JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2017

Talkin’ ‘bout my generation

The Christian Boomers PAGE 6 Building an intergenerational culture PAGE 16

Living & learning NEW Focus On: Politics & faith: NEW General life together: The Church in The Keswick and seasonal a conversation 10 the Woottons 26 Lectures 31 resources 34 UEA presents the Keswick Hall Lectures

Thu 9 March FREE SPEECH, HATE SPEECH, FAITH SPEECH Thu 16 March WHAT ARE ‘BRITISH’ VALUES? Thu 23 March FAITH AND BRITISH POLITICS: IN CONVERSATION WITH RT HON CHARLES CLARKE Thomas Paine Study Centre, UEA 6.30pm Free to attend and open to all T 01603 592130 E [email protected] W uea.ac.uk/events Supported by the UEA Faith Literacy Network and the Keswick Hall Trust

Helping you teach God’s word to the next generation Bible Teaching Resources Useful for Sunday school groups, mid-week clubs, holiday Bible clubs, church events, parties, family time, home education and play sessions.

Order from our website: www.goteach.org.uk from our o ce 01625 422279 Go Teach Publications Ltd, email: [email protected] Unit 12, Paradise Mill, Park Lane, or from your local Christian bookshop. Maccles eld, Cheshire, SK11 6TL

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To find out more, contact Sally on01603 882322 or email [email protected] From the Editor Contents THE MAGAZINE | JANUARY – FEBRUARY 2017 ake a look around most couple of new items have appeared: churches in this Diocese: a new general and seasonal resources how many are dependent page (34), and new feature “Focus 4 COMMENT: Sister Sheila - God’s on volunteers and laity that On” taking a look at a different parish grace perseveres are the “recently retired” or similar? I or benefice each issue (pg 26). Let us would say many. This issue is particularly know what you think. And make it your 5 PAUSE BUTTON: Richard Butler - concernedT with the “third-agers”. A quick New Year resolution to pass on your Spiritual gifts in later life definition of third age: one scheme copy of The Magazine (once you read it describes people based on biological first!) to someone else. not chronological ageing. First agers are There’s also a new way to subscribe. If in full time education, second agers are you’d prefer to be a digital reader, you those in working life, third agers are the can sign-up to receive an email letting independent active retired and fourth you know when the latest edition agers have become dependent and of The Magazine is available online: receive some level of care. visit www.dioceseofnorwich.org/ Are we in the church valuing those onlinemagazine in this age group, not just for what Each edition is available online as they “do” but their life-experience and both a PDF download and a flickable spiritual contributions? We take a look at on-screen version. You can also some views from a few “boomers” in the receive an audio copy by contacting 6 main feature (pg6). One thing certainly Sally Finn on 01603 882322. FEATURE: rings clear: the young and young-at- Talkin’ ‘bout my generation heart have much to learn about faith Blessings, from one another. Take a look at the articles on pages 10 and 16 that focus 13 FACE TO FAITH: Val Dodsworth on generations connecting. 14 The Gift of Years – resourcing the The photo below was snapped by Barbara Bryant my son on his way home one day. He Editor spiritual journey of older people Photo: © Luke Bryant particularly appreciated the carefully 15 Life, Death and Christian Hope – folded paper boat, crafted from a bus ticket, and left to float on a puddle – e-Learning course even more so when he realised it was a senior’s ticket! 18 From beginning to end with Open the Book The new year brings a few minor changes to The Magazine – the What’s On listings 24 Volunteering – good for have moved to the back (pg 37), and a everyone! 28 OUT & ABOUT: parish snapshots Correction: the front cover image used for the Nov/Dec issue should have been ©Catherine Beane, who was also co-author of the article on pg 27. Our apologies and thanks to Catherine. 30 News in brief

The Magazine design: Get in touch Adept Design www.adeptdesign.co.uk 01603 882348 (Editor) Views expressed in this publication are not necessarily [email protected] those of the Diocese and the acceptance of advertising does not indicate editorial endorsement. Diocesan House, 109 Dereham Road, Easton, Norwich NR9 5ES Cover photo: a few third agers from across the Diocese of Norwich; photos © Joe Lenton, Adam Jackson and supplied. www.dioceseofnorwich.org/magazine facebook.com/dioceseofnorwich @DioceseNorwich 33 The absolute deadline for The Bishop’s Lent Appeal 2017 the next issue is and theme is environmental issues. 38 What’s On listings To advertise in The Magazine please contact Sally on & Mrs Burrington writes 01603 882322 or email [email protected] 40 A Monday Mardle

3 God’s grace COMMENT perseveres through our ages and stages

hen I was asked It has to be worked at and maintained in Thirdly - a growing knowledge that to contribute this prayer for each other – but whatever the prayer, at its heart and at its most comment, it was a shape of the future All Hallows. I hope it effective, really IS as simple as saying to shock to realise that will continue to be a source of strength God “Here - am - I”, allowing his echoing I had been numbered as one of the and nourishment for us and those “I - am - here!” to envelop you; and Elect of the Third Age - but of course, around us. letting him use that being there as he that’sW what I am, with a fair number of will. It takes care of all the other prayers, Pious observations like this need earthing All Hallows’ Community. As I pondered, the liturgy, all we are, pray and do for in reality. What real lessons of this type I remembered being told years ago as others in his Name. have I learned over the past 46-ish years? a music student: “You can’t put music God is good and ever-merciful, and a into watertight compartments!” - i.e. Firstly - to be thankful for any blessings dab hand at making best use of the least there are no rigid boundaries between and especially the unremarkable ones, and promising material. We thank him that different musical forms, styles and those through whom they come. (Sister with his help, we can do our bit to feed periods; and it is foolish to try to classify Dorothea could say, in her mid-80’s: “I’ve that grace into wherever it is needed. in such a way. The same goes for human never been a miserable person - but I’ve nature, across and within age groups. never been as happy as I am now!”) And “Grant us the grace of final perseverance, to appreciate fresh ones - breadmaking, that the work you have begun in us may In our All Hallows fellowship we know spiritual direction and mastering IT (but be performed till the day of our Lord the importance of interacting with, not driving...God help other road users). Jesus Christ, who is alive and reigns with and appreciating the giftedness of you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God each and every one; it is part of our Secondly - an ever-deepening sense of for ever and ever, AMEN.” DNA. But deeper and more telling the reality of God in your life. The less than that is the pooling of vocational spectacular, the surer it is and the more Sister Sheila joined the wisdom and insight, the appreciation sustaining. This was borne in on me at Community of All of each other as God’s creation, the a recent funeral for a well-loved ex-staff Hallows in 1970 and ability to laugh or grieve together member. Hearing “I AM the Resurrection has been involved in (even if there is a little grumble too, and I AM Life”; knowing that one really is a variety of its work. sometimes). This cuts right across the She is currently part of that truth and all it carries for this serving as one of age divide, and is a precious, often life and the next; basing one’s own life on the Community’s two unsung part of our community life. that conviction. leaders.

4 Spiritual gifts in later life

never thought that I would be Spirituality is, I am told, a concept sitting reflecting on the value of which today is viewed as broader, my spirituality in later life. As more inclusive than religion. I believe we focus in this edition on the that spirituality is very much part of particular demographic of Christian my religion, my faith, my meaning, my ‘baby boomers’, I found myself realising understanding, and spirituality lifts me Ithat there can be no denying that I am and aids me in my everyday work. Being now part of that cohort. one of those noted above running many of the various activities at our local One only has to look around our churches organisations whilst still working; not and communities to find that it is those yet caring for grandchildren but still in their sixties and seventies who are very much caring for my two children, running so many activities provided for and juggling my busy life with a life others. Many are combining that with the based on the teachings of Christ. continuation of their full-time jobs, not All the above reminds me how I believe that spirituality is hanging their boots up at 60 or 65, but working on as part of the new freedom important God is in my life and how very much part of my religion, given to us to retire when we want to. fortunate I am that he has provided me my faith, my meaning, with the ability to think and struggle to Many of us have been Christians for my understanding, and understand. Indeed, God affords us all a very long time and understand the the opportunity to support each other spirituality lifts me and aids importance that our faith plays in our and to celebrate what we can offer to me in my everyday work. lives, but we also have so much to be the younger generations; our time, our thankful for. We’re thankful to God for the resources, our wisdom, our care and care that he has given over the decades. our love. We also understand that we still have a need to love and serve others. I am All this in later life comes to us as God’s often reminded that love is about the gift – a joyous way for us to express only thing that you can give away in as our spirituality for the generations greater quantity as you would like and that follow us, always remembering still have heaps left to give to others. Galatians 5:22-23 “the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, There is a Hindu prayer which says goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, “yesterday is but a memory and tomorrow self-control; against such things there is is only a vision, yet today well lived makes no law”. every yesterday a happy memory and every tomorrow a vision of hope”. As part of our Christian life we hope to give others, and ourselves, happy memories and we live in hope of a Richard Butler DL better world to come. We in the Diocesan Secretary Church of England need to ensure that we have person-centred care for all within our Family.

5 TALKIN’ ‘BOUT MY GENERATION

Contrary to what many rock stars expected, they did not die before they got old, and our churches nowadays contain many from the rock generation. Some of them are in leadership positions. Tim Lenton explores the concept of the “boomer” Christians.

PEOPLE TRY TO PUT US I HOPE I DIE D-DOWN BEFORE I GET JUST BECAUSE WE GET AROUND THINGS THEY DO LOOK AWFUL C-C-COLD OLD MY GENERATION THIS IS MY GENERATION

6 n many churches “the old people” benefice. She says: “I am blessed to be Brian likens his early life experience continue to be seen as a liability in a group of parishes where age is no to an Old Testament approach, with instead of an asset. James barrier to experiencing God’s love and the emphasis on “thou shalt not”. His Woodward, director of the Leveson to serving one another.” experience of Jesus and the Holy Spirit Centre for the Study of Ageing, says it is An early retiree, she sees becoming at Cromer was significant, and he was “surprising that the Church fails to make older as a celebration of a lifelong baptised in the sea there. “It wasn’t easy,” Iolder people a priority; it disempowers he says. “There were big waves!” journey with God through its many ups them and often deprives them of an and downs. Having discovered his own role in the opportunity to participate as children of God. Too many of us in the Church She had not been seeking a leadership church, he is concerned, however, that apologise for our congregation with role in the church and does not see her the Church as a whole might not be words such as ‘I am afraid we are all present position as a career or a job. “It’s encouraging the older generation to use elderly here’.” a calling,” she says. And she believes that their talents. “A lot of people are trying to we all have a calling – simply because hide their light under a bushel,” he says. Many from the 50s and 60s, perhaps God loves us. “It’s never too late to “Leaders are often not sufficiently aware influenced by the spirit of that age, have a longing for God and to become of the potential.” drifted away from the church, looking all that he intends us to be. For me it for a more informal kind of spirituality. Brian feels that older people could takes discipline and a bit more work But a lot have come back, discovering interact more with children, too – a point on the memory front, but the joys are a deeper faith than the kind of “tick- with which James Woodward would immeasurable.” box Christianity” of some post-war agree. He writes: “Older people often evangelicalism. Working five days a week as a curate, appreciate the vibrancy that children she says: “Life balance is important. It’s bring. Junior churches or Sunday schools not easy; it needs discipline. But it’s so can invite older members to contribute worthwhile.” to teaching sessions. Older people can get involved in activities such as nativity The need for life balance is echoed by plays. I once saw the inn-keeper in a Brian Wigg, a retired accountant who wheelchair, and the children enjoying is now church treasurer at Cromer and the aged wise men.” helping to lead an adult group with learning difficulties, which he finds Sybil Martin, who is churchwarden “inspiring”. He came to the Church of at Wymondham Abbey, as well as a England after starting out in a free Mothers’ Union trustee, an authorised church more than half a century ago. worship assistant and a school governor – among other things – started out as His faith is now radically different. “I a teacher in East London and knows used to be a believer, but now I’m a the value of people who are happy to Christian,” he says. On coming to Cromer be committed in difficult areas. “When he noticed a difference from what he I went there they were desperate for Ruth Adamson had experienced in earlier life. “For a people who were willing to stay,” she start, there was a lady curate,” he laughs. says. “And the church oozed Spirit.” I am blessed to be in a After 12 years there, when she had group of parishes where age problems with her back, Sybil came to is no barrier to experiencing Norfolk: her daughter had attended the UEA and stayed on. She looked for God’s love and to serving one a market town, and Wymondham had another. everything she needed, as did the Abbey. “I was brought up as a middle-of-the- As the Revd Ruth Adamson grew older road Anglican,” she says. “Here I found she particularly appreciated the diversity awe and wonder.” of worship in the Anglican tradition that enabled her to treasure her biblical She also found a need for many of the roots while increasingly pondering the skills she could offer. She describes mystery and majesty of God. So she herself as a “doer and facilitator” – not started a midweek village worship time someone who feels called to go out and called Pray, Reflect, Coffee. convert the community, “but with God’s help doing the things that need to be “Life is so busy that it’s good to light a done”. Quoting Elizabeth I’s comment candle and be still together, letting the Brian Wigg that “I would not open windows into Psalms speak to our deepest needs at the men’s souls”, she recalls her experience beginning of a new day,” she says. at taking assemblies and discussing faith Ruth was recently ordained deacon and I used to be a believer, but issues – roles she has been able to take licensed as assistant curate in the Quintet now I’m a Christian. on in different contexts.

