ochester Link 1

Holy Week at Canterbury Cathedral

Holy Week plans page 12

March 2013 Estonia is calling you!

by the Rev Canon David Kitley, Bishop’s Advisor for Overseas Links The has 4. Overseas Links Celebration 2014, to take place in our Diocese to celebrate a friendship link with the our links with Estonia. Service to Evangelical Lutheran Church of take place on October 5: date to be Estonia, which is very keen to confirmed. develop this relationship with 5. 2015, early July – a ‘Sacred Hymn parish churches in Rochester. Festival’ in Tartu. You are very warmly invited to all the 6. 2017, May 31. 500th Anniversary events outlined below. There is a church of the Lutheran Reformation and hostel in the centre of the historic part of 100th Anniversary of the Evangelical Tallinn, where we are able to stay during Lutheran Church in Estonia. our visits. 7. 2018, February 24. Centenary of the The following is a list of events both in founding of the Republic of Estonia. Estonia and Rochester: 8. 2018, December 12, 100th 1. 2013 October 8-13, visit to Rochester Anniversary of British Naval victory Diocese of Professor Randar Tasmuth, over Russians to liberate the who teaches at the Theological Estonian nation. Ideal for a Chatham Institute in Tallinn and is an authority of parish, with the Naval history and the Gospel of John. connections! The Estonians are deeply grateful to the Royal Navy. 2. 2014, January 21-22 Estonian clergy This is evidenced by a memorial to conference at their ‘Centre Park’, them in Tallinn. beside the frozen Baltic sea. Church leaders from Rochester Diocese I do hope that some of you will take up this warmly invited! wonderful opportunity to link up with our brothers and sisters in Christ in Estonia, to 3. 2014, early July. The ‘Song Festival’. be enriched by their worship and singing, Following a tradition that dates back as well as to share in the pain they still feel to 1869, about 150,000 people will from the years of Soviet occupation. gather in Tallinn for 3-4 days. This is a national event! It is too late for any For further information please contact me choirs from England to register for on 01732 452112 or e-mail at this, but we are invited! [email protected] Photo by Steve Barber Photo competition The Diocese of Rochester is delighted For details of competition rules and prizes, please visit www.rochester.anglican.org to launch its 2013 photography How do I enter? competition. Entries must be submitted in a high resolution There are three categories and entrants may format via email or CD to Lindy Mackenzie. enter each one or only one. However, no CDs must be clearly marked with the name entrant may submit more than three images in and address of the entrant and details of the total. The categories are: categories entered. 1. Times of faith We regret that hard copy entries will not be 2. Symbols of faith considered and entries will not be returned 3. People of faith to entrants. The photographer must own the There will be one winner from each category copyright of the image. Winners will be notified plus one runner up and one overall winner by the beginning of September 2013. from the competition. Top submissions will be Email entries to: lindy.mackenzie@rochester. exhibited in . anglican.org CD Entries to: Lindy Mackenzie, The judges’ decisions will be final and no Communications, Diocese of Rochester, St alternative prizes will be offered. Entrants must Nicholas Church, Boley Hill, Rochester, , be over 16 years old. Closing date for entries is ME11SL. Please do not submit hard copy 17 May 2013. entries. These will not be eligible and cannot The frozen Baltic Sea Photo by the Rev Canon David Kitley be returned. PLEASE NOTE: Copy deadline for the April issue of The Link is Friday 15 March at 4pm 2 ochester Link Bishop Brian’s Diary - March

