TheWay The FREE of the Church in – Summer 2021

Offer of respite to Intern’s challenging frontline workers year in Baltic state PAGE 4 PAGE 8 UNLOCKING JOY

A welcome sign of hope after 18 months of Covid challenges. The Rev Sarah Jones enjoys a cuddle with her son Michael, who celebrated his eighth birthday on the day she was ordained , reminding us we have a God for All...

Living Lord, as we offer to you our common life, refresh our vision that we may know your will and seek to follow in all your ways. May we follow daily as your disciples, care deeply for one another in community, speak boldly your gospel words of love, and tread gently as faithful stewards of your goodness. We ask this in the power of your holy name, as Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer of our lives, today and for ever. Amen PICTURE: DIOCESE OF / STUART WALKER PHOTOGRAPHY 2 The Way, Summer 2021 www.carlislediocese.org.uk INSIDE THIS EDITION THE FUTURE AWAITS Welcome to the summer edition of The Way. Since the pandemic first struck, all editions of The MARANATHA YOGA Way have been published digitally and this is to continue. We thank you for your continued support and would encourage people to read, download and share the publication with others. In Numbers that same spirit of unity and as we look, together, to the future – one in which Covid-19 legal grow with restrictions are lifted – so leaders from across our denominations reflect on what it will mean for us Zoom class and our churches as God continues to unlock his Kingdom in the days, months and years ahead. PAGE 5 The Rt Rev time to ‘unlock his Kingdom’. It Rev Andrew Dodd, YOUNG PEOPLE is difficult – even for the least re- , flective among us – to go President, Churches Nearly 200 through an experience like this Together In Cumbria attend without asking some fairly deep and searching questions. For I AM old Ablaze event A FASCINATING debate has instance: what has all this enough to been taking place in recent shown me about what really months over whether the recall the matters? Where is God in a ‘interlude’ on PAGE 7 pandemic has resulted more in global crisis of this sort? black-and- people losing their faith and Where can I turn when my life ‘voting with their feet’ – or in a is turned upside down? white TV of a COMMUNITIES sort of ‘spiritual awakening’ as We have known for a long potter’s hands existing presuppositions have time that there is a huge and throwing the New rural been challenged and new growing interest in ‘Spirituality’ clay on a champion priorities established, and in this country. Covid has wheel. This, much kindness received. appointed prompted increasing numbers however, did not reflect the Personal experience of in-person attendance figures of people to explore that ‘inter- beginning or end of the process. PAGE 9 people’s reactions suggests a (though there is a real issue est’ further and ask where faith The raw materials of clay and bit of both, but, as a recent about how that can be turned and reality are to be found. water must be drawn from the in-depth study (Francis and into committed Christian All of which presents us with ground; a tiring and messy CONTACT US Village) reveals, overall a ‘spiri- discipleship.) a significant challenge, as well process. Water may emerge tual awakening’ is more usual. as a great opportunity. If God is clean and fresh, but the clay will EDITOR & Certainly, the number of people So it does look as though indeed unlocking his Kingdom carry impurities which need to be tuning in to streamed and on- God may be using what has in this way, how can we best : worked out until fit for purpose. line services exceeds the local been for so many a very tough push open the unlocked door? Taken from the muddy earth, Dave Roberts trodden by an apprentice to clear Tel: 01768 807764 impurities, kneaded to a basic Mobile: 07469 153658 Rev Dr James Tebbutt, Major David Taylor, lump, spun at dizzying pace, Email: communications@ Chair, Cumbria District Salvation Army pressed in from all sides by carlislediocese.org.uk strong, skilled and patient hands of the Methodist Church Divisional Commander drenched with water, from the The Way is the newspaper of the Church in clay emerges a pot or work of Cumbria. It is produced in partnership GOD is always PAUL writing to the art. between the Church of Diocese of unlocking his Kingdom Carlisle, the Methodist District of Corinthians envisions them As we emerge into the future, Cumbria, the United Reformed Church in – in the bigger picture with the reality that “where the hands of God will shape the and tiny details alike, Cumbria and Churches Together in the Spirit of the Lord is, Church by various pressures Cumbria. Through Churches Together in and among all peoples there is freedom. And we Cumbria, we ensure coverage of and and places. (2Cor.4:7). Impurities might be distribution to the Roman Catholic, all, with unveiled faces con- found which need to be excised. Salvation Army, Quakers and independent I recently experi- template the Lord’s glory, churches. The editorial team is made up enced this at the Will we yield to be shaped or be of representatives from across the are being transformed into stubborn – to be discarded? Methodist Confer- his image” (2Cor.3:17,18 denominations. ence, a large annual We hear much of the ‘emerg- The purpose of The Way is to reflect the NIV). gathering (mostly on ing church’, and fresh or new Church in Cumbria to itself and to our God is unlocking his kingdom and creating communities more widely. Zoom!) of district, ecumenical and over- initiatives. We’ve seen that We do not seek to promote any seas representatives that forms our gov- possibilities beyond our imagination. It’s not that fashioning clay is a messy particular theological viewpoint, but rather erning body. A huge amount of business Paul doesn’t recognise that the Church can face business. Perhaps we can learn aim to stimulate debate by featuring writers great challenges – he has already described from a variety of church traditions and from reflected our changing times, from climate from our Celtic forbears who society more widely. change to reports about changing patterns “being under great pressure, far beyond our speak of and pray into the image While we are happy to consider of ministry, marriage and relationships, ability to endure, so that we despaired of life of the clay, drawn from the earth unsolicited submissions, we operate itself” (2Cor.1:8). largely on a system of commissions and do and equality, diversity and inclusion. of which we are a part. not guarantee to publish any materials To my (prejudiced?) mind, the testimony In such circumstances he reminds them of the received. “God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our of some of the younger representatives On the day when The views and opinions of contributors suggested their lives appeared a bit troubles, so that we can comfort those in any and advertisers do not necessarily reflect The weight deadens chaotic, but over the week this gave way to trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive the views and opinions of the partners. On your shoulders The publisher takes no responsibility being impressed by their courage, faithful- from God” (2Cor.1:3,4). And you stumble, for losses arising from information in ness and generosity. God seemed to be The last 18 months have required such com- advertisements in The Way. May the clay dance ready to unlock his Kingdom not just for passion. But we must keep in clear view that God To balance you the present age, but for the generations to is committed to completing in and through us JOHN O’ DONAHUE - come. Without devaluing the incredible what he has begun. And so I suggest that we A New Year Blessing faithfulness, service and leadership of recall Paul’s thanksgiving to God “who always The Way older people as well (at conference, or in leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal proces- our congregations and communities), sion and uses us to spread the aroma of the Being human, being God’s nonetheless, if sometimes we are anxious knowledge of him everywhere” (2Cor.2:14). Church is a messy business. Our about the future, it would seem that God, Newspaper of Captive to Christ, we are set free to follow him Faith is that there will emerge a as ever, has a plan, and that God’s love work of art. Meanwhile, we will will endure forever. In the words of a in bringing the freedom of his kingdom to our neighbours, in the power of his Spirit. Let’s step have to get our feet and then our the Church hymn: “We’ll praise him for all that is past, hands dirty! in Cumbria and trust him for all that’s to come.” forward in faith. www.carlislediocese.org.uk The Way, Summer 2021 3

