E December 2012 I D S IN REVIEW IN Free In Review THE NATIONAL CHURCH INSTITUTIONS WORKING FOR YOU Supplement inside addresses a press conference at , at which his name emerged WELCOME to the latest edition of In as the new Review, a twice yearly newsletter from the National THE SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2012 No: 6154 www.churchnewspaper.com PRICE £1.35 1,70j US$2.20 THE ORIGINAL CHURCH NEWSPAPER ESTABLISHED IN 1828 NEWSPAPER Pressure mounts over women INFLUENTIAL VOICES are calling for the In reply to her speech, Sir Tony Baldry thing for the House of Commons to tell the the appointment of , a right given Church of England to revisit the issue of likened the attitude to those opposed to established Church how to run itself’. up by Gordon Brown when he was Prime women bishops before a new synod is women bishops in the General Synod to Apart from Mr Bone, all the speakers in Minister. elected in three years’ time. Eurosceptics in his own party. Just as the debate from all parties expressed dis- Lord Carey added his voice to those call- According to a report in The Times the Eurosceptics refuse to listen to the whips agreement with the decision of the General ing on the Church to take speedy action in secretary-general of the synod, William Fit- so the opponents of women bishops Synod. Chris Bryant (Rhonda, Labour) an interview with The Times last Saturday tall, has written a memo to the Archbish- refused to follow the lead of the bishops, he called for a moratorium on the appointment when he said it was ‘ridiculous’ to say that ops’ Council warning of an urgent need to argued. of male bishops until there could also be General Synod could not reconsider the revise the decision. He refers to its impact This provoked one Eurosceptic, Mr Peter female bishops and Ben Bradshaw (Exeter, matter until 2015. He said that women on morale in the Church, particularly Bone MP, to say that Eurosceptics happen to Labour) suggested that the Prime Minister among women clergy, and hints at dises- be right and that ‘it is a very dangerous should take back his right to be involved in Continued on page 3 tablishment if the Church fails to sort itself out. “Time is not on our side,” he writes. “Par- liament is impatient. Unless the Church of England can show very quickly that it’s Fresh Expressions says farewell to Dr Williams capable of sorting itself out we shall be into a major constitutional crisis in Church- State relations, the outcome of which can- not be predicted with confidence.” Although the vote to allow women in 1992 passed by only a small mar- gin of two votes, Mr Fittall says the situa- tion is different today because the measure for women priests was not expected to pass. This time there was a widespread expectation that that measure would go through. He warns of talk in Parliament that a Bill should be introduced there to do what the Church has failed to do. “In weighing how best and how quickly to proceed, the Coun- cil needs to take very seriously both the degree of parliamentary anger and the desire of many in the Church to circum- vent the Synod because of the perception that it is not properly representative of the wider church opinion’. In making his analysis, Mr Fittall was probably influenced by an emergency debate held in the House of Commons last week. In the debate, Sir Tony Baldry, the Second Church Estates Commissioner, announced that he was arranging a meet- ing between MPs and the Rt Rev Justin Welby to discuss future action. He quoted the Prime Minister’s view that this was a matter for the Church of England to resolve and expressed the hope that he would, during his time in office, be able to bring before Parliament a measure to enable the consecration of women bishops. Ms Diane Johnson (Labour, Kingston- upon-Hull) referred to the presence of 26 bishops in the and said that the decision of General Synod meant the ‘entrenchment of the discriminatory Young people from a Romford Fresh Expression Church, re:generation, praying for the . This was nature’ of these appointments. called an ‘Olympic Torch’ moment – the older generation passing the baton on to the younger. The prayers were held during the 2012 Fresh Expression conference Following the Missionary Spirit at Holy Trinity, Brompton, on Thursday.

ANDREW CAREY 7 • LETTERS 8, 10 • HAZEL SOUTHAM 9 • CLERGY MOVES 12 • SUNDAY 15 • PAUL RICHARDSON 16 2 www.churchnewspaper.com Sunday December 2, 2012 News Conservationists angry over diocesan ‘negligence’ Inside... By Michael Brown Grade II listed church in mysterious cir- “incompetent” in its handling of such Britain’ s leading evangelical newspaper cumstances which local conservationists important items. CONSERVATIONISTS have accused a have spent months investigating. A spokeswoman for the Wakefield dio- northern diocese of “negligence” for failing Diocesan officials reported that the carv- cese admitted that a mistake had been to protect rare and valuable carvings that ings had been stolen but it was later learned made in allowing a contractor to go into the have disappeared from a redundant church. that they were taken by a contractor who church unsupervised. She denied that the The oak misericords were crafted in the had permission to be inside the church and church had sold the carvings. 1920s by Halifax woodcarver HP Jackson to remove some items. Two misericord seats on eBay have been for St Peter’s Church at Stanley, Wakefield. The diocese said the contractor did not returned and four others on an antique They depict the “16 stages of creation” have permission to remove the miseri- dealer’s website have also been recovered, and are thought to be the only set of their cords. said the spokeswoman. kind in the world — and with a price tag to Some ended up on Internet auction site There is currently an ongoing dispute match. eBay and others at a auction house. between the church and an auction house Earlier this year the carvings disap- Paul Dainton, of the St Peter’s Church over the ownership of the two further mis- peared from the disused and vandalised Action Group, said the diocese had been ericords.

News ...... 1-7 Your Church ...... 2 UK News ...... 1-4 Bishop Kenneth Cragg, 1912-2012 World News ...... 5-6

Comment BISHOP KENNETH preaching to a blank , high- Andrew Carey ...... 7 Cragg, who spent much wooden wall. He himself lighted three words from Whispering Gallery ...... 7 of his ministry in the had woven a number of the passage which char- Letters ...... 8, 10 warm and sunny climate the panels while waiting acterized Bishop Cragg’s Leader ...... 9 of the Middle East, was at stations and airports life and work: love, hospi- Hazel Southam ...... 9 buried in an eco-friendly during his long mission- tality and stewardship. wicker casket on a cold ary career. Harvey specially England on Sunday November afternoon on Prayers were led by focused on hospitality of Jonathan Macy ...... E1 22 November. Canon Christopher the mind as the key to his Ruth Gledhill ...... E3 He died on 13 Novem- Lamb, himself a mission- devotion to lifelong dia- Crossword ...... E2 ber, four months short of ary in Pakistan, and spe- logue with Islam. Bishop Films ...... E3 his 100th birthday, at the cialist on inter-faith Cragg had identified that Books ...... E3 College of St Barnabas, relations, whose doctoral the “lex talionis” (an eye Catherine Fox ...... E4 Lingfield, which had also studies were on Bishop for an eye) was the curse Janey Lee Grace ...... E4 been the last home of Cragg’s theology. The of human history which John Stott. Bible reading was chosen had been borne away by The Record Bishop Cragg was laid by Bishop Cragg himself Christ on the cross. Anglican Life ...... 11 to rest in the Oxfordshire – 1 Peter chapter 4: “He The church was filled College Street ...... 12 churchyard of Holy Trini- who has suffered in the by his family and local Classifieds ...... 13 ty, Ascott-under-Wych- body is done with sin. As people as well as by the- Clergy Moves ...... 14 wood, where he and his a result, he does not live ologians and mission per- Spiritual Director ...... 15 wife had lived in their the rest of his life for evil sonnel from Oxford, Sunday Service ...... 15 retirement. In the human desires, but where he had taught at CMS ...... 15 church, a tapestry hangs rather for the will of Wycliffe Hall and the Paul Richardson ...... 16 inside the west wall. We God.” Oxford Centre for Mis- People ...... 16 were told this had been a The preacher, Canon sion Studies, and the Milestones ...... 16 gift from Bishop Cragg Anthony Harvey, former Church of England, past Next week’s news ...... 16 because he did not like Canon Theologian of and present. News from Your Church your diocese

London: The redevelopment of an Enfield Church into a new development west of Waterlooville. The Diocesan Sheffield: Sheffield Manor Parish is one of the first community centre and primary school has been shortlist- Board of Education is still awaiting final approval from groups in the UK to receive a Heritage Lottery Fund All ed for a prestigious planning award. The project to rede- Hampshire County Council before it can be built, which it Our Stories grant. The project, Manor Memories, focused velop St John’s Church in Enfield into the new Dysons hopes to receive in January. The diocesan director of edu- around the Manor and Norfolk Park areas of Sheffield and Road Community Hub has been shortlisted for the ‘Best cation, Tony Blackshaw, said: “We’re excited about the led by Sheffield Manor Parish, has been given £9,900 to Built Project’ in the Community Scale Scheme category at possibility of providing schools with a Christian ethos in explore the area’s past and recent history, and to bring the 2012/13 London Planning Awards with the project these areas where they are really needed – not just to pro- together local people and groups to build a sense of own- reaching the final two in the competition. Officially opened vide good education, but also to act as a focus for these ership and community. The new small grant programme, by Prince Andrew in July, the redevelopment took St communities.” launched earlier this year in support of BBC Two’s The John’s church and its vicarage and church hall, and creat- Great British Story – has been designed as an opportunity ed a revamped area for worship, combined with a new Salisbury: Everyone who has access to the internet can for everyone to get involved in their heritage. community centre, complete with gym, pool table, record- now take a virtual tour of Salisbury Cathedral and even ing studies and study space. Following consultation with find themselves at the base of England’s tallest spire see- Southwark: was the setting for the the local community, a need for primary school places was ing the medieval scaffolding and the spectacular views premiere of a new poem by the Poet Laureate, Carol Ann identified, leading to a new 30-place Church of England across the city and surrounding countryside, thanks to a Duffy, on 20 November. The reading of ‘A Human Haunt’, Primary School being included in the redevelopment. new initiative by Google, based on their Street View tech- a poem about the Cathedral, formed part of an evening of nology. The director of Marketing and Communications at poetry and music during which Carol Ann Duffy read from Portsmouth: Portsmouth Diocese has unveiled plans to the Cathedral, David Coulthard, said: “This 360-degree her collected works, with the Cathedral’s Merbecke Choir create two new church schools to help families desperate interactive virtual tour provides us with a powerful new providing musical interludes. The winners of the South- for places. The first would be a primary school in Whiteley, way to open up the Cathedral to those who are planning to wark Cathedral Poetry Competition 2012 were also where parents face the prospect of two hours a day driving come here, or indeed those who might not be able to be announced and the poems read by the actor Timothy to and from schools in Fareham unless a second primary here in person. Now everyone with an Internet connection West. Christian Ward won in the Adult category with his is built. The school would begin by taking 30 four-year- has the opportunity to walk around, explore and interact poem ‘Fox Fires’ and Yasmin Hafow from Croydon Parish olds next year, and continue to do the same each year until with the Cathedral wherever they are.” Church Junior School won the Young Person’s category the school is full. The second could be an academy in the with ‘Journey through Fire’.

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper News Sunday December 2, 2012 www.churchnewspaper.com 3 New Bishop speaks of challenges, but doesn’t apologise for scandal IN HIS ENTHRONEMENT supporting ‘the task of transpar- people of Sussex, Brighton and can observe that the political SERMON in Chichester Cathe- ent and unflinching investigation Hove needed the Church to be a processes of the General Synod dral on Saturday the Rt Rev Mar- into the past and the shaming, reliable advocate and practition- have not delivered us a reliable tin Warner spoke of challenges criminal behaviour that contin- er of best practice because in the way of finding consensus on facing both the diocese and the ues to have destructive effects voluntary sector it is the largest how to attain the goal of includ- national Church. on those who suffer as a result provider of resources and facili- ing women in the episcopate, Referring to revelations of of our collective failure, people ties for young people. which is undoubtedly the past abuse scandals in the dio- to whom we have a continuing Commenting on the vote in earnest desire of the majority of cese, he warned of the danger responsibility’ but he stopped General Synod at which he and a people in the Church of Eng- that the diocese would be ‘sim- short of issuing an apology for number of representatives from land.” ply overwhelmed and paralysed past failures by the diocese and the General Synod spoke He suggested: “As we reflect by the enormity of this inheri- offered no explanation for them. against the motion for women on our situation we might ask tance of institutional shame’. The Bishop quoted a repre- bishops he said: “Although the how we are now to set about our He thanked the Archbishop of sentative of the local Social Serv- temptation to apportion blame is mission and rebuilding trust and Canterbury’s Commissaries for ices who said to him that the a dangerous one, perhaps we understanding.” RE lessons criticised for being ‘incoherent’ Bishop’s family revealed

RESEARCHERS at Oxford’s Department of Education AN INVESTIGATION BY The Sun- wealthy elite and renting an apart- complications in his life that hindered say that Religious Education is often ‘incoherent’, ‘too day Telegraph has shed new light on ment on the Upper East Side where that brilliance really being fully stereotypical’ and ‘lacking in intellectual development’. the background of the future Arch- he held parties. The society columns deployed.” According to Dr Nigel Fancourt, some teachers are bishop of Canterbury. of The New York Times recorded his Bishop Welby’s mother married afraid to tackle issues in case they are accused of ‘evange- Gavin Welby, Justin Welby’s father, exploits. again in 1975. His stepfather, Lord lising’. was born Bernard Gavin Weiler, the He returned to England after the Williams of Elvel, is a Labour peer A study carried out by Oxford educationalists reveals son of a Jewish immigrant from Ger- war and was twice an unsuccessful who played cricket for Essex and is that improvements are needed to make sure that pupils many, although he never told his son Conservative candidate for Parlia- the son of Norman Powell Williams, a properly understand the traditions and beliefs of Christi- of his Jewish roots. “He wouldn’t talk ment. In 1950 he opposed Richard theology professor at Oxford and a anity. about his family at all,” Bishop Welby Crossman, later a Cabinet Minister noted Anglo-Catholic who once wrote A poll commissioned by the Oxford RE Department told the newspaper. under Harold Wilson and author of a a paper arguing that women should shows that 64 per cent of adults agreed that pupils must The Bishop was 21 and studying at political diary. not be ordained as . know something about Christianity to understand Eng- Cambridge when his father died of a Adam Butler, son of RA Butler, lish history. Some 57 per cent thought it was essential for heart attack in 1977. The Bishop’s introduced Welby to his cousin, Jane children to understand English culture and way of life and parents divorced when he was only Portal, private secretary to Winston 44 per cent thought more attention should be given to its three and he lived with his father, car- Churchill. They eloped to Baltimore teaching. ing for him towards the end of his life and were married in 1955, the year Dr Fancourt told the BBC that he thought some RE when he had become heavily depend- Welby made his second, unsuccess- CHURCH TEXTILES teaching was too heavily focussed on moral development. ent on alcohol. ful attempt to enter Parliament. Justin 4321023/.-1,.+2.3*)3((32)3.'2 He heads a team that is working on a free, web-based An investigation by The Sunday was born the following year and was &3,%')3$.#"+('! .+2/. ,1/")! introduction to teaching Christianity aimed at those train- Telegraph confirmed what Bishop baptised at Holy Trinity, Brompton. ing to teach in primary schools. Welby suspected: that his father Three years’ later Jane petitioned for ,+23.(3+&3.%'&'!.1",.03 A spokesperson for the British Humanists agreed made his money by bootlegging and divorce on grounds of adultery. The &'!3.!1.&33.&13.1-.1", Christianity was badly taught but argued this also applied working with the Mafia in America divorce was finalised in 1959. 3*)'!'2./3&'2& to other religions and to humanism. during the period of Prohibition. But After the divorce, Welby divided 3.& 3)'+('&3.'2 Dr Fancourt pointed to reports by Ofsted inspectors the Bishop did not know that his his time between Britain and Ameri- )1'&&'123/. '3)3&.+2/ saying that Religious Education was not being well father had been briefly married in ca. Bishop Welby was unaware of +(&1.1--3,.&!+2/+,/./3&'2&.12 taught. America to the daughter of a wealthy many of the facts about his father '!3&.&") .+& John Keast of the Religious Education Council of Eng- factory owner or that he had affairs revealed by the ‘Telegraph’ investiga- land and Wales welcomed the Oxford report. “For several with a sister of John F Kennedy and tion. Banners, stoles, years inspection reports have shown the teaching of the actress, Vanessa Redgrave. “There is no hiding the fact that he altar frontals Christianity, which is a key part of the RE curriculum in After Prohibition was over, Gavin was a complicated man,” he com- our schools, is too weak. Welby had a legitimate business to mented to the newspaper. “He was and pulpit falls. “With almost total withdrawal of Government support supply drinks to Manhattan hotels. really, really brilliant. I think what for RE, it is good to see a major university project spon- He became well-known in social cir- you have said shows that he was real- sored by charitable trusts providing a positive way for- cles, arranging balls for the sons and ly brilliant in many ways. But there ward.” debutante daughters of New York’s were, probably, from his background, continued from page one have to be faced. Is the Church’s undermine its mission or make it respect for conscience and for exemption from equality laws a laughing stock in the mind of the rights of minorities. priests were doing ‘a wonderful defensible? Does a system that the nation.” The Catholic Group in General job’ and that they should have a requires two-thirds majorities in In a brief statement the Church Synod said that it regretted “the chance to become bishops. three separate houses place the Society said it was pleased Gener- Synod was put in the position “The important thing is to find bar far too high? Can it make al Synod had not passed the whereby draft legislation failed at a way to get the desired outcome sense for members of the Synod women bishops measure since it Final Approval because it was     the majority want.” to be permitted to vote entirely would not have enabled the unclear and unfair in its provision   The , the contrary to the view of their Church to go forward together. A for those who, in conscience, are .3,032!."&'23&&.32!,3$ Rt Rev Michael Perham, has diocesan synod? statement from Reform thanked unable to accept the ministry of (+,3.!,33!$. questioned the Church of Eng- “It is really important to keep a God ‘that the Church of England women as bishops or priests.” It 3, $.. land’s right to exemption from welcome place in the Church for has avoided a big mistake that pledged itself to work to achieve .3(3 123 .  .  . equality laws in the wake of the those who are unhappy with the would have led to real division good legislation that would .+* .  .. .+'( . )!) ",) !3*!'(3&)1" General Synod vote. idea of women bishops, but they and a less inclusive Church’. It enable to the Church to move for- “There are questions that now must not hold the Church back, said the Synod decision showed ward together. www.church-textiles.co.uk

