School spent a whole week have launched “Summer Saturdays”, when in church during July as part of their “School the church is open each Saturday morning Without Walls” project. offering tea, coffee and home made cake. Turning our face towards the community On July 16th, our first Saturday opening, a – Mission and Evangelism indeed, but with a mixture of tourists and local residents were peculiarly Christ Church flavour.

2 Christ Church Link August 2016 Coming events Last month (not in Christ Church Open Mornings What is it? Christ Church is open every Christ Church...) Saturday morning over the summer, offering the local community an opportunity to visit our historic Georgian building and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a piece of cake When is it? Every Saturday, 16 July to 3 Sep­ tember, 11am to 1pm Where? Christ Church, Julian Road, BA1 2RH

Abbey House open day What is it? Abbey House, Glastonbury, is celeb­rating its 85th year as a Retreat House with barbecue lunches, cream teas, plus music, stalls and tours of the house – or just come and sit in the garden and enjoy the view When is it? Sunday 7 August, 12–4pm Where? Abbey House, Chilkwell Street, Glastonbury, BA6 8DH Entrance £1.50. All welcome! Details http://abbeyhouse.org

Mothers’ Union festival service What is it? Bath & Wells Diocesan Mothers’ Union has a festival service at St Mary Magda­ lene, Taunton, followed by tea. All welcome! When is it? Tuesday 23 August, 2:30pm Where? St Mary Magdalene Church, Church Square, Taunton TA1 1SA

Apple Picking Party in aid of Genesis What is it? Janet Mahto is opening her garden again this year in aid of Genesis Trust When is it? Sunday 4 September, from midday Where? Granville Lodge, Weston Road, Bath BA1 2XU

On the evening of Monday 25 July, in St Mary’s, Stogumber,­ Revd Prebendary Angela Berners- In memory of David Burt Wilson was installed as Rector of the Quantock A quarter-peal will be rung at Christ Church Towers Benefice by the Bishop of Taunton, Rt at 10am on Saturday 13 August in honour of Revd Ruth Worsley. A coach party from Christ David Burt, whose funeral was held on Thurs­ Church made the trip to support ABW and wish day 4 August. David was a bell-ringer at Christ her well. (Many thanks to Malcolm and Brenda, Church and was instrumental in repairing our who organised the coach and our stop for tea!) bells in 1979, bringing them back into use. He Top: at the end of the service, Bishop Ruth made was the son of Walter Burt, Verger of Christ a point of welcoming Andrew too. Above: ABW Church in the 1980s. May he rest in peace. with Bishop Ruth and the acting Archdeacon.

August 2016 Christ Church Link 3 Julian House walk Thanks from the Bath-based homeless charity Julian House is Mothers’ Union inviting the public to take part in the popular annual Circuit of Bath Walk on Sunday 25 From Daniel McAllister, Head of September. The event involves walking part, Fundraising and Communications, or all, of a spectacular circular route around Mothers’ Union: the edge of the city. The route has been care­ Thank you so much for your kind donation of fully selected so that you can enjoy some £54.00 towards Mothers’ Union’s Big Summer wonderful views across Bath: Upper Swains­ Appeal. It is our faith in God that motivates wick, Solsbury­ Hill, Bathampton, Monkton us to do good things, including raising money Combe, South­stoke and Englishcombe. The to fund Mothers’ Union projects. The money terrain is a mix of well-used paths and public you have raised makes a difference to people rights of way, limited sections of roadway, flat facing adversity at home and abroad. ground and of course hills – well, this is Bath! Thank you for giving people like Violet, Partici­pants can choose to do anything from Zambia, the opportunity to develop between two and 20 miles, thanks to a unique useful skills and knowledge to transform their shuttle bus service that runs between the five lives and those of their families. After joining check­points, making it a very family friendly Mothers’ Union’s Church and Community event. Part of the route is buggy-friendly, and Mobilisation (CCM) Process, Violet was able dogs (on leads) are welcome on the entire to start her own business – first selling dried route. Everyone who completes the whole pumpkin leaves, then buns she baked. Now 20 mile route will receive a special medal. she can afford to pay for her children’s school The event is free to enter; participants are fees and uniforms. asked to raise sponsorship to help the work of Julian House supporting homeless and ex­ “Before CCM, I never thought much about my cluded individuals. You can also buy a booklet children’s education, but that has changed and describing interesting snippets of local history. CCM has helped me plan for the future. Soon For more information and online registration, I will be able to build a good house and buy visit www.julianhouse.org.uk some livestock, to help with cultivating.”

Your support also means members in the UK and Ireland will continue to be equipped to provide Away From It All (AFIA) holidays. These holidays can often be a vital lifeline for families facing difficulties, providing quality family time away from stressful situations and improving relationships.