Aerial views: David’s drone images showing, from left, Colton Church, the Torver cross and Coniston St Andrew’s FRESH PERSPECTIVES n Passion for photography leads retired vicar to take to skies above county churches

By Dave Roberts

A RETIRED clergyman is docu- menting some of the county’s churches in new ways… from the air. The Rev David Bickersteth has long been a keen amateur photographer, enjoying taking pictures when walking the Cumbrian fells. But now the 71-year-old has branched out, purchasing two drones with which he has captured video footage and still In the landscape: St Luke’s at Lowick photos of churches in the south Lakes. David, who lives in Greenodd, said: “I’ve always been interested in photography so was keen to see what could be achieved using drones. I’d seen plenty of photos of the taken using them and thought they offered a very interesting angle. “I’ve only been using them for about a year. They are not particularly compli- cated to film with, but you must ensure you have all the necessary operator and drone licences before using them. I also appreciate that drones are seen as being anti-social so I ensure I only film .co.uk discretely, away from people or with Bayscapes people’s permission. ands ange-over-S “I’m doing this for fun, but our vicar Gr heard about it and suggested there may be a way I could film the churches in our benefice. I also offered to film the churches in another benefice.” ThornleigH So far, David has captured footage of An Amazing Christian Hotel 11 churches across the two benefices – Coniston and Crake Valley and Broughton and Kirkby Ireleth – but he 015395 32733 says he is willing to consider filming [email protected] www.thornleigh.org elsewhere. David knows Cumbria well. He retired Trained: David has completed a CAA course for drone operators to south Lakeland, having latterly served in two parishes south of Stoke-on-Trent. farmer Hazel Bowness and her friends Hazel, who is also a church treasurer Before that – from 1981 – he ministered who regularly walk to a high point on her at St Luke’s Torver, said: “I think the Michael G Maddison in the in Dearham, family’s farmland to pray for the area. film is absolutely fabulous; I love it. I Gosforth and Wasdale, St Elizabeth’s In 2018, the group decided to erect a can’t believe how many people have Independent Funeral Director Carlisle and then in Maryport. 15ft cross on the fellside, commissioning viewed it online.” He currently operates two drones – a a local blacksmith to build the structure David added: “The cross is so spectac- • Offering a caring, dignified and professional DJI Air 2 and a smaller, more which has a galvanised steel face. Plan- ular, particularly if you film it in the 24 hour service, 365 days a year lightweight DJI Mavic Mini 2. Both ning regulations mean it can only be ‘golden hour’ towards sunset, with the shoot ultra-HD footage. David edits the erected for short periods; this year it was sun reflecting off its face.” • Chapels of Rest, Prepayment Funeral pictures against a musical bed and then raised from Easter Week through to You can view all of David’s films on Plans and Memorials uploads the films to his YouTube Pentecost. his YouTube channel by searching for channel. He has also completed a Civil David’s film features sweeping dcbickersteth. David is also happy to 57-61 Newtown Road, Carlisle Aviation Authority course for drone panoramic shots of the cross and is set to chat with other clergy colleagues about operators. Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme future filming of churches. He can be Tel: 01228 317577 Mob: 07796 102996 One of his latest films features the of Paganini. Still photos of the cross contacted at david.bickersteth@ Email: [email protected] Torver cross. The cross was the idea of have already had 5,000 hits online. btinternet.com. 4 The Way, Summer 2021 www.cumbriamethodistdistrict.org.uk Our carers are in need of care too St Mary’s: lies at the heart of beautiful n Scheme offers free Rydal Hall retreats to frontline workers Lakeland scenery JENNY WOOLGAR By Dave Roberts PHOTOGRAPHY WITH a long and distin- guished career in nursing, Pilgrims the Rev Prof Stephen Wright understands all too well the link sites stresses and strains our frontline carers work under. But even Stephen recognises of worship that the Covid pandemic has taken AN ECUMENICAL group of levels of duress and burnout to new highs among NHS staff, care pilgrims has created 10 new home workers and those provid- walks, connecting places of ing other essential health services. worship in the Lake District. cover the cost of the 45 rooms Members of the Central That’s why he has come up with with an option to offer up more Lakes Mission Community a simple plan to try to pay back a retreat places in 2022. have worked together for the little of what he believes is owed Stephen, who is a visiting pro- to our frontline carers. last three years to develop the fessor of nursing at the University series of circuits which take in Stephen, who is also spiritual of Cumbria, has also written to two or more churches as well director of the Sacred Space prominent Cumbrian companies as the beautiful scenery. Foundation, a non-profit, non- and grant-making bodies asking They vary from a short walk denominational retreat centre and them to consider supporting the around Ambleside, to an eight- charitable trust located in the Lake scheme. District, explains: “We’ve all Meanwhile, he has contacted mile hike over the fells clapped for our carers and now it’s between Satterthwaite and NHS trusts across the county, so time we proactively cared for they can promote the project to Sawrey, and represent a collab- them too.” oration between Anglicans, staff. Places are being offered up Methodists and Baptists. That care will come in the form on a first-come, first-served basis. of a series of free retreats for up to The Caring for the Carers pro- The Rev Kath Dodd, of 45 NHS staff members and care Hawkshead Hill Baptist ject comes as Stephen publishes a workers from across the county at new edition of his book Burnout: Chapel, said: “We have the Diocese of Carlisle’s Rydal discovered a richness in our A Spiritual Crisis: From Stress To Hall Christian Retreat and Confer- Transformation, which explores mutual friendship and in the ence Centre. sharing of our different the relationship between stress It follows a number of conver- and burnout and how to identify traditions, emphases and sations between Stephen and the expressions. It is an open and prevent it. Bishop of Carlisle, the Rt Rev Bishop James added: “We are community in the sense that all James Newcome, who is the churches, congregations and well aware of the huge sacrifices ’s lead bishop made by all of our frontline health meetings in the area are invited for health and social care and to join in at whatever level they workers during the pandemic. Day who has thrown his support after day they have gone above are able to participate. behind the Caring for the Carers “These walks will connect and beyond and for that they have project. our huge thanks. you with a number of places of “We’re well aware of the worship – Anglican, Baptist, “So it is only right that we look burnout and exhaustion that so to support them in whatever way Methodist, Roman Catholic many are facing and so we just and Quaker. Each place has its we can, with so many having been want to do our best to help their left exhausted by their efforts over own distinctive story to tell recovery in some small way,” this year and a half. I have also which serves as an inspiration Stephen adds. “My sense is that written to all of our churches to the pilgrim.” very large numbers of healthcare across the Diocese to bring this The walks – which include workers have got through the project to their attention in case meditations – link all the pandemic, they’ve stuck it out and they feel moved to offer financial churches, chapels and meeting held it together at huge cost to help. houses within the Mission Com- themselves. “My prayer is that we see a munity: from Rusland in the “Now large numbers of these groundswell of support for this south to Grasmere in the north. people are allowing themselves to Stephen Wright: ‘We’re well aware of the burnout and initiative and, as a result, there are Organisers say they hope feel the stress and distress of what exhaustion that so many are facing’ DAVE ROBERTS carers who are able to enjoy some tourists feel encouraged to they’ve experienced. much-needed time for relaxation walk the trails and experience “So this will be an opportunity workers who have given so much nights from September 21, with and recuperation.” the spirituality of the natural for individuals to recharge their themselves. This is about church a further 31 rooms booked for People can also offer donations world. batteries in whatever way they using Christian hospitality to sup- another three nights from Decem- via a crowdfunding page or There are plans for the walks want: to read, to walk, to enjoy port these people; it’s a muscular ber 7. through “The Bishop of Carlisle to be published in leaflet form Rydal’s grounds, to talk one to action.” A fundraising drive is now and Sacred Space Caring for the and shared in Tourist Informa- one or in groups. It would be The hall will offer discounted underway, with £7,000 having Carers Fund”, sort code 30-96-26, tion Centres. They are also completely up to them. rates for the bookings. Currently, already been pledged at the start. bank account number 74754760. available on the website of St “Critical to all of this is that we 14 full-board rooms have been Organisers are looking to raise a n Burnout: A Spiritual Crisis is Mary’s Church Ambleside. want to give to these healthcare reserved at Rydal Hall for three total of £20,000 which would available in bookshops and online. www.salvationarmy.org.uk The Way, Summer 2021 5 Yoga community expands after classes move online n New team leader takes reins from Fresh Expression movement’s founder