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper 4 www.churchnewspaper.com Sunday December 2, 2012 News ‘Don’t turn prisoners into pariahs,” New forms of Bishop warns in debate over voting Banns approved THE HOUSE of Lords has come to evening services. approved the use of modernised The 1949 Act was relaxed in words when banns are read. 2008 allowing couples to get mar- Peers unanimously approved a ried in more churches, such as Church of England measure that where one of their parents lived also brings about a technical or was married or where they change in where couples can get were baptised. married. Under the 1949 Act if a parish Introducing the move, the doesn’t have a church or the , Bishop church is closed for repairs, cou- Peter Price, said: “The Marriage ples can get married in neigh- Act 1949 requires the form of bouring parishes. That has now words contained in the 1662 been extended to cover the 2008 Book of Common Prayer to be changes. THERE IS A DANGER of prisoners being given “pariah status”, the used when publishing banns.” “In terms of its legal substance, Bishop Price said: “A helpful has warned. He said there was nothing in it is not any different from the tra- way of showing how the changes Bishop raised his concerns as peers discussed giving the measure that would prevent ditional form; but instead of ask- will be of practical help to couples inmates the vote. the continued use of the Book of ing whether anyone knows ‘cause might be by way of an example. In the House of Lords he said: “In today’s society, which is so affect- Common Prayer but a slightly or just impediment’ why the per- “A couple may want to get mar- ed by the pressures of the popular press, there is a danger of prisoners modernised form of words, as an sons who are named may not ried near the bride’s parents’ being given pariah status, as illustrated by the fact that candidates for optional alternative to the tradi- marry, it asks simply whether home, but her parents’ parish police and crime commissioner who had had a minor offence years ago tional form, would now be on a anyone knows, ‘any reason in law church is temporarily closed for in their youth were automatically disqualified.” statutory footing. why they may not marry each repairs and will not be available He said the issue should be at the forefront of the mind of the joint “Common Worship, the cur- other’.” during the summer that the cou- committee the Government is setting up to consider whether, following rent prayer book, so to speak, of The measure also allows banns ple want to get married. a ruling from the European Court of Human Rights, some inmates the Church of England, like the to be published at other services “The new measure will allow should be given the vote. Alternative Service Book before than the principal service on a them to get married in the parish He also asked if MPs would be given a free vote on the issue. it, offers the modernised form,” Sunday, to fit in with the fact that church of any of the parishes that Justice minister Lord McNally said he could not comment on he said. many couples are more likely to border her parents’ parish.” whether there would be a free vote. He added: “I agree on the way that this debate is handled by the media. I am pleased that the Government is concentrating their efforts Bishop apologises over women bishops on rehabilitation.” THE CHURCH of Eng- Matters of gender, we are left in no doubt “All of us who claim a land will “make equality and minorities about it and we have to religious foundation to Domestic violence warning amends” on the issue of are all issues that we make amends. our lives need to women bishops, the meet elsewhere in socie- “I believe that we will acknowledge the reality ILL-THOUGHT out attempts to services are developed, they are Bishop of Bath and ty. Yes, I know we did do so, particularly in the of toxic behaviour, but work with the perpetrators of done well and meet agreed Wells has said in the not crack it on Tuesday matter that we have good religion seeks the domestic violence can do more Respect service standards for House of Lords. over women bishops. debated this week.” welfare of others and is a harm than good, the Bishop of practice and accreditation?” In a debate on faith, “Although that has Bishop Price said that force for good in society.” Exeter has warned. Lady Stowell said the Govern- Bishop Peter Price also undoubtedly been a pub- “as in all things” there He added: “If your At question time in the House ment funded the Respect Phone- said that religious peo- lic relations disaster and was “good religion and Lordships want to see of Lords, Bishop Peter Price said: line, which was for “perpetrators ple had to be aware of a serious setback, reli- bad religion”. the contribution of reli- “It is important that services or people who are inclined to the “toxic behaviour” of gion is faith committed “It can be argued that gion in British society working with perpetrators of carry out these terrible acts of some religions. to working at it. since 9/11 a view has today, look at your local domestic violence are delivered violence”. “Often in the Church “The Church of Eng- developed that religions church, synagogue, with a high degree of safety.” She added: “The Government of England, our debates land belongs to all with- are most authentic when mosque or gurdwara - He asked Government spokes- also support Respect in its role in are proxy for wider in this country and they are most angry and not at the Taliban or the woman Baroness Stowell of Bee- properly accrediting the kind of debates within society. when we get it wrong, irrational,” he said. Tea Party.” ston: “Do you share a concern voluntary programmes that are and recognise that well meaning important in local areas. We but ill thought-out attempts to do would certainly encourage any- this work can end up doing more one who wishes to follow one of Middle East challenge over peace harm than good? these programmes to ensure that “What are the Government it has been fully accredited by PEACE IN Syria and the Middle East will only be Lady Warsi said the situation was different in the doing to ensure that where new Respect.” achieved if it built at a community level and is not two areas. just a political process, the Bishop of Bath and Wells She said in Syria the Department for International has said. Development had been funding “a number of indi- Bishop Peter Price raised the issue in the House viduals including journalists and human rights Drones criticised of Lords as peers debated a statement on the situa- activists who are logging and recording informa- tion in the two conflict-ridden areas. tion”. DRONE ATTACKS by the United States in Pakistan are “illegal under He said: “The experience of peacemakers in all “If you send out a clear message that there will humanitarian law”, the Bishop of Bath and Wells has said. situations is that there are certain defining not be a culture of impunity in these matters, that Bishop Peter Price raised the issue at question time in the House of moments. starts to build the reconciliation process,” she said. Lords. “For a peace process to be effective, it has to be “On Israel, Gaza and the West Bank, there are a He asked Foreign Office minister Baroness Warsi: “In the light of managed on a multilayered level, not just from a number of programmes of which I am sure you will the unknown number of civilian casualties as a result of drone attacks political perspective but from a community perspec- be aware. in Pakistan, when no armed conflict has been declared and the United tive as well.” “Some are based on religious grounds, where reli- States is not at war, does the Minister agree that such attacks are ille- And he asked Foreign Office minister Baroness gious leaders have come together to build peace, gal under international humanitarian law and that there is now a need Warsi: “In what ways can Her Majesty’s Govern- and some are being done through educational proj- for an enhanced arms limitation treaty?” ment encourage and nurture that process both in ects and through the voluntary and charity sector.” Lady Warsi said he raised an “important point”. She added: “I can Syria and in Israel/Palestine to build that kind of She added: “However, in a situation such as this, I confirm to the House that the UK has not used armed drones against construct so that there can be, as it were, a cohesive fundamentally believe that real progress will be targets in Pakistan. It is a matter for individual states engaged in those approach to this peacemaking task?” made when we start showing real political will.” practices to discuss those matters.”

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper News Sunday December 2, 2012 www.churchnewspaper.com 5 Bishops respond with sadness over Synod vote on women bishops By Robyn Sanders , Bishop of was not passed by the General nation, and those we seek to nity to demonstrate to the world Ludlow, said: “I am dismayed, Synod today by a very narrow serve, see it as an important how people with different views DISAPPOINTMENT, frustration saddened and perplexed by what margin in the House of Laity. I measure of our commitment to can find ways of working gra- and dismay reign supreme in has happened. My first concern is give heartfelt thanks to God for the place of women in the ciously together for a common nearly all of the reactions from to reaffirm my support for all our the ministries of the women who church.” cause... We now need to reflect on Anglican Bishops following the women clergy at what is a deeply are priests and deacons in the The Bishop of Southwark, the what has happened and the steps General Synod’s rejection of the painful time for us all. While Diocese of Sheffield. I deeply Rt Rev Christopher Chessun, has that led to it, to learn from any Motion to approve Women Bish- agreeing that this can do nothing value and cherish their ministries written to all his clergy following mistakes that were made, and to ops. but damage to our reputation, I as do the parishes where they the result of the debate in General seek to address the church’s , the Rt Rev refute any suggestions that the serve.” Synod concerning women Bish- desire for women bishops in the said: “Sadly the neg- church is in every way out of The Rt Rev Nigel Stock, Bishop ops. He has offered to meet with years to come.” ative vote is a blow both to the touch.” of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich his clergy following the Eucharist The and outgoing Archbishop of Canter- The Rt Rev Michael Langrish, and a House of Lords member, and has assured them of his Master of the College of bury and to the incoming Arch- said: “In the Dio- said: “This is very sad for the vast prayers at this time and asked Guardians, Dr Martin Warner, bishop. I fear the next decade will cese of Exeter we have many gift- majority of the Church who had them to join him in prayer for the said: “We pray for the wisdom and envelop the Church of England in ed and experienced women who hoped that this development church and all called to ministry the humility to remain attentive to a mist which will make us more have been ordained to the - would go through. I would like to within it. each other within the Church of and more hidden from the rest of hood. For many ordinary Chris- reassure women clergy that The Group for Rescinding the England as we seek to under- the world whom God has called tians the fact that the way is still despite their disappointment this Act of Synod said: “We are deeply stand how the future will now us to serve.” not yet open for some of them to is no reflection on their much val- disappointed that the General unfold.” The Rt Rev Jonathan Gledhill, test and explore a vocation to the ued ministry, which continues to Synod has made a decision so out The , the Rt said: “The office and work of a Bishop, will be hugely valued and appreciat- of step with the will of the Church Rev , said: House of Bishops has declared be experienced as a tragedy and a ed.” of England as a whole. The “This is a very sad day indeed, not themselves determined to source of deep frustration. In The Bishop of Lichfield, the Rt Synod’s decision to reject the just for those of us who support reverse this injustice.” these circumstances I remain Rev Jonathan Gledhill, said: “This Measure cuts right across what the ministry of women, but for The Rt Rev , area committed to the advancement of is a very unwelcome result. The the vast majority of men and the future of the Church, which said: “I women and their gifts as fully as vast majority of members of the women in the Church of England might very well be gravely dam- am deeply saddened and frustrat- possible within the position in Church of England wanted the long for and shows that our aged by this... The Church has ed by the outcome of yesterday’s which the church now finds change to allow female bishops – attempts at compromise have suffered a serious credibility vote in General Synod, when an itself.” over the past couple of years forty been ignored.” problem.” unrepresentative minority thwart- The , the two out of forty four Diocesan The , Dr Alas- The Ven Jane Sinclair said: “A ed the clear will of the wider Rt Rev Richard Blackburn said: “I Synods have voted in favour so tair Redfern, said: “I am very lot of people have worked very Church, as expressed in the con- am feeling particularly distressed for General Synod to prevaricate sorry that the General Synod has hard to make the proposed legis- sultation amongst the 44 Dioce- that the Church will now have to in July and again now is a bitter not endorsed the legislation to lation fair and it took seriously the ses. In the light of this I would wait even longer for us to receive blow.” allow women to be bishops in the concerns of those in conscience like to encourage all those sup- the blessing of women in Episco- The Rt Rev , Bishop Church of England... However, who could not accept the ministry porters of the ministry of women pal leadership: we have some out- of Ripon and Leeds, said: “I we must stop and reflect with of women ... I and my colleagues to continue to work for what was standing, fine and talented believe we need to spend a bit of those of all viewpoints to discern are determined to continue to so nearly achieved.” women priests and I was looking time in thinking and praying and what we might learn about our support those parishes which in The Rt Rev , area forward to some of them joining then we need to press on in find- life together and our continuing conscience cannot accept the Bishop of said: “I am us in the College of Bishops.” ing a way forward to enable desire to communicate the ministry of women.” immensely disappointed with this The , Dr women to become bishops. I am essence of our faith.” The Bishop of Derby, Dr Alas- outcome, despite painstaking Steven Croft said: “I am deeply absolutely clear that large majori- The Rt Rev Donald Allister, tair Redfern said: “I am very efforts over 20 years to provide a saddened that the Measure to ty of people in the church, and an , said: sorry that the General Synod has respected and honoured place for enable women to become bishops even greater majority in the “We have missed a great opportu- not endorsed the legislation.” those who oppose women bish- ops to share the ministry of the church with those who disagree     """"""""""" with them. It feels like those of the Traditionalist and Conserva- " #"# $ - "*)-!!+$/!""!%&&-&) - tive traditions have not shown the ". !!)#&$" $&"&&%&#$/*%'! & trust that has been afforded to  $%!&&"+!/+$'! &"$%"+!/!)&" them.”  % !2%   &!!"$!"&$ The Rt Rev , area 3544 &" %! &  1  !"&/ & ! %% " "+ )# & #"! Bishop of Shrewsbury reflected:  %1 $. &%")!% !"&$     “I do believe women bishops will %&)'"!1 "+*$/-")"!"& &%#$"%%$& come one day soon and I long for %"$ / #%&!!&"$ " $"$-)&" "'*1 that day. However, this is God’s church and God’s mission and it will go forward despite this set-  %" #!-+ & &%% !#$%%)$ back. I pray that this delay will +-$" (!-")$!,&$/)%&*& -")$$&$/-")$ mean that we will find a better %$)&/!&-" &+"$"$-")1-%$ way to go forward together.” &$!'"! &%&"!-")&*$-%&$)$$!& - The Rt Rev Christopher Foster, *  1 !-")$##-/*$-$%) -#$#$&"& Bishop of Portsmouth said: “I %&%&!$! *$&"-")$""$0"")$%&-+  share the disappointment of so &-")$" "!+-&#$$#$1 many that this measure was defeated, especially for the pain !-)%&" $&%' "! %!")!"!&$+%&/% and disappointment that this is to &-$#$")&""$&*$-%&%$*!&)%!%%1& women clergy and many others #$%%&$'!$")!36444/&$%%" &!"$*$-"!1 among us. The ministry of $-&,#$&%/&$%!"" '"!/)&-")&""") !&& ordained women is highly valued &$%$*%*%"&' ! "!-!$%) &%!$& in this diocese and in our church. $&""1 Both the church and our commu- nities benefit greatly from their #$$&%'')()( gifts and experience and we shall be the poorer without their pres-   "! " ence for now as bishops.”

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper 6 www.churchnewspaper.com Sunday December 2, 2012 News Bishop Ting dies, the last Orthodox fear for Anglican Bishop in China THE LAST Anglican bishop in hai and served with the YMCA China, Bishop Ting Kuang- in China but left in 1946 to hsun, has died. The Amity work for the Student Christian Foundation reports that Bishop Movement in Canada and the Ting died on 22 November in World Student Christian Feder- ecumenical future Nanjing. He was 98. ation. Returning to China in In 1955 Bishop KH Ting was 1951 he served as General consecrated as Bishop of Zhe- Manager of the Shanghai- By George Conger In a carefully worded letter, jiang of the Chung Hua Sheng based Chinese Christian Litera- Hilarion stated Moscow expected Kung Hui, the Anglican ture Society, and in 1953 WOMEN BISHOPS, gay marriage Bishop Welby to discipline the lib- Church in China. A controver- became president of Nanjing and other innovations of doctrine eral wing of the Anglican Commun- sial figure among Chinese Union Theological Seminary— and discipline will end meaningful ion. Bishop Welby had been Christians, Bishop Ting has a post he held until his retire- Anglican-Orthodox relations, Met- “entrusted with the spiritual guid- been accused of being an apol- ment in 2010. ropolitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk, ance of the entire Anglican Com- ogist for the government in its The last meeting of the Chi- chairman of the Moscow Patriar- munion, a unique union of persecution of the “House nese House of Bishops and chate’s Department for External like-minded people, which, howev- Church movement” and an General Synod was held in Church Relations (DECR) has er diverse the forms of its exis- agent of influence for the Shanghai in 1956, and shortly warned. tence in the world may be, needs Maoist regime, but he is also thereafter the church was At a 26 November meeting in one ‘steward of God’ the guardian credited with keeping the merged by the Communist Moscow, Ambassador Tim Barrow of the faith and witness to the church alive during a period of government with China’s other and second secretary James Ford Truth. severe persecution. Protestant denominations to met with leaders of the Russian “Regrettably, the late 20th centu- A disciple of process theolo- form the China Christian Coun- Orthodox Church. According to ry and the beginning of the third gian Pierre Teilhard de cil (CCC). Bishop Ting the official press statement, “Met- millennium have brought tangible Chardin, Bishop Ting sought remained an Anglican bishop, ropolitan Hilarion greeted the difficulties in relations between the to develop a Chinese Christian but his church had been effec- Ambassador and shared his remi- Russian Orthodox Church and the theology that harmonized with tively dissolved. niscences of his student years in Churches of the Anglican Com- the country’s culture and politi- Jailed during the Cultural Oxford and his impressions of the munion,” Hilarion said. cal leadership during the Revolution, Bishop Ting recent visit to London where he “The introduction of female Maoist era. He came to reject returned to national promi- attended celebration of the 50th said were at a nadir. priesthood and now episcopate, the the doctrine of Justification by nence in the 1970s in the wake anniversary of the Sourozh dio- On 13 November, Hilarion wrote blessing of same-sex ‘unions’ and Faith and promoted a Justifica- of the liberalizations following cese.” to the Archbishop of Canterbury- ‘marriages’, the of tion by Love theology. The Mao’s death and became chair- They also discussed the situation designate, Bishop Justin Welby, homosexuals as pastors and bish- bishop rejected the notion that man of the Three-Self Patriotic of Christians in the Middle East offering his greetings upon the ops – all these innovations are seen mankind were first to be con- Movement (TSPM) and later and North Africa, the role the Russ- ’s appointment by the Orthodox as deviations sidered sinners as a conse- president emeritus of the CCC. ian Orthodox and Polish Catholic as 105th Archbishop of Canter- from the tradition of the Early quence of the Fall, but rather Bishop Ting also served as Churches had played in reconcil- bury. However, Hilarion said mean- Church, which increasingly were as likely to be sinned vice-chairman of the Chinese ing the “peoples of Russia and ingful Orthodox-Anglican estrange from the against as to sin. People’s Political Consultative Poland” and the state of “Ortho- ecumenical dialogue had all but Orthodox Church and contribute Educated at Shanghai’s Saint Conference, and as a member dox-Anglican relations at present” died, and it was the Anglicans who to a further division of Christen- John’s University, Bishop Ting of the National People’s Con- – which the Moscow Patriarchate have killed it. dom as a whole,” he wrote. was ordained in 1942 in Shang- gress, China’s legislature. Bishop’s fears of an uprising Iranian pastor says thank you