2 March 8.00 Men’s Breakfast, The George Pub, Ightham 3 March 10.00 United Deanery Service, St George, Wrotham What’s on 4 March 10.30 Visit Ightham Mote March 2013 GRAVESEND Indoor Boot Fair, St Aidan’s Church and 5 March 8.00 SE Church Leaders’ Breakfast Friday 1 Community Hall, St Gregory’s Crescent, Gravesend 11.00 Coffee morning, St George, Wrotham GRAVESEND Women’s World Day of Prayer service at between 10am and 1pm. Admission 50p. For further detail Visit Grange Park School, Wrotham St Aidan’s Church, St Gregory’s Crescent, Gravesend at please ring 01474 352253. Visit Wrotham Primary School 10am. The speaker will be the Rev Carolyn Foreman from RUSTHALL A Musical Meditation for Lent will take place 6.30 Visit Bromley Night Shelter, Bromley Baptist St John, Meopham. at St.Paul’s Church Centre, 23 Rusthall Road, Rusthall, Church Saturday 2 Tunbridge Wells on Saturday, 16 March, 2013, at 7.30 7 March 12.30 Friends of Bossey (WCC) meeting, London pm. in aid of Canon Andrew White’s work at St George’s 8 March 11.00 Mission Theology Advisory Group Meeting, London SEVENOAKS Stabat Mater, a concert of choral and instrumental items by Temenos Chamber Choir with Church, Baghdad, and the Iraqi Christian Refugees. All are 12 March 11.00 Civic Service, All Saints, Maidstone welcome. Details from 01892 539549. 16 March 9.30 Diocesan Synod Temenos Baroque, at St Nicholas Church, Sevenoaks at 7.30pm, featuring music by Monteverdi, Rigatti, Caldara, Friday 22 17 March 10.30 Licensing, Mission to Sea Farers Chaplain, John Lassus, Corelli and Handel as well as Scarlatti’s “Stabat WEST MALLING Annual Quiet Day of the Rochester Attenborough, St Stephen, Chatham Mater”. Tickets £10 (£5 students) from Sevenoaks Retired Clergy Association. At West Malling Abbey from 19 March 1.30 Canterbury Christ Church University Governing Bookshop, or phone 01959 523765, or at the door 9:30am until 3:30pm. For more information please contact Body meeting www.temenos-chamberchoir.org.uk Paul Plumley at [email protected] or 07925 615601 20 March 9.30 Bishop’s Staff Meeting 21 March Enthronement of the Archbishop of Canterbury, BROMLEY “Towards a Theology of Banking - Saturday 23 Canterbury Cathedral responsibility and opportunities” - a morning to consider TUNBRIDGE WELLS Songs of Hope.The Baroque 22 March 9.15 Present Bishop’s Commendation Award to how we Christians see money, tax and finance today. Our Singers of Tunbridge Wells are giving a concert in St John’s Church in Groombridge at 7.30pm on Saturday Rusthall Primary School speaker will be the Rev Will Morris, SSM at St Martin’s in 23 March, conducted by their Musical Director, Anthony 11.30 Tonbridge & Malling LSP, Hop Farm, Paddock the Fields, chair of the the CBI’s tax committee and the Purnell. There are two works on the programme - Wood director of European tax policy for GE. Lots of time for Palestrina’s sublime but rarely performed mass “Spem in 24 March 9.30 Palm Sunday Celebration, Linton discussion. alium” and, as a contrast, the lively pilgrim songs of the 11.00 Palm Sunday Celebration, Hunton BROMLEY St Mark’s Church, Westmoreland Road, 14th century “Llibre Vermell” from Montserrat in Spain. 26 March 9.30 Crisis Media Response Training, Rochester Bromley, close to Bromley South station. Refreshments This songbook was compiled by the monks to provide 27 March 11.00 Agenda Planning Group - Rochester from 9.30 for a 10 am start and a 12 noon ending. An suitable recreational material to entertain pilgrims spending 28 March 10.30 Chrism Eucharist, Rochester Cathedral open meeting organised by the Bromley Deanery and the Rochester Theological Society. Free admission. Donations the night sheltering in the monastery church while visiting Maundy Thursday Service, Sundridge/Ide Hill the statue of the Black Madonna. The early music group 29 March Good Friday Service, Sundridge/Ide Hill welcome. Notifications to RTS acting secretary on [email protected] Cancionero will accompany these songs on replicas of 31 March Easter Day Service, Sundridge/Ide Hill medieval instruments. A mixture of timeless beauty and Sunday 3 energetic devotion - the perfect preparation for Palm BROMLEY Lent Lunch at St Mary’s Church, College Road, Sunday and Holy Week! Tickets are available online from Bromley at 12 noon, on 3, 10 and 17 March, of soup www.cancionero.ticketsource.co.uk Church Restoration (UK) ltd and fruit for £3. Proceeds go to Mothers’ Union “Make a Mother’s Day” overseas farming projects. Contact BROMLEY – Auction of Talents at St Mary’s Church 020 8464 1239. Bromley, at 4 pm. Fund-raising by doing good deeds for our neighbours. Contact 020 8464 1239. Thursday 7 BECKENHAM Small Stories to Change a Troubled World Sunday 24 ‘a different drum’, one of Riding Lights Theatre Company’s BROMLEY – Palm procession with donkey to St Mary’s most inspirational plays, has been recreated for 2013 and Church Bromley beginning at 10 am. Contact 020 8464 1239. is touring nationally. See it at 19.30hrs, Christ Church, Friday 29 Fairfield Road, Beckenham, BR3 3LE. Box Office: 01904 COBHAM Friends of Cobham Church are presenting their 613000. Please visit www.ridinglights.org/drum for a full annual ‘Instant’ concert at St Mary Magdalene Church. tour schedule, further information and online booking. This is a ‘come and sing’ event, now in its 11th year and Tickets: £10, Groups: buy 10 and get the 11th free. very popular. It attracts local singers and audiences and Saturday 9 all proceeds go towards the Friends of Cobham Church, BEXLEYHEATH Celebration of Fair Trade Fortnight at dedicated to the repair and restoration of the church fabric. Christ Church, Bexleyheath Broadway, Bexleyheath, from This year’s repertoire for the concert is Gabriel Fauré’s 10 am - 12 noon. Coffee, tea, cakes & juice from Traidcraft beautiful Requiem and his Cantique de Jean Racine. The with top quality craft items for sale & all kinds of lovely concert will be conducted by Alan Vincent and commence things suitable for Mothering Sunday gifts and chance to at 6.30 pm. The rehearsal for the singers will take place view the new Traidcraft catalogue. Details 020 8303 4452. in the Church between 2:30 and 5:30pm. For more information how to book your place, either as a singer or a NORTHFLEET Table Top Sale at All Saints Church Hall, Church Restoration (UK) Ltd member of the audience, please check the Church website Perry Street, Northfleet at 10am. Free Admission. www.cobham-luddesdowne.org or email the organiser Email: [email protected] BROMLEY Philharmonic Choir Spring Concert at 7.30pm directly on [email protected] at Christ Church URC, Tudor Way, Petts Wood, Kent. BROMLEY – “The Crucifixion” by John Stainer sung by Beethoven’s MASS in C, Haydn’s CREATION MASS St Mary’s Festival Choir at St Mary’s Church Bromley with orchestra. Tickets are £8.00 in advance and £10 on beginning at 7.30 p.m. Choir directed by Michael Sherwin the door. Box Office: 020 8460 4898 with organist Anne Clements and the Brook String Quartet. Friday 15 Free admission with a retiring charity collection. Contact LAMBERHURST Lamberhurst Music Festival has now 020 8464 1239. been running for ten years, bringing excellent quality music Saturday 30 to local venues, at very reasonable prices. All concerts BROMLEY – Prayer Breakfast at St Mary’s Church support St. Mary’s Church Lamberhurst. Pupils from Bromley, at 9.00 in the church. Contact 020 8464 1239. Chethams School, Manchester, the largest specialist music school in the country, will be the performers at a concert Various on Friday March 15, at St Mary’s Church at 7.30 p.m. WATERINGBURY Lunches For Lent A warm welcome Tickets: £15 (under 15s free). For more information phone awaits you at the Church of St John the Baptist, Tonbridge 01892 890597 or visit www.lamberhurstmusic.co.uk Road, Wateringbury on Wednesdays 20 and 27 February and 6, 13, and 20 of March 12.30 - 2pm. Why not pop Saturday 16 in for a chat over soup and bread or cheese, tomato and AYLESFORD A Day of Prayer for Africa. Calling bread with tea, coffee or squash. Cheese sandwiches and charities working in Africa. Would you be interested in small cakes are available for children. Everyone welcome, an opportunity to give a very short talk about the work voluntary donations invited for local charities. Transport of your organisation? 11 Annual Day of Prayer for Africa available if needed locally. Further information please phone will be held at St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Aylesford, 01622 813032 . on Saturday 16 March 2013. We would be delighted to hear from anyone who is connected with an organisation SEVENOAKS Lunchtime recitals at St Luke’s Church, working with people in Africa, and would like to talk about Eardley Road, Sevenoaks. Every Wednesday at 12.30pm it as part of our programme for the day. If you might be lasting 30 minutes. Please join us – admission free. interested in joining us and/or would like more details, Refreshments available from 12 noon. 6 Ingrid Cusido – please contact Iris Neel 01622 710634 or Piano, 13 Robin Morrish – Violin and Poetry, 20 Victoria [email protected] Edge – Mezzo Soprano, 27 Pergolesi’s Stabat Mater for Holy Week ochester Link 3

