The Pope and the Planet Why It Is Vital for Us All to Respond As Christians

IST CHUR R CH CH

WINTER Christ Church, Copse Hill, West Wimbledon, SW20 0HG 2 0 1 5

£2.50 Caring for God’s Creation: a calling at the heart of our faith In this special issue we celebrate God’s Creation. In October, we had a series of events to raise awareness of our responsibility to care for the natural world – and this issue deepens the debate. Ian Christie explores the main themes of Pope Francis’ Caring for god’s creation recent Encyclical. This is followed by a piece from our own Bishop of Kingston, Richard Cheetham, explaining The Pope and the planet why it is vital for us all to respond as Christians. A new Christian movement for creation care Nick Robins then sets out how we could As we approach the global climate summit in Paris in deepen our practice at Christ Church. All this December, we are all called to be humble stewards of the is supplemented by tips earth says Ian Christie for further information n the spring the Pope In the Encyclical the Pope and inspiration… published an encyclical sums up and backs the scientific Let us have your letter about the glory of consensus that our current views and ideas for God’s creation – and our industrial consumption of future editions – we Icollective failure to care for it. resources are undermining the love hearing from you. Normally, an encyclical is a life support systems of the You can either email message to all the Roman Earth. He argues that “…our me at brendafclark@ Catholic flock worldwide. but common home is falling into btinternet.com, or leave PRAYER this one is different – it’s serious disrepair. …we can a note at the cross aisle. God in His love and addressed not only to Catholics see signs that things are now Many thanks. power will give you but to us Anglicans, and to reaching a breaking point, Muslims, and to Buddhists – in due to the rapid pace of change all the help and fact to the whole world, religious and degradation.” strength you need Brenda and secular. Continued on next page 2 3

Continued ... Francis goes on to make Caring for god’s creation the case that Christians must do all ‘We’re being they can to safeguard the world and reminded that love Colourful celebrations live in a way that can be sustained by Not only did our Harvest Festival celebrations the earth. The reasons are two-fold. for God’s creation generate a feast of food donations for local First, to exploit the earth for selfish is at the heart of charities, but also a feast for the eyes. Christ What should our response reasons is to break the relationship Church f lorist, Elaine, created a stunning display God wants us to have with his Christian faith.’ at the top Altar with an explosion of Autumn creation. Second, the damage we are shades. Highlights of the festival included some doing to the environment harms the An international coalition of Islamic great singing from Junior Church, the ever be to this challenge? most vulnerable – people who are leaders and scholars issued their abundant Brownie and Guide cake stall and least able to adapt to a changed own summons to action against the communion bread in the shape of a sheaf Bishop Richard Cheetham, Bishop of Kingston climate and to a degraded climate disruption. of wheat, made by the Christ Church bakery! environment, and who have done So it feels as if something explains how we must live simply in order for little or nothing to cause the momentous is stirring. We’re being others to simply live... problems. Christian concern for the called to action this Creation-tide, poor and for justice mean that we and beyond. Moreover, we’re not n June two documents were published to God, and in whom heaven and earth are must be good stewards of the earth. being asked to add a secular idea of which could help shape the future of joined”. I agree. We need to recover a cosmic The Pope concludes with a profound environmental concern to our humanity and the Earth. The Papal vision of the Gospel which embraces all five and prayerful analysis of ways in Christian life. We’re being reminded encyclical Laudato Si ’– On Care For marks of mission and draws on biblical which Christians and all people of that love for God’s creation, and OurI Common Home, and the Lambeth passages such as John 1 and Colossians 1. goodwill can work together to live respectful stewardship of all the Declaration from the Archbishop of The second is to recognise the link between more humbly, peacefully and gently creatures and fruits of the world, is Canterbury and other faith leaders, both climate disruption and basic questions of on the Earth. at the heart of Christian faith. tackle the grand global challenge of climate justice and inequality. Major charities such We hope that you’ll want to read The environmental challenges of change. It is vital that Christians engage with as Christian Aid and CAFOD make it clear the Pope’s encyclical, which is a our time can’t be ignored by this, not just this year, but continually and with that the effects of climate change are already beautifully written, Biblically Christians. In facing up to them, we great determination. being felt disproportionately by the poor, who grounded and deeply hopeful call to can not only help the Earth recover As a teenager in the early 1970s I was have done least to cause it. The vast thought, prayer and action. Francis is from the impact of our consumption greatly influenced by three books. The first inequalities of wealth and opportunity across not alone in calling all Christians – and production, but we can also was Only One Earth – The the earth are surely one of and people of all faiths and none – to show what it is to live in a Christ-like Care And Maintenance Of A ‘We are to enjoy the greatest moral witness for our shared environment. way. Here at Christ Church we have Small Planet; the second was challenges of our time. The Church of England has been made a start in environmental Small Is Beautiful – the good fruits of Climate action is a matter working on ecological concerns for action, but there is much more to do. Economics As If People of justice for the poorest over 30 years. Our Church’s In taking further steps, we will all be Matter; and the third was God’s world, but and most disadvantaged. commitment to green action has doing our bit in a vast global Enough is Enough, which in such a way as The third is the been reaffirmed this year. At the movement for change, and we’ll be argued that we must “live challenge to our lifestyles. same time as the papal encyclical making life better in our parish too. simply that others may they are shared One problem is that appeared, the Archbishop of Ian is a Fellow at the Centre for Environ- simply live”. Since then the equitably and environmental Canterbury launched a multi-faith mental Strategy, University of Surrey, situation of the planet and campaigning can come statement –the Lambeth Associate with the Green Alliance and humankind has got much sustainably’ across as all hair-shirt and Declaration – calling for action to environmental advisor to the Bishop worse: we face dangerous kill-joy. But how we in the avert dangerous climate change. of Kingston and Southwark Diocese human-made climate change that could throw rich world consume is a vital issue. Society’s into reverse many advances in public health worship of consumption and growth can be and prosperity, and could worsen the huge seen as a form of idolatry. Jesus leaves us in no inequalities and injustices we see worldwide. doubt about his call to generosity, sharing and It is time to act. rejection of greed. We are to enjoy the good I see four key aspects to our Christian fruits of God’s world, but in such a way as response to this challenge. The first concerns they are shared equitably and sustainably. CHRIST CHURCH PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL our basic understanding of the Gospel and the The fourth is the growing realisation • Rev’d Richard • Godfrey Banks • Chris Larkman* Church’s Mission under God. Bishop David that the challenge of avoiding dangerous Lane Treasurer • Lynda Coleman* Atkinson has written that “much Christian climate change is a matter on which all the • Julie Grainger • Sharon • John Davey theology has become virtually overtaken with major faiths can act with integrity and Churchwarden Mawhinney* • Pat Spencer by the view that salvation is essentially strength, as reflected in this summer’s • Sally Edmunds • Tish Mousell • Ian Christie something to do with our individual souls, and Lambeth Declaration. Churchwarden • Julia Warner • Mary Ann Bown our journey to heaven. What has got lost is the That we all respond is vital. As Bishop • Debbie Morley • Paul Sinclair* Secretary • Naomi Lowe truth of the redemption of all things, the David has written, “the urgency of the task • Brenda Thurgood* • Vivian Harris Wisdom of God in whom all things hold is not only underscored by the science, but together, in whom all things are reconciled also required by the Gospel”. * Deanery Synod Representatives 4 5

