MARCH – APRIL 2017MARCH – APRIL

Good news for God’s earth

Creation Care: join the revolution PAGE 6 Greening our churches PAGE 10

Comment: Act justly: Churchyards: Pints and prayer: a sense of place climate change stepping stones Poringland 4 16 for wildlife 24 PubChurch 35 Norfolk Wildlife Trust has been looking after Norfolk’s wildlife and Help support our wild places for ninety years. Our Churchyard Conservation work in Norfolk’s Scheme has surveyed many of Norfolk’s 800 historic churchyards, churchyards: helping their communities learn about and preserve these special places. This work continues through our County Wildlife Action initiative, and is now involving as many local people as possible in observing and Join today! recording their churchyard wildlife. The support of our 35,000 members is vital. From as little as £2.50 per month you can visit all our nature reserves, learn more about our work and events in our magazine, and receive a free 128 page handbook in your joining pack.

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To find out more, contact Sally on01603 882322 or email [email protected] From the Editor Contents THE MAGAZINE | MARCH - APRIL 2017 s I write, the news has just to see in caring for creation. Likewise broken that 2016 was earth’s Christian Aid (pg 16), Simon Court hottest year on record. The (pg 5) and young Christians (pg 15) 5 FACE TO FAITH: Simon Court last year below average challenge us to respond. Matthew temperature was 1976 and it’s been Mc Dade also gives us some practical climbing steadily ever since. Regardless pointers towards “greening” our church ofA where you stand on climate change, buildings (pg 10). these are stark facts. It’s also the first few That’s what this issue is about – taking weeks of Donald Trump’s presidency a pause to drink in God’s presence in of the USA and those concerned with 6 the great outdoors, and realising our FEATURE: environmental issues are pessimistic stewardship of this beautiful, generous about his intentions. His administration Creation environment in which we have been has instructed the Environmental Care - join the placed is more important now than Protection Agency to remove the climate revolution ever. What will our response be? change page from its website. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed with the complexities Blessings, and scale of the issues. In the midst of editing this issue, I went for a swim in the sea at Cromer. I took up 12 REVIEW: Books on outdoor “wild swimming” last September with church and environment a friend, partly as a challenge to myself. Barbara Bryant But pausing during a swim in icy waters 13 SOUL SPACE: Outdoor Editor yesterday, I appreciated the vastness of spirituality - some tasting notes the ocean I was in, the vivid blue of the PS – Don’t forget to display The sky, the sun disappearing behind the Magazine in your church or other 15 Young Christians lead the cliffs and for a few brief moments (before community venues in the specially- challenge for ethical lifestyle the cold urged me into movement again) designed stand, available for just I felt a connection with the Creator £2.00 + p&p 17 Mrs Burrington writes of all this. There is something about www.shop.dioceseofnorwich.org/ products/stand connecting with God through our natural or phone 01603 880853 26 ONE DAY: Adam Jackson environment that is like nothing else. – Christian eco-camp Jacquie Burgess (pg 4) and Richard entrepreneur Woodham (pg13) and two members of the Dawes family (pg 14) touch on this. 28 Preservation versus mission? In Reedham they are literally taking the gospel outdoors as they prepare their 29 Julian of Norwich first Passion Play (pg23). The main feature (pg 6) urges us to consider the Biblical basis to become the change we wish

The Magazine design: 30 Get in touch Adept Design www.adeptdesign.co.uk FOCUS ON: 01603 882348 (Editor) Views expressed in this publication are not necessarily Seven churches [email protected] those of the Diocese and the acceptance of advertising does not indicate editorial endorsement. Diocesan House, 109 Dereham Road, Easton, Norwich NR9 5ES Cover photo: Pupils at Great Witchingham Church of England Primary Academy working in the kitchen garden www.dioceseofnorwich.org/magazine and saving food-miles! facebook.com/dioceseofnorwich @DioceseNorwich The next issue (deadline Wednesday 32 Video resources – top websites 15 March) is being guest-edited by a group of young people. 37 What’s On listings To advertise in The Magazine please contact Sally on 40 Shoot the vicar! Church photo 01603 882322 or email [email protected] competition

3 A sense of place

t was the first Saturday of 2017 Human relations with the natural world ethical responsibility and duty. Dr Albert and I was driving to Oulton for a are always in flux, contingent on the Schweitzer famously described these public consultation on the second needs, demands and pressures of the values as the ‘reverence for life’. His draft of the Broads Local Plan. I was time. But at the same time it is possible revelation came one day in autumn 1915, just thinking about how the meeting to recognise some consistent threads as he plodded alongside a family of hippos would go when I turned right at the in the values – the ideas of right and who appeared as tired and world-weary IAcle roundabout and headed out across proper conduct – which underpin the as himself: ‘I realised at once that…a Halvergate marshes towards Great ways these relations are expressed. system of values which concerns itself only Yarmouth. Dominant values focus on maximising with our relationship to other people is the utility of natural resources to improve incomplete and therefore lacking in power This was a murky morning. Tendrils of the material well-being of individuals, for good. Only by means of reverence mist hung over the pastures, decorating groups and societies. Such values drive for life can we establish a spiritual and the gateposts and cattle paddocks, and technological innovation, exploitation humane relationship with both people and marking out the geometry of the dykes. of global ecosystems and contribute to all living creatures within our reach’. Normally the caps and towers of the wind the increasing severity of environmental pumps catch my eye. But this morning I hope the readers of this edition of The problems around the world. it was the small heaps of white feathers Magazine will find joy in their own special signifying sleepy swans who clearly felt Less prominent in public debate but places and inspiration to do more in our the morning wasn’t far-enough advanced equally, if not more important for our wonderful wetland landscape. to warrant getting their beaks out just yet. psychological, social and spiritual well- being are other values such as those I felt overwhelmed for a moment by relating to the beauty and inspiration Jacquie Burgess is an the love I feel for these flat, wet and to be found in particular places and emeritus Professor of marshy landscapes. I love the way the Geography. She is landscapes. Our landscape is designated land meets the sky and how the water currently Chairman of the as the Broads National Park because it Broads Authority which and reeds stitch the two together; the embodies special aesthetic qualities looks after the Broads feelings they evoke from my childhood; society wishes to see protected and shared National Park. Jacquie and especially, the way they speak of a also chairs National Parks with present and future generations. history of deep entanglements between UK, the organisation of all 15 members of the National Park people and nature which has created At the same time being in the world family who protect and promote these very special and maintains them. speaks to a more profound sense of landscapes. www.broads-authority.gov.uk

Tendrils of mist hung over the pastures, decorating the gateposts and cattle paddocks, and marking out the geometry of the dykes.

4 Simon Court

A degree in Environmental Science, a career in teaching, and volunteering for many different charities has contributed to Churchwarden Simon Court’s passionate concern for environmental issues.

How did you come What are your hopes to faith? for the future? I came to faith gradually and mostly I hope Christians engage in pursuing an unspectacularly. I was brought up environmentally sustainable future by in a Christian family, learning about adapting our lifestyles and challenging God and Jesus in church, through an economic system which fails to value Pathfinders and church youth work. our planet or meet the needs of all. for the church to seek to profit from God has always been with me, and More churches achieving EcoChurch investments in fossil fuel producers I have been there with God. As a status would be an encouraging sign. whose activities drive climate change questioning twenty-something I struggled to hear God’s voice and follow Hope for a sustainable future drives and which still finance climate change where he leads and it took me a while my adoption of green techno-fixes. denial? Perhaps the Church’s profits to understand how God might not be Installing better insulation, solar hot derived from climate change could be used to relieve the effects of sea level rise working to my timescale. I have learned water, photovoltaics, using a more in Tuvalu, or Great Yarmouth! to trust and be thankful that God does economical car or restricting your air and will provide for our needs. travel might feel like you are doing something positive but is it enough? How does your faith I’m working on buying less stuff and express itself through trying to purchase locally produced, your concern for organic and fairly-traded goods. environmental issues? I hope that Christians will join others in seeking to become content with Love for God and loving my neighbour “enough” rather than conforming to are at the root of my concern for consumerism. You could participate environmental issues. Living in rural in Joy in Enough, an initiative from the Norfolk, on a clear night I can look charity Green Christian, described as up and be overwhelmed by just how incredible the universe, our planet “a challenge to Christians in Britain, and all of creation are. Everything and an invitation to all people of humans need to live and thrive has good will, to join in building a just been provided and the wonderful economy within the ecological diversity of life speaks to me of God’s limits of the Earth.” love. In response to that love I believe Speaking truth to power is we need to act as good stewards of a good Quaker tradition the environment. There is plenty of and I hope Christian evidence we are failing as stewards of campaigners can lead creation such as habitat destruction, extinctions and man-made climate profound changes in change. For me, the response to where the Church concerns for environmental issues is invests its funds. With also a matter of social justice. We fail a clear move towards to love our neighbour as ourselves disinvestment when the impacts of our stewardship of from fossil fuels creation are particularly felt by the poor underway, is and future generations. it acceptable

5 Creation Care: join the revolution

Ruth Valerio, keynote speaker at Good News for God’s Earth, the Diocesan conference on Christian concern for the environment, challenges us to consider how we can be the change we need to see for our world.

6 ’ve just come back from preaching affirmation that this world has a greater at a church that used little plastic being behind it and has a purpose. When people act in ways that disposable cups for communion. Not only that, but Colossians tells us that Probably about 500 were used are unrighteous and that do which equates to about 26,000 little this world was made both by Jesus and not practice social justice, then for Jesus. This world is not something that plastic cups in a year (never mind the the land responds and there is Ithrow-away coffee cups it also used). God made for us to use and abuse and throw away: it was made for Jesus. Was the environmental devastation. And so what? This was a lively, large creation of this world the Father’s present church with a thriving ministry both to the Son? (Amos 8: 1-8) within and without its walls. Why does it matter if it uses and throws away If that is the case then the whole creation hundreds of little plastic cups every week? is incredibly precious to God. When we Our relationships with God, with other love someone, we naturally want to people and with the wider natural world It matters because it highlights just love and look after the things that are are all bound up together and impact each how much of a blind spot that church significant to that other person. And so, other. One thing that strikes me is how has. Whilst doing all sorts of excellent because we love God, part of how we the natural world responds to how we things, it has failed entirely to embrace worship him is by loving and looking after act. Both Jeremiah 12:4 and Hosea 4: 1-3 wider creation care as an integral part this world and all that is in it. speak movingly of how the land mourns of its theology and, as a result, is entirely because of the wickedness of the people. unaware of how its activities impact that 2. God created us to look By contrast, how wonderful to picture the wider creation, whether for good or for ill. after the world trees of the field clapping their hands and I want to see the culture of the UK the mountains and hills bursting into song Church revolutionised so it becomes as We are created beings, part of the whole because the people’s relationship with commonplace for it to be engaged in acts community of creation, one part of an God has been put back to rights again! of wider creation care as it currently is for intricately connected ecosystem. But We bear the guilt for the state our world it to be engaged in acts of community we have also been given a special task: is in (Isaiah 24: 4-6) and each one of us, involvement. to look after the rest of what God has therefore, has a responsibility to act. made (Genesis 1: 26-28; Gen. 2:15). This Think about it: you would be hard pressed nowadays to find a church that isn’t is not an optional extra for a few keen 4. Jesus came to this earth environmentalists, but a fundamental involved in its community in some way for the whole world or another, whether that is through food part of what it means to be human. We banks, Street Pastors, toddler groups etc. become less than human when we lose The good news is that God is working to If you were to find such a church you that connection. put back to rights what has gone wrong. would, I am sure, feel it to be deficient There has often been a problem with the We are all clear that Jesus died to restore and you would question whether it had command to humans to ‘rule over’ the fish our relationship with God (2 Cor. 5: 8-11), and we sometimes remember that his fully understood what the Gospel of Jesus of the sea, birds of the air etc. But consider death also brought about reconciliation Christ is all about. And you would be right: how God expected his kings to rule (see with other people (James 3:18; Gal. 5:22; such engagement is an essential part for example Proverbs 31: 1-9). They were Eph. 2:14-17). But the Bible is also clear of what it means to be a community of to rule with justice and compassion, people loving and following Jesus. that Jesus’ death impacts the other-than- looking after the poor and abandoned. human part of his creation. Colossians 1: My understanding of the gospel is that God’s view of rulership is nothing to 19-20 states bluntly that Jesus’ blood was the same is true of wider creation care. In do with domination or subjection. It is shed to reconcile to himself all things, other words, if we find a church (or are in actually about servanthood, and so we not humans alone (and Romans 8: 19-22 one, or even leading one, ourselves) that have been told to be ‘servant rulers’ over speaks into this as well). is not integrating environmental concern the wider world, acting for justice and and action across its life then I suggest righteousness, not abuse. that church is not fully living out its Christian faith. 3. It has gone wrong Why do I think this? Because when I because of us read the Bible, there are five points that become clear to me: It is a sad truth that the many problems our world and its inhabitants face 1. God made the world are caused by human activity. Our wrongdoing separates us from God and and he loves it also has human consequences, and we God is the creator of the world and are used to seeing the consequences he thinks it is, ‘very good’ (Genesis of sin in that way. But it is important 1:31). God is involved with his creation, to notice that sin also has ecological sustaining it and caring for it (Psalm consequences. When people act in ways 65:9-13; Matthew 10:29; Hebrews 1:3; that are unrighteous and that do not Colossians 1:16-17). This is not anti- practice social justice, then the land evolution (the Genesis creation stories responds and there is environmental teach us theology not science), but an devastation (Amos 8: 1-8).