Bishop James welcomes Archbishop Justin The weight of expectation

During this month, Archbishop Anglican Communion and of the national Church; could it be that he will help us to Justin will more publicly begin find a more constructive way to approach ministry as Archbishop of our differences? Canterbury when he is placed • He has engaged with issues of social need in his ‘cathedra’, his teaching and deprivation in Coventry, Liverpool and seat, at Canterbury Cathedral on Durham. This experience too may be of significance as the Church responds to Thursday 21 March. the continuing effects of recession, the It has to be said that he has already been social and economic imbalance within our pretty visible around the place, but this event nation. marks the final part of the inauguration of • He has been a bishop for under 2 years. his ministry: it is certainly the part that will This will enable him to bring a fresh eye to be most high-profile for the wider Church, how leadership is exercised in the national with guests from across the Anglican Church through the House of Bishops and Communion and our ecumenical partners. the General Synod. As we come to this point, I share some All of that (and I could have added many reflections with you. more points) indicates the weight of • The media interest has been remarkable. expectation that lies upon Archbishop Justin That rather questions the oft-heard as he begins this ministry. assumption that the Church is of no Though surrounded with much prayer for interest to people: media outlets don’t God’s grace, he is a human being who will publish something unless they think never rise to all the expectations. people want to hear, see or read it. So please continue to pray for him, for • ’s business and economic Caroline and their family. And, in this background is being seen as significant. coming season of our Lord’s passion, it His membership of the Parliamentary is perhaps salutary to recall that the way Commission on Banking Standards is of salvation and healing is the Way of the noteworthy, a place where he is able to Cross. apply Christian faith and ethics to an issue of great importance for our society. To As we say in one of our Eucharistic Prayers, have at this point in time an Archbishop ‘The tree of shame was made the tree of who has credibility in these matters could glory; and where life was lost, there life has be very important for our presence in the been restored.’ public square. May that pattern of the passion shape the • His work on reconciliation and particular life ministry of all of us, and especially of connection with Nigeria is unusual. He Archbishop Justin. bring this experience to the life of the +James Photo by Katerina Gerhardt Bishop James’ Diary - March

1 March All Day Diocesan Schools Leadership Conference, Hollingbourne, 12-13 March House of Bishops, London Maidstone 14 March 11.00am General Synod Business Committee, London 2 March All Day Canterbury Diocesan Synod, Ashford 15 March 11.00am Churches Funerals Group, London 3-10 March Deanery Visit, Erith Deanery 16 March All Day Diocesan Synod, Rochester Cathedral 3 March 10.00am Preside & Preach, Christ Church, Bexleyheath 17 March 9.30am Preside & Preach, Kings Hill 3.00pm Youth Group meeting, Barnehurst 11.00am Preside & Preach, St Mary, West Malling, 6.00pm Deanery Praise Service, St Paulinus, Crayford 6.30pm Confirmation for Sidcup Deanery, Holy Redeemer , Lamorbey 4 March 8.45am Brampton Primary School, Bexleyheath 18 March 8.50am King’s School ‘Holy Week’ Service, Rochester Cathedral 11.00am Women Bishops Working Group, London 19 March 10.30am ‘Turning Up The Volume’ steering group, London 7.00pm School Governors Meeting, Slade Green School 20 March All Day Bishop’s Staff Meeting, Bishopcourt 5 March 8.00am Churches Together in Kent Leaders, Ebbsfleet 7.45pm Chatham Cluster Lent Course, Emmaus, Chatham 11.00am Bishop Ridley parish visit, Welling 21 March 3.00pm Enthronement of Archbishop of Canterbury, Canterbury Cathedral 1.00pm Visit Hovis Bakery, Erith 22 March 10.00am Women Bishops’ Working Group, London 3.00pm Messy Church, Northumberland Heath 2.30pm Visit: Scotts Care Trust, Sevenoaks 7.45pm Churchwardens Meeting, Northumberland Heath 24-31 March Holy Week with St John and St Mary Bexley 6 March 8.45am Christ Church VA Primary School, Erith 24 March 10.00am Palm Sunday Procession, St John, Bexley 11.00am Confirmation: Trinity School, Belvedere 6.00pm Confirmation, St Paulinus, Crayford 2.00pm Oakwood School, Bexleyheath 25-27 March Meditation and Compline Bexley, St John & St Mary 6.00pm Junior Church, St John, Erith 26 March All Day Crisis Media Training Day, Bishopscourt 7 March 9.00am Visit to M&S and Asda Superstores 27 March 2.00pm Visit and Official Opening of Spiritual Garden at Old Bexley CEP 12.30pm St Augustine Belvedere School, Belvedere School, Bexley 2.30pm Shenstone School, Crayford 28 March 10.30am Chrism Eucharist, Rochester Cathedral 7.30pm Lent Study Group, All Saints, Belvedere 7.30pm Fellowship Meal and Eucharist; launch of Team Ministry, 8 March All Day Chapter Quiet Day, West Kingsdown St John, Bexley 9 March 10.00am Deanery Lay Ministers, Crayford Good Friday 12.00pm Stations of the Cross (Ecumenical), St Mary, Bexley 12.30pm Lunch with PCC and Congregation, Bostall Heath Holy Saturday 7.00pm Vigil & Confirmation, St John, Bexley 10 March 10.00am Preach, St Augustine, Belvedere Easter Sunday 5.00am Vigil & Confirmation, Rochester Cathedral 6.30pm Evening Worship, St John, Welling 10.00am Preside & Preach: Baptismal Reaffirmation, St Mary, Bexley 11 March 3.30pm Winners of ‘Design a Cross’ Competition, Bishopscourt 4Cornerstoneochester vision - includes Link the following publications - Pompey Chimes, The Door, The Month Sarum Link, See Round, Southwark Bridge, The Wey, Rochester Link

