Our Parish Magazine

InSt Thomas of TCanterbury Woodfordouch Green Essex Issue 4 2017 £2.00

The reason for the season

For back issues of InTouch go to myintouch.co.uk Make all your wishes Issue 4 2017 come true today. Make a Will. A Will is the only way to ensure that all your wishes are carried out after your death. Join the many people who protect their loved ones from financial hardship even after they have passed a way. Make a Will today with Y Bacchus & Co Solicitors and bring your affairs up to date before it’s too late. In Touch

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4 The view from the Editor’s Chair The Editor welcomes you to the Christmas Edition and takes a look back at 2017 5 The Church of the Holy Innocents Jane Begley is the Curate at this pretty church in the 226 Chingford Mount Road, Chingford London, E4 8JL forest, and tells us about her community Tel: 020 8524 9111 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.bacchuslaw.co.uk Authorised & Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority No: 282253 8 Canterbury Tales Social events take hold of the parish and we bid farewell to Doreen Ritchie after 30 years service to our Masses 10 Cardinal Cormac Murphy A man of political courage. We bring you a small snapshot of his legacy 14 A tribute to Sheila Ferrari The former Head Teacher and guiding light of Avon House School. 14 Christmas at St Thomas’s Pyjama day at St Antony’s School. See page 27 for other Details of new Mass times and a seasonal message highlights from the school year from Fr Austin 18 The future of our Diocese 27 Miss Christine Curtis as the Head Teacher of St Antony’s School retires, we William Yeung guides us through the proposals for thank her and wish her well our future. Please support William in his work and contribute your ideas 28 In the bleak midwinter 22 Keeping Christ in Christmas Adrian Lees reminds us of winter in Gallipoli 1915 Our budding journalists at Trinity High School 30 Christmas in the Choir loft tell us the ‘Reason for the season’ Is it all mirth and merriment in the upper stalls?

Editor Proof Readers Advertising Manager In Touch is the parish Kathryn Wilson Patricia Donald Jerry Crowley magazine of the parish of [email protected] Coleen Carlile 020 8505 1689 St Thomas of Canterbury, [email protected] Woodford Green, Essex Design Editorial and Letters to (Served by the Order of Friars Ranjika De Silva The Editor Printed by Minor). The parish includes [email protected] The Parish office Promoworx Ltd Chigwell Convent Mass Centre 557 High Road, 28 High Road, & a Mass Centre at St James, Woodford Green, IG8 0RB South Woodford, Palmerston Road, [email protected] London, E18 2QL Buckhurst Hill. 020 8530 1500 This is issue 93 of In Touch www.promoworx.co.uk First published July 1992 In Touch 2017 Issue 4 3 Our altar will never be quite the Confirmation: an astonishing figure From the same again. and an unexpectedly early date, We’ve also experienced farewells which has prompted hasty action Church of the Holy Innocents and sad losses: Chris Curtis, Head from the very excellent programme by Curate Jane Begley Editor’s Teacher at St Antony’s School, retires team. this term after twenty two years ser- The New Year will also prompt fur- vice and we wish her well in her ther thoughts from you regarding your he Church of the Holy all those visiting the forest. An open parish, worship at the church regu- future. Sheila Ferrari, former Head future. William Yeung, our Steward of Innocents is set in the air service is held for horses (and larly or have a connection through desk Teacher and owner of Avon House the Gospel, has provided us with a heart of Epping Forest, any other animals) in June each year baptism of themselves, their parents School sadly died in August and we very thought-provoking paper which between the Epping New and every Sunday between May and or grandparents. Looking back over the year, 2017 feature a tribute to her on page 14, looks into the next twenty years as Road and Sewardstone September, the church building is To mark the major festivals, the has contained many occasions and Doreen Ritchie, one of our Parish a Diocese and the effect on our own TRoad. Surprisingly the parish has open for visitors to enjoy prayer, tran- church organises “Activity Days” which have been outstanding and musicians, has recently retired after Parish. We must consider a future over 1,000 homes within its bound- quillity, tea/coffee and home-made where the children can enjoy differ- enjoyable: our Easter liturgies, over supporting our Saturday Mass for with fewer priests. We cannot ignore ary including three mobile home sites cake and often organ music. It is a ent craft linked with that festival and one hundred Holy Communion can- over thirty years. this thorny subject. We may have and it also has six pubs, one golf popular venue for concerts and also there is a running buffet for adults didates, seventy five Confirmation However, we greet some friendly become accustomed to believing course, one primary school, two cen- weddings. Couples can be married and children alike – which at Advent candidates and many other interest- and well known faces as we welcome that the priesthood is a commodity tres for nature studies but no shops, at Holy Innocents if they live in the and Lent includes pancakes made ing Masses celebrated for different Fr Isadore back to Woodford and Fr which is constantly available to us. no pavements, no street lighting and reasons. Brian to Stratford. We must contemplate change, so no night clubs! The Church is part of Social events have also been at Our budding journalists from Trinity please support William in his proj- the Waltham Abbey Team ministry, the forefront of our calendar and School have made a marvellous con- ect and forward your views to him. which includes St Thomas Upshire, in addition to the well established tribution to this edition – please con- [email protected] St Lawrence on the Ninefields Estate Garden Fete, Christmas Bazaar, template their essays, read their news Please continue to support In and Waltham Abbey, which is led Assisi lunch and Tuesday Group, flashes and enjoy their artwork. I look Touch with your views, letters, emails by the Rector, the Revd Peter there was the new excitement of forward to some of them becoming and articles. We can’t survive with- Smith. the Film Night ‘Zoomania’ and an future editors of the magazine. We out you. Designed by Sir Arthur International Meal, both of which will be in safe hands. Season’s greetings to all of our Blomfield and built in The church is were such resounding successes that Our social conscience has been readers, 1873, the church is dedicated to the little parishioners are already clamouring stirred by our TELCO team, our soup Kathryn dedicated to the little for repeat performances. run service and our local Branch of boys murdered by King boys murdered by As a musician, you would expect the Jumbulance, all of whom provide Herod when he was me to mention the summer concert first class and worthy support to a seeking to kill the baby King Herod when he which brought us the Rodrigo Guitar wide range of people, in the local Jesus. This unusual ded- was seeking to kill Concerto, [probably for the only time area and beyond. Let’s remember ication was at the request in our church history] and please see the volunteers and their clients this of the Baring family who the baby Jesus the review of the recent ‘Children in Christmas whilst we eat in the com- financed the building work Need’ concert within the Canterbury fort and warmth of our homes. and whose twin sons had died Tales section. If you haven’t seen Looking forward, 2018 begins of scarlet fever aged six. Being part a marimba in action, you’ve really with our Bishops visit and ninety of the banking family, the Barings missed an incredible experience. seven candidates making their spared no expense on the church. The organ is the smallest example of the work of Father Willis (who Our local History The Fete photos - Identifications built in the organ in The Albert Hall) Lou McPherson and his young – Please help son Paul, on the Roll a Penny stall and the side chapel windows were The Montclair Players designed by Meyer & Co of Munich and London. Sadly the windows in A Parish Amateur the south chapel were blown out in Drama group which the 2WW when a crippled German was resplendent in bomber dropped its bombs in the for- the 1960s. est to gain enough height to fly home. The spire contains 13 hemi-spherical Who can tell us about bells which are rung by one person them? Are there any pressing levers – a carillon which visi- former actors still in tors are invited to play. The bells are the Parish? Lorna Whitaker and Edmund in D major and it is possible to play Staples (Edmund now lives over 200 different hymn tunes. Mrs Helen Crowsley in Kent and has a growing The Church seeks to serve not just attending to her young charges family of his own) the immediate community but also 4 In Touch 2017 Issue 4 5 by our pancake queen, Sheila Green. years. During two long interregnums accommodate any one who wishes l l Two services are held every Sunday (when we had no vicar of our own) I to visit us. We also realise that as Packfords Greenmantle at 9.00 am and 10.30 pm. The earli- helped to lead services and eventu- Jesus commanded, we need to “go accommodation, weddings & functions 20 Mornington Road l Woodford Green l Essex IG8 0TL er service is Book of Common Prayer ally went for selection as a Reader out” and to take the Gospel mes- 020 8506 2301 and 020 8504 3650 communion, and the second service which meant I could preach in church sage wherever we go so we take is more informal with communion but not take communion services, assembly twice a month at the pri- A luxury care home every other week. We also hold two baptisms or weddings. However, I mary school and hold a short service for old people and Christingle services at 3.00 pm and felt God was calling me to do more every Sunday at our local care home, 4.30 pm on Christmas Eve when the and believe He had taught me over Ashbrook Court. This year we will be people with dementia path to the church and the church the years about the life of the church carol singing in all the pubs and also “Living in comfort, dignity and itself is candlelit. A magazine is pub- and therefore went for selection to at High Beech Riding School. style” in a warm family atmosphere lished monthly and hand delivered the ordained ministry and I am now It is a great privilege and huge joy The Care The Home to every house in the parish free of in my first year of curacy as a self to work in all four churches in the • Long and Short term stays • An attractive modernised charge. supporting locally deployed minister. Waltham Abbey Team, and to hear • Twenty four hour professional Edwardian home located within care by fully qualified and the Woodford Green During the week I work in London so many inspiring stories of how dif- experienced staff conservation area close to all y parents were married as a Solicitor and on Friday evenings ferent people have come to faith and • Physician in attendance amenities offering: • A nurse call system in every room • Comfortable single bedrooms at The Church of the Holy I run a Brownie pack at St Mary’s what a difference Jesus has made to • First class catering to meet - four with en-suite facilities Innocents in June 1954 Church, South Woodford – the pack their lives. It is my prayer that through individual needs and religion • Choice of showers or bathroom • Home entertainment and outings with hoist and I have attended the which I joined as a seven year old. the ministry of our church and my • Occupational Therapy • Luxurious lounge and dining room Mchurch since I was born in September As a church we are able to offer a own ministry, many more people can • Visiting hairdresser, physiotherapist and • Double glazed heated 1955. When I was ten years old, I tranquil space in the heart of God’s come to know our Lord. chiropodist arranged on request conservatory started singing in the choir, and then creation to PCCs and Deaneries for • Residents’ own furniture and • Six person lift belongings welcome • Full central heating at twelve, I learnt how to play the caril- quiet days, to youth groups who wish Jane Begley, Focal Leader and • Residents’ visitors welcome at • Satellite TV, music centre and lon and wrote out all the hymn tunes to explore a Christian church and curate at The Church of the Holy all times piano • Resident meetings and • Regularly changed library for it. In my early 20’s I became a its faith, to groups for older people Innocents, High Beach. Packfords Packfords Hotel,16 Snakes Lane West, books CELEBRATING questionnaires member of the PCC and eventually who enjoy a trip out into the forest [email protected] – Woodford Green, Essex IG8 0BS • Own newsletter in colour and • Beautiful gardens Tel: 020 8504 2642 annual report • Own mini bus with tail lift YEARS Fax: 020 8505 5778 served as church warden for twelve with light refreshments and we try to 020 7421 3854 1963-2013 E-mail: [email protected] Members of the National care Homes Association Website: www.packfordshotel.co.uk

