ST CHUR RI CH CH

summer Christ Church, Copse Hill, West Wimbledon, SW20 0HG 2 0 1 7

Suggested donation: £2.50

Welcome The power of prayer everyone... In our noisy busy ...and a very warm world there are few welcome to Michael places where we Burns, our - in -Charge. Thank can find stillness, so let’s you all who have make our lovely church a contributed such house of prayer, writes interesting articles, especially Michael Michael Burn... who was very keen n Acts 1/14, we read: “All were to contribute from constantly devoting themselves the start. Naomi to prayer”. And it is prayer that is and I would be the crucial and most important very pleased to aspectI of our faith – as it is of many have your thoughts faiths. Prayer is what we are called and comments on to do – for without prayer nothing this edition and, of will happen or work properly. It is course, ideas for the almost always when we can do next one. You can get nothing else that we can at least pray. in touch by emailing For it is prayer that marks us out as me at brendafclark@ people of faith. btinternet.com, or When the news broke of the having a chat after terrible and evil terrorist attacks services to Naomi recently in Manchester and London, and myself. many millions will have prayed – because there was nothing else we could do. I’ve found myself repeating Brenda Continued on next page

In the beginning was the word...... well, actually three words. In preparation for Michael’s licensing on Wednesday 26th April, the children collaged letter tiles, which spelled out “Welcome to Michael” and suspended them across the stage in the Church hall. See page 8 for more from the festivities on Michael’s special evening... 2

Harry’s communion service Once a month a group of us from Christ Church visit Harry Watson in his home at Carter House and hold a small Communion service with him. We use the readings and hymns from that Continued from previous page Sunday’s 10am service – with some impressive singing by all and Brenda on the piano. We’re these words from an Iona liturgy: our lovely church is for – to be a house often joined by some of the residents who “Goodness is stronger than lies; of prayer where we can find stillness, appreciate it very much. The next service is on Light is stronger than darkness; quiet. I yearn for Christ Church to be Sunday 6th August afterthe 10am service. If you Love is stronger than evil; known as a place where prayer has can join us please add your name to the list or let Life is stronger than death”. soaked into the walls. Yes, lots of words me know. Lifts are available. Hazel Bate After his ascension, Jesus left are spoken, lots of music is played and human beings to carry on his work of sung – but also this must be a place spreading goodness, light, love, life. where quiet and stillness abounds. And maybe it is the word ‘beings’ I found this recently which spoke to For all the Saints... which is crucial – for as someone has me as it might to you: put it we are human beings and not “Be silent. Be still. Alone. Empty human doings. Sometimes we just before your God. Say nothing. Ask have to try ‘to be’ much more than nothing. Be silent. Be still. Let your God July 25th we have try ‘to do’. look upon you. That is all. God knows. But do remember one important God understands. God loves you with James the point. We don’t actually have to use an enormous love, and only wants to apostle words to pray. For many it is enough to look upon you with that love. Quiet. be still, quiet, silent. Of course in our Still. Be. Let your God love you”. noisy busy world there are few places where we can find stillness, quiet – but ames was one of the Twelve Apostles maybe that is exactly what a place like of Jesus, and traditionally Jconsidered the first apostle to be martyred. He was a son of Zebedee and Salome, and brother of John the Quiet before the10am service Apostle. Saint James is the patron saint of Spain and, according to legend, his hrist Church is a very friendly church and everyone likes to chat – a remains are held in Santiago de very attractive and important feature of this church. However, many Compostela in Galicia – the name people also appreciate some quiet time before the service begins. C Santiago is the local evolution of the Can we encourage you, once the organ starts to play at 9.55, to get into the habit of sitting quietly as we get ready for the service to begin? Obviously Latin Sanctu Iacobu, “Saint James”. the stewards will need to continue welcoming people as they arrive, but it The traditional pilgrimage to the grave would be good if we can try to reduce unnecessary chat to a minimum. A of the saint, known as the ‘Way of St. helpful mantra to remember is: “Before the service speak to God. During James’, has been a popular pilgrimage the service let God speak to you. After the service speak to each other!” since the Middle Ages and its modern Michael Burns revival stems from Walter Starkie’s 1957 book The Road to Santiago. 3

Our Church Can I hear bells? Yes, and contrary to popular belief, they’re not a recording – there is someone actually up there ringing! Wendy Hamilton gives us a tour of the belfry...