“I had fled from my husband with two of my daughters because of domestic violence and mental abuse. We had nothing. However we spent a wonderful week as a family; not just as a holiday but it was a time with my daughters to talk and understand how they were feeling.” – AFIA holiday recipient.

Thank you, once again, for helping to make a Walkers taking part in last year’s Circuit of Bath difference to so many people – both at home Walk in aid of the work of Julian House. and abroad.

4 Christ Church Link August 2016 Bishop’s Message for August Knowing where we are headed as followers of Jesus

From the shape our diocesan life. Rt Revd The first is to place mission and Peter Hancock, evangelism at the heart of everything Bishop of we do. The second is to realign our Bath and Wells ministry resources so that they are more clearly focused towards mission. And the third is to identify, develop and use the gifts which have been given to each of us so that we can more faith­ fully serve one another other and the communities where we live and work. The Contemporary English translation I believe this is the start of an exciting of the Bible translates Proverbs 4:6 as: new chapter for Bath and Wells, and “Know where you are headed, and you one that we all have a part in writing. will stay on solid ground.” The vision that I believe God is laying That is good advice for everyone, not before us is this: in response to God’s least for us as God’s people here in immense love for us, we seek to be Bath and Wells as we seek to live and God’s people living and telling the story tell the story of Jesus. As followers of of Jesus. There will need to be much Jesus we are called to listen to his more listening and talking together words, follow in his steps and allow for this to become a reality, and I look his Holy Spirit to transform our lives. forward to those conversations and the You may be aware that there has been journey ahead of us. As we pray and a lot of thinking going on about how seek faithfully to listen to the voice of we might shape our future as a diocese the Holy Spirit, we can be confident that and become more missional and inten­ the Lord will sustain and strengthen us tional in our use of all that God has on our journey with him. given to us and entrusted to us. That thinking, listening, praying, dreaming With warm greetings in the Lord and talking has led the Diocesan Synod to adopt three priorities that need to +Peter Bath and Wells

Exploring Spirituality course in Wells Exploring Your Spiritual Journey is the intro­ developing listening skills, experiencing ductory year, open to everyone, of the different traditions of Christian spirituality Exploring Spirituality course. The only pre­ and drawing up a simple rule of life. requisite is a desire to discover more about The group will meet in the Old Deanery, your inner journey and a commitment to Wells, on alternate Thursdays between 10am attend regularly. and 3pm, from September 2016 until July Participants are encouraged to explore 2017. For details of the course and contact their personal spiritual journey and self- details, visit the Bath and Wells diocesan awareness. This includes the Enneagram, website at http://bit.ly/Explore-Spirituality

August 2016 Christ Church Link 5 Book review: Sceptical Christianity Sceptical Christianity: exploring credible belief Anglicans raise questions of by Robert Reiss. Jessica Kingsley Publishers, belief, it must always be with 2016, £8.99. (Two new copies in our library) the aim of discovering truth. For Reiss, loss of reliance Revd Lore Chumbley writes: on historical accuracy­ leads Revd Dr Robert Paul Reiss has spent 50 years him to doubt everything in minis­try in the Anglican Church as parish including the historical exis­tence priest, college chaplain, Arch­deacon of Surrey of the empty tomb, the resurrection and and Canon Treasurer and Sub Dean of West­ the reality of life after death. Since Reiss has minster Cathedral. As a theology­ student­ at already made clear that he does not accept Trinity, Cambridge, he was tutored by the the Bible as a document with historical­ astute and unconventional Harry Willi­ams. validity, no argument from scripture­ will alter He returned to Trinity as chap­lain when John his beliefs. The most he will accept is that the Robinson, the iconoclastic author of Hon­est persistence of the teachings­ of Jesus as a way to God, was Dean. With those credentials­ I in which to live is a type of resurrection. approached Sceptical Christianity with some From my point of view, robust Biblical excitement. Could the book incite a paradigm and historical criticism is valuable because shift comparable to Honest to God? it leads to a deeper understanding of what It is slim – 177 pages – and an engaging we believe.­ Subjecting our beliefs to fierce read. If anything it would have benefitted from question­ing should be a method of burnishing a little more length – and therefore depth. faith, not of rubbing it away. The author briefly touches on the problems So, a thought-provoking book, but one as he sees them: scientific scepticism which which needed as much energy given to the leaves room only for a “God of the gaps,” answers as to the questions. and the challenge of Biblical and historical The best quote is from Cardinal Vincent criti­cism which destroys the credibility of Nicholls, who apparently asked from the pul­ a “fundamentalist” reading of the Bible. pit of Westminster Abbey: “Is there anyone What I looked for in vain was a robust res­ here who believes in the God Richard Daw­ ponse to these arguments. If we as believing kins doesn’t believe in?” Not a hand went up. Charity of the month: Toilet Twinning The loose collection in the plate on Sunday Cambodia, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and more. 14 August, plus an optional retiring collection for For £240, you can twin with a school block. the rest of August, will go to Toilet Twinning. Your donation is used by Tearfund to pro­ vide clean water, basic sanitation and hygiene Toilet Twinning funds the work of Tearfund education. This vital combination works to partners globally to provide people in the prevent the spread of disease. Safe toilets also poorest communities on the planet with a help prevent animal attack and sexual assault. decent toilet, clean water and all the infor­ Children are healthier, and able to go to mation they need to stay healthy. It’s the key school; parents are well enough to work their to helping whole communities break free of land and grow food to feed their family. With the poverty trap. For just £60, you better health, and more ability to earn a living, can twin your loo with a latrine in men and women discover the potential that a country of your lies within them to bring transformation. choice – in Africa, Family by family, community by community, nation by nation, we are flushing away poverty. For more details, visit www.toilettwinning.org