THE BISHOP of False Bay the roads into the town of the Western Cape, Helen THE IRANIAN pastor sentenced to you for what you did for me as a small has called upon the govern- Ceres to prevent labour Zille, Bishop Merwyn Castle death for apostasy from Islam but member of the body of Christ. Today my ment to respond quickly to activists from Cape Town of the Anglican Diocese of released after three years imprisonment presence here is the will of God and the the “uprising” in the Breede joining the strike. Grape har- False Bay said that “unless following an international protest cam- result of what your prayers did for me.” Valley of South Africa’s West- vesters in the Hex River Val- the underlying causes [of paign, was granted a special visa last Last month’s trip, which included a ern Cape, saying that unless ley had been protesting for recent uprisings in the month to travel to London to address visit to Holy Trinity, Brompton, church the root causes of the vio- over a week about their Breede Valley] are compre- Christian Solidarity Worldwide’s Nation- in London, was the first for the Iranian lence are addressed more wages, demanding their hensively dealt with, the al Conference. Christian leader since his release from lives will be lost. wages be doubled to R150 a anger and resentment may On 10 November Pastor Yousef prison. “It was a pleasure to welcome Labour unrest was but day. result in more bitterness and Nadarkhani spoke to the For Such a Time Pastor Nadarkhani to our conference “another example of the tick- Farm workers have set the loss of more lives. as This conference through an interpreter and to hear his testimony of faith and ing time bomb of poverty and tyres alight, staged protest “People have for too long thanking Christians in the West for their perseverance, and of his love for God, for unemployment in our marches and clashed with in our agricultural communi- prayers and petitions on his behalf. his family and for his nation. province,” Bishop Merwyn police. On 13 November ties been oppressed by the “It is the opportunity for me to share “His quiet courage, integrity and lack Castle said on 16 November. police fired rubber bullets at situation of unemployment about what the Lord did for me and to of recrimination cannot fail to have The South African press a group of 70 farm workers and poverty,” the Bishop thank you because you supported me by inspired anyone who heard him to deep- reports that police have after they began throwing said, urging the government your prayers, you supported my family en their own commitment to their faith,” closed roads into the valley, stones at the police lines. to step in to prevent further in a very difficult time,” he said. CSW’s Chief Executive Mervyn Thomas while farmers have blocked In a letter to the premier of violence. “My prayer is I ask the Lord to bless said. Prayers urged as Egypt faces a new wave of uncertainty THE BISHOP of Egypt has issued a call to stitution after the Muslim Brotherhood- within Egypt” after the president issued a mittee responsible for writing the new con- prayer for his embattled country after dominated committee announced that decree saying “his decisions are ‘final and stitution. This was an act of protest, President Mohamed Morsi issued a Sharia law would be the basis of Egyptian unchallengeable by any individual or body because the majority of the committee are decree widening the powers of the presi- law. until a new constitution has been ratified Islamists who want to impose their own dent and blocking his actions from judicial The Egyptian state news service report- and a new parliament has been elected.’ views in the constitution. As we dream for review by the courts. ed President Morsi had met with Pope The Supreme Judicial Council described real democracy, it was my hope, with many More than 500 people have been injured Theodore (Tawadros) II on 21 November the declaration as ‘an unprecedented other Egyptians, to have a constitution that in clashes between police and protesters where the president “reiterated his rejec- attack on the independence of the judici- is inclusive of all Egyptians.” angered by the seizure of absolute power tion of any kind of discrimination against ary and its rulings’. The Bishop urged Christians to pray for by the Muslim Brotherhood government. any Egyptian and underlined the necessity The Bishop added the larger political sit- Egypt as “almost two years since the start Opposition leaders and representatives to reach consensus on the constitution.” uation was unsettled also as “the churches of the revolution, and we are still longing from Egypt’s Christian minority have also However, on 24 November Bishop in Egypt alongside some liberal parties, for stability, democracy, and the opportuni- walked out of talks on drafting a new con- wrote there was “agitation withdrew their representatives in the com- ty to rebuild Egypt.” Comment Sunday December 2, 2012 www.churchnewspaper.com 7

a key role in working out acceptable compromises. Instead we are likely to see most of the deals being done behind closed doors with very little democratic participation. And we should also pay attention to the need to reform elections to General Synod, especially by enfranchising everyone on the electoral roll of the Church of England. In short, we need good politics in the next year and better legislation if we are to res- Andrew Carey: cue the short-term damage to the Church’s reputation. We should ignore the siren voic- es warning of terrible consequences or those that counsel further division and retrenchment. And each side must now be prepared to make proper compromises to ensure that the View from the Pew legislation is passed without delay. Any unreasonable intransigence shown by any of the chief pressure groups will be punished at the next General Synod elections. Those six votes in the House of Laity can be clawed back by modest and sensible changes to the legislation. The House of Bishops could even, at long last give a lead by publishing a code of practice before the next vote. Hysteria rules! Parliament’s claim to moral high ground The hysteria that followed last week’s for the principle of women bishops. In fact, I struggle to take the over-the-top complaints of Parliament seriously. Synod decision has been unbelievable. We at last week’s vote three-quarters of Synod The posturing of Sir Tony Baldry, the Third Estates Commissioner, has been lamen- are told that the Bishops are to be immi- members supported the legislation and table. Instead of explaining the difficulties behind Synodical processes and what might nently removed from the House of Lords, those six votes by lay people can be be done to reform them, he has fanned a mood of hysteria and a witch-hunt against con- that the Church of England has lost its squarely assigned to supporters of the servatives and traditionalists in the Church of England. moral authority, that any hope of compro- measure who thought it was bad legisla- The worst of his hyperbole is to be found in answer to a call from the Conservative mise has been vanquished as the sides tion. MP, Eleanor Laing, questioning the establishment of the Church of England. He said: harden their positions. We’ve also heard a It is true that there is a crisis. Many peo- “As a consequence of the decision by the General Synod, the Church of England no great deal about ‘fundamentalists’, ‘bigots’ ple in the Church, not least women priests, longer looks like a national Church; it simply looks like a sect, like any other sect. If it and ‘intolerance’. are feeling disillusioned and upset by the wishes to be a national Church that reflects the nation, it has to reflect the values of the It’s worth remembering what has hap- decision. The onus is on the Archbishops nation.” pened over the past 10 years. Every effort of Canterbury and York, the Archbishop- Is the Roman Catholic Church, which refuses to even open up the priesthood to to bring forward more generous legisla- designate and the leaders of General women, now to be called a sect? And what are those ‘values of the nation’ that the tion by the Archbishops of Canterbury and Synod to resolve the matter as soon as Church of England has to accept? Are those the values that have recently seen children York has been rejected by General Synod they possibly can. One early misstep was taken from UKIP-supporting foster parents? Or the values of so many corrupt Mem- and especially the House of Clergy. And to postpone the next General Synod until bers of Parliament who have taken it for granted that the expenses system was a way of from earlier voting patterns it was always July 2013. Instead of this we should be topping up their salaries, and enabling them to profit from the London housing boom? likely that this legislation would be reject- expecting new legislation to be voted on Or the values of a Prime Minister who, for political advantage, is seeking to redefine ed in spite of the overwhelming support next July with the February Synod playing marriage without popular mandate? Honours I Honours II

Justin Welby received an award as ‘minister of the year’ in The Spectator’s Justin Welby may have received a pat on the back from The Spectator but Rob Parliamentarian of the Year awards last week. The term ‘minister’ presum- Bell has received the accolade most American politicians and writers dream of: ably meant ‘minister of religion’ rather than Government minister. Welby a long, glowing profile in the New Yorker. In ‘The Hell-Raiser’ Kelefa Sanneh was described by The Spectator as ‘the most politically active clergyman sang the praises of the mega-church pastor as ‘a reassuring figure: proof that ever sent to Lambeth Palace’ because of his performance on the Banking it’s possible to challenge certain articles of faith without leaving behind faith Commission. It must be assumed that the magazine was referring to mod- itself’. Even before it was published, Sanneh told his readers, Love Wins caused ern times. Plenty of medieval bishops combined their church job with high a sensation and made Bell into a ‘celebrity pastor’. Bell left his congregation at offices of state. Welby was told by his press officer to say nothing at the Mars Hill in Michigan to move to California where is attempting to bring to awards but couldn’t resist joking about his advice being rejected before he birth a new kind of community attractive to young people turned off by mega- was even installed in office. Perhaps next time he receives an award from churches. Kelefa Sanneh, the author of the profile, is the son of Lamin Sanneh, The Spectator it will be the one that this year was awarded to Sir George Professor of World Mission at Yale, who has recently produced an account of Young. After 45 days on the backbenches after ceasing to be Leader of the his own conversion from the Islamic faith in which he grew up in the Gambia to House he was appointed Chief Whip earning an award as ‘Resurrection of Christianity. Lamin Sanneh is now a Roman Catholic; his wife is an Anglican but the Year’. Bishops don’t wear their mitres in the House of Lords, but Bishop Kelefa says nothing about his own faith. He does, however, show a familiarity Welby will no doubt have taken note of the view expressed in another with matters theological and shrewdly comments that Bell can sound like the church newspaper that he wears his mitre pushed back on his head like a theological liberals of the 20th century. “Given the recent history of mainline tea cosy making him look like a ‘character from a downmarket comedy pro- Protestants,” he warns, “it’s unclear that a more liberal theology would be gramme’. healthy for the evangelical movement.” The Whispering Gallery... Making headlines Wanted: Hedge Fund Adviser Many people probably think that women bishops and sexuality are big enough Arguments about sexuality and women bishops may be bad for the image of problems for Justin Welby to worry about but to add to his woes there are also the church but they give religious correspondents plenty to write about. financial anxieties in the Church of England. Pensions, stipends and the main- There wasn’t a day last week when religion didn’t figure in the pages of the tenance of crumbling historic buildings all make big financial demands but Evening Standard. On Wednesday, for example, readers were told that the congregations are shrinking. To help manage their £5.2 bn assets, the Church Poet Laureate, Carol Ann Duffy, had railed against the vote on women bish- Commissioners are looking for a senior City figure to join them, preferably a ops at a poetry reading she was giving in Southwark Cathedral. She began hedge fund manage or private equity manager, the Financial Times has her reading with a selection of feminist poetry and promised she would be revealed. The paper reports that a year after Archbishop John Sentamu producing something in due course on the General Synod vote. referred to such figures as ‘robber barons and asset strippers’ the Church is The next night the Standard informed its readers that students at King’s hoping to attract one of them to serve free of charge. About 10 per cent of the College, London, are seeking to have George Carey’s photograph removed Commissioners’ assets are allocated to hedge funds, the paper reports, while from the display of distinguished alumni outside its main building in the private equity funds have been responsible for large gains in the portfolio in Strand. The Student Union President wants the college to distance itself from 2011. Clearly there is a conflict between those like Andreas Whittam Smith Lord Carey’s ‘deeply archaic and offensive views’ on homosexuality. who claim hedge funds proved their worth during the financial crisis, and The college has refused to take any action, saying it is a ‘diverse and inclu- those like the who worry about the church getting too sive community’ that rejects any notion of censorship. close to mammon. 8 www.churchnewspaper.com Sunday December 2, 2012 Letters

THE OF CHURCH ENGLANDNEWSPAPER Write to The Church of England Newspaper, 14 Great College Street, Westminster, London, SW1P 3RX. or you can send an E-mail to [email protected]. Tweet at @churchnewspaper If you are sending letters by e-mail, please include a street address NB: Letters may be edited

Evangelical split If women can be priests, why not bishops? Sir, The sad defeat of the Women Bishops’ Sir, I have just retired as the Bishop of Lahore for 32 years in the Church of Pakistan Measure highlights again the devastating and serving the Church for 46. I have been following the debate on Women Bishops in split among evangelicals on the nature and the Church of England, and I must say that I am disappointed on the rejection of the interpretation of Scripture. It has been with legislation. If women could be priests, why can’t they be bishops? I do not understand us for over a century; certainly since the logic for rejecting the legislation. By denying the Episcopacy to the women, the Your Tweets Warfield and Hodge in America in the late Church has become weak and removed from the present day realities. 19th Century claimed total inerrancy for The Rt Rev Alexander John Malik, @thesermonmount Scripture. They were opposed by evangeli- Bishop Emeritus Of Lahore I think time would be better spent cal theologians here such as James Denny sending our leaders out to save souls. and James Orr, and others since. I wish all Or is this not our Christian priority? evangelicals would read a book just pub- rehashing all the old arguments on both exemption from equalities legislation is lished in America by an Evangelical Angli- sides of the issue. What is particularly even odder. It is unlikely that synod would @MirandaTHolmes can, Kenton Sparks, Professor of Hebrew important is the way we treat those whose be so supportive, let alone that it would also Actually, the same legislation could be Bible in a Christian university in South Car- views are in the minority, especially over apply to the Roman Catholic Church. Jesus returned to this synod ‘with the olina. It is Sacred Word, Broken Word (Eerd- controversial issues of major significance. Christ told the Jews to render to Caesar permission of the business mans). It will challenge and help its The Church of England’s approach in that which belonged to Caesar. Parliament committee’. readers. modern times has been to take conscience similarly should leave to Church that which On the Women Bishops issue I would like seriously, and try to reach a form of con- belongs to the Church. That is to say, theol- @SteveBilsbury to ask Rod Thomas and his supporters a sensus that allows the “dissenting” mem- ogy and discerning the Will of God. “we must all do what our conscience question. Why has God been calling thou- bers of the family to remain within it and Colin Bricher, dictates.” Shouldn’t it be “as God calls sands of women into the ordained ministry feel a valued part of it. This process might Northampton us!” Our conscience is to often self and evidently blessing their ministry? In 15 be slower than one that imposes conformity centered. years on the Standing Committee of the by a straight majority vote, but underlying Deflated Anglican Consultative Council I witnessed it is the view that every member is worth @cjbanning that blessing across the Communion. God that effort. So, I believe that how we Sir, How are those of us who rejoiced when Why is this Q still being asked? does not make mistakes. approach the future on the issue of women news of the vote in General Synod broke “@churchnewspaper: New post: Canon Colin Craston bishops will be as much a witness to the last Tuesday now supposed to feel, when Should Synod vote ‘yes’ to women Horwich, Bolton love of Jesus and the transforming power of our incoming Archbishop of Canterbury bishops? the Holy Spirit as the final result. speaks of a ‘very grim day’, and the outgo- Leadership question There must be no triumphalism, no ing Archbishop says that the C of E now @churchpoverty despair and no bitter recriminations. I take has a lot of explaining to do to surrounding After 10 years we have now Sir, Over the last few days, I have begun to no pleasure or satisfaction in any hurt, frus- society? persuaded all the major Christian reflect on the General Synod vote on the tration and sense of rejection that may be My understanding of the New Testament denominations to publicly support the Women Bishops Measure, and would like felt by those who see women bishops as has always been that we Christians are sup- #Livingwage. Yay! to share some initial thoughts about the proof of women’s full inclusion in the posed to be different from our contempo- process we on both sides of the issue must Church. Instead, I hope to see the reconcil- rary culture, ‘in’ it but not ‘of’ it (or @BenPBradshaw together be involved in as we seek God’s ing power of the Cross of Christ Paul ‘resident aliens’ as Peter puts it). We are not Rare unanimity among MPs in urgent answer to the question, “Where do we go referred to in Ephesians chapter 2 motivat- to ape its antics or import and endorse its Commons statement on from here?” ing us all to prayerfully seek together God’s shifting values, such as the ‘great gods’ of #womenbishops dismay at #synod First of all, let’s get this clear: in its vote, way forward for women and men in the equality and inclusivity, to name but two. vote call for swift progress or the General Synod did not reject the idea of Church, a way that is faithful to the biblical But ‘the cat is now out of the bag’, and Parliament will act women bishops; it was the Measure that revelations of both our equal status and there can be no going back. All of those failed to convince sufficient members of the complementary functions. ‘weasel words’ of continuing recognition @DArcyTiP House of Laity to make the two-thirds Perhaps we could start by re-examining and respect, promises and provision for the Eleanor Laing says failure to allow “threshold” set. From reports of the the way in which Christian leadership is to one-third minority in the church which Women Bishops could call into debate, the main reason for this seemed to be exercised. Too often “authority” and rejects the ordination of women beyond the question CofE status as Established be the inadequacy and unfairness of the “power” are emphasised; but didn’t Jesus Diaconate are worthless now - as Margaret Church. T Baldry agrees.... provisions for those who, like me, in con- say, “I am among you as one who serves”? Brown predicted last week. The church science could not accept the ministry of a It probably won’t be easy. It may take may as well split and have done with it; or @John_Bingham woman bishop. longer than we hope for, but we shouldn’t better still perhaps vote to canonise ‘Saint’ #ChurchofEngland ‘deluding Unfortunately, much of the media seem be rushed into it by threats from politicians. Harriet Harman and make her the next themselves’ to think they will be to have failed to pick this up – either wilful- But neither should we procrastinate to get Archbishop of Canterbury. listened to on #gaymarriage after ly or otherwise - and have accused the our way. This is not our church; it belongs John M Hughes, #womenbishops decision, says Tony Church of England of many things such as to Christ. So let’s honour him in the way we Heaton Mersey, Stockport Baldry regarding women as “second class” and “pick up the pieces” in the months ahead. being out of touch with society. Those who The Rev Dr Chris Kent, One way ahead @changingatt are unsympathetic to the Christian faith will Lye, West Midlands Outbreak of peace in the House of use these allegations to confirm their Sir, The recent failure by General Synod to Commons - absolutely everyone beliefs and to “bash the Church”. The gen- Parliament unwelcome approve women bishops is a tragedy, but agrees how much #synod messed up eral public, on the whole, probably doesn’t one that could be corrected if we, as a see why we are arguing. Indeed, as Arch- Sir, whilst the General Synod decision is church, recognize that the problem is one @AmberRuddMP bishop Rowan put it, “the Church has some disappointing, it is far more so that there of practise. So, may I suggest that a Regis- House united in disappointment re explaining to do” – though not necessarily are those in Parliament who think they can ter of “Anti-churches” should be set up in decision not allowing women Bishops. for the reasons he might have. act on behalf of God. each Suffragan area. Registration would ini- Great responses from @TonyBaldry, This task is not going to be an easy one, It is no business of the Government to tially be by application by the PCC of each champion for church & equality. but it is important that we take it seriously, tell us what we should or should not church and would last for five years. Regis- so that we ourselves do not prove to be a believe. tration would give complete protection to @alantlwilson stumbling block to the gospel Jesus has At first sight it might seem that Chris that church from the appointment of a Church & State: Another fine mess?: commissioned us to spread. I think that Bryant’s proposed Bill simply enforces woman bishop. At the end of five years, The parliamentary reaction to this Anne Atkins, an enthusiastic supporter of what the vast majority of General Synod renewal would require a two-thirds majori- week’s synod vote tells a powerful women bishops, made an excellent start in already accepts but is our Legislature say- ty of the PCC and would last again for five tale.... “This Week” (BBC 1) on 22 November. Her ing it understands the Will of God better years. Once a church had left the Register follow us approach was to talk about how the Church than The Church of England? @churchnewspaper on Twitter tries to make its decisions, rather than Frank Field’s Bill to remove the Church’s Letters continue on page 10

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper The latest books and films reviewed: E3 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2012 Unaware of Angels?