Avoiding scams Smart ways to protect yourself

Caring for god’s creation Money KUNG FU HAMSTERS matters Cheerio for now... Creation Care Christ Church’s young people’s group bid a fond au revoir to leader

AgeUKIG05 Mark in the summer, but with his departure to Mongolia, the at Christ Church Making Kung Fu Hamsters are looking for a new leader. Could it be you? Creation Care is nothing new at Christ Church – and there are a number of ways in which we can individually and together the most as a congregation deepen our practice says Nick Robins of later life I’d like to suggest seven practical steps to review our investments and follow Love our neighbours inspired by the Ash Wednesday the leadership of the Church 6 Christ teaches us to love our id you know that Age UK Declaration from the excellent Operation Commissioners in divesting from coal neighbours – and this extends to people have a friendly advice Noah ecumenical environmental group. and other highly polluting fuels. across the world as well as future Dteam on hand 365 days a generations. Global disruption is also year, from 8am to 7pm – ready to Find joy in creation Take responsibility bringing new neighbours to our answer questions about any 1Creation is a wonderful gift from God – 4Our broader task is to take communities, with the Syrian conflict aspect of later life? They can the source of our sustenance and a work of responsibility for the wellbeing of creation: now recognised as being triggered in part send out guides and give advice great beauty. Our first step is to rejoice in we have acted as if Christ died only to save by climate change and drought. As Christ on personal care, going into this wonder – as many of us did this year at the human race; Christ brings redemption Church, we could aim to support the work hospital and bereavement, Lent when we shared the photographs that for all things. We must use our power wisely of local bodies working with refugees. pension queries, benefits and inspired us. For us to mark this joy in to promote the flourishing of diversity of how to use modern technology. creation, we could at Christ Church host an life on earth. The Eco-congregation Act with hope They can tell you where your annual Nature photography exhibition, programme sets out a whole range of things 7We start with joy and look forward with local Age UK centre is where you gathering all the ways that creation moves we can do as individuals and a congregation hope. Progress can be made. Pressure and can get one-to-one advice and o Mark’s farewell (with all the the Witchell brothers, Robbie and Jack. us to love God. to reduce the environmental impact of our effort have made Britain a much cleaner meet other people at social Hamsters available) took place in We are now looking for a short term lifestyles in terms of diet, energy and place over recent decades and this can events. They have published a Holland Gardens on a reasonably leader while Mark is away, to help Tish. Listen to the groaning transport: to live simply so that others may inspire us to overcome the global threat of free book – Avoiding Scams. good evening weather-wise, where It’s just one Friday a month during term 2of creation simply live. For us as a church perhaps the climate change. At Christ Church this A large number of people over Swe had a fiercely competitive boule and time, with a group of really fabulous Creation is being destroyed – species are biggest responsibility and opportunity we imperative of hope is expressed in the work the age of 65 have been targeted table tennis tournament. young people. We do all kinds of becoming extinct at an unprecedented rate, have is the Church Hall redevelopment – of Junior Church and KFH and we could by fraudsters, many via the It’s hard to say who won, as we had activities, from rock climbing to making forests levelled, rivers polluted and the and it is great to see that the highest explore how Creation Care is reflected in internet. Fortunately a lot of teams and individuals, but it was a lot the KFH Mincemeat for the Advent Fair. climate disrupted all through the self- standards of sustainability are at the heart these activities. In summary, we have a scams can be avoided if you of fun, and a lovely moment to reflect If you are interested in this worthwhile interest of humanity. Our actions in of the design. This could be our example chance now to revive our earlier work and know what to look out for. on the fabulous group that we have: and rewarding job, or know someone Wimbledon have global environmental of creation care made real. launch a new Creation Care group at Christ For advice call 0800 169 65 65 Nick Chinn, Meera Robins, Flo Stanley- who would be, please speak to Richard impacts that we cannot see. We need to pay Church. We could take forward these ideas... or go to www.ageuk.org.uk Hughes, Joe Tasch, Harry Naylor and or Tish. Thank you. attention to these signals – and develop a Seek justice 1. Host an annual nature photography space for quiet reflection. At Christ Church, 5It is the poor of the world who suffer exhibition we could do this by setting aside a time on most from environmental dislocation – 2. Set aside time for creation prayer on the the first day of each month to seek God’s the lack of clean air and water and the first day of each month guidance in prayer, joining the growing impacts of natural catastrophes, 3. Review Christ Church’s investments Perks of being sixty (plus)! group of those ‘fasting for the climate’. exacerbated by climate change. Acting 4. Deliver the new building project to the • No-one expects you to run anywhere justly requires us to hold those with power, highest sustainability standards • People call at 9pm and ask “did I wake you?” Ask for God’s forgiveness such as governments and business, to 5. Target a proportion of charitable giving for Prayer gives us time to • There is nothing left to learn the hard way 3 God grieves over the destruction of account and ensure that they support an environmental justice in developing “waste” with God, for it • Things you buy now won’t wear out creation and so should we. This means ambitious climate agreement in Paris this countries, such as access to water is time with love. It • You can get into a heated arguments about pension plans repentence - turning from past wrong and December. At Christ Church, we have a 6. Work with local community bodies to • Your joints are more accurate meteorologists deciding to change direction. For our great tradition of international giving – support refugees helps us too, to grow than the Met Office generation, removing our dependence on in Jordan, in Zimbabwe and with Pump 7. Explore creation care within Junior strong and wise, and to • Your secrets are safe with your friends because fossil fuels – coal, oil and gas - has become Aid. We could set an explicit target Church and KFH know that God looks they can’t remember them either essential to Christian discipleship. One for charitable giving for environmental Nick is Head of the Climate Change on us with love • You can’t remember who sent you this list! way we could realise this at Christ Church is justice each year. Centre of Excellence at HSBC in London. 