6 Christ Church Link August 2016 August 16 Synod approves motion to build Welcome to the latest edition of InFocus. Our aim is to help you keep in touch with the activities of the National a ‘generous and forward looking Church Institutions. Do have a look at InReview, our sister country’ after EU Referendum InFocus publication, designed as an A3 version for notice boards. The General Synod of the Church of Eng- The Archbishop of York Dr. John Sentamu land has voted unanimously to approve the call said: Bold vision for education launched of the Archbishops of Canterbury and York “In situations of conflict we call for unity “to unite in the common task of building a and reconciliation too quickly, mostly because at General Synod generous and forward looking country” during the anger of others as well as our own is The largest single provider of schools and The Rev Nigel Genders, Chief Education a debate on the EU referendum vote. unbearably painful and we want it to end. But academies in England has launched a bold Officer for the Church of England said: “The The Archbishops also warned that rushing it can’t end till it has been faced and it cannot and ambitious vision for education at General need to set out our stall in an increasingly frag- too swiftly to reconciliation would be a mistake be faced until it has been ‘allowed out’. We Synod. The Church of England educates 1 mented educational scene and where wellbeing when the nation is still reacting to the impact have to find ways, not violent ways, of allowing million pupils in 4700 schools and has plans of young people is of national concern is clear. of the vote. it out.” to open another 125 schools in the next five Through this vision pupils, parents, new and Moving the motion, The Archbishop of The original motion as proposed was years. Speaking at General Synod, the lead existing schools and teachers will know how Canterbury, Justin Welby, said: amended by a motion of Mrs Enid Barron bishop for education, Stephen Conway, Bishop aspiring we are for them and how we will best “The result has released a latent racism and (London) with the support of the Archbishops of Ely, said the vision will equip the Church in support them in future years.” xenophobia in all sectors, and challenges the during the debate. The final text, which was the current wider education framework: “With The vision, in line with the Church of Eng- prevailing consensus of tolerance and accept- carried unanimously, reads: the opportunity to shape and enhance our land’s role as the established Church, is for the ance, thus threatening other areas of welcome provision and to influence the debate about common good of the whole community and liberalisation. “That this Synod, recognising the result of what education is for; to open new schools and its environment, whether national, regional or “This is a time for remembering the author- the recent referendum on the UK’s member- develop existing schools; and to provide radi- local. ity and power of God, revealed in Jesus Christ, ship of the European Union, (a) welcomes cally new approaches to how we function as a General Synod overwhelmingly welcomed and of the good news that we have in our the Archbishops’ call for all to unite in the movement for education and train teachers and the report following a debate in which hands for all people in this land. All round the common task of building a generous and for- leaders to share that vision.” Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury, world Christians suffer and yet trust. We can ward looking country, contributing to human The Vision was developed by a theological expressed his support, describing the vision as do no less. We are to be led by our theology, flourishing around the world, and encourage reference group, chaired by Professor David “immensely exciting” and “outward looking”. which must define our politics, our fears and all members of the CofE to play their part Ford, Regius Professor of Divinity Emeritus at our hopes. actively in partnership with everyone in Civil Cambridge University following widespread The new Church of England Foundation for “The clearest inspiration to those outside the Society in pursuit of this task, (b) commends consultation. Educational Leadership which opens in the church, the best way we will communicate, the the work already carried out by the Church in The Church of England Vision for Educa- Autumn will be underpinned by this vision and way we bring hope in anxious times, is to be bringing communities together and recom- tion embraces the spiritual, physical, intellec- will provide networks, training and research a holy community, and one which is recog- mend that as a minimum every bishop identify tual, emotional, moral and social development to equip leaders to continue play a vital role in nised in its conduct as manifestly holy. We a champion in their diocese to assess what of children and young people. It offers a vision education in this new phase of the Church of must manage our own disagreements, whether more the Church could do and to make recom- of human flourishing for all, one that embraces England’s involvement in education. over sexuality or other matters, with transpar- mendations for creating stronger and more excellence and academic rigour, but sets them ent love and delight, and not with words and constructive links between local communities in a wider framework. This is worked out theo- Visit www.bit.ly/29DVqnm to read the vision docu- actions that discredit the hope of unity. And as a basis for achieving this common task.” logically and educationally through four basic ment we must be renewed in joyful and boundless elements which permeate the vision: wisdom, love for each other and neighbor - expressed in To read Archbishop Justin’s speech www.bit. hope, community and dignity. action, shown in worship and prayer.” ly/29CHRHx

