The Way The FREE newspaper of the Church in , Summer 2017

Individual faith stories Champing it take to the airwaves up this summer PAGE 3 PAGE 5 REACHING OUT TO EVERYONE

“CAN we do this every Sunday?” That was just one n Cathedral opened of the comments from the children and young people up to new people in new ways who attended the first ever ecumenical Messy Cathedral Inside you’ll find articles – discover the latest news event – held recently at which are centred around the about next year’s Moving God for All strategy and vision Mountains mission when . – that by 2020 everyone in visiting teams of senior For an afternoon this ancient Cumbria has had an opportu- ecumenical leaders join forces and spiritual place was opened nity to discover more of God with local churches to grow up in new ways and to new and God’s purpose for their God’s Kingdom in Cumbria. people – children, parents and lives. l And we may feel organisers all had an uplifting Our prayer is that, through challenged in our faith – what time. reading the following content... can we do to help reach out to You can read more about it l We may feel inspired to those on the fringe and beyond inside this second edition on move out of our comfort zones via a pioneering Text-a-Prayer The Way to be printed since – find out how you could share project? our re-launch. Thank you for your faith story with a Our thanks go to those whose the positive feedback received Cumbria-wide audience via stories we have featured, and so far and we’d welcome any BBC Radio Cumbria. may we wish you all a relaxing more comments you may have. l We may feel empowered and restful summer!

Look what I’ve made! Five-year-old Reuben Wilson is one of those helping to get things messy at Carlisle Cathedral JENNY WOOLGAR PHOTOGRAPHY 2 The Way, Summer 2017 www.carlislediocese.org.uk INSIDE EVENTS AT Conversations focus CARLISLE THIS CATHEDRAL EDITION on making the most JULY Open guided tours: Tuesdays and Thursdays in July and August* ROB & TRACEY (2-3pm on Tuesdays and Foster of Moving Mountains 11am-12noon on Thursdays). Please book with Wendy Murrell on couple’s 01228 548071 or email her at ‘new hope’ n Church folk want to [email protected] * Not Tuesday July 18 or Thursday enable others to July 20 PAGE 4 Fri 7 - 7.30pm, Music from the discover more of God British choral tradition. A concert performed by the cathedral boys, MAGGIE PATCHETT By Rev Mike Talbot, girls, and layclerks with the Youth Evangelism Enabler Choir. Tickets on the door. Tourism Sun 16 - 3pm, Evensong with the gets its own “WHAT about a community Old Choristers chaplain litter pick?” “Can we run our Sat 29 - 12.45pm, Lunchtime recital Messy Church that weekend?” by Altrincham Choral Society “Could we hold an event in one Mon 31 to Thurs 3 August - Royal PAGE 11 School of Church Music choir in of the village pubs?” residence In a collection of small villages somewhere in Cumbria, a group of church folk had gathered together FRAN PARKINSON AUGUST to explore how they could make the most of the opportunity that Fri 4 - 5.30pm, Evensong sung by One of first Moving Mountains offers – and Morland Chorister Camp Text-a-Prayer ideas were bubbling to the surface. Sat 5 - 5.30pm, Evensong sung by Friends of Morland Chorister volunteers The underlying questions they were addressing were: What would Camp be of interest and relevance to the Sun 6 - 10.30am, Eucharist sung PAGE 12 wider community? And what are by Royal School of Church Music we already doing that we can natu- choir in residence CONTACT US rally build on to provide a chance Fri 18 to Sat 19 - 5.30pm, for others to discover Jesus? Preparing: Mike Talbot at Penrith Auction Mart, the venue Evensong sung by the choir of St EDITOR: That conversation is being for next March’s commissioning event DAVE ROBERTS Paul’s Church Bedford Dave Roberts repeated across the county in rural and urban areas, small and large Tel: 07469 153658 churches, among young and old SEPTEMBER Email: communications@ people. MESSAGE FROM ARCHBISHOP Fri 8 to Sun 17 - C-Art in the south carlislediocese.org.uk Underlying it all is the desire to aisle enable others to discover more of Sat 9 - Heritage Open Day AD MANAGER: God and his purpose for their lives, OF YORK, DR JOHN SENTAMU Steven Bowditch Sat 9 - 5.30pm, Evensong sung by and so become followers of Jesus. the choir of Bury Parish Church Tel: 01228 530159 Dear Christians in Cumbria, I am so looking forward to being with you in Tues 12 - 12.45pm, Musiclive@lunchtime series begins. The Way is the newspaper of the Church Cumbria in this wonderful mission to herald the in Cumbria. It is produced in partnership love of God in Jesus Christ! I am so looking All concerts are held on a Tuesday between the Diocese of in the Cathedral, start at 12.45pm Carlisle, the Methodist District of Cumbria, forward to joining with my fellow ecumenical the United Reformed Church in Cumbria church leaders. We pray for mountains to be and last 45 minutes. Admission £5, and Churches Together in Cumbria. moved as we proclaim that God is for all! £4 for members of Carlisle Festival, Through Churches Together in Cumbria, £2.50 students and under-18s. we ensure coverage of and distribution to Jesus invites us to an ever-deepening faith. the Roman Catholic, Salvation Army, Faith might begin tentatively and small but it Season ticket, £40. Quakers and independent churches. The can grow and blossom to bear fruit, which Sun 17 - 3pm, Battle of Britain editorial team is made up of representa- tives from across the denominations. transforms local communities and our own lives with the life and Service. Preacher, Michael The purpose of The Way is to reflect the peace of God. Manley Church in Cumbria to itself and to our Moving Mountains is one mission among many. I have Thurs 28 - 10.30am, tenth communities more widely. We do not seek While the focus of Moving to promote any particular theological accompanied bishops and church leaders in Sheffield, Blackburn and anniversary service for the viewpoint, but rather aim to stimulate Mountains is on March 8-11, 2018, Durham. In March we come to Cumbria and then move on to University of Cumbria debate by featuring writers from a variety of people are also aware that it is not Newcastle and Liverpool. They all have one life-changing invitation: church traditions and from society more widely. While we are happy to consider simply a one-off event; it is part of a come to know Jesus more and more. Each mission has had great unsolicited submissions, we operate much larger movement, at the heart encouragements: many people have come to faith and those of us OCTOBER largely on a system of commissions and do of the God for All strategy, which who have been in church for years have grown in faith. It is not just not guarantee to publish any materials has already started and will keep on about the four days in March. It’s about journeying with people in their Sat 7 - Borderlines Book Festival received. Events (see programme) The views and opinions of contributors going long after next March. first steps of faith through Moving Mountains. and advertisers do not necessarily reflect Having said that, March sees the I hope you will join in with the services and events through Sat 7 - 5pm, Royal School of the views and opinions of the partners. Church Music festival evensong The publisher takes no responsibility arrival of some 35 senior leaders Cumbria. I hope you will join with all your local churches in Moving for losses arising from information in (bishops, Methodist district chairs, Mountains. And I hope that you will invite your family, friends and Sat 14 - 5.30pm, Evensong sung advertisements in The Way. URC moderators, Salvation Army neighbours to come with you. The Good News of Jesus Christ is not by Keswick Choral Society divisional commanders) from just for ourselves, it is for everyone and we are empowered by the Sun 22 - 10.30am, Eucharist sung across the country, each bringing a Holy Spirit to be witnesses. by the Carliol Choir small team with them. +SENTAMU EBORACENSIS Sat 28 - 10am-4pm, Tower Open The Way Starting on the Thursday Day lunchtime with a commissioning Sat 28 -7.30pm, Show of Hands help people discover who Jesus is. If you are not sure what is being Concert event in the auction mart in While there is no central ‘final planned in your own area, have a Newspaper of Penrith – which will offer a taste event’ – for Moving Mountains word with your minister, visit the of Cumbrian life – teams will doesn’t finish – we have been Moving Mountains pages at the Church then spread out across the invited to hold a massive Messy www.godforall.org.uk or, if you NOVEMBER county, joining local churches as Church day at Rheged near Penrith are in a vacancy, drop me an email – Sun 12 - 10am, Remembrance in Cumbria they connect with schools, on the Sunday. This will hopefully [email protected]. Service. Preacher, the Dean running Messy Church, inviting connect with the hundreds who It would be great to hear from you. Sun 12 - 3pm, Eucharist. Preacher, The winter 2017/18 edition people to be blessed by a bishop, may well be coming through on And, as we pray for God to be at Canon Jan Kearton will be available in December and in a variety of other ways that day – not least because it is work, I look forward to seeing all that Tues 14 - 10.30am, Judges Service looking to work together to Mothering Sunday. will be happening across Cumbria. www.carlislediocese.org.uk The Way, Summer 2017 3 People share faith LAUREATE’S VERSE MAGGIE Norton, from Ulverston, is South Cumbria Poet Laureate 2007, and for five years has been a creative writing and poetry tutor at Lancaster University. A Quaker who worships at with radio listeners Swarthmoor Meeting House, she has had poems published in The Sunday Times, Poetry Monthly and at Lancaster Litfest, among many others. Other works include a commission to culturally document the 2001 foot and mouth outbreak as well as a 2014 work for three voices – Women’s Voices of the First World War. She is currently collaborating with Sally Bamber, a water colour artist, on a Cumbria wildflower project. We’re delighted to be able to feature some of Maggie’s works in this edition of The Way. Bumbles In The Yard I wanted to share the pleasure of sitting amongst the noisy busyness of bees.

Noisy as jazz musicians they fine- tune white trumpets of jasmine, bobbing like metronomes.