7 Photo: © Adam Jackson

Sybil Martin Matthew Hutton

If we don’t understand the We need to have respect For older people he feels there is often a community we live in, the local for each other in love. I love to mentoring and general pastoring role. “It may be costly in time, but the potential is church will die. play my part in bringing people huge. There is the excitement of starting together, maybe challenging to see people walking tall.” Sybil is concerned about the older them in a gentle way. It’s where Although he dislikes labels, he admits to people in the local community, however, I’m naturally comfortable. being culturally Anglican and a gently feeling that the Church is not good at charismatic evangelical. He likes to be a advertising itself as a place where they Having been a lay reader for over 20 peacemaker. “Churches are all different, can find something worthwhile to do. years, Matthew was ordained as a and we hurt each other terribly easily,” “Prayer meetings and Bible studies deacon in 2014, when he was 60, and he says. “We need to have respect for are too much for some,” she says. “We as a priest in 2015. He was formerly each other in love. I love to play my part can’t expect them to do what we did. a tax lawyer and a writer, and he in bringing people together, maybe Saturday and Sunday are not what they continues to manage the family farm. challenging them in a gentle way. It’s used to be.” Ordination followed a five-year process where I’m naturally comfortable.” of discernment initiated by a suggestion With the awe and wonder at the Abbey Those of us who grew up in the 1960s from the Bishop of Liverpool at the time, – qualities I found in abundance during and 1970s may have been more drawn the Rt Revd James Jones. a brief visit – there is also humour. When to “All you need is love” than to organised bad weather forced the cancellation He now feels “very content”, working religion, but many of us have come to of a traditional duck race in the nearby three days a week as a curate, although a realisation, through a broadening of river, they used social media to advertise those three days frequently expand our faith, that love is indeed what it’s all a new venue: the Abbey. There was a – a phenomenon known well to about, even at an advanced age. huge response to find out how a duck most people who work in a part-time Father Vacek reminds us that “for most race in an Abbey could possibly work. capacity. of their retirement, the elderly are not at Although she herself “forgets to say True happiness requires work and death’s door, but that door is no longer no”, Sybil is not in favour of badgering love, as Edward Vacek SJ points out in another building”. He concludes: “The people. “We should rejoice in the in an article on Ageing, Retirement most important activity at any age is to congregation we’ve got and use their and Spirituality. He asks: “Would it be love God.” talents.” appropriate for a Christian to decide to She concludes: “If we don’t understand use these post-retirement years as a 20- the community we live in, the local year vacation?” church will die.” Christianity is clearly something that The Revd Matthew Hutton, curate at St you don’t take a break from, but life Stephen’s Norwich, also feels that older balance continues to be important – people are an under-used resource of the perhaps becomes more important – as church. Older, single women in particular we grow older. “tend to be invisible”, particularly in Participation in the life of the church large churches, he says. “This can have needs to be clearly understood as all- Tim Lenton is a former journalist who is now a a damaging effect on the women age, Matthew affirms. “Everyone has freelance writer. He leads worship, preaches and themselves in terms of identity and self- something to contribute. We need to plays guitar at St Augustine’s, Norwich. He has a image, but it is also bad for the Church.” honour and encourage each other.” website at www.back2sq1.co.uk

8 Further ideas… on the theme of third age

A Mission-shaped Encounters on Pioneering the Church for Older the Edge 40: Third Age: The People: Practical People Try To Put Church in an Suggestions for Us Down - Fresh Ageing Population Local Churches expressions with Rob Merchant, Mike Collyer, Claire older people Paternoster Press Dalpra, Alison George Lings, Johnson, James Church Army, 2008 Woodward, Church Army/Leveson Centre, 2008

Discovering Faith in Later Life - by Michael Collyer; a series The Gift of Years - A ministry of Bible Reading of bulletins to motivate, challenge and encourage the wider Fellowship, resourcing the spiritual journey church to take the spiritual needs of older people seriously. of older people. See article on page 14. Available as pdf downloads from the Church Army at : 01865 319700 www.thegiftofyears.org.uk www.goo.gl/ne2zCM The Leveson Centre - for the study of Ageing, Spirituality Seminar pack: Fresh expressions and and Social Policy. Useful resource/publications section on older people – helps people reflect on website. www.leveson.org.uk/levesoncentre the differences within generations as 01564 778022 well as between generations and affirms that in the 21st century a range of expressions of church are needed, as one size does not fit all. Cost: £5 0300 365 0563 www.freshexpressions.org.uk/resources/ seminar/older

Senior Alpha is ‘a ministry created to reach the older generation with the good news about Jesus Christ’. The current versions of The Alpha Course Manual and The Alpha Course Leaders’ Manual have been republished with larger print and key Bible verses written out in full following the standards used by the Royal National Institute of the Blind.’ 020 7052 0486 or email [email protected]

Christians on Ageing – a voluntary, national, ecumenical member- based organisation. It is a resource for churches and other bodies and Bible Reflections for Older People will be published individuals concerned with the needs, three times a year. Each issue contains 40 Bible especially the spiritual needs, of all reflections and prayer suggestions to use and older people. 01609 881408 www.christiansonageing.org.uk revisit as often as you wish. Interviews and short articles provide inspiration, Silver Connections – an A4 large print encouragement and hope. magazine, supported by a free electronic presentation with notes, which can be Each issue costs £4.99. easily printed. Materials are thought- provoking with stunning images, extensive Visit brfonline.org.uk or telephone 01865 319700 quotes and testimonies to inspire to purchase a copy, or pop into your local bookshop. connections in the silver years. BRF (The Bible Reading Fellowship) is a registered charity (No. 233280) 07767 804333 www.connect4life.org.uk

9 All photos: © Adam Jackson

From generation to generation – learning life lessons

Biddy Collyer had been living alone in a two bedroomed house in Norwich city centre for 15 years and during that time had a number of lodgers, all male. Last year she knew that a young friend from church, Suze Rose, wanted to move from Dereham where she had been working and living with her parents since leaving University. Biddy invited her to move in while she completed her training as a Beauty Therapist. Twelve months on, they reflect on an experience of house-sharing across generations.

“What did you expect it to be Biddy Suze “I think there is a misconception Suze Absolutely.” like? Was it a big thing to move of living with someone older. into my space?” It is easier to open up. You give me “It’s about a year now. We did your opinion, a fresh perspective. I Biddy start to pray together in the “I was intrigued how it would Suze bristle when my parents are telling me evenings and I am wondering if work out. You are in someone something.” we are going to get back to that. What else’s home, and it is not your parents’, do you think?” and it is not a family friend. I can just “It is a special relationship isn’t it Biddy go and have a sulk, but I know I can really, because it’s close without Suze “What I like is that there is no also come and talk to you about God as being family and it is not the pressure, sometimes I am not in well, and check things out. It helps me same as living with your peers.” the mood, but I also know that because I could not live with my friends. I can come and sit with you and God They would drive me mad!” “It feels like we are walking is in that conversation. I love praying Suze alongside each other, in different with you and I think that is something “For me, it is companionable Biddy situations, but very similar paths.” important.” and I enjoy having you here. It “It does feel like a God fit doesn’t “For me, what I really appreciate is different because you are not Biddy Biddy one of my daughters, so I can probably it? That this was right for this is having somebody that I feel disclose more of myself.” time.” comfortable with in the house.

10 I enjoy being around you. I don’t feel need a glass of wine I get one poured ill. So moving here, although it is only a few like you but I can recognise a lot of my out for me at the kitchen table, but then miles away, has been huge for me. I don’t younger self in you. It is really good to we can go and pray. I don’t believe in think I would have been able to move out have someone with a totally different living together before marriage and this straight into my own place. But when I have life to mine. Most of my friends are my is a safe transition from living at home. had worries, I haven’t bolted back. This is age, retired and not working and you I waited nine years for the opportunity really helping me to have security in God bring something fresh in each time you of being able to move out of my and get used to things changing. come home. parents’ house. This is such a special “What would you like me to place for me. Friends are surprised that Biddy Suze “I love that. That’s lovely.” you let me use the whole house and change. Is there anything I do don’t expect me to just live in my room that you don’t like?” and it’s not like that at all. This feels like a house share, and is definitely much more homely and loving than anything that they have. I am also cooking and eating better which has come from watching you in the kitchen.”

“I wish I could copy you. You are Biddy so much more controlled with your diet than I am.”

Suze You should see me at Biddy’s Tea Room!

It’s amazing that you should Biddy work there and live with me.

Suze This works, and I think it is unique. I feel so blessed. I feel that God has honoured my decision not to live with someone before marriage, It feels like we are walking but I needed to move out and give my For me, what I really alongside each other, in parents the space they needed. I think appreciate is having somebody different situations, but very it takes special friends to live together, that I feel comfortable with in similar paths. and I need to have my own space, even the house. though I am an extrovert. I need to nest.

Biddy You have certainly done that! “But you do, so that opens my “I would just like you to turn your Biddy And also this transition is Suze horizons as well. You bounce important because I realise I had radio down!” [They collapsed Suze in. I like that and if you get been protected, because I was so laughing]. moody, I can just ignore you! It’s nice to have someone check out how you are, someone who is interested, especially as my daughters live in London. “

Suze “I feel I have learnt how to communicate better. Being here is teaching me skills I never had before and I know I am changing and becoming more responsible around the house even if I do drop the occasional mug. I think this is preparation for marriage because I am learning how to deal with someone who is not family.”

“How do your friends react to the Biddy fact that you are living in an older person’s house?”

Suze “Most of them say how cool it is when I explain what you are like. You don’t feel like an older person. If I

11 Review

A selection of books on the theme of older Christians and valuing spirituality in later life, reviewed by Steve Foyster.

Falling Upward; Valuing Age; Reaching the At the End of the Day: a Spirituality for the Two Pastoral Ministry with Saga Generation; Enjoying Life in the Halves of Life Older People Fresh Expressions of Church Departure Lounge Richard Rohr James Woodward for Ageing Baby Boomers David Winter Chris Harrington SPCK Publishing £10.99 SPCK Publishing £12.99 Bible Reading Fellowship £6.99 Revelation price £9.00 Revelation price £10.00 Grove Books £3.95 Revelation price £6.00

Father Richard Rohr offers a An excellent resource With the ‘baby-boomer’ Octogenarian David Winter new way of understanding covering a wide range of generation of post takes a wry look at what one of life’s most profound themes: an ageing society, war Britain came post it’s like to be old in an era mysteries; how failing can be theories of ageing, images modernity and a fresh set of the relentlessly new. the foundation for our ongoing of old age, the religious of values. The teenagers Turning to the bible, he spiritual growth. Drawing on and spiritual needs of of that time have now explores its store of timeless the wisdom of myth, heroic older people, how memory become the ‘saga wisdom, encouragement poems, philosophers and sacred can be affected by age, generation’. The author, and reassurance about what religious texts, the author sexuality, the feeling of himself a baby boomer, it’s like to grow old and be explores the two halves of life, to show how those who have failed becoming diminished, believes that members old. The book is structured and fallen are the ones who worshipping with older of this generation have around a series of fascinating can truly understand ‘up’ . We people, life learning, often been overlooked biblical pictures, from the often grow spiritually by doing moving into retirement, by many churches in a legendary Methuselah, to it ‘wrong’ rather than ‘right’. With housing, politics and desire to reach out to the the feisty Sarah to the great rare insight Rohr takes the reader relevant social policy and younger generations. His leader Moses. ‘At the end on a journey that shows how how to grow old ‘well’. Each study suggests all churches of the day’ is a well worn heartbreaks, disappointments chapter includes exercises need to look again at this cliché, yet seeing life as and first loves of life can often be for further reflection, plus particular age group and a single day, with dawn, stepping stones to spiritual joys notes pointing to further radically proclaim that they afternoon, twilight and then that the second half of life may reading. need the experience and sleep, provides a contracted well have in store for us. talents of older people! chronology of the journey we are all taking. For those who have reached tea-time Find more books or beyond, as well as their family and friends, this on Revelation website: book offers an essentially www.revelation-norwich.co.uk optimistic, positive and or call 01603 619731 attractive picture of both the present and the future.

12 Val Dodsworth

Val has been involved in the rehabilitation of offenders for most of her life. After 20 years in the Probation Service and five in the Chaplaincy in Norwich Prison, in December 2000 she started The House of Genesis (A place for a new start) by welcoming homeless men into her own home.