By Dave Roberts physically and spiritually so that we can help serve God in the world. What happens on the yoga “FOR some people this is mat matters, but equally important their form of church,” the is what happens off the mat; how this can help make you a better Rev Pauline Steenbergen Christian, a better person, a better explains. “When they are disciple.” practising on their mat at There are plans to look to home, it’s their Bible study develop a Maranatha Yoga foun- and it’s their prayer time.” dation course, open to all, and a Pauline is talking of the transition course for yoga teachers Cumbria Fresh Expression looking to integrate Christian Maranatha Yoga movement which spirituality into their teachings. she and her husband, the Rev The group’s leaders also recog- Steve Carter, formerly Vicar of nise, however, that yoga can create Dalston, now both help lead. divides within a church context. The group is the brainchild of It’s hoped that a national Fresh Christine Pickering, a member of Expressions online debate about the congregation at St Martin’s yoga will be held in mid-Septem- Bowness and a British Wheel of ber. This will include input from Yoga teacher. Christine founded pioneer practitioners such as the concept of Christian Yoga Pauline, those who have concerns sessions in 2000, and went on to and those yet to reach a view. create a number of workshops, Pauline explains: “We will even featuring on Songs of Praise continue to work hard to have in 2008. dialogue and conversations so In 2016, the idea of Maranatha there’s a better understanding for Yoga was born following conver- all parties and so it reduces sations with the God for All team’s polarisation.” Fresh Expressions Enabler Steve adds: “For many people Richard Passmore and his wife the stumbling block is the word Lori. It led to a number of taster yoga, and I can understand that sessions being run in churches because of the connotations that across the county and Christine exist around that. publishing a book in 2019. “But it’s important to remember She says: “I was running Christine Pickering: ‘We tried church and non-church settings... then the pandemic hit’ that the word yoga simply means sessions at my church but also yoke or unity.” would happily travel across the Christine has now handed over county to run other introductory community and classes run on cated would that be?” says “People even come along from the position of Team Leader to groups. We also tried both church Zoom every two weeks. Seventy- Pauline, a Church of Scotland other yoga classes which I teach at Pauline, but remains a committed and non-church settings to see if six people have taken part. minister, former hospice chaplain a gym and in village halls who are member of the Maranatha Yoga people felt more comfortable And it has become a truly and a yoga teacher in Carlisle. spiritually curious as well as team as an Associate Leader. going to one than the other. Then ecumenical movement, with “But through Maranatha Yoga we others who have previously moved She concludes: “I’m humbled and the pandemic hit.” participants from seven denomina- are all worshipping in the same away from church but want to heartened by what Jesus is doing That forced the team to rethink tions across Cumbria and the UK way, united in Christ through explore again. There’s a diversity, through our team and online com- how classes could be delivered. regularly involved. movement of our bodies, through unity and a Christ-consciousness munity in support of the God for All There’s been a remarkable growth, “If we were to try to worship our breathing, through scripture, which is really transforming. vision to ‘follow daily, care deeply, with a burgeoning online together traditionally, how compli- prayer and meditation. “It helps us to get fitter both speak boldly and tread gently’.” ONLINE GATHERINGS: WHAT TO EXPECT No organist? A TYPICAL Maranatha Yoga pants invited to focus on Christian is a very beautiful thing. You are session starts seated with welcome, phrases during the practice of tradi- combining movement, breath, opening words and a prayerful poem tional yoga postures, such as ‘Your speech, prayer and an awareness of Problem solved! – to help people settle. Kingdom come, Your will be done’. your body. It is as if every part of you The new HT-400 Hymnal Plus plays over 2880 At the end of this, participants are Key scriptural Christian phrases is saying a prayer.” traditional hymns and popular worship songs invited to say the word ‘Maranatha’ are repeated throughout – when Steve adds: “We may, for straight out of the box! which means ‘Come Lord’ and which participants are still and also during instance, take prayers from the is the mantra used during meditation movements. Christine describes it as Northumbria Community, the Lord’s Easily create playlists, adjust the tempo, alter and silent contemplation in the last “worship and prayer with our whole Prayer or a story from the gospels the number of verses, change the pitch and 15 minutes of the hour together. selves; body mind and spirit”. and find postures which interpret even choose your instrumentation. Each gathering revolves around a She adds: “By the end, you’ve that. You are able to embody what Christian theme based on scripture. learned a prayer or passage of the you are saying.” With indexes to 10 favourite hymn books There could also be a short reading. Bible by heart, all in synergy with the At the end, members of the online included (and many more available), the great People are then invited to take movements you are making at the community are invited to bless each @qefYdHdmk sound of Hymnal Plus has made it the choice part in simple physical warm-up and time. It becomes so co-ordinated, other by offering the Peace. of churches across the UK. limbering movements. A prayer like a piece of music and your body n For more information, visit 0776107761 153934 153934 £2149 inc VAT 0800 043 0503 (Freephone) www.hymntechnology.com could also be offered up with partici- is the instrument. What you’re doing www.maranathayoga.org.uk. [email protected]@gmail.com 6 The Way, Summer 2021 www.nwsynod.org.uk New HQ as charity grows n Restore now has five shops in north Cumbria By Dave Roberts