have been surprised to discover that many people believe our bells to be mechanical! But am happy to report‘I that there is a person pulling the six ropes in different sequences. The ropes are attached to our six beautiful and very heavy bells by a series of pulleys. They were cast in the 19th century at a foundry in Loughborough. I often wonder how they were transported to Christ Church. Was it on a cart along the Ridgway, and was there a ceremony for their first ringing? We now only have four people who ring regularly. Gerald Bates rings conscientiously once a month, John Davey mostly at Evensong and Simon Rocksborough Smith and I when ever we can. We make sure there is always someone available for weddings. You can play hymns and other Approached via the vestry, the belfry (above) is 47 steps up a spiral staircase. The six bells are tunes on them if there are only six housed in the steeple which has air vents, so is cold in the winter, but the pulley cubicle has a heater! notes in the melody, but we mostly play traditional “changes” which have been rung by bell ringers over the ages. We have charts propped up in front of us for that purpose (some must be decades old) but I very much doubt whether any one would notice if we pulled the wrong rope! The cubicle where the pulleys are is about the size of a phone box so it’s a one man operation but a really happy and satisfying experience and not heavy work. We would love to welcome more volunteers who’d like to have a go –and can manage the 47 steps up the spiral staircase to the belfry! Please have a word with Michael or the Wardens if you think you might be interested. 4

We are the meeters and greeters ’ve been part of the stewarding team at Christ ‘I Church for several years. Pat Spencer organises the rota and we are each on duty every four weeks. Every Sunday there is a team of four, two at each entrance – but this is becoming difficult as we are short of volunteers at the moment. I arrive at church about half an hour before the 10am service to Cabaret & goulash! put the service sheets, weekly news-sheets and hymn books Christ Church Social together to give out to the Committee certainly Christ Church Goulash congregation as they arrive. We know how to put on great aim to be a welcoming team, YOU WILL NEED stock, passata, especially looking out for visitors entertainment and raise • 1 kg stewing steak tomato puree and and new people. We also take the funds to boot... cut into cubes peppers, stirring all collection bags around during the • 3-4 tbsp. seasoned the time. singing of a hymn. At the end of n May 6th we were treated flour Add bouquet garni. the service we collect up the books to a musical evening • 3 tbsp cooking oil 3 Transfer to an and service sheets and tidy up the straight from the West End • 3 onions chopped ovenproof dish and church generally. in the form of Fenton and • 2 green peppers cook at 180c until We really do need some more OMiller. Fenton, accompanied by one deseeded and sliced bubbling and then stewards to carry out this very of the UK’s most accomplished • Half a pint of beef turn the oven down important role. If you think you pianists and composers Charles stock and cook slowly until might like to do it, please have a Miller, started the show with the • 1 x 500 ml carton the meat is tender. word with Pat or one of the ‘MC’ number from the show passata Cook at 180c to begin stewards. Thank you. Paul Sinclair Cabaret and announced that • 3 tbsp tomato puree with. Cooking time everyone was beautiful – even our or paste 2-3 hours. new Vicar! • 3 tsp (or to taste) 4 Before serving, Christ Church This magnificent duo featured paprika pepper remove bouquet West Wimbledon songs by Noel Coward, Ivor • 1 bouquet garni garni, adjust Novello and Gilbert & Sullivan, seasoning if seeks a Director culminating in an Old Time Music METHOD necessary and stir of Music/Organist Hall selection including songs 1 Brown meat in the the goulash well. made famous by Fenton’s Great oil, small quantities at Serve with sour Christ Church is an inclusive, liberal, welcoming Anglican Grandfather, the music hall a time and set aside. cream or natural Church with a good music comedian Dan Crawley. Add chopped onion yoghurt. tradition. For full details visit Dee, Muks and Elaine (with to the pan and cook www.christchurch- helpers) produced a wonderful feast until softened. westwimbledon.org or contact and we’ve had so many requests for 2 Add flour, stir with Michael Burns at the recipe that we have decided to onions and then [email protected] or on print it here. We raised over £800 gradually add the 020 8540 5279 and a great evening was had by all. 5 Thank you to the wardens What would we have done without them...