How did you come to faith? But, knowing that He is always there can lead to complacency. Do I go to Well, that’s a messy story! Evacuated church because that’s what I’ve done between the ages of three and six, I for 60 years, or is there still within me returned to my mother and grew up a wanting to know His presence and to I may have no family, but I do have a with her; my parents separated when my worship and thank Him? great many friends, and one of the good father came back after the war in 1944. things about living alone is the presence There was no room for, or mention of Also, as one gets older, there’s the bit of Jesus and the times of quiet to enjoy God, in my childhood. As a teenager I about learning to cope with losing people the peace and love He brings. became more and more out of control, and situations that have been of major stealing and fighting on the streets importance in life; my husband died after And the greatest blessing is that until finally I got pregnant and was sent only 10 years of marriage; retirement as things in this world get more away to a home. It was here that I was from paid employment also left me troublesome, the gates of heaven get introduced to Jesus, who could clean my questioning if I was of worth anymore; closer by the day! life up and give me a fresh start, which I and then there’s the questions posed by knew I needed. declining health and the uncertainty of Val was made a Member of the Order of the the years ahead. I have very recently been British Empire for services to homeless people On the whole, and considering how it faced with the loss of ability to drive as and to the community in Norwich in 2015 started, it has been a wonderful journey my eyes begin to deteriorate. of life, very many joys to look back on as I can trace the golden thread of God’s So very easy to be sorry for oneself, but hand and guidance. Without the early if Paul could be content in all situations, difficulties I faced, I might not have so too will I, and after just a couple of been as equipped as I am to deal with days I am back to counting my blessings. the continuing challenges of the work of helping ex-offenders forward in their lives which is what The House of Genesis is all about. No experiences are wasted in God’s planning.

How has your faith Photo: Copyright © Keith Morris changed as you’ve got older? With the passing of the years I’ve found that the confidence and certainties of how to deal with situations have become less clear, and the need to find the Lord’s answers to problems more necessary. So it has become more important than ever to cultivate and strengthen the relationship with my ever present Friend, who never fails or forsakes me.

13 The Gift of Years

It doesn’t make it easier, but at least it’s a approach to helping people navigate the As more churches seek to respond shared experience.’ choppy waters of older age. to the challenges of a rapidly To regard ageing as a voyage of Anna Chaplains are sent out with the ageing population, The Bible discovery, we need to be equipped, and authority, credibility and affirmation of a range of relevant resources have been the churches in whose name they visit. Reading Fellowship’s The Gift developed to support this. The community nature of this form of of Years ministry signposts chaplaincy is what makes it so key to The Gift of Years adopts the practical expanding ministry among older people. ways in which our later years approach of Anna Chaplaincy: a tried- Debbie Thrower, the UK’s first Anna and-tested, community-based ministry can be more spiritually fertile, Chaplain, says: ‘It’s like planting a flag among older people. Anna Chaplains in the middle of town and saying “older and infinitely more fulfilling. draw alongside people to cherish people matter’.” their gifts, encourage their faith or to minister to anyone feeling marginalised As well as this practical initiative, publisher hrough a range of resources, or spiritually impoverished. Launched BRF has recently launched Bible Reflections the recently launched initiative first in Hampshire, the Anna Chaplaincy for Older People. Each issue is written by The Gift of Years seeks to bring scheme is being made more widely older people for older people, to bring inspiration and meaning to accessible, and this approach is at the hope and assurance, reminding the reader our later years. Focusing on what there heart of BRF’s The Gift of Years ministry. of the presence and love of God. 40 Bible is to be thankful for gives a context for reflections and prayer suggestions speak First and foremost, an Anna Chaplain fearsT and regrets to be addressed. wisdom into this stage of life. is someone who will listen. An Life is a gift, and our later years do not Anna Chaplain is sent out by their diminish that. Acknowledging this gift congregation to work with people of can help us to embrace whatever comes strong, little or no faith at all. Their task is our way. Growing older involves change to promote the spiritual welfare of men but this doesn’t have to be fraught with and women through pastoral visiting, anxiety. David Winter, a former producer taking care home services and offering and Head of Religious Broadcasting at a listening ear. What is distinctive about the BBC, says, ‘To live is, in fact, to cope Anna Chaplaincy is that it is ecumenical, with change, from childhood to old age. community based and it takes a narrative

The community nature of this form of chaplaincy is what makes it so key to expanding ministry among older people.

To find out more about Anna Chaplains and The Gift of Years visit: www.thegiftofyears.org.uk Bible Reflections for Older People is available from local bookshops or directly from BRF at www.brfonline.org.uk Tel 01865 319700. Each issue costs £4.99 – see advert on pg9.

14 Life, Death and Christian Hope Peter Nicholls explains the thinking behind a Christian eLearning course for winter.

ome readers of The Magazine The point of this build-up? The Diocese will have seen China’s Terracotta is offering a six-week on-line course that Our people know how to Warriors, perhaps in Xi’an or in the will help you to be more aware of what is British Museum special exhibition often called ‘the Christian Hope’ – a ‘hope’ die well. a few years ago. In 1974 thousands of that is, in fact a certainty, not at all like the John Wesley soldiers, horses and chariots were found sentiment “I hope Norwich City win this Sunderground, some 2200 years after they Saturday.” were first buried. presented in digestible chunks plus a And even if our own death is, we pray, a number of on-line interactions with other This Terracotta Army, part of First long way off, most of us encounter people learners that you can post to and read at Emperor Qin’s mausoleum, was created who may be close to the end of their any time. A tutor actively facilitates the to safeguard and serve him in his afterlife. life or who have lost loved ones and are course, participating in the forums, asking The emperor believed that objects like asking deep questions, craving a Christian and answering questions and generally statues can be animated in the afterlife, answer, free from some of the doggerel making sure everyone is OK. and he would have the same military that can inhabit bereavement cards. In power and imperial status as he had neighbourly love, Christians should be There is an optional physical gathering enjoyed during his earthly lifetime. equipped to respond to such need. on Thursday 26 January at 7pm in Diocesan House for those who’d like to What you believe about what’s to come The topics visited in three sessions physically see other learners and have can profoundly affect how you live now. spanning two weeks each are death and a demonstration of how the learning resurrection; judgement and eternal ‘Seniors’ are generally more aware of their website works. life; and the coming of Christ. Each mortality than younger people, for whom is a fundamental aspect of Christian Hundreds of people in the diocese have demise may seem very far off and not yet understanding at the core of what we tried eLearning and very many come worth headspace. Yet how much time believe. back several times. Find out more about do we spend (I’m a senior too!) exploring this course, its methodology and enrol what the Bible says about the end as What’s “eLearning”? It all happens on a online at: www.dioceseofnorwich.org/ a gateway to a new beginning? Even virtual learning environment website, event?id=8991 though, for some at least, death casts a which you’ll find easy to use if you can long shadow over life. What you believe click around other websites and use email. Look out also for a sister about what’s to come can profoundly There is teaching material – text, images, course “Being beside someone affect how you live now. music, voice and occasionally video, bereaved” in autumn 2017.

15 Building

an intergenerational culture in your church By Jonathan Richardson

or many it seems society is God’s commands for his people in the Old intergenerational culture – but this can becoming ever more divided and Testament clearly identify the Israelites as still be broken and divided by the way we more insular and we are losing a relational community where the children approach activities – but it does not need the ability to communicate were to grow up participating in the culture to be this way: – especially across intergenerational they were becoming. In the religion of Israel, “In those at either end of the life course – boundaries. Toddlers, Teenagers, children were not just included; they were the young and the old – we find striking FGeneration X, 3rd Generation – all drawn in, assimilated, and absorbed into similarities. We live in a society that these terms divide up our communities, the whole community with a deep sense of values adulthood, and in turn doing – putting them in boxes that mean we belonging. plan activities by age – young people productivity and ongoing activity. The in schools, older people in retirement In the book Best practices in intergenerational young and the old share a different homes. We talk about the ways we need faith formation, the author states: “The call rhythm. It’s one that focuses not only on to help older people. But, perhaps, for one generation to share its faith and story doing, but on the power of being. It’s the the old can help the young. It’s the with future generations is deeply embedded simplicity of playing with blocks or tending experience of life in a multigenerational, in the Jewish tradition….From the first to flowers. The young and the old are most interdependent, richly complex century onward, Christian faith communities closely connected with the essence of community that, more than anything have been intergenerational living. They can exist in a moment that’s else, teaches us how to be human. communities” (p. 5). the grand sum of past, present, and future. Rather than time being the There is plenty of research that shows So the church is that having regular intergenerational one of the few enemy – rushing time or stressing interactions can benefit younger and places in society to fit as much into time as possible older alike – and there are good biblical where there – time becomes a comfortable principles which shed light on how God is, or at least companion, a circle rather than would have us operate. should be, an a line.” (Susan V. Bosak)

16 The example we learn from the bible is that the older generation are a critical part of the faith journey of the younger generation – far from seeking to divide our groups into ‘age appropriate’ ones we maybe should be seeking to develop activities which are ‘intergenerational appropriate’ where the old can pass on wisdom and experience. “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. Take to heart these words that I give you today. Repeat them to your children. Talk about them when you’re at home or away, when you lie down or get up. Write them down, and tie them are alone or in a group and around your wrist, and wear them as acknowledging them by headbands as a reminder. Write them on name will validate their the doorframes of your houses and on identity. In many churches your gates.” (Deuteronomy 6:5-9) I have seen rotas with ‘young people’ allocated to tasks – this brings no sense The young and the old of ownership or worth to the young people – try share a different rhythm. It’s asking people individually one that focuses not only on and treating them as doing, but on the power of individuals – put them being. alongside an older person on the rota to foster friendships. How about running an after For many teenagers the worst people school café where one month to try to discuss issues with are their the young run it for the old and parents, and for many in fractured the next month the old run it for families they won’t even have that the young? option. Parents will know that young Run some craft workshops where people tend to do the exact opposite older people can pass on skills – I of what they are told! But if young have seen whole youth groups people can confide in older people then sitting knitting and crocheting the wisdom of age can be passed on in a following such an event. more accepted way. You could consider running a mentoring programme in your Getting young people to record church or helping out with one of the oral histories from people in the many groups which go into high schools community can provide both education for the young but also a across the Diocese to run mentoring time for older people to reflect and and lunch club activities. (Check remember. www.brightmap.org for your area.) With a little imagination and support just A study by the Institute for Public Policy one older person in a church can have a Further reading Research, released in 2014, found that dramatic effect on a whole community Lois M. Collins. Young and old we are more likely than other Europeans of young people. I heard of one lady who to blame young people for antisocial together: Why kids and the elderly was so concerned about seeing young benefit from close relationships behaviour and are less inclined to people, after school, getting off the www.deseretnews.com/ intervene if we find teenagers causing bus outside the church in her village– article/865594130 trouble. Here again the church should many had nowhere to go and just hung have a response. What are we doing in around - that she approached a local Susan V. Bosak. Benefits of our communities to build relationships youth organisation to help her open up intergenerational connections, and get to know people? I have seen the church and run an after school café. Legacy Project numerous examples of the value of She raised funds and got her elderly www.legacyproject.org knowing people by name – a young friends involved – several years on it’s Roberto, J. (2007). Best practices in person welcomed by name will feel valued now a regular occurrence for groups of intergenerational faith formation. and accepted rather than isolated. Passing teenagers to be found playing cards and Lifelong Faith, 1(3), 5- 16. a teenager in the street either when they board games with older people.

17 From beginning to end with Open the Book

The children love OTB and they sidle up The bible is full of stories of people who entered to you to ask if they can be a part of the into ministry later in life. With more people picture for the story. They bring their own creativity to the storytelling. It amazes me now aged over 60 than under 18 in the UK, that they remember details from stories what role do older people have to play in that have not been told for many months. relating to the younger generation? It prompts their curiosity to ask questions: “Are all the stories connected?” “Are these Irene Nickerson talks about her role as stories before Jesus was born?” Open the Book Coordinator for Norfolk. Working with young people is such a privilege; it’s not about having all the answers. Sometimes we offer a sympathetic rior to retiring from my role in a The great thing is that it helps to build ear, advice or reassurance, but at the end of primary school as a Year 1 teacher, community links between churches and the day young and old are just people with SENCO and RE Co-ordinator, I schools. Working with both young and more or less experience of the world and knew I could not envisage being old is invigorating. I have met adults at each with their unique perspective to share without a project. That prompted me training days that have never told or read – we can all learn from each other. to explore and train to deliver Open the anyone a story before, but they come I have observed changes in some PBook (OTB). For the past seven years I have open to trying something different and people as they have taken on OTB and provided initial training to others and we have a lot of fun trying to remember gained confidence. However old you are support OTB volunteers across Norfolk. stories and appreciating different versions chronologically, you are rarely that old of storytelling. Individual teams from One of the things that I became very in your head! Some of our team were in parishes or groups of churches then aware of early on was that OTB was a form their 80s when we first began and they felt get the experience of preparing stories of mission. It’s a good way for me to share innovative and useful. Ultimately, when together regularly and once you start my faith with other people and OTB is a all – young or old - are focussed on one going into school the children quickly positive way of ensuring that children at shared interest or goal, age is irrelevant. recognise you when you are out and least hear the story of the Bible. Everyone has something they can offer, about where you live! however small.