Woodford Green Funeral Directors St Thomas Canterbury(inc TA 1/4 C Lambart page Deadline & co Ltd) End of Feb 2013 TRINITY CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL Local Independent Funeral Directors (Science and Sports College) Headmaster: Dr P C Doherty OBE, BA(Hons), DPhil (Oxon), FRSA Main Office: Mornington Road Woodford Green, Essex IG8 0TP A Complete Tel: 020 8504 3419 Fax: 020 8505 7546 Lower Site: 020 8504 8946 Funeral Service Website: http://fc.tchs.uk.net Mediated Dispute Solutions Ltd l Private Chapel of Rest Woodford Green The school is based on two sites about half a mile apart l 24 Hour Personal Service [email protected] with Years 7 – 9 on the Lower Site in Sydney Road and 020 8505 4175 l Arrangements may be made in the Years 10 – 13 on the Upper Site in Mornington Road. In privacy of you own home March 2015 Ofsted judged Trinity to be outstanding for

l A Golden choice of pre-paid funeral the fifth time. If your family is changing and you are worried about your children or plans available how you will cope financially, mediation may be the answer. 2017 Examination Results: 88% of students in l Traditional courtesy and conduct throughout Year 11 gained 5 or more GCSE passes Professional mediation helps to reduce the conflict and to find an easy and Grade A* – C (or equivalent) and 34% at A* – A 354 High Road, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 0QX (or equivalent). dignified route through separation or divorce. (Opposite the castle Public House) The A level pass rates were 99% 020 8504 4372 - 020 8559 1979 Grades A* – E, 50% Grades A* – B.

6 In Touch 2017 Issue 4 7

tion. A resonant cello quartet echoed The International Meal: November 18th Emails to the editor The sensitively through the church. The @ Parish Choir treated us to Vivaldi’s The September edition included a Gloria, and were joined by All Saints poem by Betty Freed, one of our Canterbury Tales Church Choir (and anyone else brave pilgrims who travelled to Lourdes in enough to stand on the altar) for August. She wrote a beautiful poem News from the Parish Pump a rousing Hallelujah Chorus which which sadly, was not quite correctly romped along at top speed. edited, so we reprint here for your Another of our well known Probably for the first time ever, our enjoyment and with apologies to pilgrims has returned to altar was graced by a marimba, the Betty. the fold here at Woodford. prince of percussion instruments, Fr Isadore has returned which was constructed on the altar LOURDES to us from Edinburgh, by the percussionist, her composer/ By the Grotto in the silence as we where the church at arranger and porter. We were fas- gather round our Mother, Craigmillar is now tended cinated even before we heard the Every person joined in prayer is a sis- by Capuchin Friars. music. A new and original social event has arrived in the Parish. November 18th ter or a brother, And Fr Brian has returned The marimba, xylophone and saw an excellent turnout for a very different type of extravaganza. Italian, We know that we’re one family no to Stratford.... glockenspiel were paraded as one French, Sri Lankan, Nigerian and many other types of cuisine made up a matter where we live, and played simultaneously with ter- terrific menu to tempt our taste buds. As we come to share the love that she rific sensitivity and panache by Katy The person who thought of this lovely social occasion doesn’t want to be alone can give. Elmann who gave us the most rever- named, although the Editor has secret information that this was the brain We bring our fears and anguish, our Christmas decorations Bear and his national fundraising ent performance of ‘Abide with me’ child of Kit Tranmer, Sue Musiu, Mary Affleck and possibly another who anger and our pain, Redecoration is well under way in campaign. Those who chose to leave accompanied by Flugel horn solo wishes to remain covert. Sue’s kitchen hosted the tactical preparations with As we lay them all at Mary’s feet our the Friary corridors. Sadly, the bare their televisions were treated to a from the cloister. This was followed Sue taking charge of the organisation within the Becket Centre. worries seem to wane. walls did not reveal any interesting marvellous orchestral concert from by the Monti ‘Czardas’ during which Eventually nearly forty cooks participated representing about twenty dif- In this one place in all the world graffiti from 1895 or the interven- the Aurelian Ensemble, who kindly she ran around the instruments in ferent countries. The Filipino ladies looked exquisitely beautiful, there were there’s such a sense of hope, ing decades, but the new paintwork turned out for the evening, free of turn whilst swapping beaters for each some exotic Nigerian head dresses and Reiko turned out in a wonderful No matter what the future brings we has brightened the environment. The charge, to raise funds for Children in one. For those of you who have never Japanese national dress. know somehow we’ll cope. chosen colour is apparently primrose Need. witnessed such an event, it’s quite a A fantastic display of flamenco music and dancing entertained us with The pilgrims light their candles in a white....warning to all readers: on no There were many highlights: sight and Katy is now in demand for the most fabulous castanet playing I have ever heard, courtesy of Mauricio never ending stream account should we describe this as Telemann’s viola concerto beau- future musical occasionss. Dominguez and his Spanish ladies (0208 440 9673). Just to touch the Holy Water the fulfil- cream. I have received a verbal warn- tifully performed by Paul Bennett, A grand total of £1,000 was raised ment of a dream ing for my lack of artistry. whose family travelled in especially for Children in Need. Thank you to all Tasty treats included: Sharing love, that is the miracle that from Eastbourne; Bach’s Toccata who attended, including the many happens every day Doreen Ritchie - Church and Fugue strongly then delicately Teddy Bears. You were a Africa Fried plantain and gelofries By the Grotto in the silence as we Musician delivered by Stephen King, organ- lovely and very Spain Patatas bravas kneel down to pray. Doreen has played at Saturday eve- ist at Brentwood Cathedral, and Mr appreciative India Samosa and devil fry wraps By Betty Freed ning Mass and at weekday Masses Handel’s Water Music in tribute to audi- Philippines Chicken adobo with rice for over 30 years. She has provided the 300th anniversary of its composi- ence. and noodles faithful and committed service to the Japan Sushi liturgy and has now taken a well- Ukraine Halluxy salad and herring earned retirement. Her astonishing with dough balls contribution is already missed. As a Caribbean Fish cakes and mango salsa fellow musician, I called her to wish her well and was rather hoping for Desserts a short interview for the magazine. I Thank you to the Austria Sachetorte found out that she has an enviable hard working team who Scotland Cranachan As a former parishioner, I was given level of musical training, but she brought us together for Nigeria Puff puffs a copy of the parish magazine. I has completely forbidden me to men- a social event which Italy Tiramisu was most impressed by the variety tion the details. So it must remain will hopefully become Germany Black forest gateau of articles covering all aspects of unmentionable. Her humility is also a regular annual fixture China Pandan cake spiritual, pastoral and parish history. astonishing. in our Parish The photos of past garden parties Thank you Doreen, from all of us. calendar. brought back many happy memories. The level of content and the maga- Children in Need zine is a high quality product. Well On November 17th, many of you done! were probably entertained by Pudsey Vivian Hopper, Chingford