Do bees praise the fragrance of flowers? ‘Most marvellous,’ they intone what must be a psalm resonating through the cathedral of sage, honeysuckle, comfrey, and marjoram near the alkanet aisle. A magenta cranesbill opens wide; black dots pin-point the nectar refectory. A bee zooms in, deciphers

the hieroglyphs of honey on demand, bombs a soft centre then heaves away to play the field. Richard Corrie: Presents Sunday Breakfast on BBC Radio Cumbria DAVE ROBERTS Another bee burns a busy PERSONAL testimony is the murmur through the wallflowers. strongest kind, so the thinking n ‘We’re looking to get people from all It’s not solo for long; goes. But many of us don’t feel able to share our faith stories. walks of life – not just church leaders’ harmonies rise in a symphony to Creation Well, that’s something which is till a shadow conducts the final cadence being addressed in a new weekly and the yard bows its head. impact on your life? And, without your perceive faith; it isn’t the same for MAGGIE NORTON feature on BBC Radio Cumbria’s faith…? everyone. The most important thing is Sunday Breakfast show. to get people talking about their faith. Presenter Richard Corrie, who is Who has shared their stories? When we first ran this people walked also an Anglican Reader based in the up to me in church after the show and parish of St Michael’s Stanwix and St Q said what a wonderful idea it was to Mark’s Belah, answers some questions hear people talking about their own about ‘My Faith in Five’. People involved with the personal faith journey. Catholic Residential Youth What is ‘My Faith in Five’? ACentre at Castlerigg Manor at What’s the process for Q Keswick have taken part. A Cumbrian recording the interviews? farmer from the outskirts of Carlisle Q has spoken, a solicitor from the west This is a simple way for us to of the county and a pastor are among Either myself or a colleague will Aget people to talk about their some of the others who have been go out to contributors to record faith on the radio. It’s a passion involved. Athe interviews. It’s a really of mine and none of us talks about this We’re looking to get people from all relaxed process and if people make a enough. walks of life – not just church leaders, mistake we can re-record as many At BBC Radio Cumbria we’d though we are looking for their stories times as we have to. previously run a feature called ‘My too. The key for me is hearing from Then the answers are edited down to Life in Ten’, in which people talked the person who collects the hymn three minutes and are played at 6.15am about their life in 10 areas such as why books at church or someone who and 8.45am in the Sunday programme. they had a favourite song or colour. maybe doesn’t go to church. In a brain-storming session we And if people want to take Cumbria County Council thought it would work well to do What have people said so far? part….? something similar with faith. It means Q Thinking about that, on a weekly basis, in just five Q questions, we’re asking people about We’d love to hear from anyone inter- Fo stering? how faith has affected them as It’s really interesting to see ested in sharing their story. Just email individuals. Become what’s come out of this so far. [email protected] or send part of AWe’ve interviewed people in your details to Sunday Breakfast, BBC Cumbria’s biggest Thinking about So, what are you asking? their teens through to their late 80s. Radio Cumbria, Annetwell Street, family A lot of people have talked about Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 8BB. Adop tion? Q their faith developing through family l or life experience. Some have talked Richard Corrie’s Sunday You could We ask the same questions of about Jesus being central to their faith, Breakfast is broadcast on BBC Radio be their someone Aeverybody: What do you while others have spoken about the Cumbria each Sunday from Visit cumbria.gov.uk/ believe? Where does your faith way they lead their life as being 6-9am and is available on AM, FM, fostering Visit cumbria.gov.uk/ come from? Who or what is central to central. Freeview channel 721 or online at adoption your faith? How does your faith It’s good to hear how people bbc.co.uk/iplayer. 4 The Way, Summer 2017 www.cumbriamethodistdistrict.org.uk By The Way Foster parents give infants Exciting challenges AT THE time of writing, there are some exciting times ahead for this circuit: Bible Month, Thy Kingdom Come and Moving Mountains – initiatives that help us tap into what God is already doing a ‘new life and new hope’ here. But there will be challenging times ahead also as we look to how God is shaping us to be fit for pur- pose and how Mission Communities will develop. n JOHN MORTON, Newsletter, Kirkby Stephen, Couple ‘give something back’ by providing a caring home for children for up to two years Appleby and Tebay Methodist Circuit By Dave Roberts IN the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus taught us to pray that God’s kingdom come and will be done on earth as it is in heaven. God’s desire is for every sphere of culture to be transformed: business, media, educa- “THE first time I pick a child tion, health, arts, religion, family and politics. up when they’ve arrived, I pray SIMON BICKERSTETH, Connect, for them,” the Rev Rob Jackson St James Carlisle explains. A NUMBER of people ask us why, when we cannot Rob is not talking about a new really make ends meet, do we continue to give member of the congregation at his money away? The answer is that we expect every- church, St James in . one to have a right stewardship of what they have Instead, the town’s rector is talking and that includes the church. We expect people to about those children he and his give of what they have and the church does the same. wife Tracey have fostered over the JIM HYSLOP, The Observer, last 10 years. Saint John the Baptist Upperby The couple took on their first charge when Rob was a vicar in CHURCH reminds us of Christianity’s corporate Bolton in Greater . nature. It’s not just about me, it’s us - the whole body of Christ. Since then they have cared for RICHARD LEE, Parish Magazine, The Benefice of seven children – taking a break Egremont with Bigrigg and Haile from fostering when they moved to Cumbria. IN our leader article last month, Andrew encour- The couple were specifically aged us to tell our story. All our stories matter – they don’t need to be dramatic; God works in the ordi- drawn towards providing a short- nary times in our lives. As we enjoy June’s warm, term foster home for babies and long and sunny days we have a great opportunity to young children. get out and do things; to engage with those around “I am a former youth worker us, to grow friendships and perhaps rekindle old and I’ve always loved working ones, to show God’s goodness to others. JULIE BARRETT, Penrith Beacon, The Magazine with children,” Rob says. “So, as for St Andrew’s Penrith, Christ Church Penrith, St our two boys grew older and we ‘Pray’: Tracey and Rob Jackson have been fostering for 10 years CUMBRIAN NEWSPAPERS John’s Newton Reigny and St John’s Plumpton Wall still felt young in ourselves, we realised we wanted to give some- children up to two years old. away. By fostering we’ve seen fruit specialised training to enable this THESE are the words I was drawn to in my thing back. That’s how the foster- thoughts and prayers as I contemplated in the days “We have a particular heart for at the end of the process – either to happen. following the Manchester attack, and I commend ing came about. babies and toddlers and we wanted children who have gone back to “Tracey has spent time with them to you: “Do not be overcome by evil, but over- “It works well for us in that to see families together,” Rob their families or children who have parents teaching them how to bath come evil with good.” we’ve been able to work from home adds. “But if children were born gone on to new families.” a child,” Rob says. “Social ser- ANDREW NORMAN, and get our network of support into particularly difficult situations As short-term foster carers for vices do an amazing job, but its Parish Church of St Paul Grange-over-Sands involved; it also gives us an oppor- we wanted to be able to provide Cumbria County Council, Rob and interactions like that that can also tunity to be involved with toddler TALK about God’s love is meaningless if it doesn’t them with new life and new hope. Tracey can care for children for up help. make a difference to how we are with one another and parents groups more easily.” “God has been at the heart of all to two years. They have looked “At night as we’re rocking a child and how our faith can inspire us to make life better It took 18 months for the of this. He laid on our heart that after children for just a few days to sleep we’re able to pray for them, for those in difficulties: the poor, the marginalized, registration process to be we should do something to help, through to 14 months. for their families and for the social the sick and suffering. completed before Rob and Tracey so we’re following his will. It’s also a chance for them to services too. All those workers who MICHAEL WOODCOCK, Two Valleys Parish News, could foster their first child. Cartmell Fell, Crosthwaite, Crook, Helsington, “So much of ministry is all about draw alongside the children’s natu- support us, the children and families Winster, Witherslack and Underbarrow They specifically asked to foster keeping going, pushing on, slogging ral parents. Both have completed need to be held in prayer.”

OVER the past year or so, 14 congregations (Dean plus 10 other Church of England, two Methodist and one United Reformed Church) in our area have actually started working together as a Mission Healthcare provision: churches enter debate Community; 14 separate churches, each with its own tradition and identity, who together recognise CHURCHES across Cumbria are this and that church, but nobody that they have a common mission. being encouraged to enter into a expressed a Christian motivation Dean Parish News debate over the future provision of for being there, even though they THE Church too has its own language; strange health services across the county. felt it. I can understand why; names for different types of clergy, or parts of the The Government’s ‘Success people don’t want to seem to be church building. Baptism and confirmation. Names Regime’ – now disbanded – was foisting their views on others. for various ecclesiastical garments. A mystery to set up two years ago to consider “But perhaps we’re going to the outsiders, but tremendous fun to those in the know. PETER BLACKETT, Parish Magazine, St Bride’s the future of NHS services in west, other extreme. This issue does Parish Church Kirkbride and St John’s Newton Arlosh north and east Cumbria against the matter and the Church needs to be backdrop of financial deficits, an prepared to speak out on such THE recent Blue Box opening resulted in £177.43 ageing population and the geogra- occasions. There’s a notion that for the Children’s Society. Just in case you haven’t phy and infrastructure of the coun- church and politics should not mix happened across the blue boxes, they are given to anyone who wants to help the children, providing a ty. which I find slightly ridiculous as handy place to put your bits of change when you’ve In March, it was decided that a both are concerned with how been shopping. consultant-led maternity unit people live together.” BRENDA SYKES, St Bridget’s Parish News would be maintained in Anglican Deanery Synods across Whitehaven for a 12-month trial Cumbria are now being invited to IT seems to me that, in a way, Jesus is a bit like a period. Most children’s care would enter further into the debate. retriever dog. When we do bad things – big or small Donald Leighton: ‘This issue does matter’ DAVE ROBERTS – and are really sorry, Jesus goes out to find us, be based in Carlisle as would They are being asked to consider picks us up and brings us home. What’s more, he’s stroke treatment, while in-patient churches to raise the profile of the of the best they’d heard and what churches can do to help prepared to do that time and time again. beds would close at community healthcare debate, to note with demonstrates how passionate peo- people adopt healthier lifestyles, Harraby Viewpoint, hospitals in Alston, Wigton and regret the likely reduction in local ple are about our health services. improve the way our health ser- The Parish Magazine of St Elizabeth’s Harraby Maryport, although the NHS hospital services and to ask the “Over the last 50 years or so the vices are used and better promote BEING a Christian is not about believing a set of Cumbria Clinical Commissioning – as lead bishop Church has become a timid voice Cumbria to encourage more health facts; it is about having the truth which is Jesus Group has said it will now further on healthcare – to encourage in the world. If we are truly to professionals to work in the county. within us. It is about the Holy Spirit causing the consider care bed provision. further local and national debate. demonstrate that God is a God for A further motion on healthcare love and compassion of Jesus to grow within us The same month, a motion went Mr Leighton, from Maryport, All, then we must be prepared to provision will go before Diocesan and shine from us. before the ’s who worships at All Souls, enter into these debates. Synod in October before being DAVID FIRTH, The Messenger, Wigton Road Methodist Church Synod, prepared by retired teacher Netherton, said: “People have said “During the consultation meet- tabled at the Church of England’s Donald Leighton, calling for to me the debate at Synod was one ings I attended I saw people from General Synod. www.cumbriamethodistdistrict.org.uk The Way, Summer 2017 5 Silent nights, holy nights n County gets its first champing venue as visitors pay to stay in historic church building in Longsleddale