n 23rd April,just before priest in charge. Micheal’s licensing, a During a difficult interregnum presentation was Sal and Julie had the made to Sal and Julie responsibility for keeping the toO express the congregation’s church functioning Sunday by gratitude for everything they had Sunday with the task of finding done for Christ Church during the to preside at two vacancy. Jenny Tomlinson, who Eucharistic services every week. had been warden with Sue Many of them returned on a semi Rocksborough-Smith during the regular basis which was a last vacancy in 2003, said that blessing and they became there were many problems this familiar friends, offering fresh time which she and Sue had insights and different never had to face. approaches. When Richard left, Julie and Sal Christ Church remained expected that the vicarage/hall a worshipping church with building project would soon be numbers intact, ready to under way. They had no idea that welcome Michael in good heart in August, just as they were and with expectation. It was preparing to advertise the post of due to Julie and Sal that the vicar, the diocese would withdraw church was in this position and from the project leaving the congregation wanted to complete uncertainty as to where show them how much their the new vicar would live. They work was appreciated. handled the situation calmly, with Elaine, Pat and Lynda much careful thought and presented flowers and gifts discussion, first with the PCC and from the congregation. Rich, then with the diocese, so that Tish, Lucy and the choir led the eventually there were assurances singing – a rendidtion of Abba’s for the housing of the new vicar. It ‘Thank you for the music’ with was a great relief to everyone the new words ‘Thank you to when, late in December, Michael the wardens’ – and then there Burns was appointed as our new were celebratory drinks. 6 Tree of life service Brenda Clark went to this annual event at St Georges Hospital where tribute is paid to the many people who have Cheerio to ELIZABETH donated life-saving organs and tissues over the last year... Elizabeth Flemming has been a regular total of 76 lives have been Before coming to the service they member of our congregation for many saved thanks to 29 organ had been asked to write a few words years – sitting in same seat near the front of donors and their families about their loved one. These had been the church. It is only in recent weeks that consenting to organ donation inscribed on to a lovely plastic leaf and we realised she wasn’t in church. She has Aover the last year – and even more at the end of the service these were been having health problems and has lives have been transformed from given to the bereaved to place on a decided that she would be better moving tissue and eye donations. I went with a “Tree of Life” on a wall in the hospital. down to Salisbury to be near her daughter, friend – whose wife had died in a tragic These will remain in place for five Jenny. She is, of course, missing the accident at a bowls club – to the years. It was very moving and spiritual community at Christ Church and has sent service led by the hospital chaplain, occasion. a postcard to Pat thanking everyone for for friends and relatives to share There are around 6,500 people their good wishes. If you would like to get experiences and memories. waiting for an organ transplant across in touch with Elizabeth please contact me Many members of the staff were the UK and on average three people at [email protected]. We will present and were clearly very moved die every day who are in need of an send her the Parish Magazine along with when relatives read out memories and organ transplant because there are our love and prayers stories about their loved ones, not enough donors. especially emphasising how much it If you would like to know more had helped them to know that new life about organ donation visit had been given to many people. organdonation.nhs.uk.

Nature’s bounty Abundance Fruit Day is our annual event. This year it’s on Saturday 16th Sept, 11am – 2pm at St Mark’s Church garden. Entry is FREE. Come and get some ultra-fresh juice from the fruit press or buy homemade jam, chutneys and cakes and enjoy the music and games. If you are able to donate your fruit or if you’d like to help in any way, please contact abundancewimbledon@ gmail.com or call Juliet o2o8 946 2514. www.abundancewimbledon.com

PRAYER Put the desire in me only for those things that you desire me to know, to have, and to love This beautiful tree was created by the children at the Good Friday Service – a vibrant service of prayer, song and activities aimed at families 7

CELEBRATING PENTECOST OBITUARY AT CHRIST CHURCH Each year on Pentecost Sunday we celebrate the Birthday of the Church worldwide – 2100 years old. Michael Barbara Tanner explained the meaning of this feast with the aid of balloons and bubbles to show 4th July 1917 – 13th May 2017 how inert things can be filled with the Spirit. What a lovely way to get across Lynda Coleman and Mair Rabagliati remember such an important message! a much loved member of our congregation Stewart Sanson who so very nearly made her 100th birthday...

ou may Black and Chiltern, the wardens’ pew remember a and eventually because she sat there beautifully became a model for when Stan was presented and their clothes. She churchwarden. charmingY lady, married Stan in 1940 Barbara was a very elegantly walking and they moved to independent lady, a down the aisle to Edge Hill Court which full-time mother and receive commumion is when they became housewife. She played despite being well into members of Christ tennis and bowls and her 10th decade. This Church. After their two was involved with Bible Our toddler group was Barbara Tanner – children, Paul and groups at church and This group was started in 1975 long time member of Susan were born they the Friday Group. If you and its’ aim was to provide a meeting Christ Church and wife moved to New Malden. went to her house and place on a regular weekly basis for of Stan (church Stan died in 1989 and she offered you a cup mothers, grandparents, nannies and warden in the 1970s). was always sadly of tea, it really was a au pairs to get together. For many it was Barbara was born in missed. There is a tree cup of tea out of a the only place and opportunity for them Southfields, the outside the East teapot – no mugs! to meet, and for children to take part youngest of five window dedicated to Her concentration, in play activities. There would often children. She worked him, and she always stamina and sharp wit be a popular music session with singing as a dressmaker at sat in the pew behind in her 100th year was plus actions! The great highlight was amazing. She was a the Christmas party. It was a new gracious, loving lady, venture in the area at that time. an inspiration to us all We still have the equipment in the hall and will be sadly missed. and it would be wonderful if it could be started again in September. Volunteers Left: The Friday Group would be on a rota basis to help with met on the 4th July, setting up, refreshments etc. If you think which would have been you might be interested please get in Barbara’s 100th touch with our Vicar, Michael Burns at birthday, to raise a [email protected] glass to her We look forward to hearing from you. 8