Open the Book is led by adults from local churches and school children are involved in the storytelling. The adults have all they need in scripted materials for an introduction, quiet time, prayer and the story. If you enjoy being part of a team, want to ensure that the children in your parish hear the story of the Bible in an exciting and interactive way, find out more by contacting Irene Nickerson at [email protected]

18 Tue 24 WINFARTHING: Burston, Gissing, Shelfanger, Tivetshall, Winfarthing. Clergy: David Mills. Readers: Bryan Fletcher, Alma Noble. All Saints CofE VA Primary School (Winfarthing) Diocese of Norwich Education and Academies Trust (DNEAT): Executive Officer, Paul Dunning and PA Hannah Bannister January 2017 Diocese of Langtang (Jos, Nigeria): Bishop Stanley Fube BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) Wed 25 DEANERY OF REPPS Rural Dean: Christian Heycocks. Lay Chair: Mary Howard Sun 1 Academies Improvement Director, Simon Morley and Governance Manager, Jill Our new Mission Strategy and every parish across this diocese as we seek fresh Naming of Jesus imagination from God for the tasks and opportunities before us. The Conversion Wakefield of St Paul Dioceses of Lebombo and Lesotho (Southern Africa): Bishops Carlos Simao Diocese of Kolhapur (North India): Bishop Bathuel Tiwade Matsinhe and Adam Mallane Taaso Mon 2 NORWICH NEW CATTON, ST LUKE: St Luke with St Augustine's. Clergy: David Austin. Lay Worker: Carrie Sant. Thu 26 CROMER Clergy: James Porter, Peter Herbert, Jennie Hodgkinson. Readers: John Graveling, Philip Norris, Evelyn Smith, Susan Wells, David Masters. Our Archdeacons: John Ashe, Steven Betts and Karen Hutchinson DNEAT Finance Team, David Hicks and Imogen Cox Diocese of Kondoa (Tanzania): Bishop Given Gaula Diocese of Leicester: Bishop Martyn Snow, Assistant Bishop Christopher Boyle Tue 3 OLD CATTON Clergy: Andrew Parsons. Old Catton CofE VC Junior School. Fri 27 POPPYLAND: Antingham, Northrepps, Overstrand, Sidestrand, Southrepps, Sally Finn and Julie Turner, receptionists at Diocesan House Thorpe Market, Trimingham. Clergy: David Roper. Readers: Janet Payne, John Diocese of Kongor (Upper Nile, Sudan): Bishop Gabriel Thuch Agoth Scott, Janet Balfour, Tim Bennett. The Belfry CofE VA Primary School (Overstrand) Wed 4 SPROWSTON Clergy: Simon Stokes, Melanie Hider, Dean Akrill. Readers: Andrew Dickie, Penny Rennie, Stephanie Grand, Andrew Hudson. DNEAT Operations Manager, Sharon Money and Business Manager, Jenny Pringle The Diocesan Board of Finance, chaired by Bill Husselby Diocese of Lexington (Episcopal Church of USA): Bishop Douglas Hahn Diocese of Kontagora (Lokoja, Nigeria): Bishop Jonah Ibrahim Sat 28 QUINTET (AYLMERTON): Aylmerton, Beeston Regis, Gresham, West Runton and East Runton. Clergy: David Head, Ruth Adamson. Readers: Clive Mitchell, Thu 5 ST MARY MAGDALENE (NORWICH) Clergy: Marc Palmer, Joan Spencer. David Fletcher. Diocesan Director of Finance, Sue Bunting and Management Accountant, Michael Primary Diocesan School Support Officer, Juliet Corbett Hibbin. Diocese of Liberia (West Africa): Archbishop Jonathan Bau-Bau Hart Diocese of Kootenay (British Columbia & the Yukon, Canada): Archbishop John Elswood Privett BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) Sun 29 TAVERHAM WITH RINGLAND Clergy: Paul Seabrook, Phil Charlesworth. Lay The Roman Catholic Church, the Diocese of East Anglia and Bishop Alan Hopes Fri 6 Worker: Rachel Seabrook. Reader: Jane Dryden. Taverham CofE VC Junior Fourth Sunday The Diocese of Lichfield: Bishop Michael Ipgrave and Area Bishops Mark Rylands School of Epiphany (Shrewsbury), Geoff Annas (Stafford) and Clive Gregory (Wolverhampton) Epiphany WiSpire and Spire Services: Les Bailey, Nigel Best and Rachael Lamb Mon 30 ROUGHTON: Bessingham, Felbrigg, Gunton w Hanworth, Metton, Roughton, For Christians of all denominations, called to reveal Christ to the whole world. Sustead. Clergy: Janet Frymann, Peter Chapman. Reader: Elizabeth Ranger. St Mary's CofE VA Primary School (Roughton) Sat 7 DEANERY OF NORWICH SOUTH Rural Dean: Ian Dyble. Lay Chair: John Glauert. Norwich Cathedral: its mission and ministry Diocesan Accounts Team: James South, Lina Wiseman, Sam Witton and Ben Diocese of Limerick & Killaloe (Dublin, Ireland): Bishop Kenneth Kearon Tooke. Tue 31 SHERINGHAM Clergy: Christian Heycocks. Readers: Kate Bevis, Carol Diocese of Kubwa (Abuja, Nigeria): Bishop Duke Akamisoko Pennington, Jane Randells, Julie Rubidge, Shelagh Sweeney. Schools Project Development Officer, Graham Copsey Diocese of Lincoln: Bishops Christopher Lowson, Nicholas Chamberlain (Grantham) and David Court (Grimsby)

Editor: The Revd Susanna Gunner, Bishop's Chaplain - 01603 614172, [email protected] Sun 8 BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) Tue 17 HEIGHAM ST THOMAS (NORWICH) Clergy: Ian Dyble, Edward Land, David The Deanery of Northern Lapland in our link diocese of Luleå, Sweden, and Lloyd The Baptism of Gotthard Nilsson, Rural Dean. For all those being confirmed at St Stephen's, Glebe Committee chaired by Michael Falcon and Glebe Surveyor, Hannah Christ Norwich today. Paybody. Diocese of Kuching (South East Asia): Bishops Bolly Lapok and Solomon Cheong Diocese of Lagos Mainland (Nigeria): Bishop Adebayo Akinde Sung Voon Wed 18 DEANERY OF REDENHALL Rural Dean: Nigel Tuffnell. Lay Chair: Frank Allen. Mon 9 BOWTHORPE (NORWICH) Clergy: Mark Elvin. Cloverhill CofE VA Infant Diocesan Board of Education chaired by Mark Allbrook School & Nursery (Bowthorpe), St Michael's Cof E VA Junior School (Bowthorpe) Diocese of Lagos West (Nigeria): Bishop James Odedeji The ministry of our retired clergy and Readers Diocese of Kumi (Uganda): Bishop Thomas Irigei Thu 19 DICKLEBURGH AND THE PULHAMS: Dickleburgh, Pulham Market, Pulham St Mary, Rushall, Starston, Thelveton. The Churchwardens and PCC during the Tue 10 COSTESSEY Clergy: Nicholas Parry. Reader: Derek Hilton. vacancy. Clergy: John Adlam, Paul Schwier. Readers: Shirley Ebdell, Gale Parish Funding Support Officers: Geoff Freeman and Robert Culyer Hodgkinson, Margaret Adlam. Dickleburgh CofE VC Primary School and Pulham CofE VC Primary School Diocese of Kushtia (Bangladesh): Bishop Samuel Sunil Mankhin Diocesan Director of Education, Andy Mash, and all involved in the ministry of our Wed 11 EARLHAM Clergy: Simon Ward. Lay Worker: Danny Doran-Smith. church schools All parish treasurers and deanery assessors Dioceses of Lahore and Peshawar (Pakistan): Bishops Irfan Jamil and Humphrey Diocese of Kutigi (Lokoja, Nigeria): Bishop Jeremiah Kolo Peters Thu 12 EATON CHRIST CHURCH (NORWICH) Clergy: Patrick Richmond. Readers: Fri 20 DISS TEAM MINISTRY: Bressingham, Diss, Fersfield, North Lopham, Roydon St John Harrison, Bridget Archer, Alistair Bolt. Remigius, South Lopham. Clergy: Tony Billett, Maggie Swayze, Wendy Evans. Today's meeting of Bishop's Staff Readers: Richard Hewitt, David Summers, Sue Drake, Angela Gardner, Jayne Hinds. Diss CofE VC Junior School and St Andrew's CofE VA Primary School Diocese of Kwara (Nigeria): Bishop Olusegun Adeyemi (Lopham) Fri 13 EATON ST ANDREW (NORWICH) Clergy: Phil Rodd. Readers: Neil Rout, Education Office Manager, Holly Davy Andrea Woods. Diocese of Lainya (Sudan): Bishop Eliaba Lako Obed Diocesan Property Committee chaired by David Richardson. EARSHAM GROUP (DITCHINGHAM): Alburgh, Broome, Denton, Ditchingham, Diocese of Kwoi (Abuja, Nigeria): Bishop Paul Zamani Sat 21 Earsham, Hedenham. Clergy: Chris Hutton, Sue Cramp, Barry Cramp, Reg Sat 14 HEIGHAM HOLY TRINITY (NORWICH) The Churchwardens and PCC during the Kirkpatrick. Readers: Christine Edwards, Phil Edwards, Diana Smith, Christopher vacancy. Clergy: William Warren. Readers: Jonathan Mason, Nigel Parfitt, Whipps. Alburgh-w-Denton CofE VC Primary School, Ditchingham CofE Primary Elizabeth Scott. Academy, Earsham CofE VA Primary School The Diocesan Property Department: Mike Marshall, Tony Tibbenham and Amanda Education Support Officer, Louise Reeves Hunt in their care of clergy housing Diocese of Lake Malawi (Central Africa): Bishop Francis Kaulanda Diocese of Lafia (Abuja, Nigeria): Bishop Miller Maza Sun 22 BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) Sun 15 BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) For all those being confirmed at Holy Trinity, Norwich today and for the installation The Religious Society of Friends (Quakers): Area representative, David Third Sunday of of Pastor Jon Norman, the Revd Julian Pursehouse and The Very Revd David Epiphany Second Sunday Saunders. For all those being confirmed in North Walsham today. Paul as Ecumenical Canons of Norwich Cathedral. of Epiphany Dioceses of Kyoto and Kyushu (Japan): Bishops Stephen Takashi Kochi and Luke Diocese of Lake Rukwa (Tanzania): Bishop Mathayo Kasagara Ken-ichi Muto Mon 23 REDENHALL WITH SCOLE: Billingford St Leonard, Brockdish, Needham, Mon 16 HEIGHAM ST BARNABAS (NORWICH) The Churchwardens and PCC during the Redenhall, Scole, Thorpe Abbotts. Clergy: Nigel Tuffnell, Sue Auckland, Timothy vacancy. Rogers. Readers: Lynda Mansfield, Jamie Worthington. Archbishop Sancroft CofE VA High School (Harleston), Harleston CofE VA Primary School and Scole St Fursey Our Diocesan Rural Deans at their annual Residential. CofE VC Primary School Diocese of Lagos (Nigeria): Archbishop Ephraim Ademowo Diocese of Lango (Uganda): Bishop John Charles Odurkami Thu 23 EAST WITH WEST HARLING, BRIDGHAM WITH ROUDHAM, LARLING, BRETTENHAM AND RUSHFORD: Clergy: David Smith, Caryll Brown, Lynn Fry. For all in our diocese training to be Readers and for Charles Read, Director of Reader Training Diocese of Makueni (Kenya): Bishop Joseph Kanuku February 2017