By Jayne Potts, Churches Trust for Cumbria Development Officer

CHAMPING is a unique concept, organised by the Churches Conservation Trust (CCT), that allows guests to camp overnight in historic buildings. This simple idea, providing a new use for church buildings, is becoming increasingly popular. Last summer saw an increase in interest in this emerging trend; this year additional sites have been added across the country, including the first in Cumbria. As development officer for the Churches Trust for Cumbria, this creative approach by the CCT to find long-term sustain- able uses for historic buildings struck a chord. The Churches Trust for Cumbria was formed in 2008 to help keep local church buildings alive by providing advice on their care, conservation and sustainable development. I thought champing would be an opportunity to bring a new perspective to our church buildings. It’s not for every church, but for a select few it Holiday: A family enjoy a break in St Mary’s Longsleddale, Cumbria’s first champing venue JENNY WOOLGAR PHOTOGRAPHY could provide an income to help care for them and allow the immensely popular with people £59, while children’s rates start wider community access to use who want to try a completely at £19, with special group them. new experience, immersing discounts for eight or more. Champing allows the building themselves in history and relax- Dogs are also welcome. to be adapted without changing ing in a stunningly beautiful For more information, visit the internal arrangement or location,” said Crispin Truman, www.champing.co.uk. damaging the fabric of the chief executive for the CCT. n If you think your church building, and it has a low The champing season runs could be a champing church, carbon footprint. from March 31 to September email Jayne at [email protected] “Champing has proved 30. Adult rates cost from £39 to or phone her on 07979 606131. ‘ONE OF THE BEST IN THE COUNTRY’

“WHEN I heard about champ- access to the church while stay- ing, I thought it was a fantastic ing. way to help ease the burden on The hall’s secretary Michael local people who have to find Richards is notified of bookings the money to run their church,” and sets out the church ready the Rev Canon Nigel Davies for the champers, greets those explained. arriving and then tidies things That church is St Mary’s away after a visit has ended. Longsleddale, near , part “We’re very grateful to all of the Beacon Team Ministry. those people who are investing It’s been a festival church for their time in making this work,” six months – while not used for Canon Nigel said. weekly services, it is used to “In terms of facilities and the celebrate Easter, Christmas setting I would have thought and harvest as well as bap- we’d be one of the best in the tisms, funerals and weddings. Nigel Davies: country. St Mary’s is also on the Now, after consultation with the ‘Presence’ Lakeland Pilgrimage, which Friends of St Mary’s and the val- ful. It will help secure the future makes it ideal for people taking ley’s village hall committee, the of both the church and the hall. on that high-level circular walk.” building has a further use – it is “The feedback we’ve had He added: “A church building Cumbria’s first champing church. from people staying has been has a presence, so I think there Canon Nigel, team rector of very positive to date.” will be some who book for a the Beacon Team Ministry, The champing kit which St spiritual experience. They have said: “We’ve committed to the Mary’s bought includes camp an understanding that there’s project for a year and then we beds, seats, crockery and wind- something special about staying will review where we’re at and up lamps. Champers are able in God’s house; a place where take stock of all the comments to use kitchen facilities in the prayer’s been offered up over we’ve received. hall next door and there’s a many years. “So far, we’ve had 10 book- public toilet too. “There’s a sense of peace in ings which should generate a Five champers can stay at St Mary’s which I believe couple of thousands of pounds any time and, as with all people will capture as part of for the church. That’s very use- venues, they have exclusive the champing experience.” 6 The Way, Summer 2017 www.nwsynod.org.uk By The Way SHARON’S Community influence WHEN I see who is actively involved in the wider community, there is nearly always at least one Christian on this or that committee, or being that helpful volunteer. Our influence in our communities ROLE IN OUR and the influence of our prayers, Sunday by Sunday, day by day, should not be underestimated. NIGEL DAVIES, Skelsmergh, Selside and Longsleddale Church and Community News WE held our first Prayer Evening and it will be a ‘BEAUTIFULLY regular event on the second Monday of the month to pray for our future, Mission Community and lead- ership. Please try and attend future meetings, but, if not, please try and make time to add your prayers on the same evening. GRAHAM TATE, ADRU Benefice News, CRAFTED Aldingham, Dendron, Rampside and Urswick

THERE was an interesting piece about St Nicholas’ churchyard in The Whitehaven News of June 15, 1882. Gravestones had been torn up to make the flagged path from Lowther Street to the west door. At a later date some of them had been used as JEWEL’ coping stones for the Lowther Street parapet wall. The Parish of Whitehaven

THANKFULLY, God doesn’t expect us to sit exams or demand that we meet a certain pass mark. He knows our limitations and our weaknesses and doesn’t set us impossible standards that we can’t attain. What he does ask though is that we are serious about our discipleship and committed. JANET PRESTON, Round-and-About, The North Cumbria Circuit Sharon Parr: ‘My role is also to help us become an even more outward-looking cathedral’ I FOUND it a privilege over recent years at By Dave Roberts Crosthwaite to work with our vicar, Stuart, and I will n New cathedral administrator describes her job and how God miss him. He brought many gifts to our church which have helped me grow in my faith, in prayer “YOU don’t really ‘train’ to be a created a fresh pathway in Cumbria for her and her vicar husband and in confidence. You may feel the same. cathedral administrator,” Sharon Crosthwaite Parish Keswick Parr explains. “People come into during a holiday to Cumbria in cathedral chapter through the dean. the fratry building to develop the WHEN I broke my shoulder in the church, my son, this line of work from so many May 2016. A few weeks later Alun The role was formerly known as cathedral’s teaching and learning who does not have a faith, thought it proved his different routes.” spotted the advert for the post in the chapter clerk and bursar. A and hospitality work. belief that churches were hazardous places, to be That’s certainly true of Sharon, the Church Times. part-time finance manager now “The Fratry Project is crucial for avoided except for weddings and funerals! Those of who has been in post as Carlisle Sharon explains: “We prayed oversees the bursar’s duties. us,” Sharon adds. “We have us who have faith know it doesn’t mean that life will Cathedral’s Director of Strategic together a lot about my applying “My role is also to help us fantastic heritage but some of this be a bed of roses without trials and tribulations. Operations since last November. PAM CARPENTER, Carver Calendar, for the job and said that if it was become an even more outward- is hidden away and can be physi- Carver Uniting Church, Methodist and URC With a background in manage- right, then God would show us looking cathedral, and to look at cally difficult to access. Those ment roles in both the charity and that to be the case. In faith terms, I ways to continue to engage with problems will be solved as a result THE hall committee members met for their monthly arts sectors, she then moved to admit that I’m not always very our local community, congrega- of this work, so that more people meeting and continued discussing fundraising China for two years to work for good at ‘hearing’ God’s voice, but tions and the people of Cumbria as are able to enjoy new experiences events, in particular the Art Ex, the 2018 Calendar the Foreign Office and British I’m always open to being shown a whole,” Sharon says. within the cathedral precinct. and the planned refurbishment. All the effort made Council. She later retrained as a to secure funding is now paying dividends with the way and that happened here. “It’s also about looking toward “There’s a wonderful library in another successful grant of £9,000 being received. corporate lawyer, working in the “Obviously, it was difficult as our long-term sustainability and to the fratry which, once some of it is Allonby Beachcomber City of London, before becoming we had to spend time apart and we consider new ways which enable digitised, will open up faith stories Monthly Village Newsletter a financial ombudsman. knew that Alun would have to find people to connect with the cathe- to many more people. Her cathedral appointment came a new ministry, but it felt as dral and to see what a unique and “Personally, I really value the ON May 7, the congregation of St Mary’s shortly after she married. She and though a door had opened for us special place it is.” time I have for prayer in the Mallerstang gathered to celebrate the work of local her husband, the Rev Alun Hurd, farmers. Our hills are a testament to their efforts as and there was a new pathway.” The Fratry Project is going a cathedral. lambs dance in the May sunshine. The Rev Carol were based in Essex. Alun has Sharon has responsibility for long way to helping achieve that. “I remember the first time I Marsden conducted the service uniting all ages with since been appointed -in- overseeing the strategic manage- Five years in the planning, the pro- stepped into the building I was appropriate readings and activities. Charge of High , and ment of the cathedral’s staff, prop- ject received a grant of £1,918,500 struck by its intimacy. It is a like a Parish News, The Parish of Kirkby Stephen with the couple live in Shap. erty and finances. As the most from the Heritage Lottery Fund in small, beautifully crafted jewel, Mallerstang, Crosby Garrett and Soulby They had visited the cathedral senior lay person, she reports to the March. It will see an extension of one which has great warmth to it.” I’VE been taking school assemblies on Lent recent- ly, and shocking pupils in so doing. Why? Because I’ve been telling them that Easter is more important than Christmas in the Church. In one school, there was an audible intake of breath at that statement. World’s ‘greatest of women’s groups’ GRAHAM RANSOM, The Grapevine, Newsletter of the Methodist Churches of Coniston, Swarthmoor and Ulverston THE Mothers’ Union is “the great- By Jane Conlan, financial education. est of women’s groups in the Mothers’ Union Diocesan President In our diocese members support THE Holy Spirit is not an optional extra ‘for those world” according to Justin Welby, their communities through initia- who go in for that kind of thing’. He is the essential presence and power of God in the hearts of God’s the . Our op itself. Mothers’ Union exists to tives such as Messy Church. children and at the centre of the Church’s worship, mission is to give Christian care to do ministry within communities Morland Mothers’ Union runs a fellowship and witness. families and communities around and families. By building family, group for young mums once a JOHN RILEY, Gosforth, Nether Wasdale and the world. week. Holy Trinity, Kendal, is Wasdale Head Parish Magazine you build church which builds a Paul says in Corinthians 12:12: nation. Mothers’ Union is God’s involved in a Fresh Expressions THERE will be a box for collection of tinned goods, “For just as the body is one and grace and gift to the Church. It initiative in a care home. breakfast cereals and one-litre packs of UHT milk has many members, and all the gives Christian values to the com- Mothers’ Union campaigns on and fruit juice for the Foodbank. The box will be members of the body, though munity.” issues such as the commercialisa- available before and after services on Sundays and many, are one body, so it is with tion and sexualisation of children Wednesdays in the community centre. I joined the Mothers’ Union in Jane Conlan: Joined in 1999 Link, Aspatria Methodist Church, St Kentigern’s Christ.” The Mothers’ Union acts 1999 and have never looked back. and gender-based violence. Aspatria, St Mary’s Gilcrux, St James’ Hayton as one body but has more than I have experienced the fellowship parents, grandparents, clergy, bish- I would like to see a branch in 4 million members worldwide in among members which has been ops, those who are married and every parish, benefice or mission EAST of Eden Mission Community Good 83 countries. community. We support God for Neighbours Scheme – We are a group from truly wonderful. More than that, I those who are not. My husband is Langwathby and surrounding villages who enjoy Lynne Tembey, our inspirational am continually amazed by what is a member and so are Bishop All in our communities. visiting and making contact with people. We are worldwide president, who until achieved on an international scale Robert and his wife. So I make this plea to clergy happy to visit anyone who might appreciate a chat 2015 lived in our diocese, said: as well as at a diocesan and We raise money through coffee and lay leaders in areas where as well as people who are new to the village, at “The Mothers’ Union assists fami- branch level. mornings to support people in the there is no branch: if you would home with young children or are housebound. lies both spiritually and physically. The Mothers’ Union is an all- like help in starting a new branch, Memo, Mid-Eden Magazine with UK and worldwide. We support news from the Parishes of The Cross Fell Group “Without Mothers’ Union a inclusive organisation. We wel- Mothers’ Union overseas pro- please contact me by email at parish cannot progress, and devel- come men, women, parents, non- grammes such as literacy and [email protected]. www.cumbriamethodistdistrict.org.uk The Way, Summer 2017 7 MESSY CATHEDRAL n Excited families come together to be part of ‘something big in the Messy Church world’