In Focus supplement August 2016 Christ Church Link 7 Good safeguarding integral to mission of Church the new process of diocesan Peer Review, plan. All nine projects have subsequently been A resource to help local churches do some The Bishop of Durham, Paul Butler, the which is also a key part of Renewal and awarded funding, complementing the dioceses’ theological thinking around safeguarding has Church of England’s lead bishop on safeguard- Reform. own investment in the work being supported. been published by the Faith and Order Com- ing, said: “I’m delighted that this thoughtful The funding was awarded after a competitive John Spence, chair of the Archbishops’ mission (FAOC), in response to a request by and accessible resource from the Faith and process, in which dioceses were invited to put Council Finance Committee, said: “I’m the lead bishop for safeguarding, the Rt Rev Order Commission is now available. It sets out forward initial applications to the Task Group. delighted that the Archbishops’ Council and Paul Butler. a compelling vision of the kind of church we Those proposals which were judged to meet the Church Commissioners have been able to sup- Approved by the House of Bishops last want to be without glossing over our failures. criteria most strongly were invited to submit port some exciting proposals, and help these month, the document is aimed at Christian I would encourage everyone concerned with detailed project plans. dioceses turn their strategic plans into reality” communities who want to consider how the safeguarding in the church to read it, and Thirteen applications were received in the We have a range of very different approaches Church can speak about the gospel when above all to use it for teaching, thinking and first stage, of which eight were invited forward here, but all of them are focused on strengthen- facing the reality of sexual abuse, both in the praying about how we respond as Christ’s disci- to the second stage, together with one which ing mission and growth at grass-roots level. communities it serves and as a crime carried ples to the very serious issues raised by abuse.” had undertaken further work on its project out by its own members and officers. It is The text is meant to be read as a specifically intended to be used with clergy, laity, staff and theological resource alongside safeguarding The nine projects awarded funding: Portsmouth: £929,000 to support an expan- volunteers for both formal and informal teach- policy and guidance documents from the local sion of the diocese’s Pioneer Project and to ing including training sessions, church groups diocese and the national church. Carlisle: £859,000 to help implement the develop a City Centre Resource Church. and sermons. diocese’s strategy for new Mission Communi- The Gospel, Sexual Abuse and the Church: ties, through developing Mission Commu- Rochester: £665,000 to re-establish mission A Theological Resource for the Local Church Read the resource via www.bit.ly/29xRfGE or order nity Leaders, Fresh Expressions, and Digital in Chatham Town Centre, planting a new notes that safeguarding from abuse and from www.chpublishing.co.uk Evangelism. worshipping community alongside missional responding well to it needs to be grounded in outreach. Christian theology and so should be part of Read a recent blog from lead bishop for safeguard- Derby: £1.26m to help establish a City the Church’s regular ministry of preaching and ing Rt Rev Paul Butler www.bit.ly/29z4IBx Centre Resource Church and Missional Com- Sodor and Man: £135,000 for a Pioneer teaching. “Good safeguarding is integral to the munity in Derby, to support outreach to young Youth team to strengthen mission and evange- mission of the Church,” it states. people and 14 deprived parishes. lism for children and young people, through work in schools and selected parishes, in Durham: £800,000 for the diocese’s Mis- association with the Scripture Union Ministries Funding announced for projects to promote growth sional Leadership for Growth Programme Trust. to over 150 key local leaders, accompanied and change by action learning and mission projects in Southwark: £950,000 for Pioneer Ministry Nine dioceses will receive a significant cash triennium and now brings the total allocated parishes. and a Resource Church in Nine Elms and injection to support major growth and change through to just under of £15m. development of Fresh Expressions across the projects under Renewal and Reform. The aim of the funding is to complement the Exeter: £1m for the diocese’s ‘Growing the diocese. The Spending Plans Task Group of the formula-based funding distributed to dioceses Rural Church’ programme to help rural par- Church Commissioners and Archbishops’ each year, so they can benefit from additional ishes develop mission and in particular develop Southwell & Nottingham: £1.2m for the Council has awarded £7.8m to projects resources to make a significant difference to the use of their church buildings in a way development of 25 strategic resource churches, from nine dioceses from the stream of Stra- their long-term mission and financial strength, which strengthens mission and evangelism. a Younger Leadership College and a City tegic Development Funding, which is to be by supporting major growth and change activ- Centre Resource Church in Nottingham. expanded from 2017 as part of Renewal and ity which fits with dioceses’ strategic plans. Reform. Proposals will be evaluated throughout to This is the third tranche of Strategic Devel- ensure that learning for the wider Church can opment Funding to be awarded in the 2014-16 be captured and disseminated, complementing