The service was led by the Right Reverend , Bishop of Southwark (forth from the right) and the sermon was delivered by the Venerable , Archdeacon of Lambeth (fourth from the left) Welcome to Michael Michael Burns’ licensing as our Priest in Charge on April 26th was a very moving occasion, full of spirit, sights, sounds and warmth. Chris Larkham reports...

ur lovely church was full with Michael to involve us all working with him parishioners, Michael and his in celebrating Christ’s life, death and family and friends from resurrection in our small part of the Potters Bar, our MP and our world at this time in history. Simon, our Mayor,O our Bishop, clergy and Archdeacon gave Michael a lock and a representatives of clergy from other key, reflecting in his sermon on our denominations. ministry to open Members of the congregation ensured there was a fabulous spread to welcome all the The church was ‘Simon, our ‘locked doors’ citing guests including many from Michael’s old beautifully lit, the organ the disciples locking parish of King Charles the Martyr, Potters Bar playing loudly, the choir Archdeacon, gave themselves up ‘for fear singing at its best (not of the Jews’. (This left to mention the Michael a lock and many of us wondering congregation!), and the a key, reflecting in where he’d borrowed Easter flowers still the lock from!) looking beautiful. In the his sermon on our The celebration midst of all this the ministry to open ended in the church celebration felt to me to hall where members of be about what we are all ‘locked doors’’ the congregation about as a church. The provided a really service celebrated splendid array of food and drink, our mission as a community with accompanied by gentle jazz music Michael’s role in it. played by Dee Barbar’s son, Ed and his It was so great to be welcoming pianist. My last words to Michael were: Michael to our parish as our new vicar. ‘Welcome, Michael, and make sure all Julie welcomed Councillor Brenda Fraser, Mayor Yet the service seemed to go beyond parties are as good as this one!’ of Merton and her consort to the ceremony 9

Richard Cheetham, , was given a A throng of friends, old and new, helped mark the beginning of Michael’s new preview of the welcome banner that the children had made ministry at Christ Church with the spirit of friendship and warmth

Above from left: Ian Christie and Mike Hammond on bar duties; Julia Warner and Tish Mousell tempted the guests with a smorgasbord of tasty delights

Above: Ed Barbar’s jazz duo, The Blues and Roots Above from left: our amazing Parish Administrator, Sara Taylor; Reverend Les Wells Ensemble, ensured toes were tapping all evening and Musical Director, Richard Hall; Church Warden Sal Edmunds

Above centre: MP, Stephen Hammond was one of the many local dignitaries and leaders who gave personal welcomes to Michael during the service Left: Fond farewells from some of Michael’s old parishioners who made the journey from Potters Bar to help celebrate Michaels special evening 10

PCC News

The PCC meeting on the 15th June was an open evening where the congregation were invited to have their say about the future of our Church Hall . PCC secretary, which would then be rented or sold, agreed that something needs to be done to Debbie Morley reports... (involving a partnership with a developer). provide better facilities – kitchen, toilets, All the options were discussed. The idea of meeting rooms, parking and a parish office. selling land to a developer was mostly What are the options? greeted with caution, although it does have Time and financial factors On Thursday 15th June there was a the attraction of raising money. However, it We also discussed the factors of time and consultation meeting in church at 8pm to could result in a land-locked hall and money. Do we want a quick solution and discuss the future of our church hall as the doubts were raised about sharing our site how much money do we think we are diocese have pulled out of the building with independent neighbours. capable of fundraising? It was thought that development project. Rev. Mike Burns there would not be much access to grants chaired the meeting with members of the Our objectives for such a project. We do have some funds PCC present to answer questions. Around The discussion also raised an interesting available but fundraising would be 35 members of the congregation attended point – what do we want our buildings to be essential. We must also consider who is the very well-run meeting and most of used for? Do we want to raise money by going to be our project manager – we those present aired their views. selling land? Do we want a hall which is may have to pay for this service as the Prior to the meeting a leaflet had been mainly rented out to third parties – which previous Building Development circulated from the PCC to set out the would provide an income but may preclude Committee is no longer in existence. options available to us which include: us from using it as much as we would like There are lots of things to consider and • refurbishing the current hall for church and community activities? the PCC will do so, based on the views • demolishing it and rebuilding it to modern Some people were of the point of view expressed at the meeting and the replies standards, with or without a dwelling that we have a responsibility to provide which are sent in on the forms available place on the site. new, modern buildings suitable for future in church. Have you made your point of • building a physical link between the hall generations to use. Others felt strongly that view heard? The next PCC meeting is in and the church. we should refurbish our existing, sturdy hall July and more updates will be available • Developing a new hall with a new house, and make the most of its attributes. All after the meeting.