Worship: Time for a celebration service after the activities

Let it fly! Nicholas and Lucy Howard, aged eight and four, Artists in the making: Tabitha Wilson, her daughter Cecilia and son Reuben take on a launch their Prayeroplanes colouring challenge ALL PICTURES: JENNY WOOLGAR PHOTOGRAPHY

By Sarah Hulme, Children and Fam ilies Evangelism Enabler

WHAT do you get when you combine 40 children, a similar number of adults, interactive activity and prayer stations, a water pistol and praise aerobics in a cathedral? The answer – a messy start to the first Messy Cumbria event at Carlisle Visiting: Isaac Webster, 13, Cheese! Indianna Passmore Cathedral. and Hannah Webster, 12, gets a shot of Marvin the Canons Michael Manley and Jan from Newcastle Messy Sheep mascot Kearton, alongside a committed volunteer team from Messy as well as drawing in others new commented: “I thoroughly Churches across the county, gath- to Messy Church. enjoyed myself. It was lovely to ered and hosted a great afternoon We had families from as far be part of something big in the for families exploring different afield as Whitehaven, Newcastle Messy Church world.” zones inside the cathedral and and York, as well as others more A great deal of work was also fratry, using the ‘Thy Kingdom locally based. graciously offered behind the Come’ Lord’s Prayer theme. Several of the families had scenes by the head verger and his We all came together for the never been to a Messy Church team. “It wasn’t as messy as I’d celebration, which included action before and were thrilled to be part imagined,” he smiled. Could that songs and a story – complete with of the afternoon. be a challenge for our next one? spray from the water pistol. One mum said: “This was the Messy Cumbria headed outside Together, we launched our first Messy Church we’ve ever for the next gathering – Jane ‘prayeroplanes’ and prayed to be been to as a family and we all Leadbetter from national Messy good news tellers to everyone we loved it. My daughter may have Church joined us at Rydal Hall meet. The event then finished with been a little young for some of the on Saturday July 8 for a free a picnic time together. activities but my son absolutely afternoon of family fun. This day was part of wider loved it. We’ll definitely be going To sign up to receive all the Messy Cumbria plans, aimed at to another Messy Church.” latest termly Messy Cumbria news gathering families already The team worked hard through- and events, please email involved in local messy churches, out the day. One team member [email protected]. 8 The Way, Summer 2017 www.churchestogethercumbria.co.uk www.churchestogethercumbria.co.uk The Way, Summer 2017 9 By The Way DOWN YOUR WAY... IN LUNESDALE ‘Heaven seems so close’ I’VE not been on any great pilgrimages but I have visited special places where the air between earth and heaven is ‘thin’ and heaven seems so close. I love cathedrals and feel specially drawn to my favourites. Heaven almost touches earth in our The vision to do things differently valley. Try sitting in Buttermere church on your own and you will know what I mean. SHEILA HUGHES, The Link, The United Benefice By Rev Wendy Thornton of Lorton and Loweswater with Buttermere

WE need volunteers to do a stint on Wednesdays AT THE time of writing I am when St James is open to visitors from 10.30am surrounded by chaos as I prepare until 4pm. The church is open from 10am normally to move into the Anglican for the Wednesday service and then stays open for vicarage in Kirkby Lonsdale. a while for some cleaning, although the cleaning As an ordained Methodist squad is now small and needs boosting. minister this is unusual – from Proclaim, Parish Magazine of the North Barrow September, I will be working Team Ministry, St James the Great and St Francis across both the Methodist churches of Kirkby Lonsdale and IT has been my privilege to serve as Churchwarden Cowan Bridge and the churches at St Mary’s for the past 30-plus years. However, the Outreach: Celebrating the harvest supper of the Rainbow Parish. time has come for me to stand down and for some- Having trained at the Methodist one new to fill the position. I have served under three became an ecumenical event vicars, all very different, all very individual. Wesley Study Centre and the BERNARD RIGG, New Life, Anglican Cranmer Hall, St John’s Dalton-in-, Newton and Ireleth with Askam College Durham, I jested with fellow students about being a IT was with mixed emotions that I announced my ‘Methlican’. Little did I know at the appointment as vicar of Coppull and Coppull St time! John. We will miss Barrow, particularly the people, What began as a seed of an idea and especially the friends we have made through has come to fruition by prayer, church. We have felt very loved here and we will discernment and wrestling with the Together: look back on our time here with fond memories. practicalities through visionary and From left, the Rev Wendy Thornton with the Rev MATT HORNBY, Team Talk, The Magazine of the strategic leadership in both the Anne Pettifor, Fr Luiz Ruscillo, the Rev Richard Snow and Parishes of St Aidan’s and St George’s with St Kendal Methodist Circuit and the the Rev Richard Teal, Chair of Cumbria Methodist District Luke’s, Barrow-in-Furness Rainbow Parish. Rick Warren in Purpose Driven Church states: Richard Teal, has been a huge by focussing energy on what we GOD for All is an amazing challenge which for some might seem impossible. However, as the “Most people think of ‘vision’ as the encouragement. So has the can do together for the sake of the years have passed, more people have seen that if ability to see the future, but in prayerful grace and vision of the Kingdom rather than being con- we think carefully about how each disciple was able today’s rapidly changing world, churches affected, not least the cerned about maintaining bound- to speak in a language alien to him, then God wants vision is also the ability to accurately other circuit churches and espe- aries. In the present national us all to think about the different gifts we have been assess current changes and take cially Sandylands in Kendal for climate we have a responsibility given. advantage of them. Vision is being whom I am currently the minister. as Christians to model our values NICK MARK, Newsletter of Navigation: A labyrinth formed part of the alert to opportunities.’ While unusual from an organi- of unity, equality and inclusion. Penrith and Penruddock URC Vibrant: St Mary’s, Kirkby Lonsdale, is just one of the parishes that make up the ‘Rainbow Parish’ ‘pathways’ service For us it was sensing some sational perspective it does not There will be challenges, not Godly energy and potential in a feel unusual but rather a natural least for those working out the NO ONE knows what this world will look like in years group of churches, resisting response to what is happening legal and structural implications to come; with the rapid pace of change our world decline mentality and being willing among us here – building upon the of the role, but we trust God’s could look very different. I try to live with my eyes and to take the risk to shape things relationship between the leaders grace and wisdom will help us heart wide open towards others. In the words written differently. The support of the and the relationship between the work it out. We do not need to on the Salvation Army Church at St Nicholas Gate, district and diocesan leaders, people and the community. It is an have all the answers at the Carlisle: ‘With Heart to God and Hand to Man.’ JAMES EDGELL, Focus on Eden, Each church adds its own colour Bishop James and the Rev opportunity to make a difference beginning, just the faith to move. Holme Eden and Wetheral with Warwick KNOWING we belong to our heavenly Father – that By Liz Dew yard. By the time members of the we belong to His family, that He is always crying out We’re dedicating the centre spread of each edition of The Way to a missional congregation got to the labyrinth, it Nurturing relationship bears fruit to us by name 24/7, that He is with us all in life’s disappointments, hardships, confusions, unfairness focus. Here we learn about the ecumenical partnerships forged in Lunesdale was already in use by passers-by. and pain – is the only ultimate inner security in this THE Kirkby Lonsdale Team One of those occasions where we By Rev Anne Pettifor, life and the next. found ourselves catching up with Ministry began in 1976 with the assigned a colour. St Patrick’s the Friends’ Meeting House at on. CTiL has helped to create a Assistant , Rainbow Parish Derek Price, Chatterbox, St Paul’s Barrow uniting of seven parishes – St what God was already doing. Church joined the parish around Preston Patrick, St Joseph’s RC culture where working together is One of the other highlights was in THE past two years have been ‘interesting’, chal- Bartholomew’s, Barbon; Holy 15 years ago, thereby creating a Church, Kirkby Lonsdale Methodist very natural. end of July. The Kirkby Lonsdale October when the annual Kirkby ONE of the most fruitful relation- lenging, stimulating, heart-breaking and renewing. Trinity, Casterton; St John’s, very special rainbow. Church as well as the Rainbow We have come a long way from churches gathered together in the As a town we have endured some bad flooding and Each of the churches has its own Parish. Lonsdale Methodist harvest supper ships in any parish can be with its the aftermath thereof; as a circuit we have looked Hutton Roof; St Mary’s, Kirkby 1919 when the vicar of Kirkby Methodist church. From there peo- was reimagined as an ecumenical local church primary school. Lonsdale; All Saints, Lupton; St character and makes its unique This partnership has strengthened Lonsdale objected to any suggestion ple could choose from a number of to the future with vision, hope and expectancy; as a contribution to the parish. At the over the years and is expressed in outreach event for the whole Both of our primary schools are church we have, I believe, a renewed vision of who Peter’s, Mansergh; and Holy that Free Church ministers should different ‘pathways’ before finish- community. St Mary’s Church was very open and willing to receive we are and what we might be in the coming months. same time, each church has its own many ways – an ecumenical prayer Ghost, Middleton. unique way of giving ‘colour’ to the group meets every week; there is a be invited to participate in the ser- ing together in St Mary’s Church. cleared of pews; Fr Luiz, the any assistance and activities that JOHN SIMMS, The Stricklandgater, Newsletter of we can offer. the Stricklandgate Methodist Church Kendal At some point, perhaps after a community it serves. strong commitment to the week of vice to celebrate the end of World The weather was kind and a Roman Catholic Priest, gave the prolonged period of rain, it gained War One. number of these pathways were in talk; and a wide cross-section of the In St Patrick’s School, The Rainbow Parish is only part Prayer for Christian Unity, Lent Endmoor, we deliver an ‘open the THIS Pentecost at Paddle saw another step on this CTiL highlights from last year the open air, including a labyrinth the name the ‘Rainbow Parish’ and of the story. ‘Christians Together in groups, Holy Week; joint services, a community came together to eat book’ assembly most weeks. journey as the Mission Community of Grasmoor each of the seven churches was Lunesdale’ (CTiL) draws together weekly lunch club… the list goes included a ‘pathways’ service at the that had been set up in the church- and dance and celebrate. was officially created. The name for this area is A small team of volunteers from different because it covers 14 local churches. The the local churches act out Bible term Mission Community is new because, in part, it stories, with the enthusiastic help avoids church language. It also stresses that each Ecumenical family project appoints leader of the children who are always and every one of Christ’s worshippers have to be Forum helps plug gaps in elderly care keen to play their part. This is engaged in mission. definitely a win-win activity as it is MIKE JACKSON, Summer Newsletter, LIKE many churches we give a By Rev Richard Snow This is a joint initiative between BUILDING partnerships and We are hoping this will lead to a a joy for the adults too. URC By Susan O’Loughlin high priority to our work with Kirkby Lonsdale Methodist Church We use the school premises for ‘Win-win’: An ‘open the book’ assembly at St Patrick’s community seems to be a theme ‘good neighbours’ scheme to children and young people. and the Rainbow Parish. We have sessions that we call ‘St Patrick’s IF we can remember Jesus every day, if we can say for us and we have found provide support, friendship, help to develop and nurture a faith surgery, the residents of sup- There are ‘positive’ signs: many been discerning the way forward @...’ around once every half-term. and lots of overlap in the different relationship and helps with the his name in a prayer or to somebody even on the ourselves working with various advice and assistance. Ideas that sticks? Like other people up days when we simply want to stay in bed, then we ported/sheltered accommodation, families still look to the Church to together, shaping the vision together These are a mixture of story- activities, all of which helps with efficient use of the time and are taking part in the task we have been given to stakeholders to develop support already suggested include have their children baptised; there is and down the country we have been and funding the project together. telling, craft, games and singing joined-up thinking and minimising talents of both NISCU and the the local housing association, the with the primary school-aged testify to the good news of God’s grace. for our elderly residents. community police officer, home/telephone befriending; a a thriving parent/baby/young reflecting on the significant role that A key element has been getting duplication of effort. volunteers. Parish Life, Holy Trinity Parish Church Kendal children, all based around a One of the other key relation- Working together requires in- As delivery of statutory support churches and Age UK. handyman service; IT training; children group; an after-school club the family has in nurturing faith. financial support, primarily from the The result is ‘The Churches in theme, ending with tea for the rest ships in our work with schools is vestment in building relationships A STRONG faith demands not only fidelity to the past has changed, we have identified a It is gathering momentum and seated exercise classes; lunch for primary-aged children was local churches, to appoint a full- Lunesdale Family Project’. of the family and all the helpers. with the local Northern Inter but it is definitely worth the effort. but also acceptance and openness to the future. need to ‘plug the gaps’ if we are the next step is an ‘information clubs; and help with form recently started in Barbon; our time project leader for four years. It’s not rocket science, but it’s a Schools Christian Union (NISCU) The fruits are already visible, Christians must be receptive to one another, refuse all to maintain and improve the roadshow’ run by Age UK. completion and other paperwork. two voluntary-aided primary schools The vision is for our churches to Finding someone with the good opportunity to build relation- schools worker, Katy Hall. but I get the feeling that this is sectarianism and be full of charity for our ‘opponent’; wellbeing of all our residents. The aim is to provide informa- A big benefit of partnering with welcome Church support. be more outward-looking and a experience and skills to lead the ships and get to know everyone. We work together, with volun- only the beginning. The ground- we must be conscious of what is vital and essential The question we have been blessing to local families, helping project hasn’t been easy, but we Never underestimate the power of teers from across the churches, to work has been done and we are and common to all. Our hope in the future must be The churches have been work- tion and advice about services Age UK is that it can support, based, not on a naturally optimistic temperament, but ing to create a forum that brings currently available, and also to try train and insure volunteers as well wrestling with over the last few them discover God, and nurturing have just offered the position to one food for building fellowship! help with the lunchtime clubs that now ready to plant and nurture the on the certitude that Christ is living among us. together the local council, the GP to ascertain people’s needs. as ensure best practice. years is whether or not all this faith so rooted in their everyday of the candidates. We were There is a range of volunteers they offer. This is also a win-win crop and prepare for the harvest... PETER HOUGHTON, The News Magazine of the activity has a lasting impact. Does it lives that it lasts a lifetime. delighted that they said yes. ‘Heart of Eden’ Team Ministry 10 The Way, Summer 2017 www.godforall.org.uk By The Way Will rising retirement age Jam for Tanzania WE HAVE come to the end of jam-making, which was started with the aim of raising £100 towards the cost of sending our young friend Ross to mean fewer volunteers? Tanzania to help build houses for the local people. I am delighted that we raised £230 thanks to the generosity of friends and neighbours in Kelleth donating large amounts of fruit. KATH EGERTON, The Link, The Parish Magazine for Orton, Tebay and Ravenstonedale with Newbiggin-on-Lune