A CHRISTIAN charity which builds community for those who may not normally go to church has opened a new headquarters. Restore was launched in July 2020 and runs five charity shops – four in Carlisle and one in Penrith – offering high-quality recycled goods for sale as well as drop-in facilities and opportunities to help people back into a work environment. A stand-alone charity which grew from the Diocese of Carlisle’s OpShops social enterprise, it has recently secured a lease on a new warehouse and shop facility on Carlisle’s Shaddongate from where it runs its distribution operation. Chair of Trustees Bryan Gray has helped Bryan Gray: ‘There’s a greater need than ever to help restore our communities’ PICTURES: DAVE ROBERTS the charity grow in recent years. As well as the warehouse, there are two new shops – initiative which combats loneliness and communities to help restore that sense of one on Shaddongate and the other on the isolation by bringing people come together community as there is in a town setting. We city’s Petteril Bank Road – and a new oper- to make things in a workshop setting. The want to help make that happen. ations manager has just been appointed. group meets at the new Shaddongate hub. “We want to provide hospitality and Bryan said: “Obviously, it was pre-Covid Meanwhile, Restore also has a community welcome – which are core Christian when we launched, but you could argue that allotment group and holds regular prayer traditions – and to allow everyone who the reason for the charity’s creation has meetings. wants to work with us an opportunity to become even more prescient. There’s a The charity is supported by churches explore their giftings. greater need than ever to help restore our across north Cumbria, with many shop vol- “Our Christian ethos manifests itself communities following the pandemic and unteers coming from local congregations. through the sense of caring community that’s what we want to help to do. Three months ago, a new operations that’s been created and the living out of “Restore is a charity shop with a differ- manager was appointed. Rachel Nutley has New operations manager: Rachel parables such as the parable of talents. ence; we are receiving donations and sell- moved to Cumbria from north Devon and Nutley outside the Shaddongate site “As we come out of lockdown I feel ing goods to people who could not afford to has managed charity shops for the last 12 there’s an opportunity for us all to reboot, shop elsewhere, but all the profit from the years, latterly for the RSPCA. been appointed to work with customers, reset and restore; that’s what we feel we shops will be invested in mission and the Rachel said: “I love the concept of staff and volunteers at that shop as well as want to help with.” local communities which they serve. Restore. All the charities I’ve previously churches across the Penrith Mission Com- With the charity expanding, more volun- “We want our shops to be places people worked with have been big organisations, munity. The connection between shops and teers and donations are needed and the feel proud to go into, either to shop or to whereas Restore is looking after the com- local churches is considered critical for the board of trustees is looking for two new volunteer. They are special places.” munities in which they’re based. It’s so re- charity’s success, and Bryan is confident members. Meanwhile, a new website can Pioneer minister, the Rev Chris Harwood, warding to know that the help we provide the new post will see greater ties forged be viewed at www.restorecumbria.co.uk. works closely with Restore. He was and the money we raise will go to the peo- with rural church communities. n If you want to volunteer or donate, instrumental in setting up a Men in Sheds ple of Carlisle and Penrith.” He added: “I live in the East of Eden mis- please email Rachel Nutley at operations@ The charity is looking for sion community, which is made up of 19 restorecumbria.co.uk. Anyone interested in bigger premises in Penrith and congregations, largely Anglican and becoming a trustee should contact Bryan a Pioneer Minister has just Methodist. There’s as much need in rural Gray at [email protected]. Phone: 01768 868683 Email: [email protected] ‘Entrepreneurial’ vicar writes autobiography A RETIRED Cumbrian vicar has pub- known as one of the great www.askins-little.co.uk lished a new book documenting nearly entrepreneurs of the 20th century.” 60 years of ministry and social action. Though now retired and living in The Womb with a View details the Borrowdale, Malcom continues to Rev Malcolm Stonestreet’s early life, play an active part in local ministry. ordination in 1962 and curacy in Reviewing the book, the Bishop of Leeds through to his final appointment Carlisle, the Rt Rev James Newcome, as vicar of six churches in Eskdale. writes: “I found this lovely book quite Readers are also guided through his a nostalgic read, because it reminded second curacy at Far Headingly, me of the church into which I was appointment as Vicar of Askrigg in pictured above, eventually moved to ordained nearly 40 years ago. I also We carryP honeout all: 0stonework,1786 868683 lime pointing Wensleydale and his move to Bram- Eskdale, where he helped establish the found it deeply moving...” ley, the largest parish in the Diocese of Muncaster Conference, committed to n The Womb with a View costs £10 andwww.askins-little.co.uk lime plastering to churches, Leeds and where he oversaw the cre- community and economic renewal. plus postage. It is available in local book Email: [email protected] ation of a Gift Economy scheme sup- The Ven Chris Burke, Archdeacon shops, via Amazon or direct from Mal- memorials, listed buildings and homes porting unemployed people. Malcolm, of Barking, said: “Malcolm is well- colm at [email protected]. www.nwsynod.org.uk The Way, Summer 2021 7