6 7 Support for the bereaved he Raynes Park year, many of whom have been Bereavement Service, referred from local GP surgeries. which was set up and is We are fortunate to have the managed by Christ services of Breeda Fitzgerald, Church,T was born of the a trained counsellor from realisation that, among members Wimbledon Guild, who helps us at Built in 1936, with the kitchen added in Hall update 1939, the hall was loaned to the Church our monthly volunteer support of the congregation, there existed Army during the war for use as a canteen the care and commitment to meetings and acts as a guide. We e had planned on beginning the support each other in times of also work closely with the Roman construction of the new hall by now bereavement. It was at a PPC Catholic Bereavement Service at W but clearly there have been delays. In In 2009 the hall hosted meeting, where we were Sacred Heart Church and we order to comply with regulations designed to a fancy dress parade and children’s party to considering ways in which share open group meetings. protect the existing listed church, we have had celebrate Christ Church’s we could offer outreach to the Please tell anyone you know to apply to the Diocese for permission to Our dear old Church Hall 150th birthday local community, that the idea who has been bereaved about proceed with the work. This permit is called a Caroline Petch shares the many happy memories that our of a support service for the wider us. Sometimes one session is faculty. Whilst the Diocese is completely old Church Hall has given the parish and looks forward community grew. enough – but each person has committed to the hall/vicarage project, they The response to a request for different needs. have been approached by the Victorian to the building of our new one... potential volunteers was Society which has expressed concern about ow that the Church Hall Mostly things ran very with our new local resident, Darcey fantastic. Following an initial the siting of the new hall. These concerns is in the process of smoothly. l always lived in fear of Bussell, and wanted to use our interview and a day’s training we A request for help must be considered with due process so our being rebuilt, l am sure having a bookings clash, but hall for their classes. Sadly, this now have nine volunteers who When we meet a person who development plans have been delayed. there are many people there were a few close shaves! was not to be, as the demolition offer one-to-one sessions with has been bereaved in the However, work has not ground to a halt. The whoN have very happy memories Once we had the hall calendar process was on the horizon. bereaved people, meeting either Truman Room, on a Tuesday architect and his team, including the quantity of events taking place in the old online there was no excuse. at Lambton Road Medical afternoon, we need to have surveyor, structural, mechanical and electrical hall. I have taken bookings for It was always fun meeting Top team Practice or in the Truman Room at a ‘chaperone’ in the body of and acoustic engineers continue to work. occasional hirers for the last few potential hirers and hearing Behind the scenes were the Hall Christ Church. We have met with the church. Please let us They are nearing the end of their work on the years, first with Sal, and then with about the celebrations they were Management Committee who Many a piper has graced the about twenty people since we know if you are able to help? tendering documents so that as soon as the Vivian. It seems that there was arranging. The most memorable were unsung heroes ensuring sprung floor at Christ Church’s started at the beginning of the Victorian Society’s concerns have been hardly a gap in the hall diary with being two young opera singers that everything ran smoothly: anual Burns Night Supper addressed we will be ready to go to tender. Bruno Bear children’s playgroup, light bulbs changed, tea towels Call us on 07914 263420 or email [email protected] dancing, Pilates, Martial Arts, ‘The Bruno washed, drains unblocked, Puppy Training, Brownies and lost property sorted, the Girl Guides to mention just a few. Bear children sat mundane trivia of the well-used in amazement hall all being cheerfully sorted meetings by 10pm! to decide which charities the such as concerts, within the Best venue in town out by volunteers. One important decision we church will support at major local community. The old hall, being big and airy, listening to There was a rota of people have made is that we will wait festivals and provide The hall is currently was very popular for children’s who took it in turns at the until next spring to change the supporting literature. being tested for asbestos parties, for concerts on its stage, operatic weekend to let in people hiring PCC boiler and the heating system Charities chosen for the next and is no longer being used large family celebrations as renditions’ the hall and then to return later to in church. It needs to be three years will include for events. Bruno Bear is so many people could be check all was once again clean News upgraded and is going to be children’s charities, the now meeting in the comfortably seated and the who arranged a concert and and tidy and to lock up again, not an expensive and disruptive homeless, and refugees. Wimbledon Society Hall. kitchen facilities were so good. were checking out the acoustics a popular job when it was a late job. We will use our current We are always looking for Sal and Julie – our It was even used by film crews – with their pianist while the Bruno party with rather merry people heating system for one volunteers to help with all the churchwardens, have with seemingly hundreds of Bear children sat in amazement milling about! ince the last edition of more winter. behind-the-scenes work in organised for the damaged people and masses of listening to operatic renditions I do hope the new hall will be the magazine, the PCC We welcome Ian Christie the church. We would be boundary wall to be repaired. equipment. which filled the hall – not at all as happy and successful as the Shave met twice, in July as our new Health and Safety interested to hear from We thank them for all their In the old days, amateur like Baa Baa Black Sheep which much loved old one, and that and September. As ever there Officer. Vivian Harris, Abbie anyone who would like to help hard work behind the scenes. dramatics were a popular they were used to hearing from such an essential facility for the were lots of things to discuss, Fekete and Brenda Clark have with “Safeguarding” or Lots going on! Thanks pastime and the hall must the hall piano! local community will be built challenging Richard to meet joined the Charity Committee. “Communications” – helping for reading. have seen many productions The high spot of the hall’s quickly for so many people who From Quiz Night to Junior his target of finishing the The role of this committee is to promote church activities, Debbie Morley, PCC secretary with hopeful actors treading career would have been when a need a place to hire for such a Church, the hall has seen the boards. local dance group had joined up variety of activities. decacdes of happy memories 8 9