IF YOU listened carefully at Brownies recently you would have heard the tinkle of wedding bells, not once, not twice, but three times as three of our leaders or ex-leaders are about to get married – May, June and July being the months in question. In Touch, The Magazine of Seascale and Gosforth Methodist Churches

OUR three new churchwardens, John Dugdale, Brian Smalley, and Ian Stirrup, were admitted to their office by Archdeacon Vernon Ross at St Mary’s Church, Windermere along with many other churchwardens from across the deanery. It is a special privilege to serve as a churchwarden and we thank them all for taking on this valuable and challenging role. The Gateway, Parish Church of St Michael and All Angels, Beetham

WE at Ramsden Street know the presence of God in our midst, can feel his power within us, and, although small in number, we continue to play our part in spreading that message to the people of the community in which we are set in this corner of Barrow. We do so by sharing as much as we can by fulfilling our own Mission initiatives and those going on in and around the town. Dependent: St Paul’s Holme Eden annual holiday club, attended by more than 50 children during the summer break, is Around Church, Ramsden Street URC just one of many community facilities that relies heavily on congregation volunteers to run it CUMBRIAN NEWSPAPERS AS part of our outreach to the community, we now have an outside prayer space. It’s a garden arbour By Jim Webster, n in Cumbria’ we tend to talk more in the grounds of the church and we’re grateful to People growing cynical about being used about ‘participants’. In crude those people who’ve helped make this happen. Chair of Churches Rural Forum The Link, Quarterly Magazine of Keswick and as cheap labour; others put off by red tape terms, ‘participants’ just get on and Cockermouth Methodist Circuit do the job and don’t particularly BECAUSE our churches are so want to be part of an organisation THE Rev Micah Hopley was our minister for more dependent upon volunteers I see is a lesser exodus back south more organisations are hunting for as they start to feel a little frail and volunteers. Unfortunately, many or structure – and they certainly than ten years from July 1985 to October 1995 and wanted to look ahead. don’t want the paperwork. In we were saddened to hear of his death on May 15 Here in the south of the county realise they’re living a long way are put off by various forms of this year. Those of us who had the privilege of reality, our villages are held we have churches that are growing from their families. At which point vetting, barring, box-ticking and together by these ‘participants’. knowing him fondly remember his modest but they may downsize and move similar. nonetheless resolute leadership, which helped us because of an influx of the newly So what can we do? meet a number of challenges, both spiritual and retired. Well-educated, hard-working away. Also, people are growing cynical l Stop doing things that don’t financial, through the part of our Christian journey and with a lot of experience these But with the retirement age about being used as cheap labour need doing, because we haven’t got we shared together. people rapidly become an essential increasing, are we going to see a because they’re doing what used to the labour to do them any more. Living Stones, Whitehaven URC part of the team. big drop in numbers? It’s one thing be somebody’s job before the l Make the system more to move up here between 55 and budget was cut. One thing I’ve ANOTHER milestone was reached in our appeal A pattern we see is that either volunteer friendly with less regula- when the Parochial Church Council wrote to the people plan to finish their career in 60, but quite another thing to noticed with some in the third tion, less box-ticking and fewer bell founders and converted the provisional booking this area with the idea of retiring move north when the younger sector is that people are wary about courses people ‘ought’ to attend. made earlier in the year into a firm order. This may here, or sell up and move here spouse retires at 66, especially if calling themselves volunteers. l Make things more informal; have been the trigger that has enabled the bell when they retire. Given that a lot you don’t have family in the area. Other organisations now have to work more with the participants. founders to write and say that “all being well” the I would suggest that even among recruit extra volunteers just to tick installation will start in late November and that they of them have a ‘public service’ Trying to run a formal lift-sharing “hope to have the bells ringing for Christmas”. No background, in many cases the people living here, the rise in the boxes to guarantee their funding. scheme in a village can be a longer is it “if” but “when”! oldest spouse is barely 60 when retirement age is going to reduce Potential volunteers are beginning nightmare, but doing something Bampton Parish Newsletter they arrive. the availability of volunteers. to feel hunted. informally can be almost as What we’re also beginning to Another factor is that more and At ‘ACTion with Communities effective and far less hassle. OVER the next few months we are taking the message of the gospel to our communities through participation in the carnivals in Aspatria, Abbeytown and Silloth, and following them with community barbecue events. I hope that as many people as possible will join us, and not just in your own com- Sharing of roles revealed hidden gifts munity, but supporting all the events wherever they are taking place. Bryan Rothwell, Solway Plain Team Magazine By Irene McKay, ported by others, we offer facilities hidden gifts, insights and skills, Steward, Levens Methodist Church for: varied ecumenical worship with new visions for developing KATIE Banks would like to thank everyone who opportunities and a weekly fellow- the facilities to meet further needs supported her in the London Marathon. She is ship study group; a Post Office in the community. delighted to say that the amount she has raised for “EACH of us was given grace the Cystic Fibrosis Trust is just over £6,000. outlet; a coffee shop with books to The church’s commitment to St Mary’s Church Wreay according to the measure of borrow and jigsaws to enjoy mak- hospitality and God for All is Christ’s gift... he gave gifts to His ing and borrow; immunisation expressed in its statement of THERE are so many opportunities for people to people.” (Ephesians 4) surgery; community meetings; and purpose: “Levens Methodist come forward to help, and give and gain from the Members of Levens village events where crafts, produce and Church seeks to be a place of experience, just as President Kennedy indicated all Methodist Church were feeling those years ago! So maybe we ought to be saying: exchange of goods can be shared. welcome, sharing the love of God, ‘Ask not what your Church can do for you but what very vulnerable. In partnership with St John’s, where all people are valued and you can do for your Church.’ “How will we cope without the CTiL and the Kent Estuary Youth can belong, finding friendship, Binsey Link, The magazine of the two people who have managed so project, we also engage with chil- Christian nurture and care.” Binsey Team Mission Community, the churches of much relating to oversight, Community: Local people dren and young people and care As new volunteers become Allhallows, Bassenthwaite, Boltons, finance, property and engagement working together in Levens for people in need. involved in supporting the Embleton, Ireby, Isel, Plumbland, Setmurthy, with all that sustains the life of our Torpenhow, Uldale and It was important to accept we activities, they in turn attract friends church?” Everyone felt very Christians Together in could do things differently, valuing to come and share in all that we IT’S good to know, when evil strikes in our world, inadequate. Levens(CTiL), Kendal Methodist everyone’s particular and different offer into the life of the village. that people still show that they are made in God’s The response was to break down Circuit and other people in the skills and strengths. The work continues to develop, image. We humans can be very selfish, but God’s everything into many small tasks local community, but above all to Still feeling inadequate, people but in every situation we seek to compassion and mercy come to the fore when and responsibilities and to find work together and encourage each felt enabled to begin taking on ensure the commitment of time is needs arise. which tasks could be shared and STEVE CARTER, Raughton Head Parish Magazine other. small areas of responsibility. what suits each person. “The body supported by friends from By working together, and sup- Suddenly there was a release of is made up of many parts.” www.churchestogethercumbria.co.uk The Way, Summer 2017 11 WHAT’S ON AROUND CUMBRIA

Living with the Mystics Tues Aug 1, 10am for 10.30am to 3pm, Friends Meeting House, Elliot Park, Keswick Hewlett and Joy Thompson lead this day focussing on Helen Waddell. Cost is £5. Drinks are provided, but please bring your own lunch. To book contact Bob Morley 016974 72644 or at [email protected].