7 5. God has a purpose for With all this in mind, it is good to see that Seven churches from a variety of the UK Church is beginning to get active. denominations within the Diocese have the world and asks us to We are like a sleeping giant just starting already registered with Eco Church and join in to wake. The giant is rubbing its eyes, are actively working towards an Award. stretching and pulling back its bedclothes, These include Aylsham Parish Church, St The Bible doesn’t depict us being just beginning to get itself out of bed… Agnes Church, Cawston and Wymondham whisked off to spend eternity in a Abbey. “Working towards our Bronze That is exciting because imagine what blue-yonder heaven whilst the world Award is helping us to put care for creation could happen if all around the country is destroyed. That picture owes more at the heart of our mission” said Simon thousands of churches got involved to Victorian hymnology than anything Court from St Agnes Church in Cawston. in community conservation projects else! No, God has promised that, “Some aspects of Eco Church are more of in their localities; joined in with other when Jesus returns, this world will be a challenge when you have an incredible sustainability groups such as the Transition radically renewed: all that is evil will be medieval building but the survey has Towns movement; twinned with overseas destroyed; all that is good will shine helped us identify plenty of actions we can churches that were feeling the impact of out (2 Peter 3: 10; Revelation 21 – 22:6). take to live more sustainably.” climate change; worked hard at reducing The Gospel invitation is to follow their ecological footprints; switched their I believe a revolution is possible and it Jesus and join in: to play our part in energy supplier to one that invested would change the shape of the Church as working to see justice, peace and in renewable technology; helped we know it. The question is: what will you ecological healing. their congregation to understand the do to be a part of it? importance of wider creation care; became beacons of ecological sustainability in A version of this their communities… article is published in Encounter with God And imagine the impact if millions of April to June 2017. Christians began changing the way they © Scripture Union. Used lived: using their cars less; holidaying with kind permission. by car or public transport; cutting down on their waste; eating less meat; buying ethical products; using less energy in their Ruth Valerio was formerly houses; planting up the verges and waste Churches and Theology grounds with edible produce; pushing Director for A Rocha the government to take serious action on UK, spearheading Eco climate change… Church, and is now Global Advocacy and Influencing A Rocha UK’s Eco Church scheme is all Director of Tearfund. about helping churches integrate caring www.ruthvalerio.net for God’s earth right through the heart of church life and I urge you to look at www.ecochurch.arocha.org.uk and You can join in the discussion at find out more. facebook.com/groups/NorfolkEcoChurch

8 Further ideas… on environmental issues

HIGHLIGHT ENVIRONMENT Eco Church - Our vision is for churches of all denominations to care for creation as an integral Environment Sunday - falls on 4 June this year (the nearest part of loving their neighbours and following God Sunday to World Environment Day on 5 June). How could you faithfully. Eco Church is an A Rocha UK project, run in mark this event in your local community? partnership with Christian Aid, The Church of England, The Methodist Church and Tearfund. Season of Creation - each year, from 1 September, the Global 020 8574 5935 Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, to 4 October, St Francis www.ecochurch.arocha.org.uk of Assisi Day, many Anglicans use the Season of Creation – also known as Creation Time – to pray and celebrate with creation, focus on the story of Earth, and commit to a ministry A Rocha - a Christian charity working for the of healing Earth. protection and restoration of the natural world. Offers a wealth of resources for churches and individuals; see READ-UP in particular their “Living Lightly” section. 020 8574 5935 Life Issues Bible Study - Environment www.arocha.org.uk/resources A Biblical look at environmental issues for small group or personal use. Climate change, Christian Aid - Bible study resources and more on deforestation, species loss: what do these climate change and actions we can take to make a problems have to do with our Christian faith? difference. Thought-provoking and challenging. Available Contact the Norfolk & Suffolk office on 01603 620051 as an e-book only. https://goo.gl/h3zKHe www.christianaid.org.uk/resources

How Many Lightbulbs Does it Take to Change Green Christians - supports Christians from all a Christian? backgrounds and traditions to help one another be This full-colour book provides hundreds of responsible for our impact on God’s creation. practical ideas for making small changes to your 0845 459 8460 lifestyle that can make a big difference to the www.greenchristian.org.uk environment. Inspiration for you, your church and your community with actions to reduce your Anglican Communion Environmental Network - ecological footprint, from turning off the tap, to starting a church compost heap. Church House striving to safeguard the integrity of creation and Publishing; ISBN-10: 0715141279 sustain and renew the earth. 020 7313 3908 Don’t Stop at the Lights: Leading Your Church www.acen.anglicancommunion.org Through a Changing Climate This handbook gives clergy and church leaders The John Ray Initiative - an educational charity the tools they need to help their congregations connecting environment, science and Christianity. take those next steps. Structured around the Briefing papers and studies are available to Church’s year, it provides material to help church download and short articles on topical issues can leaders plan a year of environmental change in be read on the ‘JRI Blog’. their church. Church House Publishing; ISBN-10: 07583 481759 0715141384 www.jri.org.uk

Caring for your Church Building DIG DEEPER An accessible, comprehensive book by James Halsall, one of the most experienced professionals Christian Rural and Environmental Studies - supporting church buildings nationally. An aid a two-year course studying rural and environmental issues from a Christian viewpoint. Of interest to You can join in the discussion at to getting the balance right between making facebook.com/groups/NorfolkEcoChurch buildings fit for mission and worship and all with a personal or professional concern for the community use while respecting their heritage. environment and countryside, rural communities and Kevin Mayhew Ltd; ISBN-10: 1848677790 churches. www.cres.org.uk

9 Greening our churches “Strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and to sustain the life of the earth.” The Anglican Communion’s fifth Mark of Mission.

Words and photos by Matthew McDade

uring the course of many and global warming ever entered the One of the best ways to make our conversations I have had with collective consciousness. churches more sustainable is to increase the amount of use they receive. Designed parishes one question is raised Balancing the historic nature of churches and built for a time when a far greater fairly frequently: “What can with the needs not only of the local WE do to make our church and churchyard community but of the building itself can proportion of the population attended more environmentally friendly?” Now be quite challenging. To give some sense services, our churches are often Dthat’s an interesting question! of perspective, the Diocese of Norwich larger than the current worshipping congregation requires. A great way to For most of us in the Diocese of Norwich, contains the greatest concentration of medieval churches in the world and achieve a more ‘efficient’ building is to our local churches were built in the middle increase its occupancy. Perhaps opening ages, when life was quite different from the City of Norwich a higher number of medieval churches than any city north the church to use by local community today. No one had concerns regarding groups or an adjacent school could be a carbon footprints, or energy-efficient of the Alps. Over 90 percent of our 656 churches are listed, with the majority being way forward, or holding cultural functions heating systems, bio-diversity or even grade I or II*, meaning that they are either (such as concerts or art exhibitions) inside whether churches had lavatories or not: exceptional or particularly important, the building in addition to regular services a bush in the churchyard would have to sometimes on an international level. would create greater sustainability. suffice! Health and safety was unheard of, life expectancy was low, infant mortality This does not mean, however, that A parish could decide to undertake a high and the general population very adapting them to make them greener heating/energy audit, such as St Michael’s definitely knew its place in the grand can’t or shouldn’t be done, nor indeed in Cumnor (Diocese of Oxford). Set up scheme of things: it was a very different that it hasn’t been carried out to great primarily to manage and reduce costs, the time to be alive. effect in many places. Listing and scheme saw a reduction in CO2 emissions historicity are not necessarily barriers from the church. By carefully tracking From that world, we have inherited an to initiating changes. Many ancient and their use of energy substantial reductions amazing number of ancient, beautiful, venerable churches throughout England were made by putting in stringent important and challenging church have benefitted from being made more controls when it came to their heating buildings, created to glorify God with environmentally friendly, making the and electrical output. According to John their wonderful architecture, yet erected buildings greener, congregations holier Blackie from the parish: “The lesson in all long before the comfort of congregations and treasurers happier! of this is that by reading the meters once

10 a week, every week of the year, one of the in this way makes a contribution to larger costs the parish carries is managed. reducing carbon emissions and is At a parish level it makes an One is ‘on top of it’. And someone has to therefore in line with the ‘Shrinking the immediate contribution to the think about why any particular reading is Footprint’ aim of a reduction of 40 percent what it is.” by 2050. At a parish level it makes an running costs of our church as immediate contribution to the running all electricity generated by the costs of our church as all electricity panels will provide a payment, generated by the panels will provide a payment, reducing the financial burden reducing the financial burden of of growing energy bills on us. Plus any growing energy bills on us. electricity used from the panels will be free to us and any electricity not used by us will go to the national grid.” much greater diversity and a more Closer to home, St Margaret of Antioch sympathetic environment. Blessed in Thorpe Market (Diocese of Norwich) now with numerous rare wildflower looked creatively at encouraging species and burgeoning other wildlife, biodiversity in the churchyard. This arose the churchyard in Thorpe Market is a partly by accident, as Churchwarden testament to how simple commitment Geoffrey Hunter explains: “The impetus for and management can encourage going back to the traditional management both greater understanding and of the churchyard was really financial. Back appreciation of our world. in 2000 there were insufficient volunteers Reepham installation of ground heat Many further green avenues are open to keep the churchyard mown, the source pump. to parishes to explore, such as energy- mower had just packed up and the PCC efficient lighting, flexible heating couldn’t afford another one, and to pay a systems or biomass boilers. As each contractor was out of the question. So the Another way to reduce carbon emissions church is unique so are the solutions churchyard was left for a year, and all these and costs is to install ground source heat available: what is right for one may flowers appeared!” pumps. St Michael’s in Reepham (Diocese not be right for all. What is open for of Norwich) was refurbished in 2011 Reacting to this remarkable situation the everyone, however, is the ability to and now acts as a thriving community parish decided to produce a conservation start the conversation: what can WE do resource. Rosie Foottit, PCC Secretary, management plan and this has promoted to green our church?! offered the following thoughts: “The installation includes three deep, vertical shafts in the churchyard, from which the heat is transferred by an electric pump to under-floor pipework. This results in the church being kept at a reasonable constant temperature, boosted when necessary for special events. It is helped by insulation in the roof. It is good for the fabric as well as people. The running costs compare favourably with oil, and of course it is very good environmentally. The church now provides an excellent and well-used venue for church and social events.” St Mary the Virgin in Grundisburgh (Diocese of St Edmundsbury & Ipswich) installed solar panels on their hidden south aisle roof. Clive Willetts, PCC Treasurer, states: “The electricity generated

The electricity generated in this way makes a contribution to reducing carbon emissions and is therefore in line with the ‘Shrinking the Footprint’ aim of a reduction of 40 percent by 2050. Solar panels being installed and maintained on the roof of St Mary the Virgin in Grundisburgh

11 Review

A selection of books on the theme of creativity, reviewed by Steve Foyster.

Outdoor Church: Renewing the Face A Christian Guide to Creative Ideas for 20 sessions to take outside of the Earth: Environmental Issues Wild Church: the building for children A theological response to Taking all age worship and and families Dr Martin J Hodson & Revd climate change Margot R Hodson learning outdoors Sally Welch David Atkinson (Foreword by Andy Atkins - Mary Jackson & Juno ‘Friends of the Earth’) Hollyhock Bible Reading Fellowship £8.99 Canterbury Press £12.99 Revelation price £8.00 Revelation price £11.00 Bible Reading Fellowship £9.99 Canterbury Press £19.99 Revelation price £8.50 Revelation price £18.00

This is a creative worship and A much-needed theological Both authors have This innovative and activity resource, enabling framework for considering and professional experience imaginative resource offers churches to reconnect and responding to the challenges in plant science and learning, worship activities value their environment, of climate change. In an easily- environmental ethics. Their and whole service outlines suitable in any green space readable and clear style, David deep commitment to critical to help churches engage in urban, suburban and Atkinson, previously Bishop of issues, that this timely book with outside communities, rural contexts. It contains Thetford, explores the spiritual addresses, shines through, whether rural or urban. With four seasonal sessions questions opened up by the as they consider eight current trends encouraging including four stand-alone issues concerned; questions key contemporary issues, us to reconnect with nature, service outlines, Bible-based about human life and destiny, including climate change, schools are building outdoor stories and parables, all age altruism and selfishness, food, biodiversity and classrooms and 11,000 activities, seasonal prayers technology, justice, values population. organisations belong to and even indoor alternatives and hopes. the Wild Network which With extremely rapid for rainy days. A practical exploration of these encourages children to get environmental changes questions is set in the context outside. Simultaneously, The author is a parish priest impacting in such a direct of the biblical notions of Forest church, the Eco- within the Diocese of Oxford, covenant; God’s commitment way, the Hodsons accentuate congregation and the with many years experience to creation, which the author that we all belong to a rewilding spirituality of working with families and sees as the Sabbath; regular human community which movement reflect this trend young children. This book times of rest and replenishment must now come to terms within the church. springs from her concern for with new ways of living. This for both humans and the earth Not just aimed at energetic the declining relationship itself. This means a strong comprehensive, accessible between people and the and practical guide offers outdoor types, this exciting moral imperative to act in ways resource creatively blends the natural environment. revealed in the hope of the various ways forward, with helpful eco-tips balanced by Christian year with the natural New Testament, that the whole seasons including an all-age of creation will one day be Biblical wisdom. Advent outdoor adventure, renewed in Christ. creating an outdoor Easter garden, kite-flying at Ascension, going on a prayer Find more books pilgrimage and using tree on Revelation website: ribbons for remembrance. www.revelation-norwich.co.uk Practical advice on health or call 01603 619731 and safety and safeguarding also included.