Our young people A roaring success You can’t beat a game of dinosaur golf! The Kung Fu Hamsters had their annual visit to the Golf Range in Raynes Park for the keenly fought ‘Dinosaur Golf’ tournament. This year we had a full complement of Hamsters, and we were joined by John Tasch and Mike Burns, our Vicar. The adults did their best (I have been playing golf four about 15 years), but we just couldn’t beat Harry Naylor (6th from the left). A resounding victory! Tish Mousell 11

For all the Saints... August 31st Aidan of Lindisfarne

idan was an Irish monk and missionary credited with restoring Christianity to A Northumbria. He founded a monastic cathedral on the island of Lindisfarne, known as Lindisfarne Priory, served as its first bishop and travelled ceaselessly throughout the countryside, spreading the gospel to both the Anglo-Saxon nobility and to the socially disenfranchised (including children and slaves). Reflecting his Irish origins, his Scottish A call for help... monasticism and his ministry to the English, Aidan has been proposed as a possible While teaching in Mongolia, Mark Adams patron saint of the UK. (ex-church warden at Christ Church) helped at a hospital in Ullaanbaatar. Here he explains how simple, creative activities have made the world of difference for those in need and how you could help

ongolia is a stunningly Our plans for next year, which beautiful country with will be my final year in Mongolia, a huge variety of are threefold. We would like to terrain, and weather decorate two children’s wards Min the extreme. It has a rich history and the small playroom on the and a family-centred culture. ward. And we would like to supply At the end of my first year here shower heads for bed baths, and working as a teacher, I made a back rests for the rigid iron beds connection with a hospital in so that patients can sit up MICHAEL’S MISCELLANY one of the poorest districts in comfortably. To raise money for LAMBETH PALACE GARDENS... Ulaanbaatar which serves this I ran the UB Marathon on are open on the first Friday of each month some of the city residents who 20th May this year. I have spent (from April 7 to September 1) from 12noon till are most in need. much of the year training, and 3pm. There is no need to book – £5 is payable Over the past year I have was over the moon when I on entry and teas and coffees are available. Why worked with the hospital to crossed the finishing line in a time not combine a visit to this lovely garden with develop an activity afternoon of 3hrs, 47mins, 15seconds! going to the Garden Museum next door. for children once a month. The The congregation of Christ WESTMINSTER ABBEY PASS activities are simple, creative Church have been incredibly I now have a Parish Pass which allows up to and colourful – activities which supportive in the past. If you 4 adults to visit the Abbey free of charge. Let many children in the UK would would like to support our plans for me know if you would like to borrow the pass. take for granted. next year a donation would be On more than one occasion, very much appreciated – CONFIRMATION a parent has said “I have never whatever you can spare. You I am hoping to gather together both adults and picked up paper, scissors and can either do a bank transfer at: young people (in two separate groups) who might glue, or made things like this with Mr M J Adams.Halifax Acc: like to be prepared for Confirmation, starting in the my child”. The children’s eyes light 00260042. Sort Code: 110086, autumn. If you would like to register your interest up when they see the toy cars, or give me a cash donation when email [email protected]. There is a letter in train set and play-doh. I am home in the summer. Church with further details. 12