A–Z OF THE vicar’s letter church O My job as Area Dean Old Testament... The books of the Old Perhaps surprisingly, the one group of people Church of BAPTISMS Testament cover over England clergy find it hardest to get along with is... other clergy! SEPTEMBER 13th 2000 years of history Reverend Richard Lane explains... Arthur Alexander before the time of Christ. CHURCHER They were originally he’s not loud enough’, ‘he takes a services. In this Diocese, the Area Deans help We welcome you into the known as Tanakh funeral all wrong’, ‘he wears yellow/ with the pre-interview ‘look round’ part of the family at Christ Church. (Hebrew Scriptures) green/black/grey/stripy clerical appointment process and in consultation with and were retained by shirts’, ‘his view on penal substitution is the Archdeacon I help to arrange services of Did you know we send ‘Anniversary of baptism’ cards Christians as the Old heretical’...‘S you might hear us say about our fellow Induction. The Area Dean and his/her assistants Testament. There are clergy. A lot of us are quite happy to just get undertake a proportion of the annual visitations: for each child/person who has been baptised at Christ three clear divisions of on with it on our own thank you very much. meeting church wardens, checking to make sure Church? We send them the books – a) the Law; Get together for mutual support, resourcing, churches have insurance and a functioning on the anniversary of their encouragement or a pint? No thanks. In 27 years lightning conductor and checking that the silver b) later prophets – baptism for five years including Joshua and of ordained life, I’ve been a bit like that sometimes is all still there! I attend the Archdeaconry after that date Samuel; c) the writings as well. I know, hard to imagine isn’t it?! Mission and Pastoral Committee which is the – which include Ruth, Then four years ago, the then Archdeacon, group that advises the Archdeacon on possible Chronicles and Daniel. Chris Skilton, asked me to be Area Dean. It’s a job parish reorganisations. Jesus talks about the that sounds vaguely grand because it makes The best part of the job (ironically for one The JUNIOR CHURCH law, prophets and some people think of cathedrals, processing, previously so cautious about my sister and writings when He is higher wage rates, glittery important church brother clergy) is working together with them! children’s walking with the two stuff, and tea with Bishops. In reality, only the last It’s my job to encourage the clergy of the disciples on the road to of those is true and then it’s Deanery in their ministry cross Emmaus. only with the other twenty Area ‘The best bit is through a culture of Growing and developing the Deans at the same time. It is a engagement, mutual post I have studiously avoided trying to create support and affirmation for 23 of my 27 ordained years. relationships with and professional If the above all sounds a bit development. I’m there cynical, well I came into post other clergy so they to offer pastoral support Children of Christ Church thinking that it was really the for clergy and to ensure t’s wonderful to see the children was ignored by everyone because he last thing I wanted to add to my feel they can trust that problems arising are growing up. We really notice this at was a beggar and blind, but when Jesus PRAYER ministerial load. I said yes you for a chat properly managed in Junior Church, how they start at four arrived Bartimaeus had so much faith he For all things bright and because Chris was nice and consultation with the years old, and are very shy (except for managed to be heard by Jesus, touched used unashamed flattery to when things are Archdeacon. On the whole, SophieI - who is anything but shy!), and then him and regained his sight. beautiful; for all things get me to agree. In fact, (God getting rough’ the clergy aren’t always very gradually their confidence grows and they Sometimes we don’t have such a rich dark and mysterious and moving in his well-known good at looking after start to speak more and develop. theme, but it allowed us to do some great lovely. For all things green mysterious way I suppose) I’m enjoying it. themselves (when do you ever hear me moan!). We have a lovely group this year, and our actions with the story, and some role play and growing and strong; The job description says “In collaboration The Bishops are nearly always too much al Edmunds donated the subject matter this particular session was games, were most of them got the for all things weak and and full co-operation with the Bishop, engaged with the macro of church life to notice a children’s cross to Christ about showing mercy. We asked the opportunity to be Jesus or be Bartimeaus. struggling to push life up Archdeacon, Clergy and Laity, the Area Dean struggling parish priest. A good Archdeacon will SChurch some years ago children if there was someone at school Alex, Martha and Eric are really developing contributes to leading, co-ordinating and have his or her finger on the pulse of how we’re in memory of her daughter. who might have felt left out, could they and Laura and Calista (our older ones) are so through the rocky earth. administering the Deanery” (for me Merton). It’s doing but that isn’t always the case. The best bit The children now use it to include them more? Even the little ones helpful and lovely with the new four year For all human faces, hearts also my job to liaise with the Diocesan structures of being an Area Dean is trying to create process into Junior Church, seemed to understand this. We talked to olds. Now we’re planning the nativity, so and minds and hands that on matters of diocesan policy and strategy, and relationships with other clergy so they feel they but when not in use it rests in them about the blind man Bartimaeus who watch this space! Tish Mousell surround me, and all to enable good two-way communication can trust you for a chat when things are getting the children’s corner in church. nonhuman minds and between deanery and diocese. I have to summon rough. If I’ve ever managed that then I’d feel Sal says “I really enjoy listening hands, paws and claws, and preside at meetings of the Deanery Synod pretty content once the time comes to hang up to the children playing and (council) and arrange and chair Deanery my special, gold encrusted, Area Deans ‘Things drawing. The cross means a fins and wings. For this life Cleanliness is next to Godliness... Chapter meetings. To Do’ folder and give up forever, the special lot to me personally but also We urgently need more volunteers to help clean the church. It involves about one and the life of the world; The Area Dean is also responsible for helping privilege of buying, once every two months, represents the contribution hour a month in a team of three. The day and time is reasonably flexible. If you for all you give, I offer parishes manage a vacancy – assisting 25 Tesco sandwiches, two boxes of cakes of all the children to life at are able to help, please see Sue Rocksborough Smith or one of the churchwardens heartfelt praise churchwardens to make arrangements for and some crisps for the Chapter lunch. Christ Church.” 