12 Outdoor spirituality: some tasting notes

nvironmental crises, of the resurrection hope and a world to Churches in heritage landscapes from global warming to come in which Paradise is restored. combine with nature to form the the catastrophic loss of sort of places Celtic Christians called species, follow the pattern In the original Easter Garden, Mary “thin” - where the presence of God of the story of the Garden of Eden in mistook the risen Lord for a workman is palpable. Genesis 2. Paradise lost, through a (John 20:15)! The gospels recall similar In a profound stillness, in All Saints’ Efailure of care. The story introduces a encounters with Christ, who is revealed at Church, Horsey, at the breaking of the God who unveils creation, animal by the breaking of bread; not least, meeting bread, I hear, but fail to identify, birds animal, as if to a friend. Whatever the his fisherman friends in Galilee (John that are calling in the distance. Later, Man called them that was their name. 21). Walsingham is widely recognised as I discover they are Common Cranes. God’s friendship with humanity England’s Nazareth. How about England’s Galilee as a pilgrim destination? North (Whisper their name as a prayer!) was renewed in the life, death and Although rare in Britain, 30,000 of resurrection of Jesus; who asked his Norfolk and/or the Broads are both strong candidates for the title – places where one them winter in the Hula Valley of disciples to consider the flowers of Upper Galilee. the field and birds of the air (Matthew can come apart and rest awhile, or get 6:26). Consideration for them, as well into a boat and go over to the other side. On a practical note, Norfolk Wildlife as of them? If so, involvement with Trust hopes to secure the Cranes’ Echoes of Galilee abound in the Broads. conservation projects follows. habitat by purchasing parts of Sauntering across the meadows, or Hickling Broad. An appeal has been paddling a canoe to St. Peter’s (the Out on the marshes, I find myself launched, which I am supporting. whispering birds’ names (as it were) fisherman) Church at Belaugh, I pass wild

How about you? Photo: © Richard Woodham into the ear of the Creator who flowers, birds and a boatyard - where befriended Adam. In that moment, chippies mend boats, as Jesus probably did The Revd Richard Woodham is a retired I have a sense that all is not lost. for his friends. He would go up into the hills priest, who lives on the banks of the River Bure. A former merchant seaman, he has Again, wildflowers between graves in to pray. I climb to the ancient church and been messing about in boats on the Broads conservation churchyards, speak to me “kneel where prayer has been valid”. since he was six years old.

13 The earth is the Lord’s

In 2016 the Dawes family from Aylsham took a holiday to Scotland calling in at the Holy Island of Lindisfarne on the way. Liz and elder son Jamie reflect on their love of the natural environment and their experience of a landscape vastly different to Norfolk.

JAMIE LIZ In the beginning God created the heavens In his hand are the depths of the earth, and and the earth. Now the earth was formless the mountain peaks belong to him. The sea is and empty, darkness was over the surface of his, for he made it, and his hands formed the the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering dry land. over the waters. Psalm 95: 4-5 Genesis 1:1 We crossed the causeway across to the island at 8.30 on a clear I think this quote shows us how small and insignificant we August morning, dazzled by the sunlight glinting over the water. are compared to the greatness of God who can create earth Already I was filled with anticipation at walking in the steps of so and many other planets all on his own. Seeing the vast sand many Christians before me over the centuries. As life has progressed, flats and towering hills around Lindisfarne illustrated how I have found my faith more and more rooted in Celtic Christianity. powerful and moving landscapes are and how totally we are To me God is as immanent in the earth, sky, trees and landscapes under the influence of nature and her laws. as He is transcendent. Faith intermingles with life as we live out our The more we exploit nature, such as in mining and mass daily lives within the natural environment. For the early Christians it would have been so much more a daily struggle with the elements burning fossil fuels, the more dependent we actually but also a daily celebration of the beauty of the earth and of all the become on it. And nobody, not even a very rich man, can resources God provides for our welfare. be safe from the will of nature and her natural disasters. Yet when one trusts in God, they become happy because they I was expecting Lindisfarne to be quite desolate a place, but was do not need to worry; they have protection from the creator surprised to find a thriving community there who have made their of all things. And how great is this protection! The beautiful living from the natural environment for centuries. A walk up to the scenery in Lindisfarne helped persuade me to serve nature castle gave breath-taking views and great delight to me as a keen and God instead of fighting it. I want to help protect the bird-watcher. Here, as in the Scottish Highlands, which unique scenes and ecosystems which we all cherish, so that I love, God seemed majestic and powerful as many more can find hope and excitement in them. reflected in his creation but also loving towards us in his abundant supply of all the things we need to sustain us.

14 Young Christians lead ethical lifestyle challenge

Hannah Pye, previously the Children, Youth & Family Worker in the Tas Valley Team Ministry and now Chair of the Church of England Youth Council, describes the impact of a recent discussion among young Christians on the ethical and environmental dilemmas thrown up by Micah 6:8.

“What does the LORD require of you? c Tackle one thing To act justly and to love mercy and to walk at a time: humbly with your God.” It’s on car stickers, Together we shared tips to help all of us bags and wooden plaques but how often It’s easy to feel like we are insignificant. make better choices whether recycling, do we let those words affect our life? That Tackle one challenge at a time and upcycling, turning lights off, buying local was the challenge posed to the Church eventually they add up. Choose the issue produce or growing your own. There is of England Youth Council, a group of most important for you, the rest will a web browser called Ecosia that plants follow! 16-25yr olds, in November 2016. trees, it’s possible to switch to 100 percent renewable energy, to use environmental We discovered that Micah 6:8 calls us to c Search for a best buy: cleaning products, to cut down on meat live a more ethical and environmental Research is essential. Useful websites can and to buy second hand. Above all, we life. How could we begin to do that? help us discover where, what and how to discovered that this is worship. Making Some of us had already been trying to shop, eat and live in ways that help the conscious decisions, with bible, prayer environment, just a click away. There will live this out over recent years and these and God in mind, to protect and nurture never be a perfect purchase, simply better are the lessons discovered along the way. the gift he’s given us is worship. or worse options and it’s down to us to c Every time you spend weave our core values into our lifestyle. Since November, several young adults have been making changes to their money you’re casting a c Celebrate: own choices and we created the first vote for the kind of world It’s important to celebrate when we ethical living group on Facebook (search you want: make good choices, find amazing Ethical Living Community UK). Here we websites and discover ways to upcycle! celebrate these changes together and Every purchase we make, every single Find like-minded people who will share share helpful information. Please come one, will make an impact on the in your joy and it will make you want to and join us in remoulding our lives to live environment or people. Who or what are continue helping other people and the how God commands; protecting people we hurting or helping? planet! and the planet. c Don’t over buy: Some estimates suggest that 80 percent The Church of England Youth Council is a youth-led council of all saleable products end up as waste that aims to serve God by actively representing, enriching, and in six months! Waste costs us money and engaging with the young people of the Church of England. is damaging the planet for no reason. Anyone aged 14-25 can become a member by signing up All that energy, the plastic and carbon online at www.ceyc.org footprints simply sit in landfill.

15 Act justly: be part of the solution of the climate change challenge

By Julian Bryant

hen I visited a remote We work in many other ways to enable village in the Amazonian Millions of the poorest lots of communities to adapt to climate rainforest in Bolivia and change and we are grateful for all those asked people about people in our world are feeling who give towards this work. Solar climate change they said, ‘We don’t need the impact of climate change panels have been brought in for isolated anyone to tell us the climate is changing. which exacerbates problems communities, radio warning systems for WeW see it for ourselves. The seasons and emergencies, water filtration units, storm weather are changing. We suffer more that may already exist. resistant housing, knowledge and training floods and droughts than we did before.’ and much more. A few days later I visited a large city called This brings change and life to people La Paz and local people pointed out a from its consequences: hunger, drought, living in poverty but it is not enough mountain with some snow on its peak. floods, diminished fish stocks and more to tackle climate change itself. We also The snow is vanishing as the climate gets extreme weather events, and yet they are need to address the causes of climate warmer and this is reducing the city’s the least to blame for causing it. change. What is our Government doing water supply. It is tempting to think that ‘this is just too and how can we work to ensure their This week I received this message from much – what can we do?’ Christian Aid commitments are followed through? La Paz, ‘We are experiencing what is works with communities to help them What energy suppliers are our churches said to be the worst drought in 25 years. adapt to a changing climate. using? How do our buying habits impact Residents are currently receiving rationed the environment? What does our pension water every two to three days, but there Churches in Norfolk and Waveney have scheme invest in? are some areas that have not had water been supporting our work in Kenya and As well as giving and praying, perhaps we for over a week. Tensions are rising as helping people like Rodah. Each year also need to start learning about what temperatures soar and the little water Rodah tried to grow vegetables on a small we can do to make the world a better that is available is orange in colour and plot of dry land and walked a gruelling place for people in need. And campaign contaminated.’ six miles, carrying back heavy containers to make a difference. More than ever we of water, just to keep her crops alive. The Millions of the poorest people in our world need the church to be a prophetic voice, harvest was never enough. are feeling the impact of climate change challenging the unjust systems that make which exacerbates problems that may Working with the Anglican Church in people’s lives so hard – including the already exist. They are suffering the most Kenya, we helped the community to build causes of climate change. a sand dam and distributed drought- resistant seeds, and through sharing new farming techniques the community learned how to make the water they do have go further. The sand dam collects water under the surface of a dry river bed and it is then pumped out. Now Rodah has the precious water she needs to nurture her land and she’s even able to provide casual work for The sand dam her neighbours - helping her entire Dry landscape community to thrive.

16 Mrs Burrington Writes Your church questions answered by the lady who knows

Rodah’s Crops

In the words of Kenyan theologian Jesse Mugambi, ‘In the long term, the rich and powerful will do more justice to the poor and the powerless if they live up to the prophetic challenge of Micah 6:6-8, both at home and abroad, in all spheres of life, including ecological rehabilitation locally and globally.’ ‘And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.’

I hope you can help. I am the vicar of a congregation that Qdoesn’t give a thought for the environment. The lighting and heating are constantly left on; the hot water urn frequently boils dry; and people who live in the same road drive to church. What Faith, Hope and Justice – Rowan can I do? Williams speaks Dr Rowan Williams, Mrs B You might try a few sermons on stewardship, but I can’t former Archbishop guarantee this will work. I recommend a more drastic of Canterbury and solution. Work out how much your church is wasting, and translate Chairperson of this into a small charge that people have to pay at the door on their Christian Aid will be way in. I think you’ll find that people will take notice. speaking about our responsibilities as I hope you can help. I am the vicar of a congregation that Christians to current Qwants to reduce its consumption. People keep turning off world issues, at the lights and the heating to save fuel, so that during services Norwich Cathedral everyone can see their breath more clearly than their service book on Monday 8 May at (we’ve stopped using the data projector, of course). No one is 6.30pm. This is prior to Christian Aid Week allowed more than half a cup of coffee to save water. Someone has which starts on Sunday 14 May. even locked the car park to prevent people from driving to church. To find out more about Christian Aid’s What can I do? climate change work: www.christianaid.org.uk/whatwedo/ Mrs B You might try a few sermons on hospitality, but I can’t issues/climate_change.aspx guarantee this will work. I recommend a more drastic To get involved with Christian Aid Week or solution. Make some cutbacks of your own: reduce pastoral visiting to to find out more about local activities please save on travel, don’t do any sermon preparation to save paper, and turn contact: [email protected] or off the pulpit microphones to save electricity. They’ll soon get the hint. phone 01603 620051.

17 Surprised by the familiar: the Riverside Walk Photo: © Paul Hurst By James Shelton

have lived in Norwich for the begins to rise the stillness of the water at the Cathedral. And a month or so majority of my life, however it creates the most beautiful reflections. later, with excessive nervous energy was only a few years ago that I The air is crisp and fresh, with a hint of making it impossible to sleep, I ran my discovered one of my favourite green. Birds chirp and sing as nature favoured route in preparation for my spots in the city; the Riverside Walk. and the world around is waking up. It is interview day. On that occasion I had so understated and yet spectacular at the much time on my hands I ran the usual IThis relatively short stretch of footpath, same time. route and then doubled back on myself which trails around the Cathedral Close to run it again in reverse. This led me Before my first adventure along the Walk hugging the River Wensum, is something directly over the Jarrold Bridge, with the in 2014, it had for some reason never of a secret garden to me. Cathedral Spire set directly in front of me occurred to me that I could access this in the distance. It felt as if I was running When I moved to live in the centre beautiful location. Whenever I previously towards my future. of Norwich in May 2014, looking for travelled down Riverside Road and a regular morning running route I glanced admiringly across the water, I So what’s the moral of all this? Apart stumbled across a small brick archway had always done so with a belief that it from encouraging you to take a stroll next to the Jarrold Bridge. As it was 7 wasn’t available to me. Perhaps it was (or run!) along the Riverside Walk, it is o’clock in the morning I can’t be sure of because I was looking at the perfectly to say that even in a place we think we my exact feelings upon passing through groomed Norwich School playing fields know so well, we can still be surprised the archway, though the fact that I would and the towering Cathedral spire, which about what we find. later recount the experience to anyone can be rather intimidating. Whatever the who would listen tells you everything you reason, my perception was that it wasn’t need to know about its impact on me. a place I could explore. Since then my favourite time to Two months after running the route for experience the Riverside Walk has been the first time I found myself applying first thing in the morning. As the sun for the position of Marketing Manager