Boxley parish church (St Mary & All Saints) DONATE BOOKS is looking to appoint an TO SUPPORT Organist and Choir Trainer CHRISTIAN AID from spring/early summer 2013. This is a post that will appeal to someone who is keen both to maintain the traditional music Your unwanted patterns at Boxley and to develop new patterns, using both Organ and Clavinova. In addition we seek a musically imaginative person who will inspire our Choir books can help end to grow numerically and to develop its confi dence and repertoire. Boxley Church is very popular for weddings ( 39 during 2012) so we seek an Organist global poverty. who will enjoy the opportunity to work with couples who want to enjoy good quality music as part of their wedding day. Christian Aid can raise The organ at Boxley is in excellent condition and is a ‘Bevington ‘ built 1860, rebuilt and extended by F H Browne and Son in 2004, with two manuals and pedals life-changing funds from - central balance swell pedal - mechanical action. non-fiction books in good This post receives an Honorarium of £3000 p.a. in addition to fees payable condition. for playing at weddings and funerals Please contact the Priest in Charge, Rev Susan Hollins, in the fi rst instance: If your church has books to 01622 737596 / [email protected] donate, please phone 01375 484561 To advertise in We can send you boxes to pack the Rochester the books in and we’ll also Link call 01752 Gilead Foundations is a Therapeutic Community arrange free collection. 225623 and offering a residential rehabilitation programme If you, or someone you know would like more information about Gilead or would like talk to one of to make an application, please contact: Laura Alm Tel: 01837 851240 Fax: 01837 851520 our sales team [email protected] UK registered charity no. 1105851 Company no. 5171525 Scot charity no. SC039150 The Christian Aid name and logo are trademarks of Christian Aid. © Christian Aid January 2013 13-630-J1150 www.gilead.org.uk ochester Link 5 Lightning protection by the Rev Christopher Miles, s C Eng, MIET. Wilt

Many years ago a church member, Shrewton,

who had served as a Major in the Mary, Army during the Second World St War, said to me “If you want to Fine furniture for church and home hide anything from the troops, put Ronald Emett it in the orders”. 01308 868025 [email protected] Over the years I have found that many Visit me at churchwardens and other church officers have www.ronaldemettfurniture.com not thought of looking at the diocesan website for advice about caring for their church The pressures of modern day life often mean buildings. that we get to the stage where we fi nd it There is a wealth of helpful material there diffi cult to cope. When things get on top of in the form of guidance notes on different us, it can be helpful to share the load with a sympathetic counsellor. That is why we are subjects. I am the Diocesan Consultant on here. Lightning Protection. With the agreement of the DAC, I am bringing to your notice that there is a newly THE WELL COUNSELLING revised leaflet on the lightning protection CENTRE on the website. The leaflet covers such aspects as the design and maintenance of St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Seal, south side (Attached to Wilmington Christian Fellowship) lightning protection systems, how to protect Broad Lane, Wilmington, Dartford. DA2 7AQ At first sight the leaflet of eight pages looks Telephone (24 hour answerphone service) the conductors from theft and where to find rather indigestible. The fact is that lightning 01322 279759 specialist firms to do the work. protection is these days a rather complex and If you are not familiar with the website either specialist subject. What I hope to do over do a web search or go straight to succeeding months is to include a very brief entry in ‘Link’ on one aspect. EWTN www.rochester.anglican.org. On the top CATHOLIC TV menu choose ‘Resourcing’, on the drop down Look out for the lightning logo to help pick out menu, ‘Church Buildings/DAC’ and then on IS NOW ON SKY the item so that it doesn’t get too buried in – EPG 589 the DAC page, left hand menu, ‘Guidance the ‘orders’. If you want further help, including Radio is on EPG 0147 Notes’. the possibility of a visit, contact me by email: Live TV at www.ewtn.co.uk [email protected] or telephone £175 total cost for equipment and installation There are two lightning leaflets. Ignore the With no monthly costs one for architects and surveyors unless you 01732 852323. For information & free monthly are an architect or surveyor. programme call The DAC is here to help parishes. East End 0208 350 2542

GLOBALCATHOLIC NETWORK

Threatened hedgehogs could To advertise in the Rochester Link call 01752 225623 and talk to one be at home in a churchyard of our sales team The People’s Trust for homes for hedgehogs who will soon be said: “There certainly seem to be far fewer coming out of hibernation. hedgehogs around than there used to be. MELROSE BOOKS Established 1969 Endangered Species (PTES) and Like all animals, hedgehogs need food and The Hedgehog Hibernation survey aims to British Hedgehog Preservation shelter, both of which are likely to be found DO YOU HAVE find out more about the creature’s patterns in the increasing number of churchyards Society (BHPS) have called on the of behaviour, which in turn will help inform A BOOK TO which are managed in a wildlife-friendly practical conservation action. Hedgehog PUBLISH? to support a way. The Living Churchyard scheme numbers in Britain are declining by three to Please contact Mrs V. Potgieter for details of our new survey, launched this month, encourages the creation of compost heaps comprehensive publishing package five per cent each year in towns and in the and log piles which as well as acting Melrose Books (Ref: RL) monitoring the decline of the rural landscape, with the loss most apparent St Thomas’ Place, Ely, Cambridgeshire CB7 4GG as a larder, containing slugs and other in the South West, South East and Eastern Telephone: British hedgehog. invertebrates, provide shelter. regions of England, according to the results 01353 646608 Working with Shrinking the Footprint, the of a ten-year trend analysis by the charity. “It would be very encouraging to find Email: [email protected] Church of England’s national environmental evidence of hedgehogs in our churchyards, campaign, the charities believe the CofE’s Judith Evans promoter of the Living so I hope churches will take part in this 10,000 churchyards could be natural Churchyard scheme for St Alban’s Diocese, survey.” Birchwood House David Shreeve, the CofE’s national Rest Home environmental adviser said: “Supporting Residential Home for this survey underlines the Church’s commitment to caring for creation, as the Elderly spelled out in the Fifth Mark of Mission. Respite care & short Our 10,000 churchyards boast a wealth of stay available wildlife and are hopefully home to a good A beautifully refurbished Georgian manor house, set number of hedgehogs.” in 6 acres of glorious Kent countryside, within easy reach of Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells. “Continuous monitoring each year is vital • All rooms have en-suite facilities & nurse call to help us build a more complete picture system. Lift to all floors. of the state of the UK’s wild mammal • Excellent home cooking, with special diets catered populations. Churches collecting data from for. •Hairdressing, chiropody, library and mobile shop. their churchyards - and other appropriate • Monthly in-house Holy Communion and links to land - could be very helpful for our the local church. research,” said PTES CEO Jill Nelson. Stockland Green Road, To join in the Hibernation Survey visit Speldhurst, Kent TN3 0TU Hedgehog (Erinaceous europaeus) moving through beetroot Photo by Dave Bevan www.hedgehogstreet.org Telephone: Langton (01892 86) 3559 6 ochester Link