Fun in the sun: From left, five-year-old Otis, from Brough, on the slide; Tebay Youth Group members Emily, 12, Poppy, 12, and Madison, 11; and Harry and Finley, both seven, enjoying ice creams Cumbria’s Ablaze again! n Youngsters welcome return of youth church’s outdoor event

By Dave Roberts

NEARLY 200 children and young people gathered for an afternoon and evening of fun organised by the Eden Network Youth Church. The outdoor Ablaze event was held in the shadow of Brough Castle and offered a minis session for those aged from five to 10 followed by an evening event for 11 to 18-year-olds. Most of those attending came from across the Eden Valley with some teenagers from the Carlisle Network Youth Church also travelling down. Ablaze was first launched five years ago, but the pandemic forced the cancellation of last year's event. Rachel Milburn, Network Youth Church Pioneer Minister for the Eden area, then took on the 2021 event, which had to be carefully managed due to Covid regulations. “I’ve been thinking about organising this since April, Contenders ready... Thomas, left, and Jacob battle it out PICTURES: DAVE ROBERTS wondering if it would happen or not and watching the guidelines constantly,” she explained. “The play equipment has to be cleaned constantly and activities such as henna tattoos and the prayer stations have not been able to happen. “These kids have been tied down for a year and I just have such a passion to see them having a good time whilst also learning about God. “We have boards dotted around which explain that we’re all loved by God. If they take nothing else away, they will know that they’re loved and are beautiful.” Good news: Message boards were dotted about the site The Ablaze event was held on land which Rachel’s family farms. old son Jackson. She said: “It’s event represents an important form Attractions included trampolining, been brilliant. There’s so much of outreach. inflatable slides and obstacle choice for the kids. Our young She added: “There are so many courses and a slippy slide close to people have had it tough over the different ways we can tell people the 11th century Brough Castle. last year so it’s important that they about God. Going to church just Emma Brown is a member of can come to events like this and doesn’t work for some younger Cornerstone Church in the Western see kids from other Christian people. As Christians we have to Dales Mission Community and homes having fun.” be out in the communities putting In the swing of it: Talwyn Heads up: Isabelle, 11, on was at Ablaze with her nine-year- Rachel feels that the Ablaze on events like this.” enjoys some trampolining the obstacle course 8 The Way, Summer 2021 www.nwsynod.org.uk ‘Wonderful year of service’ n Intern taken out of his comfort zone during challenging few months in Estonia