18 Fri 24 DEANERY OF BURNHAM AND WALSINGHAM Rural Dean: Alan Elkins. Lay Chair: Anne Prentis. Chaplain to Norwich International Airport, Keith Rengert. Archbishop of Melbourne & Primate of Australia, Philip Freier and Assistant Bishops of Melbourne, Genieve Blackwell, Paul White and Philip Huggins March 2017 Sat 25 BURNHAM MARKET: Burnham Market, Burnham Overy, Burnham Sutton cum Ulph, Burnham Thorpe. Clergy: Graham Hitchins. Reader: David Crombie. Wed 1 DEANERY OF BLOFIELD Rural Dean: Nick Garrard. Lay Chair: Keith Gerrard. The Bishop's Officer for Continuing Ministerial Development, Keith James, and his The Diocesan Synod meeting today. Ash Wednesday assistant Lesley Lofts. Annunciation of Diocese of Meru (Kenya): Bishop Charles Mwendwa Our Lord Diocese of Mandalay (Myanmar): Bishop David Nyi Nyi Naing Sun 26 BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) Thu 2 ACLE AND BURE TO YARE: Acle, Beighton All Saints, Cantley St Margaret, The Religious Society of Friends: Area Representative, David Saunders Freethorpe, Halvergate, Limpenhoe, Reedham, Wickhampton. Clergy: Martin Mothering Diocese of Mexico: Bishop Carlos Touche-Porter Greenland, Lorna Allies. Readers: Vic Tasker-Walsham, Nicholas Cowen. Acle Sunday CofE VC Primary School The Norwich and Area Branch of the Guild of Vergers and all vergers in our COXFORD GROUP: East Raynham, East Rudham, Helhoughton, Houghton next Mon 27 Cathedral and parish churches. Harpley, South Raynham, Tatterford, Tattersett. Clergy: Edward Bundock. Diocese of Manicaland (Central Africa): Bishop Erick Ruwona Rudham CofE and West Raynham CofE Primary Academies Norwich Cathedral: its mission and ministry Fri 3 BLOFIELD: Blofield, Hemblington, North Burlingham. Clergy: Kevin Billson Dioceses of Milwaukee and Minnesota (Episcopal Church of USA): Bishops For all church musicians - organists, choirs and music groups. Steven Miller and Brian Prior The Anglican Church in Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia: Archbishop William Brown Turei Tue 28 FAKENHAM Clergy: Francis Mason. Readers: Linda Frost, Elaine Burbidge, Amanda Sands. Sat 4 BROADSIDE: Ranworth, South Walsham, Upton & Fishley, Woodbastwick. Diocesan Urban Officer and Church Urban Fund Link, Peter Howard. Clergy: Nick Garrard, Helen Garrard. Reader: Richard Dewing. Fairhaven CofE Diocese of Minna (Nigeria): Bishop Daniel Abu Yisa VA Primary School (South Walsham) Andreas Wenzel being licensed today as Shrine Priest of the Shrine of Our Lady FULMODESTON Clergy: Francis Mason. Wed 29 at Walsingham. Diocesan Communications and Marketing Manager, Gordon Darley. Diocese of Mara (Tanzania): Bishop Hilkiah Omindo Deya Diocese of Mishamikoweesh (Rupert's Land, Canada): Bishop Lydia Mamakwa BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) HEMPTON The Churchwardens and PCC during the vacancy. Sun 5 Thu 30 Our Mission Strategy and every parish across this diocese as we seek fresh Bishop's Press Officer, Katherine Limbach, and all Christians working in the media. Lent 1 imagination from God for the tasks and opportunities before us. Those being Diocese of Pelotas (Brazil): Bishop Renato Da Cruz Raatz confirmed in Sculthorpe tonight. Diocese of Marathwada (North India): Bishop Madhukar Kasab Fri 31 HINDRINGHAM: Barney, Great Snoring, Hindringham, Kettlestone, Little Snoring, Thursford. Clergy: James Muggleton. Reader: Tony Simms. Hindringham CofE Mon 6 BRUNDALL W BRAYDESTON AND POSTWICK Clergy: Peter Leech, Dominic VC Primary School Hubbuck. Reader: Keith Gerrard. Barbara Bryant, editor of The Magazine, and all magazine editors and Our Archdeacons: John Ashe, Steven Betts and Karen Hutchinson. webmasters. Diocese of Maridi (Sudan): Bishop Justin Badi Arama Diocese of Mississippi (Episcopal Church of USA): Bishops Duncan Gray and Brian Seage Tue 7 GREAT PLUMSTEAD Clergy: Darleen Plattin. Reader: Jenefer Barnard. Little Plumstead CofE VA Primary School Editor: The Revd Susanna Gunner, Bishop's Chaplain - 01603 614172, [email protected] Diocesan Liturgical Committee chaired by Charles Read. Diocese of Marsabit (Kenya): Bishop Robert Martin Wed 8 LINGWOOD:Burlingham, Hassingham (Unofficial), Lingwood, Strumpshaw Clergy: Thu 16 NAR VALLEY GROUP: Castle Acre, Narborough, Newton-by-Castle-Acre, David Wakefield. Readers: Margaret Blackshaw, Susan Wray, Lorna Clark Pentney, South Acre, West Acre. Clergy: Stuart Nairn, Richard Howells. Castle Fresh Expressions Facilitator, Sally Gaze, and all fresh expressions of Church Acre and Narborough CofE Primary Academies across our Diocese. The ministry of our Industrial and Workplace Chaplains. Diocese of Maryland (Episcopal Church of USA): Bishop Eugene Sutton and Diocese of Matlosane (Southern Africa): Bishop Stephen Diseko Assistant Bishop Chilton Knudsen Fri 17 NECTON: Holme Hale, Necton, North Pickenham, South Pickenham Clergy: Thu 9 RACKHEATH: Rackheath, Salhouse. Clergy: Sandy Dutton. Readers: John Long, Stephen Thorp. Readers: Carole Hicks, Raymond Mathias. Necton CofE VA Tom Gripton, Gloria Chinery, Linda Stone. Salhouse CofE VC Primary School St Patrick Primary School, St Andrew's CofE Primary Academy (North Pickenham) Norfolk and Waveney Churches Together and all Local Ecumenical Partnerships All healthcare chaplains across our diocese. across the Diocese. Diocese of Meath & Kildare (Ireland): Bishop Patricia Storey Diocese of Masasi (Tanzania): Bishop James Almasi Sat 18 OXBOROUGH GROUP: Bodney, Didlington, Little Cressingham, Oxborough Fri 10 DEANERY OF BRECKLAND Rural Dean: Stuart Nairn. Lay Chair: Alistair Clergy: Charles Sherlock, Zoe Ferguson. Skipper For all who care for those with mental health issues. The Chaplain for Deaf People, Barry Oake, and Reader, Jennifer Aldridge Diocese of Mbaise (Nigeria): Bishop Chamberlain Chinedu Ogunedo Diocese of Maseno North (Kenya): Bishop Simon Oketch Sun 19 BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) Sat 11 ASHILL: Ashill, Carbrooke, Ovington, Saham Toney. Clergy: Jane Atkins. Those being confirmed at Gresham's School today and David Foster and Darren Readers: Anne Leighton, Jean Rockett. Ashill CofE VC Primary School, Parker's Lent 3 Thornton being installed in the Cathedral as Honorary Canons. The Salvation CofE VC Primary School (Saham Toney), St Peter & St Paul Carbrooke CofE Army: Commanders of the Anglia Division, Derek and Susan Jones. Primary Academy Diocese of Mbale (Uganda): Bishop Patrick Gidudu The Bishop's Day for Readers at the Cathedral today. Diocese of Masindi-Kitara (Uganda): Bishop George Kasangaki Mon 20 SWAFFHAM AND SPORLE: Sporle, Swaffham. Clergy: Janet Allan, Hilary De Lyon. Readers: Julia Richardson, Andy Mash. Sporle Cof E Primary Academy, Sun 12 BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) St Joseph Swaffham CofE Junior Academy, Swaffham CofE VC Infant School In our link diocese of Luleå (Sweden), pray for the Deanery of Luleå and its Rural (trans.) For the County Ecumenical Officer, Catherine Howe, and all the Denominational Lent 2 Dean, Hans Johansson Ecumenical Officers of Norfolk and Waveney Churches Together. Dioceses of Maseno South and Maseno West (Kenya): Bishops Francis Abiero Diocese of Mbamili (Niger, Nigeria): Bishop Henry Okeke and Joseph Wasonga Tue 21 THREXTON Clergy: Geraldine Foster. Mon 13 FOUNTAIN OF LIFE (ASHILL) Clergy: Stephen Mawditt, Paul Wilkinson. Reader: The Chaplain for DeafBlind People, Heather Wright. Wendy Sargeant. Diocese of Mbeere (Kenya): Bishop Moses Masamba Nthukah The ministry of our retired clergy and Readers. Diocese of Massachusetts (Episcopal Church of USA): Bishop Alan McIntosh Wed 22 WATTON Clergy: Geraldine Foster, Deborah Hamilton-Grey. Readers: Shirley Gates and Suffragan Bishop Gayle Harris Blake, Margaret Enger, Elaine Rodgers. The ministry of our police chaplains. HILBOROUGH GROUP: Cockley Cley, Foulden, Gooderstone, Great Tue 14 Diocese of Mbhashe (Southern Africa): Bishop Elliot Williams Cressingham, Hilborough. Clergy: Charles Sherlock, Zoe Ferguson. Gooderstone CofE Primary Academy Thu 23 WAYLAND GROUP: Breckles, Caston, Great Hockham, Griston, Merton, Stow Social, Community & Environmental Concerns Coordinator, Chris Copsey. Bedon, Sturston, Thompson, Tottington. The Churchwardens and PCC during the Diocese of Masvingo (Central Africa): Bishop Godfrey Tawonezwi vacancy. Caston Cof E VA Primary School For all prison chaplains across our region and the prison communities they serve. MUNDFORD: Cranwich, Ickburgh, Langford, Mundford. Clergy: Zoe Ferguson, Wed 15 The Diocese of Medak (South India) as it awaits a new bishop. Charles Sherlock. Mundford CofE Primary Academy The Bishop's Safeguarding Adviser, Sue Brice, Assistant Adviser, Sian Griffiths, and all who work to safeguard children and vulnerable adults. Diocese of Matabeleland (Central Africa): Bishop Cleophas Lunga Sat 22 MATTISHALL & TUDD VALLEY: East Tuddenham, Hockering, Mattishall, North Tuddenham, Welborne, Yaxham. Clergy: Mark McCaghrey, Sally Thurgill. Saturday of Readers: Margaret Dixon, Joyce Turner, Cynthia Wake, Jackie Clay, Alan Easter Week Cossey, Jackie Crisp, Tom Cross. Hockering Cof E Primary Academy and Yaxham CofE Primary School. April 2017 Those being confirmed at Beeston Hall School today. Diocese of Mundri (Sudan): Bishop Bismark Monday Avokaya Sat 1 HOLKHAM: Holkham, Warham, Wells-next-the-Sea, Wighton. The Churchwardens and PCC members, Rural Dean Alan Elkins, and all who are Sun 23 BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) supporting this benefice while in vacancy. The Roman Catholic Church, the Diocese of East Anglia and Bishop Alan Hopes. The Mothers' Union: Diocesan President, Marguerite Phillips and Chaplain, Simon Second Sunday Diocese of Muranga South (Kenya): Bishop Julius Karanu Wa Gicheru Lawrence. of Easter Dioceses of Missouri and West Missouri (Episcopal Churchof USA): Bishops Mon 24 UPPER NAR GROUP:East Lexham, Gt Dunham, Gt & Little Fransham, Litcham w Wayne Smith and Martin Field Kempston, Beeston, Little Dunham, Stanfield, Tittleshall w Godwick, West BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) St George Lexham. Clergy: Heather Butcher, Julia Hemp. Reader: Peter Brown. Sun 2 Our Mission Strategy and every parish across this diocese as we seek fresh (trans.) Norwich Cathedral: its mission and ministry. Passion Sunday imagination from God for the tasks and opportunities before us. Fiona Haworth Diocese of Muyinga (Burundi): Bishop Paisible Ndacayisaba being licensed today as Associate Priest at St Peter Mancroft and Ministry Experience Scheme Coordinator. Tue 25 DEANERY OF GREAT YARMOUTH Rural Dean: John Kinchin-Smith. Lay Chair: David Pearson. Diocese of Mityana (Uganda): Bishop Stephen Kaziimba Diocesan Chancellor, Ruth Arlow and Deputy Chancellor, John Morgans. St Mark Mon 3 SOUTH CREAKE: North Creake, Sculthorpe, South Creake, Syderstone. Clergy: Diocese of Mytikyina (Myanmar): Bishop John Zau Li Clive Wylie. Reader: Brian Poulson. Sculthorpe CofE Primary Academy. Our Archdeacons: John Ashe, Steven Betts and Karen Hutchinson Wed 26 BELTON: Belton All Saints, Burgh Castle. Clergy: Rosie Bunn. Moorlands CofE Primary Academy (Belton) Diocese of Mombasa (Kenya): Bishop Julius Katio Kalu Diocesan Registrar, Stuart Jones, and Registery Clerk, Louise Farrow. Tue 4 THE SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF WALSINGHAM Clergy: Kevin Smith, Andreas Diocese of Nagpur (North India): Bishop Paul Dupare Wenzel. Burning Bush Barn and Wendy Shaw's ministry, nurturing spirituality through art. Thu 27 BRADWELL Clergy: Chris Tinker, Matthew Price, Sue Upton, Martin Upton. Homefield CofE VC Primary School (Bradwell). Diocese of Monmouth (Wales): Bishop Richard Pain The region's ecumenical church leaders meeting today. Wed 5 TOFTREES Clergy: Edward Bundock. Dioceses of Nairobi, Nakuru and Nakuru, Baringo Area (Kenya): Bishops Joel The Julian Centre in Norwich. Waweru Mwangi, Joseph Muchai and Musa Kamuren Diocese of Montana (Episcopal Church of USA): Bishop Franklin Brookhart CAISTER: Caister-On-Sea and West Caister. The Churchwardens and PCC Fri 28 UPPER WENSUM VILLAGE GROUP: Brisley, Colkirk, Gateley, Great Ryburgh, during the vacancy. Reader: Mary Taylor. Thu 6 Horningtoft, Shereford, Whissonsett. Clergy: Robin Stapleford. Reader: Richard Diocesan Counsellor, Jane Keeton. Hirst. Brisley CofE VA Primary School, Colkirk CofE Primary Academy. Diocese of Nambale (Kenya): Bishop Robert Magina Barasa Bishop's Staff meeting today Sat 29 FLEGG GROUP (COASTAL): Hemsby, Horsey, West Somerton, Winterton. Diocese of Montreal (Canada): Bishop Mary Irwin-Gibson Clergy: Selwyn Tillett. The Ministry of the Bishop's Deliverance Team. Fri 7 WALSINGHAM: East Barsham, Houghton, Little Walsingham. Clergy: Andrew Diocese of Namirembe (Uganda): Bishop Wilberforce Kityo Luwalira Mitcham. Reader: Anne Wilson. Walsingham Cof E VA Primary School Sun 30 BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham and Kevin Smith, Shrine Administrator. The Methodist Church: District Chairman, Julian Pursehouse. Diocese of Moosonee (Ontario, Canada): Bishop Thomas Corston Third Sunday of Diocese of Nandyal (South India): Bishop Eggoni Pushpalalitha Easter