Flower Festival Sat 26 to Mon Aug 28, St Andrew’s Church, Penrith Penrith Flower Club and St Andrew’s Church arrange 'A Celebration of the Eden Valley' displays. More details via www.standrewspenrith.org.uk or email [email protected].

Christine Pickering: ‘Praying with our whole selves’ Thurs Sept 7, 9.30am to 4pm, Rydal Hall A day of Maranatha Yoga. There will be guidance through gentle movements, postures and sequences that portray spiritual themes. The cost is £25, including a simple lunch and refreshments. To book contact 015394 32050 or [email protected].

Joan Wager: How many loaves are enough? Thurs Oct 5, 9.30am to 4pm, Rydal Hall We are challenged daily by the immensity of need in Significant: Visitors bring £2.72 billion to the local economy; inset, new chaplain Maggie Patchett our world. What does the story of the feeding of the MAIN PICTURE: WINDERMERE LAKE CRUISES 5,000 have to say that can help us? The cost is £25, including a simple lunch and refreshments. To book contact 015394 32050 or [email protected].

Contemplative Living in Daily Life Wed Oct 11, 10am for 10.30am to 3.30pm, Glenthorne Quaker Centre, Easedale Road, Grasmere, LA22 9QH Lakes gets chaplain Led by Cameron Butland and Terry Winterton. Cost £20 (concessions £5). To book contact Richard on 01946 862990 or [email protected].

Living with the Mystics Tues Nov 7, 10am for 10.30am to 3pm, Friends dedicated to tourism Meeting House, Elliot Park, Keswick Richard Broughton leads the day, focussing on Christian encounters with Zen. Cost is £5. Drinks are n provided, but please bring your own lunch. To book con- Methodist initiative described as a ‘new form of outreach for the county’ tact Bob Morley 016974 72644 or at [email protected]. By Dave Roberts realised very early on after The Boarbank Retreat first moving to Cumbria, that Fri 17 to Sun Nov 19, 5.30pm on Friday to 2pm on ‘FORWARD THINKING’ the church was missing a real Sunday, Boarbank Hall, Allithwaite, Grange over A GLANCE at the headline opportunity in ministering to Sands, Cumbria LA11 7NH those in the tourism industry. Stefan Reynolds will lead the retreat. Cost is £130 figures shows just how SO WHAT does the tourism (concessions £100). To book contact Richard on 01946 important tourism is to industry itself make of the “So when the South Lakes 862990 or [email protected]. Cumbria. creation of the chaplain’s Circuit was looking at finding In total, 45 million visitors post? Ian Stephens told The a new minister in its northern Cumbria Churches’ Dementia Conference Way what he thought before were drawn to the region in part – Windermere, Ambleside Sat Nov 25, 10am to 3.30pm, Penrith Methodist Church passing on the baton of man- and Hawkshead – we realised 2016, bringing in £2.72 billion aging director of Cumbria Speakers are the , Hilary Doxford, to the economy. More than Tourism earlier in the sum- this was a great opportunity to the Rev Gaynor Hammond and Jeremy Hughes. To 62,000 people (a fifth of the mer. appoint someone whose role reserve a place, contact Margaret Irving via county’s workforce) are “We’re an industry which is could be partly based in [email protected] or 07540 920829. employed in the sector. focussed on providing first- tourism chaplaincy. Now that the sector is set to rate customer service and Ian Stephens: ‘Positive’ “The project sits beautifully Celtic Harp, Celtic Spirituality and Meditation this chaplaincy will add to the within the God for All vision, Sat Dec 2, 10am for 10am to 3:30pm, Carver Church, receive extra support. As part Lake Road, Windermere LA23 2BY offer Cumbria makes to cult conditions. So we recog- of a project being rolled out in and will offer the opportunity Led by accredited therapeutic harp practitioner Julie September, Deacon Maggie tourists. Tourism is a service nise this is one of the ways for churches to further work industry which is made up of that employees within the Darling. A £20 donation is suggested (concessions £5). Patchett is to join the alongside Maggie in her Drinks are provided, but please bring your own lunch. a wide range of needs and industry can find support and chaplaincy role.” Methodist Circuit in the South requirements and obviously Contact Richard – 01946 862990, [email protected]. additional help. It’s a positive The hope is that through the Lakes, with 60 per cent of her providing a pastoral or sup- move and perhaps other time given over to a new role port service for people is an denominations may follow chaplaincy more church build- as a tourism chaplain. additional benefit for people suit. It’s progressive and ings will be opened for out- Maggie said: “I am very coming to the county. innovative. reach for those people visiting much looking forward to “Working within the sector “It’s another example of how Cumbria. And the chaplain joining the team in the South we have a large number of the two sectors can work will draw alongside workers Phone: 01768 868683 Lakes circuit in September people from many different together well. Faith tourism is in the tourism industry. and to being part of the new parts of the world, back- already an important part of As well as being appointed Email: [email protected] grounds and religious beliefs. the global tourism market. tourism chaplain, Maggie will initiative to create and develop So it’s forward thinking that There’s a big heritage aspect a chaplaincy ministry to the the Methodist Church is pro- to faith tourism and so many of also have responsibility for www.askins-little.co.uk tourism industry in this area. viding this extra support for the churches in Cumbria are three Methodist churches. “For the past three years people who work in the stunning historical buildings. “Very often people working I’ve been involved with a rural industry. “There’s also a booming in the tourism sector are outreach project in and around “We know there are stress- ancestral tourism market – among the lower paid and Settle and Skipton, engaging es and strains for people who particularly from America – increasingly come from with ecumenical partners here work long hours and who, at and so there is scope to overseas and from different too, as we have sought to times, can work in quite diffi- develop this further.” cultures,” Graham said. discern the new paths God is “This is an opportunity to leading us on. I’m sure I’ll be and to being involved in the idea of the Rev Richard Teal, connect further with this able to bring insights and Cumbria ‘God for All’ pro- Chair of the Cumbria group of people and be seen We carryP outhone all: stonework,01786 868683 lime pointing learning with me that will be gramme, and I’m looking for- Methodist District, and the as a church which offers of benefit as I move from one ward to meeting new people Rev Graham Ransom, friendship and support. It will andwww.askins-little.co.uk lime plastering to churches, national park to another. in new places as we reach out Superintendent Minister for be a great outworking of the Email: [email protected] “I am excited by the together to share God’s love.” the South Lakes Circuit. Gospel. It’s a new form of memorials, listed buildings and homes prospect of this new venture The chaplaincy role is the Richard explained: “I outreach for the county.” 12 The Way, Summer 2017 www.godforall.org.uk NEWS IN BRIEF Prayer text service Bonnie guides the way A GUIDE dog has taken a lets non-Christians supporting role at one of the Diocese of Carlisle’s ordination services. Bonnie the Labrador led her owner Derek Vaughan take leap of faith and the Rev Mandy Jones, all pictured right, in a Carlisle Cathedral procession at the start of n the Petertide Ordination New scheme makes it easy for anyone to request a prayer Service in July. Derek, registered blind following an accident 30 years ago, was Mandy’s sponsor – a sup- portive role to represent the congregation at St Andrew’s Penrith. The full list of those ordained priest by the Bishop of Carlisle, the Rt Rev , is: Jonathan Gillespie to serve St Mary’s, Windermere, and Jesus Church, Troutbeck, with training incumbent David Wilmot; Richard Goodfellow to serve the Benefice of Aspatria with Hayton and Gilcrux with training incumbent Tim Herbert; Mandy Jones to serve Penrith Team Ministry with training incumbent Dave Sargent; Gavin Rushton to serve St Thomas’, Kendal, with training incumbent George Briggs; and Andrew Simmons to serve St John’s Houghton and St Peter’s Kingmoor with training incumbent Andrew Towner. The following day the Bishop of Penrith, the Rt Rev , led the ordination of Alison Riley as Deacon at St James’ Whitehaven with training incumbent Robert Jackson.

Meeting for Worship A response to a friend who told me of his search for a spiritual life where he felt nourished, accepted and at home... In the silence a tide rides up the beach its reach allowing its grasp. It clasps a rough stone Anonymous: Cumbria’s Text-a-Prayer is a confidential service DAVE ROBERTS scuffs it into a ball that rolls away to scroll IMAGINE if Christians in By Eleanor Ledesma, their lives, before ultimately a message of homeliness and ease Cumbria were able to offer the Big Reach Innovator becoming followers of Jesus. on the sands you walk in your mind. So far, a team of nine people ‘Be kind to yourself,’ it reads. service of prayer to every person in the county? So that, have come forward as prayer ‘You are understood and loved. Many churches already have, or volunteers. They are from all over Bathe in the living water of silence; whatever people were going support, prayer ministries in the county, of all ages and it is God’s gift to your presence.’ though, they could be assured Cumbria, but these are backgrounds, but they are united MAGGIE NORTON that someone would pray for geographically limited, and are by a passion for prayer and a heart them within 24 hours. often person-to-person. Personal for people in need. However, we Well, this is the aim behind the contact brings many advantages, still need more pray-ers. The rate new Cumbria Text-a-Prayer but it takes courage for a non- at which we can extend the service service. Christian to take the first step in across Cumbria is limited only by This exciting new Big Reach approaching someone for prayer. the number of prayer volunteers. project will offer prayer to every For people who don’t have any Could you join us? Simply person in Cumbria through connection to church, the step is choose a day of the week to be on publicity materials placed in greater. Text-a-Prayer is an the prayer rota. You will then doctors’ surgeries, places of work anonymous, confidential service, receive an email with a list of the and other prominent locations. which people can access in private. day’s prayer requests for you to Eventually, we will also place Text-a-prayer will give non- pray through that evening or the adverts in local newspapers and on Christians the opportunity to take a following morning, whichever public transport. If someone wants step of faith by asking for prayer. works better for you. to be prayed for, they simply have We believe that God will honour If you’d like more information to text their request to a centrally this step, and we pray that people or you’d like to sign up, email operated number. will begin to notice God at work in [email protected].