others to see them as part of cleansing coal, and the dead man everyday life.” falling on Elijah’s bones and com- Jonathan Macy believes that evangelicals And there’s more here too. ing back to life. It is a touch to Macy explains that we know that revive and restore, to say that God Jesus was the God-man. “He was had not forsaken him.” need to take another look at angels. Steve God incarnate, yet at two points of But there are murky waters his life when he is alone and run- here. Some have seen fit to pray down and on the edge the God- to angels – one of the reasons why Morris listens and is convinced man had physical ministry from Reformation thinkers turned so angels. Not some kind of spiritual decisively away. Macy is clear on pick-me-up, but real strengthen- this. “It’s fine to ask God to send onathan Macy has made quite and counting. With more than 600 The model was wrong to ing. angels to help us, but not to tell a journey over to see me from mentions of angels in the Bible he describe the experience. It was “We see it when he faced temp- him how to use them in our lives. JPlumstead. As he gets to the began to wonder why? Why do we like asking “What is it to drive tation and then in Gethsemane. In That’s down to God.” house a friend is leaving, so I assume that their ministry is over through the mountains of France Gethsemane, in the middle of the Macy is getting animated. It is decide to try out something on and we tend to view them with in an open top sports car?” night, he received the strengthen- hard not to be taken with his her. “Jonathan here’s a bit of an something akin to embarrass- Answer: “Well, mechanically, an ing of an angel, to help him face enthusiasm for the subject. “They expert on angels, what do you ment today? engine works like this, and drives the coming dreadful hours, and help us by praying for us, as well. think of angels?” She pulls a face, Indeed, there are bigger ques- the axles round. From this you get to the Cross.” Take the only one of Job’s friends “Oh no,” she says. “I’m a bit tions. Why do conservative evan- can extrapolate the experience.” But what about us... how might who God doesn’t condemn, Elihu. scared that believing in angels is a gelicals, with a heartfelt love of No. Mechanical language cannot angels help us in our own lives? Elihu talks of someone in need, bit like believing in crystals and the Bible, in this one instance describe a pastoral experience. Macy is firm on this one. He is and an angel asks God to help that all that kind of stuff.” seem to have missed what it says Macy saw a similar disconnect certain that scripture shows that person, to renew and forgive And so it is that we have the about angels? Why are angels, all between the theology of angels, angels have a strong pastoral role them, and God responds to the nub of the problem. My friend too often, a feared area of theolo- and their ministry, and looked to in the lives of Christians – indeed angel’s prayer. Then the person in isn’t alone in her attitude to the gy, which leads you away from, bridge the gap. Bible references roll off the need turns to God (mark you, not ministry of angels. And it’s a mis- not to, Christ? tongue to make a convincing the angel), confesses, and then apprehension that Jonathan Macy Surely very good questions. case. God restores him. It is an inspir- has taken it upon himself to over- The answer lies partly in ecclesi- he result is a book on angels “There are many ways God ing example of the pastoral min- turn. This is likely to be no easy astical history and theology. Macy that is Scriptural and places uses angels to help us. As with istry of angels. And it is alive and task because Jonathan has cen- felt that he needed to research Tthem and their work right at Jesus, they strengthen us when well today.” turies of history and doctrine to further and see if the whole story the heart of an orthodox Chris- we are in a very bad place, actual- Macy is smiling. I wonder out overturn and needs to take on the was being told. He felt that tradi- tian worldview. ly physically and also in terms of loud isn’t this stirring product of a likes of Luther among others. tional ways of viewing angels I wonder what Macy has found comforting us too. Look at the conservative evangelical educa- He’s done it in a ground-breaking were 1,000 years old, and used out about angels that might sur- way that the angel touched Elijah tion going to rattle a few cages? book called In the Shadow of their mediaeval Scholastic methods, prise us? “Well,” he answers, “a in 1 Kings 19. It was a touch of The smile broadens. “Oh no, Wings – a book that may well which were technical and number of things jumped out at comfort for a lonely crushed man. Steve. In the book I’ve only used become a genre-defining modern abstract. In short we’ve looked at me when I read the Bible again. The word for touch is specific, Scripture... no wild and woolly spiritual classic. And he’s done it angels as academic problems to For a start Jesus saw angels as and is paralleled with God’s com- angel stories. I don’t think I’ve as a card-carrying orthodox evan- be cracked rather than the givers part of his day-to-day frame of ref- missioning of Jeremiah to preach, misused Scripture at all.” gelical who has trained at both of real pastoral experiences. erence and ministry. He expected the angel touching Isaiah with the And for the record, nor do I. Oak Hill and Wycliffe Hall. So, I ask Jonathan, why the interest in angels. He explains. “The interest goes back to when I was at Oak Hill - a college that loves Scripture and preaching and teaching. One day I was dis- cussing something with a guy who really knew his Bible and loved the Word of God and we somehow got onto angels. He told me that the ministry of angels stopped with Jesus’ resurrection. So I said, but they are there in Acts too. And he said, well they stopped after the Book of Acts then.” This got Jonathan thinking...

RUTH GLEDHILL E2 • CROSSWORD E2 • ARTS E3 • BOOKS E3 • CATHERINE FOX E4 • JANEY LEE GRACE E4 E2 www.englandonsunday.com December 2, 2012

about whether, given that we remain major constitutional crisis in Church- the established Church with bishops State relations, the outcome of which in the House of Lords, Parliament cannot be predicted with confidence.” should not do, by way of Bill, what the I confess that while being socially Church has failed to do by way of liberal, my own natural position is con- Measure.” servative politically and Anglo- Ruth Gledhill He says the Synod simply has to try Catholic ecclesiologically. Just like again. Peter Hitchens, on the “other” side to He warns: “We have to do so me in a dreadful The Big Questions on View from Fleet Street because time is not on our side. Parlia- BBC1 last Sunday, which made me ment is impatient. In addition to the wonder whether Aunty Beeb really is all-party savaging that the Church of starting to lose the plot, I attend a England had yesterday (last Wednes- 1662 Prayer Book church which still day) in the House of Commons and uses the Authorised Version and the Prime Minister’s reference to the where I feel completely and utterly at need to give us a ‘sharp prod’, there home, even when the is God’s will was not done! was ferocious criticism from some preaching about women bishops. Yet members at the House of Lords at a it seems quite clear that injustice was lunchtime meeting at which the Bish- done by the Synod. “Respect” was oor women bishops. Poor Church of Eng- William Fittall writes: op of Manchester spoke on Wednes- there in the legislation. It would have land. I am not proud to report that one of “The sense of shock around the Church, the day. worked. There was no respect in the Pthe few people this disaster is actually media and in Parliament has been very great.” “There was a particularly telling vote but worse, it made a mockery of good for is me. In my 25 years at The Times so “Those who defeated the legislation on Tues- sequence of devastating attacks from the democratic model that Synod has far, I do believe that four splashes in as many day did so out of conviction.” the formidable combination of Detta evolved. I have argued before that the working days is a record that I don’t anticipat- “Certainly there will be renewed calls now O’Cathain (normally a supporter), laity on electoral rolls in the parishes ing breaking in the 20 years still to come. Or for a much simpler legislative approach that Elspeth Howe and Margaret Jay. should be the electorate for General so. God willing. confines itself to removing the current prohibi- Unless the Church of England can and diocesan synods. Last week Furthermore, even though this mess is serv- tion on the consecration of women while leav- show very quickly that it’s capable of proved that point. Time to abolish ing my professional life rather well, I don’t ing provision for those opposed to that sorting itself out, we shall be into a deanery synods. actually believe in the kind of God who would development to be made as a matter of policy serve up a custard pie of this magnitude simply and choice rather than law.” to reward one of his many foolish believers for “What is for sure and not for maybe is that peaking of the Chapel Royal at Hampton Court Palace, generously, our son her faith or work. I don’t believe that God’s will urgent and radical new thinking is now needed has been granted sabbatical from his chorister duties by the director of was done in the debate, however much certain if major shifts in position are to be secured.” Smusic and the chaplain to allow him to fulfil his professional duties in the members prayed for the result that was won. “Some have already concluded that the West End, where he is cast as William Beech in the Chichester Theatre produc- And I don’t believe it wasn’t done either. God’s polarisation that Tuesday had produced means tion of Goodnight Mister Tom, which opened at the Phoenix this week and goes will remains a mystery that is probably fath- that there is in fact no realistic chance. In dark- on tour around the country from February. The new Archbishop of Canterbury, omed in bodies other than the General Synod. er moments I wonder whether they are right.” Justin Welby, is a fan of Michelle Magorian’s book on which the play is based. What I do believe in is the accuracy of the “Unless the Church of England can show “It is one of my favourite books. It is very, very profound,” he told me when I analysis by William Fittall, secretary general of very quickly that it’s capable of sorting itself was interviewing him on another matter last week. I’ve not yet seen the play but the Synod, within 72 hours of that shocking out we shall be into a major constitutional cri- we read through Arthur’s script with him regularly. At one point, he is scream- vote, and sent to a hundred bishops, every sis in Church-State relations, the outcome of ing blasphemies at God. At another, his mother is lecturing him about his sin- member of the Archbishops’ Council and, which cannot be predicted with confidence.” fulness, and about the role of Jesus in producing babies. Basically, Mrs Beech is unfathomably, me. “Within the Church the effect on morale - a fundamentalist Christian bigot and the play is the story of William’s emer- These are some of the choicest quotes from particularly but not exclusively on that of gence from that mad mindset into a world of true love. As my friends like to say, the four-page memo which concludes: “We are female clergy - is severe.” to my face: “He didn’t have to dig too deep for that role, did he, Ruth?” I really in deep water.” “Some in the Church are talking openly can’t imagine what they mean!

Across 3 '...the Hittites, Jebusites and ------live in the hill country...' PRIZE CROSSWORD No. 826 by Axe 5 Wife of David, Absalom's mother [Num/NIV] (8) (variant spelling) [2 Sam] (6) 4 Place where Abraham's father, 7 Son of Abraham and Keturah Terah, settled on leaving Ur (vari- [Gen] (6) ant spelling) [Gen] (6) 9 Official service book of the Church 6 'There is no ------greater than of England (6,6) these' [Mark/NIV] (11) 10 '------for me Barnabas and Saul for 8 'For ------they seek me out...' the work to which I have called [Isa/NIV] (3,5,3) them' [Acts/NIV] (3,5) 11 'My master was too easy on Naa- 12 Baptismal receptacle (4) man, this ------...' [2 Kgs/NIV] (8) 13 Canaanite city of the Negev, cap- 14 Ceremonial; solemn service (6) tured by the Israelites [Josh] (4) 16 Book of the Pentateuch (6) 15 '"You will see it with your own 18 'I am...the Offspring of David and eyes", ------Elisha' [2 Kgs/NIV] (8) the bright Morning ----' [Rev/NIV] 17 'Now Moses...led the flock to ------(4) -- -- the wilderness...' [Exod/NIV] (3,3,4,2) Solutions to last week’s crossword 19 Sister of Lazarus [John] (6) 20 Most sacred part, the inner sanc- Across: 1 Smooth, 5 Cush, 8 All hail, 9 Noise, tum, of a temple: chancel of a 10 Uncle, 11 Chapter, 12 Incumbent, church (6) 16/14 Save you; Trouble, 18 Naomi, 19 First, 20 Ichabod, 21 Hell, 22 Num- Down ber.

1 Daughter of Herodias not named Down: 2 Malachi, 3 Of age, 4 Holy Communion, in the Bible [Matthew; Mark] (6) 5 Candace, 6 Saint, 7 Seer, 8 Ague, 13 2 '...it is a defiling skin disease on the Crystal, 14 See 16 Across, 15 Bird, 16 head or ----' [Lev/NIV] (4) Safe, 17 Verse, 18 Nahum.

The first correct entry drawn will win a book of the Editor’s choice. Send your entry to Crossword Number 826 The Church of England Newspaper, 14 Great College Street, Westminster, London, SW1P 3RX by next Friday Name SCRIBBLE PAD STAIRLIFTS FROM £995 Address NEW OR REFURBISHED FOR AN INFORMATION PACK CALL Telephone FREE on Post Code 0800 007 6959 www.castlecomfortstairlifts.com See our notice on page 13 for Clergy disount IN REVIEWDecember 2012

THE NATIONAL CHURCH INSTITUTIONS WORKING FOR YOU

Bishop Justin Welby addresses a press conference at Lambeth Palace, at which his name emerged WELCOME to the latest edition of In as the new Review, a twice yearly newsletter from the National Archbishop of Institutions of the Church of England. Canterbury. Our aim is to keep people in touch with the activi- ties of the Archbishops’ Council, Church Commissioners, the Pensions Board and other bodies who serve the Church at national level. Do ‘cut and paste’ articles for your parish magazine Our new Archbishop or other publications from the Church of England web- The Queen has approved the nomination of the Williams said, “He has an extraordinary range of site and pin up Page 4 on your church notice board. Right Reverend Justin Welby for election as the 105th skills and is a person of grace, patience, wisdom and If you would like Word versions of any of the articles Archbishop of Canterbury. humour. He will bring to this offi ce both a rich pas- email [email protected] He will succeed Dr who is retiring toral experience and a keen sense of international at the end of December after ten years as Archbishop. priorities, for Church and world.” Bishop Justin, aged 56, is currently Bishop of Bishop Justin was educated at Eton College and He took a theology degree at St John’s College, Durham. He will be enthroned as Archbishop of Can- Trinity College, Cambridge, where he studied his- Durham, in which he focused on ethics – particu- terbury in on 21st March 2013. tory and law. For 11 years - fi ve in Paris and six in larly in business. Ordained in 1992, he spent 15 “To be nominated to this post is both astonish- London – he worked in the oil industry, becoming years in Coventry Diocese before becoming Dean ing and exciting”, said Bishop Justin. “It is exciting group treasurer of a large British exploration and of Liverpool in 2007 and was appointed Bishop of because we are at one of those rare points where production company, working on projects focused Durham in the summer of 2011. For 20 years, his the tide of events is turning, and the church nation- in West Africa and North Sea. During this period ministry has blended deep devotion to his parish ally, including the Church of England has great he became a lay leader at Holy Trinity, Brompton communities with Church work around the world, opportunities to match its very great but often in London, having been a council member at St especially in areas of confl ict. An expert on the hidden strengths. I feel a massive sense of privilege Michael’s Church in Paris. politics and history of Kenya and Nigeria, he has lec- at being one of those responsible for the leadership A major infl uence both on Justin and his wife tured on reconciliation at the US State Department. of the church in a time of spiritual hunger, when Caroline was their experience of personal tragedy. In the summer of 2012, he joined the Parliamentary our network of parishes and churches and schools In 1983 their seven-month old daughter died in a Commission on Banking Standards. and above all people means that we are facing the car crash in France. Six years later in 1989, after He is married to Caroline, who studied Classics toughest issues in the toughest place.” sensing a call from God, Bishop Justin stood down at Cambridge, where they met. They have two sons Speaking about the new Archbishop, Dr Rowan from industry to train for ordination. and three daughters. Archbishop of York launches Living Wage rate for UK

Dr John Sentamu, with senior offi cers of the Joseph a fair wage for a fair day’s work. Paying a decent Rowntree Foundation (JRF) recently launched a wage for our workers is a sign that as a nation – campaign in York to ensure the UK Living Wage for publicly, privately, corporately and individually – we all. Calculated by the Centre of Research in Social recognise the unique contribution of others to the Policy and based on work on Minimum Income common good.” Standards, carried out over four years by the JRF, the In November, the Living Wage was debated by Living Wage rate ensures that everyone has a basic General Synod. A Private Member’s Motion intro- quality of life for themselves and their families. The duced by John Freeman (Chester) noted “that the rate for the UK, excluding London, is £7.45, while widening gap between rich and poor harms all of the new rate for the capital is £8.55. society and that paying a Living Wage lifts people “I recently sponsored a Fairness Commission in out of poverty.” It affi rmed the Christian values York. One of the Commission’s key recommendations inherent in the concept of the Living Wage and was to call for a Living Wage to be introduced across strongly encouraged all Church of England institu- The Archbishop of York with Youth Council Members the city,” said Archbishop Sentamu. “Introducing a tions to pay at least the Living Wage. Synod passed Katy Walker and Alicia Steele at the launch of the Living Wage recognises that people should be paid the motion by a substantial majority. Fairness Commission in York TWO | THE NATIONAL CHURCH INSTITUTIONS WORKING FOR YOU Organ donation ‘a Christian duty’ People should make it their ing up to the Organ Donor Register. principle of putting the needs of ‘Christian duty’ to register as an In 2011-12, ‘37 per cent of eligible others before one’s own needs.” organ donor and should take the donors resulted in transplants’ with In addition, to tackle the marked time to tell their loved ones of their ‘the wishes of relatives often over- disparity between donor rates and wishes. That’s the conclusion of a riding individual consent’. By recom- transplant needs among minor- submission the Church of England mending a ‘hard opt-in’ donation ity ethnic communities (four per made to national consultation. policy ‘where consent given on the cent of kidney donors versus 22 per The response by the Mission and Organ Donor Register is treated in cent of recipients, for example), the Public Affairs (MPA) to the National the same way as an Advanced Deci- response recommends ‘developing Health Service Blood and Transplant sion or clause in a Will’, it rejects better ways of partnership work- Consultation on Organ Donation other options, such as ‘opt-out’ and ing with representatives of minor- Post 2013 Strategy says, it “affi rms ‘mandated choice’. ity ethnic communities and those that ‘giving one’s self and one’s The , the Rt Revd organisations in which members possessions voluntarily for the , lead bishop on from minority ethnic communities well-being of others and without healthcare issues, said: “Christians form a signifi cant part and in which compulsion is a Christian duty of have a mandate to heal, motivated they play a full role’. which organ donation is a striking by compassion, mercy, knowledge example.’” and ability - and this extends to A 1,000 people die each year organ donation. The Christian http://bit.ly/Q7oqET Candles lit for while waiting on the transplant list. tradition both affi rms the God-given road traffi c This despite nearly 19m people sign- value of human bodily life, and the accident victims Stereotypes challenged A north London priest who was called to a fatal accident outside her church urged people to light a candle and say a prayer to mark the World Day of Remembrance for road traffi c victims in November, supported by the United Nations. Charlotte Ballinger (pictured above), assistant at Chipping Barnet in St Albans diocese said “Get connected to challenge that the accident outside her church stereotypes”, said the Bishop of prompted her to focus on those Birmingham, the Rt Revd David involved in safety on our roads and Urquhart, as he threw down the to remember the victims and their gauntlet for national Inter Faith families and friends. Charlotte said week celebrated by churches. He a prayer by the body of the 66 year was speaking at the launch of the old cyclist who was killed instantly. Near Neighbour’s photo exhibition Later she took her funeral which she “Faithful Friends”. Dr Toby Howarth, said was a celebration of the vic- the Archbishop of Canterbury’s tim’s life but also an immensely sad Secretary for Inter Religious Affairs occasion with “laughter and tears in said, “The ’s equal measure”. challenge reminds us of the In a Church of England podcast importance of being connected Charlotte explained how churches to our neighbours, friends and are at the centre of community for colleagues of all faiths and none. everybody and wherever they are Near Neighbours is a great example situated can be a focus for people of how this is already being put into in need. Organised by Roadpeace practice.” and supported by the UN, the World Day of Remembrance for road traffi c Dee Patel at Outroslide Photography www.cuf.org.uk/near-neighbours victims takes place annually on the third Sunday in November. Slow down, pause and make a moment