Fri 24 GREAT ELLINGHAM (SHELLROCK): Great Ellingham, Little Ellingham, Rockland DEANERY OF SPARHAM Rural Dean: Tim Dean. Lay Chair: Sue Page. All Saints, Rockland St Peter, Shropham. Clergy: Michael Langan, Christine Wed 1 Lay Development Officer, Paul Overend and assistant, Liz Dawes Mason. Readers: George Lynne, Carol Bennett, Colin Thomas. Diocese of Litoral Ecuador (Episcopal Church of USA): Bishop Alfredo Morante Bishop's Officer for Ordinands and Initial Training, David Foster, and assistant, Margaret Mallett Thu 2 For all involved in pastoral reorganisation, that transitions may be smooth and Diocese of Malaita (Melanesia): Bishops Samuel Sahu and Alfred Hou newly-formed benefices thrive. The IT Training and Support Officer, Graham Hayes GUILTCROSS GROUP: Blo Norton, Garboldisham, Kenninghall, Riddlesworth. Sat 25 Presentation of Diocese of Liverpool: Bishop Paul Bayes and Bishop Richard Blackburn Clergy: Derrick Sheppard. Garboldisham CofE VC Primary School Christ (Warrington) For all in training on the Eastern Region Ministry Course and Principal, Alex Jensen Fri 3 THE PARISHES OF BYLAUGH, ELSING, LYNG AND SPARHAM: Clergy: Diocese of Malakal (Upper Nile, Sudan): Bishops Hilary Garang Deng, Peter Margaret Dean, Tim Dean. Lyng Cof E VC Primary School Gatbel Kunen, John Gettek and David Kiir Mayath Youth and Children's Forum chaired by The Bishop of Lynn The Church in Wales: Archbishop Barry Morgan & Bishop David Wilbourne BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) Sun 26 (Llandaff) The United Reformed Church: Eastern Synod Moderator, Paul Whittle Sunday next Diocese of Malek (Upper Nile, Sudan): Bishop Peter Joh Mayom Sat 4 THE HEART OF NORFOLK CHURCHES: Billingford St Peter, Bintree, Foulsham, before Lent Guestwick, Guist, North Elmham, Stibbard, Themelthorpe, Twyford, Wood Norton, Worthing, Bawdeswell and Foxley. Clergy: Sally Kimmis. Reader: Norman QUIDENHAM GROUP: Banham, Eccles, New Buckenham, Old Buckenham, Mon 27 Johnson. North Elmham CofE VC Primary School and Stibbard All Saints CofE Quidenham, Wilby. Clergy: Stephen Wright. Reader: Helen Pearson. VA Primary School Norwich Cathedral: its mission and ministry The mission and ministry of The Horstead Centre, its Board of Trustees and Diocese of Malindi (Kenya): Bishop Lawrence Dena Manager, Josie Barnett Diocese of Lokoja (Nigeria): Archbishop Emmanuel Sokowamju Egbunu Tue 28 THETFORD TEAM MINISTRY: Croxton, Kilverstone, Thetford, Wretham. Clergy: Tony Heywood, Helen Jary. Readers: Ruth Kightley, Jean Rolph. The Bishop's BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) CofE VA Primary School (Thetford) Sun 5 Our new Mission Strategy and every parish across this diocese as we seek fresh For all those from our diocese in training for the ordained ministry Fourth Sunday imagination from God for the tasks and opportunities before us. For all those Diocese of Manchester: Bishops David Walker, Chris Edmondson and Mark before Lent being confirmed in Martham today. Davies Diocese of Lomega (Sudan): Bishop Paul Yugusuk Editor: The Revd Susanna Gunner, Bishop's Chaplain - 01603 614172, [email protected] Mon 6 THE PARISHES OF REEPHAM, SALLE, THURNING, WOOD DALLING: Clergy: Margaret Dean, Tim Dean. Readers: Sue Page, Susan March Our Archdeacons: John Ashe, Steven Betts and Karen Hutchinson Diocese of London: Bishop Richard Chartres and Area Bishops Robert Wickham (Edmonton), Jonathan Baker (Fulham), Ric Thorpe (Islington), Graham Tomlin (Kensington), Pete Broadbent, (Willesden), Adrian Newman (Stepney) Tue 7 THE PARISHES OF ALDERFORD, GREAT WITCHINGHAM, SWANNINGTON, Wed 15 STALHAM: Ingham, Stalham, Sutton Clergy: Simon Lawrence. Readers: Jeanette WESTON LONGVILLE: Clergy: Margaret Dean, Tim Dean. Great Witchingham Boardman, Martyn Egerton Sutton CofE VC Infant School CofE Primary Academy The Chaplain to the UEA, Darren Thornton, and his ecumenical colleagues. The Horstead Centre's administrative team, Elaine Cissell and Louisa Taylor, and Diocese of Machakos (Kenya): Bishop Joseph Mutungi Senior Instructor, Chris Martlew Dioceses of Long Island and Los Angeles (Episcopal Church of USA): Bishops Thu 16 TUNSTEAD: The Churchwardens and PCC during the vacancy Lawrence Provenzano, Jon Bruno, Mary Glasspool and Diane Jardine Bruce The Diocesan Ministry Consultants Scheme Diocese of Madhya Kerala (South India): Bishop Thomas Kanjirappally Oommen Wed 8 DEANERY OF ST BENET AT WAXHAM & TUNSTEAD Rural Dean: Simon Lawrence. Lay Chair: Sonia Coupe Fri 17 WATERSIDE GROUP: Catfield, Hickling, Ludham, Potter Heigham. The Children, Youth and Families Development Manager, Jonathan Richardson Churchwardens and PCC during the vacancy. Readers: Helen Middleton, Ian Dioceses of Louisiana and Western Louisiana (Episcopal Church of USA): Watton Catfield CofE VC Primary School, Hickling CofE VC Infant School Bishops Morris Thompson and Jacob Owensby Diocesan Advisory Committee for the Care of Churches (DAC) chaired by Alan Kefford Thu 9 ASHMANHAUGH, BARTON TURF, BEESTON SAINT LAURENCE, HORNING, Diocese of Madurai-Ramnad (South India): Bishop Marialouis Joseph IRSTEAD & NEATISHEAD: Clergy: David Smith. Readers: Barbara McGoun, Pauline Simpson. Neatishead CofE VC Primary School Sat 18 WORSTEAD: Scottow, Sloley, Swanton Abbot St Michael, Westwick, Worstead. Today's meetings of Bishop's Staff and Bishop's Council. The Churchwardens and PCC during the vacancy. Worstead CofE VC Primary Diocese of Luapula (Central Africa): Bishop Robert Mumbi School DAC Secretary, Matthew McDade, Assistant Caroline Rawlings, and DAC Fri 10 COASTAL GROUP OF PARISHES: Bacton, Happisburgh, Hempstead with Eccles Administrator, Margaret Mallett and Lessingham, Ridlington, Sea Palling with Waxham, Walcott, Witton. Clergy: Diocese of Madi & West Nile (Uganda): Bishop Joel Obetia Catherine Dobson. Readers: Pam Millsted, Raymond Sanders Happisburgh CofE VA Primary School Sun 19 BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) 'Imagine Norfolk Together' Development Workers, Anna Heydon and Andrew The Baptist Church: Richard Lewis, Regional Minister Frere-Smith Second Sunday Diocese of Mahajanga (Indian Ocean): Bishop Jean Claude Andrianjafimanana Diocese of Lucknow (North India): Bishop Peter Baldev before lent Sat 11 KING'S BECK: Banningham, Colby, Felmingham, Skeyton, Suffield and Mon 20 WROXHAM: Belaugh, Hoveton St John, Hoveton St Peter, Wroxham. Clergy: Liz Tuttington. Clergy: Keith Dally. Reader: Sue Smith Jump. For all parish youth workers and for the Youth Task Force chaired by Peter Leech For all those from our diocese on pilgrimage to the Holy Land this week. Diocese of Lui (Sudan): Bishop Stephen Dokolo Ismail Dioceses of Maiduguri and Makurdi (Nigeria): Bishops Emmanuel Kana Mani and Nathan Nyitar Inyom BISHOPS GRAHAM (NORWICH), ALAN (THETFORD) AND JONATHAN (LYNN) Sun 12 DEANERY OF THETFORD AND ROCKLAND Rural Dean: Matthew Jackson. For the international work of our link diocese of Luleå, Sweden, for the Deanery Tue 21 Lay Chair: Peter Lotarius. Third Sunday of Kalix-Torne there and Roland Hemphälä, Rural Dean. Discipleship and Ministry Forum chaired by the Bishop of Thetford before Lent Diocese of Lusaka (Central Africa): Bishop David Njovu Diocese of Maine (Episcopal Church of USA): Bishop Stephen Lane Mon 13 NORTH WALSHAM: North Walsham, Edingthorpe. Clergy: Paul Cubitt, Rachael Dines, Nigel Paterson. Wed 22 ATTLEBOROUGH: Attleborough and Besthorpe. Clergy: Matthew Jackson, Richard Stanton. Readers: Bob Andrews, Pauline Simper, Russell Davis, Brenda The ministry of our retired clergy and Readers. Greig. Diocese of Luwero (Uganda): Bishop Eridard Kironde Nsubuga PlayVan Development Worker, Lesley Gurney Tue 14 SMALLBURGH: Dilham, Honing, Smallburgh. Clergy: Simon Lawrence. Readers: The Church of Burundi and Archbishop Martin Nyaboho Marina Daniels, Betty Lacey For all Sunday School teachers and children's workers and for the Children's Task Force chaired by Louise Alder. For all Sea Cadet Chaplains in the Diocese. Diocese of Lweru (Tanzania): Bishop Jackton Yeremiah Lugumira 700and still counting By Canon Andy Bryant

most iconic buildings. They value the welcoming a visitor from a very small What a beautiful place! … this chance to be part of the Cathedral’s life community back in Australia where her is a ‘must see’ when in Norwich. and to get to know the building better. father still lives. Very welcoming, from the Every time I go into the cathedral I see Spending regular time in this ancient moment we stepped through the something I hadn’t noticed before, even shelter house of prayer also has its own the way light falls on stone or a name impact on our volunteers: door … were greeted by a guide on a memorial I hadn’t read before. I love the special tranquillity and sense (Caryl: Guide) with information and a very of history in the Cathedral. My two welcome leaflet (I love a leaflet!). And the longer you spend in the building hours each Tuesday afternoon put the Trip Advisor October 2016 the more there is to discover: events of a busy week in perspective and enable me to share with visitors The abiding delight is delving into the my enthusiasm for the glories of this building’s absorbing history, and then eside the sheer beauty of the numinous building. (Pat: Guide) sharing this information amongst our building (and the yummy cakes visitors within the building’s unique We owe a great debt of gratitude to in our café), visitors repeatedly atmosphere of holiness. (David: Guide) our volunteers for all they contribute to comment on our welcoming, the life and work of the Cathedral. They friendly and informative volunteers. This Remembering the Benedictine foundation highlight the important role volunteering is a great tribute to the wonderful team of of the Cathedral, we regularly remind one plays in society and are a daily reminder Bvolunteers who do so much to contribute another of the calling to treat each visitor of the part that people at all stages of to the life and ministry of our Cathedral. as if they were Christ himself. This is a high life can play in enriching the life of both calling, and we know, from time to time, community and Church. At the last count we have over 700 we will fall down on this. Nevertheless volunteers supporting nearly every each of our volunteers wants to play their aspect of Cathedral life from Welcomers part in ensuring our visitors enjoy their and Guides to helping in our shop and time at the Cathedral and have the best Refectory café, through to our Stewards, possible experience: Day Chaplains and Flower Arrangers. Welcoming people of varying If you would like to volunteer at Perhaps unsurprisingly, many of our nationalities makes me feel like an Norwich Cathedral, and especially volunteers are the newly-retired. After ‘ambassador’ for England, Norwich and if you would like to help as a a lifetime of work, volunteering at the the Church itself. (Eleanor: Welcomer) Welcomer or Guide, please contact Cathedral provides a way of still being Julia Jones via either 01603 218448 active and involved and to feel they are And of course you never know who you might meet. One of our Welcomers, or [email protected] to still have a contribution to make, as well as request an information pack. being associated with one of the county’s an Australian by birth, found herself

23 Volunteering is good for everyone!

Be a friend to someone enjoy every aspect of the role, you meet Giving just a little of your time can so many different people who have make a big difference, not only to in hospital done all sorts of interesting things in those you’re helping but to yourself NCHC NHS Trust have launched a their lifetime. It’s very rewarding for me, new volunteering service and are and the patients seem to enjoy having too. A May 2012 study by the Royal looking for Befriending volunteers someone different to chat to.” Voluntary Service (formerly the for elderly people. Befriending volunteers spend time with patients To enquire about volunteering please WRVS) found that volunteering that are by themselves. The aim of the contact [email protected] or in later life decreased depression role is to ease loneliness, providing telephone 01603 272337 and social isolation. It was also companionship and brightening up someone’s day. We’re looking for found to boost quality of life and life friendly people that can commit to six satisfaction. For us as Christians, it’s months, either spending two hours a week on a ward or visiting someone also encouraged in the Bible: “Each for an hour or so each week in their of you should use whatever gift you own home. Neither role involves have received to serve others, as medical or personal care, just making cups of tea, being a good listener, faithful stewards of God’s grace in maybe sharing a puzzle, crossword or its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV) other activity. Eric Steward started volunteering at Norwich Community Hospital, s you will have read in the following his retirement. He now previous article, our Cathedral spends one afternoon a week visiting relies on its volunteers. patients on the wards. “I certainly get A number of other local a lot from the role,” said Eric. “I visit organisations are also actively looking for Alder Ward every Thursday and will volunteers, and we’ve given space to four go and sit with patients who don’t hereA for you to consider. have visitors by their bedside. I really

24 Make a difference Listen to children read around the world in local primary schools Across Norfolk there are enthusiastic Can you spare an hour or two a week to teams of people who help to make a listen to children read in a local primary difference to some of the poorest people school? Schoolreaders is looking for in the world through Christian Aid. They more volunteers in Norfolk to carry out might help to organise fundraising this important role. events, hold supermarket collections or be a point of contact at their church for Reading time for many children at home information about poverty. and at school is often insufficient and one in four children are now leaving primary school unable to read to the required standard. This can have a lifelong consequence. No qualifications are necessary, just a good command of spoken and written English.