‘VALUABLE TOOL IN MAKING PRAYER ACCESSIBLE’

Fran Parkinson, of Ravenstonedale, prayer accessible, especially for explains why she got involved with people who may not think about the project as a prayer volunteer... praying for themselves. It will also provide a safe and confidential I recognize that, even in our age of forum for those who might need our social media, it isn’t always easy to prayers the most. connect people with God, even I often wonder whether the point though people might spend a lot of of prayer is to change our circum- time connecting with each other. stances or actually to change us. However, as Christians, we can My hope is that as we intercede on always bring others before God in behalf of those who respond, God prayer and Text-a-Prayer is an will do both, by blessing those who opportunity to do just that. send a text and also those who are I wanted to be involved because I involved on the team. believe it will reach those who may My own prayer is that, ultimately, not be connected with church and God will do even more than we will be a valuable tool in making could ask or imagine. Volunteer: Fran Parkinson www.godforall.org.uk The Way, Summer 2017 13

Performance: Children from Nsukazi Primary School in Zulu dancing costume Look and learn in Zululand

As denominations across Cumbria continue to build on international links and mission opportunities overseas, we hear from the Rev Canon Alan Bing, the Rector of Ulverston, who has recently completed a visit to Zululand. The Diocese of Zululand is one of the Diocese of Carlisle’s three partnerships for world mission. Typical: Homes in Zululand

IN MAY, 11 of us from the Diocese of Carlisle, led by Rod and Jan Mike Angelo Allon-Smith, visited our partner diocese of Zululand. Photography We represented different areas of interest – education, farming, Mothers’ Union, ministry and mission – exploring these PRESS – PUBLICITY – PRESENTATIONS separately and as a group. We were there to look and learn as much as to do things. Lakeland Seasons, Lakeland Life and Even so, I was glad to take part in a Lakeland Calendar are three differing, Meeting: Alan Bing talking to children at Nsukazi Primary School workshop with their evangelism team on the 50-minute audio-visual presentations featuring the ‘five marks of mission’. annual beauty of Cumbria. I was challenged by how seriously they are seeking to oppose injustice and renew creation, with five clearly identified These FREE entertaining and informative shows environmental priorities. may be booked in advance by WI and MU. We visited two projects which were Music, poetry and narration accompany the putting these into practice. One was a credit spectacular images which have already been union, enabling a variety of micro appreciated at various venues. businesses to start up – from brick-making to bean-growing. The other was in a remote For details, phone/text 07813 085877 area, where diocesan land is being farmed to or visit www.edenonline.net provide food for about 30 families and to raise money for the community. They were very Christ-centred enterprises. We also visited battlefield sites from the Anglo-Zulu and Zulu-Boer wars, which Greetings from helped to give a historical perspective, and Traditional: Children perform a Zulu Garden: Christian Aid community witnessed the abundance of African wildlife Grange-over-Sands dance at Nsukazi Primary School and church mobilisation project in one of their game parks. I had been to Zululand before, with Bishop , to lead two conferences on healing and deliverance, and was glad of the opportunity to re-visit, with time to absorb and reflect. I was struck again by the way in which we Europeans are ruled by the clock, while Africans are ruled by events, and generally have more time for people. I was impressed www.bayscapes.co.uk by the unshakeable faith of Zulu Christians, despite great privation and uncertainty, and by their unhurried, joyful worship. We have a lot to learn from one another ThornleigH and I hope that our partnership in Christ can develop through personal contacts, school Christian Hotel links and shared projects. Perhaps the next step is to receive a few key people from 015395 32733 Communion: Alan Bing blessing Voices: A Mothers’ Union meeting at Zululand who can help us grow and maybe, children at the church in Ulundi the cathedral in Eshowe in God’s grace, also learn from us. [email protected] www.thornleigh.org 14 The Way, Summer 2017 www.cumbriamethodistdistrict.org.uk By The Way New website offers support The Trinity... simplified TRYING to explain the doctrine of the Trinity has kept many a theologian busy down the centuries. One helpful picture is to imagine the sun shining in to all mission communities the sky. The sun itself – way out there in space – unapproachable in its fiery majesty – is the Father. The light that flows from it, and which illuminates all our lives, is the Son. The heat that flows from it, and which gives us all the energy to move and grow, is the Holy Spirit. The Link, Holy Trinity and St Barnabas with Sandsfield Fellowship

IF, like me, you are feeling we are in turbulent times, you might find it an encouragement to look at Psalm 124 where the psalmist reflects on the storm that has broken over God’s people and the torrents that have battered them, but is still able to conclude By Dave Roberts “our help is in the name of the Lord, who has made heaven and earth”. JAMES RICHARDS, St Martin’s, A NEW website has been launched Bowness-on-Windermere in support of Cumbria Christian Learning (CCL), the county’s THIS year is exceptional in that all the spring flowers have been early and given a really good show. I learning and training organisation think this is due to the dry, mild winter. The land had to grow disciples for mission. been getting very dry, but a wet day in the middle of CCL was officially launched by May stirred the becks and put things to rights. the Diocese of Carlisle in Septem- BOB JACKSON, Contact, Lamplugh, Kirkland and ber 2016 and now has seven full- Ennerdale Ecumenical Parish time members of staff and two ROD and Jan have been part of that history over part-time administrative posts. the last seven years and eventually Rod’s name will The organisation is tasked with be added to the list of priors and vicars who have offering direct support to mission Learning opportunities: The Rev Dr Roger Latham, standing, with ordinands at a retreat served this community and congregation. Seven communities – up to 35 groups of years of spiritual achievement, seven years of mutually self-supporting church weekend at Rydal Hall JENNY WOOLGAR PHOTOGRAPHY prayer and dedication with inevitably some disap- networks with a focus on mission pointments. from enquirers’ and seekers’ James Bober, CCL Administrator. or unpaid ministers than we do JOHN SMITH, Writings on the Wall, A Newsletter – which are being launched and from the Anglican Churches of Lanercost with commissioned across the county as courses through to how they can CCL’s main purpose is to ‘grow stipendiary clergy. So part of the Walton, Gilsland and Nether Denton part of the ecumenical God for All best develop their ministry teams. disciples for mission’. This is about challenge for us is to consider vision and strategy. The new website is a way for helping every Christian in every what the Church will look like in PRAY as you can, not as you can’t. People who The website includes details of people to tap into the learning and church in Cumbria to deepen and ten years in Cumbria. write books about prayer, each have their own training opportunities on offer.” strengthen their relationship with “We need to think about how we favourite way of praying, and tell us all about it. But courses and resources being offered their way might not be my way. Instead of trying to under four main headings: ‘learning As well as Roger, who was God, and to discern what their call will identify the people God is fit into someone else’s mould, discover your own and growing as disciples’, appointed director in April 2016, to serve him might be, either within calling to these new roles and help way. ‘vocational’, ‘initial ministerial the CCL team is made up of the or outside the church. them grow in their sense of what BILL WHITE, Together Community Newsletter, education’ and ‘continuing Rev Canon Peter Clement, The team’s specialities link God is calling them to in a Church provided by the churches of Matterdale, ministerial development’. Diocesan Director of Ordinands together, offering a range of which is rather different to what Watermillock, Patterdale, Greystoke, and Vocations Development learning opportunities, including we have now. Penruddock and Mungrisdale The Rev Dr Roger Latham, CCL Director, said: “Our central focus in Officer; Dr Karl Möller, Principal pre- and post-ordination training “We’d encourage as many THE total amount received so far from the Gift Day the short term is to offer high-quality of Initial Ministerial Education; the and support for ordinands, people as possible to visit the new appeal for St George’s is about £1,900. The learning opportunities so that Rev Dr Allison Fenton, and Anglican readers, but most website to see the varied learning quotation we have received to repair the windows nascent mission communities have Vice-Principal of Initial Ministerial resources on the website are and training opportunities we have on the south side of the building which let in the Education; the Rev Nicki intended for local congregations on offer in order that we can all rain is about £2,000 per window. The PCC decided the support they need to get off the we should go ahead as soon as possible with at ground and grow sustainably. Pennington, Learning Development and their ministers. maximise our potential as least two of them, so that the walls in the Den and “To do that we’ve got to make Team Leader; the Rev Jane Roger added: “Our God for All disciples for mission.” Upper Hall can be re-plastered. resources available which mission Maycock, Continuing Ministerial strategy identifies that eventually l Visit the new website at PETER DUDEK, Parish News, St George Kendal communities feel enabled to use – Development Team Leader; and Dr we will have more self-supporting www.cumbriachristianlearning.org. THE Wesleyan Methodist Church was established in Dalston at the end of the 18th century. Initially, various premises would have been used for worship but the congregation subscribed sufficient money to build a ‘Faith isn’t for an hour on Sunday, but for every moment’ chapel in the Indian King Yard which opened in 1826. Dalston Parish Paper WE HEAR from four people about ANDY WALSH said: their Called to Serve journey and “Called to Serve was a IT’S been a very busy time for North Lakes what it meant to them as they Course can ‘seriously change your life’ great opportunity to Foodbank Egremont Centre since January. We've responded to God’s call on their learn more about God been called upon to help twice as many people as lives... THE Called to Serve course is and faith… being part of the same time last year and have handled a huge starting this September in a community, learning amount of donations from around the community. In SUSAN SHAW attend- Cumbria. This year-long learning the different ways we the last year Egremont Foodbank has helped 402 ed church regularly but opportunity is for Christians who can serve God together, not just in people, given out three tonnes of food to those in struggled to link her want to grow and discover more of church but in our daily lives.” need and processed 2.5 tonnes of food donations. faith with life outside God and God’s purposes for them Andy has since set up his own Egremont Methodist Church church. At Called to in their faith communities and café and bakery business in Serve, she found wider world. Cockermouth. He sees this as part of GREETINGS from Brazil! At the beginning of April, others with similar Within a supportive learning his calling and his faith is at the heart I was privileged to be part of a mission team that questions, doubts and stories. community people, are enabled to of how he runs his business. travelled from the UK to Iguazu Falls, Brazil. There “The course opened my eyes to reflect on their gifts, skills and “The Coffee Kitchen provides a were 24 of us from four Methodist churches. We see that faith isn’t for an hour on experience in order to discern how Celebration: A Called to third space; somewhere people ranged in age from 13 to 78, with the majority of the Sunday, but for every single they can serve God and share their meet, conversations start, friend- team being over 65. Whilst we were there we moment. It isn’t impersonal; it’s a faith in the places where they live, Serve service at Penrith ships begin and community is built.” worked with three Methodist churches in the town - relationship. We all have gifts and work and worship. Methodist Church Central, Cataratas and Portalda Foz. talents; mission isn’t just for people “The course should come with a ASHLEY MOFFAT has SOPHIE CARNABY, Newslink, in dog collars!” health warning – it can seriously individuals discover more about always had a sense of South West Cumbria United Area Susan has since explored a lay change your life!” said Susan God, about themselves and about God in his life, but was ministry role. Of her Reader training, Shaw, who attended. how they can serve the God For uncertain what embark- MORLAND Area Community First Responders: We she reflects: “I feel I am where God More than 500 people have taken All. ing on the faith journey currently have a shortfall in responders and need to wants me to be... I’m involved in part in it since it began in 2005. If you want to find out more, get might mean for him. increase our numbers so we can provide as much Messy Church, school work, leading It continues to provide in touch be emailing admin@ He attended an cover as we can to the people in our area. Our aim worship, preaching and I’m embarking life-changing opportunities as cumbriachristianlearning.org.uk. Alpha course which led to him going is to provide 24-hour cover, seven days a week, so on funeral ministry… a huge privilege.” to church regularly. In time he when you need us, we are available. became church warden, but he still North Westmorland News Having moved, full-time community. She hoped Called to “Unlike some, I never felt led had a sense that God was calling him worker PAM Serve would help her discern how towards any kind of authorised to something more. While on Called SINCERE thanks to all those with responsibility for HERBERT was God might use her in this new place. ministry. to Serve, Ashley became aware of a the ministry, administration and maintenance of the uncertain how she “The course introduced me to new “Since the course, I have become desire to reach out to the bereaved. priory and halls and grounds over the last year – for could support both her friends from widely differing experi- more involved in music and worship He is now exploring opportunities to their dedication to its life and work. parish minister hus- ences and churches. We quickly and hope that our fellowship and offer support in his community on St Bees News band and the wider became a supportive, caring group. ministry will grow and flourish.” behalf of the Church. www.cumbriamethodistdistrict.org.uk The Way, Summer 2017 15 No Gospel choir? I’ll make my own! n personal faith. That’s what I have Singers respond to brought to the Gospel choir and that’s what we all took into St engineer’s call for Peter’s that night. members after move “I know some people who had not been going to church felt so to west Cumbria moved by what they heard that night, that they said they had found NOSA Ehigie has always loved faith again and wanted to commit to sing in gospel choirs. From to going back to church. That’s teenage years in his native fantastic.” Nigeria, through to time spent The evening included perfor- latterly in Aberdeen, he’s mances of hymns and songs such always found music to be a as Blessed Assurance, When I Look wonderful way to worship God. Into your Holiness, God Great So when the engineer arrived in God, Every Praise and How Great west Cumbria last year, he was Thou Art. looking for ways to continue his “When we first started to prac- love and passion for gospel music. tise, while I knew all the songs, a Unfortunately, Nosa could not lot of the choir didn’t,” Nosa find a gospel choir in the area. explains. “All the music performed Undeterred, he took matters into on that evening was filled with the his own hands and set up the Holy Spirit. As we sang I Stand Cumbrian Community Gospel Amazed in the Presence, I was Choir. moved to tears.” He explains: “I’ve always loved ‘Filled with the Holy Spirit’: Nosa, far right, with choir members after their worship evening A second worship evening with to sing in choirs as well as at St Peter’s Kells the Community Gospel Choir is conducting and directing them. So already being planning and the when I arrived in Egremont and passion. It never makes me feel bers for the choir and sure enough their first worship evening in group has started meeting for realised there was no gospel choir restricted. I can clap my hands, people came along. Initially there collaboration with St Peter’s rehearsals again on Tuesdays at to join, I decided to create a new jump and dance. It allows me to were six of us but now we’ve Church, Kells, in Whitehaven. 7pm. The venue is now Christ one. communicate such an important grown to about 15 to 20 members.” “This was not a show or a Church, Cockermouth. “Through Gospel music I’m able message in one simple form. It The group began rehearsing concert,” Nosa, aged 34, says. The choir continues to look to to convey the message of the cross also enables me to praise, worship every Tuesday night at All Saints’ “This was a worship experience grow numbers and anyone who is and the resurrection of the Lord in and minister to the Lord. Church, Cockermouth, and in May for everyone who was there. For interested in joining should email a way that is full of harmonies and “I put out the call for new mem- they held Together in Worship, me it was a reflection of my [email protected]. Enthusiasts’ bid to purchase and COCKERMOUTH preserve poet’s home in Millom Stained Glass