For the recent National Parents Week, the the Rt Revd John Pritchard composed a Gracious God prayer encouraging parents to slow Thank you for the privilege and pleasure of children. down and take more time with Thank you for what they represent for both the present and the future children in their care. and what they give us as they explore life and make their discoveries. Bishop John, chair of the Church Help us to slow down, to pause and make a moment, of England’s Board of Education said, “I love the idea of making a moment Help us to share their world and enjoy their wonder. Somewhere to spend time with our children. Help us to walk at their speed, and fi nd that it’s your speed, in there is These moments are precious and And so lead us together into life and joy, the Bishop of so quickly gone. I’ll always regret in the company of your Son, Oxford, the not taking more moments to enjoy Rt Revd John looking at life through my children’s Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. Pritchard…we eyes. Parents have the most wonder- promise. ful and awesome responsibility.” IN REVIEW DECEMBER 2012 | THREE Church Growth R&D in full stride The Church Commissioners and Archbishops’ in association with teams from the Institute for Council’s research and development work Social and Economic Research at the University looking into church growth is now gaining of Essex, Ripon College Cuddesdon, and Cranmer momentum. An 18 month research programme Hall, St John’s College, Durham. is exploring some of the factors that might The Church Growth Research programme explain church growth in the Church of launched its website in September (www.church- England. Findings from this research should growthreasearch.ork.uk) and is currently com- help equip and resource those in parishes pleting a survey of the work of 4,000 churches. and provide decision makers at every level of It plans to produce an interim report before the Church with valuable evidence on how the end of the year. In 2013 in-depth follow up resources can be allocated to support growth.” interviews will be conducted with 30 churches “We want to identify the leaders and drivers who have taken part in the survey. This will take of growth,” says the Rt Revd Richard Chartres, place in conjunction with an investigation into Birmingham Mission Apprentice Programme members - supported by the , “In order to help those involved growth amongst Cathedrals, Fresh Expressions, development funding. in leadership in parishes and communities to see Team Ministries and Benefi ces. Alongside the how resources can be used most effectively.” Research Programme, £2.85m of development The National Church Institutions of the Church funding has been awarded to 29 church projects of England (NCIs) identifi ed the need for a com- to help replicate and learn from church growth in Case Studies prehensive study of the causes of church growth. deprived areas. This major research project is being conducted Diocese of Birmingham The Diocese of Birmingham is receiving a development funding grant to support the training of a group of Mission Apprentices. The apprentices, who come from a variety of backgrounds, are located in growing parishes in deprived areas of the city. They are undertaking Archbishop visits the London Games a range of projects under the oversight of the local parish priests, at the same time as participating in a two-year programme covering formal training in mission and a structured programme of personal development. The evaluation is being undertaken in collaboration with the St Peter’s Saltley Trust. This local independent education charity has a particular interest in the continuing theological education of lay Christians, particularly those who suff er disadvantage in contempo- The Archbishop of Canterbury spent rary church and society. a day visiting the London 2012 Paralympics. Eyres Monsell & New Parks Leicester He signed the Truce Wall - an With a population of over 10,000 each, these parishes cover large, Olympic custom deriving from post-war estates that have high levels of deprivation. Both churches Ancient Greece, which demonstrates are rooted in the modern Anglo-Catholic tradition. the Olympic commitment to peace. Since the appointments of the current incumbents – Father Refl ecting on the London 2012 Simon Lumby at St Aidan’s in 2006 and Father Tony Jordan at Games, Archbishop Rowan said, St Hugh’s in 2008 – both churches have demonstrated impres- “There’s a remarkable and very sive growth. moving sense that this country Both identify the key factor in the growth of their churches as remains a background for great being traditional parochial ministry, done well. Funerals are a major things - that we do have some cor- ministry (with some 80 being conducted by Father Tony in 2011). porate confi dence in ourselves, our Both Father Tony and Father Simon emphasise the importance of history, our identity. We are able to following up with the families after funerals, both with visits and recognise what I can only call nobil- inviting them to church activities. ity, and the Olympics and the Para- Father Simon comments that, “The thought that you can have lympics have really underlined this.” any sort of Mission without numerical growth is nonsense, and it’s an excuse for congregations not growing”. New art commissions impress judges

One prize became three for parishes commitment to Judges the Rt really wants to bring hope where there is currently commission a new artwork. Entries from St Andrew’s, Revd Stephen little at the moment. It plans a new a new window, Plymouth (Exeter Diocese), The Good Shepherd, Kirk Cottrell, Bishop to make the church more welcoming, enhancing its Sandall (Sheffi eld Diocese), and Wednesfi eld Team of Chelmsford, impact on the streetscape. Ministry in Lichfi eld so impressed the judges of the Anne Sloman, The three churches of Wednesfi eld Team Ministry Trust Prize for Commissioning New Art in Church Buildings has a varied ethnic and social mix. 18th century St Churches that they not only split the fi rst prize in Council and Thomas is listed Grade II while neither St Chad’s two but found the money to award a development Mark Cazalet, nor St Alban’s is listed. A wide range of consultation grant as well. Artist (Not and children-focused events have led to plans for Entries in this national competition included par- shown Bridget a commission that, now with the help of a £1,000 ishes large and small, old and new, rural and urban Cass, Jerusalem development award, will help to bring a sense of from Cumbria to Cornwall. Trust Executive unity across the parish through some form of port- From being a roofl ess shell after WWII, the historic & the Very able artwork. Artists will be invited to respond to the Grade I listed church of St Andrew, at the heart of Revd Michael vibrant yet dispersed nature of the parish’s worship- Plymouth, contains Piper stained glass win dows. For Sadgrove, Dean ping community. the competition the parish explored ways of enhanc- of Durham “It has illustrated that art in the Church of Eng- ing newly acquired space in front of the building. Cathedral), land is alive and kicking,” said Anne Sloman, Chair The Good Shepherd, Kirk Sandall outside Doncas- at the recent of the Church Buildings Council. “The heritage of the ter is in an area that suffers from deprivation, high award ceremony past which our churches are so fortunate to contain unemploy ment and industrial decline. The parish in London. can sit very happily with the art of the present.” FOUR | THE NATIONAL CHURCH INSTITUTIONS WORKING FOR YOU - IN REVIEW DECEMBER 2012

Clothing us with Kindle version of Pastoral Ministry Companion power from on high Published in book and Kindle eBook Two new prayers, designed specifi cally for use in formats, Common Worship: A Pastoral school Eucharists have recently been published in Ministry Companion compiles the Common Worship: Additional Eucharistic Prayers. essentials for pastoral ministry into a The new prayers are seasonably adaptable portable, easy-reference volume. and can be easily made to fi t into the context of Included are liturgies, prayers themes that the school might be focussing on, and readings for emergency baptism, while children can write their own short prefaces prayers for the sick and their fami- which can be used as part of the Eucharist. lies, Holy Communion at home or in The book contains guidelines on the best hospital and reconciliation services practice of celebrating the Eucharist with children, (not present in previous Pastoral such as considering sight lines, use of appropriate Services or Ministry to the Sick vol- music, visual aids and colour. umes), prayers with the dying and at “There is still a challenge for really uplift- the time of a death, and many other ing and transformative Eucharistic worship for ministry essentials. children,” says the Revd Christopher Woods, the Bound in soft-touch imitation National Worship Development Offi cer. “These leather with two ribbons, this ele- new prayers are a confi dent statement that the gant and discreet volume is the ideal Eucharist is for children. It is vital for the Church size for keeping to hand in a pocket, to continue to develop Eucharistic worship with bag or car glove compartment. children and through their encounter with Christ, It joins the rest of Common Wor- their faith in him will be deepened.” ship in Kindle eBook format and is available as a soft-cased hardback (with two ribbons) priced £20 from www.chpublishing.co.uk www.chpublishing.co.uk.

Podcasts refl ect the sounds of Advent Inspirational Bible refl ections join a festival of Be the change you want to see seasonal music in a series of 10 minute podcasts Refl ections for Advent. Through simple daily activities let Dr Paula Gooder and her In an introductory video the Archbishop of husband the Revd Peter Babington lead your parish or school Canterbury, Dr Rowan Willams, describes Advent to make small but revolutionary changes to the world around as a time to journey towards “something better, you during Lent 2013. something fuller, and something more joyful.” Brand new Love Life, Live Lent booklets (adults and kids ver- Available from the Church of England website sions) contain fun activities, such as ‘try something new, for and iTunes, the free podcasts, incorporate refl ec- example a different food or a new experience’ and ‘give your tions on passages of Revelation and St Paul’s let- pocket money to a charity that works with children overseas’. ters to the Thessalonians, all taken from Church Those participating will encourage one another to keep House Publishing’s popular Refl ections for Daily going throughout Lent by sharing their own Love Life Live Lent Prayer book, Kindle eBook and iPhone app. experiences on Twitter by using the hashtag #livelent; and Musical contributions include input from musi- there will be regular Tweets of encouragement from @LiveLent. cians who responded to an invitation posted on Dr John Sentamu, the Archbishop of York says “Why not use the Church of England website asking for Advent- Lent and this little book to catch a glimpse of what is possible themed compositions. when we take a risk of grace? With God’s help, each of us can be the change we want to see in the world.” www.churchofengland.org/advent

@LiveLent #livelent Christmas starts with Christ This Christmas, why not join a national campaign and livetweet your church’s Christmas service - helping take the joy #christmasstartswithchrist and meaning of Christmas to the 10 million people who make If your church doesn’t currently have a Twitter account, sign up free at up the UK’s ‘Twitterati’? www.twitter.com. An innovative social media campaign is about to be launched on Twitter. Using #christmasstartswithchrist it will Choose a username that people in your parish and diocese will identify showcase the Church of England at its Christmas best. with your church Led by the Archbishops of Canterbury and York, whose Christmas day sermons which will be ‘tweeted’, the campaign Make sure your Twitter profi le contains a link to your parish website or aims to relay the highlights of Christmas Eve and Christmas your A Church Near You page Day services. Congregations and clergy are encouraged to Contact your local media and local news websites and let them know get out their smartphones in church and share the Christmas you will be tweeting your Christmas Day service good news. “This is a brilliant opportunity for parishes to take the good Include the hashtag #christmasstartswithchrist in your posts, so that news of the fi rst Christmas out of churches and into people’s people searching on this term can fi nd and read your Christmas tweets. lives and homes,” says the Revd Arun Arora, Director of Com- munications at the Archbishops’ Council. “We are delighted to be running this in conjunction with Twitter who will be offi - cially promoting the site.” December 2, 2012 www.englandonsunday.com E3 The underbelly of British life

Gambit (cert. 12A) is written and produced by Joel and Ethan Coen (though directed by Michael Hoffman), and features Colin Firth with no trousers – what could possibly go wrong? It’s more of a question of whether enough goes right – and trying to do a 21st century version of a 1960s British heist movie, com- plete with elements of Whitehall farce, is clearly a tough call even for the Coen brothers. It gives the lie to “They don’t make them like that anymore” but does anyone want to see films like this anymore? No bad language, no sex, no nudity (well, Alan Rickman is totally naked but his naughty bits are cleverly concealed), and nothing that could really pass as exciting – yet it may have found a little niche. Colin Firth plays art expert Harry Deane, retained by billionaire Lionel Shah- bander (Rickman) to authenticate his acquisitions. The latest is by Monet, of Haystacks at Dawn, for which purchase he beat off bids from a Japanese rival, Takagawa (Togo Igawa). Deane’s idea for a scam is to persuade Shahbander that a missing companion piece, Haystacks at Dusk, has been discovered in the trailer home of Texas rodeo rider PJ Puznowski (Cameron Diaz). There’s a story that the painting, having been purloined by Goering from a French museum, was liberated by Patton’s army, specifically by one Sergeant Puznowski, PJ’s grandfather. Recruiting PJ, for a half-million pound ightseers (cert. 15) takes Mike Leigh’s 1976 TV play Nuts share in the scheme to sell the painting to Shah- in May, and channels the anger of its protagonist Keith bander for £11million, is task one for Deane and Sinto violent mayhem to rival Natural Born Killers. Tina his accomplice, Major Wingate (Tom Courte- (Alice Lowe) lives at home with her possessive mother and rel- nay). For half a million pounds, and a paid-for trip ishes the chance to escape with new boyfriend Chris (Steve to England, PJ is easy to persuade – at least she Oram). Lowe and Oram wrote the screenplay, Ben Wheatley will not have to share rodeo billing with monkeys directed. in cowboy suits riding dogs to round up goats. Yee- Chris has planned a grand tour of Britain, visiting Crich for hah! the trams, Dronfield for some reason, Knaresborough for the In London, Shahbander meets PJ, insists she be cave, Keswick for the pencils, and Ribblehead for the viaduct. upgraded to the Savoy, and leaves Deane to quib- Whereas Leigh’s Keith and Candice Marie did not suffer fools ble over the bill. There’s a glorious misunder- gladly, Chris does not suffer them at all. standing – and I misunderstood the innuendo at A litterbug on a tram enrages Chris, and ends up under the first – when, in front of the Savoy desk staff, PJ is wheel of his caravan, spurting blood – there are it seems a lot of arguing about the morality of what they’re doing as he negotiates over the room rate. things under a caravan that can cause a lot of damage. From Reference to “The Major” getting aroused is about as smutty as it gets, though here it’s a relatively short step from mild eccentricity to mur- there’s a passable fart joke. Shahbander tries to seduce PJ, but she wrestles wild ani- derous intent, with Tina discovering her own propensity for mals for a living so his chances always seem remote. violence. Deane meanwhile has spotted a Ming vase in a hotel corridor, and his attempts to steal Not that she’s a total innocent – not if the hand-knitted erot- this lead to the episode where he’s on a window ledge over Savoy Street (the only street ic underwear is a guide. That’s one of the quirky sidelines in in the UK where you drive on the right) without his trousers. It’s already an urban myth a story that mixes the best of English quirkiness with a really – at least I didn’t hear it – that captured by the sound engineer is someone in the street dark look at the worst of the human condition – it’s almost as saying “Oh look, there’s Mr Darcy”. if Chris is living out the sort of pathology that permeates Shahbander holds a bash for some Japanese clients at his country mansion (com- (un)social networks. plete with gondolas on a pond) and it’s there Deane aims to complete the scam. As As police look “for a red-bearded man and an angry Shahbander has now recruited Monet expert Martin Zaidenweber (Stanley Tucci), woman”, Chris and Tina take to the viaduct in what things do not look promising, but it’s a good final reel. looks like being a Thelma and Louise moment. It’s a Steve Parish fine ending to a wickedly funny British indie film. Rediscovering the reality of the spiritual life The Bloomsbury Guide to Christian Spirituality scholar, David Tacey, that we are in the midst of a ‘spiritual tions the mystical tradition went into decline in the West- Eds: Richard Woods and Peter Tyler revolution’. The fact that it was necessary to invent the ern church after the Enlightenment. This point is made by Bloomsbury, hb, £30.00 word in the 1970s is certainly significant and suggests that Bernard McGinn, who reminds us that the same problem Tacey is right in his analysis: a profound did not apply to Orthodoxy. ‘Spirituality’ is generally considered change is underway. This is an outstanding book. All the short contributions to be the good element in religion. This presents Christians with a dilemma: manage to provide a concise guide to their chosen topic Many of those who reject religious do they accept the new term and try to show while making interesting points for further reflection. Cer- belief as a delusion or as oppressive how their own tradition has riches that tain themes run through many of the chapters. Many con- still have time for spirituality. We even speak to the modern mood or do they shy tributors make a link between spirituality, creation and have Alain de Botton urging ‘a spiritu- away from language that could misrepre- environmental concern. ality for atheists’. sent what their tradition has been trying to It is good to have chapters looking at the link between There is irony here. Until fairly say? Christian spirituality and other religions. Traditional reli- recently Christians did not talk about The editors of this book accept the term gions in Africa and North America are covered as well as ‘spirituality’; they referred instead to ‘spirituality’ but rightly they warn that there Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and Judaism. ‘ascetic theology’ or ‘mystical theolo- are ‘dangers lurking within the realm of the Stephen Bullivant contributes a chapter on Christian gy’. As Sister Benedicta Ward points spirit and we must approach it with due spirituality and atheism. He analyses the work of Herbert out in her contribution to this book, the caution and respect’. Sr Benedicta is only McCabe and Blessed Teresa of Calcutta to show that a felt desert fathers and mothers would not one of a number of contributors who are lack of God’s presence does not necessarily lead to athe- have recognised the word and the aware of the issue. John Chrissavgis, in a ism. same goes for many Christian writers stimulating discussion of Orthodox theolo- Both the editors of this book and many of the contribu- and teachers who now figure in antholo- gy, reminds us that we must not confuse tors are Roman Catholic but there are chapters on Luther- gies of spirituality. self-knowledge with self-absorption and an, Calvinist, Anglican and Charismatic spirituality. According to Richard Woods and writing on Dominican spirituality Richard Perhaps the big omission is a chapter of evangelical spiri- Peter Tyler, the word came into wide- Woods quotes Simon Tugwell’s comment tuality. Increasingly this has come to embrace Catholics as spread use in the 1970s, particularly in that Christian Spirituality ‘is not concerned with well as Protestants and John Allen has even gone so far as the nursing profession, and they quote a recent study that prayer and contemplation and spiritual exercises, it is con- to claim that ‘evangelical Catholics’ are one of the biggest listed 15 different meanings for the term, most of them cerned with people’s ways of viewing things, the way they groups in the church. David Gillett wrote a useful intro- from medical works. All expressed some kind of ‘transcen- try to make sense of the practicalities of Christian living duction to evangelical spirituality entitled ‘Trust and Obey’ dent element’ but few tied spirituality specifically to a par- and to illuminate Christian hopes and muddles’. and a number of other books have appeared. It would have ticular religion. Perhaps one reason why an interest in spirituality grew been good to see the subject covered here. Woods and Tyler quote the opinion of the Australian up outside Christian circles was because with a few excep- Paul Richardson E4 www.englandonsunday.com December 2, 2012 A whisper of hope at the start of Advent ‘Comfort, Comfort, comfort my people, says your God.’ After weeks of Catherine Fox thrashing though the impenetrable apocalyptic thicket of Daniel, these words from Isaiah appear on the liturgical horizon in Morning Prayer as a bright star. We are far on in the Church Year. Advent is at hand. We turn our faces A novel view of the week east and listen and yearn for the herald of Good Tidings, the first whisper of hope. This morning while it was still dark I heard a dunnock singing. It was a pro- visional sort of warble, a bit like a robin warming up before launching into an aria. This is what the last week of the liturgical year feels like to me. Christ the King, yes. But we are still waiting, straining our ears and eyes for the Coming One. What hope is there in the dark? A small one, maybe; a tentative snatch of song, a single candle flame. And yet the great Advent message Why a tree might be the springs up and blossoms in the heart from these smallest of beginnings. Drop down ye heavens from above, and let the earth be fruitful, and bring forth a Saviour. It can be hard to keep that hope in view as the vast machinery of Christmas cranks into gear. Cards, presents, food, lists, candles, choir practice, family ideal Christmas gift get-togethers, soup kitchens, services, advent wreaths, tree, wine, have we got enough Dolly Mixtures for the christingles? Have I forgotten anyone? ate November. Where has the year gone? By causes ash dieback. A remnant will survive and a Turkey or goose? The trick is to keep raising your eyes and searching for that now your thoughts will have turned to pres- new cohort of disease-resistant ashes will grow, guiding star above all the clutter of consumerism and self-imposed deadlines Lents. What to buy for those impossible peo- but our children will not see mature ash trees and high standards. Martha occasionally needs to be stood down so that ple? I think that this year the answer — wherever when they are adults, nor will our children’s chil- Mary can get on with the business of sitting at the Lord’s feet and listening. possible — should be: a tree. Buy them a tree. dren. I am old enough to remember huge elm I’m always consoled by the last verse of that classic Isaiah reading: ‘He will Last year I bought my youngest sister a glory trees in every English field and hedgerow. Their feed his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms, and carry tree. I liked the sound of it. You can’t have too distinctive shape is still held in my mind, even them in his bosom, and gently lead the mother sheep.’ Christmas can much glory. I liked the look of it as well. In the though they are almost all long-felled. They will become a focus of fretting for both mother and father sheep. This will be autumn it has completely bonkers bright blue be back. Our grandchildren and great grandchil- especially true for those families who are facing a drop in income this year. berries set in a hot pink star-shaped calyces. dren may yet see towering old elms creaking in How will we care for our little ones? How will we afford to buy presents? And Clerodendrum trichotomum is the Latin name for the autumn winds. But for now we just have how can we provide for them in January when benefits are cut? Helping peo- it. Funnily enough, that is also the spell for con- empty sky and a memory. ple to answer these questions both materially and spiritually may be one of juring one up, if you are a student at Hogwarts. And this is not the end of the tragedy for our the churches next big challenges. But if like me, you are merely a Muggle, you will trees. The oak may be next to succumb. And the need to buy one online or visit a garden centre. horse chestnut, and spruce. Here’s a task for our Close Encounters — Advent in the Cathedral In the summer the glory tree has masses of fra- poets: laments for lost trees, lost friends. ‘The Well, another Advent, another cathedral. This time a year ago we had no grant creamy blossom. Well, that’s according to poplars are felled, farewell to the shade,/and the inkling we might be on the move. Our only previous visit to Liverpool had the website I bought it from. I must check with whispering sound of the cool colonnade’ wrote been one of those ‘Oh dear, I am an idiot’ trips to the Passport Office to rush my sister and find out if her specimen came William Cowper. Or here is Gerard Manley Hop- through an urgent renewal. You too may have visited Liverpool for the same across with the goods, or whether in fact she still kins, lamenting for Binsey poplars: ‘My aspens reason, and found yourselves with a few hours on your hands. If so, I hope has a bare twig standing forlornly in her dear, whose airy cages quelled,/Quelled or that you took the opportunity to visit the Anglican cathedral. flowerbed. quenched in leaves the leaping sun,/All felled, Our second visit was a stealthy reconnaissance mission early last Decem- The reason for buying trees this year is that we felled, are all felled;/Of a fresh and following fold- ber. As we approached ’s main door I was impressed by need to treasure them. As you will be aware, we ed rank/Not spared, not one’. This should matter the Brobdingnagian Advent wreath. This place has style, I thought. I could are faced with losing up to 90 per cent of our ash to us, I think. The Tree of Life is planted at the stand it here. And so far it looks as though my instinct was correct. I’m very trees from the rapidly spreading fungus that heart of our faith. much looking forward to Advent in Liverpool. Janey Lee Grace Live Healthy! Live Happy! Getting real over Christmas ’m guessing you have already drafted your huge display box with wire – that’s before you even Christmas shopping list and possibly have even start on the impact of the ‘Take forever and several Iheaded out on your first shopping trip, with four lifetimes to biodegrade’ batteries you’ll need to kids already going into orbit with excitement over power up the torch! their Christmas wish lists I am feeling ever more Of course the mantra is reduce, re-use recycle and stressed and panicky at the whole consumer-driven it’s even more relevant in recessionary times, yet culture. there’s nothing new about the idea. If you’d said the It was timely then that I attended a launch last word ‘recycle’ to a guy in the 1950s he’d had week for Friends of the Earth who are launching a thought that meant getting back onto your bike if new campaign that aims to encourage us to really you’ve fallen off! In his household he would have think before we buy. The ‘Make it better ‘ campaign had only one small bin bag of rubbish at the end of tackles the impact that everyday high street prod- each week despite a large family, without making ucts and brands have on the environment. It’s any kind of big deal about it or spouting about green aimed to encourage us all to think about the impacts credentials, there would be little or no waste, food of our shopping decisions but also for companies to would be grown locally and organically (not to be In 2007 The Sustainable Funders and Tides Foundation in the states take some responsibility for the impacts of the prod- trendy but because there were no expensive pesti- funded a movie ‘The Story of Stuff,’ made by activist Annie Leonard, a ucts they make, because while we as enlightened cides). film narrator and an expert on the materials economy, delivers a rapid- customers can simply decide not to buy, ultimately In the name of progress we have complicated fire, often humorous and always engaging story about “all our stuff — the companies are the ones who understand the everything and many of the products we buy are where it comes from and where it goes when we throw it away.” complexities of supply chains and manufacture. ‘Its luxuries rather than real necessities, but it’s worth Before you head off to do any more Christmas shopping give it a look not my fault,’ (I hear you cry) when in order to open considering that much of the stuff we buy can’t be – you may just decide to offer a gift of your time, some homemade jam up your gift of a small torch you need to cut through easily recycled and as we accumulate more and or chutney or some knitted attire, yes knitted bobble hats are very cellophane, a tough cardboard box and then grab more bottled water, battery and electronic gadget much back in vogue! wire cutters because said torch is attached to its mountains we do need to think about accountability. Check out http://www.storyofstuff.org/ Leader & Comment Sunday December 2, 2012 www.churchnewspaper.com 9 Comment Trust in the Lord of the Church Tackling Aids today