Celebration of 200 years of village church music

The ancient parish church of St organ was used until the 1930s when it was replaced by a one-manual Forster and Peter and St Paul, Trottiscliffe Andrews organ dating from 1883 which Kent, is unusual in having came from Leybourne church, and that is the substantial survivals from three organ currently used in the church. different eras of village church The barrel organ was restored in 1950 for an music. exhibition at the Museum of Kent Life, after which it was dismantled and stored in the In the early decades of the nineteenth century Guildhall Museum at Rochester. the ‘Trottiscliffe Choir Orchestra’ provided musical accompaniment for the services. The barrel organ was made by Theodore C Two bound collections of music, one printed Bates and Sons of Ludgate Hill, who were and the other in manuscript, from the 1820s one of the main manufacturers of such organs are preserved in the Kent History Centre in in the early Victorian period, and is one of the Maidstone. largest of its type to survive. For many years several of the instruments The barrel organ will be reassembled and from this orchestra were on display in the restored to fully functioning order in time church but at some point the display case for a conference at Trottiscliffe church in and instruments were stolen. July, organised by the British Institute of Organ Studies (BIOS), during which several Fortunately one of the violins from Trottiscliffe speakers will explore some aspects of the had previously been loaned to the Maidstone great changes that have taken place in village Museum and still survives. church music over the past two centuries. In 1865 Trottiscliffe church bought a barrel The restoration work is being carried out by organ from nearby Meopham church where David Shuker at his workshop, At the Sign of it had been installed in 1855. The barrel the Pipe, in Birling. The Trottiscliffe barrel organ St Peter and St Paul, Trottiscliffe Longfield sixth formers quiz Bishop James

Sybil Evans Sybil Evans swansong at Keston By Sally Churchus

Bishop James at Longfield Academy with the Rev Dylan Turner, staff and pupils Keston Parish Church held a special event on 10 February to Bishop James visited staff and Organised by the Rev Dylan Turner, Bishop mark the retirement of Sybil pupils at Longfield Academy as James was given a tour of the Academy’s Evans from the church choir impressive facilities and spent an interesting after being a member for over 50 part of his Cobham Deanery visit session with sixth form pupils. Sixth formers on Wednesday 13 February 2013. quizzed the Bishop on ethical issues years. Bishop James at Longfield Academy with the including abortion and same-sex marriage. At the end of the morning service she was Rev Dylan Turner presented with a certificate and a bronze medal by the organist and choirmaster, CONTACT US David Cook. He estimated that during her News and letters to the Editor: [email protected] five decades in the choir she had seen at Telephone: 01634 560000 least seven rectors and three choirmasters OCHESTER come and go. ADVERTISEMENTS During the afternoon a party was held Email: [email protected] which included cake of course! We are Copy for The Link needs to be typed and submitted by email please. Images must be submitted as grateful for her loyalty and dedication to either a TIFF or a JPEG file of 300dpi. (Set your digital camera to the highest quality setting and we will LinProclaiming the word & wokrk of God the choir and look forward to hearing her try to do the rest for you.) sing from the nave in future. ochester Link 7

Bishop James visits technology college

Bishop James visited Holmesdale Technology College in Snodland ‘Open Your Church on Friday 15 February as part of his Cobham Deanery visit. with Confidence’ Organised by the Rev Hugh Broadbent, A workshop to focus on how Bishop James was met by Principal Julia churches can be open and Campbell and student Laura Clark before welcoming to visitors seven days embarking on a tour of the school. a week will be held on 15 March Bishop James met members of the student from 9.30am to 3.30pm at St council and entered into a discussion about the role of a Bishop with sixth form John’s Church, Tunbridge Wells students. Meeting Year 7 and 8 students Guest speaker is Helen McGowan, who during a “fusion” history lesson, Bishop has until recently been an officer in the James was impressed by the technology the Coventry Diocese, and was the instigator young students grappled with to bring their of the Divine Inspirations project. You can projects to life in mini-films made on lap-top view some of her work at computers. www.divine-inspiration.org.uk. Following a light lunch, Bishop James was Helen advises dioceses, deaneries pleased to present awards at the aptly named and parishes as they explore ways of Rochester House assembly before the school developing their own programmes for broke up for half-term. Bishop James with the School Council at Holmesdale Technical College welcoming visitors to their places of worship. The cost is £10 per person (including lunch and refreshments). For further information, please contact the Rev Canon Caroline Pinchbeck - at St Mark’s Church, Tunbridge Wells [email protected]. By the Rev Sue Diggory, Curate, St Mark’s Church, Tunbridge Wells As part of our Mission Safeguarding Action Planning, we at St Mark’s Church, Seminar Tunbridge Wells have The Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory been seeking to be more Group in partnership with Churches’ outward looking and Child Protection Advisory Service over the last months (CCPAS) invite you to attend ‘Facing the Unthinkable,’ an intensive safeguarding have been planning training session on Saturday 18 May at St a series of afternoon Barnabas Church, Upper Avenue, Istead events called Sm@Sch, Rise, Gravesend, DA13 9DA from 9am – 1.30pm. a mix of craft, worship Places can be booked on the diocesan and food, similar to website or please contact Carol Martin, Messy Church at our Safeguarding Administrator – local primary school. [email protected] if you require further details. Sunday 10 February was chosen for the first one and as Attendance is free to all those with a the team started to gather at relevant parish responsibility, but we the school on a very wet and reserve the right to charge £20 per person rainy afternoon we wondered if towards the cost of this seminar to those anyone would turn up. booking places who fail to attend without prior notice. With only 15 minutes to go it Stones were beautifully painted by young and old alike at the Sm@Sch event at St Mark’s Church was sleeting hard and England were playing Ireland in the Six Nations, but a few brave folk chatted, sang, prayed, and ate ‘It wasn’t what I expected – I enough to eat! pancakes all in about an hour. thought it would be much arrived. By 4pm the official start The school seemed to provide time it was snowing hard BUT more churchy! An absolutely The atmosphere was warm and a real sense of community with eventually between 90 and 100 ‘SMASH’ing afternoon was had friendly as folk from pre-school the church at the centre of people came! by all!!!’ to many years post-school spent the event – proving to many Our theme was Lent and the time together discovering a bit ‘It was lovely to see old and that church can be fun – and Temptations of Jesus. We more about God’s love for them. young interacting to design an informative! painted stones, created a array of wonderful creations!’ Afterwards I asked a few people Planning is under way for the landscape collage and built the for a sentence to describe their We had so many stones next Sm@Sch on 24 March most amazing and enormous first experience of Sm@Sch – imaginatively painted by all ages when we hope to do Palm ‘junk’ pinnacle of the Temple; we here are just a few comments: - some of them looked good Sunday to Easter Day in an Carol Martin 8 ochester Link