8 In Touch 2017 Issue 4 9 Cormac - a man of political courage

Through an enormous reservoir of contacts, Bernadette Harris introduces us to the writing of Bernadette Farrell, whose article reminds us of the legacy of the late Cardinal Cormac Murphy O’Connor and his support for feared the ‘pull factor’. According The Bishops commissioned a rhetoric, Dietrich Bonhoeffer reminds to BBC research in June 2006, the report from the Von Hugel Institute in us that not to speak is to speak, and migrants in the UK effect of the Spanish amnesty was Cambridge, examining the social, eco- not to act is to act. For him, an act of to reduce illegal immigration. It would nomic and pastoral needs of migrants. civil courage can only be a real choice take decades 9and over £8 billion ‘The ground of justice’ was the first made by a real person at a specific want you to know that you belong... ter. When we met, she was a model from LSE findings) to deport all those report of its kind in Europe and con- location or at a specific time. we are grateful for the role you play citizen and parishioner who worked without legalized status from the UK. firmed that thousands of catholic As Cardinal, Cormac clearly decid- s Cardinal Murphy in our economy...we want you to be hard, supported her family and volun- In 2006, Citizens UK brought workers in the capital had the lowest- ed which side of history he would be O’Connor was laid to rest welcomed such that you are strang- teered regularly for her community. In together migrants from their member paid jobs as cleaners and caterers. on. He made a choice of enormous this week (September ers no longer’. the early hours of the morning, her churches across three dioceses. In A later Oxford University study esti- courage. His humanity was radiant. 2017), one image tow- At his words, the entire assembly door was kicked down by immigration a spectacular procession, Catholics mated that well over half of irregular Cormac gave joy to thousands who ers in my memory: burst into prolonged applause. Many officers. from around the world packed migrant children were born in the UK. needed an advocate. His political AMay day, 2007. Cormac walked out people were in tears. Leading the The ‘Strangers into Citizens’ cam- Westminster Cathedral, filling it with Deportation was not a solution. courage insured a generation and through the doors of Westminster intercessions at the first Mass was paign grew from hundreds of similar colour and vibrant music. Cormac Although an amnesty was never led society to pursue the common Cathedral. Undeterred by the pouring ‘M’, the daughter of parents with an stories shared by Catholic priests, supported Strangers into Citizens declared, the political landscape shift- good. This, by any standards, is an rain, he greeted the waiting crowds ancestral claim to UK residence. She sisters and Headteachers trying, with his call for regularisation and a ed. In 2007, the government began a immense legacy. stretched across the piazza then, in spent her formative years in London, however possible to offer support. path to citizenship. ‘case-resolution’ exercise offering sta- Bernadette Farrell was the first colourful procession, he led them an active member of her local parish Crafted by Citizens UK (founded by His then Director of Public Affairs, tus to eligible migrants. In 2008, they Deputy Director of Citizens UK. She down Victoria Street and beyond but had become illegal without know- Neil Jameson CBE), it called for a one- Dr Austin Ivereigh, established and announced a ‘Path to Citizenship’. We led the Lunar House C a m p a i g n Parliament. Standing in Trafalgar ing it on turning eighteen. off amnesty for those eligible along imaginatively co-ordinated the cam- were aware of people quietly receiving and set up the Independent Square, he addressed 15,000 peo- Her family was reeling from the similar lines to the 2005 Spanish paign, which, as well as controversy long-awaited papers following years (or Asylum Commission. ple, all waving their national flags loss of her brother in a car accident. amnesty which regularised 700,000 attracted huge interest. By 2008, the decades) without status. She is also a well known composer alongside Union Jacks. Beside him In the chaos that followed his sudden people. An amnesty would greatly Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, had In the political hinterland of the of church music whose hymns are were senior representatives of all par- death, ‘M’s’ mother overlooked the increase tax revenue to the treasury, adopted the cause as his own. present day, with its anti-immigration familiar to many congregations ties and religious traditions. It had residency application for her daugh- but successive governments have taken Cormac’s political courage to bring them together. At the first Mass for Migrants that he introduced Dear Bishop Paul, Worker on the first Bank Holiday paid jobs. Citizens UK’s Living Wage the previous year (2006), he called Thanks for your encouragement in May and holding a Mass for Campaign has just been launched for an amnesty for undocumented to send you a few notes and Migrants to honour and respect in 2001 and this allowed London migrants. dates which Cardinal Nichols the thousands of Roman Catholics Citizens, plus the growing number How many previous Cardinals have may find helpful for his Homily who have migrated to London and of supporters to use this platform become voices for the people? on Wednesday? I will be attend- many engaged in giving invaluable - with Fr Cormac’s consent and In 1889, Henry Manning’s inter- ing the Mass with a good number service to the UK and Capital as presence - for employers to pay this ventions won a living wage for the of London Citizens and Citizens Nurses, Cleaners, Doctors etc. This new voluntary wage (The London starving dockers of East London. His UK leaders and Organisers (not idea was accepted and agreed Living Wage). Fr Cormac made the words and actions led to 125 years all Catholics) to mark the very sig- that the three London RC Dioceses link to Rerum Novarum and 1891 of Catholic social teaching. Now, ris- nificant role that Cardinal Cormac would cooperate in this annually. when the first Papal Encyclical also ing from Manning’s chair, Cormac played in blessing and supporting The first Migrants Mass was held called for a ‘fair wage’. The other named the injustice of his own day in the Living Wage Campaign (2006) in May 2006 and London Citizens speakers at this packed rally of the capital city he had grown to love: and then the Strangers into Citizens was encouraged to erect a stage worshippers outside the Cathedral ‘while our nation benefits economi- Campaign (2007 to 2010). on the Piazza outside the Cathedral were Sir Iqbal Sacaranie the first cally from the presence of undocu- Fr John Armitage (in association where speeches and support could Secretary General of the Muslim mented workers, too often we turn London Citizens) first suggested to be made in favour of honouring Council of Britain, Bp Tom Butler, a blind eye when they are exploited Fr Cormac in 2005 the idea of hold- the role played by Migrants across Anglican Bishop of Southwark and by employers...’. He continued, ‘we Bernadette Harris second from right ing the Festival for St Joseph the London - especially those in poorly a RC Lithuainian Hotel Cleaner. The 10 In Touch 2017 Issue 4 11 choir was from Cardinal Wiseman Citizens members. It was Trafalgar Square from Westminster School. packed with the service being Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, The situation for migrants in broadcast to worshippers who Methodist Central Hall, East 2005/10 was quite different than London Mosque, China Town now so the role that Fr Cormac and could not get in and waited and a Pentecostal Rally to fill the the Annual Migrants Mass played patiently on the Piazza. In Square with 20,000 citizens. Bp in welcoming, celebrating and his homily Fr Cormac said; Thomas McMahon led the call for endorsing migrants was outstand- ‘While our nation benefits Regularisation this time from the ing and won considerable praise for stage - along with an even more the RC Church from many sources. economically from the impressive group of politicians, faith Meanwhile London Citizens and presence of undocumented and union leaders plus community the many RC schools and congre- workers, too often we turn leaders from the Chaplaincies and gations in membership were being a blind eye when they are migrant communities so effected. made very conscious of the large exploited by employers… is it Although no formal ‘Amnesty’ fol- number of migrants who were lowed, the Home Office did review ‘irregular’ (with no papers) and now time to consider, as other the thousands of lost and mis- were working dangerously and also countries have done, ways placed applications for residency worshipping in many of Citizens UK of regularising their situation and asylum that had been accumu- member churches and mosques. - those who are working in lated over the previous ten years. In the USA in 2004/6 there had This led to hundreds if not thou- been millions of people march for this country with no criminal sands of irregular migrants being an ‘Amnesty’ for their much bigger record - to the overall benefit given consent to stay in the UK challenge of about 15m migrants of our economy and to enable (using some of the conditions pro- there in the same situation. them and their families to play posed by Citizens UK since 2006). Citizens UK learned from the very Without Fr Cormac’s leadership shrill campaigns in the States and a fuller part in society’. and that of the Bishops Conference Spain and put together a less radi- ( Cardinal Vincent when Archbishop cal and more considered ‘call for a He received a standing ovation of Birmingham made a passionate one off Regularisation or pathway in the Mass for this courageous case for regularisation in 2008 at a to Citizenship all conditional on no call. It also meant that the walk to Birmingham Citizens Assembly) and criminal record etc. and focussed Trafalgar Square that followed in the role of the Migrants Mass it is on people who had been in the UK the pouring rain was very popular extremely unlikely that this ‘amnes- for at least four years and put their and the subsequent rally which ty below the radar’ would have hap- roots down etc. Fr Cormac was again included leaders from other pened. Thousands of migrant fami- In Touch approached and asked if he would faiths and trade unions was a great lies now living and working peace- support this ‘Call’ and mention it success. Fr Cormac again repeated fully and productively in London and Advertisement at the second Migrants Mass - and the call for ‘Strangers into Citizens’ other UK cities owe Fr Cormac deep Rates then lead a procession to Trafalgar from the stage in Trafalgar Square. gratitude - as do London Citizens Advertising Manager Square from the Cathedral for a Fr Cormac’s leadership and member communities for his cour- Jerry Crowley 020 8505 1689 or political rally calling for ‘Strangers prominence meant that politi- age and leadership in standing up [email protected] to become Citizens’. cians were prepared to men- for the Stranger and Welcoming the Full Page £120 tion the issue of undocumented Stranger in our midst. half page £60 workers and in 2008 the three On May 1st 2006 the Migrants one third page £40 Mass started with a jubilant main Mayoral Candidates for I hope this is helpful in trying to London supported Citizens UK’s mark and honour this Chapter in quarter page £30 and diverse procession of the Strangers into Citizens Campaign. the late Cardinal’s ministry (which one sixth page £20 RC Chaplaincies and London On the day of the Election the has been missed completely by one eighth page £15 Independent Newspapers head- many commentators. Thanks for line screamed ‘Amnesty Now’. Both the opportunity and thanks for the Ken Livingstone and Boris Johnson Cardinal’s offer to receive and con- Please support our Advertisers without them In Touch would not exist. And were supporters of the Campaign. sider these notes. please mention In Touch when you In May 2009 London Citizens, warm regards contact advertisers so that they will know (again with Fr Cormac’s consent) Neil that advertising in In Touch is worthwhile organised the largest Rally in favour of Migrants and Regularisation of Neil Jameson CBE their status in the country’s his- Executive Director CitizensUK tory. Following the Migrants Mass [email protected] lines of worshippers walked to 07710 468930 12 In Touch 2017 Issue 4 13 A life lived with and for others Sheila Ferrari 1930-2017 In August, St Thomas’s hosted a Memorial Service for Sheila Ferrari, former Head Teacher and owner of Avon House School. The Service was very well supported by family, friends, Avon House students past and present and many colleagues. Sheila’s favourite music was much in evidence and we were all encouraged to participate in a wonderful action song.