10 11 What binds us together Our man in Ulan Bator Earlier this year Richard set up an initiative to Former churchwarden, Mark Adams, has taken his teaching skills and his Book Club News create small groups from members of the infectious enthusiasm to Mongolia. Jenny Tomlinson reports... re-discovered short novel, first congregation, Here Debbie Morley describes her published in Germany 45 years ago, is orking in a British Mongolian children do not have to mysteries of the bank’s queuing the intriguing choice for discussion at “small group” – the South Raynes Parkers and Beyond! A school in the start school until they are six, so system. He has also visited the the Christ Church book club meeting in ne of our Vicar’s objectives lives and why we all go to Christ Church country’s capital, for some, this is their first mammoth monument to Genghis December. The Reunion by Fred Uhlman, is has been to set up small even when it’s not our parish church. Ulan Bator, Mark is experience of school, while others Khan and is exploring the delights Our War barely 100 pages long. It tells the story of the groups of people in the Christ For example because we have moved teachingW a Year 2 class of 24 have already attended school and of Ulan Bator’s restaurants, which intense friendship between two teenage Memorial Church community so they out of the area but want to keep our ties children, all Mongolian speakers have a familiarity with English. seem to offer a huge range of friends at an elite German boys’ school. One I visited the Ocan meet together and provide each and friendships with the church we are except for one boy from the UK Term began at the beginning of cuisine, mostly at reasonable is the son of an aristocratic family. The father Tower of other with friendship and support. To used to or because it’s the church we whose mother is also teaching at September with a formal opening prices, with drinkable beer and of the other boy is a Jewish doctor. The boys London do this the electoral roll was divided up feel most comfortable with. the school. He’s teaching in ceremony under clear blue skies vast quantities of vodka available! meet in 1932, a year before Hitler becomes several times on geographical lines and people were At our meetings we have been English, helped by a Mongolian and blazing sun. A large After warm sunshine at first, the German dictator. during the installation of invited to form small groups with following the Pilgrim lessons provided teaching assistant, who also proportion of the staff are new like the weather was growing chillier The novella has attracted considerable “Blood Swept Lands people who lived nearby, organised by by Richard. We have mainly speaks English to the class Mark, living in flats on the school by late September and Mark was praise, and it will be interesting to see if and Seas of Red” and a facilitator. started discussing but translates when necessary. site, so there is a ready-made forced to wrap himself in a blanket book club members, a diverse group, agree was struck by its beauty My small group is what we want to do So far the children seem tolerant community for him to join. He had for playground duty one morning. with the introduction by the Dean of the and poignancy. I bought ‘South Raynes Park when Pilgrim is of his efforts just to remember about ten days before term began Hopefully the warm boots Academie Francaise that the story’s impact a poppy with no real and beyond’ and we finished which will be and pronounce their multi- to arrange his flat, find his way ordered in the market will arrive is “as if, amid the flames of hell, angels thought about what I met for the first time at as we go into next syllable Mongolian names! around the local supermarkets before the snow! had started to sing”. would do with it. When Brenda Clark’s house year. We have found Mark has found a wide range and set up his bank account with To read Mark’s blog In contrast, the club’s November book Mark (Adams) said he in May. We have met a Pilgrim a useful way of ability in his class in reading, sympathetic help from Mongolian go to pantsinmongolia. is Acts and Omissions by Catherine Fox, the was wondering about few times since then to provide focus for writing and English fluency. customers to get him through the blogspot.co.uk wife of the Dean of Liverpool, and whose giving his to church to and we are enjoying each other’s our meetings – we can talk about the publisher describes the novel as “a year-long hang by the memorial company. There are seven of us lesson and sometimes we digress and romp in the company of bishops, priests plaque, the decision was although there is yet to be a meeting find out details about other people’s and lay people”. made. Sal Edmunds where we are all present! As we are the lives and situations. We can also share The October book, again a complete ‘beyonds’, we come from quite a large stories and information about the contrast, was the much-loved Cider with area – from Raynes Park out to Esher wider Christchurch community – Rosie – Laurie Lee’s affectionate account and Epsom. We also have a range of which we know different things about HANDEL’S of his childhood in a rural England that was ages from young mum to depending on how long we have been about to change for ever. Grandmother, with lots of variety in here and which things we are involved The club warmly welcomes anyone joining between, including those who go out to with in church. Messiah the group. It is not even essential to have work, those who work in the home for Next on the list is choosing where to 7pm read the book under discussion! the family and those who are retired. go for our Christmas outing. It’s nice Sat 28th Nov David Simpson It’s nice finding out about people’s making new friends. Christ Church Dates for book club Tickets £10 • Acts and Omissions will be discussed on A–Z OF THE church Conducted by 24th November at 3 Elm Walk at 8pm Richard Hall • The Reunion on 8th December at Or come and sing in 205 Cottenham Park Road at 8pm the chorus! for Parables... In his spare time Mark has trekked the 1pm registration and P surrounding mountains, moorland, rocky rehearsal. Participant Jesus used parables- simple ridgeways and unmarked forest trails ticket £20 which climbing over 1,200 feet. memorable stories to includes refreshments convey messages which are during the afternoon deep and central to His and light supper. teaching. They had not been All welcome. used before in Jewish RSVP by 23rd Nov. writings, and as stories have Call 0752 836 6075 lasted through time until or email today – many being very familiar and relevant – the parable choirchristchurch@ gmail.com for more of the Good Samaritan, and, the Prodigal Son, for example. Random things to look out for - uncovered man holes! There are quiet a few about, so texting details whilst walking can be a very dangerous! 12 13