christ church charities Faith in Action This local charity provides support for all homeless people in the area. They are open on Wednesdays and Fridays at the Salvation Army Hall in Wimbledon, and all users are provided with hot meals, clothes, and support for getting work and accommodation. If you have any clothing no longer required which you think would be suitable please leave it at the back of church in a bag labelled FIA. They also appreciate new underwear and socks. In a nutshell with www.mertonfaithinaction.org Honour for local charity Judith Sanson Christian CARE Association is very pleased to announce that it has received The Queen’s Award Judith has known Christ Church since she was a child. for Voluntary Service, described as the MBE for Here is a whistle-stop tour of her life... charities. Christian CARE received its citation on 5th July in the City of London. hrist Church came into first job at the United Nations The charity has its roots in Lent discussion groups my life in 1942 when HQ in New York, and later went on the theme of Who is my neighbour held in 1967. It my father, Edward to San Francisco for the Asia is delighted to receive the award in its 50th year. It is George Ashford was Foundation Book Program. entirely run by volunteers and supported mainly by appointedC here. Six There were many memorable the local churches and individuals. happy years followed before moments in my travels Christian CARE works with individuals and my father was appointed Vicar including being the sole woman families in the London Borough of Merton who are to Kings Norton, a large on a bus travelling up the Kyber experiencing problems such as isolation, lack of industrial parish, south of Pass, in Afghanistan – money, lack of adequate housing, possible eviction, Birmingham. Perhaps it was alarming! But this was nothing unresolved immigration status or domestic violence. moving to such a different compared to the immense It tries to help in a practical way, providing food, environment and starting to kindness and courtesy of the furniture, childrens’ clothes and befriending, and read books by Charles Dickens majority of people I met. arranges activities for children such as outing to the that my social conscience and Since 2006 I have worked seaside and an annual party. desire to understand much for Dyslexia International Could you help – even in a small way? To see more about the world was NGO – an organisation moreinfo visit www.christiancaremerton.org. awakened. Championing those supporting children worldwide uk or see our leaflet at the back of the church whose human rights are with difficulties in reading Pat Spencer, Honorary Secretary ignored and whose voices are and writing. The organisation not heard became- and has been officially recognised remains- my leading interest. by UNESCO. I travelled the world after my I hope that Christ Church will always remain the loving ‘I hope that and caring community that In Jesus’s footsteps… it is now and has always been ‘But love ye your enemies, and do good and lend, Christ Church since I was a child. We must be hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will always able to respond to the many shall be great, and ye shall be the children of immediate challenges- the Highest.’ Luke 6:35 remain the loving particularly to those who are Junior Church recently learnt about giving and denied their right to read, not expecting anything in return – which is what and caring write and have an education Jesus asked his disciples to do when he sent community that it that makes it possible for them them out to spread the word. The children made to integrate into society and to and coloured beautiful bookmarks (see left for is now and has contribute to the economy of Eric’s creation) and distributed them as gifts always been since their country. to the congregation – to people they didn’t know For more information visit or didn’t know very well. I was a child’ www.dyslexia-international.org 13

Junior church Book Club News Without roots and nourishment nothing can grow. Without relationships and context we are poor learners. For both and their understanding there is nothing like a good book, says Colin Holloway

Austin and Eric n recent months the Book Club has were three-legged enjoyed plenty to stimulate and feed champions upon. Our Lent Book, Does the Bible Really Say That? by Mark Woods, Iinvited us to look beyond proof texts to the Better together larger truths of Scripture. In April Weatherland by Alexandra Harris took us n the Sunday when we heard from Matthew 11: into the extraordinary richness of English ‘For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light’, the weather and its interpretation and effect on our life children were learning about these wonderfully O and culture. In May, reading Golden Hill by Francis encouraging words by running three-legged races! Spufford, we were bustled into 18th Century They were bound to each other (like we are bound to Manhattan, a society struggling to establish its God) and placing their trust in their three-legged values amid the hectic pace of change. By contrast partners (as we should trust in God to lighten our our June choice, Death in Venice by Thomas Mann burdens). And as if this wasn’t enough to illustrate was about the disintegration of high-minded idealism into how working in partnership achieves so much more, delusion and dishonour. The Essex Serpent by Sarah Perry, our the children then took hundreds of photos to use in a July read, another prize-winning historical novel, is set in the collage that we are creating for a nationwide inter- social and intellectual turmoil of late 1890s. church competition. We start our Autumn programme with East West Street by Philippe Sands. This extraordinary book weaves the gripping story of three survivors of Jewish families from the same Polish Activity Afternoon city who shaped the nature of post-war justice and human rights e hold this event every year for children from law. In October we shall be back on the Yorkshire moors with The Hollymount School and Junior Church at Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Bronte. W Christ Church. It was two hours of action- We meet in houses in the locality and welcome new and packed fun – games, an obstacle course, cooking and occasional members. The discussion is always lively, guided by gardening. One of the highlights was Narae showing questions which keep us on track without limiting opinion. The us how to decorate biscuits. Everyone, including the flavour of the book is more important than cover-to-cover leaders wanted to have a go. Michael joined in for the expertise. Meetings are hosted but not led, and if we have chosen whole event and during a busy patch took over the a Church Times Reading Group suggestion, there is a useful role of pizza oven king! What was really lovely was critique to conclude the session. seeing the older children (who are now Kung Fu Coming up... Hamsters) helping out – Eleftheria and Amy in • 8pm, 12th September at 205 Cottenham Park Road to discuss particular. We hope to see you there next year! East West Street • 8pm, 10th October at 3 Elm Walk to discuss The Tenant of Wildfell Hall Further details and questions are to be found at the cross-aisle before meetings.