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ORGANIST Metalsmith available as relief www.steelyourself.co.uk Search for top artist aged 60 plus SE London/ Kent Conscientious and reliable, Sundays & Weekdays Ian Marshall provides new work and maintenance for a The 2013 Oldie British Artist Traditional & number of churches. Award, a national competition Modern Music To join his list of satisfied Contact Ron Smith customers call: 020 8850 7851 to celebrate the talents of British TEL/FAX: 020 8300 1527 or 077 6666 2747 artists aged 60 and over, has been Fee & Mileage launched by The Oldie magazine and specialist fine art and heritage insurer Ecclesiastical. With a prize of £5,000 to the winner, the award, now in its second year, is open to any UK resident aged over 60 and focuses on celebrating figurative art: pictures Award winning recognisably derived from the real world. church furniture makers

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The winner will be www.fullers nerfurniture.co.uk announced and presented with the Oldie Last year’s inaugural winner, 93-year-old to the bright young things of the British art British Artist Award at a ceremony on Donald Zec OBE, hugely impressed the scene it’s refreshing to be able to turn the 26 June at the English Speaking Union, CHURCH PEWS judges with his portrait of his Polish spotlight onto an older generation of artists 37 Charles St, London W1. Entries should UNCOMFORTABLE? grandfather. Mr Zec, who was the oldest of whose visions are no less relevant. be on paper or canvas (no larger than 36” x WHY NOT TRY SAFEFOAM’S TOP QUALITY the 300-plus entrants, took up painting after UPHOLSTERED FOAM PEW CUSHIONS? “At Ecclesiastical our role is to protect the 30”) and using any materials (oil, watercolour the death of his wife only about five years ago. Safefoam, Green Lane, Riley Green, nation’s heritage. This award, which we’re or acrylics). 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This year’s competition promises to shortlist of ten works of art will be announced Donovan on 020 7436 8801. • TAX RETURNS • ACCOUNTS • BOOKKEEPING • VAT Parish Buying energy basket • PAYROLL The Parish Buying energy basket sufficient scale to launch this basket. worry about sourcing energy again, as a Friendly, ethical and e cient service bulk basket deal will always beat the best at a reasonable price. represents a significant shift in how Put simply, so far we’ve helped hundreds price for an individual site, and the customer Get in touch today with no obligation and we of parishes save money by getting the best will be happy to talk about how we can help you we purchase electricity and gas. service we seek to provide should be much deal for their own energy consumption. more responsive than that given to individual Contact Trevor or Sharon on 020 8090 9646 It allows parishes, diocesan offices, or email [email protected] cathedrals, and church schools to pool By pooling our needs, and purchasing in sites. www.trbtaxandpayroll.co.uk bulk, we expect to save a further 10% on their energy purchasing in the same way This basket deal is available to Church of electricity and gas costs. as major retailers, health trusts, local and England parishes that have energy contracts national government and the vast majority of The basket will be administered by ending before September 30th 2015. other significant multi-site organisations. the Parish Buying energy consultant, To Advertise in There is a limited window of opportunity to Over the past year more than 4,000 maintaining a common point of contact for join the basket (sign up required before The Rochester Link Please Call parishes have signed up to Parish Buying, parishes already using the service. 15 June 2013). Further detail available at and we are at the point where we have Our hope is that parishes never need to www.parishbuying.org.uk/energybasket 01752 225623 or email [email protected] Big Toddle ʻAll are calledʼ Big Fun! Diocesan Vocation Day St Barnabas, Istead Rise WEC CAMPS Saturday, 20 April 2013 1030-1530 Devon & Dorset Keynote Speakers s Bishop 2013 focu world The UK’s biggest charity ing and Christina Rees A Christia ith Bible teach event for the under 5s! n Camp w Workshops on Vocations:  July 27th to August 17th The Big Toddle is a short sponsored walk for For 9 to 17 year olds. Price from £130  toddlers that helps the UK’s most disadvantaged  Bible Teaching for the 21st century under 5s. and World Focus  INFORMATIVE Whether you’re a nursery, a parent or a childminder, you can  organise your own Toddle any time of the year. Join the Big  RELEVANT Toddle.  CHALLENGING Around 300,000 children take part every year so why not join in  PRACTICAL the fun? The Big Toddle – by children, for children. Youth Office, WEC International, Bulstrode Oxford Road, Gerrards Cross, Bucks SL9 8SZ For more details or to obtain an information pack visit Tel: 01753 278113 E: [email protected] www.weccamps.org www.barnados.org.uk/bigtoddle Further details and booking forms available soon Registered Charity Nos: 2307005 &SCO37715 10 ochester Link