aving been invited to in his pram and look after him, seem- Upon Avon and then identified key write an article about my ingly undeterred by his constantly run- staff members to pursue specialist mother’s life for the Parish ning nose! qualifications and soon, what was Magazine, I have sought to Her innate gift with children served eventually to become the Sheila Hcapture the essence of who mother her well in what can only be described Ferrari Dyslexia Centre was born. The was, which found expression through as her passion, Avon House School centre, which serves children from the things she did. and in latter years the Sheila Ferrari schools far and wide has grown and Born on September 7th 1930 in Dyslexia Centre. It was when Avon is a legacy of mother’s that high- Walthamstow, my mother went on House School was to close in the lights her visionary nature. It was very to live nearly all her 86 years in early 1970s and be sold to property moving to hear Peter Nicholson, the Woodford Green and Buckhurst Hill. developers that my mother, as a par- headmaster of Loyola School, draw It was poignant that she spent the last ent of the school, became involved attention to her visionary contribution of those years across the road from with a train of events which ultimately to education during the “Celebration St Thomas’s Church, where she got led to her taking over the school. This of Life Service” held following moth- married, and where we attended as a was quite a challenge as she didn’t er’s death at St. Thomas’s. She was family during our formative years. have an educational qualification to always making plans and was never There are so many things which her name! Under her direction, the without a mission. come to mind when reflecting on the school became an extension of family, life of my mother and perhaps the with a school inspector once saying or over 40 years mother first thing to mention was her maxim, to mother some years ago, “I love enjoyed good relationships “A little help is worth a deal of pity.” your school.” Perhaps the secret was with other primary and also “There are no strangers here, only friends we haven’t yet met!” She was endowed with an enormous mother’s capacity to love and respect secondary schools in the capacity to help others. Whatever all children, wanting the very best for Farea. Whilst she had a special rela- problems she was facing, mother was them. She was thrilled by their differ- tionship with Bancroft’s for many follow. Mother considered herself as we were all recipients of her extraor- Sheila’s life was one of incalculable always able to give her full attention ent colours, inclusivity being part of years , she spoke very highly of Trinity a steward of Avon House School and dinary capacity to love. However for benefit to so many and for that we to whoever she came into contact mother’s DNA! up to her death and the great work of whilst there never had a day when she me, the most inspiring thing about must give thanks. Her stewardship with and would support in any way Mother was always motivated by Dr Docherty and his staff. did not want to go in. In school assem- mother’s life was that this capacity of Avon House and the influence possible. need and not profitability. At times this Mother was a passionate person blies she always talked about the chil- went far beyond her four sons and Clearly mother loved people and must have raised an eyebrow or two who always wanted people to act just- dren’s hotline to God and would smile twelve grandchildren, to include the that she had on generations cannot above the dining table in our family with her accountants. I never forget ly and show kindness. She ensured when soon the answer to any question thousands of children and parents be estimated and there are many caravan was a plate with the words, her continuing to employ a playground the School was very involved over the would automatically become “Jesus”! that went through the school and dys- people around today who owe so “There are no strangers here, only assistant way beyond her retirement years with a number of charities. She She said she was extremely privileged lexia centre. much to her for her influence on friends we haven’t yet met!” People, age, because she recognised the had the gift of a tremendous sense to have had a great life. Her exclama- I finish with words we received from their early lives. She was also a sensing her warmth and genuine inter- importance of this post to her emo- of humour, and was able to see the tion that life was an adventure, and a retired teacher from Bancroft’s fol- great friend to and supporter of est, would open up to her and wherev- tional wellbeing. As this lady became funny side of things. Times of laughter death marked the beginning of a new lowing mother’s death. Bancroft’s and Bancroft’s today has er possible she would seek to address more frail, my mother had to provide with other staff members would often one, highlighted her spiritual faith. Andy Ferrari, November 2017 their practical concerns. Her love of extra cover in the playground without help her with the everyday responsi- Despite her four sons all living signif- great cause to mourn her passing. people was overwhelmingly evident the lady ever realising this! bilities and decisions that made up icant distances from Woodford Green, “I was so very sorry to hear the with children. I remember her telling Need was the motivation behind day to day life. there was never a chance of mother very sad news about your Mother’s me how when she was nine, she took her getting involved with dyslexia It is important to mention mother’s wanting to move. This was her com- passing, however I give thanks for Our thanks to Andy for sharing these particular interest and involvement in way back in the early 1980s when it extremely simple and practical faith. munity, a community which had been thoughts with our readers. Avon the life of a young child called Barry was little known about. In 1983 she She described herself as a “Jesus per- lovingly nurtured and developed over what was a very full life in which house is our neighbour and many Stratford Cooper, and would push him attended a conference in Stratford son” and saw in Him a role model to nearly nine decades! As her sons, she was active for so very long. of you knew Sheila personally. 14 In Touch 2017 Issue 4 15 Ch ristmas at St Thomas of Canterbury