8 Christ Church Link August 2016 In Focus supplement Good safeguarding integral to mission of Church the new process of diocesan Peer Review, plan. All nine projects have subsequently been A resource to help local churches do some The Bishop of Durham, Paul Butler, the which is also a key part of Renewal and awarded funding, complementing the dioceses’ theological thinking around safeguarding has Church of England’s lead bishop on safeguard- Reform. own investment in the work being supported. been published by the Faith and Order Com- ing, said: “I’m delighted that this thoughtful The funding was awarded after a competitive John Spence, chair of the Archbishops’ mission (FAOC), in response to a request by and accessible resource from the Faith and process, in which dioceses were invited to put Council Finance Committee, said: “I’m the lead bishop for safeguarding, the Rt Rev Order Commission is now available. It sets out forward initial applications to the Task Group. delighted that the Archbishops’ Council and Paul Butler. a compelling vision of the kind of church we Those proposals which were judged to meet the Church Commissioners have been able to sup- Approved by the House of Bishops last want to be without glossing over our failures. criteria most strongly were invited to submit port some exciting proposals, and help these month, the document is aimed at Christian I would encourage everyone concerned with detailed project plans. dioceses turn their strategic plans into reality” communities who want to consider how the safeguarding in the church to read it, and Thirteen applications were received in the We have a range of very different approaches Church can speak about the gospel when above all to use it for teaching, thinking and first stage, of which eight were invited forward here, but all of them are focused on strengthen- facing the reality of sexual abuse, both in the praying about how we respond as Christ’s disci- to the second stage, together with one which ing mission and growth at grass-roots level. communities it serves and as a crime carried ples to the very serious issues raised by abuse.” had undertaken further work on its project out by its own members and officers. It is The text is meant to be read as a specifically intended to be used with clergy, laity, staff and theological resource alongside safeguarding The nine projects awarded funding: Portsmouth: £929,000 to support an expan- volunteers for both formal and informal teach- policy and guidance documents from the local sion of the diocese’s Pioneer Project and to ing including training sessions, church groups diocese and the national church. Carlisle: £859,000 to help implement the develop a City Centre Resource Church. and sermons. diocese’s strategy for new Mission Communi- The Gospel, Sexual Abuse and the Church: ties, through developing Mission Commu- Rochester: £665,000 to re-establish mission A Theological Resource for the Local Church Read the resource via www.bit.ly/29xRfGE or order nity Leaders, Fresh Expressions, and Digital in Chatham Town Centre, planting a new notes that safeguarding from abuse and from www.chpublishing.co.uk Evangelism. worshipping community alongside missional responding well to it needs to be grounded in outreach. Christian theology and so should be part of Read a recent blog from lead bishop for safeguard- Derby: £1.26m to help establish a City the Church’s regular ministry of preaching and ing Rt Rev Paul Butler www.bit.ly/29z4IBx Centre Resource Church and Missional Com- Sodor and Man: £135,000 for a Pioneer teaching. “Good safeguarding is integral to the munity in Derby, to support outreach to young Youth team to strengthen mission and evange- mission of the Church,” it states. people and 14 deprived parishes. lism for children and young people, through work in schools and selected parishes, in Durham: £800,000 for the diocese’s Mis- association with the Scripture Union Ministries Funding announced for projects to promote growth sional Leadership for Growth Programme Trust. to over 150 key local leaders, accompanied and change by action learning and mission projects in Southwark: £950,000 for Pioneer Ministry Nine dioceses will receive a significant cash triennium and now brings the total allocated parishes. and a Resource Church in Nine Elms and injection to support major growth and change through to just under of £15m. development of Fresh Expressions across the projects under Renewal and Reform. The aim of the funding is to complement the Exeter: £1m for the diocese’s ‘Growing the diocese. The Spending Plans Task Group of the formula-based funding distributed to dioceses Rural Church’ programme to help rural par- Church Commissioners and Archbishops’ each year, so they can benefit from additional ishes develop mission and in particular develop Southwell & Nottingham: £1.2m for the Council has awarded £7.8m to projects resources to make a significant difference to the use of their church buildings in a way development of 25 strategic resource churches, from nine dioceses from the stream of Stra- their long-term mission and financial strength, which strengthens mission and evangelism. a Younger Leadership College and a City tegic Development Funding, which is to be by supporting major growth and change activ- Centre Resource Church in Nottingham. expanded from 2017 as part of Renewal and ity which fits with dioceses’ strategic plans. Reform. Proposals will be evaluated throughout to This is the third tranche of Strategic Devel- ensure that learning for the wider Church can opment Funding to be awarded in the 2014-16 be captured and disseminated, complementing