On Fire Mission Annual Conference 2013 22nd – 25th April High Leigh Conference Centre e Great Commission -Mission and Healing- Subscribe or give a gift! Guest Speakers Anne Hibbert ON FIRE • Be encouraged, Director of Th e Well Christian Healing supported and Centre Th e Rt Revd Paul Bayes inspired as we Bishop of Hertford MISSION through www.onfi remission.org.uk Word and tackle real life Sacrament for further information issues • Six issues for £15* - a great gift which lasts all year

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EVERTON STAR STEVEN PIENAAR Winter 2012 SENDS A MESSAGE TO FOOTBALL FANS

35p –See Back Page www.theson.org.uk OUT NOW! JANEY LEE GRACE: HOW GOD HELD ON TO ME The latest issue SEE PAGE 3 THE GOOD NEWS FOR Oscar’s JULIE ETCHINGHAM winning – SEE PAGE 2 ways at of The Son Paralympics THE SON is a bright, newsy and uncompromising tabloid newspaper PROOF which aims to put Jesus back at the centre of society. Neurosurgeon stuns scientifi c Written and presented in an easy to read style, based on the UK’s See story on Dr Eben page 14 world with Alexander... experienced a biggest circulation newspapers, THE SON is an ideal tool to reach spiritual journey his revelations during a believers and unbelievers as well. OF seven-day coma

The current edition of THE SON includes stories on BBC presenter Janey Lee Grace, top neurosurgeon Dr Eben Alexander, and many Russell Crowe to A top neurosurgeon has stunned the more. scientific world by claiming he has star as Noah in proofHEAVEN that heaven exists. soaked his brain and sent him into a deep coma lasting seven days. In the days that followed his For years Dr Eben Alexander, a respected life was slipping away, but Dr Alexander says new epic movie academic, dismissed near-death revelations of underwent his journey, he could not reconcile that he was living intensely in his mind. God and heaven, saying they were explained his knowledge of neuroscience with any belief See centre pages by the way the human brain is wired. He claims he journeyed beyond this world and in heaven, God, or the soul. encountered an angelic being who guided him Today he is a doctor who believes that true But then in 2008 Dr Alexander contracted into the deepest realms of super-physical exist- health can be achieved only when we realize Why not use THE SON to reach your community? bacterial meningitis. The deadly infection ence. There he met, and spoke with, the Divine that God and the soul are real and that death source of the universe itself. is not the end of personal existence but only a

Dr Alexander’s story is not a fantasy. Before he transition. See story on page 7 The Son hotline on 01752 225623 ochester Link 11 Campaign calls to rethink generosity A groundbreaking new campaign England said: “fleshandblood is an exciting opportunity for the church. Christians has been launched specifically have a mandate to heal, motivated by calling on the church to increase compassion, mercy, knowledge and ability. the number of blood and organ “Extending our understanding of the donors in the UK. central Christian themes of generosity and stewardship to include blood and organ Founded as a two-year partnership between donation has the potential to tangibly creative agency KORE and NHS Blood transform the giver and the receiver. The and Transplant, the initiative aims to profile benefit to others is not only life enhancing the need for more blood and organ donors but can mean the difference between life and encourage donation as another way of and death.” Holidays Abroad personal giving within churches. By joining together to support Sponsored by Give.net and in association fleshandblood, the campaign associates ALGARVE with denominations, organisations and Luxury 3 bed villa play a vital role in representing the Church (all ensuite) Sleeps 6/8, near festivals including the Church of England, and enabling a collaborative voice on the Carvoeiro. Own pool, Salvation Army, Methodist church, United all mod cons.Situated on Every day 7,000 units of blood are needed issue within their communities and networks. Pestana Golf Resort. Golf, Reformed Church, Baptist Union, Hope and Tennis,Outdoor bowls. to meet hospital demand, with approximately Full details and brochure: Evangelical Alliance, the fleshandblood Each associate commits to raising the Brian Chambers 225,000 extra blood donors needed each campaign marks the first time the NHS has profile of blood and organ donation and Tel: 02380 265 683 year to maintain consistency. More than [email protected] worked alongside the church on a national www.casa-oleander.co.uk 1,000 people die each year in the UK highlighting the various ways that individuals initiative of this kind. and groups can get involved at a local level. waiting for an organ transplant. "Sunny Southeast Ireland" Lorna Williamson, Medical Director of The Church, which has a long history of Bishop Newcome added: “I would The Gathering 2013 NHSNT said: “All major faith groups support giving and generosity and has millions of encourage individual Christians and local Quality family run Bed & Breakfast donation in the spirit of giving and we’re accommodation/short stays welcome. people across the country as its members, is churches to engage with the campaign as Lovely beaches nearby and lots of local activities. excited to explore this in more detail by ideally placed to raise awareness and help to we help address an important social issue 10 mins drive from Rosslare Ferryport. working with the Christian Church. By Peaceful location. 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But donation. raise awareness of this key issue with their this applies just as much to the blood that family, friends and community and potentially flows in our veins; and the organs that are “Donating blood, joining the Organ Donor help to save thousands of lives each year. such an intrinsic part of our bodies.” Register, or consenting to organ donation from a deceased loved one is a unique gift The Rt Rev James Newcome, Lead For more information about the campaign and one that can truly save lives.” Bishop on Healthcare for the Church of visit fleshandblood.org SNOWDONIA Holidays NEARBALA Delightful period riverside cottage in peaceful surroundings - glorious at Home views. 3 bedrooms, sleeps 2-6, immac- Computer Amnesty! ulate throughout. Also 2 bedroom cottage style bungalow. 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If groups or churches gather up 10 or more Tel Tricia Morgan on 01598 752361 close to Abbey Church. a wonderful new home for it. computers at a time, Computers4Africa If you have a laptop that you would be happy for brochure and tariff Open all year. will collect (0300 011 2233), otherwise [email protected] Working with the charity Computers4Africa to have used by clergy in Africa, and can Please ring for brochure: please contact Stephen Barbor (Diocesan www.kingfordhouse.co.uk in Aylesford, the Overseas Links Team would provide the original installation disks, the 01404 841367 Evangelist, Tonbridge) who will arrange an like to see as many of these computers, Links Team will wipe the disk and re-install alternative collection: [email protected] Ivy House St Denys Retreat Centre Great Expectations Day of Prayer IGR retreats in 2013: • 2-7 April - Anna Desch, £240 • 27-31 May - Becky Widdows, £285 Residential Cost: Full Board. Full fees A Healing Conference for the for Africa • 14-22 October - Anna Desch, £280 Diocese of Rochester will be held payable at time of booking 2 nights en-suite £180, 2 nights non en-suite £160. If you have an interest in Africa, we CARM Retreat: at Crowhurst Christian Healing 1-8 May - Painting or Calligraphy & Prayer, £350 Day Visitors: Full payment at time of hope you will join us on our Day of Centre from May 31 to June 2. booking 2 day non residential £86 Prayer on Saturday March 16 2013 T: 01985 214824 E: [email protected] The programme involves teaching on www.ivyhouse.org Friday (includes supper), Saturday (lunch & at St Peter’s Church Aylesford, the Christian Healing Ministry for church supper), Sunday (lunch) leaders, healthcare professionals and all from 10 am to 4 pm. involved in pastoral care. 1 day residential £43 The day is divided into quarter-of-an-hour Insurance Speakers include the Rt Rev James Friday (supper) and Sunday (lunch) or sections so that it will be easy for people Langstaff, the Rev Andrew Procter, Dr Saturday (lunch & supper) to drop in at any time. We will be hearing Travel Insurance Elizabeth Procter, the Rev Sue Please call Crowhurst Christian Healing first-hand from organisations and individuals Arranged for The Rochester Link readers Fauchon-Jones, Rev Steve Gendall and the directly involved in Africa. A more detailed TOP QUALITY ANNUAL AND SINGLE TRIP COVER Centre on 01424 830204 for information Available with most pre-existing medical conditions accepted. Specialist Rev Steve Clark. and bookings. www.crowhursthealing.co.uk programme will be available on the church cover for people cruising and for high-cost holidays. Our insurance has a customer 24 hour helpline, full medical cover and, Booking information is as follows: website, nearer the time www.aylesford- most importantly, an air ambulance get you home service. church.org.uk FREE MEDICAL SCREENING SERVICE AVAILABLE MARCH LAST CHANCE SPECIAL OFFER Buy your annual travel insurance policy to start March, April, May or June and get £20 off per policy if purchased this month. NEW - Due to many requests we are now selling a yearly multi-trip travel insurance for UK travel only at a superb introductory price. (Max age 85) UK Conditions apply FT TRAVEL BASED INSURANCE Please call for details ~ 0116 272 0500 Authorised & regulated by the F.S.A. 12 ochester Link