Editor: The Revd Susanna Gunner, Bishop's Chaplain - 01603 614172, [email protected] Sat 8 DEANERY OF DEPWADE Rural Dean: Heather Wilcox. Lay Chair: David Sat 15 DEANERY OF DEREHAM IN MITFORD Rural Dean: Mark McCaghrey. Lay Osborne. Chair: Sheila Hanmer. The Society of St Margaret at Walsingham, its ministry of healing and hospitality. Holy Saturday All those being baptised and confirmed in Mundford and at the Cathedral tonight. Diocese of Moray, Ross & Caithness (Scotland): Bishop Mark Strange Diocese of Mthatha (Southern Africa): Bishop Sitembele Mzamane Sun 9 BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) Sun 16 BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) In our link diocese of Luleå (Sweden), pray for Luleå Cathedral, Dean Charlotte Christians of all denominations worldwide celebrating the risen Christ today. Palm Sunday Rehnman and Chaplain Anna-Stina Svedberg. Easter Day Diocese of Jerusalem: Bishop Suheil Dawani Mon 17 BARNHAM BROOM & UPPER YARE: Barford, Barnham Broom, Brandon Parva, Mon 10 BROOKE: Brooke, Kirstead, Mundham, Thwaite St Mary. Clergy: Lynn Chapman. Carleton Forehoe, Cranworth, Garvestone, Hardingham, Kimberley, Reymerston, Reader: John Ash. Brooke CofE VC Primary School. Runhall, Thuxton, Whinburgh, Wramplingham. Clergy: Tim Weatherstone, Rachel Jackson, Arthur Hawes. Readers: Anne Clarke, Roger Walpole. Barnham Broom Monday of Holy The ministry of our retired clergy and Readers. CofE VA Primary School. Week Dioceses of Morogoro and Mount Kilimanjaro (Tanzania): Bishops Godfrey Sehaba and Stanley Elilekia Hotay The ministry of all District Scout Chaplains. Diocese of Muhabura (Uganda): Bishop Cranmer Mugisha Tue 11 HEMPNALL TEAM MINISTRY: Bedingham, Hempnall, Morningthorpe and Fritton, Shelton with Hardwick, Topcroft, Woodton. Clergy: Michael Kingston, Liz Billett. Tue 18 DEREHAM & DISTRICT TEAM MINISTRY: Beetley, Dereham, East with West Bradenham, Hoe, Scarning, Shipdham, Swanton Morley. Clergy: Sally Theakston, Tuesday of Holy Reader: Jacqueline Cook. Week The Community of All Hallows, Ditchingham and its warden, David Spicer. Dominique Turnham, Gill Wells, Jane Nursey, Kenneth Pilgrim. Readers: Adam Pyke, Alan Barrett, Lydia Crick, Helen Jeckells, Evelyn Speed. Dereham CofE Diocese of Mount Kenya Central: Bishop Isaac Ng'ang'a and Suffragan Bishop Junior Academy and Infant School & Nursery, Swanton Morley CofE VC Primary Allen Waithaka School, Thomas Bullock CofE Primary Academy (Shipdham). Wed 12 THE LONG STRATTON & PILGRIM TEAM MINISTRY : Aslacton, Bunwell, Air Training Corps and Sea Cadet Chaplains across the Diocese. Carleton Rode, Great Moulton with Little Moulton, Stratton St Mary, Stratton St Diocese of Mukono (Uganda): Bishop William Ssebaggala Wednesday of Michael and St Peter, Tibenham, Wacton with Wacton Parva. Clergy: Heather Holy Week Wilcox, John Madinda, Gill Osborne, Elisabeth Spry. Readers: Margaret Thorburn, Wed 19 EASTON: Bawburgh, Colton, Easton, Marlingford. Clergy: Laura Montgomery. Steve Adcock, Margaret Smith. Carleton Rode CofE VA Primary School, St Reader: Peter Pease. St Peter's CofE Primary Academy (Easton) Mary's CofE Junior Academy (Long Stratton). The Bishops' PAs and secretaries: Coralie Nichols, Graham Cossey, Ann Whittet, The Society of St Luke (Sheringham) and Superior, Andrew Lane. Alison Hovesen and Marie Kuczak. Bishop's Chaplain, Susanna Gunner. Diocese of Mount Kenya South: Bishop Timothy Ranji and Suffragan Bishop Diocese of Multan (Pakistan): Bishop Leo Roderick Paul Charles Muturi Thu 20 GRESSENHALL:Bittering Parva, Gressenhall, Longham, Mileham, Wendling. Thu 13 All celebrations and vigils taking place today. Those who will gather from across Clergy: Heather Butcher, Julia Hemp, Kevin Blogg. Readers: Tom Butler-Stoney, the Diocese for the Chrism Eucharist at the Cathedral. Jan Sexton. Maundy Diocese of Mount Kenya West: Bishop Joseph Kagunda All PCC Secretaries and Parish Administrators. Thursday Diocese of Mumbai (North India): Bishop Prakash Patole Fri 14 TAS VALLEY TEAM MINISTRY: Newton Flotman, Saxlingham Nethergate, Fri 21 HONINGHAM The Churchwardens and PCC during the vacancy. Shotesham, Swainsthorpe, Tas Valley Cells (Bishop's Mission Order), Tasburgh, The Archdeacons' PAs: Coralie Nichols, Graham Cossey, Alison Steward Tharston. Clergy: Sally Gaze, Dawn Davidson, Martin Hartley. Reader: David Good Friday Diocese of Mumias (Kenya): Bishop Beneah Okumu Salala Lancaster. Newton Flotman, Preston (Tasburgh) and Saxlingham Nethergate CofE VC Primary Schools All ecumenical acts of witness taking place across our diocese today Diocese of Mpumalanga (Southern Africa): Bishop Daniel Kgomosotho Sharing faith outdoors: Reedham Passion Play 2017

By Lorna Allies and Diana Gilder

It started with a discussion over coffee on Artist, Heather, photographer, James, a spring morning last year. A local man, Set Designer, Issy, and many others with Paul, had talked of a Passion Play he saw full-time occupations are giving of their and what an impact it had. We felt that time and skills. Local boat-builder Alan has we too should be ambitious for Christ become involved in set-building. There and stage one here. will be difficulties – the sheer size of the cross and the Jerusalem entrance gate The first decision was the radical idea for instance. His team will use 3D CAD to to bring it out of the church and take it visualise the props before they build and through the village. We imagined sunny they will do stress analysis on the design weather, great actors and a magnificent of the cross. event. Our enthusiasm rubbed off and soon we had gathered a core team. This all sounds like a success story, but there have been and continue to be enormous challenges: finding our Jesus actor, securing funding, having to re-think the journey when we realised that some locations were too far apart. Gradually each issue has been worked through. Now we are beginning to see two really important things that we had not fully understood would occur. The first is the dynamics of the large group we have become, made up of different sections. The set production team meet in the pub and enjoy working together – not all church members but community members who want to be involved; the costume team, the musicians, the core Rehersals underway team. The cast is rehearsing and the actors are growing into their parts in a most natural and amazing way that leaves us We were amazed at the talent available knowing that God has more to do with all in our villages and the willingness of this than we do. volunteers within the community to join in. Secondly, within our community, more and more people know about or are Retired costume designer, Valerie, has connected with the Reedham Passion visited four different towns in her search Play. It has fired imaginations and caught for the right material for Jesus’ robe. the interest of far more people than we Reedham Passion Play Michael, our Director of Music, believes had expected. We are excited that we will Friday 14 April 2017 that what we are producing will give be outside and telling the story in our 1.30pm a fresh dimension and experience in village and we will do our best to make relation to events with which many of this outdoor event one that will touch Venue: Reedham Village us are familiar. hearts and inspire those who see it. Hall and through the village, Reedham, NR13 3HL Director, Simon, says: "Coming from a We hope that everyone who passes theatre environment where you can by will reflect on what Easter The event will begin at control everything, lighting, sound etc. really is about and understand 12 noon with lunchtime to an outdoor promenade where you why so many of us give our time, refreshments in Reedham only have control over the actors is a our hearts and much of our lives Village Hall. real challenge!" to this Jesus Christ.

John Mule as Jesus 23 Churchyards: vital stepping stones for wildlife

which are sadly declining in the wider Churchyards are stepping stones Working for Norfolk Wildlife countryside. Six species of the old in Norfolk’s landscape helping to Trust’s People and Wildlife meadow wildflowers are especially create an ecological network for associated with churchyards: – wildlife to move from one place to Team, Gemma Walker invites pignut; meadow saxifrage; ox-eye another. They have an important role us to record the wildlife found in daisy; burnet saxifrage; cowslip to play in Norfolk’s wildlife conservation and lady’s bedstraw. Three scarce and their importance should not be our churchyard spaces. ferns have about 75 percent of their under estimated. Norfolk populations on stonework in churchyards and half of Norfolk’s In 2016 Norfolk Wildlife Trust secured 'm often asked where the best 500 lichen species are found a two-year Heritage Lottery funded place to see wildlife in Norfolk is. mainly in churchyards. project called Norfolk County Wildlife My response is to point people in Action. This aims to encourage people Since 1945, it has been estimated that to record the wildlife they see in their the direction of one of the county’s 98 percent of our once widespread fantastically diverse nature reserves. local churchyard. Whether it’s a plant wildflower meadows have now or an animal, common or rare there is There is no doubt that Norfolk is one of vanished. Churchyards can form the Ithe best places in Britain to see a whole now a simple way to log your sightings. only remaining fragments of old, Norfolk Biodiversity Information array of wildlife in some very beautiful unimproved wildlife-rich meadowland Service (NBIS) has developed an online nature reserves. in a parish or town, making churchyards recording form that is simple to use and vital green spaces for wildflowers to However, wildlife can, of course, be plays a vital part in helping us record the flourish and wildlife to thrive. found across the county in the wider wildlife found in churchyards. countryside, on the coast and on grass But, it is not just plants. Butterflies, Whether you see one red admiral verges. Your garden may be the best moths and bees; amphibians and place to see common frogs, the field reptiles; and a wide variety of birds and butterfly; a flock of house sparrows; on the way out of your village is a great small mammals such as voles, mice and a majestic English oak; a patch of place to see brown hares and, what hedgehogs can be found living and lady’s bedstraw or an elusive common about your churchyard? breeding in churchyards. lizard or hedgehog please share your sightings with us. Norfolk churchyards can be a valuable There are more than 800 churchyards wildlife haven. Churchyards often in Norfolk, providing vital homes for To find out more visit predate the church, making them some species outside of nature reserves www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk/ of the most ancient man-made features and Sites of Special Scientific Interest wildliferecording in the landscape. Many retain exceptional (SSSIs). They are important to ‘Living or you can email your wildlife sightings areas of wildflower-rich grasslands which Landscape’ conservation (landscape- to [email protected] have never been ploughed or subjected scale wildlife conservation) as they stating the four recording W’s. What (you to chemical treatment, and because of often provide the vital links between saw), Where (you saw it), When (the date this, churchyards are now strongholds designated nature areas enabling you saw it) and Who (your name and for a number of key wildflower species wildlife populations to move and thrive. contact email or phone number).

24 To promote wildlife recording in churchyards we have produced 10 eye- catching bookmarks. If you would like some of these free bookmarks for your church please phone Norfolk Wildlife Trust on 01603 598333 and we will happily post some to you. Throughout this year there will also be lots of opportunities to discover the wildlife found in churchyards. Norfolk Wildlife Trust will be organising guided walks, a bioblitz event, talks, family days and much more. County Wildlife Action is a fantastic opportunity for people to help record their churchyard wildlife, learn more about the wildlife associated with churchyards and to make a real difference to wildlife conservation through helping to record and monitor their churchyard. To find out more about the events being run by Norfolk Wildlife Trust visit www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk and go to ‘What’s on’.