Thoughts from Quick quiz a friend of Answers below 1. How many seconds are there in a week? 2. Which is the closest planet to the earth? arbara Tanner celebrated her 98th birthday this July in Christ Church 3. Which English city is situated Bglamourous style, with a When one door closed in this parishioner’s approximately midway between London beautifully presented strawberry tea. and Edinburgh? Organised by Pamela Macklin and the life, God guided him thousands of miles to Friday Group, there were delicious cakes, scones and tea which were 4. Who was Britain’s first Christian martyr? another one and to us... enjoyed by all the guests ranging from toddlers to nonagenarians! 5. “Starry Night” is a work by hen I landed at originally come from, this family which Dutch painter? Heathrow Airport did exactly the same as us, and on a warm August gave the same bottle in its 6. In which decade was the first mobile

day in the 1970s, original wrapping as a phone call made? Volunteering at the

The 1970s The 6. Gogh Van Vincent 5. Alban St. 4.

Wmy plans were to stay here for Christmas present to the top How I came to be at this point who knows each of us most York York 3. Venus 2. 11.604,800 1. : ERS W

three years and then return floor family! We all discovered of my life and at this juncture intimately, can do the ANS home after finishing my Higher this in a friendly gathering. We may be a mystery to some, but impossible in, for and through Faith in Action Centre Education at the Imperial had all had a present, and at the to me it is nothing other than us? “Stand at the crossroads College of Science, Technology same time had none. the will of God, who held me by and look; ask for the ancient Having recently begun working for FIA, and Medicine in London. I never During a hectic three years of the hand and led me to where I paths, ask where the good way David Essex is in awe of the valuable support thought I would be here more student life and working doubly am now. I had not come to this is, and walk in it and you will live this organisation gives to the local homeless than four decades later. To hard due to English being a country to remain indefinitely in peace” (Jeremiah 6:16). celebrate this and to mark my second language to me, I and to change my nationality – Now that, by the grace of aith in Action operates a helping a client with a visa 16th anniversary as a Reader at submitted my final dissertation let alone to change my inherited God, I am a proud citizen of drop-in centre for the application, serving lunch, collecting Christ Church, I thought I would to the board of examiners. I was ancestral religion. I do not this, my beloved chosen homeless out of the locally donated food and clothes, put down a few words. successful and was awarded believe what happened was an country, and a blessed member Salvation Army church hall in cleaning the loos. Getting involved I settled in Streatham – the with a PhD degree. accident or a coincidence, but of Christ Church, I feel that SouthF Wimbledon. It is open two has made me appreciate much more building was very old and we After graduating, I visited my the sheer will of God. Though I exist in a web of relationships, days a week. Staff and volunteers, the plight of the homeless and just had to share a bathroom with beloved country of origin and from a different religion and connected to our community, (usually four of the former and about what a fantastic support the other occupants. The my family for the last time. I tradition, the will of God is to fellow Christians, and above 15 of the latter) arrive in time to serve organisation FIA is, both in its system of coin-operated discovered that it was not the reflected in my understanding all, to my chosen God. I trace The Marsden March breakfast from 10am and leave activities and those who work there. meters was still in use for place I had left three years of both faith and faithfulness in back my relationship with 5,500 walkers took part in this event in March to around 4pm, having cleared up after It works because the staff are very energy. My only concern was to earlier, so I decided to return to God. Do we believe that God, Christ Church to the first raise funds for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. doors close at 3pm. professional, and give expert work as hard as I could and the UK, but as an employee of congregation of the holy place It has been an annual event since 2011 so far raising Generally we have between 60 and guidance, and both they and the finish my degree. the university it was not easy to some 150 years ago. I give £4.5 million. The walk started at the Royal Marsden 70 ‘clients’ on any one day. The idea is volunteers are non-judgmental and I would like to share with you a get a passport. Miraculously ‘ I have lost the thanks for the life that flows Hospital, Chelsea, through Putney, across that it is a safe place where clients get just want to help. really funny story which though I got one and returned through them in this holy place Wimbledon Common, past Christ Church to wholesome food – lunch might be At Christ Church we regularly happened while residing at this to the UK with a very heavy privilege of seeing and pray that we may be the Raynes Park. Then it went through North Cheam shepherd’s pie and cabbage, or a donate food and clothing to the address. It was our very first heart. It was, and still is, a great my own family, same channel to pass this to Nonsuch Park, finishing at the Royal Marsden vegetarian option, followed by apple centre and this is simply to remind Christmas not only in this loss to me. I was the only one house of prayers for many Hospital, Sutton. Walkers included hospital staff, crumble and ice cream – have a you that when you are clearing out country but in our lives. The who knew it would be my last but for sure I feel generations to come. It is true I relatives and friends of patients –from around the shower, have their clothes washed, your wardrobes please bring any family who were living on the visit. My family were still hopeful have lost the privilege of seeing world. Staff at the Royal Marsden Hospital are get some new clothes, get access to suitable items, especially menswear, top floor kindly gave us a bottle that my visit would be repeated. blessed and my own family, but for sure I feel constantly working to make life better for people computers, see someone from the to church in a bag labelled FIA and it of wine as a Christmas present. Accepting the situation was privileged to blessed and privileged to be with cancer, and strive for a future without it. Fund- job centre, get help with benefit will be taken to the centre. We did not know what the not, and still is not, an easy task a member of my newly found raising is an essential element of this work, and all claims and much more. Thank you. tradition was during the to handle. But, as the saying be a member of family, the congregation of donations are very much appreciated. Jim Finch People chat. The atmosphere is Christmas period, and goes, when one door is shut my newly found Christ Church, and for that Jim is a volunteer fundraiser at the Royal calm, and the experience is generally therefore were not prepared for another will open. With the I thank my God. I feel blessed Marsden Hospital Sutton, and is happy to positive for clients, volunteers and it. We thought it was a good idea benefit of hindsight, I see that family, the and honoured to have become provide information on sponsored fundraising staff alike. to pass it on as a present to the not everything was doom and congregation of a member of my newly found activities. The 2016 event will take place on In July I started working one day a people on the first floor. Not gloom, but a great life was family, my big family at Christ Sunday 13th March 2016 week at Faith in Action. I go where I knowing where the bottle had waiting for us. Christ Church’ Church, and I say “Amen” to that. am needed. My work might vary from 14 15

IST CH HR UR C CH

Christ Church, Copse Hill, West Wimbledon, SW20 0HG summ MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION er 2 0 1 3 Welcome from Hats off to a splendid Did you know you can take out an the Editor... We hope you enjoy this summer editio Don’t miss... n of the Coronation celebration! magazine. Thank you to