Reunion for People’s Passion Players

Calling all People’s Passion Players Andrew, Paddock Wood; Rochester Cathedral for two nights; St John, Tunbridge and anyone connected with the Wells and Corpus Christi Roman Catholic Play which we toured through Church, Tonbridge. Kent 30 years ago! On the second tour, in 1984, we played at Our tours were in 1983, 1984 and 1987 the Angel Centre, Tonbridge; Wildernesse and a shortened version of the Play in 1993, School, Sevenoaks; the Assembly Hall in in which Bishop Michael Turnbull played the Tunbridge Wells and Rochester Cathedral again. part of St Peter. Chris Turner played the part On the third tour we went to the Community of Jesus throughout all productions and gave Hall in Sevenoaks; Rochester Cathedral, St inspirational performances. Luke, Ramsgate and St Nicholas, Sevenoaks. Jill Scott directed the Play and Rachel Carr To anybody who took part in, made composed, orchestrated and directed the costumes, lighting and sound technicians, or music and, if you remember, our Play was who were involved in any way, or even any of a “Life of Christ” adapted from the Bible the audience who came to see the Play (we with narration and music. 150 people, men, played to over 2,000 people on each tour) women and children, even down to babies in Jill Scott would very much like to hear from costume strapped to their mothers, took part, you. Please contact Jill on 01732 833 498 or not forgetting Jasper, our very keen donkey, email [email protected] who took part in the ride into Jerusalem. In the first production we played at St New Wine Taster Day By Paul Wiggins

St Paul, Swanley with St Peter, birthed initiative to help support and band, and Rosie Jones during the day. educate disciples of Christ who yearn to The teenagers then joined together with Hextable arranged a dynamic know more of Him through the power of the adults at a time of celebration in the first for the combined parish on the Holy Spirit. evening at 7.30pm. Saturday 2 February by hosting a On Saturday, St Peter opened its doors What was uniquely helpful for many of the New Wine Taster Day. to 204 adults and children from a number attendees was that, following each of the of N E Kent churches for a day of such teaching slots, the preacher would invite For those who might be unfamiliar as to teaching, worship and ministry (TWM). us to meet with God by His Spirit for any what the New Wine movement is about, There were 20 teenagers who enjoyed needs that were on our hearts. what it isn’t is a wine tasting event per se, their own TWM at St Paul, Swanley. The but experiencing a taste of what the Holy There was certainly much that many of us younger children had their own ministry Spirit does when He meets with His people learned and were able to take away from within St Peter, Hextable and a crèche was during a day of teaching, worship and this Holy Spirit empowering day of teaching provided for the tinies. personal ministry. with worship and ministry. The teens and youngsters were ably led The New Wine Movement is an Anglican No doubt it will be a starter for many more. by the Bolder Gang, Luke Bacon and his

Holy Week at Canterbury Cathedral

Accommodation and meals for £119 single, £129 double. Holy Week are available in the A two course hot meal with tea/coffee will Cathedral Lodge, immediately next be available in the Refectory prior to the Holy Week evening meditations and the Maundy to the Cathedral. Thursday Eucharist. Special bed and breakfast rates are available Tickets must be pre-booked. £12.95 per in the Cathedral Lodge from 23 to 31 March, person per night or £50 for all four nights, for those who are participating in the Holy from the Lodge or Cathedral House. Week programme, based on a minimum stay of three nights. Those eating in the Refectory will have seats reserved for them in the Cathedral until Guests are able to book rooms for selected 19.20. Menu available on request. days or for the entire week. For more information on accommodation, The rates are £89 per night for single please email stay@canterburycathedrallodge. occupancy, £99 for twin or double org or telephone + 44 (0)1227 865350. occupancy while single nights are available at www.canterburycathedrallodge.org