End of Term: A short story by Mike Eggleton Christmas A Christmas message from Fr Austin The Child born today is God’s new deed: the newest, Christmas ll were silent and such an honour but he knew that the youngest, and the most recent…the latest. We do not attentive as they wait- this time would be the last. This celebrate that Jesus is 2017 years old. We rejoice in the birth masses ed for the announce- really was the final assembly. music will be celebrated ment. Mr Mountjoy’s He hoped that they would be able of God as a baby. Every Christmas is a celebration that God voice was both sober to do a job worthy of the occasion. came among us as a new-born child. There is no one younger at the Aand sombre as he addressed them. Quite literally the eyes of the world The Hutton & Shenfield than God - But this is not announced in the excited voice of following times: “I just want to ensure that you are would be upon them. It was impor- all clear that next Monday is the tant that they got everything right. Choral Society the advertisers; it is a silent deed. He is the Word made flesh, end of term. Please be certain to How would people react? Joy? Saturday, 23rd December 2017 but he lies there as helpless to speak as any infant. Only in finish any outstanding work before Sorrow? Tears? Perhaps some would at 7.00pm silence can this silent Word be heard. And that’s what we see then.” go in to shock. ‘Mr Mountjoy’ – it was unbeliev- Well just one week to go and then it when we look in the manger or on the cross - because every BCelebrating the able that the would all be fin- The Brentwood Centre, Doddinghurst aspect of human living is here, for some of us today is very 4th Sunday of Advent: name had ished. Almost 14 Road, Brentwood CM15 9NN much the crib, for others it will be caught on even billion years of Saturday 23rd December 6.00pm here in what they work was over; Come and enjoy some of your the cross - but for all of us it is liked to refer to, 14 billion years! favourite music for choir, audience the same love, the Sunday 24th December euphemistically, Monday would and orchestra vulnerable heart of 8.30am • 10.00am as Head Office. be the end of At first Michael term. Tuesday With guests God calling us to Chigwell Convent: 10.00am had thought that would be the The Chelmsford Ballet Company friendship and, who St James Buckhurst Hill: 9.00am the name, origi- beginning of the with extracts from knows what else. No mass at 11.30am on Sunday nally coined by new term and “Alice in Wonderland” That is Christmas, 24th December Raphael, was the new king- irreverent but dom. Graham Padden have a happy and Gabriel had said Michael whose narrations will include peaceful one. that they needed is called ‘St “The Night before Christmas” Christmas Masses: some name by Michael the which to refer to Archangel’ in and the Aurelian Symphony Saturday 24th December him openly whilst Roman Catholic, Orchestra 3.00pm • 5.15pm • 7.30pm on field assign- Lutheran 10.00pm: Choral Mass with the ments that would and Eastern Conductor - Tim Hooper Church Choir keep his identity Orthodox tra- secret. So now ditions. He is Chigwell Convent: 9.00pm Mr Mountjoy it mentioned three Christmas day: was. times in the The Archangel Michael defeating 8.30am • 10.00am • 11.30am Well no time Satan, 1635 - Guido Reni Book of Daniel. for reflection; the In the Book of Chigwell Convent: 10.00am end of term was Revelations, he St James Buckhurst Hill: 9.00am fast approaching; lots of work to do leads God’s armies during the war beforehand. However, this was to be in heaven and defeats Satan. In the Details are correct at time of printing an end of term like no other. Epistle of Jude, he is referred to as Michael felt quite honoured that the Archangel Michael. Christian he had been given the task of lead- sanctuaries to Michael appeared in ing the final assembly, another the 4th Century, when he was first euphemism of course, along with regarded as a healing angel and Raphael and Gabriel. It wasn’t the eventually as a protector and leader first time he had been chosen for of the army of God. 16 In Touch 2017 Issue 4 17 Working together to evangelise our Diocese