all who have contribut Churchwarden, ed informative, Red, white and blue hats Julie Grainger were the crow Chef, Celia Berwick CHU ning glory of and Mark Adams entertaining and Tfu annual subscription for the Christ S the celebrations and her team serve I nny R articlesR – a good mix C up a royal feast I hope! Remember, H Handel’s Messiah Hwe want your ideas , C letters, any special activities coming up f or TUM Church magazine for £7.50 for 3 copies. you and your families, AU N 2 don, SW20 0HG 0 1 4 Christand particularly Church, Copse we Hill, West Wimble welcome your feedb ack. If you are going away on holiday, have a Thankgreat time. If it is a The easiest way is to put a cheque or you to n Sunday 2nd June stay-at-home time, friends we celebrated the culinary masterpiece was the 7pm, Saturday 28th November we look forward t magnificent Coronation Coronation biscuits from the who have sent o 60th anniversary of seeing you at Christ Chicken which was made to the Palace shop. There were prizes in the WW1 the Queen’s CoronationO in true Christ exact Cordon Bleu Cookery too for the Coronation quiz, Church. You can email family memoirs. Church style. To start, we School recipe created in 1953 which featured questions such I attendedme the at brendafclark@ marked the occasion by singing for the Coronation and as “Who designed the Queen’s ceremonybtinternet.com at the cash in an envelope and give it to a or the National Anthem, with originally served to visiting Coronation dress?” Tower of London leave a note at the cross great gusto, at the end of the Royalty and Heads of State in After lunch had ended a film Field of Poppies, Conducted by our Musical Director, aisle. Many thanksCHmorningU service in Church. This Westminster Hall. Pavlovas of the Coronation was shown in ... where names of R ST set the tone for theC celebratory with copious cream, and red the Church Hall, which was a soldiers who had I reminder for some, particularly lunch party, which wa H and blue fruit, rounded died on that day s off the DISCOVERING R attended by about 75 people, delicious meal. those who had been in the were readBrenda out Budding ranging in age from two It was not just the food which crowds 60 years previously, Hbefore the LastComing up... singers were churchwarden (Sal or Julie), Godfrey had been carefully chosen to and also showed to others, the months to 92 years. invited to join Post was playeFamilyd. Services C Luckily, the sun shone, so the mark this PspecialRI anniverNG 2 0 1wonderful5 the pomp choir for and a ceremony It was veryJuly 14 and 21st S sary. tables – adorned with red table Many people turned out in red, with whichsing-a-long the Coronation had moving. EnjoyAug 4th and 18th 0HG clothes and beautiful red, white white and blue outfits and the been conducted. As a number Richard Hall. Tickets £10 . the magazine andW Hill, West Wimbledon,and blue flower SW20 arrangements “red, white and blue” hat of people remarked, we were we lookPastoral forward Tea in the hall Christ Church, Copse – could be laid out in the garden competition resulted in a certainly luckier with the to hearing yourAug 29th amidst plenty of patriotic splendid array of hats – the weather for our Coronation Banks (church treaurer) or Richard. comments and W bunting. Bubbles, as well as best of which was judged to be lunch than the Queen had been ideas forBook future Club Sept 3rd We willwine and soft drinks,remember were the wonderful home made for her big day 60 years earlier! editions. Either Manyserved of with you dips, will but have the seen thecreation moving worn vision by Dr. Jane of Allen, It was a most enjoyable day, email them to me Church hall andwho was presented vicarage with a tin of and a fitting way to mark such a at brendafclark@ the sea of red ceramic poppies, planted in the dry special event. Dee Babar Or come and sing in the chorus... PROVERBS btinternet.com, moat at The Tower of London, to commemorate Alfred Goodall Thank you for your support. Welcome toor the leave Spring a note at ry. Here Debbie Morley 1890-1964 issue of thethe parish cross aisle. developmentthe First World War Centena update nd his legacy... magazine. ManyIt is your thanks. sharesWe are memories now at a critical of her greatstage grandfatherin the process a of getting our new building... We have been intrigued by how contributions which add didn’t talk much about the war the Germans were using gas. By such colour and interest he devhenelopment I was a littleof the girl, when it was all over. l and August he had been wounded – he to it, so pleaseBrenda keep them newI churchused to hal visit my great- So this is my link with the was shot in the arm and brought coming – photographs, vicaragegrandmother. has entered There a Great War, memories of a little the bullet home with him and kept stories, comments, criticwasal stage. one picture The plans in the old lady in a tiny cottage telling See page 11 for details ve been it with his medals. He also fought in and especially letters. Wfront room – great-grandfather in Tand related reports ha tales of history with a photo of a Borough the 1916 Battle of the Somme and You can send them hisfiled war uniform,with the London taken when he was soldier on her wall. I tell my children eration. the Third Battle of Ypres/ relevant proverbs are today... to me either by email in his twenties. He died before I was PRAYER of Merton for consid they owe their existence to his Passchendaele. Towards the end of at brendafclark@ bornPrior and tothis filing was thethe planningonly photo God wants to be survivalwork in the on varioustrenches. He came btinternet.com, or leave ion, the architect, Geoff the war he was transferred to thecontinues to part of our lives I everapplicat saw of him. s a home in 1918 contracts and started with his family. ous Royal Engineers. agreements and a note at the cross aisle. Crowther,Great-grandfather and vari sailed to would have on them. This wa If he hadn’t surviveder parties we wouldn’t as a true friend When myrocess father and was we a little boythe Diocese and oth In a nutshell with... We love hearing from Boulognemembers from of the Folkestone PCC and on 21st very useful p be here today. pment he asked Great-grandfatherthem that (his the project. Detailed you. See does.you in Prayer the is AprilBuilding 1915 with Develo the 7th Battalion of were able to reassure rns involved in Turn torequired page 3 for more et with grandfather) ‘Did you kill any summer!giving time to theCommittee Northumberland (BDC) mFusiliers. we have taken their conce design specificationsmemories willof WWI from ation before Many thanks. intoGermans?’ consider to which he replied, ‘Itfor the tendering process God, so I am home Withinlocal a residents week he hadto discuss been sent the to theuntil congregation. we have nd answer any finalisingwas very thedark’. design. Presumably he not commence when He calls. the plansSecond a Battle of Ypres where that the planning overwhelming ust wait for the confirmation questions. The s Now we m pproved. Merton’s planning response from the public wa decision of ely, it application has been a sitive. In addition, Assuming our application is Fools have no interest in Brenda extremely po department. Unfortunat ruction will not hard met with Geoff and Ric is difficult to predict when a successful, const autumn. decision will be reached. commence until this Christ Church’s nearest the BDC neighbours to discuss the In the meantime, ilding plans impact the bu

CANDLEMASFeast We celebrated the of Candlemas on the 1st understanding; they only s the Patronal February, which i Advent Fair