In Focus supplement August 2016 Christ Church Link 9 August 16 Synod approves motion to build Welcome to the latest edition of InFocus. Our aim is to help you keep in touch with the activities of the National a ‘generous and forward looking Church Institutions. Do have a look at InReview, our sister country’ after EU Referendum InFocus publication, designed as an A3 version for notice boards. The General Synod of the Church of Eng- The Archbishop of York Dr. John Sentamu land has voted unanimously to approve the call said: Bold vision for education launched of the Archbishops of Canterbury and York “In situations of conflict we call for unity “to unite in the common task of building a and reconciliation too quickly, mostly because at General Synod generous and forward looking country” during the anger of others as well as our own is The largest single provider of schools and The Rev Nigel Genders, Chief Education a debate on the EU referendum vote. unbearably painful and we want it to end. But academies in England has launched a bold Officer for the Church of England said: “The The Archbishops also warned that rushing it can’t end till it has been faced and it cannot and ambitious vision for education at General need to set out our stall in an increasingly frag- too swiftly to reconciliation would be a mistake be faced until it has been ‘allowed out’. We Synod. The Church of England educates 1 mented educational scene and where wellbeing when the nation is still reacting to the impact have to find ways, not violent ways, of allowing million pupils in 4700 schools and has plans of young people is of national concern is clear. of the vote. it out.” to open another 125 schools in the next five Through this vision pupils, parents, new and Moving the motion, The Archbishop of The original motion as proposed was years. Speaking at General Synod, the lead existing schools and teachers will know how Canterbury, Justin Welby, said: amended by a motion of Mrs Enid Barron bishop for education, Stephen Conway, Bishop aspiring we are for them and how we will best “The result has released a latent racism and (London) with the support of the Archbishops of Ely, said the vision will equip the Church in support them in future years.” xenophobia in all sectors, and challenges the during the debate. The final text, which was the current wider education framework: “With The vision, in line with the Church of Eng- prevailing consensus of tolerance and accept- carried unanimously, reads: the opportunity to shape and enhance our land’s role as the established Church, is for the ance, thus threatening other areas of welcome provision and to influence the debate about common good of the whole community and liberalisation. “That this Synod, recognising the result of what education is for; to open new schools and its environment, whether national, regional or “This is a time for remembering the author- the recent referendum on the UK’s member- develop existing schools; and to provide radi- local. ity and power of God, revealed in Jesus Christ, ship of the European Union, (a) welcomes cally new approaches to how we function as a General Synod overwhelmingly welcomed and of the good news that we have in our the Archbishops’ call for all to unite in the movement for education and train teachers and the report following a debate in which hands for all people in this land. All round the common task of building a generous and for- leaders to share that vision.” Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury, world Christians suffer and yet trust. We can ward looking country, contributing to human The Vision was developed by a theological expressed his support, describing the vision as do no less. We are to be led by our theology, flourishing around the world, and encourage reference group, chaired by Professor David “immensely exciting” and “outward looking”. which must define our politics, our fears and all members of the CofE to play their part Ford, Regius Professor of Divinity Emeritus at our hopes. actively in partnership with everyone in Civil Cambridge University following widespread The new Church of England Foundation for “The clearest inspiration to those outside the Society in pursuit of this task, (b) commends consultation. Educational Leadership which opens in the church, the best way we will communicate, the the work already carried out by the Church in The Church of England Vision for Educa- Autumn will be underpinned by this vision and way we bring hope in anxious times, is to be bringing communities together and recom- tion embraces the spiritual, physical, intellec- will provide networks, training and research a holy community, and one which is recog- mend that as a minimum every bishop identify tual, emotional, moral and social development to equip leaders to continue play a vital role in nised in its conduct as manifestly holy. We a champion in their diocese to assess what of children and young people. It offers a vision education in this new phase of the Church of must manage our own disagreements, whether more the Church could do and to make recom- of human flourishing for all, one that embraces England’s involvement in education. over sexuality or other matters, with transpar- mendations for creating stronger and more excellence and academic rigour, but sets them ent love and delight, and not with words and constructive links between local communities in a wider framework. This is worked out theo- Visit www.bit.ly/29DVqnm to read the vision docu- actions that discredit the hope of unity. And as a basis for achieving this common task.” logically and educationally through four basic ment we must be renewed in joyful and boundless elements which permeate the vision: wisdom, love for each other and neighbor - expressed in To read Archbishop Justin’s speech www.bit. hope, community and dignity. action, shown in worship and prayer.” ly/29CHRHx