Volunteer and retired builders’ merchant Clive with Bailey We provide a visiting service in hospitals, hospices, nursing and care homes, special needs schools and a variety of other venues in Norfolk and all across the UK. Alan Ricks, a retiree and volunteer Christian Aid Group organiser. PAT volunteers improve literacy in children by developing their confidence, interest Many of these volunteers are retired and enjoyment in reading through our and raise money for people in disasters Read2Dogs scheme. including shelter for refugees, food for the PAT volunteers continue to make a hungry and also long term solutions to significant difference to the lives of poverty. Some people help regularly or at vulnerable people in Norfolk. As well as key times when there are emergencies, or the regular visits volunteers give their at Christian Aid Week in May. time to support people in Hellesdon and One person’s life who has been changed The Julian hospitals, the Norvic Clinic, is Celestin, a priest in the Democratic University of East Anglia and HMPs of Congo, who watched his Bishop and Norwich and Wayland. nine other priests slain in front of him. Schoolreaders is flexible and will match Retired psychiatric nurse and PAT Now Celestin and his community provide your availability to an appropriate, local volunteer Sheena says: shelter and food to people who are also school. Our volunteers find the scheme fleeing from violence. This would not be incredibly rewarding, knowing that a possible without volunteers. few hours helping a child learn to read Volunteering with PAT A volunteer organiser, Enid Andrew each week can have such a great impact is an extremely, rewarding of Attleborough says: “I volunteer for on their life chances. experience. The animal/ Christian Aid because my geographical Please visit the website birthplace has been fortunate. I have human bond is very strong www.schoolreaders.org to join, or call and mutually beneficial. not had to watch my children die of Bianca Myers on 01234 924111 for starvation but I can help prevent the further information. death of another Mother’s child.” PAT is in desperate To join our team contact need of more [email protected] or volunteers. If telephone 01603 620051. you feel you have a suitable Volunteer with your pet animal and Pets As Therapy (PAT) is a national charity would like to join the team please look founded in 1983 to enhance health and at www.petsastherapy.org or contact wellbeing in the community through the Norwich PAT Co-ordinator and dog the visits of trusted volunteers with their assessor on [email protected] or behaviourally assessed animals. telephone 01603 664988.

25 FOCUS N The Church in the Woottons

Text and images by The Revd James Nash

A new feature for The Magazine: a regular article focussing on a benefice or group of parishes in the Diocese of Norwich, written by someone from that church community. On the other hand we Ecclesiastical Parish – The Church in also feel like a suburb the Woottons - and have been since of King’s Lynn with easy May 2014. This makes lots of things a access to shops, workplaces, whole lot easier and helps to develop and four fine cities (Local people dare more of a sense of unity we think is so Where we are to go beyond the borders of Norfolk). important. And we can be on a beautiful beach in North and South Wootton are on the We have getting on for 200 active 15 minutes without breaking the speed north-eastern side of King’s Lynn and we church members including about 20-30 limit as long as we go before countless are in Lynn deanery. You can’t go further children and young people – we are holidaymakers have crawled out of bed west without falling into the Wash or the vague about that figure because we’re and into their cars. About 7,000 people River Great Ouse. vague about how to calculate it. At full live here and many more will come with strength the church is led by a team new housing on its way. Our history of four: the Rector, a full-time training Wootton (Wdetuna – the farmstead in The Church in the Woottons curate and two Ordained local ministers the wood), pre-dates Doomsday and by David Tate and Linda Ashby and we the 12th century the two villages now employ Jacquie Green as a part time We aim to be: known as North and South Wootton were administrator. Our website is the main established. The local economy depended Committed to God – through worship, way people find us these days. Mike and on the salt works located on the tidal prayer and scripture Moira found us this way: Committed to Community – within creeks on the edge of the river and the “When moving from London to Norfolk Wash but by the late 14th century that our congregations and reaching out six years ago we were not completely industry declined and people became Committed to Growth – in discipleship, sure of the area we wanted to live, so dependent on farming and fishing. service and numbers we sold our house and moved into our Agricultural land was poor until vast caravan. We were free to go anywhere acreages of marshland were drained and but looked at the Woottons website and re-claimed by Scandinavian engineers two on walking into All Saints we felt we had centuries ago. come home, the welcome we received from members of the church was kind and The Woottons today warm. We completed on a house in South We think we have the best of all worlds. Wootton several months later and the North and South Wootton still feel like Although North and South Wootton rest is history.” Moira is now one of our villages with their distinct communities are still separate villages with their own excellent Churchwardens and Michael and have farmland to the north and west. parish councils, nowadays we are one helps in every way he can.

26 Doing different People of every generation come along shape since we ran a Parish Funding and we provide pre-school children with Campaign a couple of years ago and with Breakfast at 10 is our bi-monthly Café toys and the freedom to make a mess. a pip and a squeak and the grace of God style church aimed at those who have Some people pop in for a quick cuppa we just about manage to pay our way. not attended more traditional church and stay for a few minutes whilst other Like many churches, we look around and recently, if at all. It aims to be a very stay for an hour or so. The Drop-in seems ask ourselves: where will we be in five relaxed, less structured form of Christian to be meeting many or 10 years’ time? But half of our adult community where a really good different needs and members have joined us in the last 10 breakfast with bacon, muffins, crumpets is a lovely place to be years and new people are trickling in and fresh coffee is available for the first for those who visit to our church community month-by- 30 minutes of each session along with and for the team of month – we are a growing and very newspapers and a mind-bending quiz. people who run it. happy church with every age bracket Friendships are made and grow over represented. breakfasts and ministry happens – albeit discreetly. We have “learning zones” Stories like Angela’s make everything where we try and cater for different At the Drop-in I am always worthwhile and remind us why we are learning preferences and the whole met with a lovely welcome part of a church like ours: morning is drawn together with informal and a cuppa, without feeling “Having fallen away from God, endured worship. We don’t see Breakfast at 10 as a the pressure to attend every a troublesome relationship and life stepping stone to something else but are single week. threatening cancer, I was aware how allowing it to develop and deepen with spiritually empty my life had become. I the people who come. It’s a friendly place in which was delighted when my daughter came to socialise and for children to home to St Mary’s for her wedding three years ago. This opened the door and meet and play. gave me the chance come back to the church. Thankfully I found acceptance and fellowship again. Sharing in the variety of Challenges, opportunities services, social activities and study groups and encouragements put spiritual food back on my plate. I knew An increasingly popular weekly Drop-in the Lord had not left my side, even on the is run at St. Mary’s Church all year-round, There is the money. It costs well over lowest and darkest of days, but that I had where fresh coffee, tea and home-made £100,000 each year to run The Church in moved away from Him. New friends have cakes are served and activities such as the Woottons and this is not easy to find. become invaluable. Praise The Lord, He is board games and jigsaws are offered. However, our finances are in much better there for us.”

27 Out & About happenings across the Diocese

A round up of some of the parish activities over the past few months – do send in your photos (at least 1MB in size please!) and an explanatory caption to [email protected]. To see more photos, visit our Facebook page www.facebook.com/dioceseofnorwich/photos

Watton’s Special Christmas Hempnall celebrates new kitchen Bishop Graham lead the service at Topcroft church and blessed the new Weekend kitchen build. There was a large congregation from across the Hempnall The Stable at PACT Animal Sanctuary saw the Shepherds and Group together with invited guests. After the service the congregation Wise Men/Women and the Holy Family begin preparations for enjoyed a glass of sparkling wine and light refreshments. the arrival of the baby Jesus for the church’s first foray into a huge weekend event in a heated marquee on the field next to St Mary’s Parish Church.

The CODE Unleashed – first for Norfolk Whissonset Christmas fayre A wet wood near Suffield saw a group of men enjoying a walk on the Beautiful quilts, homemade chutney, jams, finely turned wood, wild side. “It was brilliant to spend time with a great bunch of blokes cards and jewellery, contributed to a host of colourful stalls in being outdoors, having a laugh, learning survival skills, throwing axes, Whissonsett Village Hall. Superb cakes, scones and sausage rolls, building friendships and deepening our commitment to follow Jesus.” all made in the village, were quickly sold. Proceeds were split Simon Fenn between St Mary’s church and village hall funds.

28 Bishop’s blessings King’s Beck Benefice Pet Service was held at St Andrew’s Church, Felmingham to coincide with Bishop Graham visited the Spixworth, Crostwick and Horsham the feast day of St Francis of Assisi. The Revd Keith Dally blessed St Faith Benefice during the St Faith’s Festival, and blessed the eight dogs, (Cleo the cocker spaniel is pictured) a cat and two herb garden that had been restored following extensive work kittens along with 20 owners celebrating the unconditional to the church tower. He also blessed the restoration work, just love that our pets give us. completed, in the Mission Room. Peter Holness

Knitted Bible, North Lopham Over 500 people from across East Anglia visited St Nicholas’ Church at the end of October to see the first stage of a Knitted Bible Festival. 35 scenes depicted some of the most visual bible stories, using knitted figures and a Creative Christmas talent variety of props; Plans are afoot to add more scenes next year! at Christ Church Alexandra Turner, aged 9, a pupil at Colman Junior School was awarded first prize in a competition inviting children to draw a picture of The Christmas Story for the cover of the Eaton Parishes’ Christmas magazine. Bishop Graham presented the award.

Find out what else is going on across the Diocese on our website: www.dioceseofnorwich.org/news/events

29 Dippy the Dinosaur coming to Norwich News in brief Photo: NHMuseum Updates from across the Diocese Cathedral Norwich Cathedral has been chosen as one of just eight venues to host the magnificent ‘Dippy Film legacy of inspirational youth the Diplodocus’ as worker Dan Lawrence part of a special UK- wide tour. Starting Photo: www.danlaskeyphotography.co.uk diagnosis into a way of engaging in Dorset in early young people in an ambitious 2018 and finishing media project. It resulted in an in Norwich, Dippy 80-minute production, filmed and will be on display acted by young people, that tackles in the nave of the Cathedral from July challenging issues such as death, to October in 2020. The Natural History faith and hope. Museum has hosted the famous 22 metre dinosaur since 1905. Ang Fox, Director of North Breckland YFC, said: “Dan was with all his family “The presence of Dippy in Norwich will and passed peacefully to glory. Dan’s naturally bring people from all backgrounds faith in Jesus has never wavered. He and beliefs and will stimulate questions constantly professed God is good.” and debate about creations and the origins of life as well as some of the major issues Dan and his wife, Kim at the premiere of Looking to Eternity is now available facing humanity today,” said Dean Jane Looking to Eternity. to buy on DVD for £10 along with Hedges. “We also hope Dippy will be a free, downloadable resources. Half of Dereham Christian youth worker Dan source of enjoyment and a fun experience the proceeds from sales of the DVD Lawrence died in November from a to attract people of all ages to come to the will go to The Brain Tumour Charity brain tumour only two weeks after his Cathedral.” at Dan’s request. 07747 471221 film Looking to Eternity was released. www.northbrecklandyfc.org.uk When faced with an inoperable brain This is an edited extract from an article on Hope and health tumour Dan, aged 25, turned his www.networknorwich.co.uk in Uganda Freda Lewis has recently returned from Uganda where she celebrated the Diocesan Textile Group disbands culmination of “The Oasis of Life” project, supported by the Bishop’s Lent Appeal in Eileen Bumphrey and her helpers, June 2013. “Originally I envisaged a small two- Back, Phyllis Tait, Celia Scott and Sally room clinic,” Freda explained, “It’s turned Acloque have assisted over 300 churches into a 16-room mini-hospital!” in the Diocese in the last 20 years. The clinic was formally handed over to local Their ethos was “enablement”, by advising project manager Steven Puleh and Freda said: at monthly sessions and visiting churches “I have finished the task the Lord gave me and so that designs and colours would fit the it’s what I dreamed of: a clinic designed, built church’s environment. Parishioners were and staffed by Ugandans, bringing hope and taught the skills to make and care for health to people who have lived in an area of their textiles. Northern Uganda ravaged by war for 20 years.” Churches paid for the cost of materials but the team’s advice, support, skills and labour were free. Vestments and liturgical items were recycled to individuals and churches in need. Projects include the kneelers at Sandringham Church, jointly a priority for hard-pressed parishes; restoring the Anmer chairs, to helping there is less demand for our services,” churches replace their worn linen. said Sally Acloque. “Eileen has been The group has enjoyed its work a much-loved, knowledgeable and enormously. “Textiles can no longer be inspirational leader.”