illiam Yeung is our say in their Responses to the charitable works. The sacramental is a tension that we are gradually Catholic School and Princess instance. Where there is a religious Parish Steward of the Questionnaire. That has been done. nature of our church is key to both coming to terms with. The time has Alexandra Hospital. order in situ, their parish might well Gospel and our Having read the Responses to the Renewal and Restructuring. come to think beyond our comfort 11) Brentwood: Brentwood Ursuline be one of the two parishes and that appointed representa- Questionnaires several things are zones, beyond what we have always Convent High School (no large will need consideration. Wtive for the extremely important proj- apparent and relevant for the future ii. We have a large diocese with a done and to see if our human hospital). ect of assisting the evangelisation of of this process. There are many ideas catholic population estimated at response to God’s love can lead us to 12) Romford: The Campion School In the medium term (2025) 13 of our diocese. that can help us as we work to renew 250,000 spread over a large geo- new and joyful ways to evangelise and Queens Hospital. those 14 locations should have He is also an Emeritus Academic and restructure ourselves. graphic area. On any given week our diocese. 13) Upminster: Sacred Heart of three priests in them operating out with expertise in Theoretical Physics Within your Responses to the about one in five of those people Mary Girls’ School (no large hospital). of two churches and Upminster and has served the Diocese as a Questionnaire, there is a recognition attends one of our churches. To state FRAMEWORK: FIRST PART 14) Ilford (2 schools): The Palmer should have two priests from two member of the Diocesan Commission of a need to change, a sense that we the obvious, that means that on any Academy, Ursuline Academy Ilford churches. Total priests allocated for Education, School Governor and must embark on the next stage of our given week four out of five are not. We are a sacramental church and and King George Hospital, under this First Framework Parish Councillor. The following article journey together without relying on two sacraments have geographical/ Goodmayes. Proposal: 41 (out of an estimated is the first part of a large document the fact that we have always done iii. When we consider how we might institutional links. If we map out the 76 priests, i.e. 54% of the total containing the vision for the future things in a particular way in the past. renew ourselves and how we might locations of our catholic secondary Thus, out of 18 secondary schools, number). development of our Diocese. Some of There are many fantastic ideas for restructure ourselves, we must take schools and the larger hospitals, we only four are not in close proximity it makes uncomfortable reading, how each individual parish can do into account that we are a diverse see a close correlation. This is not to a large local hospital. In the long term (2035) that will especially the analysis of the num- new things, but this is constrained by diocese and what works in densely surprising because of concentrations Furthermore, the 18 schools are reduce to 25 priests in those loca- bers of priests and therefore the the quite natural desire to keep our populated urban and in less densely of population. There are 14 locations spread among 14 different urban tions, i.e. the 11 with a hospital/ numbers of Masses available to us in parish lives much the same. This is a populated rural areas will differ quite where 18 secondary schools can be locations of high population density. cathedral will have two and all three the next two decades. tension for us all to pray about and it considerably. found close to major hospitals. A without a directly related hospital or is a tension that we are gradually “location” is NOT a particular parish. Of the four locations where there is Cathedral will only have one. (Total With a foreword from coming to terms with. The time has iv. By 2035 we estimate that we will a secondary school but no large priests allocated under this First Bishop Williams come to think beyond our comfort have 52 priests who are going to be 1) Colchester: St Benedict’s College hospital: Framework Proposal: 25 out of an zones, beyond what we have always based in 33 locations. By 2025 (in and Colchester General Hospital. • Brentwood is the Cathedral Church estimated 52, i.e. 48% of the total ❛The important thing is not 2) Chelmsford (2 schools): St John of our diocese. number.) Payne Catholic School, New Hall • Woodford Green is one of the to walk alone, but to rely on OUT of Independent School and Broomfield largest congregations in the diocese FRAMEWORK: SECOND PART each other as brothers and Hospital. and close to Whipps Cross Hospital. 3) Southend (2 schools): St •Upminster is also a large parish Given that 14 locations are set in the sisters, especially under the Bernard’s High School, St Thomas and close to Romford Hospital. First Part we then looked at the map More High School and Southend •Dagenham has two very large to see where there is no cover pro- leadership of the bishops, in Hospital. congregations in the town and is vided by those locations. Of these 14 a wise and realistic pastoral 250000 4) Basildon: De La Salle School and close to three hospitals. locations, seven are inside the M25 Basildon and Thurrock University and seven are outside it, but Grays discernment 50000attend church Hospitals. First Framework Proposal and Brentwood are only just outside ❜ 5) Grays: Grays Convent High the M25. Thus, things are heavily Stewards of the Gospel met to pray done and to see if our human only eight years) we will have 76 able School for Girls and Orsett Hospital In order to reflect the expressed weighted towards the South West of and discuss the enormous subject of response to God’s love can lead us to to be in 57 locations. Within your (Basildon and Thurrock UH). need to focus on young people and our diocese and the map looks to the future of our Diocese and the new and joyful ways to evangelise our Responses to the Questionnaire 6) Dagenham: All Saints Catholic to provide the sacraments in places have sparse coverage in the North numbers of priests likely to be avail- diocese. there is a recognition of a need to School (no large hospital). where the need is concentrated, it and East. This in turn reflects the able to work with us through the next In addition to the findings from the change, a sense that we must 7) Forest Gate (2 schools): St is proposed that we should ring very large congregations and the few decades. Their discussions cen- Responses we have taken account of embark on the next stage of our jour- Bonaventure’s Comprehensive fence provision of clergy in these 14 dense population that we have tred upon vision, objectives and the following facts: ney together without relying on the School, St Angela’s Ursuline Convent locations before making any other inside the M25. future Diocesan strategy. fact that we have always done things School and Newham University decisions. These locations will be We need to ensure that we have A questionnaire was circulated to i. Our Catholic Church is a sacramen- in a particular way in the past. There Hospital. strong bases from which we will coverage and therefore access to the parishes to obtain our views tal church. We are striving to be a are many fantastic ideas for how 8) Walthamstow: Holy Family build in the future. For this reason, sacraments right across Essex and The next section contains the pre- more evangelising sacramental each individual parish can do new Catholic College and Whipps Cross each of these “locations” would East London. If one looks simply at liminary findings of parishioners church and we are striving to be as things, but this is constrained by the University Hospital. work out of one or two churches in figures for Mass attendance or catho- Back in February we said that we good as we possibly can at providing quite natural desire to keep our par- 9) Woodford Green: Trinity Catholic the vicinity. Neither of those church- lic population some places would just would start by reading and listening pastoral care for each other and put- ish lives much the same. This is a High School (no large hospital). es is yet determined. That is for not feature and there would be no to everything that parishes wanted to ting our faith into action through tension for us all to pray about and it 10) Harlow: St Mark’s West Essex local conversations in the first provision for the sacraments in some 18 In Touch 2017 Issue 4 19 places. For this reason, we propose locations with 21 priests. Total that the coverage should try to ensure priests allocated under this Third that geographic coverage as well as Framework Proposal: 21 (out of an TIMEGOLD population density should be taken estimated 52 priests, i.e. 40% of the into consideration. total number). JEWELLERS - Est. 40 years

Second Framework Proposal FRAMEWORK: FOURTH PART Your local Service Centre for all types of Watches. In order to reflect this need, it is pro- There is a frequently expressed desire Rolex-Cartier - Tag - Omega etc. posed that eight priests are reserved for certainty among the parish * (in the medium term – 2025) to Responses. We feel that although Batteries fitted to all makes cover the following areas: this might be unpalatable at first, we while you wait a) The North West of our Diocese: need to create a degree of certainty * Three priests to cover the area from that will enable parish communities Antique Clocks/Carriage Clocks Braintree to the north and west of to consider their future in the context a speciality Braintree. of the Framework set out and it will * b) East of Colchester: Two priests enable us to start to work with par- Jewellery repairs and alterations to cover the Tendring Peninsular ishes knowing where we and they are * (note: this is in addition to the ultimately ending up. We can work Insurance and probate valuations priests in the Colchester location with the various contexts that differ- * referred to in the First Framework Third Framework Proposal ent places find themselves in to Free advice and estimates Proposal). ensure that every person in our dio- c) Dengie Peninsula and in as far In the medium term (2025), 27 cese is properly loved and cared for in **** as Billericay: Two priests. priests should be based in 21 high new ways. d) Rural Mid Essex/“Ongar/Epping mass attendance locations. After 25 The Broadway area”: One priest. 2025: taking the 36 locations from the Fourth Framework Proposal Woodford Green Total priests allocated under this first and second framework propos- IG8 0HQ Second Framework Proposal: eight als, the remaining 21 locations for Once we have determined the loca- (out of an estimated 76 priests, i.e. priests should be in close proximity tions and priest numbers we are **** 11% of the total number). to the largest existing mass atten- working towards between now and dance parishes. Thus, it is possible 2025 and then 2035, these will be Tel: 020 8504 6140 In the long term (2035) these eight that a church with a high mass borne in mind and we can begin priests will need to reduce to six attendance could be in an area gently moving people into place for priests. Total priests allocated where the local worshipping com- the medium and long term. The under this Second Framework munities think that another local stated aim would be to keep a Proposal: six (out of an estimated church is the better base from priest in these places and once 76 priests, i.e. 8% of the total which to grow in the long term or it locations are decided there must number). may be that local communities be an understanding that if a priest could see a way forward that did in one of the locations listed is no FRAMEWORK: THIRD PART not involve any of the existing longer in place that a parish that is churches but rather a new church not listed WILL (not MAY) lose its If one adds the priests referred to in on a new site. These 21 locations priest in order to move him into the the First and Second Framework will have a total of 27 priests resi- listed place. It is important to man- Proposals, there are 49 allocated in dent. age the situation proactively. This 2025 and 31 in 2035. The remaining would be done according to the 27 priests (2025) and 21 priests Restructuring discretion of the Bishop and not (2035) would then be based in other Total priests allocated under this according to any formula or fixed locations where there are large exist- Third Framework Proposal: 27 (out set of criteria. It would also be done ing congregations, noting that some of an estimated 76 priests, i.e. 36% with love and care for all. We will are home to Religious Orders where of the total number). In the long make a firm commitment to keep more than one priest will necessarily term these 21 locations with 27 those listed locations with a priest be resident. priests will need to be reduced to 13 at all times during the process.