10 Christ Church Link August 2016 In Focus supplement Christ Church calendar August 2016

Aug 4 Thu Pilgrim Group meeting, 7:30pm

5 Fri Cedar Tree café, 11am–1:30pm

6 Sat The Transfiguration of our Lord

7 Sun The Eleventh Sunday after Trinity (Choir break – no Choral Evensong today)

12 Fri Cedar Tree café, 11am–1:30pm

14 Sun The Twelfth Sunday after Trinity 8am Holy Communion (BCP)

15 Mon The Blessed Virgin Mary

18 Thu Pilgrim Group meeting, 7:30pm

19 Fri Cedar Tree café, 11am–1:30pm

21 Sun The Thirteenth Sunday after Trinity

24 Wed Bartholomew the Apostle

26 Fri Cedar Tree café, 11am–1:30pm

28 Sun The Fourteenth Sunday after Trinity

29 Mon Beheading of John the Baptist

30 Tue Christ Church Council meeting, 7:40pm

Sep 1 Thu Pilgrim Group meeting, 7:30pm

2 Fri Cedar Tree café, 11am–1:30pm

4 Sun The Fifteenth Sunday after Trinity Apple Picking Party in aid of Genesis, 12 midday onwards 4:30pm Choral Evensong (TBC)

Got something you want to let everyone know about? Pop a note in the “Magazine Editor” pigeonhole at the back of church or send an e-mail with all the details to [email protected]. For the weekly notice sheet, e-mail [email protected]

August 2016 Christ Church Link 11 Prayer Cycle for August 2016

Monday 1 For scientists and engineers

Tuesday 2 For all in hospital

Wednesday 3 For good relationships between different faiths

Thursday 4 We give thanks for beauty in creation

Friday 5 For the unemployed

Saturday 6 For children and their families

Sunday 7 For all clergy taking services at Christ Church

Monday 8 For shopkeepers and shop workers

Tuesday 9 For our link dioceses in Zambia

Wednesday 10 That we may work for the kingdom of heaven

Thursday 11 For all who produce publicity for Christ Church

Friday 12 For countries in conflict

Saturday 13 For those on holiday

Sunday 14 For Alex and Malcolm our Churchwardens

Monday 15 For our neighbours at St Mary’s Catholic Church

Tuesday 16 For those who work in the emergency services

Wednesday 17 For former members of Christ Church who have moved away

Thursday 18 For our Diocese of Bath and Wells

Friday 19 For those who use and run food banks

Saturday 20 For those who have suffered from terrorism

Sunday 21 For our servers and others who assist at the altar

Monday 22 For those in the legal profession

Tuesday 23 We give thanks for those who enrich our lives

12 Christ Church Link August 2016 Wednesday 24 For those who live or work in care homes

Thursday 25 For Lore and Colin

Friday 26 For the ministry of the Cedar Tree

Saturday 27 That we may have grace to love

Sunday 28 For the Trustees of Christ Church

Monday 29 For our government and politicians

Tuesday 30 For Bible scholars and theologians

Wednesday 31 For churches, Cathedrals and communities named Christ Church

Long-term Prayer List Please remember those we’ve been asked to pray for...

John Burrows David Lavis Cyril Selmes Jason Batup Ned Townshend Don Sparks Joyce Fairburn Marge and Mervyn Gull Val Curtis Keith Warren and Jean Martin Palmer Tabitha and Fonella Coles Katharine Mrs Hilary Hunter David Slater

Want to add a name to the prayer list, either long-term or short- term, or remove one? Please use the lists at the back of the church, or let the Verger or one of the Churchwardens know.