By Martyn Halsall, Former Carlisle Cathedral I will design, manufacture and Poet-in-Residence install stained glass for your windows and doors in a style of LITERARY campaigners your choice have launched a national appeal to buy and restore the REPAIRS AND RESTORATION lifelong home of the WORK UNDERTAKEN Cumbrian poet and writer Norman Nicholson – to promote his work and the community it reflected. Doug Smith, Cockermouth Stained Glass, Castle Yard Workshop, Isel Nicholson (1914-1987) Road, Cockermouth, Cumbria, CA13 9EZ. Tel: 01900 825576. Mobile: spent only 19 months away 0776 3583721. Email:[email protected] from 14 St George’s Terrace in Millom. It was here that he wrote some 30 books of Norman Nicholson: ‘Unique’: Charlie Simple: The building on poetry, criticism, plays and Cumbrian topography in a Promoted by TS Eliot Lambert at the launch St George’s Terrace second-floor attic study-cum- RAY TROLLS FURNESS NEWSPAPERS FURNESS NEWSPAPERS bedroom, looking out over Norman Nicholson Society, Charlie Lambert, chairman brought into use as a source neighbouring roof-tops to the estimate that at least as much of the Norman Nicholson of inspiration for generations flanks of Black Coombe in again will be needed for Society, said: “This house to come.” the south-west corner of the restoration and development. was a unique source of A major focus of the house, . “I thank God Immediate targets include a inspiration to Nicholson: all once fronted by the men’s for a lifetime spent in that Heritage Lottery Fund grant his writing was created here. outfitters run by Nicholson’s same town,” he wrote. to commission an architect’s This is a very important father, Joseph, would be on His former home, now the survey. Longer-term building, not just to the town, educational projects and Norman Nicholson Coffee proposals include developing but also to English literature. community development. House and takeaway, could a Nicholson display in an “We live in age when Patrons supporting the form a national centre for the upgraded cafe, and providing environmental issues are top scheme include Eric Robson, developing interest in a writ- access to the family rooms, of the agenda, and when ‘a who chairs Gardeners’ er promoted by TS Eliot, and with accommodation for sense of place’ has become Question Time on BBC recognised as one of the study, and a writer in important to people. Radio 4, Nicholson’s biogra- leading Christian poets of the residence. “Nicholson was a standard- pher Kathleen Jones, the poet later 20th century. The Norman Nicholson bearer for these issues many Neil Curry and the vicar of The modest terraced house House project was launched years ago, and his writings Millom, the Rev Clive Shaw. down a Millom side street is in St George’s, the Millom are still valued. Contact the project on the market for £59,500, church Nicholson attended “We want to ensure his via normannicholsonhouse but the intended buyers, the for most of his life. home is preserved and @gmail.com. 16 The Way, Summer 2017

Kate Bruce: Interested in how stand-up comedy can sharpen delivery and performance, skills that are essential to the art of preaching JENNY WOOLGAR PHOTOGRAPHY

‘If preaching is boring, something is wrong...’

Please tell us a little bit n Qabout yourself. In the second of our Focus on Faith series, we hear from the

I am deputy warden and Rev Dr Kate Bruce, teacher in preaching and stand-up comedian tutor in preaching at ACranmer Hall. I love teach- years old, doing degrees in ‘oughts’? If preaching is boring, about what the focus of the sermon Facebook for crowdsourcing ideas, ing people and encouraging them theology and ministry. We offer something is wrong! is and what you want the sermon along with making use of digital to communicate imaginatively and undergraduate and post-graduate There’s always more to consider to do. imagery to support the sermon. effectively, finding their own con- degrees in theology, mission and in terms of the practice of preach- Take care over language. fidence and voice. I love writing, ministry. ing – more to learn about theology, Language has power. Don’t be How does your work in and enjoy watching and sometimes My job involves a mixture of structure, delivery and how to con- sloppy over words. Cut out the the study of preaching performing stand-up comedy. teaching, tutoring students and the nect with the cultures around us. empty calorie language – the Qcomplement your work in A few years ago I took the usual admin. I enjoy listening to There are great books on preach- words that don’t do anything. stand-up? decision to try to get out of the students as they reflect on their ing, and always something new to Preachers are wordsmiths; have a church and meet other people – experience in theological college; add to the toolbox through read- care for the language you employ. It keeps me sharp. It takes and delivering stand-up seemed a it’s not always easy for them, but ing, and learning from each other. practice and know-how to way of doing this. From school it is remarkable seeing how they What are the challenges Ahold a room in a comedy days onward I’ve always loved to develop though the experience. What are your top tips that preachers face in event, to be able to use the make people laugh. I’m interested My primary subject is preaching on how to give a good Qtoday’s digital world? physicality of communication to in how stand-up comedy can – and I deliver courses at BA and Qsermon? support the words being uttered. sharpen my skills in delivery and MA level and am delighted to be Popular wisdom tells us that This speaks into preaching, even performance, which are part of the supervising a fascinating PhD in Number one – talk to God people can’t concentrate for if the goal of the two is different. art of preaching. I’ve learned a preaching. about it, and listen. Pay Amore than a nanosecond. Performance should not be seen great deal through doing this – but I often travel around the country Aattention to the biblical text Popular wisdom is talking pants. as a swear word in preaching. If I I won’t be giving up the day job to offer support and ongoing you are working with. What is it This kind of unsubstantiated claim am performing something, it any time soon. training for preachers in different doing? What are the questions it is can easily rob the preacher of doesn’t mean it is not founded in denominations. I especially enjoy seeking to answer? Who was it confidence. People do offer truth, or that I am wearing a mask. What does your job working with younger preachers. written for and why? What are the sustained interest in response to Whenever anyone stands up to entail? difficult bits? Don’t ignore them; monologues. The key is to hold that speak they are performing; the key Q Why is it important that wrestle with them, and talk to God interest. That calls for preachers to question is whether it is an effec- we study the art of some more. make connections between the deep- tive or an ineffective performance. Cranmer Hall is part of St Qpreaching? Pay attention to your context. est concerns of our hearers and the The art of performance hinges John’s College, which, in What do people care about? What voice of God which speaks through around the question: ‘How can I Aturn, is part of Durham Poor preaching is a form of questions do they ask? What do the written words of scripture. use my body – gesture, tonal University. We train people for heresy. How can we people struggle with? What does We shouldn’t shun the digital, or variation and inflection, volume, ordination in the Church of Apossibly take something as good news look like in your con- fear it – it is part of our culture and pauses, eye contact and so on – to England, as well as welcoming glorious and transformative as the text? can enhance the sermon – perhaps breathe life into the meaning I representatives of free churches story of God’s love for the world Make sure the sermon has a through the use of Twitter to send want to convey?’ Doing stand-up onto our courses. We also have and turn it into a tedious trawl clear structure. A rambling sermon out an abbreviated form of the ser- – with no notes – tends to concen- some younger people, around 18 through a heap of ‘shoulds’ and is an insult to the listener. Be clear mon to a wider audience, or using trate the mind on such matters.