The boring old C of E has shown again that it is indeed of much inter- By Hazel Southam est to society by General Synod’s vote to delay the consecration of women bishops. Many women priests are heart broken, and being reassured by their bishops that this is a temporary hiccup, that there is When we mark World Aids Day in the UK on 1 no doubt that the step will be implemented quite soon. But the vote has December, we’ll be encouraged to wear a red rib- had a deep impact on General Synod’s self-confidence and the question bon, bake cakes, and, for the more energetic, take of authority in the Church. part in either a 5km or 10km run in central London. We recall Una Kroll, a cutting-edge campaigner for the ordination of More people in the UK are living with HIV than women priests, famous for her phrase ‘we asked for bread, and you ever before - some 90,000 – only a quarter of whom gave us a stone’, was ordained priest but then renounced her orders know their status. and joined the Church of Rome as a lay person, citing the issue of However, around the world some 34 million peo- authority for her drastic change of mind. This fiasco has opened up this ple live with HIV. And two-thirds of them live in question again, as the bishops, priests and laity, sitting in Synod as one Africa. As with so many things, you might argue, body ‘representing’ the church, seem to be close a state of ecclesiasti- it’s harder if you’re a woman: and 59 per cent of peo- cal nervous breakdown, as the democratic process had delivered the ple living with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa are wrong result. ‘The fruit of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, kind- women. ness goodness’, says St Paul to the Church, not anger, bitterness and Dalitso Leonard (29) is one of them. Sitting in the strife. tiny church in the southern village of Luchenza in Traditionalist Bishop Martin Warner spoke of the damage felt by the Malawi, she weeps as she tells me her story. Church to its procedures for implementing change. Much episcopal “I was so happy on my wedding day,” she says. “I language, as broadcast on the media, was however about damage done thought that this man would encourage me. I to the image of the Church to the secular world, who ‘would not take it thought he loved me for who I was.” seriously’ any longer. The Times was sent a copy of the memo drafted Dalitso had become HIV+ in 2003 when only 20. by the secretary general of Synod, William Fittall, warning that the The father of the child she was then carrying government and Parliament were demanding the Church overturn the passed the virus on to her. The unborn child died, decision or risk a version of Kulturkampf, state coercion of the Church, as did its father, leaving Dalitso in a community a war with uncertain consequences. MPs Frank Field and Tony Baldry where she was stigmatized because of her status. have underlined this by placing motions before Parliament to remove “People looked at me like I wasn’t worth being Church of England exemption from the Equality Act – and presumably called a person,” she says. therefore also denying exemption to the Mosque and Rome. Gay, les- But in 2006 she married. Her husband accepted bian and transgendered bishops would also swiftly follow such state her status. And though she could no longer have coercion. And this is the real issue now at stake. Is the Church of Eng- children, the couple was happy. Or so Dalitso land really ‘an arm of the state’, as Suzanne Moore misdescribed it in thought. her Daily Mail piece, or is it part of the church catholic and apostolic, But when she started taking anti-retroviral drugs under the lordship of Christ and not of secular government ministers? (ARVs) last year the reality of the situation dawned Did those proponents of the measure using purely secularist argu- on Dalitso’s husband. ments worry waverers in Synod? Journalist Jemima Thackray, very “He had thought I was lying to him,” she says. Samaritans. keen for the change, wrote: “My main concern was that some argu- “But then he could see it was real. He decided to “It reminds the Church that they can play a role ments for women bishops just sounded too much like a contrived gov- dump me. I couldn’t believe that he would really in the fight against HIV/Aids,” says Kamwana ernment initiative to get women into the boardroom.” Church debate leave me. I thought he would come back. Muyaya, Bible Society of Malawi’s Director of Pro- in the Spirit needs to be very firmly based in the witness of Scripture “When I met him again he’d found another lady. grammes who oversees the nationwide project. and in Jesus, who was the great historic figure breaking taboos for He said, ‘This is my true wife.’ It was bitter for me. “They can use the scriptures as a tool in the fight women and treating them as persons not chattels. Faith in Christ’s “That’s when I decided to kill myself. I was seri- against the stigma that comes with HIV and to lordship will see the church through this furore – not obedience to sec- ous about it. I took a rope and climbed a tree to remind them that they are the right people to bring ularist norms and authorities. hang myself. But a friend found me and climbed up care and support to the people that are suffering.” and brought me down. The Church had long been part of the problem of “Now,” Dalitso says, “I am glad that I didn’t kill Aids in Malawi. Some 60 per cent of church leaders myself. I have found hope.” told Bible Society of Malawi that they believed that The Church of England Newspaper Hope has come in the form of the Good Samari- Aids was a curse from God. Many encouraged the with Celebrate magazine incorporating The Record and Christian Week tan Project run by Bible Society. Today the project stigmatization and rejection of those in their com- Published by Religious Intelligence Ltd. is changing the face of Luchenza and many more munities living with HIV. Company Number: 3176742 villages like it across Malawi. Some 12 per cent of “It’s been difficult for the church leaders to Publisher: Keith Young MBE Malawi’s population was HIV+ when the scheme change their attitude,” says Kamwana, “but it is began in 2010. Today that figure’s dropped to 10.6 changing and we have seen churches become per cent. But, with a life expectancy of just 49, the actively involved in the fight against HIV and Aids.” Publishing Director & Editor: CM BLAKELY 020 7222 8004 country still has some way to go. Dalitso’s church is one of them. It set up a sup- Chief Correspondent: The Rev Canon GEORGE CONGER 00 1 0772 332 2604 Using the biblical story of the port group made up of Reporter: AMARIS COLE 020 7222 8700 Good Samaritan as its base it teach- 19 people who are liv- es compassion for the suffering. It ing with HIV. They are Advertising: CHRIS TURNER 020 7222 2018 explains what HIV is, how it is AIDS: the facts encouraged to act as Advertising & Editorial Assistant: PENNY NAIR PRICE 020 7222 2018 transmitted and encourages sexual Good Samaritans for gratification within marriage as a 34 million people around the world live others, whether that’s Subscriptions & Finance: DELIA ROBINSON 020 7222 8663 means of faithfulness, a reduction with HIV. That’s a rise of 17 per cent on helping with food, Graphic Designer: PETER MAY 020 7222 8700 in the number of sexual partners, 2001. chores, childcare or the use of condoms and the impor- But, the number of people dying of emotional support. The acceptance of advertising does not necessarily indicate tance of getting tested. Over Aids-related illnesses was 1.8m in 2010, For Dalitso that’s endorsement. Photographs and other material sent for publication 365,000 people have heard this down from a peak of 2.2m in the mid- been vital, as her family are submitted at the owner’s risk. The Church of England Newspaper message over the last three years. 2000s. has rejected her does not accept responsibility for any material lost or damaged. An estimated 100,000 lives – Two-thirds of people living with HIV because she is HIV+. and Aids are in Africa. Christian Weekly Newspapers Trustees: Robert Leach (020 8224 5696), Lord Carey including Dalitso’s – have been “I was left totally of Clifton, The Rt Rev Michael Nazir-Ali, The Rt Rev , Dr Elaine saved so far. Some 59 per cent of people living with alone,” she says. “It’s Storkey, The Rev Peter Brown Using drama, story telling, HIV are women in Sub-Saharan Africa. been people who aren’t poems and songs, as well as basic In Malawi, 68,000 people (the close to me who have The Church of England Newspaper, biology and sexual counselling, it population of Doncaster) die each year helped me. Religious Intelligence Ltd is breaking the hold of stigma and from Aids “This has shown me 14 Great College Street, London, SW1P 3RX fear that HIV/Aids held in The country has 650,000 Aids orphans the love of God. I know Editorial e-mail: [email protected] Malawi. And it’s all done through The prevalence rate in Malawi has that God has done this Advertising e-mail: [email protected] local churches and communities, fallen from 12 per cent in 2010 to 10.6 for me. I was in despair, Subscriptions e-mail: [email protected] encouraging people to help each per cent in 2012. but now I have hope.” other, acting as modern-day Good Website: www.churchnewspaper.com

[email protected] facebook.com/churchnewspaper @churchnewspaper 10 www.churchnewspaper.com Sunday December 2, 2012 Letters

Letters continued form page 8 be horrified if my congregations No winners in this Synodical debate saw me as either the Head or the it could not reapply. Source of their religious experi- The total number of “Anti Sir, Like many in the Church of England, I am extremely disappointed that the General Synod did not ence. As I read St Paul’s letters, I Churches” in any Suffragan area secure the two-thirds majority in all three Houses when it considered the legislation before them, which find him making the same empha- would be published annually and would have allowed for the eventual consecration of women as bishops within the Church of England, but sis on his role as the servant of would of course be considered which would have found traditionalist Anglicans wanting – a Code of Practice will not do! the Lord Jesus Christ and I am when appointing any new bishop. I write as a Parish Priest and as a member of Forward in Faith. There are no winners in this: only los- sure that he too would be horri- Clearly not ideal, but you do not ers. If Synod had listened to the way, way back, and to the Archdeacon of Rochdale fied by the way some people inter- have to argue over clause word- with her ‘Manchester Motion’ then today we may all have been rejoicing, instead unhelpful words from pret his words on the Head or ing, it answers the “Second Class” the Archbishop of Canterbury-elect like “grim day” or the present occupant of the See, describing the Source of the Church’s authority. bishop argument as common decision of General Synod as “causing personal sadness” (paraphrased) – characterize the mood of those From this standpoint, I just do sense in appointment would pre- who believe that Synod has betrayed the Church of England – shame on them. not understand how some evan- vail and above all how long would Women clergy would be very upset if the Synod did not vote in favour of the legislation were other gelicals, and some Catholics, can each “Anti Church” continue to words heard during the course of Tuesday’s debate – what about the male clergy who would have been put such a great importance on renew? upset if the legislation had been accepted by Synod, to say nothing of the many women and men of the both the gender and the status of Many of us who support laity who would also have been upset had the legislation gone through in its current form. the human person leading their women bishops require a practi- Isn’t it interesting what 20 years can do to a Synod? Back in 1992 when the legislation which would worship in their role as a symbol cal solution not an out right victo- allow for the first of women to the presbyterate passed in each of the three Houses with the of the Headship of Christ. If they ry, which I doubt is achievable. required two-thirds majority (albeit by one vote) – cries of “this is the will of God” and “the Holy Spirit are right to do so, then surely We need a new approach could was moving in the Synod” were heard. In November 2012, not one of the senior leaders of the Church of their representatives in the this be it? England has openly stated that “this is the will of God” or that “the Holy Spirit was moving in the Synod” House of Laity at General Synod Peter Grinyer, – shame on them. Do they believe this is the will of God, or do they proportion blame at those who would should have followed the leader- Exeter seek to preserve the unity of the Church of England somehow or other – a unity the leadership seem hell ship provided by the Archbishop bent on tearing apart – so that we might save face in the secular world. and Archbishop designate in the Keble’s warning Isn’t it interesting also that MPs in the House of Commons – many of whom are not Christian, should recent vote on women Bishops. be speaking out and interfering in the life of the Church – clearly, they have little or no understanding of Of course, they were free to Sir, If, as some have proposed, what it is to be ‘the Church’, let alone what it is to be a bishop and why people may disagree over the vote against the Motion if they felt restrictions are placed on the issues before Synod. led by the Holy Spirit to do so, but Church of England in reaction to When I was a young lad growing up on a council estate in South Shields, and I offered myself for ordi- this does seem to deny the central the Synod vote on women bish- nation (I was 14) a wise priest who had trained at Kelham said to me: “The Church is sacred and holy – it plank of their opposition. Perhaps ops, the Church will need to heed is the body of Christ; the earth is secular and worldly. There will be those from within the Body of Christ one of their spokespersons could again John Keble’s words against who seek to make the Church more relevant by adopting secular and worldly models and patterns – enlighten us all by explaining this “national apostasy”. In the 19th these should be resisted – those who do resist will be those who seek rather to make the world more inconsistency in their approach. Century when Parliament inter- sacred and holy – more like the Church, resisting the influences and temptations of the present age – Nick Alexander, fered in the running of the these will in the end win the day.” Reader, St Albans Diocese Church, John Keble preached a Perhaps in the end, common sense prevailed last Tuesday in the General Synod and that God did sermon with this title, (“The indeed through the Holy Spirit say “No! Now is not the time – the Church of England is broad enough for Assize Sermon”) which also gave all those who wish to belong – now I give you another opportunity to do right by everyone – not just the Something rise to the Anglo-Catholic move- majority – show the world that there is another way.” ment. And that is the key surely. Instead of the Archbishop of Canterbury saying last Wednesday that the missing? The Rev JD Wright, Church of England has “a lot of explaining to do” to the church and to wider society after its rejection of Sir, I started reading Rev Rachel Brighton legislation that would have allowed women to become bishops, and warning “that the failure of the vote Weir’s piece in your 18 November in the house of laity on Tuesday had made the church’s governing body appear ‘wilfully blind’ to the pri- issue entitled ‘Women Bishops – Sizer complaint orities of secular society,” instead of these words of chastisement which lack so much charity and seem time to move on’ with interest, but to deny the democratic decision of Synod – wouldn’t it have been better for him to turn this negative into it turned to disappointment as I Sir, I was surprised and disap- a positive. read on. pointed to read your article about He talks about the priorities of secular society – what about the priorities of the Church? Or are we real- There seemed to be something Rev Dr Stephen Sizer (“Board of ly getting to the truth of the matter – that actually the whole agenda surrounding the debate that would vital missing. I did a quick check Deputies in Sizer complaint”, 25 allow women to be consecrated as bishops is about secularism and not about the sacredness and holiness on certain key words (this may November). Surprised because of the whole Church of God – of which the Church of England is a small part – and has never had the not be 100 per cent accurate but I when I have contacted both the decency to consult more widely with the whole Church – I wonder why! hope it gives a flavour) and found Board of Deputies and the Bishop The Archbishop’s criticism of the House of Laity goes further as he levels the ‘lost credibility’ at them. 16 mentions of ‘women’; 16 of of Guildford to express my sup- A more positive approach would have been to say that this is the mind of God, of Christ indeed, and that ‘bishop/bishops’; 11 of port for Dr Sizer, I have received sometimes, the Church has to stand up and say it differs from the world and its secular agenda. Would ‘Church/Church of standard replies to the effect that not that have given us credibility? England/England’; eight of the matter, being the subject of a As in 1992, there will now I guess be a period of reception, as all of us come to terms with the democratic ‘Synod/General Synod’; six of legal process under the Clergy decision of the Synod. Of course not, the Archbishop has said that ‘the issue of female bishops could not ‘debate/discuss/discussion’; five Discipline Measure, is sub judice simply be “parked” but had to be worked on further with urgency. I hope and pray therefore that work on of ‘priests/priesthood’; five of and cannot be discussed. finding an honoured place within the Church of England for those who are opposed to the legislation in ‘vote/votes/voting’; and five of This is understandable, so why its current form, will be given and afforded the same urgency it also requires. ‘legislation/laws’. There is only does the Vice President of the Fr David Hawthorn, one mention each of ‘God’ and Board of Deputies blog about the Oldham ‘the Gospel’. There is one men- CDM complaint on the Board’s tion of ‘praying’, but not in the website, accusing Dr Sizer of anti- context of the decision on women Semitism and of “trawling dark against Sizer were “completely Typo? refer correctly to Connor Cruise bishops. and extreme corners of the inter- without foundation”. Stephen is a Sir, A number of years ago The O’Brien’s statement that “anti- There is no reference to Jesus, net for material to add to his web- strident critic of Christian Zion- Guardian ran a regular feature on Semitism is a light sleeper.” or the Holy Spirit, or the Bible, or site”? These comments, which ism, and of Israeli policy, but this printing errors with dropped con- The Rev David Gifford, of discerning how God wants us your article uncritically republish- does not make him anti-Semitic. sonants. It seems that The Church Chief Executive, The Council of to order his Church. Who should es, will surely have the effect of Indeed, in his book “Zion’s Chris- of England Newspaper may well Christians and Jews, we seek to imitate but Jesus? Who prejudicing any eventual discipli- tian Soldiers”, a seminal text for be following and adapting their London EC4 gives us discernment but the nary tribunal? those who want to understand an example. Your coverage of the Holy Spirit? Where else do we The Vice President of the evangelical critique of Christian Reception and Lecture to look at learn about our faith except in the Board of Deputies is a barrister, Zionism, Sizer states that “Anti- two models of interfaith dialogue Headship issue Bible? To whom are we account- so his undermining of the very Semitism must be repudiated practiced – in Austria and the UK able, except God? legal process which he initiated is unequivocally”. -- and hosted by the Austrian Sir, Whenever I conduct public I fear that the major flaw in all the more baffling. Dr Sizer’s is a prophetic voice Embassy (The Whispering worship, I try to be at the head of WATCH is expressed in their I was disappointed by the arti- on the issue of Christian Zionism Gallery CEN. Nov 18) printed the congregation leading them name – Women and the Church – cle because there was no opportu- yet he has been the subject of Connor Cruise O’Brien’s state- into the presence of God and which does not seem to have nity (given the legal process) for repeated vilification and ad ment that “anti-Semitism never helping them to offer their praise room for Jesus, the Holy Spirit, Dr Sizer to defend himself against hominem attacks from institu- speaks.” Sadly anti-Semitism does and their prayers to him. Whenev- the Bible, or God. the public accusation of anti-Semi- tions who should know better. speak, often causing deep hurt, er I preach a sermon, I try to be a If the members of WATCH only tism. These accusations have There is not a shred of evidence mostly offensively and always out source of enlightenment, educat- have consideration for women been made before, by the Council to back up accusations of anti- of a shameful ignorance. – espe- ing the people as to the historical and the church, they will continue of Christians and Jews and oth- Semitism, so surely enough is cially when it comes from the and cultural context of the pas- to miss the point, and God will not ers, and have been found to have enough? church . sage of scripture and encouraging be honoured. no substance. The reform rabbi Jeremy Moodey, Lord Harries’s greetings which them to see a relevant application As John the Baptist said, ‘He and theologian Professor Dan Chief Executive - Embrace the Mid- I brought to the Lecture, spoke of of its teaching in their everyday (Jesus) must become greater; I Cohn-Sherbok, an expert on anti- dle East, the need for the education of each lives. must become less’ (John 3: 30 Semitism, wrote to Dr Sizer’s Amersham, Bucks generation about the evils of In both these roles, I see myself NIV). bishop back in March stating that racism and especially anti-Semi- as a servant of God and as a chan- Lesley Strutt, accusations of anti-Semitism tism. Lord Harries did of course nel for his blessing, and I would Stoke sub Hamdon, Somerset Anglican Life Sunday December 2, 2012 www.churchnewspaper.com 11