PRAYER Christ Church. you Festival of Let nothing trouble ou The 10am service saw a candlelit procession to the Let nothing frighten y he evening service All things pass away altar and at t Songs of we had our very own Chris Larkman God never changes , with all the hymns and Praise Patience obtains hosen by members want to air their own readings c all things or of the congregation. Nothing is wanting f those who possess God opinion. Chris set up the Bereavement Service at Christ Church, and is Chair of the God alone suffices. Sunday 29th November Raynes Park Association but life could have been so very different for him... Proverbs 18:2 after the 10am service What brought you to Christ Church? with Clare, my wife, and our four children. Intelligent people are Please come along, all are welcome! Richard. He is a brilliant person to lead our Though God may well have been calling me to We welcome any donations... always ready to learn. Their church community, always has something priesthood, he wasn’t calling me to a life of ears are open for knowledge. thought provoking in his homilies, genuinely celibacy! Clare has brought colour to my life and fresh produce, plants and raffle prizes. Proverbs 18:15 sees religion as being about life, and, rare for a our children much joy and challenge! Please leave with Tish, thank you. vicar, has not an ounce of pomposity in him! We have been members of the church for a couple What are your future plans? book fo r 2 01 6 of years. I am looking forward to a trip with Clare to THE WINNING TEAM Wreath Making Colombia next February. Bryn, our youngest, Team Aldwych What are your hobbies and work areas? I am has some crazy plans to set up innovative 7pm, 16th December crazy about Italy and have asked God to forget schools there. If he’s still there by February A fun evening of creativity with mulled about heaven and leave me somewhere there we’ll see him too! wine and nibbles with resident florist instead! I was a Roman Catholic priest for 10 years having trained for 7 years in Rome, before Is there anything you would like to see Elaine Chesterin the hall. £25 starting a career in social work. happen at Christ Church in the future? I would like to see us develop increased links Parish visit to What special memories do you have and what with the community beyond the confines of our are you particularly proud of? I am proud to church community. The Bereavement Service Rome have set up the Bereavement Service at Christ has shown how we can be very good at outreach. 1-9 September 2016 Church a year ago. Not only have we been able I would like us to develop links with Christian Quiz Masters Following the highly to provide a valuable service to many Care, who work with the poorest people in our Tish and Martin Top catering team successful pilgrimage to individuals, but also the support and friendship borough, particularly in the Mitcham area. We Muks, Elaine and Dee Assisi, our next trip will be between the volunteers has been tremendous. often talk about our calling as Christians to social committee to the “Eternal City” for a I have enjoyed various opportunities to lead on ‘serve the poor’. There are many within our own week of art, prayer, history, community projects including pilgrimages such borough who could benefit from our help. Candle-lit Carol Service wine, walking, resting and as the recent Christ Church one to Assisi. As In terms of liturgy, I would like to see us community. Organised by reported in the last parish magazine, this was a introduce the Mandatum (washing of the feet) A close call at Quiz night 6.30pm Sunday 20th Dec Chris Larkman and Clare great success and particularly so because of the on Maundy Thursday – it seems to me it would ur Annual Christ Church Quiz they were going to win). But racing with brass group, mulled wine Gummett, we will visit way in which we became a ‘community of be a very Richard way to de-theologise that night took place in a new past at the final post, Team Aldwych and mince pies some of Caravaggio’s friends’ as we enjoyed the places we visited. special day! Ovenue this year, the lovely won with 135 points – led by Sue paintings, spending about I am pleased to be the Chair of the Raynes Park Scout Hut in Cottenham Park Road. Evans, with Julie, Godfrey and Fliss four days in Rome before Association – an organisation consisting of What difference does being a Christian make We had seven teams who played a Very, very close and very exciting. going to a retreat in the residents associations, businesses etc in to your life? Being a Christian has given me a tightly fought contest and it was all Delicious supper (I think our best Burns Night Supper ancient monastery of Raynes Park. We’ve worked with the local meaning to my life and the lives we all lead. down the wire for the final results. yet) courtesy of Dee, Muks, Elaine Palazzola. There are 25 Council, the railway and others to make Raynes Following Christ is a constant reminder to me to In third place were Sharon and and Elizabeth Handcock and Sharon Saturday 13th February places and the cost will be Park a much better place. look beyond what I see casually. Christ gives me Amit’s team – the Corbynistas with for the veggie option – who very Put it in your diary! £850. See Chris for more hope in a world where at times there appears to 132 points. In second place were Quiz kindly helped us out. details or pick up a booking Do you have something to be especially lack evidence of it. Akabusi – Elizabeth Bingham’s team And apart from lots of fun, we form in the cross aisle grateful for, or, something you wish had never See page 6 to read more about with Richard and Hannah who managed to raise over £1,000 –quite happened? I am so grateful for the life I have had Christ Church’s Bereavemnet Service scored 133 points (we really thought an achievement. Tish Mousell All are welcome 16 Winter Diary 2015

Sunday 8th November 6.30pm BCP Evensong Sunday 6th December Saturday 19th December REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY 6.30pm Confirmation Service, 2nd SUNDAY OF ADVENT 2.30pm Wedding 8am Holy Communion St Mark’s Church TOY SUNDAY 10am Parish Eucharist 8am Holy Communion Sunday 20th December 6.30pm Contemporary Evening Tuesday 24th November 10am Celebrate Together 4th SUNDAY OF ADVENT Prayer 11am Morning Prayer 4pm Christingle Service 8am Holy Communion 8pm Book Club, 3 Elm Walk 6.30pm BCP Evensong 10am Parish Eucharist Tuesday 10th November 6.30pm Carol Service 11am Morning Prayer Thursday 26th November Tuesday 8th December 4.30pm Confirmation Group, 9.30am Bruno Bear 11am Morning Prayer Tuesday 22nd December Vicarage 3pm Parish Tea Outing to 11am Morning Prayer Morden Hall Park Thursday 10th December Thursday 12th November 9.30am Bruno Bear Thursday 24th December 9.30am Bruno Bear Friday 27th November 8pm Advent Group, Truman 4pm Crib Service 6.15pm Children’s Choir Room Friday 13th November 7pm Adult Choir CHRISTMAS EVE 6.15pm Children’s Choir Friday 11th December 11.30pm Midnight Mass 7pm Adult Choir Saturday 28th November 6.15pm Children’s Choir 7pm Come & Sing Messiah! 7pm Adult Choir Friday 25th December Sunday 15th November CHRISTMAS DAY 2nd SUNDAY BEFORE ADVENT Sunday 29th November Sunday 13th December 8am Holy Communion 8am Holy Communion 1st SUNDAY OF ADVENT 3rd SUNDAY OF ADVENT 10am Parish Eucharist 10am Parish Eucharist 8am Holy Communion 8am Holy Communion 6.30pm Contemporary Evening 10am Parish Eucharist, 10am Parish Eucharist with Sunday 27th December Prayer followed by Advent Fair in Junior Church Nativity 1st SUNDAY OF CHRISTMAS church 6.30pm Contemporary Evening 8am Holy Communion Tuesday 17th November 6.30pm Communion Service Prayer 10am Parish Eucharist 11am Morning Prayer 6.30pm BCP Evensong 4.30pm Confirmation Group, Tuesday 1st December Tuesday 15th December Vicarage 11am Holy Communion 11am Morning Prayer Tuesday 29th December 8pm PCC Meeting, Truman 8pm Advent Group, Truman No Morning Prayer Room Wednesday 2nd December Room 8pm Advent Group, Truman Thursday 19th November Room Wednesday 16th December Building Development 9.30am Bruno Bear 7pm Wreath Making, in church Storage Needs Thursday 3rd December As our project gets underway, Friday 20th November 9.3am Bruno Bear Thursday 17th December and we await the demolition of the existing hall this 6.15pm Children’s Choir Parish Christmas Lunch, Hall autumn, we will need storage 7pm Adult Choir Friday 4th December 7pm Wedding Rehearsal space for items in the hall and 6.15pm Children’s Choir kitchen while the new hall is Sunday 22nd November 7pm Adult Choir Friday 18th December being built. If you have any CHRIST THE KING 6.15pm Children’s Choir suitable space e.g. an empty garage, please do get in touch 8am Holy Communion 7pm Adult Choir with Richard. Thank you 10am Parish Eucharist

Thank you to all our contributors... How to get in touch We hope you’ve enjoyed this issue and thank all of you Vicar: The Revd Richard Lane, 16 Copse Hill, SW20 OHG. who have contributed. We’d love to hear your thoughts and 020 8946 4491 would welcome any feature ideas,letters, memories and photographs you [email protected] have. We already have some exciting ideas for the next issue. Parish Office opening hours: 10am - 12 noon, Email the Editor Brenda on [email protected] Tuesday to Friday. [email protected] or Art Editor Naomi on [email protected] Website: www.christchurch-westwimbledon.org.