30 Faith literacy and the Keswick Hall Lecture Series

By Professor Lee Marsden

n an increasingly secular society such as Britain it is easy for policy makers and the media to trade on people’s ignorance about religious belief to present a simplistic and often negative image of people of faith. A Ihomogenised view that lumps all people of faith into one category and caricatures believers as slightly simple, naïve or dangerous. Over recent years media organisations have dropped religious editors from their payroll leaving those without religious belief or understanding to provide a distorted commentary. In order to combat this tendency, the UEA Faith Literacy Network was set up in 2016 by Professors John Charmley (St Mary’s University, Twickenham) and myself (UEA). The idea is to provide a forum for faith groups to meet to discuss issues surrounding faith and politics and to challenge stereotypical portrayals addressed by Michael Ipgrave, Bishop of religion in the media. The network of Lichfield on the theme of Faith and includes academics working on religion, The symposium provided British Values. society and politics across the arts and an opportunity for participants humanities. In March 2017 a new series of Keswick to discuss the role of faith in Hall Lectures will take place at the The Faith Literacy Network in contributing to a good society University of East Anglia with a series of association with the Keswick Hall Trust TED talk-style sessions on Free Speech, ran a successful series of three Keswick considering relations within Hate Speech and Faith Speech featuring Hall lectures in 2016 featuring Aaqil and outside faith communities Dr Alex Brown, a leading authority Ahmed, Head of Religion & Ethics at the and between different faiths. and author of a book on hate speech. BBC, and Baroness Warsi, former Minister These will be followed by an interfaith of State for Faith and Communities, who roundtable discussion of British values talked to Rt. Hon. Charles Clarke, the with local faith leaders chaired by Charles former Education and Home Secretary that faith needs more involvement in and visiting Professor at UEA, about their political conversations both domestically, Clarke. The final event will be Charles own faith and ‘Religion & Politics’. and in the international context. Clarke in Conversation with a leading politician about how faith shapes their The second Keswick Hall lecture of 2016 In July 2016 twenty faith leaders political outlook and practice. was delivered by myself, Professor of representing different groups from International Relations in the School across Norfolk participated in a one day The UEA Faith Literacy Network will be of Political, Social and International symposium entitled ‘Family, Neighbours, seeking ways to engage with local faith Relations at UEA, give a lecture entitled, Strangers. Religion and the Good communities throughout the year and “I’m Okay, You’re Okay”, addressing the Society’. The symposium provided an future events will be announced shortly. issue of religion in the public sphere. The opportunity for participants to discuss third and final Keswick Hall lecture of the role of faith in contributing to a good 2016 saw the Rt. Hon. Prof. Charles Clarke society considering relations within and For further information, give his talk on the relationship between outside faith communities and between see advert on pg 2. faith & politics. He opened by stating different faiths. The symposium was

31 Special Edition

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Grand *Free delivery on orders over £45 and received by 6th March. Total Buy now at: www.realeasteregg.co.uk Lent Appeal 2017: driving hospice care in Ethiopia

In 2017 the Bishop’s Lent Appeal will be focused on raising money to provide a car for Hospice Ethiopia to reach those in need of palliative care.

Hospice Ethiopia is the only palliative Less than one per cent of these receive Hospice Ethiopia’s objectives are: care unit in Ethiopia. specialist oncological treatment, which c to provide a better quality of life for means the need for affordable palliative They provide free community based their patients care in the country is huge. palliative care to terminally ill people c to train health professionals within three districts of the capital The World Health Organisation has stated c to raise awareness of palliative care city. With just one specially trained that for most patients with cancers and needs and treatment. other terminal illnesses, palliative care is doctor and three nurses, they serve an “Through this Appeal we can help make this the only realistic, affordable option. estimated population of 900,000. vital care accessible to a wider section of The Appeal Dr Yoseph Mamo people in Ethiopia. I hope and pray you will from Hospice find this a worthwhile cause to support.” Through the appeal, your money will Ethiopia said: Bishop of Lynn, the Rt Revd Jonathan go towards providing the Hospice “The care of Meyrick. with an off-road rental car for three chronic diseases is years. Roads are often rough and of now concentrated Ways to Give poor quality, and public transport in big cities. And is busy and unreliable. We want to it is in hospitals, Online: Visit help enable care and equipment to done by doctors, www.dioceseofnorwich.org/lent reach those who cannot travel to the but the number By Text: Text ‘LENT17 £10’ to hospice. of hospitals is not 70070 to donate £10; or text Cars are expensive and difficult to enough, and it is far from the rural people ‘LENT17 £5’ to donate £5 maintain given the availability of parts. where 85 per cent live. We have about 2000 By Cheque: made payable By renting the vehicle all maintenance doctors for 100 million people and that to NDBF Ltd, marked clearly costs are included; well advised given is not enough for all the population. We on the back ‘Lent Appeal’. Send, the quality of the roads. [Hospice Ethiopia] have created a model where doctors can work with nurses, taking together with a Gift Aid declaration In addition, the nurses are frequently the services to the villages, and also to the (if applicable), to Lent Appeal, 109 carrying medicines to their patients, patient’s homes.” Dereham Road, Easton NR9 5ES. in particular opiate pain killers, which would make them vulnerable on The hospice is a non-governmental Resources public transport. organisation which means it has to raise 90 per cent of its funds from outside the Visit www.dioceseofnorwich.org/lent Palliative care country and its funding is dependent on to request or download resources for donors. your church. See details on page 34. In Ethiopia there are an estimated 150,000 new cancer cases each year. Lent 2017 begins on Wednesday 1 March and ends on Maundy Thursday 13 April.

33 Resources A new, regular page of general and seasonal resources and ideas to inform, inspire and enable.

Praying Lent with the Saints The 2017 Diocesan Lent Course will be an introduction to prayer in a number of traditions. The five sessions will include ‘Praying Lent with…’ Each session is written by a different person from within the Diocese, drawing on their experience in prayer. c Praying Lent with Benedict (The Revd. Canon Dr Peter Doll) c Praying Lent the Jesus Prayer (Prof Catherine Rowett) c Praying Lent with Teresa of Avila (Sr. Elizabeth Ruth Obbard ODC) c Praying Lent with Ignatius (The Revd. Margaret Whitaker) c Praying Passiontide with Mary (Fr. Andrew Mitcham) There will be some information about the tradition of prayer, but the main part will be an opportunity for experiencing prayer and meditation within a different tradition each week, helping us to develop in our prayer. It is suitable for use in private, or for group use in small groups, www.dioceseofnorwich.org/training/lay/lent-2017/ and will be available from mid-January. 01603 882335

Lent Appeal 2017 The Lent Factor: Fairtrade fortnight Read about the Forty Companions 2017 appeal on pg 33 of this issue. The for the Forty Days Fairtrade Fortnight following resources of Lent is a fun-filled are available to highlight of the year, support fundraising By the Bishop when campaigners, initiatives: of Norwich, the businesses, schools Rt Revd Graham and places of c Posters to highlight the Appeal worship show their and/or help you reach your chosen James, this book describes 40 very support for the farmers and workers fundraising target who grow our food in developing different people countries. Running from Monday 27 c Leaflets for congregation members – one for each February – Sunday 12 March 2017, c Stickers for jam jars day of Lent – who this year’s campaign focuses on break (for collecting money in!) have a special time: drinks, snacks and treats. “Join quality about c An article you can copy and paste for thousands of others across the UK this them, and uses parish/benefice magazines Fairtrade Fortnight to help our friends, their stories to reflect on how faith c PowerPoint of images with notes for neighbours, colleagues and communities and character are connected. A theme leaders giving an introductory talk to put Fairtrade in their break and take from each brief story is illuminated exploitation out.” c Six prayer reflections for each week by reflection on a scene, passage during Lent or word from the Bible. Published Check out the Fairtrade Fortnight action guide to get started: All of these can be ordered online at: by Bloomsbury and available at www.goo.gl/TYusOV www.dioceseofnorwich.org/lent or by Revelation Bookshop, Norwich and phone: 01603 882322 online at www.norwichcrc.co.uk 020 7405 5942 www.fairtrade.org.uk

34 Hempnall Benefice Live music for parish Recent books encourages walkers fundraising events by local authors

The Team Council of the Hempnall Richard Jackson, retired Priest in the Religion can be fun Group of parishes has published a Stalham Benefice writes: “If you’re Huib van Hoeven’s book of 12 circular walks around the looking for good all round entertainers latest book is called area. One of the walks describes a for your church – look no further. Our “Religion can be fun circuit of the whole group of eight Church members were given a real treat – see the difference churches which totals 17 miles, but after our traditional harvest supper last for yourself”. The the other walks can be easily fitted year. We were entertained by the Norvic 90-year-old lay-leader into an afternoon stroll and all include Concordia Accordion Ensemble. in the Nar Valley group a visit to the named church. They’ve of Churches has put also produced a leaflet about the together a compilation special appeal of each churchyard. of addresses and reflections, stories and For copies or further information: prayers. “All with a lightertone,” he explains [email protected] “Making people smile and realise that 01508 498157 religion is not necessarily heavy and serious but can be light hearted and fun. The book is intended to be uplifting and reaching out to the wider world outside the established church circle.” Bishop Jonathan has written the foreword. Troubador Publishing; “These five talented and enthusiastic available through bookshops and Amazon. performers offered a breath-taking £7.99. www.huibvanhoeven.co.uk programme covering a variety of musical styles which showed off Wilderness of mirrors the scope and versatility of their The Wilderness of instruments. They treated us to some Mirrors is on sale in wonderfully arranged pieces and Norfolk in aid of Bergh encouraged those present to ‘sing Apton church, where along’ with them on various occasions. you can find copies (also It was a brilliant evening and this group at Revelation Bookshop, deserves to be heard more widely.” Norwich). Mark Meynell, whose home was in Phone Peter Ayers on 01603 713565 or Bergh Apton, wrote the see www.norvicconcordia.co.uk book, published by Zondervan. Mark explores the roots of the discord and alienation that mark our society, but he also outlines a gospel-based reason for hope. Resourcing your Parish “An astute social observer with a pastor’s An exhibition and workshops for all ensuring maximum benefit to your spiritual sensitivity, Meynell grounds his PCC members and all involved in parish. Bookable workshops will be antidote on four bedrocks of the Christian parish ministry, repeated in different available in key areas of parish ministry. faith: human nature, Jesus, the church, locations across the Diocese. and the story of God’s action in the world. Thurs 30 March, 7pm Ultimately hopeful, A Wilderness of Mirrors Each exhibition will include practical Belsey Bridge, Ditchingham help and support and will offer access to calls Christians to rediscover the radical Wed 10 May, 7pm implications of Jesus’s life and message for numerous resources in one place. Take Fakenham Academy the opportunity to speak to Diocesan a disillusioned world, a world more than Sat 20 May, 10am staff and officers and receive practical ever in need of his trustworthy goodness.” Open Academy, Norwich advice and support about church Mark works for The Langham Partnership finance, fresh expressions, stewardship, Free. Please book in advance. and is chaplain to the Cabinet Office and children youth and families work, www.dioceseofnorwich.org/ the Treasury. communications & more. event?id=9052 More info from Liz & Christopher Meynell – It is highly recommended that several Contact: Angela George on www.awildernessofmirrors.com people attend from each church, 01603 880853 for more information. 01508 558440

Promote your local church groups & activities Bright Map is an online map where visitors can search for community groups and Bright Map activities near to where they live, many run or supported by local churches. Add your church’s to the map for free at www.brightmap.org/norfolk

35 Comings & Goings

Our prayers for their future ministry go to: The Revd Heather Cracknell appointed Pioneer Missioner and Vicar of St Francis Heartsease. The Revd Stephen Andrews appointed Chaplain, James Paget University Hospital. The Revd Tim Dean appointed Associate Priest of the current