CALLING ALL MUSICIANS Could you help us out while we look for a new Director of Music/ Organist by accompanying on organ, piano or another suitable instrument for our 10am service? See Michael if you can assist 14

Here to listen and support

‘My husband died a year ago. I was OK at the time, but now I can’t cope any more. Am I going mad?’. This, and ‘Do not be afraid’ many other emotions like these are When the young people created a banner to mark the the kind that our bereavement 40th anniversary of Michael becoming a , service, headed by Chris Larkham, he was enormously moved... cope with on a weekly basis... or Michael, this unexpected am settling in Wimbledon – and, ne of our volunteers was there to listen gesture had come at just the now, I can firmly say a loud ‘yes’. ‘ and be with the lady who spoke the Fright time – making him feel at He was particularly drawn to O above words. She is just one example of home at Christ Church. The a phrase on the banner saying the 110 people referred to us since we started previous day he had been at the St ‘Do not fear’. And asked all of us – eighteen months ago. We provide a free and Albans Festival and had met up with but especially the children who confidential one to one support to people who some old friends – making him feel are moving up in school at this have had a bereavement, recently or in the past. a bit homesick for Hertfordshire. time of year – to take strength Last autumn we had a recruitment drive Not just that, but his old parish from the phrase. for volunteer befrienders. This time we hadn’t been able to appoint a Forty years ago as he was additionally targetted people in the local successor first time putting his dog area by advertising in residents’ association round and this had ‘People ask me collar on for the newsletters. We were amazed at both the added to his sense of first time and number and quality of those who applied. guilt at having left in if I am settling starting to prepare We currently have 12 volunteers. Three the first place. Then, in – and, now, his first sermon he quarters of the referrals were as a result of when the Bishop of knew it was with recommendations from local GPs. We have Hertford asked him if I can firmly say God’s help that he assisted people in a variety of situations of I wanted to come a loud ‘yes’’ was able to do this. bereavement, including a disturbing number back to Potters Bar ‘We are all on of suicides. We have worked with people who he returned to Christ a journey – a have suffered cot deaths and still-births, and Church with mixed emotions. journey with God’ he said. ‘Of people who have lost their children, and, of So with the presentation of the course, when we travel we are course, older people. cake, fizz and banner out of the blue encouraged to take out travel Our volunteers are vetted, trained and are on the Sunday morning his insurance. For Christians, as we supported by professional counsellors, ‘discombobulation’ disappeared. travel through life on our pilgrim primarily for people living in the Raynes Park ‘Many of the clergy who came here journey, there is the added area, but it is open to requests from elsewhere. during the vacancy have told me automatic insurance we are given The service is managed by Christ Church and is what a welcoming and friendly that God promises he is with us, open to people of all faiths and none. congregation there is at Christ holding and protecting us on our • We can be contacted on 07914 263420 or Church’ he said. ‘People ask me if I journey. Do not fear.’ [email protected]. There are also cards available at the cross aisle at church. 15

Legacies Our generous spirits The goodwill of members of our congregation who have died has been a blessing to us all at Christ Church and the effects of their generosity will benefit generations to come, says Pat Spencer

n 2016 Christ Church expert on wild flowers, painting was a teacher at Poplar was fortunate to receive many (see right). A skilled Primary School and a keen bequests totalling needlewoman, she joined the tennis and badminton player. £162,410 from the Christ Church Dorcas group She enjoyed outings as a Iestates of three past members where handicrafts were made member of the Wimbledon of the congregation. and sold for charity. She was National Trust. She died at the The money came at a very also a member of discussion age of 90 in July 2016 after opportune moment, when the and prayer groups. several years of failing health future of the hall was uncertain Mary Quilter joined Christ though she continued to have and regular bookings had Church after Celia Thomson a very positive attitude. ceased, dramatically reducing had conducted her mother’s We would like to say say a the income from the hall. Also funeral in 1996. When Mary collective ‘thank you’ to these the long awaited replacement moved to Godstone and ladies and to all the others of the church heating system couldn’t find a church where who have left bequests to the was installed at a cost of more she felt at home, she came church in the past. The Betty Cutchey than £67,000. The donors back regularly, also joining the Truman and Christy legacies would have been delighted to Friday Group. She continued made it possible to refurbish know how important their to make the journey with the areas of the church. Half the legacies were to us. assistance of her daughter, cost of the present lighting Betty Cutchey died in Lisa, until two weeks before came from Joyce Ridding’s November 2014 at the age of she died in 2015. legacy and other bequests 96. She’d moved to Wimbledon Jean Taylor had a long have provided altar frontals with her husband after the connection with Christ and hangings. Second World War and Church. She’d moved to Have you considered leaving became a member of Christ Lambton Rd with her parents money to the church? For more Church. She enjoyed walking in the late 1940s and became information speak to Michael Mary Quilter on the common and was an a regular worshipper. She or one of the churchwardens.