By Dave Roberts

AS WE talk over a Zoom link, Gareth Palliser casually mentions that he’s only been married for two days and has had to leave his bride in her native Estonia. It’s a bit of a surprise, bearing in mind we had come together to chat about his time working in mission in the Baltic state as an intern. It transpires that he met his new wife, Hannah, when she was in Carlisle in 2018 working as an intern at the Cathedral; so their respective calls to mission have been central to their marriage. Newly-weds: Gareth and Gareth, 24, is the first intern Hannah on their wedding day from the Diocese of Carlisle’s MADIS KASK IX12 Internship programme to travel overseas, making the jour- and, during the pandemic, worked ney to Estonia in September 2020. at Carlisle’s Infir- He explains: “I’m very Cum- mary to help with the Covid brian; even a move to Newcastle testing programme before starting felt too much a few years ago. his internship. But it was Hannah’s story about Gareth Palliser: ‘Most people in Estonia would not know anything about Christianity’ He also had close ties with her call to the UK which inspired Carlisle Network Youth Church, me. She felt God calling her to “Because of the pandemic, try- alongside people from the city’s They were next to a far bigger helping the team draw alongside that mission, even though she was ing to get a flight out to Estonia university – Estonia’s largest. church Pauluse Kirik (St Paul’s) young people who attend a park very established in Estonia. was crazy; the schedule was con- The country’s Soviet past – and I helped a lot with the youth on the city’s Raffles estate. “Having heard her story I started stantly moving and flights were when public worship was prohib- work there. Gareth adds: “I suppose that to think about it far more seriously being cancelled at the last ited – means that many people “Every week there’d be a youth was my introduction to mission. I and prayed about it. I have a heart minute,” Gareth explains. would not class themselves as meeting. I was so impressed by really enjoyed meeting up with to serve and saw this as an impor- “For a while I wasn’t even sure Christians. Some surveys even how well the young people knew the young people and building up tant opportunity to do that.” if I’d be able to go because the suggest it is the ‘least religious the Bible. It was all in person until trust. There were huge amounts of It led to conversations between rules were changing so rapidly. countries in ’. March and then, for three months kids who would come along each internship programme managers When I finally got to Tartu, I then “Most people in Estonia would after that, we had to meet via week, with some then joining and the Norwegian Mission had to self-isolate for 10 days.” not know anything about Chris- Zoom. An advantage of taking youth groups.” Society who partner the scheme. During his internship, Gareth tianity. They may have a vague things online was that we were Hannah has now travelled to the It was decided Gareth would be taught English at a Catholic spirituality but aren’t seeking to able to pull together lots of young UK, and the couple are set to based in the south Estonian school. Through his work with connect,” Gareth says. people from across the south of move to York where Gareth will university city of Tartu. Lutheran churches, he also drew “So my internship was very var- Estonia who may only be in very complete a master’s degree in ied and I had a degree of small youth groups locally.” health research. flexibility. My work at He also drew alongside the He adds: “This has been a won- the school would see me organiser of a CrossFit mission derful year of service and a time work on a one-to-one where people would come when I’ve been lifted out of my basis with young people together to work out and then pray. comfort zone. There’ve been all and look to connect them Gareth grew up in a Christian kinds of challenges and I’ve learnt so with my other links. family and was raised in Dalston much about myself and what God “The main churches I near Carlisle, attending Hebron wants for me. I’d encourage others rydal hall was connected with were Evangelical Church from a young who may be thinking of doing hospitality | tranquility | spirituality Maarja Kirik (St Mary’s) age. After returning from univer- something like this to pray about it where I’d help them film sity he joined Carlisle’s Vineyard and talk to others. It’s been one of the service on a Sunday. Church. He trained as a paramedic the best things I’ve ever done.” Introduction to Celtic Spirituality Tuesday 9 – Friday 12 November 2021 TASTE OF MISSION AND MINISTRY £315 pp Standard room Full Board Tutor: Cameron Butland The course takes into account the most recent developments in our understanding of IX12 Internship Programme and mentoring, our interns get first- this distinctive spirituality includes worship, prayers, talks, silence and reflection. Manager Sophie Smith, pictured left, hand experience of what mission and explains how the scheme works... ministry can look like, which they in Icon Painting turn take home with them when their IX12 is a mission internship internship year is over. Monday 8 – Friday 12 November 2021 programme that intentionally invests £560 pp Full Board Tutor: Rev. Chris Perrins The scheme has run successfully in young adults as disciples of Jesus for more than 10 years, having seen The course