Photo: © Graham Howard Wensum Benefice and four parishes from the FLEBBS Benefice (Bylaugh, Elsing, Lyng and Sparham). The Revd Canon Heather Butcher appointed Priest-in-Charge of the parishes of Bittering Parva, Gressenhall, Longham, Mileham, Our Lady of Walsingham Shrine Welcomes Father Kevin Rougham, Weasenham and Wendling and Team Rector On a November Saturday the Shrine was packed full to welcome Father Kevin Smith Designate of the proposed (pictured centre, above) as the new Priest Administrator of the Anglican Shrine of Our Launditch and The Upper Nar Team Lady of Walsingham. Ministry. The Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham James, also welcomed Father Smith The Revd Canon Sally Theakston to the Diocese and urged the congregation to give thanks for “the security of our appointed Assistant Director of worship in this Shrine Church today”. Ordinands. The service was attended by the Guardians, visiting bishops and priests, family and The Revd Eoin Buchanan appointed friends of Father Smith and resident pilgrims as well as former parishioners of new Rector of the Kirkley Benefice. Priest Administrator from Horden in County Durham. The Revd David Lloyd appointed >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Chaplain of City College, Norwich. Archdeacon of Norwich welcomed at Cathedral service The Revd Janet Allan appointed Vicar of the Swaffham and Sporle On Sunday 13 November the Venerable Bishop Graham said: Benefice. Karen Hutchinson (pictured centre, “Karen has a rich experience of parish The Revd Captain Darren Thornton below) was installed and collated as the and diocesan ministry, as well as her legal new Archdeacon of Norwich and Warden and the Revd David Foster training and practice, to bring to the role appointed Honorary Canons of of Readers by the Bishop of Norwich in of Archdeacon of Norwich and Warden Norwich Cathedral. Norwich Cathedral. of Readers. She won the hearts of the Photo: © Graham Howard people of her benefice by her strategic leadership and pastoral imagination. I am The following Priests and confident she will soon come to love this Readers have had their diocese and its people and be greatly Permission to Officiate granted: appreciated for the gifts she will bring.” The Revd Peter Day, The Revd David Cattle, Speaking about her new role as The Revd Susannah Ellis, The Revd Gillie Archdeacon of Norwich, Karen said: Powell, The Revd Liz Cannon “I’m looking forward to working with a variety of people. And this is a job We are saddened to that has a lot of variety in it. There is announce the deaths of: the Archdeacon’s role of working with parishes and people. And the Warden of Fr. Patrick Phelan on 11/10/2016. Readers role gives me a chance to work Mr Peter Murray Reader at the with lay people in their ministry and that Waterside Group Benefice on is something I’ve been passionate about 06/11/2016. where I am.”

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

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

JANUARY Address: Wigwam Retreat Centre, Diss IP22 2SZ FEBRUARY Retreat led by Brian Draper in our lovely rural surroundings. Embrace winter and kindle New Year’s Day Soup & Roll some spiritual warmth! NCCL: Religion in the Dutch Golden Age Admission: £28 (concessions available) Sunday 1 Jan Sunday 5 Feb Contact: Les Crossland, Centre Co-ordinator 11am-2pm 0208 4910222, [email protected] 10am-12.30pm Address: Church Rooms, Happisburgh Address: Norwich Cathedral, The Close, (opposite the school) NR12 0AB Safeguarding Training Norwich NR1 4DD Warm yourself up with some hot homemade Thursday 26 Jan Join Dr Chris Joby for this interesting soup – just the thing after a New Year’s Day illustrated journey into some fascinating and walk. 7pm-9pm beautiful art and discover how artists present Admission: Free entry Address: Diocesan House, Easton NR9 5ES religious themes in their works of art. This training session is for anyone who works Contact: Mary Mason, 01692 650614, Admission: £10 [email protected] or volunteers with Children,Young People or Adults at Risk as part of their church activities Contact: NCCL Admin Team, 01603 218443, who hasn’t attended safeguarding training in [email protected] the past three years. Admission: Free Let’s Sing! Contact: Anna Walker, 01603 882374, Saturday 11 Feb [email protected] 10am - 4pm Life, Death and Christian Hope (online course) Address: Fakenham Community Hall NR21 9DY Thursday 26 Jan - Mon 13 Mar A singing workshop day Address: online for experienced, new Learn about the Christian meaning of the or returning singers to The Fursey Lecture and celebration of the last things such as death; Resurrection; improve techniques, sing a Feast of St Fursey judgement; eternal life; Christ’s coming again. wide variety of music and for the pure enjoyment of Saturday 14 Jan Admission: £10 Contact: Liz Dawes: 01603 882335, singing together. 11.30am for Service for Feast of St Fursey [email protected] Admission: £12 for adults, £6 for under 21’s followed by lunch at 2pm Contact: Rosemary Dear, 01328 851776, Address: St Matthew, Telegraph Lane West, An introduction to Christian Healing [email protected] Thorpe Hamlet, Norwich NR1 4JA (online course) Our lecture this year is entitled ‘The Prittlewell Thursday 26 Jan - Mon 27 Mar Prince: life, death and belief in south-east England at the time of St Augustine’ Address: online The course explores the breadth of the Admission: £10 (plus £8.50 for lunch – please saving/healing plan of God and how it applies book in advance). to our lives. Contact: Mary Corbould, 01526 398631, [email protected] Admission: £10. Contact: Liz Dawes: 01603 882335, Winter Silence - Wigwam Retreat [email protected] Tuesday 24 Jan NCCL: Theological reflections on 10am-4pm a modern-day pilgrimage NCCL: Heritage preservation - ISIS Saturday 28 Jan destruction - the common ground 10am-12.30pm Saturday 11 Feb Address: Norwich Cathedral, The Close, 10am-12.30pm Norwich NR1 4DD Address: Norwich Cathedral, The Close, A critical engagement with ‘The Unlikely Norwich NR1 4DD Pilgrimage of Harold Fry’ by Rachel Joyce led Revd Canon Stephen Wright gives Arabian Gulf by the Revd Julian Pursehouse. perspectives on Heritage Lottery Fund work. Admission: £10 Admission: £10 Contact: NCCL Admin Team, 01603 218443, Contact: NCCL Admin Team, 01603 218443, [email protected] [email protected]

CONTINUED ON PAGE 38 37 NCCL – Old Testament: Disobedience The Youth Evangelism Conference (YEC) and its consequences Saturday 25 Feb Saturday 18 Feb 10am-4.30pm 10am-12.30pm Address: C3 centre, Cambs CB1 3HR Address: Norwich Cathedral, The Close, The Youth Evangelism Conference UK is Norwich, NR1 4DD a one day conference to inspire leaders What happens when people disobey God in to greater confidence in reaching young the Old Testament? people. Admission: £45 for the whole series booked Admission: £35 - £45. Emerging leader together, or £10 for the individual session delegate (21 & under) – £5 with pre-booked Contact: NCCL Admin Team, 01603 218443, Address: St Peter, Buxton Road, delegate. Discounts available see website [email protected] Spixworth, Norwich NR10 3PR for details. Snowdrop and woodland walks with an Contact: The YEC UK, Cambridge, exhibition of Spixworth Finds in church. 01223 727452, [email protected] Admission: £3 Adults, children free. Contact: Sheelah Cooke, 01603 898190, [email protected]

Preaching John – A Day for Preachers on John’s Gospel Saturday 25 Feb 10am-4pm Address: Weston Room, Norwich Cathedral NR1 4DD As well as looking at the major themes in John’s Gospel, we will be paying special Snowdrop Walks and Spixworth Finds attention to passages that will used in the Exhibition Common Worship Sunday lectionary during Sunday 19 Feb Lent and Easter season 2017. 11am-4pm Admission: £10 Sunday 26 Feb Contact: Lesley Lofts, 01603 882338, 11am-4pm [email protected]

Mrs I have been a member of my church since I was young, and QI have seen many vicars come and go. A new one has just Burrington arrived and, well, I’m not sure I have the energy to get used to yet Writes another person and their way of doing things. Mrs B Long-standing church members will always face the Your church questions problem of knowing their church better than a newly- answered by the lady arrived leader (who knows less than everyone else but is still who knows expected to lead). Help your vicar get up to speed – it takes a wise old soul to do this well – and you’ll shorten the awkward settling-in period for everyone. And if you really believe you’ve had too many vicars, go and visit a church that has had the same minister since the 1970s.

I know Christians are supposed to be full of life, but at our Qchurch it’s rather the opposite. People sit as far away from each other as possible with their heads lowered, and mumble along with unchanging expressions. I’ve almost given up on them.

Mrs B Sometimes people have a way of behaving in a church building that has little to do with their lives outside. The people you’re talking about are children, parents and grandparents. They’ve laughed and wept and been in love. They know things and they’ve done things. All you need to do is find them when they’re not disguising it.

38 ood ews for od’s arth

a of prntation onration Vocati on Work in the atiiti an worhip with gt Diocese of Norwich laing workhop hlping to onir or hritian onrn day o discoer wha od is for th nironmnt. calling yo o e and do as a faih fi lled follower erfec for hose wondering ao ordainaion or oher inisries. • Saturday 4 March, 10am - 4pm aturday ay St Edwards Church, Barders eld, NR10 5LG am .pm • Saturday 10 June, 10am - 4pm St Andrew’s Church, Scole, Diss, IP21 4DY The Green Britain Centre Free. Contact: Liz Dawes on 01603 882335 Turbine Way, Swa ham PE37 7HT ind out more at www.dioceseofnorwich.org/event?id=8931 £20 with lunch; £10 without (bring your own) Please book in advance by contacting Liz Dawes on 01603 882335 or [email protected]

eimagining the hurch aith and ope in ission and inistry Sdy ay for lergy eloring he Everyone challenges and oorniies facing welcome he chrch oday. Tuesday 14 March, 9.30am – 4pm St Luke’s, Aylsham Rd, Norwich, NR3 2HF £10. Please book in advance fun run or walk family day Contact: Lesley Lofts on 01603 882338

ind out more at www.dioceseofnorwich.org/event?id=8909

Bank Holiday Monday 1 May 2017 10am - 3pm at Wolterton Hall near Aylsham) ids orers

t ponor an rai mon for or hrh raining ay an th at nglian ir mblan day of encoraging and eiing 2.5 mile course (with 10 mile challenge!) • Register to receive a pack childrens worers and olneers fro across he region. ini frhmnt ak tall BB arg raft markt Saturday 29 April, 10am - 4pm Fountain of Life, The Well Christian Centre, i ban hilrn pla ara lai ar Swa ham Road, Ashill, Thetford IP25 7BT £10. Please book in advance. Contact: gitr in aan for or a tikt/ntr Maryanne Richardson on 01760 441902 ntr pr pron opl or famil ind out more at www.dioceseofnorwich.orgcharge www.dioceseofnorwich.org/event?id=8961 Monday Mardle at Saxlingham Nethergate

Corinne Douglas and Celia Blyth are archetypal “third agers”: in their early 70’s, active, committed members of their parish church. Twelve years ago they saw a need in their community and decided to do something about it.

n old cart barn had been transformed into a welcoming “room” just across the churchyard. Many older people in the village live alone soA Corinne and Celia started a monthly coffee morning on a Monday morning. “We chose a Monday, because people have often found the weekend difficult if they’ve been on their own,” says Corinne. “We simply thought we’d see how it went.” They opened the doors and around 15 people filled the small room. It quickly became clear that people wanted to meet more regularly and the Monday Mardle became a weekly two-hour event. has made it easier for Irene to continue On the morning I visited, the Autumn coming, although she now lives in sunlight was flooding through the sheltered housing in Beccles. Folk keep large glass windows. There was coming back to see their friends.” a gentle buzz of conversation and drinks and biscuits were being happily Monthly outings, sometimes to local consumed. Two greyhounds joined in: It’s a place to meet up with garden centres with cafes, a summer one curled on a blanket and the other old friends. outing to the coast, joining in events on mooching around each table in search at the church, such as flower festivals and of a fuss, or maybe the odd biscuit. a Christmas lunch provides a rhythm of activities for the group. “It’s a place to meet up with old friends,” “It was so important for my Mum to have explains Corinne. “Most people come somewhere to come by herself; it gave her “Sometimes we have talks from local from farming families. They have independence. Now I come because it’s services such as the police and the fire wonderful stories and swap photos.” like coming home. This is the village where brigade about staying safe in your own I grew up and it’s nice to help out in the home. If anyone is not well, we can While I was there Joan, in her 80s, was group.” pick up on that and make sure they’re sharing photos of the wedding of her getting the help they need. We have That was the primary feeling: everyone granddaughter that she’d recently someone who is a financial adviser in our is known here; it’s become a community attended. “I’ve been widowed for 10 congregation and she’ll visit people who of people looking out for one another. years. This gets me out of the house and might need advice. We sign-post onto Celia and Corinne are supported by a it’s nice to meet up with people and other organisations when necessary.” team of people. Transport is provided for have a good chat.” those who need it. “Irene and Des used Corinne and Celia are typically Pauline’s mother used to come every to come together, but he had a series of self-deprecating about their own week and since her death Pauline now strokes and sadly died after some time in a involvement. “We have lots of laughs – comes, although she lives in Brooke. nursing home. Already being known here it’s the best medicine!”