Our Easter edition will continue the discussion. Do you have views to contribute? If so, please share them with William Yeung, our Steward of the Gospel [email protected] 20 In Touch 2017 Issue 4 21 Trinity Newsbites Keeping Christ in Christmas

Our talented students from Trinity High Their teachers, Laura O’Boyle and His enemies. He went through the Mary Leonard tell us: Students at mockery of a trial. He was nailed upon School have contributed some of their Trinity have been looking at the a cross between two thieves. While he theme ‘Keep Christ in Christmas’. was dying, His executioners gambled Christmas artwork, journalism and Year 7’s have designed Christmas for the only piece of property He had thoughtful essays for your consideration cards and poems, Year 8’s created on earth - His coat. When He was a newspaper article, Year 9’s dead, he was laid in a borrowed grave completed an essay. We hope you through the pity of a friend. enjoy reading some of their work. Nineteen long centuries have come and gone. And today He is a cen- trepiece of the human race and lead- Keep Christ in Christmas by er of the column of progress. Nathan Barrett year 9 I am far within the mark when I say that all the armies that ever marched, Here is a man who was born in an all the navies that were ever built, all obscure village, the child of a peasant the Parliaments that ever sat and woman. He grew up in another vil- all the kings that ever reigned, put lage. He worked in a carpenter shop together, have not affected the life of until he was thirty. Then for three man upon this earth as powerfully as Ashleigh Waine 8A years he was an itinerant preacher. has that one solitary life. He never owned a home. He never Naomi Bedingfield 7F 2nd place Some people seem to have forgot- Angel Gabriel visiting Mary who was wrote a book. He never held an office. ten that Christmas is a birthday party engaged to Joseph and telling her He never had a family. He never went for Jesus. It’s a strange birthday party that she was going to give birth to to college. He never put His foot because no one gives Jesus any pres- a child who was going to be called inside a big city. He never travelled ents, and the most important person Jesus. Once Mary was ready to give seems to be Santa Claus. birth to the Son of God, she and How would you feel if you weren’t her husband had to travel far to even invited to your own birthday? find an inn that they could stay in. How would you feel if everyone Unfortunately, they had no luck and ❛How would you feel gave gifts to each other but had noth- had to stay in a stable where Mary ing for you? Not even a kind word. gave birth to Jesus and laid him in a if you weren’t even And how would you feel if everyone manger. Three wise men were told to invited to your own talked about Santa Claus and never even mentioned your name? birthday?❜ Carmela Gari 7F Keep Christ in Christmas by two hundred miles from the place Eliza Dubowska Year 9 ❛Christmas is losing where He was born. He never did one of the things that usually accompa- Christmas was originally a celebra- its meaning and it’s nied greatness. He had no creden- tion for Jesus’ birth (Nativity), we as our job to try to fix tials but Himself... Christians created this celebration While still a young man, the tide of to celebrate Jesus and his existence. that. Jesus died for us, popular opinion turned against him. The Gospels of Matthew and Luke His friends ran away. One of them give us different accounts of the therefore, we should denied Him. He was turned over to event and that is how we pieced celebrate what he together the Nativity. Faith Cunningham 8A 1st place Valentina Caracci 7F Jesus’ birth all started off with the had done for us.❜ 22 In Touch 2017 Issue 4 23 HELPING YOU TO SUPPORT YOUR CHURCH FROM GREENACRES EPPING FOREST Kharina Partridge 7A 2 1st place Celebrate the journey with GreenAcres Epping Forest With a focus on celebrating the life of a loved one, for nearly two decades GreenAcres has helped many families say goodbye in a tranquil and beautiful setting. mention Jesus Christ more because Whether you are looking for a Full Burial or Ash Interment, GreenAcres believe a funeral if this carries on, the true meaning of is an opportunity to celebrate the life of a loved one in beautiful English woodlands. Christmas will be forgotten. In the article “Aren’t we forget- ting the true meaning of Christmas? You know...the birth of Santa” Bart Simpson’, we are told about how “Very impressed Christmas is all about giving. People with the staff, place focus on receiving gifts and not giving – everything really. As soon as I got there them, the majority of people who cel- I knew it was the follow a star that led to the stable and ebrate Christmas focus on getting the place for me.” there they presented their gifts which presents and only buying them for were myrrh, gold and frankincense. their friends and family, but we must “Lovely,“ Through hundreds of years the ❛This year instead of not forget that there are many people tranquil place. main subject of Christmas was Jesus’ in the world who cannot celebrate an “Beautiful.” birth, however, in the last decade, spending all of our amazing Christmas like us, and don’t Christmas is mostly based around even have food to eat. presents and Father Christmas. As money on presents... As Christians, we need to think well as this, people are starting to of people all across the world and write Xmas and missing out the give at least remember to give to charity in some main word of the celebration ‘Christ’. 5 per cent of the sort of way....This year instead of Not many people are realizing this, spending all of our money on pres- and we should really start to focus money to charity ❜ ents for family/friends, let’s give at on the main aspect of this win- least 5% of the money to charity to tery period of time. Throughout the help those who are less fortunate world, mostly children, only focus than us. on presents and do not really pay Christmas is losing its meaning attention to the religious aspect; and it’s our job to try to fix that. Jesus parents, siblings, grandparents and died for us, therefore, we should cel- many other people should start to ebrate what he had done for us. 24 In Touch 2017 Issue 4 25 Giving Something Back Chris Curtis, our Head Teacher at St Antony’s School, retires this month after 22 years service to the school and the Parish. At GreenAcres we have a long history of churches and the great work they do for This article reflects on some of the important and memorable supporting local charities. We believe parishioners and the local community. strongly in giving back to the community moments of her Guardian ship of the school. Working with our local clergy is very and actively encourage our team to get important to us and with so many church involved. At Epping Forest we invite services held in our woodland burial park charities and local groups to use our throughout the year, we regularly offer our 1 beautiful ceremonial buildings for 2 beautiful ceremonial buildings to local fundraising events at a minimal charge. clergy to use for quiet days, clergy meetings Two years ago, GreenAcres implemented a or for pastoral visitors to come and see what ‘Tithe’ scheme to enable us to support local we offer at the park.

1. The School Choir wins the silver cup Tithe Scheme 2. Drama in the hall 3. Advent Service at St Thomas’s With a growing shortage 4. Pyjama Day GIVE of space in traditional 5. A Christmas Story 10% BACK TO YOUR churchyards, space becomes CHURCH a premium. At GreenAcres Epping Forest we have 52 acres of mature woodland which offers space 4 for the interment of your loved one in an area 3 of your choosing rather than simply being the next in line, and space so that graves are We’d love you to come and visit us at further apart, often offering more privacy. GreenAcres, and if you would like to find out From the sale of each plot, as part of our more about our Tithe scheme, please contact Giving Something Back scheme, GreenAcres the park or speak to your vicar or priest. would “Tithe” 10% back to your Church, for Deborah McNamara, Park Manager your ministry in the local community. This provides much needed funds for your Church and our way of helping you to give back.