Enter the Church Times Environmental Awards Church Times In 2007, the Church Times newspaper The Green Building Award Eco-Awards organised the first Green Church Awards. (efforts to make the church building Ten years on, to “encourage and honour greener by saving energy) the thousands of groups and individuals The Green Shoots Award The Green Congregation Award (for projects in their early days that working sacrificially to change the (initiatives to save energy or water, promise much. Grants will be available climate and the climate of opinion”, they recycling and community engagement) for the best entries). are holding a new round of Church Times Environmental Awards. The Biodiversity Award The deadline will be in June and the (providing habitats for wildlife outside awards will be presented at Lambeth The awards will be made in collaboration the church building) Palace on 16 October. Further details with the Church of England’s of how to enter will be available in the environmental campaign, Shrinking the The Green Champion Award Church Times soon or contact: Footprint, but they are open to all Christian (unsung heroes who have inspired by [email protected] churches in the UK. The awards are: example and raising awareness) 020 7776 1060

25 Adam Jackson – Christian eco-camp entrepreneur

Adam Jackson, youth worker at St Stephen’s Church, Norwich and founder of Intents Youth Camp outlines an average day of mitigating the carbon footprint of the camp held on his parents’ Mattishall farm.

he day starts around 8am make it, borrow it or think outside the lit by dozens of strings of fairy lights. It with breakfast (religiously!). box for solutions. looks like the set from a Mumford and Intents Administrator, Sons music video, and they’ve really For example, we needed another Sequoia comes to the office caught the vision. I’ve often got a car- venue for a dedicated prayer tent. just before 9 and we go through the full of wood and pallets that are being Instead of simply hiring a marquee jobs of the week. This week we’ve been thrown out and always find ways of for the weekend, I worked with some lookingT at getting a new T-Shirt provider creatively recycling them, so now we’ve of the people who come to my other – an ethical clothing manufacturer who got materials to get creative and it can festival (an eco-building, vegetarian knows their supply chain really well, nearly always be done using the waste week called “Treehouse Festival” www. from local businesses! from cotton-plant to delivery, something TreehouseFestival.co.uk) to create a I’ve wanted to do for years! geodesic dome using willow that we After tidying up the bookings (which were allowed to cut from a biomass farm. is provided by a paper-less booking We used old water piping and joined program I built a few years ago) we meet the ends to make a large dome covered the rest of the team at the farm. It needs in second-hand canvas to be our new to be transformed from a place where prayer venue! animals live, to a worship venue for over At the farm, the media guys have an idea 100 kids. I source volunteers from all for an amazing stage with huge amounts the places that I do life: Church young of lighting and lasers, but we only charge adults, local people, website clients and £35 for the whole weekend per young so on. I am really keen on emphasising person, and God doesn’t seem to care the need to be resourceful in the way if it looks like Hillsong or not, and those we get all the things we need. I believe lights cost their own weight in carbon there is more community, authenticity emissions! So I ask them re-think and and creative beauty when you’ve got to they soon bring back drawings of pallets

26 Bishop welcomes arrival of Syrian Refugees As The Magazine went to press, 50 Most of the Intents campers know The main ethos of Intents is for young refugees were about to be welcomed to me as the man who sorts through the people to learn about what Jesus has Norfolk. Plans are in place to enable the rubbish or the one who talks about done for them and be able to make a families to be additionally supported the benefits of the compost loos choice to follow him, as well as receive through the Diocesan Refugee Fund. rather than the actual organiser of the the Holy Spirit. A great passion of mine event. We have just 10 wheelie bins is that we can do that as a community “I am very glad that Norfolk is playing at Intents, for nearly 200 people over without needing to sacrifice this its part in the Government’s Syrian the two weekends. One of my biggest amazing land God has given us. Refugee Resettlement Scheme and battles is ensuring that we only fill up Perhaps as well as a connection with hope the first arrivals settle well in their the bins that we have and as much of the creator, they will also see how easy new surroundings,” said Bishop Graham. that as possible should be recycled. it is to care for creation. “Norfolk’s culture and economy has Where we can, I allocate bins for benefited from many refugees in the past papery materials that can be used for and, despite their harrowing experiences, the evening camp fire. I hope the new arrivals among us will The ‘Honey Cart’ has arrived: my next find this a welcoming place in which to job. One year I partnered with an rebuild their lives. international group that equipped “Over £40,000 has been donated, young people to create sanitation infrastructure in the third world; so I generally in small amounts and often invited them to spend a weekend at anonymously. It is a sign of the open- the farm building some eco-compost heartedness of many people in the loos as part of their training. These Diocese. This money will be used to eco loos are great; they don’t smell help the families to settle in, especially like Portaloos, they are more spacious, covering costs not included within the and generally more ‘fun’. Rather than funding of the Government Scheme as rotting the contents down for manure well as to support agencies in the city on site, we have a nice man (The and county working with the Syrian and Honey Cart) who comes with a hose other refugees, and asylum seekers too. and he sorts it all out. “Norfolk has a great tradition of I pop in to speak to the catering team welcoming “strangers” as earlier (my Mum and friends!). Everyone generations of refugees were often at Intents eats together; this builds known, and I am very glad this tradition community and means people don’t continues. Do pray for them and for all bring in all their food with tons of who are working with them. Thank you packaging. The amazing food has again for such a generous response to been one of the reasons others in desperate need.” people love Intents. Mum asks me to get rhubarb There is more in the Fund than is likely from the vegetable patch: to be needed by the numbers currently we grow some of the food arriving. Provision is also being made for we use on site, and the some of the Christian agencies working rest is locally sourced. with asylum seekers and refugees in the area to make application for similar purposes for other refugees who have Intents week A: 26-29 May arrived here by different means. Intents week B: 31 May - 3 June The Fund remains open and now that www.intents.org.uk distribution of monies has begun, there will be updates on the Diocesan website.

27 Preservation versus mission?

pagan temples thinking temples The Revd Canon Stephen harmless, ignoring our own history of Steve and Jo Wright’s love of the Diocese’s pagan temple destruction in the name of in Jebel Ali beautiful, historic churches finds Christianity – didn’t we have a point? Destruction of invaluable heritage a new perspective after 16 years within our churches at the reformation, living in the Gulf. and the more recent destruction of much in our buildings in the Victorian period, was also done to preserve the most important part of our heritage. find it interesting how there is Only what we consider important a certain panic about losing the today determines what we preserve physical evidence of the past. In today. If we are unable to cope with the the Gulf, where an Englishman bereavement of medieval worship then so the message would not be what I feels that everything is so new, there is we might rip out the Victorian pews and intended. some bemusement at the desire of the sing Gregorian chant, but it will not be It seems to me that the pain of Muslims IEnglish to preserve old buildings. Almost the ‘same’ even it if it is made to look and who yearn for a return to an ideal everything we use that wears out, or sound the same. of the old days, and my pain at the outlives its purpose, we replace with abandonment of old buildings and ways new things that serve their purpose. We Returning Church to an ideal past state, of worship that fit them so well, is partly don’t keep building thatched barns but is not possible because the context of that I long to return to the days of an build much larger metal barns. What is society makes it different. Preserving idealised youth. Failing to cope with that important is to store the crop. If we are a building (or activity within it) as it bereavement, I might try to preserve unable to cope with the bereavement was in former days doesn’t speak the what I can, but I know I am not preserving of losing thatched barns then we might same message today as it used to, the heart of what I want to convey, and preserve one and even use it for hay, thus, although the outward form is wonder about the cost. but it will not be the ‘same’ but rather an unchanged, it is not the same – I could example of history preserved at some stand and play guitar and lead the cost, more than a ‘working’ barn. congregation in ‘Seek ye first’ as a round, After a curacy in South Yorkshire, just as my youth leader did in the 1970s. Stephen Wright has been a Islamic extremists, surrounded by an Would I recreate my 1970s experience? Mission Partner with CMS in overwhelming invasion of Western I would feel foolish and anachronistic, Nigeria, then Parish Priest in Kuwait, then Dubai, before culture, seek to preserve the heart of unable to demonstrate the experience becoming Priest in Charge their religion and culture by establishing of my youth for the song is not new, of the Quidenham Group a new, like-the-original, Islamic State. We congregational descants more common, of Parishes in August 2015. Steve is married to Jo and soundly condemn them for destroying and the acoustic guitar old fashioned, they have three children.

28 Our local skyline from the sea Julian of Norwich

Sally-Anne Lomas, maker of a recent documentary on Julian of Norwich, reviews two new titles about one of Norwich’s most famous daughters.

Julian of Norwich: A very brief history by Janina Ramirez belongs in the ‘small but beautiful’ category of books, a delightful object to hold, with an enticing and mysterious cover that beckons the reader forward and includes within the rare treat of coloured illustrations. Written in a lively, engaging and readable style this is a great introduction. For those who The drawing of this love; Growing in tenderness towards ourselves, one are new to Julian, a fourteenth century faith with Julian of Norwich by Robert another, and even towards God.’ female mystic and her book Revelations Fruehwirth takes the reader through a Revelations of Divine Love is best of Divine Love – thought to be the first deeper and more intimate encounter experienced slowly. If Julian spent up ever written in English by a woman - with Julian’s writing. this book is a page turner. to 30 years pondering her Revelations This is a practical book, intended from God, as readers we are rewarded As an art historian, Ramirez’s strength for spiritual seekers wanting to by sipping rather than gulping her is in the vivid picture she paints of engage with Julian as a guide to words. The drawing of this love, offers Julian’s life and times. She creates understanding God’s love and Julian’s theology in bite-sized chunks a portrait of 14th century Norwich compassion. The book offers a and each chapter ends with helpful as a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, wise and gentle commentary on questions for reflection to chew on. devastated by the Black Death and Julian’s thoughts from a man who Through these books Mother Julian caught up in a time of enormous has obviously spent many hours in continues to nourish us with her social, political and religious change. her company. Fruehwirth was the vision of God’s unconditional love. She places Julian’s writing within priest director of the Julian Centre the wider historical context of the in Norwich and for almost 20 years, Hundred Years War, the rise of the a member of The Order of Julian of Lollards and the development of Norwich, a contemplative monastic printing. But Ramirez emphasizes the order based in the USA. Events in Julian Week way in which Julian, as a writer and This is a spiritual travel book to take St Julian’s Church, Norwich theologian, rises above the specifics of NR1 1QT with you on a pilgrimage towards her own historical moment to create a Julian of Norwich. Fruehwirth is the Sunday 7 May, Evensong and timeless vision of Christian spirituality. companion and guide who knows Benediction 6.30pm. ‘One woman’s experiences, and one the route and can reveal the hidden woman’s interpretation of them; yet they Saturday 13 May, The Julian beauties of the landscape. ‘We can still speak across the centuries.’ Lecture by Godelinde Perk, author make the journey of faith with Julian of Julian, God, and the Art of Ramirez’s book is a delicious appetiser, through her Revelations, so that God Storytelling, 12 noon. There will be teasing the palate and leaving the can establish new habits of trust and a Eucharist before-hand at 11am. reader hungry for more. compassion in us; compassionate

29 FOCUS N Seven Churches: the Benefice of Redenhall with Scole

By The Revd Canon Nigel Tuffnell

A regular feature focussing on a benefice or group of parishes in the Diocese of Don’t get me wrong, Norwich, written by someone we work together from that community. well and seek Having seen the plight to support one of the children and their another. Our sense of togetherness is even families in Syria and growing, with outings and remembering the exodus social events. But outside of our church of the Jewish people from no one understands, or even cares, Who & where we are about our benefice. These are our people Germany, the troubles in Syria are the greatest We are Seven Churches, each different but and they identify with their village or with two simple aims; to serve God and to town, so each village and our town must that this generation has share his love. Or, as our website says, we be our distinct focuses too. known. I simply wanted are “Learning to put Jesus first – Sharing Billingford and Thorpe Abbotts are two to help people. love and Good News”. of our smaller villages, they have small We serve our rural communities along Sunday congregations too. They are, the Waveney Valley, on the border with though, active community churches. 90 year old Suffolk; the communities of Billingford, Billingford church was packed with over Rugby fan Marion Brockdish, Harleston, Needham, 80 people for its carol service, and most of Courtney, of Redenhall, Scole, Thorpe Abbotts, Thorpe the village seems to turn out to support our Harleston Parva and Wortwell. Yes, that’s seven our social events. Thorpe Abbotts again church, had her church buildings for eight villages and has a small Sunday congregation but head shaved to again it is a vibrant Christian community. raise money for one town (Harleston), that together make Photo: © Christian Aid up the Benefice of Redenhall with Scole. There are a surprising number of young Christian Aid’s families in Thorpe Abbotts so the people Refugees Crisis Appeal. The room Each of our churches has its own decided that a Messy Church was needed; was packed with rugby fans 30 character but all seek to express a warm they got on with it and Messy Church minutes before the England vs. and loving faith, both during our worship continues to reach those families that Wales match was screened. and throughout the week. are not so visible during the week. They also organise open-air worship (with One body with many parts great food) in the centre of the village, for had a real increase in the interest from major national events, like our Queen’s young families in that parish, leading to It is at this point that it becomes difficult 90th Birthday. baptisms. A growing ministry to which we to write about ‘The Benefice’, because we are giving more focus as 2017 progresses. are not a simple cohesive unit, nor do we Brockdish runs a hugely successful want to be. We are a collection of parish monthly quiz that brings people in from The town of Harleston has a very strong churches geographically close to one far and wide, gently reinforcing the sense of community, shown by the 37 another, that now share a single rector place of Christ’s Church at the heart of wreaths laid by different organisations and ministry team. the community – they’re fun too! We’ve on Remembrance Sunday. Here we