By Clifford Owen impinges on the basic issues of Christian Initiation. My training vicar, an old ‘hood Thousands of citizens probably fantasise and scarf’ evangelical, told me that I ought about being a member of the Royal Family. to have my son baptised at the font not too But membership of the Royal Family is long after birth because I ought to be seen given by accident of birth or the good for- doing it! Nowadays I hear not a few stories tune of marriage. Only the latter category of clergy who are not having their offspring has an element of choice. It is of necessity Clergy kids baptised in infancy but leaving it to riper for the privileged few; hence the fantasies. years when it becomes their personal I get the impression that members of the choice. Royal Family probably enjoy it most of the A clerical home is a cell religious com- time! munity, with the important difference that But there is one group of human beings not all the members sense a personal call who are in a minority group not of their from God to be in it! Indeed, with many own choice, and I very much doubt clergy now being ordained later in years whether they enjoy it most of the time. after a ‘proper job’ previously, the They are the clergy children. I can remem- wife/husband/partner may not sense the ber being annoyed by the vicar’s daughters call either. But the point is that if the Faith in my C of E Infants’ School, because ‘they’ does not percolate within the walls of the would always be up near the top of the vicarage, it may be even harder to transmit class! When I later became a clerical parent it in the parish. and we were in a UPA parish, my children Of the 23 responses I received, none would try and hide their father’s identity. I mentioned baptism, confirmation or con- would say to one of my sons: ’so what am I version; but several hinted at develop- this week?’ ‘Oh, I told them you worked in ment/growth and pilgrimage. (An older an office in Aldershot’. important survey of 500 responses on this Clergy children have clearly made their theme is John Finney’s Finding Faith mark on history over the centuries. Today Bible Society, Swindon 1992 written Famous names in many walks of life start- for the Decade of Evangelism.) ed out in clergy homes. A few of course survey further (see below). I had a range ness’ of the clergy as well as their egocen- In summary I cannot state definitively became infamous. But the question I have of ages from octogenarian to teenager. I tricity. what, if any, advantages clergy children always wondered was whether there was included questions about education, type But what I found most encouraging was might have in accessing the faith; or anything definitive in research for those of school, reactions of other pupils. I asked the honest, articulate responses of some indeed if they have gained anything extra reared in a clergy homes and how it might the older ones whether their lives/career contemporary clergy children of parents from growing up in a Christian home, have shaped their lives for better or for had been influenced by growing up in a vic- whom I knew personally. I promised confi- which should be the hallmark of the vic- worse. Was a clergy home an advantage in arage. The last question was: ‘Are you still dentiality from parents, though their par- arage, without extending my survey sam- steering them towards the Christian faith a regular worshipper in a Christian ents would be flattered and heartened by ple well past three figures. or otherwise. One only has to look at 1 church?’ the general admiration their children have So, with the Editor’s permission I won- Timothy 3 to realise the importance of the Of the 23 replies: 18 were still regular for them. But their big complaint was that der if I can invite you to fill up my question- elders’ children. worshippers. Of the five who said they their father had to be shared with the rest naire by contacting me below. The replies I It was with these questions in mind that I were irregular: none of them blamed their of the parish, and the parish had to have have received so far are full of promising track-tested a questionnaire two years ago. parents! One lapsed daughter described the lion’s share of Dad’s time and love. information I sent out 40 papers mainly through friends her minister father as ‘verging on the saint- That complaint was consistent across the whom I knew were children of clergy. I ly’. But she also noted the self-grandiose generations. received 23 replies. All were highly inform- style of visiting preachers (not Anglican) I was grateful that my pilot survey drew The Rev Dr Clifford Owen has recently ative. One or two were ‘juicy’. This sample and saw through the hypocrisy of many such a co-operative response and there is retired. He is co-founder and former Chair of course is tiny but I wanted to pilot the worshippers. One other lapsed ex-cathe- clearly scope to extend the survey out- of Baptismal Integrity. He lives in Hunting- questions before attempting to expand the dral choir member had noted the ‘needi- wards. The topic of clergy children clearly don ([email protected])

Red snapper is a good choice for a punchy citrus and soy dressing, but other round fish, Wine of the Week Recipe of such as pollack, hake, grey mullet or even bass, would work well too.

Wolf Blass Yellow Label the Week Chardonnay 2011 Waitrose £6.66 (offer until 2 January 2013) INGREDIENTS This bottle of white comes from South Australia (think Adelaide) which, generally, with West Australia, produces Serves 4 better wines than South-East Australia. Wolf Blass is a 1 large round fish, weighing very big producer, drawing its grapes from a large num- about 2lb/900g, gutted and ber of vineyards across the State. Aus- scaled tralian Chardonnay was traditionally full 3 or 4 slices of fresh root in the mouth, with flavours of toffee and ginger butterscotch, the thick sweetness con- trasted by very noticeable oak tannins A bunch of fresh coriander (often produced from oak staves being in 2 spring onions, thinly sliced the tanks for part of the time during mak- on the diagonal ing). On the back label of this bottle 1 red chilli (the heat is up to (written in such small type that a magni- you) sliced into thin rounds fying glass was needed ) the descrip- For the dipping sauce: tion of what to find, “soft creamy texture” rather led us to expect an 6 tbsp Japanese soy sauce Aussie white of yore. In fact, it was (tamari or low-salt like totally different. First, it needed to Kikkoman's green-lidded one) be brought down from out-of- 1 clove of garlic, chopped fridge temperature, also time to 1oz/30g fresh root ginger, breathe in the glass, as otherwise grated it was far too acidic. Decanting helped: it was best when just 3 tbsp soft brown sugar Red Snapper with Lime and Soy below room temperature, as with a Grated zest and juice of two classic white Burgundy (where the limes grape originated). The nose pro- duced sweet citrus notes; on the METHOD palate now, in a quite light body, we found good mineral dryness, Preheat the oven to 190C/375F/gas mark 5. Cut three or Cover the baking tin with foil and bake for 25-35 min- still with a hint of sharpness, and four slashes in each side of the fish. Mix all the utes until just cooked through (red snapper is very dense complex, light, hints of fruit and ingredients in the dipping sauce. and may take a little longer than other fish). oak, continuing to a splendid glow- Line a large baking tin with non-stick baking parch- Take the foil off the fish and scatter with the coriander, ing finish. ment and lay the fish in it, trickling each side with a table- spring onions and chilli. Spoon over a little more sauce Graham Gendall Norton spoonful of sauce. Tuck the slices of ginger in the belly and put the rest in a bowl so guests can help themselves cavity. to more. 12 www.churchnewspaper.com Sunday December 2, 2012 College St

I can’t bear to greet you with ‘Happy Christmas’ yet. Is anyone else wondering how it can possibly be December already? It seems like yesterday that we were making resolutions, joining the gym and promising ourselves 2012 really will be the year we get healthier. Looks like we better pin our hopes on 2013, instead. But yes, Christmas is coming and believe it or not you can still give great presents even if your wallet isn’t looking fat. Have a look at our guide to avoiding a costly Christmas. We also have a blog on a new project the University Christian Unions is launching on how you can get involved. Let me know your thoughts about College Street at [email protected] or @AmarisColeCEN, and get in touch if you think there’s something we’re missing.

Celebrate a cut-price Christmas UCCF Christian Unions launch, ‘pray for 5, give to 5 invite 5’ The Hamper Take an old box/basket/bag and fill with University Christian Unions in Great sweets and chocolates or cheese and Britain have launched the ‘pray for five, crackers, nestled in some shredded tissue give to five and invite five’ Seeker Bible paper – you could even add make some Study campaign. UCCF, who represent biscuits to go in. Top with a ribbon for a over 10,000 students involved in 200 guaranteed happy recipient. Christian Unions, hope to reach 50,000 seekers in 2012/13 through the initia- The gift of time tive. Running low on money but got stacks of time? The programme involves the most Then why not give your loved ones just that. active and core Christian Unions mem- Design some vouchers pledging things like: bers praying for five friends, giving a ’30 minutes of washing up’ or ‘five car copy of Luke’s Gospel and inviting them washes’. Happy parents, happy bank balance, to read it with together. Peer to peer rela- Happy Christmas! tional outreach is central to the cam- paign. A specially designed student The Scrapbook friendly version of Luke’s Gospel called Turn your creative skills into a unique and thoughtful gift for your Uncover has also been made available. best friend. Collect photos, tickets from days The Uncover gospel hosts a number of out and things that remind you of them and put interactive features including QR codes. them in a cheap drawing book. Cover the pages Naomi Wilson, a student from Southamp- with paper, stickers and sequins and you could ton University explains, ‘ The QR codes can be giving the most memorable gift they will be scanned by smartphones and link to a series of short evangelistic films. These ever receive. You can even design the pages on help seekers engage with what the computer if you prefer. they’re reading. It’s not preachy, more raising questions for people to think about.’ The Wrapping Christian Unions are already start- The next hurdle is how to wrap up ing to see an impact. Verity, a student whatever you end up giving. There’s no from Nottingham became a Christian need to splash out on expensive paper and through a small group Bible study fancy bows. Get some old newspaper or commented, ‘The gospel was unlike parcel paper and wrap up the gift.. Find anything I had ever heard before, and some old string or garden twine from the the message of love and forgiveness shed and tie a bow to finish. Why not use a made me want to know Jesus.’ Ed, a doily as a gift tag – call it vintage and cheap becomes cool! student from Oxford University said, ‘ I discovered that Christianity wasn’t a set of rules. The purpose Royal Holloway was knowing God. launch pray for I’ve been a Christian The Ultimate Christmas Playlist: The perfect songs for the five, give to five, now for seven or eight forthcoming frivolities that even Granny will sing along to. invite five. months. I’m stuck into a church and the For the Christmas Party - church small group Santa Claus is coming to Town – Bruce Springsteen builds me up. All I want for Christmas – Maria Carey 60,000 gospels have been delivered to Winter Wonderland – Bing Crosby Christian Unions in Great Britain in preparation for give to five, pray for five For the Christmas Dinner - and invite five. Last year UCCF Christian Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas – Frank Sinatra Unions were involved in delivering Last Christmas – Wham around ninety mission weeks in which an Warm This Winter - Gabriella Cilmi estimated 500 students came to faith and many more signed up for follow-up. To For the present opening - find out more about Uncover and reach- I believe in Father Christmas – Gregg Lake ing 50,000 students with Luke’s Gospel, Christmas Wrapping – The Waitresses like our Facebook page at I Wish It Could be Christmas Everyday – Wizzard facebook.com/uccf.thechristianunions. For the carol singing - Pod Bhogal Silent Night – (Don’t attempt to sing along to the Beyonce version) Head of Communications Once in Royal David’s City UCCF: The Christian Unions Away in a Manger

FREE CEN ONLINE FOR ALL STUDENTS! Email your course details to [email protected]