Christ Church Link This magazine is published on the first Sunday of each month. Please send any contributions of news and articles by the 15th of the preceding month to the editor, Alex Soboslay, or by e-mail to [email protected]

August 2016 Christ Church Link 13 Rotas for August 2016 Readers and readings, Sunday 10am Eucharist

Old Testament New Testament Gospel 7 August Emma Elliott Charles Rice Margaret Heath Trinity 11 Genesis 15:1-6 Hebrews 11:1-3, Luke 12:32-40 8-16 14 August Jane Fletcher Brenda Wall Penny Edwards Trinity 12 Jeremiah 23:23-29 Hebrews 11:29-12.2 Luke 12:49-56

21 August Sylvia Ayers Alex Soboslay Rowena Hall Trinity 13 Isaiah 58:9b-end Hebrews 2:18-end Luke 13:10-17

28 August Malcolm Wall Georgina Bowman Janet Mahto Trinity 14 Proverbs 25:6-7 Hebrews 13:1-8, Luke 14:1,7-14 15-16 4 Sept Junior Church Junior Church Junior Church Trinity 15 Jeremiah 18:1-11 Philemon 1-21 Luke 14:25-33

Laity rota, Sunday 10am Eucharist

Chalice assistants Sidespeople Intercessions 7 August Malcolm Wall, Margaret Silver, Rebekah Keri Chivers Morny Davison Cunningham

14 August David Rawlings, Ken Ayers, Revd Cliff Burrows Janet Mahto Sylvia Ayers

21 August Brenda Wall, Morny Davison, Georgina Bowman Clive Tilling Janet Mahto

28 August Jane Fletcher, Jane Nicholson, Penny Edwards Malcolm Wall Rowena Hall

4 Sept Keri Chivers, (Junior Church) Junior Church Janet Mahto

14 Christ Church Link August 2016 Who’s who at Christ Church

Priest-in-charge Revd Lore Chumbley Concert bookings, 07595 294146 weekly notice sheet Judith Bishop [email protected] 01225 869409 [email protected] Supporting clergy [email protected] Revd Prof. Cliff Burrows Revd Canon Simon Tatton-Brown Pastoral care coordinators Keri Chivers 01225 421265 Reader, Director of Music Mark Elliott [email protected] 01225 445360 Revd Canon Simon Tatton-Brown [email protected] 01225 835404 [email protected] Churchwarden, Council Treasurer Malcolm Wall Tower Captain Ian Hay Davison 01225 864933 07932 160482 [email protected] [email protected] Ringing Master Will Willans Churchwarden, Steeple Keeper David Kelly Christ Church Link editor Alex Soboslay 07769 655927 Laity rotas Sarah Cade [email protected] Prayer cycle Virginia Knight Verger Angela Soboslay 01225 333297 Cedar Tree café Janet Mahto [email protected] Publicity co-ordinators Janet Mahto, Chair of Trustees Sarah Jones Lewis Boyd, Hazel Boyd 01225 443284 [email protected] Junior Church Emma Elliott

Treasurer David Bishop United Society, 01225 869409 Churches Together in Bath, [email protected] Traidcraft stall Rebekah Cunningham

Safeguarding officer Lewis Boyd Mothers’ Union Sylvia Ayers 07739 989639 01225 463976 [email protected] Mission to Seafarers Sylvia Ayers Organist and Assistant Director of Music Keith Pigot Deanery Synod Reps Brenda Wall 01225 723801 Sarah Kerr [email protected] Jane Nicholson

August 2016 Christ Church Link 15 About Christ Church We’re a liberal, inclusive and open church, seeking God through beauty in our worship, honesty in our faith and doubt, and support in our community

Christ Church has an unusual history, robed choir and organist. There is the out of which has developed a distinctive option of separate activities for children ministry. It was founded at the end of in Junior Church groups during our the 18th century by a group of socially 10am Sunday service. concerned clergy and lay people for As well as worship on a Sunday those excluded from worship through morning, there are many other activities the system of pew rents. It was probably going on in our community. We support the first church in England since the the Genesis Sunday Centre and have Reformation to provide seating for all our own community café. The musical free of charge. Early supporters tradition of the church continues to included: John Moore, the Archbishop thrive, and we have an active choir. of Canterbury; William Wilberforce, the New singers of all ages are always very great evangelical and campaigner welcome. Our ecumenical Home Group against slavery; and Martin Stafford provides a space for exploration and Smith, godfather of John Keble, a discussion of faith in an open and founder of the Oxford Movement. non‑judgemental setting. Christ Church is not a parish church and does not have a full-time vicar. This has led to the development of a shared Regular Sunday services ministry where clergy and laity both 8am Holy Communion (Book make important contributions to of Common Prayer) worship and church life. On the second Sunday Christ Church is part of the Anglican of every month diocese of Bath and Wells, although it 10am Sung Eucharist with Junior still sits outside the normal Church Church activities for children of England parish system. We see and young people ourselves as a traditional and liberal Every Sunday Anglican church. Worship is led by our 4:30pm Choral Evensong clergy, and music is provided by our Usually the first Sunday of every month, but not in August – see website or notice board Baptisms, marriages and funerals by arrangement – please contact us!

Contacting us Christ Church, Julian Road, Bath BA1 2RH Phone: 01225 338869 (answer phone) Email: [email protected] Website: www.christchurchbath.org

16 Christ Church Link August 2016