is aimed at beginners, but those with more experience are very welcome. by providing church community Each person will paint an icon using traditional techniques of egg tempera on a gessoed placements of all kinds in Cumbria. over 100 interns being part of it, and board, using the proplasmos technique, with gold leaf for the background. We partner with the Norwegian more than 30 different churches and Missions Society’s internship ministries across Cumbria benefitting Rydal Hall, Ambleside, Cumbria LA22 9LX programme, which means we re- from it. ceive interns from across the globe. n For details about the programme, Booking Office: 015394 32050 With a combination of teaching, email [email protected] or [email protected] www.rydalhall.org practical work in placement churches visit www.carlislediocese.org.uk/ix12/ www.nwsynod.org.uk The Way, Summer 2021 9 A boost for rural voices thanks to God’s ‘nudge’ n Ex-diocese worker takes up Methodist Church post

By Dave Roberts

“MY WHOLE life has been about listening to God to see where he wants me to go next and then wait for him to give me a nudge,” Sarah Hulme explains. That latest nudge has seen her appointed as the Methodist Church’s Rural Mission and Ministry Officer, a new full-time position for the church. The 50-year-old who lives in Penrith with her husband Chris – with whom she has three children – comes to the role having worked for the Diocese of Carlisle for nearly 10 years. She’s now a member of the Methodist Church’s Evangelism Sarah Hulme: Working as part of the God for All team was ‘invaluable’ DAVE ROBERTS and Growth team – covering the whole of Scotland, England and Growing Younger Enabler. “I’ll be involved with conversa- Wales – with a brief to promote the She attended Ulverston Parish tions at district level about the roll- ‘rural voice’ in all that the church Church from a young age and out of this, especially those in more may be looking to develop. made a faith commitment aged rural areas,” adds Sarah, who Sarah says: “Within our team we eight while attending an after- started her new job in May. “It will have, for instance, an evangelism school club. Her faith continued to be about helping people to consider and contemporary culture officer, a grow while studying for a joint what a ‘new place’ might look like church at the margins officer and a languages degree at Leicester in a rural area. mission and community engage- University, including a year in “The experience I’ve had as part ment officer. My job is to work when she joined an of the God for All team, particu- alongside all of these colleagues to ecumenical student church. Sarah larly working alongside colleagues ensure that, in whatever resources is a member of the congregation at who were developing pioneering we develop for different circuits, Penrith Methodist Church and the strands, has been invaluable. districts and churches, there is con- Mountain Pilgrims fresh expression “When new colleagues hear that tent which fits the rural context. community. I was working in Cumbria, they “It ensures resources are not In her new role she will also immediately start to ask questions aimed at the big churches which serve on the Joint Public Issues about how things are working out. have hundreds of people in the Team (JPIT) – a body which in- People are fascinated by the congregation, but that smaller cludes representation from the ecumenical partnerships that have churches in a rural context are United Reformed, Baptist and developed here and they’re closely always carefully considered too. Methodist churches and provides a monitoring them.” “We know that there’s not a ‘one joint approach to public policy Sarah also understands that the size fits all’ for church and indeed information, campaigning and Covid pandemic has shifted the there’s not a ‘one size fits all’ for advocacy – and at the Arthur Rank landscape for many of our rural church, but my role will be to Centre, an independent ecumenical churches, not least those in a rural make sure huge consideration is charity that helps rural communities setting. given to the needs of these flourish by inspiring, encouraging Problems include financial churches.” and equipping local churches. constraints and bridging onsite and Originally from Ulverston, Sarah A major strand of her role will be online worship in the future, an has lived in Penrith for more than to help develop the Methodist issue for many rural churches due 20 years. She was a secondary Church’s fresh expressions work to connectivity issues. school language teacher for 17 through the ‘New Places for New She remains hopeful though, years before joining the diocese in People’ project. Over the next three concluding: “I’m still excited to a job-share role with the Board of years, 30 Methodist districts will be hear what God is doing in different Education, developing after-school awarded money for the scheme places, and seeing how he is making clubs and fresh expressions. Before which they’ll match fund to things work. It’s great to be part of a her appointment with the develop a focus on pioneering team that’s looking to inspire and Methodist Church, she was the aspects and church at the margins. encourage others along the way.” 10 The Way, Summer 2021 ‘Unity makes our credibility and witness much stronger’ n In our latest Focus on Faith, we meet David Taylor, the Salvation Army’s new Divisional Commander in Cumbria