14 www.churchnewspaper.com Sunday December 2, 2012 The Register

ANGLICAN CYCLE OF PRAYER and Stockbury; and Priest-in-Charge, APPOINTMENTS Upchurch with Lower Halstow; and Priest- in-Charge, Iwade (Canterbury): to resign The Rev Dr Jennifer Brown, Sunday 2 December. Advent 1. Psalm 68: 1-10, I Thess. 1. Almighty God, as your with effect from 30 June 2013. NSM (Assistant Curate), The Downs (Win- kingdom dawns, turn us from the darkness of sin to the light of holiness, that we may The Rev Anthony Bartlett, chester): to be NSM (Assistant Curate), be ready to meet you in our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Vicar, Greenlands (Blackburn): to retire Lower Dever (same diocese). From Common Worship with effect from 1 December 2012. The Rev Canon Penelope Brown, Kebbi - (Kaduna, Nigeria): The Most Rev Edmund Akanya The Rev Kerry Emmett, Recently , Limpsfield and Tatsfield Priest-in-Charge, Mountsorrel Christ (Southwark): to be NSM, Woodbridge St Monday 3 December. Psalm 122, I Thess. 2: 1-12. Keewatin - (Rupert’s Land, Cana- Church and St Peter (Leicester): to retire Mary (St Edmundsbury and Ipswich). da): The Most Rev David Norman Ashdown with effect from 21 April 2013. The Rev Alan Byrom, The Rev Canon Alan Hughes, Priest-in-Charge, Blackpool Christ Church Tuesday 4 December. Psalm 72: 1-4,18,19, I Thess. 2: 13-20. Kentucky - (IV, The Vicar, Berwick Holy Trinity and St Mary and All Saints (Blackburn): to be Vicar. Episcopal Church): The Rt Rev Terry White (Newcastle): to retire with effect from 28 The Rev Yvonne Callaghan, February 2013. Assistant Curate, Middleham with Wednesday 5 December. Psalm 103: 8-13, Isa. 5: 1-7. Kericho - (Kenya): The Rt Rev The Rev Prof Myra Shackley, Coverdale and East Witton and Thornton Jackson Ole Sapit NSM (House for Duty Priest), Spofforth Steward (Ripon and Leeds): to be Vicar, with Kirk Deighton (Ripon and Leeds): to Easby with Skeeby and Brompton on Thursday 6 December. Psalm 118: 19-27, Isa. 5: 8-23. Khartoum - (Sudan): The Rt be also Canon, Ripon Cathedral (same dio- Swale and Bolton on Swale (same diocese). Rev Ezekiel Kondo Kumir cese). The Rev Martin Duerden, The Rev Jean Sykes, Vicar, Marsh Green with Newtown (Liver- Friday 7 December. Psalm 27: 1-4,13,14, I Thess. 3. Kibungo - (Rwanda): The Rt Team Vicar, Kippax with Allerton Bywater pool): to be Vicar, Salesbury; and Assistant Rev Josias Sendegeya; Kigali - (Rwanda): The Rt Rev Louis Muvunyi (Ripon and Leeds): to retire with effect Curate, Langho Billington (Blackburn). from 28 February 2013. The Rev Eleanor Jane Durham, Saturday 8 December. Psalm 146: 4-11, I Thess. 4: 1-12. Kigeme - (Rwanda): The Rt The Rev Karen Thomas, Priest-in-Charge, Hunts Cross (Liverpool): Rev Augustin Mvunabandi Team Vicar, The Woodfield Team Benefice is now Team Vicar, The Halewood and (Leicester): has retired with effect from 31 Hunts Cross Team (same diocese). October 2012. The Rev Simon Elliott, Rector, Bexley (same diocese). The Rev Rosalyn Murphy, The Rev Joyce Weaver, Assistant Curate, Great Crosby St Luke The Rev Richard Lamey, Priest-in-Charge, Blackpool St Thomas NSM, Warrington St Ann (Liverpool): to (Liverpool): to be Assistant Curate, Nether- Vicar, Newton in Mottram with Flowery (Blackburn): is now Vicar. retire with effect from 13 February 2013. ton (same diocese). Field (Oxford): to be Rector, Woklingham The Rev Paul Tullett, The Rev Patrick Gillon, St Paul (same diocese). Assistant Curate, Taunton, St Mary (Bath LAY & OTHER (Lichfield): to be NSM (Assistant Priest), The Rev Paul Leckey, and Wells): to be Vicar, Water Orton (Birm- APPOINTMENTS Small Heath (Birmingham). Priest-in-Charge, Upton St Leonards ingham). The Rev Stephen Grey, (Gloucester): to be Vicar, Hall Green The Rev Harold David Uffindell, Priest-in-Charge, Garstang St Thomas Ascension (Birmingham). Vicar, Sunningdale (Oxford): to be also Mrs Jane Jenner-Fust, (Blackburn): to be Vicar. The Rev Alison Letschka, Area Dean, Bracknell Deanery (same dio- Church Warden of the Parish of Hill The Rev Dr Tudor Griffiths, Recently Assistant Curate, Haywards cese). (Gloucester): to be also Lay Canon, Rector, Cheltenham St Mary with St Heath St (Chichester): is now The Rev Philip Venables, Gloucester Cathedral (same diocese). Matthew and St Luke; and Area Dean, Team Vicar, Bexley (Rochester) Rector, Bebbington (Chester): to be Vicar, The Rev Paul Lock, Cheltenham Deanery (Gloucester): to be The Rev Carol Mansell, Whittle-le-Woods (Blackburn). Headteacher, Bolton St Joseph’s RC Pri- also Hon Canon, Gloucester Cathedral NSM, Rattlesden with Thorpe Morieux, The Rev Jane Vost, mary, to be Diocesan Director of Educa- (same diocese). Brettenham and Hitcham (St Edmunds- NSM, Radcliffe St Andrew (Manchester): tion (Blackburn). The Rev Helen Houston, bury and Ipswich): to be Priest-in-Charge, is now Chaplain, Wrightington Wigan and Ms Christel Stafford: Chaplain, Rossall School Fleetwood Monks Eleigh with Chelsworth and Brent Leigh NHS Trust (Liverpool). to be Diocesan Lay Worker and Senior (Blackburn): is now Chaplain, St George’s Eleigh with Milden and Kettlebaston; and The Rev Nicholas Williams, Community Development Worker, Kirkby Church of England High School, Blackpool Joint World Development Adviser (same Priest-in-Charge, Darenth (Rochester): to (Liverpool). (same diocese). diocese). be also Priest-in-Charge, Horton Kirby and The Rev Cuthbert Jackson, The Rev Paul Maybury, Sutton-at-Hone (same diocese). THE 2012 NSM (Assistant Curate), Skelmersdale St Vicar, Ossett and Gawthorpe and Rural The Rev Richard Williams, BIBLE CHALLENGE Paul (Liverpool): to be also Chaplain, Dean, Dewsbury Deanery (Wakefield): to (Chelmsford): is now Chaplain, Havens Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Trust be also Hon Canon, Wakefield Cathedral Hospices (same diocese). (same diocese). (same diocese). The Rev Dr Susan Williams, Day 337 Micah 7, Psalm 123, Mark 1 The Rev Stephen Johnson, The Rev Ian McCormack, Warden of Readers and Pastoral Assistants; Vicar, Preston Emmanuel, and Chaplain, Assistant Curate, Horbury with Horbury and Vice-Principal, Lancashire and Cum- Day 338 Nahum 1, Psalm 124, Mark 2 Central Lancashire University (Black- Bridge (Wakefield): to be Vicar, bria Theological Partnership (Blackburn): burn): to be Priest-in-Charge, Walton le Grimethorpe with Brierley (same diocese). to be Vicar, Balderstone; and Vicar, Mellor; Day 339 Nahum 2, Psalm 125, Mark 3 Dale St Leonard with Samlesbury St The Rev Michelle Montrose, and Vicar, Walton-le-Dale St Leonard with Leonard; and Priest-in-Charge, Bamber NSM, West Derby St Mary and St James Samlesbury St Leonard (same diocese). Day 340 Nahum 3, Psalm 126, Mark 4 Bridge St Aidan (same diocese). (Liverpool): is now NSM (Assistant The Rev John Knott, Curate), Liverpool Our Lady and St RETIREMENTS & Day 341 Habakkuk 1, Psalm 127, Mark 5 (Europe): is now NSM (House for Duty Nicholas (same diocese). RESIGNATIONS Associate Priest), Colne and Villages The Rev Caroline Morrison, Day 342 Habakkuk 2, Psalm 128, Mark 6 (Blackburn). Assistant Curate, Bexleyheath Christ The Rev Scott Lamb, Church (Rochester): to be Rector, Keston The Rev Canon Alan Amos, Day 343 Enjoy hearing the Scriptures read Vicar, Bexley St John (Rochester): is now (same diocese). Priest-in-Charge, Newington with Hartlip aloud in church

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‘The next day he saw Jesus coming towards her witness since the beginning, there him,’ (John 1:29) have been those who do not see. They nei- THE SPIRITUAL DIRECTOR ther look for themselves nor realize that John’s Gospel is a wonderful mixture of the light of the world is seeking them. But majesty and mystery on the one hand and By the Rev Dr Liz Hoare there is a challenge for Christians too in the ordinary and down-to-earth on the these verses. We too can live from one day other. As John the writer focuses on John to the next without noticing what God is the voice in the wilderness we are given a ing in his place in the world and ready to about people seeking Jesus, but in fact doing all around us unless we keep our series of days. Time broken down into a bear witness to what he had seen and Jesus is also seeking disciples. eyes and ears open. rhythm that we are all familiar with of one heard in order that Jesus might be The thing that strikes me about this Every day brings fresh opportunities to day following another. It also takes us back revealed to others. Then comes another sequence of days is that they remind us of look and see. Creation, the word of God, to Genesis and the Creation story where day (v35). Again John saw Jesus and pro- how each apparently ordinary day is shot the relationships we have with the people ‘there was evening and there was morning’ claimed him to be the Lamb of God and through with glory if only we had eyes to we meet each day offer insights into God’s a new day. Here as one day follows another two of his disciples heard him and followed see. Doubtless many others were around ways with us, and learning to see them we get a further glimpse of the light of the Jesus. They go and stay with him and from that day when John’s two disciples went helps us with gratitude and praise, qualities world, the word made flesh and the impact that encounter comes the invitation to oth- after Jesus, but they didn’t find anything that in turn make us more open to what he had on those who saw him. ers to meet him also. out of the ordinary in what they saw. They God is asking of us today. First it is John the Baptist himself who And so another day dawns (v43) and went about their business not knowing that saw Jesus coming towards him and Jesus finds Philip and Philip finds they were in the presence of the light of the declared: ‘Here is the Lamb of God who Nathaniel. Nathaniel turns out to be a bit world. How tragic. The Rev Dr Liz Hoare (né e Culling) is tutor takes away the sin of the world,’ (v29). more reluctant to see, but Jesus persists Christians are all too aware that no mat- in prayer, spirituality and mission at John was confirmed in his calling, accept- with him. It may seem that we are reading ter how clearly the Church has continued Wycliffe Hall

SUNSUNDAYDAY SERVICESERVICE Rebirth of historic interfaith Sunday Readings for 9 December 2012 magazine in Egypt Advent 2 - Year C Orient and Occident online magazine seeks to promote not just coexistence but cooperation with Muslims says the Bish- Malachi 3:1-4 Philippians 1:3-11 Luke 3:1-6 op of Egypt It was Egyptian media that brought the Israel is yearning for the prosperity of earlier generations, and for signs that the Lord’s appalling “Innocence of Muslims” trailer favour has been renewed, now that the people have returned to the Promised Land, but his to the wider attention of Muslims around glory has yet to return to the temple, a cause of consternation and sorrow. The people still the world. The consequences have been show the very hardness of heart and the failure to repent that brought about Israel’s suffer- tragic to watch. ings. Malachi announces that the Lord is coming, and will suddenly be found in the temple, The country has also seen all-too-regu- but it will be a time of judgement in which few will be prepared for what is to happen. The lar violent clashes between local Muslim sons of Levi, to whom priestly duties are allotted, must undergo the most thorough purifica- and Christian communities that have got tion in order to present the offerings to the Lord, like precious metal heated to a great tem- no better since Egypt’s revolution. perature or like garments cleansed with the strongest soap. The pristine beauty of the temple In this difficult atmosphere, the Dio- of Solomon, and the presence of the Lord in the midst of his people, can only be restored to cese of Egypt, under the leadership of those who are made ready to greet the Lord when he comes. Bishop Mouneer Hanna Anis (pictured), We can only be transformed and made acceptable to the Lord by receiving the grace of has relaunched a magazine online that God, which has the power to cleanse and to refine us inwardly so that we may be filled with was first started by two pioneering CMS love for God and for one another. When we are born again by the power of the Holy Spirit our missionaries more than 100 years ago. disfigured humanity is set free from the bonds of sin, and God sets to work to restore in us We asked Bishop Mouneer why now the likeness and image of himself with which he first endowed us before the Fall. By sending was the time for Orient & Occident mark context and the people around us. It is Jesus Christ to us, God has begun the work of saving his people, preparing the way for us to two, and about the inspiration behind it. not to stand away and attack but the spirit be restored to him in glory. The life of the Church, the temple built of living stones, is char- of engaging, encountering, and respect- acterised when it is faithful to God by many blessings of love, cleansing and purifying those CMS: What made the diocese want to ing the other, communicating in a civi- who now belong to Christ, and equipping the saints for their ministry of proclaiming the start up an online magazine? lized way. If we need anything in this word of God in this world. The Spirit equips us to discern what is right and holy and pure, Bishop Mouneer: We live in an electronic world it is this spirit. and to follow the path of truth, so that when the Lord comes he will find that his temple is age. People are communicating more filled with the fruits of the righteousness that he alone can bestow upon us. through social media networks and the What place do Temple Gairdner and God has not left all of this to come to us as a complete surprise, but on the contrary has diocese does not want to be backwards in Douglas Thornton hold in the con- warned us through many generations, through the law and the prophets, and by the many this field of communication. We feel an sciousness of the Egyptian church? examples of holiness and purity of life set before us in the scriptures, that we must repent in electronic magazine is appropriate at this Do people still know who they are? readiness for the day of the Lord. There is no excuse such as “we didn’t know”, and we are time. Not all church people know about them. I certainly left in no doubt by the clarity of the message proclaimed by John the Baptist, very much want to teach the people about repeating the words of the prophet Isaiah before him. The sign of repentance that John Why did you choose to relaunch Ori- them. I teach the students in the Alexan- administered was baptism, literally washing people in the waters of the Jordan so that both ent & Occident instead of a new pub- dria School of Theology about them, and outwardly and inwardly they might begin afresh to live lives that were acceptable to the Lord. lication? the new clergy. I put their photos in the Those who are determined to exploit the world for their own pleasure and their own ends Orient and Occident was launched by corridor of my office. I hope students will one day understand the gravity of their situation. We can only receive new life when we Temple Gairdner and Douglas Thornton, make research and want to translate are prepared to give up the old Adam, and we will only see the world restored when God and they are very precious figures to us. some of their work. Orient and Occident comes to be our judge, a day for rejoicing when his glory is revealed. They were behind the real start of the will bring some of their articles to life. The Rev Stephen Trott Anglican Church in Egypt. They are not the ones who started the church, but What is the mission of Orient & Occi- they are the ones who started to engage dent today? with the Egyptian society and not just We hope to engage with the young and HYMN SELECTION care for British citizens who lived in old, with Christians and Muslims. In the Egypt. Anglican Church of Egypt we think of Temple Gairdner was a great thinker ourselves as a bridging church. Through Hymns for Advent 2 and a pioneer. He was 100 years ahead of the electronic magazine Orient and Occi- the community when he started inter- dent we hope to play an important role in On Jordan’s bank the Baptist’s cry faith dialogue with the magazine. He bridging between other denominations The Lord will come and not be slow allowed Muslims to write in it and and other faiths. O come, O come, Emmanuel responded to them. He was ahead of the Thy kingdom come! on bended knee whole world in engaging with the Islamic Is that different to the original? Fill your hearts with joy and gladness world. We cannot find better than what I don’t think so. As I said, Temple Gaird- God is working his purpose out Temple Gairdner and Douglas Thornton ner was ahead of his time. He felt the best Restore, O Lord did, and we would like to have the same thing was to bring the orient and the occi- Living God, your Word has called us spirit they did, which we need much dent together, to bring the Christian and He’s got the whole world in his hand more than any time before. the Muslim together – without compro- One shall tell another mise. He wanted to bring them together What inspired you about the original to understand and coexist, and to move publication? from coexistence to cooperation. It is the spirit of engagement – with the www.orientandoccident.com c Milestones

The War Cry, The Salvation Army’s 133 year-old newspaper has now gone digital for the first time... The Christian Resources Exhibition will be com- ing to Bristol for the first time in its his- tory. From January 23 to 24, the Exhi- bition will be held at the University of

West England (UWE) Exhi- bition Cen- tre... We wish we could win the lottery, pay Gloucester off our mortgage, pass exams, gain pro- Cathedral is PAUL motion at work, be reconciled with a celebrating

sister or brother with whom we have the success RICHARDSON quarrelled. There may be nothing of its Make A wrong with our wishes and some of Will Fortnight in association with Willans LLP them may come true one day but to solicitors. During the fortnight, Willans was inun- Church and World have such wishes is not the same as liv- dated with appointments. The firm waived their ing in hope. usual fees for their services, instead inviting par- To be people of hope we have to be ticipants to make a donation to the Cathedral, ready to let God enter our lives and raising close to £3,000...‘ December 2 is the Inter- take us by surprise. As people of hope national Day for the Abolition of Slavery. A we have to be prepared to be led in greater proportion of the human race is currently Putting Advent in directions we had never expected to enslaved than at any other time in its history... travel. If we are people of hope we have to be open to the radically new. Critics sometimes allege that hope is an illusion and that people who say “He was really, really the frame they are living in hope are really trying brilliant. I think what you to escape from reality. This is not the have said shows that he was case. People of hope are not timidly really brilliant in many clinging to the present: they know God ways. But there were, has more in store for them and they probably, from his are open to change. Fear and despair background, complications freeze us and make us determined to in his life that hindered that cling to the status quo. ‘Better the brilliance really being fully devil you know’ becomes our motto deployed.” when hope is absent. Many Christians have had moments The Rt Rev Justin Welby, in their lives similar to the one Justin talking about his father Welby described when he felt God was calling him to turn his back on a job in the oil industry and a six figure salary to train for ordination. He persisted in following his call even when the bishop People he first discussed it with was not partic- ularly encouraging. ‘Ram Gidoomal, chairman of The Lausanne Move- Justin Welby Hope and faith are closely related. ment Board of Directors, has confirmed the selec- One of the problems with our wishes is tion of the current executive chair and CEO of the that they don’t go deep enough. Often Movement, the Rev S Douglas Birdsall, as the For the secular world Advent does not all that is on offer. This attitude comes they fail to represent what we are really new president of American Bible Society from exist. Christmas seems to start earlier to influence even those who do not seeking. Our desires are just too shal- March 2013... Barbara Lane, who has been the each year as shops gear up for an believe in the religious doctrines in low. As the saying goes, we are easily director of Education for Southwark Diocesan increase in sales, doing all they can to which the hope is embedded. So we see satisfied. We need to be taught to look since 2004, will retire at the end of the academic put customers in the right mood with in Western society the rise of an apoca- for something bigger, something year... Bristol’s new Mayor has been announced carols, Christmas trees and decora- lyptic political creed like Marxism, bor- greater, to have ambitions that will real- as George Ferguson. He will give The Canynges tions. rowing its eschatological framework ly lead to joy and a sense of fulfilment. Society’s Inaugural Lecture at St Mary Redcliffe It is pity that Advent goes unob- from the bible. The Nazi belief in a Faith in God gives us the encourage- Church on January 16... The Bishop of Derby, Dr served not only because every feast Thousand Year Reich also owed much ment to keep on seeking when we Alastair Redfern, who is a member of the House needs a time of preparation but also to popular apocalyptic beliefs long pres- realise we have not yet found what we of Lords, has organised the event to mark Parlia- because the message of Advent has ent in European culture. In the Pacific, really long for. ment Week marked Parliament week this year by transformed Western society. As Rein- the arrival of Christian missionaries Today Christian hope is threatened putting on a parliamentary style debate for sixth hold Niebuhr observed, there is a big and their message of hope led to an out- by another eschatology: scientific formers from eight schools in Derby Cathedral different between a society that expects break of Cargo Cults. eschatology. Scientists predict that the last Friday... a saviour and one that does not. Biblical eschatology has taught peo- world will one day come to an end In a society that does not expect a ple to hope for something better. Sadly, although they have different explana- saviour, all people can look forward to when God is left out of the picture vio- tions of how this will happen. Some talk Next Week’s News is more of the same, an endless round lence ensues as people fall under the of an ever-expanding universes leading of death and rebirth. But where a sav- illusion that they can achieve utopia by to a big freeze; others talk of a contract- Organisers of Christ in the Centre are inviting iour is expected, there is the hope of their own efforts. In the twentieth cen- ing universe leading to a big crunch; anyone who wants to take part in the 2013 event transformation, of a new heaven and a tury millions died because of the others, like Lord Rees, worry that to attend one of the two casting workshops being new earth. People are empowered by excesses of two apocalyptic creeds that human activity could destroy the uni- held during December. The casting workshops the belief that injustice and oppression assumed the power and influence of verse within 100 years. are being held on Saturday 1st and 8th December, do not have to be endured for ever; they religions, although religions without Whatever account we accept we are at St Andrew’s Community Hall, Jarrom Street, are not part of the divine plan and at God. left with a picture of a universe that is Leicester, starting at 11am each day... The Very some time in the future God is going to The Advent hope which has helped to ultimately absurd. Christian hope flow- Rev Vivienne Faull will be installed as the 76th act to bring about change. shape the society in which we live, ing from the Resurrection of Christ Dean of York at 3:00pm on Saturday, December 1 In societies where a saviour is expect- needs to be an element in the personal should encourage us to care for the at a service of Choral Evensong in York Minster... ed, there is the destabilising element of faith of every Christian. For this to hap- world and trust in God to bring a new On December 3, Baroness Knight of Collingtree hope. People are no longer prepared to pen, we must distinguish hope from creation out of the one that is passing will lead a House of Lords debate on the preven- accept that the present state of affairs is wishes. All of us harbour a lot of wishes. away. tion of illegal abortion operations...

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