30 are working hard to ensure that our the church and the wider community building in the centre of town is used as of Harleston and beyond. It is these a community building. We advertise local relationships that provide our students businesses. We reach out with Foodbank with so many added extras and brings and much more. We also now have a real meaning to their journey through thriving congregation of young families high school.” that come to a Saturday afternoon ‘Chatty We have found that we serve the schools Church’ (they chose the name), a social and the schools do so much for us. gathering with worship at its heart. At the One primary school even helps us lead same time, many find a warm welcome at worship, twice a term. our more traditional worship. Scole is the largest of our villages; with a Challenges and the future real vibrancy and warmth. Once you come Photo: © Ian Carstairs along you want to stay. Redenhall is our The story could end here. You would move largest church building in a tiny hamlet, on to the next article with the impression and offers traditional worship, Sunday by that all is lovely across our benefice. Sadly, It was lovely to see we have many troubles and challenges Sunday to a slowly growing number of the wonder on our people. Needham is our warmest village too. Last year we lost one of our church church - great heating and warm hearts. primary schools which is a real blow to congregation faces when the village concerned. All of our buildings they walked in and saw Back to school are listed and expensive to maintain. They are valued by their community but it is the swifts arrive at the We are blessed with two church primary still the faithful few who do the work. The end of April schools and the Diocese’s only Church same faithful few who also need to find of England high school. It is a privilege time to be fed themselves. It can be hard to be able to serve our communities by to find time to fit in a house group, or a said Churchwarden and Benefice providing the young people with a great meditation. People can be over-worked Administrator, Lucy Elton-Cooke. education built on a foundation of solid and stressed. We are also struggling to “Our primary school made over Christian values. meet our parish share. 400 swifts which were displayed If you have never experienced a Christian Truth is at the heart of our faith so the on a mobile hanging from the roof high school, serving everyone in its last paragraph is essential to make it clear beams. Each pupil wrote a personal community without favouritism or that we are not working in some unreal message on one side and decorated prejudice, then you just have to visit – all ‘Christian Wonderland’. We are Christians the other with colours of various are welcome – just ring up Archbishop with widely different levels of faith, and African flags. We had plenty of Sancroft School and ask for a tour. energy, but we are all walking together. visitors come to see them and as Headteacher, Richard Cranmer says: “We We are working to make the Kingdom of swifts do they just up and departed are very proud of the extremely positive God a little more real in us, and in those early August”. interactions and links that we have with around us. Please pray for us.

31 Top church video websites

Each month a new pack of video loops, quality motion backgrounds which Gordon Darley gives a brief countdown videos, graphics and motion can be used behind song words. Sign guide to websites offering titles are released, and you can choose up to their seven day trial and you can to download each pack individually (for download up to 20 videos per day; that’s worship background video loops $39) or subscribe and receive each new 140 videos for free. and short inspirational videos. pack as they come. Share Faith Worship House Media www.sharefaith.com any churches use (and Videos For Youth) ($30pm or $204pa; 7 day free trial) multimedia in services to www.worshiphousemedia.com An extensive collection of motion project song words and (and www.videosforyouth.com) backgrounds and graphics for churches. display notices on screens. ($10-$20 per download) There’s been a growth in websites offering The Bible Project This site brings together in one place, professionally created high quality videos short inspirational videos from a large www.thebibleproject.com (Free) Mdesigned for churches, but finding the number of creative professionals and best can often take some time. Short, professionally-animated passages Christian media companies such as of scripture from the Old and New Short inspirational video clips or Centerline New Media, Motion Worship, Testament, as well as Biblical themed films can connect and engage with Dan Stevers, Graceway Media & Igniter videos; all free to download and new congregation members and are a great Media. The breadth and quality is superb animations added every few months. way to introduce a theme for a service - using just one of them in a service can or communicate a Bible verse. Motion make a powerful opening or set a theme. Other sites offering free video backgrounds or video loops, when used Each video can be expensive, but if you backgrounds include: appropriately behind song words, can only want to use one occasionally this is www.worshipbackgroundsforfree.com raise the professional feel of church an excellent one-stop shop. multimedia. So what are the best www.freeworshiploops.com websites offering them? Shift Worship www.playbackmedia.com Highlights of some of the best: www.shiftworship.com ($5-$15 per (One month free) download or $149pa unlimited) www.seeds.churchonthemove.com/ Creation Swap If you want to build a collection of high- resources/video www.creationswap.com (Limited quality motion backgrounds from scratch https://open.life.church downloads for free; $19pm for unlimited) then you won’t need to look further than this site. Subscribing gives access to their This article is part of a more in-depth An excellent range of high quality many hundreds of backgrounds and background loops, mini movies, article available online at limited range of mini-movies. countdown videos, titles and www.dioceseofnorwich.org/ article?id=3007 images/graphics. VideoBlocks Read more in the full article about www.videoblocks.com/freeclips Church Motion Graphics different types of video content, top tips ($79pm or $149pa; 7 day free trial) www.churchmotiongraphics.com when projecting song words over video, ($10pm or $99pa; $348 to access Not specifically designed for church, using YouTube videos, copyright, and their archive) but a good and vast collection of high- different video sizes/ratios and formats.

32 Resources General and seasonal resources and ideas to inform, inspire and enable.

Godparents’ Harry Shout it Sunday: 30 April Hicks’ from the This is an opportunity to invite baptism hymn housetops! families to come along with godparents to a special service, and to involve book A new edition from the indefatigable all those in the congregation who Harry Hicks has John Wright, this is a are godparents or godchildren too. produced a second collection of stories Godparents’ Sunday is a response to edition of his hymn book increasing the and testimonies to research undertaken on behalf of the number of hymns to over 440 for which encourage all to share the Good Archbishops’ Council looking at parents’ he has written all the music. “Some of News of Jesus. “St Paul encourages real experiences and expectations the hymns are by living writers (such Christians to be Ambassadors for around the baptism of their child. One as Timothy Dudley-Smith) while others Christ,” says The Rt. Revd Richard of the biggest findings of the research are by established writers (John Wesley, Chartres, Bishop of London. “As was that godparents really matter to Isaac Watts) whose words need to be an example of a contemporary families. Godparents are part of family rediscovered by today’s congregations. Ambassador, look no further than life for all the years ahead, a relationship All the music is quickly learnt while ‘Shout it from the Housetops’!” that lasts into adulthood and beyond. reflecting the sentiment of the words,” Available from The Branch Press, Resources are available to help create a says Harry. £13.50 available from Harry at Kirby House, Kirby Bedon, Norwich day of welcome and celebration at: Clifftop, 30 Seaview Road, Mundesley NR14 7DZ www.churchsupporthub.org/ NR11 8DH 01263 722757, from the www.branchpress.com godparentsunday Revelation Bookshop, or Amazon. 01508 494366

Preparing for Thy Kingdom Come 2017

The Archbishop of Canterbury is “In praying ‘Thy Kingdom Come’ we inviting people around the world to join all commit to playing our part in him in this global prayer movement the renewal of the nations and the between Thursday 25 May and Sunday transformation of communities.” 4 June 2017. He is calling on Christians Archbishop Justin Welby. to pray that people might know Jesus Christ. The hope is that: The Archbishop’s invitation is simply asking people to pray in whatever way events are available at: • people will commit to pray with they want, with whoever they want and www.thykingdom.co.uk God’s world-wide family - as a church, wherever they can, that others might individually or as a family; know Jesus Christ. Anyone can sign Everyone who signs up to ‘Pledge2Pray’ will receive regular email updates as • churches will hold prayer events, up on the national website now and well as inspiration and encouragement such as 24-7 prayer, prayer stations pledge to pray. about prayer. The message will be and prayer walks, across the UK and in Bespoke resources and information, going out via social media and in the other parts of the world; including materials to download on months running up to Thursday 25 • people will be transformed through prayer, liturgical resources, Novena May using the hashtags #Pledge2Pray prayer by the Holy Spirit, finding booklets, a ‘Kingdom Kit’ helping and #ThyKingdomCome. See details new confidence to be witnesses for families pray together, details of prayer of beacon events already planned on Jesus Christ. events, and tips on organising local page 39.

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4029 FF Advert 210x297+3mm [Norwich Mag_1].indd 1 12/01/2017 15:15 Pints and prayer at Poringland PubChurch

January 2017 saw the start of a new venture as PubChurch launched, thanks to the faith and generosity of Nick Perry, licensee of the Royal Oak pub in Poringland, and his wife, Delia.

ver the years, they had explained Rachel. “We expect the group always welcomed church to change and develop as we meet and activity in the pub and, we recognise that this will involve a deal currently, there is a monthly of flexibility on the part of the team men’s fellowship group and a weekly leading this venture. We are very excited Saturday morning singing group, as well as we have waited on the Lord for nearly Oas events that have taken place over two years and now feel the time is right Easter and Christmas. to move forward with this initiative. I am “It’s not prescriptive. We don’t know who’s extremely grateful to Nick and Delia who This new venture, headed by a team of going to be there, why they’ve come or always are so welcoming to us and have eight from All Saints Church, under the what their needs are going to be. We shown such faith in stepping forward leadership of Pioneer Ordinand, Rachel need to journey and grow with them. with us in this venture. Foster, is the result of two years’ prayer You’ve got to expect to be changed by and waiting for guidance on the way “We were joined by a number of people the people you’re working with too. This is forward. for the actual session and there was a starting point. It’s exciting.” interest from others in the pub in what PubChurch held its first gathering on a One of those who attended sent the we were doing. We explored John 4, January Sunday at mid-day. There was following message to the team later in where Jesus spoke with the woman at an opportunity to explore the Christian the day: “Thank you for the well about thirst in life and discussed faith for an hour in a manner that suited the most amazing day; what creates a thirst in our own lives. those who gathered. It is currently a group of wonderful planned to meet each third Sunday of “We were delighted with the response, people that brought the month, though this will be flexible, both in numbers attending the first a halo of hope and depending on those who attend and session, and in the engagement of sunshine to my day. I what best suits them. the group talking about Jesus and his truly believe our lives “We aim to meet with people who are relevance to our own lives. One of those will benefit from all comfortable in the environment of the attending took away some PubChurch the wonderful things pub, and journey and grow with them cards to give to friends to encourage the meetings will as they explore the Christian faith,” them to come to a future meeting. bring.”

35 Comings & Goings

Our prayers for their future ministry go to: The Revd Andreas Wenzel appointed Shrine Priest of the Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham. The Revd Jennie Hodgkinson appointed Assistant Priest (OLM) in the Cromer Benefice. The Revd Ian Dyble appointed Priest- in-Charge of Heigham St Barnabas (Norwich). The Revd Joanna Payne appointed New chaplains join the East of England Ambulance Service Associate Priest for Heigham St Thomas and Lakenham St Alban In December, the Revd Keith Rengert (centre) Rector of Horsham St Faith, (Norwich). Spixworth and Crostwick was commissioned by the Bishop of Bedford, to support ambulance staff, volunteers and their families. The Revd Dr Fiona Haworth appointed Associate Priest at St Peter Mancroft, Keith was commissioned alongside six other new chaplains by the Right Revd Norwich and Ministry Experience Richard Atkinson at St Edmundsbury Cathedral during Suffolk’s Emergency Scheme Coordinator for the Diocese of Services’ Carol Service. Norwich. Chaplains have played an integral part within the ambulance service for many The Revd Tim Yau appointed Assistant years, offering pastoral, emotional and spiritual support to all levels of staff Priest in the Cringleford Benefice regardless of their faith, belief or none. (Norwich), Pioneer Minister in the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Parish of Cringleford and Mission Enabler for the Diocese of Norwich. Bishop of Norwich installs three new Ecumenical Canons The Revd James Ridge appointed Managing Chaplain at HM Prison On Sunday 22 January Bishop Graham Wayland. installed three new ecumenical canons to Norwich Cathedral: Pastor Jon The Revd Christopher Wood appointed Chaplain to those bereaved by suicide. Norman of Soul Church, The Very Revd David Paul, Dean of St John’s Roman The Revd Canon Phillip McFadyen Catholic Cathedral and The Revd Julian retiring on 23/4/17 as Priest-in-Charge Pursehouse, Chair of the East Anglia at St George’s Colegate (Norwich), Chaplain to the Playhouse Theatre Methodist District. (Norwich). Phillip will remain the The Bishop of Norwich said: “These “I am delighted too that Jon Norman Bishop’s Adviser for the Visual Arts and three appointments are signs of the from Soul Church has accepted my become a Canon Emeritus of Norwich good relationships between the invitation to become an ecumenical Cathedral. canon. Along with his wife Chantel, different churches in Norwich and The Revd Canon Mair McFadyen he leads a very large and growing more widely in the Diocese. I am retiring on 23/4/17 as Assistant Priest community church and has quickly delighted that Fr David Paul and at St George’s Colegate (Norwich) and become a significant church leader in The Revd Julian Pursehouse have becoming Canon Emeritus of Norwich our city, having returned after spending Cathedral. accepted my invitation to become his younger years here. We pray for ecumenical canons of our cathedral God’s blessing on the ministries of our church, illustrating the partnership in three new ecumenical canons and We are saddened to announce the gospel we enjoy with the Roman for a deepening of the relationships the deaths of: Catholic and Methodist churches. between all our churches.” Mr Michael Wigg, Reader of the >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Lowestoft St Margaret Benefice on 05/01/2017. The following have had their Permission to Officiate granted: Mrs Eirlys Johnson, Reader of the Necton The Revd Marian Bond, The Revd Andrew Thomson, The Revd Canon John Fellows, Benefice on 16/12/2016. The Revd Heather Wright, The Revd Barry Cramp, The Revd Karlene Kerr.