“It’s a lovely place to visit at all times of the year and spend some time 5 with mum, dad and GreenAcres Epping Forest auntie. Kiln Road, North Weald Thank you.” Epping, Essex CM16 6AD t: 01992 523863 e: [email protected] w: www.greenacrescelebrate.co.uk/epping www.facebook.com/greenacresepping

0 In Touch 2017 Issue 4 27 As we look forward to the warmth and comfort of Christmas fires and allied campaign was intended to open a direct sea route to Russia, capture Sad news was received during the week Christmas treats, spare a thought for George Bennett, one of our former Constantinople, and force Ottoman in regard to one of the number of young Turkey out of the war, thereby facilitat- parishioners, who died in the freezing Advent blizzard at Gallipoli ing progress on the Western Front. men from the parish who are fighting for Contrary to the usual perceptions their country Mr G.W Bennett has been of baking heat at Gallipoli, November 26th 1915 was a more comfortable reported by the War Office as having and bright day. That changed rap- lost his life in the Dardunelles. Great idly at about 17.00 with the onset of Inclement weather sympathy is expressed with the relatives. thunder and rain, which during the evening became torrential to almost t the beginning of which later became Southwark home. The family had left Chigwell biblical proportions. This is illustrated 1916, our local paper Cathedral, but also the old style name Row to live at 3, Aldeburgh Place by an account in the Regimental the “Woodford Times” for the district itself. However, the Woodford Green, just across the way History of floodwater washing a mule, published reports con- Clergyman C.J. Lutz was Fr Caspar from the church (far right). John was pony and three dead Turkish soldiers cerning church services Lutz, and St Georges is the Roman now employed as a Cab Driver. Some down the hill and dumping them into than any offensive operations by Aheld during “Intercession Sunday” Catholic Cathedral in Southwark. more children were listed as being a British trench. Turkish forces. beach head area of Gallipoli, but in in December 1915. It is fortunate The 1901 Census records John born in Woodford including Dorothy Unfortunately the trench- On 25th November, 2nd reality the situation had slipped into that when either Fr Wilfred or Fr Cyril as a Coachman living with Charlotte aged 6, showing they had moved es of 2 Royal Fusiliers were Battalion Royal Fusiliers a trench warfare stalemate similar to was preaching, a reporter was in in The Lodge of “The Willows”, over back here during or before 1905. located in what was a had mustered 22 Officers that being experienced in the Western church to hear that Parishioner Mr. at Chigwell Row. Also present were Further checks revealed the name natural funnel for water and 661 Other Ranks. Front. It was officially conceded that G W Bennett had lost his life in the children George aged 8, Amelia (6), of George Bennett in our Confirmation pouring off the hills, The Roll Call at 16.00 on there was no chance of a successful Dardanelles. It has proved difficult to born in Ascot, Margaret (4), born in Register for 1904 when he would so very soon many of 30th showed 10 Officers outcome, so by 9th January 1916 establish just who this casualty was, Woodford and baby May, (11 months) have been 11. His sister Margaret fol- them were filled with water. and 84 Other Ranks, 70 the campaign had been abandoned but entries for both him and a sis- also born in Woodford. lowed in 1908. Men were soaked; some of whom were considered and the entire Force evacuated. It is ter in our Confirmation Register, the Margaret had been Baptised here We do know he was resident in drowned, including a rations “effective”. Next day when a sad truth that the evacuation was name of his mother in the Soldiers at St Thomas of Canterbury on 28th Woodford (most likely at Aldeburgh party. A Northerly wind then Lieutenant-General Sir Julian planned and implemented with such Effects Records, and details from his December 1896, so establishing the Place) during 1914, because that began blowing with increasing Byng inspected the Battalion, “W” skill that it proved the most success- father’s surviving Army file have all family had connections to this church is what the Army recorded when he force and the temperature dropped Company consisted of its Company ful part of the campaign. provided vital corroboration. during the earliest years of the Parish. enlisted for service at Stratford. At below freezing. Commander Captain Robert Gee, Captain Robert Gee would sur- George Bennett was born in the Quite where 18 year old George some stage, and certainly during his During 27th November the bitter Sergeant Major Paschall and one vive his tour of Gallipoli, and later Walworth area of Southwark during was on the evening of the 1911 time in the Army, George appears to wind increased to gale force and “ineffective” man, such were the dev- be awarded a Victoria Cross for his 1893, and his birth was registered Census is unclear, but he was not at have taken to using his father’s sec- snow began falling in the afternoon. astating effects of the elements. actions on the Western Front. with just that one name. ond name. Hence the Military The wind became colder still with bliz- Our Parishioner George Bennett Unlike many soldiers of this He was the son of John William Records refer confusingly to a zard conditions from about 02.00 on Died on Active Service from Expeditionary Force who died in Bennett, a Groom/Coachman, Rank: Private George William Bennett; this 28th. During that day the Battalion “Exposure” as a direct result of this heavy fighting over several months, from Ropley Hampshire, and Service Number: 586 is not his Confirmation name Commander and his Adjutant found period of bitterly cold weather. George Bennett rests today in a Charlotte Bennett, a Domestic Date of Death: 30/11/1915 which was Edward. themselves the only two men left Over the months several attempts marked grave, 1.B.24 within the Servant from Great Malvern Age: N/K It now becomes easier to in the reserve line. The biting wind had been made to break out of the Azmak Cemetery at Suvla. Worcestershire. They met Regiment/Service: Royal Fusiliers 2nd Bn account for George, who hav- continued on 29th; it was freezing while in the service of Richard Grave Reference: I. B. 24. ing joined the Royal Fusiliers hard but no more snow had fallen. Vangelder, a Wine Merchant of CWGC Cemetery: AZMAK CEMETERY, SUVLA (City of London Regiment) However the impact on the trenches, North Hill, Chertsey Surrey. Local Memorial: None Known began weeks of intensive train- with so many men now suffering When rejoining the Army Decorations: None ing. Perhaps contrary to expec- from exposure and frostbite, meant after the war, John had tations he was destined not for the Battalion had essentially ceased declared himself a member of the Western Front in Europe, to function. Some men had frozen to the Church of England, adding but for the stumbling and death in situ as they defended the that the couple were married costly campaign at Gallipoli front lines. on 29th July 1892 by Rev. Fr in the Balkans. He was part The order was given to pull back Lutz at St George’s Cathedral of a replacement draft allo- and those who were left struggled in Southwark. cated to the Royal Fusiliers 2nd to make the journey, some almost His previous declaration giv- Battalion, so helping to offset crawling. Others were killed by ing the place of marriage as “St their rising number of casual- Turkish snipers, their slow progress Saviours SE’” and the Minister ties. He arrived in that opera- making them easy targets. It was a as C.J. Lutz was unhelpful. This tional area on 10th September stark fact that these few days of attri- was not only the name of the 1915, and thus qualified for tion from Mother Nature were caus- Anglican Church in Southwark the 1914/15 Star medal. This ing more casualties to the Fusiliers 28 In Touch 2017 Issue 4 29 Christmas in the choir loft.... Talk to us today When you next listen to our Parish musicians, Wills please remember that Have you made a will to provide for your family, they all rehearse in a including any step‑children? cold church through the Lasting Power freezing weather, when of Attorney the frost is cruel This is crucial in the event Its tough to be an alto when you’re We practise very hard each week And when the final trumpet sounds, of an accident, stroke, etc. singing in the choir from hymn book and the psalter, and our flock is lifted higher, The sopranos get the twiddly bits that But when the conductor looks at us Sopranos, basses, tenors will be in Emergency wills people all admire. our voices start to falter. the heavenly choir. Having an operation The basses boom like loud Too high! Too low! Too fast, too slow! While they’re singing ‘Hallelujah’ to trombones, the tenors shout with glee – you held that note too long, celestial flats and sharps, or are terminally ill? But the alto part has just two notes It doesn’t matter what we do, we’re The altos will be occupied with (or if you’re lucky, three). certain to be wrong, polishing the harps. Probate Has someone passed away? And when we sing an anthem and Oh shed a tear for altos, they’re we lift our hearts in praises, martyrs and they know These views do not necessarily Do you need help with dealing The men get all the juicy bits and That in the ranks of choral singers represent those of the editor.....the with their estate? telling little phrases. they’re considered very low. altos in our Parish Choir are held in Of course the trebles sing the tune – They are so very humble that a lot of very high regard and provide massive Deputy orders and always come off best, us forget them, musical support, although it is quite The altos only get three notes and 22 How they’d love to be sopranos, but true that they are not given the most For the mentally incapable? bars rest. their vocal chords won’t let them. interesting melodies to sing.... 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