Please tell us a little bit about collaboration across the north west and to yourself. help identify people who can make that Q work. I was born in Rhodesia to parents who were both Salvation Army Why do you feel ecumenism is so Aofficers. My family has a long important as we look to grow ancestral line going back to the founding QGod’s Kingdom? days of the Army. My dad trained teachers at I’m a firm believer in the Kingdom one of our institutes in Africa. We were in a first and the need for us to clearly big station out in the bush with a large hos- Aunderstand that is one church. pital, schools and the college for training Pragmatically and practically there is room officers. When I was about 12 we returned for diversity, but I hold Jesus’s words dear, to the UK, living in . that we may all be one. I studied English literature and biblical Our credibility and witness is so much studies at Sheffield University and, after a stronger when people see that the nature of couple of years working as a porter at Guy’s Christianity is the unity and love which , I entered the Salvation Army flows out of Christ through our denomina- college in Hill. tions and streams. I’m married to Kathy and we have The risk is that we could become moulded three children. One of our daughters and by the world’s values around individualism son-in-law have chosen to enter Salvation and competitiveness, but the Good News is Army officership as well. that we are one in Christ. As such we are I’ve just completed 37 years in officership, brought into a whole new family, Kingdom mainly engaged in church leadership but and set of values based around the latterly involved in leading our higher likeness of Christ which can only make us education as well as national spiritual life stronger. development. For the last three years I’ve I can imagine that where communities been based in our central north area – which may feel more remote, then there is a real takes in Greater Manchester, Merseyside, value in the sense of closer working Lancashire and Cheshire and now Cumbria relationships across the denominations. as we’re expanding our regions. As the people of God I would like to think While still a church leader I also went we would want to work more strategically back to studies, completing my Masters at Oxford University and a subsequent together in every area. doctorate which focussed on ecclesiology. I’ve got a strong interest in ecumenical How important do you feel it is to relationships and what the nature of the Qhave strong mission communities church is. I’ve always wanted to engage across the county? with other denominations; that’s really I think they are vital; they are at the important to me. heart of renewing our Christian Aheritage. Mission communities bring What will your new role entail? a new sense of ownership and a dynamic which is centred on people’s giftings and Q passions. They bring new energy to the life Within our region we have a number of the church. of Lifehouses (residential centres for We’re a relatively new denomination, but Ahomeless people or young care even within our 150 years, you can see how leavers), plus our elderly persons’ homes. easy it is to become settled and perhaps a We currently also hold the Government’s little too rigid in our structures and culture. contract for anti-trafficking and work So there’s room to go back to Christ at the alongside a number of other organisations to centre and rediscover what it is to be the combat slavery. In addition, we have body of Christ. Employment Plus services, to help people get back into work, a housing association, What is your prayer as you prison and airport chaplaincies, and debt Qprepare to take up the new role? advice centres. Many of these services are run from within our church centres. My prayer would be that we are And, of course, we have a strong charity AGod-focussed and God-led, not just persona including our charity shops which trusting in our own human energy and also serve as ministry centres. wisdom. I’d pray that we seek to honour So my new role will be to connect people. what God is doing, and wanting to do, while Where we have specialist contracts there’s a understanding the signs of . need for informed, dedicated management I’m a firm believer that where the Good structures which are more centralised from News is proclaimed faithfully, then God will New role: our London offices. But my job is to build his church. My prayer is that we can David Taylor says his job will be to ensure ‘connection, ensure there’s connection, integration and go on that journey with God and each other. integration and collaboration’ across the region DAVE ROBERTS