36 CHILDREN, YOUTH & FAMILIES EVENTS are highlighted in red

LEARNING AND TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES WHAT’S ON are highlighted in green Highlights of events and learning opportunities across the Diocese February – May 2017

For more head to www.dioceseofnorwich.org/events or follow us @DioceseNorwich

FEBRUARY MARCH Reimagining the Church? - Faith and Hope in Mission and Ministry Tuesday 14 Mar Keswick Hall Lecture - Free speech, hate Preaching John – A Day for Preachers on 9.30am - 4pm speech, faith speech John’s Gospel Address: St Luke, 61 Aylsham Road, New Saturday 25 Feb Thursday 2 Mar Catton, Norwich NR3 2HF 10am-4pm 6.30pm A Study Day for Clergy with the Very Revd Address: Weston Room, Norwich Cathedral Address: Thomas Paine Study Centre, UEA Martyn Percy exploring the challenges and NR1 4DD NR4 7TJ opportunities facing the church today. As well as looking at the major themes in When do controversial viewpoints impinge Admission: £10 John’s Gospel, we will be paying special on the dignity and rights of others? And Contact: Lesley Lofts, 01603 882338, attention to passages that will be used in the where do we draw the line? Join the debate. [email protected] Common Worship Sunday lectionary during Admission: Free Lent and Easter season 2017. Contact: Holly Leonard, 01603 591926, Keswick Hall Lecture - Faith and British Admission: £10 [email protected] politics: in conversation with Rt Hon Contact: Lesley Lofts, 01603 882338, Charles Clarke [email protected] Mission and Your Parish Church: A Norwich Cathedral Library Training Day Thursday 16 Mar 6.30pm Friday 3 Mar Address: Thomas Paine Study Centre, UEA 10am-4pm NR4 7TJ Address: Weston Room, Norwich Cathedral Charles Clarke in Conversation with a leading NR1 4DD politician about how faith shapes their Join us for a day of learning about your church’s political outlook and practice. Snowdrop Walks and Spixworth Finds potential for mission and community service. Admission: Free Exhibition Admission: £15. Price includes a light lunch Contact: Holly Leonard, 01603 591926, Sunday 26 Feb Contact: Julia Jones, 01603 218448, [email protected] 11am-4pm [email protected] Address: St Peter, Buxton Road Snowdrop and woodland walks with an NCCL: Passion plays - a user’s guide exhibition of ‘Spixworth Finds: from Ice age Saturday 4 Mar to present day’ in church. 10am-12.30pm Admission: £3 Adults, children free Address: Norwich Cathedral NR1 4DD Contact: Sheelah Cooke, 01603 898190, This seminar will look at various aspects [email protected] of the Passion Play, including origins and NCCL: Introduction to the New Testament connections with Norfolk. Saturday 18 Mar Art and Craft in a small village church Admission: £10 Sunday 26 Feb Contact: NCCL Admin Team, 10am-12.30pm 1pm - 4pm 01603 218443, Address: Norwich Cathedral NR1 4DD Address: St Margaret of Antioch, Church Road [email protected] The Revd Dr Arnold Browne leads this A149, NR11 8TW introductory session on the New Testament. Local artists will be exhibiting in this very Admission: £10 pretty and warm church every Sunday in Contact: NCCL Admin Team, 01603 218443, February, with original paintings, prints, cards [email protected] and gifts for sale. Meet the artists and find yourself a masterpiece! Keswick Hall Lecture - What are ‘British’ Praying with the elements Admission: Free values? Saturday 18 Mar Contact: Rosalie Osborne Gibb, Thursday 9 Mar 01692 500407, [email protected] 10am - 4.30pm 6.30pm Address: All Hallows Convent NR35 2DT Address: Thomas Paine Study Centre, UEA As we progress into the season of Spring, NR4 7TJ ‘British values’ is a term often cited in the let us take some time to rediscover our media and by politicians, but what do we relationship with fire, earth, air and water. Led really mean by this? Join the debate. by Sister Pamela CAH. Admission: Free Admission: £12 Contact: Holly Leonard, 01603 591926, Contact: Beccy Gosling, 01986 892749, [email protected] [email protected]

CONTINUED ON PAGE 38 37 Fakenham Choral Society spring concert – The Martha Jones Classical Mezzo Soprano Broderers’ Guild Workshop Tour Haydn’s The Creation Saturday 25 Mar Wednesday 19 Apr Saturday 18 Mar 7.30pm 2pm - 3.15pm 7.30pm Address: St David, St Davids Drive NR13 5BF Address: Norwich Cathedral NR1 4DD Address: St Peter and St Paul, Oak Street The Grace Jude Concert Series presents Take a ‘behind the scenes’ tour of the Norwich NR21 9BX Martha Jones classical mezzo soprano with Cathedral Broderers’ Guild and find out about Fakenham Choral Society perform Haydn’s piano accompaniment. how we care for and repair ecclesiastical The Creation with professional soloists and textiles, as well as design and make new Admission: £10. orchestra. frontals and vestments. Contact: Darleen Plattin, 01603 300093, Admission: £12 (under 18 free). [email protected] Admission: £5. Contact: Colin Blackmore, 01485 544335, Contact: Helen Jenkins, 01603 218326, [email protected] [email protected]

Youth Mental Health First Aid Training Spring Weekend Monday 20 Mar - Tue 21 Mar Friday 28 Apr - Sun 30 Apr 9am-5pm Address: Eaton Vale Activity Centre NR4 6NN Address: Horstead Centre NR12 7EP Spring Weekend is a chance to get away for An internationally recognised course for the weekend and spend some time with your those who teach, work, live with or care friends doing some great activities! for young people aged 11-18. The course Admission: £60. provides tools and techniques to promote Contact: Angela Fox, 07747 471221, a young person’s mental and emotional Resourcing your Parish [email protected] wellbeing to enable support for those Thursday 30 Mar who might be experiencing mental and Kids Workers Training Day emotional distress. 7pm Address: Belsey Bridge Conference Centre, Saturday 29 Apr Admission: £125 (includes lunch and Ditchingham NR35 2DZ refreshments on both days). 10am-4pm An exhibition and selection of workshops Address: Fountain of Life, The Well Contact: Anna Walker, 01603 882374, for all PCC members and all involved in [email protected] Christian Centre, Swaffham Road, Ashill, parish ministry to include practical help Thetford IP25 7BT and support, and offer access to numerous A day of encouraging and equipping all resources in one place. church children’s workers and volunteers Admission: Free. from across the region - run by Mid Norfolk Contact: Angela George, 01603 881724, Kidz Klub. [email protected] Admission: £10. Stuart Townend Contact: Maryanne Richardson, Concert 01760 441902, [email protected] Friday 31 Mar 7.30pm MAY Address: St Andrew, Church Lane/Church Road NR31 6LS Fort Rocky - Residential Weekend for A fantastic opportunity to hear one of 11-14 year olds Christian music’s most loved song writers, Stuart Townend, as part of his spring tour. Friday 5 May - Sun 7 May NCCL - Old Testament: Obedience Admission: £12.50. Address: Horstead Centre NR12 7EP Contact: St Andrews Church office, Fort Rocky is an evangelistic weekend for 11-14 Saturday 25 Mar 01493 656078, year olds. Through fun-filled games, engaging 10am-12.30pm [email protected] media, action packed outdoor activities, Address: Norwich Cathedral NR1 4DD interactive sessions, the Good News of Jesus is Turning away from disobedience, we will now shared in a creative and relevant way. look at what happens to those who obey God. APRIL Admission: CofE groups: £85 by 31 March. Admission: £45 for the whole series booked Non CofE £105 from 1 April. Adult leaders £20 together, or £10 for the individual session. per person. Please book in advance. Contact: NCCL Admin Team, 01603 218443, Reedham Passion Play Contact: Anna Walker, 01603 882374, [email protected] Friday 14 Apr [email protected] 1.30pm Address: Reedham Village Hall and through NCCL - Old Testament: Wisdom, part 1 the village NR13 3HL An Easter Passion Play on Good Friday. It will Saturday 6 May be a pilgrimage walk as we become part of 10am-12.30pm the crowd and watch the story of the passion Address: Norwich Cathedral NR1 4DD of our Lord performed at outdoor locations in The first of two sessions on the Wisdom Reedham. literature of the Old Testament. Admission: Free; donations welcomed. Admission: £45 for the whole series booked Contact: Rev Lorna Allies, 01493 296321, together, or £10 for the individual session. [email protected], or Diana Gilder, Contact: NCCL Admin Team: 01603 218443, 01493 700105, [email protected] [email protected]

38 Thy Kingdom Come Join the global wave of prayer ay ne Parishes across the Diocese in partnership with other Churches in their area are Ministries Fair encouraged to pray between Ascension Be inspired to serve God in your Day and Pentecost Sunday (in whatever church and the wider community. way they want) for others to come to There will be workshops and exhibitors know Jesus Christ. See page 33. representing ordained and lay church To launch this wave of prayer three major ministries, community projects, mission services for our Archdeaconries will be organisations and charities. held on Ascension Day (Thurs 25 May): Saturday 13 May, 10.30am – 3.30pm Norwich Cathedral Kings Lynn Minster Norwich Cathedral Great Yarmouth Minster Entry is free and there is no need to book. 7.30pm 7pm 7pm Contact: David Foster on 01603 882337 Led by the Led by the Led by the Find out more at: Bishop of Lynn Bishop of Norwich Archdeacon of Norfolk www.dioceseofnorwich.org/event?id=9128

RESOURCING YOUR PARISH An exhibition and workshops for all involved in parish ministry

Thursday 30 March Wednesday 10 May Saturday 20 May Good News for God’s Earth Ditchingham Fakenham Norwich A day of presentations, conversations, 7pm – 9.30pm 7pm – 9.30pm 10am – 12.30pm activities and worship, with guests Belsey Bridge Conference Fakenham Academy, Open Academy, leading workshops, helping us to Centre, NR35 2DZ Field Lane, NR21 9QT Salhouse Road, NR7 9DL consider our Christian concern for the environment. Saturday 6 May, 10am – 4.30pm An opportunity to gain practical help and support and access numerous resources in one place. Speak to Diocesan sta and o cers as well as local/national organisations The Green Britain Centre, Turbine Way, to receive advice in a whole range of areas: church  nance, childrens & youth work, Swa ham, PE37 7HT lay & ordained ministry, marketing & communications, grants & funding and more. £20 with lunch; £10 without (bring your own). Please book in advance Come with several people from you church. Details of workshops are online. Contact: Liz Dawess on 01603 882355 Free to attend but please book in advance at: Find out more at: www.dioceseofnorwich.org/event?id=8587 www.dioceseofnorwich.org/exhibition or call Angela George on 01603 880853 © Ben Smith The Bishop’s Day of Bank Holiday Monday 1 May Celebration and Prayer 10am 3pm at olterton Hall near Aylsham A day for everyone across the Diocese to come together to celebrate and inyoon ini Reeshmens ae pray. Mark Russell, Chief Executive a mae ie and hilden yoh aiiies of the Church Army, will be the guest A fun run or walk family day speaker. There will be much more information to follow, but please et sponsored and raise money for your church make a note of the date now! and the ast Anglian Air Ambulance Saturday 14 October, 9.30am – 4.30pm Norwich Cathedral. Free entry.

Reise in adane o yo day ieeny e eson ole o amily Find out more at: www.dioceseofnorwich.org/charge 01362 688032 www.dioceseofnorwich.org/event?id=9129 Shoot the vicar!

By Tim Rogers

and celebrate how the church acts out God’s love” said Gordon Darley, The Diocese of Norwich is Marketing & Communications Manager launching a photography for the Diocese. “This is a competition for everybody, old and young, whether competition on 1 March they go to church or not, to capture the called ‘Capturing the essence of what an active church actually Church in Norfolk’. This looks like.” competition is all about What makes this competition extra special is how the winners will be putting your creative chosen: the best six photos from each photography skills to the test age category – 16 and under, and 17 and over – will tour Norfolk, making by capturing what you think week-long stops at five churches: King’s is ‘the church in action’. Lynn Minster, Cromer Parish Church, Great Yarmouth Minster, St Stephen’s Norwich and Wymondham Abbey. The Give your details, including the age finalist’s photos will also be a showcased category and a little bit of information t could be a local parent and toddler at the Royal Norfolk Show in June. about each photograph you choose to group meeting regularly at the upload. You will also need to make sure church, a local coffee morning, or a At each stop, everyone who visits the that you have the permission of anybody dementia group. It could be a church church will have the opportunity to vote in the photograph, for you to use the group that goes out into the community for their favourite photograph. Alongside photo for the competition. The deadline is to serve and support the people in the professional judges, the two winners from Wednesday 31 May. Icommunity. Your photos could be inside each category will then be announced a church, outside a church or not by a and prizes awarded at a special award This is a great competition for budding church at all! What you do need to show ceremony at Wymondham Abbey at the and enthusiastic photographers who want in each picture is how the local church, end of Open Churches Week. to get their work noticed by a wide range of people. So get your camera out and whether as a building or a group of Entering the competition is simple. Once people, is serving their community. start snapping. you have taken your photos, upload “We want to highlight to non-Christians them to our competition page on the For more information visit what the church really is, and encourage Diocesan website, (see address below). www.dioceseofnorwich.org/photos