21st MAY Lily Eva MASEFIELD-COXON Michael’s first baptism at Christ Church

BAPTISMS Did you know we send ‘Anniversary of baptism’ cards for each child/ 11th JUNE 25th JUNE person who has been baptised at Nicholas John Eliana Victoria ROSE Christ Church? We send them on the ANSBRO We welcome you all into the anniversary of their baptism for family at Christ Church five years after that date. 16 Summer Diary 2017

Sunday 23rd July Sunday 6th August Sunday 27th August Wednesday 13th September 6th Sunday after Trinity 8th Sunday after Trinity 11th Sunday after Trinity 8pm PCC Meeting, Truman 8am BCP Holy 8am BCP Holy 8am BCP Holy Room Communion Communion Communion 10am Parish Eucharist 10am Parish Eucharist 10am Parish Eucharist Sunday 17th September 6.30pm BCP Evensong 11.30am Family Service, with 6.30pm BCP Evensong 14th Sunday after Trinity Baptism 8am BCP Holy Monday 24th July 6.30pm BCP Evensong Tuesday 29th August Communion 7.30pm Brass Group 11am Morning Prayer 10am Parish Eucharist Monday 7th August 6.30pm BCP Evensong Tuesday 25th July 7.30pm Brass Group Thursday 31st August 11am Morning Prayer 3pm Tea, in church garden Monday 18th September Tuesday 8th August 7.30pm Brass Group Thursday 27th July 11am Morning Prayer Sunday 3rd September (Parish Office closed until 12th Sunday after Trinity Tuesday 19th September Tuesday 8th August) Sunday 13th August 8am BCP Holy 11am Morning Prayer 3pm ‘Together on 9th Sunday after Trinity Communion 11.30am Merton Deanery Thursdays’ 10am Celebrate Together Chapter Meeting Strawberry Tea, 8am BCP Holy 6.30pm Evening Prayer Church Garden Communion Sunday 24th September 10am Parish Eucharist Monday 4th September 15th Sunday after Trinity Friday 28th July 6.30pm BCP Evensong 7.30pm Brass Group 8am BCP Holy 7.30pm Adult Choir Communion Monday 14th August Tuesday 5th September 10am Parish Eucharist Sunday 30th July 7.30pm Brass Group 11am Morning Prayer 6.30pm Evening Prayer 7th Sunday after Trinity (Prudential Ride London) Tuesday 15th August Sunday 10th September Monday 25th September 8am BCP Holy 11.00am Morning Prayer 13th Sunday after Trinity 7.30pm Brass Group Communion 8am BCP Holy 10am Parish Eucharist Sunday 20th August Communion 6.30pm BCP Evensong 10th Sunday after Trinity 10am Parish Eucharist 8.00am BCP Holy 6.30pm BCP Evensong COMING UP! Monday 31st July Communion 7.30pm Brass Group 10am Parish Eucharist Monday 11th September Christ Church 6.30pm BCP Evensong 7.30pm Brass Group Kitsch Tuesday 1st August 11am Morning Prayer Monday 21st August Tuesday 12th September Quiz Night 7.30pm Brass Group 11am Morning Prayer 8pm Book Club 7th October Tuesday 22nd August 11am Morning Prayer

Thank you to all our contributors... How to get in touch Priest-in-Charge, Revd Michael Burns We hope you’ve enjoyed this issue and thank all 020 8540 5279 or [email protected] of you who have contributed. We’d love to hear (Mike’s day off is Friday, each week) your thoughts and would welcome any feature Christ Church West Wimbledon Parish Office ideas,letters, memories and photographs you c/o St Saviour’s Church, Grand Drive, London SW20 9DG Contact the Parish Administrator, Sara Taylor: have. We already have some exciting ideas for the next issue. 07486 990 335 or [email protected] Email the Editor Brenda on [email protected] Tues & Thur 9.30am - 12 noon. Fri 9.30am - 12 noon or Art Editor Naomi on [email protected] Website: www.christchurch-westwimbledon.org